Juraj Slafkovsky is the latest top prospect to be selected 1st overall by the Colorado Avalanche.

The Slovak left winger was chosen over several other contenders for first overall, including Shane Wright, Simon Nemec and Logan Cooley.

Scouts see Slafkovsky as a future first line threat with a strong all-around game. A big-time offensive producer with great hands, he also plays an extremely physical game and doesn't neglect defence. He could even kill penalties at the NHL level.

"This was an incredibly difficult decision for the organization. There were multiple players legitimately good enough to go #1. Ultimately we decided a defensive presence was important, especially on the wing where we somewhat lack that in the top six," said Avs GM Josh Lewis.

Slafkovsky is expected to be assigned to the AHL Colorado Eagles next season, but could make the Avalanche in 2023-24.

With the 8th overall pick, acquired for Drew Doughty, Colorado went for another strong defensive forward - and another Slovak - in right winger Adam Sykora.

Although he doesn't have the offence of most forwards taken in the top 10, Sykora does a solid enough job there. What attracted the Avs is he's a shutdown beast, a physical player who can be matched with the best of them and close them down. Think #1 PKer, an excellent third liner who can play on the second, and a possible Selke candidate if the offence really comes around.
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