In Craig Button's latest draft rankings, one player has shot up the draft board running away from the pack of other players at his position.

Swedish Defenseman Solidifies Himself As Top Defensive Prospect

Axel Sandin-Pellikka has been looming around the top of draft boards for a while now but with an impressive U18 tournament, he appears to have solidified himself as the best defenseman of the 2023 NHL draft.

In Craig Button's most recent rankings, Sandin-Pellikka has moved up to 5th overall behind only Connor Bedard, Adam Fantilli, Leo Carlsson, and Matvei Michkov.

View Full Rankings Here

Previously, Sandin-Pellikka was 10th on Button's board but after posting 11 points in 7 games and making the tournament all-star team.

Sandin-Pellikka is now primed to be selected in the 5-10 range, especially with the injury of another top defensive prospect, David Reinbacher.

As read on HouseOfHockey - Sandin Sends Top Draft Eligible Prospect to the Hospital in a Violent Scene

POLL
MAY 15 |173 ANSWERS
Swedish Defenseman Skyrockets Up Draft Boards After Impressive U18 Tournament

What team will Sandin-Pellikka go to?

Montreal
43
24.9 %
Arizona
38
22 %
Philadelphia
47
27.2 %
Other
45
26 %

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