The 2022 draft class, while deep, is an average one, and there are not many clearly defined tiers throughout many draft boards. The Nashville Predators currently hold seven picks next week: picks #17, 82, 84, 114, 122, 146, and 210 overall.
Below is my final top 96 2022 NHL Entry Draft ranking. This is purely an evaluation of who has the best chance to become a top player in the NHL, not a mock draft or a commentary on other draft-day factors (like a potential hesitancy to draft Russian players).
1. Shane Wright | C | Kingston Frontenacs (OHL)
Although it’s been an up and down year for Wright, he’s still firmly the top prospect in this draft class.