Ivan Ryabkin

ANALYSIS
One of the most polarizing players in the entire draft, Ryabkin left his native Russia midseason to join USHL Muskegon. He ended up being a key cog for the Lumberjacks, averaging north of a point-per-game (19 goals and 30 points in 27 regular-season appearances) in addition to helping the club win the USHL Clark Cup Championship. Based on pure ability alone, Ryabkin is an easy first-round talent, but there are both consistency and discipline issues to work through. That said, Ryabkin has as much or more long-term upside than any player drafted outside of Round 1. He's a worthwhile gamble for the Hurricanes at this stage of the draft.