3rd Overall: Quinton Byfield (C), Sudbury (OHL)
H: 6’4″ W: 214 lbs
In what was a lopsided poll since Tim Stützle went 2nd overall to the L.A. Kings, Senators fans seem as though they would be quite enthused with Quinton Byfield at number 3:
With Tim Stützle going 2nd, who would you rather select at #3?
— SenShot (@SenShot_FS) August 3, 2020
Most regard Byfield as the 2nd best prospect in the draft and he offers a ton down the middle for the Ottawa Senators.
Byfield enjoyed a stellar draft year in the OHL, where he scored 32 goals and 82 points in 45 games, doing everything he could in this crucial season. If it wasn’t for a crazy rise from Tim Stützle, the talented center would of been the 2nd overall pick with no questions asked.
Don't be silly. Quinton Byfield is closer to first overall than he is third.
— Tony Ferrari (@theTonyFerrari) July 9, 2020
He is still 17 years old for just over six more weeks. #2020NHLDraft pic.twitter.com/4zXenjxcoX
The big-bodied center possesses eye popping skill which is evident whenever he is on the ice. For such a big frame, Byfield has rare elite skating which is uncommon for many players his size. Partnered with his great hockey IQ, playmaking and goal scoring ability, Byfield is an all around prospect who would be one of/if not the most talented Senator draft picks ever.
The Senators have depth down the middle with Josh Norris, Logan Brown, Colin White and Chris Tierney but don’t have a bonafide, elite center prospect that Byfield is. One of the players that would benefit greatly from an infusion of talent would be Brady Tkachuk, who would form an intimidating duo with Byfield.
Inserting the skilled centerman into the lineup whether next year, or the year after would create a ton of excitement both on and off the ice for Senators fans.