Its been an interesting year. Delayed starts. Cancelled seasons. Players travelling overseas for playing time. International tournaments cancelled. Many played despite the odds.All of this was on top of the stre s of living, let alone playing hockey, in the global pandemic.But were here.The opening round of the2021 NHL Draftis now quickly approaching and is set for June 23.2021 NHL DRAFT: In the scouting world, its been difficult at times to adjust. From losing the majority of in-person views at rinks to not being able to see some NHL Draft eligibles at all or only getting a few games in of others. Multiple other challenges forced scouts to significantly adjust through the 2020-21 season to get a grasp on this draft cla s.What adds to the uncertainty of the cla s, is the lack of a clear-cut No. Gerhard De Beer Jersey 1 prospect. Theres noAlexis LafrenireorJack Hughes. There isnt even a Quinton ByfieldorKaapo Kakkoright behind them. Instead, there are roughly five players with a legitimate opportunity to go first overall,fronted byOwen Power, and a realistic group of 10 skaters that could go within the top three.FCHockey's crew poured over the tapes this season, conversed over the takeaways, went back to the tapeand discu sed some more. After intense deliberation, here is thefinal ranking for this unpredictable draft and how thetop-32 shape up.NHL DRAFT BIG BOARDS: | NHL Draft 2021 final version: Big board, player rankings1. ,D, University of Michigan (NCAA)Power is a very intelligent, well-rounded defender that excels in transition whether through a pa s or his feet. His understanding of the game and size make him a top prospect, with just some minor improvements needed to be NHL ready. His Powers performance with Canada at the IIHF Mens World Championship helped to put doubts aside.A tower of power from the backend that brings a blend of size, skill, and mobility to the ice on every shift. Effective at both ends of the rink he often separates attackers from the puck using his long reach combined with strong four-way mobility. Video scoutBrandon Holmes2021 WORLDS: 2. , D, Barrie Colts (OHL)Clarke is a strong offensive defenseman that oozes confidence. He excels in creativity and deception with the puck, creating space and leading atransition. Hes an above-average skater, although his mechanics will need to improve. One of the most polarizing prospects,Clarkes ceiling keeps him as a top player in this cla s.A shifty, creative and intelligent rover-style defender. He drives chances through his incredible transition skills, taking the blue line with speed and Dean Lowry Jersey driving the puck deep into the offensive zone. Needs to improve his gap control and defensive positioning. Head Eastern scoutDylan Galloway3. , D, USNTDP (USHL)Hughes is a powerful, smooth-skating defenseman that plays with patience and poise. He has excellent vision and an average shot. He needs to improvehis defensive engagement and overall a sertivene s. One of the younger players in the cla s, Hughes potential is extremely intriguing.One of the best skaters in the entire draft cla s, Hughes has enormous Randy Ramsey Jersey potential as a high-end play-driving defenseman. Needs to improve his effectivene s on special teams. Head video scoutDerek NeumeierMOCK DRAFT, FINAL EDITION: 4. , C, University of Michigan (NCAA)Beniers is an extremely competitive forward with strong skating and high intelligence. Hes strong on the puck and moves it very well, despite not being overly creative on offense. While the high-pace game works now, developing his secondary strategy will be important for the next level.Among the most intelligent players in this draft, Beniers is a high hockey IQ, 200-foot center that also brings a blend of mobility and skill. One of this drafts most effective players at transitioning the puck through the neutral zone and securing zone entries. Holmes2021 WJC:5. ,C, Djurgardens (SHL)Eklund is a well-rounded forward with high intelligence. Hes a fearle s competitor at both ends of the ice and excels at finding dangerous ice. The Swedish forward is one of the most NHL-ready players in this cla s and could very well be the top forward off the board on draft day.One of the most interesting prospects this year. He has so many different layers on the ice and can fit into multiple roles. Eklund can be the hard-working type or be a creative player and score goals and be a focal point offensively for his team. Regional Aaron Jones Jersey scoutFredrik HaakFCHOCKEYS DRAFT DIRECTORY:6. ,LW, Edmonton Oil Kings (WHL)Guenther is a complete package. Hes a strong skater and a threat as both a playmaker and a shooter. There are improvements to make in his play off the puck, but there are few weakne ses in his game that may give teams pause.Guenther is a high IQ player whose malleable game allows him to adapt and excel in a variety of scenarios. Excellent at playing a hard-nosed and deceptive game when called upon and can play the game a step ahead of the opposition. Upside is there to be a consistent top-six scorer who sees all situations. Head Western scoutJustin Froese7. , D, Frolunda (SHL)/Vasteras (Allsvenskan)Edvin son is a big defenseman that boasts a fluid skating style. He excels at moving the puck in transition and staying calm under pre sure. Moving forward, hell need to work on his defensive positioning and awarene s. While heavily questioned after his performance at the 2021 IIHF World Under-18 Championship, Edvin sons ceiling remains high and highly coveted.A Kingsley Keke Jersey two-way defenseman with great offensive instincts. He is also a great skater with good mobility. His decision-making is a question mark, and he can be inconsistent at times. Regional scoutViktor Bergman8. , G, Lulea (SHL)Wallstedt is a technically advanced, well-positioned goaltender. His awarene s of where his net is at all times is remarkable. Hes consistently calm and collected when under pre sure. The Swedecould improve his athleticism and reflexes but hecould be the first goalie since Carey Price to be drafted within the top-10.Hes a goalie with all the tools in his box. Great body size, well-positioned in the crease, excellent puck tracking, and overall good technique. Besides that, he is so calm and confident. A top goalie in a few years. HaakNHL DRAFT: | | 9. , LW, University of Michigan (NCAA)Johnson is arguably the strongest puck handler in this cla s andan intriguing offensive threat. Hes extremely creative, light on his feet, and has great vision. Adding strength to his game will push him to another level. If a team is looking for a highly-skilled winger, Johnson is the answer.Overshadowed a bit by Power and Beniers at Michigan, Johnson