The Rangers have the tenth overall pick in the draft, and while some writers think the Rangers will draft a goalie (for some unknown reason), the Rangers most pressing need at the NHL level is a scorer. One of the most watched players eligible that fits this role is Nino Niederreiter of the Portland Winterhawks. In his rookie season with the Hawks, El Nino put together a very impressive season that has helped him climb the draft charts, with a line of 36-24-60 in 65 regular season games, and 8-8-16 in 13 playoff games.

The 6’1, 205 lb (!!) Swiss winger is ahead of the curve in using his size to help his play. His skating ability and balance make him a dominant force on the puck and along the walls. He also has some of the best hands in the game for such a big body, and it’s those hands that really set him apart from the other big skaters in the draft. While his size and skill are what make him a desirable asset in the draft, often overlooked is his grittiness and his intensity. There is never a time when his effort and determination are in question.

Generally, the knock on big skaters in the draft is that they have to grow into their size and learn how to use it to their advantage. Since this is not the case with El Nino, he can focus on improving other aspects of his game, which really helps his stock draft. He has a goal scoring touch that has vaulted him to top-two in scoring for Portland. Niederreiter also shows a great attitude, as evident in his style of play, that makes for a great leader down the road.

Currently, the ISS Top 30 has El Nino listed as the #6 skater in the draft, and the highest ranked WHL player. While rankings tend to change daily, the general draft position of the players does not. It isn’t out of the realm of possibility that the Swiss winger goes in the Top 5, and it also isn’t out of the realm of possibility that he falls to the Rangers at #10. If the Rangers are targeting him however, it appears that they will have to trade up to get him.

Image Credit: Richard Wolowicz/Getty Images North America

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