The Edmonton Oilers have already secured their 1C for presumably the next forever with Connor McDavid (forever being whatever the length of McDavid’s career is), so they don’t need to gamble on a high-risk, high-reward center that may eventually lead the team from the top line pivot position. Instead, they can look for a good value, low risk skater that can either be developed into a middle-six center or a future trade chip. By selecting Lias Andersson, a player that most scouting services have ranked well ahead of 22nd overall, the Oilers are able to do just that.
2017 MOCK NHL DRAFT: Edmonton Oilers Take Lias Andersson with the 22nd pick
