Romanov isn’t a top 4 dman on a contender
I really like him but his vision isn’t good enough to be a consistent top 4 dman. He doesn’t bring any offense because of his vision limited. Guhle have the higher ceiling followed by Norlinder (boom or bust, we will see), Harris, Struble then Romanov. Romanov is the perfect #5 dman. Strong physically, strong defensively, but limited offensively

Shane Wright to me is the closest thing to a sure bet in this year’s draft. He slots in to be a great 2way force and leader but with that being said I have no issue with MTL picking 2nd or 3rd. Cooley while more risk slots in to be more of an offensive force than Wright and could become that 100 point player in his prime, plus the kid is fast as hell. Nemec is the third choice in my mind, and no issues there either. He has the ability to control play in all three zones and is only going to get better, plus he’s a righty which MTL could use more of. Overall if I’m Hugo I’d be content with whatever pick the hockey gods assign us, no need to spend assets to move up. If anything I consider possibly gaining assets if MTL gets 3rd and trading down and picking Jiricek.

As long as Hugo doesn’t make the same mistake as predecessors and go off the board to pick another KK I’ll be happy.

Nobody would take Caufield + 4(-6)OA for 1OA in 2023.