The Scouting Report » Nick Ebert

OHL Western Conference Update

Robert Benneian — Thu, 03 Nov 2011 01:25:42 +0000

Nail Yakupov only continues to stregthen his case to be the #1 pick next June.

I had a chance to take in two games this past week featuring the London Knights. First, they were on the road against the Windsor Spitfires, and then at home against the Sarnia Sting. They won both games to keep themselves in first place in the OHL. Here are my thoughts on some of the 2012 NHL draft eligible players from those two games.

RW Nail Yakupov (Sarnia Sting)

As you might expect from the guy pegged by everyone and their brother to go first overall in June, Yakupov is the focal point of every opposing defense he faces. He has a shadow on the ice at all times. Against the Knights, it was Tyler Ferry drew that responsibility.

He followed him all over the ice, no matter where the puck was and didn’t really give him any breathing room. Yakupov was still able to draw an assist on the first of two Sting goals in the game, as well as providing the screen on goaltender Michael Houser. Yakupov was also around the net digging when the Sting popped in their second marker. In all, he finished a +2 on the evening with the one assist, and showed again why he is the heavy, heavy favourite to go first overall.

LD Olli Maatta (London Knights)

Let’s get one thing straight about Olli Maatta. If he weighs the 198 pounds he’s listed at, I will eat my hat. He is going to have to seriously bulk up, especially his upper body, if he’s going to survive at the next level. The good news is he is only 17, and he’s a smart enough player to get by at this level.

He was very quietly solid in both games I saw last week. He has a very calm presence with the puck, doesn’t turn it over often, and generally just makes the safe, easy play. He also is quarterbacking the Knight power play, where he picked up two assists against Windsor. It’s tough to say what his upside is offensively at the NHL level because he doesn’t have a pro shot yet, but he does a good job of getting his shot through to the net.

He told me when I caught up with him after the Windsor game that it is a goal of his to be a leader on the Finnish World Junior team this December, so I will be keeping a close eye on how he does in that tournament.

LW Andreas Athanasiou (London Knights)

This is how you know the Knights are stacked offensively: Athanasiou, a surefire top 30 pick in this year’s draft, is EIGHTH on the team in points. He played on their third line in the game against the Spitfires.

However, after a strong start to the Sting game that included scoring the game’s first goal, Athanasiou found himself on the top line with Vladislav Namestnikov and Seth Griffith.

D Nick Ebert (Windsor Spitfires)

Ebert hasn’t quite had the start to the season he was looking for in his draft year. He was supposed to be the guy taking over for the turned-pro Ryan Ellis as the go-to guy on the Spitfire defense. While he has logged a lot of minutes at 5-on-5 against opponent’s top lines, he hasn’t been used on the penalty kill at all. He also was recently removed from the power play by coach Bob Boughner to try to ease some of the stress off the second year defender.

However, with the Spitfires on a six game losing streak and veteran Craig Duininck being dealt to the Sarnia Sting, Ebert may be thrust back into a more prominent role. Ebert has all the tools to be a top 10 pick in this year’s draft, but has yet to put them together consistently.

The next few months will be a big test for him as Windsor seems to have elected to go young rather than trying to win now. He will likely be leaned on heavily, and I am interested to see how he responds. As of right now, it is fair to say his draft stock has taken a hit from where we had him at the start of the season.

Top OHL prospects clash early

Robert Benneian — Fri, 30 Sep 2011 00:11:30 +0000

Nick Ebert takes a shot past a defending Nail Yakupov.

Living in Windsor, I am within a two hour drive of four of our top 12 skaters for the 2012 NHL Entry Draft.

This weekend, I got to see two of them when I caught a pair of games at the WFCU Centre. The first saw the Spitfires fall by a score of 6-3 to the Guelph Storm in their home opener. In the second, the Spitfires captured their first victory of the season by a 2-0 mark over the Sarnia Sting.

In the first game, the Spitfires looked every bit the part of a team that was featuring five players making their OHL debut. There was a lot of standing around waiting for someone to take control of the game, and by the time the first 20 minutes were up, goaltender John Cullen had allowed just one goal on 17 shots. By comparison, the Spitfires had only managed to throw four shots at Storm goalie Brandon Foote.

Nick Ebert was perhaps the lone bright spot on the Spitfires blue line in that game. Playing on the top pairing with team captain Adrian Robertson, Ebert looked the part of the seasoned vet, despite Robertson being three years his senior.

It is just Ebert’s second year in the OHL, but he looks very comfortable as the number one guy on the backend, taking over for Ryan Ellis, who turned professional with the Nashville Predators organization. He was constantly in the right position, and he broke up numerous odd-man scoring chances for Guelph that were caused when Robertson was caught pinching.

He used his body and stick well to keep attackers to the outside, and he played with a physical edge.

He’s been quarterbacking a Windsor power play that, early in the season, is clicking at better than 31% through the opening week of the season.

The second game of the weekend saw our number one ranked prospect, Nail Yakupov, and the Sarnia Sting come to town. Yakupov and company were riding high into Windsor, following a season opening win over Erie by a 5-2 margin. Yakupov had two assists to go along with the game-winning goal in that contest.

The Spitfires were determined not to let him beat them, and they administered some of the tightest checking I have ever seen dedicated to one player. He didn’t have an inch to breathe all game long.

It was especially fun watching he and Ebert do battle on numerous occasions.

Even with how little room Yakupov had to move, his skill level was plainly evident. His takeaway speed is second to none, and he is constantly circling around in the offensive zone looking for a scoring opportunity.

He also carried the puck effectively into the Windsor end on a number of occasions, but his linemates let him down more than once by not being able to capitalize on his crisp passes. He was without his regular center, Alex Galchenyuk, which may have also hampered his effectiveness.

I caught up with his agent, Igor Larionov, after the game, and asked him about just that.

Larionov acknowledged that while the two of them are a force to be reckoned with, it is up to Yakupov to generate offense no matter who is on the ice with him.

“When you have a nice linemate, you have really good chemistry with them, it takes some of the attention from other players” Larionov said. “In hockey, you have to find a way to play, it doesn’t matter who you play with, you have to find a way to create some chances and score some goals”.

Larionov was also quick to praise Windsor goalie Jack Campbell, who was drafted 13th overall by Dallas two years ago.

“The goalie was unbelievable, Jack Campbell. He played unbelievable.”

Windsor and Sarnia will hook up again in two weeks as Yakupov will look to break the lock the Spitfire defense had on him and even up the season series.

2012 NHL Draft Rankings: Preliminary Top 30 Skaters (1-15)

Scott Campbell — Tue, 06 Sep 2011 02:32:44 +0000

Welcome!

TSR 2012 NHL Draft Rankings Preliminary (1-15) 16-30

Welcome to TSR’s 2012 NHL Preliminary Top 30 Rankings for Draft-Eligible Skaters. Going into our third year of operations, we’re pleased to bring out a Pre-Season Top 30 for the first time in TSR history. The 2012 NHL Entry Draft has no shortage of high-end talent and projects to be a very exciting crop with tremendous depth throughout the top rounds. I would like to thank every member of our team for their contributions to the rankings and after several weeks of revisions and deliberations, we’re extremely pleased to present you with the finished product. As always, we appreciate you taking the time to check us out and hope that we can become a reliable site for your hockey prospect coverage needs!

1. LW Nail Yakupov – Sarnia (OHL)

DOB: Nov. 06/93 | Shoots: L | Height: 5.11 | Weight: 170lbs

Nail Yakupov is this 2012′s version of Taylor Hall. They are each the kind of game-breaking talents that you simply cannot pass over, no matter what your positional needs are. Both were named the CHL Rookie of the Year (2008 and 2011), and can take over a game in any number of ways. Despite not having ideal “power forward” size, Yakupov is not afraid to throw his weight around if he doesn’t feel like turning defenders inside out with a sick array of moves. With elite-level talent, Yakupov comes into the season as the projected top pick by TSR but will have a number of very talented players right on his heels from Day 1.

2. LC Mikhail Grigorenko – Quebec (QMJHL)

DOB: May 16/94 | Shoots: L | Height: 6.02 | Weight: 185lbs

Grigorenko is a big-time talent who will be taking his game across the pond to play under Patrick Roy as a Quebec Rempart this season. He’s got a big frame that he uses well in unison with an elite skill-set. Has very good hands and does a good job of controlling the play with his ability to fight off checks and create scoring chances. Should be one of the top scorers in the QMJHL this season and could wind up leading the league in assists. Needs to show a little more consistency and prove that he can handle the tight-checking that teams are sure to challenge him with. One of a number of players who will challenge Yakupov for top honours.

3. LC Alex Galchenyuk – Sarnia (OHL)

DOB: Feb. 12/94 | Shoots: L | Height: 6.01 | Weight: 185lbs

The first overall pick in the 2010 OHL Priority Selection was one of two “super-rookies” in the Sarnia lineup and certainly lived up to his pedigree as a 16-year-old rookie. A season later, Galchenyuk is poised to take his game to the next level with an even better sophomore season. Galchenyuk is a dangerous offensive player who has good hockey sense and knows where to be on the ice. A very good stickhandler with a deceptive release on his shot, Galchenyuk is fully capable of creating his own offensive chances. A bit of an awkward skater who probably will remind some of Evgeni Malkin with his skating stride and the way he creates chances.

4. LD Ryan Murray – Everett (WHL)

DOB: Sep. 27/93 | Shoots: L | Height: 6.00 | Weight: 190lbs

Ryan Murray may very well be the most NHL ready prospect in the entire draft. Murray has excellent hockey sense, makes smart, effective passes in every situation, and has a strong, accurate shot from the point. Defensively, Murray is rarely found out of position, and uses his strong skating and lateral mobility to keep pace with forwards attacking on the rush. Though slightly undersized, Murray is rarely out-muscled for the puck, and can certainly hold his own against larger opponents. It’s tough to find any holes in Murray’s game, as he competes hard on a nightly basis and seems to improve more and more as time goes on. Already his team’s captain as a 17-year-old, Murray is certainly mature beyond his years, and should almost undoubtedly be a top-five pick in the upcoming draft.

5. RD Nick Ebert – Windsor (OHL)

DOB: May 11/94 | Shoots: R | Height: 6.01 | Weight: 190lbs

As a 15 year old in 2009-2010, playing against players several years his senior, Ebert was a force for the USHL’s Waterloo Black Hawks. As an OHL rookie, he put up 41 points while playing second fiddle to Ryan Ellis (11th overall, Nashville – 2009). With Ellis turning pro this season, the Spitfires defense is in Ebert’s very capable hands. He has what I like to call pro-ready size, and a similar build to his hockey idol Scott Stevens. Like Stevens, Ebert is a very good two-way defenseman who isn’t afraid to mix it up physically. Ebert has a chance to be taken with the 5th pick overall exactly 20 years after Stevens went 5th to Washington. This season Ebert will need to show increased maturity on the ice and prove to scouts that he has the decision-making that will allow him to translate his raw physical skills to the next level.

6. RD Jacob Trouba – USNTDP U18 (USHL)

DOB: Feb. 26/94 | Shoots: R | Height: 6.01 | Weight: 172lbs

Trouba is at the head of the class for the USNTDP draft prospects. The right-handed shooting defenseman brings a physical edge to the skills that make him an elite prospect. He has very quick feet that are always moving to ensure that he has good position on the player he is defending against. Trouba has a quick stick that he uses to poke check the puck off the attacking forward and the presence to gather in the loose puck and quickly move it to an open teammate. The quickness in his hands that allow for the poke check also are evident in that Trouba has the ability to move the puck from forehand to backhand and vice versa in order to protect the puck from the opposition. From there he buys time to make the right pass to his partner or to an open forward. Trouba is also very calm and composed with the puck and passes well. He also possesses a strong shot from the point. As mentioned, Trouba blends these skills with a willingness to deliver text book body checks either along the boards or in open ice. Trouba has been compared to Cam Fowler and while he may not possess the natural offensive flair that Fowler has, he’s a more polished two-way defender at this point in his development.

7. LW Filip Forsberg – Leksand (Allsvenskan)

DOB: Aug. 13/94 | Shoots: R | Height: 6.01 | Weight: 180lbs

Another year that sees most of the high-end European players already playing in North America allows for Filip Forsberg to be the cream of the crop in regards to players actually spending the season playing in Europe. He’s a player that is very noticeable in a game and does a good job of creating chances on every shift. Has decent size and does a good job of using his speed to create opportunities. Big-time goal scorer that loves to shoot the puck and has a very good shot. Projects to be a strong offensive player who has 30+ goal potential in him.

8. RD Griffin Reinhart – Edmonton (WHL)

DOB: Jan. 24/94 | Shoots: R | Height: 6.04 | Weight: 198lbs

Griffin Reinhart is a player that has a lot of hockey tools going for him. Big frame, smooth skater, above average shot, to go along with a solid first pass. For someone 6’4″ he has really good mobility. The key for Reinhart this year will be to take one of those skills and make it elite, then GMs and scouts alike will salivate at the potential. Other things Reinhart will have to work on is understanding coverages and working on using his body to separate man from puck. He will get an opportunity to be featured on the top pairing for the Oil Kings this season if he keeps progressing like he has up to this point. He has the pedigree to be a top pairing Dman, he just needs to tighten up his game and bring it all together.

9. RD Matt Dumba – Red Deer (WHL)

DOB: Jul. 25/94 | Shoots: R | Height: 6.00 | Weight: 175lbs

Mathew Dumba is a big-time risk/reward type player. Loves cruising for the big hit, and loves getting under the opposition’s skin. Owns a fearsome shot from the point and is a very fluid skater. Its his skating that allows him to line up his victims. Dumba loves to hit so much, that occasionally is throws himself of his own game. He looks for hits when they aren’t there, putting himself out of position. The biggest thing for Dumba will be plain and simple, growth. The more he grows, the more durable he’ll become and the more he’ll be able to play his style, like he does for the Rebels. Look for a big year from Dumba as he’s already shown that he is more than capable defenseman in the WHL. He has also shown himself to be a very adept leader.

10. LD Morgan Rielly – Moose Jaw (WHL)

DOB: Mar. 09/94 | Shoots: L | Height: 6.00 | Weight: 170lbs

Morgan Rielly is an excellant tempo setter of a game from the back end. A smooth puckhandler that has very little issue with getting the puck out of trouble spots. He has an excellent sense of timing, knowing when to jump into a rush or knowing when to back off, slowing it down or creating chaos. Rielly has some issues away from the puck, he has an active stick, but has issues with strength battles which is something that could potentially hinder him at the next level. It will be intriguing to see how Rielly does this year with his club team in Moose Jaw. He has shown a penchant to be able to flourish in the tournament setting, be it the U18s or the Ivan Hlinka Tournament. This year Rielly will need to show how is he going to help make Moose Jaw a better team.

11. RD Jordan Schmaltz – Sioux City (USHL)

DOB: Oct. 08/93 | Shoots: R | Height: 6.02 | Weight: 175lbs

Sioux City’s Jordan Schmaltz enters his second full season with the Musketeers with more attention surrounding his game than he has seen in his young hockey career. This is saying a lot considering the six-foot-two defenseman has been in the media and scouts’ spotlight shortly before his verbal commitment to the University of Wisconsin at 14 years old. All the attention Schmaltz receives is certainly deserved as the six-foot-two defenseman is arguably the best player at his position with the puck on his stick among the 2012 draft eligible players. Schmaltz works wonders on the Musketeers’ power play, scoring eight goals and 20 assists with the man advantage last season. Schmaltz, who decommitted after the Badgers’ coaching change, is set to play at North Dakota next season, but don’t be surprised to see him play alongside draft eligible Nick Ebert next season as the Windsor Spitfires to continue to make a play on the Verona, WI native whom they took in the seventh round of the 2009 Priority Selection Draft.

12. LD Olli Maatta – London (OHL)

DOB: Aug. 22/94 | Shoots: L | Height: 6.01 | Weight: 175lbs

Maatta comes to the OHL with big expectations after the London Knights made him the first pick in the 2011 CHL Import Draft. The big Finn is a little rough around the edges, but a player that has some promise moving forward. Does a great job of taking care of his own end and very opportunistic at the offensive end. Makes good passes and always has his head up and is aware of what is going on in the game. Pretty average skater at this point with room to improve both technique and his acceleration and lateral movement. Doesn’t have very many elite qualities to his game, but the all-around package is very enticing.

13. LC Zemgus Girgensons – Dubuque (USHL)

DOB: Jan. 05/94 | Shoots: L | Height: 6.02 | Weight: 194lbs

Latvian native Zemgus Girgensons continues to take the path less travelled in regards to his hockey development. Girgensons came over to the US in 2008 rather than staying to play for Latvia’s U20 development team (SK Riga), a team stationed in his hometown. After playing one season in the EJHL, the six foot center made the jump to the USHL last season and had a huge year with 21 goals and 28 assists in 51 games for the Dubuque Fighting Saints. With many new faces upfront for Dubuque this season, Girgensons will have to take it upon himself to create scoring opportunities. Girgensons will likely be up to the challenge as he displays great offensive awareness. Despite not being an extremely physical player, Girgensons works hard his team’s own end and all-in-all has a very complete game. Even though Girgensons was selected by the Kelowna Rockets in the 2011 CHL Import Draft, Girgensons remains committed to the Fighting Saints and will start his collegiate career next fall with the University of Vermont.

14. LD Slater Koekkoek – Peterborough (OHL)

DOB: Feb. 18/94 | Shoots: L | Height: 6.02 | Weight: 183lbs

Slater Koekkoek quietly flew under the radar during his OHL rookie season in 2010/11 despite putting together a very impressive 65-game season for the Petes. On a team that arguably lacked 3 OHL calibre defensemen, Koekkoek quickly solidified himself as a pillar on the young D and logged what would probably amount to nearly 30 minutes a night. Koekkoek is a very smart defenseman who does a great job of letting the game come to him. He’s got the size and physicality to play tight defense and be counted on as a reliable PK guy. Offensively he does a good job of finding outlets and makes good decisions with the puck. Has a decent shot that he could utilize more but became more comfortable on the PP as the season went on. The combination of his two-way ability and hockey smarts makes Koekkoek a very interesting prospect who won’t fly under the radar for long.

15. RW Martin Frk – Halifax (QMJHL)

DOB: Oct. 05/93 | Shoots: R | Height: 6.00 | Weight: 203lbs

Martin Frk is a prospect from Czech Republic that has already completed one season with the Halifax Mooseheads of the QMJHL. He plays a very North American style game which allowed him to adapt quickly to the “Q”. The Mooseheads knew what they were getting when they drafted him 3rd overall in the 2010 CHL import draft and so far he’s be all that was advertised. Like most players out of Europe he has great skill but Frk brings so much more. He’s a power forward that loves to hit and has a lethal shot. If he can continue to improve his two way game and drive to the net more often he should cement his status as a first-round pick and the type of versatile two-way player that would be a tremendous asset to any NHL roster.

TSR 2012 NHL Draft Rankings Preliminary (1-15) 16-30

2010 OHL Priority Selection 1st Round Mock Draft

Mike Kloepfer — Fri, 23 Apr 2010 00:09:22 +0000

1^st Overall Selection – Sarnia Sting: F Alexander Galchenyuk
HT: 6.01 | WT: 180 lbs. | Chicago Young Americans U-16 | DoB: Feburary 12^th, 1994 |

Alexander Galchenyuk has really made a name for himself with the Chicago Young Americans this season. Near the beginning of the season, his name was rarely mentioned for the 2010 OHL Priority Selection, but after dominating the American U16 Tier I hockey league, leading the second leading scorer by 33 points, the Russian American has a great shot of going first overall in this year’s priority selection. It has been rumoured that the Sting are high on this prospect and the outstanding offensive ability he possesses. His size makes him an asset; standing at 6.01 and 180 pounds, he already has OHL size. If the Sting are able to get Galchenyuk to commit there is no question he will be a great offensive addition to a team that lacks high end offensive weapons.

2009 1^st Round Pick: F Brett Richie (12)
2008 1^st Round Pick: F Gregg Sutch (11)
2007 1^st Round Pick: F Colt Kennedy (12)
2006 1^st Round Pick: F Steven Stamkos (1)

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2^nd Overall Selection – Belleville Bulls: RD Marcus McIvor
HT: 6.01 | WT: 192 lbs. | Whitby Wildcats MM | DoB: May 20^th, 1994 | Whitby, ON

This selection may come as a shock to a few as Marcus McIvor’s name has not been tossed around a lot of people’s top 5’s. Lately all indications have been that George Burnett and the Belleville Bulls wish to select the Whitby native. McIvor, although not generally listed in the top five, is a very talented defenseman and could turn out to be a great selection on Belleville’s behalf. With a great stride and a great head on his shoulders, McIvor can rush the puck with the best of them, but can also make a great outlet pass to start the breakout. The Bulls must believe highly in this prospect if they are willing to take a chance on him, while passing up the elite talent of Matia Marcantuoni.

2009 1^st Round Pick: G Tyson Teichmann (18)
2008 1^st Round Pick: D Stephen Silas (19)
2007 1^st Round Pick: F Tyler Randell (14)
2006 1^st Round Pick: D Shawn Lalande (9)

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3^rd Overall Selection – Oshawas Generals: RC Matia Marcantuoni
HT: 6.00 | WT: 172 lbs. | Toronto Marlboros MM | DoB: Feburary 22^nd, 1994 | Toronto, ON

Matia Marcantuoni is hyped as being the most talented forward from Ontario in this May’s priority selection. Since the beginning of the season the Toronto native has been projected as a top three pick, and has shown why throughout the season. Marcantuoni is a complete offensive player who can take over a game. Given his stature of 6.00 and 172 pounds, his transition into the OHL should be a smooth one, and allowed him to play two games in the CCHL this season. In his two games with the St. Michael’s Buzzers he recorded two goals, impressive for a 15 year old in a junior league. If Marcantuoni manages to slip to the third spot, there is little question that the Oshawa Generals will select this him with the third overall pick.

2009 1^st Round Pick: F Boone Jenner (4)
2008 1^st Round Pick: G Kevin Bailie (16)
2007 1^st Round Pick: F Justin Shugg (10)
2006 1^st Round Pick: D Michael Del Zotto (2)

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4^th Overall Selection – Owen Sound Attack: LW Matthew Campagna
HT: 5.11 | WT: 174 lbs. | Toronto Young Nationals MM | DoB: March 9^th, 1994 | Mississauga, ON

The next two picks are fairly interchangeable depending on what the general manager feels the needs of the team are. Matthew Campagna has a lot of upside and potential in the offensive end of the ice, but needs to do a better job of entering the dirty areas. He can often be seen circling around looking for the pass to finish the play, rather than battling to begin a play. A lot is to be expected from Campagna with his tremendous speed and soft hands at the next level and will need to compete night in, night out to prove his worth in the OHL. Campagna had a great OHL Cup as well which really solidified his draft stock as a consensus top five selection as he posted four goals for twelve points in just five games.

2009 1^st Round Pick: D Curtin Crombeen (9)
2008 1^st Round Pick: F Steven Shipley (3)
2007 1^st Round Pick: F Joey Hishon (8)
2006 1^st Round Pick: D Michael D’Orazio (8)

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5^th Overall Selection – Sudbury Wolves: LC Scott Laughton
HT: 6.01 | WT: 170 lbs. | Toronto Marlboros MM | DoB: February 1^st, 1994 | Toronto, ON

As previously mentioned, Scott Laughton could be chosen at the fourth spot depending on what Dale DeGray and Mark Reeds are looking for in May. Laughton may not have the outstanding offensive potential that Campagna possesses, but still skates well, while possessing a quick and hard wrist shot. Along with his offensive ability he is also very responsible in the defense zone and does not shy away from the rough play. Laughton would fit perfectly in the Wolves system as they enjoy playing a physical style. Regardless, the Wolves will be picking a solid player at 5th overall whether it is Laughton or Campagna.

2009 1^st Round Pick: D Justin Sefton (5)
2008 1^st Round Pick: F John McFarland (1)
2007 1^st Round Pick: D Daniel Maggio (7)
2006 1^st Round Pick: F Jared Staal (11)

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6^th Overall Selection – Niagara IceDogs: LC Jarrod Maidens
HT: 6.01 | WT: 165 lbs. | Hamilton Jr. Bulldogs MM | DoB: March 4^th, 1994 |

Jarrod Maidens is a solid offensive selection coming from the Hamilton Jr. Bulldogs. Maidens has good speed, a good shot, sees the ice well, while providing a big presence on the ice. Aside from his solid offensive ability, Maidens is no slouch in the defensive zone and can be counted on to play a solid two-way game. There have been claims that Maidens needs to play with talented wingers in order to be effective, but from what I’ve seen, he has the ability to create and finish plays. With Lucas Lessio snubbing the IceDogs last season, Niagara shouldn’t have to worry about having Jarrod Maidens reporting to the club. There is no question that he has the abilityto be a very good OHL center down the road with effective development.

2009 1^st Round Pick: F Lucas Lessio (7)
2008 1^st Round Pick: F Freddie Hamilton (14)
2007 1^st Round Pick: F Andrew Agozzino (15)
2006 1^st Round Pick: D Alex Pietrangelo (3)

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7^th Overall Selection – Peterborough Petes: LC Brendan Gaunce
HT: 6.01 | WT: 205 lbs. | Markham Waxers MM | DoB: March 25^th, 1994 | Markham, ON

Brendan Gaunce would be quite a pick up for the Peterborough Petes if he happens to fall to their selection. The 6.01, 205 pound center plays the game with tremendous smarts and is great with and without the puck. Overall Gaunce has a good skill set and is not afraid to finish his checks. With regards to this season’s draft crop, Gaunce likely has one of the hardest shots and he knows how to use it. He has the ability to find the net through screens which is a very valuable skill for a forward. Moving forward for the Petes, Gaunce is a player that would be a fine compliment to their core of offensive stars that includes Matthew Puempel, Austin Watson and Ryan Spooner.

2009 1^st Round Pick: F Matthew Puempel (6)
2008 1^st Round Pick: F Ryan Spooner (5)
2007 1^st Round Pick: F Zack Kassian (4)
2006 1^st Round Pick: D Zach Bogosian (19)

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*8^th Overall Selection – Niagara IceDogs: LD Slater Koekkoek
HT: 6.00 | WT: 170 lbs. | Notre Dame Hounds Midget | DoB: Feburary 18^th, 1994 | Mountain, ON

Like Justin Sefton of the Sudbury Wolves, Slater Koekkoek is coming out of the Saskatchewan Midget AAA Hockey League, but his rights are retained by the OHL. Koekkoek put up roughly the same numbers as Sefton did in this league, and has quickly established himself as one of the premier defenseman available in the draft. Sefton proved himself to be more of a shut down defenseman this season, with average offensive upside. Koekkoek, standing at 6.00, is an average sized defenseman, so he has to make up for his size with his overall hockey ability. This is not to discredit the young blue liner, as he has been projected in most top tens, and is reported to have a lot of hockey talent which will be a welcome addition to the Ice Dogs young defensive core.

2009 1^st Round Pick: F Lucas Lessio (7)
2008 1^st Round Pick: F Freddie Hamilton (14)
2007 1^st Round Pick: F Andrew Agozzino (15)
2006 1^st Round Pick: D Alex Pietrangelo (3)

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9^th Overall Selection – Brampton Battalion: LD Matthew Finn
HT: 6.00 | WT: 180 lbs. | Toronto Marlboros MM | DoB: February 24^th, 1994 | Toronto, ON

Matthew Finn could potentially be a steal at the ninth overall selection. Finn, at the minor midget level is a solid two-way defenseman, but will likely adapt the role as a solid shut down defenseman at the OHL level. A very smart player on the blue line knows his role every shift and rarely is seen out of position, which are qualities that Finn exerts. There are very few flaws to Finn’s game as he is very solid in every component of the defensive game and really just needs to continue to progress as a whole and grow into his frame. With solid players up front, such as Barclay Goodrow and Sam Carrick, a blue-chip defenseman could be exactly was the doctor ordered for the Battalion.

2009 1^st Round Pick: F Barclay Goodrow (17)
2008 1^st Round Pick: F Sam Carrick (15)
2007 1^st Round Pick: F Matthew Duchene (5)
2006 1^st Round Pick: F Cody Hodgson (17)

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10^th Overall Selection – Kingston Frontenacs: LD Gianluca Curcuruto
HT: 6.01 | WT: 180 lbs. | Mississauga Reps MM | DoB: Feburary 25^th, 1994 | Mississauga, ON

Another very strong defenseman in this draft class is Gianluca Curcuruto, who could end up being an elite talent in the league. Like Finn, it is tough to find flaws in his game as he has good mobility, quick feet, and is not afraid to get physical. Curcuruto is a defenseman that is able to bring the game to his speed and really control it. He makes smart passes and is not afraid to jump into the rush if needed. Curcuruto could really learn a lot being drafted to the Kingston Frontenacs under the development of Erik Gudbranson. Like Finn, Curcuruto needs to continue to develop and there is little question that he can become a top end defenseman in the OHL. Rumours do indicate that the Frontenacs may look at taking Gudbranson’s younger brother, Alex, at this pick.

2009 1^st Round Pick: F Alan Quine (2)
2008 1^st Round Pick: D Erik Gudbranson (4)
2007 1^st Round Pick: F Ethan Werek (9)
2006 1^st Round Pick: F Josh Brittain (14)

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11^th Overall Selection – Erie Otters: LC Justin Kea
HT: 6.03 | WT: 185 lbs. | Central Ontario Wolves MM | DoB: Feburary 7^th, 1994 |

If you like size on the front end, Justin Kea is a player to get excited for, as he checks in at 6.03, 185 pounds, and has a lot of room to fill out. His size really allows him to be strong on the puck, and utilizes it to drive the net. For his large frame Kea really has a finesse aspect to his game as he skates well, has a good skill set, and decent hockey sense, but needs to use it on a nightly basis. Kea’s consistency could end up being his worst enemy and needs to find his “A” game night in night out. He is another player that has a really high ceiling as long as he has the right motivation and the right people coaching him.

2009 1^st Round Pick: F David Broll (10)
2008 1^st Round Pick: F Greg McKegg (2)
2007 1^st Round Pick: F Ryan O’Reilly (1)
2006 1^st Round Pick: D Mitch Gaulton (4)

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12^th Overall Selection – Guelph Storm: LC Connor Crisp
HT: 6.02 | WT: 210 lbs. | York Simcoe Express MM | DoB: August 4^th, 1994 | Alliston, ON

Connor Crisp is a player that fits directly into the defensive style of the Guelph Storm. The team tried to stray from the defensive system this season, but struggled to play a run-and-gun offensive style, so it is likely they draft players into the system that works. Crisp plays a real simple game and really excels in the defensive and neutral zones of the ice. Even with good size at 6.02, 210 pounds, Crisp has great mobility, which is a catalyst towards his strong board play. At times Crisp seems to have a low offensive IQ and seems to force the puck. He needs to settle into his role, and could benefit from not being the go to player on his team.

2009 1^st Round Pick: F Carter Sandlak (11)
2008 1^st Round Pick: F Cody McNaughton (12)
2007 1^st Round Pick: F Peter Holland (11)
2006 1^st Round Pick: F Anthony Nigro (15)

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13^th Overall Selection – Saginaw Spirit: F Cristoval Nieves
HT: 6.02 | WT: 175 lbs. | Syracuse Nationals U-16 | DoB: January 23^rd, 1994

Cristoval “Boo” Nieves is another American born player who is likely to make the trek to play in the OHL next season. Nieves is seen as an offensively gifted player with a pass first mentality and a set of soft hands. With a large 6.02, 175 pound frame, there is a lot of room for Nieves to fill out and become a more solid overall player. In games he can tend to shy away from the physical play and physical game he can get knocked of stride. All indications are that Nieves has a lot of room to grow and become a top notch hockey player; he just needs to work at it. He needs to play a more physical style with his large frame, and needs to understand when he needs to shoot the puck. Because of his pass first mentality, Nieves will sometimes pass when he has a clear shot on net, and results in a missed scoring opportunity. Nieves could be a real wildcard in the draft as many saw him being a surefire member of the USNTDP next year.

2009 1^st Round Pick: F Anthony Camara (14)
2008 1^st Round Pick: F Brandon Saad (10)
2007 1^st Round Pick: F Daniel Pachis (16)
2006 1^st Round Pick: D Nick Crawford (12)

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14^th Overall Selection – Sault Ste Marie Greyhounds: LW Chris Marchese
HT: 6.01 | WT: 180 lbs. | Toronto Marlboros MM | DoB: February 23^rd, 1994 | Toronto, ON

Chris Marchese is a real solid two-way forward with good offensive instincts. Marchese is a fluent skater and is able to change his speeds on the rush, a real asset against opposing defenseman. In the offensive zone he knows his place on the ice and uses it to his advantage, utilizing his quick wrist shot. In the defensive zone he covers his point man really well and knows his assignment. He is a player with a lot of offensive upside and could be one of those sleeper picks in the latter first round. Along side Daniel Cantenacci and Nick Cousins, Marchese could really bring his game up to the next level and be a force in the OHL in time.

2009 1^st Round Pick: F Daniel Catenacci (1)
2008 1^st Round Pick: D Brock Beukeboom (18)
2007 1^st Round Pick: F Jordan Mayer (13)
2006 1^st Round Pick: F Jame Livingston (5)

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15^th Overall Selection – Plymouth Whalers: LW Sean Monahan
HT: 6.01 | WT: 170 lbs. | Mississauga Rebels MM | DoB: October, 12^th, 1994 | Brampton, ON

Sean Monahan is a player that has been discussed to great lengths due to his phenomenal performance at the 2010 OHL Cup. He was initially seen as a player who would go in the top 80 in this season’s draft class, but has really made a name for himself since the tournament. Monahan has a good skill set with good size, but at times gets flustered and makes poor decisions. Consistency is a major issue for Monahan and is something that has people worried. At times he needs to compete harder and work harder on the back check, as he likes to loop instead of stopping and starting.

2009 1^st Round Pick: F Garrett Meurs (13)
2008 1^st Round Pick: F Tyler Seguin (9)
2007 1^st Round Pick: D Beau Schmitz (19)
2006 1^st Round Pick: F Vern Cooper (13)

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16^th Overall Selection – Ottawa 67s: RD Alex Gudbranson
HT: 6.02 | WT: 169 lbs. | Ottawa Jr. 67’s MM | DoB: September 4^th, 1994 | Orleans, ON

Alex Gudbranson is another solid defenseman in this draft class, but could be ranked a little high at the 16th selection. A player that could potentially have a high ceiling has some areas to work on. Firstly, his skating needs work and could be a liability at the OHL level. His weakness transitionally hinders his offensively ability, which will likely make his role a shut down defenseman at the OHL level. Gudbranson has a big frame and enjoys using it as he plays with a physical edge. Cody Ceci and Alex Gudbranson, both eligible for the 2012 NHL Entry Draft could make a name for themselves as outstanding defensive pair at the OHL level. Gudbranson needs to adapt to his role of being a defensive defenseman, and if he can do this the reward could be a very nice one for the 67s.

2009 1^st Round Pick: D Cody Ceci (16)
2008 1^st Round Pick: F Tyler Toffoli (7)
2007 1^st Round Pick: F Michael Latta (6)
2006 1^st Round Pick: D Tyler Cuma (6)

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17^th Overall Selection – Mississauga Majors: LC Michael Clarke
HT: 6.00 | WT: 150 lbs. | London Jr. Knights Gold MM | DoB: April 29^th, 1994 | London, ON

Michael Clarke is a great center coming out of London. Clarke may not have the most talent of any player selected in the first round, but he is a smart, blue-collar type hockey player. Clarke really sees the ice well, generally knows where all of his teammates are. Once he has the puck he is very hard to knock off of it as he is very strong on his skates with great mobility. Clarke is not a player that cheats on the ice, and ensures that he plays a two-way game. He starts and stops well and doesn’t loop if he happens to lose the puck. If drafted by the Majors I see Clarke easily adapting to their system based on his playing style.

2009 1^st Round Pick: D Stuart Percy (15)
2008 1^st Round Pick: F Devante Smith-Pelly (8)
2007 1^st Round Pick: F Casey Cizikas (3)
2006 1^st Round Pick: F Dylan O’Neil (10)

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18^th Overall Selection – Kitchener Rangers: RD Nick Ebert
HT: 6.01 | WT: 185 lbs. | Waterloo Black Hawks | DoB: May 11^th, 1994 | Livingston, NJ

Already playing with the Waterloo Black Hawks of the USHL, Nick Ebert should also be able to transition easily into the OHL. Ebert is a smooth skating defenseman who can, in time, quarterback a power play. Ebert still has some shortcomings defensively, but his defensive game should come around in time. As a 15 year-old playing in the USHL, Ebert notched five goals for seventeen points in 51 games this season. Ebert has been rumoured to be an average student, which means that the OHL appears to be a viable option for this blue-chip defenseman. It has also be stated that Ebert is not a lock for the OHL either, and may not come to the league unless drafted by one of the league’s more premier teams, which is why the Rangers could be a team that takes a chance on getting a player of his caliber this late in the first round.

2009 1^st Round Pick: D Ryan Murphy (3)
2008 1^st Round Pick: F Jeff Skinner (20)
2007 1^st Round Pick: D Cam Fowler (18)
2006 1^st Round Pick: F Nazem Kadri (18)

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19^th Overall Selection – London Knights: RD Max Iafrate
HT: 6.01 | WT: 183 lbs. | Detroit Belle Tire U-16 | DoB: March 28^th, 1994 | Livonia, MI

Max Iafrate is an American high-end defenseman who may have as much talent as any defenseman in the draft, but lacks one component to his game, defense. Iafrate has a lot of work to do on his defensive game in order to be a solid player in the OHL. He can be seen making high risk passes or allowing his man to get in behind him, which will be further exploited at the next level. On the plus side, he could likely one day run a power play unit at this level, and could easily have one of the hardest shots in the draft. There is a good chance of Iafrate coming to the OHL next season, especially if he is drafted by one of the more notable teams in the league.

2009 1^st Round Pick: D Scott Harrington (19)
2008 1^st Round Pick: F Christian Thomas (13)
2007 1^st Round Pick: G Michael Zador (20)
2006 1^st Round Pick: F Philip McRae (20)

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20^th Overall Selection – Windsor Spitfires: LW Kerby Rychel
HT: 6.00 | WT: 184 lbs. | Detroit Belle Tire U-16 | DoB: October 7^th, 1994 | Tecumseh, ON

Kerby Rychel would generally be a surprise pick in the first round, but this could potentially be the only chance that Warrens Rychel would be able to select his son. Rychel is not a going to be an offensive dynamo in the OHL, but could turn out to be a good grinding winger. He sees the ice well and knows what is going on, but lacks the speed to execute a majority of the time. His skating has improved a lot throughout the season, but still is not at a level that would deem his speed adequate at the OHL level. At times throughout the year he struggled to find the net, and seems to lack finishing talent. This player will not be eligible to be drafted until the 2013 NHL Entry Draft due to his late birthdate.

2009 1^st Round Pick: F Austen Brassard (20)
2008 1^st Round Pick: D Cam Fowler (17)
2007 1^st Round Pick: F Taylor Hall (2)
2006 1^st Round Pick: F Greg Nemisz (7)

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21^st Overall Selection – Barrie Colts: LD Adam Pelech
HT: 6.02 | WT: 185 lbs. | Toronto Marlboros MM | DoB: August 18^th, 1994 | Toronto, ON

All indications are that Adam Pelech will not become an offensive force in the OHL, but could become a great shutdown defenseman, who plays on the penalty kill. There are likely numerous other bodies that could be slotted in to the final pick of the first round, but Adam Pelech has prove that he should warrant a first round selection. He is able to box out opposing forwards with his big body, and sees the defensive zone very well. He is able to cover for his defense partner if in trouble due to his good defensive awareness.

2009 1^st Round Pick: F Ryan Strome (8)
2008 1^st Round Pick: D Ryan O’Connor (6)
2007 1^st Round Pick: F Mitch Lebar (17)
2006 1^st Round Pick: F Stefan Della Rovere (16)

USHL Feature: Omaha, Indiana, Waterloo, Green Bay

Scott Campbell — Fri, 11 Dec 2009 16:59:50 +0000

I had a chance to check out my first USHL action of the season last Saturday in a couple of games that featured a lot of high quality USHL talent on display. The first game was a highly anticipated matinee matchup between league powerhouses, the Indiana Ice and Omaha Lancers. After heading to the first intermission tied at two goals apiece, the rest of the game was a tight defensive affair until Indiana’s Antti Roppo broke the deadlock midway through the third period, with Max Cook icing the game with a late empty netter. In a game featuring arguably two of the most talented teams in the league, several players will be on the NHL’s radar moving forward. Here’s the boxscore from the game:

http://www.pointstreak.com/stats/pro/boxscore.html?gameid=1048919

Brian Ferlin (Indiana) | 1992 | 6’1″ | 196lbs | 22GP 4G 3A 7P +3 4 PIM

It was an unspectacular game for the 2010 Draft Eligible. He moves well on the ice, but his skating needs a bit of refinement in regards to his technique. His offensive skills are raw, but there is room for growth, and he looked like a guy that could generate some later round consideration.

Nick Mattson (Indiana) | 1991L | 6’1″ | 190lbs | 17GP 2G 4A 6P -1 8PIM

Given the amount of hype Mattson received during his time with the NTDP, I was extremely underwhelmed with his game on Saturday. Despite showing some good puck handling skills, Mattson didn’t really present anything that indicates that he has the high end skill to make him a Top 50 pick. Unless his offensive game starts to come around, his lack of a true identity to his game could hurt his stock. I’ll likely check in on another Indiana game later in the season to see how hes’ progressing, as he’s definitely an intriguing prospect.

John Parker (Indiana) | 1992 | 5’11″ | 180lbs | 17GP 2G 5A 7P -4 12PIM

After being pretty highly regarded coming out of U16 AAA in Pittsburgh, it looks like Parker’s transition to Junior Hockey has been a bit of a bumpy ride. Despite having some good overall skills, it appears as though he’s struggled to adapt to the physicality of junior hockey and his offensive production has been hurt because of it. I’m not really sure what his draft stock is looking like, but if he could maintain a .50 PPG average, I wouldn’t be completely surprised if somebody took a shot on him in one of the late rounds.

Seth Ambroz (Omaha) | 1993 | 6’3″ | 205lbs | 19GP 8G 10A 18P +11 31PIM

Definitely the player that I was most excited to see in this game, Ambroz showed me a lot of good things, but he also looks very raw. He has great size and he has a very high compete level which are major positives. He has a hard shot and was determined to drive the net and work the corners which were also positives that indicate he has a lot of potential to be a high pick in 2011. However, I’m pretty concerned with his skating. His stride is long and choppy and from what I saw, is probably the one aspect that’s going to hold him back the most so far. Right now he seems very comparable to a player like Sean Couturier, another 2011 eligible, and it will be very interesting to see how the 2011 Draft shapes up over the next 18 months.

Erik Haula (Omaha) | 1991 | 6’0″ | 175lbs | 21GP 12G 23A 35P +19 16PIM

A seventh round pick of the Wild in the 2009 NHL Entry Draft, Haula has started his USHL career with a bang this season. Despite being held off the scoresheet, he was arguably the best player on the ice, and showed a lot of offensive creativity. He has good vision in the offensive zone, and is definitely a playmaker first type player. He got into trouble when he neglected his teammates and tried to do to much with the puck, however. He’ll need to work on his strength a lot in the NCAA, but he’s definitely progressed a lot thus far.

The second game I had a chance to check in on featured the Green Bay Gamblers taking to the road to face the hometown Waterloo Black Hawks. One of the main reasons I wanted to see this game was to get a look at Waterloo’s pair of 1994′s, Nick Ebert and Brady Vail, who will both be eligible for the 2010 OHL Priority Selection. The game itself was a very back and forth affair, with a lot more offensive chances than the Indiana/Omaha game. After Waterloo jumped out to a 2-0 lead early in the second, Green Bay responded with three straight goals to take a 3-2 lead into the second intermission. Vail tied the game up for the Black Hawks early in the third on his first USHL goal, but Reed Seckel iced the game for the Gamblers late in the third as Green Bay hung on for a 4-3 win. Here’s the boxscore for the game:

http://www.pointstreak.com/stats/pro/boxscore.html?gameid=1048921

Anders Lee (Green Bay) | 1990 | 6’2″ | 216lbs | 22GP 13G 11A 24P +13 24PIM

Lee was a sixth round draft pick by the Islanders last season after putting up strong numbers alongside Nashville second rounder, Zach Budish. Lee has good size which is something that he utilizes a lot in his game. He was pretty dangerous in the offensive zone and created a lot of strong chances for the Gamblers and could have had a lot more then just one assist. Like Haula, Lee is a player who looks to be a pretty good value selection for the sixth round and adds some quality depth to the Islanders prospect pool.

Nick Ebert (Waterloo) | 1994 | 6’1″ | 185lbs | 15GP 1G 5A 6P |

I was pretty impressed with the 15 year old defenseman in this game, and he did a lot to show me that he should be one of the first players taken in the OHL draft next year. Ebert has very good size and plays a real solid game on the backend. He competes hard and is effective positionally. Transitionally, he moves the puck well and has some untapped offensive potential. His skating needs some work moving forward and he could stand to utilize his teammates quicker when he headman’s the puck, but there’s a lot to like about Ebert’s game.

Brady Vail (Waterloo) | 1994 | 6’1″ | 190lbs | 10GP 1G 0A -6 6PIM

Unlike Ebert, Vail appears set on the NCAA route, so he’s likely not going to be selected very high in the 2010 OHL Priority Selection. In this game, the Michigan native notched his first USHL point, a goal, which tied the game up in the third period. Vail looked to have a lot of good physical skills, but I’m not sure how much offensive potential he has. Once he adds some more strength to his frame, he should be a solid USHL player, but I’m interested to see how his offensive production grows moving forward.

With that being said, it was nice to get an opportunity to check out a couple of USHL games on an off-day for the Wolves. I was impressed to see that the quality of play in the league is continuing to get better, and the speed is especially something that has improved a lot. I’ll be certain to make sure I have an opportunity to catch a few more games throughout the year as well.