Writer: Kevin Durso
Draft Prospect Profile: Travis Konecny
I have been writing for Sports Talk Philly since 2011. Currently editor and lead writer of Philadelphia Flyers coverage. Co-host of the YWT Podcast. I also am Flyers insider for 97.3 ESPN-FM in South Jersey. I graduated from Cabrini University in 2014.
All posts by Kevin DursoPublished28 May 2015
There is one scenario we have yet to talk about in our draft prospect previews that the Flyers could consider: trading down.
If the Flyers elect to try for additional picks by moving from seventh overall to a mid-first round pick, there are certainly a few solid prospects waiting for them to select.
Here is one of them, the captain of the Ottawa 67's, Travis Konecny.
Konecny put together a very balanced scoring season, picking up 29 goals and 39 assists for 68 points in 60 games in the OHL.
The captain of the 67's is an excellent two-way player with tremendous speed. He adds scoring touch and brings an edge to his game. He has a knack for scoring in all areas – he'll go to the net and play from a distance as well. He's very much a prototypical power-play forward.
His development is not nearly as advanced as some of the other OHL stars heading toward the NHL, but he certainly has a bright future ahead of him, especially as a mid-round pick.
When you look at Konecny, think of the type of player the Flyers selected last year in the draft. Travis Sanheim may be the steal of the 2014 Draft at 17th overall. It wouldn't be a surprise is Konecny went as high as 10th overall, but given the pool of talent that clearly ranks ahead of him – both on the scoresheet and popularity – he could still be on the board as the 20th pick approaches.
If it goes that far, Konecny will be a steal for a team looking for a versatile forward with the potential to play on the top line. Even if he doesn't, Konecny will find a home as a second-line forward with ease.
The Flyers shouldn't have Konecny on their short list of prospects, especially if they choose to stay at seven. That would be a huge reach given the other talent in the draft.
But if they decide to get creative and make a move from seventh to a lower slot, Konecny may be the perfect option for the Flyers. It all depends on how much the seventh pick appeals to the Flyers.
Kevin Durso is managing editor for Flyerdelphia. Follow him on Twitter @Kevin_Durso.
