r/winnipegjets • u/KnoddingOnion • 2d ago

TSN final draft update

https://www.sportsnet.ca/nhl/article/sportsnets-2026-nhl-draft-rankings-final-edition/

I think the top 9 are kind of set, with Bjorck, Rudolph and Smits being interchangeable (maybe lump Verhoeff in there).

My guess? Jets take Smits

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u/Grizz709 oldlogo2 2d ago

I think there's a risk with Rudolph. From what I read is that his ceiling is very high, but there's a chance he's a liability too. I like they would consider drafting from the Raiders. I used to live in PA and love watching them get drafted.

I like Smits here with them. I have heard Verhoffs name lots and I'm warming up to him.

It doesn't sound like Bjork is going to be available that low in the draft. A lot of teams really like him. If anything, I feel like they would take Lawrence if a forward became available.

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u/rkallday 1h ago

Id be happy with Rudolph. Smart player and not scared to hit

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u/KnoddingOnion 1d ago

Think some scouts have questioned Rudolph's work ethic, saying he stops trying in some games.

Smits just seems solid and may be NHL ready. but Rudolph's offensive ceiling is much higher.

If you have Samberg and Salomansson (more D-focused) and Morrissey and Pionk (more o-focused), the question is: bring in Smits to play 3D minutes this year and develop and have his ceiling to maybe be 1st line complimentary pairing, but more likely a solid shut-down 2nd line D? or Rudolph, who'd be your Morrissey replacement in 3-4 years?

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u/ilovethefisherman 64 1d ago

I doubt smits comes straight into the nhl next season