The Carolina Hurricanes have selected Elias Lindholm with the No. 5 overall selection in the 2013 NHL Draft. Carolina was largely believed to be open to trading the pick -- given that the first four teams were in the draft were expected to stay put, the Hurricanes' spot was viewed as the most likely destination for teams looking to climb in the draft.
Ultimately, the club decided to use the selection on a well-regarded prospect.
Here's a look at Lindholm from Jackets' Cannon:
Elias Lindholm comes into the draft with an interesting position: in years-past, he might easily be a top-3 pick. But, with as deep as this draft is, Lindholm comes in on the second tier of prospects. He's a bit undersized, but makes up for that with his skating, which is very good. He's got great vision, and is a true playmaker.
He's a smart player who knows where to be on the ice, has great movement which allows him to be in position all the time, and the ability to set up teammates with aplomb. He could stand to shoot more at times, and of course his size is a question mark. However, he played in a tough league for someone his age, and more than held his own.
Lindholm is ranked #3 in the final Central Scouting International Skater rankings.