Washington Capitals 2014 Draft Pick Grades

 Washington Capitals Seventh Round Pick: Kevin Elegstal

The Washington Capitals, as they do traditionally, went with another forward in the last round, going with Swedish forward Kevin Elegstal. The ISS really liked Elegstal, as he was ranked 101st in the draft by them. Here’s what they had to say about him:

"Elgestal showed his relentless motor and hardworking mentality in a key role for Sweden at the U18 World Championships and with Frolunda J20 team. Active element to the PK and play off the puck where he thrives physically and when engaging along the wall in puck battles. Shows great upside in his energy producing, spark plug game off the puck where he is incredibly effective. Offensively he uses his frame well in the slot creating screens and havoc. Kevin is a promising two-way winger who plays the game with a non-stop motor and demands respect as he battles for a hard 60 minutes. He is a player who shows intriguing ability to spark his team through his determined and relentless mindset. Does what it takes to win and can be trusted in key situations."

I had Elegstal ranked just outside of the top 100, so the Washington Capitals got a terrific value drafting Elegstal with the 194th overall pick. He probably fell because of his lack of impressive offensive ability. While he probably will never be a top six forward, he is such a perfect fit on the checking line. He impressed me a lot with his aggressive defensive play in the U18s. The Washington Capitals desperately need forwards with a mean streak, and dear goodness does Elegstal have a mean streak.

Grade: A+. I’m quite confident that Elegstal will be a productive NHL player. Anytime you can say that about a seventh round pick, that’s a home run pick.