Speaking to reporters at the NHL Scouting Combine, Connor McDavid was given the opportunity to talk himself up as the best player in the upcoming draft.
It’s believed McDavid will go first overall to the Edmonton Oilers later this month, after he posted a combined 169 points in 67 games between the regular season and playoffs with the Erie Otters in the Ontario Hockey League this past season.
No surprise, but the comparisons between McDavid and Jack Eichel, the second-ranked North American skater in the NHL Central Scouting final rankings, seem to be a central theme at the combine.
“That’s not up for me to decide,” McDavid told reporters, when asked if he believes he’s the best player in the draft class.
“I think a lot of people do a lot of talking and they’ll judge for their own eyes. I believe in my abilities and that’s the main thing. If I feel I’m the best player in the draft, I’m not sure. Maybe you’ll hear another answer from Jack.”
There were reports that Eichel had told teams in the interview process that he’ll be better than McDavid. The Boston University star has since tried to clarify what was said between him and NHL clubs.