Entering the first round of the 2024 NHL Draft this Friday, the Philadelphia Flyers own picks #12 and #32.
There have been rumors lately that the Flyers are interested in moving up in the first round or potentially even backward if the deal is right. But as things stand right now, general manager Daniel Briere and company will step up to the draft podium to make their selections.
There are many differing opinions and takes regarding who the Flyers will draft with their first selection. This year’s draft is loaded with high-end, potentially elite defensemen. Artyom Levshunov, Zeev Buium, Anton Silayev, Sam Dickinson, Zayne Parekh, and Carter Yakemchuk highlight this year’s blue-line prospects.
However, some forwards have the skills and qualities to deliver successful NHL careers.
The only lock heading into Friday’s first round is Macklin Celebrini, going first overall to the San Jose Sharks. After Celebrini is off the board, the real fun begins.
The center position in Philadelphia is in dire need of elite talent. With Matvei Michkov officially making the jump over to Philadelphia for next season, finding a player who can center Michkov for over the next decade is critical.
Berkly Catton
One of the most exciting centers in this year’s draft class is Berkly Catton. Playing for the Spokane Chiefs in the WHL and wearing an “A” on his sweater this past season, Catton lit up the league. Scoring 116 points (54G, 62A) in 68 games, Catton finished fourth overall in the WHL scoring race.
At the 2023 Hlinka Gretzky Cup, Catton captained Canada and led his team to a gold medal. In five games played, he registered 10 points (8G, 2A).
Bob McKenzie’s final draft ranking lists Catton at #12. Catton’s name has also been frequently linked to the Flyers in other mock drafts, and there is a good reason why.
Strengths
Catton’s statistics speak for itself; he’s a pure producer and scorer. His elite vision, hockey IQ, and composure make him a threat every time he steps onto the ice. His puck skills and awareness allow him to find passes to teammates that others can’t see.
Catton’s shot is heavy and accurate. His 54 goals this past season are a testament to the natural goal-scoring abilities that the center possesses. The skating ability that Catton showcases is superb. He is quick, agile, and can change direction in an instant. Although his physical frame (5’10”, 175 lbs) is on the smaller end for a center, his skating abilities and natural skill make up for the lack of size.
Looking at Catton’s potential, there is no doubt that he can develop into a No. 1 or No. 2 center in the NHL. He shares some comparisons with Brayden Point and Nikolaj Ehlers.
Weaknesses
The obvious weakness in Catton’s game is his lack of size. However, he’ll just continue to get stronger as he continues to progress in his career.
Defensively, Catton can hold his own but is often caught puck-watching and finding himself out of position. His quick step and jump during a potential breakout makes him eager to be the first out of the defensive zone, which can backfire. His smaller frame also doesn’t make him aggressive enough to make a physical play with the body.
Working on his defensive game more will be key before making the jump to the NHL. Honing in on the defensive aspects during another year of junior hockey again will only set him up for future success when his call-up to the NHL arrives.
A fit in Philadelphia?
The answer is obvious: Yes.
Berkly Catton would be a perfect fit for the Philadelphia Flyers. The franchise needs a high-end, future elite center. Michkov is making the jump over to North America now, and a Catton-Michkov duo would bring the offensive skill and game-changing talent that Philadelphia currently lacks.
His smaller frame with being a center may scare some teams away, but if he slips to #12, there should be no reason for the Flyers to pass on a player like Catton.
