This is my first in-season look at the 2020 NHL Draft class based on what I’ve seen from the 2002 and late 2001 age groups from last season and the beginning of this one.



My early impressions of this class are that it’s a roughly average draft class. It’s forward heavy, and while there are some very good centers, there is a lack of truly premier center talent, despite it being so forward heavy.



What follows are the 21 players I think have separated themselves from the crop so far and who project, at the least, as legit top-six forwards, top-four defensemen or a starting goaltender in the NHL. As well, there are mentions of players right on the outside of getting first-round grades.



Special NHL Prospect



Alexis Lafreniere, LW, Rimouski-QMJHL



Oct. 11, 2001 | 6-foot-1 | 192 pounds



Lafreniere, the reigning QMJHL and CHL MVP is off to an expected great start to this season. He’s a player who can accomplish so...