DOB: Nov. 23/92 | Shoots: L | Height: 6.00 | Weight: 201lbs   

Midterm Rank: 4 | League Rank: 1st OHL | Country Rank: 2nd Sweden

     As far as prospects go, Gabriel Landeskog is one you cannot go wrong with; he is about as safe as they come. Initially drafted in the 2009 CHL Import Draft 3^rd overall by the Plymouth Whalers, Landeskog was involved in a deal that moved him to the Kitchener Rangers, where he is finding his current success. As a 17 year old, Landeskog recorded 46 points in 61 games, an impressive feat for an import player, not to mention his 23 points in 23 playoff games either. These numbers resulted in Landeskog being named to the OHL All Rookie team, as well as being named Kitchener’s rookie of the year. His playing style really made the transition easy as he already played a North American style game.

     Steve Spott is quote in TSN’s Matt Cade’s article “Kitchener’s Landeskog Different Kind of Swedish Prospect” (http://www.tsn.ca/nhl/story/?id=339113) saying “’He played a North American style of game,” said Spott. “He played hard and I felt that he was the type of player that would fit well inside our system.’”

     Preparing for his second season in the OHL, and his NHL draft year, Kitchener was looking for more offensive output out of their newly named captain. Not only did Landeskog succeed in doing this, he cemented himself as a top 5 pick in the NHL draft with his increased OHL numbers, 66 points in 53 games, solid two way play and grit. Fortunately for Landeskog, his injury at the 2011 World Junior Championship did not affect his draft ranking. In the game he did play he recorded a goal and an assist.

     Landeskog is probably the most complete player and potentially the most NHL ready prospect in the entire 2011 NHL draft crop. He plays with an immense amount of intensity and grit, plays solid in his own end, and can be counted on to record some points along the way. It is not only his on ice play that will make him a great pick, but the intangibles as well. His work ethic and determination are high. He is a great leader, and will most likely captain an NHL team in the future. When it comes to Landeskog’s offensive game he has great vision, strong on the boards, and has a rocket of a shot which consistently makes him a threat, especially at the junior level.

     It is a tremendously difficult thing to do trying to find holes in the Stockholm native’s game. Due to his gritty two-way style of game, Landeskog will likely never realize the offensive cap he has the potential of hitting. He also lacks the offensive creative ability that other of the top talents in the draft possess. He plays a simple offensive game, and isn’t afraid to go to the gritty areas in front of the net to score a goal.

     Naturally, Landeskog’s gritty two-way style has yet to serve him wrong and he has successfully managed to find himself in the top 5 of 99% of the 2011 NHL rankings to date. He is more than likely ready to compete in the NHL next season, which will definitely be taken into consideration when the NHL general managers go to make their selections June 24^th in Minnesota.

Pros: Two-way play, Competitiveness, Goal Scoring Prowess, Leadership
Cons: Creativity, Style of play limits overall offensive upside
Skill-set Comparison: Shane Doan

DOB: Mar. 31/93 | Shoots: R | Height: 5.10 | Weight: 165lbs  

Midterm Rank: 6 | League Rank: 2nd OHL | Country Rank: 4th Canada

     Ryan Murphy is an interesting prospect moving into the NHL Entry Draft. The sophomore defenseman had critics raving about him, scoring 51 points in just 33 games to start the season. Murphy was originally drafted 3^rd overall to the Kitchener Rangers in the 2009 State Farm OHL Priority Selection, only behind Daniel Catenacci of the Sault Ste. Marie Greyhounds and Kingston’s draft pick Alan Quine, now playing with the Peterborough Petes. The Aurora native has always been prone to racking up a surreal amount of points from the blue line as he scored 95 points in 33 games in his OHL Draft Year with the York Simcoe Express.

     After his rookie year, where he scored 39 points, he garnered enough attention from Hockey Canada, as they offered an invite to their 2010 World Junior Team Summer training camp. Coming into the 2010-11 season, Murphy was going to be heavily relied on with an increased role with the Kitchener Rangers, and he ran with his opportunity. With increased playing time and quarterbacking the first power play, Murphy was able to increase his point totals by 40 tallying 26 goals and 79 points in 63 OHL games.

     Murphy excels at being an offensive defenseman; it is what he is known for, producing points. Murphy has to be considered one of the most fluent skaters in this year’s draft crop and he knows how to use it to his advantage.  He has the ability to read the ice superbly off the rush, and can either make the break out pass or use his elite speed to begin an end to end rush. This makes him a real threat on the power play as he utilizes open ice perhaps better than anyone else in the draft. His ability to read the ice allows him to be a great power play quarterback. Once in the offensive zone, Murphy is just as effective. He is able to set the play up, or use his shot, which may not be the hardest in the league, but is definitely accurate, which is just as deadly. It is no question that Murphy will be categorized as an offensive defenseman at the next level.

     It is hard to find flaws in Murphy’s game, especially when he is controlling the game with his skating and overall offensive prowess. I suppose the most the most noticeable trait when analyzing Murphy, his is overall size; he is considered undersized by NHL standards. Currently standing at 5.10, 165 lbs, even if he grows a couple inches, he has a lot of muscle that he needs to put on before competing at the NHL level. Also his defensive coverage, although improving, could stand for quite a bit more work and would have to be considered average at the moment. He is beginning to use his body a little bit more to win positioning battles, but still has a long way to go.

     Overall, Murphy has cemented himself as a blue-chip prospect with any NHL franchise. He is a future top pairing defenseman with the potential to be a power play quarterback. It is likely that Murphy finds himself on Team Canada’s WJC team this winter in Alberta and big things will be expected of the 18 year old. Murphy’s overall offensive ability compensates for the few flaw that he does have. These flaws should not be enough to deter NHL teams away in Minnesota for this season’s draft and should hear his name called sooner rather than later.

Pros: Skating, offensive prowess, ability to read the play
Cons: Defensive game, undersized
Skill-set Comparison: Dan Boyle

DOB: Mar. 16/93 | Shoots: L | Height: 6.03 | Weight: 186lbs    

Midterm Rank: 18 | League Rank: 8th OHL | Country Rank: 1st Denmark

     Nicklas Jensen is yet another Oshawa Generals prospect who will stand a great chance of being picked in Round 1. He will be considered a project prospect as he has all the tools to be a high scoring winger, but will need some time to get there, if he gets there at all. After being selected 8^th overall in the 2010 CHL Import Draft, the Denmark native was expected to make an immediate offensive impact. He did just that. In his first season in the OHL Jensen tallied 29 goals and 29 assists for 58 points in 61 games. He also played in the WJC D1 tournament with Denmark where he scored two goals and five points in five tournament games. Jensen could easily turn out to be one of the top offensive players to come out of this draft, but at the same time he could end up being the player who is shifting between the minor and major leagues.

     In the junior ranks, Jensen is one of the most offensively gifted players in the league when he puts it all together. For his 6.03 frame he is a great skater, with a fluid stride. In combination with his skating ability, Jensen has great hands, and can often be seen going coast-to-coast and can really make things happen with little to no room. Of the 29 goals he scored in the OHL this season, a few of them could possibly be called goal of the year. This really speaks to the finishing ability that Jensen possesses and could translate into a 30 goal scorer at the next level. He is the type of player that if you give him an inch he will take a foot which makes him a difficult player to defend.

     Jensen has lots of room to grow into his lanky build. He currently stands at 6.03, 186 pounds and will be required to put on some muscle before he is able to compete at the next level. That being said, he really began adapting to the North American game in the latter part of the season. Although, still a little weak on the puck at times, he is learning how to use his size to his advantage, and protect the puck. Consistency is the main concern in his game, as he was incredibly streaky, and could be seen taking shifts off. Near the end of the season, and in his playoff run, he began to drop that from his name, as he marked seven goals and 10 points in 11 games. Although the strong finish he has a long way to go to prove to critiques he is the real deal.

     Overall Jensen could be that player that becomes the steal of the draft and becomes an 80 point scorer at the NHL level. The real concern is that he becomes the player that never really finds his place in the top 6. Despite his consistency issue, Jensen’s skill set is enough to attract NHL teams. The question now, is how attractive are his skills? Can he be drafted in the 10-15 range? Sure. For now, he fits in at 21 in the TSR’s final rankings for 2011.

Pros: Game-breaker, Size and speed, High-end skills
Cons: Strength, Consistency, Improve hockey sense
Skill-set Comparison: Joe Colborne

DOB: Jun. 15/93 | Shoots: L | Height: 6.03 | Weight: 197lbs
Midterm Rank: 46 | League Rank: 9th OHL | Country Rank: 14th Canada

After being drafted 4th Overall to the Oshawa Generals in the 2009 OHL Priority Selection, big things were expected out of Boone Jenner. The Dorchester, Ont. native was heavily relied on to provide an offensive punch to a forward corp that also includes draft eligible Niklas Jensen and Lucas Lessio. After a rookie campaign that saw Jenner pot 19 goals and 49 points, he had his hands full leading into the 2010-11 season. With a larger role and a deeper supporting cast, Jenner did not disappoint. He played a solid two-way game finishing +32 better than the previous season, while finishing with 25 goals and 66 points in 63 games this season.

It is hard to say what actually makes Jenner such a great player; he really is a just a complete package. Standing at 6.03, 197 pounds; Jenner is incredibly strong on the puck and is not afraid to go to the high traffic areas on the ice. In combination with his stature, the development in his ability to read the ice really makes him a threat with or without the puck in the offensive zone. He will never be the player you expect to shoot out the lights, having a 50 goal season, but he is a dependable two-way forward that can play all in all situations, which could make him a great fit on 2nd or 3rd line in the NHL. Jenner will benefit from having a deep forward group next season, and his production should increase as a result.

Jenner has a lot of work to do yet in order to convince critics he is capable of a top 6 role at the next level. Despite showing improvement in his sophomore season, there is still a need to enhance his skating ability in order to better his two-way game for the quicker pace of the NHL. The other glaring issue within Jenner’s game has nothing to do with his on-ice ability, but an intangible. His maturity on the ice is a cause for concern as a missed call, a call against, or an inopportune bounce, can set Jenner off his game. For someone who is considered a go-to player, this could make a huge difference in a key game. Although this trait should dissolve with experience and age, it is something that would be better dropped sooner than later.

Like with any prospect, there is always room for improvement; things they need to work on in order to make it to the next level. Boone Jenner has the size, strength and overall ability to make an impact in the NHL. He needs to be mentally there, which will come along with his experience and development. Jenner will be a hot commodity for General Managers picking in the latter half of the first round and he could be a great feature in a lot of NHL teams’ future top 6.

Pros: Board battles, strong on the puck, two-way presence, Competitiveness

Cons:  Overall skating ability, mentally maturing/preparing for the next level

Skillset Comparison: Poor-man’s Mike Richards with a bigger frame

The NHL/CHL Home Hardware Top Prospects Game is always an intriguing event on the CHL calendar. On one hand it is an all-star game of sorts, but without the all-star game feel. These forty 17 and 18 year old players are playing in this game to prove to NHL scouts that they deserve to be a top pick in the 2011 NHL Entry Draft. They show their grit, they finish their checks, and will make plays outside of their normal character to show the scouts that they have the intangibles to play in the NHL one day.

Below are a few players who I felt played a strong game as well as a few who left something to be desired.

PLAYERS WITH STRONG PERFORMANCES:

C Ryan Nugent Hopkins – Team Orr
Red Deer Rebels (WHL)

Ryan Nugent Hopkins is a player that has been getting a serious looks from scouts since he played as a 15 year old for the Red Deer Rebels where he put up 6 points in 5 games. There is no question the Burnaby, BC native has a lot of talent, but if there are going to be any concerns about his game it will come from his overall strength. Standing at 6.00, 155lbs. there is a lot of room for this kid to grow into his body. His offensive ability is uncanny and is lethal when shooting or passing the puck. Nugent-Hopkins definitely showed some of that playmaking talent as he picked up 2 assists in the game.

LC Jonathan Huberdeau – Team Orr
Saint John Sea Dogs (QMJHL)

Jonathan Huberdeau is the offensive leader in the strong group of Saint John Sea Dogs. The St. Jermome, QC native has been stellar with the Sea Dogs this season picking up 68 points in 44 games. His strong play transitioned nicely over to the prospects game as he scored a goal and an assist for Team Orr. Even though he is leading his respective club in points this season, he does have a high ceiling for potential and there is room for improvement. Not unlike many other players competing in this game, Huberdeau will have to mind his defensive game so he is not a liability at the next level.

D Ryan Murphy – Team Cherry
Kitchener Rangers (OHL)

Ryan Murphy was one of the lone stand-outs on Team Cherry, and although did not register a point, Murphy sure did his part. Murphy is a smooth skating offensive defenseman. Although he is only listed at 5.11, 176lbs. the Aurora, ON native makes up for that with his superb offensive prowess and instincts. If there was a knock on the defenseman’s game it would be his defensive game. Naturally as an offensive minded defenseman, there has to be a bit of a trade off, but in Murphy’s case, there are times when he becomes a liability.

C Zach Phillips – Team Orr
Saint John Sea Dogs (QMJHL)

Zach Phillips is part of a very strong Saint John Sea Dog contingent. He really set himself apart in this game scoring two goals and assisting on one. Phillips is an offensive gifted center man which he has showed in abundance this season, scoring 65 points in 45 games this season with the Sea Dogs. Phillips has a strong work ethic, a quick release, a very high offensive IQ. In order for Phillips to better his game, he will have to work on his first step to generate some separation between him and the opposition.

C Daniel Catenacci – Team Orr
Sault Ste. Marie Greyhounds (OHL)

Daniel Cantenacci is a player that should concern scouts a bit with choosing him in the top 30. The former 1st overall pick in the OHL Priority Selection has great speed, decent instincts and plays with an edge. The concern is what type of player is he at the next level? Standing at 5.10, 185lbs he cannot be considered a power forward, even with his grit, and his scoring ability does not appear to translate into a top six forward at the next level. Nonetheless, Catenacci had many good scoring chances, and showed his elite speed when he beat the defenseman and the goaltender en route to burying his lone goal.

G Liam Liston – Team Orr
Brandon Wheat Kings (WHL)

This was my first look at Liston, and overall I was impressed. Naturally you cannot judge a goaltender by half a game of hockey, but stopping 18 of 18 against some of the most elite offensive talents in the CHL is no easy feat. Liston is a technically sound goalie with relatively strong lateral movements. Being his first season as a full-time starter in the WHL, Liston has made some great strides to becoming a great goalie.

PLAYERS WHO LEFT SOMETHING TO BE DESIRED:

C Sean Couturier – Team Cherry
Drummondville Voltigeurs (QMJHL)

Perhaps expectations are too high for Sean Couturier at this point in the season, but I was hoping to see a little bit more out of the Team Cherry’s captain. En route to a 7-1 loss, Couturier registered zero points and didn’t have many chances either. Despite his performance, I think there is little which can change the minds of scouts at this point. Outside maybe Gabriel Landeskog there is not a safer pick in the draft. His size, standing at 6.04, 195lbs. He will be able to contribute at the, next level, whether it is with his body or his offense.

LW Brandon Saad – Team Orr
Saginaw Spirit (OHL)

I was hoping to see a little bit more out of Brandon Saad in this game. Since announcing he would be playing for the Saginaw Spirit of the OHL this season, it would appear as though Saad’s stock has been slowly dropping. He is a very strong forward who protects the puck well, and although is not overly creative in the offensive zone, has a quick release which is effective in fooling opposing goaltenders. Saad’s status as a Top 10 pick in 2011 is waning with the rise of others.

C Ryan Strome – Team Cherry
Niagara IceDogs (OHL)

Ryan Strome was fairly quiet in this game, when I was hoping he would show his offensive abilities like he has done with the Niagara IceDogs this season. There were a couple plays where he went for a fancy dangle, but just didn’t seem to have it all on this night. Strome brightest quality when he is on is his ability to make spectacular moves at top speed. Strome sees the offensive zone very well, which enables his natural playmaking ability to shine. His biggest flaw at the current time is similar to Ryan Nugent-Hopkins where his overall strength takes away from his skill set. In effect, Strome struggles when it comes to board play, which is something he will have to work on.

LW Matt Puempel – Team Cherry
Peterborough Petes (OHL)

Since Minor Midget, Matt Puempel has succeeded the competition, and coming off a rookie campaign which saw him win CHL Rookie of the Year honours, it is needless to say that expectations are high for the 17 year old, Essex ON Native. He is having a relatively strong season with a weak Peterborough squad, but he definitely could have shown more in this game. The largest flaw in Puempel’s is his consistency where he goes through periods where you don’t really notice him. He has a tremendous will to succeed and his natural goal scoring ability, indicate he could be a solid goal scorer at the NHL level.

GAME NOTES:

The #1 ranked North American skater, Gabriel Landeskog, we held out of the line-up due to an injury, and Ottawa 67’s forward Shane Prince took his place. Prince scored the lone goal for Team Cherry in a losing effort.

Tyler Toffoli was extremely involved in the game against Guelph, scoring one and assisting on two. To be honest I expected nothing less from the 18 year old winger. For Ottawa to be a contending team this season, they are going to be relying heavily on the Scarborough, ON native.  Toffoli is an outstanding offensive talent and is incredibly dangerous below the opposing team’s blue line.  He is not going to beat you with shear strength, or speed, but is incredibly shifty when controlling the puck. Despite being an offensive threat, there is no knock on his two-way game. His drive, determination and competitive nature were shining attributes when the Kings picked him up in the 2^nd round (47^th Overall) of the 2010 NHL Entry Draft

#18 LW Shane Prince – 2011 NHL Draft Eligible
D.O.B: November 16^th, 1992 | HT: 5.11 | WT: 185 | Shoots: Left

Shane Prince will be an interesting prospect to watch throughout the 2009-10 OHL season. Through just 20-games this season, Prince is two points away from matching his 17-year old season (30-points) offensive production.  Being a late birthday he is 2011 draft eligible and will definitely benefit greatly from the extra season in the OHL before NHL scouts have to make their final decision. In previous seasons, the 5.11 forward was considered to be a one dimensional player, with his speed being his shining quality.  He has now developed a more complete game to his quickness and it is clearly paying dividends in the first third of the season. Prince will be considered an undersized forward at the next level, which will likely be a defining factor when it comes to his predicted mid-round selection. Regardless, his great start to the season definitely has NHL scouts talking at this point.

#19 LC Tyler Graovac – 2011 NHL Draft Eligible
D.O.B: April 27^th, 1993 | HT: 6.04 | WT: 180 | Shoots: Left

Come June, Tyler Graovac is not a player that is going to be selected on day one, and to be completely honest, he is not a guaranteed NHL Draft selection. His most desirable attribute at this point would be his 6.04 frame that he will have to grow into. Like teammate Ryan Martindale, he needs adapt a more physical component to his game. When you have size in the OHL you are looked upon to provide a physical element. The Brampton, Ontario native is known for having a solid two-way presence on the ice and after an off-season that saw him significantly improve his acceleration and top speed he will only become a more effective hockey player. At the end of the day, his ability to offer offensive support in combination will be taken into serious consideration when looking at his draft stock.

#20 LC Sean Monahan – 2013 NHL Draft Eligible
D.O.B:  October 12, 1994 | HT: 6.02 | WT: 180 | Shoots: Left

Sean Monahan is a hard prospect to judge, especially this early into his OHL career. A player initially expected to go in the top 60 of the OHL Priority Selection, an amazing OHL Cup, drove his stock right up to the first round. Monahan will likely play a limited role this season, especially as the Ottawa 67s look to make a run at an OHL championship. The future role of the 6.02, 180-pounder will be looked upon to provide an offensive punch, as well as a physical edge.  As he continues to fill out he should develop into a solid power forward in the OHL.

#33 LW Dalton Smith – CMB 2010 2^nd Round, 34^th Overall
D.O.B: June 30^th, 1992 | HT: 6.01 | WT: 200 | Shoots: Left

To say the least, Dalton Smith has had a less than impressive start to the 2010-11 campaign.  A player who is supposed to add physicality to the game as well as offensive punch, he has really struggled with the latter. Although struggling to find the net early in the season, Smith is still an effective player to have on your team. He rarely takes a shift off, and is a great leader to have.  He will lead by example and is not afraid to stick up for his teammate. After being selected early in the 2^nd round of the 2010 NHL Entry Draft, expectations are high for the Oshawa native, and to date, he has been gripping his stick a little too hard.

#77 LC Ryan Martindale – EDM 2010 3^rd Round, 61^st Overall
D.O.B: October 27^th, 1991 | HT: 6.03 | WT: 190 | Shoots: Left

Ryan Martindale can be one of the most frustrating players to watch in the OHL this season. The size, strength, and talent the 19 year-old possesses will be amongst the tops in the OHL this season, but that can be completely offset by his lack of desire and competitiveness.  For his size he has great mobility, and can be an offensive threat either passing or shooting the puck. When on his game, and using his size, he protects the puck extremely well making him very effective on the cycle. The games when he isn’t competing he is just another player on the ice, which leads to the frustrating aspect of his game.

Click here for more information on Martindale, as TSR’s Scott Campbell’s sat down with Copper ‘n Blue to discuss the Oiler’s 2010 3^rd rounder.

#83 RD Cody Ceci – 2012 NHL Draft Eligible
D.O.B: December 21^st, 1993 | HT: 6.02 | WT: 203 | Shoots: Right

Cody Ceci is an interesting prospect in my opinion. He can be categorized as a two-way defenseman, but at the next level will be looked upon to think defence first, and chip in offensively when his own end is taken care of. His mentality in his own zone one of his top qualities, but he is also able make a great first pass to initiate the rush. With a 6.02, 203 lbs. frame, Ceci already has respectable size, especially for a 16 year-old. To coincide his size, Ceci is a good skater, and has great vision. Due to his late birthdate, the Orleans, Ontario native is not eligible until the 2012 NHL Entry Draft, and preliminary rankings have him sitting in the top 30.

# 1 G Petr Mrazek – DET 2010 5^th Round, 141^st Overall
D.O.B: February 14^th, 1992 | HT: 6.00 | WT: 170 | Catches: Left

Petr Mrazek was a goalie I had high hopes for after seeing him play a few games last season.  In my first viewing of Mrazek this season, it was a less than impressive showing to say the least.  The first two goals against were soft, and generally the Czech native would have stopped them. It appeared as though he lacked concentration for this game and wasn’t mentally prepared.  Naturally, everyone is due for a poor game once and a while and it just happened to be Mrazek’s turn.  He has good lateral movement and is positionally sound which seems to add size to his 6.00, 170 pound frame. Although I would have liked to see a stellar game out of Mrazek, I have no doubt he will rebound in his next start.

GUELPH STORM V. KITCHENER RANGERS

September 26^th, 2010 – Sleeman Center

OVERVIEW:

It is always a highly competitive game when the Kitchener Rangers and Guelph Storm meet.  Generally both teams are competitive in the Western Conference and wear their hearts on the sleeves when they match up.  Tensions were high in the game, where the Rangers were able to comeback in the third period after some undisciplined 3^rd period hockey.  Below are short bios on the 2011 NHL eligible prospects and the top picks from the 2010 Ontario Priority Selection.

GUELPH STORM:

3. LD Andrey Pedan | 6.04, 196 lbs. | July 3^rd, 1993 | Moscow, Russia | 2011 Draft Eligible

Andrey Pedan was Guelph’s first round selection in this past season’s CHL Import Draft and he appears to be the first great selection they have made in a few years. At the current time it would appear that Pedan would slot somewhere in the middle rounds of this season’s NHL draft, but that stock could rise or drop depending on his progression this season.  Pedan is an offensive minded defenseman with a good stride to go along with his 6.04 frame.  He does not shy away from the physical game and is willing to drop the gloves if necessary. The import player enjoys playing a high risk – high reward game as he will sometimes plays the risky pinch or make the risky pass.  If Pedan adapts well to the North American game and simplifies his game, he could make a real impact for the Storm this season.

4. LD Matt Finn | 6.00, 197 lbs. | February 24^th, 1994 | Toronto, Ontario | 2012 Draft Eligible

Matt Finn was Guelph’s first round selection in the OHL Priority and has the potential to become a top talent in the OHL.  In minor midget Finn was a two-way defenseman, but moving forward in the OHL he will be relied upon to play more of a shutdown role.  Already possessing decent size for this level, he could use another couple inches and a few more pounds to really solidify himself as a dominant presence. Finn is clearly in a adjustment period as he is getting used to the speed of the OHL. Moving forward there is no question he will need to work on his foot speed in order to keep up to the pace of the new league.

22. RW Cody McNaughton | 5.10, 180 lbs. | October 16^th, 1992 | Petawawa, Ontario | 2011 Draft Eligible

Cody McNaughton is a wildcard of sorts right now.  He is not someone that is touted to get drafted, but he may be on some team’s radars come the 6^th or 7^th round.  Being listed at 5.10 is likely generous, but he plays as though he is 6.02.  He is not afraid to throw the body, defend a teammate by dropping the gloves, and has a tireless work ethic.  A major issue is that he does not possess the speed to offset his size to be a legit NHL prospect.  If he can find some of the offensive flair he possessed in minor midget this season, he could find his name being called in June 2011.

23. RW Zack Mitchell | 6.00, 174 lbs. | January 7^th, 1991 | Caledon, Ontario | 2011 Draft Eligible

Like McNaughton, Zack Mitchell is a bit of a question mark.  I had high hopes for Mitchell coming into the 2010-2011 season, but it doesn’t appear as though he put on the necessary strength to be a threat in the OHL this season. In his rookie year he put up 10 points in 59 games, and 2 goals in 5 playoff games.  He has the potential to be a dynamic goal scorer, but he needs to add the necessary strength to his frame, and work on his first two steps in his stride to reach his potential.

25. LW Carter Sandlak | 6.02, 190 lbs. | May 18^th, 1993 | London, Ontario | 2011 Eligible

Carter Sandlak likely has the most potential out of any Guelph Storm player eligible for the coming 2011 NHL Draft.  After a modest 15-point rookie season that saw him play for the Ontario U-17 team, the sophomore is looking to have a break out season.  Sandlak possess all the tools to play a complete game of hockey.  With size, a decent stride, and the ability to read the play in the offensive zone he could really become a threat at both ends of the ice. In an interview in the summer, Sandlak mentioned that he was looking to work on the quickness of his shot in order to become a greater offensive threat.

KITCHENER RANGERS:

9. RW Tobias Rieder | 5.10, 172 lbs. | January 10^th, 1993 | Landshut, Germany  | 2011 Draft Eligible

Tobias Rieder will need to have a strong showing this season in the OHL in order to prove to NHL clubs that he can be a top prospect at the next level. At the next level Rieder will be considered a small forward, but he does have top offensive skills and instincts. He scored a goal in this game from just inside in the blue-line with a shot that handcuffed Brandon Foote of the Storm.  The shot went bar in, the quickness of the release was elite.  As long as Rieder is able to make the adjustment to North Americian hockey there is no reason why he wont excel and have his name listed under the top 20 scorers.

24. RD Ryan Murphy | 5.11, 178 lbs. | March 31^st, 1993 | Aurora, Ontario | 2011 Draft Eligible

Ryan Murphy is a top fledged offensive minded defenseman in the OHL at the young age of 17. He is already able to quarterback a power play at the OHL level and will be relied upon heavily in Kitchener this season.  There are only two real set backs to his game at this time. His size and strength will be a cause for concern moving forward sitting at 5.11, 178-pounds he can be overpowered in his own end against larger opponents.  Also Murphy will need to improve the velocity of his slap shot which will allow him to be more flexible on the power play.  Murphy will be a “wanted” player come June, and will likely hear his name called early in the first round.

91. RC Matia Marcantuoni | 6.00, 189 lbs. | February 22^nd, 1994 | Toronto, Ontario | 2012 Eligible

There will be a lot of pressure and attention on the 16 year-old Toronto native.  After being hyped to be a top 3 pick in the OHL Priority selection, he slipped to the end of the first because of NCAA concerns.  After eventually landing in Kitchener, he will join a supporting of one of the most dynamic offensive corps in the league.  Marcantuoni has top speed, a quick release and great offensive instincts.  Marcantuoni seems to lack the ability to “finish” and will need to find that touch in order to live up to his high expectations.

92. RW Gabriel Landeskog | 6.01, 207 lbs. | November 23^rd, 1992 | Stockholm, Sweden | 2011 Eligible

Gabriel Landeskog is touted to go in the top 10 of this season’s NHL Draft and with good reason.  The 6.01, 207 pound winger already has molded a game suited for North America.  Possessing good offensive talent, tireless work ethic, not to mention his gritty style will have most NHL general managers licking their lips, there is no question Landeskog’s position in the draft is his to relish or lose. Landeskog will not be the prototypical goal scorer at the next level but will be a safe pick to play a solid two-way game and add energy to a 2^nd line.

A year ago, 4th year university Sport Management student Scott Campbell developed an idea to give hockey fans free information about hockey prospects from all ranks.  Now just one year later, TSR has blossomed into a reliable one stop source for insight to hockey prospects across the world. As a whole we could like to thank you all for visiting our site. Campbell is extremely impressed with the momentum that TSR has generated over the past year. “It’s been really exciting to watch this site really come to fruition in such a short time-frame. I’ve gotten a ton of help from some great guys from across North America, and we’re looking to build off that for next year. Obviously we have some cosmetic changes coming in, but we’re also working on developing new strategies behind the scenes to provide even better content for hockey fans worldwide.”

Have something to say? We want your feedback on what you; our readers would like to see implemented within the new design.  The best feedback comes from people outside of the organization, and we would like your help. Contact Scott Campbell at scottcampbell@thescoutingreport.org, Web designer Scott Boulet at sboulet@thescoutingreport.org. or leave a comment for us!

Also, be sure to follow us on Facebook, at facebook.com/thescoutingreport
As well as Twitter at twitter.com/TSRhockey

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#1. Taylor Hall | LW | Windsor (OHL)

Date of Birth: November 14th, 1991
Height: 6.01
Weight: 185lbs.
Shoots: L
Season Statistics: Regular Season | 57GP 40G 66A 106P 56PIM
Playoffs | 19GP 17G 18A 35P 32PIM
TSR Midterm Rank: 1 | Position Rank: 1st Forwards
League Rank: 1st OHL | Country Rank: 1st Canada

Taylor Hall would have been ready to be drafted last season, but his late 1991 birth date forced him into 2010 draft eligibility.  The 18-year old used his extra season in the Ontario Hockey League to cement himself as one of, if not the, top player in the 2010 NHL draft class.  Taylor Hall experienced every possible level of hockey available to him this season playing in the OHL, OHL playoffs, Memorial Cup, and lastly the World Junior Championship where he did not disappoint.  It would be understandable for a player’s production to eventually drop off after playing that much hockey in a season.  Hall’s did not, and with the exception of the World Juniors, he did the same thing last season.  Hall excelled under pressure in both Memorial Cups where he was relied on to produce and produce he did, winning Memorial Cup MVP both seasons.

Hall is immediately going to make a franchise better.  He is the complete offensive package.  The ability he has playing at top speed is incredible, and for Taylor Hall that speed in immense.  His quick reaction time on the ice combined with his soft hands are two abilities that can really make opposing players look foolish on the ice.  Some players look as though they have pre-thought the move they are going to make on the defenseman, but for Taylor Hall he reads the play and then reacts, which really sets him apart from other players.  Hall’s hands and speed are not the only qualities that make this player such an elite talent.  His shot placement is incredible, and mixed with his hard, quick release, he can make goaltenders pay if they are one inch out of position.  Based on his on-ice attributes alone, passing on Hall with the first pick of the draft would be an incredible tough decision.

There are only a couple of knocks on Taylor Hall’s play.  One is the defensive component of his game, but realistically he will be brought in to score goals, that will be his major addition. A defensive game can come with times, and as long as he is not a constant liability in his own end, it is a trait that will fly under the radar. The second is the amount of giveaways he can produce in a game.  He is obviously an extremely talented stick handler and combined with his drive he can hold onto the puck a little too long at times, causing a turnover.  This is one attribute within a very small list that Hall will need to continue to get better at in order to become the elite player we all expect.

As previously mentioned, Hall has played a lot of hockey over the past two seasons playing against the most elite players of his age group, and he has yet to show any ill effects.  This can only make his transition into the NHL that much smoother as he is used to playing well into May.  His play at the Memorial Cup is something that really gave Taylor Hall the edge down the finishing stretch and he tops TSR’s Final 2010 NHL Draft Rankings.

Pros: Skating, overall offensive flair, determination/drive

Cons: Two-way hockey

Skillset Comparison: Marian Gaborik

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#2. Tyler Seguin | C | Plymouth (OHL)

Date of Birth: January 31st, 1992
Height: 6.01
Weight: 186lbs.
Shoots: R
Season Statistics: Regular Season | 63GP 48G 58A 106P 54PIM
Playoffs | 9GP 5G 5A 10P 8PIM
TSR Midterm Rank: 2 | Position Rank: 2nd Forwards
League Rank: 2nd OHL | Country Rank: 2nd Canada

When Tyler Seguin was drafted ninth overall by the Plymouth Whalers in the 2008 OHL Priority Selection, everyone knew that he was a player that had a little bit extra, but to this magnitude, questionable. Seguin surpassed goals set in his rookie season with the Whalers scoring 68-points in 61-games finishing third in the rookie scoring race, only behind Evgeny Grachev and John Carlson, both of which were two years older. Moving into his draft year, Seguin was mentally and physically stronger, and dealt with the added pressure. With his strong 2009-10 campaign the media caught hold of the talented duo, Taylor Hall and Tyler Seguin; Tyler vs. Taylor. It just so happens that the projected top two picks tied in points this year with 106. Seguin finished the season with an impressive 48-goals, more than doubling his rookie campaign output.

Not to add hype to the circus that is Tyler vs. Taylor, it is realistic to believe that Seguin could find himself playing for either the Edmonton Oilers, or the Boston Bruins next season. Seguin is a player that a franchise can really build a team around. Potentially having the highest hockey IQ of any draft eligible player this season, and it shows constantly on the ice. He is able to dominate the game by forcing opposing teams to play at the speed he sets. In combination with his hockey IQ Seguin is just as talented with regards to finishing the play, as he is starting the play. His overall offensive ability is magnificent, which is the main reason he is a concrete top two pick come this weekend. Seguin’s hockey IQ really allows him to excel in all three zones of the ice. He is not only a player who can put goals up on the score sheet, but can prevent them as well. The speed that he possesses is a real asset when speaking of his two-way abilities. He is able to rush the puck up the ice, while be the first forward back on the back check All of Seguin’s traits lead to him being a natural centerman; two-way hockey, natural hockey intelligence, and is always a weapon with the puck.

To refrain from only mentioning Seguin’s on ice abilities, his off ice qualities really set him apart from other candidates in the draft. His determination, competitiveness, and drive make him dangerous, not only every night, but every shift. He is also a player who does not crack under pressure, nor that gets down on himself when something doesn’t go smoothly. When the hype of “Tyler vs. Taylor” was full fledged, Seguin wasn’t phased by the increase of public attention. He continued to play his game, while doing what he does best, putting up points. Again, being cut from Canada’s 2010 World Junior Championship team did not phase the young star. Like a player with a good head should, he used it as motivation, and is a sure lock for the team next season if by chance he is back in the OHL, or released for the duration of the tournament.

In conclusion, Seguin is a player that is only going to continue to improve. Continuing to push himself to be stronger, faster and overall a better hockey player is going to ensure that he becomes a star in the NHL. Regardless of whether he is selected number-1 or number-2, Tyler Seguin is only going to make the franchise stronger.

Pros: Speed, Hockey IQ, Determination
Cons: Continue to develop his defensive game
Skillset Comparison: More talented Paul Stastny

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