D TROY RUTKOWSKI | 1992 | 6’1” | 205LBS | 71GP 12G 31A 43P +13 70PIM

With Portland’s dynamic second line full of draft eligible players in Ryan Johansen, Nino Niederreiter and Brad Ross getting all the attention, Troy Rutkowski and Taylor Aronson have quietly gone about their business on defense. There’s a lot to like about Rutkowski in particular. He has an under-rated hockey sense and can be opportunistic in throwing big hits while not being afraid to mix it up if need be. Like many young players he needs to work on getting stronger and being more consistent. He skates fairly well but needs to focus on improving his quickness. At this point he’s a bit of a high risk, high reward type of player, but he should make some lucky team very happy they took a chance on him.


———-

C KEVIN SUNDHER | 1992 | 6’0” | 188LBS | 72GP 25G 36A 61P +9 101PIM

Speaking of Ross, Kevin Sundher gives you a pretty similar game to Ross with a lot less hype. At around 6 feet tall, Sundher isn’t the biggest guy, but he’s not small either. He’s a very good skater that was able to pot 25 goals playing for a very weak Chilliwack team. His 61 points placed him second on team scoring. He also brings grit to his game as can be seen by his 101 PIMs this year.


———-

D AUSTIN MADAISKY | 1992 | 6’2” | 199LBS | 65GP 7G 20A 27P -4 74PIM

A teammate of Sundher (and fellow 2010 draft eligible Alex Theriau of the Everett Silvertips) while playing for Vallley West Hawks in BC Major Midget, Madaisky is another guy under the radar a bit. That changed somewhat when he was a late invite to the CHL Top Prospects game, but he still doesn’t always get the credit he deserves since he doesn’t play a flashy game. While the defensive side of his game was on display early in the season, a trade to the Kamloops Blazers mid-season has provided him with more ample opportunities to show what he can do offensively. He will be expected to help carry the load for a young Kamloops team next season.


———-

D BRANDON DAVIDSON | 1991 | 6’2” | 194LBS | 59GP 1G 33A 34P +15 37PIM

Brandon was passed over for the Entry Draft last season, but that won’t happen again this year. He possesses very good size and projects as a shutdown defenseman. He’s not overly physical and the best thing about his game is that you don’t notice him. Nothing eventful ever seems to happen when he’s on the ice. He is able to gain possession of the puck and quickly move it up ice by utilizing his smarts and a good first pass. He led a weak Regina team in plus/minus at +15. To put it into perspective, Eberle and Weal were next best at +8 and +3 respectively.


———-

RW CODY BEACH | 1992 | 6’5” | 184LBS | 51GP 3G 11A 14P +6 157PIM

Cody’s stats aren’t going to blow anyone away, but with how well he’s been playing in the WHL playoffs, it would be hard to believe that this guy won’t get drafted this year. While he’s not even listed on Central Scouting’s Final list and clearly not the player his older brother is (Kyle led the WHL in goal scoring this year), he’s shown great improvements as the season has progressed and projects as a 4th line enforcer/energy player. He’s been hitting everything in sight, crushing opponent defensemen on the forecheck and at 6’4 or 6’5, is more than happy to exchange fists with anyone who offers (as witnessed by his 22 fighting majors this season). While he’s an avid fighter, he also likes to agitate. With his already giant size, it is hard to believe he is still one of the youngest players in the draft and could potentially still grow.

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CALGARY HITMEN

RW TYLER SHATTOCK | 1990 | 6’3” | 200LBS | 72GP 30G 48A 78P +3 91PIM

NHL: 2009 STL (4/108)

After being passed over in his first draft year, St. Louis looks to have gotten a steal in the 4th round of 2009 with Shattock. There is a lot to like about his game. He has great size, which he uses effectively to protect the puck and to punish defenders. On top of that, he is a good skater with a nose for the net.

EDMONTON OIL KINGS

D MARK PYSYK| 1992 | 6’2” | 178LBS | 48GP 7G 17A 24P -19 47PIM

NHL: 2010 Eligible

Mark was a victim of the injury bug for a good chunk of the season but when he was in the lineup he was one the bright spot in an otherwise dreary season in Edmonton. He’s a smooth-skating defenseman that has a great mind for the game. His decision-making skills in his own end are years ahead of his opponents. While his strength is his smart defensive play, he also possesses the raw tools that could make him successful offensively. He showed spurts this season where he was able to single-handedly carry his young team.

F MICHAEL ST.CROIX| 1993 | 5’11” | 173LBS | 66GP 18G 28A 46P -21 30PIM

NHL: 2011 Eligible

For someone as gifted offensively as him, its been tough to see what he’s capable of when he is constantly chasing the puck in his zone along with his teammates. When he is able to showcase his skills with the puck, he shows good patience and vision. He’s still on the small side, but as he grows he should gain the strength needed to be a leader for the Oil Kings.

G CAM LANIGAN | 1992 | 6’3” | 183LBS | 38GP 3.83 GAA 0.891 SV%

NHL: 2010 Eligible

Cam has flown under the radar for most this season. As a backup to overager Torrie Jung, he’s shown glimpses of what he’s capable of. There are a lot of things to like about his game although he’s still a project at this point. While his stats aren’t great, the team in front of him has had many breakdowns in their own end leading to quality scoring chances for opponent shooter. He has good size (albeit on the slim side) and he is able to use it effectively. His technique is there in spurts, but his biggest obstacle is himself. Mentally he either seems to be in “the zone” or he breaks down and lets in soft goals. He is a good athlete and is able to make saves when he is caught out of position.

D KEEGAN LOWE| 1993 | 6’0” | 168LBS | 69GP 2G 12A 14P -16 60PIM

NHL: 2011 Eligible

The son of Edmonton Oilers GM Kevin Lowe has had a surprisingly good season for the Oil Kings. He is very scrawny and physically weak but can effectively uses his reach when he’s on his game. He has been trusted by the coaching staff to play key minutes including special teams. While he also has to improve his defensive zone coverage, his progress is encouraging. If he and promising 2009 3rd Overall WHL pick Griffin Reinhart (son of former NHLer Paul Reinhart) continue to improve, Pysyk won’t have to shoulder all the burden again next year.

KOOTENAY ICE

C MAX REINHART | 1992 | 6’1” | 178LBS | 72GP 21G 30A 51P +12 38PIM

NHL: 2010 Eligible

Another son of former NHLer Paul Reinhart, Max is a two-way centerman with good awareness. He started the season off slowly, but has been playing much better in the 2nd half of the season. He should receive some consideration as a late round draft pick.

MEDICINE HAT TIGERS

RW EMERSON ETEM | 1992 | 6’0” | 194LBS | 72GP 37G 28A 65P +8 26PIM

NHL: 2010 Eligible

At the beginning of the season, it could be seen that Etem had great speed, but he often stayed to the outside. As the year has progressed, he has constantly been going to front of the net providing screens and looking to score ugly goals. He has been using his speed more effectively in transition as he seems to think the game at a higher level now. His improvement in thinking the game has allowed him to put himself in situations where he can succeed with his skating ability.

F KALE KESSY| 1992 | 6’2” | 171LBS | 70GP 11G 18A 29P +12 123PIM

NHL: 2011 Eligible

Kessy is a big, young (2011-eligble) forward for the Tigers. He likes to play a very physical game and is just as willing to fight as hit (he had 13 fighting majors this year). He owns a long reach which he uses to his advantage. His skating needs work (both in agility and top-speed). With some seasoning, Kessy could develop into a quality power forward.

G TYLER BUNZ | 1992 | 6’1” | 198LBS | 57GP 2.91 GAA 0.898 SV%

NHL: 2010 Eligible

As the starting goalie for the offensive-minded Medicine Hat Tigers, Bunz has the formidable task of keeping the puck out of his net during some run and gun hockey. He is a blocking-style goalie that just tries to get his body in front of the puck. Positioning and technique are keys to his game as he emphasizes those strengths over athleticism.

MOOSE JAW WARRIORS

RD DYLAN MCILRATH | 1992 | 6’5” | 215LBS | 65GP 7G 17A 24P +20 169PIM

NHL: 2010 Eligible

McIllrath’s play makes it tough to gauge what his role will be in the professional ranks. Some days, he looks like he’ll be a 7th defenseman inserted when a team needs toughness. Other days, he looks like a legitimate Top 4 dman. As the season has progressed, there seems to be more of the latter than the former.

One thing is certain is that McIllrath plays a simple tough game. He makes opponents fear him. While he is generously listed at 6’5 (he appears to be closer in height to Howden and McFaull), there is no arguing his toughness. His strength is what sets him apart from other big defenders in the draft as is his willingness to fight any and all comers (19 fights in the regular season). As his gap control and skating are steadily improving, he should develop into a nice defensive defenseman that instills fear into his opponents while chipping in with the occasional goal with his heavy shot.

RED DEER REBELS

C RYAN NUGENT-HOPKINS | 1993 | 6’0” | 160LBS | 67GP 24G 41A 65P -4 28PIM

NHL: 2011 Eligible

An early favorite Top 5 pick for the 2011 draft, Nugent-Hopkins oozes skill. He has soft hands with a really quick release. He can dangle the puck and is a very shifty skater. He has great vision and likes to set up near the half wall. On a team with such skilled offensive players as Willie Coetzee and Landon Ferraro, Red Deer revolves their power play around Nugent-Hopkins. They attack by letting him direct the play from the right side faceoff circle. A Red Deer defender will pass the puck into his wheel house (he’s a left-handed shot) where he can either take a one-timer or set up his teammates with precision saucer passes.

D ALEX PETROVIC| 1992 | 6’4” | 193LBS | 57GP 8G 19A 27P +3 87PIM

NHL: 2010 Eligible

Petrovic is another big WHL defenseman with some grit to his game. He is a bit of a project for NHL teams, but at 6’4, he has a large frame and loads of untapped potential. His skating can be awkward and he doesn’t effectively use his body enough. On the other hand, he isn’t afraid of the rough stuff and is fairly agile for a big man. He has a good first pass, but he does struggle in transition and can be caught napping on long breakaway passes up the seam. Offensively, he has the skills (and shot) to be a threat when his team is set up in the offensive zone.

SASKATOON BLADES

D DUNCAN SIEMENS | 1993 | 6’3” | 192LBS | 57GP 3G 17A 20P +11 89PIM

NHL: 2011 Eligible

Siemens has it all; size, skill, and smarts. Not to mention that as one of the youngest players eligible for the 2011 NHL draft, he still has a lot of time to continue to grow and improve his game. He is a pretty fluid skater and he thinks the game quite well. The 3rd overall pick of the 2008 WHL Bantam Draft, Siemens has the potential to be a marquee player in Saskatoon and beyond.

REGINA PATS

RW JORDAN EBERLE | 1990 | 5’11” | 184LBS | 57GP 50G 56A 106P +8 32PIM

NHL: 2008 EDM (1/22)

What more needs to be said about Eberle. All he does is score big goals when his team needs them most. He is good at sneaking to the side of the net for opportunistic rebounds. Like many great scorers, he gets the puck off his stick very quickly. While he is known for his goal scoring, his passing is perhaps underrated. He has the vision to find guys in tight through traffic and the skill to get them the puck. He was arguably the most dominant player in the WHL this season.

C JORDAN WEAL | 1992 | 5’9” | 165LBS | 72GP 35G 67A 102P +3 54PIM

NHL: 2010 Eligible

Weal has incredible chemistry with Eberle. Both players are methodical at attacking the defense and because they both think the game at such a high level, they create space for one another. Like Eberle, he loves to work from the side boards and attack gaps in the defense. Depending on how the defenders react, Weal either attacks a seam towards the middle of the ice or cycles the puck with Eberle. Weal is a very good skater and is very shifty.

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As Fowler began to slip down to the three hole, Kingston’s Erik Gudbranson began to serve notice of his arrival after some strong play in the first half of the season. A bout with mono and a knee injury limited the Orleans native to only 41 games, but his amazing potential was enough to cement his status in most people’s Top 5′s. After some strong play down the stretch, and then captaining Canada at the Under 18′s, it has led many to believe that Gudbranson could even surpass Fowler as the highest defenseman taken this year. And while the OHL’s dominance over the first few picks this year looks to be a formality, let’s not forget about Moncton’s Brandon Gormley, Prince George’s Brett Connolly or European forwards like Mikael Granlund and Vladimir Tarasenko, who will all be vying to fall into the hands of the New York Islanders, who possess the 5th Overall Pick.

Either way, here’s a look at how I feel the Top 5 of the 2010 NHL Entry Draft will turn out come June 25th.

1. Edmonton Oilers: LW Taylor Hall (Windsor Spitfires OHL)

Nov 14/91 | 6.00 | 180lbs | 57GP 40G 66A 106P

Like many, I feel that the race between Taylor Hall and Tyler Seguin is negligible and that Seguin could actually turn out to be the better player when it’s all said and done. With that being said, I have little doubt that Taylor Hall will be wearing an Edmonton Oilers jersey next season. Edmonton already has some strong components in place down the middle with players like Sam Gagner, Andrew Cogliano and Gilbert Brule, so adding a dynamic winger like Hall to a cast that already includes Magnus Paajarvi-Svensson and Jordan Eberle would really do a lot to give the Oilers two very potent young scoring lines for a long time.

Hall still has a lot to learn about playing a complete game, but there is no question that he has high end speed and is a player who has the ability to make a dynamic play out of nothing. He’ll have a lot of expectations from an Oilers fan-base looking for an identity to a rebuilding team, but he should turn out to be the player that the franchise is looking for with the top pick in the draft.

2. Boston Bruins: RC Tyler Seguin (Plymouth Whalers OHL)

Jan 31/92 | 6.01 | 186lbs | 63GP 48G 58A 106P

Little surprise that the Bruins will pick up Seguin, who is almost interchangeable with Hall at this point. While the addition of an offensive center like him does little to fill the team’s needs, the Bruins would be making a terrible mistake at this point if they passed him up in order to select one of the elite defensemen in the draft. Seguin is a tremendous offensive talent who is exceptional in the offensive zone. He has great mobility and his vision and offensive skills will allow him to be a very good point producer at the next level.

Like Hall, there are still concerns about his defensive game, as he is often passive in his own end and at times dis-interested, but those are concerns that will be addressed quickly with NHL coaching. On the contrary from Hall, however, it will be interesting to see if Seguin cracks the Bruins or returns back to junior for another season. With Marc Savard, David Krejci and Patrice Bergeron already on the roster, GM Peter Chiarelli will have to look seriously at moving one of his centers or potentially starting Seguin off on the wing instead. While he is adept at playing right wing, I don’t think Boston would be hurting themselves if Seguin was sent back for one more season if there isn’t a great opportunity for playing time with the Bruins.

3. Florida Panthers: LD Cam Fowler (Windsor Spitfires OHL)

Dec 6/91 | 6.02 | 190lbs | 55GP 8G 47A 55P

Personally, I would be taking Erik Gudbranson with this pick, but I would be relatively surprised if the Panthers elect to pass on Windsor defenseman Cam Fowler at the three spot. Coming into the season I had really high hopes for Fowler, and was in the club that felt he could be a real threat to Taylor Hall’s throne at the top of the class, but he’s been a pretty big disappointment for me this year. On the surface, Fowler is a big body with great mobility and the ability to move the puck up the ice with the best of them. If you catch him in the right game, you might even think that this kid is about as good as they come.

Watching him often throughout the season, however, has led to a lot of concerns with his game. For a big player, Fowler’s physical game is essentially non-existent. His shot is very average for an offensive defenseman, and he fails to utilize it when he has opportunities as well. While his play in the World Juniors was starting to alleviate a lot of my concerns in his game, his play down the stretch in the OHL has really led to a lot of concerns about his ability to be an elite defenseman at the NHL level. I would be surprised if he cracks the NHL next year, as I think he could definitely benefit from a second season in the OHL, but we’ll see how Florida elects to handle him if he is in fact their pick. I’m not sure about others, but he really reminds me a lot of a player in the mold of Jay Bouwmeester.

4. Columbus Blue Jackets: RD Erik Gudbranson (Kingston Frontenacs OHL)

Jan 7/92 | 6.03 | 195lbs | 41GP 2G 21A 23P

This is a guy who I have stated since the beginning of last year, could be a player that ends up being the best NHL pro from this draft. There’s no doubt that his mono and knee injury set him back this year, but still, he managed to work his way up the rankings and into the Top 5 of most draft boards. I would think that Scott Howson would be ecstatic to pick up a player like Gudbranson at #4, someone who oozes potential and could be the defensive pillar of the future that Columbus has sorrowfully lacked thus far.

Make no mistake that Gudbranson is still raw, and definitely needs at least another year in junior, but if the Blue Jackets can be patient with him, the reward could be huge. He’s a big defenseman with great range and is extremely mobile. He sees the ice well and has a great shot with a lot of untapped offensive potential. Add in the fact that he’s got a nasty edge to his game while being a humble, respected person off the ice, and there’s a recipe for a very good NHL defenseman. Gudbranson will need to continue to refine his game over the next couple of seasons, but a lot of scouts feel that he might have the highest ceiling out of any player available in the draft.

5. New York Islanders: LD Brandon Gormley (Moncton Wildcats QMJHL)

Feb 18/92 | 6.01 | 175lbs | 58GP 9G 34A 43P

Yikes! A QMJHL defenseman going in the Top 5 of the NHL Entry Draft? While there may be some consideration for a winger like Brett Connolly at number five, I really feel like the Islanders would be making a major mistake in passing on a defenseman like Gormley. After being the first overall pick in the QMJHL Draft two seasons ago, Gormley has quickly established himself as a blue-chip NHL prospect.

The main knock against Gormley is that he lacks one real defining skill and doesn’t really scream elite defenseman, but this shouldn’t be a huge concern. He’s a very good skater with great mobility and a good head for the game. Gormley does a good job of advancing the transition game and he’s more than capable on the powerplay as well. He might not be physically dominating, but he’s equally adept on the penalty kill as well as even strength defensive zone coverage. The addition of Gormley to the Islanders cupboard of defensive prospects that includes most notably Calvin de Haan and Travis Hamonic would really help provide a lot of stability to the team’s blue-line moving forward.


With that being said, I really don’t envision to many surprises in the Top 5 of this year’s draft, but there are certainly some players that I alluded to, such as Brett Connolly or Vladimir Tarasenko who could very well work their way into that group. After the headliners of the crop, however, this draft should be extremely interesting as there are a lot of players who’s position could fluctuate greatly come draft day!

For TSR, I’m Scott Campbell.

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The Cedar Rapids Roughriders have 2 forwards who may be called to the podium at the NHL draft in June.

Derek Deblois              F          5’10”    177

Deblois projects as an offensive player and point producer.  He has quick hands and is able to handle the puck in traffic.  Deblois is equally adept at giving and receiving passes on his backhand.  He is also very calm with the puck and will make the quick pass if needed or he can hold the puck and wait for the play to develop.  Deblois has all shot types in his arsenal.  I can’t say that he has a hard shot but he is able to get it on net with a good release.  Deblois really impressed with his toughness and willingness to pay the price in front of the net.  He has a knack for getting open but when a defenseman played the body, Deblois battled for position and got his stick free for deflections.  Deblois was very disciplined and never rattled on those occasions.  He continued to go about his business with a workman-like resolve.

Deblois weaknesses are that he lacked speed and explosiveness.   He showed a willingness to backcheck but couldn’t get back quickly enough after some of the battles in front.  His puck skills in traffic are a nice attribute but his inability to separate himself from defenders might inhibit him at the next level.  Also, as much as he showed a willingness to take punishment in front, he was knocked off balance enough to notice that he could improve his lower body strength.  Deblois will have to gain some muscle at Michigan but I’m not sure if that will improve his balance and quickness or slow him down.


Michael Parks              F          5’10”    184

Parks showed the speed and explosiveness lacking in Deblois’ game.  In doing so, Parks displayed a keen hockey sense in that he knew when to skate at full speed and when to back off and maintain his good positioning.  Parks played well in his own end and kept his head on a swivel to ensure that his man would not get open for a pass.  He showed discipline in keeping his stick in the passing lane at all times.  Parks was called upon often to kill penalties and on one occasion, killed 30 seconds on his own by exploding through the neutral zone to catch the puck carrier, strip him of the puck, send it back to the his D to dump it in then did the same thing as Youngstown came back through the neutral zone. 

Parks looked like the only player on the ice during that sequence.  His determination and his hockey smarts are the attributes that will suit him as he develops at North Dakota.  While there, Parks will need to develop more confidence and skills with the puck.  Parks was good at getting to open ice and finding the open man to pass to but he did not have the puck as much as I would have liked to see.

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I had the chance to check out the Indiana Ice for another look at some of the 2010 draft eligible prospects.  I also had my first look at Jacob Fallon since he left the USA U-18 team.

Jacob Fallon               F          5’10”               180

Fallon seems to play and look bigger than 5’10 180.  He’s a powerful skater with good balance and he uses his edges well.  He is also very strong on the puck whether he is handling it in traffic or if he needs to make a hard pass or dump-in.  Fallon played well without the puck and was a very responsible player in all 3 zones as well as a physical presence.  At times, he seemed tentative in getting to open ice in the neutral zone….possibly a result of becoming acclimated to his new team.  When he had the puck, Fallon possessed another gear and was able to take the puck hard into the zone while protecting it.  Fallon certainly looks like a hockey player and stands out with strong techniques in all facets of his game and a player who does the little things well.  Whether or not his offensive skills develop will dictate Fallon’s role as a second liner or third liner in college and beyond.

Nick Mattson             D         6’1”                 190

I was a big fan prior to this season but I have to say that I’ve been somewhat disappointed in Mattson’s play.  Mattson has the tools and plays with such ease that you expect to see more production and fewer mistakes than you actually get from him.  Mattson might be the type of player who plays up to the level of competition which will make his time at North Dakota critical to his development.

John Parker                F          5’11”               180

Parker is a well rounded player who also plays well without the puck.  He’s called upon to kill penalties as well as match up against the opponent’s top offensive players.  However, Parker just has not mustered the offensive production to match his skill set.  It’s hard to imagine a team taking a shot on him in June.

Brian Ferlin                F          6’1”                 196

Ferlin on the other hand, does have offensive abilities and potential to develop them even further.  He’s a slick stick handler and has the confidence to attack the net with the puck.  He also has the knack to be in places where the puck comes to him.  Ferlin just needs to improve his skating and continue to refine his skills.  He’s certainly worth a mid to late round pick on a team willing to wait for him to develop in college.

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In the first game, the Hitmen played the Moose Jaw Warriors.  Although its been a quarter of a century since the franchise left Winnipeg, the Warriors have had a distinct Manitoba flavour to them this year as they are being led in part by a couple draft-eligible Manitobans in Quinton Howden and Dylan McIlrath.

The other game featured the Brandon Wheat Kings in town for a rematch of last year’s Eastern Conference Final.  The 2010 Memorial Cup hosts have added some high profile players this year to compliment the pieces they already had.

MOOSE JAW WARRIORS

LW Quinton Howden | 1992 | 6’3” | 183LBS | 46GP 20G 30A 50P +14 26PIM

NHL: 2010 Eligible

Quinton Howden may be the most effortless skater in the WHL right now.  His fantastic acceleration often provided his defensemen with a great outlet option.  It also aided his transition game in the neutral zone where he was very effective in back checking and then turning the play back up the ice.  He showed good hands in sending Moose Jaw captain Jason Bast in on a breakaway and was one of the few Warriors to pressure the Calgary defense at all.  Howden could stand to benefit by showing more patience with the puck, allowing time for his teammates to join in and help him.  He finished the game pointless and a -1.

RD DYLAN MCILRATH | 1992 | 6’5” | 215LBS | 46GP 4G 11A 15P +21 127PIM

NHL: 2010 Eligible

McIlrath looked shaky at first, but after he got the first couple shifts out of the way, he looked very comfortable.  He played a very simple game in both ends.  He knows his role is a stay-at-home dman and he didn’t even look interested in going into the offensive end.  There was a few times were McIlrath was being so cautious that he didn’t even cross the blueline in order to support the play and keep the puck in the zone.  For his size, Dylan is a decent skater although like most big men, he has to work on his mobility and transition game.  He could also improve his gap control.  McIlrath was physically very solid and proved to be very hard to knock off his feet.  In one instance was able to clear out two Hitmen in front of his net simultaneously.  He and Kendall McFaull were steady defensively, blocking shots and effectively kept shooters to the outside.  He made good outlet passes and displayed patience with the puck until finding someone to pass to.

LW ANTONIN HONEJSEK | 1991 | 6’0” | 180LBS | 44GP 14G 17A 31P +10 18PIM

NHL: 2010 Eligible

Honejsek looked a bit like a waterbug out there.  He has a distinctive stride and the combination of the stride causing him to lean forward, his height, and having his head down looks to be a recipe for disaster if a defenseman can line him up.  Fortunately for him, he proved to be a slippery player with the puck and able to avoid the big hits.  He looked to others to create scoring chances for him.

LD KENDALL MCFAULL | 1992 | 6’2” | 185LBS | 41GP 4G 5A 9P +8 43PIM

NHL: 2010 Eligible

McFaull was paired with McIlrath for most the night and the two of them were very successful in breaking down the Calgary attack.  He showed good mobility and looked to be bigger than he is listed.   He played smart and displayed poise in the corners.  Although McFaull looks to have potential as an all-around defenseman, he still looks to be quite raw offensively.

CALGARY HITMEN

D MATT MacKENZIE | 1991 | 6’2” | 198LBS | 44GP 4G 23A 27P +4 49PIM

NHL: 2010 Eligible

As the season has progessed, MacKenzie’s game seems to be changing.  MacKenzie looks to have steadily improved his skating and is focusing more on the defensive part of his game.  He hasn’t been as aggressive at pinching in the offensive end, and while his stats may be declining from his early season pace, he is playing a much more complete game.  He is getting more effective at using his reach to his advantage, but he still doesn’t always use his size to his fullest capabilities.

RW CODY BEACH | 1992 | 6’5” | 184LBS | 35GP 2G 7A 9P +4 106PIM

NHL: 2010 Eligible

As usual, Beach used his body well on the forecheck, however, his lack of foot speed prevented him from being more effective in that role.  He needs to improve his skating if he hopes to be drafted in June.

D PETER KOSTERMAN | 1993 | 6’4” | 182LBS | 25GP 0G 1A 1P -3 2PIM

NHL: 2011 Eligible

With Calgary’s 1^st pick in the 2008 WHL draft, they choose a lanky local kid in Peter Kosterman.  He possesses great size at 6’4 and at only 16, is still learning to use his body.  He needs to work on skating in transition, but is improving in that regard.  Although Peter is not as physical, there are a lot of similarities between him and Alex Plante when the latter was the same age.  While he’s a project, Kosterman looks to have lots of potential.  He should merit watching for the 2011 draft.

D JAYNEN RISSLING | 1993 | 6’3” | 211LBS | 25GP 0G 4A 4P -1 13PIM

NHL: 2012 Eligible

Jaynen is a late-born ’93 and therefore isn’t eligible until the 2012 draft.  Like Peter Kosterman, Rissling is a big kid who has been solid in the limited minutes he’s received.  The Calgary coaching staff hasn’t had to rely on the youngsters too much and have been good at giving them safe minutes while continuing to develop them.  Rissling’s skating leaves much to be desired and he needs to work on his mobility.  He will also be interesting to follow over the next couple seasons.

BRANDON WHEAT KINGS

RW MARK STONE | 1992 | 6’3” | 190LBS | 27GP 11G 13A 24P +11 14PIM

NHL: 2010 Eligible

Although Mark didn’t make the scoresheet in the game against Calgary, he played a pretty solid game.  He was able to work the tough areas and was especially good in front of the net distracting Martin Jones and the Calgary defense.

LW MATT CALVERT | 1989 | 5’10” | 182LBS | 50GP 34G 35A 69P +30 54PIM

NHL: 2008 CLB (5/127)

After having a strong showing at Columbus’ training camp, Matt Calvert continues to impress.  He may just be Brandon’s best player and considering all the great players the Wheat Kings have, that’s saying a lot.  His energy is contagious and he seemed to take over the game at will in the 3^rd period leading his team to the come from behind victory.  Calvert displayed great smarts and patience in setting up Brayden Schenn for the fifth goal.  He added the empty netter to finish with two points.

C SCOTT GLENNIE | 1991 | 6’1” | 188LBS | 49GP 22G 38A 60P +25 24PIM

NHL: 2009 DAL (1/8)

It was a real “snake in the grass” performace from Glennie.  Not overly noticeable for the first 2 periods, Glennie found himself a couple scoring chances in the 3^rd and capitalized in a big way.  The first was a nice breakaway goal where he tucked the puck in between Martin Jones’ pads, while the other was a long wrist shot through heavy traffic.  The first goal really breathed life into a Wheat Kings squad that had been down 3-1 midway through the final frame.  He finished with 2 goals and an assist.

D Colby Robak | 1990 | 6’4” | 207LBS | 53GP 11G 39A 50P +38 4PIM

NHL: 2008 FLA (2/46)

Robak is a smooth-skating offensive-minded defenseman.  His typical game was on display again against Calgary where he potted a goal and added an assist.  He is a strong presence on the point and while not very physical, proved himself to be quite competent in his own end defending against the Hitmen’s high-scoring forwards.

C BRAYDEN SCHENN | 1991 | 6’0” | 192LBS | 41GP 20G 42A 62P +26 45PIM

NHL: 2009 LAK (1/5)

Schenn played a complete game.  He showed his physical side early on with a couple huge hits.  He and Calvert have developed great chemistry and combined for several good scoring chances.   Brayden showed good pursuit of the puck and solid two-way play.  Schenn finished with a nice goal on a 2-on-1 chance and also added an assist.

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Calvin Pickard is currently playing with the Seattle Thunderbirds of the Western Hockey League.

It has been a trying season thus far for the Seattle Thunderbirds in the US Division of the Western Hockey League. Starting the season as the youngest team in the WHL is never easy, and for a team that has only moved to get younger through the course of multiple deals this year (with only has 4 players over age 18), one player has given them a steady presence in their most important position. Goaltender Calvin Pickard might be quickly recognized by casual fans as the younger brother of Chet Pickard, a first round pick by the NHL’s Nashville Predators. Calvin has quickly proven to many, however, that Chet is not the only bluechip goaltending prospect in the Pickard household.

After a very respectable 16 year old rookie season in 2008-09 for Seattle, in which Pickard uprooted highly-touted Philadelphia Flyers draft pick Jacob DeSerres as starting netminder, Calvin started his draft eligible season on a team rebuilding for the future. Through 45 games, however, the 17 year old from Winnipeg has impressed scouts enough to be the number 1 ranked CHL goaltender on almost every mid-term scouting report. Playing more minutes (2704) than any other goaltender in the WHL, Pickard has posted a very solid 91.7% save percentage, and a respectable 2.86 goals-against average. Pickard has become a player that the young T-Birds can rely on for solid goaltending on a night in, night out basis; a fact that is proven by his ability to keep his team in games that they seem to have no business playing in.

While he doesn’t have the size of his brother (Calvin stands notably 2-3 inches shorter than Chet), Pickard fills alot of the net and gives opposition shooters very little to look at. Positionally sound, and also with very strong rebound control, you don’t see Calvin give up many soft goals, and he seems to bounce back fairly quickly after being scored on; which is a testament to his mental ability. With his impressive statistics on a fairly poor team, it is fathomable that Calvin could follow in big brother Chet’s footsteps and become a first-round pick in the upcoming NHL Entry draft.

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I recently watched the USNTDP U-18’s play Ohio State.  Unfortunately, Jon Merrill, Kevin Clare and Jacob Fallon were suspended and did not play.  However, I did have the opportunity to see several of the other 2010 Draft eligible players in action.

Derek Forbort                        D                     6’4”                 195

Forbort’s raw athleticism and size attribute to his high ranking to this point.  He’s a strong skater with good balance and agility.  Forbort also skates well with the puck and appears to get through the neutral zone effortlessly.  In this regard he shows good hockey sense and the vision to skate to open ice as the play develops.  Forbort was able to maintain tight gap on the OSU forwards but had difficulty when taken wide and was beat by some of the quicker skaters.  He’ll just need to improve his technique and footwork.  Also, Forbort had difficulty recognizing shot opportunities as he, as well as some of his teammates, had several shots blocked.  I would have liked to see him more creative and confidant at the point.  Forbort is the type of player with a high ceiling and if he develops fully, will be a stud defenseman in the NHL.

Stephen Johns                        D                     6’3”                 215

In my opinion, Johns might be a safer bet to develop into an NHL defenseman as he appears more NHL ready now.  However, he does not have as high a ceiling as Forbort.  Johns is very strong on the puck and quickly moves the puck or takes the safe route by getting it to the red-line and dumping it in.  Johns plays physically and should develop into a prototypical defensive defenseman who does have the ability to make a good first pass.  He possesses a good, hard shot but he too was guilty of making poor decisions by forcing the puck, only to have it blocked several times.  Also, Johns will need to improve upon his technique in pressuring puck carriers in the corner.   On a few occasions, the OSU forwards were able to get around Johns and catch him flat footed

Jarred Tinordi                          D                     6’5”                 202

Tinordi has all the intangibles that would excite any scout.  He’s huge and has great leadership abilities as he is wearing the “C”.  Tinordi also seemed aware on the ice and has good hockey sense….defensively.  Offensively, Tinordi struggled on the point as well.  In addition to the blocked shots, Tinordi clearly does not have the agility that his fellow defenseman have.  Tinordi is an awkward skater without good balance and footwork.  He will need to improve upon his skating and puck skills when he’s at Notre Dame.  He’s clearly a project that if he works out, will be a force on an NHL blueline.  There is just a lot of work to be done.

Justin Faulk                            D                     5’11”               195

Faulk is the complete opposite of Forbort, Johns, and Tinordi in that his strengths are his offensive awareness and capabilities.  Faulk was able to routinely able to get shots on net where his teammates were not, scoring on a nice wrist shot from ten feet inside the blue line.  Faulk distributed the puck well in the offensive zone as well as making some nifty passes in the neutral zone.  Faulk also played physically and was able to throw his weight around.  It will be interesting to see how he tests at the combine though as at times, he appeared to labor, almost as though he was too heavy. 

Jason Zucker                          F                      5’10”               174

Clearly the cream of the crop of the USA forwards, Zucker stands out both through his offensive skills and creativity as well as his diligence as a backchecker and defensive player.  Zucker has speed and puck skills as well as a hard, accurate shot.  I believe that Zucker is the type of player who can play as a top 6 forward and provide offense, or as a responsible defensive player who can see time on a third line matched against another team’s first line while chipping in offensively as well.  This versatility will pay off on draft day. 

Bill Arnold                              F                      5’11”               217

Arnold is a big kid who works hard on the ice.  He was blocking shots and very effective on the boards.  However, I did not see a lot of offensive abilities that would merit a high selection.  It’s possible that he can develop a higher skill set at Boston College while providing the intangibles.

Chase Balisy                          F                      5’10                 170

Balisy is a quick, darting skater who did well in open ice.  However, he struggled in traffic against the physically mature Buckeyes.                   

Luke Moffatt                         F                      6’0”                 179

Behind Zucker, Moffatt was the most visible offensive threat among the 2010 eligibles.  Moffatt had the knack of being in the right spots and had several opportunities to create offense.  However, once he had the puck, he did not always make the right play.  He forced a few bad angle shots from the boards that were easily turned aside and transitioned by Ohio State.  On those occasions, Moffatt had more time to survey the play and wait for support.  Moffatt is a kid who will benefit from the coaching at Michigan and should play out his eligibility.

Bryan Rust                             F                      5’11                 191

Rust has good size and played a responsible game.  Rust did not display the skill that Moffatt did however he made better decisions with the puck and also had the knack for getting to the right spots.

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The Fargo Force have a few NHL prospects for this year’s draft as well as a couple who may develop into prospects over the next few years.  Unfortunately, one of those prospects, Alex Lippincott, was not in the lineup the night I saw the Force.  I am hoping to see him before the season is over.


Eamonn McDermott                    D                   5’10           176

McDermott has put up some nice offensive numbers by relying upon his bread and butter…the ability to make very good passes.  He has a nice touch and has the ability to make hard crisp passes or soft passes to space for his teammates.  McDermott has good recognition for developing plays and is very poised with the puck.  He has the ability to recognize the amount of time and space he has to either take his time to look things over or quickly make a pass.  In those instances where he is rushed, McDermott was not simply making the safe, predictable pass.  Rather, he was able to find other options that led to some better transitional opportunities.

I would have liked to see him shoot more as he is clearly a pass first player.  When he did shoot, he was able to put the puck on net.  Defensively, McDermott has good defensive positioning and skates well enough to maintain tight gap control and angled the on-coming forwards safely to the outside.  What McDermott also has in his arsenal is a very quick stick, one of the quickest I have seen in the league so far.  His ability to poke check and intercept passes was uncanny.  Even in situations where he was at a great size disadvantage, McDermott still had the knack for separating the puck from the puck carrier.  McDermott’s future looks to be linked to how much he can grow.  Adding an inch or two and 15 – 20 pounds could make McDermott a real top 2 defensive pair prospect.  If he doesn’t grow, you have an offensive specialist who can take some minutes on a third pairing.


Garrett Allen                                   F                 5’11            170

Allen impressed with his offensive capabilities, particularly near the net.  He posses good hands in tight and was able to get shots on net when it was difficult to do so.  He showed off a nice backhand in displaying the ability to get shots off in traffic.  Allen would need to smooth out his skating as it became difficult for him to backcheck and help out defensively after the puck went into the Fargo zone.  If he could do that, and add some muscle to his frame, he might develop into a point producer at the professional level.

As for 2011 prospects, Colten St. Clair impressed with a strong two-way game.  He showed a willingness to work hard through diligent backchecking and finished all his checks on the boards.  Offensively, St. Clair found open space and made good decisions in shooting the puck vs. passing.  If he continues to develop and puts up points next year, he could be one of the higher rated USHL prospects going in to the 2011 draft.  On the other hand, Marek Hrbas did not impress.  The Czech blueliner was visibly rattled when Youngstown’s Ryan Jasinsky knocked him to the ice twice on the same shift.  I would have liked to see some sort of response but there was none.  That shift effectively knocked him out of the game.

A name for 2012 could be Alaskan native Brian Cooper.  Cooper was paired with McDermott and showed the fortitude lacked by Hrbas in this game.  He has a nice skill set with good hockey smarts.  He’s only 5’9” but he will bear watching over the next 2 seasons.

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