RC Mark Scheifele | 6.03 | 175 lbs | 03/15/93

2009/10 (Kitchener Jr.B) - 51GP 18G 37A 55P 20PIM

After being a 7th Round Pick in the 2009 OHL Priority Selection, Scheifele spent a year playing Jr. B last year in his hometown. He was extremely productive, leading the team in scoring as a 16 year old and was committed towards an NCAA career at Cornell. That all changed when his rights where dealt by the Spirit to the Barrie Colts in a deal that saw Mavric Parks go the other way. Barrie managed to convince him to take the OHL route, and this year could be a big one for Scheifele. With the departure of almost every key forward, he’ll be getting top line minutes with the Colts and has already looked good in pre-season. He’s a rangy center with good puck skills and a quick release. He does well in traffic and goes to the dirty areas on the ice as well. His strength is a big concern as he’s been getting knocked around quite a bit, but there is certainly a lot of potential in his game and he should definitely be on the NHL radar.

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LD Steven Strong | 5.11 | 195 lbs | 02/16/93

2009/10 (Belleville OHL) - 65GP 1G 5A 6P -11 52PIM

Strong had a fine rookie season patrolling the defense of a team that was the youngest in the OHL and finished the season in second last place in the Ontario Hockey League. This pre-season he’s really elevated his game to another level as he has also showed signs that his offensive game has developed. Strong is a reliable, gritty two-way defender. He is a great player to have in the dressing room and was the captain of the Toronto Marlboros and could even wear a letter with the Bulls this year. While his skill won’t blow you away, his competitiveness is exceptional and he will be a key piece of the Bulls this year.

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RW Matt MacLeod | 6.02 | 181 lbs | 07/13/93

2009/10 (Brampton OHL) - 57GP 6G 10A 16P +7 13PIM

MacLeod quietly enjoyed a productive season with the Battalion, tying for the team lead in the +/- category. While he showed flashes of strong play last year, his minutes were mostly limited and he didn’t see a lot of ice-time on the special teams. With the departure of a couple of veterans, this year offers a chance for MacLeod to embrace some more ice-time and really improve his offensive game from a season ago. He’s not a flashy player, but he has good hockey sense and has a good finishing touch in the offensive zone. If he can find some consistency, he will find a lot more attention coming his way this year.

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G Franky Palazzese | 6.01 | 155 lbs | 03/28/93

2009/10 (Markham Jr.A) - 29GP 16-8-2-1 2.81GAA .905SV% 2SO

In what looks like a pretty weak draft year for goaltending from the OHL, Palazzese could be a bit of a wildcard. He struggled to adapt to the OHL in the few games he saw action in last year, but he was pretty good playing in Tier Two. He’s a wiry goalie that has good technical skills, but he’ll need to show improvements in positioning and overall refinement. This year he’ll be the backup to Phillip Grubauer, but should see some action especially when Grubauer leaves for the German U20 team at Christmas.

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LD Stuart Percy | 6.01 | 186 lbs | 05/18/93

2009/10 (Mississauga OHL) - 52GP 3G 15A 18P -5 40PIM

By now it seems like most people are in on the Stuart Percy secret, and he’s likely considered to be a consensus Top 50 player at this point. However, with the Majors roster lacking 2011 players, Percy is probably the only player on the team to really be considered as much of an NHL prospect at this point. He doesn’t have any overwhelming qualities, but he’s just such a steady all-around defenseman that can play in all situations. He’s great at moving the puck, has tremendous patience and will likely be a much better powerplay player this year as well. He represented Canada at the Under 18′s and will play a big role on the Mississauga blue-line this year as he looks to contend for a late first round selection.

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RW Ryan Strome | 6.01 | 183 lbs | 07/11/93

2009/10 (Niagara/Barrie OHL) - 61GP 8G 19A 27P +5 61PIM

I think if there’s one guy that could make a ton of noise this year, it’s going to be Ryan Strome. The 8th Overall Pick from 2009, Strome really didn’t see very much ice-time playing in a loaded Barrie Colts lineup. Things changed quickly as he was dealt to the Niagara Ice Dogs as the principle component of the Alex Pietrangelo trade, and Strome started to see considerably more ice-time. His game a year ago was plauged by a lack of physical strength, but after growing a bit and bulking up, things should be different this year. Strome is a great offensive talent, he’s creative with the puck and has very good vision but also is an adept scorer. He’s already been on fire this pre-season including notching a hat trick, and I think he’ll be the 2011 version of Greg McKegg.

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RD Colin Suellentrop | 6.02 | 192 lbs | 06/10/93

2009/10 (Oshawa OHL) - 54GP 1G 5A 6P -37 74PIM

With a trio of highly touted forwards in Lucas Lessio, Boone Jenner and Nicklas Jensen up front, Suellentrop could be a promising defender on the backend for the rebuilding Generals. While last season was a struggle at times, Suellentrop did have stretches of strong play and handled a lot of minutes for a bad hockey team. He played for the United States at the Ivan Hlinka tournament, and with a year under his belt, the Generals will hope that Suellentrop can take a big leap forward in his game this year. He has good size and puck instincts, but he’ll need to be better positionally and display more polish in his transitional game this year.

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LW Shane Prince | 5.10 | 185 lbs | 11/16/92

2009/10 (Ottawa/Kitchener OHL) - 65GP 15G 15A 30P -2 45PIM

A bit of an intriguing prospect, Prince is undersized but competes very hard for a player of his stature. He ran out of opportunity in Kitchener, which prompted a move to the 67′s last year, where he enjoyed a fairly productive sophomore season. His NHL potential is questionable, but if he can put together a good offensive season around 60 points, he likely could be an NHL pick. Ottawa also has a plethora of 17 year olds who will all be worth watching this year including Steven Janes, Tyler Graovac and Remy Giftopolous who are all capable of gaining some NHL interest.

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RW Luke Hietkamp | 6.02 | 190 lbs | 08/15/93

2009/10 (Peterborough OHL) - 54GP 4G 2A 6P -9 16PIM

The Petes have had some exceptional first round OHL picks go on to NHL draft glory in recent years. Outside of the first round, however, has been a bit of an issue as the team has seen several second and third rounders struggle to forge out successful OHL careers. The trend could buck this year, though, as Luke Hietkamp could be a player that is capable of a little more. He’s a big body who’s very mobile and has good puck skills. He does well protecting the puck and has pretty good offensive hockey sense. I saw him last night in London and he looked a lot better then last year and it looks like his game has improved a lot.

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RD Frankie Corrado | 6.01 | 190 lbs | 03/26/93

2009/10 (Sudbury OHL) - 63GP 1G 8A 9P -16 46PIM

Corrado is a player who could also make some noise in the NHL Draft this year as his game has really taken some positive strides forward this year. Corrado has put on a lot of size and his game is laced with more confidence and puck poise. He’s a very good skater with great acceleration and has good offensive tools. His defensive game is improving, but positioning is still an area of concern. He could also stand to do a better job of moving the puck, but his decision making is improving. His shot has gained a lot of power and will be utilized with more powerplay ice-time. Corrado could be capable of 40+ points this year and likely could find himself in the late 2nd-3rd round range if he lives up to potential this year.

I recently had the opportunity to catch up with Sudbury Wolves defenseman Frankie Corrado to reflect on a solid rookie season, and his plans heading into his NHL draft year. Corrado, a 17 year old Woodbridge native, was the 25th Overall Pick in the 2009 OHL Priority Selection, taken by the Wolves with their first of two picks in the round.

Standing at 6’0″ and 174 lbs, Corrado is a smooth skating defenseman who notched a goal and 9 points in 63 games last season. While the numbers won’t blow anyone away, many are expecting big things from Corrado this season, as he is set to take on a much bigger role with the Wolves. Corrado showed considerable poise as he became more familiar with the OHL as the season wore on, and with a good season in 2010/11, he should definitely make his way onto the NHL radar. Without further ado, here is my interview with Frankie.

Thanks for joining us, Frankie, we really appreciate you taking the time.

Not a problem, thanks for having me.


You were a pretty highly touted player in your OHL draft year, how did you handle not being selected in the first round of the 2009 OHL Priority Selection?

Obviously it’s something that you strive for all year long, and it’s great recognition. But you have to be able to expect things to happen, especially in a draft where nothing is certain. I took it with a grain of salt and realized that the opportunity to play an integral role, may not have been as good on a stronger team picking late in the first round, and going to the Wolves in the second round obviously is a great situation for me, and I’m hoping to build off of last year and help the Wolves in a bigger role this year.


Obviously the Wolves were pleasantly surprised when your name was still on the board at their pick in round two, what were your thoughts on Sudbury when you were selected by the Wolves at 25th Overall?

I had been up to Sudbury on a couple occasions for the Big Nickel tournament, and enjoyed the city both times I was up. I never made it out to a Wolves game, but I did manage to catch two, by fluke in my MM season because they were playing in Mississauga and Brampton. I was somewhat surprised that they would opt to go with two defecnemen with their first two picks, but I was also happy that they were serious about moving in a new direction, and having young players play a key role on their team.


What were you expecting when making the jump from Minor Midget AAA to the OHL, and how did you train during the summer to prepare yourself for the season, especially considering your broken collarbone?

I was expecting everything I was told. Players would be bigger, faster, stronger, more skilled, and smarter. Obviously I was preparing for the season by being in the gym and working on my strength and speed, but I suffered a broken collar-bone at the Team Ontario Under-17 Evaluation Camp in late June. This injury put me on the shelf for about 2 months with regards to lifting and working out full body, but in the month of August I was able to salvage some of my workout routine by doing two a day cardio workouts to keep my speed and cardio at its top level, which really helped me because my speed is a big part of my game.


You progressively saw more ice-time with the Wolves as the season went on, was the OHL what you expected, or did you encounter any surprises?

Coming straight into the regular season without playing any exhibition games was obviously a big change of pace coming from MM, but as time went on, and practicing everyday, I was able to get my bearings on the speed and strength of players. I really took the Christmas Break to realize what I needed to do to become not only better for myself, but better for the Wolves, and play a key role on their team. And obviously with a couple key injuries I was able to move up in the line-up and stay there for the better part of the second half of the season, and that truly helped me with my learning curve, and helps me realize what I need to do to be a force on the back end this year.


Did you keep in contact with any of your former Vaughan Kings teammates such as Owen Sound Goaltender Jordan Binnington throughout the year?

Yea, he was in Owen Sound, and we would talk at least once a month. We were a very tight knit team in MM and Jordan and I were two players who played a leadership role and obviously we want it to translate over to the next level. We talked about school, hockey, billets, everything that changed for us, and we continued our relationship over into the next level.

How big of a disappointment was it not being selected for the Under 17 team, and did it affect your outlook for the rest of the season?

Obviously I wanted to be there, there’s no denying that. But in the long run, it did not affect my season. I got over it pretty quick because with Justin gone I was able to play a lot more and find a bit of a groove that I may not have hit if I were to play in the Under-17 tournament. Obviously there’s nothing better than representing where you live, and being in the Hockey Canada system, but in the long run it benefited me staying in Sudbury and finding my groove, and continuing to keep it for the most part of the second half.


You’re going into your NHL draft year, are you preparing any differently for the upcoming season knowing that there will be bigger expectations for you?

I don’t want to put any added pressure on myself to do things differently. I’m keeping it simple but effective. I’m taking my training seriously, I’m keeping myself on the ice throughout the summer, and I’m mentally preparing for what I hope is a long season. I think that I have the right mindset going into the season that with team success comes individual success, and I don’t need to do anything different than making smart plays, moving the puck, being responsible defensively, and surely the points will come.


Have you spoken with a player like John McFarland at all to help understand the transition from being a rookie to a sophomore and the pressures of the NHL Draft?

Yeah, John and I keep in touch throughout the summer. He basically told me to keep my fitness level up, always keep a level head and to make sure I show what I’m capable of night in and night out. Having John around helped me last season coming into the OHL and I believe he can give me the right pointers and advice seeing as he was one of the top athletes at this years Combine.


You’re obviously going to be making a big jump in your role on the Wolves next season, what types of things are you expecting from yourself in your game next year?

Obviously I want to play my game within a team system, and with the opportunity I want to be a key contributor on a Wolves team that I hope will be a contender and go far into the playoffs. In regards to myself, I want to keep my game simple but effective because that’s the way I’ve always been and that is what has gotten me this far in my career. I want to move the puck, skate the puck out of trouble, run a consistent power-play, and make sure I’m making responsible decisions in my own defensive zone as well as the neutral zone and offensive zone. At the conclusion of this season I want to be able to look in the mirror and say that I left everything on the ice, and have nothing left more to give.


Thanks again for the time, Frankie, it’s been a pleasure speaking with you.

Not a problem, thanks for the opportunity!

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It will be an interesting year for Corrado, as he will be expected to take a major step forward as a player that the Wolves can depend on. He showed considerable poise on the powerlay as the season progressed, and he will have an opportunity to really elevate his point totals next year as he should be ready to step in as the team’s powerplay quarterback. Without a doubt, one of the nicer kids you’ll meet in the OHL, Corrado’s progress next year will be worthwhile following as he looks to help the Wolves take a step forward in the standings.

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SUDBURY WOLVES

| #3 RD Justin Sefton | 1993 | 6’3” | 199lbs | 24GP 0G 3A 3P -11 32PIM |

It’s been a bit of a struggle offensively for the 16 year old Thunder Bay native this season, but he is quickly establishing himself as a quality OHL defender. Sefton has a tremendous amount of size and strength, and plays a very physical game. He competes hard in the corners and makes life miserable for opposing forwards, which is a major asset to his game. His skating is pretty good, but will need continued work moving forward. He’s probably projecting as a late first rounder in 2011 at this point, but it will be interesting to see if his offensive game comes around a bit before then.

| #18 LW (RS) John McFarland | 1992 | 6’1” | 195lbs | 21GP 8G 12A 20P -12 26PIM |

McFarland came into the season with pretty hefty expectations, and it’s safe to say that he’s had some trouble living up to them thus far. While his offensive game is starting to make some advances, and he is utilizing his incredible speed more frequently, he still has a couple of big issues which are plaguing his game. He lacks the natural creativity of high end offensive players, and his defensive game and positional play still leave a lot to be desired. McFarland will still be a sure-fire first rounder in 2010, but he’s in danger of falling out of the Top 10 right now.

| #22 RD Frankie Corrado | 1993 | 6’0” | 174lbs | 24GP 0G 1A 1P -6 24PIM |

The Wolves other 16 year old defenseman has also struggled a bit to produce offensively this season, but there is some decent upside with Corrado. While working on his strength will be one of the biggest issues for Corrado moving forward, he has a lot of raw ability that will build some hype around his name. He’s a very good skater and has a variety of shifty moves he can use to elude any fore-checkers. He moves the puck well and has some good offensive instincts, and he will be given a much bigger opportunity to showcase those skills next season with an increased role.

| #29 G Alain Valiquette | 1990L | 6’3” | 186lbs | 5-8-0-1 3.24GAA .917SV% 3SO |

There was some talk that Valiquette could be a late round pick last season, and even got some interest on NHLCS’s draft list, but at the end of the day, the Sudbury native did not hear his name called in Ottawa. This season has been much different for the 18 year old, as Valiquette has really elevated his game to the next level. He’s seeing the puck a lot better this season, and he’s really worked on his strength and lateral movement which have been the main catalyst behind his greatly improved numbers. His glove still needs a bit of work, as does his rebound control, but he has the ability to make highlight reel saves with his athleticism. He’ll need to maintain some consistency throughout the season to make the draft radar, but his hot start to the season should warrant some consideration.

SAGINAW SPIRIT

| #21 RD Ryan O’Connor | 1992 | 5’8” | 175lbs | 24GP 3G 11A 14P +9 21PIM |

One of the centerpieces of the Nick Crawford/TJ Brodie blockbuster trade, O’Connor’s transition to Saginaw has not been smooth thus far. O’Connor has drawn some comparisons to Ryan Ellis, due to being undersized and playing a similar game, but the reality is that O’Connor is not even a lock to be drafted at this point. He doesn’t skate very well for his size, and his defensive play needs some work as he struggles to maintain body positioning. Offensively he definitely has some talent, and he has a very good shot, but it might not be enough to get him drafted. If he is selected, he’s likely going to be a late round pick, between the 5th and 7th rounds.

| #24 LW Ivan Telegin | 1992 | 6’3” | 185lbs | 24GP 17G 12A 29P +12 10PIM |

After coming over from Russia in the CHL Import Draft last season, Telegin has really flown under the radar thus far, despite putting up very strong numbers. This is starting to change, as the big Russian is starting to get some attention, and for good reason. Telegin is a very good skater for his size, and has a lot of offensive potential. He sees the ice very well and makes quick decisions in the offensive zone. He’s not afraid to drive the net, and he’ll take a hit to make a play in the corners, too. He competes hard, but he isn’t an overly physical player, and he really needs to add some bulk to his frame as well as some upper body strength. Telegin is definitely a player that will be rising this year, and he could very well be working his way into the first round at this pace.

| #25 RW (LS) Josh Shalla | 1991L | 6’1” | 187lbs | 24GP 16G 14A 30P +18 27PIM |

This has been a breakout season for Shalla thus far, and he’s been getting some NHL draft consideration as a result. While the numbers are very impressive, there are some fairly major concerns with Shalla’s skating that could really limit his potential at the next level. His offensive game is really starting to come around, as he’s becoming a much more dangerous player offensively, and he’s also a lot more reliable in his own end, back-checking hard and playing physical occasionally as well. The problem will be his feet, however, as they need a lot of work. His stride is choppy and his first few steps need a lot of improvement. He also has poor agility and transitionally, needs some work. If he can continue this pace, he should be a late round pick for sure, but the skating will be something that holds him back from being a 3rd or 4th rounder.

| #89 RC Vincent Trocheck | 1993 | 5’10” | 165lbs | 24GP 7G 8A 15P -1 19PIM |

Trocheck looks to be one of the more impressive 1993’s in the OHL this season, as he’s made a very smooth transition to junior hockey. The Pittsburgh native is seeing a lot of quality ice time with the Spirit this year and has definitely earned it. He’s got some pretty good offensive upside, and he’s a fairly creative player that does a good job of finding gaps in the defensive coverage. His skating is pretty good, but will need continual improvement. Trocheck competes hard for a smaller player, and battles hard for pucks all over the ice, and he’s also pretty reliable defensively despite being 16 years old. Like most rookies, his biggest issue will be adding some strength and hopefully growing another inch or two as well, but right now, he’s a player to watch for 2011.

| #93 LW Michael Sgarbossa | 1992 | 5’11” | 165lbs | 24GP 8G 14A 22P +1 18PIM |

The other component of the Crawford/Brodie trade coming to Saginaw, Sgarbossa has also had a bit of a rough time following the trade, much like O’Connor. He’s a very talented player, but he has some trouble maintaining consistency, as one night he can be the best player on the ice, and then he might not do anything for the next two games. Sgarbossa is an above average skater, with good offensive instincts. He’s not afraid to drive the net, and has pretty good hands in tight spaces. He also has a lot of the characteristics of a “pest”, which scouts will like to see. He does a good job of getting under the skin of opponents, and isn’t afraid to get physically involved, despite his small stature. At this point, he’s likely a mid-round pick, but if he can find his groove offensively, he could sneak into the 3rd round.

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