John Tavares might be coming to the Avalanche after all. At least if the Red Line Report is doing the selections for the NHL draft.

The well-respected independent scouting service now ranks Tavares as the third-best prospect in the upcoming draft — this, after months of scouts ranking him a consensus No. 1.

The Avs own the third pick in the first round, scheduled for June 26 in Montreal. According to RLR's latest rankings, Swedish defenseman Victor Hedman is the top-rated prospect and Ontario Hockey League center Matt Duchene is No. 2. Previously, the scouting service had listed Tavares, Hedman and Duchene — in that order — as the top prospects.

Every NHL team subscribes to the Red Line Report, and it is an influential guide. Tavares, the London Knights (OHL) forward, apparently dropped down because of a mediocre playoff showing and questions about his overall game.

Duchene, the service said, is the best all-around forward, a player whose defensive skills are superior to those of Tavares.

The New York Islanders own the first pick in the draft, followed by the Tampa Bay Lightning.

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