It's time for an update to our media/scout list. There's still lots of
meaningful hockey to be played (CHL February/March, CHL playoffs, U18's), but
it's always great to see how opinions change over the course of a season.
Ultimately, things haven't changed all that much from our Preliminary list in
November (
here).
While there has been some minor shuffling, nothing outrageous has happened.
Mikhail Sergachev moves up a few spots, while Max Jones moves down a few.
Dmitri Sokolov goes from receiving 6 votes to zero. Nathan Bastian cracks the
top 10, going from one vote in November to 8 this time around. And Jakob
Chychrun hangs on to the top spot, despite falling on many lists lately
(although he did go from receiving 100% of the first place votes, to just over
50%).
As always, it's important to note the contributors, as without them and their
terrific insight, this article does not exist. For the midseason list, the
following helped out:
Corey Pronman -
ESPN
writer (
@coreypronman)
Dominic Tiano - Writer for The
OHL Writers
(
@dominictiano)
Dan Stewart - Director of Scouting for
Future Considerations (
@StewartFC)
Brendan Ross - Director of Scouting for
TheScout.ca
(
@RossyYoungblood)
Peter Kneulman - Provides OHL coverage at
OHL Writer (
@PeterKneulman)
Dennis Macinnis - Director of Scouting for
ISS Hockey (
@ISShockey)
Tony Ambrogio - PA Announcer for the
Mississauga Steelheads
& TSN editor (
@Tony_Ambrogio)
Mike Morreale - Staff writer for
NHL.com
(
@mikemorrealeNHL)
Anthony Mauro - Director/Founder of
Draft
Buzz Hockey (
@draftbuzzhockey)
Ryan Kennedy - Associate Senior Writer for
The Hockey
News (
@THNRyanKennedy)
Manny Paiva - Play by Play voice of the Owen Sound Attack (
@paivatheway)
Mark Seidel - Scouting Director for
NACS
Hockey (
@MarkSeidel)
Matt Grainda - Scout for
TheScoutca (
@graindaiv)
Todd Warriner - CHL analyst for
Sportsnet,
Colour analyst for the Windsor Spitfires (
@Todd_Warriner)
Mike Mackley - Writer at
Prospects
Hockey and Scout for the Powassan Voodoos (NOJHL) (
@Macker61)
Peter Harling - Writer for the
Kingston
Frontenacs,
McKeens Hockey,
&
Dobber Prospects (
@pharling)
Scott Wheeler - OHL scout with
Future
Considerations & Site Manager of
Pension Plan Puppets (
@scottcwheeler)
Reed Duthie - Play by Play voice of the Hamilton Bulldogs (
@rcduthie)
Kathryn Jean - OHL scout for
Draft
Buzz Hockey & Writer for
Ottawa
67's Report (
@msconduct)
and of course...myself (
@BrockOtten)
Here's the Top 10 with several honorable mentions:
1. Jakob Chychrun - Defence - Sarnia Sting
Total Votes: 20
High/Low: 1st (11x)/3rd (2x)
Comments:
"I know there's a lot of hype around other players, but I keep asking
NHL execs about Chychrun and they still love him. Man-child, Noah Hanifin's
skating acumen but with an edge, generational talent…it's hard to ignore those
types of comments." - Ryan Kennedy
"Poor guy is doing too much and distorting the picture making it harder to
tell what is what. Physical freak, purebred leader, great skater, but grenade-y
hands and jumpy decisions. Jones abused him back to back – bad timing. The 2nd
half is his to show he has it in him to be a top pairing D and not just one
with #3D ceiling.” - Anthony Mauro
"NHL scouts are really torn on him, although some still absolutely love him and believe he's right there with Matthews. I love a lot of things about his game, but I just wish I saw him be more of a consistent game breaker." - Anonymous
"Still the top OHL skater available in the upcoming NHL draft, Jakob
Chychrun has such an intriguing skill set its hard for me to see any player in
the Ontario Hockey League getting selected before him. Chychrun plays with
veteran poise, shows tremendous leadership qualities and is impactful in every
situation he's deployed in. A high end skater with excellent mobility and elite
speed, Chychrun excels in possession as he can dictate the pace of the game and
create offensive from the back end. Displaying high end vision and playmaking
skills, Chychrun is a strong decision maker that boasts high end hockey sense.
Defensively Chychrun closes gaps quickly and effectively, shows excellent contain
and an ability to be a versatile defender, excelling in both a physical aspect
and as a stick on puck defender. If there is one knock on Chychrun at this
point, it's that he can try to do to much. When his team is down he begins to
force plays and take risks that aren't necessary. However those are very
correctable errors that should smooth out as he continues to learn and
develop." - Mike Mackley
"
Seen Jakob over a dozen times this season
alone. Still my undisputed top OHL prospect as his upside is that of a true top
pairing NHL defender no matter what some outlets might be spinning. Coach
Hatcher has him reeling in his offensive game a bit more in favor of playing a
safer game which might not be for Jakob’s best interest from a showcase of
talent point of view as his offensive rushing ability is absolutely dynamic. A
jack of all trades type who holds excellent size, skating, smarts and offensive
skill plus the ability to be a pretty impressive shutdown defender." - Dan
Stewart
"Chychrun has the ability to impact the
game at both ends of the ice. His skating, vision and hockey smarts allow him
to jump into the offense with relative ease and when you add in his shot, his
offense is at a level that is NHL ready. And so is his defensive game. He
already has NHL size, plays a physical game and is almost always in position.
There is one thing that really stands out to me about him when I focus solely
on him: I cannot recall ever seeing a player who regularly directs traffic like
Chychrun does, especially, but not limited to the defensive zone. He has so
much respect from his teammates that they follow his lead and direction and
good things usually happen." - Dominic Tiano
"Has really had an uneven season...Last
month he has started to find his groove...All the physical tools you want in a
franchise D...Will need to play good through the playoffs to help the Sting go
deep AND keep his stock high...Teams are becoming wary of his indifferent play
at times." - Mark Seidel
2. Matthew Tkachuk - Forward - London Knights
Total Votes: 20
High/Low: 1st (9x)/3rd (2x)
Comments:
"Like his attitude and work ethic to go along with excellent one ice
awareness and small space skills. Still growing, getting stronger. As good as
anyone below hash marks offensively, where the NHL game is played." - Todd
Warriner
"What impresses me most about Tkachuk is his ability to play any style the
game commands. He can play finesse as demonstrated by his 70 points in 37
games. He can play the physical game as a 6’1”, 194 pound power forward. He can
think the game at an elite level for his peer group. All this wrapped up with
his impressive bloodlines make him a highly attractive and safe prospect."
- Peter Harling
"No doubting his offensive skills but slides down my list because of
benefits by playing with Dvorak and Marner." - Manny Paiva
"
High end hockey sense and positional
play, plus the grit and sandpaper combined with offensive skill to boot make
him a projected top line winger and Stanley Cup playoff warrior. Reminds me a
bit of a young Adam Deadmarsh more so than his old man after seeing him play a
bunch this season in London. A top-5 pick at this point." - Dan Stewart
"As good as Mitch Marner and
Christian Dvorak are, Matthew Tkachuk might be this year’s Knight ‘MVP’. He has
added another dimension to an already gifted team, and they’ve been unstoppable
offensively as a result. Love the way he plays with both power and finesse. Not
an extremely good skater, but he can handle the puck and score as well as he
can pass. He has an edge to his game that makes him a complimentary fit with
pretty much any type of centre. Tkachuk’s relentless on loose pucks and
excellent at lifting them off defenders to create turnover. He’s going to excel
in the NHL soon rather than later because of his maturity." - Scott
Wheeler
"There's so much to like about Tkachuk because he's the one player that
really stresses giving it 100 percent on every shift, and not just every game.
I admire that in him. He really opened some eyes for the U.S. at the World Junior
Championship, tying Auston Matthews in points for the team lead. He has good
hands, a nice scoring touch and can also fight for pucks in the dirty areas of
the ice." - Mike Morreale
"His dad was a great NHL player. Matthew could be more of an offensive
force. Like his dad, Matthew has a "dirty" streak to him. As a scout
said to me, with a smile on his face, "he's a nasty piece of work,
eh?" Isn't afraid to get his nose dirty or go to the dirty areas. I
never would have expected him to be number 1 on this list, but in my opinion
his play has improved as the season has gone on, that he deserves it." -
Tony Ambrogio
3. Alex Nylander - Forward - Mississauga Steelheads
Total Votes: 20
High/Low: 2nd (3x)/7th (1x)
Comments:
"One word: Dynamic. I don’t often use the word elite – it’s something I
save for the best of all time – but Nylander has some very elite qualities if
he is not elite overall. His puck handling is elite and his hockey IQ is elite,
his vision is elite. He is phenomenal in one on one situation. He is extremely
elusive; defenders have to be aware of his presence constantly. When I watched
him at the Ivan Hlinka, I thought he played a soft game. But that is the
furthest thing from the truth in his first OHL season. While he is more
physically involved than his older brother, he’s not a basher. But he doesn’t
shy away from the physical game – he’ll take what the opposition throws at him
and keeps on going. Nylander will also battle along the boards even though he
needs to add some bulk. He plays it smart and has excellent puck possession
skills, even in those battles. While he can improve defensively, he’s no slouch
in that aspect of his game either. He works extremely hard to get back on the
backcheck, and it’s helped out greatly by his skating." - Dominic Tiano
"Play at the World Juniors aside, Alex Nylander has quickly become
arguably the top Ontario Hockey League forward available in the upcoming draft.
Nylander is equally as smart as he is skilled. While the natural skill
set is undeniably good, Nylander's anticipation, on ice awareness, play away
from the puck and overall hockey sense is off the charts. All of which that
when combined with his high end skill set allow him to a high end NHL prospect.
In possession Nylander displays elite vision and playmaking skills, along with
high end puck skills and an ability create something out of nothing. A strong
skater, Nylander possesses above average speed and strong change of
pace/direction abilities that when combined with his high end puck skills and
hockey sense allow him to be extremely shifty and elusive. Most impressive
about Nylander's skating is his separation speed. Nylander often catches
unsuspecting defenders flat footed when he turns on his second gear, beating
the opposition to high percentage scoring areas. Boasting an absolutely lethal
shot, that combines a quick release with pin point accuracy, Alex Nylander is a
lethal offensive threat. Defensively speaking Nylander is consistently engaged
in the play and makes himself effective in his own zone, although if there is
one knock against him, he does turn the puck over looking to get creative in
zone exits in his own zone, which in turn can lead to quality scoring chances
for the opposition." - Mike Mackley
"Nylander has wowed me in all of my live viewings with the Steelheads this
season. Sweden’s best player at Hlinka Memorial, including a handful of
dazzling plays in their Gold Medal loss to Canada (created all three of
Sweden’s goals in the 7-3 loss) certainly helps. One of three draft-eligible
forwards to make Team Sweden at the WJCs and he didn’t disappoint, leading the
team in scoring. A shifty skater, jumps in and out of traffic with the puck,
weaving his way around the ice. Likes to cut to the inside and open up
opportunities for drop passes or a lane for a teammate. He out-performed fellow
top prospects and linemates Michael McLeod and Nathan Bastian in my viewings
this year. Not afraid to cut to the middle and shoot if defenders anticipate
pass. Lethal shot, shifts his weight effortlessly for a quick snap, can score
high from the high slot. He has one of the most accurate shots I’ve seen in
recent years in the OHL and QMJHL. Plays the point on the powerplay, plays on
the penalty kill as well — more responsible defensively than he’s given
credit. Can score with ease using his slapshot from the point too – low follow
through, loose grip. I think Nylander should be considered a strong candidate
to for 5
th or 6
th overall. But then again, I had William
ranked No. 5/6 in 2014 and he went 8
th. Déjà vu in 2016?
Maybe." - Scott Wheeler
"Despite being slightly undersized (6'0'' 176) Nylander is an electrifying
talent, who can simply dazzle fans, scouts and announcers. Able to create plays
in the heaviest of traffic, Alexander can also control the pace of the game
with the puck on his stick as well as being able to change the course of a game
with one shift. In the offensive zone Alexander is more then prepared to head
to the next level, however his deficiencies are on the defensive side of the
game, Alexander can get lost in neutral & defensive zone coverage BUT
can create immediate transition by using his speed to capture pucks in the
defensive zones. Although not a physical player, Nylander uses his tremendous
skill and puck sense to remove pucks from board battles before he can get
pinned down. A player who with some work on the defensive side can be an impact
pro." - Reed Duthie
"An elusive skater with elite hockey smarts. He is a strong puckhandler
and has fantastic vision which makes for great playmaking skills. His agility
and fancy footwork allows himself to get out of trouble. Nylander is also
intimidating as a goal scorer as he has a very accurate shot combined with soft
hands. He tends to shoot more from the outside when he is bringing the puck in
otherwise, without the puck he finds open spaces and gets in perfect
positioning for a shot in close. He is not an overly physical player, but does
not shy away from it and is able to come out with the puck with battles along
the board and in the corners." - Kathryn Jean
"Might have the best pure skill in the OHL...Will bring fans out of their
seats...Getting better defensively...High ceiling." - Mark Seidel
4. Michael McLeod - Forward - Mississauga Steelheads
Total Votes: 20
High/Low: 2nd (1x)/8th (1x)
Comments:
"I don't get all the "doesn't have a high offensive ceiling"
talk lately. Why is it that when a draft eligible prospect is a responsible
two-way player, he's suddenly labelled a future 3rd liner as if it's not
feasible that his offensive skill set improves? His skating ability makes him
so dangerous off the rush and with his size and smarts, he has the potential to
control play below the hashmarks too. His shot and finishing ability need to
get better, but that's something that can be improved. I'd still take him over
his teammate Nylander (although I do like Alex as a prospect too). Something
that doesn't get mentioned enough - he's currently the OHL's top faceoff
man." - Brock Otten
""Let's get this out there now: no one is letting this kid fall out
of the top ten to get Larkin’d again. He’s 6’2’’ with light speed, and he’s
getting check your eyes even faster with each new view. McLeod is a stud, who
should refine his choppy stickhandling and O zone choices to become a beast of
a #2C.” - Anthony Mauro
"The speed is incredible. Having seen him live, I could barely believe
some of the stuff he pulls off when he has the puck and he's pretty good on
face-offs, as well. Scouts love how he stood out on Canada's Ivan Hlinka
team." - Ryan Kennedy
" I know I have him higher than most others. The more I watch him, the
more I like. A tremendous all around player. Great leadership skills and it
seemed every goal he scored as a rookie was a highlight reel goal. Not much has
changed this year. Solid penalty killer and a big reason why the Steelheads
have the best PK in the OHL (as of this writing). I don't know if he will be
much of a goal scorer in the NHL, but I would take him on my team, any day! He
makes the line with Alexander Nylander and Nathan Bastian (all NHL draft
eligible) players go. He really is the straw that stirs the drink on that
line." - Tony Ambrogio
"One of the best well-rounded players in the draft. He is a threat with
and without the puck has a fantastic shot and effective playmaking skills. He
uses his size and speed to drive to the net and his acceleration makes him hard
to contain. McLeod has a strong wrist shot and is able to finish plays at top
speed which will make him very attractive to NHL teams. He competes hard and is
strong on the puck. McLeod is solid on face-offs and trusted to be used in many
key situations. I would pick McLeod over Nylander, but Nylander plays with a
little more flash and has strong NHL roots which may be more attractive to some
NHL scouts." - Kathryn Jean
5. Olli Juolevi - Defence - London Knights
Total Votes: 20
High/Low: 2nd (1x)/7th (3x)
Comments:
"I was actually more impressed with how he used his speed to defend at
the world juniors than with the actual offensive numbers, but Juolevi is
definitely the fast-riser in the bunch. Add in size and you've got a great
one." - Ryan Kennedy
"Two way D with the mind of an NFL quarterback. He hasn’t been seen as
flashy up to this point, but playing with Team Finland spiced things up a bit.
Juolevi could be worth spending a higher pick on than consensus would suggest
because of what he might look like unleashed as a pro. Has safety as a prospect
with his frame and head for the game.” - Anthony Mauro
"Arguably the best defenseman at the World Junior, Juolevi had a breakout
performance and solidified his hold on a top ten ranking for the 2016 draft. He
has good size at 6’2”, but doesn’t play the physical game as well as he could;
he doesn’t need to. He skates and thinks the game so well, like Niklas Lidstrom
he does not need to use body checks to be effective. Juolevi is a very smart
player and consistently displays sound decision making choices and is
positionaly very responsible. He has the confidence and skills to carry the
puck up ice and the vision to make breakout passes and run a power play. He
will have an impact in the NHL when he arrives." - Peter Harling
"Tremendous upside for the skilled defenceman who still has to pack on the
pounds. Good skater and shooter with great passing skills." - Manny Paiva
"Very few defenders, at a young age, can manage gaps as well as Juolevi –
a special gift, he forces attackers wide with ease. He has really blossomed as
the year has progressed. Plays in all situations for London and rarely looks
out of place. He won’t wow you by creating scoring chances for himself off the
rush but he excels at handling the puck and slowing the game down to create
clean entries or find teammates with outlet passes. He doesn’t get exposed in
puck battles but he could still stand to bulk up physically a bit before making
the step to the NHL. He has quickly become the second best defensemen in the
class, not just in the OHL." - Scott Wheeler
"London's Finnish import is very similar to previous Finnish import
Olli Maata. A force at both ends of the rink, Juolevi can play anyway his team
needs him to win. Physically, Juolevi is not the largest of defenceman but
makes up for it by taking tremendous angles in defensive coverage and using
that to benefit him in physical situations. His defensive zone coverage is
solid, if unspectacular but when the Knights looks for transition to offence,
Juolevi uses his tremendous hockey IQ & vision to deliver outstanding
outlet passes, crisp & accurate. Juolevi can also jump up into the play
and again uses great angles to create lanes and gets pucks to the net with
regularity." - Reed Duthie
6. Mikhail Sergachev - Defence - Windsor Spitfires
Total Votes: 19
High/Low: 3rd (1x)/Outside the Top 10 (1x)
Comments:
"Honestly, I think he has the highest ceiling of any defender in the
draft. Controls the point on the powerplay exceptionally well and creates a ton
of chances with his booming shot. Skates really well, which allows him to
create off the rush and evade the forecheck. Has all the physical gifts you
want from someone who can excel in his own end too. Even with the terrific
WJC's and Top Prospect's game from Olli Juolevi, I'd still take Sergachev
first." - Brock Otten
"Keeps getting better. Powerful skater, poised and solid with puck. Rink
and gym rat, who's a fierce competitor and wants to be an NHL
player." - Todd Warriner
"Sergachev has been very impressive in all my viewings this season. A
defender that possesses high end two-way capabilities, Sergachev is highly
impactful in all three zones. Defensively speaking Sergachev is tough to play
against. A player that shows little hesitance to engage physically, Segachev
shows an active and effective stick along with excellent contain along with
quick feet and impressive mobility. Sergachev separates player from puck with
relative ease and transitions up ice well. Effective as a puck carrier,
Sergachev also makes a strong and crisp first pass, before getting up ice and
joining the rush looking to join in offensively. Sergachev controls the
offensive attack off the rush well, forcing players to low percentage areas
while also taking the middle of the ice away with effectiveness. In the
offensive zone, Sergachev makes smart and calculated pinches while showing an
ability to create from the back end. Effectively creating shooting lanes with
subtle body and head fakes allows Sergachev to get his rocket of a point shot
on goal." - Mike Mackley
"Scouts have been really impressed with the 17-year-old Russian, a two-way
defenseman. He is solid 1 on 1 and is smart with and without the puck. He is
strong in his defensive zone, has a good shot and is good on the penalty kill.
It's interesting to note that Sergachev's favorite NHL player is Ottawa
Senators defenseman Erik Karlsson." - Mike Morreale
"Didn’t like the way his play slowed down in October after a good first
couple of games but Sergachev has been remarkable in December and January. He
has really found his rhythm and dictated play offensively. After Chychrun and
Juolevi, I like Sergachev in the next tier of defensemen in this class with
Dante Fabbro, Charlie McAvoy and Jake Bean. He’s physically built for the NHL
game and plays a lot in all situations. He could stand to actually shoot even
more than he already does, because his shot is a unique weapon. He’s got some
bite to his game but he doesn’t take
too many penalties, which is nice.
Exciting talent." - Scott Wheeler
7. Max Jones - Forward - London Knights
Total Votes: 18
High/Low: 3rd (1x)/Outside the Top 10 (2x)
Comments:
"I'm sure I have him a lot higher than most but Max Jones is a player I
would take on my team anyday. I love how he plays mean and with an edge
although at times I would like to see him play more controlled. Has shown he
has the skill and ability to end games when he wants as demonstrated by his
highlight real OT goals vs Sarnia in back to back games over the Christmas
holidays." - Peter Kneulman
“Still nasty, still held back in terms of role on a loaded Knights squad. He
set off sparks with the top line out during the WJC with 1.43PPG in 7GP. He’s a
PF still rounding into form who is yet to blossom fully even though he has
produced fine. Don’t like the TPG he had and may not have top ten natural
skill, but still, he has too many factors in his favor to fall that far past
it.” - Anthony Mauro
"Jones is a straight forward north-south player who possesses
aggressiveness, great speed and nastiness who is more than willing to go
through defenders –successfully- rather than try and dangle around them.
He’s a prototypical power forward who can get on top of the defence and
punish them. He battles along the walls and is near impossible to move off the
puck. Jones will fight for his space in front of the opposition goal. He plays
on the powerplay and that is usually where you’ll find him planted. He’s
very good in tight and has some finish there. It’s not all strength and power
to Jones’ game however. There is finesse to his repertoire. He’s an excellent
skater with high end top speed and an excellent first step. He possesses a pro
level shot with an excellent release and accuracy. His vision is very good and
has the high hockey IQ to go with it – an underrated playmaker in my opinion.
Jones’ play without the puck needs some improvement and is a work in progress.
He also needs to better choose his spots to be physical – he sometimes goes out
of his way chasing the hit. As he matures, those things will come to him."
- Dominic Tiano
"Jones is a chippy power forward with dynamic skills. He is relentless
with the puck and can often be seen forcing his way towards the net creating
scoring opportunities and havoc. His speed and strength allows him create space
for himself. He has a good shot and score in a variety of different ways. He
has a tendency to be overly aggressive and not always make the best decisions
without the puck – this is why I have him ranked a little lower. His size,
determination and nose for the net are his biggest attributes." - Kathryn
Jean
"Jones is making gradual strides in London. He's a big, strong
power-forward type possessing good speed and acceleration. He's got a heavy
shot and quick hands and loves to drive the net and challenge defenders
physically. He's proving to be tough for defenders below the hash marks in the
offensive zone." - Mike Morreale
8. Logan Brown - Forward - Windsor Spitfires
Total Votes: 20
High/Low: 6th (1x)/9th (6x)
Comments:
“Everything about Brown is a contradiction. Big – agile. High-end artistry –
brain dead glitches. Physical – pillow soft. I love the fact that in showcases,
Brown buries the puck with fire. He had his down moments, but this latest TPG
has shown that he is growing as a player in stages during this season and
improving in front of our eyes.” - Anthony Mauro
"Logan Brown is a player I want to like so badly and see a ton of pro
potential in, yet I come away wanting more nearly every time I see Brown and
the Spitfires play. Consistency is a big issue for Brown as he can be utterly
dominate one game and near invisible the next. This is also something you can
see with Brown on a shift to shift bases as he can fly under the radar are be
hard to miss. A 6'6, 218 pound centre who skates like the wind, Brown is
undoubtedly and appealing prospect. Possessing a long, fluid stride that allows
him to get around the ice in little to know time, Brown possesses intriguing
hockey sense and a level of offensive creativity along with a quick release and
accurate shot. I would love to see Brown and his hulking frame inject himself
physically more often and add an aggressiveness to his game. In my views Brown
has been a perimeter player more often than not, however when he does inject
himself and drive the net off the rush and off the cycle he is near impossible
to defend." - Mike Mackley
"
This big fella is a conundrum to me as he
has so much talent and projectable upside but ultimately I leave the rink after
many Windsor games disappointed and wanting more from him. Reminds me of how I
viewed Ryan Johansen in Portland during his draft season. He needs to ramp up
the intensity and bring more consistently to move up my board. Still a first
rounder but slipping due to poor shift-to-shift intensity." - Dan Stewart
"Massive center from the Windsor Spitfires
(6'6'' 220), Brown plays a style like legendary setup man Joe Thornton, in that
he uses his size to hold off defenders and his reach and vision to find passing
lanes to allow teammates to set up find the back of the net. One on one Brown
is one of the hardest players to play against due to his already advanced
physical stature and has continued from improve from his rookie season a year
ago." - Reed Duthie
"That big strong Centre that many teams
covet...Reminds me a lot of Ryan MacInnis in his draft year...Leaves you
wanting more at times..." - Mark Seidel
9. Alex Debrincat - Forward - Erie Otters
Total Votes: 14
High/Low: 5th (1x)/Outside the Top 10 (6x)
Comments:
"I'm not looking to much into his slow stretch the past month because
you can tell he hasnt been 100% since the world juniors. He showed in October
and November what he can do when healthy. He has a nose for the net and score
in multiple ways." - Peter Kneulman
"The questions around him are valid. Question marks on size, his recent WJC's, and who he plays with at center. But you can't argue with production. 1.5 points per game, tons of shots, and only a few secondary assists. He drives the game offensively and wins more battles than he loses. Ultimately it only takes one team in the first round to really love him." - Anonymous
"There is no denying DeBrincat is very undersized. But he has superb speed
to overtake guys one on one and is excellent at “hiding” and moving into the
scoring areas at the right time. While his mindset playing with McDavid was
that of a shoot first winger, he displayed his playmaking abilities in the
latter’s absence. Despite the size issue, he is more than willing to play
physical and is not dissuaded from going to the dirty areas. DeBrincat is also
an agitator and creates the impression that he enjoys the chirping game on the
ice. He can lure the opposition into taking needless and foolish penalties and
then work his magic on the powerplay. There is no question that discussions
about DeBrincat among National Hockey League teams will center on his size. Is
he a first round talent? In this viewer’s eyes: absolutely. NHL teams will have
to decide whether DeBrincat can be the Tampa Bay Lightning’s Tyler Johnson or
the Calgary Flames’ Johnny Gaudreau." - Dominic Tiano
"The fact that he is two inches shorter than Johnny Gaudreau, and that he
had a disappointing WJC with USA are the only reasons why he is not in the top
three. DeBrincat is an electrifying offensive wizard with the puck. His skills,
hockey sense and creativity are off the charts good. Survives the physical side
of the game by virtue of always playing with his head up, keeps his feet moving
and has excellent agility and quickness making him very difficult to hit. All
these traits should translate to success at higher levels, if not all the way
to the NHL." - Peter Harling
"It was too bad we didn't get to see more of DeBrincat at the World Junior
Championship for the United States. He is smaller than most (5-7, 163) but I've
been sold on his compete level and ability to score points with or without
high-end talent. DeBrincat can play with the best of them, skating with Connor
McDavid and Dylan Strome last year, and this year spending some time with
Tkachuk and Matthews in the WJC" - Mike Morreale
10. Nathan Bastian - Forward - Mississauga Steelheads
Total Votes: 8
High/Low: 9th (1x)/Outside the Top 10 (12x)
Comments:
"Power forward who is getting a lot more attention thanks to the
high-skill guys on his line, Bastian is making the most of his opportunity with
Nylander and McLeod." - Ryan Kennedy
"At 6’4” Bastian has very good size and while he’s never been “soft” is
using his size more effectively and beginning to play with an edge. His skating
and speed are above average which allows him to get on top of defenders, almost
always finishing his checks. His smarts, relentless pursuit and anticipation
cause opposition turnovers. Offensively, Bastian has good puck skills. He reads
plays very well and has very good vision and excellent playmaking skills. He’s
not afraid to drive to the net and is very good at finishing in close. He has a
very good shot and is not hesitant to use it. He’s currently at 15.3 shooting
percentage. He’s had the opportunity to play with both Nylander and McLeod and
has shown he can “keep up”. Defensively, Bastian does very well. He can play a
complete 200 foot game. He gets into passing lanes and has a very active stick
– and at 6’4”, you know he has the reach. He will not shy away from getting
into the shooting lanes and blocking shots. He’s also been a steady contributor
for two seasons on the Steelheads penalty kill." - Dominic Tiano
"
The power winger has looked really
dominant in some views and invisible in some as well. When he is on his game he
compliments a skilled centre very well with a physical/skill blend. Has
improved his skating and shot this season and I like him as a future shotgun
riding winger. An early-to-mid second round selection for me." - Dan
Stewart
"He has really come
into his own on a talented Mississauga team. He is big (6-4, 28), strong, has
good hands and a nice scoring touch. Playing significant minutes, he has set
career-high totals for the Steelheads in assists and points. He might be a
little underrated as a passer, but has proven to be a solid playmaker. He also
likes to play a physical game when needed." - Mike Morreale
"I'm still not sure if I'd use
a first rounder on him, but I do really like Bastian's game. He's got a very
soft touch for a power winger, as his playmaking ability is vastly underrated
as a critical component to that solid McLeod/Nylander/Bastian line in
Mississauga. Works the boards very well and can really turn it up a notch physically
when he needs to. He's a pretty similar prospect to Ottawa's Nick Paul IMO.
Could either continue to develop his offensive game, or level off as a very
solid 3rd line player at the next level. He was a smaller kid in his OHL draft
year (5'11) and is still growing into his now large frame. Patience could pay
off with him." - Brock Otten
Honorable Mentions
Logan Stanley - Defence - Windsor Spitfires (7 votes)
Highest Placement: 8th (2x)
Comments:
"My fastest riser has been a rock on Windsors bluelue. Teamed with
Sergachyov it is an enviable pair and Logan has done a great job in standing
out himself and getting out of his teammates shadow. A big blueliner who has
shown an offensive touch this year." - Peter Kneulman
"Most improved prospect, especially his skating. Confidence wains from
time to time but, size, strength toughness are alway there and works hard at
improving his skills. Loads of potential as well." - Todd Warriner
“6’7, graceful, and on a sharp development curve is exactly what an NHL team
will make a statement to select on draft day. I don’t blame them. Stanley has
the goods to make it as a top 4 titan who can merge subtle offense and
suffocating defense with excitement.” - Anthony Mauro
"I have a feeling Stanley will be a high-riser when all is said and done.
A defenseman with his frame that can move and play with nastiness is always in
demand." - Ryan Kennedy
"Made unbelievable strides from last year...Big horse that uses length
well...Will be hard to play against as a 25 year old...Limited offensive
upside." - Mark Seidel
Will Bitten - Forward - Flint Firebirds (5 votes)
Highest Placement: 9th (3x)
Comments:
"Honestly, I'm not even sure he's fully realized how to harness his
speed to his advantage offensively yet. With his work ethic and tenacity, once
he adds strength, he's going to be so hard to stop (off the rush, and away from
the puck). Throw in the leadership qualities and you've got yourself a pretty
solid prospect at back end of the first/early second. Should have a coming out
party at the Under 18's in April, if he can stay healthy." - Brock Otten
"Drafted seventh overall into the OHL by Plymouth, Bitten became part of a
relocated Flint team that walked out after coaching staff was fired early on
this season. Scored a big goal in Canada’s Group A action against Sweden in
this summer’s Ivan Hlinka tournament on route to a gold medal. Registered 11
points in five-game streak to start the month of November. Smooth skater who
isn’t afraid force a rush, carry the puck deep into the offensive zone or take
it to the net. Works effectively along the boards by sliding out of checks
despite his size. Hits extremely hard, can level players with their heads down
but needs to avoid leaving his feet. Stops up or twists and turns when gap closes
which allows him to hang onto the puck and create with his skill. He’s
extremely quick on his edges and buzzes around the ice. Can be aggressive with
his stick and will be prone to taking slashing and hooking penalties if he
doesn’t curb it. Needs to work on his faceoffs, gets out-muscled in the circle.
Has the skill to be a top 20 pick in the draft but will likely be more of a
later first round pick due to his size. He’s one of the more gifted skaters in
the OHL." - Scott Wheeler
"Flashy offensive player with game breaking speed, is slightly undersized
(5'10'' 170) but more then makes up for it with his tenacity, skill &
goal scoring ability. Defensive coverage will be something to work on for the
Flint winger but he can make up for mistakes made better then most due to his
explosive first stride and closing speed. Bitten has proven he can score at the
OHL level but the question he will have to answer is will his skill elements
translate to the next level." - Reed Duthie
"Bitten is a tenacious, speedy pivot who has been putting up nearly a
point-a-game numbers on a struggling Flint Firebirds team. He’s a very smooth
skater and can jump of the fly at any moment. He’s undersized but plays a
tougher style of game and isn’t afraid to get into the dirty areas. He’s always
fighting for pucks in the corner, backchecking and forechecking. He has good
anticipation skills and it allows him create turnovers often resulting in a
breakaway for himself. He has strong crisp passes and a soild wrist shot that
helps him finish plays. He stayed focus through all the Flint drama earlier
this season. He hasn’t been great with face-offs and will need to work on it.
Otherwise, moving Bitten to the wing might be a better choice when a NHL drafts
him."- Kathryn Jean
Adam Mascherin - Forward - Kitchener Rangers (3 votes)
Highest Placement: 9th (1x)
Comments:
"Still one of my favourite draft eligibles in the OHL. His shot is NHL
caliber and has been dynamite for Kitchener when 100%. Shocked he was passed
over for the top prospects game." - Peter Kneulman
"I was shocked when Mascherin wasn’t named to the CHL Top Prospects Game.
He’s been outstanding all year and a key player in the Rangers’ success. Crafty
for an undersized player, but thick build/strong lower body. Extremely low,
hard kick on his release that pops off his stick and beats goaltenders cleanly
— a real gift. Gets his shot off quickly and can score low or high with ease.
Strong possession player who likes to hang onto the puck rather than rushing
plays. A joy to watch. In my live viewings of him this season he has dictated
play with his agility (not the fastest top speed, but can change speeds to beat
defenders from a standstill or change directions). One of the more talented
draft eligible forwards and he’s helped by his experience as a winger and a
centre. A worthwhile second rounder with late first-round upside." - Scott
Wheeler
"Since moving to the wing last season, Adam Mascherin has slowly worked
his way into late first round to mid-second round NHL discussions for me. His
height may scare some NHL scouts away, but his skill set and strength make him
stand out. He’s small but plays with a physical edge and doesn’t back down.
Mascherin has become an important key for the Kitchener Rangers this season. He
has great vision, creativity and awareness which allow him to set up his
teammates. He also has a very good shot when he uses it. He has a powerful
stride and excellent agility but sometimes struggles in his first few steps.
Once at top speed, he is hard to contain. Mascherin needs to continue to work
on being more active in the defensive zone. I placed Bitten above Mascherin
because of his better skating skills." - Kathryn Jean
Taylor Raddysh - Forward - Erie Otters (3 votes)
Highest Placement: 10th (3x)
Comments:
"Consistent, strong guy, who's smart and showed drastic improvement
from last year...sleeper for me, like what he brings in terms of all round
game." - Todd Warriner
"Taylor Raddysh is a player who has intrigued me since I saw him playing
Bantam hockey. A big bodied forward with impressive hockey sense and a nose for
the net, Raddysh might not be the high end impactful player that others on this
list are, however he finds an effectiveness as a complimentary winger, toiling
on the Otters top line. A player who can create space for himself with his
size, Raddysh displays strong puck skills along with deceptively good vision
and playmaking skills on top of his elite shot. A player who effectively finds
soft spots in defensive zone coverage's, Raddysh works the cycle and half
boards with impressive effectiveness. Tough to contain out of the corners and
below the goal line, Raddysh combines strong puck protection skills with good
puck control to drive the net with authority. Raddysh is equally as strong away
from the puck and in his own zone which make him not only a strong
complimentary player but also a reliable defensive zone player as well. If
Raddysh could ever improve his skating, which I'd considered average, he would
become that more dynamic of a hockey player." - Mike Mackley
"Another big body that has offensive upside...Still has some holes to his
game but there is good potential...Would like to see him play more
physical..." - Mark Seidel
Cam Dineen - Defence - North Bay Battalion (2 votes)
Highest Placement: 7th (1x)
Comments:
"As I write this, Dineen leads the OHL in defenseman scoring. That's
not something that's easy to do in Stan Butler's defensive system. Dineen is
the real deal and it's only a matter of time before others realize it. Doesn't
have elite size, but he's already improved a ton in his own end (and now sees
consistent time on the penalty kill). Not even the immensely talented Bobby
Sanguinetti (even if he never worked out as an NHL player) led OHL defenders in
scoring under Butler. Never mind Rookie of the Year, if the Battalion keep
climbing the East Standings, Dineen could be a candidate for Defenseman of the
Year." - Brock Otten
"Perhaps one of the lowest rated players who should vault up the rankings
in the second half of the season. Dineen as an OHL rookie has been an offensive
revelation of the defensively minded Stan Butler. Dineen is the driving force
behind the Battalion offence and while size is a concern, his defensive game
has developed under Butler noticeably this year. Like Provorov last year, and
Sanheim the year prior, expect Dineen to be this year’s big riser in the
rankings." - Peter Harling
Markus Niemelainen - Defence - Saginaw Spirit (1 vote)
Highest Placement: 8th (1x)
Comments:
"Strong, physical, powerful defenceman who skates very well for a
defenceman of his size (6'5'' 190). Niemelainen was at one point considered a
defensive specialist, where he does continue to thrive at both 5 on 5 &
on the PK, however the Finnish import has improved his offensive game (despite
only 1 goal on the season) to the tune of 23 assists in 47 games on a Saginaw
team which has seen extended periods of offensive drought. Niemelainen will
need to continue to his development on the ice as well as off but has the
potential to be a tremendous addition for a team in the latter stages of the
1st round." - Reed Duthie
Sean Day - Defence - Mississauga Steelheads (1 vote)
Highest Placement: 9th (1x)
Comments:
"No one in this draft is as intriguing as this guy. When you watch him
you think, "there is NO way he is 17 years old." Then other times you
watch him and you realize, "Yup, he IS 17" Shift to shift you just
never know what you are going to get. But when he is on, look out! He has had
some family mattes to deal with and has been a healthy scratch at times, but at
the end of the day when you look at him and see his skill set and his size and
skating ability, it screams NHL'er. If he puts it all together - and yes that
is a big if - he could be the steal of the draft." - Tony Ambrogio
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