Youngblood Special Edition: 2014 World Junior Championship

The most wonderful time of the year is mere hours from commencing as the world’s best junior-aged hockey prospects prepare for the 2014 IIHF Under-20 World Junior Hockey Championship,

The Holiday Season is filled with an enchanting atmosphere as children, both young and old, eagerly await the arrival of Christmas. Truth be told, Old Saint Nick may be the root cause of that enchanting feeling experienced by our children but it would be wrong not to credit some of that feel-good anticipation (for us adult hockey fans anyways) to the World Junior Championships. For real, we wait for months to show our national pride and it’s the WJC stage that lifts our emotions to heights that few things can. Sure, it helps that the world tournament takes place during the holiday season where family and friends can convene and cheer on their nations but, just like Old Saint Nick, the World Junior tournament creates a surreal atmosphere filled with hope that is placed in the hands of 22 young kids as they attempt to satisfy a country’s belief of achieving the impossible. For the purposes of the WJC, that impossible belief is winning gold – a task that has proven to be very difficult…even for a hockey driven country like Canada.

Without further ado, Youngblood Hockey courtesy of Brendan Ross (@RossyYoungblood) presents it’s WJC fans with a complete guide to familiarize yourself with the players and nations competing at the 2014 U20 World Junior Hockey Championship.

Free Download: Youngblood 2014 WJC Special Edition

 

Thanks for Reading,

Brendan Ross

@RossyYoungblood

SUBWAY® Super Series: Game 3 Player Reports

Friday, November 22nd, 2013

 

SUBWAY Super Series in Oshawa on Thursday, November 21, 2013 (Aaron Bell/OHL Images)

On Thursday evening I was able to battle through the awful traffic on a four hour drive to Oshawa to catch game three of the SUBWAY® Super Series. It was a privilege to stand amongst the slew of NHL GMs and upper management, as well as notable media personalities. Coming into the OHL games, it was expected that the Ontario squad would dominate the Russian squad who were playing the second game in back-to-back nights. Welp, that certainly did not happen as Team OHL struggled to find chemistry versus an aggressive Russian defensive attack. It’s not uncommon for all-star teams to have difficulty finding their way when players are thrown together for a one or two game series. Kudos to Team Russia on playing a suffocating defensive game and capitalizing on almost every scoring chance the Ontarians allowed them.

From an evaluation standpoint, there seemed to be a general consensus floating around the scouts’ room that there weren’t enough draft eligible skaters on Team Russia and I agree. Unfortunately, not much can be done about the makeup of the roster and Russia shouldn’t be blamed for trying to send a competitive team especially because this event is used mainly for evaluation for the Under-20 Teams.

Turning to individual performances, let’s break down the OHL players one-by-one and touch on a few stand-out Russians as well.

US World Under-18 Roster Headlined by Draft Eligibles

Originally published at TheHockeyWriters.com by Brendan Ross on April 12th, 2013

 

Coming off four-straight gold medals at the World Under-18 Championships, the United States have selected the 23-man roster that will attempt to make it five straight first place finishes. The International Ice Hockey Federation (IIHF) annual World U-18 tournament is scheduled to commence on April 18^th in Sochi, Russia when ten countries convene to vie for gold. Traditionally, the United States have dominated the World U18 Championships taking home a record nine straight medals (six gold, two silver, one bronze). Competing against the Americans in Group A is Finland, Czech Republic, Latvia and Russia. Canada headlines Group B consisting of Germany, Slovakia, Sweden and Switzerland. The tournament is a great opportunity for players eligible for the 2013 NHL Entry Draft to showcase their talents one last time against their draft peers. Unfortunately, Canada is unable to send many of their top players because of their ongoing participation in Canadian Hockey League playoffs.However, the Championship is a highly attended event in the scouting with loads of talented young hockey players  ready to leave a lasting impression.

 

JT Compher [photo: Tom Sorensen]

The Americans will be hungry to keep their win streak intact and Head Coach Don Granato is excited about the 13 forwards, seven defensemen and three goaltenders that will be donning the stars and stripes.

 

 

J.T. Compher, a two-way forward out of the USNTDP Under-18 program, is the top ranked draft eligible American skater on the team but he is joined by fellow draft eligible forwards and USNTDP teammates Michael McCarron, Hudson Fasching, and John Hayden.

 

The massive 6-foot-5 Michael McCarron certainly has appealing NHL size and his aggressive in-your-face style of hockey has drawn lots of interest. McCarron has racked up 166 penalty minutes in 51 games while registering 13 goals and 30 points.

 

Hudson Fasching, a big bodied forward, came into his draft season with lofty expectations because of his size and potential. Heading to the World Championships will provide Fasching with an opportunity to show off his high compete game and improve his draft stock. Fasching netted 11 goals and finished the season with 29 points playing for the illustrious NDTP Under-18 team.

 

John Hayden, a forward blessed with great size (6-3, 216) and physical strength, has shown a willingness to win battles and employ an effective net drive. The Americans will utilize Hayden’s power forward game while he attempts to show scouts that his soft hands and offensive skills are worthy of being drafted into the National Hockey League. Hayden found the back of the net 16 times and added 16 assists for 32 points in his draft year.

 

Boston University commit, Jack Eichel, is the youngest player on the team at the ripe age of 16-years-old. Eichel is a highly touted prospect for the 2014 NHL Entry Draft and his success on the USNTDP U-17 squad is highlighted by his 19 goals and 34 points in 36 games.

 

On the blue line, USA Hockey will be led by draft eligible defensemen Steven Santini, Will Butcher and Keaton Thompson. Butcher was the offensive leader for the US UNDTP U-18 team providing nine goals and 33 points as the team’s most dangerous offensive blueliner. Keaton Thompson is a solid two-way poised rearguard with an excellent first pass and the ability to get nasty as well. The team will rely heavily on defenseman Steve Santini, an intelligent shutdown defender that packs a solid point shot. Look for Santini, Butcher and Thompson to play tough minutes in Sochi as the team chases gold.

 

Here is the complete roster for the 2013 USA World Under-18 Roster:

*Eligible for 2013 NHL Entry Draft

 

Goaltenders

Thatcher Demko (USNTDP U-18)

Hunter Miska (USNTDP U-18)*

Blake Weyrick (USNTDP U-17)

 

Defensemen

Gage Ausmus (USNTDP U-18)*

Will Butcher (USNTDP U-18)*

Connor Clifton (USNTDP U-18)*

Clint Lewis (USNTDP U-18)*

Steven Santini (USNTDP U-18)*

Keaton Thompson (USNTDP U-18)*

Thomas Vannelli (USNTDP U-18)*

 

Forwards

Evan Allen (USNTDP U-18)*

J.T. Compher (USNTDP U-18)*

Dawson Cook, USNTDP U-18*

Jack Eichel, USNTDP U-17

Shane Eiserman, USNTDP U-18)

Hudson Fasching (USNTDP U-18)*

John Hayden (USNTDP U-18)*

Tyler Kelleher (USNTDP U-18)*

Kevin Labanc (USNTDP U-18)

Anthony Louis (USNTDP U-18)*

Sean Malone (USNTDP U-18)*

Michael McCarron (USNTDP U-18)*

Tyler Motte (USNTDP U-18)*

 

Follow @RossyYoungblood for all your NHL Draft and Hockey Prospect news.

Draft Watch 2013 – Top 10 WHL Players

Originally published at TheHockeyWriters.com by Brendan Ross on March 11, 2013

 

Previous Draft Watch 2013 Articles:

Draft Watch 2013: Top 10 OHL Players

 

In modern day draft history, the Western Hockey League has produced some outstanding NHL players. Traditionally known as the go-to league when seeking out franchise defensemen, the NHL has welcomed familiar names like Dion Phaneuf, Brent Seabrook, Shea Weber, Mike Green, Cody Franson, Karl Alzner, Luke Schenn, Tyler Myers, Luca Sbisa, and Travis Hamonic from the Western Hockey League. In addition, up-and-coming players in Jared Cowen, Duncan Siemens, Joseph Morrow and 2012 NHL draftees Ryan Murray, Griffin Reinhart, Morgan Rielly, Mathew Dumba and Derrick Pouliot come with massive defensive potential. While the WHL continues to pump out valuable top defensemen, the 20-team league has been privileged to feature star talent at the forward position as well.  Evander Kane, Brayden Schenn, Ryan Johansen, Nino Niederreiter, Ryan Nugent-Hopkins, and Sven Baertschi are all young forwards that have honed their skills in the Western Hockey League and all went on to be selected in the opening round of the annual NHL Entry Draft.

The WHL is one of the best developmental junior leagues in the world and scouts continue to travel vast distances across the prairies and mountainous landscape in search of the next top star player. Ryan Murray, selected 2^nd overall in 2012, was one of 32 players drafted out of the Western Hockey League last year, and the first of six first round selections that featured Islanders’ Griffin Reinhart (4^th), Maple Leafs’ Morgan Rielly (5^th), Wild’s Mathew Dumba (7^th), Penguins’ Derrick Pouliot (8^th) and Coyotes’ Henrik Samuelsson (27^th). Looking towards the 2013 NHL Entry Draft, the Western Hockey League features the top-ranked prospect available in defenseman Seth Jones of the Portland Winterhawks. With the assistance of Cody Nickolet (@WHLFromAbove), WHL radio colourman, who observes these players on a regular basis, the following list breaks down the Top 10 WHL Players available for the upcoming 2013 NHL Entry Draft:

 

 

Seth Jones (Image Courtesy of TheHockeyGuys.net)

1. Seth Jones, D (Portland Winterhawks)Skating in an already pro-size body, Seth Jones oozes the elite hockey sense, astute defensive awareness and confident poise that few defenders currently playing in the National Hockey League even own. Described by Nickolet as the “unquestionable number one ranked WHL player for the draft”, Jones is also considered the top ranked player in the entire draft class by virtually every major scouting agency. The rangy blue liner has revved up his offensive production as he nears a point-per-game pace and really has no glaring weakness in his game. Seth Jones may be the most complete defenseman to come along in modern day draft history and he is a player that projects perfectly to the NHL game and that makes him all that more attractive to scouts as the number overall selection.

 

2. Hunter Shinkaruk, LW (Medicine Hat Tigers)

“The WHL prospect with likely the highest offensive upside in the draft”, states Nickolet, as he mentions his offensive skillset and compete level as admirable qualities in Hunter Shinkaruk. He is a talented winger that plays a dynamic offensive game with an ability to dance around opposing defenders, release a dangerously accurate shot at the drop of a hat or use his advanced on-ice vision to feed a streaking teammate.

 

3. Ryan Pulock, D (Brandon Wheat Kings)

Among the top scoring defensemen in the WHL, Ryan Pulock was not able to surpass his impressive offensive totals from last year but his defensive game has improved in his third year of major junior hockey.  Pulock plays on a struggling Brandon Wheat Kings team which will not make playoffs and that limits scouts to just regular season action to gauge this hard-shooting defenseman’s potential. Pulock owns top 10 potential but after a few ups and downs this season and the fact that he is among one of the oldest players available, Pulock could slip a bit in the draft.

 

4, Josh Morrissey, D (Prince Albert Raiders)

NIckolet has Morrissey ranked as his 5^th best WHL player but based on strong gut feelings, I feel as though Morrissey’s potential gives him the edge over borderline first round prospect Curtis Lazar (Nickolet’s 4^th ranked WHL player).  As Cody Nickolet explains, “[Morrissey’s] stock has slid a bit for me since the start of the year but I still think he is a future top 3 defender.”  The Raiders’ leader in defensive scoring, Morrissey projects as a solid puck moving defenseman that can skate in defensive shut down situations, an area he has greatly improved during his draft year.

 

5. Madison Bowey, D (Kelowna Rockets)

Flawless skater with four-way mobility rarely observed in defensemen, Bowey uses his feetwork to create offensive chances as well as defend the opposition. He can skate the puck out of trouble and maintains good defensive positioning in the Rockets’ zone with his capability of jumping into the rush and easily getting back due to his quick feet. Bowey’s ability to make smart decisions and execute a clean first pass makes him an attractive selection inside the first round.

 

Nicolas Petan, C (Portland Winterhawks)

The Portland Winterhawks have become one of the top factories for producing NHL talent. After losing Sven Baertschi and Ty Rattie to the professional leagues, Portland Winterhawk sophomore Nic Petan has stepped up large. Competing relentlessly in a 5-foot-9 and sub 170-pound frame, Nic Petan has thrashed the WHL scoresheets racking up 45 goals and 111 points with just a few games remaining in the regular season of his draft year. Legitimate concerns surround Petan’s smaller stature and how his game will translate to the big leagues but with several promising smaller players experiencing current success in the NHL, a team with a middle to late first round selection may roll the dice early in the first round on this offensively dynamic forward.

 

 

7. Morgan Klimchuk, LW (Regina Pats)

Klimchuk is a hard-working winger that battles to get to the scoring areas and once he is there, he rarely misses. Regina’s scoring winger is not an overly dynamic forward but his strong hockey intelligence allows him to read the ice well as a scorer and a solid playmaker as well.  As primarily a shooter, Klimchuk owns a quick release and good accuracy but his ability to cover the ice using his feet is an underrated attribute as his scoring chances usually increase when the left winger is moving his feet. Klimchuk projects as a late first or early second round selection for the upcoming draft.

 

8. Curtis Lazar, C (Edmonton Oil Kings)

Lazar’s biggest criticism as a prospect is his limited offensive potential. NHL teams find it difficult to warrant the use of a first round selection on a player that projects merely as a “shutdown defensive forward, especially in a draft class littered with forwards owning intriguing offensive upsides. In saying that, Lazar was spectacular in the Edmonton Oil Kings’ 2012 WHL Championship run and his ability to step-up under pressure shows great character and a winning attitude and that attribute alone, could see him drafted very high.

 

9. Shea Theodore, D (Seattle Thunderbirds)

There seems to be a similar trend coming with WHL blue liners as most of the draft eligible defensemen are very good skaters. Seattle’s Shea Theodore is no different. His offensive style of game stems from his advanced skating ability. A defenseman who exemplifies smooth four-way ability, Theodore packages his quick feet with a deadly accurate point shot that makes him a true powerplay threat. As the WHL regular season approaches an end, Shea Theodore sits amongst the defensive scoring leaders in both goals (18) and points (48).

 

10. Dillon Heatherington, D (Swift Current Broncos)

Ranked ahead of Madison Bowey, Shea Theodore and Nicolas Petan on his personal list, Nickolet’s high praise of Broncos’ defenseman Dillon Heatherington was quickly noted by me as I personally had the former three players ahead of Heatherington.  Nickolet emphasized Heatherington’s large sized frame, great skating ability and two-way versatility as his best attributes and claimed, “Heatherington could be a top two defenseman [at the NHL level] if he hits his top ceiling.” However, the WHL radio colourman admitted, “Heatherington will more likely be a 30^th to 45^th selection but I like him more than most people.”

 

The Next 10….

 

11. Eric Comrie, G (Tri-City Americans)

12. Mirco Muller, D (Everett Silvertips)

13. Tristan Jarry, G (Edmonton Oil Kings)

14. Oliver Bjorkstrand, RW (Portland Winterhawks)

15. Eric Roy, D (Brandon Wheat Kings)

16. Mitchell Wheaton, D (Kelowna Rockets)

17. Kayle Doetzel, D (Red Deer Rebels)

18. Mason Geertsen, D (Vancouver Giants)

19. Greg Chase, C (Calgary Hitmen)

20. Jackson Houck, RW (Vancouver Giants)

 

 

The Next Best…

(Alphabetical Order)

 

Myles Bell, LW/D (Kelowna Rockets)

Jared Hauf, D (Seattle Thunderbirds)

Spenser Jensen, D (Medicine Hat Tigers)

Tyler Lewington, D (Medicine Hat Tigers)

JC Lipon, RW (Kamloops Blazers)

Roberts Lipsbergs, LW (Seattle Thunderbirds)

Marc McNulty, D (Prince George Cougars)

Connor Rankin, C (Tri-City Americans)

Ty Stanton, D (Medicine Hat Tigers)

Cole Ully, LW (Kamloops Blazers)

 

Interesting Player to Watch: Alex Forsberg, C (formerly on the Prince George Cougars)

 

Previous Draft Watch 2013 Articles:

Draft Watch 2013: Top 10 OHL Players

 

Coming soon…

 

Draft Watch 2013: Top 10 QMJHL Players

Draft Watch 2013 – Top 10 OHL Players

Originally published at TheHockeyWriters.com by Brendan Ross on March 7, 2013

 

March has arrived and its crunch time for draft eligible players as they attempt to vault their teams into post-season action all under the microscopes of dozens of scouts watching their individual performances.  The final games before playoff action provides an opportunity for players to showcase their skills ensuring precision in every attempted pass, accuracy and intelligence in every shot attempted and the tenaciousness in every body check laid. NHL teams have sent their scouting staff around the globe in hopes of finding a future impact player from the 2013 NHL draft class and these final games are when the group of evaluators form their final decisions on these players.  Hundreds of rinks are visited in cities all with unique characteristics and in this first series of we venture to the twenty Ontario Hockey League rinks and rank the top 10 players competing in the Ontario circuit.

 

 

Last year at the 2012 NHL Entry Draft, 48 players from the Ontario Hockey League were selected in the annual draft setting a modern day record and highest since 1999 when the league had 52 players selected. Nail Yakupov (1^st), Alex Galchenyuk (3^rd) and Slater Koekkoek (10^th) cracked the top 10 in Pittsburgh last year and joined seven other first round selections that included Rangers’ Radek Faksa (13^th), 67’s Cody Ceci (15^th), Whalers’ Tom Wilson, Generals’ Scott Laughton (20^th), Knights’ Olli Maatta (22^nd), Bulls’ Malcolm Subban (24^th) and Brendan Gaunce (26^th). Projections indicate that the battle for the top OHL player for the upcoming draft is between Ottawa’s Sean Monahan and Sault Ste. Marie’s defenseman Darnell Nurse and it will be interesting to see who hears his name called first.

In the first of many “Draft Watch” series, the top draft eligible playing in the Ontario Hockey League are revealed.

 

1. Sean Monahan, C (Ottawa 67’s)

It takes a special player to battle through the hardships that the lowly Ottawa 67’s have had to endure this season and Sean Monahan is exactly that – a special player. Monahan is a player you learn to appreciate more with each passing view of him, as his elite hockey sense and heady game become more prevalent as you dissect his game. Lacking an initial “get up” gear, Monahan is a good (not spectacular) skater that shows value in all three zones. He makes smart decisions with the puck, positions himself well and is equally adept as a shooter and player. With Monahan, a team will be drafting a player ready to become a professional and work to become the best player and teammate possible.

 

Darnell Nurse (Terry Wilson/OHL Images)

2, Darnell Nurse, D (Sault Ste. Marie Greyhounds)

Nurse is probably the only OHL eligible skater who has the potential to unseat Sean Monahan as the league’s top player. An extremely athletic individual, Nurse is arguably the most mobile defenseman in his draft class, which is impressive considering his 6-foot-3 plus frame. Nurse has answered preseason questions on whether he holds another gear offensively and he has done so while maintaining an elite level of defensive and physical play. His edges, strength and decision making are already savvy and once Nurse can fill out his mammoth frame, opponents won’t be looking forward to facing this potential top-pairing rearguard.

 

 

3. Max Domi, C (London Knights)

Max Domi is ranked third on my list based solely on his utmost potential – which is possibly the highest of any OHL skater in the draft class. Blessed with elite skating skills, advanced puck skills and a creative imagination, Domi owns the offensive weaponry to rip apart the competition. His elusiveness and unpredictability keeps defenders on their heels and as a result it opens up more ice for Domi to operate, which is important for an undersized forward. Domi’s biggest knock has always been his size and individualistic approach but he is a cerebral player who understands the game and those type of players can be taught to defend better and utilize his linemates more often.

 

London Knights forward Bo Horvat (Terry Wilson/OHLImages)

4. Bo Horvat, C (London Knights)

Personally, I have a hard time ranking Bo Horvat behind Domi but Horvat’s safe projectable game does not come with the rewards that Domi’s game possesses. Horvat plays such an easy to coach style of game which projects him as a safe top-9 skater at the NHL level. He’s an elite faceoff man that can also play the wing. He is a penalty kill specialist but can operate the powerplay with the best of his draft peers. He’s a leader, he’s a winner and, most importantly, Horvat is a gamer who amps up his game when his team needs elevating. Simply put, Bo Horvat is the most versatile forward available in this draft and because of that a team will walk away very satisfied. I wouldn’t be surprised to see Bo Horvat become one of the most talked-about players in this draft class in a few years’ time because his offensive skills are definitely underrated by most experts’ standards so he does own a “sleeper” quality in the respect.

 

 

5. Nikita Zadorov, D (London Knights)

Big mean physical defensemen are highly coveted at the NHL draft, always have been and always will. Zadorov fits that description perfectly and he will be taken high as a result. I am not as high on Zadorov’s “potential” as some are but I can certainly understand their reasoning. He’s not the most fluid skater and his tendency to look for the big hit can be costly at times but he always makes his presence felt. With his massive wingspan, Zadorov is a top-notch shutdown defenseman and much like Nurse, he might own an offensive element to his game but we have yet to witness that emergence. At this point, Zadorov remains a tantalizing prospect for me but there are a few players who have showed me their potential moreso than Zadorov.

 

 

6.  Kerby Rychel, LW (Windsor Spitfires)

My draft notes are all over the map when it comes to Kerby Rychel and his play has reflected that. His play has been sporadic all season long but when he is on his game he can become one of the most dominant players in the Ontario Hockey League. The return of Khokhlachev has sparked a late-season surge in Rychel (as expected) but determining whether he should be applauded or knocked for that, remains a big question. Rychel owns great size, a wicked release and the puck tends to follow him around which are all great qualities for a sniping winger. However, Rychel has shown lapses in compete level and often becomes disinterested when times get tough – those are concerning qualities in a prospect. Rychel is at his best when he is engaging himself physically and penetrating into the scoring areas, both areas he has improved in with Koko’s return. There is some risk in drafting Kerby Rychel but he does project to become a complementary top-six scoring winger (maybe Boston will look at him with Koko).

 

7. Jason Dickinson, LW (Guelph Storm)

Dickinson is a polarizing player (much like Kerby Rychel).  In Guelph, Dickinson plays in all situations and shows flashes of brilliance in all of his roles, a testament to his hockey intelligence, but he can become somewhat consistent in his approach. He can often look uninvolved at times but I am not as concern with it as much as other critics. Dickinson’s overall game is one of the more appealing packages of any OHL forward. He’s a leader on and off the ice, shows great offensive skills and owns that swagger that many budding stars emit. This is a player who could be one of the bigger steals down the road, founded merely on his vast potential, if he slides in the draft.

 

8. Ryan Hartman, C (Plymouth Whalers)

Hartman has quickly jumped up my rankings since he made the trek to Plymouth for his draft year. A fiery, creative and tenacious forward has left a positive impression in each viewing I had of him this season which is extremely impressive considering he is a teenager. Hartman has that “will-to-win” attitude that wins games for you and it is becoming a highly sought after attribute. His confidence and poise with the puck as well as his individual puck skills often get overlooked by his snarly style of game but he is certainly capable of fulfilling a scoring role at the next level.

 

9. Chris Bigras, D (Owen Sound Attack)

Playing in the Northwest corner of Ontario, Owen Sound’s Chris Bigras is making noise and it’s because of his astute responsible two-way game. Attack Head Coach Greg Ireland relies heavily on sophomore Chris Bigras in all situations and he has answered the challenge exceptionally. Defensively, Bigras owns great positioning, wields an effective stick and can physically handle the opposition, a big reason why he sits among the OHL’s top skaters in plus-minus category (8^th at plus-30). Bigras shouldn’t be mistaken for a pure shut-down defenseman as his great hockey sense, good feet and smart decision making allows him to contribute offensively as well.

 

10. Justin Bailey, C (Kitchener Rangers)

As one of the best shooters in the entire draft class, Justin Bailey possesses an appealing offensive package. Bailey owns a good sized frame (6’3”) and he utilizes his leg strength and positioning well to shield off opponents. Unfortunately, Bailey has battled injury in his draft year but he has returned and has ramped up his offensive production in the absence of several key Kitchener players. His shot release and quickness is a dangerous weapon and when coupled with advanced one-on-one skills, he can be difficult to contain.

 

The Next 10

 

11. Spencer Martin, G (Mississauga Steelheads)

12. Jordan Subban, D (Belleville Bulls)

13. Zach Nastasiuk, LW (Owen Sound Attack)

14. Jimmy Lodge, C  (Saginaw Spirit)

15. Nick Moutrey, RW (Saginaw Spirit)

16. Stephen Harper, LW (Erie Otters)

17. Nicholas Baptiste, RW (Sudbury Wolves)

18. Remi Elie, LW (London Knights)

19. Ryan Kujawinski, C (Kingston Frontenacs)

20. Cole Cassels, C (Oshawa Generals)

 

 

The Next Best (in alphabetical order)

 

Justin Auger, RW (Guelph Storm)

Josh Burnside, LW (Mississauga Steelheads)

Jeff Corbett, D (Sudbury Wolves)

Anthony DiFruscia, LW (Niagara Ice Dogs)

Hunter Garlent, RW (Guelph Storm)

Ben Harpur, D (Guelph Storm)

Dominik Kubalik, LW (Sudbury Wolves)

Brent Pedersen, LW (Kitchener Rangers)

Jonatan Tanus, C (Peterborough Petes)

Sergey Tolchinsky, RW (Sault Ste. Marie Greyhounds)

 

Be sure to check back for “Draft Watch” as the series continues to break down other top draft eligible players from around the world in other leagues.

 

If you choose to, follow @RossyYoungblood as he continues to follow the 2013 NHL draft class

 

2013 NHL Mock Draft – The Jones-MacKinnon-Drouin Decision

 

Originally published at TheHockeyWriters.com by Brendan Ross on February 26th, 2013

 

As the twenty-game mark approaches, the NHL standings are starting to take true form and with that projecting where teams might end up selecting in the 2013 NHL Entry Draft becomes a little easier. Mock drafts remain a pure guessing game and are constructed merely to entertain hockey’s most die-hard fans but it also serves to show whereabouts draft-eligible players are being considered. Predicting how thousands of scouting hours, among hundreds of scouts, from thirty different NHL franchise, all with different needs will reflect the final 2013 NHL draft order is virtually impossible. As you browse through the following mock draft take into account the countless different scenarios and possibilities and accept that the end result of the mock draft is for sheer recreation.

*Mock draft does not take into account the NHL draft lottery, playoff implications or potential trades.

**Draft order reflective of NHL standings as of Sunday, February 24th, 2013.

 

Photo Mike Dembeck

1^st Columbus Blue Jackets – Jonathan Drouin, LW (Halifax Mooseheads, QMJHL)

The Blue Jackets are in a tough position with arguably four franchise players to choose from with the top selection. Last season, Columbus was robbed of the top pick when the Edmonton Oilers won the draft lottery to select Nail Yakupov. With a slew of talented defensive prospects, including 2012 2nd overall selection Ryan Murray, and three first round picks, Columbus opts to select Jonathan Drouin. In Drouin, the Jackets add an electrifying player who will get fans out of their seats with all-world puck skills and an unmatched on-ice hockey sense in this draft class. If Columbus passes on Drouin, Nathan MacKinnon certainly would be an equally valuable player for the Blue Jackets with his blazing speed and total package of skills.

 

 

2^nd Washington Capitals – Seth Jones, D (Portland Winterhawks, WHL)

In recent drafts, owning the second overall pick often results in an easy decision – pick the next best player. However, in the 2013 draft class the decision becomes more complicated not knowing which player will be selected first overall as well as having several other worthy candidates. With MacKinnon and Seth Jones available, Washington has an opportunity to add a valuable centre ice man or a future defensive stalwart. After taking a look at the Capitals’ depth chart and factoring in how difficult it is to find a defenseman of Seth Jones’ calibre, George McPhee (assuming he is still in charge) will draft the Texas born Seth Jones and add a vital player for decades to come.

 

3^rd Buffalo Sabres – Nathan MacKinnon, C (Halifax Mooseheads, QMJHL)

All 30 NHL teams would love to have the opportunity to own the third overall selection in 2013 NHL Entry Draft with the high-end prospect crop available this season. Buffalo essentially owns a top pick and they will quickly snap up the draft’s best skating pivot in Nathan MacKinnon if he remains on the board long enough to reach third overall. The Sabres have had a lowly season to date but bringing in a player of MacKinnon’s breed would quickly mend bad feelings swirling around the Buffalo Sabres’ fan base.

 

4^th Florida Panthers – Aleksander Barkov, C (Tappara, FIN)

It is starting to sound like a broken record, but the Florida Panthers would be the fourth team to add a potential franchise player to their depth chart with an opportunity to select big Finnish centerman Aleksander Barkov from Tappara. With no real weakness in his game and a late birthday, Barkov has the potential to develop into one of this draft class’ most dangerous forwards.

 

5^th Colorado Avalanche – Elias Lindholm, C (Brynäs, SWE)

The Ryan O’Reilly debacle has been extremely messy in Colorado this season but with an chance to bring in a responsible two-way centre with above average offensive abilities, Mr. O’Reilly can be replaced with a fresh face of equal or better ability. The last first round pick Colorado owned came two years ago when the Avalanche selected Gabriel Landeskog second overall and with Lindholm, the Avs add a similar hardworking skilled Swede.

 

6^th Edmonton Oilers – Darnell Nurse, D (Sault Ste. Marie, OHL)

The Oilers enter the 2013 NHL draft in an unfamiliar place as they sit out of the top slot (for now) for the first time in three years. Since 2010 when Edmonton drafted Taylor Hall from the Windsor Spitfires, the Oilers have selected a player from the Canadian Hockey League with its first round selection and do not be surprised if that trend continues. With an embarrassment of riches at the forward position, Edmonton will likely target a defensive prospect to add to its young talented roster and Darnell Nurse owns the skills, toughness and versatility that Edmonton could easily integrate into their system. There will be plenty of options if Edmonton chooses to draft a defenseman with Ristolainen, Pulock, Morrissey and Zadorov as other options as well.

 

7^th Calgary Flames – Sean Monahan, C (Ottawa, OHL)

The Flaming C was donned by Mark Jankowski last year at the draft surprising many teams after Calgary traded down to select the raw offensive high school standout in the 21^st position. It was a risk that Jay Feaster and company felt was necessary and only time will tell if it was a successful gamble but there isn’t a better player for Calgary’s future than Sean Monahan of the Ottawa 67′s. Considered almost NHL-ready, Sean Monahan plays a complete game from goal line to goal line and Calgary would graciously welcome his top-six potential into an offensively challenged and aging lineup. Calgary has a tendency to stick to it’s North American prospects in recent drafts and if Sean Monahan dons the orange and yellow jersey then he could quickly spark a fire under a frustrated fan base.

 

8^th Winnipeg Jets – Hunter Shinkaruk, LW (Medicine Hat, WHL)

With a stable blueline and a strong scouting staff in the Canadian Hockey League, look for the Jets to add a forward with some tantalizing offensive upside. Hunter Shinkaruk and Max Domi are two players who share that description and while my gut instinct says ‘Domi’, Shinkaruk is the player with less risk in his game so it is he that ends up in the ‘Peg. Shinkaruk is an elusive scoring winger with an element of excitement to his game that could look nice alongside future number one centerman Mark Scheifele.

 

Max Domi: NHL Central Scouting has curious ranked Tie’s son as the 23rd rated North American skater (Terry Wilson/OHL Images.)

9^th New York Islanders – Max Domi, C (London, OHL)

The Islanders have had great success drafting forwards out of the Ontario Hockey League and with them using all seven draft picks last year on defensemen, Garth Snow opts to swing for the fences with Max Domi from the London Knights. A player with elite offensive skills and a non-stop motor packed into a small frame, Domi knows how to create offense and has an ability to elevate his game when the game is on the line.

 

 

 

 

 

10^th Columbus Blue Jackets (via Los Angeles Kings) – Rasmus Ristolainen, D (TPS, FIN)

As the NHL’s first European General Manager, Finn Jarmo Kekalainen gets his chance to add a potential franchise defenseman from his homeland in Rasmus Ristolainen. The big defender competes with great poise and confidence and that type of presence would be welcomed in Columbus. He is a mobile defenseman that makes smart decisions with the puck and understands how to play within his skillset.

 

11^th Columbus Blue Jackets (via New York Rangers) – Valeri Nichushkin, C (Traktor Chelyabinsk, RUS)

With its third pick in the draft courtesy of the Rick Nash trade, Columbus replaces Nash’s size with a similar rangy forward in Russian Valeri Nichushkin, considered a top 10 talent. Nichushkin is a risky pick considering Columbus’ track record of developing Russians but with a new front office in place, Columbus is not the same team and adding a skilled big forward in Nichushkin is a big gain for the Blue Jackets.

 

12^th Minnesota Wild – Anthony Mantha, LW (Val d’Or, QMJHL)

With a wealth of top prospects, Minnesota can take a chance selecting a player with raw offensive potential and Anthony Mantha fits that billing. He is a winger with great on-ice vision and an ability to create offense off the rush but his consistency and attention to detail will require further development and time.

 

13^th San Jose Sharks – Ryan Pulock, D (Brandon, WHL)

The Sharks have struggled in recent drafts failing to add prospect depth but if Ryan Pulock is available when their selection comes due then they will surely be adding a promising blueliner. Pulock owns a howitzer of a shot that complements his cerebral game well. He doesn’t play in a huge frame but he competes smart and would make a great eventual replacement to an aging Dan Boyle.

 

14^th Carolina Hurricanes – Josh Morrissey, D (Prince Albert, WHL)

Morrissey is a smooth skating offensive defenseman that comes in a similar mold as Hurricane’s 2011 1st round selection, Ryan Murphy, but with a more developed defensive game. An instinctual defenseman, Morrissey understands the game well at both ends of the ice and has shown continual improvement.

 

15^th Tampa Bay Lightning – Nikita Zadorov, D (London, OHL)

Lightning GM Steve Yzerman has shown adds another Russian gem to its development system in 6-foot-5 Nikita Zadorov. A mobile defenseman with an ability to lay bone-crushing body checks, Zadorov is a player with a appealing potential and would fit nicely into the Russian community Yzerman is creating in St. Petersburg. His defensive game has improved throughout his rookie OHL season and there have been flashes of offensive potential but he remains a raw rearguard offensively.

 

16^th Phoenix Coyotes – Adam Erne, RW (Quebec, QMJHL)

Locking up a big powerful forward with a physical frame to develop into an impact power forward in Adam Erne would be a big get for the Phoenix Coyotes. Erne lacks a real standout skill but in a Coyotes’ system that preaches smart hockey, Erne could excel.

 

17^th Dallas Stars – Kerby Rychel, LW (Windsor, OHL)

The Stars have gravitated to drafting big forwards over the past few years under GM Joe Niewendyk and adding Spitfires’ forward Kerby Rychel would continue that trend. Rychel has shown to be a great complementary scoring winger especially when he uses his size. With good size, scoring instincts and the potential to get gritty, Rychel has some interesting pro potential.

 

18^th Philadelphia Flyers – Robert Hägg, D (Modo, SWE)

With few noteworthy prospects in the Flyers’ farm system, Philadelphia will look to add a player who can play big minutes and contribute in the team’s skill game. Hägg is a cerebral defenseman with an ability to slow the game down dissecting his opponents. He is an excellent passer who handles the puck well under pressure and he could be a nice addition to a Flyers’ team looking for fresh faces on their blue line.

 

19^th Nashville Predators – Frédérik Gauthier, C (Rimouski, QMJHL)

The Predators have perfected the art of drafting defensemen but now it’s time to add some impact forwards and Oceanic breakout forward Frédérik Gauthier would fit nicely into the Nashville system. He is a responsible two-way forward with an impressive compete level making him a relatively safe pick mid-way through the opening round.

 

20^th Detroit Red Wings – Alexander Wennberg, C/LW (Djurgården, SWE)

A forward with good size and an extremely intelligent hockey mind, Alexander Wennberg screams Detroit Red Wings’ material. His vision, smooth puck handling skills and ability to execute accurate passes makes him a prospect with very projectable NHL skills.

 

21^st St. Louis Blues – Shea Theodore, D (Seattle, WHL)

A gifted skater, Theodore is a mobile defenseman with good four-way agility and has the potential to become a solid top-four defender. He owns a hard accurate point shot and defends the opposition well plus he owns some great intangibles (great leader).

 

22^nd Toronto Maple Leafs – Bo Horvat, C (London, OHL)

There is a good chance that Bo Horvat is not available if the Maple Leafs pick this late but he is an ideal candidate to don the blue and white. An extremely intelligent hockey player who competes hard at both ends of the ice, Horvat is also has an exceptional ability to read the ice well. For a team looking for a centerman who doesn’t lose a faceoff and competes the entire length of the ice, Horvat is an attractive player for Leaf nation.

 

23^rd Boston Bruins – Ryan Hartman, C/RW (Plymouth, OHL)

In a similar mold as current Bruin Brad Marchand, Ryan Hartman is a high-energy skilled forward with an ability to agitate his opponents. His upside remains a question mark but his offensive skills are showing that he has the fundamentals to serve as a top-six forward and earn special teams ice time.

 

24^th Vancouver Canucks – Madison Bowey, D (Kelowna, WHL)

Playing in close quarters to Vancouver is Kelowna’s Madison Bowey, a mobile defenseman with a strong two-way game, a component accurate with many of Kelowna’s recent graduates to the NHL including Shea Weber, Duncan Keith, Tyler Myers, Sheldon Souray, Alexander Edler, Josh Gorges and Luke Schenn.

 

25^th Ottawa Senators – André Burakovsky, LW (Malmo, SWE)

Senators add a speedy winger with good playmaking instincts by selecting André Burakovsky. Ottawa has had good recent success drafting players holding Swedish passports and Burakovsky is a promising player that can serve as a versatile forward and as a bonus, he is already gaining valuable experience among men in Sweden.

 

26^th New Jersey Devils – Jason Dickinson, LW (Guelph, OHL)

Dickinson has shown flashes of great offensive skills and his size, hockey sense and one-on-one skills are very promising. The Devils would be adding a potential top-six winger who has yet to tap into his offensive skills. With the lose of Zach Parise last off-season, Dickinson would give the Devils a legit top-line contender in the future.

 

27^th Montreal Canadiens – Curtis Lazar, C (Edmonton, WHL)

With Galchenyuk firmly planted as Montreal’s future top-line centre, Montreal adds a versatile two-way forward to strengthen the bottom half of their lineup. Lazar has the skills to play in a top-six role and could develop into a player much like the Ryan O’Reilly’s and Dustin Brown’s of the league, playing anywhere inside the top-nine forward spots.

 

28^th Pittsburgh Penguins – Anthony Duclair, LW (Quebec, QMJHL)

With the 28^th pick, Pittsburgh rolls the dice on speedy forward Anthony Duclair in hopes of one of their late-round forward selections panning out, something that has not happened often in Steeltown. Duclair is a winger with an ability to create lanes and scoring opportunities using his blazing speed and quick hands.

 

29^th Anaheim Ducks – J.T. Compher, C (USNTDP, USHL)

The Ducks opt to select a heady two-way forward in J.T. Compher. The product of the US National Program remains one of the most complete forwards in the draft class and his desire for winning is a contagious quality. Offensively, Compher has good complementary skills that derive mainly from his advanced playmaking abilities.

 

30^th Chicago Blackhawks – Zach Fucale, G (Halifax, QMJHL)

There are several routes the Blackhawks could go with the 30^th selection but with underwhelming goaltending prospect depth, selecting Zachary Fucale would be a smart play. As one of the few goaltenders with starting potential, Fucale has shown good poise between the pipes and an attitude driven to win.

 

Please follow @RossyYoungblood as he continues to focus on 2013 NHL draft eligible forwards.

 

The Scouting Notebook: 2013 NHL Entry Draft Mid-Term Rankings

Originally published at TheHockeyWriters.com by Brendan Ross on February 24th, 2013

 

The lockout has ended and NHL hockey is back. It may have seemed that hockey was at a standstill for the past six months while fans waited for the return of their favourite NHL players and teams, but in reality, great hockey never stopped. As many people were without work due to the lockout, NHL scouts remained as busy as ever as they shifted their focus to draft eligible skaters and travelled to rinks around the globe in preparation for the 2013 NHL Entry Draft.

The class of 2013 has been receiving rave reviews from their outstanding performances as they prepare to become one of the best top heavy crops in recent years. Similar to the 2008, 2009 and 2012 drafts, the battle for first overall is between two franchise players at different positions – a defenseman in Portland Winterhawks’ Seth Jones and speedy Halifax Mooseheads’ forward Nathan MacKinnon. The campaign for top spot is as competitive as ever and at this point and deciding on a clear top player was virtually impossible as both players own magnificent personal qualities and hockey skills. It is important not to dwell on Nathan MacKinnon being ranked first over Seth Jones as that decision will be made by the NHL team that eventually holds that pick and at that point, the franchise will choose accordingly based on its team’s needs. Instead, indulge yourself in the skillful battle between these two mesmerizing hockey talents as each of them plan to showcase their skills deep into the playoffs on strong major junior teams.

As the rankings are arranged, there are several tiers of importance to note to properly understand players’ value. MacKinnon and Jones formulate the clear-cut top tier but the second tier of elite players consisting of Mooseheads’ Jonathan Drouin, Finnish star Aleksander Barkov, underrated Swedish pivot Elias Lindholm, big projectable Russian Valeri Nichushkin and the mature Sean Monahan are pushing their way up the ranks for a piece of the pie. From Medicine Hat sniper, Hunter Shinkaruks’ spot at 8^th to Ryan Pulocks ranking of 13^th, there are a half dozen talented players that make up tier three.  Following those three defined tiers of players, an argument can be made for selecting any of remaining players from the remaining top 50 at any point.

Regardless of who is ranked first or how the selections actually fall, the 2013 draft class has exceptional talent throughout the first round and game-breaking skill is front and centre for prime picking.

 

Previous Rankings (November) can be found here

 

Note: All statistics below are current as of January 22^nd.

 

1^st Nathan MacKinnon

Teammates Nathan MacKinnon and Jonathan Drouin are both considered top-5 talents for the upcoming draft (Photo: Mike Dembeck)

Halifax, QMJHL

Height:  5’11” Weight:  179 Position: Centre

2012-13 Statistics:  35GP – 26G – 34A – 60P, 37 PIM

Twitter: @MacKinnon9

The difference between MacKinnon and second ranked Seth Jones is virtually zilch. With these two top end prospects, it is a ranking of 1A and 1B and one could easily exchange one for the other. MacKinnon gets placed above Seth Jones (for now), based on his upside.  At this point in time, MacKinnon has more room to develop as a player in all areas of the game. Seth Jones is equally deserving of the top spot but it is more likely that the big poised defenseman is closer to his ceiling than the younger MacKinnon, who is only two weeks removed from being 2014 draft eligible.

2^nd Seth Jones

Portland, WHL

Height: 6’4” Weight: 206 Position: Defense

2012-13 Statistics:  36GP – 8G – 21A – 29P, 25 PIM

Twitter: @seth_jones04

As stated above, an argument can be made for Seth Jones to be the top ranked prospect as he possesses the rare size and skill that franchises desperately covet. In the end, it is difficult to find the type of defender that Seth Jones is and projected to become, which could persuade a team to use its first overall selection simply because it is a more difficult position to fill.  Regardless, the Seth Jones-Nathan MacKinnon battle is as close as any 1-2 ranked draft debate in modern day draft history. Flip a coin.

 

3^rd Jonathan Drouin

Halifax, QMJHL

Height: 5’11” Weight: 192 Position: Left Wing

2012-13 Statistics:  29GP – 22G – 36A – 58P, 16 PIM

Twitter: @jodrouin27

Drouin is the feel-good draft story that surfaces every season during draft discussion. Initially ranked as a borderline top 10 selection to start the year, Drouin has displayed elite puck handling, good skating skills and the hockey intelligence to climb into the discussion as a top three player. With continual dominant play by Jonathan Drouin, he could rival teammate MacKinnon as the top forward selected at the upcoming draft.

 

 

4^th Aleksander Barkov

Tappara, FIN Height: 6’2” Weight:  205 Position:  Centre

2012-13 Statistics:  38GP – 18G – 17A – 35P, 4 PIM

Twitter: @Barkovsasha95

Despite not meeting the lofty expectations set for him at the 2013 WJHC, Barkov remains a potential top five skater. Like MacKinnon, Barkov is a late ’95 birthday and has lots of room to develop his skills that are already advanced. Barkov is a patient pivot with a good frame and possesses the soft hands, vision and creativity to thrive as an offensive playmaker at the next level.

 

5^th Elias Lindholm

Brynäs, SWE Height: 6’0” Weight: 192 Position: Centre

2012-13 Statistics:  37GP – 7G – 17A – 24P, 2 PIM

Twitter: @lindholmelias

Lindholm is not garnering the attention that a player of his skill level deserves. As one of the more complete two-way forwards available in the 2013 draft class, Lindholm is a player that comes with a high NHL likelihood. To boot, Lindholm has been exceptional in Elitserien play this season playing amongst men and sits as the top scorer among all undrafted players. Lindholm’s attention to detail, two-way abilities and consistent production makes him a sure-fire top 10 selection.

 

6^th Valeri Nichushkin

Traktor Chelyabinsk, RUS Height: 6’3” Weight: 176 Position: Centre

2012-13 Statistics:  14GP – 2G – 2A – 4P, 0 PIM

Moving his way up the draft boards is rangy pivot Valeri Nichushkin after an impressive showing for Russia at the 2013 WJHC. Nichushkin’s overtime goal in the bronze medal game sent Canada home without a medal for the first time in 14 years. Easily the top-ranked Russian forward in this draft class, Nichushkin has climbed his way up the ranks by impressing with the use of his sizeable frame, coveted net drive game and dangerous shooting arsenal. Nichushkin is a player with tons of raw offensive potential and this ranking reflects that. Whether or not the Russian factor comes into play at the draft, Nichushkin has top-10 skills.

 

 

7^th Sean Monahan

Ottawa, OHL Height: 6’2” Weight: 196 Position: Centre

2012-13 Statistics:  37GP – 17G – 33A – 51P, 16 PIM

Twitter: @Monahan20

Monahan’s draft spot has dropped slightly but it has more to do with other players performing well enough to pass him rather than him playing poorly.  Despite producing strong offensive numbers, it has been a challenging draft season for Monahan as he has had to endure playing on a weak team and even sit through a lengthy suspension. He lacks elite skating skills but Monahan is arguably one of the most complete draft-eligible skaters in this draft class and will push for a top five selection.

 

 

8^th Hunter Shinkaruk

Medicine Hat, WHL

Height: 5’11” Weight: 175 Position: Left Wing

2012-13 Statistics:  43GP – 26G – 30A – 56P, 32 PIM

Twitter: @H_S_9

Shinkaruk is a dynamic offensive talent that has a knack for finding the scoring areas and capitalizing. Highlighted by a pro release that has dangerous quickness and accuracy, Shinkaruk definitely fits the mold of a sniper but his playmaking, vision and creativity with the puck certainly makes him an above average passer as well. Shinkaruk’s lack of ideal pro size will draw criticisms but he has shown a willingness to compete in battle and that should ease the concerns.

9^th Darnell Nurse

Greyhounds’ defenseman Darnell Nurse is trending upwards for the 2013 NHL Entry Draft. (Photo: Terry Wilson/OHL Images)

Sault Ste. Marie, OHL Height: 6’3” Weight: 185 Position: Defense 2012-13 Statistics:  46GP – 9G – 20A – 29P, 87 PIM

Twitter: @drtwofive

Nurse entered his draft season as a player with immense pro potential and scouts were eager to see him tap some of that underlying talent. Fortunately, Nurse has done exactly that. The large smooth skating mobile defenseman has progressed with every shift this season. The biggest question mark in Nurse’s game was always his offensive potential and after increased opportunities with Ryan Sproul injured, Nurse displayed quickly that he does indeed have the offensive skills to become a threat in all 60-feet of the rink. His ability to play the game calmly under pressure makes him easy to project as a reliable responsible two-way defender. Large, mobile, physical defensemen with the ability to provide offense are highly coveted and, as a result, Nurse will be the target of many NHL teams.

 

 

10^th Josh Morrissey

Prince Albert, WHL Height: 6’0” Weight: 184 Position: Defense 2012-13 Statistics:  44GP – 12G – 21A – 33P, 55 PIM

Twitter: @Morrissey_10

Morrissey is a puck moving defensemen who prides himself on also having an astute defensive game. The Raiders’ blueliner is a significant piece in his team’s transition game as he makes smart decisions and executes passes with pin-point accuracy. NHL teams will welcome Morrissey’s attitude as he is a player that shows a willingness to improve and the drive to win. While his offensive skills may appear his biggest asset, Morrissey does not shy away from physical contact either adding an improving dimension to his game.

 

 

11^th Rasmus Ristoläinen

TPS, FIN

Height: 6’3” Weight: 207 Position: Defense

2012-13 Statistics:  35GP – 2G – 9A – 11P, 22 PIM

Ristoläinen projects to be molded into a top-four defenseman who excels in all aspects of the game. He owns size, effortless skating skills, physical shutdown abilities, and an offensive game that is developing on the go. The big Finn defenseman certainly has a top-10 skillset and will contest to be the second blueliner selected after Seth Jones.

 

 

12^th Adam Erne

Quebec, QMJHL Height: 6’1” Weight: 198 Position: Right Wing

2012-13 Statistics:  45GP – 20G – 35A – 55P, 42 PIM

Twitter: @AdamErne73

Erne lacks the ideal power forward frame but he is solid enough to succeed in that type of role. Erne’s hard-nosed approach is the key to his pro-style of game that features exceptional board play, a heavy shot and impressive physical strength.

 

13^th Ryan Pulock

Brandon, WHL Height: 6’0” Weight: 194 Position: Defense

2012-13 Statistics:  37GP – 10G – 21A – 31P, 18 PIM

Twitter: @rpulock2

When Pulock is ranked 13^th, it is quite clear that this is an extremely gifted draft class as the young defenseman certainly has top-10 potential. Blessed with a rocket of a point shot, Pulock has no problems finding the back of the net even as a defenseman. This instinctual rearguard could improve his physical play but as a smaller defenseman, he will be more successful if he uses his high hockey sense to perfect body positioning and gap control to contain the opposition rather than brute force.

14^th Bo Horvat

 

London Knights forward Bo Horvat is just starting to receive recognition but his game has always been first round worthy (Terry Wilson/OHLImages)

London, OHL Height: 6’0” Weight: 200 Position: Centre/Wing 2012-13 Statistics:  46GP – 21G – 21A – 42P, 23 PIM

Twitter: @BoHorvat

This future captain of an NHL team owns a complete package of skills and the intangibles of no other player in this draft class. Understanding and reading the game is Horvat’s greatest asset and it is evident in his ability to play in all three zones of the ice. He has been high on this list since last season and now other scouting services are beginning to realize that Horvat is much more than just a defensive forward (although, good luck winning a faceoff against him). He lacks top end speed but his powerful skating stride makes him a difficult player to knock off the puck especially when he combines his underrated puck control skills and intense never-quit attitude in board battles.

15^th Anthony Mantha

Val-d’Or, QMJHL

Height: 6’4” Weight: 187 Position: Left Wing 2012-13 Statistics:  45GP – 34G – 29A – 63P, 51 PIM

Twitter: @antomantha8

Mantha’s game is predicated on his hockey sense as he shows an ability to find open teammates at will. Leading all draft eligible skaters in scoring in the QMJHL, Mantha has ramped up his offensive production and it has resulted in an increase in his draft stock. The lanky winger has great raw potential as a scoring winger but he will need to continue to show scouts that he has a good compete level and plays to win.

 

 

16^th Max Domi

London, OHL

Height: 5’10” Weight: 194 Position: Centre

2012-13 Statistics:  44GP – 25G – 36A – 61P, 47 PIM

Twitter: @max_domi

Domi remains an interesting prospect. There is no doubt the small feisty Domi owns the offensive skills of a top 10 forward but the criticisms come in many forms – size and strength concerns, too individualistic, and even the fact that he has diabetes have all surfaced as alarms, whether warranted or not. Regardless, Domi is an elite skater with great puck skills, above-average distribution skills (when employed) and absolutely loves to have the puck on his stick. If Domi slides outside of the top-20, one NHL team will be absolutely thrilled.

17^th Nikita Zadorov

London, OHL Height: 6’5” Weight: 228 Position: Defense 2012-13 Statistics:  41GP – 3G – 13A – 16P, 38 PIM

Twitter: @zadorov61

The third London Knights’ skater to crack the top-20, Nikita Zadorov falls into that “player with great potential” category and that alone could see him drafted higher than his current slot. Projected as an elite defensive defenseman, Zadorov is an imposing blueliner that terrorizes the opposition with bone-crushing body checks. From an offensive standpoint, Zadorov’s upside is limited but it is not to say he could not challenge the 40-point plateau at the NHL level. Based on his raw potential, Zadorov could go as high as a top-10 selection this June.

 

18^th Jason Dickinson

Guelph, OHL

Height: 6’2”

Weight: 176 Position: Left Wing

2012-13 Statistics:  44GP – 15G – 21A – 36P, 21 PIM

Twitter: @jdickinson_11

Dickinson could be that one player that the hockey world looks back on with a “why wasn’t he drafted higher?” attitude if he realizes his vast potential. Good size and great offensive instincts are Dickinson’s greatest attributes and he is only beginning to tap his skillset. Offensively, Dickinson has a good arsenal to beat the opposition with slick puck handling skills, quick feet and an eye for offensive opportunities. Dickinson continues to battle consistency issues as he occasionally takes shifts off but there is little question that he is a player with first round size and skills.

19^th Zachary Fucale

Halifax, QMJHL

Height: 6’1” Weight: 176 Position: Goaltender

2012-13 Statistics:  28-4-1-1, 2.20 GAA, .896 SV%

Twitter: @Fucale31

Projected as the top goaltender of the 2013 draft class, Fucale is technically sound goaltender with a poised demeanor. With Fucale having the privilege of playing in front of a Memorial Cup contending team, the mobile and athletic netminder should provide scouts with ample scouting opportunities to showcase that he is a big-game puckstopper with NHL starter’s potential.

 

20^th Madison Bowey

Kelowna, WHL

Height: 6’1” Weight: 200 Position: Defense

2012-13 Statistics:  44GP – 9G – 12A –21P, 61 PIM

Twitter: @m_bows4

Bowey, a mobile puck-moving defenseman, is a product of the Kelowna Rockets’ program with a history of developing quality NHL defenseman.  He is a smooth skater who can skate the puck into open ice or execute a crisp accurate pass in transition. A safe and reliable defender, Bowey owns a solid yet unspectacular physical game and can shut down the opposition with strong positioning. If a team fancies Bowey’s consistency and reliable game, it is quite possible that he is scooped up midway through the opening round in New Jersey.

 

21^st Frédérik Gauthier

Rimouski, QMJHL

Height: 6’4” Weight: 215 Position: Centre 2012-13 Statistics:  40GP – 15G – 34A – 49P, 20 PIM

The most appealing aspect of rising pivot Frédérik Gauthier’s game is his ability to commit to all three zones of the rink. He projects as a solid two-way second line centerman and his combination of size, intelligence and admirable compete level is attractive as a future pro player. The first year rookie has room to grow offensively and how far he can succeed in that area remains to be determined but that unknown can also be a bonus for a raw prospect of his type.

22^nd Alexander Wennberg

Djurgården, SWE

Height: 6’1” Weight: 189 Position: Centre/Left Wing

2012-13 Statistics:  32GP – 10G – 9A – 19P, 10 PIM

Twitter: @wenniss

Molded in a similar style to many Swedish hockey players, Wennberg is a player with a well-rounded two-way game that stems from an intelligent hockey mind. The asset that stands out the most is Wennberg’s playmaking abilities as he executes accurate and creative passes using impressive on-ice vision. Wennberg is also extremely versatile as he lines up on the wing and centre equally well.

23^rd Artturi Lekhonen

Kalpa, FIN

Height: 5’10”

Weight: 161 Position: Right Wing 2012-13 Statistics:  36GP – 9G – 16A – 25P, 8 PIM

Twitter: @arsilehkonen

Lekhonen is a Finnish winger with plus playmaking skills and scoring instincts who has quickly found his way playing amongst men in Finland’s top professional league. He is a good skater that holds value as a two-way responsible forward and much of that comes from his advanced hockey sense. It has been known that Lekhonen possesses the intangibles that every scout appreciates including a strong work ethic and a will to win. Improving his strength will be his biggest challenge to succeed at the next level.

24^th Robert Hägg

Modo, SWE Height: 6’2”

Weight: 201 Position: Defense 2012-13 Statistics:  23GP – 9G – 11A – 20P, 18 PIM

Twitter: @Robbanhagg

Hägg has been on draft radars for several years now as the young defender has captivated hockey scouts with his fluid mobile skating ability and poised approach that many veterans do not possess. Hägg is a cerebral player who can slow the game down with his exceptional puck moving skills and ability to remain calm under pressure. He owns a good sized frame and projects to be a top-four defender that can log both offensive and defensive minutes.

 

25^th Kerby Rychel

Windsor, OHL Height: 6’1” Weight: 200 Position: Centre 2012-13 Statistics:  45GP – 25G – 22A – 47P, 46 PIM

Twitter: @Krychs

Rychel is a natural scorer with a fantastic shooting arsenal and is extremely opportunistic. He owns the size to play as a power forward but lacks the consistent physical aspect to be tagged as that type of player. He can stand to make better decisions with the puck as a passer but it is his scoring prowess that will carry Rychel to a first round selection. The young winger stands a great chance to improve his draft stock as former linemate Alexander Khokhlachev has returned to Windsor to team up with Rychel and the duo has great chemistry together.

26^th Curtis Lazar

Edmonton, WHL Height: 6’0” Weight: 198 Position: Centre

2012-13 Statistics:  48GP – 21G – 13A – 34P, 29 PIM

Twitter: @CurtisLazar95

Lazar has slipped in the rankings mainly due to others surpassing him and that is no slight to the versatile Oil Kings’ centerman. He is a player with the skills that should translate flawlessly to the pro-game. Adaptable, reliable and defensively responsible, Lazar is a forward that can play tough minutes and that role is deserving of first round consideration.

 

27^th Ryan Hartman

Plymouth, OHL

Height: 5’11” Weight: 190 Position: Centre 2012-13 Statistics:  38GP – 19G – 21A – 40P, 97 PIM

Twitter: @RHartzy18

Ryan Hartman defines the agitator role in hockey with his intense physicality and non-stop puck pursuit. Fortunately, Hartman’s game also includes a skilled offensive package that is highlighted by a rare net drive ability one rarely sees in a sub-6-foot body frame. Hartman excels in traffic and seeks to engage himself physically – two qualities that were front and center during his outstanding World Junior performance. Hartman will certainly be appealing to NHL teams after the recent successes of similar smaller energy NHL players like Brad Marchand and Steve Downie.

28^th Shea Theodore

Seattle, WHL Height: 6’2” Weight: 175 Position: Defense 2012-13 Statistics:  44GP – 9G – 20A – 29P, 18 PIM

Twitter: @Theodoree

Theodore is a tremendous skater with the four-way mobility to marvel at. He is an offensive defenseman with great vision, a hard accurate point shot and knack for running an effective powerplay. Physically, Theodore has room to grow into his frame and as he does that, he will become an even more appealing defender.

29^th Chris Bigras

Owen Sound, OHL

Height:  6’0”

Weight:  174

Position: Defense

2012-2013 Statistics: 45GP-5G-22A-27P, 18 PIM

Twitter: @Chris_Bigras

Tucked away in Owen Sound, Chris Bigras is certainly flying under the radar. In much of the same mold as Maple Leafs’ prospect Stuart Percy, Bigras is a solid all-around defender who employs a safe mistake-free style of hockey. Defensively, Bigras is adept at positioning himself to maintain textbook gap control and when needed he uses his good skating abilities to close in on the opposition. Offensively, Bigras’ ceiling is limited but he transitions the puck up the ice efficiently via passing and/or skating and projects as a reliable second or third pairing defenseman.

30^th Nicolas Petan

Portland, WHLHeight: 5’9” Weight: 165 Position: Centre 2012-13 Statistics:  46GP – 31G – 49A – 80P, 23 PIM

Twitter: @petan19

The hockey world is witnessing too many smaller statured players experiencing success in the NHL for a team not to consider Nicolas Petan in the first round. As the Western Hockey Leagues’ current scoring leader and top scoring draft eligible skater, Petan makes up for his lack of size with an incredible work ethic as he simply radiates energy.  His quick feet and willingness to go to the dirty areas to score goals are promising traits for this undersized forward. Petan is considered by most as post-first round player but it would not be surprising to see a team with several early draft picks take a chance on this scorer late in the first or early in the second round.

 

31^st JT Compher, C (USNTDP, USHL)

32^nd Keaton Thompson, D (USNTDP, USHL)

33^rd André Burakovsky, LW (Malmo, SWE)

34^th Morgan Klimchuk, C/LW (Regina, WHL)

35^th Anthony Duclair, LW (Quebec, QMJHL)

36^th Steven Santini, D (USNTDP, USHL)

37^th Spencer Martin, G (Mississauga, OHL)

38^th Valentin Zykov, RW (Baie-Comeau, QMJHL)

39^th Jacob de la Rose, C/LW (Leksands, SWE)

40^th Connor Hurley, C (Edina High, USHS-SW)

41^st Eric Comrie, G (Tri-City, WHL)

42^nd Tyler Hill, LW/RW (Chicago, USHL)

43^rd Ryan Kujawinski, C (Kingston, OHL)

44^th Ian McCoshen, D (Waterloo, USHL)

45^th William Carrier, C/LW (Cape Breton, QMJHL)

46^th Jusso Ikonen, RW (Espoo, FIN)

467^h Pavel Buchnevich, C/LW (Cheropovets, RUS)

48^th Marko Dano, C (Sloven Bratislava, RUS)

49^th Oliver Bjorkstrand, RW (Portland, WHL)

50^th Laurent Dauphin, C (Chicoutimi, QMJHL)

 

 

BONUS: 10 Players with Intriguing Upside

 

Justin Bailey, RW (Kitchener, OHL)

Blessed with one of the draft’s best shots, Bailey possesses raw offensive potential but has struggled to stay healthy in his draft year making him one of the riskier players with offensive reward.

 

Nicholas Baptiste, RW (Sudbury, OHL)

Baptiste has adopted a larger role in Sudbury after the franchise traded away its key vets and now the sizeable winger is earning the ice time he needs to show scouts that his strong puck possession game is a valuable commodity.

 

Taylor Cammarata, LW (Waterloo, USHL)

An undersized crafty winger with an elusive quality to his game, Cammarata is an extremely skilled player that competes with a ton of energy. Size is what keeps him down on most draft lists.

Ryan Fitzgerald, C (Valley Jr, EJHL)

Fitzgerald had his coming out party at the All-American Prospects game in the fall when he showcased his speed, crafty puck skills, quick release and terrific hockey sense – all attributes that help him succeed as a small player.

 

 

Stephen Harper, LW (Erie, OHL)

Inconsistencies have knocked Harper way down scouting lists but this big power forward owns all the natural abilities (speed, shot and strength) to develop into a good professional player if he can prove to be more dependable.

Samuel Morin, D (Rimouski, QMJHL)

Morin is a mammoth defenseman who projects as a defensive rearguard at the next level that will thrive in a shutdown role providing a physical element.

Mirco Mueller, D (Everett, WHL)

Coming off of a strong WJC tournament for Switzerland, Mueller (or Müller) showed that he is a reliable two-way defender with great pro potential.

Eric Roy, D (Brandon, WHL)

Roy is a large mobile defenseman with a mean streak who has figured out the offensive part of the game but remains a project defensively.

 

Anton Slepyshev, LW (Novokusnetsk, RUS)

Remarkably passed over in the 2012 draft, Slepyshev certainly has first round offensive talents that deserve to be drafted in his second go round, regardless of his Russian passport.

Nick Sorensen, RW (Quebec, QMJHL)

Sorensen is a Swedish skilled forward who commits to all areas of the ice has shown flashes of brilliance and is now looking to put it altogether in a consistent package.

Jordan Subban, D (Belleville, OHL)

Subban is an elite skater with high offensive abilities but his lack of strength and defensive awareness keeps him outside of the top 60.

 

Please follow @RossyYoungblood for all of your #2013NHLDraft needs.

2013 CHL NHL Top Prospects Game Preview

 

Originally Published at The Hockey Writers on January 14th, 2013

 

The puck drop for the 2013 CHL NHL Top Prospects game has almost arrived as scouts converge to take in the talent available for the upcoming NHL Entry Draft. The annual game, that features teams named after the great defenseman Bobby Orr and legendary coach and hockey personality Donald Cherry, takes place in the home rink of the Halifax Mooseheads at the Halifax Metro Centre.

Nate MacKinnon

The game featuring the Canadian Hockey League’s top draft eligible talent is an important event in the evaluation process of NHL scouts as they analyze how these exceptionally skilled players match up against their same aged peers.  Headlining this year’s contest are potential first overall selections in centreman Nathan MacKinnon and blueliner Seth Jones. MacKinnon and Jones will be competing for Team Cherry and Team Orr, respectively, and will be joined by several of their teammates from their junior squads.  The host city of Halifax will be represented by three Mooseheads including MacKinnon, linemate Jonathan Drouin and potential top drafted netminder Zach Fucale.  Portland is well represented with Seth Jones, Oliver Bjorkstrand, and Nic Petan all of whom will don the Team Orr jersey. Max Domi, Bo Horvat and Nikita Zadorov will join the Portland trio on Team Orr as the three London Knights bring their diverse talents to Halifax for the showcase game. Leading the way with the most participants are the Rimouski Oceanic with four players making the trip to Halifax in Frédérik Gauthier, Samuel Morin, Jan Kostalek and Philippe Desrosiers.

The Ontario Hockey League is represented by a league-most 16 players (including two injury replacements) while the QMJHL sits second with 13 players competing (not including the injured William Carrier) and the WHL will skate 11 players (not including the injured/sick Ryan Pulock, Hunter Shinkaruk and Eric Comrie).

At the last year’s CHL-NHL Top Prospects game, the storyline was the number of players sidelined with injuries as three of the eventual top five picks of the 2012 NHL Entry Draft were unable to participate due to injury. The Sarnia Sting duo of Nail Yakupov (1^st overall, Edmonton Oilers) and Alex Galchenyuk (3^rd overall, Montreal Canadiens), as well as WHL defensemen Morgan Rielly (5^th overall, Toronto Maple Leafs) were unable to showcase their individual talents as they continued to nurse and rehabilitate injuries that limited their playing time throughout their draft season.

Fortunately, heading into this year’s event the lineup remains healthier with only a few notable injury replacements. Replacing potential top-10 defenseman, Ryan Pulock (Brandon Wheat Kings, WHL), on Team Cherry is defenseman Jordan Subban (Belleville Bulls, OHL) while Cole Cassels (Oshawa Generals, OHL) will be entering the lineup for the injured William Carrier (Cape Breton Screaming Eagles, QMJHL).

EDIT (Game Day Update): Laurent Dauphin (Chicoutimi Sagueneens, QMJHL) will replace Hunter Shinkaruk (Medicine Hat Tigers, WHL) on Team Orr who will miss the game with the flu. Furthermore, top goaltending prospect Eric Comrie (Tri-City Americans, WHL) will be unable to participate due to injury and will be replaced by Philippe Desrosiers (Rimouski Oceanic, QMJHL).

The annual CHL-NHL Top Prospects game has featured several of the National Hockey League’s current NHL stars including Joe Thornton (1997), Vincent Lecavalier (1998), Rick Nash (2002), Jay Bouwmeester (2002), Eric Staal (2003), Jeff Carter (2003), Corey Perry (2003), Mike Richards (2003), Ryan Getzlaf (2003), Dion Phaneuf (2003), Claude Giroux (2006), Jordan Staal (2006), Patrick Kane (2007), Drew Doughty (2008), Steven Stamkos (2008), Alex Pietrangelo (2008), Tyler Myers (2008), John Tavares (2009), Taylor Hall (2010), Cam Fowler (2010), Ryan Nugent Hopkins (2011), and many more.

Of the 40 participants in the 2012 CHL-NHL Top Prospects game, including 26 forwards, 12 defensemen and four goaltenders, only two players went undrafted in the NHL Entry Draft showing that this game can serve as a significant launching pad to a player’s professional career. All 40 participants in this year’s top prospect game have been ranked in the mid-term rankings of the NHL Central Scouting Service (released yesterday).

To prepare for Wednesday’s Top Prospects Game, let’s take a closer look at each participant.

 

TEAM CHERRY

William Carrier, LW (Cape Breton Screaming Eagle, QMJHL) *injured*

Big powerful forward has carried his team’s scoring despite having little support.

Cole Cassels, C (Oshawa Generals, OHL)

The Ohio-native has really amped up his game over the past month or so and he has been rewarded with an invitation giving himself a real opportunity to introduce himself to the hockey world.

Laurent Dauphin, C (Chicoutimi Sagueneens, QMJHL)

The former 1st round selection in the 2011 QMJHL Draft sits third among league rookies in scoring.

Jason Dickinson, C (Guelph Storm, OHL)

Dickinson is a big centerman with good hands and instincts that could develop into a great player as he shows a ton of raw potential.

Jonathan Drouin, LW (Halifax Mooseheads, QMJHL)

A creative and heady player that has rocketed up the draft boards and is starting to receive first overall consideration.

Nathan MacKinnon and Jonathan Drouin (Photo: Mike Dembeck)

Frédérik Gauthier, C (Rimouski Oceanic, QMJHL)

Pivot with great pro-size and a strong two-way game that has first round potential written all over him.

Stephen Harper, RW (Erie Otters, OHL)

Streaky winger with a good frame started the season strong but needs to show he can bring it every game.

Ryan Hartman, C (Plymouth Whalers, OHL)

Tenacious and skilled forward has been trending upwards since winning gold for Team USA at the 2013 WJHC.

Morgan Klimchuk, LW (Regina St. Pats, WHL)

Leads his Regina team in scoring, Klimchuk has been a well-known name for several years and is looking to continue that trend. 

Ryan Kujawinski, C (Kingston Frontenacs, OHL)

Inconsistent pivot that plays at his best when engaging physically and driving to the net. 

Nathan MacKinnon, C (Halifax Mooseheads, QMJHL)

Speed, speed and more speed. MacKinnon is an elite skater with franchise potential and will certainly be drafted within the opening few picks.

Anthony Mantha, LW (Val-d’Or Foreurs, QMJHL)

Mantha is one of the more appealing prospects with his size, skill and hockey intelligence. Currently sits among the top 5 in QMJHL scoring, ahead of draftmates MacKinnon and Drouin (both have played less games).

Zach Natasiuk, RW (Owen Sound Attack, OHL)

Gritty forward who can play a number of different roles and should be considered within the opening four rounds of the draft.

Valentin Zykov, RW (Baie-Comeau Drakker, QMJHL)

Strong winger who excels along the boards winning puck battles and is coming off one of the CHL’s best single game performances this year with six points.

 

Samuel Morin, D (Rimouski Oceanic, QMJHL)

Massive defender (6’6”) who projects as a solid defensive defenseman who can log huge minutes against the opposition’s top players.

Josh Morrissey, D (Prince Albert Raiders, WHL)

Morrissey is among the draft class’ top defensemen with his astute offensive skills that include effortless skating, great on-ice vision and the ability to control the pace of the game.

Mirco Mueller, D (Everett Silvertips, WHL)

The Swiss defender is just another great defenseman coming from the Western Hockey League and scouts are appealed to his consistent mistake-free style of game.

Darnell Nurse, D (Sault Ste. Marie Greyounds, OHL)

With great athletic genes, Nurse has shown impressive potential at the major junior level. His mobility is among the best of any defender in his draft class.

Ryan Pulock, D (Brandon Wheat Kings, WHL) *injured*

The kid with a howitzer of a point shot will not be able to participate in the top prospects game (due to injury) leaving many disappointed as he will not be able to compete in the hardest shot competition either.

Eric Roy, D (Brandon Wheat Kings, WHL)

With room to grow defensively, Eric Roy certainly makes up for any shortcomings with above-average talents on the offensive side of the puck.

Jordan Subban, D (Belleville Bulls, OHL)

The youngest Subban was recently named as an injury replacement and this opportunity might be the perfect situation for him to show that he can excel against the best-of-the-best.

Zachary Fucale, G (Halifax Mooseheads, QMJHL)

Playing on a strong Mooseheads team, Zach Fucale has posted mediocre numbers but certainly has all of the attributes that scouts seek in a potential starting goaltender.

Tristan Jarry, G (Edmonton Oil Kings, WHL)

The Oil Kings’ backup netminder to Laurent Brossoit certainly does not play like he is second string, especially since Jarry leads all WHL goaltenders with stingy 1.68 GAA and four shutouts in only 16 starts.

 

TEAM ORR

Justin Bailey, RW (Kitchener Rangers, OHL)

Skilled forward with lots of raw potential features a great shot but needs to stay healthy.

Oliver Bjorkstrand, RW (Portland Winterhawks, WHL)

Winger with a great shot and a sniper’s mentality will continue to push for a top 60 selection.

Max Domi, LW (London Knights, OHL)

The small offspring of former NHL favourite tough guy, Tie Domi, Max possesses elite offensive upside and shows a hunger for the puck.

Anthony Duclair, LW (Quebec Remparts, QMJHL)

Duclair has speed to burn and it is the vehicle he uses to provide solid offensive numbers.

Adam Erne, RW (Quebec Remparts, QMJHL)

American that has the total package of size, skill and intelligence to become a great professional player.

Bo Horvat, C (London Knights, OHL)

Underrated offensively, Horvat is a player that can do it all with few weaknesses in his game which makes him a coach’s dream.

Curtis Lazar, LW (Edmonton Oil Kings, WHL)

Two-way forward with invaluable intangibles should fall somewhere inside the top 30 picks.

Sean Monahan, C (Ottawa 67’s, OHL)

Arguably, the 2013 draft classes’ most complete player has remained a top 10 selection for over a year.

Nicolas Petan, C (Portland Winterhawks, WHL)

Small but extremely skilled and elusive forward who currently leads the WHL in scoring and is making it hard not to consider him as a potential first round pick.

Kerby Rychel, LW (Windsor Spitfires, OHL)

Scoring forward with ideal pro size but competing harder and more consistently would really elevate him to the next level.

Hunter Shinkaruk, C (Medicine Hat Tigers, WHL) *flu (will miss game)*

Slick skating forward that displays great vision and offensive flair to warrant a top 10 selection in a very deep draft class.

Nick Sorensen, RW (Quebec Remparts, QMJHL)

Lanky good skating winger with a knack for getting to the scoring areas to snipe goals.

 

Chris Bigras, D (Owen Sound Attack, OHL)

Underrated rearguard has a solid two-way game that should interest NHL teams anywhere inside the top 50 selections.

Madison Bowey, D (Kelowna Rockets, WHL)

An athletic blue-liner that jumps into the rush with authority and can operate the powerplay well. 

Seth Jones, D (Portland Winterhawks, WHL)

Potential franchise defenseman has the attributes every NHL team dreams about – size, offensive skill, defensive acumen and poise.

Jan Kostalek, D (Rimouski Oceanic, QMJHL)

Not overly flashy but a solid two-way defenseman that can skate, move the puck efficiently and has the ability to go within the opening two rounds.

Shea Theodore, D (Seattle Thunderbirds, WHL)

This sizeable offensive defenseman could potentially slide into the first round with his puck-moving ability and good defensive awareness.

Nikita Zadorov, D (London Knights, OHL)

Raw, raw, raw.  Zadorov has probably the most intriguing upside of any prospect entering the draft and his downside is not too bad either as a solid shutdown defender.

 

Eric Comrie, G (Tri-City Americans, WHL) *injured*

The younger brother of former NHLer Mike Comrie, Eric has had success at all levels of competition and stands to be one of the early goaltenders taken at this year’s draft.

Philippe Desrosiers, G (Rimouski Oceanic, QMJHL)

A late birthday makes Desrosiers one of the younger participants in this game and is considered the second best goaltender in the QMJHL behind only Zach Fucale.  Entered into the game after news that Eric Comrie would miss the contest with an injury.

Spencer Martin, G (Mississauga Steelheads, OHL)

Extremely agile goaltender that plays big in the blue paint.  Has an extremely low panic threshold that gives him a stabilizing presence.

 

Be sure to tune into Sportsnet TV to catch the annual CHL-NHL Top Prospects game beginning at 7pm EST Wednesday, January 16^th.

2013 Draft Class: Breaking Down the WJC

 

Originally Published at Dobber Hockey on December 21st, 2012

 

The holiday season has rolled around and with it brings a time for…wait for it…great World Junior Championship hockey.  For The Dean’s List, the best gift that the big fat man in the red suit can give us is competitive talent filled hockey games, especially in a year with an NHL lockout.  As always, Santa rarely disappoints those who have been good for the entire year and hockey fans have been very good as we patiently await the return of NHL hockey. As a reward for our loyalty, the big man has flown hundreds of the world’s top hockey prospects to Ufa, Russia to set the stage perfectly for an amazing 2013 World Junior Championship.   This week, The Dean’s List focuses on the names competing for their respective countries that are draft eligible for the 2013 NHL Entry Draft as they use the World Junior platform to catapult themselves up the draft rankings. In a tournament usually dominated by 19-year-old players, it is often a tough task for those draft-eligible players to earn the ice time and opportunities to really showcase their skill set. However, the 2013 draft class features several key names that will be leaned heavily on by their coaching staffs to fill a key role and hundreds of scouts will be watching closely.    Without further ado, The Dean’s List breaks down, by nation, the notable draft eligible players to watch in the 2013 IIHF Under-20 World Junior Hockey Championships beginning December 26th.   Important to Note: Many of the nations have not finalized their rosters and several of the names below could still get released.  As a result, check back after December 26th to see the edited list.   CANADA (2012 WJC Bronze)   Nathan MacKinnon, C (Halifax, QMJHL) – the consensus top pick (for now) in the upcoming draft, MacKinnon is an elite skater with exceptional vision and plays a very projectable pro-style possession game. It will be interesting to see how Team Canada uses him in this tournament.   Jonathan Drouin, LW (Halifax, QMJHL) – Drouin has, arguably, played better than his teammate MacKinnon showing scouts his ridiculous on-ice intelligence and playmaking abilities. Considered a top five prospect right now, Drouin could elevate his status even higher with a strong tournament but will have to do it playing a secondary role.   Others to Watch: JC Lipon (overage F)   CZECH REPUBLIC   Names to Watch: Matej Beran (overage F), Jakub Vrana (2014 draft prospect), Matej Machovsky (overage G)   FINLAND (2012 WJC 4th Place)   Aleksander Barkov, C (Tappara, SM-liiga) – arguably one of the most anticipated players for this tournament. Using elite vision, slick puck skills and his overall hockey sense, Barkov could compete with Sabres’ prospect Joel Armia as Finland’s top scorer. Potential top 5 selection.   Artturi Lehkonen, RW (KalPa, SM-liiga) – potential first round pick does everything well and features a powerful and accurate shot. Lehkonen will be watched closely after leading the Finns last year at the Under 18s last year.   Rasmus Ristolainen, D (TPS, SM-liiga) – big projectable top 15 defenseman has the ability to log big minutes and shows well in a number of areas – skating, physicality and a good point shot. RUSSIA   Valeri NIchushkin, C (Chelybinsk, RUS) – big rangy skilled pivot that competes hard and shows a willingness to drive the net and unleash his wicked shot. Potential top-10 pick. Notable Cuts: Nikita Zadorov (D), Bogdan Yakimov (C)   SLOVAKIA   Marko Dano, C/W (Slovan Bratislava, KHL) – potential late round project type of prospect that plays physical and owns good hockey sense and a heavy shot. He can be a bit individualistic at times but that could help him on a team that will need his offense. Looking to make a name for himself.   Martin Reway, C/W (Gatineau, QMJHL) – off to a strong debut in the QMJHL, Reway is producing at over a point-per-game. Smart player with great feet, good hands and playmaking skills makes him a player to watch.   SWEDEN (2012 WJC Gold)   Linus Arnesson, D (Djurgarden, Allsvenskan) – solid and well-rounded defenseman with good wheels. Projected as a mid-to-late round pick . Jacob De La Rose, C/W (Leksand, Allsvenskan) – potential first round versatile forward who employs strong skating and a heady north-south style into his game.   Elias Lindholm, C (Brynas, SEL) – potential top 10 draft prospect with an above-average defensive and offensive game who is producing some impressive Swedish numbers for a draft eligible.   Jesper Petterson, D (Linkoping, SEL) – a mid-to-late round offensive defenseman that balances his offensive skills nicely with his willingness to get physical. Petterson is a player to watch in this tourney as his draft stock could rise.   Alexander Wennberg, LW (Djurgarden, Allsvenskan) – rising potential first round fast skating forward with a strong cerebral game and valuable puck skills.   Others to Watch: Emil Djuse (D), Viktor Arvidsson (RW), Nick Sorensen (RW)   SWITZERLAND   Mirco Mueller, D (Everett, WHL) – the big framed Swiss defender will attract scouts and Mueller has stepped up his game in the absence of former 2nd overall pick, Ryan Murray, for the Everett Silvertips. Switzerland will lean heavily on this defenseman both offensively and defensively. He has a chance to elevate his draft stock substantially.   Others to Watch: Lukas Frick (D)   USA   Seth Jones, D (Portland, WHL) – a generational type of defenseman that will battle Nathan MacKinnon for first overall. Plays a complete game at an elite level and will be one of USA’s top defensemen as he showcases his elite feet, pro-shot and exceptional hockey IQ. Could surpass MacKinnon with a (likely) standout WJC performance.   Ryan Hartman, C/W (Plymouth, OHL) – skilled feisty winger with strong hockey sense will likely fill a bottom six role for the Americans. Potential 1st or 2nd round forward.   Others to Watch: Cole Bardreau (F/W)   TDL NOTE:   Germany and Latvia have several undrafted players who could receive draft day consideration but TDL has none of their players on its current “To Watch” list.   Previous Posts from Brendan Ross:   The Top 30 for 2013 The 2013 WHL Class   Please continue to follow The Dean’s List series as we track the 2013 NHL Entry Draft prospects.  Follow on Twitter @RossyYoungblood as he covers the #2013WJC for @DobberProspects

The Dean’s List: The Top 30 Rankings for 2013

 

Originally Published at Dobber Hockey on December 1st, 2012

 

In the sixth installment of the Dean’s List series for the 2013 NHL Draft, the top 30 ranked players are released based on their play up to November 30th. The 2013 draft crop is setting up to be one of the best in recent years especially when considering the depth and talent of first round talent. With about 15 or more players worthy of a top 10 selection there are plenty of future impact NHLers available to NHL teams this upcoming summer.   Throughout the top 30, there are several notable battles taking place as players jostle for position. At the top of the ranks, Nathan MacKinnon versus Seth Jones is the headlining event on this fight card as both possess rare franchise potential and will challenge each other all season long. “Sasha” Barkov has been pushing MacKinnon and Jones as this late birthday boy has ramped up his game this season but he currently sits inTDL’s  second tier of players including the offensive Jonathan Drouin and two-way forwards Sean Monahan and Elias Lindholm.  At the 2012 NHL Draft, eight of the opening 10 selections were defensemen, and while this year’s crop has a few standout defenders discussed in top 10 talks, the forwards are receiving the highest praise. However, one of TDL’s favourites is two-way defenseman Ryan Pulock, who is a player capable of unleashing a cannon of a slapshot. On Pulock’s heels is Finnish defender Rasmus Ristoläinon, a big strong player with great pro potential who packs a good physical game combined with solid puck-moving skills. Joining Pulock and Ristoläinon in the “third tier of prospects” is WHL sniper Hunter Shinkaruk of Medicine Hat, Russian forward Valeri Nichushkin, mobile two-way defenseman Josh Morrissey (another TDL favourite) and offensive pivot Max Domi of the London Knights. In reality, there are probably about 20-25 players who could slide into the “fourth tier” of draft eligibles and challenge for a selection anywhere from 10th to 30th overall. By all means, none of these players are cemented into their tiers as each one of them possesses rare talents that could move them up in The Dean’s List’s Draft Rankings. For example, Curtis Lazar, Bo Horvat, Jason Dickinson, Adam Erne, André Burakovsky and J.T. Compher are all very responsible forwards with good scoring touches and all have the intangibles and skill set to warrant a high selection. TDL remains very high on each of these players because of their high likelihood to find a role in the NHL. However, these six players slide a little lower (for now) because they possess lower upsides compared to other players in higher tiers. Two notable defensemen, Robert Hägg and Darnell Nurse, remain in our scouting crosshairs as potential standout NHL defensemen. Nurse has been climbing the rankings since mid-season last year and continues to impress with his elite mobility, emerging offensive skills and a strong defensive game. Robert Hägg has been a defenseman that has been coveted from an early age as his ability to control the pace of the game, skate fluidly and hammer a hard accurate shot remains extremely enticing. Always an interesting battle, keep a close eye on big aggressive netminder Spencer Martin as he battles the athletic and mobile Zach Fucale of the Halifax Mooseheads for the top goaltender position. Over the opening few months of hockey, The Dean’s List has made note of a few emerging names to keep tabs on as they continue to surge up the rankings, some of them cracking the Top 30 list already. Swedish forward Alexander Wennberg is quickly becoming a favourite with his complete game that features fine-tuned offensive and defensive skills.   Shea Theodore, 6’2″, is finding his groove on Seattle’s blue line as he sits among the defensive scoring leaders and really displays an intelligent game. Budding power forward Frédérik Gauthier has moved quickly up scouting lists, including our own, with his ability to play responsibly at both ends of the rink and is showing an improved offensive game clipping along at over a point-per-game. Anthony Mantha currently leads QMJHL scoring with 25 goals and is one of The Dean’s List personal favourites with his massive offensive potential. Other players to keep an eye on are Tyler Hill (LW, Muskegon, USHL), Nic Petan (C, Portland, WHL), Juuso Ikonen (LW, Blues, SM-liiga), Chris Bigras (D, Owen Sound, OHL) and Keaton Thompson (D, USNTDP, USHL) as their strong play pushes them into first round consideration for the first time.   Top 30 Rankings for 2013 NHL Draft: 1. Nathan MacKinnon, C (Halifax, QMJHL) 2. Seth Jones, D (Portland, WHL) 3. Aleksander Barkov, C (Tappara, SM-liiga) 4. Jonathan Drouin, LW (Halifax, QMJHL) 5. Sean Monahan, C (Ottawa, OHL) 6. Elias Lindholm, C (Brynäs, SWE) 7. Ryan Pulock, D (Brandon, WHL) 8. Rasmus Ristoläinon, D (TPS, SM-liiga) 9. Hunter Shinkaruk, LW (Medicine Hat, WHL) 10. Valeri Nichushkin, C (Chelyabinsk, RUS) 11. Josh Morrissey, D (Prince Albert, WHL) 12. Max Domi, C (London, OHL) 13. Curtis Lazar, C (Edmonton, WHL) 14. Adam Erne, RW (Quebec, QMJHL) 15. André Burakovsky, RW (Malmö, SWE) 16. Jason Dickinson, LW (Guelph, OHL) 17. Darnell Nurse, D (Sault Ste. Marie, OHL) 18. Robert Hägg, D (Modo, SWE) 19. Bo Horvat, C (London, OHL) 20. Artturi Lekhonen, RW (KalPa, FIN) 21. J.T. Compher, C/LW (USNTDP, USHL) 22. Steve Santini, D (USNTDP, USHL) 23. Kerby Rychel, LW (Windsor, OHL) 24. Spencer Martin, G (Mississauga, OHL) 25. Zachary Fucale, G (Halifax, QMJHL) 26. Alexander Wennberg, C (Djurgarden, SWE) 27. Anthony Mantha, LW (Val d’Or, QMJHL) 28. Frédérik Gauthier, C (Rimouski, QMJHL) 29. Anthony Duclair, LW (Quebec, QMJHL) 30. Shea Theodore, D (Seattle, WHL)   Please continue to follow The Dean’s List series as we track the 2013 NHL Entry Draft prospects.  Follow on Twitter @RossyYoungblood