Be sure to check out the rest of our Top 100: (1-25) (26-50) (51-75) (76-100)

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#76. Oscar Lindberg | C | Skelleftea J20 (SuperElit)

Date of Birth: October 29th, 1991
Height: 6.00
Weight: 187lbs.
Shoots: L
Season Statistics: Regular Season | 30GP 14G 23A 37P 44PIM
Playoffs | 1GP 1G 1A 2P 12PIM
TSR Midterm Rank: NR | Position Rank: 52nd Forwards
League Rank: 3rd SuperElit | Country Rank: 4th Sweden

A prospect who has really made waves as the season has progressed, Lindberg is a dependable player in all three zones and is particularly strong in the face-off circle. He could even sneak into the second round as there are rumblings that some teams are very high on the 18 year old.

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#77. Jerome Gauthier-Leduc | D | Rouyn-Noranda (QMJHL)

Date of Birth: July 30th, 1992
Height: 6.01
Weight: 171lbs.
Shoots: R
Season Statistics: Regular Season | 68GP 20G 26A 46P 16PIM
Playoffs | 11GP 2G 4A 6P 2PIM
TSR Midterm Rank: NR | Position Rank: 22nd Defensemen
League Rank: 6th QMJHL | Country Rank: 36th Canada

Good sized defenseman who really capitalized on an increased role with one of the better teams in the QMJHL this season. Gauthier-Leduc is very adept offensively, and will be a quality selection at some point in the third round for a team looking to pick up an offensive defenseman with potential.

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#78. Julian Melchiori | D | Newmarket (CCHL)

Date of Birth: December 6th, 1991
Height: 6.03
Weight: 186lbs.
Shoots: L
Season Statistics: Regular Season | 39GP 7G 16A 23P 16PIM
Playoffs | 19GP 2G 9A 11P 7PIM
TSR Midterm Rank: NR | Position Rank: 23rd Defensemen
League Rank: 1st CCHL | Country Rank: 37th Canada

Melchiori is a big defenseman who hasn’t quite filled in his 6’3″ frame yet. He’s made significant progress this season as a late 91 and will be attending UMass-Lowell next season. Melchiori has a bit of a choppy first couple of steps which need some refinement, but his top speed is more then adequate for a big player. Has some good offensive instincts and is effective on the powerplay. A risky pick at this point, but there is a considerable amount of upside for a team willing to be patient with him.

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#79. Patrik Nemeth | D | AIK J20

Date of Birth: February 8th, 1992
Height: 6.03
Weight: 201lbs.
Shoots: L
Season Statistics: Regular Season | 38GP 1G 19A 20P 120PIM
Playoffs | 5GP 1G 2A 3P 10PIM
TSR Midterm Rank: NR | Position Rank: 24th Defensemen
League Rank: 4th SuperElit | Country Rank: 5th Sweden

A big Swedish defenseman, Nemeth is one of the only bright hopes in a year that is looking to be fairly bleak defensively for the Swedes. Offensively, Nemeth’s upside is limited, but his combination of strong positional play and a willingness to play a physical brand of hockey are two strengths that he excels at.

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#80. Freddie Hamilton | C | Niagara (OHL)

Date of Birth: January 1st, 1992
Height: 6.00
Weight: 185lbs.
Shoots: R
Season Statistics: Regular Season | 64GP 25G 30A 55P 12PIM
Playoffs | 5GP 1G 1A 2P 6PIM
TSR Midterm Rank: NR | Position Rank: 53rd Forwards
League Rank: 24th OHL | Country Rank: 38th Canada

Hamilton is a player who doesn’t have high end skills, but works hard for his success. He has good size and is willing to take the puck to the net or stand in front of the net, but is also adept on the half boards. Hamilton still has a lot of room for improvement, but his strong hockey IQ and ability to play a solid two-way game are two of the main components why people are starting to give him some attention.

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Freddie Hamilton had a very productive season for the Niagara Ice Dogs. Photo (niagaraicedogs.net)

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#81. Michael Bournival | C | Shawinigan (QMJHL)

Date of Birth: May 31st, 1992
Height: 5.10
Weight: 172lbs.
Shoots: L
Season Statistics: Regular Season | 58GP 24G 38A 62P 37PIM
Playoffs | 6GP 2G 2A 4P 6PIM
TSR Midterm Rank: NR | Position Rank: 54th Forwards
League Rank: 7th QMJHL | Country Rank: 39th Canada

Bournival was a pleasant surprise in Shawinigan this season, meeting expectations after a strong rookie campaign a year ago. His size will be a bit of a concern, but his elusiveness on the ice and good offensive ability are two assets to his game. He has a good work ethic and contributed nicely on a Canadian Under 18 team that underachieved this Spring.

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#82. Justin Holl| D | Minnetonka (HS-Minnesota)

Date of Birth: January 30th, 1992
Height: 6.02
Weight: 170lbs.
Shoots: R
Season Statistics: Regular Season | 25GP 17G 14A 31P 8PIM
Playoffs | n/a
TSR Midterm Rank: NR | Position Rank: 25th Defensemen
League Rank: 5th HS-Minnesota | Country Rank: 23rd USA

A pretty raw player at this point, but certainly not lacking any upside. Holl is a very good skater who has a lot of upside which will hopefully be developed as he embarks on a career at the University of Minnesota. Holl was one of the premier defensemen in Minnesota High School Hockey this season, and his offensive skills should help to ease his transition to the NCAA.

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#83. Justin Shugg | LW | Windsor (OHL)

Date of Birth: December 24th, 1991
Height: 5.09
Weight: 175lbs.
Shoots: R
Season Statistics: Regular Season | 67GP 39G 40A 79P 43PIM
Playoffs | 18GP 5G 10A 15P 10PIM
TSR Midterm Rank: NR | Position Rank: 55th Forwards
League Rank: 25th OHL | Country Rank: 40th Canada

Shugg has flown under the radar on a loaded Windsor team, despite quietly being one of the team’s most reliable offensive producers. He has great offensive instincts and good finish in the offensive zone, but his awkward stride, lack of size and questionable competitiveness level will limit the impact he can have at the next level.

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#84. Mark Visentin | G | Niagara (OHL)

Date of Birth: August 7th, 1992
Height: 6.00
Weight: 176lbs.
Catches: L
Season Statistics: Regular Season | 24-26-0-5 2.99GAA .911SV% 0SO
Playoffs | 1-3-1 3.54GAA .904SV% 0SO
TSR Midterm Rank: NR | Position Rank: 4th Goalies
League Rank: 26th OHL | Country Rank: 41st Canada

Visentin is a good sized goalie who has a strong technical game. He faced a lot of shots this season on a rebuilding Ice Dogs team, but managed to really pick up his game after limping through his rookie season last year. Consistency is an issue for Visentin and he can be prone to losing position and giving up a soft goal, but with continued development, he could be a quality goaltending prospect long term.

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#85. Brett Bulmer | LW | Kelowna (WHL)

Date of Birth: April 26th, 1992
Height: 6.03
Weight: 175lbs.
Shoots: R
Season Statistics: Regular Season | 65GP 13G 27A 40P 95PIM
Playoffs | 12GP 2G 3A 5P 6PIM
TSR Midterm Rank: NR | Position Rank: 56th Forwards
League Rank: 18th WHL | Country Rank: 42nd Canada

Bulmer really developed in his first full WHL season with Rockets after only suiting up in 3 contests a year ago. Bulmer is a lanky player who brings a lot of energy to the game and can play in a variety of different roles. He does have some good skill which should develop as he is pressed into a more offensive role in the next couple of seasons.

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Brett Bulmer's productive season has put him on the NHL radar. Photo (kelownarockets.com)

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#86. Matt Mackenzie | D | Calgary (WHL)

Date of Birth: October 15th, 1991
Height: 6.02
Weight: 198lbs.
Shoots: R
Season Statistics: Regular Season | 64GP 6G 33A 39P 62PIM
Playoffs | 23GP 6G 10A 16P 31PIM
TSR Midterm Rank: NR | Position Rank: 26th Defensemen
League Rank: 19th WHL | Country Rank: 43rd Canada

The third year Hitmen defenseman really took some major strides forward this season, increasing his offensive production three fold while still providing a steadying force on the Calgary blue line. His exceptional play in the playoffs could have some teams considering Mackenzie even higher then this, and it wouldn’t be a surprise to see him sneak his way up the draft board a little higher in June.

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#87. Victor Ohman | C | Malmo J20 (SuperElit)

Date of Birth: April 7th, 1992
Height: 6.01
Weight: 202lbs.
Shoots: L
Season Statistics: Regular Season | 21GP 17G 10A 27P 14PIM
Playoffs | 2GP 2G 0A 2P 2PIM
TSR Midterm Rank: NR | Position Rank: 57th Forwards
League Rank: 5th SuperElit | Country Rank: 6th Sweden

It’s been a bit of an interesting season for Ohman, as some had him pegged as a potential contender for a first round pick from the outset. Ohman played on a poor Malmo club this season, but his physical play and ability to find the back of the net are both tools that translate well to the next level.

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#88. Louis Domingue | G | Quebec (QMJHL)

Date of Birth: March 6th, 1992
Height: 6.03
Weight: 180lbs.
Catches: R
Season Statistics: Regular Season | 20-17-0 2.68GAA .906SV% 3SO
Playoffs | 3-5-0 4.35GAA .863SV% 0SO
TSR Midterm Rank: NR | Position Rank: 5th Goalies
League Rank: 8th QMJHL | Country Rank: 44th Canada

One of the more highly touted goaltenders from the QMJHL in recent seasons, Domingue had a decent season, splitting time between the Moncton Wildcats and later Montreal Juniors after being dealt there in the Kelsey Tessier transaction. He’s got very good size and is pretty athletic for a big goalie. His glove hand is a bit of a problem and he overplays it which results in getting beaten upstairs.

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#89. Joe Basaraba | RW | Shattuck St. Mary’s (HS -Minnesota)

Date of Birth: May 2nd, 1992
Height: 6.02
Weight: 190lbs.
Shoots: R
Season Statistics: Regular Season | 52GP 24G 22A 46P 39PIM
Playoffs | n/a
TSR Midterm Rank: NR | Position Rank: 58th Forwards
League Rank: 6th HS-Minnesota | Country Rank: 45th Canada

Kind of stagnated a bit during a second season with Shattuck St. Mary’s, but there is still a lot of potential for the lanky forward to develop. He has a decent scoring touch and will likely use the full four years at Minnesota-Duluth to work on adding strength and finding consistency in his game.

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#90. Christian Thomas | RW | Oshawa (OHL)

Date of Birth: May 26th, 1992
Height: 5.09
Weight: 165lbs.
Shoots: R
Season Statistics: Regular Season | 64GP 41G 25A 66P 27PIM
Playoffs | n/a
TSR Midterm Rank: NR | Position Rank: 59th Forwards
League Rank: 27th OHL | Country Rank: 46th Canada

Thomas had a breakout season with the Generals, finishing 7th in the OHL goal scoring race after finding the back of the net 41 times. He’s a quick skater with one of the better shots in the draft and can score from almost anywhere in the offensive zone. While he competes hard for a small player, his lack of strength hinders his ability to beat defenders at the OHL level, and could be a major concern for his ability to be an offensive forward at the NHL level.

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Thomas broke out as one of the most proflific snipers in the OHL this season, finding the back of the net 41 times. Photo (ontariohockeyleague.com)

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#91. Max Gardiner | C | Minnetonka (HS-MIN)

Date of Birth: May 7th, 1992
Height: 6.03
Weight: 176lbs.
Shoots: L
Season Statistics: Regular Season | 17GP 17G 26A 43P 14PIM
Playoffs | n/a
TSR Midterm Rank: 48 | Position Rank: 60th Forwards
League Rank: 9th USHL | Country Rank: 24th USA

The younger brother of Anaheim Ducks property Jake Gardiner, Max was one of the most prolific scorers in Minnesota High School this season. He’s got good size, but needs to fill out, and will be attending the University of Minnesota where he will see some quality development time.

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#92. Danny Biega | D | Harvard (NCAA)

Date of Birth: September 29th, 1991
Height: 6.00
Weight: 191lbs.
Shoots: R
Season Statistics: Regular Season | 32GP 5G 4A 9P 47PIM
Playoffs | n/a
TSR Midterm Rank: NR | Position Rank: 27th Defensemen
League Rank: 3rd NCAA | Country Rank: 47th Canada

Solid all around defenseman who has good shut down qualities to his game. He certainly isn’t a flashy player, but he’s very smart and is an effective puck mover. His season at Harvard was a little lackluster, but he should be a reliable pick in the third or fourth round.

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#93. Brendan Gallagher | C | Vancouver (WHL)

Date of Birth: June 5th, 1992
Height: 5.08
Weight: 163lbs.
Shoots: R
Season Statistics: Regular Season | 72GP 41G 40A 81P 111PIM
Playoffs | 16GP 11G 10A 21P 14PIM
TSR Midterm Rank: NR | Position Rank: 61st Forwards
League Rank: 20th WHL | Country Rank: 48th Canada

After exploding offensively during the regular season, Gallagher continued his excellent play and proved to be one of the primary catalysts behind Vancouver’s playoff run. Size is a pretty big concern, but his willingness to battle coupled with his offensive ability make Gallagher a player that will be worth spending a mid round selection on.

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#94. Sam Brittain | G | Canmore (AJHL)

Date of Birth: May 10th, 1992
Height: 6.03
Weight: 215lbs.
Catches: L
Season Statistics: Regular Season | 23-19-8 3.27GAA .896SV% 2SO
Playoffs | 5-4-0 3.01GAA .912SV% 0SO
TSR Midterm Rank: NR | Position Rank: 6th Goalies
League Rank: 1st AJHL | Country Rank: 49th Canada

Brittain had a bit of a disappointing season this year with Canmore, despite retaining his starters position throughout the duration of the season. He’s a big goalie who needs to find some consistency in his game, and will have an opportunity to do so as he embarks on a college career at the University of Denver.

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#95. Mark Stone | RW | Brandon (WHL)

Date of Birth: May 13th, 1992
Height: 6.02
Weight: 182lbs.
Shoots: R
Season Statistics: Regular Season | 39GP 11G 17A 28P 25PIM
Playoffs | 12GP 1G 3A 4P 4PIM
TSR Midterm Rank: 59 | Position Rank: 62nd Forwards
League Rank: 21st WHL | Country Rank: 50th Canada

A lot more was expected from Stone this year, as many felt he could even work himself into the end of the first round with a quality season. This was not to be, however, as Stone’s season was marred with injury, including a hand injury that forced him out of action for two months. Despite this, he has good size and competes hard, and with a solid skill set, he still has plenty of time to get his career back on track.

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Stone had a disappointing season that was derailed by injuries. Photo (oursportscentral.com)

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#96. Adam Pettersson | C | Skelleftea J20 (SuperElit)

Date of Birth: January 13th, 1992
Height: 6.00
Weight: 186lbs.
Shoots: L
Season Statistics: Regular Season | 37GP 11G 20A 31P 40PIM
Playoffs | 4GP 0G 0A 0P 6PIM
TSR Midterm Rank: NR | Position Rank: 63rd Forwards
League Rank: 6th SuperElit | Country Rank: 7th Sweden

A strong skater with good technical skills, Pettersson has some of the key components that scouts will be looking for. With that being said, it was a bit of an underwhelming season for him, and it wouldn’t be a shock to see him slip beyond this point, either.

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#97. Max Reinhart | C | Kooteney (WHL)

Date of Birth: February 4th, 1992
Height: 6.00
Weight: 170lbs.
Shoots: L
Season Statistics: Regular Season | 72GP 21G 30A 51P 38PIM
Playoffs | 6GP 1G 1A 2P 6PIM
TSR Midterm Rank: NR | Position Rank: 64th Forwards
League Rank: 22nd WHL | Country Rank: 51st Canada

A solid two-way center who developed as the year progressed, eventually parlaying it into an appearance with the Canadian Under 18 team.  It might be a bit of a reach to take him at this spot, but he’s a player who still has room to grow and will benefit from an increased role next year with the Ice.

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#98. John Ramage | D | Wisconsin (NCAA)

Date of Birth: February 7th, 1991
Height: 6.00
Weight: 195lbs.
Shoots: L
Season Statistics: Regular Season | 41GP 2G 10A 12P 51PIM
Playoffs | n/a
TSR Midterm Rank: NR | Position Rank: 28th Defensemen
League Rank: 4th NCAA | Country Rank: 25th USA

Ramage went undrafted a year ago after spending two seasons with the USNTDP. A productive year at Wisconsin, however, has rectified his draft stock, and it’s expected that Ramage will slot into the middle rounds as a dependable two-way defender.

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#99. Zane Gothberg | G | Thief River Falls (HS-Minnesota)

Date of Birth: August 20th, 1992
Height: 6.01
Weight: 177lbs.
Catches: L
Season Statistics: Regular Season | 25GP 1.84GAA .922SV% 3SO
Playoffs | n/a
TSR Midterm Rank: NR | Position Rank: 7th Goalies
League Rank: 7th HS-Minnesota | Country Rank: 26th USA

Gothberg has a lot of upside and is coming off a very good season with Thief River Falls. He has a commitment to the University of North Dakota. He could spend a year playing with Fargo of the USHL, who holds his rights, but with some time, he could develop into a promising young goaltender.

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#100. Darren Archibald | LW | Barrie (OHL)

Date of Birth: February 9th, 1990
Height: 6.03
Weight: 195lbs.
Shoots: L
Season Statistics: Regular Season | 57GP 26G 33A 59P 62PIM
Playoffs | 16GP 5G 5A 10P 16PIM
TSR Midterm Rank: NR | Position Rank: 65th Forwards
League Rank: 28th OHL | Country Rank: 52nd Canada

Archibald concludes TSR’s rankings after surprisingly going undrafted a year ago. There is a lot of talk that the 19 year old will be a mid-round selection this year, however, after providing steady play for the Colts all season long. Some nights he has the ability to be the best player on the ice, combining his physical play with soft hands, a package that should ensure that he doesn’t go undrafted again in Los Angeles.

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Be sure to check out the rest of our Top 100: (1-25) (26-50) (51-75) (76-100)

Related posts

• Mid-Season 2010 OHL Top 50 (3)
• TSR’s 2010 NHL Draft Mid-Term rankings Top 60 Skaters (31-60) (6)
• WHL Feature: Brandon, Moose Jaw, Calgary Reports (2)
• TSR’s 2010 NHL Draft Mid-Term rankings Top 60 Skaters (1-30) (10)
• TSR’s 2010 NHL Draft Final Rankings: Top 100 (51-75) (1)

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.

Related posts

• WHL Feature: Portland @ Calgary Recap (0)
• TSR’s 2010 NHL Draft Final Rankings: Top 100 (76-100) (0)
• TSR’s 2010 NHL Draft Mid-Term rankings Top 60 Skaters (31-60) (6)
• WHL Feature: Eastern Conference Prospects Review (0)
• TSR’s 2010 NHL Draft Final Rankings: Top 100 (1-25) (5)

Here is a feature by TSR’s newest contributor, Scott McDougall. Scott is an avid WHL follower, and often frequents Calgary Hitmen games at the Saddledome. Here is the first of Scott’s features for TSR. Hope you enjoy!

Yesterday afternoon in Calgary, the #1 ranked team in the CHL played host to an up and coming Portland Winterhawks team that was off to a great 8-4-0-0 start.  The Winterhawks were in the midst of their longest road trip of the season of which this game was the fourth of seven.  In a tightly contested game, the Hitmen completed a comeback from a 3-0 deficit when Los Angeles Kings prospect Brandon Kozun scored with just under 40 seconds left to play in regulation to sneak out a 6-5 win in front of 7000+ fans in the Saddledome.

PORTLAND WINTERHAWKS

D BRETT PONICH | 1991 | 6’7” | 225LBS | 13GP 1G 4A 5P -6 15PIM

NHL: 2009 STL (2/48)

It looks to be a bit of a rough start to the season for the Portland captain and tonight was no different.  Ponich played tough minutes against Calgary’s top scorers, but seemed to struggle all game against the Calgary forecheck.  He didn’t effectively use his size advantage.  Probably a game he’d like to forget as he had a few costly turnovers and didn’t contribute much offensively.  -2 on the night.

LW NINO NIEDERREITER | 1992 | 6’2” | 203LBS | 13GP 6G 8A 14P +3 14PIM

NHL: 2010 Eligible

Niederreiter was Portland’s best player yesterday.  He scored a couple nice goals.  The first was a one-timer on the PP on a nice pass from Troy Rutkowski, while the second showed his quick release as he got his wrist shot off through some traffic.  He started the game with some poor defensive play in his own end resulting in a couple good Calgary scoring chances, but got stronger defensively as the game progressed.  He was very strong on his feet, while possessing both good speed and size.  Combined with his intelligence for the game and it is easy to see why he should be an early pick in June.   Look for him to stand out on the Swiss team at the World Juniors.

LD TROY RUTKOWSKI | 1992 | 6’1” | 219LBS | 13GP 5G 12A 17P +5 23PIM

NHL: 2010 Eligible

Rutkowski is an offensive defenseman that showed great fortitude in anchoring the Winterhawks PP.  He was able to identify weaknesses in the defense and made several great plays to take advantage of them both in regards to generating scoring chances and maintaining possession of the puck in the offensive zone.  Physically, Rutkowski proved to be a bit of an enigma.  He tries to play physical and he’s got decent size, but he was run over a few times by the older, stronger Calgary forwards as he attempted to play the body.  He was also caught running around trying to make the big hit instead of breaking up the play, resulting in some opposition scoring chances.

Troy also had some playing time on the PK in which he effectively closed shooting lanes and blocked shots.  He has the physical tools to be good player at next level, but needs to improve his skating and make smarter plays defensively.  He lacked some toughness for a guy of his size, but his game is his offensive skill and he did make some smart passes.  He has an average shot, but this will come along once he is stronger.  He received a lot of ice-time and ended up with a pair of assists.

LW BRAD ROSS | 1992 | 6’1” | 173LBS | 13GP 6G 6A 12P +5 35PIM

NHL: 2010 Eligible

A member of Canada’s U18 Ivan Hlinka Memorial team this past summer, Brad has been off to a good start to the season.  The younger brother of Phoenix Coyote 1^st rounder Nick Ross was able to generate scoring chances against Calgary with his great speed, easily beating NHL prospects such as Kris Foucault in foot races throughout the game.  He also showed glimpses of being a surly competitor (he’s currently among the WHL leaders in minor penalties) as he wasn’t afraid to mix things up with larger competitors he felt were taking liberties with him.  Brad possesses both great top-end speed and excellent agility allowing him to get a jump on defenders during both breakouts and turnovers.  He is definitely dangerous on the rush, but he sometimes looks to shy away from the corners and caused turnovers when pressured in his own end.  Like most young players, he needs to bulk up.

C RYAN JOHANSEN | 1992 | 6’3” | 188LBS | 13GP 6G 6A 12P +3 11PIM

NHL: 2010 Eligible

Ryan is having a great start to the season.  He played a lunch-bucket game.  He simply wanted the puck more than anyone else and was able to strip defenders of loose pucks and then get the puck to his skilled linemates (Niederreiter and Ross).  He complimented the other two very well and was able to keep up with them on the rush.  He definitely looked his best when digging in the corners and at loose pucks in the slot area.  Scored a goal and had a couple assists, both times by winning puck battles and giving the puck to his linemates.

RD TAYLOR ARONSON | 1991 | 6’1” | 196LBS | 13GP 0G 6A 6P +2 15PIM

NHL: 2010 Eligible

Taylor  made a few smart plays down low when Calgary was intensely pressuring him.  Was partnered with Rutkowski and saw lots of ice-time.  More defensively responsible than his partner and while lacking the offensive flair of Rutkowski, he is capable in the offensive end and showed the ability to make a good outlet pass.  He played a good all-around game.

LW JACOB BERGLUND | 1991 | 6’1” | 199LBS | 13GP 1G 2A 3P +1 6PIM

NHL: 2010 Eligible

Another late 1991 birthday, Berglund is excellent in his own end.  He was Portland’s top PK forward.  He was able to cover shooting lanes well, was strong on his skates and proved extremely tough to knock off the puck.  His physical maturity allowed him to effectively hold onto the puck long enough to be sure he could clear the zone.  Berglund did not show much offensive flair, but he took the puck hard to the net and generated a couple scoring chances with hard work.  He could prove to be a useful defensive forward in the pros.

RW TY RATTIE | 1993 | 6’0” | 170LBS | 7GP 2G 2A 4P -1 4PIM

NHL: 2011 Eligible

The 2nd overall pick in the WHL Bantam Draft in 2008, Ty is very small, but completely willing to go to battle.  He was absolutely crushed near the goal line in the second period and got right back up fighting for the puck like nothing happened.  His willingness to go to the tough areas put him in some scoring situations.  He seemed to have a knack for knowing where the puck is going before it gets there.  Scored a wraparound goal and added an assist in front of friends and family (he’s from nearby Airdrie, AB).  He kept his man in check in the defensive zone and showed good hands.  His skill set reminds me a bit of another Airdrie product, Zach Bochyuk.  He finished with a goal and an assist in the game.

D JOE MORROW| 1992 | 6’0” | 197LBS | 12GP 1G 9A 10P +16 15PIM

NHL: 2011 Eligible

Joe Morrow was very impressive.  He is very cool and collected in his own zone, which can be attested to by his +16 in only 12 games so far this season.  He was partnered with another young defenseman in Daniel Johnston and they looked very comfortable playing as the third pairing for the Winterhawks.  Calm with the puck as well as in the corner, Morrow displayed very good skating ability, hockey sense and the ability to QB the PP.  Was very good in transition and while not overly big or strong, used smart angles to cut off opposing rushes and separate the opposition from the puck.  He almost always made the safe play.  Morrow and Rattie should make the 2011 draft interesting for Winterhawks fans.

D DANIEL JOHNSTON | 1992 | 6’0” | 192LBS | 10GP 0G 7A 7P +13 6PIM

NHL: 2011 Eligible

Another late 1992 birthday like Morrow, Daniel Johnston showed a willingness to stand up to Cody Beach who is 5 inches taller than him when Beach  hammered Morrow’s head into the boards.  A quiet night for him as he and Morrow didn’t allow many scoring chances or need to spend too much time in their own end.

Other notes: Neither Seth Swenson or Gaspar Kopitar played.  Swenson  took part in the pre-game warm-up.

CALGARY HITMEN

D MICHAEL STONE | 1990 | 6’4” | 207LBS | 11GP 3G 5A 8P -3 14PIM

NHL: 2008 PHO (3/69)

Michael showed the talent that made him a 3rd round pick of the Coyotes.  He is the vocal leader of the Hitmen. He possesses great size and strength.  He has a fantastic shot, although the shots are often blocked.  Despite not getting any points, he had a solid game (even hit a post).  He had several good hits and made smart safe plays in his own end.  A good end to end rush towards the end of the 1^st period.  Good all-around game.

D MATT MacKENZIE | 1991 | 6’2” | 198LBS | 11GP 1G 10A 11P +6 6PIM

NHL: 2010 Eligible

Matt Mackenzie played a similar type game in the offensive zone as Rutkowski.  He doesn’t always use his size, but it is apparent that he needs to get stronger.  He has a good frame, but needs to fill out some more to take advantage of it.   His shot is very weak, but that should also improve once he puts on some muscle.  He possesses good offensive awareness and he made a few smart pinches to keep the puck in the offensive zone.  He used screens effectively when shooting on net providing his teammates with rebound oppurtunities.  His skating needs a lot of work, especially his transition and acceleration but he has enough tools that some NHL team will be excited at the thought of developing this raw prospect.  Matt had three assists in the game.

RW CODY BEACH | 1992 | 6’5” | 184LBS | 6GP 0G 2A 2P +2 18PIM

NHL: 2010 Eligible

Cody, the younger brother of Chicago draft pick Kyle Beach played a power-forward game.  He was skating decently for his size and was banging bodies early on.  He wasn’t very noticeable late in the game.

Other notes: Austin Madaisky wasn’t in the Calgary lineup.  Peter Kosterman and Jaynen Rissling both played well and will be discussed in more detail later this month.

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