The Scouting Report » Scott Laughton

2012 NHL Mid-Term Top 60 Rankings (31-60)

TSR Staff — Mon, 30 Jan 2012 22:39:16 +0000

Be sure to check out the first half of our Top 60: (1-30) (31-60)

31. LW Phil Di Giuseppe – Michigan (CCHA)

DOB: Nov. 09/93 | Shoots: L | Height: 6.00 | Weight: 175lbs

After spending the past two seasons as one of the top underaged players in the OJHL, Di Giuseppe has been one of the top freshmen in the NCAA this season. Di Giuseppe is a powerful skater and has a quick stride with good acceleration. He does a good job of creating offense with his speed and works hard to fight through checks against physical defensemen. Di Giuseppe has good offensive instincts and does a good job of finding chemistry with different sets of linemates. He needs to continue to add strength as his style of play is very aggressive and it will be important for him as he makes his transition to the next level.

32. RD Damon Severson – Kelowna (WHL)

DOB: Aug. 7/94 | Shoots: R | Height: 6.01 | Weight: 200lbs

Damon Severson has proven to be a bit of an enigma this season with the Kelowna Rockets. At times, Severson seems to have the potential to be a game breaker – and at others, he seems like more of a project than a top prospect. Severson does have good size and a booming shot from the point, but will definitely need to work on the other parts of his game in order to be successful at the next level. It’s hard to find many glaring problems in his game; there just isn’t much that stands out. After battling injury for more than six weeks, Severson will undoubtedly have to make up for lost time in a draft that’s chock full of talented young defensemen. As a bit of a raw talent, he will certainly benefit from an ever increasing role with the Kelowna Rockets, and is definitely a key component to his team’s future.

33. RW Martin Frk – Halifax (QMJHL)

DOB: Nov. 5/93 | Shoots: R | Height: 6.00 | Weight: 204lbs

It certainly hasn’t been a fairytale season for Frk this year as he initially missed considerable time with a concussion and then made a controversial decision to go home over Christmas rather than play for the Czech U20 team at the World Juniors. 2012 seems to be the fresh start that Frk needed, however, as he has found the back of the net with consistency and is showcasing the gritty style of play that created the hype for him before. Frk isn’t a flashy winger, but with his grit and physical play, he has a good combination of skills that NHL teams covet. With a strong second half you can expect him back in the Top 30.

34. LW Tim Bozon – Kamloops (WHL)

DOB: Mar. 24/94 | Shoots: L | Height: 6.00 | Weight: 185lbs

Import forward Tim Bozon has not only made a smooth transition to the WHL in his first season in North America, he has been a standout for a Kamloops Blazers team that has rocketed to the top of the WHL standings. Averaging just under a point per game thus far, the lanky forward has shown a solid offensive skillset, showcasing a quick release and slick passing skills to go along with quick footwork and a strong work ethic. Bozon will need to continue to work on his defensive zone play, and will need to exert a more consistent nightly effort, and will also need to bulk up his frame. As it stands, Bozon is a talented young winger on a very good Kamloops team, and will certainly remain a key offensive component on one of the highest scoring teams in the WHL.

35. LD Ludvik Bystrom – Modo (Elitserien)

DOB: Jul. 20/94 | Shoots: L | Height: 6.01 | Weight: 208lbs

Bystrom had a tremendous start to the year in the SuperElit as one of the top scoring defensemen in the league and since a call-up to the Modo senior team, has proven to be a steady defensemen. Like a number of Swedish defensive prospects in recent years, Bystrom has a very high hockey IQ and reads the play exceptionally well. He makes good decisions moving the puck and identifies opportunities to move the puck up the ice. Bystrom has seen limited action in the Elitserien, but he has been playing very steady in his role. He’s not afraid to lay the body out and has shown that he can handle playing against older players.

36. LD Michael Matheson – Dubuque (USHL)

DOB: Feb. 27/94 | Shoots: L | Height: 6.01 | Weight: 180lbs

After being considered to be the odds on favourite to go 1st overall in the 2010 QMJHL Draft, Matheson threw teams a curve ball by committing to Boston College and announcing his NCAA intentions. After coming the USHL this season, Matheson has been a steady contributor but has also had some growing pains along the way after moving up a level of competition from last year. Matheson is a steady puck mover who does a good job reading and anticipating the play. As it stands, Matheson will need to have a strong showing in the 2nd half as much of the crop has been catching up to him.

37. LW Teuvo Teravainen – Jokerit (SM-Liiga)

DOB: Sep. 11/94 | Shoots: L | Height: 5.11 | Weight: 170lbs

Teravainen torched the Jr. A league early this season and quickly earned a call-up to Jokerit’s senior team where he has been an admirable contributor. Teravainen is a very smart player who skates well and distributes the puck well on the attack. He’s a good skater with an explosive first step and good agility. Teravainen’s skill-set makes him a very valuable player on the powerplay as he is good in tight spaces and can be very dangerous when he has time and space. He is not overly big and doesn’t have a physical aspect to his game but Teravainen looks like a nice pick around this range for a team who can wait for him to develop.

38. LW Andreas Athanasiou – London (OHL)

DOB: Aug. 6/94 | Shoots: L | Height: 6.01 | Weight: 175lbs

There were high expectations for Athanasiou after a surprising rookie season and strong showing at the Under 18’s, but thus far the results haven’t been up to par. Athanasiou is one of the top skaters in the draft and relies heavily on his speed to create scoring chances off the rush. He hasn’t got a ton of ice-time in a talent laden London lineup, but he has shown flashes of brilliance at times this year. Unfortunately, he’s also shown very little in other games and consistency is a big question mark for Athanasiou. At this point, he seems to be a player who is very similar to New York’s Michael Grabner and any team taking him should know that while his speed is a huge asset, there’s a lot of risk with regards to how he projects at the next level.

39. LW Tanner Pearson – Barrie (OHL)

DOB: Aug. 10/92 | Shoots: L | Height: 6.00 | Weight: 200lbs

While his pace has slowed slightly, Tanner Pearson continues to be an offensive threat every night. A classic late bloomer, Pearson found chemistry early in the season with the rest of his team and has not looked back since. Pearson thinks the game on an extremely high level; he consistently makes great decisions with the puck and is able to thread passes through traffic with ease. He also does a great job in putting himself in great position, he is a player who the puck just seems to find time and time again. While Pearson will be eligible for his 3rd time this season, he has emerged as a legitimate NHL prospect and with no glaring weaknesses in his game, he’s earned his spot in our rankings.

40. LW Jarrod Maidens – Owen Sound (OHL)

DOB: Mar. 4/94 | Shoots: R | Height: 6.01 | Weight: 180lbs

Maidens is a big winger who plays the game with purpose and drive. He skates well and plays a very north/south game and brings it every shift. Maidens uses his size to overpower defenses and does a good job of playing in traffic and neutralizing tight checking defenses. Maidens was a tremendous goal scorer in minor hockey and has started to show that offensive upside this year with Owen Sound. Maidens has missed time with a concussion but expect him to pick up where he left off when he returns to the lineup as his big body presence has been sorely missed in the Attack lineup.

41. LD Hampus Lindholm – Rogle (Allsvenskan)

DOB: Jan. 20/94 | Shoots: L | Height: 6.02 | Weight: 200lbs

Rogle has started to develop some quality defensemen in recent years (there are some promising players down the future pipeline as well) and Lindholm is the team’s latest NHL prospect. Playing a strong two-way game, Lindholm shows strong offensive instincts while maintaining a commitment to the defensive end of the ice. He’s already filled out nicely and has done a good job asserting himself physically despite being an 18-year-old. Lindholm doesn’t have as much high-end upside as Bystrom, but he is a very solid prospect in his own right and would be a great pickup in the 2nd round.

42. RW Scott Kosmachuk – Guelph (OHL)

DOB: Jan. 24/94 | Shoots: R | Height: 6.00 | Weight: 185lbs

Kosmachuk was a quality 16-year-old for Guelph last season, but his game has shown considerable progress in his 2nd OHL season this year. Despite not being the most natural offensive player, Kosmachuk has an innate ability to get in a position to score goals. He plays a high-energy game and his north-south playing style allows him to find success while playing a simple game. Kosmachuk excels in traffic areas and does a good job of burying pucks around the net and capitalizing on opportunities. While his two-way game needs to improve, he does work hard and with continued development and coaching, Kosmachuk could emerge as a quality 2nd/3rd line tweener at the NHL level who brings a lot of intangibles that coaches look for.

43. RD Jordan Schmaltz – Green Bay (USHL)

DOB: Oct. 8/93 | Shoots: R | Height: 6.02 | Weight: 190lbs

In his 3rd USHL season, Schmaltz has fallen victim to overexposure in the USHL this year. While other players are stepping up in their 2nd year’s in the league, Schmaltz has seen his touted offensive upside level out as he shows an increased commitment to the defensive end of the ice. To his credit, he has established himself as a much more reliable defenseman this year, but it has opened up some concern about his ability to contribute at a high level offensively while bringing strong play at the other end of the ice. Schmaltz is committed to the University of North Dakota (where his younger brother, 96YOB Nick Schmaltz has also committed) and next year will be a great barometer of what type of player he is and just how high his upside might be.

44. LW Daniil Zharkov – Belleville (OHL)

DOB: Feb. 6/94 | Shoots: L | Height: 6.03 | Weight: 200lbs

When he’s on his game Daniil Zharkov is a dominant forward with size who can score goals from any area in the offensive zone. He has a great shot which combined with his strong skating can be absolutely devastating on the rush. Zharkov will play with a bit of an edge and has great skills with the puck in one on one situation. Where Zharkov’s game suffers is in his consistency and his play without the puck. When Zharkov is not scoring goals he tends to completely disappear off the map and his effort also tends to drop. This is an even bigger issue due to Zharkov’s defensive game not being quite at the level that many would like to see it reach. He does tend to float into the defensive zone and does not compete very hard in battles for the puck in his own end. If Zharkov can put a weak January behind him he could see himself surge up the rankings as one of the top pure goal scorers in the draft.

45. RD Dalton Thrower – Saskatoon (WHL)

DOB: Dec. 20/93 | Shoots: R | Height: 5.11 | Weight: 190lbs

Thrower has done a nice job of adding an offensive dimension to his game this season by showing improved ability at both ends of the ice. His bread and butter, however, continues to be his gritty style of play and willingness to use his body on the ice. He has a huge impact on the game with his physicality and is never afraid to mix it up with opponents. Thrower needs to continue to show that he can make quick decisions and show improved decision making.

46. LD Trevor Carrick – Mississauga (OHL)

DOB: Jul. 4/94 | Shoots: L | Height: 6.02 | Weight: 175lbs

In his first OHL season, Trevor Carrick has done a great job of solidifying himself as a steadying force on the Mississauga blueline. Carrick has good size and plays a very safe defensive game with very few holes in it. He has a long reach and does a great job of maintaining gap control and anticipating the play. Carrick is positionally sound and has continued to improve since the start of the season, seeing more icetime after Stuart Percy went down with injury. Carrick has been used in some offensive situations and while he hasn’t looked out of place, it’s an area of his game that needs to improve. There’s a lot of potential with Carrick and the team that drafts him will be taking him based on what he can become as he continues to develop.

47. RC Gemel Smith – Owen Sound (OHL)

DOB: Apr. 16/94 | Shoots: R | Height: 5.10 | Weight: 160lbs

You’d never know Gemel Smith was only 5’10” 160lbs by the way he plays. He’s the type of player who loves to dart into traffic recklessly and more often than not ends up making a great play because of it. Smith is a great skater not only with his speed, but his ability to shift in and out of traffic. He plays much bigger than his size and is one of the hardest working prospects in the draft. The issue comes up when you try to imagine what type of player he’d be at the NHL level. Most of his goals are generated through pure effort more so than skill which begs the question when trying to determine if he is more of an energy line player in the NHL, or if he can still be an offensive contributor.

48. LC Cristoval Nieves – Kent (HS-CT)

DOB: Jan. 23/93 | Shoots: L | Height: 6.03 | Weight: 185lbs

Nieves is the class of the New England prep school circuit this year and the prospect with the most NHL upside. With tremendous size and a big frame, Nieves is a pretty good skater and can be difficult to neutralize once he gets up to full speed. He is offensively skilled and does a good job creating shooting lanes and getting pucks on net. Playing down against a lower tier of competition brings some concern when evaluating his body of work, but with his size and skill he does have some big upside if he can put it all together.

49. RW Tom Wilson – Plymouth (OHL)

DOB: Mar. 29/94 | Shoots: R | Height: 6.04 | Weight: 205lbs

Wilson is a very imposing winger who has thrived with the Plymouth Whalers this season as a forward who brings plenty of size, grit, and physicality to the team’s lineup. Wilson is versatile and has enough ability to play with skilled players while playing a physical role. His skating has steadily improved and his willingness to take the body with his size creates a lot of space for teammates. He’s good in the corners on the cycle and does a good job wearing down opposing teams as well. It is concerning that he only has 6 goals while playing with players like Stefan Noesen, Rickard Rakell, and JT Miller, but Wilson is a player who is likely going to take some time to grow into his frame and find out just how high his ceiling is.

50. RC Mike Winther – Prince Albert (WHL)

DOB: Jul. 9/94 | Shoots: R | Height: 5.11 | Weight: 175lbs

Mike Winther is the kind of competitor that every coach loves to have. With an excellent shot, second to-none work ethic, and excellent two-way play, Winther certainly has all of the tools to be a very strong player at the next level. The biggest issue in Winther’s game right now is simply strength – standing at 5’10” and listed at 170 pounds – Winther will certainly need to get stronger to compete at the next level. Even with his small stature, however, Winther plays a fearless kind of game as he goes into the hard areas and competes with players much larger than him. As the season has worn on, Winther has seemingly only gotten better and been a shining star on a generally poor team. He’ll need to continue to compete at a high level in order to continue to climb up the rankings.

51. LC Brady Vail – Windsor (OHL)

DOB: Mar. 11/94 | Shoots: L | Height: 6.00 | Weight: 200lbs

After managing only 10 points in what had to be considered an underwhelming rookie season, Vail has become a legitimate Top 6 forward with the Windsor Spitfires as a 17-year-old. Vail has shown tremendous progress as a two-way player and his work ethic and compete level are significantly better than they were a season ago. Vail often draws match ups against the other team’s top lines and while he has played strong defensively, Vail also is on pace for a very strong offensive season. His offensive upside isn’t as high as other players in the draft, but Vail’s style of play will give him a great shot of being a very effective two-way center.

52. LW Nikolai Prokhorkin – CSKA (MHL)

DOB: Sep. 17/93 | Shoots: L | Height: 6.02 | Weight: 185lbs

Like so many other 2012 eligibles, Prokhorkin has been plagued by injuries this season which has really limited his ability to even get in the lineup this season. Unfortunately for him, he will also have some negative connotations due to the Russian factor. On merit however, Prokhorkin is a skilled winger who has good size and a proven ability to score goals. As a ’93 YOB, Prokhorkin will not be available to play in the U18′s this spring which works against him as that would be a great platform for him to showcase his skills on a big stage for scouts.

53. RW Henrik Samuelsson – Edmonton (WHL)

DOB: Feb. 7/94 | Shoots: R | Height: 6.02 | Weight: 195lbs

Samuelsson was a mid season pickup for the Oil Kings from Modo in Sweden after spending last season playing with the US U17 Team. Samuelsson is a gritty forward who wins board battles and excels at maintaining offensive zone puck possession. He can play center or the wing equally effectively and is at his best below the hash marks where he uses his size to his advantage. It was a rough first half of the year for Samuelsson, but after a quick start with Edmonton, don’t be surprised if you see the big power forward as a big riser in the Final rankings.

54. LC Scott Laughton – Oshawa (OHL)

DOB: May 30/94 | Shoots: L | Height: 6.00 | Weight: 175lbs

Laughton has fallen victim to playing on a team that has an excess of offensively skilled players vying for a fixed amount of ice-time. After starting the season out very slowly, Laughton has really picked things up over the past month and is showing why he was considered to be such a talented minor hockey player a couple seasons ago. A strong two-way player, Laughton plays the center position very well and is well aware of his responsibilities in all three zones. He competes hard and checks well and can play against top lines without being a liability. He has a good shot and above-average puck skills, but there are times where he does fight the puck out there. His playing style compares to a player like Brendan Gaunce but his all-around game just isn’t at the same level.

55. LD Cody Corbett – Edmonton (WHL)

DOB: Dec. 14/93 | Shoots: L | Height: 6.00 | Weight: 210lbs

Corbett has been a big-time addition for the Oil Kings this season and has improved considerably already throughout the first half of the season. He has a tremendous shot and does a great job quarterbacking the power play. Corbett is strong positionally and for a two-way player, does a good job of battling in the corners and handling physical forwards. Corbett continues to be a player who has flown under the radar a bit in the shadows of his teammates Griffin Reinhart and Mark Pysyk, but his blend of intelligence and physicality makes for an enticing package moving forward.

56. LC Zach Stepan – Shattuck St. Mary’s (HS-MN)

DOB: Jan. 6/94 | Shoots: L | Height: 6.00 | Weight: 165lbs

Stepan is a lot more of a project than his older brother Derek, and any team taking him will be well aware of that. With a very slight frame, Stepan benefits from being “sheltered” in high school hockey and it will be interesting to see how he transitions to the next level, either in the USHL or at Ohio State. Despite the concerns, Stepan is a player who skates quite well and does have good puck skills. He excels with the puck on his stick and does a good job of generating offensive chances. As a senior, he’s leading a talented Shattuck squad and has shown good progression since his junior year.

57. LW Raphael Bussieres – Baie-Comeau (QMJHL)

DOB: Nov. 5/93 | Catches: L | Height: 6.01 | Weight: 195lbs

Bussieres has come a long way since being a frail rookie who looked over-matched as a 16-year-old with Moncton. While his stats are far from gaudy as a 3rd year player, Bussieres has a lot of raw offensive upside that has started to come to fruition this season. He competes well and shows strong grit with a willingness to finish checks and play a physical game in traffic areas. Bussieres has been steadily adding strength and it has helped him add a step to his speed and give him lower body strength to drive through checks. He’s got a lot of room for improvement, but he’s well worth a pick at this stage of the 2nd round as he could develop into a nice 2nd or 3rd line forward.

58. LD Dillon Fournier – Rouyn-Noranda (QMJHL)

DOB: Jun. 15/94 | Shoots: L | Height: 6.01 | Weight: 165lbs

Fournier was a surprise to some as he was taken 1st overall in the 2010 QMJHL Draft, and after Lewiston folded, was subsequently taken 1st overall by Rouyn-Noranda in the Dispersal Draft. Fournier, however, has acquitted himself well in the QMJHL and since coming back from a shoulder injury he has demonstrated strong offensive upside. He’s a smooth skating defenseman who always has his head up and is strong in transition. Instead of rimming the puck off the glass, Fournier can find his man on the breakout and create offense through his ability to make smart decisions. He still needs to add strength and show that he can contain high-end forwards, but he’s a player who has really started to show some nice improvement.

59. LC Matej Beran – PEI (QMJHL)

DOB: Nov. 11/93 | Shoots: L | Height: 6.04 | Weight: 215lbs

Beran has a huge frame and has shown some good offensive ability this season, but skating is a pretty major concern at this point. Beran labours with his stride and is an average skater at the junior level which does not project well moving forward if he doesn’t show improvement. Aside from skating concerns, Beran does use his size fairly well in his offensive game as he protects the puck well and can be difficult to check. Beran would also benefit from being more physical as for a player of his size, he is not an overly physical player. There are some enticing tools to work with, but Beran is a project at this point.

60. LC Tanner Richard – Guelph (OHL)

DOB: Apr. 6/93 | Catches: L | Height: 6.00 | Weight: 185lbs

Richard was eligible for the 2011 NHL Entry Draft but was not selected. After coming over to the Guelph Storm this year, his fortunes have changed as his strong play has been a catalyst in his emergence as a legitimate NHL prospect. Richard is a pure offensive forward who has a high skill level and very good creativity. Richard is very effective with the puck on his stick and is active in looking for teammates. He also does a good job of shooting the puck and is a go-to offensive player with Guelph. Richard does need to continue to add strength to his frame and continue to engage in the gritty areas of the ice, but there are a lot of things to like about his game.

Be sure to check out the first half of our Top 60: (1-30) (31-60)

2012 NHL Draft Rankings: Preliminary Top 30 Skaters (16-30)

Scott Campbell — Tue, 06 Sep 2011 02:31:08 +0000

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

16. LD Derrick Pouliot – Portland (WHL)

DOB: Jan. 16/94 | Shoots: L | Height: 5.11 | Weight: 170lbs

The former first overall bantam pick had an impressive 16 year old season with one of the most talented teams in the entire CHL. Pouliot is an effortless skater, able to effectively transition from either offense to defense, or defense to offense, in a hurry. He has strong offensive instincts, and can join the rush effectively using his skating ability to keep pace with attacking forwards. Pouliot has a good shot that he is able to get to the net frequently, though his shot velocity could use some work. Defensively, Pouliot has to be considered a bit of a project at this point, as the undersized defenseman found himself out-matched by larger WHL forwards, and also occasionally out of position. Pouliot returns to the Hawks this year in a bigger role, and should be primed for a big year offensively.

17. LW Andreas Athanasiou – London (OHL)

DOB: Aug. 6/94 | Shoots: L | Height: 6.00 | Weight: 170lbs

The OHL frequently produces a player who comes out of nowhere to surprise as not only an exceptional OHL player, but a very solid NHL prospect as well. Athanasiou falls into that category in 2012 as the Knight’s 4th-round pick in 2010 has quickly established himself as one of the premier ’94 YOB forwards in the OHL. Athanasiou is a slick offensive forward with an abundance of offensive skill. He’s a dangerous forward who is always a threat to score in every game and has really done a good job of putting himself in good positions to find the back of the net. Currently makes up for lack of strength with great bursts of speed but adding some muscle to his frame is very important moving forward. Athanasiou might appear a little off the board right now, but after a very impressive showing with the Canadian U18 team at the Ivan Hlinka, expect a lot of people to take notice.

18. RC Matia Marcantuoni – Kitchener (OHL)

DOB: Feb. 22/94 | Shoots: R | Height: 6.00 | Weight: 180lbs

Entering the 2010-11 season a lot of was expected of Matia Marcantuoni as some believe he easily could have been a top five pick in the 2010 OHL Priority selection before eventually winding up with the Rangers at the 18th pick. In a limited role last season with a competitive Ranger squad, Marcantuoni saw decent offensive success. Coach Steve Spott will expect higher offensive output this season from the Toronto, Ontario native. He is arguably one of the strongest skaters in the draft, and has a very hard NHL-calibre shot as well. Plays the game at a very high tempo but needs to capitalize on more of his chances.

19. RW Henrik Samuelsson – Modo J20 (SuperElit)

DOB: Feb. 7/94 | Shoots: R | Height: 6.02 | Weight: 195lbs

The son of former NHL tough guy Ulf Samuelsson, Henrik brings a lot of power forward qualities that NHL teams are sure to covet at next summer’s NHL Entry Draft. Samuelsson is a big body who utlizes his physical strength to create space on the ice. Skates quite well and does a good job maintaining the puck and competing in physical battles. Displays a lot of grit and plays both ends of the rink very hard… looks for opportunities to finish checks and keeps players honest when he’s on the ice. Samuelsson’s offensive play is still developing but is a wildcard in his overall upside. Elected to play in Sweden this season after his father took an Assistant Coaching job with Modo where Henrik will surely see some time in the Elitserien with a strong year.

20. RW Sebastian Collberg – Frolunda (SuperElit)

DOB: Feb. 23/94 | Shoots: R | Height: 6.00 | Weight: 175lbs

Collberg is a diminutive winger with high-end skill level. Very good skater with good technique and shifty agility. Collberg thrives on the perimeter and uses his speed and skill-level to create offensive opportunities and odd-man rushes by breaking the defense down with his speed. Has an exceptional shot with pro-calibre release and loves to shoot the puck. Offensive upside translates very well to the NHL level and Collberg doesn’t mind playing in traffic areas either, which should help his eventual transition to the North American game. Still needs to improve his two-way game and add some strength but with a productive season Collberg should see some time in the Elitserien and could be a major riser this year.

21. LC Brendan Gaunce – Belleville (OHL)

DOB: Mar. 25/94 | Shoots: L | Height: 6.02 | Weight: 205lbs

It was a bit of a tough season for Gaunce as the highly touted 16-year-old rookie met his fair share of struggles with a Belleville squad that ended up being hard pressed to find the back of the net. Gaunce’s season saw many ebs and flows but was an overall productive season for the 2nd overall pick in the 2010 OHL Priortiy Selection. Coming into the league as one of the most dominant Minor Midget players from a year before, Gaunce has all of the qualities you look for in a two-way forward. Gaunce has good size and does a good job bringing a consistent effort to the rink every night. Competes hard and does a good job winning battles on the ice. Doesn’t have elite offensive skill but is an offensively productive player who is a threat to create offense at any time. Skating is an area where he will need to improve but Gaunce projects to be a solid second line type NHL center with good character and strong two-way play.

22. LC Scott Laughton – Oshawa (OHL)

DOB: May 30/94 | Shoots: L | Height: 6.01 | Weight: 175lbs

Scott Laughton is currently known for a solid two-way talent; he is a competitive player every shift and understands his role on the ice. Although the Oshawa Generals already high end talent up front, it is likely that Laughton sees an increased offensive role with the team. If the Oakville, Ont. is able to put together a solid offensive season there is no question he could see his stock rise into the top fifteen in the draft. He is a similar, albeit smaller, version of teammate Boone Jenner, but if he pans out could be the better overall prospect. At this point, Laughton and Gaunce are similar players who will be interesting prospects to follow as both 17-year-olds spend the season battling it out in the OHL’s East Division as rivals.

23. LW Cristoval Nieves – Kent HS (HS-MA)

DOB: Jan. 23/94 | Shoots: L | Height: 6.03 | Weight: 185lbs

Blessed with a big frame – 6’3″ to be exact – Nieves has phenomenal stick work and deceptive agility, speed, and acceleration. Labeled mostly as a playmaker, Nieves isn’t afraid to get creative. A superb passer, he is easily the best player playing for Kent and it looks as though he is coming back for another season. He still has some “filling out” to do being only 185 lbs, but just his skills and explosiveness will excite many scouts. Committed to the University of Michigan in 2012, Nieves might crack the first round at next year’s draft. On the off chance he doesn’t, look for him to go in the early 2nd.

24. RD Cody Ceci – Ottawa (OHL)

DOB: Dec. 21/93 | Shoots: R | Height: 6.02 | Weight: 190lbs

Ceci’s sophomore season in the OHL was promising as the Ottawa native took the steps forward that most were expecting after his rookie season. Already playing with pro size, Ceci entrenched himself as one of the better defensive defensemen in the OHL last season with very responsible play while logging heavy minutes. His physical play took a step forward last season and it was noticeable that he was much improved in handling defensive zone coverage and preventing himself from over-committing. Has some offensive upside and serves as an effective PP quarterback at the OHL level. Ceci projects to be a potential late first-round pick or early second-round pick as a player who has the potential to be a dependable NHL defenseman who might not have quite as much high-end upside as some of the other players available in the range.

25. Gianluca Curcuruto – Sault Ste. Marie (OHL)

DOB: Feb. 25/94 | Shoots: L | Height: 6.01 | Weight: 188lbs

Curcuruto is a puck mover first and foremost, but as his -1 indicates he is also a strong two-way player. His -1 was among the best on his team last year, which is exceptional considering he was a rookie defenseman on a team that gave up the second most goals in the entire Western Conference while finishing dead last in points. Despite his rookie status, he took on a leadership role, providing a calming influence when things were going haywire on a very bad Greyhounds team. We currently have him going in the bottom third of the first round, but it won’t be a surprise to see him rise as he’s a player with considerable raw talent.

26. LD Michael Matheson – Dubuque (USHL)

DOB: Feb. 27/94 | Shoots: L | Height: 6.00 | Weight: 170lbs

Matheson is set to join the Dubuque Fighting Saints after spending the 2010/11 season playing in the QMAAA. Regarded as one of the top 94′s in Quebec, Matheson elected to bypass the Major Junior route in favour of a 2012 commitment to Boston College. Matheson is lauded for his leadership skills, intelligence and maturity off the ice. On the ice, Matheson provides those intangibles as well as a skill set of smooth skating and puck skills. Matheson uses his hockey sense and ability to close on the puck and puck carrier to force the play and transition the puck quickly to offense. He has quick hands and shows some pretty nifty puck handling. Matheson might be the type of player who amasses points by simply possessing the puck often and moving it to the right player to create offense.

27. RW Pontus Aberg – Djurgarden (SuperElit)

DOB: Sep. 23/93 | Shoots: R | Height: 5.11 | Weight: 190lbs

Aberg’s game is centered around his superb skating ability. At this point, he projects to be one of the top skaters in the draft and creates most of his offense with his quick acceleration and high-end speed. Has solid offensive skill and an adept shot which allow him to be an effective scorer. Needs to prove that he can take his offensive production to the next level this season and be a consistent producer. Has fairly average on-ice vision and needs to do a better job of utilizing teammates and distributing the puck as the defense can focus on him if he’s not moving the puck. Aberg also needs to show an increased commitment to the defensive end as his speed will be a two-way asset as he improves his defensive play.

28. RD Ville Pokka – Karpat (SM-Liiga)

DOB: Jun. 3/94 | Shoots: R | Height: 6.00 | Weight: 198lbs

Pokka is another ’94 YOB defenseman from Finland who will have expectations in the 2012 NHL Entry Draft. At this point he isn’t quite as refined as Maatta and doesn’t possess as much offensive potential as his countryman does, but Pokka still projects to be a very capable NHLer with his solid defensive zone play. Pokka is a smart player who understands his role and plays well within his means, tools that will allow him to take a regular shift in the SM-Liiga this year as a 17-year-old. He will be in a group of players looking to vie for a first round selection and can do a lot for his stock if he has a strong WJC at Christmas.

29. LC A.J. Michaelson – Waterloo (USHL)

DOB: Feb. 8/94 | Shoots: L | Height: 6.00 | Weight: 185lbs

AJ Michaelson joined the trend of high school hockey players making the jump their senior year to the junior level. Michaelson joins the Waterloo Blackhawks this season after playing for Apple Valley High School in Minnesota. The move has many US junior followers scratching their head due to Michaelson’s commitment to Apple Valley program last offseason when he turned down an offer to play for the USNTDP in Ann Arbor, Mich. Nonetheless, Michaelson has the skills to standout in the USHL this season as the six foot forward can flat out fly. It will be interesting to see if Michaelson’s speed, which allowed him to create tons of scoring opportunities in high school by going wide on the rush, will continue to be effective against the bigger, stronger competition. Scouts have questioned Michaelson’s durability after he missed a third of his sophomore season due to groin injury, but the University of Minnesota commit shored up durability questions when played in all of the team’s 25 games last year totaling 29 goals and 31 assists.

30. LW Nicolas Kerdiles – USNTDP U18 (USHL)

DOB: Jan. 11/94 | Shoots: L | Height: 6.01 | Weight: 175lbs

Kerdiles may not own dazzling puck skills but he does play a very solid two way game and puts enough points on the board to merit a spot on the Top 30. Kerdiles skates well and attacks open ice with speed. Kerdiles seems to do his best work along the boards and deep in the offensive zone. He has a knack for coming out of traffic with the puck and takes the puck hard to the net. Kerdiles also goes to the net hard without the puck on the rush or looking for the dirty goals in front. He makes the simple, easy play when he has the puck and is good at identifying the best option. Where Kerdiles really stands out is in his defensive play. He’s good at keeping his stick in the passing lanes and reads the play well. Kerdiles forechecks hard when he’s the first man in but also shows discipline in taking away passing options. Kerdiles is also very good at providing support and knows when to step into the play. More often than not, Kerdiles is the guy who ends up with the puck in those instances. If Kerdiles’ offensive skills and output improve, he could climb the rankings much like fellow USNTDP player JT Miller last year.

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

Under 17 Tournament Recap

Scott McDougall — Sun, 09 Jan 2011 22:41:54 +0000

The U17 World Hockey Challenge was recently held in Manitoba over the holidays and TSR was able to attend half a dozen games in Portage la Prairie and Winnipeg. This was a great chance to get a look at some of the players eligible for the 2012 and 2013 drafts. Perennial powerhouses Team Ontario and Team USA meet in the final with Ontario winning a thriller 5-3. Team Pacific won 5-4 in overtime versus Team Quebec to win Bronze. The quality of the play was remarkable and although some teams fared better than others, each team received some impressive performances by players on their rosters.

Of the ten teams in the tournament, TSR contributor Scott McDougall was able to see all but two of them (unfortunately he did not get a chance to see either the Czechs or the Slovaks). The following is a list of players that caught his attention at the tournament.

1 Morgan Rielly | Team Pacific | Defense | L | 6’0 | 200 | 03/03/1994 | West Vancouver, British Columbia | Moose Jaw (WHL)

On a team loaded with quality defenders, Rielly stood out. He commanded the flow of the game at times with his puck rushing ability and was very good at both ends of the rink. A fantastic skater that was reliable in all situations for Team Pacific.

2 Nathan MacKinnon | Team Atlantic | Forward | R | 5’10 168 | 09/01/1995 | Dartmouth, Nova Scotia | Shattuck-St.Mary’s (U.S. Prep)

No disrespect to Alex Forsberg or any of the other top 15 year-olds across the country, but I have yet to see one better than MacKinnon. An explosive, smart, and physical player with very soft hands and a quick release. Despite being among the youngest players in the tournament, MacKinnon was near the top of the scoring leaderboard and was easily one of Team Atlantic’s best players along with Andrew Ryan.

3 Seth Jones | Team USA | Defense | R | 6’3 | 183 | 10/03/1994 | Plano, Texas | US National U17

Jones is a co-captain for Team USA and it is easy to see why. Jones is a very good skater and already possesses a very long reach that will only increase if he grows to be anywhere near the size of his 6’8″ former NBA-playing dad. Jones can rush the puck up ice, is capable of making tape-to-tape passes out of his zone, is solid defensively and is willing to play the body. He made a couple positioning mistakes, but was able to effectively rectify them with his skating ability and reach. This kid has big time potential. Named to the All-Tournament Team.

4 Henrik Samuelsson | Team USA | Forward | R | 6’2 | 195 | 02/07/1994 | Scottsdale, Arizona | US National U17

The son of Ulf Samuelsson was able to generate a lot of scoring chances because he is a big, skilled kid that skates very well for his size. He is very strong and plays with a chip on his shoulder. Samuelsson has a very heavy shot. A tough player to play against. A true power forward.

5 Derrick Pouliot | Team West | Defense | L | 6’0 | 192 | 01/16/1994 | Weyburn, Saskatchewan | Portland (WHL)

Smooth skating and smart, Pouliot knows when to push the pace and when to slow things done. Dependable at both ends of the rink, Pouliot is capable of leading the charge offensively or staying back to cover his own end. He has good vision, is a very agile skater, good passer and displays excellent patience with the puck. Named to the All-Tournament Team.

6 Ryan Hartman | Team USA | Forward | R | 5’10 | 182 | 09/20/1994 | West Dundee, Illinois | US National U17

Much like Samuelsson, Hartman plays with a bull-in-a-china-shop mentality. Solid on skates and hitting everything in sight. He was successful at finding space and he has a hard and accurate wrist shot that he likes to use. He played hard every shift.

7 Matia Marcantuoni | Team Ontario | Forward | R | 6’0 | 190 | 02/22/1994 | Woodbridge, Ontario | Kitchener (OHL)

Marcantuoni is a skilled player that isn’t afraid to throw his body around. Skates very well, is strong on the puck, can work the cycle and can score. Perhaps a little more skilled than Samuelsson, but not as strong or domineering. Marcantuoni was the catalyst of Team Ontario’s dominant top line.

8 Jacob Trouba | Team USA | Defense | R | 6’1 | 183 | 02/26/1994 | Rochester, Minnesota | US National U17

Trouba had an exceptional tournament. He skates well, makes a strong first pass and has a big shot from the point. Trouba loved to make a big hit and played on the edge resulting in him being involved in several physical and verbal altercations throughout the tournament.

9 Sean Monahan | Team Ontario | Forward | L | 6’2 | 180 | 10/12/1994 | Brampton, Ontario | Ottawa (OHL)

Monahan was very good at winning puck battles in the corners and proved to be very difficult to knock off the puck once he got it. He worked the walls well and he also displayed the good vision and skill expected of a much smaller finesse player. While he was just an average skater, it didn’t hamper his ability to contribute. A clutch performer.

10 Andrew Ryan | Team Atlantic | Forward | L | 6’3 | 186 | 01/15/1994 | Paradise, Newfoundland | Halifax (QMJHL)

Ryan looked a little clumsy at times, but moved around the ice pretty well anyways. With his impressive size, he was hard to push off the puck. He displayed very nice vision, a long reach, and good hands in setting up scoring chances for his teammates.

11 Anthony Duclair | Team Quebec | Forward | L | 5’10 | 151 | 08/26/1995 | Pointe-Claire, Quebec | Lac St-Louis (LHMAAAQ)

Another 15 year-old that had a very strong tournament, Duclair never took a shift off. He’s tenacious, tough and showed good ability at both ends of the rink. A skilled player with a lunch-bucket mentality.

12 Charles Simard-Hudon | Team Quebec | Forward | L | 5’8 | 165 | 06/23/1994 | Boisbrand, Quebec | Chicoutimi (QMJHL)

Hudon proved that if the opposition has even the smallest of lulls, he can be dangerous. He single-handedly scored a key game-tying goal on the Finns just six seconds after his team scored previously. Although small, Hudon is very shifty and creative with the puck. Wore the “C” for Team Quebec.

13 Chris Driedger | Team West | Goalie | L | 6’3 | 175 | 05/18/1994 | Winnipeg, Manitoba | Tri-City (WHL)

The big, lanky goalie consistently gave his overmatched team a chance against the tournament’s best squads. Uses his size well and is very agile and athletic. Able to find the puck through traffic. Driedger’s rebound control could be improved, but he battled hard for loose pucks and rebounds.

14 John Koslowski | Team Germany | Forward | L | 6’0 | 176 | 09/16/1994 | Berlin, Germany Eisbaren | Berlin Juniors (Ger)

Koslowski was far and away the most impressive German player against Team Atlantic. He wasn’t exceptional at anything, but was good at everything. He played a strong two-way game and provided character and leadership, never giving up even when it was obvious that Germany would lose the game. Competed hard every shift. He wore an “A” for Germany.

15 Matt Dumba | Team Pacific | Defense | R | 6’0 | 175 | 07/25/1994 | Calgary, Alberta | Red Deer (WHL)

Dumba played the part of the riverboat gambler at this tournament making for an exciting game at both ends of the rink. Dumba was electric rushing the puck, weaving around defenders and setting up the puck in the offensive zone. He was also dangerous on the powerplay, but had some misadventures in his own end.

16 Matthew Finn | Team Ontario | Defense | L | 6’0 | 195 | 02/24/1994 | Toronto, Ontario | Guelph (OHL)

With all the talented players around him, it is easy for a guy like Finn to get overlooked. Finn played a simple game, but was absolutely clutch defensively for his team and added a little offense when he had the chance. He played smart positionally and always kept his man to the outside. Finn was exceptional defending odd-man rushes.

17 Luca Ciampini | Team Quebec | Forward | L | 5’11 | 189 | 03/08/1994 | Montreal, Quebec | Halifax (QMJHL)

Ciampini wasn’t flashy, but he proved very good at putting the puck in the net. He found ways to get open in front of the net and buried every chance he got. Ciampini has a nice wrist shot that he is able to release quickly.

18 Hunter Shinkaruk | Team Pacific | Forward | L | 5’10 | 160 | 10/13/1994 | Calgary, Alberta | Medicine Hat (WHL)

Shinkaruk and Troy Bourke had good chemistry and were able to create offense by breaking down defenders’ own zone coverage, either by beating their checks 1-on-1 or by cycling the puck. Shinkaruk has a nice, accurate wrister with a quick release. Named to the All-Tournament Team.

19 Michael Matheson | Team Quebec | Defense | L | 6’1 | 169 | 02/27/1994 | Pointe-Claire, Quebec | Lac St-Louis (LHMAAAQ)

Matheson is a smart player who quietly went about his business in his zone. He is a very smooth-skating and has good agility. He has the ability to make crisp tape-to-tape passes in stride.

20 Griffin Reinhart | Team Pacific | Defense | L | 6’4 | 205 | 01/24/1994 | West Vancouver, British Columbia | Edmonton (WHL)

Reinhart captained the strong Team Pacific entry for this tournament. Paired with Matt Dumba, Reinhart was relied upon to shutdown the opposition as Dumba was often leading the rush. While being strong defensively, Reinhart also showed he is more than capable offensively when called upon. He didn’t use his size as effectively as he has shown in the past and was exposed a couple times against faster players.

21 Andreas Athanasiou | Team Ontario | Forward | L | 6’0 | 165 | 08/06/1994 | Woodbridge, Ontario | London (OHL)

The speedy Athanasiou caused some havoc in the neutral zone and was quick in transition. His strong showing led to his being named to the All-tournament team.

22 Scott Laughton | Team Ontario | Forward | L | 6’0 | 170 | 05/30/1994 | Oakville, Ontario | Oshawa (OHL)

Laughton was a very good two-way player for Team Ontario. He was very strong on his feet and cycled the puck well down low with his linemates Marcantuoni and Brendan Gaunce. He showed good hand-eye co-ordination, was hard to move from in front of the net and was able to convert some scoring chances.

23 Brendan Gaunce | Team Ontario | Forward | L | 6’2 | 205 | 03/25/1994 | Markham, Ontario | Belleville (OHL)

Gaunce skates well for someone his age and size. He put his size and smarts to work by effectively cycling the puck as part of Team Ontario’s top line. He also showed his good vision, patience, and decision-making to create scoring opportunities off the cycle.

24 Juuso Ikonen | Team Finland | Forward | R | 5’7 | 155 | 01/03/1995 | Espoo, Finland | Blues Espoo (Fin)

Small but shifty, Ikonen wasn’t deterred by bigger players. He refused to back down to anyone, and played with a lot of emotion. As a 15 year-old, he was able to contribute points against some of the best teams in the tournament.

25 Damon Severson | Team West | Defense | R | 6’2 | 182 | 08/07/1994 | Melville, Saskatchewan | Kelowna (WHL)

Severson has a nice combination of size and skill. While he was a gritty defender, Severson skated well and was able to stickhandle through traffic in order to carry the puck out of his zone and lead the rush.

HM Nicolas Kerdiles | Team USA | Forward | L | 6’1 | 183 | 01/11/1994 | Irvine, California | US National U17

While not spectacular, Kerdiles was solid in a pair of Team USA games. Named to the All-Tournament Team.

HM Troy Bourke | Team Pacific | Forward | L | 5’10 | 170 | 03/30/1994 | Onoway, Alberta | Prince George (WHL)

Showed some good chemistry with Shinkaruk. Smart player with a quick release.

HM Brandon Whitney | Team Atlantic | Goalie | L | 6’5 | 185 | 05/11/1994 | Centreville, Nova Scotia | Victoriaville (QMJHL)

Whitney is a gigantic goalie that was good at getting in front of pucks, but didn’t really use his body to his full extent. The potential is definitely there and Whitney made some very nice saves. Was prone to giving up the occasional soft one.

HM Mike Winther | Team Pacific | Forward | R | 5’11 | 170 | 07/09/1994 | Trochu, Alberta | Prince Albert (WHL)

Winther was a human cannon-ball against Ontario. He was an exceptional forechecker and had several large hits that resulted in turnovers. Energy player.

HM Markus Kojo | Team Finland | Defense | L | 6’3 | 205 | 03/30/1994 | Noormarkku, Finland | Assat Pori (Fin)

The big Finnish defender is still quite raw, but projects nicely to higher levels as a defensive player with a little offensive upside. Kojo had a good shot and read the play well. He is only an average skater, but used his size well enough to separate his opponents from the puck.

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)