Kings draft centerman Akil Thomas with 51st pick
The Los Angeles Kings selected pivot Akil Thomas with the 51st pick in the 2018 NHL Draft on Saturday.
Akil Thomas
Position: Center
Height: 5-foot-11
Weight: 176 lbs
Age: 18
Club: Niagara Ice Dogs (OHL)
Nationality: Canadian
| GP | G | A | P | 5v5 GPG | 5v5 PPG | 5v5 GF% |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 68 | 22 | 59 | 81 | 0.24 | 0.66 | 57.41 |
(Stats courtesy: Prospects-Stats.com)
Ranked as high as 15th among North American skaters by NHL Central Scouting, Thomas' upside lies in his quickness and ability to put up points no matter what level he plays at.
In two seasons for the Ontario Hockey League's Niagara Ice Dogs, Thomas was a point-per-game pivot, racking up 43 goals and 86 assists for 129 points in as many regular-season contests. His 81 points last campaign were the most by any U-18 player in the CHL.
The 6-foot center makes up for his relatively small frame with his slick hands and quick release; two assets that - coupled with his speed - will have numerous clubs in search of forward depth considering him in the mid-to-late rounds of the draft.