On July 4th, the Canadian Hockey League held its annual Import Draft. It is here, CHL teams get the opportunity to add import talent to their roster. There are two rounds of the draft, and a team can pass on their pick at any time.
Just to remind you, CHL clubs are permitted to carry only two import players on their team or protected list every year. However, if a CHL team has an Import who was an NHL first round pick they receive the opportunity to add another player to their protected list to cover should that first round import make the pro level. There are other scenarios which can allow you to carry the rights of three (such as having an OA Import, having an Import on their protected list who didn't show the year prior, having a player signed to an NHL contract on your list, etc). It is a pretty complicated process.
This year we saw the return of Russian and Belarussian players to the Import Draft, which obviously improved the talent pool. When we look at previous year's selections, several could join the league this upcoming season such as Noel Nordh, David Svozil, Adam Jiricek, or even Tomas Pobezal or Tomas Galvas. Given that many teams won't know what to expect from so many of their players, predicting how imports succeed next year seems very difficult.
Let's check out the data on the last five Import Drafts.
In 2019
22 of 28 players selected came to the OHL (79%)
20 of 28 players selected lasted the entire OHL season with their clubs (71%)
10 of 28 (open for debate) had a significant impact on their OHL teams (36%)
In 2020
14 of 23 players selected came to the OHL (61%)
11 of 23 players selected lasted the entire OHL season with their clubs (48%)
7 of 23 (open for debate) had a significant impact on their OHL teams (30%)
In 2021
17 of 27 players selected came to the OHL (63%)
16 of 27 players selected lasted the entire OHL season with their clubs (59%)
8 of 27 (open for debate) had a significant impact on their OHL teams (30%)
In 2022
13 of 24 players selected came to the OHL (54%)
9 of 24 players selected lasted the entire OHL season with their clubs (38%)
6 of 24 (open for debate) had a significant impact on their OHL teams (25%)
In 2023
18 of 28 players selected came to the OHL (64%)
16 of 28 players selected lasted the entire OHL season with their clubs (57%)
5 of 28 (open for debate) had a significant impact on their OHL teams (18%)
As you can see, the number of import players that actually come over has dropped into that 60 percent range in recent years (compared to when it used to be 75%-80% or so). This trend was started because of the pandemic, but it has continued post pandemic. Part of it is the fact that the USHL and NCAA is stealing a considerable amount of the CHL's thunder attracting top end European talent (especially netminders). And part of it is just the fact that European leagues have restructured their models to make sure younger players are being developed properly and afforded ice time. Will these numbers ever go back up to the 80+ percent that we used to see?
Of course this article wouldn't have been possible without the help of these experts:
Steven Graves (@German_Spitfire)
Czech Prospects (@CZprospects)
Matej Deraj (@MatoDeraj)
Chapin Landvogt (@Csomichapin)
Felix Robbins (@RVBScouting)
McKeen's Hockey (@mckeenshockey)
Here are the reports:
3. Windsor Spitfires - Ilya Protas - Wing
The younger brother of Washington Capitals forward Alexei, Ilya was a third round selection of...you guessed it...the Washington Capitals. Alexei was a standout for Prince Albert, helping them win a WHL Championship and Ilya projects as a pretty similar player at the junior level. He performed well for Des Moines of the USHL last year and the transition to the OHL should be a pretty easy one for him.
Report: Here's what we wrote about Ilya in the McKeen's 2024 NHL Draft Guide.
"Quite frankly, they (Ilya and Alexei) are similar players. Ilya’s skating is a major weakness currently, just as it was for Alexei. He has, as they say, heavy boots. Ilya could also stand to use his large frame more consistently to be a more impactful player through the middle of the ice, which was a concern for Alexei too. However, Ilya also has Alexei’s playmaking chops and vision. He is an outstanding passer. He also protects the puck very well, making him a threat in transition despite being a very awkward and lumbering skater. If the profiles are similar and Alexei’s found success in the NHL, why are we lower on Ilya? We just haven’t seen the same kind of flashes of dominance from him that we saw from Alexei in his draft year, making him even more of a project selection. Look for Ilya to head to the CHL next year now that the ban on Belarussian imports has been lifted."
6. Sarnia Sting - Ruslan Karimov - Wing
The Sting opt for scoring winger Karimov out of Russia, a player that we gave an "A" grade to for next year's draft on our early watch list at McKeen's Hockey. Our Russian scout and video scouts really like his upside. It also sounds like he's sold on coming over, based on what has been posted on social media. This is great for Sarnia, to potentially improve their overall skill in the top six.
Report: From McKeen's Hockey European video scout Steven Graves
"One the Russians I am excited for that is first time eligible in 2025 and as of today could see himself sneak into the conversation as a first round NHL draft pick if things go well. Karimov is a skilled power winger that has both soft hands and a tendency to throw his body around. He can control the pace of the game and is known to be an offensive facilitator in the MHL. Karimov is an exiting pick for a rebuilding Sting team and a guy that can help lead the offence for the upcoming season."
9. Peterborough Petes - Adam Novotny - Center/Wing
Certainly an interesting pick by the Petes, as Novotny is considered to be a top prospect for the 2026 NHL Draft (he's a late born 2007). He scored a goal in the Czech men's league early last season as a 15 year old. He's signed in the Czech league for next season, so is there hope that they can convince him to come now? Or is this a pick for the following year, when it's his draft year? Seems like a real long shot, but I appreciate the swing for the fences.
Report: From McKeen's European regional scout Matej Deraj:
"Novotný is an excellent skater with high offensive skills, he´s both a great shooter and passer. He´s active in defense and uses his stick well. At 6´1”, he already has a decent size, but he would benefit from adding muscle and using his body more. Overall, he´s a highly skilled offensive forward who could be a high pick in the 2026 NHL Draft. He´s currently the youngest player to ever score a goal in Czech top tier league."
From McKeen's Hockey European video scout Steven Graves
"One of the more exciting Czech prospects in the coming years. Novonty is a high end offensive winger who can put the puck in the net with regularity. He can move well, he thinks the game at a high level and himself very well to get himself into spots to get the puck off quickly. There is hope in Czechia he becomes a top draft pick in 2026, and producing offensively in the OHL right off the bat would go a long way with solidifying those expectations."
12. Niagara IceDogs - Gabriel Eliasson - Defense
Another highly interesting selection that I would consider a longshot. The reason for that is that Eliasson has a commitment to the University of Michigan and was the second overall pick by Cedar Rapids in the USHL draft. No offense to Niagara, but I have a hard time seeing Eliasson giving up a scholarship to Michigan to play with the IceDogs. As a player, Eliasson is a real throwback defender. Think Derian Hatcher, Scott Stevens in terms of physicality; he's one mean customer. He's also a good athlete for a massive defender, which gives him intriguing upside.
Report: Here's what we wrote about Gabriel in the McKeen's 2024 NHL Draft Guide:
"Eliasson is an agent of chaos. Think back to the mid to late 90’s when guys like Derian Hatcher and Scott Stevens were running roughshod. Eliasson would have fit right in with those times. Is that a compliment? To some, it’s going to be. To others, it won’t be. Eliasson is so physically aggressive that he crosses the line between effective and reckless quite frequently. At the Five Nations, he was solid, playing aggressive, but still in control. At the U18’s, he was, quite frankly, not good at all as he routinely put Sweden at a disadvantage with his disregard for control. The thing is, when he plays a more refined game, he is quite effective defensively because he moves well for a 6’6, physical defender. He can be quick to close on puck carriers and this makes him a suffocating presence. Offensively, he’s an adventure at times. His decision making will need to improve. Point production will never be his calling card. But, we like that he’s coming to the USHL next year to play with Cedar Rapids, before going to the University of Michigan. We feel that his game can grow on North American ice."
15. Barrie Colts - Emil Hemming - Wing
If the Barrie Colts can convince Hemming to abandon his pro contract in Finland to play in the OHL, it's going to be a major coup for them. The Colts have a chance to make some noise in the Eastern Conference and adding a prime time top six winger would go a long way to making that happen. Hemming, a first round selection of the Dallas Stars, was one of the draft's elite goal scorers this year and if he were to come over, he would likely have a similar impact to fellow Finnish forward Kasper Halttunen.
Report: Here's what we wrote about Emil in the McKeen's 2024 NHL Draft Guide:
"All indications are that Hemming is on track to being capable of a developmental path very similar to that of Halttunen, even having experienced an overall better DY draft season. This is going to be good news for a team, likely one stepping up to the podium at the back end of the first round, that is looking for a hard-shooting winger who is willing to unleash his shot from a variety of angles, whether it be with the full weight of his 200-pound frame or via a leaner on his off leg while also flashing power-forward tendencies in a season full of growing pains and playing-it-safe rookie caution. By the conclusion of the season, it was that one-timer from the left side of the slot that was his weapon of choice, showing true promise as a power play armament. In essence, his skating is just fine even if we’re still looking for an extra gear. There are times he doesn’t look as involved as he could be. At other times, he’s right in the middle of the action. He won’t hesitate to shoot, but if there’s a passing option that makes sense, he can make use of it deftly as well. Rather turned off by the unnecessary rough stuff, we keep seeing shades of vanilla in his game, but nothing in his progression to date should give worry that he’s not on a continual rise. Quite the opposite. Hemming possesses many of the characteristics of an NHLer with 25-goal potential. (courtesy Chapin Landvogt)"
18. Flint Firebirds - Mitja Jokinen - Defense
I really like this selection by the Firebirds. At the most recent U18's, Jokinen was probably Finland's most effective offensive defender, over the highly touted Aron Kiviharju. He didn't end up getting selected in the NHL Draft, so perhaps he would be motivated to come to the OHL to try to prove that NHL teams made a mistake on passing on him. He would take some pressure off of Tristan Bertucci, giving the Firebirds a good puck mover on each of the top two pairings. He would also help their powerplay.
Report: Here's what we wrote about Mitja in the McKeen's 2024 NHL Draft Guide:
"Already in his second season in the U20 SM-sarja, Mitja Jokinen is a two-way defender who battles hard. He’s very agile on his feet, showing off impressive four-way mobility. He distributes the puck well, capable of firing a long bomb to open up the ice. He doesn’t take many chances himself, potentially to a fault, so he doesn’t turn the puck over much. He can sit back a little too often without supporting his team, and there are cases of him misreading the play as it develops in front of him. Jokinen does have a couple of other strikes against him, the first being his size at 5’ 11”, 168 pounds. He’ll need to bulk up to be able to hold his own in the higher levels, including the Liiga. He also falls into that trap of being a well-rounded prospect who might not have that clear-cut asset that will help him climb the hockey ladder. He’s a bit of a project and gamble but could be worth a late pick. (courtesy Josh Bell)"
21. Owen Sound Attack - Max Blelcher - Defense
A "B" rated player by us at McKeen's Hockey for next year's draft, Blelcher is a fairly highly touted defender out of Germany. He's already proven to be a capable player against U18 players, helping Germany get back to the main group for next year's U18's. He was also the rookie of the year in the German third men's league. If Owen Sound can convince Blelcher to come over, he could be a potential top four defender for them.
Report: From McKeen's European scout Chapin Landvogt:
"With Carolos Händel plying his trade abroad, Bleicher is currently seen as the best of his class in Germany and the nation’s top 1st year draft-eligible defenseman in 2025. A fixture on the U18 squad, Bleicher’s overall wherewithal, physicality, hockey sense, and skill set already had him suiting up for 35 3rd league pro games, where he was 3rd on the team in scoring among defensemen. His straight-line skating and 4-way mobility need serious improvement moving forward but he’s a warrior with a strong understanding of the game and consistent urge to push the attack from the backside."
From McKeen's Hockey European video scout Steven Graves
"Bleicher is a player I personally have high hopes for. He is one of two German defenders selected in the import draft that I think have legitimate aspersions of being NHL draft picks. Bleicher is a steady defender that can help move pucks up the ice with both his breakouts and rushing ability, giving him a strong foundation in his own zone. He is great as using his stick and skating to hold gaps and thwart speed on the rush, and does an excellent job at positioning himself to get in the way of shooting lanes. There is work to be done in his game, but a guy I believe in."
27. Guelph Storm - Daniil Skvortsov - Defense
Another Russian off the board to Guelph, this time a massive defender in Skvortsov. If Guelph wanted to get bigger on the back-end, they succeeded here. A 2007 born, this one appears to be a bit of a mystery as our Russian and European scouts at McKeen's Hockey didn't identify him as one of the top 2007 born players in the age group from Russia.
Report: From McKeen's Hockey European video scout Steven Graves
"This is a simple selection to read into. Guelph wanted to get bigger and meaner on the backend and Skvortsov offers just that. He is a 6’4” defender who provides little in terms of offensive production but can defend well, play physically and wear down the opposition. He is the type of defender that both OHL teams and NHL teams are fawning over right now. There is development left to be done here, and the Storm hope they can harness the potential of the big defender and tap into the offensive he hasn’t yet shown he can provide."
30. Erie Otters - Noah Erliden - Goaltender
If the Erie Otters want to take that next step next season, good goaltending is going to be critical. Insert Noah Erliden, an undersized, but talented netminder from Sweden. A 2005 born, Erliden was the top Goaltender at the 2023 U18's; he's a proven winner. A lack of size has prevented him from getting a sniff from the NHL, but that doesn't mean that he can't be a quality OHL netminder such as former undersized types like Brett Brochu, JP Anderson, Mike Murphy, etc. This is a really savvy pick.
Report: From my notes for the 2023 NHL Draft:
"Erliden is a smaller netminder that has the kind of skill set that you'd expect from an undersized netminder. He's quick post to post. He competes in scrambles and makes second/third chance saves. He controls rebounds well. He shows well as a play tracker and squares up to shooters. His size can be an issue as he can struggle to fight for sight lines and it would be great to see him more aggressive in cutting down angles to be appear bigger."
33. Ottawa 67's - Filip Ekberg - Wing/Center
Ekberg is a top prospect for next year's NHL Draft; someone we gave an "A' grade to at McKeen's Hockey in our 2025 watch list. He's a bit undersized. He's not quite the dynamic skater that you'd like to see from an undersized forward. However, he's incredibly intelligent and skilled. The OHL would be an interesting place for him to develop and he'd likely be an immediate top six forward for the 67's.
Report: From McKeen's Hockey Swedish scout Felix Robbins:
"Filip Ekberg is a gifted playmaker and dynamically puck handler. He’s always looking to push the pace when he has the puck through aggressive up ice passes or by maneuvering his way past defenders through deceptive handles and fakes. He’s got a good motor, plays vigilantly off puck and makes calm, tactical decisions with the puck on his stick. His shot is quick and accurate, though he doesn’t use it much. While he’s learned to deal with the physical tempo of a men’s professional league, his lack of size is still a sticking point and hinders him from making a greater impact on play as a whole. Even still, the high-end skill, pace, and intelligence should make him a lock for a top 6 role at the junior level."
36. Sudbury Wolves - Jan Chovan - Wing/Center
Chovan is a big Slovak forward who played as an underager this past U18's. He's played in Finland the last few years too. While we didn't list him in our 2025 players to watch at McKeen's Hockey, I know that he has some fans and is considered a potential draft selection. With the Wolves losing some scoring next year (at the very least David Goyette and Evan Konyen, and possibly Dalibor Dvorsky), he could come in and provide some quality scoring depth.
Report: From McKeen's Hockey European regional scout Matej Deraj:
"Chovan is a big and powerful two-way forward (6´2”) who uses his size well around the boards and in front of the net. He´s a jack of all trades, able to play both wing and center, solid in both offense and defense. Has a great shot, decent hands and strong skating. An intriguing versatile prospect for the 2025 NHL Draft."
From McKeen's Hockey European video scout Steven Graves:
"Once thought of as a potential top prospect for 2025, an off year in 23/24 saw a wavering opinion of Chovan. That being said, if Sudbury can get Chovan to show, they got a strong skating smart centre man that can affect the game at both ends of the rink. If given time and space he can make you pay, although he can have difficulty doing that for himself. If given the right linemates, you can really see Chovan succeed in the CHL."
39. Brampton Steelheads - Martin Vaculik - Wing
A late born 2006 winger, Vaculik was a depth player on this year's Czech U18 team. The Steelheads are hoping that they can upgrade their scoring depth here. By the way, it felt very weird to write Brampton Steelheads...
Report: From McKeen's Hockey European regional scout Matej Deraj:
"Vaculík is a speedy forward with smooth hands. He has a great compete level, putting in maximum effort every shift and always playing in high speed. He´s defensively responsible and has solid offensive skills, he´s a decent puckhandler with a hard shot. Vaculík is a great skater, but his physical play needs improvement."
From McKeen's Hockey European video scout Steven Graves:
"Vaculík is a strong skating winger that knows how to get himself into dangerous positions to score timely goals. He enjoyed some pretty good offensive numbers this past season in the Czech U20 league and hopes to continue that success in the OHL next year."
42. Brantford Bulldogs - Adrien Bartovic - Center
The son of former Buffalo Sabre Milan Bartovic, Adrien is a 2007 born Czech forward who has been playing out of Sweden the last few years. He's performed well for Czechia internationally and earned a few games in the J20 league this past season. Father Milan played in the WHL before being drafted into the NHL, so I wonder if that bodes well for Adrien's chances of playing in Brantford.
Report: From McKeen's Hockey Swedish scout Felix Robbins:
"Bartovič is a two-way playmaking forward and an exceptionally cerebral player for his age. He moves and positions himself very smartly off-puck to support play in all situations. Bartovič sees the ice well and executes on difficult passes to teammates in dangerous areas. He’s also got a wicked shot, making him a dual threat with the puck on his stick. The one knock against him is that he doesn’t apply the same level of involvement and pace to every shift. Despite this, Bartovič is the type of guy you can plug in anywhere in your line up (ideally in your middle 6) and good things will happen."
From McKeen's Hockey European video scout Steven Graves:
"Bartovic is one of Czechia’s more exciting prospects eligible for the 2025 draft. He enjoyed a mega offensive season in Sweden’s U18 league for Malmo last year and was a consistent producer for Czechia at the international level also. Bartovic is an excellent skating winger that can produce offensive off the rush with consistency."
45. Kitchener Rangers - Tomas Chrenko - Wing
The Rangers tried it last year with Tomas Pobezal, so why not take another stab at a young, but talented Slovak this year? Chrenko is not NHL eligible until 2026 with a late 2007 birthday, however, he's considered a top talent for that draft. He was a standout for Slovakia at the recent U18's, despite his young age. He could be a high end OHL player should he decide to come over.
Report: From McKeen's Hockey European regional scout Matej Deraj:
"Chrenko is a very skilled, offensively-minded forward who´s great with the puck on his stick, able to create countless chances. He uses his stick well in defense too, being active and fighting for the puck. Skating is one of his strengths, he´s quick, agile and elusive, able to lose defensemen using his feet. However, he´s smaller and lacks in physical play. An interesting player for the 2026 NHL Draft."
From McKeen's Hockey European video scout Steven Graves:
"Chrenko is one of many promising 2007 born talents that the country of Slovakia has to offer. Chrenko, a late birthday 2007, meaning he’s not NHL draft eligible until 2026, is a strong skating offensive forward that is able to create for himself and his teammates. At the international level, Chrenko is already playing up an age group and is one of the country’s more productive forwards when doing so. There is high end offensive talent here, there are just question marks on if he’ll be able to quickly adjust to the North American game."
48. North Bay Battalion - Natan Teshome - Wing
The perfect player for Ryan Oulahen and the Battalion. Teshome was passed over in this year's NHL Draft due to projection concerns, but he could be a solid middle six type at the OHL level. He's tenacious. He's quick. He can kill penalties. He's that high energy guy that Oulahen and his staff get the most out of. This is a great fit.
Report: From McKeen's Hockey European video scout Steven Graves:
"The name of the game with Teshome is his motor, he is relentless on the forecheck and is able to utilize his speed and tenacity to disrupt plays and frustrate his opposition. That being said, he does have limited offensive potential and although he can be a valuable asset on the penalty kill, I’m not sure how much offensive production he can provide since he struggled to produce at a high level in the Finnish U20 league. I hope for North Bay’s sake they’re able to find some offence, but I have my doubts."
51. Oshawa Generals - Lauri Sinivuori - Wing/Center
Was definitely a big blow to the Generals when Kumpulainen announced he would be returning to Finland this year. This is a team that has aspirations of repeating as Eastern Conference champions and losing your second line center isn't ideal. Sinivuori was recently passed over in this year's NHL Draft, but he's an intriguing player. He came into the year as a potential high selection, formerly considered one of the top forwards in the age group for Finland. But he had a disappointing year from a development perspective. Oshawa will be hoping to help him realize his potential.
Report: From McKeen's Hockey European video scout Steven Graves:
"Sinivuori is a complementary winger that is best able to utilize his skillset of getting in the hard area’s of the ice when paired with more skilled linemates. Oshawa was likely caught off guard with the early departure of Rasmus Kumpulainen and was left scrambling to find a replacement. While I find it unlikely they get an impact player like that at this spot with Sinivuori - there is still hope he can complement one of Ritchie or Sennecke well for next season."
54. Soo Greyhounds - Lukas David Holub - Defense
Holub is an average sized 2007 born defender who played with the Czech U17 team this past year at the World Under 17 Hockey Challenge. With Karki and Kudryavstev moving on, and Virgillio traded, the Greyhounds needed to focus on improving defensive depth and the hope is that Holub can come in and be an impact guy.
Report: From McKeen's Hockey European regional scout Matej Deraj:
"Holub is a smaller defenseman (5´11”), but he doesn´t shy away from contact and enjoys playing physically and hard. He´s also a good skater with a decent vision and playmaking skills. He´s more of an offensive defenseman, yet decent in his own zone and hard to play against. Holub also possesses great leadership skills."
56. Saginaw Spirit - Igor Chernyshov - Wing
Leading up to the draft it was being reported that Chernyshov was breaking his contract in Russia to play in North America next year. Insert the Saginaw Spirit who scooped up the San Jose Sharks draft selection. Chernyshov, a power winger, projects as an impact player for Saginaw who can help replace some of those high end losses to graduation.
Report: From the McKeen's Hockey 2024 NHL Draft Guide:
"Russian forward Igor Chernyshov fits the bill as a power forward. Standing at 6’ 2”, 190 pounds, he’s a big presence on the left wing, and acts like it. As a November birthday, he’s on the older side of the class and has learned how to use his size and strength to his advantage. This is proven by him not only playing in more KHL than MHL games this season but sticking with Dynamo Moskva for the playoffs. He’s a great skater for a player of his size, with a powerful stride and fluid movements. He has good straight-line speed and solid mobility. He battles hard for the puck in all three zones, using his body well to create separation between opponents and the puck. He’s hard on the puck carrier, making life as difficult as possible and forcing them to make a mistake. He’s going to be a player that opponents hate playing against. He has great hands, allowing him to navigate small spaces with relative ease and dig pucks out of traffic. He brings a great deal of skill to the ice, especially in his shot which has a strong, quick release. What will attract NHL teams is that there aren’t really any glaring holes in Chernyshov’s game. His floor is quite safe, and it will just be a matter of determining his ceiling. Which from the looks of things so far, is quite high. Chernyshov will likely be a longer-term prospect, especially being a Russian prospect. However, the tools he brings are enough to warrant a later first or early second selection. With the right development and continued progress, the winger could become a top-nine forward who contributes on the power play. It wouldn’t even be surprising to see a team call his name in the middle of the first if the fit is right. (courtesy Josh Bell)"
58. London Knights - Jesse Nurmi - Wing
Looking to replace Ruslan Gazizov and Max McCue on the Wing, the Knights opt for Islanders draft pick Jesse Nurmi. He's an older player than you typically see selected in the Import Draft, so this is probably just for a single year before he turns pro. But, on the flip side, Nurmi should come in and be an immediate impact player in the top six. He's a high energy, skill guy, so that's right up Dale Hunter's alley.
Report: From McKeen's Hockey European video scout Steven Graves:
"Nurmi, a fourth round selection of the New York Islanders in 2023, is a complementary winger that does his best work when he has more talented linemates surrounding him. He loves to go into the trenches for pucks and is able to have a massive impact on the game thanks to his relentless motor and forechecking ability. Nurmi would be a great addition for the Knights."
72. Sarnia Sting - Jack Bodin - Defense
Bodin is a big bodied, stay at home defender who was passed over in this year's NHL Draft. However, he's played internationally for Sweden and in the Swedish J20 league; his adjustment to the OHL would probably be pretty swift. Sarnia is trying to make themselves harder to play against with this selection, perhaps giving someone like Mitch Young someone to play with, or a stable partner for a younger defender like James Barr.
Report: From McKeen's Hockey Swedish scout Felix Robbins:
"Jack Bodin is a big, rangy, right shot defenceman who brings defence with a capital D every time he’s on the ice. He’ll get his frame and stick in the way of shooting and passing lanes, dole out punishment in the corners and in front of the net, and deliver big hits. He’s mobile enough to get around his own zone and manage his gaps effectively. You may not get much by way of offence or puck moving ability as he isn’t the quickest or most skilled, but he’s got a pretty big shot when given room to let it fly. The decision making and awareness of all the moving pieces on the ice are still a work in progress for Bodin. However, you really can’t get enough size or length in the backend and his physical style of play should translate nicely to North American ice."
From McKeen's Hockey European video scout Steven Graves:
"Sarina’s second pick, Swedish defender Jack Bodin is a tall, lanky defender that moves very well around the ice, is able to defend well in front of the net and possesses a raw skillset that needs refinement. He will provide very little in regards to offensive support but he will be able to be thrown out on the ice to help shutdown top offensive lines around the league. Maybe Sarina can help bring out his offense, although I doubt it."
75. Barrie Colts - Patrik Kerkola - Goaltender
One of the top Finnish netminders in the '07 age group, Kerkola was the starter for Finland at the most recent World Under 17 Hockey Challenge. He has good size and he'll help push Sam Hillebrandt for starts, hopefully giving the Colts a strong one/two punch in the crease.
Report: From McKeen's Hockey European video scout Steven Graves:
"Kerkola is undoubtedly one of the top Finnish goaltending prospects in his 2007 birth year. He has consistently been the starter for Finland in international tournaments in his age group and has even been invited as an underager for a tournament. Barrie hopes he comes over and continues to develop as one of the top goaltending talents in the 2007 age group."
78. Flint Firebirds - Karlis Flugins - Wing
Latvian players have had a lot of success coming to the CHL in the last decade and Flint goes that route with their second Import selection. He's very young, not NHL eligible until 2026 thanks to a late 2007 birthday. However, he played for Latvia at the recent U18's and he's played in Sweden the last few seasons. This could end up being a pretty savvy pick for the Firebirds if they get a commitment.
Report: From McKeen's Hockey Swedish scout Felix Robbins:
"One of the few bright spots in Oskarshamn’s junior program. Despite him not having found his man strength yet, Flugins brings a physical, energetic presence every time he’s on the ice. He’s got a snipers shot and manipulative stickhandles. Skating looks a bit choppy at times, but should get better as he develops. Since he’s so young, the hope is that he gets longer and stronger and can grow into his budding power forward style of play. If not, the shot and the pace should be more than enough to plug him in to your middle 6."
From McKeen's Hockey European video scout Steven Graves:
"Flugins is a high octane offensive forward that loves to generate offense thanks to his slick skillset and skating ability. If Flugins comes over to Flint and continues to produce the way he has at the junior levels in Sweden, Flint have a fantastic offensive weapon on their hands here."
81. Owen Sound Attack - Rafik Varosyan - Wing
Another super young player with a late 2007 birthday, Varosyan is someone I've actually heard could make some noise for the 2026 draft. He was the second highest scoring 2007 in the MHL this past year, a very impressive feat given his age. The only player he was behind was potential top three 2025 pick Ryabkin. Can the Attack convince Varosyan to come over? Seems like it could pay off big time.
Report: From McKeen's Hockey European video scout Steven Graves:
"Varosyan is an Uber talented offensive player out of Russia that will be able to contribute right off the bat offensively if he decides to come over to the Attack. A late birthday 2007, means he won’t be NHL draft eligible until 2026 - Varosyan enjoyed a very productive year in Russia’s junior league the MHL. There are no guarantees he comes over, however so this is a pick fans hope shows up at some point."
96. Sudbury Wolves - Adam Nemec - Wing
So many late born 2007 players drafted by OHL teams this year and Nemec is another. The younger brother of New Jersey Devils defender Simon Nemec, Adam is a talented forward. He's considered a high end prospect for the 2026 draft and would be a nice get for Sudbury if they can get him to commit.
Report: From McKeen's Hockey European regional scout Matej Deraj:
"The younger brother of upcoming star defenseman Šimon Nemec, Adam plays as a winger, contrary to his sibling. Adam Nemec is a skilled forward with smooth hands, able to create chances and finish them, although he´s more of a shooter. He´s also defensively responsible. A great prospect for the 2026 NHL Draft, but still needs to work on his skating."
From McKeen's Hockey European video scout Steven Graves:
"Nemec, brother of New Jersey Devils defender Simon Nemec who was the second overall selection of the 2022 NHL draft is a very smart and skilled forward that sees the ice really well. He is able to think the game better than most of his peers and loves to put himself in positions to make plays because of it. There are question marks regarding his skating, and maybe he isn’t the most high end offensive contributor - but as of now Nemec is one of the top kids in his age group in Slovakia. Sudbury would get a good one if he ever decides to come to Canada."
105. Kitchener Rangers - Ondrej Kos - Wing
Definitely a solid insurance plan here for the Rangers if they can't get the Slovak youngsters to come over at some point. Kos was a third round selection by St. Louis and he already has experience at the pro level (Mestis) in Finland. He struggled with injuries this past year, but he's a solid North/South winger who could come in and provide an immediate impact in the top nine for Kitchener. He's signed with Ilves of Liiga next year, so this is likely a contingency plan to work on with the Blues for his development.
Report: From the McKeen's Hockey 2024 NHL Draft Guide:
"Kos is a fairly tall drink of water who makes use of active legs and an even more active stick to cause havoc around the opposition net and effectively pick off or get his stick on passes, be it on the forecheck or when presenting himself as a passing station for his teammates in traffic. Mobile, notably sturdy, and always ready to make use of a deke to gain time and space, he’s strong off the rush, especially when complementing a puck-carrier or charging the net. Still lacking in muscle and weight, Kos gets around on the ice really well and looks like a pro player, one whose level of production will increase when playing with mature, experienced players, as was seen in his 14-game foray into pro play at the Mestis level in Finland, where he’s scheduled to play next season as well. Rather menial production at the junior level and ensuing U18 tournament came on the heels of a midseason illness that left him lacking in his usual energy upon return. There’s plenty to like about his pro possibilities as well as the vision of a Kos with another 20 pounds of muscle on his wiry frame. (courtesy Chapin Landvogt)"
114. Soo Greyhounds - Otto Nuto - Goaltender
Every year there's a player or two taken completely outside of my scope and that's Nuto. A 2006 born netminder from Finland, Nuto didn't escape the U18 level and he didn't play at the international level. Is this Landon Miller's new backup? Probably not in all honesty, as it sounds like the Hounds will be getting Noel Nordh as an Import to pair with Holub. This is a pick with longer term implications.
Report: From McKeen's Hockey European video scout Steven Graves:
"Nuto is a big goalie that is able to cover a lot of the net with his frame. He didn’t play in any high level games last year in Finland as he only played games at the u18 level, but there is hope for the Soo that he can come over and provide stable goaltending for the franchise in the upcoming season."
116. Saginaw Spirit - Lucas Pettersson - Center
Stranger things have happened, but this feels like a bit of a longshot for the Spirit, even if they are a top notch organization. Pettersson, the 35th overall pick to Anaheim, is a talented two-way center man who starred for Sweden internationally this past year. He's got a contract with MoDo of the SHL for next season and it's rare to see Swedish players break pro deals to come to North America. Should this recruitment pitch work, it would be outstanding for Saginaw.
Report: From the McKeen's Hockey 2024 NHL Draft Guide:
"Scoring at over a point per game on a rather poor J20 Nationell team tells us that Pettersson is a scorer. He’s a dynamic talent on the puck, playing with a ton of pace and high-end skill. He’s a fast, fluid and explosive straight-line skater with exceptional edges, allowing him to be an offensive threat on the rush as well as off of the cycle. He reads the ice exceptionally well and can see teammates in his peripherals, setting them up with deceptive, creative plays. A no-look slip pass here, show-one-way-and-go-the-other there… his bag of tricks is deep. He’s got a whip of a wrister, but you wish his shooting ability was as elevated as his stickhandling and playmaking is. He’ll probably be able to score some goals at higher levels, more so on the powerplay than at 5-on-5. Pettersson keeps the pace high off-puck in transition, but he starts to lose some of that intensity and involvement in defensive situations, or on the forecheck. He doesn’t put much pressure on opponents trying to break out of their zone, nor does he seem to give a consistent physical effort supporting battles in the corner. Instead, he uses his skating and positional awareness to occupy space and react to the play in front of him. Pettersson doesn’t have his man strength yet, but even as he develops physically, the main concern is the amount of dawg he has in him. That’s not to say the effort isn’t there at all. One is merely left wanting more. Still, what you see is still quite impressive. Pettersson’s excellent skating and solid ability to read the game may help him reach the NHL in some capacity, but in exactly what role will be up to him. Just how high up the lineup will his offensive toolkit take him? If he hits his ceiling, he could potentially climb as high as the 2nd line. However, there is a risk he struggles to carve out a bottom six role without a more consistent application of that fantastic pace he shows in offensive situations. (courtesy Felix Robbins)"
118. London Knights - Gleb Semenov - Center
A big center out of Russia, Semenov didn't get a ton of ice time in the MHL this past year. This one feels like insurance in case they lose Kasper Halttunen to Finland or the AHL. Or, if he performs well and gets drafted this year, it could be a player to stash for next season, as London has done in the past.
Report: From McKeen's Hockey European video scout Steven Graves:
"Semyonov is a massive 2007 born centreman that is a hound with loose pucks in front of the net and has a touch of skill and vision that he uses to effectively find teammates for good scoring opportunities. He is a man amongst boys out there at times and can straight up dominate the physical side of the game at this level. There is no guarantee he comes over but there is hope Semyonov can be a great net front presence for this Knights team and a guy that isn’t afraid to get physical."
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