In 72 hours, NHL betting enthusiasts will be either in Minnesota or glued to their television sets, as the 2011 NHL draft takes place in St. Paul. This year’s sports betting NHL draft is considered to be one of the deepest, but with no true franchise star in the mix. Here is a preview to get you prepared.

Adam Larsson D Edmonton Oilers – After stocking the cupboard of the next generation of forward stars, the Edmonton Oilers will now shift their attention to the defensive side of things. Enter Adam Larsson, the top Swedish prospect over the last two years. Scouts and analysts alike each agree that of the players in this year’s draft, the strong Swede is the most NHL ready. While 2010 number one pick Taylor Hall leads the Oilers forward core, Larsson will be a force on the back end for years to come.

Ryan Nugent – Hopkins F Colorado Avalanche – The Avalanche has an abundance of centers on their current roster. However, with rumors that Paul Stastny wants out of Colorado; look for the Avalanche to draft Ryan Nugent Hopkins to take Stastny place as the number two center in Colorado.

Gabriel Landeskog F Florida Panthers – After trading Nathan Horton to the Boston Bruins last offseason, the Florida Panthers clearly showed they missed the heart and soul that Horton had brought to the franchise for many years. Enter Gabriel Landeskog, the heart and soul Captain and winger for the Kitchener Rangers. Landeskog brings the skills and heart that Nathan Horton had when he was in Florida. With the Panthers rebuilding, Landeskog is a must have for their team to move forward.

Jonathan Huberdeau F New Jersey Devils – With rumors that the Devils may be unable to keep Zack Parise thanks to the albatross contract given to Ilya Kovalchuk last offseason, look for the Devils to pick Huberdeau with the fourth selection. A Bet Online scam? Not likely. Huberdeau has all the tools to be a skilled number one center for years to come. What better place to learn, than on a stacked franchise such as the New Jersey Devils.