tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-25539030009551281752024-03-18T15:46:43.614-04:00OHL ProspectsYour guide to the NHL prospects currently playing in the Ontario Hockey League.Brock Ottenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08237782074032840702noreply@blogger.comBlogger1070125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2553903000955128175.post-87783186986767580012024-01-23T19:13:00.001-05:002024-01-23T19:52:03.534-05:00Midseason Top 50 for the 2024 NHL DraftIt's time to update my draft board for the 2024 NHL draft now that we're past the halfway point of the OHL season.<div><br /></div><div>Back in early November (<a href="https://ohlprospects.blogspot.com/2023/11/preliminary-top-50-for-2024-nhl-entry.html">on my preliminary list</a>) I told you that I was having serious difficulty ranking this year's crop outside of Dickinson at #1. I do feel a little better about it all now. I feel pretty good about the players I have ranked in the first three spots. Then I think there's another group at 4 and 5. Then a huge glut of players ranked 6 through about 15 that I truly believe can be ranked in almost any order according to preference. The depth of this group from the OHL is still not amazing. Right now, I'd say the OHL is tracking towards about 30ish players getting selected this year. But we'll see what the second half holds.</div><div><br /></div><div>A reminder that this list does not include potential re-entry candidates (players already passed over in the draft). Anthony Romani, for example, would easily be on this list and quite high. I do a separate list for them closer to the draft.</div><div><br /></div><div>Here's my list:</div><div><br /></div><div><b>1. Sam Dickinson - Defense - London Knights</b></div><div>Still my number one and I don't see that changing this year. Dickinson has such an easy projection as a pro. While I'm not quite as bullish on his high end upside as some of my scouting peers, I do think that he's a safe bet to be a longtime 20+ minute a night guy who can play in any situation. I've seen names like Noah Dobson and Alex Pietrangelo thrown around a bunch and I just don't think I see that kind of skill and creativity. I think people forget how creative and dominant in transition Pietrangelo was as an OHL defender. Ultimately I see Dickinson more in that Darnell Nurse, Brady Skjej prototype, which holds significant value inside the top 10. Where Dickinson excels for me is in his ability to start the breakout. I love his poise in the face of the forecheck. He trusts his feet and he has great scanning habits. He's just really tough to pin in. The size, mobility, and reach combination will make him a high end defensive player at the NHL level too. Right now he can be too passive at times, especially down low. But as he matures physically, I think he'll eventually become a more than adequate competitor. The point shot is a big offensive weapon for him and his decision making without the puck always stands out as a positive. He picks his spots well to creep up or jump up in the play. Early on in the season, Dickinson was struggling with neutral zone turnovers as he tried to be more of a leader in transition, but he's cut down on those in the last month or so. Although I would argue that he's cut down on those because he has simplified his approach. Whatever NHL team selects Dickinson is going to be very happy adding such a safe and stable presence to their blueline. </div><div><br /></div><div><b>2. Liam Greentree - Wing - Windsor Spitfires</b></div><div>The newly named captain of the Spits as an 18 year old, I don't see myself moving off Greentree at #2. I went very in-depth on Greentree for McKeen's recently, with a ton of video, so check that out if you want more on him (<a href="https://www.mckeenshockey.com/nhl-blog/2024-nhl-draft-scouting-report-liam-greentree-lw-windsor-spitfires-ohl/">found here</a>). In a nutshell, Greentree reminds me a lot of Jason Robertson at the same age. Big shot. Great puck protection tendencies. High level of skill and creativity. Great awareness and vision for a power winger. But also a need to improve his quickness and a need to improve the consistency of his two-way game. I think a lot of Greentree's skating deficiencies can be fixed with an emphasis on strength training and power skating the way that Robertson's were. I still see a lot of rankings with Greentree outside of the top 20 and I just can't understand it. Players like him; big wingers with skill and offensive upside, do not grow on trees. I really hope Greentree has a fantastic U18's for Canada in April (which seems like an inevitability given Windsor's spot in the standings) and rockets up lists to where he deserves to be placed.</div><div><br /></div><div><b>3. Zayne Parekh - Defense - Saginaw Spirit</b></div><div>Oh boy Zayne Parekh. I mean, how can you argue with the way he's producing right now? He could end up having a draft year for the ages. The sad thing is, it wouldn't matter how many points Parekh puts up, I'm going to guess that there are some NHL scouts and executives out there who have already made up their mind about him as a draft prospect. There's going to be a lot of worry that he's more of a Ryan Murphy type who has difficulty defending at the pro level and who has difficulty replicating his offensive success at the NHL level. They're similar kind of skaters too, with elite overall mobility and edgework, but only average quickness for their size. I saw a lot of Ryan Murphy. I think that's where the comparison ends. Parekh is just such a highly intelligent offensive player. He has that "IT" factor. He's so creative; crafty. Rarely do you see him get boxed in...in any zone. He doesn't force plays very often though. While he's certainly a high risk player, more often than not it's high reward. For someone who plays like he does, he does such a good job of limiting his turnovers and his poor pinches. I get the defensive concerns. There are times where he cheats for offense. There are times where he looks disengaged physically. But there are others where he shows a really strong stick and anticipation to shut down plays. He's a unicorn. There haven't been many prospects to come through the CHL like Parekh in recent years and that's why his projection is scary. Saginaw's free flowing system also makes it difficult for scouts to imagine him fitting within their team's system. We heard the same stuff about Pavel Mintyukov in his draft year and I'd say that's working out pretty well for Anaheim right now. Would I draft Parekh in the lottery? Maybe, but there are many other high end defenders this year with more projectable physical tools. But once those players are gone, you just have to bank on Parekh's upside. The reality is that this year's OHL playoffs will make or break Parekh's draft stock...whether that is fair or not. He's going to continue to rip up the regular season. But what will he perform like with all eyes on Saginaw as Memorial Cup hosts? What will he defend like in the playoffs? The pressure on him will be enormous. </div><div><br /></div><div><b>4. Beckett Sennecke - Wing - Oshawa Generals</b></div><div>Another guy that I did I deep dive on for McKeen's recently (<a href="https://www.mckeenshockey.com/nhl-blog/2024-nhl-draft-scouting-report-beckett-sennecke-rw-oshawa-generals-ohl-grades-video/">found here</a>). I think what people need to realize about Sennecke is that he's experienced a massive growth spurt since entering the OHL. He was drafted by Oshawa at 5'10 and is now listed at 6'3 and still growing (Mom was a Canadian national volleyball player). I think this has had a negative impact on his conditioning and it helps to explain the swings of inconsistency we've seen from him this year. I saw something the other day (apologies to the author whom I can't remember) that stated the majority of great junior players are early maturers, where as the majority of great NHL players are later maturers. NHL teams are on to this and they're targeting athletic guys like Sennecke who are still growing into their frames. As he gets stronger, expect the accurary and release of his heavy shot to improve. As he gets stronger, expect the consistency of his off puck play to improve. As he gets stronger, expect his first step quickness to improve to match his excellent agility, edgework, and top speed. When all that happens, he's going to be better equipped to take advantage of his high IQ and skill. I really like Sennecke as a first round pick because I see a ton of possible outcomes for him and all of them make him a useful NHL player in some capacity. There's upside, but there's also a solid floor that could make him an Alex Killorn type.</div><div><br /></div><div><b>5. Jett Luchanko - Center - Guelph Storm</b></div><div>I recently posted the <a href="https://ohlprospects.blogspot.com/2024/01/preliminary-mediascout-poll-for-2024.html">preliminary media/scout poll for 2024</a> and I was actually quite shocked to see how many of my contemporaries had Luchanko outside of the top ten. This tells me that he's being massively undervalued in the amateur scouting community right now. He's transformed himself from an excellent high energy checker as a rookie to a dynamic playmaker and offensive catalyst as a sophomore. Matt Poitras making the NHL this year had to have been such a blow to the psyche of Guelph players to start the year, but Luchanko was like "hold on, I got you." I love to see that from a younger player, stepping up to put a team on his back. Luchanko's got the speed, the tenacity, the skill, and the IQ to be a top six center at the NHL level. He's also a committed two-way player and has kept up the strong off puck play that he exhibited last year, despite being counted upon to be an offensive play driver. Really the only two things missing from Luchanko's game is a high end shot (it's a weakness) and strength to win battles consistently. He can be easily pushed off the puck/knocked off stride. But what I love is that it doesn't deter him from trying to work between the dots. He's like Thomas the Tank Engine. Once the strength and conditioning improves, he's going to be even more dangerous because we'll see him playing through contact. </div><div><br /></div><div><b>6. Lukas Fischer - Defense - Sarnia Sting</b></div><div>This is all about projection and upside. Right now, there's no question that Fischer is NOT the 6th best player from Ontario in the draft. He might not even be in the top 20 of that list. But, I'm still of the belief that Fischer can be one of the best defenders from this class when all is said and done. The physical tools are just so projectable. You've got a 6'3, 170lbs defender (and still growing since brother and Dad are much larger) who skates really well and flashes upside at both ends. What if Fischer ends up being 6'4, 220lbs with his mobility? That's a potentially elite shutdown defender at the next level. The thing holding him back right now in the OHL is a lack of aggressiveness. He's just too passive currently. He gives up space too easily to attacking forwards. With his reach and mobility, he should be bringing the fight to attackers by stepping up earlier, or by closing off lanes with his body. But instead, he gets beat off the rush, especially in transition. I think it's a mindset that will be fixed with more experience and added strength. Because there are times where that isn't the case and it's damn impressive. There are times where he dominates down low. Playing on a rebuilding Sarnia team means that his flaws are going to be magnified without being surrounded by other high end, experienced players. Offensively, I do see upside. Not Norris winning upside. But he's skilled enough to quarterback a powerplay at this level and he can start the breakout effectively and be a transition leader. Even then, with his pedigree, I'm just really excited to see how the perception of his ceiling shifts as he fills out. Even if it's just one event, I'm really curious to see how Fischer plays in this year's Top Prospect's Game.</div><div><br /></div><div><b>7. Henry Mews - Defense - Ottawa 67's</b></div><div>Honestly, I still don't know what to make of Mews and I've talked to several others who are in the same boat (this was evident in my aforementioned media/scout poll). The offensive production has been trending way up. I do think he has offensive upside because of his high end skating ability and penchant for being a difference maker in transition. Yet, I'm just not sure how everything comes together as a pro. The consistency of his decision making scares me. On one shift, he'll make a really intelligent read with the puck to help set up a scoring chance. On another shift, he'll make a poor one that leads to a turnover. The same can be said of his defensive game. On one shift, he'll make a great defensive play in transition, stepping up aggressively to close a gap, or a great read with his stick to force a turnover. On another, he'll completely blow a defensive assignment leading to a goal. The thing is, I know that consistency has kind of been the issue for Mews dating back to his U16 year. I wish there was more growth there. If all these kinks get ironed out, Mews is a potential difference maker in the NHL. If they don't, he likely ends up being more of a tweener. For me, I think his performance in this year's OHL playoffs are going to be critical for my final opinion. Ottawa is going to need him to come up big, even with the addition of Samuel Mayer. </div><div><br /></div><div><b>8. Carter George - Goaltender - Owen Sound Attack</b></div><div>Sometimes stats do tell the story. Carter George - .910%. Corbin Votary - .859%. Now Votary hasn't been great this year, but it also tells you how many prime scoring opportunities the Attack defense is giving up this year. And how often George is making great saves to keep his team in games. I just love George's vision and play reading ability. He's already very technically sound. He fights for sight lines. He controls his rebounds to limit second chance opportunities. He's aggressive in challenging shooters to make his 6'1 frame seem bigger. The mental makeup and compete are really solid. Are NHL teams going to wish George was a little quicker in the crease given his lack of size? Absolutely. But, that can be improved. If it doesn't, it probably limits George's upside and prevents him from being an NHL starter. But in a year that looks extremely weak for goaltenders in the draft, George is unquestionably my top netminder (overall) right now. It looks like NHL Central Scouting agrees with me too.</div><div><br /></div><div><b>9. Luke Misa - Center/Wing - Mississauga Steelheads</b></div><div>I get the reservations from some in the scouting community regarding Misa. Conversely, I get those who really, really like him. That's sort of a runaround way of saying that I fall somewhere in the middle. I love the speed. Misa is one of the quickest players in the OHL. He's truly dynamic. What I like about his game this year is that he's become less reliant on it to create offense. He's moving better without the puck, has become more inside focused, and has improved his shot to become more of a dual threat. Of course, Misa is also a competitive forechecker and someone who projects to be a high quality penalty killer at the next level. At times this year, I've actually liked him better on the wing and that could ultimately be where he ends up as a pro, to simplify his game and take advantage of his quickness. I say all this, yet I just have reservations about his overall skill level/creativity and how his offensive game transitions to the NHL level. I've seen Mississauga the most of any team this year. Porter Martone (eligible next year) routinely pops off and passes the eye test as a play driver. Misa I don't think has the same ability to problem solve his way out of traffic when his speed advantage is neutralized. Yet, I still have him 9th because I like his chances of being a longtime NHL pro. At the very least, I think Misa can have a similar career to the one Michael McLeod is having in Jersey. And at the very best, he's probably a solid middle six option like an Andreas Athanasiou.</div><div><br /></div><div><b>10. Gabriel Frasca - Center/Wing - Kingston Frontenacs</b></div><div>An offseason shoulder injury forced Frasca to the sidelines to start the year, but he's been quite solid since returning. The numbers aren't going to pop off the page at you. They're lower than some of the other Kingston draft prospects like Thibodeau and Battaglia. Yet, I really like what I've seen from Frasca this year. I think the attention to detail in his game gives him a really solid projection as a pro. Frasca is a highly intelligent player who can be highly effective in all three zones. The skating is solid (easily the best of the Frasca brothers). His bread and butter moving forward might actually be his shot. I think he has one of the best shots in this Ontario draft class. His scoring upside is excellent. Is his game more tailored for the wing where he can be a complementary piece? I think that remains to be seen. I'd like to see him drive the play more with the puck on his stick, especially when he's at center and leading the charge in transition. I'm always inclined to bank on high IQ players and Frasca is no different. No offense meant to Kingston, who want to make a nice run in this year's playoffs, but I'd love to see Frasca at the U18's in April.</div><div><br /></div><div><b>11. Sam O'Reilly - Center/Wing - London Knights</b></div><div>I don't think anyone expected O'Reilly to be the top contender for the Emms Family Award as the OHL's rookie of the year this season. He's been playing some tremendous hockey for London the last few months as he has worked himself up the lineup. I really, really like O'Reilly. He's exactly my type of player. He works his butt off without the puck. He brings a consistent physical element. He shoots the puck well. He drives the net. He has enough skill and protects the puck well enough to be a really solid complementary piece at the NHL level. I really wanted to put him higher and there's a chance that I do by the draft, but I'm just a bit hesitant right now because I don't love his skating. I've seen some praising his speed on social media, and I just don't see that. I think his stride is clunky and it lacks power, preventing him from getting clear separation. Luckily, O"Reilly is a smart player and his game is predicated on quick touches in the offensive zone, so it doesn't hurt him right now. But I can find a ton of clips where he just isn't able to evade pressure as a transporter. Once he gets going, he can be tough to stop moving North/South. He'll beat defenders off the rush. But, there's not a lot of variability in those attacks currently. He'll try to switch into a mohawk-esque stride at times to help him protect the puck, often receiving passes at 10-2, but he struggles to explode coming out of those pivots. He's very much in that second round range for me and I'd go to bat for him at the scouting table, but I do have some concerns about his skating ability limiting his upside.</div><div><br /></div><div><b>12. Cole Beaudoin - Center/Wing - Barrie Colt</b></div><div>I thought that it was fitting to have O'Reilly and Beaudoin back to back given some skating issues. I think O'Reilly is unquestionably a better mover overall so I give him a slight nod right now, but Beaudoin is a similar kind of player; a guy who projects as a solid pro because he plays a mature game that should translate well. Beaudoin is already a committed defensive player and excellent penalty killer. Not only does he have a great stick, but he's strong on and off the puck and is consistently engaged physically. I'm not going to lie, after his terrific Hlinka/Gretzky, I had higher expectations for him offensively this year. Overall Barrie has been a major disappointment and part of the reason for that (outside of injuries) has been the inconsistent play of their younger players. My live viewings of Beaudoin haven't been terrific this year, as he's been fairly invisible in them. So even if I like him, that does make it tough for me to rank him highly. The reality is that even if the skating has improved already, it still has a ways to go. Simply put, he works best as a complementary piece right now when he's not responsible for being the primary play driver...which is what we saw at the Hlinka/Gretzky too. </div><div><br /></div><div><b>13. Ryerson Leenders - Goaltender - Mississauga Steelheads</b></div><div>Leenders is such an interesting foil compared to Carter George. Two somewhat undersized netminders by today's standards, yet they play such different styles. Leenders is more of a "stopper." By that I mean he relies solely on his athleticism to make saves. And he does just that. He's been one of the better netminders in the OHL this year for a surprising Mississauga team. He routinely makes highlight reel saves look easy with how quickly he covers his posts and with how well he tracks the play at times. But unlike George, the technical components of Leenders' game remain much more unrefined. His rebound control, in particular, can be a real problem. He can struggle to catch pucks cleanly, trap pucks to his chest, or control his pads, kicking out second chance opportunities. Additionally, Leenders can be prone to giving up bad goals by failing to find pucks through traffic. He needs to battle for sight lines and play more aggressively in his crease, especially given his average size. I get why some of my scouting peers prefer Leenders because of his athleticism and upside. But I prefer George. Even still, Leenders is my second ranked goaltender for the entire draft and someone I wouldn't hesitate to draft come June. There is so much to work with.</div><div><br /></div><div><b>14. Marek Vanacker - Wing - Brantford Bulldogs</b></div><div>Easily one of the most improved 2006 born players in the OHL this year. He's gone from being a good skater as an OHL rookie (his skating was certainly one of the reasons why Brantford drafted him in the first round), to an elite one as a sophomore. Without question, Vanacker is one of the quicker players in the OHL. I really like his odds of developing into a high end middle six option for an NHL team down the line. He has good habits away from the puck and projects as a strong two-way player at the pro level. He plays a solid North/South game, using his speed to attack the net, with and without the puck. He has a heavy wrist shot and could easily be a strong complementary scorer at the next level. I think of some other players who have had similar profiles from the OHL in recent years (like Alex Formenton, Liam Foudy, etc) and I'd say Vanacker has been more consistently dangerous in his draft year than they were. I could easily see NHL teams valuing Vanacker more than a guy like Cole Beaudoin because the skating is better. I think what I'm looking for the rest of the way is more proof that Vanacker has the skill, playmaking ability, and creativity to play higher up a lineup down the line.</div><div><br /></div><div><b>15. Ben Danford - Defense - Oshawa Generals</b></div><div>Danford is just a really solid, potential stay at home defender for the NHL level. I kind of wish the physical tools were just a bit better (he's not a high end skater, nor does he have elite reach), but the defensive mind and compete level are just really solid. Danford is already one of the better shot blockers in the OHL because of how well he reads the play. His gap control is excellent and he has a really active stick in both the neutral zone and defensive zone. He competes below the goal line and takes away space, although I wouldn't classify him as an overtly physical player. Don't confuse him with a throwback stay at home defender like a Derian Hatcher. I think what I like most about Danford is the growth in his play with the puck this year. That's never going to be his role in the NHL, but he's cleaned up some of the turnovers that plagued his game last year and that were visible at the Hlinka/Gretzky Cup. He's worked to simplify his approach by improving his scanning habits and is getting the puck off his stick quicker in the defensive end. Additionally, we're actually seeing him jump up in the play and activate offensively. The shot is designed to strictly generate second chances and is probably an after thought at the pro level, but he holds the blueline well and has enough skill to navigate the neutral zone to help gain the zone. Additionally, he's a right shot guy, which we all know adds value. I think there is a real shot that he could be an Erik Cernak kind of guy at the next level.</div><div><br /></div><div><b>16. Jakub Fibigr - Defense - Mississauga Steelheads</b></div><div>Honestly, part of me wanted to rank Fibigr higher. I've been so impressed by the first year defender from Czechia. He's one of the best skating defenders in this class and he does a great job of using his skating ability to bring value at both ends. He's a very active defender who loves to be aggressive by trying to be disruptive in the neutral zone and he will look to be physical high in the defensive zone to help disrupt clean zone entries. Occasionally this does see him get burned, but his quickness often helps him recover quickly. Offensively, he's aggressive in leading the charge out of the defensive zone and will look to push deep into the offensive zone after successfully gaining the line. It's not uncommon to see Fibigr playing below the opposing goal line. He also does a good job of running the powerplay, using his lateral quickness and edges to beat pressure to work inside the dots and collapse the box. His shot is an OK weapon, but he could stand to do a better job of getting pucks on net, especially with his ability to walk the line and be evasive. I guess the concern I have is projecting Fibigr to the NHL level. I'm not really sure what he is. His decision making at both ends is so raw. I'm also not sure that he's skilled enough or creative enough to be a true offensive catalyst at the next level. His skating advantage won't be as much of a weapon once he exits the junior level and that's his biggest weapon right now. I like many components of his game, but I wonder how it all comes together. Still a 75-100 guy for me though. </div><div><br /></div><div><b>17. Luca Testa - Wing/Center - Brantford Bulldogs</b></div><div>Simply put...Testa just has to stay healthy. Started the year late due to injury, then he missed another month and a half before the holidays. This has had a negative impact on his development. He was playing some phenomenal hockey in November before the second injury and I don't think he's been quite as effective since returning at the beginning of the month. But, I really like the offensive upside. I think he's one of the most naturally skilled/gifted forwards in this crop. Every aspect of his offensive game is above average. He skates well. He handles well. He shoots the puck well. He has good offensive instincts and can drive play. I really like shift from being perimeter focused as a rookie (and even as a U16 player, to an extent) to trying to play between the dots as a sophomore. He's using his speed to be a high energy player off the puck and he's trying to earn touches. Much like Jett Luchanko, it's about adding that strength to be more consistent. Testa can be pushed off the puck and since returning from injury, I've noticed more offensive turnovers from him. I think he's pressing a bit. But I just really appreciate the adaptations that he's made this year to help him become a better OHL player and pro prospect. </div><div><br /></div><div><b>18. Jacob Battaglia - Wing - Kingston Frontenacs</b></div><div>I got a ton of questions about Battaglia after the release of the initial media/scout poll and the fact that Battaglia didn't receive a single vote. I think that's an extremely valid point considering how good Battaglia has been this year. Why isn't he getting more attention? The skating is probably the main reason. There is a definitive need to improve his quickness. I think there's a desire to see his physical play become a little more consistent too. While a big body, I'm not sure that I'd classify Battaglia as a power forward. All that said, I have been consistently impressed with Battaglia's play in the offensive zone this year. I think that he's a real high IQ guy. Equal parts goal scorer and playmaker, it's rare to see Battaglia turn the puck over. He's poised and patient, willing to use his size to protect the puck along the wall and work the cycle. Give him room and he could burn you. The skill is there and he consistently finds those soft spots in coverage, especially in that home plate area. 15 years ago, Battaglia would have been a first round pick IMO. Now, he's more of a gamble outside of the first two rounds, in hopes the athletic profile improves. Can an Andrew Brunette type find success in the NHL these days? </div><div><br /></div><div><b>19. Luca Marrelli - Defense - Oshawa Generals</b></div><div>I'm having a bit of a tough time with Marrelli this year. I believe a lot of others are too, based on some conversations that I've had. Some really like him, others are a bit hesitant. That hesitation comes from projecting him to the NHL level. He has a similar profile to the Stuart Percy, Roland McKeown types that have had a bit of a rough time transitioning to the NHL. Yet with a solid frame, good mobility, and good offensive instincts/vision...all from the right side...he's rightfully drawing significant draft attention. Efficiency is the name of the game here. I really like how Marrelli holds the offensive blueline and the poise he shows inside the offensive end. He's definitely a high IQ guy with the puck on his stick and he's a quick thinker who handles pressure well. The same could be said when he has the puck on his stick in the defensive zone. It's all about making quick plays to help start the breakout. No nonsense. Defensively, he's not as effective as his teammate Ben Danford, but he's more than adequate at the junior level. Again, it's those good instincts that help him get his stick in passing lanes and anticipate play well. As mentioned, I guess I just wonder what the projection is? I don't really see him as a powerplay quarterback at the NHL level. I don't really see him as a high end defensive guy either. With a late birthday, there's going to be a little less room to grow too. It's a little more what you see is what you get. You draft him inside the top 100 (which I would still do) and you hope the athletic tools improve a little more to make him just that little more dynamic.</div><div><br /></div><div><b>20. Kieron Walton - Wing - Sudbury Wolves</b></div><div>The big man has had quite the breakout for Sudbury this year as a secondary scoring option behind that terrific first unit. When Walton was drafted into the OHL, the consensus was that things would go one of two ways, either Walton would fail to become an OHL player because of major consistency issues or he would become an OHL star. He was the biggest boom/bust pick of that draft and for that reason he fell out of the first round. Well he's certainly proving a lot of doubters wrong at this point. NHL scouts are going to be rightfully interested in Walton's size/skill package. At 6'6, Walton's high end skill makes him a bit of a unicorn. He's such a dangerous North/South attacker because he's actually a good linear skater for someone his size. He can beat defenders wide with speed, but can also play through them and keep the puck in his hip pocket to drive the net. I wouldn't classify his shot as elite, but he's got really good hands in tight and has that ability to work inside checks to get pucks on net. The off puck play remains a big work in progress. The overall skating profile needs to improve. His East/West movement, edgework, agility, balance...all need to improve to truly unlock his upside. However, the reward far outweighs the risk here if you can get Walton in this range. Higher? I think I just have other preferences at this point in the season. </div><div><br /></div><div><b>21. Nathan Villeneuve - Center - Sudbury Wolves</b></div><div>Villeneuve has had to take a bit of a backseat this year, given the strength and the depth of the Wolves' forward group. The former third overall pick has struggled a bit with consistency, but that's to be expected when your ice time fluctuates. As such, I've had a hard time determining my opinion on Villeneuve's high end upside. I love the physicality and the potential to develop into a very good two-way center. He's one of those guys old school scouts would say, "plays the right way." Yet, I think Villeneuve is often most noticeable when he is supporting the offense rather than leading it. He gets himself to the net, he wins those board battles, and he finishes well in tight. I think the skating has improved a lot this year to the point where his speed is a strength. I'd probably say the overall skill level/package is only average. However, he is one of the few guys on this list that I do expect to stick at center as a pro and that will give him higher value to NHL scouts (thus him being ranked higher on lists like NHL Central Scouting). I plan to really get a better look and read on Villeneuve in the second half. Is he Luke Glendening? Erik Haula? JG Pageau?</div><div><br /></div><div><div><b>22. Kevin He - Wing - Niagara IceDogs</b></div><div>Playing on the IceDogs can't be easy. Last place in the entire OHL (as of writing this) and roster turnover has been a staple of the current management group. Yet, I do like the collection of young talent that they have assembled. He is certainly in that group. He's undergone a real interesting transformation this year. He's become quite the pest. I've seen a lot mentioned about He's scoring upside and his speed, but rarely do you hear about his physicality. It's become a huge part of his game. He's like a pitbull in the offensive zone. I'd actually probably consider him one of the most physical forecheckers in the entire OHL. Watching him this year has kind of invoked memories of watching Stefan Legein back in the day with Niagara. Pairing with those pest like tendencies is He's goal scoring ability. He can really fire it. I guess the concern that I have revolves around his vision and playmaking ability. It's by far the most inconsistent component of his game. It brings to light concerns over just how well he sees the ice as he skates himself into trouble or settles for lower percentage shots. I do believe some of that can be attributed to playing in Niagara and having the desire to do things yourself. But, the concerns remain.</div></div><div><br /></div><div><b>23. Christopher Thibodeau - Wing - Kingston Frontenacs</b></div><div>Thibodeau's skating and the energy he brings without the puck are the first two areas that you're bound to notice about his game. He plays at a lightning quick pace and routinely gains the offensive blueline for Kingston to help them establish zone time. I think the shot is a potential weapon for him too, especially after he bulks up a bit and is able to fight through traffic more consistently to get looks from the slot. His release is really quick. Even though he's extremely slight, he is actually fairly slippery in the offensive zone thanks to his skating ability; consistently darting in and out of traffic, altering his speed to evade pressure. The hands and skill are solid too. Consistency has ultimately been an issue this year. Because of his lack of size, he goes through stretches where he is kept to the outside. Given that he's a late born 2005, I just wish the production was a bit better. He's taken great steps forward this year, but when you compare his progress with a guy like Luke Misa, it becomes less impressive. I do like Thibodeau as a mid round gamble though. I think that there's upside here as a middle six option.</div><div><br /></div><div><b>24. Anthony Cristoforo - Defense - Windsor Spitfires</b></div><div>It's been quite the fall for Cristoforo, a player who started the season with first round consideration. Seems like the OHL has a defender every year now who fits that description (Cam Allen and Spencer Sova, for example). I do believe that a lot of this is circumstantial. The Spitfires have been a mess defensively this year and it has not helped Cristoforo stand out in a positive way. He's struggled in his own end too and it's been magnified because of the team's struggles overall. I still believe that Cristoforo is a highly intelligent playmaker from the backend. The vision, especially once inside the offensive zone, is top notch. But, the physical tools just haven't improved this year. We haven't seen that jump in skating and physicality that you typically see from sophomore defenders in the CHL. Not calling Cristoforo a poor skater by any means, but when you compare him to last year, it's clear that he hasn't become more explosive to help him be a more consistent difference maker. And the lack of physicality is evident. He's just not winning enough battles down low or near the crease. Ultimately, the U18's are going to be massive for Cristoforo's draft stock. Canada is likely to be missing many of the top defenders in this age group due to deeper runs in the playoffs and that opens the door for Cristoforo to play a much larger role than he did at the Hlinka/Gretzky. I still have belief in him, but I am worried that his skill set screams tweener more than longtime NHL defender, thus the mid round ranking. </div><div><br /></div><div><b>25. Riley Patterson - Center - Barrie Colts</b></div><div>Patterson has recovered well from a slow start. He's been a point per game guy since the holiday break. It's clear that he's starting to adjust finally. Patterson has a well rounded skill set. He's a good skater. He's a competent three zone player who should become a quality two-way guy as he gains strength. He can create in transition with his speed and skill. He finds soft spots in coverage in the offensive zone and shows good vision down low. He's just a well rounded player. Therein lies a bit of the issue. What is Patterson at the next level? I still see him as a player trying to find an identity at this level. Consistency has been an issue, much like the rest of Barrie. He's had problems with offensive zone turnovers as he can get easily pushed off the puck and skates himself into trouble. Kind of like Nathan Villenueve, I think he's been at his best as a support guy, rather than a play driver. That's not necessarily what you like to see from your center. But given that it's his first year in the OHL, I'd have no trouble fighting from him at the table in the mid rounds. There are a lot of different pathways for him to take as he matures physically.</div><div><br /></div><div><b>26. Parker Von Richter - Defense - Mississauga Steelheads</b></div><div>I continue to be a big fan of Von Richter's. The offensive game hasn't developed the way that I had hoped it would. I think the skating still needs to be upgraded too. Yet, I'm always impressed by him defensively. I think he's got a great mind for the game in the defensive end. He covers the net front and the slot well, rarely losing a battle for position and consistently getting his stick in passing lanes. He's a physical player who uses his size/strength as leverage to win board battles, suffocating his opponents. NHL scouts are going to wish he were a bit bigger than 6'1, but his right shot gives him value. While I wouldn't rank him nearly as high as I had him early in the year or offseason, I still would look at him late because I think there could be a place in the league for PVR despite some current limitations. I love the young make-up of this Mississauga team and he'll be right there growing with them all. Maybe he tops out as a Zach Bell type and never progresses further. But, maybe just maybe he ends up a Marc Methot type too. In the later rounds, as much as upside is intriguing, so is finding guys who can be possible role players in the future. </div><div><br /></div><div><b>27. Ethan Procyszyn - Center - North Bay Battalion</b></div><div>A lock to be drafted by an NHL team this year because of how he projects as a bottom six, PK anchor down the middle. Procyszyn is a 6'3 center who skates well, has good two-way instincts, is strong without the puck, and who does have some upside as a shoot first pivot because of a heavy shot. The NHL upside is likely fairly limited. But he should develop into a solid junior scorer at some point too, a prerequisite to being even a bottom six NHL contributor. At the very least he could be a solid depth option like Mackenzie Entwistle has turned into in Chicago. At best, maybe he can be a Nick Bjugstad type. There's a solid pro projection here. </div><div><br /></div><div><b>28. AJ Spellacy - Wing/Center - Windsor Spitfires</b></div><div>I was a Spellacy truther to start the year, but he had such a rough start to the year that I just had to move him down my rankings. My last few viewings of Windsor he's been much better and is finally starting to look comfortable again following the knee injury he rehabbed late last year and into the offseason. I think at this point, it's fairly obvious that his offensive upside is fairly limited. He's had some trouble finishing off plays (his shot needs to improve a lot) and the hands are not a huge strong suit at this point in time. He's at his best when he keeps things simple in a physical, North/South game. But I think that he can eventually turn himself into a really solid three zone guy who brings versatility with his power game. Maybe he's eventually a longtime pro like an Austin Watson? I just like the idea of using later round picks on guys like Spellacy who have intriguing athletic tools and who have solid floors.</div><div><br /></div><div><b>29. Jack Van Volsen - Center - Mississauga Steelheads</b></div><div>Van Volsen, previously thought to be one of the most talented forwards in this age group, just hasn't developed according to plan at this point. He's strictly a complementary guy currently; he does see the ice well and he does have the skill to make plays under pressure. But the physical tools just need to improve greatly for him to be a true difference maker. The skating hasn't improved since his U16 days and it prevents him from being a dynamic play creator. The strength and desire to physically engage needs to improve. Simply put...on most nights on this very strong, young Mississauga team...he's just there. The problem is that he still has the potential to be so much more than that. At this point, I'm not sure he gets drafted. He probably deserves to be ranked lower than this. However, I also think that at this point of the rankings, he's the one guy who does have that upside to be a huge swing for the fences if he figures things out. </div><div><br /></div><div><b>30. Frankie Marrelli - Defense - Ottawa 67's</b></div><div>I actually do really like Marrelli. He's a tough as nails defensively oriented defender. Really like how he defends pace, even without elite reach and mobility. He just anticipates the play so well and he's aggressive in his approach to take away space early. He has that penchant for the big hit, but times his physicality well. Offensively, Marrelli does have some upside I think, at least at the junior level. He can make a clean exit pass and he looks comfortable at the point in the offensive zone. His shot shows potential once he gains more confidence in it. I guess the concern I have is how few guys Marrelli's size make it as "stay at home" types in the NHL. It's just such a rarity. If he were an elite skater, I'd like his odds better. As is, I'd say that he's probably a long shot to be drafted at this point. However, I'd advocate for him late because I do think that he has some real standout qualities in his own end.</div><div><br /></div><div><b>31. Lucas Ellinas - Wing/Center - Kitchener Rangers</b></div><div>Physical, two-way forward who projects as a center down the line (IMO) despite the fact that he's mostly played on the wing this year due to Kitchener's depth. The Rangers have used him a lot in key defensive situations despite his age. He's not as good of an athlete as Ethan Procysyzn, but he projects similarly. I don't see significant upside as a pro, but he could end up being a solid role player down the line.</div><div><br /></div><div><b>32. Kaden Pitre - Center - Flint Firebirds</b></div><div>Similar player to his brother Coulson, only he's a natural pivot. He's also just not quite as skilled or as physically dominant. When you take those things away, but add in the "average skating" tag, you do have a player who can be a bit difficult to project as a pro. Kaden is pretty solid across the board, but without any above average qualities, what kind of role does he play at the next level? I think that's why we've seen him so far down many draft rankings (like NHL Central Scouting) despite solid production for a rebuilding Flint team. All that said, he's another guy that I'd advocate for in the later rounds. When his physical maturation is finished, I'd be curious to see if a few of those qualities elevate to above average, making him a high energy bottom six option.</div><div><br /></div><div><b>33. Nathan Aspinall - Wing - Flint Firebirds</b></div><div>Massive winger (6'7) who looks a bit like a tree out there. There's a real need to bulk up. When that happens, I'm very curious to see where his game ends up. I don't think he'll ever be the kind of guy who uses his size consistently; he's not a true power forward. But he does have a heavy shot and he can finish in tight. Can the skating improve as he improves his conditioning? A true North/South attacker, teams will be very intrigued by Aspinall's size and scoring combination.</div><div><br /></div><div><b>34. Landon Miller - Goaltender - Soo Greyhounds</b></div><div>Big netminder who has been making the most of limited appearances as a back-up this year. He's a great athlete, but as you might expect, consistency has been an issue. Rebound control has been a big culprit of that. Ditto for his positioning and angles. But he's a solid stopper with upside. I think he's an NHL pick, especially if he keeps playing well down the stretch.</div><div><br /></div><div><b>35. Bode Stewart - Wing - Barrie Colts</b></div><div>Stewart has the pro size and off puck tendencies to be a solid two-way player. He's done a good job killing penalties for Barrie this year and I'm always impressed by his effort at both ends. I think he does have some skill to play a North/South, net driving game. Firstly, he needs to stay healthy. Injuries have derailed his development a bit this year. Secondly, his skating needs to improve. Once he fills out, he'll be a very solid OHL player IMO, it's just a matter of whether he's more than that.</div><div><br /></div><div><b>36. Charlie Hilton - Wing - Ottawa 67's</b></div><div>Hilton has been in and out of the lineup in Ottawa. He hasn't always been very impactful. Pucks have had a tendency to die on his stick, especially in transition. Yet, I find myself so intrigued by the bits and pieces of strong play that he does show. He's got great size, plays a physical game and actually isn't a terrible skater. There's upside here. Big guys can take longer, especially from a coordination perspective. On effectiveness alone this year, he's not in the top 50. But I just think that there might be something there in the long run.</div><div><br /></div><div><b>37. Charlie Paquette - Wing - Guelph Storm</b></div><div>After a really strong start to the season, Paquette's offensive game has dropped off a cliff in recent months. He just hasn't been as noticeable. And as a late born 2005, that's probably not going to cut it for NHL scouts. I think he still has great upside as an OHL scorer because of the frame, physical approach, and heavy shot, but he's just not getting to those soft spots consistently enough. His confidence with the puck seems to have fallen off too. </div><div><br /></div><div><b>38. Cole Davis - Wing - Windsor Spitfires</b></div><div>Davis is a true high energy guy. He's all over the ice and is great in puck pursuit. He has been a real nice surprise for Windsor this year in what has been a really disappointing season. Put him beside high skill guys and he's going to standout with how he does the dirty work on his line and works to earn touches. But he's not huge and he's not exceptionally quick (it may seem that way because he never stops moving his feet, but he's not really a speedster). He's also not a high skill guy. I have Davis ranked here out of respect for how he always catches your eye, but in reality, he's probably just a really solid OHL guy and not more. The second coming of Cory Tanaka.</div><div><br /></div><div><b>39. Mason Zebeski - Wing - Mississauga Steelheads</b></div><div>A player with a real strong sense of identity. You'd probably expect that given his late 2005 birthday. He knows how to leverage his size/strength advantage to get to the net and to win battles for the puck. He can finish off plays in tight with good enough hands. Skating isn't a weakness either. I know NHL Central Scouting has him ranked much higher, but I'm just not sure I see NHL upside. Really like the player as an OHL player, especially alongside this great, young Steelheads group. He's the perfect complement to guys like Misa, Martone, etc. But I'm not sure I see more.</div><div><b><br /></b></div><div><b>40. Owen Protz - Defense - Brantford Bulldogs</b></div><div>Really have my eye on Protz in Brantford. He caught my eye a lot in Sudbury with limited ice time, but now he's getting nearly 20 minutes a game in Brantford. I like the size, mobility, and physicality. Now it's time to see what the ceiling is as an offensive player. With continued strong play for the Bulldogs, he'll be much higher on my final list. For now, this is a fairly temperate ranking. </div><div><br /></div><div><b>41. Jack Brauti - Defense - Barrie Colts</b></div><div>A real unsung hero for Barrie this year; one of the few pleasant surprises in what has been a disappointing year. The trade of Connor Punnett has opened up space and more ice time for Brauti. He's been a real steady defensive presence. I'd actually classify him as the most physical defender available from the OHL this year. He blocks shots. He clears the crease. Now it's time to see if he can handle more responsibility with the puck. Putting he and Protz beside each other made sense.</div><div><br /></div><div><b>42. Jakub Chromiak - Defense - Kingston Frontenacs</b></div><div>The trade to Kingston hasn't really done much for Chromiak's sinking draft stock. Once thought of as a highly promising prospect, Chromiak just hasn't developed the way many thought he would. I think the best term to describe him would be vanilla. He's a good skater. He's a good puck mover. But he's not innately skilled enough to be a true difference maker offensively or a high end powerplay QB. Additionally, he has struggled defensively since coming to the OHL. The physical engagement level isn't high enough. I say this with disappointment too, as someone who liked his brother. </div><div><br /></div><div><b>43. Alex Kostov - Wing - Flint Firebirds</b></div><div>Another guy I'm watching closely with a new team. A big winger, Kostov had moments with the Greyhounds. I think there's still good offensive upside as a scorer. But he needs to add strength and find a way to the middle of the ice more consistently. Let's see what he does in Flint.</div><div><br /></div><div><b>44. Jared Woolley - Defense - London Knights</b></div><div>Firstly, Jared is not the son of former NHL defender Jason Woolley. But he is a potential draft pick because of his size and the faith NHL teams have in the London development model. At 6'4 and well over 200lbs, Woolley has stood out at times as a stay at home type. Mobility and puck skill need to improve, but I'm sure he'll have his fans. After playing much of the year in the GOJHL, I want to see more from him down the stretch.</div><div><br /></div><div><b>45. Sam McCue - Wing - Owen Sound Attack</b></div><div>Basically Mason Zebeski. Sam is a late born 2005 who understands how to be a strong support player with his size and ability to work between the dots. He competes hard away from the puck and is a typical Owen Sound type of player. I think Mason's offensive ceiling is just a tad higher, but he could draw NHL interest all the same.</div><div><br /></div><div><b>46. Karsen Chartier - Goaltender - Sarnia Sting</b></div><div>It can't be easy to be a goaltender in your draft year on a rebuilding team like Sarnia. Really magnifies your flaws as you face high end scoring chances by the dozen. But Chartier has had some moments of real brilliance this year. Big kid. Good athlete. Shows potential as a play tracker. He's someone to watch in the future even if he doesn't get drafted this year because of consistency and technical issues.</div><div><br /></div><div><b>47. Matthew Virgillio - Defense - Soo Greyhounds</b></div><div>Once upon a time ago, Virgillio was considered one of the best defenders in this age group. But his development in Sault Ste. Marie hasn't really gone according to plan. I do think some of that is circumstantial. The Hounds brought in Karki this year and he's essentially stolen the role I thought Virgillio would play this year. With less ice time, his confidence with the puck seems low. Every once in a while you can see the offensive upside he possesses because of his skating ability and creativity. But, at this point he's just not a true draft prospect. Deserves to be ranked IMO, but not highly. Worth noting that the Soo has had several defenders develop into NHL players later in their OHL careers.</div><div><br /></div><div><b>48. Josef Eichler - Defense - Windsor Spitfires</b></div><div>Physical, stay at home type who has been eating minutes for the Spits this year as a first year Import. Average size. Average mobility. Below average puck skill. I've seen him ranked highly on some lists...like NHL Central Scouting, but I have many other preferences. </div><div><b><br /></b></div><div><b>49. Caden Kelly - Wing - Ottawa 67's</b></div><div>I really thought Kelly would be more of an impact player this year for the 67's. Liked him a lot as a high energy guy as a rookie. This year, he just hasn't been able to earn more ice time and I'd argue that his off puck play and high energy approach hasn't been as consistent this year. A player to watch in the future still.</div><div><br /></div><div><b>50. Carson Woodall - Defense - Windsor Spitfires</b></div><div>The offensive production at the beginning of the year has proven to be unsustainable. But the Spitfires have definitely found someone who can be a longtime contributor to their roster through this rebuild. Woodall is just a really smart defender. The athletic tools aren't great (size, mobility, skill), so I'm not sure I see an NHL draft selection in his future, but he's going to be a solid four year OHL guy IMO.</div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div>Brock Ottenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08237782074032840702noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2553903000955128175.post-62811875064799224272024-01-16T20:47:00.000-05:002024-01-16T20:47:02.876-05:00Preliminary Media/Scout Poll for 2024<div style="text-align: left;">Time for the first media/scout poll for the 2024 NHL Draft!</div><div><br /></div><div>For those unfamiliar with how this works, I poll many of the OHL's brightest minds; those who cover the league incredibly well and know the OHL inside, and out. These contributors supply me with their top 10 available players from the OHL, in addition to some comments. I then put it all together and provide you with a cumulative list. Call it "the consensus."</div><div><br /></div><div>Views on the quality of this OHL crop vary depending on who you ask. I’ve heard everything from, “this is the worst group from the OHL that I can remember,” to, “it’s on the average side of things.” Where do I stand? I don’t think it’s a strong crop, but I also wouldn’t call it among the worst I’ve seen. Overall, I’m not particularly enamored with this draft class outside of Celebrini, and I think the OHL simply mimics this. But we’re still only half way through the draft season, so let’s see how things finish out.</div><div><br /></div><div>As always, this list involves contributions from a rather colourful cast of characters. Contributing their rankings and thoughts to this preliminary list for 2024 were:</div><div><br /></div><div><div style="color: #333333; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;"><span style="background-color: white;">Corey Pronman - NHL Prospects Writer for <a href="https://theathletic.com/author/corey-pronman/" style="color: #6699cc;">TheAthletic</a> (<a href="https://twitter.com/coreypronman" style="color: #6699cc;">@coreypronman</a>)</span></div><div style="color: #333333; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;"><span style="background-color: white;"><br /></span></div><div style="color: #333333; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;"><span style="background-color: white;">Dominic Tiano - Creator of The <a href="https://ohlwriters.me/" style="color: #6699cc;">OHL Writers</a> (<a href="https://twitter.com/dominictiano" style="color: #6699cc;">@dominictiano</a>)</span></div><div style="color: #333333; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;"><span style="background-color: white;"><br /></span></div><div style="color: #333333; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;"><span style="background-color: white;">Ryan Kennedy - Editor in Chief for <a href="https://thehockeynews.com/" style="color: #6699cc;">The Hockey News</a> (<a href="https://twitter.com/THNRyanKennedy" style="color: #6699cc;">@THNRyanKennedy</a>)</span></div><div style="color: #333333; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;"><span style="background-color: white;"><br /></span></div><div style="color: #333333; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;"><span style="background-color: white;">Scott Wheeler - NHL Prospects Writer for <a href="https://theathletic.com/author/scott-wheeler/" style="color: #6699cc;">TheAthletic</a> (<a href="https://twitter.com/scottcwheeler" style="color: #6699cc;">@scottcwheeler</a>)</span></div><div style="color: #333333; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;"><span style="background-color: white;"><br /></span></div><div style="color: #333333; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;"><span style="background-color: white;">Peter Baracchini - Draft Content at <a href="https://thehockeywriters.com/author/pbaracchini/" style="color: #6699cc;">The Hockey Writers</a> (<a href="https://twitter.com/PBaracchini" style="color: #6699cc;">@PBaracchini</a>)</span></div><div style="color: #333333; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;"><span style="background-color: white;"><br /></span></div><div style="color: #333333; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;"><span style="background-color: white;">Mike Morreale - Staff writer for <a href="https://www.nhl.com/" style="color: #6699cc;">NHL.com</a> (<a href="https://twitter.com/mikemorrealeNHL" style="color: #6699cc;">@mikemorrealeNHL</a>)</span></div><div style="color: #333333; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;"><span style="background-color: white;"><br /></span></div><div style="color: #333333; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;"><span style="background-color: white;">Josh Tessler - Director of Scouting for <a href="https://smahtscouting.com/" style="color: #6699cc;">Smaht Scouting</a> (<a href="https://twitter.com/JoshTessler_" style="color: #6699cc;">@JoshTessler_</a>)</span></div></div><div><span style="background-color: white;"><br /></span></div><div><div style="color: #333333; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;"><span style="background-color: white;">Tony Ferrari – NHL Draft Content for <a href="https://thehockeynews.com/" style="color: #6699cc;">The Hockey News</a> (<a href="https://twitter.com/theTonyFerrari" style="color: #6699cc;">@theTonyFerrari</a>)</span></div><div style="color: #333333; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;"><span style="background-color: white;"><br /></span></div><div style="color: #333333; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;"><span style="background-color: white;">Joely Stockl – OHL Content for <a href="https://thehockeynews.com/" style="color: #6699cc;">The Hockey News</a> (<a href="https://twitter.com/joely_stockl04" style="color: #6699cc;">@joelystockl04</a>)</span></div></div><div><span style="background-color: white;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="background-color: white;">Josh Bell - Head of Video Scouting<span style="color: #333333; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;"> for </span><a href="http://www.mckeenshockey.com/" style="color: #6699cc; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">McKeen's Hockey</a> (<a href="https://twitter.com/JoshuaBell31">@JoshuaBell31</a>)</span></div><div><span style="background-color: white;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="background-color: white;">Chase Rochon - <span style="color: #333333; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">OHL Regional Scout for </span><a href="http://www.mckeenshockey.com/" style="color: #6699cc; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">McKeen's Hockey</a> (<a href="https://twitter.com/chaserochon18">@chaserochon18</a>)</span></div><div><span style="background-color: white;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="background-color: white;">and of course...<span style="color: #333333; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">myself (</span><a href="https://twitter.com/BrockOtten" style="color: #6699cc; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">@BrockOtten</a><span style="color: #333333; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">)</span></span></div><div><br /></div><div> </div><div><br /></div><div><b>Here's the List:</b></div><div><br /></div><div><b>1. Sam Dickinson - Defense - London Knights</b></div><div>Highest Ranking: 1st (12x)</div><div>Lowest Ranking: -</div><div>Total Votes: 12 </div><div>Comments: </div><div>“You just don't find many defenders like Dickinson anymore. He's big, physical and defensively advanced for his age, plus he has some offense to go with it as well. London's development program for him turned out to be perfect and his NHL impact is easy to project. Can't see him needing too much more time to get there, either.” - Ryan Kennedy</div><div><br /></div><div>“London Knights’ defender Sam Dickinson might just be the top defender available in this draft class. Compared to the other defenders in the OHL (and the first round of the NHL Draft altogether), he’s arguably the best in his own end. His processing under pressure stands out, often making the best decision even when forced to make a choice. He can make some mistakes, but his processing and intelligence are a tier above the rest. His offensive ceiling likely isn’t as high as others available, but his overall impact is very intriguing.” - Josh Bell</div><div><br /></div><div>“He's a very powerful skater but very elusive, too. He can beat opponents in a lot of ways and he recognizes opportunities. He's going to be a big producer from the back end. It's impressive that he's playing top-pair minutes, top power play on a team that's pretty loaded with drafted players. The other thing is he's really improved his D-zone exits and when that passing opportunity is there, he does it and he does it on the backhand as good as anyone.” - Mike Morreale</div><div><br /></div><div>“Dickinson is a do-it-all defenseman who hasn’t quite figured out exactly what it is that he wants to be elite at as of yet. In one game, he’s an offensive transition machine, skating the puck up ice and creating off the rush. In another game, he’s reserved and plays steady and stable defense, forcing play to the outside and killing cycles along the wall. In his next game, he will be a creative offensive activator who can make some really impressive things happen in the offensive zone. The issue is that he hasn’t been able to put everything together at once. The potential is there but he needs to bring everything together.” - Tony Ferrari</div><div><br /></div><div>“Sam Dickinson is not just the top defender coming out of the OHL, but he’s my top defender overall in this draft class that can thrive at the next level. He already has the mobility and smooth skating stride for his size to be a factor in transition and lead an attack. He excels at scanning and identifying lanes to carry the play forward or even make crisp, strong and clean breakout passes. He has a booming one-timer from the point and does a great job of knowing when to activate and engage in the offensive zone. The big thing for him is to continue to find consistency with his production, but he’s already showing progress and becoming more of a factor with the minutes and power play time he’s earning. Even without the puck, the awareness he possesses is strong. He can quickly cut down lanes, showing great gap control and get into the passing lanes and break plays up. Given his size, he knows when to engage physically, overpowering players in the corners and in front of the net. That edge and the smarts on both sides of the puck will generate a lot of interest from teams looking for a defender that can have the foundations of a steady two-way defenseman.” - Peter Baracchini</div><div><br /></div><div>“I don’t think we’ve seen a more complete defenceman come out of the OHL at the age of seventeen in a long time. Dickinson’s poise and maturity make him easily projectable to the next level.” - Joely Stockl</div><div><br /></div><div>“It’s the year of the defenceman and Dickinson is the best of the class in my opinion. Great NHL size already, but can move well north-south and east west. Defensively, he just kills plays, stays in position and more than capable of riding opponents out. He is excellent when transitioning with a good pass or skating it himself. He reads the plays extremely well and times his joining the rush perfectly. Others are providing more offence than he is right now, but he’s not getting the prime powerplay time or the prime offensive opportunities.” - Dominic Tiano</div><div><br /></div><div>“I think that Dickinson is unquestionably the top draft prospect out of the OHL this year. He’s by far the safest bet to be an impact NHL player. I have zero doubts about his defensive ability transitioning. The size, reach, and mobility combination is rare. The physicality and assertiveness are inconsistent, but I also have little doubt that as he matures, this becomes a non issue. I really appreciate how consistently Dickinson starts the breakout effectively. He handles the forecheck so well and trusts his feet to help him escape pressure. His scanning habits are great too. That poise is going to treat him well at the next level. I think what I’m most concerned about is the offensive upside. I’m just not particularly confident that Dickinson is innately creative or skilled enough to be a primetime offensive play creator at the NHL level. He can get boxed in, inside the offensive zone, and he can struggle to navigate the neutral zone; turnovers have been a bit of an issue. I’ve seen comparisons to the likes of Alex Pietrangelo or Noah Dobson thrown around, but I saw more skill from those two as junior aged players. I think Dickinson profiles more as a Darnell Nurse, Brady Skjei type. That’s not a terrible thing at all. But it’s more in line with those #2-3 prototypes, rather than a perennial Norris candidate.” - Brock Otten</div><div><br /></div><div><b>2. Zayne Parekh - Defense - Saginaw Spirit</b></div><div>Highest Ranking: 2nd (7x)</div><div>Lowest Ranking: 4th (3x)</div><div>Total Votes: 12</div><div>Comments: </div><div>“Zayne Parekh looks to be slightly polarizing in this draft class but perhaps we forget: putting up points in junior as a defender, more often than not, leads to NHL success. And Parekh knows how to put up points - he’s on pace for 95 points this season. He’s second in the league among defenders in points. He’s just so fun to watch. He can burn teams with his ability to create offense, both with his feet and with his playmaking. His mobility is borderline elite and he can dance along the blue line or zoom down the ice. His decision-making is the big red flag for some, which is valid as he can make some questionable plays and does turn the puck over. That comes with how much he carries the puck though and the freedom he’s been given. The rewards outweigh the risks here.” - Josh Bell</div><div><br /></div><div>“The confusing case of Zayne Parekh has been one of the more fascinating things to track this year. He scores a boatload of goals and racks up points but the way he does it just isn’t translatable. His game is so predicated on his team giving him the green light to fully activate as a fourth forward. Parekh has a great shot and his skill is solid. He gets plenty of his assists from firing shots on net and rebounds being buried. There isn’t a player in the NHL that plays the way Parekh does. His defensive game is reluctant and timid, avoiding contact and lacking any awareness. Is he Shayne Gostisbehere/Tony DeAngelo or is he TJ Brennan/Ryan Merkley?” - Tony Ferrari</div><div><br /></div><div>“A lot of times offensive defencemen are very one-dimensional, but Parekh’s improved defensive ability and edge provides some complexity to his game. Players hate playing against him, he has this sort of confidence and swag that gets into other player’s heads, and that has proven to be such a valuable attribute in today’s NHL.” - Joely Stockl</div><div><br /></div><div>“Started off his career as a high risk/high reward kind of player, but it feels like the "reward" part has really taken over. Parekh is a deadly offensive defenseman who continues to work on the defensive side of things and the fact Saginaw is hosting the Memorial Cup means guaranteed high-pressure experience this spring.” - Ryan Kennedy</div><div><br /></div><div>“When he's on the ice, everything flows through him. He controls the game. A real good skater, good edge work that he can use to be very elusive. He's an excellent passer. If a teammate is open, he'll find him with the puck. He's got great hockey sense, elite puck skills, and he can rush it up and pass it up, but it's going the other way pretty quick once it's on his stick.” - Mike Morreale</div><div><br /></div><div>“I think my contemporaries have done a great job of painting the picture on Parekh. If he hits, he’s going to hit big; he’s a unique player. The creativity is truly elite. I think he’s better defensively than people give him credit for. He has a good stick and defensive instincts. You can see that in the offensive zone and neutral zone when he’s trying to disrupt the breakout (to earn touches). In the defensive zone, it’s been more erratic, but I do think that it has been trending up in recent months. Given Saginaw’s unique structure and the freedoms that they provide defenders, scouts can have a difficult time determining likelihood of translation. We saw this with Pavel Mintyukov to a certain extent. Yet, I don’t see anyone complaining about Mintyukov now that he’s in the NHL with Anaheim and playing extremely well. Maybe the Spirit are onto something from a development perspective; prioritizing and fostering creativity. NHL teams can alter the player’s perception of systems and structure, the way Anaheim has with Mintyukov. But, they need junior programs to develop skill and build confidence the way Saginaw has. I think what ultimately works against Parekh is the fact that there are so many impressively built defensive prospects in this draft with well rounded profiles. It’s easy to see why they would be prioritized because there’s similar upside in terms of true NHL impact (at both ends), but with safer floors.” - Brock Otten</div><div><br /></div><div><b>3. Liam Greentree - Wing - Windsor Spitfires</b></div><div>Highest Ranking: 2nd (2x)</div><div>Lowest Ranking: 8th (1x)</div><div>Total Votes: 12</div><div>Comments: </div><div>“I think a lot of parallels can be made between Greentree and Jason Robertson at the same age. Scouts undervalued Robertson at that age because of perceived skating weaknesses, but I don’t think they’ll do the same with Greentree. Do I wish he were a more explosive skater? Absolutely. Do I wish his off puck play and physicality were more consistent? Definitely. But, this is a big winger that oozes skill and creativity. He’s tough to box in and he plays through the middle of the ice. As he builds strength, he’s going to be a load to handle with his hands and finishing ability. Even more importantly, he’s also a highly intelligent offensive player who can play a supporting role when it is called for. Recently named captain of the Spitfires as an 18 year old, I have a ton of time for Greentree as a potential lottery selection.” - Brock Otten</div><div><br /></div><div>“A big, skilled winger who has insane puck control and a diverse offensive tool set is a valuable player. Greentree plays with power, skill, and his ability to act as a facilitator or goal scorer is impressive, especially on a putrid Windsor Spitfires team. He certainly has a tendency to float a bit defensively which can be an issue but when he’s being relied upon so heavily offensively, it’s not uncommon at the junior level. Greentree is strong along the boards and when he is in a puck battle, he comes out with it or finds a way to get the puck to a teammate with regularity. Greentree can absolutely rip it. If he can do this with a terrible supporting cast, imagine what this guy could do with a better environment.” - Tony Ferrari</div><div><br /></div><div>“Arguably one of the biggest risers early this season, Liam Greentree has just about matched his 2022-23 output in just half the games this year. What might be the most impressive is that the winger is doing it on the lowly Windsor Spitfires team. He’s been a huge bright spot in a rough season for the team, currently tied for the lead in points. Greentree brings that coveted combination of size and skill that NHL teams drool over. He’s truly found how to use his size to his advantage this season, with his puck protection and strength in puck battles. He seems to always win puck battles and then with the puck on his stick - watch out. He has confidence, vision, and a great shot. His skating needs to improve, but I’ve always said that skating can be worked on. The foundation that Greentree has is worth it.” - Josh Bell</div><div><br /></div><div>“It’s tough to find a goal-scorer that can utilize their size consistently at a young age. Liam Greentree continues to do just that in his draft year. He led all rookies in scoring last season with 25 goals and he’s once again in the thick of things being one of the more dangerous goal scorers in this class. As mentioned, Greentree uses his size to his advantage, both in puck protection and engaging physically to win puck battles constantly. Although his speed isn’t the best, he does move well for his 6-foot-2, 198-pound frame. He shows a great work ethic consistently and displays good habits when on the attack. The way he reads a situation as it unfolds is evident. He’s quick to take advantage of situations and turnovers, leading him to make himself open and use his quick release when getting to the middle of the ice.” - Peter Baracchini</div><div><br /></div><div>"Greentree always seems to be well engaged on the forecheck and has excellent north - south speed to get himself into position to apply pressure. When he has the puck on his stick, he does an excellent job of managing pace and incorporates delays as he looks to push play to the interior. Greentree has shown to be dynamic on the rush and mid-cycle. Plus, he's got a cannon of a shot." - Josh Tessler</div><div><br /></div><div><b>4. Beckett Sennecke - Wing - Oshawa Generals</b></div><div>Highest Ranking: 3rd (1x)</div><div>Lowest Ranking: 8th (2x)</div><div>Total Votes: 12</div><div>Comments:</div><div>“I might be a little higher on Beckett Sennecke than most, but since his rookie season he continues to take steps with his game. As the Oshawa Generals remain a middle of the pack team this season, he continues to show great value with his skillset and IQ, despite average production. He sees the ice very well and thinks quickly adapting to situations in an instant. He has great hands in tight spaces and can disrupt plays effectively on the defensive side of the puck. He’s strong on the puck to maintain possession, allowing him to scan the ice and start a play. He can make crisp tape-to-tape passes, working quick give-and-go’s along with executing cross ice passes quickly. When he has an opportunity, he isn’t afraid to shoot it as he has great power behind his release. If he can add more speed, he could be extremely valuable as a prospect.” - Peter Barrachini</div><div><br /></div><div>“Beckett Sennecke hasn’t received much love this season, which is understandable. He hasn’t truly taken a step forward that was hoped for him this season, on pace for a similar total to last year’s results. But the potential is very much here for the young winger. He battles hard in both ends, always diving into fights for the puck. He has some offensive talent, although it may be limited if he doesn’t become a little more consistent in his ability to create offense. There have been times when he drifts into the background, so this would need to improve. It will be interesting to see if he can trend up in the back half of the season. If he just maintains this current trajectory, he may slide down rankings.” - Josh Bell</div><div><br /></div><div>“With expectations high for Sennecke, he has only met them in flashes. He generally isn’t ever actively making poor plays, he just seemingly finds a way to play even hockey. Every once in a while though, he has the ability to pop off and make a play that has you say “Oh damn, there it is”. Whether it’s a rush up ice where he dekes a defender en route to a scoring chance or a silky pass through traffic to a teammate, he has flashes of intrigue. Unfortunately, there haven’t been many games where he puts it together for a full 60 minutes.” - Tony Ferrari</div><div><br /></div><div>“There aren’t many that work has hard. Tenacious on the forecheck and in board battles, winning the majority of pucks even when he is on the wrong end of 50-50 battles. He can stick handle in a phone booth with an uncanny ability to draw defenders in and then beat them one-on-one. The offence isn’t where it was expected this season, but I’m not worried.” - Dominic Tiano</div><div><br /></div><div>“The consistency issues are definitely real. There’s no doubting that. But, what I rarely see mentioned is the huge growth spurt that Sennecke has experienced. Two years ago he was 5’10. Now he’s listed at 6’3. It’s had a negative impact on his strength and conditioning as he grows into this new frame. I think that really helps to explain why he disappears for stretches. You need to project Sennecke a few years from now when he’s playing at 6’3 (or even taller) and 200+. The hands are there. The shot is heavy. He has those power forward tendencies. That length/reach and the high IQ give him a chance of developing into a quality two-way asset. I think he’s scratching the surface of what he’s capable of. Also of note, mom was a national volleyball player for Canada so the pedigree is there too. He’s still a first rounder for me.” - Brock Otten</div><div><br /></div><div><b>5. Henry Mews - Defense - Ottawa 67’s</b></div><div>Highest Ranking: 2nd (1x)</div><div>Lowest Ranking: 9th (1x)</div><div>Total Votes: 12</div><div>Comments:</div><div>“He's taken a lot of flak this year, but he's still putting up nearly a point per game from the blueline. There's time to work out the kinks elsewhere.” - Ryan Kennedy</div><div><br /></div><div>“Mews had a slow start to the season, looking a bit lost and struggling to find his footing but he’s been improving over the last couple of months. While raw strength is certainly an issue that can lead to some struggles in the defensive zone, Mews has learned to work around it and he tries to kill plays on the rush and in space with excellent mobility and a steady stick. His passing on the breakout can be lethal, threading the needle and hitting teammates in stride. Mews’ offensive game has always been a strength but he’s beginning to refine it and take some of the wild habits out of it.” - Tony Ferrari</div><div><br /></div><div>“Another polarizing prospect this season, Henry Mews’ biggest issue has been his consistency. When he’s on, he looks like a top-15 prospect in this class. He can drive play from his own end out, he pushes the pace, stretches the ice, and can create offense and shut it down in his own end. He can be truly excellent. But there’s another side of him where his timing is off, he loses his coverage, and just seems not confident in his play. This has significantly limited him this season. If he can find some consistency and confidence, he has excellent, high-end potential. But if he continues this up-and-down, unpredictable play, he’s a risky selection. He can go either way on this list before the draft.” - Josh Bell</div><div><br /></div><div>“Is a great skater who can handle the puck with the best of them (except maybe Parekh). He’s a skilled passer in transition first finding his intended target and then making a tape-to-tape pass. In his own zone he is quick to retrieve pucks and has shown the ability to escape the forecheck and pressure. His defensive game is a work in progress but I have little doubt he will get there.” - Dominic Tiano</div><div><br /></div><div>“Mews has been heavily overlooked and underrated in this year's class. He hasn't produced the high offensive numbers everyone has expected this season, and being an offensive defenseman, that has turned off some people. This comes from Henry's focus on the defensive side of his game and learning to become more of a dual threat on the backend, which can make him more effective at the pro level. Mews is the best skater in the entire draft and has a great head on his shoulders. The rest of his game can be rounded out, and he has the highest offensive upside of defenders in the class.” - Chase Rochon</div><div><br /></div><div>“There’s a lot of give-and-take in Mews’ game, and his play can be sporadic as a result, but he’s still a first-round talent for me and has tightened things up and played well when the games matter.” - Anonymous</div><div><br /></div><div><b>6. Luke Misa - Center/Wing - Mississauga Steelheads</b></div><div>Highest Ranking: 2nd (2x)</div><div>Lowest Ranking: Outside of the Top 10 (2x)</div><div>Total Votes: 10</div><div>Comments:</div><div>“Misa has been a driving force for the young Mississauga Steelheads, leading the team in scoring as a draft-eligible. Misa is a shifty forward who has some impressive awareness and an understanding of how to advance the play. He is a steady puck carrier who plays a bit bigger than he is when the puck is on his stick. His passing is excellent, coming from an impressive amount of patience and poise. He baits defenders one way and then passes against the grain or understands how to manipulate space with movement and area passes. Misa can burst into space and weave through defensive structure.” - Tony Ferrari</div><div><br /></div><div>“Can't mess with results. Misa has been a devastating weapon for the Steelheads and one of the top scorers in the league. Cool to see a talented kid really take the reins in his draft year.” - Ryan Kennedy</div><div><br /></div><div>“Another early riser this season, Luke Misa easily catches viewers' eyes thanks to his skating ability. He’s also fearless and relentless, making him a very dangerous player. He’s typically the first player on pucks, and if not, he’s going to give it his all to get the puck back. The players that show that competitiveness combines with other high-end traits tend to be fairly safe bets to make it. There are times when he looks to be a bit of a passenger on the rush, leaning on his teammates too much to get into the high-danger areas, but with some additional size, he may be more likely to cut into the middle himself. Still, bet on Misa to continue to work on his shortcomings and continue to impress in his development.” - Josh Bell</div><div><br /></div><div>“Luke Misa had a lot of potential, but it took a while to develop and he has continued to increase his value as a dynamic playmaking centre with the Mississauga Steelheads. Sitting eighth in OHL scoring with 48 points, his torrid start to his draft year has vaulted him into a top-20 spot and it’s easy to see why. Misa constantly plays with pace, given his swiftness in his skating and foot speed. He can make impossible plays with the puck even when he has nothing to work with. He can open lanes up easily, make accurate cross seam passes, quick passing plays and be in the open ice to receive those pucks with ease. He protects the puck very well and has the edgework to evade pressure in tight spaces. He continues to elevate his value as a prospect and his IQ and puck skills are a big reason why.” - Peter Baracchini</div><div><br /></div><div>“I think what has really taken Misa’s game to another level this year is the improvement of his shot and the alteration to have more of a shooter’s mentality. It’s made him more of a dual threat in transition and it’s made him a more valuable player off the puck. He’s never going to be able to shoot the puck as well as his brother does (honestly, not many can), but this was a necessary adjustment for Luke. As impressive as he has been this year, I guess my question is, how high is the offensive upside for the NHL level? Ultimately, I see Luke profiling more as a high end bottom six guy, maybe even on the wing (where he has played a lot this season). However, that still has a ton of value inside the top 50, so I’m not sure I get NHL Central Scouting’s low ranking of him.” - Brock Otten</div><div><br /></div><div>"Misa capitalizes off the rush quite a bit for the Mississauga Steelheads. He will identify and take advantage of tight passing lanes while pushing the puck north. Misa's speed makes him a pain to deal with for his opponents on and off the puck. When off of the puck, he does an excellent job of activating, quickly getting up to full speed and going after the puck carrier. On top of his speed, Misa has an excellent shot with a quick release." - Josh Tessler</div><div><br /></div><div><b>7. Jett Luchanko - Center - Guelph Storm</b></div><div>Highest Ranking: 3rd (1x)</div><div>Lowest Ranking: Outside of the Top 10 (3x)</div><div>Total Votes: 9</div><div>Comments:</div><div>“Quickly becoming one of my favourites in this OHL class. Loved him as a U16 player on that London Jr. Knights team. Loved the energy he brought as an OHL rookie last year. And have loved the progression he has shown this season as a sophomore, filling the shoes of Matt Poitras as Guelph’s go-to offensive guy. He has speed for days. He’s a tireless worker. He has great playmaking instincts. I really like how he plays through traffic with a game predicated on quick touches and consistent movement. It’s easy to see him translating well to the pro level. Only thing missing from his game is a high end shot. Reminds me a lot of watching Vincent Trocheck as an OHL player and I think Luchanko can be a similar kind of impact NHL player. He’s also one of the youngest available in this class, something that is evident with how easy he can be to push off stride/off the puck at times. Lots of physical development left. Luchanko is a first rounder for me currently.” - Brock Otten</div><div><br /></div><div>“Love his speed, love his skill. Another kid that's probably not getting enough love right now, especially with the points he's putting up.” - Ryan Kennedy</div><div><br /></div><div>“A bit of a powerplay merchant with just over half of his points coming with the man advantage, Luchanko is a very intriguing player in that he plays the game at a high pace, with decent skill, and some creative passing. He loves to pop up around the net and bury rebounds or send a pass into the slot for a teammate. He shoots at the goalies pads to create a rebound on the rush. He plays with a bit of chaos and it’s fun to watch but he will need to be a bit more organized and structured as he advances levels.” - Tony Ferrari</div><div><br /></div><div>“If there’s one player that I think is flying under the radar, it’s Jett Luchanko. He possesses a smart two-way game, but is still able to play at a quick pace offensively. He displays a strong IQ with and without the puck as well as a highly competitive nature and work ethic. He isn’t flashy but he’s simple and effective and sometimes that’s always a good thing to have with players that can play a responsible game. He still needs to add more strength, but he’s always engaging and is involved in plays along the boards to battle for the puck and is always driving hard to the middle of the ice. Defensively, he displays great awareness on the backcheck and to be in position to break up plays effectively. He provides great pressure on attacking forwards and support for his teammates down low and on zone exits. There are similarities to Matthew Poitras and if he can reach the same level, watch out.” - Peter Baracchini</div><div><br /></div><div>“Jett is a player I didn't expect to be my highest OHL forward going into the season, but he has only climbed up my rankings. Low production with minimal opportunity last season has been a turn-off for public scouts as Jett hasn't received even close to enough attention as he deserves. High explosive speed, confidence and skill are what Luchenkos's game is all about. Knowing how to balance safe hockey plays and highlight-reel solo efforts is extremely impressive for a 17-year-old in the OHL. I don't see many other forwards in the class possessing offensive upside like Jett.” - Chase Rochon</div><div><br /></div><div><b>8. Cole Beaudoin - Center/Wing - Barrie Colts</b></div><div>Highest Ranking: 4th (1x)</div><div>Lowest Ranking: Outside of the Top 10 (4x)</div><div>Total Votes: 8</div><div>Comments:</div><div>“Sure there are some concerns with his skating, but Beaudoin’s hockey sense and all-round vision are off the charts, and one of the strongest in this group.” - Joely Stockl</div><div><br /></div><div>“It could be argued that Cole Beaudoin already plays a pro game. He has good size at 6-foot-2, 209 pounds, plays hard, and brings some impressive skill. He was stellar at the Hlinka Gretzky Cup and while that didn’t immediately translate into OHL success, he’s since found his offensive touch and after going his first five games without a point is up to 28 points in the 25 games since. His skating looks like the biggest hole in his game but again, this can be worked on and improved as he continues to develop. He’s strong in his own end, is relentless on the forecheck, and has started to show some play-driving success. Keep an eye on him down the stretch.” - Josh Bell</div><div><br /></div><div>“A strong power forward that shows a great compete level, Cole Beaudoin has been extremely consistent in that regard. From the Hlinka Gretzky Cup to the OHL, he continues to show his strength in the tough areas. It’s hard for players with his size that can utilize that to their advantage and he knows how to do just that. Given his 6-foot-2, 201-pound frame, Beaudoin is always a factor in the tough areas on the ice, showing great confidence and dominance down below the goal line, in the corners or creating havoc in front of the net. He’s always a factor on the forecheck, being the first one in to establish an attack. The way he even pressures players on the defensive side of things and provides support is a great sign for his development. That determination is why he continues to get attention.” - Peter Baracchini</div><div><br /></div><div>“Beaudoin is one of the most physically advanced players in the draft and his strength and pro frame are complemented by a detail-oriented, well-rounded game that coaches can trust. If he can pick up half a step, he’ll be a useful NHL player.” - Anonymous</div><div><br /></div><div><b>9. Ryerson Leenders - Goaltender - Mississauga Steelheads</b></div><div>Highest Ranking: 5th (1x)</div><div>Lowest Ranking: Outside of the Top 10 (6x)</div><div>Total Votes: 6</div><div>Comments:</div><div>“Helping lead the youngest team in the OHL to one of the best records in the OHL’s Eastern Conference, Leenders has dealt with everything thrown at him. From the pressure of being the lead dog in net as a 17-year-old to knowing that the Steelheads drafted a goalie in the top-10 at the draft last year, Leenders has been simply fantastic to start the season. He is a bit undersized which will give some teams pause but this kid is a gamer. He has shown a good base of athleticism and solid technique in the crease. He has been a fixture near the top of the goalie stats in the OHL all year. Aside from his size, there isn’t much to harp on.” - Tony Ferrari</div><div><br /></div><div>“The first and only OHL goalie in my top 10, Ryerson Leenders, has been stellar this season. Granted, being on the stellar Mississauga Steelheads team certainly helps, but I’d argue that Leenders has been more of a contributor to that success versus a benefactor of that success. His athleticism is excellent, regularly showing off the ability to stretch out and make a huge save. He can tend to rely on this ability too often, at the expense of his technical game. But in his first season as a starter, he’s been stellar. He’s in the conversation to be the first netminder selected in the draft.” - Josh Bell</div><div><br /></div><div>“Very rare that you find a goaltender on my list at this point. The fact is, I could have gone with two goaltenders and that could speak to the goaltending this year or the draft class itself. But I went with Leenders here because I love his compete level and “never give up on a puck” mentality. Has it been perfect? No. There are things to clean up but the basics are there and he just needs further coaching. You’ll find him to be a regular on the saves of the week videos. Lot’s of upside here.” - Dominic Tiano</div><div><br /></div><div>“Provides hope for an increase in the quality of Canadian goaltending prospects, Leenders’ athleticism is incredible, and he has that undeniable ability to make game-changing saves.” - Joely Stockl</div><div><br /></div><div>“The athleticism gives him a really high upside. I think unquestionably, at this point, he and Carter George are the top two netminders available this year…and that’s not even being biased. Technically, he’s a work in progress (part of the reason why I prefer George). The rebound control, especially, stands out as an area that needs to drastically improve. But it’s hard to ignore what he’s been able to do this year in helping Mississauga push to the top of the standings.” - Brock Otten</div><div><br /></div><div>"Leenders is a highly-athletic goaltender, who can shut the door quickly when the threat goes from post to post on a dime. He does a great job of timing his pad extension to make the toe pad stop at just the right moment. He does an excellent job of tracking, quickly shifting over and resetting to pressure as the puck goes around the zone." - Josh Tessler</div><div><br /></div><div><b>10. Lukas Fischer - Defense - Sarnia Sting</b></div><div>Highest Ranking: 6th (1x)</div><div>Lowest Ranking: Outside of the Top 10 (8x)</div><div>Total Votes: 4</div><div>Comments:</div><div>“Admittedly, he has struggled at times of late on a rebuilding Sarnia team. He started the season so well, but his decision making has left some to be desired at both ends in my last few viewings. Yet, I find myself magnetically drawn to Fischer and the upside he possesses. It’s rare to find big defenders who can skate like he does. He flashes so many different skills too. He can be a physically imposing defender. He can be a puck transporter. He can quarterback the powerplay. His projection has so many different branches depending on his development. But what I love is the bloodlines. I have faith that he will be able to figure it out and I think he’d be standing out a lot more on a stronger team. One of the youngest players in this class, the runway to improve is huge here.” - Brock Otten</div><div><br /></div><div>“The son of former Detroit Red Wings defenseman Jiri Fischer, Lukas’ competitive drive and confidence is what makes me a big fan of his. This season, he’s continuing to thrive with more responsibilities on the Sarnia Sting with his physical, two-way game. He has great mobility for his size, leading breakouts with great confidence and control along with making long stretch passes. When he has an open lane, he’ll walk in and unleash his bullet of a slap shot, but has the mindset to not force anything when there’s nothing there, showing great patience and smarts with the puck. He has great patience to make plays and walk the line and free things up. Defensively, he has strong gap control and doesn’t cheat with his positioning. He excels at keeping players to the outside, defends the rush very well and can disrupt plays with his long reach. He has the size to be physical, but needs to use it more and when he does, he can be an intimidating presence.” - Peter Baracchini</div><div><br /></div><div>“Has shown marked improvement and that can’t be ignored. Big body who isn’t afraid to use his frame. Has shown to be a solid lock it down defender who will play physically. Moves extremely well for a big body and has a lot of confidence in his abilities to be able to skate the puck in transition.” - Dominic Tiano</div><div><br /></div><div>“Fischer has a very intriguing pro toolkit with his size and mobility. Offense is a question.” - Anonymous</div><div><br /></div><div><b><u><i>Honorable Mentions</i></u></b></div><div><br /></div><div><b>Carter George - Goaltender - Owen Sound Attack</b></div><div>Highest Ranking: 7th (1x)</div><div>Total Votes: 4</div><div>Comments:</div><div>“My top goaltender in the class. He’s not as quick or as naturally athletic as Leenders, but I think he tracks the play better and is generally more composed and consistent. As he works to improve his strength and conditioning, he should get quicker and it will really take his game to that next level. I’m going to guess that he ends up as Canada’s starter at the U18’s this year (just as he was at the Hlinka/Gretzky) and he’ll have the opportunity to make a late season push.” - Brock Otten</div><div><br /></div><div>“Another undersized netminder, George has been the backbone of the Owen Sound Attack. When he hasn’t been in net, the team is almost scheduled for a loss. George moves well in net and does everything he can to keep the Attack in games. He’s been forced to make a boatload of saves and he’s done just that while sitting in the top-five league-wide among most goalie stats. George is a hot name who could rise up the board among OHL draft eligibles.” - Tony Ferrari</div><div><br /></div><div>“A very positionally and technically sound goaltender, very poised and rarely ever getting himself out of position. Has saved many games for the Attack this season.” - Joely Stockl</div><div><br /></div><div><b>Anthony Cristoforo - Defense - Windsor Spitfires</b></div><div>Highest Ranking: 7th (1x)</div><div>Total Votes: 3</div><div>Comments:</div><div>“Is undersized, but I like his skill set if it can translate to the pro game. He is a good skater with excellent hands and vision. He’s a great passer who has a well-rounded offensive game. His size raises questions about whether he can defend at the next level. One thing is for certain: He sure puts in the effort into defending and that’s all you can ask for.” - Dominic Tiano</div><div><br /></div><div>“Although he’s just on-pace to surpass his 41 points last season, Anthony Cristoforo still possesses a strong skillset in regards to being an efficient play driver from the backend. He’s constantly having his head up to scan lanes when in transition, displaying great confidence and doing so quickly. His playmaking is always at the forefront, displaying great patience with the puck and putting it in a spot where a teammate can receive or retrieve it. He walks the line effectively to get into a great spot to open things up– making a timely pass or even getting a shot off. While nothing he does stands out, it’s always effective and his creativity to find the open ice is what makes him a great asset on the backend.” - Peter Baracchini</div><div><br /></div><div>“Cristoforo hasn’t followed a very good 16-year-old season with a step forward as a 17-year-old, but he still does well if he has been downgraded from a second-rounder to more of a mid-round guy. Could see him making it in the Travis Dermott/Sean Walker mold.” - Anonymous</div><div><br /></div><div><b>Ben Danford - Defense - Oshawa Generals</b></div><div>Highest Ranking: 6th (1x)</div><div>Total Votes: 3</div><div>Comments:</div><div>“Maybe I put too much emphasis on the fact that he’s already a leader at 17, but I find that impressive. You can tell that he thinks defence first. He has good size, moves well, has a very active and effective stick and most importantly, keeps his gaps very tight. Despite thinking defence first, he is capable offensively. He keeps his feet moving in the O-zone, makes himself an option and isn’t afraid to shoot the puck, usually with a purpose. He sees the ice extremely well and is an above average passer.” - Dominic Tiano</div><div><br /></div><div>“A two-way defenseman with good skating and hockey sense. He's got a great work ethic and can pass the puck with authority exiting his own end. Danford is pretty consistent in what he does; might just need to determine better shooting lanes at times. I like his size (6-1, 193) and he's also a right-handed shot.” - Mike Morreale</div><div><br /></div><div><b>Kieron Walton - Wing - Sudbury Wolves</b></div><div>Highest Ranking: 7th (2x)</div><div>Total Votes: 3</div><div>Comments:</div><div>“A big forward with a good shot and some slick passing ability that skates well, Walton may be higher up this list if were in a situation where he had more opportunity. His decision-making can be a bit questionable at times but the tools are all intriguing. He could be a player who really pops off after his draft year. Walton is more of a playmaker than his stat line would indicate and he leverages his size quite well to get some power behind his shot. Walton could be the sleeper of the OHL class.” - Tony Ferrari</div><div><br /></div><div>“Walton has a very high skill level for a big man. Skating is a concern.” - Anonymous</div><div><br /></div><div>"Walton does a good job of using delays and cut-backs when pushing the puck up the ice to net separation to the inside. He has lengthy reach and excellent puck security. In transition, It allows him to capture pucks off of stretch passes while enduring pressure at his side and quickly re-distributes them to an open teammate. Walton understands time and spacing quite well and always seems to make the most of whatever little space pops up." - Josh Tessler</div><div><br /></div><div><b>Gabriel Frasca - Center - Kingston Frontenacs</b></div><div>Highest Ranking: 6th (1x)</div><div>Total Votes: 2</div><div>Comments:</div><div>“Flying under the radar right now because he got a late start to the season. I think he’s still trying to find his footing, but I do expect more people will take notice in the second half. Strong skating base. Shoots the puck extremely well. High IQ, two-way player. Very well rounded profile. I think that’s why he could make a really strong pro player.” - Brock Otten</div><div><br /></div><div>“Maybe I'm buying high on Frasca, but he's definitely got skill and was basically forgotten when he was on the shelf. Comes from a big hockey family, too.” - Ryan Kennedy</div><div><br /></div><div><b>Marek Vanacker - Wing - Brantford Bulldogs</b></div><div>Highest Ranking: 6th (1x)</div><div>Total Votes: 2</div><div>Comments:</div><div>“A 2-way forward who is very strong-willed. He has great speed and intelligence to complement his 200-foot game.” - Mike Morreale</div><div><br /></div><div>“Vanacker is a highly offensively skilled player who, if used properly can become an elite player at the pro level. Great hands and deception make Vanacker a weapon with the puck, and his tenacity and effort also make him valuable on the defensive side. Consistency will be something scouts will be looking for in Merek's game to make him a higher pick on draft day.” - Chase Rochon</div><div><br /></div><div><b>Jakub Fibigr - Defense - Mississauga Steelheads</b></div><div>Highest Ranking: 8th (1x)</div><div>Total Votes: 2</div><div>Comments:</div><div>“The complete mobility, defensive stick, and spatial awareness in all three zones is what makes Fibigr special. His defensive stick has to be one of the best in the league, but this combined with his activations offensively make him a very unique prospect.” - Joely Stockl</div><div><br /></div><div>“Fibigr always finds ways to impress me. A Very intelligent defender who always finds a way to make the best play available. No panic in Jakub's game. He plays a very poised style of defence that makes him a multidimensional tool on the backend for the Steelheads.” - Chase Rochon</div><div><b><br /></b></div><div><b>Sam O’Reilly - Center/Wing - London Knights</b></div><div>Highest Ranking: 8th (2x)</div><div>Total Votes: 2</div><div>Comments:</div><div>“O'Reilly is a skilled hard working two way center, developing well on a strong London team. Wish he was a bit faster.” - Anonymous</div><div><br /></div><div>“Sam's growth in development has been very impressive and should continue under the London staff. Dominant in GOJHL play last season led to Sam transitioning into the OHL smoothly this year. He has slowly worked his way up the lineup and has now earned his spot playing more minutes for the Knights, and the points are coming with him. Sam is a very strong player, and if he finds his identity and can unlock some elite traits, he will be an exciting prospect to watch.” - Chase Rochon</div><div><br /></div><div><b>Chris Thibodeau - Wing - Kingston Frontenacs</b></div><div>Highest Ranking: 10th (2x)</div><div>Total Votes: 2</div><div>Comments:</div><div>“I went back and forth on who to include in this last spot but found myself coming back to Chris Thibodeau. What he’s been doing with the Kingston Frontenacs this season has been very impressive. He’s at a point per game with 33 points and leads the team in assists. He’s likely a late draft pick due to his 5-foot-9, 143-pound frame, but the skill that he brings to the ice is worth it. He consistently pushes play to the high-danger areas of the ice, whether that means carrying it himself or feeding a teammate. He skates well, can control the pace of the game, and shows off some excellent creativity. That size is a little concerning, but the talent is undeniable.” - Josh Bell</div><div><br /></div><div>"Thibodeau does an excellent job of extending play in order to create high percentage scoring chances. Instead of immediately taking a shot on net when pressure intensifies, he will drop back to extend play and wait for a teammate to enter into an optimal passing lane. When the pressure is extremely tight and Thibodeau is working the boards, he usually manages to shake free with well timed pivots. Quickly nets space and passes the puck to the slot. When the opposition has possession of the puck, Thibodeau is puck hungry and he can be tough to dodge. He can match speed quite often with his edges and activation." - Josh Tessler</div><div><br /></div><div><b>Kevin He - Wing - Niagara IceDogs</b></div><div>Highest Ranking: 9th (1x)</div><div>Total Votes: 1</div><div>Comments:</div><div>“Possibly the most interesting prospect in the OHL this year. A high-end motor with flashes of skill, Kevin He is always a stand-out player at Icedogs games. With his relentless forechecking ability and the stamina of a marathon runner, Kevin has a unique skill set that, if used correctly, can make him a steal on draft day.” - Chase Rochon</div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div>Brock Ottenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08237782074032840702noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2553903000955128175.post-42986935405780219862024-01-13T08:34:00.002-05:002024-01-13T08:34:12.531-05:00Midseason NHL Central Scouting Rankings for 2024<div style="text-align: left;">NHL Central Scouting has released their first official draft ranking for 2024. Let's see how the OHL players were ranked. In total, 53 were listed. I'll be releasing my own midseason rankings very shortly (likely by the end of the month), in addition to the preliminary media/scout poll See below for some commentary on these rankings.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>Skaters:</b></div><div style="text-align: left;">1. Sam Dickinson (7)</div><div style="text-align: left;">2. Zayne Parekh (10)</div><div style="text-align: left;">3. Liam Greentree (12)</div><div style="text-align: left;">4. Beckett Sennecke (15)</div><div style="text-align: left;">5. Jett Luchanko (21)</div><div style="text-align: left;">6. Marek Vanacker (25)</div><div style="text-align: left;">7. Henry Mews (27)</div><div style="text-align: left;">8. Cole Beaudoin (31)</div><div style="text-align: left;">9. Ben Danford (32)</div><div style="text-align: left;">10. Luca Marrelli (35)</div><div style="text-align: left;">11. Gabriel Frasca (37)</div><div style="text-align: left;">12. Sam O'Reilly (40)</div><div style="text-align: left;">13. Luke Misa (45)</div><div style="text-align: left;">14. Nathan Villeneuve (51)</div><div style="text-align: left;">15. Jakub Fibigr (52)</div><div style="text-align: left;">16. Lukas Fischer (55)</div><div style="text-align: left;">17. Jacob Battaglia (56)</div><div style="text-align: left;">18. Ethan Procyszyn (59)</div><div style="text-align: left;">19. Luca Testa (62)</div><div style="text-align: left;">20. Kieron Walton (63)</div><div style="text-align: left;">21. Anthony Romani (81)</div><div style="text-align: left;">22. Mason Zebeski (86)</div><div style="text-align: left;">23. Kevin He (89)</div><div style="text-align: left;">24. Luke Ellinas (95)</div><div style="text-align: left;">25. Frankie Marrelli (100)</div><div style="text-align: left;">26. Anthony Cristoforo (101)</div><div style="text-align: left;">27. Owen Allard (109)</div><div style="text-align: left;">28. Trent Swick (111)</div><div style="text-align: left;">29. Christopher Thibodeau (115)</div><div style="text-align: left;">30. Riley Patterson (116)</div><div style="text-align: left;">31. Kaden Pitre (119)</div><div style="text-align: left;">32. AJ Spellacy (125)</div><div style="text-align: left;">33. Nathan Aspinall (126)</div><div style="text-align: left;">34. Charlie Hilton (127)</div><div style="text-align: left;">35. Jared Woolley (129)</div><div style="text-align: left;">36. Parker Von Richter (135)</div><div style="text-align: left;">37. Sam McCue (141)</div><div style="text-align: left;">38. Josef Eichler (146)</div><div style="text-align: left;">39. Bode Stewart (147)</div><div style="text-align: left;">40. Owen Protz (168)</div><div style="text-align: left;">41. Jack Van Volsen (169)</div><div style="text-align: left;">42. Marco Mignosa (173)</div><div style="text-align: left;">43. Finn Harding (174)</div><div style="text-align: left;">44. Cole Davis (184)</div><div style="text-align: left;">45. Charlie Paquette (191)</div><div style="text-align: left;">46. Rowan Topp (205)</div><div style="text-align: left;">47. Luke McNamara (216)</div><div style="text-align: left;">48. Leo Serlin (218)</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>Goaltenders:</b></div><div style="text-align: left;">1. Carter George (1)</div><div style="text-align: left;">2. Ryerson Leenders (3)</div><div style="text-align: left;">3. Landon Miller (17)</div><div style="text-align: left;">4. Karsen Chartier (23)</div><div style="text-align: left;">5. Zach Bowen (30)</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">For the full list, <a href="https://www.nhl.com/ice/draftprospectbrowse.htm?cat=1&sort=finalRank&year=2024">click here</a>.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><i><u>Comments:</u></i></div><div style="text-align: left;"><i><u><br /></u></i></div><div style="text-align: left;">1. I think NHL Central Scouting nailed the top five names correctly. It's not exactly the order of how my top five would look right now for the OHL, but it's the same names. </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">2. While I haven't released my own midseason rankings yet (you can expect that very soon), the following players will be higher on my list: Lukas Fischer, Luke Misa, Anthony Cristoforo, Christopher Thibodeau, Parker Von Richter, and I'd have Alex Kostov and Jack Brauti ranked. Players who will be lower on my list will be: Luca Marrelli, Mason Zebeski, and Josef Eichler.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">3. Based on what's out there in the public sphere, I'm sure most people are most shocked by the rankings of Luke Misa and Anthony Cristoforo. I've seen Misa in a lot of first rounds and that ranking probably places him in NHL CSS' third round. Not sure I agree with it, but I see the logic. Misa probably projects best as a solid third line option at the NHL level, so it's clear that Central Scouting views the guys they have ranked ahead as having a higher upside. As for Cristoforo, he's really struggled defensively this year on an inconsistent Windsor team. He came into the year as a potential top 50 candidate and it's beginning to seem more likely that he's a mid-late round pick now (if at all). The U18's will likely be MASSIVE for his draft stock.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">4. Interesting to see Sam Dickinson ranked 7th among NA skaters. Probably puts him pretty firmly outside their top 10 (when combining lists). Again, I can see the logic. The more I've watched Dickinson, the more that I begin to believe he's probably best suited to be a solid #2-3 guy, rather than a perennial all star or Norris candidate. He's a very safe prospect, but it's clear they value the upside of a guy like Levshunov more.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">5. Great to see Anthony Romani listed as a potential mid round candidate. I think it's starting to look more and more like he's a top 100 candidate and is the best re-entry guy from the OHL (apologies to Owen Allard). He's been unbelievable this year. The progression has been unreal. One re-entry guy that I would have listed is Oshawa's Matt Buckley. I think he's a draft candidate based on his terrific shot and scoring upside. </div>Brock Ottenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08237782074032840702noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2553903000955128175.post-55027255684425895822023-11-13T07:06:00.000-05:002023-11-13T07:06:09.638-05:00Preliminary Top 50 for the 2024 NHL Entry Draft<div style="text-align: left;">It's time for my first official ranking for the 2024 NHL Entry Draft. I say official because I release a preseason ranking in the summer (which can be found <a href="https://ohlprospects.blogspot.com/2022/08/preseason-top-30-for-2023-nhl-draft.html">here</a>). <br /> <br />The list includes detailed reports on the Top 30 and small snippets on the other 20 that make up the Top 50. </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">A reminder that this list does not include potential re-entry candidates (players already passed over in the draft). A guy like Anthony Romani is off to a tremendous start, but I do a separate list for these types later in the season.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">This was one of the most difficult preliminary lists for me to compile. I think that Dickinson is without question the top OHL player available this year, but after that it gets messy. I've flip flopped on many players over the last month or so. I think that next group of Greentree, Parekh, and Sennecke is very tight. Then I think there is another group after that of about five or six players that could be ranked in any order. Once you get down into the 20's and 30's, it's all about preference...and my preference has moved around constantly. I wanted to push this list a little bit longer, but wasn't even sure that would give me more clarity. I think that this is just going to be a year in the OHL where rankings are going to be all over the place on guys. Part of the reason for this is the lack of depth this year too.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">Here's my list:</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>1. Sam Dickinson - Defense - London Knights</b></div><div style="text-align: left;">As mentioned, I think that he is unquestionably the top player available from the OHL this year. I don't see that changing over the course of the year. IMO, he and Michigan State's Levshunov will be in direct competition to be the first defender selected. Dickinson plays such a calm and mature game in the defensive end already. He knows how to leverage using his size. He's confident playing the body. His terrific four way mobility allows him to suffocate would be attackers and he can be so quick to close out because of his length and quickness. Offensively, I think things have been a little more inconsistent, but that's probably to be expected of a player who is still finding his bearing in this league after inconsistent ice time last year. Dickinson makes terrific decisions with the puck in the defensive end and is a true breakout machine. He's so poised under the pressure of the forecheck. However, I've found his decision making to be erratic as he attempts to advance play up ice with his feet. Turnovers in the neutral zone have been a bit of an issue. When he does get runway, he can be tough to stop because of how well he protects the puck in stride. Inside the offensive zone, he has solid instincts and does have the shot and touch to be a powerplay QB at the next level IMO. I think we're all just trying to figure out what the high end offensive upside is and ultimately that will determine how high Dickinson goes in June. Is he a future #1? Or is he more of a solid #3 who can be a longtime fixture of a defensive unit, but lacks the dynamic qualities to be a true perennial Norris candidate?</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>2. Liam Greentree - Wing - Windsor Spitfires</b></div><div style="text-align: left;">Finding a big winger with the kind of skill and poise that Greentree possesses is difficult and for that reason, I think he'll end up shooting up draft lists over the course of the season. There are a lot of layers to his game offensively. He protects the puck well along the wall and can extend plays with his feet and strength. He dominates touches near the crease and has great anticipation/hands in tight. He can beat defenders one on one, be it attacking with pace or when trying to create in tighter spaces down low. He has a great shot, but also great vision with the puck. As I said, this is an offensive player with few weaknesses. I've seen a lot of people attack his skating. I don't see the big issue. I think his agility and strength on his edges are fine and it allows him to attack East/West and get looks in the middle of the ice. I think his top speed is sufficient for a bigger winger. The explosiveness will need to improve, but as he gains strength, I see that improving. I think I'm probably more concerned with the play away from the puck being fairly inconsistent. I certainly wouldn't call Greentree a power forward. He's a skilled offensively oriented winger who just happens to have great size. He's not an overtly physical player. If he could improve that area of his game in the second half or in the future, we're talking about a potential star. Getting him to use his size more effectively in all three zones is going to be a focal point. <a href="https://www.mckeenshockey.com/nhl-blog/2024-nhl-draft-early-season-favourites-ontario-jakub-fibigr-lukas-fischer-ben-danford-liam-greentree/">Here's my video breakdown of Greentree's game for McKeen's Hockey.</a></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>3. Zayne Parekh - Defense - Saginaw Spirit</b></div><div style="text-align: left;">I've seen Parekh pretty high (like top 10, top 8 high) on some lists lately...and I honestly get it. He's so damn fun to watch. He's worth the price of admission for fans. There are so many things to love about his game on the puck. He's one of the most skilled players in the OHL regardless of position. We could talk at length about his ability to create. His ability to blend movement and control allows him to keep defenders guessing; it's that concept of keeping the puck on a string. His edgework and lateral quickness are really impressive too. It's what makes him so dangerous inside the offensive zone. On top of all the skill, the vision and overall offensive zone awareness are also elite. He's the complete package as an offensive defender. I've watched a lot of Parekh this year and there just haven't been many poor plays with the puck. For all the fun...there are bound to be naysayers at the NHL level. He's given a ton of freedom to create in Saginaw and he's not likely to get that at the NHL level...at least from many organizations currently. The question marks in his own zone are legitimate. He can struggle defending down low and in coverage, and a mindset switch will be needed. It can't be all offense all the time. That said...I do think his defensive game can be improved and it's why I do see him as a potential top 25 selection. Firstly, he's absolutely fantastic when defending aggressively in the offensive zone or neutral zone to try to earn touches. He's got a great stick and is so good at stopping or disrupting breakout attempts. Secondly, there is jam to his game at times. He can play physical and he doesn't like to get hemmed in his own end. Will improved strength improve his defensive consistency? Can he become just as hungry for the puck in the defensive zone as he is in the other two? There will be inherit risk attached to Parekh on draft day. Maybe he is only a Gostisbehere type powerplay QB at the NHL level. But, on the flip side, he is a young defender with a lot of time to figure things out; one with a great head for the game. I usually bet on hockey sense.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>4. Beckett Sennecke - Wing - Oshawa Generals</b></div><div style="text-align: left;">For whatever reason, Sennecke has been the forgotten man among the top tier of the OHL, despite having the potential to be the second OHL player drafted this year IMO. I see a young man who oozes potential as he fills into his frame; a frame that has grown considerably in the last year or so. Sennecke has rocketed up to 6'3, yet I actually think he's managed to improve his skating a bit this year. Really only consistency has been the issue this year, but Oshawa has been pretty underwhelming as a team too. When he's filled out and finished his development, I actually think Sennecke could be a really complete player. He competes physically. He is active on the forecheck and the backcheck. He can beat defenders one on one to create for himself or teammates, but he is also a heady player who understands how to find space and soft spots in the offensive zone. For a competitive winger, his playmaking and vision are terrific and I think that ultimately makes him a really good complementary guy in the middle six at the next level. The skating, especially the agility is actually quite good for a big guy who is still growing, but the power and speed will definitely need to improve further. I think it can. Sennecke is the kind of guy who will continue to fly under the radar until he ends up making the Canadian U18 team at the end of the year and has a great tournament...then suddenly people will start saying "how is this 6'3 winger with skill and a competitive streak not considered a lock for the first round?"</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>5. Lukas Fischer - Defense - Sarnia Sting</b></div><div style="text-align: left;">This is where my list starts to get "spicy"...as the cool kids might say. I don't dislike Henry Mews, I just really like Lukas Fischer. I don't understand why he hasn't received the kind of attention he deserves. We're already talking about big, athletic defenders like Charlie Elick, EJ Emery, and Will Skahan...but not Fischer? Why? This is a guy who is one of the youngest players available this year, with terrific bloodlines, who happens to be playing big minutes in all situations with under 70 games of OHL experience under his belt. The runway for improvement is significant and we've already seen a massive step forward this year. Defensively, he has the potential to be an absolute rock. It wouldn't shock me at all if he finishes growing at close to his Dad's height/weight, yet he's also a terrific skater. He plays aggressively in the defensive zone and is so disruptive because of his reach and mobility. When the physical component becomes more consistent...look out. Offensively, I love how he starts the breakout. He already trusts his feet and protects the puck well to help him shed forecheckers. The puck skill and creativity are TBD, but he's shown flashes of being someone who can be a difference maker at both ends. Again, his game is raw in some areas and it's easy to forget that he only played half of last year in the OHL. For me, Fischer is a top 40 guy right now, right there with the likes of Emery as an athletic, toolsy type. <a href="https://www.mckeenshockey.com/nhl-blog/2024-nhl-draft-early-season-favourites-ontario-jakub-fibigr-lukas-fischer-ben-danford-liam-greentree/">Here's my video breakdown of Fischer's game for McKeen's Hockey.</a></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>6. Henry Mews - Defense - Ottawa 67's</b></div><div style="text-align: left;">The reads on Mews are just so all over the place right now. I've seen and heard some classify him as a high upside offensive type. I've seen him called more of a steady "jack of all trades" type. Where's the truth? It's funny, because when Mews was OHL draft eligible the mixed feelings on him among scouts were just as real. Is he just a guy that is tough to get a read on? It does seem like every time I watch Mews (be it in U16 action, U17 action, Hlinka/Gretzky Cup, the OHL), I get a bit of a different version. In a way, this kind of scares me a bit. There have been guys with that profile over the years who just haven't developed well to become long time NHL defenders. For me, that's why he's more of an early second round type. I certainly see the upside. The skating is terrific. He can create by leading the charge offensively, pushing deep inside the offensive zone to break down coverage. The defensive game and decision making have improved since his erratic Hlinka/Gretzky Cup performance. This is especially true for his physical intensity level; he seems to get "meaner" with every viewing. Maybe he will continue to grow on me. But in a year with so many good defenseman available (across the entire 2024 draft), I see others with a more defined role at the next level. </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>7. Luke Misa - Wing/Center - Mississauga Steelheads</b></div><div style="text-align: left;">Watching Misa skate is just downright impressive. He is lightning quick; easily one of the OHL's quickest players. He's relentless in utilizing that speed too. He is a zone entry machine, who is always looking to circle back to lead the charge into the opposing end. He is a very active forechecker and backchecker and an overall effective three zone player because of his speed. The move to the wing this year seems to have really simplified things for him and he's playing the best hockey of his OHL career. He's also clearly worked really hard to improve his shot, which has added another dimension to his already well rounded skill set. I do have some concerns. A lot of his drives do still end up with him being kept to the perimeter and he can still easily be pushed off the puck; there's still a need to "beef up." Additionally, I don't see Misa as an overtly skilled or creative player. He's at his best in a straight line. The hands are right there with the feet, that's not an issue the way it was for guys like Liam Foudy at the same age. However, I'm just not completely sold on Misa having significant offensive upside at the NHL level. I kind of view him similarly to another former Steelhead in Owen Beck. I think there's a great chance that Misa ends up being a long time NHL player, I'm just not sure it's as more than a solid middle six type. Either way, you have to love the progression he has shown this year, finally taking that next step as a high end OHL player.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>8. Cole Beaudoin - Center/Wing - Barrie Colts</b></div><div style="text-align: left;">I just really like that Beaudoin already has such a clear identity on the ice. He already has such a great understanding of how he needs to play and his game will translate well to the pro level so long as he can continue to upgrade his skating. There's a lot of versatility here; something that Beaudoin proved at the Hlinka/Gretzky this summer. He can play multiple forward positions. He can kill penalties or play down low on the powerplay. He competes hard physically and in all three zones. He loves to attack the middle of the ice and is great at protecting the puck in stride to offset any speed and quickness deficits. He's quicker without the puck than he is with it, but his stride still has a heaviness to it. It's not the most efficient from an energy perspective. Early on this year, I haven't really loved his vision with the puck and I think that area of his game will need to grow in order for him to stick down the middle. But overall, there's a lot to like here and I think he's a fairly safe NHL prospect. There's untapped offensive upside here, but also a safe floor of a Casey Cizikas type.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>9. Carter George - Goaltender - Owen Sound Attack</b></div><div style="text-align: left;">I've found it pretty bizarre that Leenders has been getting a ton of attention as a potential early selection but George hasn't. Stats and physical profile are pretty similar. How soon people forget that George was pretty solid for Canada at the Hlinka/Gretzky Cup. Now...I say this but I view the two pretty damn interchangeable. Both are terrific play trackers. Both are athletic (Leenders probably a little quicker). But I view George as a little more technically sound, quiet in his movements and better with his rebound control. Owen Sound hasn't been great this year, but I can assure you that things would be worse if it weren't for George. </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>10. Ryerson Leenders - Goaltender - Mississauga Steelheads</b></div><div style="text-align: left;">Leenders' athleticism is mighty impressive. He has been all over the plays of the week this year so far, stretching out to cover his posts to rob would be shooters. He never quits on a play and his composure in the crease this year for a younger Mississauga team has been impressive. The consistency hasn't always been there, but you really can't knock him for that in his first year as a starter. Once he cleans up a few technical things, that will improve. This is especially true about his rebound control. He can have trouble cleaning controlling shots up high and through screens and as such, he's having to make too many second/third chance saves. I'm always skeptical of putting goaltenders this high early in the year. And given that George and Leenders aren't the biggest, I wasn't sure I wanted to place them this high. But, from what I understand, both of these guys are highly regarded by NHL scouts right now and are right in the conversation as the top goalies available. Both of their track records have been too good so far. </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>11. Jakub Fibigr - Defense - Mississauga Steelheads</b></div><div style="text-align: left;">Really impressive two-way Czech defender who has emerged as a minute eater for the Steelheads in his rookie year. Fibigr's skating ability is the key to his success. He is an effortless mover and it allows him to have a positive impact in a lot of areas. He can lead the breakout and quarterback the powerplay, however he's also been a penalty killing anchor for Mississauga because of how effective he's been in the defensive end. I love how he brings the fight to opposing puck carriers, stepping up early to disrupt clean entries. However, he also competes hard down low and near the crease and has some jam to his game. This is just a really solid two-way defender. Honestly, I wanted to put him higher, but decision making errors have been an issue all year without a ton of growth and that has me a little concerned about the processing ability. Poorly timed pinches. Poorly chosen times to be aggressive to defend high. Neutral zone turnovers. This really needs to get cleaned up. He's managed to cover a lot of these errors at the junior level because of his terrific mobility, but at the next level, he'd get eaten alive. I love Fibigr in that late second/early third round range right now. <a href="https://www.mckeenshockey.com/nhl-blog/2024-nhl-draft-early-season-favourites-ontario-jakub-fibigr-lukas-fischer-ben-danford-liam-greentree/">Here's my video breakdown of Fibigr's game for McKeen's Hockey.</a></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>12. Anthony Cristoforo - Defense - Windsor Spitfires</b></div><div style="text-align: left;">I kind of feel for Cristoforo. The Spitfires have been a real disappointment so far this season and he's been caught up in that a little bit. I don't think he's played poorly by any means. I also don't think that he's been able to take his game to that next level that I expected him to. I think that because the Spitfires have been reeling a bit, he seems to be playing things pretty safe and we're not seeing him take the kind of offensive chances that we did as an OHL rookie. His play on the powerplay has left a lot to be desired; there's been some indecisiveness there. Given his skill, poise, and vision, I want him to command the puck. Overall, Cristoforo is still a solid prospect thanks to his IQ. This is a very smart player. However, I do believe that there is some concern that he's one of those heady, jack of all trades types who can have difficulty transitioning. I just want to see him taking the bull by the horns to help lead this Windsor team out of their funk. Until I see more "dynamic" play from him, I feel more confident with him ranked in this range, rather than pushing for the first round as I had him preseason.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>13. Jett Luchanko - Center - Guelph Storm</b></div><div style="text-align: left;">Easily one of the most improved 2006's in the OHL this year. Luchanko impressed at times last year because of his tenacity and forechecking, but he wasn't able to make much of an impact offensively. This year, he's emerged as a go-to offensive player for the Storm, taking over the first line center role thought to be occupied by Matt Poitras until he made the Bruins. Luchanko is a terrific skater who builds to top speed very quickly. He has a profound impact on the transition game and is largely responsible for helping the Storm gain the zone at even strength and the powerplay. Even though Luchanko clearly has a need to bulk up a bit to improve his ability to protect and maintain possession through contact, I've been really impressed with his ability to play through traffic and earn touches between the hash marks. Even though he has that speed element, his game is actually predicated on quick touches and quick movement, as he darts in and out of coverage. The aforementioned high energy approach he had as a rookie is still there too, even though he's taken on a larger offensive role. It's cliche, but Luchanko only knows one way to play. I'm not entirely sure we're looking at a high impact guy at the NHL level, but similar to Luke Misa, Luchanko has a chance to be a long time pro because of a tenacious and speed based game.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>14. Ben Danford - Defense - Oshawa Generals</b></div><div style="text-align: left;">I did not anticipate having Danford this high after his rather weak showing at the Hlinka Gretzky Cup. But, quite frankly, he's been terrific for the Generals this year in all facets of the game. He's a rock defensively who rarely makes an error in coverage. While he's not a Derian Hatcher-esque physical stalwart, his intensity level is terrific. Danford is one of those guys who'll do anything to secure a victory for his team; shot blocking is an art and Danford is already a master at it. His decision making with the puck has been sound too. We're seeing him round into form as a solid two-way player. He has shown an ability to extend rushes this year, but he's picking his spots well and limiting turnovers. In fact, he's shown more skill and creativity than I thought he had. To summarize, he's really developed well. But what's the pro upside? You certainly wish he was a little bigger and a little more agile. Danford is far from a poor skater, but I wouldn't classify him as better than average in any one category either. That's bound to cap his NHL draft position, even if he's performed well. At this point, I seem him as a top 75 candidate, but towards the back end of that. <a href="https://www.mckeenshockey.com/nhl-blog/2024-nhl-draft-early-season-favourites-ontario-jakub-fibigr-lukas-fischer-ben-danford-liam-greentree/">Here's my video breakdown of Danford's game for McKeen's Hockey.</a></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>15. Luca Testa - Wing - Brantford Bulldogs</b></div><div style="text-align: left;">Is the hot start sustainable? After a late start to the year due to injury recovery, Testa has been terrific for the Bulldogs through the first month or so of his return. A high skill player, Testa was one of the more disappointing OHL rookies last year. He was just invisible on most nights and he really struggled away from the puck. This year? He looks like a completely different player. In fact, he looks like a completely different player than he did as a U16 star too. We're seeing a Testa that is intense and competitive away from the puck, earning touches through forechecking and physicality in the neutral zone. If he played with this kind of fire and intensity at a consistent rate with Niagara North, he would have been a top five pick IMO. So now what do we have? We've got a highly skilled and creative offensive player who skates well and who has developed more consistency as a "complete" player. If his play continues at this high level, he'll be higher on my next list. Testa has more upside than the likes of Misa and Beaudoin IMO.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>16. Nathan Villeneuve - Center/Wing - Sudbury Wolves</b></div><div style="text-align: left;">Tough sledding for Villeneuve lately. The arrival of Dalibor Dvorsky has had a real negative impact on his ice time and responsibility, and as a result, his offensive production has plummeted. However, I think he's still playing well in more of a high energy, checking line role. He's one of the most physical players in this Ontario class and even though he's been playing a lot of wing lately, I think he does project as a center moving forward. Much like Liam Greentree, Villeneuve is very center of the ice focused. He drives the net. He battles for position and can play net front on the powerplay. He is active and engaged in puck pursuit. I think his skating looks improved this year, although further improvements made to his first step quickness could help him. If he were on another team playing 18 minutes a game with top powerplay responsibility, I think we'd be talking about him as a top two round selection. As is, he's probably going to end up as more of a 75-100 guy. Given his projected lack of ice time this year, it could be difficult to truly ascertain his high end offensive upside as a pro.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>17. Christopher Thibodeau - Wing - Kingston Frontenacs</b></div><div style="text-align: left;">Even on a team with some NHL draft selections, Thibodeau has been the straw the stirs the drink for the Fronts this year, emerging as a top flight offensive talent in the OHL. I love the pace that he plays with. Even as an undersized player (he's listed at 144lbs!), he is always trying to take the puck to the net and he's doing a lot of his damage between the hash marks by driving the middle. His speed and ability to make quick cuts at top speed are impressive. He's a very elusive and slippery player. I've been impressed with nearly every component of his offensive game too. The release is top notch. The vision with the puck has been impressive, especially when operating with pace. As a late birthday, he has the kind of poise you'd expect from a third year OHL player too, understanding when he needs to alter pace to slow the game down, incorporating delays and varying speed to make him a more difficult cover. Even as a smaller forward, I'd have no qualms taking Thibodeau inside the first three rounds right now. This is a high upside forward who may have even more to give after he bulks up.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>18. Sam O'Reilly - Wing/Center - London Knights</b></div><div style="text-align: left;">O'Reilly has been great in his first full OHL season, emerging quickly as a dependable source of secondary scoring for London. This is a power winger (although he has played some center) who plays a heavy, pro style game. It's very obvious as to why Dale Hunter has been quick to give him more ice time. He competes physically and loves to lay the body in puck pursuit. He drives the net and competes along the wall. He plays all three zones and has been a dependable defensive presence. His work in the neutral zone has been particularly impressive. He has a great stick and instincts. Offensively, he seems to be best when he keeps things simple as a North/South attacker. He's not the most skilled or creative player, but I've been impressed with his puck poise as an OHL rookie. He's not afraid of putting the puck into space to earn his touches and has done well to vary pace...even without high end skating ability. Really, that's the only thing missing from his game. His top speed isn't bad, but he's definitely got some heavier boots. The first step quickness will need to improve. But Dale Hunter has done a great job of developing players like O'Reilly and IMO, he's someone that will continue to rise up rankings as the year goes on.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>19. Marek Vanacker - Wing - Brantford Bulldogs</b></div><div style="text-align: left;">This power winger who plays a North/South attacking game has shown some nice flashes of progression this year. His skating has really taken a nice step forward and would be classified as a strength for him. Once he builds that head of steam in transition, OHL defenders are having a tough time with him. I really like his upside as a goal scorer too. He's got a really heavy shot. The release needs to get quicker and he needs to find those soft spots in coverage more consistently (his play away from the puck has been inconsistent), but I think he's going to be a top end goal scorer in this league and perhaps beyond. The rest of his game is definitely a work in progress. Brantford has struggled to find consistency as a team and Vanacker can be included in that. But this is the type of player NHL scouts are going to be drawn to in the middle rounds.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>20. Kevin He - Wing - Niagara IceDogs</b></div><div style="text-align: left;">The IceDogs have been a bit of a mess...surprise, surprise. After a really strong rookie year, He's development has kind of plateaued this year. Like many of the players ranked in this range, consistency has been an issue. Decision making with the puck, in particular, has left some to be desired. A high volume shooter, He has not taken the necessary next steps forward as a playmaker or three zone player. But, there's still significant upside here. He is quick. He is skilled. He projects as a high end goal scorer. One has to wonder how He would be performing under different circumstances or in a different environment. Is he feeling pressure to create given Niagara's struggles and that's what is leading to some of those offensive zone turnovers and forced plays? He is going to need a big second half to stay ranked in this range as a potential top 100 selection.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>21. Riley Patterson - Center - Barrie Colts</b></div><div style="text-align: left;">Coming into the season, I definitely didn't expect Patterson to be ranked this far down. But his transition from OJHL star to OHL standout has been a difficult one. So much so, that NHL Central Scouting didn't even bother to list him as a player to watch. I obviously wouldn't go that far (given where I have him ranked), but I've been pretty underwhelmed by him offensively. If not for his strong defensive habits and potential, I probably would have had him lower. A strong skater, Patterson has looked good as a two-way threat. He has a great stick in the neutral zone and the effort has been consistent to try to earn touches. What he does with those touches has been the frustrating part. He's largely shown tunnel vision as an attacker and the majority of his carries have resulted in turnovers as he tries to take on defenders one on one. There's a definite need for him to add mass to his frame in order to withstand contact and make more of an impact between the hash marks. Additionally, he needs to simplify his approach. He's not going to be able to beat OHL defenders off the rush the same way he did in the OJHL. I've spoken to a few OHL management types about Patterson this year and the disappointment has been pretty mutual. If his game doesn't pick up in the second half and demonstrate growth, he'll continue to fall. Obviously...since I still have him ranked in this range I'm of the belief that he can show growth.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>22. Parker Von Richter - Defense - Mississauga Steelheads</b></div><div style="text-align: left;">This is a tough one for me. I absolutely love Von Richter. He's one of my favourite players in this Ontario draft class. Yet...I also understand that his NHL draft ranking should be in this mid round range for a variety of reasons. Let's start with the good. Von Richter is such an intelligent defensive player. He's always in the right position. His gap control is solid, even if he's not the most agile player. He engages physically and rarely loses a battle for the puck. But, best of all, I think Von Richter is also an intelligent offensive player. He makes a solid breakout pass and manages the puck well, even under pressure. He keeps things simple. In that simplicity is effectiveness and it's why he has been used to quarterback the powerplay at times. He can get pucks to the net and makes quick decisions at the point. Now, the not as good. Von Richter doesn't have the kind of size/mobility package that you like to see from potential stay at home types at the next level. And the reality is that Von Richter probably does project best as that type of pro, rather than a true two-way defender. A guy like Adam Pelech had a similar profile as an OHL player, but he definitely had a size advantage over PVR. The defensive types who have average size at the NHL level happen to be high end skaters, so that's where my concerns lie...even if I love Von Richter.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>23. Luca Marrelli - Defense - Oshawa Generals</b></div><div style="text-align: left;">I think it's pretty appropriate to have PVR and Marrelli ranked consecutively. A true "jack of all trades" type, Marrelli is just solid in all aspects of the game. He doesn't necessarily have a dominant trait or attribute, with everything grading out at average or above average. The feet are good, but not great. The size is good, but not outstanding. The physical intensity is good enough. Scouts will love the right shot. Marrelli has good instincts at both ends and can move the puck, even if he's not flashy or dynamic. A late born 2005, he has certainly shown the kind of progression that you'd expect and he continues to play a key role for the Generals. What's the pro upside? I think similar to PVR, that's the question mark. I was a bit surprised to see him earn a B grade from NHL Central Scouting, as to me he has a lot of qualities of that classic tweener. The rest of the year will be used to truly ascertain what kind of pro he can be. </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>24. Ethan Procyszyn - Center - North Bay Battalion</b></div><div style="text-align: left;">There is a reason why NHL Central Scouting gave Procyszyn a B grade. NHL scouts love types like him. The size and athleticism package is very intriguing. A great skater for a 6'3 center, Procyszyn is already a great player away from the puck. He has great attention to detail and is dialed in physically, making him a dual threat for the Battalion and someone who can be utilized in all situations. There's a very clear path to the pro level for someone like him, even if it's in more of a checking line role. The one name that comes to mind here is Zach Ostapchuk. I think they're similar kinds of players and prospects. If you follow my work at McKeen's, you'd know that I was a HUGE Ostapchuk supporter in his draft year. At this point, I'm not at that spot with Procyszyn. I see the allure. However, I'm not sure I see the same kind of creativity, skill, and offensive upside. That said, I wouldn't be shocked if I grew to really appreciate him more as the season progresses.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>25. Gabriel Frasca - Center - Kingston Frontenacs</b></div><div style="text-align: left;">The forgotten man in this Ontario crop, Frasca has yet to play this season after injuring his shoulder in the offseason. But, he's rumoured to be returning soon and it will be very interesting to see how he performs and ultimately slots into this draft landscape. Like any of the Frasca brothers, Gabriel is a heady player. He excelled as an OHL rookie because of his intelligence level and vision. He's also probably the best skater of the brothers and as such, is likely to be the best NHL prospect. I know he has his fans in the NHL scouting community (the B grade from NHL Central Scouting is evidence of that). But, I want to see the progression this year before I slot him above a lot of guys who have been playing and who showed similarly as OHL rookies last year.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>26. Charlie Paquette - Wing - Guelph Storm</b></div><div style="text-align: left;">Paquette, a late born 2005 winger, has been great this year for Guelph. IMO, he's been one of the most improved 2005's in the league and this positive progression has him firmly on the scouting radar. A big winger, he plays a traditional power game. He's got a powerful release and has done a really good job of converting on his looks this season. Even though he probably projects as a complementary piece at the next level, I've been impressed with his ability to drive possession and create his own chances this year. He's very difficult to separate from the puck and has been a real work horse for the Storm. I wanted to put him higher, but at this point I want to see if this level of play is sustainable. </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>27. Jacob Battaglia - Wing - Kingston Frontenacs</b></div><div style="text-align: left;">Another big bodied winger ranked in this range, Battaglia has a similar profile to the likes of Paquette, O'Reilly, and Procyszyn. I've really liked how he controls play down low and along the wall. He protects the puck really well and is difficult to strip or separate from. He's got quick feet for a big guy too, although the top end speed/linear quickness will need to improve. Battaglia has enough skill to spin off the wall and convert chances in tight and he's found a lot of success cleaning up garbage near the crease. I don't think his play away from the puck is as refined as some of the others ranked ahead of him who play a similar game, but inside the offensive end he has been impressive. </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>28. Jack Van Volsen - Center - Mississauga Steelheads</b></div><div style="text-align: left;">Van Volsen is a player, to me, who is still trying to find his identity as an OHL player and potential NHL draft prospect. It's obvious that he has the skill to be a top flight contributor at this level. That was obvious at the U16 level and it's why he was drafted so high. Yet, he's struggled with a lot of things since progressing to a higher level. The physical intensity level needs to increase. The confidence with the puck seems low at this point as Van Volsen has struggled to make plays deep in the offensive zone. There's a hesitancy there to make quick plays/reads. Does this point to a lack of processing? He's basically strictly a complementary player at this point in his OHL career, able to finish off plays because of his skill, but if you're not actively looking for him, he's not likely to catch your eye. The offensive upside is still way too high to give up on him and it's not like he's playing completely terrible. It's more that he's too much of a passenger right now and scouts are going to want to see him take the bull by the horns.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>29. Frankie Marrelli - Defense - Ottawa 67's</b></div><div style="text-align: left;">Marrelli is another player that I really like, but I have to ask myself...is he truly a terrific NHL prospect? Like PVR, he projects best as a stay at home type, yet he's only 5'11, lacking high end reach. Now, he makes up for that by being a physical demon, but he's also not the kind of high end skater you'd like to see either. That's not saying Marrelli is a poor skater. Far from it. But he's not an elite mover either. All that said, as I mentioned, I love the player. I love how he competes in the defensive end. I love his gap control and positioning in the defensive end. I love how he defends pace aggressively by stepping up early, squashing a lot of plays in the neutral zone or at the blueline. I love how he starts the breakout and I think he has sneaky offensive upside inside the offensive blueline because of his high end processing ability. Without those high end physical/athletic tools, I just wonder how NHL scouts are going to view his game and I wonder how well that game projects to the next level. </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>30. Charlie Hilton - Wing - Ottawa 67's</b></div><div style="text-align: left;">Might be a bit shocking to see him ranked this high, especially since I haven't really seen him on anyone else's radar. However, every time I'm watching the 67's and trying to focus on other players, he manages to stand out. The production hasn't really been there yet, but he's doing a lot of things well that just aren't showing up on the stat sheet. He's creating chances and I think it's only a matter of time before he starts to produce more consistently. This a is big 6'5 winger who happens to be the youngest player eligible for the draft this year. Yet, he's already quite a physical player who has a clear understanding of the way he needs to play to be successful. His skating is far from poor too. He can drive the net. Once his fills out physically, I see Hilton as having the potential to develop into quite the player. He just passes the eye test too often for me not to have him ranked pretty aggressively. </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>31. Lucas Ellinas - Center - Kitchener Rangers</b></div><div style="text-align: left;">This year's Ethan Hay. Ellinas has great attention to detail as a defensive center already and has the length and skating to play that role at the next level too. He's already used in key defensive situations by the Rangers. What's the offensive upside? </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>32. Kieron Walton - Wing - Sudbury Wolves</b></div><div style="text-align: left;">Massive winger with good offensive upside who has been a solid secondary scorer for the Wolves this year. He has skill and he's shown improvement away from the puck this year, but the physical intensity level is still too inconsistent for a player of his size. </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>33. Kaden Pitre - Center - Flint Firebirds</b></div><div style="text-align: left;">Hasn't played since mid/late October after taking a shoulder on shoulder hit against the Battalion. But Kaden is kind of a similar player to Coulson. A guy who plays bigger than he is to make up for a lack of truly dynamic athletic tools. I'm not sure he's got the kind of vision or upside as Coulson, but it did take me some time to come around on him last year too.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>34. Bode Stewart - Wing - Barrie Colts</b></div><div style="text-align: left;">Stewart has been a great role player for Barrie this year. He's been great on the penalty kill. He plays a heavy game. I'd love to see him playing consistently with a more dynamic playmaker at center. Skating needs to improve.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>35. AJ Spellacy - Center/Wing - Windsor Spitfires</b></div><div style="text-align: left;">Like many of the Windsor Spitfires, Spellacy has disappointed this year. However, he's been much better the last few weeks, getting back to playing the kind of power game that he finds success with. Easy to forget that he had a significant knee injury last year. A big second half could move him back up my list and the list of others. </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>36. Matthew Virgillio - Defense - Soo Greyhounds</b></div><div style="text-align: left;">The biggest disappointment of this Ontario group so far for me. Had such high expectations for him, but he's been pretty quiet. He showed such great flashes of offensive ability last year, but he's been way too conservative this year. I'm not sure I've seen him skate past his own blueline with the puck this year. I know Karki has come in and taken his projected role and ice time, but he's capable of way more.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>37. Jakub Chromiak - Defense - Kingston Frontenacs</b></div><div style="text-align: left;">Coming into the year I was lower on Chromiak than a lot of my contemporaries. I just didn't see a dynamic defender. That has held through this season thus far. A move to Kingston to earn more ice time has not helped. He will likely continue to fall unless he's able to find a way to make a larger impact.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>38. Callum Cheynowski - Defense - Brantford Bulldogs</b></div><div style="text-align: left;">Good sized defender with solid athletic tools. Ice time has been inconsistent thus far, but he shows flashes of being a high impact defender in this league at both ends. If Brantford ends up selling off at the deadline and he gets more ice time down the stretch, he could be one to watch.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>39. Braydon McCallum - Wing - Peterborough Petes</b></div><div style="text-align: left;">High energy winger who has been a solid secondary scoring option for the surprising Petes this year. He's not big, but he keeps his feet moving in the offensive end and relishes the opportunity to play that pest like role. Offensive upside is limited, but he's been good. </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>40. Daniel Chen - Defense - Brantford Bulldogs</b></div><div style="text-align: left;">Tall and lanky defender who played heavy minutes early on, but has seen his ice time and responsibility decrease as the weeks have gone on. Not the most fluid mover, but he's shown some upside as two-way toolsy type. Very, very raw.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>41. David Egorov - Goaltender - Brantford Bulldogs</b></div><div style="text-align: left;">I had very high expectations for Egorov coming into the year, viewing him as only a notch below George and Leenders in this crop. But he's really struggled with his reads and consistency. I still think that he's got a lot of upside as a starter in this league, but his NHL draft prospects are looking weak.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>42. Carson Woodall - Defense - Windsor Spitfires</b></div><div style="text-align: left;">Woodall has been a pleasant surprise for the Spits this year, one of few. He takes care of the puck, makes a clean exit, and has good instincts at both ends. I'm just not sure I see an NHL draft prospect. Not a dynamic player. Solid presence, but I don't think he has the skill set to dominate at either end. Not big either. Looks to be a potentially great find as an OHL player, but not more.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>43. Cole Davis - Wing - Windsor Spitfires</b></div><div style="text-align: left;">Another awesome surprise for the Spitfires...again one of the few bright spots. Smaller winger, but he plays a high energy game. Strong skater who always seems to be around the puck. Want to see how his offensive game continues to evolve this year. He could end up moving up lists if he can prove to be more of a play driver at his size.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>44. Mason Zebeski - Wing - Mississauga Steelheads</b></div><div style="text-align: left;">Big winger who plays a heavy support game. Creates space for his linemates and is at his best when he can push the pace North/South. Not sure I see a ton of upside, especially as a late born 2005, but in a weaker year for depth in the OHL, he definitely deserves a place on this list.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>45. Christopher Brown - Center - Soo Greyhounds</b></div><div style="text-align: left;">Intelligent playmaking center who has taken a nice step forward this year for the Greyhounds. Strong skater. There's a definite need to get stronger, but he shows flashes of being a high energy guy away from the puck. Have had a hard time determining the upside so far this year. Truthfully, a player that I need to see more of over the next little bit. </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>46. Alex Kostov - Wing - Soo Greyhounds</b></div><div style="text-align: left;">Good sized winger with intriguing athletic tools. Hasn't really shown that he can be a consistent offensive contributor or that he has the hands/skill to be a top six OHL player. </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>47. William Nicholl - Center/Wing - London Knights</b></div><div style="text-align: left;">The classic London Knights slow play kind of guy. Nicholl is being used in a variety of different situations because he's playing hard, but a lack of consistent ice time is perhaps masking the kind of upside he might possess. OHL rookie, so we don't have a ton to base it on either. Curious to see how he looks down the stretch.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>48. Nathan Aspinall - Wing - Flint Firebirds</b></div><div style="text-align: left;">Aspinall is similar to Kieron Walton in that he's a massive winger who isn't really a power forward. More skill based. He's not as good of a skater as Walton is and he hasn't shown the same level of skill with the puck. He's capitalized on some chances and remains intriguing because of the size, but let's see how his game improves over the year.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>49. Carson Campbell - Defense - Kitchener Rangers</b></div><div style="text-align: left;">Campbell has been a pleasant surprise for the Rangers after being acquired from Sarnia. His emergence as a steady hand allowed Kitchener to deal Tomas Hamara (in combination with Roman Schmidt's return, of course). Campbell is a strong skater who has shown flashes of being a capable puck mover and he's making good decisions at both ends. Tough to truly determine his upside given his lack of ice time, but there might be something there.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>50. Josh Brady - Defense - Ottawa 67's</b></div><div style="text-align: left;">Basically the same player as Campbell. Brady has been a pleasant surprise for Ottawa and has shown flashes of offensive upside. For now, he's making the most of limited ice time by keeping things simple and making strong plays inside his own blueline. </div>Brock Ottenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08237782074032840702noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2553903000955128175.post-72709315842364857282023-09-27T07:51:00.005-04:002023-09-27T07:51:51.622-04:002023/24 OHL Season Preview Part 3: Award Predictions<div style="text-align: left;">The conclusion to my three part season preview sees me look at potential award candidates for 2023/24.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>Red Tilson Trophy - David Goyette (Sudbury Wolves)</b></div><div style="text-align: left;">The second leading returning scorer to the OHL this year behind Matthew Poitras. The only difference is that I expect Goyette to be surrounded by better talent on a better team. Thus...he's my pick. I think he has an absolutely monster year as part of a dominant first line with Musty and Delic. Poitras is obviously a candidate too. Does he see some time in the NHL? Colby Barlow is going to have a huge year for a great Owen Sound team. He should be right up near the scoring leaders too. How about Michael Misa as an underdog? Let us not forget that other exceptional status players took big steps forward as sophomores. Based on what I saw at the Hlinka/Gretzky, I think Misa has a huge season. Could we see an Import player take it? It doesn't happen often, but it does happen (two of the last four, in fact). Maybe Sale or Haltunnen come in and become immediate impact players?</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>Jim Rutherford Goaltender of the Year - Dom DiVnicentiis (North Bay Battalion)</b></div><div style="text-align: left;">We rarely have back to back winners, but it does happen. Mike Murphy was the last to accomplish it in 2008 and 2009. I just believe that DiVincentiis is clearly the best netminder in the league and the safest bet here. We have quite a few platoons heading into the year on good teams and that obviously decreases the odds of those players. One name that really sticks out as a potential winner is Andrew Oke. He wasn't as good last year, but he has proven previously to be a solid netminder and is clearly Saginaw's guy. Even though he has no prior experience in the league, Jakub Vondras in Sudbury has to be candidate given his situation and strength of team. Lastly, Michael Simpson has to be a candidate in London after the recent trade.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>Max Kaminski Trophy - Ty Nelson (North Bay Battalion)</b></div><div style="text-align: left;">Nic Hague is the only other OHL defender to score 30 goals in the new millennium and I think Nelson joins him in accomplishing that feat. Nelson really took a nice step forward last year and returns to the league likely even stronger. The top candidate to stop Nelson is Guelph's Michael Buchinger. Yes, he's the highest returning scoring defender along with Nelson, but he's got the keys to Guelph's offense with Cam Allen out and he is one of the league's most underrated players. I look at Rodwin Dionicio, Hunter Brzustewicz, Beau Akey, and Zayne Parekh as other options.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>Emms Family Award - Matthew Schaefer (Erie Otters)</b></div><div style="text-align: left;">It's a really strong rookie group entering the OHL this year. But for me, the most likely winner is Matthew Schaefer. As we saw in the preseason, he's going to contribute on offense immediately. He's in a great situation to succeed and I actually think he could join a pretty exclusive club among the U17 defenders to score 50 points. My second choice would be Barrie center Riley Patterson, who's an '06. He's incredibly talented and he's going to get a ton of ice time. Don't be surprised if he scores 80+ points this year. Otherwise, guys like Brady Martin, Jake O'Brien, Mattheas Stark, Tyler Hopkins, all had strong preseasons too.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>Leo Lalande Trophy - Braeden Bowman (Guelph Storm)</b></div><div style="text-align: left;">Like any year, lots of good candidates here. But I think Bowman is in a great position to put up some huge numbers in Guelph this season, carrying over from his positive progression last year. Barrie defender Connor Punnett is another candidate that I really like. He's one of the league's most underrated two-way players. Kitchener's Mitchell Martin, Soo's Jack Beck, Owen Sound's Sam Sedley, Peterborough's Connor Lockhart, London's Michael Simpson and Windsor's Oliver Peer are others that I'm really looking at.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>Matt Leyden Trophy - Dale Hunter (London Knights)</b></div><div style="text-align: left;">Despite some pretty good teams, Dale Hunter hasn't won this award in over a decade. I think it's his year. I think really highly of Chris Lazary in Saginaw and he's bound to be in contention. Greg Walters in Owen Sound and Ken MacKenzie in Sudbury are also great potential candidates.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>Eddie Powers Trophy - David Goyette (Sudbury Wolves)</b></div><div style="text-align: left;">Basically, just take all the candidates for the Red Tilson and insert them here. I think Goyette is the top candidate and in fact, I wouldn't be shocked at all of Musty and Delic were in the top 6 or 7 of scoring too. I also mentioned Michael Misa. I think he's a great sleeper for this.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>Goal Scoring Leader - Colby Barlow (Owen Sound Attack)</b></div><div style="text-align: left;">Without question, Barlow has to enter the year as the top candidate to lead the league in goals. As long as he stays healthy, I think he's a lock for at least 50. Other candidates that I like...Kasper Halttunen in London, Michael Misa in Saginaw, David Goyette in Sudbury, Nick Lardis in Brantford, and Gavin Hayes in Flint. </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>1st Team All Stars</b></div><div style="text-align: left;">C - Matthew Poitras</div><div style="text-align: left;">LW - Colby Barlow</div><div style="text-align: left;">RW - David Goyette</div><div style="text-align: left;">D - Ty Nelson</div><div style="text-align: left;">D - Michael Buchinger</div><div style="text-align: left;">G - Dom DiVincentiis</div><div style="text-align: left;">Coach - Dale Hunter</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>2nd Team All Stars</b></div><div style="text-align: left;">C - Michael Misa</div><div style="text-align: left;">LW - Quentin Musty</div><div style="text-align: left;">RW - Kasper Halttunen</div><div style="text-align: left;">D - Beau Akey</div><div style="text-align: left;">D - Rodwin Dionicio</div><div style="text-align: left;">G - Michael Simpson</div><div style="text-align: left;">Coach - Ken MacKenzie</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>3rd Team All Stars</b></div><div style="text-align: left;">C - Martin Misiak</div><div style="text-align: left;">LW - Easton Cowan</div><div style="text-align: left;">RW - Eduard Sale</div><div style="text-align: left;">D - Hunter Brzustewicz</div><div style="text-align: left;">D - Zayne Parekh</div><div style="text-align: left;">G - Jakub Vondras</div><div style="text-align: left;">Coach - Chris Lazary</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>1st All Rookie Team</b></div><div style="text-align: left;">C - Riley Patterson</div><div style="text-align: left;">LW - Ryan Roobroeck</div><div style="text-align: left;">RW - Brady Martin</div><div style="text-align: left;">D - Matt Schaefer</div><div style="text-align: left;">D - Jakub Fibigr</div><div style="text-align: left;">G - Jack Ivankovic</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>2nd All Rookie Team</b></div><div style="text-align: left;">C - Tyler Hopkins</div><div style="text-align: left;">LW - Mattheas Stark</div><div style="text-align: left;">RW - Sam O'Reilly (although may qualify at center)</div><div style="text-align: left;">D - Cameron Reid</div><div style="text-align: left;">D - Ben Radley</div><div style="text-align: left;">G - David Egorov</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div>Brock Ottenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08237782074032840702noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2553903000955128175.post-42764406025019104182023-09-26T18:20:00.001-04:002023-09-26T19:03:27.034-04:002023/24 OHL Preview Part 2 - Western Conference<div style="text-align: left;">Part two looks at the Western Conference. Just like I mentioned in the East, parity is the name of the game here. Entering the year, the London Knights have to be the favourites, but you have some really good teams in the Conference who could easily push them when all is said and done.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>1. London Knights (Midwest Division Champs)</b></div><div style="text-align: left;">At this point, how could you not go with London? Their defense should be the best in the OHL led by Oliver Bonk, Isaiah George, and top NHL draft prospect Sam Dickinson. The first line of Denver Barkey, Easton Cowan, and Finnish import Kasper Halttunen should be among the best trios in the league. Forward depth isn't as strong as usual, but expect London to address that at some point, especially with an open OA spot on the roster. The real concern is in net. Can Zach Bowen be the guy? He was at times last year, but consistency was a major issue. If he falters, I would imagine that London looks to bring in a netminder earlier, rather than later. </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>Post Edit: </b>London has acquired Michael Simpson solidifying their hold on preseason prognostications. </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>2. Saginaw Spirit (West Division Champs)</b></div><div style="text-align: left;">We already know that the Spirit will be present at the end of the year as Memorial Cup hosts. Obviously, the strength of their roster was one of the reasons for their selection and I would expect them to add to that over the year. Like many teams in the OHL, goaltending is the question mark. Can Andrew Oke step up with Tristan Lennox finally out of the mix, leaving him the keys to the house? Like London, I would expect them to be active on the trade market if he struggles. Otherwise, look for Michael Misa to take a huge step forward as one of the OHL's leading scorers, and if the Matyas Sapovaliv from last years playoffs shows up, look out.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>3. Owen Sound Attack</b></div><div style="text-align: left;">Look out London, this Owen Sound team will be right on you all season long. This is a veteran laden roster that was constructed for a deep run this year. Colby Barlow is the star, but this team is deep at every position, returning nearly every key player from a year ago. I'm very curious to see what they end up deciding at the OA spot, with four really good options and only three spots (Goure, Burroughs, Lawrence, and Sedley). The big thing that I'm looking for is who steps up to replace Nolan Seed, aiding Sam Sedley as a puck mover and minute eater on the back end.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>4. Windsor Spitfires</b></div><div style="text-align: left;">How much will the Spitfires miss Matt Maggio? He was by far the team's best player last year, leading them to a division title. Thankfully, the framework of that same team returns. The roster has a solid mix of veteran talent, and good young players. I have little faith that this team will score goals. Dionicio, DeAngelis, and Cristoforo will anchor the backend. The forward group is deep. Expect Oliver Peer to have a monster OA year. Also expect Ryan Abraham to have a big year if he can stay healthy. I'd also expect Joey Costanzo to be more consistent this year, especially down the stretch.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>5. Erie Otters</b></div><div style="text-align: left;">My surprise team in the Western Conference. I see this team as being super hungry to finally progress after five straight years at the bottom of the division. The Misiak addition should pay major dividends; look for him to be a difference maker. Ditto for rookie Matthew Schaefer. He is electric and gives the Otters two really good puck movers on both top pairings. Look for this team to really push the pace, which might seem weird to say given Stan Butler is their coach. However, because of Stan, they will also be highly detail oriented. I just have a good feeling about Erie this year.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><div><b>6. Soo Greyhounds</b></div><div>I actually really wanted to put this Soo team higher. Especially after they picked up Jack Beck, a player I expect to be highly motivated to earn a pro deal as an OA. I really like the defensive make-up of this team and it helps to alleviate some concerns over their goaltending. Gibson, Kudryavtsev, Virgillio, and Karki is a heck of a top four. I think Bryce McConnell Barker has a monster season too. I'm just not necessarily convinced that this team has the high end depth at forward to truly compete in the Western Conference. Pace is going to be a bit of an issue too, as this forward group is not the most fleet of foot.</div></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>7. Kitchener Rangers</b></div><div style="text-align: left;">The early results under new coach Jussi Ahokas have been great this preseason. Important to note...it's preseason. Erie was among the best in the Western Conference last year in the preseason and they selected first overall. That said, I have faith that Ahokas can bring a refreshing new outlook to the OHL and bring out the best in this group. They don't have the depth of some other Western Conference squads, but they do have some potential star talent. Carson Rehkopf looks poised for a big year. I'd expect the same from Mitchell Martin as he tries to earn a pro deal as an OA. </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>8. Guelph Storm</b></div><div style="text-align: left;">I don't know what to think about the Storm. Part of me believes that they can contend in the Western Conference if all the chips align well. The preseason OHL power rankings poll (which I contributed to) definitely alludes to that with the Storm being quite high. But what if they don't? Matthew Poitras has been turning heads in Boston and they have some openings. Cam Allen will be out until Christmas. Michael Buchinger is a legit contender for the Max Kaminsky, but he can't do it all himself on the backend. In net, the Storm have pushed all their chips in on Import rookie Damian Slavik. It just seems like everything would have to go really well for this team to be a contender. </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>9. Flint Firebirds</b></div><div style="text-align: left;">It feels weird to have the Firebirds this low, given that I really like certain players and components of their roster. Again, the parity in the league is real this year. What I'm concerned about is the lack of a primary play driver without Lombardi this year. I really like Hayes and Pitre, but I'm just not crazy about the team's centers this year. Ditto for the defensive depth behind Tristan Bertucci. According to InStat, Flint doesn't have a defender returning outside of Bertucci who played more than 17 minutes per game last year. That's asking a lot of some of these younger guys.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>10. Sarnia Sting</b></div><div style="text-align: left;">I know, I know. They had a tremendous preseason. But, like I said earlier, so did Erie last year before they ended up picking first overall. The Sting are losing their top six scorers from last year, which amounts to almost 200 goals. For those keeping track, that's over 60% of the teams production from last year. That's just never a good sign for success in the cyclical OHL. It's time for a rebuild in Sarnia and they do have some nice trade chips, including Ben Gaudreau if they can get him playing well. The one guy that I'm most curious about is Sandis Vilmanis. He impressed me a lot last year and I think he can do a lot more with significant ice time and responsibility this season.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div>Brock Ottenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08237782074032840702noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2553903000955128175.post-53205088404369067712023-09-25T07:45:00.000-04:002023-09-25T07:45:42.700-04:002023/24 OHL Preview Part 1 - Eastern Conference<div style="text-align: left;">The start of the 2023/24 OHL season is right around the corner. That means it is time to make some predictions and to preview each conference. As always, prognosticating the OHL (and the CHL in general) is extremely difficult. You never know which players surprise and make the NHL or the pro level. You never know which are surprisingly returned. In fact, I would say that this year is one of the most difficult to predict in recent memory due to the likely parity in the league. There are are lot of strong teams, but none without perceived weaknesses. Lots of veteran laden rosters hoping that this year is their year. Lots of younger teams hoping to take that next step in their development. </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">First up is the Eastern Conference. I see the Central Division as clearly superior heading into the season. It's going to be a dogfight, which could hurt the records of some teams given inter divisional play. That's probably good news for Ottawa as they try to repeat as East Division champions. </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>1. Barrie Colts (Central Division Champs)</b></div><div style="text-align: left;">Yes, the Colts have lost their top two scorers from last year, in addition to their best player in the second half (Brandt Clarke). But, adding Eduard Sale and Riley Patterson was huge for this club who still has terrific depth. Cole Beaudoin looks ready to take a huge next step too. This group does have an OA problem, depending on certain players returning from the pro level. But that's a great problem to have and maybe they can flip one for a talented '04 who can play a role this year. Look for the Beau's to have huge years (Jelsma and Akey). The only real question is in net. Ben West was excellent in preseason action, but he's an OA in an already crowded '03 group. </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>2. Ottawa 67's (East Division Champs)</b></div><div style="text-align: left;">Let's not forget how good the 67's were last year in the first half before they made some moves to bolster their roster. So while I am concerned about depth following some roster losses, especially after moving a disgruntled Jack Beck, I do have faith that this young team can put together another really good season in a weaker East Division. They return their strong goaltending platoon of Donoso and MacKenzie, and they should be able to roll out two very good scoring lines. Their young defense is solid, but I am most concerned with the loss of Jack Matier, forcing the likes of Henry Mews and Frankie Marrelli into significant roles in their draft years. Their plenty talented, but we saw what that pressure did to Cam Allen last year. I'd look for the 67's to dip into the OA market early from teams facing a roster crunch.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>3. Sudbury Wolves</b></div><div style="text-align: left;">This Sudbury team should be really, really good if they can get good goaltending from either Nate Krawchuk or Import Jakub Vondras. They are one hundred percent a contender for an OHL Championship this year. The line of Musty, Goyette, and Delic should be one of the best in the league and all three could be top ten in OHL scoring. However, their scoring depth is solid too, especially if Nathan Villeneuve takes that next step like many expect. One of the keys for this team is undoubtedly Jakub Chromiak. He needs to be much better than he was as an OHL rookie, giving this team four really solid defenders in he, Mania, Anania, and Collins. Losing Toure to the pro level (after signing a deal with the Senators) hurts, but it does solve their OA problem.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>4. Mississauga Steelheads</b></div><div style="text-align: left;">The Steelheads have a chance to be this year's truly surprise team. They're very young, but boy are they talented. Getting Jakub Fibigr to report was huge for them as he will provide an offensive spark on the blueline that was missing. He's looked great in the OHL preseason and should transition seamlessly. Up front this team is three lines deep and has so many talented play drivers. Porter Martone is going to be a go-to guy and is a darkhorse to finish top ten in OHL scoring IMO. However, Luke Misa and Jack Van Volsen are probably the key to the Steelheads having a successful year. Both have to take that next step in their NHL draft years...and I think they will.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>5. Kingston Frontenacs</b></div><div style="text-align: left;">Kingston is the best bet to be the second best team in the East Division IMO and they could even challenge Ottawa if everything goes according to plan. I hate to put a ton of pressure on one player, but this needs to be a breakout year for Paul Ludwinski, now that he is healthy. There is good depth, especially at forward, but he needs to be the straw that stirs the drink and finally reach his upside. Look for Tyler Hopkins to have a great year as a rookie too. Big fan of this young man and he should fit in seamlessly, as he showed in the preseason. Other than that, the key is getting healthy (with Frasca already banged up), and staying healthy.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>6. North Bay Battalion</b></div><div style="text-align: left;">If you've got the best defender (Ty Nelson) and the best goaltender (Dom <span style="white-space: normal;">DiVincentiis)</span> in the OHL heading into the season, you should be a playoff team. Granted, I'm a bit concerned about whether this offense will be dynamic enough after losing their top four scorers at the forward position; there really isn't a dynamic play driver. Yet, the depth is solid. And if there's anything that I've learned from covering the OHL the last few decades, it's that star power can carry you pretty far. Would North Bay consider moving Nelson or <span style="white-space: normal;">DiVincentiis for a King's ransom if they find themselves in the middle of the pack?</span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>7. Oshawa Generals</b></div><div style="text-align: left;">I still see the Generals as being one year away from being considered among the best teams in the OHL. They're set up nicely for a monster run next season with so many good '05's, 06's, and 07's in the mix. That said, I do think a lot would have to go perfectly for them to find themselves in the hunt this year. First, and foremost, Cal Ritchie needs to heal up and return from shoulder surgery last year. A Ritchie/Kumpulainen one/two punch down the middle could be among the best in the OHL in the second half once one gets healthy and one adjusts to the OHL. The development of NHL draft eligible defenders Ban Danford and Luca Marrelli is definitely one of the keys to success. The Generals need them to be two-way anchors.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>8. Brantford Bulldogs</b></div><div style="text-align: left;">I really wanted to put the Bulldogs higher, but I just don't know what to expect from this team. I really disliked the way that they handled the Import Draft this year. Taking Adam Jiricek was a waste of a pick. He wasn't going to come and it was an opportunity to add a high end player to this roster that I see lacking depth at some positions. Badinka may still come at some point, but right now it's a huge miss. Throw in the fact that this team is moving cities and playing in a new environment; that can be tough. Nick Lardis and Patrick Thomas should continue to cook as a feared twosome, but who will be their Panwar this year? Will one of the team's three netminders step up and emerge as a solid starter? Rookie Jake O'Brien was great in the preseason, but it seems unfair to be counting on him to be one of the team's largest offensive weapons.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>9. Niagara IceDogs</b></div><div style="text-align: left;">I might have been one of the only people out there who didn't hate some of the recent moves by the Dogs. You've got some good young players on this roster and you want to make sure that they are surrounded by high character, veteran players. Ryan Humphrey is that. Gavin Bryant is that. You want this Niagara team to be competitive enough to win some games and keep most games close. I actually really love the look of the team's first line of Kevin He, Alex Assadourian, and Ryan Humphrey. That is a line that brings speed, skill, and competitiveness. I actually wouldn't be shocked at all if this team makes the playoffs if they can get good goaltending.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>10. Peterborough Petes</b></div><div style="text-align: left;">By far the most difficult team to prognosticate this year. If they keep their current roster, they have enough star power (Owen Beck, Connor Lockhart, Sam Mayer, Michael Simpson) to be competitive and in the playoff hunt. I would actually expect that through the first part of the year. I don't think we'll see any truly bad teams in the Eastern Conference this year. But, with a bare cupboard from playoff runs, the Petes need to sell off the above assets to try to rebuild. And once that happens, they'll easily be the worst team on paper in the Conference and should fall below the others in the second half...thus my last place prediction. </div>Brock Ottenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08237782074032840702noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2553903000955128175.post-75606241869232938782023-08-28T08:16:00.000-04:002023-08-28T08:16:28.864-04:00Preseason Top 30 for the 2024 NHL Draft<div style="text-align: left;">It's the end of August and that means a new OHL season is right around the corner. It also means that it's time for me to release my first draft ranking for 2024. To assess these players we've seen them in the OHL (mostly) and for some we've seen them at the U17's and at the Hlinka/Gretzky Cup. Unfortunately, the lack of training camp for the Hlinka (due to Hockey Canada budget cuts) has prevented us from getting a glimpse of improvements made by other players on this list heading into the season, but thems the breaks. </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">Of course, a ton is going to change between now and the actual 2024 draft. A lot will likely change before I make my first in season list in October/November. Here was <a href="http://ohlprospects.blogspot.com/2022/08/preseason-top-30-for-2023-nhl-draft.html">last year's preseason list</a>, as an example.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">How would I classify this year's potential OHL crop? Very strong. The defense for this group is outstanding, possessing the potential to be among the best group of blueliners ever from the OHL, rivaling the 2008 draft when the OHL had five first round picks from the back-end. I mean, the Hlinka/Gretzky Cup was evidence of this as nearly all of Canada's blueline came from Ontario. The forwards are not quite as strong, but I'm sure a few will really step up and emerge as first round candidates. </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">Here's the list:</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>1. Sam Dickinson - Defense - London Knights</b></div><div style="text-align: left;">Honestly, prior to the Hlinka/Gretzky, it was a toss up for me between Dickinson and Henry Mews. But Dickinson was so unbelievably good at that event, he made this a no brainer for me. This is a defender who has pretty much everything going for him. Think if Darnell Nurse and Alex Pietrangelo merged via cloning. He skates very well for a bigger defender. He is so poised in the defensive end with the puck, starting the breakout with ease, even in the face of pressure. He competes hard physically. He has a great stick in the defensive end. He has a booming point shot. He has first pairing NHL workhorse written all over him. This year in London, it will be interesting to see how his confidence as a puck mover grows. Will he be given a leash to take chances in transition, using his feet and hands to lead the breakout? I believe yes. Last year we saw Cam Allen start the year in this position and then falter under high expectations. I don't expect that to happen to Dickinson. I'll be shocked if he's not a top ten pick in June.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>2. Henry Mews - Defense - Ottawa 67's</b></div><div style="text-align: left;">Mews may not be quite as polished as Dickinson, but his upside as a top pairing NHL defender is similar. A coveted right shot defender, Mews is extremely skilled. He has an aggressive offensive mindset and is constantly looking to push the tempo from the back-end. Does that lead to some miscues? Absolutely. He'll need to look to improve his decision making this year. He can be turnover prone in the defensive end as he tries to force things. Sometimes the high percentage, but "boring" play is the right move, especially in the face of a heavy forecheck. I do believe that Mews sees the ice well though and that with experience, he'll develop into a top notch playmaker. From a defensive perspective, he can be a high end player. He doesn't have the elite reach that Dickinson does, but he is mobile, competes hard, and shows strong understanding of how to defend the middle already. This year, as mentioned, it will be completely about assessing Mews' ability to process the game under pressure.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>3. Beckett Sennecke - Wing - Oshawa Generals</b></div><div style="text-align: left;">Let's forget the puzzling Hlinka/Gretzky omission. I think Sennecke enters the year as the top forward available from the OHL. What I love most about his game is his sense and vision. He's such a quick processor in the offensive end. That was evident even as an OHL rookie. At times, he seems a step ahead of the competition, making quick one touch passes or finding those soft spots as a passing option. He's got great hands, flashes high end creativity, and is a strong finisher. Throw all that in a 6'2 frame and you have a potential top six winger at the next level. So what am I looking for this year? The first thing would be improving his skating. I wouldn't classify Sennecke as a poor skater. However, I think a lack of a dynamic burst was evident last year and it prevented him from getting consistent separation from defenders. Additionally, I'm looking for him to improve the consistency of his physical intensity level. Can he be stronger on pucks down low? Can he turn himself into a strong three zone player? Given that I expect Oshawa to improve this year, I have high expectations for Sennecke.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>4. Zayne Parekh - Defense - Saginaw Spirit</b></div><div style="text-align: left;">Parekh was already one of the most exciting defenders in the OHL last year as a rookie. He set a new league U17 goal scoring record by a defender with 21 goals. Parekh is pure chaos on the ice with how aggressive he is offensively. He scored a few breakaway goals last year and I think that tells you everything you need to know about him. The Saginaw system, which encourages free flow (essentially experimenting with positionless hockey), is perfect for him, just as it was for Pavel Mintyukov, encouraging his creativity with the puck. As a result, his offensive upside is immense. Outside of his puck skill and vision, Parekh's four way mobility is also an asset. He's terrific on his edges, giving him that elusiveness in tight spaces to help him evade pressure. The million dollar question is, how does Parekh's game transition to the next level? Given his lack of size, can he defend at the NHL level? Will he be as successful in the NHL in a different system that does not promote the kind of freedom that he has in Saginaw? I know that there is skepticism in the scouting community, even if he has his fans too. Right now, the talent is too strong to ignore and he deserves to be ranked accordingly. The points will be there again this year, but the real test will be the improvements that he makes in the defensive end. </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>5. Anthony Cristoforo - Defense - Windsor Spitfires</b></div><div style="text-align: left;">Cristoforo is kind of a similar player to Parekh. He shines most in the offensive end currently thanks to his combination of high end skill and high end vision. Even as an OHL rookie, it was rare to see Cristoforo make a poor decision with the puck. He's calm under pressure. He trusts his feet and his vision, always keeping his head up and on a swivel. His upside as a powerplay quarterback is terrific. And while he's certainly a bit bigger than Parekh, there are similar concerns over his ability to defend at the next level. Can he find consistent success in high traffic areas as an OHL sophomore, becoming more difficult to play against? Given his high IQ and his quick feet, he doesn't have to be a bruiser, but increasing his aggressiveness is a must. Given Canada's depth at the Hlinka/Gretzky, he didn't have a great opportunity to show how good he is to a larger audience, but he should have a really strong year with the Spitfires as a lead defender.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>6. Liam Greentree - Wing - Windsor Spitfires</b></div><div style="text-align: left;">Speaking of the Spitfires, insert big winger Liam Greentree. He was so good as an OHL rookie last year. He has really good hands for a bigger winger and his skating is a non issue. He plays well in transition and finishes off plays well in tight with a quick release. Last year, he already showed an ability to fight off checks and pressure to make plays down low, and as he gains further strength, he could be a really tough player to separate from the puck. So what's the next step this year? Like most second year forwards it's proving that he can be a primary play driver and not just a complementary piece. Can he be a consistent force with the puck who can create by driving the net with speed and power? Can he continue to develop physically and incorporate power forward esque tendencies into his approach? </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>7. Parker Von Richter - Defense - Mississauga Steelheads</b></div><div style="text-align: left;">Definitely a personal favourite of mine early in this 2024 scouting process. Improved by leaps and bounds over the course of his rookie season and was playing top four minutes, well over 20 minutes a night by the playoffs for Mississauga. His strength lies in his play in the defensive end. He shows a really strong understanding of how to defend. Von Richter is one of those players who is always in the right position, showing great poise and anticipation already as a young defender. As the season went on, he gained confidence in his ability to use his size/strength down low and near the crease too. Critical for any strong defensive presence, Von Richter also showed well with the puck in the defensive end, especially in the second half. He started the breakout effectively and was calm in the face of forecheckers. There are two big questions though. 1) Can his skating improve further? I wouldn't call it a weakness, but there were instances last year where a lack of quickness/efficiency in his stride hurt him. Improving his footwork will be the key to him becoming a true defensive standout. 2) What's the offensive upside? We saw him start to gain confidence in his puck moving abilities late last year and I do believe that he has the ability to contribute offensively. But is that a skill that has the potential to carry over? Can't wait to see how he looks this year.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>8. Frankie Marrelli - Defense - Ottawa 67's</b></div><div style="text-align: left;">Late last season, it was like the light bulb switched on for Marrelli. He was better than Henry Mews in the playoffs last year and that carried into this summer's Hlinka/Gretzky when I thought Marrelli was one of Canada's best defenders. He's not a huge defender, but he's tough to play against already. He's very competitive and has a penchant for the big hit, as he looks to step up on attackers early. His lateral and backwards mobility are excellent and it allows him to be a terrific rush defender, when you combine that with his aggressive, suffocating approach. Offensively, I think Marrelli has more to offer us thanks to strong vision and decision making. How skilled is he? That will be the big question mark this year. Given his average size, NHL teams will be looking for him to become a strong two-way presence as 6'0 stay at home types are not the most coveted. </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>9. Ben Danford - Defense - Oshawa Generals</b></div><div style="text-align: left;">Danford didn't have the best Hlinka/Gretzky Cup, but you can't overlook how steady he was for the rebuilding Generals last year. A lot of those weak puck plays that we saw at the Hlinka did not happen last year and I think that points to a young man who was pressing a bit under the pressure of the event and the scouting presence. If anything, I thought Danford's decision making with the puck, especially in the offensive zone, was a strength as a rookie. He holds the offensive blueline well. Danford also defends well, using strong skating ability to stay ahead of attackers. Like a few others on this list, he doesn't have elite size/reach, but he showed well as a rookie with a good stick and anticipation. The key for Danford will be shaking that dreaded, "jack of all trades" label. Here we have an average sized defender who looks good at both ends, but who currently lacks a tool that I would label as well above average. Those can be the types that look great as OHL rookies, but who then fail to take that next step as others catch up to them physically. Right now, he very much deserves to be ranked in this range, but progression will be needed at both ends in order for him to hold this spot.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>10. Cole Beaudoin - Center - Barrie Colts</b></div><div style="text-align: left;">The surprise of the Hlinka/Gretzky Cup as one of Canada's best and most consistent players. Last year as an OHL rookie, I thought he largely looked over his head. His lack of dynamic skating really held him back and kept him behind the play. But the player we saw at the Hlinka/Gretzky looked like a potential NHL first round selection. Firstly, it's obvious that improving his skating was a focus this offseason. His linear quickness and speed looked considerably improved. It allowed Beaudoin to be a dynamite forechecker and penalty killer. There's definitely still room for him to improve his agility and East/West movement, but Rome wasn't built in a day. What Beaudoin is, is a potential all situations, two-way center. I'm very curious to see how he carves out a larger role in Barrie this season.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>11. Jack Van Volsen - Center/Wing - Mississauga Steelheads</b></div><div style="text-align: left;">The need for Van Volsen is simple. Get stronger. Get quicker. Anyone who saw Van Volsen play for the Toronto Jr. Canadiens knows that he is one of the most skilled players in the age group. However, I felt that he wasn't able to truly play his hard working style of game last year because he was consistently outmuscled off the puck. This resulted in him being primarily a complementary piece who relied on others to make plays for him, which certainly wasn't the case as a U16 player. Let's see if he put in the work this offseason to take his game to another level. Can he get back to dominating shifts in the cycle, dominating the net front, and being a primary play driver? It should also be noted that Van Volsen has a terrific shot and high end scoring potential. Among any forward on this list, his offensive upside might be the highest. </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>12. Luke Misa - Center - Mississauga Steelheads</b></div><div style="text-align: left;">Admittedly, I came away disappointed in Misa's development last year as a sophomore. Part of it was ice time related, but I also felt like his game didn't truly take that next step. Luckily for him, he's a late birthday, which means he is first time NHL draft eligible this year and that gives him another year to prove his chops. The backbone of Misa's game is his skating ability. He is absolutely dynamic in transition because of his speed. Misa is also a competent two-way player who is committed on the backcheck and who has the opportunity to develop into a really good penalty killer because of his speed and tenaciousness. Can Misa's offensive game take that next step this year though? Will the hands catch up to the feet? Can he be stronger on the puck to create when the game slows down and show an ability to get to the net consistently? Surrounded by some great young talent in Mississauga, he's going to be set up with a really nice opportunity to show that he deserves to be highly thought of for this draft.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>13. Nathan Villeneuve - Center - Sudbury Wolves</b></div><div style="text-align: left;">A true power center in every sense of the word. Villeneuve was as advertised as an OHL rookie for Sudbury. The tenacious style that he was drafted for translated perfectly, even if the offensive production was inconsistent (mostly due to inconsistent ice time/responsibility). He loves to throw the body and is relentless in his pursuit of the puck. This work ethic translates to the defensive end where he is already an asset as a young center. Offensively, Villeneuve's best asset would probably be his shot, but he flashes high end skill on net drives and is very middle of the ice/attack oriented. The big thing for me is improving his skating. With a bit of a wide stride, Villeneuve doesn't have elite speed or quickness currently. It will be curious to see how that's improved this year. With improvements to his strength and quickness, he could move quickly up draft boards, especially with the second line center role in Sudbury all but locked up.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>14. Kevin He - Wing - Niagara IceDogs</b></div><div style="text-align: left;">Turbulent times for the IceDogs these days, but He was a serious bright spot for them last year. His combination of speed and goal scoring prowess makes him a very interesting prospect heading into this draft year. Along with Misa, he's the best skater of the forwards available in this OHL crop. Everything about him screams high end goal scorer. He can really fire the puck. He can score in multiple ways. He creates his own chances by driving wide. He gets to the net and is not a perimeter player. Can the playmaking ability take that next step this year? What about the off puck play? How will he handle playing in a difficult environment in Niagara in his NHL draft year? Lots of question marks, but He possesses significant upside.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><div><b>15. Matthew Virgillio - Defense - Soo Greyhounds</b></div><div>It wasn't easy for Virgillio in his first year given the Soo's position at the bottom of the standings. But he played a lot for them and largely held his own. The highly touted former St. Andrew's College product has immense potential, probably more than some of the defenders I've got ranked ahead of him. He is a strong skater who can have a positive impact on the transition game. He can quarterback the powerplay. He defends well and should develop into a quality two-way player as he adds strength. It's about putting it all together consistently as the Greyhounds improve. I thought about putting him higher, especially given the Soo's track record for developing defenders, but I think it's important to see what he shows this year first. I want to see how his game evolves around an improving Greyhounds team.</div></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>16. Jakub Chromiak - Defense - Sudbury Wolves</b></div><div style="text-align: left;">Thought it was fitting to have Chromiak and Virgillio back to back here given their upsides as offensive defenders. The difference for me is that Virgillio is a year younger. The younger brother of former OHL standout (and LA prospect) Martin Chromiak, Jakub is a skilled puck moving defender who will be entering his second OHL season thanks to his late 2005 birth date. His rookie year was mired by inconsistency. But that's the case for a lot of OHL rookie defenders, and even more so for rookie Import defenders. So we're giving Chromiak a bit of the benefit of doubt here that those flashes turn into something more significant this year. The hype is certainly there and rightfully so given his offensive upside thanks to his combination of skill and mobility. However, I'm going to need to see significant improvement at both ends in order for him to hold this position. And given that I've got him 15th, I'm obviously lower on him than some of my contemporaries who have him in their first round currently.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>17. Luca Marrelli - Defense - Oshawa Generals</b></div><div style="text-align: left;">The cousin of the 67's defender of the same name also appearing on this list, Luca is actually a similar kind of defender. He shows promise as a two-way defenseman and is a little ahead of some of the other players on this list due to his late 2005 birthday. He was probably Oshawa's best defender from start to finish last year. Love his poise in the offensive end when he's working the point. He shows great anticipation and vision holding the line and he generally keeps things simple to help Oshawa keep pressure on. Defensively, he's solid. Not as physical as his cousin Frankie, but he has a bit more length to help him apply stick pressure. I'm also not sure that he's as strong a skater as Frankie, but I wouldn't call it a weakness for Luca either. Like any later born player entering the draft year, it can be tough to evaluate him in comparison. I'm sure we'll get a better idea about his upside this season. </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>18. Lukas Fischer - Defense - Sarnia Sting</b></div><div style="text-align: left;">Played a little over a half a season with Sarnia after coming over from the USHL and he seemed to get better with each passing month. The athletic tools are going to be very intriguing this year given his bloodlines (son of former NHL defender Jiri) and his late birthday (September 9th, making him one of the youngest players eligible this year). The 6'4 defender shows great potential at both ends. But his game and decision making are very raw, making it difficult to truly ascertain what kind of player he can become as of now. This is someone who is still trying to figure out how to get the best out of his tools. It would have been great to see him make the U.S. Hlinka team, but he was ultimately cut. I think the key for him is improving his skating, especially the fluidity of his four-way movement. If he plays well for Sarnia this year, he'll move quickly up draft lists.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>19. Riley Patterson - Center - Barrie Colts</b></div><div style="text-align: left;">I loved Patterson as a U16 player with the Mississauga Sens and he proceeded to have one of the better U17 seasons in recent memory in the OJHL last year. He left his commitment to Michigan State to sign with Barrie following a trade from Flint and should be a big part of Barrie's plans the next few years. But what can we expect this year in his draft year and where should we rank him? This seems like a pretty safe ranking given how he has yet to prove himself in the OHL, but if he plays well, I can tell you right now that I'll be moving him up my list pretty aggressively. He brings speed. He brings tenaciousness as a two-way player. He is skilled. He makes his linemates better with his vision and creativity. Patterson has the upside to be the best forward from the OHL from this crop. But for every Mark Scheifele who has transitioned seamlessly from the OJHL as a 17/18 year old, there have been others who struggled (such as Brenden Sirizzotti recently). </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>20. Gabriel Frasca - Center - Kingston Frontenacs</b></div><div style="text-align: left;">It almost feels criminal to have Frasca this low coming into the year. He was solid as a rookie for Kingston, earning a spot on the second all rookie team. And of course, he was terrific with the same Mississauga Sens team others on this list came from. Gabriel is unquestionably the best skater at the same age of the talented Frasca brothers. Still, that will be the focal point of improvement for Gabriel as he enters his sophomore season with the Frontenacs. Frasca is an intelligent and well rounded player. He shows well at both ends already. He has a great touch as a passer. He is a dual threat as a goal scorer. However, I also feel that his athletic tools may be a little less refined than some of the other forwards on this list. Is he the next Logan Morrison, Austen Keating type? Frasca isn't quite as physical and powerful as the likes of Villeneuve, Beaudoin, and Greentree. And he's not as quick as the likes of He and Patterson. Let's see how everything comes together for him this season. </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>21. Carter George - Goaltender - Owen Sound Attack</b></div><div style="text-align: left;">George was excellent for Canada at the Hlinka/Gretzky Cup, stepping in for Gabriel D'Aigle to assume the starter's role. He provided the security and consistency the team needed in helping them capture gold. In reality, this should have come as no surprise as George was excellent in limited OHL action last year too. He's quick in the crease and is a great play tracker. He already does a good job of controlling his rebounds and limits second chances accordingly. It seems pretty likely to me that he's going to end up being an annual Jim Rutherford candidate (top OHL goaltender of the year) until he graduates. However, is he going to be highly coveted at the NHL draft? He's definitely on the smaller side for netminders, coming in at 6'0 currently. I would also say that having watched him last year and at the Hlinka, one of the things that he needs to work on is playing more aggressive in the crease to challenge shooters and fight through screens. He's definitely worthy of being listed on this preseason list, but is he going to get the Thomas Milic treatment?</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>22. AJ Spellacy - Wing/Center - Windsor Spitfires</b></div><div style="text-align: left;">One of my absolute favourite OHL rookies last year. It was a real shame that his season was cut short due to a knee injury. It was surprising to see him return so early as he made the U.S. team for the Hlinka/Gretzky...but surprising in a good way. Do I think he was great at the tournament? It certainly wasn't the best that I've seen him. However, it's only one small blip on the scouting radar and I think you need to take into account that this was his first action coming off a significant injury. So what do you get in Spellacy? You get an aggressive and tenacious forward who loves to throw the body and who loves to push the pace of play. He has a clear understanding of how he wants to play and how he needs to play in order to be effective. It will be interesting to see how the knee injury affects his skating upon his return. I liked his top speed as a rookie, but there's no question that there was room for improvement in explosiveness and agility. Additionally, I think we'll need to get a better read on his offensive upside and skill level with the puck. But he's entering the year as a personal favourite. Easy to see him developing into...at the very least...an Austin Watson type of player at the pro level (also a former U.S. based Spitfire).</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>23. Jett Luchanko - Wing - Guelph Storm</b></div><div style="text-align: left;">Another guy (similar to Spellacy) that I wanted to put higher, but just couldn't justify it at this current moment given the uncertainty surrounding his offensive upside. I love the effort and engagement without the puck. He stepped into the league and had an immediate impact as a forechecker with his speed. He just needs to get stronger to be able to use that speed more effectively in all three zones, something that I imagine we'll see this season. Is he more than just a high energy, checking type? I think so. I saw enough flashes of offensive ability, specifically his vision and ability to create plays for his linemates as a playmaker, to suggest that he can take his game to another level. He's not the biggest guy in the world so he'll need to produce to hold down a spot as a draft candidate.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>24. Ryerson Leenders - Goaltender - Mississauga Steelheads</b></div><div style="text-align: left;">He played a ton as an OHL rookie. It's pretty rare to see a U17 goalie play as much as he did. In fact, his 35 games were the fifth most all time by a U17 netminder. Leenders was the third goalie for Canada at the Hlinka/Gretzky, but he didn't get into any game action unfortunately. Like Carter George, he's an athletic kid who shows great promise as a play tracker. Has that ability to make the highlight reel save. And like George, he's not blessed with great size at a position where size seems to be extremely critical for NHL scouts. Additionally, I'm not sure the technical components of Leenders game are quite as advanced as George's. He's still working to improve his positioning and control to improve his consistency. He should split starts with fellow highly touted netminder Jack Ivankovic this year, a great position for the organization to be in having two terrific young goalies in the fold.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>25. David Egorov - Goaltender - Brantford Bulldogs</b></div><div style="text-align: left;">I definitely believe that Egorov deserves to be listed alongside George and Leenders as a preseason contender to be in the NHL draft mix. He might be the most athletic and the quickest of the three. While he didn't play much in the OHL last year, he was sensational for the Hamilton Kilty B's last year (GOJHL) in trying to help them capture a Sutherland Cup. He's also the biggest of the three netminders. There's definitely still a bit of mystique here as we wait to see how he can translate to a full year of OHL hockey, so for that reason he's third among the three goalies. However, it wouldn't shock me at all if by next June we were talking about Egorov as the top ranked goalie from Ontario. The real question is will he get the ice time that he needs given Brantford's goalie depth? Personally, I'd roll with Drobac and Egorov and work to find a new home for Malboeuf.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>26. Kieron Walton - Wing - Sudbury Wolves</b></div><div style="text-align: left;">The upside here is enormous. You've got a big winger (6'5 already) with soft hands, creativity, and a scorer's touch. For a big kid, he also moves pretty well. Raw is the best way to describe him, but if/when he puts it all together...look out. The concern lies within the physical intensity level. It was the knock against him as a U16 player (causing him to fall to the second round). It was also evident in his rookie OHL year. He needs to use that size to find the middle and play through traffic more consistently. He doesn't have to be Mason McTavish. He just has to play with a little more tenaciousness. If he can up that dial and improve his production this year, he'll move up draft lists quickly.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>27. Ethan Procyszyn - Wing - North Bay Battalion</b></div><div style="text-align: left;">Procyszyn is another player who will move up the board quickly if he can find that next level of production. He has a projectable frame. He competes hard at both ends. He skates well. He had a great scorer's touch in U16 and flashed a high end shot as an OHL rookie. There is lots to like. In reality, he's the kind of player that North Bay has developed well historically. I thought about putting him higher and I feel confident in saying that he'd be higher on the early list of NHL scouts, but I just want to see if he can secure a larger role and produce at a greater clip first.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>28. Marek Vanacker - Wing - Brantford Bulldogs</b></div><div style="text-align: left;">Power winger who showed great flashes last year as an OHL rookie with limited ice time. It's obvious that he wasn't strong enough to play the way that he wanted to play last year, so it will be interesting to see how the offseason treated him. However, he's a bit similar to Procysyn in that he's a potential two-way, high energy, goal scorer. He should get a larger role this year with Brantford and he's someone to monitor closely early on.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>29. Kaden Pitre - Center/Wing - Flint Firebirds</b></div><div style="text-align: left;">If you liked Coulson Pitre, you're bound to like his brother Kaden. They play pretty comparable games revolved around power, IQ, and tenaciousness. Kaden has played some center and it seems likely (given Flint's depth) that he does play there full time this year. I think that probably increases his value. Let's see how kind the offseason was to him in terms of improving strength and quickness. </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>30. Alex Kostov - Wing - Soo Greyhounds</b></div><div style="text-align: left;">I could have gone in a variety of different routes with #30. I saw the top 29 as pretty set, and then deciding on number 30 was tough. However, I settled on Kostov (over more hyped former first round selections) because I think he has a solid NHL projection given his size and skill combination on the wing. Improving his skating and strength will be needed this year, but the frame and raw athletic tools are extremely intriguing.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b><i><u>Honorable Mentions</u></i></b></div><div style="text-align: left;"><div>Caden Kelly - Wing - Ottawa 67's</div><div>Antonio Tersigni - Wing - Owen Sound Attack</div><div>Luca Testa - Center - Brantford Bulldogs</div><div>Carter Lowe - Wing - Barrie Colts</div><div>Charlie Paquette - Wing - Guelph Storm</div><div>Christopher Thibodeau - Center - Kingston Frontenacs</div><div>Zach Sandhu - Defense - Guelph Storm</div><div>Noah Roberts - Defense - Brantford Bulldogs</div><div>Callum Cheynowski - Defense - Brantford Bulldogs</div><div>Ben Cormier - Wing/Center - Owen Sound Attack</div><div>Sam O'Reilly - Wing - London Knights</div><div style="font-style: italic; font-weight: bold; text-decoration-line: underline;"><br /></div></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div>Brock Ottenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08237782074032840702noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2553903000955128175.post-64890029682814697092023-08-21T13:42:00.000-04:002023-08-21T13:42:24.921-04:00Top 25 OHL Prospects - Summer of 2023<div style="text-align: left;">The 2022/23 season was a great one to cover. We had some terrific individual performances, like Matt Maggio's Red Tilson winning run with the Spitfires and Brandt Clarke's post Christmas dominance, in addition to some interesting storylines like the Petes' loading up at the deadline, helping them to capture an OHL title. But the time for reminiscing is over as we will soon look ahead to the start of the 2023/24 OHL season.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">As per the usual, I'm ranking the Top 25 NHL prospects who played in the OHL this past year. This was a really tough list to create this year. I felt very comfortable with that Top 20, but settling on the final five names was very arduous. </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>1. Pavel Mintyukov - Anaheim Ducks</b></div><div style="text-align: left;">The Max Kaminsky trophy winner this year as the OHL's top defender, Mintyukov is now the top prospect in the OHL for me. He's just so skilled and creative. Hemming him in the defensive zone is a near impossible task; he's like an eel who always finds a way to slip away to start the breakout. I thought his decision making improved a ton this year and in simplifying his game/approach at times, he actually became even more effective as a playmaker. I also thought that his defensive game improved a ton this year. He can still have the odd brain fart and he'll likely always be a river boat gambler who wants to jump up into the play, but his defensive zone coverage and understanding of how to use his length as a rush defender did show great progress. I don't think he'll need much time in the AHL...if any. </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>2. Shane Wright - Seattle Kraken</b></div><div style="text-align: left;">I'd be lying if I wasn't a little concerned about Wright. The upcoming season and the uncertainty around where he plays makes things even more complicated. Nothing official on whether he's going to be given an exemption to play in the AHL because he failed to play 25 games in the OHL last year. That means it could be the OHL or NHL...yet again. And with Seattle suddenly a very competitive, playoff worthy team, they simply can't afford to have him on their roster for babysitting purposes. He needs to earn it, even if its only in a fourth line role. Based on his play in the OHL last year, I'm not sure he's ready for the NHL. The concerns we had over his game last year remain the same. There's the pace and killer instinct issues. Hopefully the summer has allowed him to really reset and find himself again, because anyone who saw Shane play a few years ago knows that he is capable of more. And therein lies why he's still number two for me. I still believe that Wright is smart enough and skilled enough to be a long time NHL contributor. At some point, at the pro level, the light bulb will go on for him and things will click. When that happens, I think he becomes a consistent 30/30 guy. Not a superstar like we all thought he'd become when he was younger. I'm not sure I have those hopes any longer. But I think he can be a long time second line center who really helps Seattle create a solid 1/2 punch with Matty Beniers...a very different kind of pivot. </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>3. Brandt Clarke - Los Angeles Kings</b></div><div style="text-align: left;">He was just so bloody good upon returning to Barrie this year. He completely took over play when on the ice in the way that we wanted Shane Wright to do. So why is Wright ranked ahead of him still? It's because I still have some worries about how Clarke's game transitions to the NHL level. I'm not convinced that he'll ever be a high end defender in the NHL, which means that he's going to need to rely on his offensive game. Mind you, his offensive game is fantastic, but the feet and how that affects his ability to create at the NHL level is a concern. Now I say all that and I've still got him ranked third for a reason. Brandt Clarke is terrific. He has improved his skating, especially his first step quickness and speed. He was more of a factor physically in the OHL this year and he'll need to continue to turn up that intensity dial to help him take away space at the NHL level without elite mobility. The hands and sense have always been top notch. A lot of the players on this list have flaws that could prevent them from being slam dunks in the NHL and Clarke is no different. However, I like his odds of being a solid contributor a lot more now than I did last year.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>4. Colby Barlow - Winnipeg Jets</b></div><div style="text-align: left;">If you read my draft coverage this year you'd know that I love Barlow. For me, the #4-5 spots come down to Barlow vs. Othmann. They're kind of similar power wingers with similar projections. But I do prefer Barlow slightly. I think he does a better job of playing without the puck and finding those soft spots in coverage a little more consistently. He doesn't have Othmann's hands IMO, but he does project as a better defensive player and someone who can consistently play the net front. The key for Barlow is improving his overall agility the way that Mason McTavish did in his post draft year. Barlow skates well North/South, but he can be neutralized as his attacks becomes too predictable. In order to be more than just a complementary piece at the NHL level, he'll need to find ways to be more creative this year in the OHL. I think he will. Barring injury, he's a slam dunk for 50 goals this year.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>5. Brennan Othmann - New York Rangers</b></div><div style="text-align: left;">Othmann had a pretty up and down year, but when his team needed him the most (in the OHL playoffs), he was there for them and really stepped up his game. He is such a dangerous player when he's dialed in and focused physically. He derives energy from playing that pest like role. When he becomes too complacent and floats a bit to try to get open to use his shot, he becomes way less effective. I know that sounds obvious, but as a pro, Othmann is going to need to become a Dustin Brown type to be an impact player for the Rangers. A guy who just consistently brings it without the puck and who can bring value outside of having those good scoring chops. I would expect him to start at the AHL level this year. He may need a couple of years at that level, especially given New York's depth.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>6. Cal Ritchie - Colorado Avalanche</b></div><div style="text-align: left;">As I said in my work for McKeen's post draft (and during the draft), I loved Ritchie to Colorado. It's such a great spot for his development given the kind of player I expect him to become. He should be fully healthy next year and I have really high expectations for him. Don't be shocked if he pulls a Wyatt Johnston and explodes next season, then ends up pushing for a spot on the Avalanche the year after. He makes others better the same way Wyatt did as an OHL player. He is at his best when he plays with other elite level players who think the game the way that he does. The key for him is improving his skating and improving his physical intensity level to be more middle of the ice focused at all times. </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>7. David Goyette - Seattle Kraken</b></div><div style="text-align: left;">It was a great year for Goyette in Sudbury. Not a lot of people are talking about it, but he was one of the best offensive players in the OHL last season. His strength on the puck was considerably better and it allows him to control play in the offensive zone, even when he wasn't able to beat defenders purely with his speed. His play away from the puck improved too; he even developed a bit of a pesky side that saw him become an annoying player to play against. The upside is still significant and the more he grows as a player, the more likely he hits that upside. Don't sleep on Goyette.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>8. Nick Lardis - Chicago Blackhawks</b></div><div style="text-align: left;">My ride or die from the NHL draft season. I had him ranked as a first rounder even though I knew that he was going to be drafted much later than that (and he was). So I'm not about to shy away from that and this ranking is evidence of that. Yes, Lardis needs to improve his strength on the puck and play away from the puck. He needs to become better at weaponizing his speed as more than just a North/South attacker, given his lack of size. But, the shot, hands, and skill are all very real. Like Goyette, the upside is top level. Really interested to see how he performs in the OHL this year with Brantford. </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>9. Quentin Musty - San Jose Sharks</b></div><div style="text-align: left;">As critical I was of Musty's game at times this year, I still understand the immense upside that he possesses. He's one of the most creative and skilled players on this list. His off puck play did unquestionably improve over the course of the year. However, it still needs to improve further. Quite frankly, I wouldn't care quite as much about Musty's off puck play if I wasn't also concerned about his skating. That combo can be a tricky one to overcome. I think Musty does have a good chance of doing it though. Expect him to have a monster OHL season alongside Goyette.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>10. Ethan Del Mastro - Chicago Blackhawks</b></div><div style="text-align: left;">Del Mastro rounds out the top ten thanks to some really positive progression, yet again this year. His skating continues to get better and he has a very real chance of becoming a top four defensive stalwart at the NHL level. I'm not sure the offensive game translates a ton, that's obvious when Del Mastro gets boxed in and lacks the creativity to escape those situations. He'll have to majorly simplify his approach with the puck. There will be growing pains. But his combination of size, length, and mobility will make him an immediate asset in his own zone. </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>11. Logan Mailloux - Montreal Canadiens</b></div><div style="text-align: left;">I thought about putting Mailloux ahead of Del Mastro, I think it's neck and neck. And even though they're similarly sized, they are quite different players and prospects. Mailloux's offensive game and skill set is very impressive. He has great hands and that massive point shot. That combination makes him very dangerous inside the offensive zone and when he jumps up into the rush. His offensive upside is very high. The defensive game has a ton of potential too. He CAN be a hard guy to play against. He can have really dominating shifts in the defensive end. However, the decision making can still make you scratch your head at times. While his development has been disrupted at times (thanks in no part to his own undoing), I would have expected those defensive miscues and poor reads to be worked out by now. That said, the upside is still too high for him to be ranked any lower than this. Sometimes guys like Mailloux, with that raw physical potential, figure it out like K'Andre Miller has recently. And other times, the lack of true high end sense inhibits them.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>12. Ty Nelson - Seattle Kraken</b></div><div style="text-align: left;">Nelson had a very strong post draft year that saw him reach the heights we expected of him in his NHL draft year. We saw the return of his confidence as a transitional leader, while maintaining his strong play as a powerplay QB and triggerman. I think many of us expected the offense to come back around. It was the rapid progression of his defensive play that really impressed those that cover the OHL. He upped the physical intensity to higher levels. He improved his defensive zone reads. His footwork when defending pace improved. The margin for error for him is different than a guy like Del Mastro because of that lack of size/reach, so those were improvements that needed to be made. Quite frankly, I'm really excited to see even further progression next year. </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>13. Amadeus Lombardi - Detroit Red Wings</b></div><div style="text-align: left;">Might shock some to see Lombardi ranked this high, but I believe in the player and prospect. There are so many components of his game that are high end; the skating, the playmaking, the creativity, the tenaciousness. There are a lot of comparisons to be made between Lombardi and Vincent Trocheck IMO and that's the kind of player that I think he can turn himself into. Don't be shocked at all if he moves quickly through Detroit's system. One of the most underrated prospects around IMO.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>14. Matvey Petrov - Edmonton Oilers</b></div><div style="text-align: left;">It was another good year for Petrov as he returned to the OHL and helped the Battalion advance far into the OHL playoffs. Honestly, pretty much everything I said about him last year is still true. The playmaking ability is legit. However, he's still very much a boom/bust kind of prospect IMO. If he makes it, it will be in a top six role for the Oilers. If he doesn't, he'll end up in the KHL as a top six player. His game is just not tailored to the bottom six. However, his upside does move him into the top 15.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>15. Owen Beck - Montreal Canadiens</b></div><div style="text-align: left;">Beck's post draft season was unquestionably a stagnant year for him IMO, even if he won an OHL Championship. I had much higher expectations for him. I think he's still learning how to slow the game down for himself. Unless he's able to attack with pace, he can struggle to create. Finding his way consistently to the middle will be difficult for him unless his ability to maintain possession through contact improves. I was a huge believer in his draft year, and I still really like Beck. But I'm also starting to grapple with whether I think his upside is higher than that of a really good third line center at the NHL level. This is going to be a huge year for his development. I'm kind of hoping that Beck gets sent back to the OHL right away, rather than get a half dozen games like I expect him to. The Mason McTavish, Brandt Clarke way is just not the right one for Beck IMO. He needs to get reps at the top of a lineup all year long. Otherwise, I'm worried he becomes another Liam Foudy.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>16. Matthew Poitras - Boston Bruins</b></div><div style="text-align: left;">I didn't even list Poitras as an HM last year after getting drafted in the second round by Boston. Needless to say, I've come around. No player improved more in the OHL last year IMO. He was so good for Guelph, even when they were struggling early in the year. I was concerned with his lack of athletic tools in his draft year, but the skating improved a lot last year. He looked noticeably quicker and was much more difficult to knock off stride last year. He often controlled the puck for long stretches in the offensive end and this helped him prolong possession to help him set up scoring chances. His vision is top notch and those athletic/strength upgrades have made him better equipped to use it. This is looking like a great pick for Boston.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>17. Oliver Bonk - Philadelphia Flyers</b></div><div style="text-align: left;">I'm really interested to see how Bonk's game progresses this season in his post draft year. I have a lot of confidence in his defensive capabilities. His instincts in his own end are so good. What I'll be looking for this year are improvements made to his quickness/mobility, in addition to his confidence with the puck. How high is his offensive ceiling? For now, I like this placement of Bonk, behind some players who I perceive to have safer upsides, but ahead of those I deem to be riskier.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>18. Filip Mesar - Montreal Canadiens</b></div><div style="text-align: left;">Part of me wanted to list Mesar lower. He just wasn't very impressive this year with Kitchener. It's easy to see why he was selected so high. He can create in transition with his speed and creativity, however he had a really hard time getting to the middle in the OHL and was largely kept to the perimeter. If that's the case in the OHL, what's it going to be like for him at the pro level? It seems that we'll find out this year too as the writing is on the wall for him to play in the AHL, or at the very least back in Europe. He has a long ways to go IMO.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>19. Christian Kyrou - Dallas Stars</b></div><div style="text-align: left;">Another guy that I didn't list as an HM last year, but who cracks the list this year thanks to some big improvements. I still have some concerns over his ability to defend at the NHL level, but I have way more confidence in his offensive ability translating thanks to improvements made to his quickness and linear speed. Kyrou's four way mobility has always been impressive; his edgework is a sight to behold. However, I found that he struggled to be a consistent factor in transition without that top gear and over-reliance on c-cuts and mohawking. This past year, he became way more dynamic and was consistently looking to attack because of it. He still has that huge point shot, but he's no longer just reliant on that to create offense at even strength. He'll turn pro this year and I would expect him to put up points in the AHL as a rookie.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>20. Michael Buchinger - St. Louis Blues</b></div><div style="text-align: left;">I was skeptical of Buchinger in his draft year because I was worried that outside of his skating ability, he lacked other standout qualities that could make him an NHL defender. His game evolved considerably this past year at both ends and I think that has really improved his outlook. He's now using his skating ability to lead the attack and is trusting his feet more to help him make plays under pressure. Additionally, and perhaps most importantly, his defensive game has become one of his strengths. He never seems to get beat one on one and rarely does Guelph get hemmed in with him on the ice. Quite honestly, he and Ty Nelson would be my preseason favourites for the Max Kaminsky next year and I think he's got a real outside chance of being on Canada's WJC team in December.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>21. Ty Voit - Toronto Maple Leafs</b></div><div style="text-align: left;">Even if I understand that Voit is more of a long shot prospect with the Leafs, I can't help but rank him in this range because I love him as a prospect. I've been a fan since his draft year and I will continue to be one as he starts his pro career. He's certainly not the most physically gifted offensive player, but he's just so elusive because of his quick feet and quick hands. He has the potential to be a top six playmaker and I do believe he can fulfil that down the line. Toronto may need to be patient with him.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>22. Ryan Winterton - Seattle Kraken</b></div><div style="text-align: left;">Honestly, all Winterton needs to do is stay healthy. We saw that in the playoffs where he (and his line) practically carried London to the finals on their back. He's so hard to separate from the puck. He works the wall about as well as any player in the OHL and I think he can definitely be a middle six workhorse in the NHL too. But again, the health is the concern as his shoulder remains a lingering issue. If he's put that behind him, I think he could move through Seattle's system quickly.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>23. Gavin Hayes - Chicago Blackhawks</b></div><div style="text-align: left;">One of the most underrated prospects around IMO. He scored 41 this past year, improving drastically in almost every facet. His shot is a real weapon and he plays a power game that is translatable to the NHL level. His forechecking ability is a real asset too. He's probably just a complementary piece at the next level, but I'm excited to see further improvement in his game this coming year.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>24. Bryce McConnell Barker - New York Rangers</b></div><div style="text-align: left;">The Soo Greyhounds weren't very good last year. It was a tough year to rebuild in a difficult conference. But captain BMB was one of the few true bright spots as his game reached another level in his post draft year. Everything sort of tightened up for him and his play/effort was so much more consistent. I still think his upside is that of a middle six guy for the Rangers, but I see him as much more likely to hit it now.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>25. Francesco Pinelli - Los Angeles Kings</b></div><div style="text-align: left;">It was a good year for Pinelli, even if it had a bad ending after he was suspended in the playoffs, ultimately leading to the Rangers losing to the Knights in round two. But he was the straw that stirred the drink for Kitchener all season long, leading them in scoring. He does a lot of things well. The shot will play at the next level. His small area skill improved a lot over his OHL career. He brings intensity and effort in all three zones. While the skating has improved, I do wonder how it will play at the pro level. Next year will be telling as he suits up in the AHL. </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><i><u>Honorable Mentions (sorted in alphabetical order)</u></i></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>Beau Akey - Edmonton Oilers</b></div><div style="text-align: left;">Really curious to see how Akey develops this year without playing in the shadow of Brandt Clarke on what should be an exciting Barrie team. The skating is obviously top notch and it's only a matter of time before his confidence with the puck grows.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>Francesco Arcuri - Dallas Stars</b></div><div style="text-align: left;">I think Arcuri has turned himself into a sneakily good NHL prospect. The skating has improved a lot over his OHL career and I felt like the increase in production this year was correlated with an improved ability to play with pace. Shot is high end too. His first pro season will be telling.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>Tristan Bertucci - Dallas Stars</b></div><div style="text-align: left;">We saw how good Bertucci was in the second half of last year's OHL season. If he can move forward and sustain that level of play over a full year, he'll emerge as one of the best defenders in the OHL. Tightening up his decision making, and when to be aggressive are the key next steps.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>Josh Bloom - Vancouver Canucks</b></div><div style="text-align: left;">I've long been a Bloom supporter and I believe that the Canucks did a great job acquiring him for Riley Stillman (ironically an exchange of two of my favourite interviews ever). Bloom is the kind of player whose skill set will translate really well to the pro level because he's so highly detail oriented. Probably not more than a solid third liner, but he should move quickly through the system.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>Tyler Boucher - Ottawa Senators</b></div><div style="text-align: left;">I feel bad for Boucher because he's not likely to ever live up to the draft spot he was selected in. However, too many people are writing him off based solely on stat watching. You really need to see Boucher live to appreciate all the ways that he can make an impact. He just needs to stay healthy, especially given the way that he needs to play. Again, upside likely capped but he's going to be an NHL player.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>Hunter Brzustewicz - Vancouver Canucks</b></div><div style="text-align: left;">Brzustewicz was such a consistent offensive contributor for the Rangers last year, but it was his defensive game that improved significantly in the second half. As a late born 2004, I'm very interested to see how he can elevate his game yet again in likely his final OHL season. Is he a trade candidate for a likely rebuilding Kitchener team?</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>Easton Cowan - Toronto Maple Leafs</b></div><div style="text-align: left;">A surprise first round selection to those outside of OHL circes, but not for those dialed into the happenings of the league. He was so good down the stretch and into the OHL playoffs last year. His progression this year will help us to gain a better understanding of his high end upside.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>Luca Del Bel Belluz - Columbus Blue Jackets</b></div><div style="text-align: left;">Not going to lie, I had higher expectations for Del Bel Belluz last year. I thought that his development stagnated a bit. I do have some concerns over how his game translates to the pro level next year. There's still a need to improve his quickness. However, the shot, scoring instincts, and small area skill are all high end.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>Dom DiVincentiis - Winnipeg Jets</b></div><div style="text-align: left;">The OHL netminder of the year, Dom DiVincentiis was fantastic from start to finish for North Bay last year. He really worked hard to reign in his athleticism to be more consistent in his reads and positioning. The real test for him will be this year when North Bay loses a lot of their key offensive players, forcing him to be even better to help them climb the standings.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>Isaiah George - New York Islanders</b></div><div style="text-align: left;">This is going to be a huge year for George. We're still waiting for that offensive breakout from him and he'll likely be given every opportunity by the Hunters to be a top pairing defender for London. He's still one of the best skaters in the OHL, but more than that is needed to be an NHL defender.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>Andrew Gibson - Detroit Red Wings</b></div><div style="text-align: left;">I loved what Gibson brought to the table defensively last year for a bottom feeding Soo team. The question is, does he have significant offensive upside or does he project as more of a stay at home type? Lots of development time left and the Greyhounds should be better this upcoming year.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>Hunter Haight - Minnesota Wild</b></div><div style="text-align: left;">While Haight was good after the trade to Saginaw, I think we're still waiting for him to truly explode and put it all together. He can play a skilled game. He can play a heavy game. But can he blend the two to truly dominate possession? With Saginaw hosting the Memorial Cup this year, Haight will have a huge opportunity.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>Paul Ludwinski - Chicago Blackhawks</b></div><div style="text-align: left;">It was a year to forget for Ludwinski. Even before the injury, he just wasn't great. I was a huge fan of his in his draft year, but I think that the stagnation in development that we saw last year is a bit concerning. But this season is a new year. My expectation is that he'll be one of the OHL's most improved players.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>Matthew Maggio - New York Islanders</b></div><div style="text-align: left;">The Red Tilson award winner last year as the OHL's best player, Maggio certainly got my vote. In chatting with him for the podcast, I think he has a very clear understanding of the improvements he needs to make in his game (improving linear quickness, improving two-way effort, getting to the middle more consistently) to be a solid pro. I think he can do it. Nearly had him at #25.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>Jack Matier - Nashville Predators</b></div><div style="text-align: left;">Another player that I heavily considered for #25, Matier's development this year for Ottawa was fantastic. We saw him gain so much confidence in his ability to make plays with the puck and be more of a two-way threat. But his defensive game will be his calling card at the pro level and I have a lot of faith in him becoming an NHL defender in some capacity.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>Kyle McDonald - Dallas Stars</b></div><div style="text-align: left;">I'm not usually the type to include overager signees in this list because I understand the uphill battle that they face. However, I think McDonald is different. Here's a player who battled injuries his entire OHL career, but finally put it together this year (even in the face of more injuries). This guy can absolutely fire a puck and he has the size to help him get those looks in the middle consistently. Can he keep up with the pace of the pro game?</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>Logan Morrison - Seattle Kraken</b></div><div style="text-align: left;">I know, I know, I just said that I don't include a lot of OA free agents on these lists. But like McDonald, Morrison is different. This is a player who should have never been a free agent in the first place. Yeah, the skating isn't terrific. But I'm always willing to bet on high IQ players like Morrison. The next Tye Kartye for Seattle?</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>Sasha Pastujov - Anaheim Ducks</b></div><div style="text-align: left;">Given his pedigree, production, and draft slot, you probably expected to see Pastujov in the Top 25. However, as you may have guessed, I have major concerns over how his game translates to the pro level. I don't think he's going to be able to dominate touches deep in the zone and along the half wall the same way that he does in the OHL and it will force him to alter his approach. Either that...or really improve his skating.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>Coulson Pitre - Anaheim Ducks</b></div><div style="text-align: left;">2023/24 is going to be a huge year for Pitre in his draft +1, because of his late birthdate. I really want to see him take that next step as a premier offensive player in the league to match his energy and physicality. </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>Carson Rehkopf - Seattle Kraken</b></div><div style="text-align: left;">Another player that I highly considered for #25. My hesitancy was based around his inconsistencies. If he puts things together next year for Kitchener and is well over a point per game, he's in the top 15 next year, let alone the top 25. But, given all the question marks, I think he needs to prove it first.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>Tucker Robertson - Seattle Kraken</b></div><div style="text-align: left;">I love Robertson. He had that lull around the end of the 2022 calendar year, but otherwise, what a season for him. He just competes so hard and is such a versatile player. I guess my concern for him is that he's not the type of high end skater that you typically see in the NHL these days, playing that bottom six, high energy role. He might need a few years in the AHL, but I think he'll eventually be an NHL player.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>Matyas Sapovaliv - Vegas Golden Knights</b></div><div style="text-align: left;">If the Sapovaliv we saw in last year's OHL playoffs shows up from the get go for Saginaw this year, look out. The big pivot has such great potential as a dominant two-way forward. Upping his physical intensity level and improving his strength are keys.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>Carey Terrance - Anaheim Ducks</b></div><div style="text-align: left;">As that talented, but young, Erie team improves around Terrance, what kind of heights can he reach? I think the most underrated component of his game is his shot. Everyone talks about the speed and two-way engagement, but the continued development of his shot will be key in determining what kind of NHL upside he has.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>Danny Zhilkin - Winnipeg Jets</b></div><div style="text-align: left;">The offensive game never really hit the level that we thought it might in the OHL, but it doesn't mean that Zhilkin can't be a solid pro. The size and speed combination will play. The key for Zhilkin will be the continued development of his off puck game, while simplifying things offensively. Winnipeg should probably focus on trying to develop him into a solid defensive type like a Derek Stepan.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div>Brock Ottenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08237782074032840702noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2553903000955128175.post-27141262923972752182023-07-10T19:04:00.000-04:002023-07-10T19:04:11.860-04:002023 CHL Import Draft Review<div style="text-align: left;">On July 5th, 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.</div><div><br /></div><div>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.</div><div> </div><div>With the continued banning of Russian/Belarussian players from the draft, the talent pool available is obviously not quite as large as it once was. However, there are still impact players. When we look at last year's selections, several could join the league this upcoming season such as Kasper Halttunen or Eduard Sale. For more information on last year's crop, check out last year's review (<a href="http://ohlprospects.blogspot.com/2022/07/2022-chl-import-draft-review.html">found here</a>). 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. </div><div><br /></div><div>Let's check out the data on the last five Import Drafts.</div><div><br /></div><div>In 2018</div><div>24 of 27 players selected came to the OHL (88%)</div><div>20 of 27 players selected lasted the entire OHL season with their clubs (74%)</div><div>10 of 27 (open for debate) had a significant impact on their OHL teams (37%) </div><div><br /></div><div>In 2019</div><div>22 of 28 players selected came to the OHL (79%)</div><div>20 of 28 players selected lasted the entire OHL season with their clubs (71%)</div><div>10 of 28 (open for debate) had a significant impact on their OHL teams (36%)</div><div> </div><div>In 2020</div><div>14 of 23 players selected came to the OHL (61%)</div><div>11 of 23 players selected lasted the entire OHL season with their clubs (48%)</div><div>7 of 23 (open for debate) had a significant impact on their OHL teams (30%)</div><div> </div><div>In 2021</div><div>17 of 27 players selected came to the OHL (63%)</div><div>16 of 27 players selected lasted the entire OHL season with their clubs (59%)</div><div>8 of 27 (open for debate) had a significant impact on their OHL teams (30%)</div><div><br /></div><div>In 2022</div><div>13 of 24 players selected came to the OHL (54%)</div><div>9 of 24 players selected lasted the entire OHL season with their clubs (38%)</div><div>6 of 24 (open for debate) had a significant impact on their OHL teams (25%)</div><div> </div><div>As you can see, the number of import players that actually come over is declining rapidly. This trend was started because of the pandemic, but it has continued post pandemic. Part of it is the aforementioned ban on Russian/Belarussian players. 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? </div><div><br /></div><div>Of course this article wouldn't have been possible without the help of these experts:</div><div>Steven Graves (<a href="https://twitter.com/German_Spitfire">@German_Spitfire</a>)</div><div>Czech Prospects (<a href="https://twitter.com/CZprospects">@CZprospects</a>)</div><div>Matej Deraj (<a href="https://twitter.com/MatoDeraj">@MatoDeraj</a>)</div><div>McKeen's Hockey (<a href="https://twitter.com/mckeenshockey">@mckeenshockey</a>)</div><div> </div><div>Here are the reports:</div><div><br /></div><div><b>1. Erie Otters - Martin Misiak - Center/Wing</b></div><div>The Saginaw Spirit's misfortune is the Erie Otters gain. The Spirit were not able to hold on to Misiak's rights last year and he re-entered the Import Draft this year allowing Erie to take him first. On one hand, you might have expected Erie to take an '05 or '06 who better fit their timeline, however on the other hand, Misiak is a potential impact forward coming off a USHL championship with Youngstown. The addition of Misiak probably moves Carey Terrance to the wing, giving Erie a one/two punch of Misiak and Fimis down the middle. They have to be hoping that Misiak can reconnect with former national team teammate Ondrej Molnar to bring out the best in his game too. The Chicago Blackhawks second round is a lock to report.</div><div>Scouting Report:</div><blockquote><div><span face=""Open Sans", -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, "Segoe UI", Roboto, "Helvetica Neue", Arial, "Noto Sans", sans-serif, "Apple Color Emoji", "Segoe UI Emoji", "Segoe UI Symbol", "Noto Color Emoji"" style="background-color: white; color: #212529; font-size: 16px;">Misiak projects as a versatile middle six forward thanks to his strength on and off the puck, his strong skating, and his solid two-way awareness. Playing both at center and the wing, Misiak competes hard at both ends and will use his size to help win battles along the wall. With a powerful stride, he can be effective on the counterattack and he is middle of the ice focused, always looking to get the puck and himself to the net front. More of a playmaker than a goal scorer, Misiak’s decision making and confidence with the puck grew significantly later in the USHL season as he developed chemistry with fellow draft eligible forward William Whitelaw. </span><span face=""Open Sans", -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, "Segoe UI", Roboto, "Helvetica Neue", Arial, "Noto Sans", sans-serif, "Apple Color Emoji", "Segoe UI Emoji", "Segoe UI Symbol", "Noto Color Emoji"" style="background-color: white; color: #212529; font-size: 16px;">All in all, Misiak’s safe floor will make him intriguing to NHL teams. His strong play down the stretch suggests that there is further room for growth in his power game and play driving ability. Does he have the vision or creativity to be a top of the line-up player? Likely not, but with his versatility, he should find a role at the pro level. - McKeen's Draft Guide 2023</span></div></blockquote><div><br /></div><div><b>4. Niagara IceDogs - Urban Podrekar - Defense</b></div><div>The IceDogs need players, plain and simple. A Slovenian defender, Podrekar spent a lot of time in the AlpsHL last year, a mid-tier pro league in Central Europe that OHL fans might remember as the preferred destination of OHL players during the covid shutdown. What are the Dogs going to get from Podrekar? That remains to be seen, but he almost assuredly will report. </div><div>Scouting Report:</div><div>- pretty hard finding a lot of information about Podrekar, so how about hearing from him on his game?</div><div><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 15px; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><a href="https://twitter.com/OHLIceDogs/status/1676967167483588614?s=20">https://twitter.com/OHLIceDogs/status/1676967167483588614?s=20</a><br /></span></div><div><br /></div><div><b>7. Soo Greyhounds - Arttu Karki - Defense</b></div><div>With the selection of Karki, a player that I've been told is very serious about coming over, one has to think that the dreams of Julian Lutz or Noel Nordh coming to the OHL are all but squashed. Regardless, Karki is a strong offensive defender with the tools to become a quality two-way under the right development. Adding another high end player to this blueline is a great decision by management. The top four of Kudryavtsev, Gibson, Virgillio, and Karki could be very solid net year. A Vegas 3rd round selection this year, Karki should be a lock to come over.</div><div>Scouting Report:</div><blockquote><div><span face=""Open Sans", -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, "Segoe UI", Roboto, "Helvetica Neue", Arial, "Noto Sans", sans-serif, "Apple Color Emoji", "Segoe UI Emoji", "Segoe UI Symbol", "Noto Color Emoji"" style="background-color: white; color: #212529; font-size: 16px;">He's a rangy, fluid defenseman who can also move the puck well. His physical development took a big step last season compared to the one before it and spikes in points and overall on-ice impact followed. Does a great job consistently staying in motion, easily shifting his weight and changing directions, and usually only needs to use a few of his long steps to get where he wants to go in the play. He is very elusive at the offensive blueline for a big man, using his feet and hands to open up lanes. Usually elects to pass first, but his wrist shot, and slap shot are also legitimate weapons, and he has finally started to trust them more. There are still times where he defers to his teammates for play-driving and sits back a little too much overall, and some improvement there would go a long way. It's almost scary to think of what he could look like if he ever finds a mean streak and gets more pep in his step. </span><span face=""Open Sans", -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, "Segoe UI", Roboto, "Helvetica Neue", Arial, "Noto Sans", sans-serif, "Apple Color Emoji", "Segoe UI Emoji", "Segoe UI Symbol", "Noto Color Emoji"" style="background-color: white; color: #212529; font-size: 16px;">Despite being a little older for this class his game is still growing quickly, and with no end in sight for his developmental runway it doesn't look like it's going to slow down any time soon. - McKeen's Draft Guide 2023</span></div></blockquote><div><br /></div><div><b>10. Kingston Frontenacs - Emil Pieniniemi - Defense</b></div><div>Definitely a strong decision by Kingston to use this selection on a defender. Definitely the weakest component of the roster on paper, Pieniniemi was a recent third round selection of the Pittsburgh Penguins. The 6'2 blueliner is intelligent and mobile. He's not likely to be a massive offensive presence, but he should be able to log some big minutes for Kingston should he come over. He did sign an extension with Karpat in December of last year, so it remains to be seen whether he does, in fact, report. But Kingston will be recruiting hard (similar to how they'll also be pushing for Gavin McCarthy).</div><div>Scouting Report:</div><blockquote><div><span face=""Open Sans", -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, "Segoe UI", Roboto, "Helvetica Neue", Arial, "Noto Sans", sans-serif, "Apple Color Emoji", "Segoe UI Emoji", "Segoe UI Symbol", "Noto Color Emoji"" style="background-color: white; color: #212529; font-size: 16px;">Pieniniemi is one of those “jack of all trades” defenders who is solid enough at everything but does not have a true standout quality. For a 6-foot-2 defender, he does move quite well, and his strong mobility is the key to his success as a composed two-way player. He plays a generally mistake free game and is solid in coverage with good defensive zone awareness. However, without high end skill or physicality, what’s the upside? Is this a player with a true NHL projection? We feel comfortable with selecting him in this range, but not earlier. A potential bottom pairing defender who could provide solid depth at some point. - McKeen's Draft Guide 2023</span></div></blockquote><div><br /></div><div><b>13. Oshawa Generals - Rasmus Kumpulainen - Center</b></div><div>All of your Finns belong to us! The run on top end Finnish prospects from the 2023 NHL draft continued with the selection of big center Kumpulainen. The idea behind this selection is to give Oshawa a great one/two punch down the middle with Cal Ritchie and Kumpulainen, who's kind of a similar player. With this pick and the selection of Svozil in the second round, the writing is on the wall to bid adieu to Kimo Gruber, who failed to live up to the high expectations placed on him coming into the year. A second round selection of the Minnesota Wild, I would expect Kumpulainen to report without a guaranteed spot in the Pelicans Liiga team.</div><div>Scouting Report:</div><blockquote><div><span face=""Open Sans", -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, "Segoe UI", Roboto, "Helvetica Neue", Arial, "Noto Sans", sans-serif, "Apple Color Emoji", "Segoe UI Emoji", "Segoe UI Symbol", "Noto Color Emoji"" style="background-color: white; color: #212529; font-size: 16px;">A large, rangy center who plays with some artistic flair, Kumpulainen’s star has been rising steadily this winter. Strong on his edges and a master at entering the offensive zone against similarly aged peers, Kumpulainen likes to establish the play and get things set up. Great posture and effortless strides make this seem like kids play and he has a knack for slowing down the game to fit his schedule. Interestingly, his powerplay spot on the right face-off circle benefits from such play-inducing puck control, but also because he’s shown a knack for taking accurate one-timers. </span><span face=""Open Sans", -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, "Segoe UI", Roboto, "Helvetica Neue", Arial, "Noto Sans", sans-serif, "Apple Color Emoji", "Segoe UI Emoji", "Segoe UI Symbol", "Noto Color Emoji"" style="background-color: white; color: #212529; font-size: 16px;">Some strong showings for the national team throughout the winter led to a showcasing at the U18 Worlds, where his five points and +5 in five games didn’t quite reflect how he, at times, played for the Leijonat. What we saw was a player with a quick release who was noticeable in his economic movement in a number of situations, coming out of corners with pucks, and placing considerable emphasis on backchecking while maintaining his assignments in the defensive zone, time and again ready to get his big body involved. A number of opposition plays ended with Kumpulainen pinning a puck-carrier against the boards or him poke-checking the puck away and furthering it to his teammates. Had he learned from the situations back home that had garnered him that team-worse -9 rating? At the end of the day, players his size who can masterfully weave on their edges and glide around the ice with the puck so effortlessly will always leave suitors with visions of grandeur. - McKeen's Draft Guide 2023</span></div></blockquote><div><br /></div><div><b>16. Mississauga Steelheads - Jakub Fibigr - Defense</b></div><div>It was very smart of the Steelheads to target a defender at this year's Import Draft as it is clearly the team's weakness heading into the year. Fibigr is considered to be one of the top defenders in a strong 2006 born Czech defense class. NHL Draft eligible this year, the team will look to convince him to come over to join an already loaded young group that will have a TON of eyeballs on them this season.</div><div>Scouting Report:</div><blockquote><div>Fibigr is a strong two-way defender. Skating is very much a strength of his currently. He has great mobility. He also has a great shot from the point that gives him powerplay quarterback potential. - Czech Prospects</div></blockquote><div><br /></div><div><b>19. Brantford Bulldogs - Adam Jiricek - Defense</b></div><div>The optimist in me says, "man I love this pick and I hope Jiricek comes over." The younger brother of Columbus' prospect (and former 6th overall pick) David Jiricek, Adam is a potential top ten pick in 2024. He was a standout at the most recent U18's despite being an underager and has already debuted in the Czech men's league. But the pessimist in me says, "there's no chance that he comes over." The reality is that David was drafted into the CHL and did not come, electing to stay in Czechia. Adam is all but guaranteed to receive top ice time for HC Plzen. That does not bode well for Hamilton's chances. Though I do respect the home run swing.</div><div>Scouting Report:</div><blockquote><div>Adam plays a very similar game to his brother David. He offers a ton of skill from the blueline and his point shot is a major weapon. He can play with tempo thanks to strong skating ability. He loves to play aggressively and jump up or pinch. His defensive game does need some work, not unlike his brother in his draft year. - Czech Prospects</div></blockquote><div><br /></div><div><b>22. Sudbury Wolves - Jakub Vondras - Goaltender</b></div><div>The goaltending position was an absolute nightmare for the Wolves last year, as they tried out a few OA's to help solidify the role. So opting to select Vondras, a recent Carolina Hurricanes draft pick, makes a ton of sense. A 2004 born player, Vondras would likely only be a one year player, but if he performs well, it would be the difference between Sudbury having home ice in round one or being more of a pretender. </div><div>Scouting Report: </div><blockquote><div>Vondras has solid size at 6'4. He's quite athletic for a larger netminder. Quick reflexes. Quick pads. His play tracking has improved a lot to become a strength. - Czech Prospects</div></blockquote><div><br /></div><div><b>25. Kitchener Rangers - Tomas Pobezal - Center</b></div><div>Pobezal found his way into the limelight this year after playing for Slovakia at the U18's as an underager. With a mid September birth date, he's actually not NHL draft eligible until 2025. There is a lot of hope that Pobezal can grow into the next lottery pick for the Slovaks. Would he entertain the idea of playing in the OHL? I'd say this year is pretty unlikely. He has signed with HK Nitra of the Slovak men's league and the expectation is that he, at least, starts the year in Slovakia. After that? Who knows. But this is a shrewd pick by the Rangers in what is likely to be a rebuild year. If Pobezal doesn't come until next year...no big deal.</div><div>Scouting Report:</div><blockquote><div>Skilled offensive forward with great hands and a slick shot. He´s a bit undersized (5´10”) and needs to gain more weight to be more competitive along the boards, but plays bigger than his size and has an edge to his game. One of the oldest players eligible for the 2025 NHL Entry Draft, but definitely displays first-round talent, at least for now. He led the Slovak U18 National Team in scoring for two straight years. He didn´t show very much at the last U18 World Championship, but it was mainly due to him recovering from a serious injury. He´s not very likely to join the Kitchener Rangers now, since he´s expected to play for HK Nitra in Slovak top tier league, the same team Šimon Nemec, Adam Sýkora and Juraj Pekarčík got drafted from. - Matej Deraj</div></blockquote><div><br /></div><div><b>28. Owen Sound Attack - Martin Matejicek - Defense</b></div><div>Nolan Seed and Teddy Sawyer won't return to Owen Sound this year and that leaves some ice time to be had on the back-end. Thus the use of an import pick on Matejicek to go with now OHL veteran Servac Petrovsky. Matejicek was a fixture on the Czech U18 team this player, playing a key role at the Hlinka/Gretzky and U18's. He was not drafted, but he was ranked by NHL Central Scouting.</div><div>Scouting Report:</div><blockquote><div>Kind of a defense first defender who is smart, but also hard to play against. He plays a physically aggressive game. Matejicek can move the puck efficiently too. - Czech Prospects</div></blockquote><div><br /></div><div><b>31. Peterborough Petes - Rio Kaiser - Defense</b></div><div>A massive German defender (6'7) playing in Austria (at the Red Bull Academy), Kaiser is one of the youngest players selected this year. With an October, 2006 birth date, he's not NHL draft eligible until 2025. It's pretty clear the direction that Peterborough wants to take this year with this selection as Kaiser will be joining a defense group that already has the 6'5 Konnor Smith and 6'3 Samuel Mayer. I suppose the hope is that Kaiser can come in and be a solid #4-5 option on a Petes team that is likely headed for a rebuild. </div><div>Scouting Report:</div><blockquote><div>This selection puzzled me a bit, not that I don’t think highly of Kaiser, but more so that when most imports are selected, they’re expected to have an immediate impact. Kaiser is a project, and the best word to describe him would be RAW - he’s a late birthday that has so much growth still left to do with his game, and that’s going to take time - I’m not sure how patient the Petes will him and I’m afraid they’ll see lack of production from this big, German kid and hit the reset button come the next import draft. So if I think this, why did the Petes select him? Well simple, his profile is crazy as a 16 year old, he is 6’7” & 210lbs; when he steps on the ice, he looks like a man amongst boys. Now, although he’s a big guy, Kaiser hasn’t fully learned how to utilize his size to his advantage, he often times shies away from contact and gets out muscled in front by weaker competition. Offensively, he has a bomb from the point, he can rip the puck from the blueline, and this often causes panic in front of the net and leads to second chance opportunities for his team. His decision making leaves some to be desired however, and he tends to throw away pucks when pressured at the blueline. That being said, he does have upside, if he can grasp the speed of the North American game quick and use his size to his advantage, he could very well look like an excellent selection down the line. - Steven Graves</div></blockquote><div><br /></div><div><b>34. Guelph Storm - Vilmer Alriksson - Wing</b></div><div>A fourth round selection by the Vancouver Canucks this year, Alriksson wasn't really on our radar at McKeen's Hockey. He's an absolutely massive young man at 6'6, 215lbs, but his offensive production in the J20 wasn't exactly eye popping. The Scott Walker and Todd Harvey connection in Vancouver probably means that Alriksson will be coming over. The question will be...can Alriksson be more of an impact player than Valentin Zhugin, who Guelph gave up the rights to in order to select Alriksson? </div><div>Scouting Report:</div><div>- I read through a lot of reports on Alriksson following his selection by the Canucks and the consensus seems to be that Alriksson is intriguing because he's actually a strong skater for a guy his size. There's a need to use his size more to his advantage and a need to improve his puck skill in order to be more consistently involved offensively. Here's a terrific article about Alriksson with some scouting tidbits.</div><div><a href="https://www.vancouverisawesome.com/canucks-hockey/canucks-prospect-vilmer-alriksson-has-size-now-he-needs-to-use-it-7233768">https://www.vancouverisawesome.com/canucks-hockey/canucks-prospect-vilmer-alriksson-has-size-now-he-needs-to-use-it-7233768</a><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><b>37. Flint Firebirds - Markas Samenas - Wing</b></div><div>It seems that Simon Slavicek will be back in Flint this year, which I actually think is a good thing given how well he started to play later in the year and into the playoffs. He could be an impact player this year. So with their other Import spot, Flint opted to take a player out of the QMJHL who was released. Samenas played for Acadie-Bathurst last season and the big bodied winger (6'5, 215lbs) largely struggled to be anything more than a depth piece. We'll see how he fits in the Firebirds lineup.</div><div>Scouting Report:</div><div>Here's a link to Flint's press release on the selection which has some quotes on the player. <a href="https://flintfirebirds.com/article/firebirds-select-swedish-forward-markas-samenas-in-chl-import-draft">https://flintfirebirds.com/article/firebirds-select-swedish-forward-markas-samenas-in-chl-import-draft</a></div><div><br /></div><div><b>40. Saginaw Spirit - Valentin Zhugin - Wing</b></div><div>The Spirit stayed close to home by selection former Guelph Storm winger Valentin Zhugin. I've seen some criticism of the selection online, but I actually really like this for Saginaw. His run and gun style of play fits Saginaw a lot better than it did Guelph. There's no denying his skill level. If he can bulk up and become a little stronger on the puck this offseason, he could really help Saginaw in their Memorial Cup season. Now...will he be as much of an impact player as Misiak who they had to let go of? Doubtful.</div><div>Scouting Report:</div><blockquote><div>From a production standpoint, Zhugin does not deserve to be drafted. This is especially true when you factor in that he's a late born 2004 playing in his second OHL season. Yet, I find myself ranking him fairly high still because his offensive upside is pretty significant. When you are talking about drafting players late, you want to highlight and find guys who can be difference makers if everything goes according to plan...even if that's unlikely. Zhugin oozes skill and he is an electric skater. He blends the two well too, making him a difficult cover when he gets time and space to skate with the puck. The problem is the application of said speed and skill. For one, he lacks the strength to consistently play through traffic and can be easily angled off to or kept to the perimeter. For two, his decision making with the puck leaves a lot to be desired. He, quite frankly, skates himself into trouble way too often. This is why the production does not match the skill. If he is able to add strength and become more middle of the ice focused, do we see him show more poise and patience knowing that he can fight through checks or take contact to make a play? It's a risky gamble, but the upside may be worth the risk for an NHL team. - Brock Otten, 2023 NHL Draft Rankings</div></blockquote><div><br /></div><div><b>43. Sarnia Sting - Roman Kukumberg - Wing</b></div><div>The Sting are searching for another high end import to pair with Sandis Vilmanis next year and they are hoping Kukumberg can be that guy. He was drafted by the Chicoutimi Saguenéens of the QMJHL in last year's Import Draft, but did not come over for his NHL draft year. That may have been a mistake as Kukumberg ended up not getting a ton of ice time back home and ultimately went undrafted. Perhaps he can be persuaded to come to the OHL to help him get back on the draft radar. </div><div>Scouting Report:</div><blockquote><div>Competitive two-way winger who likes to play hard. Strong along the boards, solid skater and a great forechecker. He didn´t show much offense in the recent season, but he mainly played with men and had a limited ice time. Went undrafted in the recent NHL Entry Draft, but might gain some attention as an overager if he has a successful season. Kukumberg definitely has some bottom-six potential. His situation is less clear, since his current team (Slovan Bratislava) would like to keep him in Slovakia, but Kukumberg might be tempted by having more ice-time and offensive responsibilities in the OHL. - Matej Deraj</div></blockquote><div><br /></div><div><b>46. London Knights - Daniil Ustinkov - Defense</b></div><div>I was really hoping that someone would take Ustinkov because I've really enjoyed watching him Internationally. That said, with London selecting him, I'm a little bit disappointed because it would appear that the writing is on the wall for him to come over in the future and not next season. London's defensive group is pretty stacked right now and the team is hopeful that Kasper Halttunen joins Ruslan Gazizov up front. Of course, if Ustinkov is interested in coming over this year, I'm sure London would make room for him by dealing defensive depth and dealing Gazizov. I believe that he would be worth it. What happens here will be something to monitor closer to the start of the season.</div><div>Scouting Report:</div><blockquote><div>Ustinkov is a strange surname for a Swiss born player but he has lived in the country since the age of 5, so his entire development as a hockey player has been at the hands of the Swiss Ice Hockey Federation. Truth be told, Ustinkov is one of my favourite 2024 NHL Draft prospects at the moment, and is a potential first round selection for the upcoming draft. Ustinkov is just such an exiting player to watch create offence from the blueline - he is so poised and precise with the puck on his stick, always thinking a step ahead on what he wants to do next. This confidence paired with his creativity when handling the puck has my eyes glued to him whenever he is carrying the puck. His defensive game leaves a bit to be desired, he does have trouble boxing out players in front of his net, and he is too quick to commit to simple fakes by the opposition. That being said, he is quite the physical player, he doesn’t shy away from contact, and in many cases - welcomes it! He’s not a devastating physical player by any means but he picks his spots well and he is quite effective at spectating his man from puck. Now unfortunately for London fans, it looks like Ustinkov has committed to playing for Zurich in the top Men's league in Switzerland this upcoming season, however if things go sour with that relationship, I don’t think Ustinkov will hesitate coming to North America and joining the Knights. - Steven Graves</div></blockquote><div><br /></div><div><b>49. Barrie Colts - Michael Brandsegg-Nygård - Center</b></div><div>Barrie has opened up a whole host of options for themselves with this selection. It seems all but assured that NHL first round pick (and 2022 Import selection) Eduard Sale will be suiting up for them. But they've used this pick on another potential first round pick (in 2024), have also used their second round import pick and still have the option of keeping Artur Cholach as an OA. Nygard is a late born 2005 who already got in some action at the men's level with Mora (in the Allsvenskan) and will be likely hoping to do so full time this season. The Norwegian forward also helped Norway qualify for this year's main group of the WJC's. He could be a special player but it does seem more likely that this pick was made with next season in mind. However, never say never.</div><div>Scouting Report:</div><blockquote><div>Nygård is the most hyped Norwegian prospect, probably ever. He and fellow import draft selection Stian Solberg headline what is poised to be the best draft class in Norway’s history. Both players have potential to be first rounders come draft day - A feat that would be huge for the nation of Norway who’s highest NHL draft pick was Marius Holtet, who went 42nd overall in 2002. There are 3 defining attributes to Nygård, and those are his IQ at both ends of the rink, his motor, and his shot. Nygård is an extremely intelligent forward, he reads and reacts to plays at a high level, always positioning himself well to create chances in the offensive zone, or nullify it in the defensive end. His shot is excellent, if he is able to get time and space within 10 feet of the goal mouth, he’s going to make the other team pay more often than not. Nygård is good at picking spots from in tight and isn’t afraid of getting his nose dirty. Then there is his motor, watching him, you’ll never see him give up on a play, he always has his feet moving trying to do whatever he can to help out. If Barrie is able to get Nygård over, that would be a massive get as he should come in and produce right away. He should spend the majority of the season playing against men with Mora IK, in the Swedish second division, however just like with Eduard Sale, things can change in a year's time. - Steven Graves</div></blockquote><div><br /></div><div><b>52. Windsor Spitfires - Josef Eichler - Defense</b></div><div>The Tomas Hebek selection definitely didn't work out for Windsor last season. So...why not go back to the same well this year? Eichler is a late born 2005 who played for the Czechs at both the Hlinka and U18's, although in more of a depth role. Of course, Windsor could have just kept Sobolev around, but they already have an OA crunch heading into next year, so this makes more sense. Truthfully, Eichler sounds a lot like Sobolev anyway.</div><div>Scouting Report:</div><blockquote><div>Very physical defender, much more than his size would suggest (6'0). Eichler can make a solid first pass and has offensive potential. - Czech Prospects</div></blockquote><div><br /></div><div><b>55. North Bay Battalion - Ihnat Pazii - Center</b></div><div>Really interesting selection by North Bay. Pazii is a smaller Ukranian forward who has been playing in the U.S. the last few years. He played in Chicago last year, but with the Anaheim Jr. Ducks the year prior. For what it's worth, Pazii outscored WHL'er Camerin Cardona that year, and Cardona is a fairly well regarded young American player with Tri-City. There were reports that he would look towards the NCAA route and was recently drafted into the USHL, but he's already signed with North Bay. So there you go!</div><div>Scouting Report:</div><div>- Not much out there on Pazii, but here's an article with some quotes from Adam Dennis on the young forward, who is not draft eligible until 2025 (thanks to a late birthday). <a href="https://www.baytoday.ca/local-news/new-battalion-import-picks-already-share-a-bond-7238561">https://www.baytoday.ca/local-news/new-battalion-import-picks-already-share-a-bond-7238561</a></div><div><br /></div><div><b>57. Ottawa 67's - Tuomas Uronen - Wing</b></div><div>With news that Vinzenz Rohrer would be heading to Switzerland to play pro, the 67's suddenly had a huge hole to fill on their roster and they're hoping that Uronen, a Vegas 6th round pick in 2023, can do just that. Uronen did sign a pro extension with HIFK recently (in May), so that may complicate his transfer. However, I'm sure Vegas would love to see him in Ottawa, on a competitive team that could give him significant top six ice time. </div><div>Scouting Report:</div><blockquote><div><span face=""Open Sans", -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, "Segoe UI", Roboto, "Helvetica Neue", Arial, "Noto Sans", sans-serif, "Apple Color Emoji", "Segoe UI Emoji", "Segoe UI Symbol", "Noto Color Emoji"" style="background-color: white; color: #212529; font-size: 16px;">Uronen entered the year with a lot of promise as a potential high selection in the draft, however in our opinion he just failed to build on a strong Hlinka/Gretzky Cup performance in the summer. He flashes high end skill and finishing ability in transition, but he is too often a passenger kept to the perimeter. - McKeen's Draft Guide 2023</span></div></blockquote><div><br /></div><div><b>73. Oshawa Generals - David Svozil - Defense</b></div><div>This was a great target by the Generals. Svozil already moved away for hockey last season, transferring to Finland (in the Ilves program) from Czechia. Additionally, his older brother Stanislav, achieved great success coming to the WHL. David may not be quite the hyped prospect that Stanislav was at the same age, but he did play for Czechia at the U17's and is considered a possible NHL draft candidate this season. The hope is that Svozil can grow to be an integral part of the defense moving forward along with other youngsters Danford and Marrelli.</div><div>Scouting Report:</div><blockquote><div>Svozil has good size and a solid frame for his age, already bigger than Stanislav. He is a smooth skater with good offensive skills and that gives him great offensive upside. Svozil also flashes a physical game and could become a quality two-way type. - Czech Prospects</div></blockquote><div><br /></div><div><b>76. Mississauga Steelheads - Tomas Galvas - Defense</b></div><div>As mentioned, the blueline is a real weak spot for the Steelheads currently so why not use both Import spots on defenders, especially ones with the potential to be impact players. Tomas is the much younger brother of former Chicago Blackhawks prospect (now UFA) Jakub Galvas. I believe he is less likely to show up compared to Fibigr because he has already played pro in the Czech men's league. That said, perhaps convincing them to come over together could work.</div><div>Scouting Report:</div><blockquote><div>Really smart defender. Hockey IQ is one of his best traits. Strong decision maker at both ends. Galvas is a really strong skater and he has good hands too, allowing him to make an impact in transition. Despite being undersized, he shows an ability to play in tight spaces, excelling in traffic. - Czech Prospects</div></blockquote><div><br /></div><div><b>79. Brantford Bulldogs - Dominik Badinka - Defense</b></div><div>The strategy by Brantford here is quite bold. Their first pick was Adam Jiricek, the top defender in this Czech class. Their second pick, Badinka, may just be the second best Czech defender for the draft this year. He's not an '06, but a late born 2005. He played in Finland this past season, which IMO, means he could be persuaded to come to the OHL after already displacing himself this past season. He is much more likely to come than Jiricek.</div><div>Scouting Report:</div><blockquote><div>Very mobile defender with offensive upside. Makes an excellent first pass. Has a high IQ, especially with the puck, making him a solid playmaker. He can quarterback the powerplay, taking control from the point or the half wall. - Czech Prospects</div></blockquote><div><br /></div><div><b>85. Kitchener Rangers - Aron Kiviharju - Defense</b></div><div>You have to shoot your shot. The Rangers had a chance to make a few extra picks given the unclarity surrounding their import situation and they used this one on potential top five pick in 2024, Aron Kiviharju. The smooth skating Finnish defender is ultra talented as a puck mover and has already been an impact player on the World's stage. However, there would appear to be no chance that he comes over after already playing for HIFK in Liiga.</div><div>Scouting Report:</div><div>- I've seen Kiviharju a fair amount, so I could easily write a report on him, but my friend and fellow bald podcaster, Tony Ferrari, has already done that. I thought I'd share that here. <a href="https://thehockeynews.com/news/meet-aron-kiviharju-the-2024-nhl-draft-star">https://thehockeynews.com/news/meet-aron-kiviharju-the-2024-nhl-draft-star</a></div><div><br /></div><div><b>94. Guelph Storm - Damian Slavik - Goaltender</b></div><div>There weren't many goaltenders taken this year, but the Storm did opt for Slavik, a big Slovak netminder who served as a backup on the U18 team this year. Guelph is facing a bit of an OA crunch heading into the year so if they can get Slavik to commit, it could allow the Storm to move Patrick Leaver to another team searching for a starter. </div><div>Scouting Report:</div><blockquote><div>Tall goalie with a solid size (6´4”), but still a bit slim. He´s quick enough, yet he´s not the fastest goalie in the world and doesn´t have the explosiveness and athleticism of smaller goalies. He´s calm and poised in the net and has a good glove. He displays solid potential. Slávik was the #3 goalie on the Slovak U18 team that lost the bronze medal game at the recent World Championships of said age category. He played well in the second men´s division with the U18 team and juniors’ levels. The goalie situation in Guelph seems less clear, but I can see Slávik jumping to the OHL. - Matej Deraj</div></blockquote><div><b><br /></b></div><div><b>109. Barrie Colts - Endo Meier - Wing</b></div><div>As mentioned, Barrie has a ton of options in regards to their import slots this season. Meier does seem like the most likely player to join Eduard Sale with the Colts. A talented offensive forward, Meier was solid for Switzerland at the most recent U18's, but due to a lack of high end physical tools, he went unselected in the NHL draft. The hope is that Meier can come in and offset some graduations up front (Vierling, Cardwell, McDonnell) by claiming a spot in the top six...or at the very least the top nine.</div><div>Scouting Report:</div><blockquote><div>Passed over in the 2023 NHL Draft, Meier is an odd player. When you watch him play, he doesn’t stand out because he doesn’t have a flashy skillset, he’s not very fast, isn’t physical, his shot is average, and yet no matter where he has played he has produced offence at a respectable rate. This can be attributed to how smart of a player he is, it is truly the one attribute of his game that I would say is above average. He is so good at putting himself in spots to make something happen in the offensive zone; it’s almost subtle with how good he is at being in the right spots at the right time. Meier was actually the leading scorer for the Swiss at the most recent U18’s where he recorded 6 points in 5 games. I wouldn’t be surprised to see him in Barrie this upcoming season, but I don’t know how well he’ll get acclimated to the North American game. - Steven Graves</div></blockquote><div><br /></div><div><b>115. North Bay Battalion - Alex Cajkovic - Defense</b></div><div>The younger brother of former Tampa Bay Lightning third round selection Maxim, Alex is one of the few players to officially sign in the OHL already. A 2005 born defender, Cajkovic played in Sweden the last two years after a few years in Austria prior to that. Truthfully, his stats in the J18 league weren't mind blowing and he certainly wasn't on the NHL draft radar. Typically strong 17-18 year old players play up in the J20 in Sweden. Cajkovic was also not part of the Slovak Hlinka/Gretzky or U18 teams. Expectations are probably best kept relatively low here.</div><div>Scouting Report:</div><blockquote><div>Čajkovič is a two-way defenseman who likes to join the attack. He´s a solid skater and doesn´t mind playing a bit more physical. He wasn´t part of the Slovak U18 National Team at the recent tournaments, but has some international experience. He spent the last two years in the Swedish U18 league. His older brother is Max Čajkovič, a former first overall CHL Import Draft pick (2018), who was recently traded with Pat Maroon to Minnesota. Alex Čajkovič was quickly signed by the North Bay Battalion, so he´s expected to join the team and spend the next season in the OHL. - Matej Deraj</div></blockquote><div><br /></div><div><b>117. Ottawa 67's - Kimi Korbler - Wing </b></div><div>Thanks to Pavel Mintyukov and Vinzenz Rohrer moving on, the 67's had two picks in the draft to make this year. With the first pick they took Uronen, someone who should make an immediate impact in their top six. In Korbler, the 67's are taking more of a long term project. With a late October 2006 birthday, Korbler isn't NHL draft eligible until 2025. However, he is one of the more highly regarded Swiss players in the age group and should be a key player on the Swiss Hlinka/Gretzky Cup team. The hope is that he would come over and play in the bottom six next year and then progress to the point where he could be a top six player in the future.</div><div>Scouting Report:</div><blockquote><div>Kimi is one of many promising players among the 2006 born age group from Switzerland. He is a late birthday so this means he isn’t draft eligible until the 2025 NHL Draft. Now the first thing you’ll notice about Körbler is how fast he is; he is great at using his speed to catch defenders flat footed so he can attack to the outside then cut to the net. He is fearless when doing this and doesn’t shy away from contact. He is deadly in transition because of his speed and could be a very good penalty killer because of it. When the game slows down, however, he tends to get lost on the ice - he isn’t the smartest player, so his decision making can be bad when he has any sort of pressure. Turnovers can be an issue. I don’t know if he’ll be an offensive force if he comes to the CHL, but he reminds me of former Ottawa 67’s import selection Vinzenz Rohrer (at the same age) so maybe the 67’s are quite good at developing these kinds of talents. - Steven Graves</div></blockquote><div><br /></div><div><br /></div>Brock Ottenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08237782074032840702noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2553903000955128175.post-87523411148700948402023-07-01T09:51:00.001-04:002023-07-01T09:51:22.939-04:002023 NHL Entry Draft Results<div style="text-align: left;">The 2023 NHL Entry Draft commenced recently and, just like last year, 35 OHL players had their names called by NHL clubs. This has been right in line with the 30 or so taken the last few years.</div><div><br /></div><div>Below you can find the results for OHL players, as well as my draft ranking before the draft (for comparison's sake).</div><div><br /></div><div>Some general thoughts on how the draft played out: </div><div><br /></div><div>- Highest players to go unselected from my rankings included Ondrej Molnar, Matthew Soto, Charlie Robertson, and Donovan McCoy</div><div><br /></div><div>- The OHL's crop of "re-entry" guys certainly didn't go even close to how I had them ranked. The focus was on size and more size there with the likes of Xhekak, Roobroeck, Julien, etc off the board first. Granted, I had mentioned that I didn't like the crop of OA players available from the OHL this year and that I didn't see many getting selected. While it doesn't line up with my rankings, I'm not all that surprised at how it ended up going.</div><div><br /></div><div>- Lots of people are talking about the Leafs picking Easton Cowan in round one. I had mentioned on twitter how I believed he was going quite early. Lots of Leafs fans are hilariously talking about how the pick was bad because they could have gotten him later. I can assure you that would not have been the case. Lots of teams were circling Cowan as a top 50 prospect this year after his terrific playoff performance. </div><div><br /></div><div>- The top 12 OHL players taken this year were my top 12 OHL players ranked. The order wasn't the exact same, but it's definitely interesting to see that. </div><div><br /></div><div><a href="https://www.hockeydb.com/ihdb/draft/nhl2023e.html">Here are the full results</a></div><div><br /></div><div><div style="background-color: #e0e0e0; color: #333333; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;"><table border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" style="border-collapse: collapse; width: 422px;"><tbody><tr height="17" style="height: 12.75pt;"><td class="xl24" height="17" style="font-weight: bold; height: 12.75pt; width: 40pt;" width="53">My Rank</td><td class="xl24" style="font-weight: bold; width: 98pt;" width="130">Player Name</td><td class="xl24" style="font-weight: bold; width: 24pt;" width="32">PO</td><td class="xl24" style="font-weight: bold; width: 65pt;" width="86">OHL Team</td><td class="xl24" style="font-weight: bold; width: 47pt;" width="62">NHL Team</td><td class="xl24" style="font-weight: bold; width: 22pt;" width="29">RD</td><td class="xl24" style="font-weight: bold; width: 23pt;" width="30">Pick</td></tr><tr height="17" style="height: 12.75pt;"><td class="xl25" height="17" style="height: 12.75pt;">1</td><td class="xl26">Colby Barlow</td><td class="xl26">W</td><td class="xl26">Owen Sound</td><td class="xl26">WPJ</td><td class="xl26">1</td><td class="xl26">18</td></tr><tr height="17" style="height: 12.75pt;"><td class="xl25" height="17" style="height: 12.75pt;">2</td><td class="xl26">Cal Ritchie</td><td class="xl26">C</td><td class="xl26">Oshawa</td><td class="xl26">COL</td><td class="xl26">1<br /></td><td class="xl26">27</td></tr><tr height="17" style="height: 12.75pt;"><td class="xl25" height="17" style="height: 12.75pt;">3</td><td class="xl26">Nick Lardis</td><td class="xl26">W</td><td class="xl26">Hamilton</td><td class="xl26">CHI</td><td class="xl26">3</td><td class="xl26">67<br /></td></tr><tr height="17" style="height: 12.75pt;"><td class="xl25" height="17" style="height: 12.75pt;">4</td><td class="xl26">Quentin Musty<br /></td><td class="xl26">W</td><td class="xl26">Sudbury</td><td class="xl26">SJ</td><td class="xl26">1</td><td class="xl26">26</td></tr><tr height="17" style="height: 12.75pt;"><td class="xl25" height="17" style="height: 12.75pt;">5</td><td class="xl26">Oliver Bonk<br /></td><td class="xl26">D</td><td class="xl26">London</td><td class="xl26">PHI</td><td class="xl26">1</td><td class="xl26">22</td></tr><tr height="17" style="height: 12.75pt;"><td class="xl25" height="17" style="height: 12.75pt;">6</td><td class="xl26">Carson Rehkopf<br /></td><td class="xl26">C<br /></td><td class="xl26">Kitchener</td><td class="xl26">SEA</td><td class="xl26">2<br /></td><td class="xl26">50</td></tr><tr height="17" style="height: 12.75pt;"><td class="xl25" height="17" style="height: 12.75pt;">7</td><td class="xl26">Carey Terrance</td><td class="xl26">F</td><td class="xl26">Erie</td><td class="xl26">ANA</td><td class="xl26">2<br /></td><td class="xl26">59<br /></td></tr><tr height="17" style="height: 12.75pt;"><td class="xl25" height="17" style="height: 12.75pt;">8</td><td class="xl26">Coulson Pitre</td><td class="xl26">W</td><td class="xl26">Flint</td><td class="xl26">ANA</td><td class="xl26">3<br /></td><td class="xl26">65<br /></td></tr><tr height="17" style="height: 12.75pt;"><td class="xl25" height="17" style="height: 12.75pt;">9</td><td class="xl26">Beau Akey</td><td class="xl26">D</td><td class="xl26">Barrie</td><td class="xl26">EDM</td><td class="xl26">2</td><td class="xl26">56<br /></td></tr><tr height="17" style="height: 12.75pt;"><td class="xl25" height="17" style="height: 12.75pt;">10</td><td class="xl26">Tristan Bertucci</td><td class="xl26">D</td><td class="xl26">Flint</td><td class="xl26">DAL</td><td class="xl26">2</td><td class="xl26">61</td></tr><tr height="17" style="height: 12.75pt;"><td class="xl25" height="17" style="height: 12.75pt;">11</td><td class="xl26">Andrew Gibson</td><td class="xl26">D</td><td class="xl26">SSM</td><td class="xl26">DET</td><td class="xl26">2<br /></td><td class="xl26">42<br /></td></tr><tr height="17" style="height: 12.75pt;"><td class="xl25" height="17" style="height: 12.75pt;">12</td><td class="xl26">Easton Cowan</td><td class="xl26">W</td><td class="xl26">London<br /></td><td class="xl26">TOR</td><td class="xl26">1</td><td class="xl26">28</td></tr><tr height="17" style="height: 12.75pt;"><td class="xl25" height="17" style="height: 12.75pt;">13</td><td class="xl26">Hunter Brzustewicz<span> </span></td><td class="xl26">D</td><td class="xl26">Kitchener</td><td class="xl26">VAN</td><td class="xl26">3</td><td class="xl26">75</td></tr><tr height="17" style="height: 12.75pt;"><td class="xl25" height="17" style="height: 12.75pt;">14</td><td class="xl26">Luca Pinelli</td><td class="xl26">F</td><td class="xl26">Ottawa</td><td class="xl26">CBJ</td><td class="xl26">4</td><td class="xl26">114<br /></td></tr><tr height="17" style="height: 12.75pt;"><td class="xl25" height="17" style="height: 12.75pt;">15</td><td class="xl26">Cam Allen</td><td class="xl26">D</td><td class="xl26">Guelph</td><td class="xl26">WSH</td><td class="xl26">5</td><td class="xl26">136</td></tr><tr height="17" style="height: 12.75pt;"><td class="xl25" height="17" style="height: 12.75pt;">16</td><td class="xl26">Quinton Burns</td><td class="xl26">D</td><td class="xl26">Kingston</td><td class="xl26">STL</td><td class="xl26">3</td><td class="xl26">74</td></tr><tr height="17" style="height: 12.75pt;"><td class="xl25" height="17" style="height: 12.75pt;">17</td><td class="xl26">Denver Barkey</td><td class="xl26">F<br /></td><td class="xl26">London</td><td class="xl26">PHI</td><td class="xl26">3<br /></td><td class="xl26">95<br /></td></tr><tr height="17" style="height: 12.75pt;"><td class="xl25" height="17" style="height: 12.75pt;">18</td><td class="xl26">Matthew Mania</td><td class="xl26">D</td><td class="xl26">Sudbury</td><td class="xl26">LAK</td><td class="xl26">5</td><td class="xl26">150</td></tr><tr height="17" style="height: 12.75pt;"><td class="xl25" height="17" style="height: 12.75pt;">19</td><td class="xl26">Ondrej Molnar<br /></td><td class="xl26">W<br /></td><td class="xl26">Erie</td><td class="xl26"><br /></td><td class="xl26"><br /></td><td class="xl26"><br /></td></tr><tr height="17" style="height: 12.75pt;"><td class="xl25" height="17" style="height: 12.75pt;">20</td><td class="xl26">Ethan Miedema</td><td class="xl26">W</td><td class="xl26">Windsor</td><td class="xl26">BUF</td><td class="xl26">4</td><td class="xl26">109</td></tr><tr height="17" style="height: 12.75pt;"><td class="xl25" height="17" style="height: 12.75pt;">21</td><td class="xl26">Joey Willis</td><td class="xl26">C</td><td class="xl26">Saginaw</td><td class="xl26">NSH</td><td class="xl26">4</td><td class="xl26">111</td></tr><tr height="17" style="height: 12.75pt;"><td class="xl25" height="17" style="height: 12.75pt;">22</td><td class="xl26">Alex Pharand</td><td class="xl26">F</td><td class="xl26">Sudbury</td><td class="xl26">CHI</td><td class="xl26">4</td><td class="xl26">99</td></tr><tr height="17" style="height: 12.75pt;"><td class="xl25" height="17" style="height: 12.75pt;">23</td><td class="xl26">Ethan Hay</td><td class="xl26">C</td><td class="xl26">Flint</td><td class="xl26">TBL</td><td class="xl26">7</td><td class="xl26">211</td></tr><tr height="17" style="height: 12.75pt;"><td class="xl25" height="17" style="height: 12.75pt;">24</td><td class="xl26">Brad Gardiner</td><td class="xl26">C</td><td class="xl26">Ottawa<br /></td><td class="xl26">DAL</td><td class="xl26">3</td><td class="xl26">79</td></tr><tr height="17" style="height: 12.75pt;"><td class="xl25" height="17" style="height: 12.75pt;">25</td><td class="xl26">Angus MacDonell</td><td class="xl26">F</td><td class="xl26">Mississauga</td><td class="xl26">DAL</td><td class="xl26">6</td><td class="xl26">189<br /></td></tr><tr height="17" style="height: 12.75pt;"><td class="xl25" height="17" style="height: 12.75pt;">26</td><td class="xl26">Matthew Soto</td><td class="xl26">W</td><td class="xl26">Kingston</td><td class="xl26"><br /></td><td class="xl26"><br /></td><td class="xl26"><br /></td></tr><tr height="17" style="height: 12.75pt;"><td class="xl25" height="17" style="height: 12.75pt;">27</td><td class="xl26">Cooper Foster</td><td class="xl26">C<br /></td><td class="xl26">Ottawa</td><td class="xl26">PIT</td><td class="xl26">6</td><td class="xl26">174</td></tr><tr height="17" style="height: 12.75pt;"><td class="xl25" height="17" style="height: 12.75pt;">28</td><td class="xl26">Charlie Robertson</td><td class="xl26">G</td><td class="xl26">North Bay</td><td class="xl26"><br /></td><td class="xl26"><br /></td><td class="xl26"><br /></td></tr><tr height="17" style="height: 12.75pt;"><td class="xl25" height="17" style="height: 12.75pt;">29</td><td class="xl26">Cole Brown</td><td class="xl26">W</td><td class="xl26">Hamilton</td><td class="xl26">NJ</td><td class="xl26">6</td><td class="xl26">164</td></tr><tr height="17" style="height: 12.75pt;"><td class="xl25" height="17" style="height: 12.75pt;">30</td><td class="xl26">Donovan McCoy</td><td class="xl26">D</td><td class="xl26">Peterborough</td><td class="xl26"><br /></td><td class="xl26"><br /></td><td class="xl26"><br /></td></tr><tr height="17" style="height: 12.75pt;"><td class="xl25" height="17" style="height: 12.75pt;">31</td><td class="xl26">Owen Outwater</td><td class="xl26">F<br /></td><td class="xl26">Kingston</td><td class="xl26"><br /></td><td class="xl26"><br /></td><td class="xl26"><br /></td></tr><tr height="17" style="height: 12.75pt;"><td class="xl25" height="17" style="height: 12.75pt;">32</td><td class="xl26">Alex Assadourian</td><td class="xl26">C</td><td class="xl26">Niagara</td><td class="xl26"><br /></td><td class="xl26"><br /></td><td class="xl26"><br /></td></tr><tr height="17" style="height: 12.75pt;"><td class="xl25" height="17" style="height: 12.75pt;">33</td><td class="xl26">Matthew Mayich</td><td class="xl26">D</td><td class="xl26">Ottawa</td><td class="xl26">STL</td><td class="xl26">6</td><td class="xl26">170</td></tr><tr height="17" style="height: 12.75pt;"><td class="xl25" height="17" style="height: 12.75pt;">34</td><td class="xl26">Valentin Zhugin</td><td class="xl26">W</td><td class="xl26">Guelph</td><td class="xl26"><br /></td><td class="xl26"><br /></td><td class="xl26"><br /></td></tr><tr height="17" style="height: 12.75pt;"><td class="xl25" height="17" style="height: 12.75pt;">35</td><td class="xl26">Nathaniel Day</td><td class="xl26">G</td><td class="xl26">Flint</td><td class="xl26">EDM</td><td class="xl26">6</td><td class="xl26">184</td></tr><tr height="17" style="height: 12.75pt;"><td class="xl25" height="17" style="height: 12.75pt;">36</td><td class="xl26">Bronson Ride</td><td class="xl26">D</td><td class="xl26">Niagara</td><td class="xl26"><br /></td><td class="xl26"><br /></td><td class="xl26"><br /></td></tr><tr height="17" style="height: 12.75pt;"><td class="xl25" height="17" style="height: 12.75pt;">37</td><td class="xl26">Konnor Smith</td><td class="xl26">D</td><td class="xl26">Peterborough</td><td class="xl26">ANA</td><td class="xl26">4</td><td class="xl26">97</td></tr><tr height="17" style="height: 12.75pt;"><td class="xl25" height="17" style="height: 12.75pt;">38</td><td class="xl26">Anthony Romani</td><td class="xl26">F</td><td class="xl26">North Bay <br /></td><td class="xl26"><br /></td><td class="xl26"><br /></td><td class="xl26"><br /></td></tr><tr height="17" style="height: 12.75pt;"><td class="xl25" height="17" style="height: 12.75pt;">39</td><td class="xl26">Zach Bowen</td><td class="xl26">G</td><td class="xl26">London</td><td class="xl26"><br /></td><td class="xl26"><br /></td><td class="xl26"><br /></td></tr><tr height="17" style="height: 12.75pt;"><td class="xl25" height="17" style="height: 12.75pt;">40</td><td class="xl26">Lucas Moore</td><td class="xl26">D</td><td class="xl26">Hamilton</td><td class="xl26"><br /></td><td class="xl26"><br /></td><td class="xl26"><br /></td></tr><tr height="17" style="height: 12.75pt;"><td class="xl25" height="17" style="height: 12.75pt;">41</td><td class="xl26">Calem Mangone</td><td class="xl26">W<br /></td><td class="xl26">Saginaw</td><td class="xl26"><br /></td><td class="xl26"><br /></td><td class="xl26"><br /></td></tr><tr height="17" style="height: 12.75pt;"><td class="xl25" height="17" style="height: 12.75pt;">42</td><td class="xl26">James Petrovski</td><td class="xl26">D</td><td class="xl26">Owen Sound</td><td class="xl26"><br /></td><td class="xl26"><br /></td><td class="xl26"><br /></td></tr><tr height="17" style="height: 12.75pt;"><td class="xl25" height="17" style="height: 12.75pt;">43</td><td class="xl26">Alexis Daviault</td><td class="xl26">D</td><td class="xl26">Erie</td><td class="xl26"><br /></td><td class="xl26"><br /></td><td class="xl26"><br /></td></tr><tr height="17" style="height: 12.75pt;"><td class="xl25" height="17" style="height: 12.75pt;">44</td><td class="xl26">Luke McNamara</td><td class="xl26">C</td><td class="xl26">Saginaw</td><td class="xl26"><br /></td><td class="xl26"><br /></td><td class="xl26"><br /></td></tr><tr height="17" style="height: 12.75pt;"><td class="xl25" height="17" style="height: 12.75pt;">45</td><td class="xl26">Matt Andonovski</td><td class="xl26">D</td><td class="xl26">Kitchener</td><td class="xl26">OTT</td><td class="xl26">5</td><td class="xl26">140</td></tr><tr height="17" style="height: 12.75pt;"><td class="xl25" height="17" style="height: 12.75pt;">46</td><td class="xl26">Marco Mignosa</td><td class="xl26">W</td><td class="xl26">SSM</td><td class="xl26"><br /></td><td class="xl26"><br /></td><td class="xl26"><br /></td></tr><tr height="17" style="height: 12.75pt;"><td class="xl25" height="17" style="height: 12.75pt;">47</td><td class="xl26">Adam Zidlicky<br /></td><td class="xl26">W</td><td class="xl26">Mississauga</td><td class="xl26"><br /></td><td class="xl26"><br /></td><td class="xl26"><br /></td></tr><tr height="17" style="height: 12.75pt;"><td class="xl25" height="17" style="height: 12.75pt;">48</td><td class="xl26">Declan Waddick</td><td class="xl26">F</td><td class="xl26">Niagara</td><td class="xl26"><br /></td><td class="xl26"><br /></td><td class="xl26"><br /></td></tr><tr height="17" style="height: 12.75pt;"><td class="xl25" height="17" style="height: 12.75pt;">49</td><td class="xl26">Joey Costanzo</td><td class="xl26">G<br /></td><td class="xl26">Windsor <br /></td><td class="xl26"><br /></td><td class="xl26"><br /></td><td class="xl26"><br /></td></tr><tr height="17" style="height: 12.75pt;"><td class="xl25" height="17" style="height: 12.75pt;">50</td><td class="xl26">Blake Smith</td><td class="xl26">D<br /></td><td class="xl26">Oshawa</td><td class="xl26"><br /></td><td class="xl26"><br /></td><td class="xl26"><br /></td></tr><tr height="17" style="height: 12.75pt;"><td class="xl25" height="17" style="height: 12.75pt;"><br /></td><td class="xl26"><br /></td><td class="xl26"><br /></td><td class="xl26"><br /></td><td class="xl26"><br /></td><td class="xl26"><br /></td><td class="xl26"><br /></td></tr><tr height="17" style="height: 12.75pt;"><td class="xl25" height="17" style="height: 12.75pt;">1</td><td class="xl26">Rodwin Dionicio</td><td class="xl26">D</td><td class="xl26">Windsor</td><td class="xl26">ANA</td><td class="xl26">5</td><td class="xl26">129<br /></td></tr><tr height="17" style="height: 12.75pt;"><td class="xl25" height="17" style="height: 12.75pt;">2</td><td class="xl26">Brady Stonehouse</td><td class="xl26">W<br /></td><td class="xl26">Ottawa</td><td class="xl26"><br /></td><td class="xl26"><br /></td><td class="xl26"><br /></td></tr><tr height="17" style="height: 12.75pt;"><td class="xl25" height="17" style="height: 12.75pt;">3</td><td class="xl26">Spencer Sova<br /></td><td class="xl26">D<br /></td><td class="xl26">Erie</td><td class="xl26"><br /></td><td class="xl26"><br /></td><td class="xl26"><br /></td></tr><tr height="17" style="height: 12.75pt;"><td class="xl25" height="17" style="height: 12.75pt;">4</td><td class="xl26">Beau Jelsma</td><td class="xl26">W</td><td class="xl26">Barrie</td><td class="xl26"><br /></td><td class="xl26"><br /></td><td class="xl26"><br /></td></tr><tr height="17" style="height: 12.75pt;"><td class="xl25" height="17" style="height: 12.75pt;">5</td><td class="xl26">Braeden Bowman</td><td class="xl26">W<br /></td><td class="xl26">Guelph</td><td class="xl26"><br /></td><td class="xl26"><br /></td><td class="xl26"><br /></td></tr><tr height="17" style="height: 12.75pt;"><td class="xl25" height="17" style="height: 12.75pt;">6</td><td class="xl26">Kocha Delic</td><td class="xl26">C<br /></td><td class="xl26">Sudbury</td><td class="xl26"><br /></td><td class="xl26"><br /></td><td class="xl26"><br /></td></tr><tr height="17" style="height: 12.75pt;"><td class="xl25" height="17" style="height: 12.75pt;">7</td><td class="xl26">Djibril Toure</td><td class="xl26">D</td><td class="xl26">Sudbury</td><td class="xl26"><br /></td><td class="xl26"><br /></td><td class="xl26"><br /></td></tr><tr height="17" style="height: 12.75pt;"><td class="xl25" height="17" style="height: 12.75pt;">8</td><td class="xl26">Oliver Peer</td><td class="xl26">C</td><td class="xl26">Windsor</td><td class="xl26"><br /></td><td class="xl26"><br /></td><td class="xl26"><br /></td></tr><tr height="17" style="height: 12.75pt;"><td class="xl25" height="17" style="height: 12.75pt;">9</td><td class="xl26">Connor Punnett</td><td class="xl26">D</td><td class="xl26">Barrie</td><td class="xl26"><br /></td><td class="xl26"><br /></td><td class="xl26"><br /></td></tr><tr height="17" style="height: 12.75pt;"><td class="xl25" height="17" style="height: 12.75pt;">10</td><td class="xl26">Dylan Roobroeck</td><td class="xl26">C</td><td class="xl26">Oshawa</td><td class="xl26">NYR</td><td class="xl26">6</td><td class="xl26">178</td></tr><tr height="17" style="height: 12.75pt;"><td class="xl25" height="17" style="height: 12.75pt;"><br /></td><td class="xl26"><br /></td><td class="xl26"><br /></td><td class="xl26"><br /></td><td class="xl26"><br /></td><td class="xl26"><br /></td><td class="xl26"><br /></td></tr><tr height="17" style="height: 12.75pt;"><td class="xl25" height="17" style="height: 12.75pt;">N/A</td><td class="xl26">Florian Xhekaj</td><td class="xl26">W<br /></td><td class="xl26">Hamilton</td><td class="xl26">MTL</td><td class="xl26">4</td><td class="xl26"> 101 <span> </span> </td></tr></tbody></table>N/A<span> </span><span> Patrick Thomas W Hamilton<span> </span><span> </span><span> WSH<span> 4<span> 104</span></span></span></span></div><div style="background-color: #e0e0e0; color: #333333; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;"><span><br /></span></div><div style="background-color: #e0e0e0; color: #333333; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;"><span><span><span></span></span>N/A<span> Jacob Julien<span> W London<span> </span><span> </span><span> WPJ 5 146</span></span></span> </span><span> </span><span> </span></div><table border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" style="background-color: #e0e0e0; border-collapse: collapse; color: #333333; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; width: 422px;"><tbody><tr height="17" style="height: 12.75pt;"><td class="xl24" height="17" style="height: 12.75pt; width: 40pt;" width="53"><br /></td><td class="xl24" style="width: 98pt;" width="130"><br /></td><td class="xl24" style="width: 24pt;" width="32"><br /></td><td class="xl24" style="width: 65pt;" width="86"><br /></td><td class="xl24" style="width: 47pt;" width="62"><br /></td><td class="xl24" style="width: 22pt;" width="29"><br /></td><td class="xl24" style="width: 23pt;" width="30"><br /></td></tr><tr height="17" style="height: 12.75pt;"><td class="xl25" height="17" style="height: 12.75pt;"><br /></td><td class="xl26"><br /></td><td class="xl26"><br /></td><td class="xl26"><br /></td><td class="xl26"><br /></td><td class="xl26"><br /></td><td class="xl26"><br /></td></tr><tr height="17" style="height: 12.75pt;"><td class="xl25" height="17" style="height: 12.75pt;"><br /></td><td class="xl26"><br /></td><td class="xl26"><br /></td><td class="xl26"><br /></td><td class="xl26"><br /></td><td class="xl26"><br /></td><td class="xl26"><br /></td></tr><tr height="17" style="height: 12.75pt;"><td class="xl25" height="17" style="height: 12.75pt;"><br /></td><td class="xl26"><br /></td><td class="xl26"><br /></td><td class="xl26"><br /></td><td class="xl26"><br /></td><td class="xl26"><br /></td><td class="xl26"><br /></td></tr><tr height="17" style="height: 12.75pt;"><td class="xl25" height="17" style="height: 12.75pt;"><br /></td><td class="xl26"><br /></td><td class="xl26"><br /></td><td class="xl26"><br /></td><td class="xl26"><br /></td><td class="xl26"><br /></td><td class="xl26"><br /></td></tr><tr height="17" style="height: 12.75pt;"><td class="xl25" height="17" style="height: 12.75pt;"><br /></td><td class="xl26"><br /></td><td class="xl26"><br /></td><td class="xl26"><br /></td><td class="xl26"><br /></td><td class="xl26"><br /></td><td class="xl26"><br /></td></tr><tr height="17" style="height: 12.75pt;"><td class="xl25" height="17" style="height: 12.75pt;"><br /></td><td class="xl26"><br /></td><td class="xl26"><br /></td><td class="xl26"><br /></td><td class="xl26"><br /></td><td class="xl26"><br /></td><td class="xl26"><br /></td></tr><tr height="17" style="height: 12.75pt;"><td class="xl25" height="17" style="height: 12.75pt;"><br /></td><td class="xl26"><br /></td><td class="xl26"><br /></td><td class="xl26"><br /></td><td class="xl26"><br /></td><td class="xl26"><br /></td><td class="xl26"><br /></td></tr><tr height="17" style="height: 12.75pt;"><td class="xl25" height="17" style="height: 12.75pt;"><br /></td><td class="xl26"><br /></td><td class="xl26"><br /></td><td class="xl26"><br /></td><td class="xl26"><br /></td><td class="xl26"><br /></td><td class="xl26"><br /></td></tr><tr height="17" style="height: 12.75pt;"><td class="xl25" height="17" style="height: 12.75pt;"><br /></td><td class="xl26"><br /></td><td class="xl26"><br /></td><td class="xl26"><br /></td><td class="xl26"><br /></td><td class="xl26"><br /></td><td class="xl26"><br /></td></tr><tr height="17" style="height: 12.75pt;"><td class="xl25" height="17" style="height: 12.75pt;"><br /></td><td class="xl26"><br /></td><td class="xl26"><br /></td><td class="xl26"><br /></td><td class="xl26"><br /></td><td class="xl26"><br /></td><td class="xl26"><br /></td></tr><tr height="17" style="height: 12.75pt;"><td class="xl25" height="17" style="height: 12.75pt;"><br /></td><td class="xl26"><br /></td><td class="xl26"><br /></td><td class="xl26"><br /></td><td class="xl26"><br /></td><td class="xl26"><br /></td><td class="xl26"><br /></td></tr><tr height="17" style="height: 12.75pt;"><td class="xl25" height="17" style="height: 12.75pt;"><br /></td><td class="xl26"><br /></td><td class="xl26"><br /></td><td class="xl26"><br /></td><td class="xl26"><br /></td><td class="xl26"><br /></td><td class="xl26"><br /></td></tr><tr height="17" style="height: 12.75pt;"><td class="xl25" height="17" style="height: 12.75pt;"><br /></td><td class="xl26"><br /></td><td class="xl26"><br /></td><td class="xl26"><br /></td><td class="xl26"><br /></td><td class="xl26"><br /></td><td class="xl26"><br /></td></tr><tr height="17" style="height: 12.75pt;"><td class="xl25" height="17" style="height: 12.75pt;"><br /></td><td class="xl26"><br /></td><td class="xl26"><br /></td><td class="xl26"><br /></td><td class="xl26"><br /></td><td class="xl26"><br /></td><td class="xl26"><br /></td></tr><tr height="17" style="height: 12.75pt;"><td class="xl25" height="17" style="height: 12.75pt;"><br /></td><td class="xl26"><br /></td><td class="xl26"><br /></td><td class="xl26"><br /></td><td class="xl26"><br /></td><td class="xl26"><br /></td><td class="xl26"><br /></td></tr><tr height="17" style="height: 12.75pt;"><td class="xl25" height="17" style="height: 12.75pt;"><br /></td><td class="xl26"><br /></td><td class="xl26"><br /></td><td class="xl26"><br /></td><td class="xl26"><br /></td><td class="xl26"><br /></td><td class="xl26"><br /></td></tr><tr height="17" style="height: 12.75pt;"><td class="xl25" height="17" style="height: 12.75pt;"><br /></td><td class="xl26"><br /></td><td class="xl26"><br /></td><td class="xl26"><br /></td><td class="xl26"><br /></td><td class="xl26"><br /></td><td class="xl26"><br /></td></tr><tr height="17" style="height: 12.75pt;"><td class="xl25" height="17" style="height: 12.75pt;"><br /></td><td class="xl26"><br /></td><td class="xl26"><br /></td><td class="xl26"><br /></td><td class="xl26"><br /></td><td class="xl26"><br /></td><td class="xl26"><br /></td></tr><tr height="17" style="height: 12.75pt;"><td class="xl25" height="17" style="height: 12.75pt;"><br /></td><td class="xl26"><br /></td><td class="xl26"><br /></td><td class="xl26"><br /></td><td class="xl26"><br /></td><td class="xl26"><br /></td><td class="xl26"><br /></td></tr><tr height="17" style="height: 12.75pt;"><td class="xl25" height="17" style="height: 12.75pt;"><br /></td><td class="xl26"><br /></td><td class="xl26"><br /></td><td class="xl26"><br /></td><td class="xl26"><br /></td><td class="xl26"><br /></td><td class="xl26"><br /></td></tr><tr height="17" style="height: 12.75pt;"><td class="xl25" height="17" style="height: 12.75pt;"><br /></td><td class="xl26"><br /></td><td class="xl26"><br /></td><td class="xl26"><br /></td><td class="xl26"><br /></td><td class="xl26"><br /></td><td class="xl26"><br /></td></tr><tr height="17" style="height: 12.75pt;"><td class="xl25" height="17" style="height: 12.75pt;"><br /></td><td class="xl26"><br /></td><td class="xl26"><br /></td><td class="xl26"><br /></td><td class="xl26"><br /></td><td class="xl26"><br /></td><td class="xl26"><br /></td></tr><tr height="17" style="height: 12.75pt;"><td class="xl25" height="17" style="height: 12.75pt;"><br /></td><td class="xl26"><br /></td><td class="xl26"><br /></td><td class="xl26"><br /></td><td class="xl26"><br /></td><td class="xl26"><br /></td><td class="xl26"><br /></td></tr><tr height="17" style="height: 12.75pt;"><td class="xl25" height="17" style="height: 12.75pt;"><br /></td><td class="xl26"><br /></td><td class="xl26"><br /></td><td class="xl26"><br /></td><td class="xl26"><br /></td><td class="xl26"><br /></td><td class="xl26"><br /></td></tr><tr height="17" style="height: 12.75pt;"><td class="xl25" height="17" style="height: 12.75pt;"><br /></td><td class="xl26"><br /></td><td class="xl26"><br /></td><td class="xl26"><br /></td><td class="xl26"><br /></td><td class="xl26"><br /></td><td class="xl26"><br /></td></tr><tr height="17" style="height: 12.75pt;"><td class="xl25" height="17" style="height: 12.75pt;"><br /></td><td class="xl26"><br /></td><td class="xl26"><br /></td><td class="xl26"><br /></td><td class="xl26"><br /></td><td class="xl26"><br /></td><td class="xl26"><br /></td></tr><tr height="17" style="height: 12.75pt;"><td class="xl25" height="17" style="height: 12.75pt;"><br /></td><td class="xl26"><br /></td><td class="xl26"><br /></td><td class="xl26"><br /></td><td class="xl26"><br /></td><td class="xl26"><br /></td><td class="xl26"><br /></td></tr><tr height="17" style="height: 12.75pt;"><td class="xl25" height="17" style="height: 12.75pt;"><br /></td><td class="xl26"><br /></td><td class="xl26"><br /></td><td class="xl26"><br /></td><td class="xl26"><br /></td><td class="xl26"><br /></td><td class="xl26"><br /></td></tr><tr height="17" style="height: 12.75pt;"><td class="xl25" height="17" style="height: 12.75pt;"><br /></td><td class="xl26"><br /></td><td class="xl26"><br /></td><td class="xl26"><br /></td><td class="xl26"><br /></td><td class="xl26"><br /></td><td class="xl26"><br /></td></tr><tr height="17" style="height: 12.75pt;"><td class="xl25" height="17" style="height: 12.75pt;"><br /></td><td class="xl26"><br /></td><td class="xl26"><br /></td><td class="xl26"><br /></td><td class="xl26"><br /></td><td class="xl26"><br /></td><td class="xl26"><br /></td></tr><tr height="17" style="height: 12.75pt;"><td class="xl25" height="17" style="height: 12.75pt;"><br /></td><td class="xl26"><br /></td><td class="xl26"><br /></td><td class="xl26"><br /></td><td class="xl26"><br /></td><td class="xl26"><br /></td><td class="xl26"><br /></td></tr><tr height="17" style="height: 12.75pt;"><td class="xl25" height="17" style="height: 12.75pt;"><br /></td><td class="xl26"><br /></td><td class="xl26"><br /></td><td class="xl26"><br /></td><td class="xl26"><br /></td><td class="xl26"><br /></td><td class="xl26"><br /></td></tr><tr height="17" style="height: 12.75pt;"><td class="xl25" height="17" style="height: 12.75pt;"><br /></td><td class="xl26"><br /></td><td class="xl26"><br /></td><td class="xl26"><br /></td><td class="xl26"><br /></td><td class="xl26"><br /></td><td class="xl26"><br /></td></tr><tr height="17" style="height: 12.75pt;"><td class="xl25" height="17" style="height: 12.75pt;"><br /></td><td class="xl26"><br /></td><td class="xl26"><br /></td><td class="xl26"><br /></td><td class="xl26"><br /></td><td class="xl26"><br /></td><td class="xl26"><br /></td></tr><tr height="17" style="height: 12.75pt;"><td class="xl25" height="17" style="height: 12.75pt;"><br /></td><td class="xl26"><br /></td><td class="xl26"><br /></td><td class="xl26"><br /></td><td class="xl26"><br /></td><td class="xl26"><br /></td><td class="xl26"><br /></td></tr><tr height="17" style="height: 12.75pt;"><td class="xl25" height="17" style="height: 12.75pt;"><br /></td><td class="xl26"><br /></td><td class="xl26"><br /></td><td class="xl26"><br /></td><td class="xl26"><br /></td><td class="xl26"><br /></td><td class="xl26"><br /></td></tr><tr height="17" style="height: 12.75pt;"><td class="xl25" height="17" style="height: 12.75pt;"><br /></td><td class="xl26"><br /></td><td class="xl26"><br /></td><td class="xl26"><br /></td><td class="xl26"><br /></td><td class="xl26"><br /></td><td class="xl26"><br /></td></tr><tr height="17" style="height: 12.75pt;"><td class="xl25" height="17" style="height: 12.75pt;"><br /></td><td class="xl26"><br /></td><td class="xl26"><br /></td><td class="xl26"><br /></td><td class="xl26"><br /></td><td class="xl26"><br /></td><td class="xl26"><br /></td></tr><tr height="17" style="height: 12.75pt;"><td class="xl25" height="17" style="height: 12.75pt;"><br /></td><td class="xl26"><br /></td><td class="xl26"><br /></td><td class="xl26"><br /></td><td class="xl26"><br /></td><td class="xl26"><br /></td><td class="xl26"><br /></td></tr><tr height="17" style="height: 12.75pt;"><td class="xl25" height="17" style="height: 12.75pt;"><br /></td><td class="xl26"><br /></td><td class="xl26"><br /></td><td class="xl26"><br /></td><td class="xl26"><br /></td><td class="xl26"><br /></td><td class="xl26"><br /></td></tr><tr height="17" style="height: 12.75pt;"><td class="xl25" height="17" style="height: 12.75pt;"><br /></td><td class="xl26"><br /></td><td class="xl26"><br /></td><td class="xl26"><br /></td><td class="xl26"><br /></td><td class="xl26"><br /></td><td class="xl26"><br /></td></tr><tr height="17" style="height: 12.75pt;"><td class="xl25" height="17" style="height: 12.75pt;"><br /></td><td class="xl26"><br /></td><td class="xl26"><br /></td><td class="xl26"><br /></td><td class="xl26"><br /></td><td class="xl26"><br /></td><td class="xl26"><br /></td></tr><tr height="17" style="height: 12.75pt;"><td class="xl25" height="17" style="height: 12.75pt;"><br /></td><td class="xl26"><br /></td><td class="xl26"><br /></td><td class="xl26"><br /></td><td class="xl26"><br /></td><td class="xl26"><br /></td><td class="xl26"><br /></td></tr><tr height="17" style="height: 12.75pt;"><td class="xl25" height="17" style="height: 12.75pt;"><br /></td><td class="xl26"><br /></td><td class="xl26"><br /></td><td class="xl26"><br /></td><td class="xl26"><br /></td><td class="xl26"><br /></td><td class="xl26"><br /></td></tr><tr height="17" style="height: 12.75pt;"><td class="xl25" height="17" style="height: 12.75pt;"><br /></td><td class="xl26"><br /></td><td class="xl26"><br /></td><td class="xl26"><br /></td><td class="xl26"><br /></td><td class="xl26"><br /></td><td class="xl26"><br /></td></tr><tr height="17" style="height: 12.75pt;"><td class="xl25" height="17" style="height: 12.75pt;"><br /></td><td class="xl26"><br /></td><td class="xl26"><br /></td><td class="xl26"><br /></td><td class="xl26"><br /></td><td class="xl26"><br /></td><td class="xl26"><br /></td></tr><tr height="17" style="height: 12.75pt;"><td class="xl25" height="17" style="height: 12.75pt;"><br /></td><td class="xl26"><br /></td><td class="xl26"><br /></td><td class="xl26"><br /></td><td class="xl26"><br /></td><td class="xl26"><br /></td><td class="xl26"><br /></td></tr><tr height="17" style="height: 12.75pt;"><td class="xl25" height="17" style="height: 12.75pt;"><br /></td><td class="xl26"><br /></td><td class="xl26"><br /></td><td class="xl26"><br /></td><td class="xl26"><br /></td><td class="xl26"><br /></td><td class="xl26"><br /></td></tr><tr height="17" style="height: 12.75pt;"><td class="xl25" height="17" style="height: 12.75pt;"><br /></td><td class="xl26"><br /></td><td class="xl26"><br /></td><td class="xl26"><br /></td><td class="xl26"><br /></td><td class="xl26"><br /></td><td class="xl26"><br /></td></tr><tr height="17" style="height: 12.75pt;"><td class="xl25" height="17" style="height: 12.75pt;"><br /></td><td class="xl26"><br /></td><td class="xl26"><br /></td><td class="xl26"><br /></td><td class="xl26"><br /></td><td class="xl26"><br /></td><td class="xl26"><br /></td></tr><tr height="17" style="height: 12.75pt;"><td class="xl25" height="17" style="height: 12.75pt;"><br /></td><td class="xl26"><br /></td><td class="xl26"><br /></td><td class="xl26"><br /></td><td class="xl26"><br /></td><td class="xl26"><br /></td><td class="xl26"><br /></td></tr><tr height="17" style="height: 12.75pt;"><td class="xl25" height="17" style="height: 12.75pt;"><br /></td><td class="xl26"><br /></td><td class="xl26"><br /></td><td class="xl26"><br /></td><td class="xl26"><br /></td><td class="xl26"><br /></td><td class="xl26"><br /></td></tr><tr height="17" style="height: 12.75pt;"><td class="xl25" height="17" style="height: 12.75pt;"><br /></td><td class="xl26"><br /></td><td class="xl26"><br /></td><td class="xl26"><br /></td><td class="xl26"><br /></td><td class="xl26"><br /></td><td class="xl26"><br /></td></tr><tr height="17" style="height: 12.75pt;"><td class="xl25" height="17" style="height: 12.75pt;"><br /></td><td class="xl26"><br /></td><td class="xl26"><br /></td><td class="xl26"><br /></td><td class="xl26"><br /></td><td class="xl26"><br /></td><td class="xl26"><br /></td></tr><tr height="17" style="height: 12.75pt;"><td class="xl25" height="17" style="height: 12.75pt;"><br /></td><td class="xl26"><br /></td><td class="xl26"><br /></td><td class="xl26"><br /></td><td class="xl26"><br /></td><td class="xl26"><br /></td><td class="xl26"><br /></td></tr><tr height="17" style="height: 12.75pt;"><td class="xl25" height="17" style="height: 12.75pt;"><br /></td><td class="xl26"><br /></td></tr></tbody></table></div>Brock Ottenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08237782074032840702noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2553903000955128175.post-53480266003198156972023-06-24T08:33:00.004-04:002023-06-24T08:33:59.986-04:002023 NHL Draft Primer<div style="text-align: left;">With the 2023 NHL Entry Draft slated for this week, here is everything you need to know about the players available from the Ontario Hockey League.<br /> <br />My Rankings:<br /><a href="http://ohlprospects.blogspot.com/2023/06/my-final-top-50-ohl-players-for-2023.html">50-31</a><br /><a href="http://ohlprospects.blogspot.com/2023/06/my-final-top-50-ohl-players-for-2023_6.html">30-11</a><br /><a href="http://ohlprospects.blogspot.com/2023/06/my-final-top-50-ohl-players-for-2023_7.html">10-1</a><br /><br /><a href="http://ohlprospects.blogspot.com/2023/04/sunday-top-10-2023-nhl-draft-re-entries.html">Re-Entry (Second/Third Year Eligible) Candidates</a></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"></div><div style="text-align: left;"></div><div style="text-align: left;"><a href="https://ohlprospects.blogspot.com/2022/12/preliminary-mediascout-top-10-for-2023.html">Preliminary Media/Scout Poll</a><br /><a href="http://ohlprospects.blogspot.com/2023/06/final-mediascout-top-10-for-2023.html">Final Media/Scout Poll</a> </div><div style="text-align: left;"> <br />Of course, you can find so much more of my work on McKeen's Hockey. <a href="https://www.mckeenshockey.com/nhl-blog/mckeens-2023-nhl-draft-guide-download/">Here you will find a link to purchase our draft guide, which can also come with a site subscription.</a> <br /></div>Brock Ottenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08237782074032840702noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2553903000955128175.post-53875108545852874292023-06-20T15:08:00.002-04:002023-06-20T15:08:40.983-04:00Final Media/Scout Top 10 for 2023<div style="text-align: left;">A week before the 2023 NHL Draft in Nashville, the final media/scout poll for 2023 is complete!</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><div>For comparison's sake, here was the preliminary (from late December) list:</div><div><br /></div><div><a href="https://ohlprospects.blogspot.com/2022/12/preliminary-mediascout-top-10-for-2023.html">Preliminary List </a></div><div><br /></div><div>It's always interesting to note some of the major changes/trends from the beginning of the year to the end. </div><div><br /></div><div>It should come as no surprise to see Cam Allen as the biggest faller from the preliminary list in December. He remarkably went from being ranked 4th to receiving only three votes for the final list. Ethan Miedema got several votes the first time around but didn't receive a single one this time. Interestingly enough, Hunter Brzustewicz went from being ranked 5th in December to an HM this time around, despite what I would argue was a better second half than a first.</div><div><br /></div><div>Nick Lardis was the biggest riser, going from an HM to inside the top five; no surprise there. Andrew Gibson was the other one to move from the HM list to the main list.</div><div><br /></div><div>As for the strength of this group as a whole? Well, I think the OHL is still playing catch up post pandemic thanks to a lost year. I like the depth of this group a lot. However, we don't have someone who is likely going to be a perennial award winner or even a star player. Lots of great complementary pieces available from the OHL, but the crop lacks star power. While I do expect Colby Barlow to go inside the lottery, it's certainly not a given that we have an OHL player selected in the top 10. </div><div> </div><div>As always, it's important to note the contributors, as without them and their terrific insight, this article does not exist. For the final list, the following helped out: </div><div><br /></div><div><div>Corey Pronman - NHL Prospects Writer for <a href="https://theathletic.com/author/corey-pronman/">TheAthletic</a> (<a href="https://twitter.com/coreypronman">@coreypronman</a>)</div><div><br /></div><div>Dominic Tiano - Creator of The <a href="https://ohlwriters.me/">OHL Writers</a> (<a href="https://twitter.com/dominictiano">@dominictiano</a>)</div><div><br /></div><div>Ryan Kennedy - Editor in Chief for <a href="https://thehockeynews.com/">The Hockey News</a> (<a href="https://twitter.com/THNRyanKennedy">@THNRyanKennedy</a>)</div><div><br /></div><div>Scott Wheeler - NHL Prospects Writer for <a href="https://theathletic.com/author/scott-wheeler/">TheAthletic</a> (<a href="https://twitter.com/scottcwheeler">@scottcwheeler</a>)</div><div><br /></div><div>Peter Baracchini - Draft Content at <a href="https://thehockeywriters.com/author/pbaracchini/">The Hockey Writers</a> (<a href="https://twitter.com/PBaracchini">@PBaracchini</a>)</div><div><br /></div><div>Mike Morreale - Staff writer for <a href="https://www.nhl.com/">NHL.com</a> (<a href="https://twitter.com/mikemorrealeNHL">@mikemorrealeNHL</a>)</div><div><br /></div><div>Josh Tessler - Director of Scouting for <a href="https://smahtscouting.com/">Smaht Scouting</a> (<a href="https://twitter.com/JoshTessler_">@JoshTessler_</a>)</div><div><br /></div><div>Victor Findlay - CHL on <a href="http://www.tsn.ca">TSN</a> PxP (<a href="https://twitter.com/Victor_Findlay">@Victor_Findlay</a>)</div><div><br /></div><div>Tony Ferrari – NHL Draft Content for <a href="https://thehockeynews.com/">The Hockey News</a> (<a href="https://twitter.com/theTonyFerrari">@theTonyFerrari</a>)</div><div><br /></div><div>Joely Stockl – OHL Regional Scout for <a href="http://www.mckeenshockey.com">McKeen's Hockey</a> (<a href="https://twitter.com/joely_stockl04">@joelystockl04</a>)</div><div><br /></div><div>Jared Brown - Head Scout for <a href="https://draftprospectshockey.com/">Draft Prospects Hockey</a> (<a href="https://twitter.com/JaredBrownn97">@JaredBrownn97</a>)</div><div><br /></div><div>Mark Seidel - Scouting Director for NACS Hockey (<a href="https://twitter.com/MarkSeidel">@MarkSeidel</a>)</div><div><br /></div><div>Steve Clark - OHL PxP Announcer for the Niagara IceDogs (<a href="https://twitter.com/SteveClarkMedia">@SteveClarkMedia</a>)</div><div><br /></div><div>Steven Ellis - Associate Editor and Prospect Analyst for <a href="https://www.dailyfaceoff.com/authors/stevenellis">DailyFaceoff</a> (<a href="https://twitter.com/SEllisHockey">@SEllisHockey</a>)</div><div><br /></div><div>Hadi Kalakeche - Director of North American Scouting for <a href="https://dobberprospects.com/">Dobber Prospects</a> (<a href="https://twitter.com/HadiK_Scouting">@HadiK_Scouting</a>)</div><div><br /></div><div>Austin Broad - Head OHL Scout for <a href="https://nhlentrydraft.com/">Future Considerations</a> (<a href="https://twitter.com/Austin_Broad">@Austin_Broad</a>)</div><div><br /></div><div>and of course...myself (<a href="https://twitter.com/BrockOtten">@BrockOtten</a>)</div></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div>Here's the List:</div><div><br /></div><div><b>1. Colby Barlow - Wing - Owen Sound Attack</b></div><div><div>Total Votes: 17</div><div>Highest Ranking: 1st (12x)</div><div>Lowest Ranking: 3rd (2x)</div><div>Comments:</div></div><div>"Barlow has the makings for a long NHL career. He operates as a power forward sniper who brings intensity and high competitiveness to the lineup. He's got an appetite for scoring goals and playing physically. He scores in various ways, one-timer on the PP, quick hands at the net front to score in tight, and an excellent drag release that zings off his blade with tremendous power and velocity. His powerful straight-line skating allows him to be an effective F1 and force turnovers. Barlow is also an excellent leader who lets his play do the talking. I really wouldn't be shocked to see him wear a letter in the NHL." - Jared Brown</div><div><br /></div><div>"Barlow cements himself as the top OHLer in this class as a result of his consistent goal scoring abilities. After a strong rookie season where he finished with 30 goals, he was just shy of the 50-goal mark this season with 46. He’s already displaying an NHL-like shot as he has excellent power with his release and great accuracy that freezes goaltenders and a one-timer that’s hard to stop. While he can hurt you from far out, he’s very capable of finding his way to the net and bury his chances in tight as he has quick hands to get it past goaltenders. While he’s a threat at even strength and on the power play, he’s an efficient penalty killer, can get into lanes and provide strong one-on-one coverage. Despite developing at a quick pace, he still has a strong skillset to be successful at the next level." - Peter Baracchini</div><div><br /></div><div>"Barlow has a ton of value because of his projected versatility. It's rare to find solid goal scorers who don't need to have their responsibilities sheltered. I remember saying the same thing about Jack Quinn, in his draft year, and it's why I had him ranked highly too. Barlow could end up developing into the type of guy you want on the ice whether you're up a goal or down a goal late in the game. He is a smart kid, probably wears a letter in the NHL, and has the kind of straight forward game that projects to play well in the NHL playoffs. People seem to focus on the things that he needs to improve on for him to develop into a top six forward (overall mobility, small area skill), but they should be focusing on all the things he does well already that make him one of the most pro ready players available this year." - Brock Otten</div><div><br /></div><div>"I came away so impressed with the live viewing I had of Colby Barlow. He's someone who has an NHL ready body, and an NHL ready shot. Plus, he shows as a mature player beyond his years, given the captaincy he was given this year for Owen Sound. Like a lot of players, I would have loved to have seen more playoff action ,to see how he would perform when the games got real because with his size, and strength, he's tailor made for a physical game. Skating fluidity was the only downside I saw, but overall he's well earned his Top 15 ranking. 76 goals in 118 games is true sniper material, and he's added 8 more in 11 playoff games." - Steve Clark</div><div><br /></div><div>"To me Barlow has all the makings of an elite power forward in the NHL. With his combination of shooting ability, size, and tenacity on the puck, he is a nightmare to defend against. He has drastically improved his off the puck play throughout the year and has a knack for getting himself open in the scoring area. When fully engaged he is unstoppable; very few in this class have his combination of natural scoring ability and size. I think he is easily the best 2023 NHL Draft prospect in this OHL class, and it is not particularly close in my opinion." - Austin Broad</div><div><br /></div><div>"Obviously a ton to like about his game on this ice, but I don't think you can really understate just how impressive his work in the classroom was this season. Barlow had a stretch from January 20th to 28th where he played 6 games in 9 days (including CHL Top Prospects) and managed to write his mid-term grade 12 exams in that timeframe as well. Barlow never let his on-ice commitments take away from his work in the classroom, and became the first ever Owen Sound Attack player to win the CHL Scholastic Player of the Year award. For a bona-fide NHL prospect to have that kind of commitment in his draft year to excelling in school speaks volumes about the type of person he is." - Victor Findlay</div><div><br /></div><div>"Barlow is an interesting prospect in that he plays a fairly simple north-south game, driving to the net and overpowering his opponents with his strength. The Owen Sound captain is physically mature which allows him to bully junior-aged players already in front of the net and around the boards. His shot is very good but he has a tendency to take shots from above the faceoff circles and then follow it up and attempt to bang in the rebound. His shot metrics look great because he does follow his initial shot up so frequently. Barlow is a decent play connector and has a nose for the net with the hands to score on those chances in tight. His acceleration and agility are going to need work as they limit his mobility at this stage. He is a safe player if you’re looking for an NHLer but his lack of dynamism and mobility issues could limit just how high in an NHL lineup he could play. " - Tony Ferrari</div><div><br /></div><div><b>2. Cal Ritchie - Center/Wing - Oshawa Generals</b></div><div><div>Total Votes: 17</div><div>Highest Ranking: 1st (2x)</div><div>Lowest Ranking: 6th (1x)</div><div>Comments:</div></div><div>"A season of struggle that was impacted by a lingering shoulder injury that he will be getting surgery on this offseason. Ritchie has some playmaking ability and a good curl and drag shot but the flashes of skill and offensive creativity were too far apart to ever really get too excited about. He was good at the U-18s when playing with other good players – something he didn’t get to do all too often on an underwhelming Oshawa team. If Ritchie isn’t asked to be the driving force, he’s a capable contributor. A clean bill of health could also be the answer to a lot of the questions that arose this season." - Tony Ferrari</div><div><br /></div><div>"Ritchie’s draft year definitely didn’t get off to the best start as there was some inconsistencies with his overall game and production. However, he turned on the jets in the second half and started to find his footing and dominance on the ice. He managed to finish a point per game with the Oshawa Generals and stood out with nine points at the World U18 Championship. He has great IQ and awareness to be a highly effective playmaker, finding the seams very well and can execute plays perfectly with tape to tape or long stretch plays. He has soft hands in tight spaces, great control to maintain possession and provides excellent support for his teammates. His strong edgework to weave his way through traffic and his body positioning allows him to gain the inside edge on his opponents. He has a high end compete level and work ethic and does a great job engaging on the forecheck to force turnovers and mindset to prioritize defense." - Peter Baracchini</div><div><br /></div><div>"Ritchie is a right-handed center and was impressive down the stretch despite dealing with a nagging upper-body injury. He really impressed me at the World Under-18 Championship, leading all OHL players who participated for Canada at the tournament. He worked on his all-around game over the second half of the season. Coach Derek Laxdal did a nice job instilling in Ritchie a pro-style type game that he’ll need at the next level. He's good at finding teammates in open ice, shooting the puck and is hard to play against. He wins his share of face-offs and tracks hard, is aggressive and pretty reliable in the defensive end. Ritchie won 53 percent of his face-offs in the regular season (413-for-779), averaged a point-per game, and had 6 power play goals. He's a top-line player who can move and create space for himself." - Mike Morreale</div><div><br /></div><div>"I just can't help but wonder if we're all underrating Ritchie this year because of the fact that he clearly wasn't ready to be the go-to guy on a rebuilding OHL team. Many players in this draft class would have struggled with consistency the way that Ritchie did this year in Oshawa. I keep going back to the fact that when he played with other elite players (U17's last year, Hlinka/Gretzky Cup/U18's this year), he looked like one too. He's such an intelligent player. His game is predicated on drawing in pressure to open up lanes for his linemates to exploit...which is why he has looked so good with other high end players. I just want to see him attacking the middle and getting to the net a little more consistently, but I do think that once he fixes his shoulder issue and builds strength, he will become more of a power player." - Brock Otten </div><div><br /></div><div>"Carved out to be a middle six forward in the NHL. I love the way he thinks the game, values all three zones and makes his wingers better. Has some untapped offensive potential, and some creative tools that he wasn’t able to exercise as much, due to having so much responsibility with the Generals this season." - Joely Stockl</div><div><br /></div><div>"I have mixed feelings about Ritchie. On one hand, the skill set is there but on the other hand, consistency on a rebuilding Oshawa team has been an issue. There is the odd occasion where you left the rink and wondered whether he played. He’s a high IQ player who plays a complete 200-foot game and in any situation. He’s a playmaker first and foremost but I also think he has an underrated shot, which he doesn’t use often enough. His top speed is decent, enough that he is willing to challenge defenders. If he can find that consistency, his upside is high." - Dominic Tiano</div><div><br /></div><div>"What Ritchie lacked in high-end offense this year, he made up for in extra defensive responsibility and more willingness to engage physically. And while he only had a point per game in the OHL, he decimated the Hlinka Gretzky with Canada before the season started before finishing off with a good U-18 World Championship despite dealing with a shoulder injury. He's going to be a dependable two-way center in the NHL." - Steven Ellis</div><div><br /></div><div><b>3. Quentin Musty - Wing - Sudbury Wolves</b></div><div><div>Total Votes: 17</div><div>Highest Ranking: 1st (3x)</div><div>Lowest Ranking: 6th (1x)</div><div>Comments:</div></div><div>"Musty needs to improve on his play away from the puck, but he has the rest of the tools he needs to be an excellent second-line winger in the NHL, both in terms of his soft skill and his frame." - Anonymous</div><div><br /></div><div>"If we re going off of skill, talent, and potential offensive impact alone, then Musty would be right there at the top of my list with Barlow and Ritchie. He's been one of the more polarizing prospects that I've scouted as he's got a dynamic skillset and is constantly creating chances. But, defensive play concerns and lack of effort without the puck make me question his drive. At times he can be too individualistic trying to do everything himself. His saving grace is that he can do it all himself at times due to his elite creativity and stickhandling skills. His playmaker-like instincts and deceptive body language allow him to sell the shot on the PP before sliding a slip pass across to set his teammate up. His delay game as a passer is terrific and he also has a pinpoint accurate snapshot that can pick the corners. Musty has the ceiling of a top-line-producing winger." - Jared Brown</div><div><br /></div><div>"The Sudbury Wolves star was questioned early in the year for his effort and coming off a bout of mononucleosis to start the season certainly didn’t help his case. Musty started feeling like himself just before Christmas this year and you noticed a change in his drive as the season wore on. Musty’s improvement in that department allowed his playmaking and shot creation to truly take a step to another level. Musty needs to use his size a bit more away from the puck but with it, he protects the puck and blends strength and skill to get around defenders. By season’s end, he was my clear-cut number-one player from the OHL and that came despite not using the excellent shot that he has enough. If he uses his shot a bit more over the next few years of his development, his dual-threat ability will tear opponents apart." - Tony Ferrari</div><div><br /></div><div>"Musty really seems to be building a ton of momentum heading into the draft. But he's more of a late first/mid second round guy for me. Unquestionably the talent is there. Unquestionably, his off puck play, physical engagement level, and decision making improved in the second half. However, I'm still wondering how well his game ends up translating to the pro level. For one, I feel like I'm taking crazy pills by being one of the only people criticizing his skating. His quickness in all directions needs to improve greatly IMO. For two, I just want to see him doing a better job of playing through the hard areas of the ice. He has this fantastic shot, but he's not getting himself consistent looks to use it from in close. He doesn't score the dirty goals like Barlow does. Can he fit in with two other highly skilled players who want to puck on their stick to be more of a complementary piece the way that Cal Ritchie does? I think we saw a bit of that with his struggles at the Hlinka/Gretzky in the summer. I love the skill. I love the passing ability and vision with the puck. I love the progression he showed this year. But, he's one of those guys I'd probably want another team to take because the question marks surrounding his game have held back quite a few other talented players in the last decade." - Brock Otten</div><div><br /></div><div>"Whichever team takes Musty on draft day, is taking a risk. Very similar to Arthur Kaliyev on draft day, he produces offensively and he will be effective in the offensive zone, but there are huge question marks around his skating and off-puck engagement outside of the offensive zone. If a team can develop his game and help him survive in his own end, he will definitely be a gem in this draft." - Joely Stockl</div><div><br /></div><div>"It took him a while to develop the needed consistency to earn a mention in my top 15, but boy did he ever. Major steps in his defensive game and physical engagement help as well. He’s got a top 10 skillset in this draft, and if the hockey sense keeps improving, he could be a gem." - Hadi Kalakeche</div><div><br /></div><div>"When debating Musty, Barlow and the rest of the OHL class, the thing that sets Musty apart from the rest of the class is how well he handles pressure when he has the puck on his stick. He threads the needle in tight passing lanes consistently. But, he's also got a great shot, has excellent reach and is quite mobile. I would without hesitation select Musty with a top 15 pick." - Josh Tessler</div><div><br /></div><div><div><b>4. Nick Lardis - Wing - Hamilton Bulldogs</b></div><div><div>Total Votes: 16</div><div>Highest Ranking: 3rd (2x)</div><div>Lowest Ranking: Outside of the Top 10 (1x)</div><div>Comments:</div></div><div>"The tendencies were always there, intriguing me far before he was traded to Hamilton. The explosion in production once he arrived with the Bulldogs made it impossible to ignore just how good Nick Lardis is. He is a speedy, shifty forward who has a great shot from a number of positions on the ice. Lardis has an outstanding one-timer that makes him a lethal threat on the powerplay. He has a sweet curl and drag wrister off the rush and does an excellent job of settling into pockets of space off the puck to give him a chance to catch and shoot. There are shades of creative playmaking and puck skill as well but they will need to become a bit more consistent to round out his game. Lardis forechecks hard and works hard to get the puck back in the neutral zone but he will need to continue improving his play in his own end. Rounding out his strong set of tools and refining things will give him a chance to be the best OHLer from this draft class." - Tony Ferrari</div><div><br /></div><div>"Maybe a change of scenery was all that Lardis needed as he went on an offensive tear going from 12 goals with the Peterborough Petes to 25 with the Hamilton Bulldogs. In the process he was given a chance to play a more important role and as a result improved his draft stock tremendously. He’s great at creating space for himself and opening the game up, reading the play very well and maintain that separation from defenders to remain an open outlet for a shot. He has a quick and smooth release and is able to get the puck off his stick in a flash. He displays great patience with the puck and when he finds an opening, he’ll take it as he has a great burst of speed. He can anticipate plays very well to pick them off and quickly go into attack mode." - Peter Baracchini</div><div><br /></div><div>"Lardis deserves a ton of credit as he saw a jump in production and a rise in the rankings after being acquired by Hamilton from Peterborough in a four-play trade and two draft picks on Jan. 7. He was able to really showcase his strengths with the Bulldogs ... that speed, skating ability and creativity in the offensive zone. I think he definitely put himself in a good spot entering this draft. He scored well at the NHL Scouting Combine, too. He had the most pull-ups (15) and the highest vertical jump (25.49 inches) of the 100 prospects tested." - Mike Morreale</div><div><br /></div><div>"Lardis is an extremely talented offensive winger who can create in a wide variety of ways. He can create for himself off the rush/through the cycle and he can facilitate for his teammates by delivering accurate high-danger passes from anywhere in the offensive zone. His ability to see the play as it develops and to create while working at his top speed make him a lethal player with the puck on his stick. After the trade his play exploded, and he has quickly become my favourite OHLer in the 2023 class, he has forced his way into the conversation when it comes to best OHL players available for this draft." - Austin Broad</div><div><br /></div><div>"I'm starting to get the impression that Lardis is going to get drafted later than I think he should and lower than many independent scouting agencies have him (including us at McKeen's). Look, I do understand the trepidation. He's a smaller and slight winger who plays a pretty straight forward North/South game. NHL teams prefer those types to be bigger and stronger because the success rate is higher. I also think that Lardis is still trying to shake the scouting reputation of being too perimeter focused, like he was earlier in the year with Peterborough. I see a lot of similarity between the treatment of Lardis and the treatment of Jordan Kyrou in his draft year. Ultimately, scouts got it wrong there and I think they will make the same error by underrating Lardis. Sure, his game is pretty straight forward. But, his speed is elite. He's going to be able to use it as a weapon at the next level too. Ditto for his shot. And we saw at the NHL combine that Lardis is a young man that takes his strength and conditioning seriously. He's going to be fine physically. Anyone that watches Hamilton a lot will tell you that he's actually still working on ways to harness his skating ability to be a more consistent play driver. He might just be scratching the surface here. Additionally, I really loved the way he stepped up his game in round one against Barrie in the playoffs." - Brock Otten </div></div><div><br /></div><div><b>5. Oliver Bonk - Defense - London Knights</b></div><div><div>Total Votes: 15</div><div>Highest Ranking: 2nd (1x)</div><div>Lowest Ranking: Outside of the Top 10 (2x)</div><div>Comments:</div></div><div>"Bonk took his time to grow on me this season as I wasn't sold on him early on as one of the top guys coming out of the OHL. But with each viewing, he seemed to have gotten better and better. What he lacks in high-end offensive skills and play-driving qualities, he makes up for with his terrific shutdown ability and defensive intelligence to swallow up attacks. He possesses the hockey sense of a pro and is incredibly consistent at separating his man from the puck and eliminating them from the play. He scans and tracks his man very well in the Dzone. He squashes the cycle with his quick reads and size. There s potential there for Bonk to be a 20-minute-a-night shutdown Dman in the show." - Jared Brown</div><div><br /></div><div>"Bonk has been my favourite player to watch all season. After playing in the GOJHL last season, he made a seamless transition to the OHL and was very impressive. He plays a simplistic, but effective two-way game as he’s always successful when he’s on the ice. He’s a perfect blend of offense and defense as he’s a great example of a prototypical, two-way defenseman for the NHL. He’s got great defensive awareness and gap control when defending against the rush to keep players to the outside while utilizing an active stick to break up plays. He knows when to jump in to keep plays alive in the offensive zone, while also picking his spot to join a rush. He’s extremely competitive, has great IQ, energy and is always putting forth the effort every shift. Finding smart and efficient defenseman are hard to come by and Bonk has been consistent with his play this season." - Peter Baracchini</div><div><br /></div><div>" Call me a sucker for the guy with NHL pedigree. I only saw Bonk live once this year, but tracked his progress and read a bunch about him. I always give an intangible nod to those who are sons of NHL players because they do have a knowledge of the lifestyle of an NHL player. There is offensive upside and he certainly did not hurt his stock with a lengthy playoff run." - Steve Clark</div><div><br /></div><div>"He's not going to go end-to-end like Cale Makar, but Bonk does the little things well and does them consistently. He's a solid two-way defenseman, with high hockey IQ, shutdown ability and a good puck mover off the transition. He also doesn't shy from contact or getting under the skin of opposing players." - Mike Morreale</div><div><br /></div><div>"The vast improvement from Bonk is what I have appreciated the most about his game since September. He has molded into this mature defender who can create lots using his first pass. His defensive stick is fantastic and he has the potential to eat lots of minutes at the next level. He has quickly become one of my favourite defenders in this draft class." - Joely Stockl</div><div><br /></div><div>"Big body defender that moves well and defends well but doesn't have a high offensive ceiling. Very safe pick that should become a middle pairing defender in the NHL." - Mark Seidel</div><div><br /></div><div>"Growing up around NHL dressing rooms with his dad Radek clearly had a positive influence on Oliver Bonk as a kid. The habits that made his dad such a well-liked pro for a long time in both North America and Europe have certainly translated to Oliver as well. From the way he prepares for games, to the way he treats people around the game (trainers/teammates/fans, etc.), he has an understanding of what it takes to make himself a positive part of a team's culture. On-ice abilities aside, I think he's one of the most mature players available in this draft class." - Victor Findlay</div><div><br /></div><div><div><b>6. Beau Akey - Defense - Barrie Colts</b></div><div><div>Total Votes: 15</div><div>Highest Ranking: 3rd (1x)</div><div>Lowest Ranking: Outside of the Top 10 (2x)</div><div>Comments:</div></div><div>"An elite skater and plays big minutes and in all situations. Has good hockey sense and an ability to contain with his good positional play. The right-handed shot had 47 points (11 goals, 36 assists) in 66 games with the Colts this season and has good size (6-0, 175)." - Mike Morreale</div><div><br /></div><div>"The thing that stands out the most with Akey is his skating, arguably the best skating blue liner in the draft class. He’s also probably the best at transitioning. He can gain the opposition blue line with what looks like relative ease for him and then combined with his IQ and vision, can distribute the puck. His defensive game needs some work though. He is prone to losing coverage and battles for pucks." - Dominic Tiano</div><div><br /></div><div>"Tremendous skating defenseman that saw his role change in Barrie with the return of Brandt Clarke but he accepted it and continued to improve. Ability to go back and retrieve pucks and create clean entries with his feet or a smart pass is impressive. Has the skills to be a PP defenseman in the NHL." - Mark Seidel</div><div><br /></div><div>"A high-end skater who shows a knack for making great plays at both ends of the ice. Akey’s ability to use his pace to make great offensive and defensive plays make him a potential all situations blue liner at the next level. He is patient, he lets the play develop rather than trying to rush his decisions with the puck, and has a skillset that fits in perfectly with today’s NHL game." - Austin Broad</div><div><br /></div><div>"I had a hard time seeing why Akey got a high grade from Central Scouting at the start of the year, but near the end of the season, I fell in love with his rush defending. He has average puck skills, but you’ll have a very hard time getting set up in his zone off the rush. I like him as a second-rounder." - Hadi Kalakeche</div></div><div><br /></div><div><b>7. Carson Rehkopf - Center/Wing - Kitchener Rangers</b></div><div><div>Total Votes: 11</div><div>Highest Ranking: 4th (1x)</div><div>Lowest Ranking: Outside of the Top 10 (6x)</div><div>Comments:</div></div><div>"The highs were high and the lows were low with Rehkopf this season which isn’t all too shocking considering this is a player who has a bunch of tools but hasn’t figured out the toolbox to put them in though. His shot is very good when he’s firing on all cylinders but he can get in the habit of settling for low danger chances. He will throw his body around at times but it’s not entirely a trait that’s visible in every game. Rehkopf is a good player who could be a solid NHL'er if he can get some sort of consistency and figure out exactly what he’s going to be at the next level." - Tony Ferrari</div><div><br /></div><div>"I still remain one of Rehkopf’s biggest fans as he can bring a lot to the table. I felt that he took a big step with the Kitchener Rangers this season as he has strong offensive potential with his goal scoring abilities. He’s a highly competitive and energetic, two-way centre that plays with an edge. He has a wicked release and great accuracy with his wrist shot. Even when he may not have a lot to work with, his movement and ability to draw his hands in quickly allows him to get it on net in a flash. As a result, he has great hands and puck skills and with his long reach, he has no problem making moves at a quick pace to get around defenders with such ease. He was a standout at the CHL Top Prospects game, taking home MVP honours, scoring a goal and adding an assist. His competitive style is one that should have teams lining up for him at the draft." - Peter Baracchini</div><div><br /></div><div>"Okay, I’ll say it: Pound-for-pound Rehkopf may be the most talented player in the OHL draft class. The issue I have is that he doesn’t always appear to be giving 100%. When he puts his mind to it, he can dominate the game in all three zones like no one else. He has size, he’s physical and he can skate and he uses those tools on offence and defence. He can score, he can be a playmaker, he can just impact the game in so many ways. For me, he could be the top player on my list if he just had more consistency and effort. If he puts it altogether, one NHL team is going to be very lucky to get him where they do." - Dominic Tiano</div><div><br /></div><div>"There is a ton of inherent risk here. I get the wide variation of his rankings because it truly depended on what night you caught him on. But I saw enough good from him this year to believe that his compete level and ability to use his size more consistently can and will improve. If everything goes according to plan, Rehkopf is going to be a very versatile player. He can play multiple positions. He can drive transitional attacks with his quickness. He can work the wall. He can operate as a triggerman off the puck because of his big shot. He CAN play a heavy game and that will entice someone in the second round, which I think is a great spot for him. He's well worth the risk there." - Brock Otten</div><div><br /></div><div><b>8. Luca Pinelli - Wing/Center - Ottawa 67's</b></div><div><div>Total Votes: 10</div><div>Highest Ranking: 5th (3x)</div><div>Lowest Ranking: Outside of the Top 10 (7x)</div><div>Comments:</div></div><div>"Pinelli is going to surprise some people. He’s a worker with skill who is going to make the most of what he has." - Anonymous</div><div><br /></div><div>"A tenacious undersized forward who often gets overlooked as a player benefitting from being on a good team but he was one of the best players on a good team and led them in scoring during the playoffs. Pinelli plays a smart two-way game, using body positioning and getting under opposing players in small-area battles to win the puck for his team. He understands that his size can be an advantage for him if used correctly and forcing his way under defenders rather than trying to joust and physically overpower them. He has a very good shot and gets to high-danger areas. His playmaking comes from his creativity and willingness to make the play to the middle of the ice even if it’s not an obvious one." - Tony Ferrari</div><div><br /></div><div>"Small, but feisty and competitive. With a Dave Cameron team, he was never going to provide jaw dropping numbers but he's a smart, tenacious player who plays way bigger than his size. Offensive skill is certainly on display, and I was disappointed that Ottawa got knocked out of the playoffs earlier than I'm sure they intended. He had a really good playoff, with 18 points in 11 games which was above his season average." - Steve Clark</div><div><br /></div><div>"Pinelli is a ball of energy out there. After a solid foundational rookie season with the 67's, he nearly doubled his total output with 29 goals and 63 points. Pinelli was one of the better draft prospects at putting the puck where he wants it to go, but will scouts overlook his 5-foot-9 frame? Does he have enough for the next level? We'll see." - Steven Ellis</div><div><br /></div><div>"Luca Pinelli has an excellent combination of hands and deception. His stick-handling off of the rush allows him to get to the interior quickly and that leads to a lot of net front scoring chances. When facing pressure on his backside, he'll look to be deceptive and use pivots to shake himself free." - Josh Tessler</div><div><br /></div><div><div><b>9. Denver Barkey - Center - London Knights</b></div><div><div>Total Votes: 7</div><div>Highest Ranking: 4th (2x)</div><div>Lowest Ranking: Outside of the Top 10 (10x)</div><div>Comments:</div></div><div>"I advise everyone to not sleep on Barkey and look at his size and count him out as a prospect they don't want to see their favourite team draft. You want Barkey on your team. I'm not saying he's the next Brayden Point. But, Barkey shows a lot of similarities to the Tampa Lightning centreman. The drive, heart, and determination are all there for an undersized forward who can find success at the pro level. He wins battles in the small areas and will outwork players much bigger than him. He has the ability to play fast by making quick plays and getting pucks behind defenders faster than they can anticipate. If he was a few inches taller then we would be hearing his name a lot more, but don't count out Barkey becoming a high-impact NHLer who brings energy and pace to the lineup." - Jared Brown</div><div><br /></div><div>"The London Knights relied on their young players more this year than they typically do and it resulted in an OHL final appearance. Barkey led the charge in that regard, using his speed and intelligence to force opponents into making mistakes. He plays a smart, pro-style game that would intrigue teams so much more if he weren’t 5-foot-9. Barley is a battler who does a lot of the work for his line, making the small plays that advance the puck. He’s going to continue getting stronger to ensure that the style of play he has had success with at the next level." - Tony Ferrari</div><div><br /></div><div>"As the season progressed, I became more of a big fan of Denver Barkey. After a 59-point regular season, he stood out even more for the Knights in the playoffs with 24 points in 20 games. While Central Scouting might have him low at 79th overall among North American skaters, I personally feel that he can be a mid to late second-round pick with his creativity and skillset as a playmaker. He’s a quick and agile skater as he’s got a really strong burst of acceleration and speed. He’s extremely deceptive with the puck as he has great control, can draw opponents in easily, create space for his teammates and find the seams with crisp passes, while also displaying soft hands for dekes at a quick pace. He isn’t afraid to attack the net and use his soft hands in tight to beat goaltenders or be in position for a rebound opportunity." - Peter Baracchini</div><div><br /></div><div>"There isn’t a more intense player in this OHL class. He’s a headache on both sides of the puck, loves to push the middle, can create pretty well and always seems to pop up in dangerous ice. The lack of size is a bit of a concern, but he’s in my very early second round due to how well he’s adapted to his size." - Hadi Kalakeche</div><div><br /></div><div>"Shouldered immense responsibility playing on London's top line with Easton Cowan and Ryan Winterton. Often times mixes it up with opposing players much older, and holds his own very well. Not only a productive and scrappy player, but he has a true passion for the game. You'd be hard pressed to find another player in the OHL who follows the league and the NHL like Barkey does. He's a hockey nerd in the best sense. His dedication and knowledge of the game reminds me a lot of Nick Robertson from his time in Peterborough." - Victor Findlay</div></div><div><br /></div><div><b>10. Andrew Gibson - Defense - Soo Greyhounds</b></div><div><div>Total Votes: 7</div><div>Highest Ranking: 5th (1x)</div><div>Lowest Ranking: Outside of the Top 10 (10x)</div><div>Comments:</div></div><div>"Gibson just seems to have the qualities of an NHL Dman doesn't he? He can skate, transport the puck efficiently through his feet or passing, and is physically abrasive with a mean side to him. As a first-year OHL'er, Gibson was thrown out on a weak Greyhounds team but looked like a defender who had been playing in the OHL for multiple years already. At the U18's for Canada, he had to be elevated in the lineup after Quinton Burns suffered an injury. Gibson didn't panic under the new responsibility in the lineup but exceeded my expectations for someone that could've used the excuse of being thrown in a tough spot. He appears to relish when being put in a tough spot and that is a very valuable trait to have for a pro." - Jared Brown</div><div><br /></div><div>"You want a defenceman with size and can skate? Gibson is your guy. You could make an argument that in his own zone, Gibson is the best in the class. His mobility, size and reach make him difficult to beat. Add in his dedication to defending and you have a true shut down defender. While he has some offensive abilities, I don’t think it jumps out at you and it certainly won’t at the next level. There is enough for Gibson to have a successful NHL career, but it may just be as a shut down guy." - Dominic Tiano</div><div><br /></div><div>"Just on the verge of my top 10, but I do really like the player. Gibson has the chance to develop into a very good defensive player at the NHL level. The key for him will be improving his puck management in the defensive end, as that likely dictates how high he eventually plays in a lineup. However, this is a young man that takes a ton of pride in his ability to excel in the defensive end. It's cliche, but he's the kind of player who would do anything to help his team win. On a U18 Canadian team with many more hyped prospects, he might have been the best and most consistent at that event. Also, it's worth mentioning how well the Soo develops defenders." - Brock Otten</div><div><br /></div><div><b><u><i>Honorable Mentions:</i></u></b></div><div><br /></div><div><div><div><b>Carey Terrance - Center/Wing - Erie Otters</b></div><div><div>Total Votes: 6</div><div>Highest Ranking: 6th (2x)</div><div>Comments:</div></div><div>"So I'm calling this my bias pick because I really like Terrance who shone on a lousy team this team this year. Thirty goals, including thirteen on the PP this year represented a leap from the 10 he scored last year. He's just a smart overall player and I'm really looking forward to seeing what he can do with a more experienced Malcolm Spence or with Pano Fimis. I hope that Stan Butler does not stifle his offensive creativity or acumen though." - Steve Clark</div><div><br /></div><div>"Like others on this list, the first thing you notice about Terrance is his skating. He has explosive speed that allows him to get in on the forecheck and play the cycle game with excellence. But he’s not the type that goes full speed all the time. If he has the puck, he understands when to slow the game down and uses good vision and passing abilities to set up teammates. When he doesn’t have the puck, he’s good at eluding the opposition and putting himself in position to get off a lethal shot. Terrance is still a little green, even at this level but his development curve has gone quite well. Terrance can impact the game in other ways besides scoring." - Dominic Tiano</div><div><br /></div><div>"I'm definitely higher on Terrance than the consensus. I'm pretty certain that we, at McKeen's, have Terrance ranked the highest of any independent scouting agency. I just think that people are sleeping on him because of how poorly Erie finished the year in the OHL and not a lot of people bothered to watch him in the second half. This is someone with some really good pro tools. He can play center or the wing. He skates very well. He's already a polished three zone player, on and off the puck. He has a quick release. He proved at the U18's that he can be a great complementary piece and that he doesn't need the puck on his stick consistently to be an effective player. As that Erie team improves over the next few seasons, I think his play improves dramatically. Maybe he's no more than an Erik Haula type...but that has a ton of value outside of the first round." - Brock Otten</div><div><br /></div></div><div><b>Hunter Brzustewicz - Defense - Kitchener Rangers</b></div><div><div>Total Votes: 6</div><div>Highest Ranking: 5th (2x)</div><div>Comments:</div></div><div>"Brzustewicz is an impressive athlete whose solid foundation of tools and skating are complemented by impressive smarts and a know-how out there. I like him to become a No. 4-5 D." - Anonymous</div><div><br /></div><div>"Brzustewicz s above-average skating ability and puck moving qualities give him the upside as an NHL Dman who can drive results at 5v5. His skating looks effortless and he's got the shifty footwork to escape pressure on breakouts and fluidly walk the line in the Ozone. He constantly has his head up scanning and always seems to have a play in mind before he gets the puck. His transitional value is high as he generates controlled exits at a high rate either by using his feet to carry pucks out or using his vision to make an accurate, smart first pass. Brzustewicz checks off a lot of boxes and I see him as a safe pick in the draft with maybe not the highest ceiling, but a safe floor for the NHL." - Jared Brown</div><div><br /></div><div>"An elite offensive defender, Brzustewicz can drive play from the backend like no other draft eligible from the OHL. His two-way game needs some work, but his ability to create offense and run Kitchener’s powerplay make him an entertaining player that garners eyes every time he steps on the ice. At the very least he is going to be a specialist and put up points, but if he can improve his defensive game I think he can be a mainstay in the NHL for a long time." - Austin Broad</div><div><br /></div><div><b>Tristan Bertucci - Defense - Flint Firebirds</b></div><div><div>Total Votes: 5</div><div>Highest Ranking: 9th (3x)</div><div>Comments:</div></div><div>"Much like Lardis impressing in the second half of the season, Tristan Bertucci has risen among OHL skaters and defensemen in the draft. He possesses a well-rounded skillset with his defensive game being a major standout. He doesn’t panic in any situation and is rarely out of position or gets caught cheating in a play. He can box out attackers effectively and get into the shooting lanes for a block and breakup. Offensively, his game started to come around, as he finished 13th overall in OHL defenders with 50 points. He has become involved even more on the attack with his skating, puck control, and decision making. He isn’t afraid to jump in on the cycle and draw players in and open things up for perfectly timed pass or shot. He shouldn’t be slept on as he could be selected on the second day of the draft." - Peter Baracchini</div><div><br /></div><div>"Bertucci has a good frame to build some needed bulk on. He’s a very good skater with great mobility. For me, he’s come along fine defensively, controlling his gaps, possessing an active stick and engaging well in puck battles. He transitions to offence very well either by skating, but more often with a good first pass. I’m actually surprised by his offensive production which has caused me and I’m sure many others to move him up in my rankings." - Dominic Tiano</div><div><br /></div><div>"It took all year for Bertucci to get respect for his overall game and I was shocked that he didn't get a CHL Top Prospects game. A 6'2 defender that was a plus player and had 50 points has a good shot at becoming an NHL regular." - Mark Seidel</div><div><br /></div><div>"Bertucci is miscast as strictly an offensive defender. His length, aggressiveness, and mobility allows him to be an impactful defensive player. Is his game a bit erratic defensively? Absolutely. But, the tools are there. Offensively, he was the most effective defender on this list in the second half. His point shot is a major weapon. His instincts and vision with the puck are sound. He understands how to start the breakout. I just really liked his progression this year and I think a lot of people are holding his below average U18 performance against him." - Brock Otten</div><div><br /></div><div><b>Coulson Pitre - Wing - Flint Firebirds</b></div><div><div>Total Votes: 5</div><div>Highest Ranking: 7th (3x)</div><div>Comments:</div></div><div>"Pitre is one of the hardest workers you will come across. He is a versatile player with great speed and a solid commitment when playing away from the puck. His ability to close in on players and get on the forecheck to create havoc are impressive. He put up good points in the OHL this season but he will have a tougher time at the next level. He has a very high IQ with great vision, traits you don’t often find in a power forward." - Dominic Tiano</div><div><br /></div><div>"An offensive machine in the OHL, Pitre is easily one of the more underrated forwards in this draft class. He's physical, can play anywhere in a lineup and has an excellent release. But, again, his skating doesn't match his endless energy." - Steven Ellis</div><div><br /></div><div>"A personal favorite that will do whatever it takes to in. Has an edge to his game and a doggedness that will help him find a way to play in the NHL. Combined with his grit, he will chip in offensively." - Mark Seidel</div><div><br /></div><div>"One of my favourites in this OHL draft class. He plays a very mature game. His strong performance at the CHL Top Prospect's Game was a great showcase of that. He understands how to play with other great players and knows how to be effective as a complementary piece. In a lot of ways, Pitre is a bit of a unicorn. Rarely do you see wingers with his tenacity and hockey sense together. Usually, young, physical players like Pitre want to play that strict North/South game and can struggle with their decision making as they approach the game like a windup toy car. However, Pitre already has a clear understanding of how to alter pace and attack East/West. He is poised with the puck and is a great playmaker, something you love to see from a high energy guy. I wish he was just a little bit better as a finisher and that could ultimately restrict his upside, but this is a competitive young man I want on my team." - Brock Otten</div><div><br /></div><div><div><b>Easton Cowan - Wing - London Knights</b></div><div><div>Total Votes: 4</div><div>Highest Ranking: 8th (1x)</div><div>Comments:</div></div><div>"In September, Cowan was my biggest sleeper. Now, he is hardly a sleeper after his performance in the second half. His fantastic work ethic and defensive tendencies make him a unique forward at this spot, but most of all, his vision is elite. He finds plays and passing lanes that no one else on the ice can see. With the help of his linemate and “twin” Denver Barkey, the two are unstoppable." - Joely Stockl</div><div><br /></div><div>"Really came on in the 2nd half and was a huge beneficiary of Dale Hunter and his Staff. Became a genuine offensive threat while exhibiting a fair amount of grit. Is a better player than the sum of his parts." - Mark Seidel</div><div><br /></div><div>"Usually it's the WHL kids who have the farm-boy reputation. But in this case, that applies to Easton Cowan of Mount Brydges, Ontario. About 27 minutes West of London, Cowan grew up as a farm kid in small-town Ontario, and as a result, he's affectionately nicknamed as 'Cowboy' by his teammates. Much like his linemate Denver Barkey, he loves to stir up the opposition, and shows no fear whatsoever matching up against older competition on London's first line. After a good regular season, Cowan was even better in the playoffs, battling through a case of strep throat to record 21 points in 20 games, including 5 goals in his last 7 postseason games." - Victor Findlay</div><div><br /></div></div><div><b>Quinton Burns - Defense - Kingston Frontenacs</b></div><div><div>Total Votes: 3</div><div>Highest Ranking: 9th (2x)</div><div>Comments:</div></div><div>"The combination of his physicality and passing vision has made me a huge fan of Burns this season. He is intelligent with the puck and he is not a player that you want to go up against in the corners. I think there will be a lot of teams looking at Burns because of how well he can skate, defend, and move the puck, along with being a big physical presence." - Joely Stockl</div><div><br /></div><div>"Burns has been a reliable rush defender for the Kingston Frontenacs. He stays well-aligned to the rush and looks to trap them prior to the defensive zone blue line. Once the puck is dumped into his own zone, he's equipped with an excellent power stride that allows him to be quick to loose pucks. His power stride also allows him to pick up speed nicely when moving the puck up the ice. Burns will look to drive the puck as far into the neutral zone / offensive zone that he can and then will look to pass. He doesn't force the puck into heavy traffic and thus will look for an open teammate further up in the zone to pass to. Burns projects to be a bottom four defenseman at the NHL level, but one who can be reliable with and without the puck in transition." - Josh Tessler</div><div><br /></div><div><b>Matthew Mania - Defense - Sudbury Wolves</b></div><div><div>Total Votes: 3</div><div>Highest Ranking: 7th (1x)</div><div>Comments:</div></div><div>"He has one of the best names in the draft – and might have some of the best upside, too. The term "raw" has been thrown out a few times on this list, and Mania's game is just that. He can blow your mind with some of his moves, but then he'll get caught trying to be too fancy and make costly mistakes. If he can refine his play, there's some top-four potential here." - Steven Ellis</div><div><br /></div><div>"Plays with pace and intensity, insanely good at making things happen in offensive transitions, and particularly strong on the puck, Mania is another OHL kid who I didn’t appreciate enough at the start of the year. He made my second round, and I feel like he easily could’ve climbed into the first half of it." - Hadi Kalakeche</div><div><br /></div><div>"I love Mania's play in the offensive zone. He constantly looks to pinch up and find skating lanes to dangerous areas. Once he gets to the slot, he is eager to use his shot. When it comes to his distribution, it is a bit more D to D along the point. Over time I'd love to see Mania elevate his distribution by identifying passing lanes while pinching up." - Josh Tessler</div><div><br /></div><div><b>Cam Allen - Defense - Guelph Storm</b></div><div><div>Total Votes: 3</div><div>Highest Ranking: 8th (1x)</div><div>Comments:</div></div><div>"Allen is a strong two-way defender, using his skating ability to cover space in all three zones. He’s extremely agile and has the quickness to maintain solid gap control while defending the rush. Offensively, while he may not be much of a scoring threat, he’s extremely smart and can use his vision and patience to manipulate the defense and open up passing/shooting lanes. The type of player who does a ton of little things that may go unnoticed, but he consistently has a positive impact when he’s on the ice." - Austin Broad</div><div><br /></div><div>"In most games I watched of Allen’s, he gave me migraines. I’ve never seen a more trigger-happy defender, who yet refuses to change the angle on his shot. On his day, though, the skillset and intensity are off the charts, the defensive engagement is solid, and the hits are bone-crushing." - Hadi Kalakeche</div><div><br /></div><div><b>Matthew Soto - Wing - Kingston Frontenacs</b></div><div><div>Total Votes: 1</div><div>Highest Ranking: 9th (1x)</div><div>Comments:</div></div><div>"Soto is a very active and hard-working forward who displays interesting skill and creates offensive chances at a solid rate. He plays with controlled chaos at times but there have been moments in time in which the controlled part of that goes out the window. Soto is a ball of clay that some team is going to get their hands on and try to mold into the player they want. He has some very good puck skill and maneuverability but he will need to tidy up the loose ends of his game that result in mistakes due to careless play." - Tony Ferrari</div><div><br /></div></div><div><b>Brad Gardiner - Center - Ottawa 67's</b></div><div><div>Total Votes: 1</div><div>Highest Ranking: 8th (1x)</div><div>Comments:</div></div><div>"An advanced defensive forward with lots of intelligence, Gardiner may not have a ton of offense to his game yet, but he'll be trusted by his coaches at the next level right away. If he does add more scoring to his game, he'll be a great two-way threat down the middle." - Ryan Kennedy</div><div><br /></div></div><p><br /></p>Brock Ottenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08237782074032840702noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2553903000955128175.post-89060398361861402502023-06-07T06:27:00.000-04:002023-06-07T06:27:09.473-04:00My Final Top 50 OHL Players for the 2023 NHL Entry Draft - Part 3: 10-1<div style="text-align: left;">Here is the final part of my 2023 rankings; the top ten!</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>1. Colby Barlow - Wing - Owen Sound Attack</b></div><div style="text-align: left;">Barlow is just such a solid NHL prospect. Does he have the highest upside in the draft? Definitely not. But, he's such an efficient player in so many different ways, and as such, I just can't see him failing to become a quality/useful NHL player in some regard. For some people, that's not enough for a potential top 20 selection and I understand that. For me...if I'm picking in that range and I can get an Alex Killorn or TJ Oshie type of player, I'm pretty happy. There's no coincidence that both of those guys have Stanley Cup rings. You win in the NHL playoffs with players like Colby Barlow. There's no question that he's not the most skilled or creative player out there. There are currently some skill limitations that will need to improve for him to reach that Killorn/Oshie level. This is particularly true of his puck reception consistency. He can struggle to gather passes at full speed or cleanly catch pucks in the slot for scoring chances. This is partly why he's not a dynamic transition leader, but is better served as transition support. However, that can and should improve. Barlow's skating doesn't concern me either. I think that for the game he plays and for the game he is going to play at the NHL level, his skating is good. He generates great linear power and quickness and this helps him beat defenders to spots and pucks. Does he need to improve his balance/agility? Definitely. But, that can also be improved as we have seen recently with Mason McTavish, a fairly similar straight line attacker. The other parts of Barlow's game are...as I said earlier...just solid. The shot is very dangerous; his release is very deceptive. He can score in multiple ways and has a clear understanding of how to play a power game to get himself looks near the net. He's a hard worker in all three zones who won't need his starts sheltered. He competes hard physically. I think his playmaking ability and vision are underrated. He's not Craig Janney, but I've seen him make some really nice reads and passes out of the cycle or coming off securing possession on the forecheck. By drafting Barlow, you're getting a top notch offensive support player who can be a great complementary piece on your second line for many years.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>2. Cal Ritchie - Center - Oshawa Generals</b></div><div style="text-align: left;">I can understand the hesitation with ranking Ritchie as a mid first round pick. His year and performance this year was a rollercoaster. It started with a tremendous Hlinka/Gretzky performance. That carried into a strong start with Oshawa. That was followed by a big time lull and some injury issues. Which, was followed by a great end to the year with both Oshawa and the Canadian U18 team. The year also included the struggle with a nagging shoulder injury that came to a head at the U18’s. I mean, talk about a whirlwind. But here's why I like Ritchie and why I would have no hesitation using a top 20 pick on him; I think he's one of the smartest players in the draft. Whenever Ritchie has been surrounded by other great talents and had strong support on his wings (or has moved there himself), he's played fantastic. But in Oshawa this year, the inconsistent play stems from him just not being ready physically to be the sole focal point of an attack. Thankfully for him, in the NHL, he'll be surrounded and flanked by other players of his quality. Are there things that concern me? Sure, he's not a perfect prospect. The skating, specifically his quickness, will need to improve. He's going to need to improve the consistency of his defensive game and become more consistently physically intense. He needs to continue to work on his shot and improve his confidence in using it to make him more of a dual threat in transition. However, I do believe that he can improve all of those things. When his development is complete, I do expect Ritchie to turn into a Ryan O'Reilly kind of player. They both are so good at protecting the puck down low and creating coming off the wall. They are both so intelligent with the puck in transition and invite contact/pressure to help open up passing lanes. There's such a quiet effectiveness to Ritchie's game that masks how skilled he is too. Make no mistake, if Ritchie had played this year on a strong team and not a rebuilding Oshawa team, I think we'd still be talking about him as a potential lottery selection as we were in preseason. </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>3. Nick Lardis - Wing - Hamilton Bulldogs</b></div><div style="text-align: left;">There's no question that I'm higher on Lardis than others. At McKeen's, we ranked him 32nd, but I'm pretty doubtful that he's an actual first round selection. Do I think he deserves to be? Yes, but that's another story. I mean, how could you not be impressed with what he accomplished following the trade to Hamilton? He instantly became one of the league's most consistently dangerous offensive players. The big difference in that was an increase in physical intensity. In Peterborough, he was too perimeter oriented. But the shift to become a player who attacked inside the dots made all the difference in Hamilton. Lardis' combination of elite level speed and goal scoring ability makes him such an interesting NHL prospect. The scary thing is, I actually think he's only scratching the surface of being able to utilize his speed as a weapon. He's still pretty slight and can get knocked off stride too easily and he can also struggle to cleanly catch/carry when trying to build speed. With added strength, I believe both of those aspects of his game will improve and he becomes a near unstoppable force at the junior level. The shot is such a massive weapon for him too. The release on both his wrist shot and his one timer are terrific; lightning quick. He can score from anywhere on the ice. He can score from a standstill or in motion. Personally, I don't think he was terrific at the U18's, but I also think that he was utilized improperly by the coaching staff. It looked like they wanted him to be more of an F1, high energy guy and he's just not at that level off the puck yet. If you want a better indication of Lardis' ability and progression, watch the first round of the OHL playoffs where he nearly dragged a rebuilding Bulldogs team past Brandt Clarke and the Barrie Colts. Look, there's no question that Lardis is going to take some time. He's going to need to finish his final OHL seasons and then probably play in the AHL too, but someone's patience could be rewarded as, IMO, Lardis has among the highest scoring upside of any player from the OHL this draft.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>4. Quentin Musty - Wing - Sudbury Wolves</b></div><div style="text-align: left;">At this point, it seems like you either love Musty or you don't. Weirdly, I seem to be one of the few who finds themselves right, smack dab in the middle. There are many components of Musty's game that I really like. Early on in the year, he was incredibly frustrating to watch because his decision making with the puck left a lot to be desired, but once the switch to Derek MacKenzie was made (as coach of Sudbury), that became way less of an issue. Musty is going to commit turnovers. He's a highly confident puckhandler who loves to challenge defenders one on one. But, picking those spots to attack are critical and he did a much better job of that as the year went on. Musty's passing ability is top notch. He can saucer pucks right on sticks through multiple defenders; his precision is tremendous. Obviously, the physical tools are intriguing too. He's a big kid who flashes a power game to go with his high end skill. He can be effective on the forecheck and he will throw his body around when he's motivated. The offensive upside is legitimate and there is absolutely no denying that Musty's ceiling is the highest of any player available from the OHL this year. So what are my concerns? For one, the skating will need to improve. Musty is fine once he gets going. But his feet are heavy. His start ups need major work. On top of that, his off puck intensity level and success are inconsistent at best. That combination of weaker skating and wavering intensity level is a dangerous one. Ask those who championed Michael Dal Colle. For a big kid who can play that power game, Musty doesn't play between the hashmarks nearly enough for me at this current moment. He has such a good shot, but he doesn't get himself enough looks to use it because he's not consistently outworking defenders to get positioning. So where does that leave us? For me, Musty is a 30-40 guy and not a locked in first rounder. Once you get outside the top 30, the upside is too much to pass up. But inside? I just have too many questions, even if I do like him.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>5. Oliver Bonk - Defense - London Knights</b></div><div style="text-align: left;">I would have had a tough time ranking Bonk this highly if I didn't believe that he was one of the smartest defenders available in the entire draft. The physical tools aren't elite. He doesn't really have a standout skill. Yet, he's so effective because of how well he anticipates the play and how well he thinks the game. I mean, would you expect anything else from a player who grew up around the game like Oliver (with father Radek)? But it's truly the foundation of his game. Defensively, he's rarely caught out of position. His stick placement is great. He's always one step ahead of the opposition by closing down lanes. He is great at gaining leverage when trying to win battles for the puck or for position. Bonk has great scanning habits with the puck in the defensive end and is a breakout machine because of it. He does a great job running the point in the offensive end because he gets shots through and makes quick decisions with the puck. He is also effective offensively because of his off puck play and anticipation. He's so sneaky and consistently finds gaps in coverage by going back door or jumping up in the play. The question ultimately becomes, what is Bonk's upside without those elite physical tools? He's not the best skater or most agile four way mover. He's not an overtly physical player. He's not an extremely creative puckhandler or the type of defender who can make players miss cutting through the neutral zone. Bonk's game is highly simplified but also highly effective. Because of that, the range of outcomes is pretty vast. Is he Devon Toews or Josh Morrissey? Is he more of a solid second pairing guy like a John Marino or Calvin de Haan? Is he more of a solid depth guy like Jon Merrill? The answer to that is tied to how much Bonk can improve his skating and skill to go with his great processing ability. </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>6. Carson Rehkopf - Center/Wing - Kitchener Rangers</b></div><div style="text-align: left;">Speaking with scouts, Rehkopf has to be one of the draft's most polarizing players. It really depends on what night you saw him play. The consistency issues are real. I was firmly on team Rehkopf until I wrote a really lengthy piece for McKeen's on him (<a href="https://www.mckeenshockey.com/nhl-blog/2023-nhl-draft-ohl-carson-rehkopf-c-lw-kitchener-rangers-scouting-report-video-review/">found here</a>). Writing that piece and combing through hours of video really helped me understand where the concerns about him come from. His physical intensity level really does waver. His two-way commitment level does too. He can be too perimeter oriented and he can float in the offensive zone looking to use his heavy one timer. There are some bad habits built into his game. Yet, I'm magnetically drawn to Rehkopf like a moth to a flame because of his immense physical tools and how he flashes the ability to utilize them to be a dominant force all over the ice. There's a chance that the switch never turns on and he's a Brendan Perlini type. But there's also a really good chance that with more consistent ice time and better conditioning, he fulfills his upside. It's a dice roll, but that's why he's more of a 40-60 guy and not a true first round option. What Rehkopf does well is rare. He's a potential power forward with great quickness, a big time shot, and the ability to be a versatile two-way player. Rehkopf consistently creates chances for himself by being a quick strike player thanks to how quickly he builds speed. Then he can protect the puck with his length and get inside of defenders. His one timer and wrist shot are in contention to be the hardest shots of this year's draft class. Accuracy and release are a work in progress, but his shot is a real bullet. His off puck play is just really inconsistent. One game, he's dialed in on the forecheck, is working hard on the backcheck, and is driving the net to get position. Another game, he plays passively. If everything works out well, you've got a really good middle six forward. And if it doesn't, Rehkopf is probably more of a depth guy like Perlini was. It's a risk, but it's a risk worth taking IMO.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>7. Carey Terrance - Center/Wing - Erie Otters</b></div><div style="text-align: left;">I just really like Terrance. I've made that pretty clear with my coverage this season. This guy can impact the game in so many different ways, but we haven't seen it consistently because Erie just wasn't great this year. I think his versatility makes him such an intriguing option. Look at the difference between how he was used in Erie vs. with the U.S. U18 team, yet he found success both ways. In Erie, he's a primary play driver at pivot who is counted upon to use his speed to lead the Otters in transition and who controls play in the offensive zone with his quick feet and strength on the puck. With the U.S. U18 team, he was asked to play the wing with Oliver Moore in a support role. He was asked to use his speed to forecheck, to drive the net and to play more consistently off the puck. This versatility, in combination with his speed is going to make him an attractive target to NHL teams who probably see him as fairly moldable in the future based on their needs. Terrance is a strong two-way player already. He has a very underrated shot. His 30 goals this year (third most among U18 players) were no fluke. He led the Otters in goal scoring by a significant margin (next closest was Sam Alfano with 18). Terrance is also a terrific forechecker, IMO one of the better ones in the OHL. His quickness is so difficult for opposing defenders to handle. Now...is the ceiling high? No, I don't believe so. I think Terrance profiles best as a quality third line option in the future. But, his well rounded skill set is going to give future coaches a lot of options on how they utilize him. </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>8. Coulson Pitre - Wing - Flint Firebirds</b></div><div style="text-align: left;">Here's the main reason why Coulson Pitre is going to go in the top two rounds this year and has a great chance to develop into a quality NHL player; he's a unicorn. By that I mean, his combination of physicality, strong skating ability, and high end vision makes him unique. Usually players who play the way Pitre does don't have the kind of passing touch and offensive zone awareness that he possesses. He's not the power forward who drives the net with his head down and is strictly a North/South player that we see a lot. He is calculated in his approach. He varies speed and pace. He is equally effective on the puck as he is off of it. He is competitive and hates to lose a 50/50 battle. He is extremely physical and brings a consistent element of truculence (oh yes, that word again). In essence, Pitre is the perfect complement to high end skilled players because of the high work rate and strong awareness he has. The only thing is that I wish Pitre had a better shot and better finishing ability overall. Maybe that's something that grows, but he's definitely more of a pass first kind of player. Like some of the other guys I have ranked in this range, Pitre could be a swiss army knife at the NHL level. Maybe he gets utilized in a top six role as a Michael Bunting/Lawson Crouse type. Maybe he is counted upon to be more of a third line, high energy guy like Sam Bennett. Either way, he's going to have value and I believe that he's going to be an NHL player in some capacity.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>9. Beau Akey - Defense - Barrie Colts</b></div><div style="text-align: left;">Early on in the season, I would have never envisioned having Akey ranked 9th. I thought, this is a guy who I'm going to end up touting as a possible first round selection. But I felt like his development over the course of the season was a bit disappointing. After Brandt Clarke joined the Barrie lineup and his role diminished, his game kind of flatlined for me. I wanted to see more positive development in his skill/confidence with the puck and in his defensive zone decision making. Instead, he reverted into a bit of a shell with the puck and some sloppy habits crept into his game. All that said, I still like Akey and I do believe that he can possibly turn things around, I'm just not quite as confident as I was early on. That's why I see him more as a solid second round option and not earlier. Let's start with some positives. The skating is high end. His four way mobility is effortless. He generates power quickly with explosive strides. Akey flashes high end transporting ability, in addition to high end skill to hold the offensive blueline and create chances in the OZ. Defensively, his mobility gives him an advantage as he can be quick to retrievals and difficult to beat off the rush. His physical intensity did increase over the course of the year, which obviously improves his future projection as a two-way defender. However, for a player with such strong mobility, he seems hesitant to use it to his advantage. He can be tentative in using it to push deep into the offensive zone. His routes to retrievals aren't great and it causes him to get pinned in the defensive end. If he were to take better routes, he would be a breakout machine because his feet would help him easily get clearance to make a pass or clear the zone. His scanning habits are inconsistent and he can turn the puck over because of poor passing or clearing decisions. He can get caught flat footed when defending because he lacks assertiveness and allows the opposition to dictate pace and direction. All of these things are extremely fixable. In a lot of ways, Akey's raw two-way approach and lack of refinement in utilizing his mobility reminds me of TJ Brodie in his draft year. I think he represents sort of a best case scenario for Akey at the NHL level. The worst case is that he falls into that Roland McKeown category that I've mentioned for other guys this year; good at lots, but a master of none. </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>10. Tristan Bertucci - Defense - Flint Firebirds</b></div><div style="text-align: left;">Heading into the U18's, it seemed like a lot of people were finally catching on to Bertucci and his three zone effectiveness. But then he didn't have a great performance for Canada and his "hype" has flatlined a bit. I think that's unfair. You simply can't base your entire assessment of a player based on a single tournament. I mean, how could you not be impressed by the massive growth shown by Bertucci over the course of this past OHL season? He had 37 points in his final 38 games with Flint, emerging as a dominant two-way leader for the Firebirds. One of Bertucci's most admirable qualities is a high panic threshold with the puck in the defensive end. He scans well and trusts his mobility. He keeps things simple with his exits. In the offensive end, his ability to get point shots through is excellent. He walks the line well and can beat that first layer of pressure with his feet. Defensively, he loves to play aggressively. You will routinely see him blowing up plays in the neutral zone or near the blueline. He has a very active stick. Now, herein lies the issue with Bertucci. His decision making at both ends can leave some to be desired. His over aggressiveness can cause him to get burned and he can get caught out of position defensively. He can make risky passes and plays in the offensive zone too, that can lead to turnovers and odd man rushes the other way. For Bertucci, it's all about learning to pick his spots better. I've heard some suggest that these errors are a representation of a lack of high end hockey sense. I would disagree. I see it as a player who wants to play a certain way, but who simply needs coaching and experience to learn how to best utilize his skill set. I think adding strength would go a long way too, because it could allow him to be more successful defensively down low. I mentioned John Marino earlier and I think he is the type of player that Bertucci could become if his development goes according to plan. </div>Brock Ottenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08237782074032840702noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2553903000955128175.post-33974874682685758812023-06-06T06:05:00.000-04:002023-06-06T06:05:10.223-04:00My Final Top 50 OHL Players for the 2023 NHL Entry Draft - Part 2: 30-11<div style="text-align: left;">Here's part two of my rankings release: the players ranked from 30 to 11. </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>11. Andrew Gibson - Defense - Soo Greyhounds</b></div><div style="text-align: left;">I would be absolutely shocked if Gibson was the 11th OHL player drafted or later. He's going to go earlier than this ranking. NHL teams love him. And quite frankly, I really like him too. I just don't believe he has the high end upside of the ten players I have ranked ahead of him. Let's start with the limitations. Gibson's first pass and decision making in the defensive end will need to improve. He can make some very poor decisions with the puck under pressure. The same can be said of his play in the offensive zone. He's actually most effective off the puck because of how smart he is. He supports possession incredibly well, but due to some small area skill limitations, he can get boxed in when carrying play. From a skating perspective, Gibson is good, especially for his size, but his transitions and quickness will need to improve a smidge. Skating is not really a concern IMO. OK, so what about the strengths? Defensively, he is a potential rock. The length, mobility, physicality, compete, and IQ are all top end. He is aggressive at closing gaps or angling off and loves to step up on players early. He is suffocating down low. He competes for pucks and space and is a tremendous shot blocker. He has a great point shot that he gets through traffic to generate second chance opportunities. As mentioned, he does a great job of finding soft spots in the offensive zone, or when jumping up in the rush and this is because of his processing ability. Even if Gibson ends up as no more than a solid #5, there's a ton of value in that as a second round selection. </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>12. Easton Cowan - Wing - London Knights</b></div><div style="text-align: left;">Cowan's transformation from complementary support player to primary play driver in the second half (and into the playoffs) has led to a massive jump for him in my rankings. Man...he was so good for London in the playoffs. There are just so many things to like about his game. He's a high end skater. His compete level is excellent. He's strong on the forecheck and backcheck. He can play in any situation and projects as a high end penalty killer. His shot and scoring instincts are good. His vision with the puck is good, especially when attacking with pace. As the season progressed, he gained so much confidence in his carrying ability. Not only that, but his poise and patience increased. In the playoffs, we saw him dictate pace and learn to slow the game down, rather than simply just play that North/South game. There are limitations in his skill and creativity. He's not likely to be a high end skill guy in the NHL. In fact, he probably settles into more of a complementary role in the NHL. But for him to show that he CAN be the guy already in the OHL is a critical step in his development. I like his odds of developing into a really solid middle six guy like a Jasper Fast. Don't be shocked if he gets taken inside the top 50 this year.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>13. Hunter Brzustewicz - Defense - Kitchener Rangers</b></div><div style="text-align: left;">I kind of feel wrong about ranking Hunter this late. It just doesn't feel right considering how good he was in the second half for Kitchener as part of the Rangers' resurgence. The first half of the year, I was legitimately concerned about his projection. He struck me as one of those "jack of all trades" types who can struggle to find a role at the NHL level. Especially given that late birthdate, the runway for development just wasn't as long. But, he really tightened things up defensively in the second half. The physical intensity level increased. He was taking better routes to retrievals to let him utilize his skating ability to help Kitchener in transition. He also gained confidence in his ability to play with pace and lead the attack with his feet. This made him more dynamic and again, IMO, improved his projection. Unquestionably, the best part of Brzustewicz's game is his play and composure in the offensive end. He holds the blueline so well because of his edgework and lateral quickness. But he's also just so calm and composed back there. He rarely makes a poor play that leads to an odd man opportunity the other way. So why is he 13th? I guess I'm still a wee bit concerned about his projection. Players like him do tend to have difficulty finding a role at the NHL level; Roland McKeown comes to mind. I love him in that 50-75 range because of that risk, but probably not earlier.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>14. Luca Pinelli - Wing/Center - Ottawa 67's</b></div><div style="text-align: left;">My colleague at McKeen's Joely Stockl (who you should be following by the way) put it perfectly in a recent report; a decade ago, a player like Pinelli would have been an after thought because of his lack of size and lack of quickness. However, the game has changed for all the right reasons. There is a place for players like Pinelli now. Obviously my ranking is a little lower than some have him, but I do appreciate him as a player and do see him as a potential high energy, middle six guy like a Dillon Dube. Luca is very much a different player than his brother Francesco. He's so tenacious in puck pursuit; his feet are always moving. He's also fearless. He shows no fear in challenging bigger players and as he gets stronger and improves his conditioning further, he's likely to develop into a top flight shift disturber. I think Pinelli's skill level is underrated too. He shows a high level ability to problem solve out of pressure and can combine his silky mitts with his strong edgework to be a difficult cover. Ultimately there are two questions. One; can he continue to be successful playing this type of game at his size in the NHL? Two; can his quickness and speed improve to give him a better projection at the NHL level? I thought about ranking him a bit lower but I was very impressed by how he elevated his game in the playoffs this year; especially after a bit of a disappointing second half of the year.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>15. Cam Allen - Defense - Guelph Storm</b></div><div style="text-align: left;">Here's what it comes down to. I absolutely refuse to believe that Cam Allen is as bad as he was at times this year. Not the player that I saw dominate games as a 16/17 year old rookie. You don't just forget how to play hockey. I think the truth is somewhere in the middle. I think the pressure of carrying the Guelph Storm, given their early season struggles, was too much for him and he fell into some awful habits. Could those habits point to some flaws in how he sees the game; flaws in his processing ability that could prevent him from being an NHL player? Absolutely. But, we didn't see a lot of that in his rookie year when he largely kept things simple. Ditto for the Hlinka/Gretzky Cup in the summer. That probably means that Allen will need to work on simplifying his approach next year. Get back to the basics. Improve your scanning habits in the defensive end and look to make clean and simple exits using the wall or your defensive partner. Take better routes to the puck to be able to use your feet to clear the zone and trust them more. Limit the chances you take jumping up into the play for now. Continue to get stronger to win battles more consistently. I loved the compete level he showed at the U18's in the defensive end. If he can play like that defensively all the time, he'll be fine once he cleans a few things up. The upside is certainly not as high as it once was thought to be, when we were comparing him to a guy like Charlie McAvoy. However, he has enough tools and enough character to overcome some of the warts we see currently to become an NHL defender. </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>16. Quinton Burns - Defense - Kingston Frontenacs</b></div><div style="text-align: left;">Burns is a throwback defender. He doesn't have the elite size and length that you like to see from players of that ilk, but neither did the likes of Rich Pilon, Lyle Odelein, Ken Klee, Craig Rivet, etc. Burns just flat out loves to be a pain in the butt to play against. He loves to lower the boom and play the body. He's in the corners and in front of the net laying the lumber. As he gets stronger, this component of his game will only intensify. However, Burns does also have some intriguing offensive tools. He can lead the rush and quarterback the powerplay with some decent puck skills. His future in the NHL is probably as more of a stay at home type, but he'll be a top end powerplay QB in the OHL first. IMO, there are two keys for Burns in order for him to reach his potential as a solid #4-5 guy. The first is improving his footwork and four way mobility. It's not a weakness by any means, but without elite length, he'll need to be a bit quicker and cleaner to be a standout defense first guy. The second is improving his decision making with the puck in the defensive end. It was tough playing on Kingston this year. He didn't get a ton of help. However, like mentioned with Gibson, he needs to have a higher panic threshold and develop better habits with the puck. He was probably Canada's best defender at the U18's before that nasty lower body injury, so that's going to give him major points for NHL scouts, proving that the situation in Kingston probably led to a lot of the inconsistencies in his game this year.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>17. Denver Barkey - Center - London Knights</b></div><div style="text-align: left;">I mean, how can you not love Barkey? This guy just has a motor that doesn't quit. Do I wish he was bigger? Yeah, sure. Do I wish he was a little quicker? Yeah, sure. But, as he proved in this year's OHL playoffs (and in the summer's Hlinka/Gretzky Cup), he can play just about any role you ask of him and excel at it. I kind of expected him, and not Easton Cowan, to be the one to step up in the second half to become a primary play driver for London, taking a step forward in his skill development, but that didn't really happen. Barkey is still at his best when he keeps things simple. Chip and chase. Work the wall. Drive the net. Outwork. Outhustle. His IQ is really good and his three zone awareness is among the best of any player on this list. The hustle and awareness will take him a long way and then once the athletic tools improve, we'll see him become a top flight OHL player. But what about the NHL potential? At this point, I think I overvalued his creativity and skill early on. I'm not sure he'll ever be more than a bottom six guy at the NHL level. The shot isn't a strength currently. He can get boxed in. He'll improve a lot under Dale Hunter, but is he more than a Casey Cizikas type? Lots of value there in the third or fourth round still.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>18. Matthew Mania - Defense - Sudbury Wolves</b></div><div style="text-align: left;">On pure offensive upside, Mania is going to be an intriguing project pick for NHL teams. His even strength production was among the best of any defender in the OHL this year. He can have a really profound impact on the transition game with his skill and ability to carve up the neutral zone. His skating is a real asset. Mania also has a good point shot and does a great job getting pucks through to the net, part why his production was so solid at even strength. As he learns to use his skating better inside the offensive zone to evade pressure; as his poise and confidence improves, the ceiling is quite high as an offensive defender. Defensively, he's a work in progress. He needs to get stronger to win battles along the wall and near the net. He can be too easy to play against currently. His defensive zone awareness also needs to improve; he can get lost in coverage, especially when trying to recover from the offensive zone. But on pure offensive upside, one could easily argue that he has the most of any OHL defender available this year. He's either going to mature as part of that young Sudbury team and turn into a great NHL prospect...or completely fall flat and probably not end up getting signed. I don't really see an in-between here.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>19. Ondrej Molnar - Wing - Erie Otters</b></div><div style="text-align: left;">It had to be really tough for Molnar this year, under the circumstances. I mean, yes, those circumstances were self inflicted (the floorball incident that led to his dismissal and move to Erie), but it didn't make it any easier on him to quickly acclimate himself to a new league on a last place team. On the powerplay, you could see the potential Molnar has. The skating ability, plus the hands and the vision were on full display with room to operate on the outside. At even strength, he really struggled because he's just not strong enough to compete between the hash marks at this level in North America. He was too easily pushed to the perimeter and struggled to get himself in scoring position. I actually didn't even mind his compete level. He worked hard to try to find success as an F1, using his speed to be first to pucks. But, he just wasn't strong enough to maintain possession long enough to truly capitalize on it. I do think that the upside is still really high. He's going to grow as part of that young Erie group that's going to be really good in a few years. But is there a chance that NHL teams avoid Molnar completely as they did Egor Sidorov? I think it could end up being a mistake, but it's completely possible. </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>20. Ethan Miedema - Wing - Kingston Frontenacs</b></div><div style="text-align: left;">Consistency is the number one issue here. That's not always an easy fix, but it's a common one for big, power wingers like Miedema. It takes great conditioning to be an impact power forward and right now it's clear that Miedema doesn't have that. On some nights, he brings it physically but struggles to make an impact offensively. On other nights, he plays a more passive game, but showcases his skill and playmaking touch. Rarely, did he find a way to put both together this season. The other thing that needs to continue to improve is his skating ability. I think his linear quickness improved this year, which is a start. However, his overall agility is lacking and it makes him pretty rigid. For such a big guy, he doesn't find himself in scoring position near the crease near enough and he's not making the kind of impact that he can make between the hash marks. At this point, I view Miedema as a pretty big boom/bust kind of selection. The number of players like Miedema who've not succeeded is a longer than the ones who have. We're looking at a Matthew Strome, Nick Magyar, Josh Brittain, Graham Knott, AJ Jenks type situation or we're looking at Josh Anderson. </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>21. Joey Willis - Center/Wing - Saginaw Spirit</b></div><div style="text-align: left;">If Willis had better physical tools/athleticism, I firmly believe we'd be talking about him as a top 50 pick. The offensive production wasn't anything to shake a stick at either, for a player without those physical tools. Yet, every time I saw Saginaw this year, this young man passed the eye test. He's just such a smart player. Always in the right spot. Always makes the right play. His vision is a real asset in the offensive zone. I think he has more to offer from a skill perspective too. I've seen the notion that he's not a high skill player, but I saw enough flashes of creativity this year to suggest that as he gains confidence, we could see him become more assertive. I have no doubt that Willis will become a high end OHL player. It's just about whether the skating and strength will improve enough to make him a serious NHL prospect. Maybe he's Austen Keating. Maybe he's Riley Damiani or Cal O'Reilly. But maybe, just maybe, he's Brad Richardson (a very useful, longtime pro). Considering that this was his first year playing out of the AAA level south of the border, I'm inclined to believe that as he adds strength and improves his conditioning, his skating can and will improve. I'm mentally preparing myself for Willis to go undrafted, but if he does, it will be a big mistake IMO.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>22. Alex Pharand - Center/Wing - Sudbury Wolves</b></div><div style="text-align: left;">Pharand is just a really solid North/South player with a concrete projection as an NHL player in some capacity. Personally, I'm not sold on him having high end upside. I think he's best when he keeps things simple. He uses his linear speed to forecheck and chase pucks. He drives the net. He works the wall. When he tries to make skilled plays, turnovers often happen and plays die on his stick. He's not a high end shooter, although he does have great hands near the crease to score the greasy ones he earns with hard work and determination. Maybe he's a Marcus Foligno type, but it's also possible that he doesn't have the skill or sense to be a long time NHL player. I came into the year really high on him, but his really poor second half has me less infatuated. I'd be very comfortable taking him in the fourth or fifth round because I think he has pro qualities. But, I have a feeling that someone will take him in that 50-75 range and that's too rich for my blood.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>23. Ethan Hay - Center - Flint Firebirds</b></div><div style="text-align: left;">I really like Ethan Hay and I think he deserves to be selected in the mid rounds, which is higher than I've seen him on other independent lists. At McKeen's we have him ranked 171st and EP has us (currently) as the only one with him listed. He's kind of like Liam Arnsby previously. Hay is the kind of player NHL teams are looking at and thinking, this guy could be a long time fourth line center and defensive specialist for us. He's got good size. He skates well. He has great instincts at both ends. He competes hard. There is a real chance that he's a Scott Nichol, Luke Glendening type. That has value. Anytime you can get an NHL player in the mid rounds, you do it. Is the upside high? Not likely. It will be interesting to see how he performs with more responsibility in the future, but right now his game looks pretty limited. But the high end physical tools and awareness that he possesses makes him an ideal bottom six player in today's NHL. </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>24. Brad Gardiner - Center/ Wing - Ottawa 67's</b></div><div style="text-align: left;">Gardiner played so many different roles for Ottawa this year. He's extremely versatile and that has value. He can be a shutdown defensive center. He can work as the F1 and be a complementary piece to more skilled players. He can work the wall and kill penalties. His skating is good, although he could stand to be a little quicker. He's most effective off the puck because he always keeps his feet moving and he has a quick release that should make him an effective goal scorer at the junior level. I've seen him ranked fairly high in some places (like The Hockey News), but after he really hit a wall in the second half of the year, I'm kind of skeptical about his future role. What is Brad Gardiner at the next level? He does a lot of things well; it's why he's a swiss army knife for Ottawa. But does he do anything at an above average level? I like the bloodlines (father is Bruce Gardiner). I like the spot that he's in with Ottawa moving forward. However, he's more of a mid round guy for me.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>25. Angus MacDonell - Center/Wing - Mississauga Steelheads</b></div><div style="text-align: left;">This is a player who already knows exactly who and what he is. There is a strong sense of self. Whether you watched MacDonell with Sarnia, with Mississauga, or at the U18's, you likely saw him playing the exact same way. He's about as consistent as it gets and that consistency really seemed to endear him to his Canadian coaches at the U18's, who slowly increased his work load. For that reason, I'd bet good money that he ends up a captain in the OHL by the time he graduates. As for his NHL potential, he's not going to be a front line player or big time point producer. If he makes the NHL, it will be in a high energy, depth role. He's not big, but he's tenacious. He's not the world's quickest skater, but he always keeps his feet moving. He has a great shot and scoring instincts. He opens up space for his linemates and prolongs possession. He can play center or the wing. Am I one hundred percent confident in his odds of making the NHL? Nope. But I love the way he plays and I firmly believe he should and will get drafted.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>26. Matthew Soto - Wing - Kingston Frontenacs</b></div><div style="text-align: left;">Soto definitely has his fans in the independent scouting community. All things considered, he had a pretty good year for the Frontenacs, leading them in scoring. I'm just worried that he's too vanilla. I like the way that he pushes pace. His skating is good and it's probably going to be great once he gets stronger. He was one of the fastest players in this age group in minor hockey, but other players have caught up to him as they have matured physically at a greater rate. I think that he's, generally, a pretty hard worker and he is someone who will take a hit to make a play or compete hard in puck pursuit in all three zones. But, I think his game is too perimeter focused at this current time. I also don't see him ever developing into a high end goal scorer. Will a winger with average physical tools who profiles best as a perimeter focused playmaker make it as an NHL player? I'm not as sold. I see a very good junior player, but not necessarily more. For me, Soto is a mid to late round flyer and not earlier.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>27. Cooper Foster - Center/Wing - Ottawa 67's</b></div><div style="text-align: left;">Foster didn't get a ton of ice time this year for Ottawa, but he made the best of it. It's extremely obvious that Foster is a highly intelligent player. He clearly needs to get stronger to be an impact player, but he managed to be a strong supporting piece this year because of his quick thinking and strong off puck positioning. I could actually see an NHL team really liking Foster if they believe that he has a long runway to improve his athleticism/quickness. He's the kind of guy who could get drafted late and then explodes in future years and looks like a steal because he was hidden on a deep team. But, I could also see Foster being just a good junior player and nothing more because he lacks a true standout quality that could separate him from others. </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>28. Charlie Robertson - Goaltender - North Bay Battalion</b></div><div style="text-align: left;">Massive goaltender who plays more of a hybrid style in order to take advantage of his huge frame. He tries to stay up as long as he can, but he does look comfortable dropping down to the butterfly to make saves. He's kind of awkward in the crease as he tries to cover his posts or get out to the top of the blue paint. There's a need to improve his up/down quickness too. But, I can't help but be intrigued by Robertson. He's rail thin; his body type reminds me a lot of Matt Murray in his Soo days. If North Bay can manage to get him to beef up, it'll help him improve his strength and control. I felt like he played really well in the second half when he got a chance to give DiVincentiis a break. If he was a starter and got more exposure, would we be talking about him more? There's no way I draft a netminder from the OHL in the first three or four rounds this year, but Robertson could make for an interesting late round flyer.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>29. Cole Brown - Wing - Hamilton Bulldogs</b></div><div style="text-align: left;">Brown is a big power forward who plays a mature game that sees him find most of his success below the hash marks or near the blue paint. He is comfortable and confident as a net front presence and has good hands in tight, especially for deflections. I felt like his skating improved a lot over the course of the year. It's still not amazing, but from start to finish, he looked quicker and this helped him drive wide to try to beat defenders to the net or to retrieve pucks. Like many other players ranked in this range, the offensive upside is probably pretty limited. Brown isn't a high skilled guy. He doesn't have a high end shot that allows him to beat goalies from a distance. He's not a terrific or confident transporter. But with his frame and physical consistency, an NHL team will definitely draft him in hopes that he can be a solid bottom six option in the future.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><b><br /></b></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>30. Donovan McCoy - Defense - Peterborough Petes</b></div><div>McCoy's development is something that has perplexed me. I really thought that we'd see him develop into one of the better 2004 born defenders in the OHL. He has all the tools, but putting them together has been an issue. He shows flashes of being a competent puck mover who can be a rush leader, use his feet as an asset, and make plays to hold the offensive blueline. But most of the time he settles for lower percentage plays or defers to his defensive partner/his centermen to handle the puck. Defensively, he's a physical presence and he can be difficult to match up against, especially in the corners where he wins the vast majority of his 50/50 puck battles. However, there are times where there are lapses in judgment in coverage and that makes me wonder just how well he is processing things on the ice. In a lot of ways, McCoy reminds me of how Connor Punnett looked in his original draft year and now we're discussing him as a possible re-entry candidate. Development is non linear. While McCoy is not likely to ever be the player many thought he could become when he drafted into the OHL (myself included), it does not mean that there is zero chance that he could still put it together to be an high end OHL player. He was good for Peterborough in their playoff and Mem Cup run. It was also interesting listening to Dan Malta (who covers the Petes) talk recently (on our podcast) about how McCoy is one of the most mature young men that he's encountered in his years covering Peterborough. That stuff matters (as it should) to NHL teams.</div>Brock Ottenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08237782074032840702noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2553903000955128175.post-38541728487977393932023-06-05T07:07:00.004-04:002023-06-05T07:07:28.296-04:00My Final Top 50 OHL Players for the 2023 NHL Entry Draft - Part 1: 50-31<div style="text-align: left;">A little different than usual, my final rankings release will only have three parts this year. Part of that is time related, but mostly it's because I just don't see a long enough list of honorable mentions that have a chance of being drafted. So this year it will be: Part 1 - Prospects 50-31, Part 2 - Prospects 30-11, and Part 3 - Prospects 10-1.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><div>Just for clarification, for my top 50 ranking, I haven't included any players eligible for draft re-entry, such as Rodwin Dionicio, Spencer Sova or Brady Stonehouse. This has been consistent all the way through my lists. Instead, I did a list of the top 10 draft re-entries, which can be found <a href="http://ohlprospects.blogspot.com/2023/04/sunday-top-10-2023-nhl-draft-re-entries.html">here</a>.</div><div><br /></div><div>Also for clarification, this list is MY list of the top 50 OHL prospects, as if I were drafting for my own team. In other words, this isn't a list of where I THINK or believe players will go, but a ranking of my own opinion on the top players eligible for this draft based on my viewings this season. If you want a draft projection and information about players outside the OHL, be sure to check out McKeens Hockey. As you may know (or not know) I am the scouting director for McKeen's and our draft guide will be released extremely soon (<a href="https://www.mckeenshockey.com/">purchasing information is available on the linked site</a>).</div><div><br /></div><div>In four straight drafts (2019, 2020, 2021, 2022), only three players ranked in this range have been selected. I don't see that changing this year either. The reality is that NHL teams are using mid to late round picks on European and College bound players more often these days because they get a longer signing window in regards to their rights. Longer shot prospects take longer to develop because they have more to work on. That longer window allows them a few extra years to see how they progress before they have to hand out an ELC. Additionally, in the mid to later rounds, teams are using picks on second/third year eligible CHL players who have already shown positive growth.</div><div><br /></div><div>Without further ado, here are the players ranked 31 through 50.</div><div><br /></div><div><b>31. Owen Outwater - Center - Kingston Frontenacs</b></div><div>The raw athletic tools are going to be very intriguing to NHL teams as they go over the later part of their lists. Outwater skates quite well for a bigger center. He can have a profound impact on the transition game with his straight line carrying ability. But when he's not attacking with speed, Outwater can be easily neutralized. In a lot of ways, Outwater needs to figure out what kind of player he wants to be first before he can be considered a significant NHL prospect. There's a need to get stronger to play a more consistent power game; to be more efficient in traffic. There's a need to work on his small area skill to become a better playmaker. There's a need to improve his shot and release to help him finish off chances near the crease that he can get by using his speed to drive the slot. The raw framework is there, as I mentioned, but the projection is muddled.</div><div><br /></div><div><b>32. Alex Assadourian - Center - Niagara IceDogs</b></div><div>You really have to admire what Assadourian was able to accomplish after moving from Sudbury to Niagara. Sure, he got more ice time. But, the team was also struggling and constantly fighting from behind. Did any NHL scouts catch Niagara enough in the second half to truly be impressed by what Assadourian did? Questionable, but he deserves attention. The first thing you notice about Assadourian is his speed. He's lightning quick and he loves to push the pace. His motor without the puck never seems to quit too, as he is always looking to use his speed to apply pressure on opposing players or to win puck races. Not large, Assadourian is also tenacious. It's that classic, "he plays bigger than he is" type of scenario. The two things that I'm always looking for in smaller players to see if their game translates are high end skating ability and fearlessness/tenacity...Assadourian has both in spades. What scouts will need to evaluate is whether Assoudrian's puck skill, vision, creativity, etc are all good enough to be anything more than a fourth line, energy guy. If that belief is no, he probably does not get drafted. If that belief is yes (and all it takes is one), than I do think someone takes a shot. Personally, I saw enough from him in the second half (admittedly in the limited times that I watched Niagara) to suggest that he is skilled and smart enough to be a player.</div><div><br /></div><div><div><b>33. Matthew Mayich - Defense - Ottawa 67's</b></div><div>There is a lot to like about Mayich and I know he has his fans in the NHL scouting community because of his high IQ and projection as a dependable stay at home type. Mayich has a high panic threshold in the defensive end and starts the breakout well, even without high end escapability or quick feet. His scanning habits are good and he always has his head up, looking to find an outlet or teammate. As a defender, Mayich's zone coverage is fantastic. He is physical. He has a great stick. He is just flat out tough to play against. His rush defense can be a little erratic because of some footwork issues, but he generally defends well in transition because of how aggressive he is. What it comes down to is how much can Mayich continue to improve his mobility and quickness? I would consider him a near lock to be drafted (likely one of the few ranked in this range by myself).</div></div><div><br /></div><div><b>34. Valentin Zhugin - Wing - Guelph Storm</b></div><div>From a production standpoint, Zhugin does not deserve to be drafted. This is especially true when you factor in that he's a late born 2004 playing in his second OHL season. Yet, I find myself ranking him fairly high still because his offensive upside is pretty significant. When you are talking about drafting players late, you want to highlight and find guys who can be difference makers if everything goes according to plan...even if that's unlikely. Zhugin oozes skill and he is an electric skater. He blends the two well too, making him a difficult cover when he gets time and space to skate with the puck. The problem is the application of said speed and skill. For one, he lacks the strength to consistently play through traffic and can be easily angled off to or kept to the perimeter. For two, his decision making with the puck leaves a lot to be desired. He, quite frankly, skates himself into trouble way too often. This is why the production does not match the skill. If he is able to add strength and become more middle of the ice focused, do we see him show more poise and patience knowing that he can fight through checks or take contact to make a play? It's a risky gamble, but the upside may be worth the risk for an NHL team.</div><div><br /></div><div><div><b>35. Nathaniel Day - Goaltender - Flint Firebirds</b></div><div>The Firebirds brought veteran Will Cranley in this year to be the starter and Day ended up stealing the job away by the time the OHL playoffs rolled around. Day is only 6'3, but he actually looks even bigger than that in the crease because of his upright posture. He's an imposing presence in the crease. Day is really tough to beat in tight. He's got quick pads and a good glove hand and his body control is actually quite good for a young netminder. Composed is a word that I would use. Where Day can struggle is on outside shots because his positioning and angles are inconsistent. He is obviously a lot more comfortable playing deeper in his crease. Additionally, his agility needs work. He's OK post to post, but he gets himself in trouble when he goes down too early and is forced to scramble. Improving his quickness up/down and his quickness moving North/South would really help Day with his consistency and his coverage of perimeter shots.</div></div><div><br /></div><div><b>36. Bronson Ride - Defense - Niagara IceDogs</b></div><div>Massive defender (6'6, 201lbs) who is actually a pretty decent skater. Given his length, more than adequate mobility, and physical approach, there is a future for him at the pro level if other areas of his game can develop. The main concern is puck management. He can be turnover prone in the defensive end and at times the speed of the OHL looks to give him trouble from a decision making standpoint. Improving his small area skill, his scanning habits, and his routes to retrievals would help to alleviate these concerns. Luckily, all three of these areas can be improved with the right coaching and dedication. In Niagara, we already saw some improvement as his confidence improved with more playing time. I was pretty shocked to see NHL Central Scouting drop him completely from their final rankings. I think that there's a chance he gets drafted.</div><div><br /></div><div><b>37. Konnor Smith - Defense - Peterborough Petes</b></div><div>Smith is big (6'5, 206lbs) and he is mean. His potential as a stay at home defender is through the roof. Smith just consistently makes his presence felt. He makes you compete for every inch of ice against him. I actually think he's more than just brawn too. His defensive zone awareness is high. He is a great shot blocker. By the time he becomes an OA in the OHL, he'll likely be one of the better defensive defenders in the league. My concerns are related to how he projects to the NHL level. The first concern is over his mobility. His footwork is not great and his lateral quickness, backwards stride, and the fluidity of his transitions are going to need to improve a ton to be an NHL defender. The second concern surrounds puck management. Anytime I watch the Petes, Smith has a bad giveaway or two from simply not scanning or checking. He's just not the most skilled with the puck. I see him getting drafted probably, but I'm just not sure about his projectability.</div><div><br /></div><div><b>38. Anthony Romani - Wing - North Bay Battalion</b></div><div>Romani was excellent for the Battalion in the second half and through their playoff run. He's just a really sound, well rounded player. He excels away from the puck thanks to his high IQ and he always seems to be around the puck. He's a dangerous complementary piece. While he's not overtly physical, he's far from a perimeter player or one dimensional. His positioning and commitment to playing in all three zones is sound. As I said at midseason, I feel very confident that Romani will develop into a very good OHL player. But, even through elevated play in the second half, I'm still unsure of what kind of role he'd play at the NHL level. If he were a better skater, I'd be more confident that he could find a place. But, as is, he probably profiles best as a tweener. However, improvement in his athletic tools could mean a significant projection upgrade.</div><div><br /></div><div><div><b>39. Zach Bowen - Goaltender - London Knights</b></div><div>Kudoes to Bowen. He was a great and dependable backup for the Knights this year and came into a tough position in this year's playoffs after Brochu's injury. He's both athletic and competitive, a good combination because it means that he never quits on a play and is able to make a lot of saves on second/third chance opportunities during a scramble. However, a lot of those second/third chance opportunities are created because his rebound control needs work. Hyper aggressive (he loves to be come way out of the blue paint), his positioning also needs work as he has a tendency to overcommit. The technical components will need to be fine tuned to improve his consistency, however an NHL team may very well be impressed by how he performed in the OHL playoffs under the circumstances.</div></div><div><br /></div><div><div><b>40. Lucas Moore - Defense - Hamilton Bulldogs</b></div><div>Undersized, but competitive puck moving defender. Moore is going to be a five year OHL defender IMO and someone near the top of the OHL defender scoring race by the time he graduates. A bit like Lleyton Moore (no relation). He makes a great first pass out of the zone. He is a pretty strong four-way mover, especially on his edges. He improved a lot from the start of the year to the end (he was especially strong in the first round for Hamilton). However, I wish his linear quickness was a little better to help him profile as a dominant puck mover in the future. Additionally, his defensive zone play is pretty erratic. He likes to play aggressively, but his footwork can be sloppy because of it. He can get burned defending the rush and he chases play too often. As mentioned, I see some upside, but I'd want to see how his game comes together a bit first.</div></div><div><br /></div><div><b>41. Calem Mangone - Wing - Saginaw Spirit</b></div><div>Mangone is a really fun player to watch. Oozes skill and has very quick feet. He's a determined player too who competes hard to offset some size and strength deficits. However, those same deficits hold him back from being a more consistent offensive player. You just don't see 5'9 forwards getting drafted without elite production....especially if they're late born first time draft eligible players. At this point, I'd just need to see Mangone prove that he can be an elite offensive player in the OHL before drafting him. Yet, I'm ranking him because I do respect his upside and enjoy watching him play.</div><div><br /></div><div><b>42. James Petrovski - Defense - Owen Sound Attack</b></div><div>Defender with some interesting tools. His length can be disruptive, especially when he's defending aggressively in the neutral zone and up near the blueline. Shows potential as a puck mover too and protects the puck well through movement with his size. I guess the question I have is...what is Petrovski, both currently and in the future? He's kind of one of those jack of all trades, average at everything kind of players right now. I'd want to see how his game progresses moving forward before committing a draft selection to him.</div><div><br /></div><div><b>43. Alexis Daviault - Defense - Erie Otters</b></div><div>Came into the year thinking that Daviault would be an NHL draft pick, but I'm exiting the year believing the opposite. The offensive side of things just never really came together for Daviault this year and I thought his defensive game actually took a step back from his U17 year with Sarnia. For much of the year, he looked like a player who was confused as to the best way for him to make an impact at this level. That said, I thought he finished the year on a real high note for Erie and I think that bodes well for the future. He CAN be a strong defensive presence who has a strong competitive nature, but the key for him is unlocking his offensive potential. Improving his carrying ability. Improving his confidence running the point and holding the offensive blueline. The potential is still there.</div><div><br /></div><div><b>44. Luke McNamara - Center - Saginaw Spirit</b></div><div>Had much higher expectations for McNamara this year. Was drafted as a high end goal scoring center, but the scoring ability just hasn't translated yet. McNamara has that good shot, but he's not putting himself in a position to use it consistently. For a big center, I'd want to see him driving the net more. Additionally, he's just not finding those soft spots in coverage and maybe that points to some IQ/awareness deficits. McNamara certainly flashes that package of size, skill, and quickness and his athletic tools could still get him drafted. However, I just didn't see enough progression from last year to make that leap.</div><div><br /></div><div><b>45. Matthew Andonovski - Defense - Kitchener Rangers</b></div><div>I would imagine that Andonovski gets drafted. And I would totally understand why. Good size. Strong defensive awareness. Extremely physical. Opposing forwards rarely win puck battles against Andonovski along the wall if he's able to pin/seal them. I guess my concerns stem from his mobility. He can struggle against quicker players and if I'm taking a big, physical guy with stay at home potential, I have other preferences from the OHL this year. </div><div><br /></div><div><b>46. Marco Mignosa - Wing - Soo Greyhounds</b></div><div>Mignosa is just a really smart player. His positioning in the offensive zone is a real standout quality of his. He puts himself in good positions to earn scoring chances or to support his linemates to help retain possession. His vision coming off the wall is high end. The problem is that the physical tools are all lagging behind significantly and that's not allowing him to get the best out of his high IQ. He isn't able to consistently fight through contact. He isn't able to get shots off quick enough. His three zone play is inconsistent. As the Greyhounds improve as a young team and Mignosa matures physically, I'm really intrigued to see how his game develops. He's the kind of guy that two years from now, we could be looking at the same way we look at Tye Kartye now. </div><div><br /></div><div><b>47. Adam Zidlicky - Wing - Mississauga Steelheads</b></div><div>High energy winger who can struggle with consistency. Some games he looks like he's capable of playing higher in the lineup, flashing strong transitional offensive skills. Other games plays consistently die on his stick in the offensive zone and he has trouble carrying/receiving. In reality, I think that this points to some limitations from a skill perspective. I would imagine that he eventually develops into a quality middle six option at the OHL level as part of a strong Mississauga team, but the reality is that I'm not sure I see more than that.</div><div><br /></div><div><b>48. Declan Waddick - Wing - Niagara IceDogs</b></div><div>Waddick is similar to Marco Mignosa in the Soo. He's a high end processor but he needs to get quicker/stronger to be a more consistent offensive contributor. As an undersized forward, the lack of quickness is going to be a major concern for NHL scouts. It's no fluke that he scored 28 goals this year though. Great scoring instincts and a quick release. I'd take a wait and see approach here to see how everything develops moving forward. </div><div><br /></div><div><b>49. Joey Costanzo - Goaltender - Windsor Spitfires</b></div><div>I mean, it's tough to evaluate Costanzo's play this year without accounting for his poor performance in the first round against Kitchener. He was largely solid for Windsor this year, but a lot of the inefficiencies in his game were highlighted in that playoff loss. Costanzo is a good athlete and he never gives up on a play, but his scrambling style can lead to issues. This is especially true given that he doesn't have elite size. "Smaller" goalies with positioning and rebound control issues just rarely get drafted. </div><div><br /></div><div><b>50. Blake Smith - Defense - Flint Firebirds</b></div><div>Smith is a tough as nails, throwback defender. He is one of the better open ice hitters in the OHL and is also one of the better fighters in the league. At 6'4, 202lbs, the late born 2004 born defender is extremely physically imposing. Puck skill is limited. Skating will need to improve. Basically, it's the same as the other stay at home types that I've listed in the back portion of my top 50. </div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div></div><div><br /></div>Brock Ottenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08237782074032840702noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2553903000955128175.post-37100890357355485932023-04-23T13:37:00.005-04:002023-06-30T21:10:34.676-04:00Sunday Top 10 - 2023 NHL Draft Re-Entries<div style="text-align: left;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2nX9V6FU9wjcRbiH3eC1ZTjv6mSd84PyAYcX0X0j3xc1v03Qopcu9ln8GJnkguAsRhvsPl6t5-WRSxRcK9NJeo2pgupfWq_gvENRp8AMH21VKAaph1cDgEfXFNP9uq5sK_-JRpzM94Ln3XA1OURsr0hCDBTpdsXHyZJmPdKdGncf2wPUx6gQt_z6sPw/s390/sundaytop10.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="260" data-original-width="390" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2nX9V6FU9wjcRbiH3eC1ZTjv6mSd84PyAYcX0X0j3xc1v03Qopcu9ln8GJnkguAsRhvsPl6t5-WRSxRcK9NJeo2pgupfWq_gvENRp8AMH21VKAaph1cDgEfXFNP9uq5sK_-JRpzM94Ln3XA1OURsr0hCDBTpdsXHyZJmPdKdGncf2wPUx6gQt_z6sPw/s320/sundaytop10.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br /><span face="Verdana, sans-serif" style="color: #333333; font-size: 13px; line-height: 19.5px;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span face="Verdana, sans-serif" style="color: #333333; font-size: 13px; line-height: 19.5px;">It's that time of the year for my annual (<a href="http://ohlprospects.blogspot.com/2022/05/sunday-top-10-2022-nhl-draft-re-entries.html">2022</a>, <a href="https://ohlprospects.blogspot.com/2020/04/sunday-top-10-2020-nhl-draft-re-entries.html" style="color: #6699cc;">2020</a>, <a href="https://ohlprospects.blogspot.com/2019/04/sunday-top-10-2019-nhl-draft-re-entries.html" style="color: #6699cc;">2019</a>, <a href="https://ohlprospects.blogspot.com/2018/04/sunday-top-10-2018-nhl-draft-re-entries.html" style="color: #6699cc;">2018</a>, <a href="http://ohlprospects.blogspot.ca/2017/04/sunday-top-10-2017-nhl-draft-re-entries.html" style="color: #6699cc;">2017</a>, <a href="http://ohlprospects.blogspot.ca/2016/04/sunday-top-10-2016-nhl-draft-re-entries.html" style="color: #6699cc;">2016</a>, <a href="http://ohlprospects.blogspot.ca/2015/04/sunday-top-10-2015-nhl-draft-re-entries.html" style="color: #6699cc;">2015</a>, </span><a href="http://ohlprospects.blogspot.ca/2014/05/sunday-top-10-2014-nhl-draft-re-entries.html" style="color: #666699; font-family: verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 19.5px;">2014</a><span face="Verdana, sans-serif" style="color: #333333; font-size: 13px; line-height: 19.5px;">, </span><a href="http://ohlprospects.blogspot.ca/2013/05/sunday-top-10-2013-nhl-draft-re-entries.html" style="color: #666699; font-family: verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 19.5px;">2013</a><span face="Verdana, sans-serif" style="color: #333333; font-size: 13px; line-height: 19.5px;">, </span><a href="http://ohlprospects.blogspot.ca/2012/05/sunday-top-10-2012-nhl-draft-re-entries.html" style="color: #666699; font-family: verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 19.5px;">2012</a><span face="Verdana, sans-serif" style="color: #333333; font-size: 13px; line-height: 19.5px;">, </span><a href="http://ohlprospects.blogspot.ca/2011/05/sunday-top-10-2011-nhl-draft-re-entries.html" style="color: #666699; font-family: verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 19.5px;">2011</a><span face="Verdana, sans-serif" style="color: #333333; font-size: 13px; line-height: 19.5px;">, </span><a href="http://ohlprospects.blogspot.ca/2010/05/sunday-top-10-2010-nhl-draft-re-entries.html" style="color: #666699; font-family: verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 19.5px;">2010</a><span face="Verdana, sans-serif" style="color: #333333; font-size: 13px; line-height: 19.5px;">, </span><a href="http://ohlprospects.blogspot.ca/2009/04/sunday-top-10-draft-re-entries-for-2009.html" style="color: #666699; font-family: verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 19.5px;">2009</a><span face="Verdana, sans-serif" style="color: #333333; font-size: 13px; line-height: 19.5px;">) list of the top second and third year eligible OHL players for the upcoming NHL Entry Draft. NHL teams continue to draft re-entry players in increasing number. This is mostly because drafting a second or third year eligible player gives NHL teams a lot of flexibility in their development under the CBA. Plus, a lot of these guys have been having success in recent years (Andrew Mangiapane, Tanner Pearson, Sean Durzi, and Colin Miller as legitimate NHL players are great examples from the OHL), </span><span face="Verdana, sans-serif" style="color: #333333;"><span style="font-size: 13px;">which basic psychology tells us that other NHL teams will try to mimic.</span></span></div><div><span face="Verdana, sans-serif" style="color: #333333;"><span style="font-size: 13px;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span face="Verdana, sans-serif" style="color: #333333;"><span style="font-size: 13px;">Just to clarify, yet again, for those with limited understanding of the NHL draft system; North American players have either two or three years to get drafted, depending on their birth date. For those born from January 1 to September 15, they will go through three NHL drafts. For those born from September 16 to December 31, they will go through two NHL drafts. The players on this list are a mix of those having been passed over once or twice already.</span></span></div><div><span face="Verdana, sans-serif" style="color: #333333;"><span style="font-size: 13px;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span face="Verdana, sans-serif" style="color: #333333;"><span style="font-size: 13px;">Also, do not confuse this list with players drafted in 2021 who will re-enter the draft should they fail to come to a contractual agreement with their NHL team by June 1 (and whose birth date still allows them to be eligible). Quite often those too are referred to as draft re-entries. But this list does not contain them because it is not yet known who those players will be.</span></span></div><div><span face="Verdana, sans-serif" style="color: #333333;"><span style="font-size: 13px;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span face="Verdana, sans-serif" style="color: #333333;"><span style="font-size: 13px;">Last year this group was very strong because of the OHL hiatus. Two years of physical development "unscouted" led to many OHL re-entries selected. In total, seven were selected, including OHL scoring leader Matt Maggio, and Tucker Robertson/Amadeus Lombardi, who look like terrific NHL prospects at this point. This year, I would not call the group as strong. I would suspect that we only see two or three of the players from this list selected. </span></span></div><div><span face="Verdana, sans-serif" style="color: #333333;"><span style="font-size: 13px;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span face="Verdana, sans-serif" style="color: #333333;"><span style="font-size: 13px;">Without further rambling, here's my list:</span></span></div><div><span face="Verdana, sans-serif" style="color: #333333;"><span style="font-size: 13px;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span face="Verdana, sans-serif" style="color: #333333;"><span style="font-size: 13px;"><b>1. Rodwin Dionicio - Defense - Windsor Spitfires</b></span></span></div><div><span face="Verdana, sans-serif" style="color: #333333;"><span style="font-size: 13px;">No question, Dionicio is a complicated NHL prospect and one who remains a bit of a long shot to be an NHL player. Yet, we have to applaud the improvement that he showed this year, especially after being dealt to the Windsor Spitfires. He was one of the best offensive defenders in the OHL in the second half and is only a year away from being first time draft eligible. His hands and creativity are top notch. He routinely beats the initial layer of pressure and is a threat to go end to end almost every time he leads the attack out of Windsor's zone. He can quarterback the powerplay with a good point shot and quick movement. His offensive potential is significant at the next level. Defensively, he's a bit of a riverboat gambler. He likes to play physical, but he can chase the hit and the play, taking him out of position. His four way mobility improved a lot this year, but his backwards stride and transitions will still need to improve for him to be an NHL defender. There's a reason why he was used as a forward at times this year by Windsor (including in the playoffs). Of course, his untimely suspension in the playoffs likely didn't help his cause either. As much as he's a player with warts, I'd still have him ranked as the top re-entry from the OHL and someone I'd consider in the mid-late rounds because his upside is quite high under the right development model. Considering how much he improved in a half a season in Windsor, I'd be curious to see what a full year next season could do.</span></span></div><div><span face="Verdana, sans-serif" style="color: #333333;"><span style="font-size: 13px;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span face="Verdana, sans-serif" style="color: #333333;"><span style="font-size: 13px;"><b>2. Brady Stonehouse - Wing - Ottawa 67's</b></span></span></div><div><span face="Verdana, sans-serif" style="color: #333333;"><span style="font-size: 13px;">Ottawa's second leading goal scorer this year, on a lot of nights, Stonehouse was the straw that stirred the drink for the 67's. He showed a great deal of development this year after being passed over last year as a first time eligible player. He's such a tenacious player and his quickness, speed, and balance all showed great improvement this year, which is critical given his lack of ideal size. He'd still be only an average skater for the NHL level, but improving his skating was a critical next step and he did that this season. Because of his tenaciousness, Stonehouse can be utilized in any situation; he's like a Swiss army knife. Perhaps the most underrated component to his game is his puck skill and finishing ability. You don't score 37 in the OHL as an 18/19 year old by accident. He can carry the puck at full speed and he has quick hands and a quick snapshot to finish off plays in tight. The only real strike against Stonehouse is that he looks like he's hit a bit of a physical wall in the playoffs thus far, much like some of Ottawa's other younger players. I don't think the upside is significant, but I would probably said the same thing about a guy like Michael Bunting at the same age.</span></span></div><div><span face="Verdana, sans-serif" style="color: #333333;"><span style="font-size: 13px;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span face="Verdana, sans-serif" style="color: #333333;"><span style="font-size: 13px;"><b>3. Spencer Sova - Defense - Erie Otters</b></span></span></div><div><span face="Verdana, sans-serif" style="color: #333333;"><span style="font-size: 13px;">Speaking of hitting a wall, that's what Spencer Sova did this year too, playing a ton of minutes for a rebuilding Erie team that consistently took a beating down the stretch to close out the year poorly. First half of the year, Sova would have easily been number one on this list and IMO was looking like one of the top re-entries available for the draft...period. Second half...not so much. However, I'd still look at him late. You'd be hard pressed to find a better skating defender not currently without an NHL affiliation. He's that good of a mover. First half, we saw him consistently using his speed to be an impact player in transition. Second half, he fell back into the shell that we saw last year in his original draft year. He's got a great point shot, one of the better ones in the OHL, but he needs to use his feet more consistently to get himself those open looks; increasing aggressiveness is key. One thing I'll give him credit for is improving his physical intensity level, a major knock from his draft year. His willingness to battle for positioning was consistently noticeable and it's the reason why I'd be willing to spend a late pick on him. I do think that he will continue to improve, especially as Erie becomes a potential Western powerhouse again. Adding Matt Schaefer into the fold next year will help Sova significantly, by taking some pressure off of him.</span></span></div><div><span face="Verdana, sans-serif" style="color: #333333;"><span style="font-size: 13px;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span face="Verdana, sans-serif" style="color: #333333;"><span style="font-size: 13px;"><b>4. Beau Jelsma - Center/Wing - Barrie Colts</b></span></span></div><div><span face="Verdana, sans-serif" style="color: #333333;"><span style="font-size: 13px;">I would have drafted Jelsma last year and I'd advocate for him again this year. I thought he closed out the regular season really well and has been good for Barrie in the playoffs so far. Look, I'll be honest. I'm not really sure what Jelsma is at the NHL level. Those projection issues are the reason why he wasn't drafted last year. He has a well rounded skill set, but isn't exactly elite at anything. He's also undersized. Yet, when you watch him play, he consistently passes the eye test. The sum of his parts is a quality hockey player. With the big time OA's graduating in Barrie next year, look for him to have a huge offensive season. He's quick. He's strong. He's feisty. He has underrated skill. He can kill penalties. He can play multiple positions. Again, the projection is muddy. He's not a perfect fit in a stereotypical way as an NHL top six player or bottom six player. Yet, I'd be willing to take a chance on him late to see what my development team could do with him in the future. I'm sure you could milk a niche out of his skill set. </span></span></div><div><span face="Verdana, sans-serif" style="color: #333333;"><span style="font-size: 13px;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span face="Verdana, sans-serif" style="color: #333333;"><span style="font-size: 13px;"><b>5. Braeden Bowman - Wing - Guelph Storm</b></span></span></div><div><span face="Verdana, sans-serif" style="color: #333333;"><span style="font-size: 13px;">Bowman was easily one of the most improved players in the OHL this year. Yeah, his goal scoring totals only increased from 27 to 33, but it was how he scored those 33 goals and the improvements made in other areas that has him firmly on the NHL draft radar. As an OHL rookie last year, Bowman was almost exclusively a net front presence and complementary player. Even going back to his GOJHL days with Kitchener, that was his game. That changed a lot this year thanks to significant improvement made to his skating, small area skill, and confidence carrying the puck. Bowman suddenly became dangerous with the puck on his stick in transition, showing an ability to drive the net and beat defenders one on one. His vision and playmaking ability, especially coming off the wall, also improved to a spot that I didn't conceive as attainable previously. Bowman is now a 6'2 power winger who can create his own chances and ones for his teammates. The skating will still need to improve, but given the rapid development curve here, I would be shocked if an NHL team does not select Bowman this year.</span></span></div><div><span face="Verdana, sans-serif" style="color: #333333;"><span style="font-size: 13px;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span face="Verdana, sans-serif" style="color: #333333;"><span style="font-size: 13px;"><b>6. Kocha Delic - Center/Wing - Sudbury Wolves</b></span></span></div><div><span face="Verdana, sans-serif" style="color: #333333;"><span style="font-size: 13px;">It wasn't the healthiest season for Delic, but you can't discount the production. After a strong performance for Canada at the U18's last year, I really felt like Delic would be a later round pick. Tat wasn't the case. This year, he returned to Sudbury highly motivated to be a difference maker and he was that on a lot of nights for the Wolves. His motor is consistent and I think that gives him a really decent floor as a pro. He has strong defensive instincts, can be utilized in a variety of roles, is a great forechecker, and skates pretty well. I'm sure scouts wish he were bigger, but his compete helps to offset that. As an offensive player, he continues to show great chemistry with Musty and Goyette, operating as a workhorse of the line. However, I really like how he uses quick touches to operate in high traffic areas. The puck is on and off his stick quickly as he darts in and out of coverage, and he's willing to take a hit to finish off a play or make a pass. In a lot of ways, he's like Beau Jelsma. I see the hesitancy from scouts. However, I think he's shown enough this year to warrant consideration.</span></span></div><div><span face="Verdana, sans-serif" style="color: #333333;"><span style="font-size: 13px;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span face="Verdana, sans-serif" style="color: #333333;"><span style="font-size: 13px;"><b>7. Djibril Toure - Defense - Sudbury Wolves</b></span></span></div><div><span face="Verdana, sans-serif" style="color: #333333;"><span style="font-size: 13px;">Raw. Like, very raw. Toure hasn't spent a ton of time at the higher levels and as an '03 he was playing in his first year in the OHL this season. His game is currently far from mistake free. He can bobble pucks. His decision making and reads leave some to be desired. On some shifts, he looks in over his head. Yet...there's just something about his game that screams late bloomer. He's a 6'7, right shot defender with above average movement qualities. He can get around the ice well and close gaps quickly. As he becomes more fluid in his transitions and improves his confidence on his edges, are we looking at a 6'7 defender whose mobility is an asset? Additionally, he's extremely difficult to play against. He's very aggressive physically. He'll step up on you at the blueline. He'll punish you below the goal line. He makes life difficult for forwards near the crease. As he fills out his frame further, what kind of defensive potential does Toure have? If Toure was an '04, I'd have him right at the top of this list. But as an '03, the runway for development just isn't as long. He'll be an OHL overager next year and then what? I think he's that much of a long term project. But, his athletic tools are just really, really intriguing. </span></span></div><div><span face="Verdana, sans-serif" style="color: #333333;"><span style="font-size: 13px;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span face="Verdana, sans-serif" style="color: #333333;"><span style="font-size: 13px;"><b>8. Oliver Peer - Center/Wing - Windsor Spitifres</b></span></span></div><div><span face="Verdana, sans-serif" style="color: #333333;"><span style="font-size: 13px;">Pace is the name of the game here. Peer is one of the quicker players in the OHL. Even without long, powerful strides, his quick feet generate so much power and this allows him to be one of the better transitional attackers in the OHL. I really like how his game is middle of the ice focused too. He's also looking to drive the middle to open up space and this allows him to excel as a playmaker. Peer is also a hard worker who kills penalties and competes on the backcheck. He's not necessarily a physical player, but he works hard without the puck to earn touches. What's the upside? I'm not entirely sure. Like any player on this list there could be limitations. But, I'm always drawn to the breakneck pace that Peer plays at and how successful he is at creating scoring chances. I'd bet that he is one of the higher scoring OA's in the OHL next season, in which case he'll draw NHL interest. Given how much he's improved over his short OHL career, I'd possibly be willing to bring him into the fold to see if I could turn him into a high energy, bottom six guy as he improves his strength on the puck and physical intensity.</span></span></div><div><span face="Verdana, sans-serif" style="color: #333333;"><span style="font-size: 13px;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span face="Verdana, sans-serif" style="color: #333333;"><span style="font-size: 13px;"><b>9. Connor Punnett - Defense - Barrie Colts</b></span></span></div><div><span face="Verdana, sans-serif" style="color: #333333;"><span style="font-size: 13px;">Everyone had their eye on Brandt Clarke and Beau Akey this year in Barrie and it's caused many to be sleeping on the positive development of Punnett. A minute muncher for the Colts, he's probably the favourite to be the team's captain next year as an OA. Punnett has always been one of the more physical defenders in the OHL, with a penchant for the big open ice hit, but this year his confidence with the puck grew substantially. Armed with a booming point shot, Punnett generates a lot of second chance opportunities with his shot. He's also a good skater who can skate himself out of trouble in the defensive end and who can lead the counter attack when he sees an opportunity to jump up in the play. From a skilled perspective, the offensive production likely wouldn't carry over to the next level. He can get boxed in and isn't the world's most creative player. But, he's got good size, a big shot, a penchant for physicality, and is a decent mover. Many a junior defenders have used that combination to become NHL defenders. </span></span></div><div><span face="Verdana, sans-serif" style="color: #333333;"><span style="font-size: 13px;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span face="Verdana, sans-serif" style="color: #333333;"><span style="font-size: 13px;"><b>10. Dylan Roobroeck - Center - Oshawa Generals</b></span></span></div><div><span face="Verdana, sans-serif" style="color: #333333;"><span style="font-size: 13px;">The move from Niagara to Oshawa really helped Roobroeck develop into a highly useful OHL player this season, his second in the league. His brother Ryan was just recently selected second overall by Niagara in the priority selection and is a much more hyped player, but we can't overlook Dylan's progression this season. A 6'7 center, Dylan is the epitome of a player still growing into his frame; he's very much still learning how to use his size to his advantage. Continuing to improve his skating, especially his agility, quickness, and balance, will be key. However, much like Toure, there's something intriguing about his raw physical tools. He can be really tough to knock off the puck and he shows well as a playmaker after holding possession deep in the offensive zone. I could definitely see an NHL team selecting Dylan this year.</span></span></div><div><span face="Verdana, sans-serif" style="color: #333333;"><span style="font-size: 13px;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span face="Verdana, sans-serif" style="color: #333333;"><span style="font-size: 13px;"><i><u>Honorable Mentions (listed alphabetically):</u></i></span></span></div><div><span face="Verdana, sans-serif" style="color: #333333;"><span style="font-size: 13px;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span face="Verdana, sans-serif" style="color: #333333;"><span style="font-size: 13px;"><b>Ryan Abraham - Center - Windsor Spitfires</b></span></span></div><div><span face="Verdana, sans-serif" style="color: #333333;"><span style="font-size: 13px;">Unique player who battled a wrist injury this year, limiting him to only 29 games. When he was healthy, he looked great. Small, but competitive player who is as slippery as an eel thanks to dynamic edgework. Small sample size saw him be way more confident with the puck this year. Hopefully he stays healthy next year.</span></span></div><div><span face="Verdana, sans-serif" style="color: #333333;"><span style="font-size: 13px;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span face="Verdana, sans-serif" style="color: #333333;"><span style="font-size: 13px;"><b>Alex Christopoulous - Wing - Windsor Spitfires</b></span></span></div><div><span face="Verdana, sans-serif" style="color: #333333;"><span style="font-size: 13px;">One of the most improved players in the OHL this year. He's not huge, but he's a near immovable object from the net front. Just takes constant abuse but battles to be a presence and has great hands in tight and a quick release from the slot. Skating needs to continue to improve, but he's putting himself on the scouting radar. 49 goals this year and many came from within a few feet.</span></span></div><div><span face="Verdana, sans-serif" style="color: #333333;"><span style="font-size: 13px;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span face="Verdana, sans-serif" style="color: #333333;"><span style="font-size: 13px;"><b>Pano Fimis - Center - Erie Otters</b></span></span></div><div><span face="Verdana, sans-serif" style="color: #333333;"><span style="font-size: 13px;">Don't think he's done enough to warrant a draft selection at this time, but Erie is going to be a good spot for him to develop further. Improved as a two-way player this year. Looked stronger on the puck. He needs to produce consistently to be on the NHL radar at his size. Look for him to have a much better season next year.</span></span></div><div><span face="Verdana, sans-serif" style="color: #333333;"><span style="font-size: 13px;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span face="Verdana, sans-serif" style="color: #333333;"><span style="font-size: 13px;"><b>Jacob Frasca - Center - Barrie Colts</b></span></span></div><div><span face="Verdana, sans-serif" style="color: #333333;"><span style="font-size: 13px;">Massively improved player this year. That first line with Vierling and Cardwell (and Frasca) was an absolute load to handle on a lot of nights. They just grinded down opposing defenders with their work down low. The big center is on a career trajectory similar to his brother Jordan who signed with Pittsburgh last year. </span></span></div><div><span face="Verdana, sans-serif" style="color: #333333;"><span style="font-size: 13px;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span face="Verdana, sans-serif" style="color: #333333;"><span style="font-size: 13px;"><b>Ruslan Gazizov - Wing - London Knights</b></span></span></div><div><span face="Verdana, sans-serif" style="color: #333333;"><span style="font-size: 13px;">After a disappointing draft year with London last year, Gazizov has been much better this year, even if the production is only mildly better. Skating has shown improvement but will need to continue to get better. Physical intensity more consistent, but will need to increase even more. Skill level is high. Have a feeling that if he returns to London again next year that he's going to have a big year.</span></span></div><div><span face="Verdana, sans-serif" style="color: #333333;"><span style="font-size: 13px;"><b><br /></b></span></span></div><div><span face="Verdana, sans-serif" style="color: #333333;"><span style="font-size: 13px;"><b>Linus Hemstrom - Wing - Kingston Frontenacs</b></span></span></div><div><span face="Verdana, sans-serif" style="color: #333333;"><span style="font-size: 13px;">Hemstrom was really good in the first half, but faded big time in the second half. Physically, he wasn't the same player down the stretch. Like the quickness. Like the tenacity. He just needs to get stronger on and off the puck. I know he lost a lot of development time coming into this year (part of why he chose to come to the OHL). Hemstrom is someone that I'd be watching very closely next year.</span></span></div><div><span face="Verdana, sans-serif" style="color: #333333;"><span style="font-size: 13px;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span face="Verdana, sans-serif" style="color: #333333;"><span style="font-size: 13px;"><b>Jacob Julien - Wing - London Knights</b></span></span></div><div><span face="Verdana, sans-serif" style="color: #333333;"><span style="font-size: 13px;">Late bloomer who barely misses out on being first time draft eligible this year thanks to a September 12th birth date. He's been a great find for London and has really stabilized their bottom six since joining the team around midseason. Big, rangy winger who is really effective North/South. Loves to drive the net. Has big strides that need to gain more power, but with the right development, he could be a player. I've certainly heard some chatter about NHL interest here in the same vein as the aforementioned Toure and Roobroeck. </span></span></div><div><span face="Verdana, sans-serif" style="color: #333333;"><span style="font-size: 13px;"><b><br /></b></span></span></div><div><span face="Verdana, sans-serif" style="color: #333333;"><span style="font-size: 13px;"><b>Zak Lavoie - Wing - Niagara IceDogs</b></span></span></div><div><span face="Verdana, sans-serif" style="color: #333333;"><span style="font-size: 13px;">A real bulldog on the ice who has great for Niagara after coming over from Mississauga. He's not the biggest, but he competes hard. Good forechecker and someone with great goal scoring potential. Not a true draft prospect at this time IMO, but if he develops well, he'll get an NHL contract ala Tye Kartye in the future.</span></span></div><div><span face="Verdana, sans-serif" style="color: #333333;"><span style="font-size: 13px;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span face="Verdana, sans-serif" style="color: #333333;"><span style="font-size: 13px;"><b>Jacob Maillet - Center - Windsor Spitfires</b></span></span></div><div><span face="Verdana, sans-serif" style="color: #333333;"><span style="font-size: 13px;">Say what you will about Windsor's disappointing end to the year, but their regular season was a success thanks to the positive development of players like Maillet. He's a good two-way center who has improved his skating a lot since entering the OHL with Guelph. The offensive upside at the NHL level wouldn't be high, but I could see him developing into a useful NHL player under the right circumstances. He'd probably be #11 for me on this list if I had one.</span></span></div><div><span face="Verdana, sans-serif" style="color: #333333;"><span style="font-size: 13px;"><b><br /></b></span></span></div><div><span face="Verdana, sans-serif" style="color: #333333;"><span style="font-size: 13px;"><b>Samuel Mayer - Defense - Peterborough Petes</b></span></span></div><div><span face="Verdana, sans-serif" style="color: #333333;"><span style="font-size: 13px;">I liked Mayer a lot last year as a potential draft pick, but I didn't see a ton of progression in his game this year. I had higher expectations. Thought his decision making wavered with the puck and his vision as a powerplay QB didn't show a ton of growth. He's still a solid two-way guy and I still think he has NHL upside, but I wanted just a bit more from him this year after being slighted last year.</span></span></div><div><span face="Verdana, sans-serif" style="color: #333333;"><span style="font-size: 13px;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span face="Verdana, sans-serif" style="color: #333333;"><span style="font-size: 13px;"><b>Max Namestnikov - Wing - Guelph Storm</b></span></span></div><div><span face="Verdana, sans-serif" style="color: #333333;"><span style="font-size: 13px;">Vladislav's younger brother was a different player after that trade to Guelph. He's skilled. He's feisty. He's quick. He can fire the puck. Still unsure about the IQ, especially with the puck on his stick. At his size, I'd want to see a full year of production before using a draft pick on him.</span></span></div><div><span face="Verdana, sans-serif" style="color: #333333;"><span style="font-size: 13px;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span face="Verdana, sans-serif" style="color: #333333;"><span style="font-size: 13px;"><b>Marko Sikic - Wing/Center - Sarnia Sting</b></span></span></div><div><span face="Verdana, sans-serif" style="color: #333333;"><span style="font-size: 13px;">Sikic is essentially Jacob Maillet without the high end ice time. He's a rangy forward who excels at both ends and who shows well as a playmaker. I would expect him to be one of the league's better OA's next year when he gets a ton of ice time following graduations.</span></span></div><div><span face="Verdana, sans-serif" style="color: #333333;"><span style="font-size: 13px;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span face="Verdana, sans-serif" style="color: #333333;"><span style="font-size: 13px;"><b>Patrick Thomas - Wing - Hamilton Bulldogs</b></span></span></div><div><span face="Verdana, sans-serif" style="color: #333333;"><span style="font-size: 13px;">The third wheel on that Panwar/Lardis line that was so good for the Bulldogs down the stretch. My colleague at McKeen's, Joely Stockl, loves him because of his work ethic and offensive zone awareness. He's one of those guys who always seems to make the right play with the puck in the offensive zone. Reminds me a lot of former Ottawa 67 Austen Keating. </span></span></div><div><span face="Verdana, sans-serif" style="color: #333333;"><span style="font-size: 13px;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span face="Verdana, sans-serif" style="color: #333333;"><span style="font-size: 13px;"><b>Florian Xhekaj - Wing - Hamilton Bulldogs</b></span></span></div><div><span face="Verdana, sans-serif" style="color: #333333;"><span style="font-size: 13px;">Continues to be ranked highly by NHL Central Scouting but I'm not sure that I'm buying it. This is coming from someone who absolutely loved his brother Arber, right from the get go (check the history of the blog). Yeah he was a solid high energy checker in his first OHL season. He competes hard like his brother. He shows flashes of potential as an offensive contributor. But I'd want to see more before committing a draft pick to him. You can't just automatically assume that because Arber's development was so steady, year after year, that Florian's will be too. </span></span></div><div><span face="Verdana, sans-serif" style="color: #333333;"><span style="font-size: 13px;"><br /></span></span></div><div><br /></div><div><span face="Verdana, sans-serif" style="color: #333333;"><span style="font-size: 13px;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span face="Verdana, sans-serif" style="color: #333333;"><span style="font-size: 13px;"><br /></span></span></div>Brock Ottenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08237782074032840702noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2553903000955128175.post-6290379323645013982023-04-18T21:49:00.002-04:002023-04-18T21:49:20.611-04:002023 NHL Central Scouting Final Rankings<div style="text-align: left;">NHL Central Scouting has released their final draft ranking for 2023. Let's see how the OHL players were ranked. In total, 56 were listed. See below for some commentary on these rankings, in addition to the risers and fallers from the January midseason list.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b><u>Skaters</u></b></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">1. Colby Barlow (12)</div><div style="text-align: left;">2. Cal Ritchie (13)</div><div style="text-align: left;">3. Quentin Musty (14)</div><div style="text-align: left;">4. Oliver Bonk (20)</div><div style="text-align: left;">5. Nick Lardis (27)</div><div style="text-align: left;">6. Carson Rehkopf (29)</div><div style="text-align: left;">7. Andrew Gibson (31)</div><div style="text-align: left;">8. Tristan Bertucci (32)</div><div style="text-align: left;">9. Beau Akey (33)</div><div style="text-align: left;">10. Quinton Burns (34)</div><div style="text-align: left;">11. Coulson Pitre (37)</div><div style="text-align: left;">12. Carey Terrance (38)</div><div style="text-align: left;">13. Hunter Brzustewicz (41)</div><div style="text-align: left;">14. Cam Allen (46)</div><div style="text-align: left;">15. Ethan Miedema (50)</div><div style="text-align: left;">16. Easton Cowan (51)</div><div style="text-align: left;">17. Luca Pinelli (54)</div><div style="text-align: left;">18. Brad Gardiner (57)</div><div style="text-align: left;">19. Cole Brown (69)</div><div style="text-align: left;">20. Matthew Mania (70)</div><div style="text-align: left;">21. Matthew Mayich (72)</div><div style="text-align: left;">22. Alex Pharand (77)</div><div style="text-align: left;">23. Denver Barkey (79)</div><div style="text-align: left;">24. Ethan Hay (83)</div><div style="text-align: left;">25. Cooper Foster (88)</div><div style="text-align: left;">26. Konnor Smith (94)</div><div style="text-align: left;">27. Luke McNamara (100)</div><div style="text-align: left;">28. Anthony Romani (106)</div><div style="text-align: left;">29. Rodwin Dionicio (114)</div><div style="text-align: left;">30. Owen Outwater (126)</div><div style="text-align: left;">31. Ondrej Molnar (129)</div><div style="text-align: left;">32. Matthew Soto (130)</div><div style="text-align: left;">33. Florian Xhekaj (131)</div><div style="text-align: left;">34. Matthew Andonovski (134)</div><div style="text-align: left;">35. James Petrovski (136)</div><div style="text-align: left;">36. Angus MacDonell (142)</div><div style="text-align: left;">37. Blake Smith (155)</div><div style="text-align: left;">38. Alexis Daviault (160)</div><div style="text-align: left;">39. Jacob Julien (161)</div><div style="text-align: left;">40. Donovan McCoy (173)</div><div style="text-align: left;">41. Joey Willis (174)</div><div style="text-align: left;">42. Braeden Bowman (177)</div><div style="text-align: left;">43. Djibril Toure (178)</div><div style="text-align: left;">44. Spencer Sova (182)</div><div style="text-align: left;">45. Beau Jelsma (190)</div><div style="text-align: left;">46. Kocha Delic (191)</div><div style="text-align: left;">47. Alex Christopoulos (198)</div><div style="text-align: left;">48. Lucas Moore (209)</div><div style="text-align: left;">49. Calem Mangone (214)</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b><u>Goaltenders</u></b></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b><u><br /></u></b></div><div style="text-align: left;">1. Nathaniel Day (12)</div><div style="text-align: left;">2. Charlie Robertson (13)</div><div style="text-align: left;">3. Zach Bowen (15)</div><div style="text-align: left;">4. Charlie Schenkel (25)</div><div style="text-align: left;">5. Owen Flores (27)</div><div style="text-align: left;">6. Andrew Oke (29)</div><div style="text-align: left;">7. Corbin Votary (32)</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">For the complete rankings, <a href="https://www.nhl.com/ice/draftprospectbrowse.htm?cat=1&sort=finalRank&year=2023">see here.</a></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><u>Biggest Risers:</u></div><div style="text-align: left;">1. Rodwin Dionicio - From Unranked to 114 (+100ish)</div><div style="text-align: left;">2. Jacob Julien - From Unranked to 161 (+70ish)</div><div style="text-align: left;">3. Nick Lardis - From 96 to 27 (+69)</div><div style="text-align: left;">4. Anthony Romani - From 170 to 106 (+64)</div><div style="text-align: left;">5. Braeden Bowman - From Unranked to 177 (+60ish)</div><div style="text-align: left;">6. Matthew Mayich - From 122 to 72 (+50)</div><div style="text-align: left;">7. Cole Brown - From 105 to 69 (+36)</div><div style="text-align: left;">8. Angus MacDonell - From 172 to 142 (+30)</div><div style="text-align: left;">9. Easton Cowan - From 75 to 51 (+24)</div><div style="text-align: left;">10. Tristan Bertucci - From 51 to 32 (+19)</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><u>Biggest Fallers:</u></div><div style="text-align: left;">1. Nic Sima - From 133 to Unranked (-90ish)</div><div style="text-align: left;">2. Ondrej Molnar - From 48 to 129 (-81)</div><div style="text-align: left;">3. Chris Barlas - From 177 to Unranked (-50sh)</div><div style="text-align: left;">4. Owen Outwater - From 76 to 126 (-50)</div><div style="text-align: left;">5. Spencer Sova - From 136 to 182 (-46)</div><div style="text-align: left;">6. Matthew Soto - From 88 to 130 (-42)</div><div style="text-align: left;">7. Calem Mangone - From 176 to 214 (-38)</div><div style="text-align: left;">8. Florian Xhekaj - From 103 to 131 (-28)</div><div style="text-align: left;">9. Blake Smith - From 123 to 155 (-22)</div><div style="text-align: left;">10. Djibril Toure - From 156 to 178 (-22)</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">Comments:</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">- I haven't released my own final rankings yet. But I have a rough idea of what they will look like. Denver Barkey, Joey Willis, and Alex Assadourian (unranked) are the guys that I'm definitely going to have a bit higher. </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">- Obviously not shocking at all to see how far Nick Lardis has risen in the eyes of NHL Central Scouting. He's a borderline first rounder depending on how he performs at the U18's. </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">- Love the aggressive ranking of Tristan Bertucci, who will also be in my own top ten of the OHL players available and is someone that I can will end up being a top 50 selection.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">- As far as re-entries...no Brady Stonehouse is shocking and not something I'd agree with. Ditto for Oliver Peer and Connor Punnett.</div>Brock Ottenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08237782074032840702noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2553903000955128175.post-14487617160809716202023-04-18T16:56:00.003-04:002023-04-18T20:49:44.046-04:002023 OHL Priority Selection Mock Draft & Preview<div style="text-align: left;"><div>The 2023 OHL Priority Selection is set to go this weekend, with rounds 1-3 occurring Friday night. The Erie Otters will select first after winning the draft lottery and all signs point to them taking Halton defender Matthew Schaefer. </div><div> </div><div>It should be noted that this collaborative mock draft was started over a week ago, before things start to leak out regarding placement. Even if the mock does not end up being extremely accurate, the true purpose of this piece is to provide you with information on some of the top players available this year. </div><div> </div><div>This is the fifth year that I have gathered scouts together for this piece. It seems like with each passing year, I am able to see less and less U16 action. This couldn't be more true now that I've taken on the director of scouting role with McKeen's Hockey. Thus, I love putting this together to help me learn too. This piece wouldn't be possible without the contributions of some terrific scouts.</div><div> </div><div>Helping out with this mock draft are:</div><div> </div><div>Steven Ellis – Associate Editor and Prospect Analyst for <a href="https://www.dailyfaceoff.com/">The Daily Faceoff</a> (<a href="https://twitter.com/SEllisHockey">@SEllisHockey</a>)</div><div>Connor Williams – Scout for <a href="https://www.recruitscouting.com/">Recruit Scouting</a> (<a href="https://twitter.com/cwilliams_384">@cwilliams_384</a>)</div><div>Chase Rochon - Scout for <a href="https://www.mckeenshockey.com/">McKeen's Hockey</a> & Stathletes Video Analyst (<a href="https://twitter.com/chaserochon18">@chaserochon18</a>)</div><div>Gavin Chiasson - Owner of <a href="https://www.recruitscouting.com/">Recruit Scouting</a> (<a href="https://twitter.com/NHLChiasson">@NHLChiasson</a>) </div><div>Joely Stockl - Scout for <a href="https://www.mckeenshockey.com/">McKeen's Hockey</a> & Toronto Jr. Patriots (OJHL) (<a href="https://twitter.com/joely_stockl04">@joely_stockl04</a>)</div><div>Chase Allen - Scout for <a href="https://puckpreps.com/">Puck Preps</a> (<a href="https://twitter.com/ChaseAllen03">@ChaseAllen03</a>)</div><div>Mat Goodwin - Scout for <a href="http://TheScout.ca">TheScout.ca</a> (<a href="https://twitter.com/Goody_0808">@Goody_0808</a>)</div><div>Ryan Ferizovic - Director of Scouting for <a href="http://TheScout.ca">TheScout.ca</a> (<a href="https://twitter.com/RFerry27">@RFerry27</a>)</div><div>Jordan Malette - Scout for <a href="https://puckpreps.com/">Puck Preps</a> (<a href="https://twitter.com/jordanmalette">@jordanmalette</a>)</div><div>Gabe Foley - Head of North American Scouting for <a href="https://www.recruitscouting.com/">Recruit Scouting</a> (<a href="https://twitter.com/NHLFoley">@NHLFoley</a>)</div><div>Steven Graves - Independent Scout (<a href="https://twitter.com/German_Spitfire">@German_Spitfire</a>)</div><div>Ethan Atticus Page - Scout for <a href="http://TheScout.ca">TheScout.ca</a> (<a href="https://twitter.com/e_pager_">@e_pager_</a>)</div><div><br /></div><div>If you're hungry for more information on these players, check out the content on the sites of these contributors!</div><div><br /></div><div>Without further ado, here is our first round mock draft, honorable mentions, and top US potential selections:</div><div><br /></div><div><div><b>1. Erie Otters (Brock Otten) - Matthew Schaefer, D, Halton (OMHA/SCTA) </b></div><div>Coming into the year it was thought to be the Roobroeck and Moore draft after those two were denied exceptional player status last season. However, Moore has since signed on with the U.S. NTDP and Roobroeck had a disappointing end to the year. That opened the door for dynamic defender Matt Schaefer. Not only was he a factor for the Hurricanes all year, but he was probably the best player at the Canada Winter Games this year, helping Ontario capture a gold medal. A truly gifted skater, Schaefer likely jumps right into a top four role and should be able to help the Otters’ transitional attack and powerplay. As he gains experience, he should become an elite two-way defender because of his high IQ. With Spencer Sova and Schaefer, the Otters will now have two of the better skating defenders in the league and they’re building from defense out to support a solid, young forward group.</div><div><br /></div><div><b>2. Niagara IceDogs (Joely Stockl) - Brady Martin, F, Waterloo (Alliance)</b></div><div>After having a true breakout performance for the Waterloo Wolves at the OHL Cup, and helping his team win the Alliance championships, Brady Martin has firmly placed himself inside the projected top three selections. From scoring overtime winners, to the quarter final hat trick to eliminate the 1st place Toronto Marlboros, Martin was the star of the show at the OHL Cup and was scoring goals at the time it mattered most. There is never a dull moment in Martin’s game, he’ll throw a big hit at one end, and then hustle down the ice and rip a shot past the goaltender at the other. Martin’s greatest asset is his shot. He seems to be able to consistently find open pockets in the ice where he has just enough room to get his shot off. Between his precise accuracy and incredibly heavy release, Martin is a nightmare for goaltenders to handle. He is a very powerful player with a great work ethic, battles hard in the corners and refuses to be pushed around. Martin isn’t the quickest player on the ice, but his stride and strength will likely allow him to improve in those areas as he develops. If the IceDogs are able to get Martin to commit at this position, he will bring life back into their offense and make an immediate offensive impact alongside skilled, young forwards like Kevin He & Declan Waddick.</div><div><br /></div><div><b>3. Soo Greyhounds (Gavin Chiasson) - Ryan Roobroeck, F, London</b></div><div>While many felt that Roobroeck’s OHL Cup performance was a disappointment, I felt differently the more I thought about it. I watched Roobroeck early on this year at the Wendy Dufton and felt disappointed by what I had seen by (at the time) a bonafide 1st overall pick. He often hung around the opposing blue line, coasting and waiting for breakout passes for breakaways and odd-man opportunities, and I felt there was nothing more to his game than that. Obviously good speed and a good shot are what highlighted why he was successful in that regard which meant there had to be some deserving skillset there, right? Well, that proved useful as the year carried on. By the OHL Cup, Roobroeck was ‘disappointing’ stats wise, and maybe he wasn’t as dangerous in shooting attempts, and while I had the same opinion, I felt different the longer I thought about it. Roobroeck was magnificent two-ways, and was constantly disrupting opponents offensive and neutral play. I can’t really picture any other player who was that dangerous at stopping opposing opportunities than Roobroeck at that tournament. With his long reach, size, and already discussed speed, as Roobroeck learns how to make his two-way game work with his offensive flare, I still think Roobroeck could be incredibly dangerous, and possibly still the best of this draft class. I could see the Hounds going for Roobroeck as the name still stands out as one of the best, and there’s growth potential to hit a large two-way centreman. Any team would be happy with grabbing someone like that, and the Hounds have a good way of developing prospects to be offensive dynamos over the years, so I feel confident that if Roobroeck is interested in joining the Hounds, that they will grab him at 3.</div><div> </div><div><b>4. Kingston Frontenacs (Jordan Malette) - Tyler Hopkins , F, Halton (OMHA/Alliance)</b></div><div>I could see the Fronts going in many different directions with this pick, but Hopkins made the most sense to me. Hopkins is among the best skaters in the class, and all he needs is a few long powerful strides to explode through the neutral zone uncontested. His speed creates separation all over the ice and should continue to be a competitive advantage at the OHL level. He manages the puck incredibly well, and when combined with his skating, makes for the mould of a play-driving centerman at the next level. Outside of the skating and transition impact, Hopkins is a gifted playmaker who creates plenty of chances for everyone around him. Tyler has a "pass first" mindset, constantly scans for open teammates, and can exploit the smallest of passing lanes. Kingston has a lot of talented wingers in their core, and adding a centerman who can handle the heavy lifting in transition, who is also a crafty playmaker, will complement their existing assets nicely.</div><div><br /></div><div><b>5. Niagara IceDogs* (Chase Rochon) - Dryden Allen, D, Southern Tier Admirals (OMHA/SCTA)</b></div><div>The Icedogs are in a tough position with their compensation pick for Sam Dickinson, who failed to report last summer. After one season of new, inexperienced management, they will be forced to make safe decisions on draft day for players who will report for training camp, as this year's compensation pick will not be eligible to be compensated for next year. Using this pick to take the best player available that they believe will report will be the best route. Dryden Allen playing for the local AAA team, Southern Tier Admirals, would be a great, safe pick. Currently, a late first to early second-rounder, Allen would not be too far of a reach to ensure they are still getting a great player. This also fills the hole in young defence after losing Dickinson last year. Allen is great at headmanning the puck and driving play which is exactly what Niagara needs. Allen has lots of growing left to do, and once he fills out can use this more to his advantage as he is still quite slim. He is an excellent skater with a high IQ, shown by his decision-making and ability to read and create plays shows he has the tools and capability to succeed at the next level.</div><div><br /></div><div><b>6. Oshawa Generals (Mat Goodwin) - William Moore, F, Toronto (GTHL)</b></div><div>Moore is one of the most talented forwards in this year’s draft. He has all the tools of a top prospect: the size, the speed, the shot and the IQ. The only question surrounding him is: will he take his talents to the OHL or suit up for the USNTDP (of course, he has signed on with the NTDP). If he decides to go the Major Junior route, whichever team takes him will be getting a player that is ready to step in and contribute immediately. Moore had an impressive 10 points in 5 games at the OHL Cup to help build on an incredible season and post-season run in the GTHL. At nearly 6’2” he has a long reach and can corral the puck in transition and shows impressive stick handling skills while keeping an impressive high speed. If opposing defenders aren’t ready, they will be beat cleanly on the rush. Moore’s shot is as good as anyone’s in the draft class, in both speed and accuracy. He is a true offensive threat in any situation and will make you pay if he’s given too much time and space. Moore rounds out his offensive game with solid defensive zone awareness and positioning, using his size and hockey sense to steal pucks and create turnovers. Overall, Moore is one of the best forwards in the 2007 group and hopefully decides to display his talent in the OHL next season, even if it is appearing to be slightly far fetched.</div><div><br /></div><div><b>7. Mississauga Steelheads (Chase Allen) - Quinn Beauchesne, D, Nepean Raiders (HEO)</b></div><div>Quinn Beauchesne really came to my attention after an impressive Canada Winter Games for Team Ontario. The offensively-inclined defender out of the HEO has been leaned on heavily by his squad to drive play from the blueline and has lived up to the expectations. He’s by-far one of the more mobile skating defenders in this years’ draft, great usage of his edges and momentum to pivot, twist, and turn, he can defend the rush strongly and keep pace with speedy puck carriers. On the other side of the puck he can lead the rush, jump in as a trailing man if needed, and even finish off plays here-and-there. Part of what makes Beauchesne so valuable is his mentality from the backend most defenders lack, he wants to drive play, he wants to have the puck, and wants to create things through transition via his stick and decision making. Occasionally there is a gaf-or-two with the puck as he transitions up ice, but the good far outweighs the bad regarding Beauchesne’s risk-to-reward ratio. Beauchesne would be a great addition to the Mississauga Steelhead’s blueline, instilling some offensive firepower on top of prospective defensive developments to round out his game fueled by his already established skating ability.</div><div><br /></div><div><b>8. Hamilton Bulldogs (Steven Ellis) - Henry Brzustewicz, D, New Jersey U16</b></div><div>One of the best skaters in the draft, Brzustewicz has the makings of a top-pairing, two-way defender. He's excellent on the rush (at both ends) and is calculated with his stick work. He doesn't waste much movement trying to shut someone down, and I’m fully convinced he’ll put up significant point totals in the O. The younger brother of Kitchener's Hunter, he was recently left off the U.S. NTDP team for U17.</div><div><br /></div><div><b>9. Sudbury Wolves (Steven Graves) - Jack Ivankovic, G, Mississauga Senators (GTHL) </b></div><div>The 9th overall selection belongs to Sudbury this year. The Wolves don’t have any major graduations going into next season so there isn’t an immediate position that needs addressing at the draft. Because of this, they’re in a position to take the best goaltender in the draft in Mississauga Senators backstopper Jack Ivankovic. Jack is one of the best goaltending prospects to come into the OHL in the past 10 years, He is very athletic in the crease, he is able to move left to right very quick and isn’t reliant on his frame to make saves. Ivankovic is the type of kid that gives his team an opportunity to win games in and out. He was the starter for Ontario at the Canada Winter games and was a big reason why the team took home gold. He made many clutch saves throughout the game and into overtime. Ivankovic has really shown to be a big game player at such a young age, coming up big whenever he is tasked to do so. Sudbury solve any goaltending concerns for the next 4 years with this selection. </div><div><br /></div><div><b>10. Kitchener Rangers* (Ryan Ferizovic)– Owen Griffin, C, York Simcoe Express (ETA)</b></div><div>Being left on the board this late into the first round, the Rangers would undoubtedly take the highly skilled two-way centreman from York Simcoe. With an extraordinary under-aged year last season with the Markham Waxers and leading the ETA in points this season, Owen Griffin has demonstrated why he is a top prospect in the 2023 OHL Entry Draft. He possesses a strong offensive skill set, a high compete level, and a hockey IQ that consistently gets the best of opponents. He is able to drive the play up-ice and generate prime scoring chances with great playmaking ability or employing a combination of strong puck skills and a quick-release shot. His positional awareness and creative passing allows him to find open linemates in seemingly impossible situations. Whether he’s coming off the cycle low in the zone or flying down the half wall after a successful zone entry, Griffin can find anyone in the same sweater as him regardless of pressure and traffic. Due to his high compete level and strong work ethic, he plays both special teams and is able to make meaningful contributions on both. Strong mobility and effective checking ability earns him the puck on the penalty kill while strong passing and shooting ability sees him quarterbacking his team’s power play. Don’t be surprised if Griffin is taken higher than this spot. He is a natural leader and highly skilled. </div><div><br /></div><div><b>11. Kitchener Rangers (Ethan Atticus Page) - Cameron Reid, D, Rochester BK Selects (USA)</b></div><div>As Kitchener comes into the draft with their second first round pick, it would make sense for a defensman to be their selection of choice. Reid, an Aylmer, Ontario native had another head-turning season for the BK Selects, establishing himself as one of the better defensive prospects in this years draft. Reid’s combination of mobility and IQ make for an exciting player to watch game-in game-out. The two-way D-man is poised with the puck, making smart plays and calculated decisions. Reid thinks one step ahead of his opponents, making it easy for him to anticipate plays and gain a strong sense of awareness of all areas of the ice. He is effective in most situations, displaying a solid sense of both offensive and defensive awareness. In his own end, he has the ability to keep opponents to the outside and keep player out of dangerous scoring areas. In transition, he makes accurate first passes to start breakouts. He will often join the rush when he can to add an extra level of offense. At the point, he moves well laterally, as he can effortlessly walk to blueline to evade defenders and look for possible shooting/passing lanes. When shooting, he is effective at getting the puck through traffic - usually looking to create a tip-in or a rebound for his forwards to pick up. When passing, he has the ability to be creative, making risky passing look easy, setting his teammates up with prime scoring opportunities. Reid will without a doubt be an exciting player to keep an eye on for seasons to come.</div><div><br /></div><div><b>12. Owen Sound Attack (Connor Williams) - Jake O’Brien, C, Toronto JRC (GTHL)</b></div><div>The Owen Sound Attack hold the 12th overall pick in the 2023 OHL priority selection. Going into the draft the Attack don’t have a ton of roster turnover in terms of overage players, leaving or players ageing out. As a whole they have a fairly young roster, and given the Attack have not selected a defenceman since they selected Nolan Seed 15th overall in 2018, it wouldn’t necessarily be a stretch to think the Attack may go with a forward once again. Add onto that is the OHL cup MVP and leading scorer Jake O’Brien and Toronto Jr. Canadiens remains available at the 12th overall selection, that would be a very hard player to pass up at this position. O’Brien is a very smart player with a high hockey IQ, he understands where to be in all three zones of the ice, specifically in the offensive zone, finding soft pockets where he can receive the puck to create offensive opportunities for himself and his teammates. in addition, O’Brien combines his high level hockey IQ with his high end puck skills play, making its score in ability to ultimately be an impact player whenever he is on the ice.</div><div><br /></div><div><b>13. Peterborough Petes (Mat Goodwin) - Luca Romano, C, Toronto JRC (GTHL)</b></div><div>Romano is a very intriguing prospect for the OHL Cup winning Junior Canadiens. He is not the biggest or flashiest player and was out-paced by fellow teammates during the OHL Cup tournament when it comes to points, however, Romano’s game is so much more than numbers. He is a very good skater with an effortless stride and great acceleration. He has great vision and his puck distribution is some of the best in his age group. What really sets him apart from his peers is his hockey sense and ‘IQ”. Romano is a very cerebral player that is wise beyond what his birth certificate reads. He understands the importance of playing a 200-foot game and is rarely out of position in the defensive zone. He can be counted on to get the puck out of the zone safely and is always calm and poised doing so. He can control the pace of play when he has the puck, pushing the pace, or slowing it down and setting up in the offensive zone. His gifted style of play makes everyone around him better and a fun player to watch. He can be trusted in all situations, whether it be to win an important defensive zone draw in the dying seconds of a game, or to score a key power-play goal when his team is down late. Romano has future captain potential and whichever team takes him will be very happy with their pick for years to come. </div><div><br /></div><div><b>14. Guelph Storm (Brock Otten) - Carson Cameron, D, Central Ontario Wolves (OMHA/ETA)</b></div><div>If Cameron is still available at #14, I believe that the Storm would have a very difficult time passing on him. In contention to be the second best defender available behind Schaefer, Cameron was another player who stood out in a really positive way at the Canada Winter Games for that strong Ontario team. He is a high IQ two-way defender who plays the right side and in two years time, he could end up anchoring the second pairing behind Cam Allen, helping to replace Buchinger. In the meantime, he can be brought along slowly and help to give more depth to a Storm team that has Jake Murray graduating and likely a decision to make between Enright and Romeo as an OA on the backend next season.</div><div><br /></div><div><b>15. Flint Firebirds (Gavin Chiasson) - Chase Hull, F, Renfrew Wolves (HEO)</b></div><div>Chase Hull brings such offensive flare to his game that he becomes impossible to miss shift-by-shift. With Flint picking at 15, if Hull isn’t gone yet, I think he becomes the type of player Flint is looking for. The HEO is perhaps a bit underrated this year in terms of their top-end talent and Hull brings physicality, speed and an impressive shot that Flint is missing since losing Othmann. </div><div><br /></div><div><b>16. Saginaw Spirit (Steven Ellis) - Matheas Stark, F, Toronto Marlboros (GTHL) </b></div><div>When he gets the puck, he races down the ice like he's shot out of a cannon. He has a quick, accurate release, but it's his playmaking that makes him appear as the smartest player on the ice anytime he's on. You won’t have to worry about his effort level - he brings it every single shift.</div><div><br /></div><div><b>17. Sarnia Sting (Ryan Ferizovic) – Aiden Lane, RW, Toronto Marlboros (GTHL)</b></div><div>Perhaps the player who has shown the most development over the season, Lane is a sizable winger who has the ability to play in any and all offensive situations. From a player who played a ‘grinder’ style of play at the beginning of the season- coming in heavy on the forecheck to secure pucks and outlet them to streaking linemates- to a durable and pure goal-scoring winger, Lane was an integral part in why the Marlboros won the GTHL Playoffs and went so deep in the OHL Cup. He plays an assertive style in the offensive zone, using his big frame to protect the puck and his edges to find open ice to where he can make an accurate setup pass or take the puck to the net. He is a dangerous shooter from anywhere in the attacking end, able to employ velocity and accuracy in full stride or from a fixed position. He plays a physical style to win pucks and force turnovers, giving his team increased time on attack whenever he is out for a shift. His high compete level and continuous growth alludes to the fact he could become a top player at the next level. </div><div><br /></div><div><b>18. London Knights (Chase Rochon) - Aiden Young, F, London Jr. Knights (ALLIANCE)</b></div><div>London's current team looks quite different from their typical model of high-end offensive stars. Now they play more of a structured, defensive system with the elite defenders Logan Mailloux, Oliver Bonk, Isaiah George, Jackson Edward, and the developing 2006 star Sam Dickinson. With most of these defence returning next season and losing co-captains George Diaco and Sean McGurn, they should be looking toward a forward. Born and raised in London, Ontario, Aiden Young would be a great fit for the Knights at this pick. Currently playing for the local Jr. Knights, Young has been well-known and scouted by the Knight's scouting staff for a while. Possessing the two most transferable traits to succeed at the OHL level in skating and IQ should make for a smooth transition to developing into an OHL star. Under great coaching and management of the Hunters, they should be able round out his game and turn this type of player into a star. Aiden plays very well with Elite company but can create space to produce offence on his own, and this will fit perfectly into playing with some high-end talent with the Knights. The fit seems too good to be true and can make Youngs' dreams come true on draft day.</div><div><br /></div><div><b>19. Barrie Colts (Joely Stockl) - William McFadden, F, Peterborough Petes (ETA)</b></div><div>William McFadden established himself as a difference maker in the offensive end this season for the U16 Peterborough Petes. He averaged over 2 points per game in the regular season, and had an impressive 9 points in 6 games at the OHL Cup before losing to Vaughn in the semi-finals. McFadden is a winger that oozes pure offensive skill. What makes McFadden unique, is the emotional edge that he plays with. He plays with loads of compete and he is relentless on every puck. He is able to pick up passes and loose pucks at full speed and always drives play with a purpose. McFadden’s foot speed and edges allow him to attack the defense in a variety of ways, whether he is beating them down the wall, or charging through the defense by using his hands. Sitting at just 5’7”, McFadden’s size is an issue that prevents him from getting picked earlier in this draft, and will prevent him from playing certain roles in the OHL. He doesn’t let himself get pushed around, but continuing to increase his strength will be crucial to making that next step. With the absence of over-age forwards Ethan Cardwell, Evan Vierling, & Declan McDonnell, offense will be hard to come by for the Barrie Colts next season. McFadden has the potential to be that difference maker for Barrie in the next couple seasons and provide some much needed offense.</div><div><br /></div><div><b>20. Windsor Spitfires (Steven Graves) - Caden Taylor, LW, Mississauga Senators (GTHL) </b></div><div>Windsor are in real good hands moving forward thanks to a strong 2022 draft class that saw them pull out three productive rookies in Liam Greentree, Anthony Cristoforo and AJ Spellacy. The Spitfires get to add to that here with the 20th overall selection. Taylor was very good for the Mississauga Senators at the OHL cup, in particular, where he turned his game up a notch and finished among the tournaments leading scorers despite only playing four games. The 6’2” Taylor has one of the best shots in the entire class; he already has a pro shot, not many kids his age can shoot the puck like him - His shot is heavy and he is able to get the puck off his stick quickly, and with precision. Taylor has very good offensive instincts, he reads the play well and positions himself accordingly for good scoring opportunities. He’s also a really good skater that can get up to pace quick and beat defenders to the outside. I know there are concerns about his off-puck game and his defensive effort, but a talent like Taylor is worth the risk at this spot. </div><div><br /></div><div><b>21. North Bay Battalion (Chase Allen) - Jacob Cloutier, RW, Pittsburgh Pens Elite (NEPACK)</b></div><div>From the HEO to the NEPACK, Jacob Cloutier has spent his OHL Draft Eligible season with the Pittsburgh Pens Elite south of the border and has been one of the leading offensive threats throughout the entire year. He’s by-far one of the best transition pieces available in this draft, and can lead offensive transition with ease regardless of the situation. His ability to pre-scan with the puck on his stick in all 3-zones, evade pressure, and create space is one of his greatest strengths. He has some decent physical maturity to go along with his evasive nature, if he gets caught with physical play he can endure the check through some decent strength and pivots via his footwork to better position himself to box out opposition from the puck. On top of the lethal transition work and playmaking ability via good reads and natural passing talent, Cloutier also possesses some nice finishing ability by finding open ice and using his quick and accurate wrist shot to beat goaltenders. He supports his teammates off-puck very well, remaining dynamic in the offensive zone, buzzing in-and-out of coverage, and ultimately winning space to be the reciptiant of dangerous scoring chances. With an aging core relative to Major-Junior standards, Jacob Cloutier would be a great offensive piece to insert into the North Bay Battalion lineup going forward.</div><div><br /></div><div><b>22. Ottawa 67’s (Jordan Malette) - Tanner Lam, F, Halton Hurricanes (SCTA)</b></div><div>With the 67s first-round pick, I think they lean toward a forward after selecting Henry Mews and Frankie Marelli high in the 2022 draft. The 67s never seem to shy away from the undersized skill players, and that's precisely what you're getting in Tanner Lam. Lam plays with tremendous pace, outstanding individual skill, and creativity, and they all stack on top of each other to deliver that "wow" factor. He's one of the most confident players in the class and can pull off some outrageous moves to dangle his way to the dangerous parts of the ice. Conversely, there are moments where his ambitious moves don't work out, but he converts more often than not. Especially as the 67s will have back-to-back picks as they hold Niagaras 2nd rounder, they could take a major upside swing by selecting Lam with one of those two picks. It's certainly not risk-free, but there is enormous potential for a top-line winger at the OHL level.</div><div><br /></div><div>—-------------------------------- (Bonus Second Round)--------------------------------</div><div><br /></div><div><b>23. Ottawa 67’s (via Niagara) (Connor Williams) - Parker Snelgrove, C, London Jr. Knights (ALLIANCE)</b></div><div>After having the final pick of the first round in the draft, the 67’s have back to back selections, opening up the second round of the draft with the first pick of the second round, as they hold Niagara’s second round selection in the draft. Although there are lots of options with this pick, the 67’s certainly can’t go wrong with selecting Team Ontario forward Parker Snelgrove of the London Jr. Knights. Snelgrove is a two way forward who plays the game, up-tempo high pace, utilizing his speed and quickness to put pressure on the opposition with and without the puck on his stick. While Snelgrove can play the game with speed he can also slow the game down with his edges, changing pace and creating time and space for himself and his teammates. In addition, Snelgrove sees the ice very well with the puck on his stick, finding teammates and setting them up for offensive scoring opportunities.</div><div><br /></div><div><b>24. Erie Otters (Ethan Atticus Page) - Jimmy Lombardi, C, Don Mills Flyers (GTHL)</b></div><div>Lombardi, who could very well be taken in the first round, is a strong 200 foot centreman with a knack for winning face-offs. With Erie projected to take Schaefer first, and picking up former GTHL superstar winger Malcolm Spence in last years draft, it only makes sense for them to take a chance on this crafty forward. What stands out most about Lombardi is his ability to never stop moving. He is consistently active in the play in all areas of the ice, making presence known to everyone when on the ice. Standing at 5’11”, 147 lbs, he may not be the biggest on the ice, however that never stops lombardi from battling along the boards and making calculated checks to separate players from the puck. Lombardi is a strong skater who makes effective use of his edges to make quick direction changes to evade traffic. With the puck, he has the ability to protect it against other top plyers and defenders. Lombardi is versatile, having the ability to play the perimeter and actively engage in the slot. When in the defensive zone, he demonstrates an understanding of his assignments, picking up his man and clogging up passing lanes. Lombardi’s game should transition well to the next level.</div><div><br /></div><div><b><i><u>Each Contributor’s Honorable Mentions</u></i></b></div><div><br /></div><div><b><u>Brock Otten</u></b></div><div><br /></div><div><b>Casey Bridgewater - Defense - Halton Hurricanes</b></div><div>Saw Halton play a few times this year and Bridgewater was always someone who caught my eye playing behind Matt Schaefer. Strong skating, puck moving defender who also shows well in the defensive end. If he was on a different U16 team playing larger minutes and receiving greater powerplay responsibility, would he be more highly regarded? Shades of Michael Buchinger, who played behind Ty Nelson with JRC a few years ago and has ended up becoming a high end OHL defender because of his skating ability and two-way impact.</div><div><br /></div><div><b>Nico Addy - Forward - Toronto Jr. Canadiens</b></div><div>Big, physical, power forward with JRC who really caught my eye at the Canada Winter Games. Anyone who follows my work knows that I’m a sucker for a throwback power forward. Addy can really have a profound impact on a game with his ability to drive the net and lay the body in puck pursuit. I also think he shows well as a playmaker and passer and is more than just a North/South attacker with tunnel vision. The feet will need to improve and he’ll have to become more disciplined, but he should play in the OHL next year if he selects that route.</div><div><br /></div><div><b>Adrian Manzo - Defense - Vaughan Kings</b></div><div>I hadn’t watched the Vaughan Kings until the OHL Cup and Manzo was someone who immediately jumped out at me. But, I guess he popped for others too since he was named to the OHL Cup All Star team. I don’t see a defender with significant offensive upside at the OHL level, at least in my smaller sample size (although he does quarterback the powerplay for Vaughan), but I do see someone who can be a really solid and dependable defensive presence. </div><div><br /></div><div><b><u>Joely Stockl</u></b></div><div><br /></div><div><b>Nolan Jackson - Defense - Barrie Jr. Colts (ETA)</b></div><div>Any offense that the Barrie Jr. Colts are generating, seems to always be going through the hands of defender Nolan Jackson. Watching Jackson skate is truly a pleasure, he has a quick first step, lateral mobility and edges. Anytime that he is caught out of position, usually jumping up in the rush, his skating allows him to bounce back into position efficiently. His play oozes confidence as he is always trying to make plays through the middle of the ice and surely isn’t afraid to take risks. His feet allow him to get into quality shooting spots and he loves to shoot the puck. There are some lapses defensively, especially in front of the net, and cases where he is relying solely on his foot speed to generate chances. Large offensive upside with Jackson, and he is definitely worth taking a chance on post-first round.</div><div><br /></div><div><b>Luke Dragusica - Defense - Toronto Marlboros (GTHL)</b></div><div>Dragusica could very well be taken in the first round, as he has a lot of translatable tools. He is a long strided defender with an aggressive, purposeful first pass and a physical edge. When he is facilitating a breakout, he is always looking far down the ice, and is able to hit a teammate with a hard pass on the tape almost every time. He lacks quickness, but his lateral mobility allows him to take up a lot of area with his long reach, and this is how he is able to open up passing lanes. Dragusica is not a player that you want to go into the corners with or match up against as an opposing winger. He is not afraid to dominate physically and he is always looking to take advantage of an attacker with his head down. Dragusica has a very safe projection into the OHL, not much offensive upside, but he is a player that is extremely difficult to play against.</div><div><br /></div><div><b>Brady Smith - Forward - Halton Hurricanes (SCTA)</b></div><div>Among the high-end point producers on the Halton Hurricanes is skilled-power forward, Brady Smith. Smith had a phenomenal season playing alongside Tyler Hopkins and he became a highlight reel of his own. Smith plays with finesse and tremendous puck control, if there are any bouncing pucks or rebounds down low, he always finds a way to pounce onto them. Most of his damage is done around the net, whether he is feathering passes through the slot to teammates, or beating the goalie himself using his deceptiveness. Smith’s lack of speed is the main concern surrounding his game. He has slow acceleration and it prevents him from being a major threat in transition. Smith is most likely going to be a support player at the next level, and it will be about finding a perfect situation for him to explode offensively in the OHL. </div><div><br /></div><div><b><u>Gavin Chiasson</u></b></div><div><br /></div><div><b>Hudson Chitaroni, F, Soo Greyhounds</b></div><div>I have to highlight the north here, and why not do so with Hudson Chitaroni. It feels as though he’s being underrated quite a bit heading into the draft, and while I can see some of the concerns, I think there’s a lot more deep down. When Chitaroni is off-puck, his ability to get into open positions is among the best in the draft. With a great nose for the net, he is consistently putting himself in dangerous scoring opportunities, which is how he netted 62 points in 33 GNML U18 games this season. When on-puck, Chitaroni exhibits uber-confidence, where he often makes slick moves to open up ice or make a highlight reel deke. Now, I understand that at times Chitaroni does try to do too much, but he makes these moves work out more frequently than most skilled players. When he cleans up these aspects of his game, he’ll make out to be a fine OHL player. Now, the top end speed may also be a concern, but it can become better with good skating coaches, as he’s also very strong in his edgework and lower body strength. Chitaroni also displays great stick-lifting ability, winning most puck battles that he enters. There’s a lot of heart on his sleeve and a chip on his shoulder as well. </div><div><br /></div><div><b>Drew McLennan, D, Whitby Wildcats </b></div><div>Out of all the U16 AAA defenders I saw at the OHL Cup, McLennan may just be my favourite. He might not be the best one out of them, but I for one believe he’s deserving of a top 50 pick. McLennan has the poise, awareness, speed and IQ of a defender who should be in the OHL next season. With a great motor that seems to last forever, he quickly became one of my favourite players in this class. In the game that saw overtime, McLennan probably played 30 minutes of a 50 minute game. It felt like he was on the ice for 10 of the 15 minutes in the third, and most of the overtime too, where he was the most responsible player on the ice in those shifts as well. </div><div><br /></div><div><b>Vasily Serov, F, Vaughan Kings</b></div><div>Vasili Serov is one of the most OHL-ready talents in this class. Spending last season as well in Canada makes him eligible, and I have a hard time seeing a 6’3 - 205 lbs power forward with his skillset not being taken in the top 30 of this class. Maybe the footspeed lacks a little from time to time, but Serov is very hard to strip the puck off of and has nice hands to go with it. Is it even worth mentioning that his shot is booming? Serov might have the best one-timer of the forward group in this draft, that he highlighted at the OHL Cup. Serov could potentially step into the second power-play squad right away of the OHL team that picks him. </div><div><br /></div><div><b><u>Jordan Malette</u></b></div><div><br /></div><div><b>Lev Katzin, F, Toronto Marlboros</b></div><div>Lev is tendered with the Green Bay Gamblers of the USHL, so his draft status is a bit of a question mark. Nonetheless, he is worthy of an honourable mention, as if a team can get him to commit to the OHL, it would be a massive acquisition. Lev is the most exciting player in the draft class. He's one of the most dynamic and electric forwards and simply just oozes skill. What best describes Lev is the saying, "If you give someone an inch, they'll take a mile." The defence could give him hardly any space, and he'll still find a way to make a move and find an opening to the net. A few times a game, I am convinced the defence has Lev cornered and a turnover is coming, but Lev always finds a path to escape using quick turns and slick moves. He can create something out of absolutely nothing, which is such a unique and valuable trait. Katzin is a bit undersized, but he doesn't allow it to be a limiting factor. He's tenacious and feisty in the corners, rarely backing down from physical play. There's no guarantee he ever reports to the OHL, but it could be a home run if he did.</div><div><br /></div><div><b>Rylan Singh, D, YSE </b></div><div>If I created a Tony Ferrari and Brock Otten-style Frankenstein defenceman, they would have Rylan's brain and approach to hockey. Everything Rylan does is through the lens of pushing play to the dangerous parts of the ice. Rarely will Rylan opt for an uncontrolled play or low-danger shot, but instead, he'll do everything he can to attack a dangerous shooting lane or skirt a forechecker, then thread a pass to the slot. His mobility and evasiveness are at the core of his ability to generate such chances. Rylan can turn, pivot, or spin his way out of any corner or pressure, and he does it with complete control of the puck. Given his mobility and puck skills, Rylan will never back down from a chance to challenge opponents one-on-one and will routinely dangle his way to the middle of the ice. Likewise, Singh will never hesitate to activate up ice and join in on a rush, making him the most offensively involved defender in the class by a long shot. Outside of the offence, Singh is a reliable puck mover who can push play-up ice to his forwards with long stretch passes for fast breaks. He is more than capable defensively, routinely breaking up plays with smart stick position and quick stick checks. I love how Rylan plays hockey, and think he has enormous potential to be a top-pairing defender down the line. </div><div><br /></div><div><b>Ivan Galiyanov, F, Vaughan Kings</b></div><div>Galiyanov first caught my eye at the Toronto Marlboros Tournament, and since then, he's kept moving his way up my list. To me, Ivan is the "lite" version of Will Moore. He doesn't have the same high-end skill, but he is similarly a tremendous puck manager. When Galiyanov is on the ice, every transition flows through him, and it's extremely evident why. Ivan is one of the most reliable puck managers available in the draft. He is incredibly patient with the puck and constantly scans to find a path to a controlled zone exit and entry route. Like Moore, Galiyanov is a fantastic playmaker who can manipulate the defence with calculated puck touches to then connect on a slip pass into the open space he created. Even if the offensive upside isn't enormous, when we start getting into the mid-second round, finding a dominant possession centerman, even if he ends up in a depth role, would be great value.</div><div><br /></div><div><b><u>Chase Rochon</u></b></div><div><br /></div><div><b>Luka Graziano (D) Toronto Jr. Canadians (GTHL) </b></div><div>Graziano turned heads at this year's OHL cup after leading defenseman in goals (4) and points (8), joining the OHLCup all-star team, being player of the game in the finals, and helping his team win the tournament. He didn't just have a good tournament, he has been dominant all season. Putting up 16 goals and 44 points in 56 regular season games as a defenseman in the GTHL is impressive. Graziano has great edges and elite mobility making him very shifty which he uses to his advantage to gain space. He does this particularly well on the blue line to open up shooting lanes to utilize his quick release to beat goaltenders from far. Graziano might be the most offensive gifted defenceman in this draft but will need to work on his strength and conditioning to become a two way threat at the next level so he can be more effective physically on the defensive side of his game.</div><div><br /></div><div><b>Kieran Riley (D) Toronto Nationals (GTHL)</b></div><div>Kieran Riley had a terrific tournament at the 2023 OHL Cup representing the underdog wildcard Toronto Nationals. He may have only scored 2 goals, but, these were big game winning goals including a single handed effort overtime winner. Riley's production this season is nothing crazy and might be a reason he may fall on draft day with 5 points in 16 games and unfortunately missing a large chuck of the season due to injury. He had entered the 2022-23 season as one of the favorites as the top defenseman in the class and I can see why. Very deceptive and hard to read Riley does an amazing job of evading forecheckers with quick fakes and amazing footwork. With his large frame he is also such a good shut down defensman making life hard for any offensive attacks that come his way. He has a long reach that makes it hard to enter the zone and if you make it past that in tight with him you get bullied off the puck with all the strength and size he has. If a team can feels confident with his health and put him in a position to succeed he could be one of the most OHL ready players ready to make an impact right away in his rookie season.</div><div><br /></div><div><b>Liam Beamish (F) Niagara North Stars (SCTA)</b></div><div>Liam Beamish was the best player in Niagara coming into this season and would have likely ended up on the loaded Southern Tier team but new boarder rules in Niagara left him playing with his middle of the pack team in the North Stars. This was a blessing in disguise as it showed local scouts what he is capable of on his own. Yes, he had help of teammate Jaden Flora, but, Beamish was the one driving the ship. No matter the team he plays against, or situation he is in, Beamish is always the hardest on the forecheck and backcheck. Hunting pucks down is a staple to his game. What makes Liam special is what he does once he gets the puck. He doesn't really have a single trait that is his standout specialty but more so that he has few flaws or things he cant do. He is well rounded and very skilled in all areas from his shot, puck skills, physicality, IQ and skating, Beamish can do it all. The only things holding him back from being a first rounder in this draft is his size and exposure playing on a struggling team. He very well could be the steal of the draft.</div><div><br /></div><div><b><u>Mat Goodwin</u></b></div><div><br /></div><div><b>Josh Avery, F, Peterborough Petes</b></div><div>Avery is a cerebral two-way centre man for an impressive Petes squad. He plays a very solid all-around game, including lots of physicality and a nice offensive skill set and scoring touch. Avery’s work ethic is admirable and he appears to be the straw that stirs the drink for his Peterborough team. He is consistently finishing checks and taking care of the play in the defensive zone while also leading the fore-check and creating scoring chances in the offensive zone. He is a strong skater and has the size and strength to fight through checks. He’s excellent at lifting sticks and stealing pucks and his tenacious play often creates turnovers. As Avery continues to grow and become even stronger, he will be that much more of a force as a high-scoring power forward. </div><div><br /></div><div><b>Ben Radley, D, Peterborough Petes</b></div><div>Radley is an exciting defender on a very talented Petes team. He is the type of defenceman that does everything well and can be trusted in just about any situation. His defensive game is strong, he is physical and battles hard for pucks in the corner and will punish opponents in front of the net. He shows a great level of poise and patience with the puck and makes a smart and accurate first pass out of the zone. Radley is a strong skater and puck carrier. His zone exits are tops among his peers and you rarely see him give the puck away or turn it over. He was often entrusted with “quarterbacking” the Petes power-play throughout the season and his quick feet and awareness with the puck make him ideal for the position. Overall, Radley is a defender who improved throughout the year and pushed himself into early round consideration. He has a high ceiling and will be exciting to watch him flourish at the next level.</div><div><br /></div><div><b>Ryan Brown, F, YSE</b></div><div>Brown is a very smart and creative player for the Express. He has a very strong motor and plays much bigger than his 5’08.5” 149 LBS frame may suggest. He can be counted on to finish every check and battle hard in all the gritty areas. There is, however, much more to Brown’s game than hard work and physicality, he also possesses an elite offensive upside that centres on vision and play-making. He has the ability to slow the game down and set up teammates for prime scoring opportunities in the offensive zone. His passes are hard and accurate and he does everything with purpose. Brown has an accurate shot and will use it to beat unsuspecting goalies clean. All of these tools is what makes Brown such an effective player. He can be trusted in any situation and will drag his teammates into the fight with him. His potential is very high and he will be exciting to watch moving forward. </div><div><br /></div><div><b><u>Chase Allen</u></b></div><div><br /></div><div><b>Cooper Dennis - Center/Left Wing - Bishop Kearney Selects 15u AAA</b></div><div>After viewing Cooper Dennis time-and-time again at some of the highest competitions both within Ontario and the United States, it’s clear to me Cooper Dennis is hovering around that range of being worthy of a 1st round pick in the OHL Draft. He attended the 2023 NTDP Evaluation Camp but was unfortunately cut, but the speed and two-way presence Dennis offers, along with his ability to overcome his size, is sensational. He’s one of the better goal-scoring forwards within the 2007-born American class, and is relentless off-puck to force turnovers, apply pressure, and overall be a pain in the side of puck carriers.</div><div><br /></div><div><b>Kieran Witkowski - Left Wing - Toronto Marlboros 16u AAA</b></div><div>Going back to August 2022 when I began taking a few looks at some 2023 OHL Draft eligible skaters, Kieran Witkowski was one of the first to catch my eye. On a stacked Toronto Marlboros team I find he can slide under the radar a little bit, but given opportunity and the chance to flash his skill, it’s clear there is something with this player. He’s incredibly smart with the puck, has wicked processing speed when challenged by defenders, and overall moves around the ice very efficiently, acting as a constant playdriving threat whenever he’s in the offensive zone with the puck on his stick. A perhaps daunting comparison, but, the methodical analysis and processing of the ice reminds me of a lesser-version of a young Mitch Marner, minus the elite high-end skill.</div><div><br /></div><div><b>Marco Boccardi - Left Defenseman - St. Louis AAA Blues 15O</b></div><div>Perhaps a bit of an off-the-board pick here as an honorable mention, Marco Boccardi is one of the most exciting defensemen from the 2007-born American class, akin to a Rylan Singh stylistic player, although, a bit smaller in stature. Boccardi has great edgework and foot-speed, capable of walking the blueline and opening up dangerous passing lanes, he can manipulate stationary defenders atop the zone and create space for both himself and his teammates from moves very few defenders are skilled, or brave enough to attempt. Defensively he works very hard to overcome his size, plays tight to the puck carrier and uses his speed and skating prowess to remain explosive and agile, keeping them to the outside with good body position and accurate stick checks. </div><div><br /></div><div><b><u>Steven Ellis</u></b></div><div><br /></div><div><b>Shamar Moses, F, Don Mills Flyers</b></div><div>Need a hard-working, do-it-all forward? Moses is your guy. He was a big reason why the Don Mills Flyers advanced to the OHL Cup and continued his strong play against quality competition. He can be selfish when he needs to be, but this is the type of player that’ll lay it all on the line for his teammates.</div><div><br /></div><div><b>Brendan Gerber, F, Waterloo Wolves</b></div><div>Outside of Brady martin's obvious heroics, Gerber was one of the biggest reasons to watch Waterloo this year. He tied Martin with 56 points (in 10 more games, albeit) before recording another 25 in the playoffs, giving them 45 on the season. With the right teammates, Gerber can get the job done thanks to his quick release.</div><div><br /></div><div><b>Tanner Lawson, D, Halton Hurricanes</b></div><div>More of the reserved blueline option compared to Schaefer, there's a lot to like about Lawson's game. He's quick, smart and doesn't crumble under pressure. He's still quite raw, but he's aggressive, moves well, and, with the right coaching, I think he'll turn out to be something quite solid.</div><div><br /></div><div><b><u>Steven Graves</u></b></div><div><br /></div><div><b>Ethan Weir, F, London Jr Knights</b></div><div>Weir came into the year very highly regarded. His stock definitely slipped a bit but he is still an über talented two-way forward with a ton of potential. Weir is an excellent north-south skater, he frequently attacks defenders to the outside and has the puck skills to cut to the middle of the ice when necessary. He is a smart kid that flashes good playmaking ability and good offensive awareness. The question for Weir is if he is able to create and drive the offense himself.</div><div><br /></div><div><b>Lane Sim, F, Weeks Major Midgets </b></div><div>Brother of London Knights forward Landon Sim; Lane is taking a similar path to the OHL as his brother. He played his hockey in Nova Scotia this year but because his father, Jon Sim played 4 years in the OHL - it allowed Lane the opportunity to play in the OHL. Lane is an excellent skater, he moves well in all 4 directions. He is a shifty player that consistently has his feet moving - he isn’t afraid to be physical and shows flashes of a high end skill set. At the same age, Lane is probably better than his brother. </div><div><br /></div><div><b>Jack Nesbitt, F, Lambton Jr Sting</b></div><div>First thing that jumps out when talking about Nesbitt is his size, Nesbitt stands at 6’4” already at 16. He is a big, rangy centreman that uses his size well, he gets a lot of his goals within 6’ of the goal mouth and is very good at battling for pucks down low. Definitely a budding power-forward - Nesbitt started the year off on a torrid pace but cooled down in the second half of the season, skating could be a concern. </div><div><br /></div><div><b><u>Ryan Ferizovic</u></b></div><div><br /></div><div><b>Lukas Moore- D- Peterborough Jr. Petes (ETA)</b></div><div>One of the best defensive defenders in the age group, Moore has demonstrated assertiveness in his own zone and willingness to do whatever it takes to move the puck out of trouble. He defends well against the forecheck with controlled physical play and uses strong puck skills to find open ice and kickstart the breakout. Additionally, he uses his big body to shield the puck from pressure and find open ice. He makes a strong first pass and joins the rush when there is little to no risk in doing so. He was able to start scoring near the end of the year, driving the rush deep into the zone and to the net. </div><div><br /></div><div><b>Charlton Trethewey- D- Detroit Little Caesars (HPHL)</b></div><div>One of the most exciting American prospects in this 2007-born age group, Trethewey caught the attention of many with strong two-way play and a high propensity for offence. He is an exceptionally strong skater with a high top-speed and elite edges, allowing him to be first on loose pucks and take away space from opponents. He possesses an extremely strong shot, able to power pucks by goaltenders from anywhere in the offensive zone. He runs his team’s power play with a keen hockey sense and quick decision-making, moving the puck to open teammates without hesitation to maximize scoring chances. Defensively, he maintains strong gap control and challenges the rush early. His size and strength allow him to defend against the forecheck well and move opponents from the front of the net. He is committed to the NTDP. </div><div><br /></div><div><b>Easton Lynds- F- Southern Tier Admirals (SCTA)</b></div><div>Admirals forward Lynds is a dynamic player with an amicable hockey IQ. He sees the ice exceptionally well, taking strong skating routes to receive the puck when he doesn’t have it and opening up the ice for his teammates when he does. He employs strong vision in the offensive zone, able to find his teammates with the puck as he draws in opponents. His ability to create scoring chances for his team is unparalleled by anyone else in the Admirals’ lineup. He does a nice job of skating the puck into the ‘home plate’ area before registering hard shots on net to convert on scoring chances for his team. Additionally, he maintains effective positioning at both ends of the ice. </div><div><br /></div><div><b><u>Ethan Atticus Page</u></b></div><div><br /></div><div><b>James Barr - D - Burlington Eagles (SCTA)</b></div><div>Barr was a player that progressively got better as the year went on. He really rounded out his two-way ability, making him a force in both ends of the ice for the Eagles. Barr uses his body effectively in battles and puck protection, making it hard for opponents to play against him. He is versatile, being used by his coaches in all situations. What makes Barr a special player is his combination of size and skill. Not many defenders in this years draft can be physical on one shift, than quarterback a powerplay the next.</div><div><br /></div><div><b>Harry Nansi - F - Nepean Raiders (HEO)</b></div><div>Another player who got better as the season went on, Nansi was Nepean's most electric forward for most of the year. He has an exceptional ability to pass the puck, picking up his teammates in all areas of the ice. Nansi’s vision is unlike many others, as he effectively gets the puck out of his zone and consistently creates dangerous scoring opportunities. He has a solid top-line speed, allowing him to get by defenders with ease. It will be interesting to watch Nansi as he progresses to the next level.</div><div><br /></div><div><b>Nicholas Kiss - F - Burlington Eagles (SCTA)</b></div><div>Kiss is likely a player that has flown under the radar for most U16 AAA viewers this year. However, once you get a glimpse of his quietly dangerous IQ, it’s hard to look away. The Eagle’s assistant captain has an elite vision of the ice, making highly intelligent plays and calculating every move. He possesses soft hands and quick feet, making him a deceptive puck carrier and solid set-up man for his linemates. Kiss is a creative passer and is skilled at finding passing lanes through traffic. He plays a solid 200 foot game and understands defensive assignments well.</div><div><br /></div><div><b><u>Connor Williams</u></b></div><div><br /></div><div><b>Jeremy Martin, Wing, Toronto Marlboros (GTHL)</b></div><div>A dynamic winger for the Marlboros this year, Martin is a big fast winger who plays an extremely aggressive style of game. Martin plays an intimidating brand of hockey. He's the type of player who constantly moves his feet when he's on the ice utilizing his feet to bring a strong forecheck against the opposition, getting pucks in dee, forcing pucks loose, finishing his checks hard and not allowing the opposition time and space with the puck. The 6 ft winger combines both his size and strength with his quick feet and speed to be a consistent threat off the rush, he gets low in his stance he drives deep into the ice, and uses his body really effectively to drive the net with the puck, generating a great deal of offensive chances as a result. </div><div> </div><div><b>Ethan Czata, Centre, Mississauga Rebels (GTHL)</b></div><div>Playing on a defensively Sound Mississauga Rebels team this year, Czata was consistently relied upon in some of the Rebels biggest moments down the stretch of regular season, playoffs, and OHL Cup. Czata is an extremely smart two-way centreman, whose positioning in all three-zones has continually been impressive this year. Off the puck the centre has continuously showed off his high hockey IQ, as he consistently knows where the soft and quiet areas of the ice are, and understands how to work into those areas at the right times, allowing him to receive pucks in quality areas in the offensive zone. Late in games Czata was consistently relied upon to take big faceoffs in the defensive zone, while also being a player the Rebels continually relied upon late in games when a goal was needed.</div><div><br /></div><div><b>Carter Kostuch, Wing/Centre, Vaughan Kings (GTHL)</b></div><div>A slick, highly skilled, offensively creative forwards, Kostuch was one of the most impactful forwards on the offensive end for Vaughan whenever he stepped on the ice. With his high end puck skills Kostuch is consistently looking to carry the puck up ice and be a threat off the rush offensively. The forward is an agile player who utilizes his edges, effectively to change pace when attacking defenders, both when in the offensive zone off the cycle and off the rush. Kostuch has the ability to beat defenders with slick dekes and dangles with his puck skills, but also has the ability to create offence and put the puck in the back of the net with a quick and deceptive release. Already with some good size and still filling out into his frame, Kostuch is an exciting prospect for OHL teams to draft. He’s been trending upwards with his play all season long, and showed what he’s capable of with his outstanding performance at the OHL cup, earning All-Star team honours at the tournament.</div><div><br /></div><div><b><u>Gabriel Foley</u></b></div><div><br /></div><div><b>Cameron Aucoin – Left Defense – Chicago Mission 15U AAA (HPHL 15U)</b></div><div>The son of former NHLer Adrian Aucoin, now the assistant coach of Chicago Mission 15U, Cameron Aucoin is a smooth-moving, hard-working defenseman who isn’t afraid to go into the dirty areas of the ice. He steps into hits well, showing a great ability to force, and win, puck battles. When he does, Aucoin uses strong passing to work the puck up the ice and is always quick to join the rush. He’s also a big fan of dipping into the offensive zone, consistently jumping into the slot and creating another dangerous scoring option. With how smooth his skating, puck-handling, and passing are, it’s hard to find large ‘needs’ in Aucoin’s game. He could benefit from better risk assessment – needing a little more caution in when and how he joins the rush – and while his physical play is a boost, he’ll need to better learn to square up his hits. But these are minor improvements to what is a very attractive playing style. Coming from a family of Canadians, a move to the OHL could be tantalizing for one of America’s top defenders.</div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div></div></div>Brock Ottenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08237782074032840702noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2553903000955128175.post-48096032144765650452023-03-12T09:09:00.002-04:002023-03-19T12:32:44.069-04:00OHL Coaches Poll - My Ballot (2023)<div style="text-align: left;">Sometime soon, the OHL will release the results of their annual Coaches Poll, where the league's bench bosses vote on a number of categories within their own Conference. As is the annual tradition, below you can find my own opinion on how the results should look.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />One thing worth noting though. OHL teams are only allowed to submit the name of one player per category for the ballot, thus on the results you won't notice any teams having more than one player per category. On my ballot, you'll see that I don't follow that rule (and never have), as the intention of this from my end is to highlight the very best of the league without that restriction. So this works as both a prediction, and also a fake ballot if I were indeed an OHL coach (which I am obviously not).</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />It goes without saying that these are not the results and below is strictly my opinion. As mentioned, the results should be released soon.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />As is the case every year, some of these categories were really hard to narrow down; a testament to the talent level in the Ontario Hockey League. So if your favourite player isn't listed...my apologies.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><div><u>Most Underrated Player</u></div><div><b>East</b></div><div>1. Ryan Gagnier</div><div>2. Connor Punnett</div><div>3. Paul Christopoulous & Brady Stonehouse</div><div><br /></div><div><b>West</b></div><div>1. Matthew Poitras</div><div>2. Gavin Hayes</div><div>3. Jacob Maillet</div><div><br /></div><div><u>Most Improved Player</u></div><div><b>East</b></div><div>1. Nick Lardis</div><div>2. Jacob Frasca</div><div>3. Luca Pinelli/Jack Matier</div><div><br /></div><div><b>West</b></div><div>1. Rodwin Dionicio/Oliver Peer/Jacob Maillet</div><div>2. Braeden Bowman</div><div>3. Denver Barkey</div><div><br /></div><div><u>Smartest Player</u></div><div><b>East</b></div><div>1. Brandt Clarke</div><div>2. Logan Morrison</div><div>3. Tucker Robertson & Calum Ritchie</div><div><br /></div><div><b>West</b></div><div>1. Shane Wright</div><div>2. Ty Voit</div><div>3. Colby Barlow & Matthew Poitras</div><div><br /></div><div><u>Hardest Worker</u></div><div><b>East </b></div><div>1. Tucker Robertson</div><div>2. Liam Arnsby</div><div>3. Luca Pinelli/Brady Stonehouse/Vinzenz Rohrer</div><div><br /></div><div><b>West</b></div><div>1. Braeden Kressler</div><div>2. Colby Barlow</div><div>3. Sean McGurn/Denver Barkey</div><div><br /></div><div><u>Best Playmaker</u></div><div><b>East</b></div><div>1. Brandt Clarke</div><div>2. Logan Morrison/Pavel Mintyukov</div><div>3. Kyle Jackson</div><div><br /></div><div><b>West</b></div><div>1. Ty Voit</div><div>2. Shane Wright</div><div>3. Christian Kyrou/Matthew Poitras</div><div><br /></div><div><u>Most Dangerous in the Goal Area</u></div><div><b>East</b></div><div>1. Brennan Othmann</div><div>2. James Hardie</div><div>3. Kyle McDonald/Nick Lardis</div><div><br /></div><div><b>West</b></div><div>1. Matthew Maggio</div><div>2. Colby Barlow</div><div>3. Sasha Pastujov/Nolan Burke</div><div><br /></div><div><u>Best Skater</u></div><div><b>East</b></div><div>1. Nick DeGrazia</div><div>2. JR Avon/Gavin White</div><div>3. Nick Lardis/Jorian Donovan</div><div><br /></div><div><b>West</b></div><div>1. Amadeus Lombardi</div><div>2. Christian Kyrou</div><div>3. Spencer Sova/Danny Zhilkin/Isaiah George</div><div><br /></div><div><u>Best Shot</u></div><div><b>East</b></div><div>1. Ty Nelson/Brennan Othmann</div><div>2. James Hardie</div><div>3. Nick Lardis</div><div><br /></div><div><b>West</b></div><div>1. Matthew Maggio</div><div>2. Colby Barlow</div><div>3. Christian Kyrou & Francesco Pinelli</div><div><br /></div><div><u>Hardest Shot</u></div><div><b>East</b></div><div>1. Ty Nelson</div><div>2. Brennan Othmann</div><div>3. James Hardie</div><div><br /></div><div><b>West</b></div><div>1. Colby Barlow</div><div>2. Francesco Arcuri</div><div>3. Michael Renwick/Logan Mailloux</div><div><br /></div><div><u>Best Stickhandler</u></div><div><b>East</b></div><div>1. Brandt Clarke</div><div>2. David Goyette/Quentin Musty</div><div>3. Owen Beck</div><div><br /></div><div><b>West</b></div><div>1. Amadeus Lombardi</div><div>2. Ty Voit</div><div>3. Matthew Maggio/George Diaco</div><div><br /></div><div><u>Best on Faceoffs</u></div><div><b>East</b></div><div>1. Owen Beck/Tucker Robertson</div><div>2. Cameron Tolnai</div><div>3. Ryan Gagnier</div><div><br /></div><div><b>West</b></div><div>1. Danny Zhilkin</div><div>2. Sean McGurn</div><div>3. Nolan Burke</div><div><br /></div><div><u>Best Body Checker</u></div><div><b>East </b></div><div>1. Connor Punnett</div><div>2. Tyler Boucher</div><div>3. Brennan Othmann/Liam Arnsby/Quinton Burns</div><div><br /></div><div><b>West</b></div><div>1. Cameron Morton</div><div>2. Ryan McGuire</div><div>3. Coulson Pitre/Ethan Del Mastro</div><div><br /></div><div><u>Best Shot Blocker</u></div><div><b>East</b></div><div>1. Shawn Spearing</div><div>2. Connor Punnett/Artur Cholach</div><div>3. Jack Matier/Paul Christopoulous</div><div><br /></div><div><b>West</b></div><div>1. Cameron Morton</div><div>2. Michael Renwick</div><div>3. Andrew Gibson/Roman Schmidt</div><div><br /></div><div><u>Best Defensive Forward</u></div><div><b>East </b></div><div>1. Liam Arnsby</div><div>2. Vinzenz Rohrer/Jack Beck</div><div>3. Ryan Gagnier/Owen Beck</div><div><br /></div><div><b>West</b></div><div>1. Marko Sikic</div><div>2. Cooper Walker</div><div>3. Matyas Sapovaliv</div><div><br /></div><div><u>Best Penalty Killer</u></div><div><b>East</b></div><div>1. Josh Bloom/Liam Arnsby</div><div>2. Jack Matier</div><div>3. Avery Hayes</div><div><br /></div><div><b>West</b></div><div>1. Sean McGurn</div><div>2. Ethan Del Mastro</div><div>3. Francesco Pinelli/Braeden Kressler/Cooper Walker</div><div><br /></div><div><u>Best Offensive Defenseman</u></div><div><b>East</b></div><div>1. Pavel Mintyukov</div><div>2. Brandt Clarke</div><div>3. Ty Nelson</div><div><br /></div><div><b>West</b></div><div>1. Christian Kyrou</div><div>2. Logan Mailloux</div><div>3. Dmitry Kuzmin/Zayne Parekh</div><div><br /></div><div><u>Best Defensive Defenseman</u></div><div><b>East</b></div><div>1. Jack Matier</div><div>2. Artur Cholach</div><div>3. Shawn Spearing/Artyom Grushnikov</div><div><br /></div><div><b>West</b></div><div>1. Ethan Del Mastro</div><div>2. Oliver Bonk</div><div>3. Michael Renwick</div><div><br /></div><div><u>Best Puck Handling Goalie</u></div><div><b>East</b></div><div>1. Josh Rosenzweig</div><div>2. Max Donoso</div><div>3. Alessio Beglieri/Nate Krawchuk</div><div><br /></div><div><b>West</b></div><div>1. Brett Brochu</div><div>2. Ben Gaudreau</div><div>3. Tristan Lennox/Joey Costanzo</div><div><br /></div><div><u>Best Shootout Shooter</u></div><div><b>East</b></div><div>1. James Hardie</div><div>2. Logan Morrison</div><div>3. Ryan Gagnier</div><div><br /></div><div><b>West</b></div><div>1. George Diaco</div><div>2. Bryce McConnell-Barker</div><div>3. Sasha Pastujov</div><div><br /></div><div><u>Best Shootout Goalie</u></div><div><b>East</b></div><div>1. Collin MacKenzie</div><div>2. Dominic DiVincentiis</div><div>3. Anson Thornton</div><div><br /></div><div><b>West</b></div><div>1. Brett Brochu</div><div>2. Ben Gaudreau</div><div>3. Patrick Leaver/Carter George</div><div><br /></div> </div>Brock Ottenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08237782074032840702noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2553903000955128175.post-16638643287177847522023-02-19T12:22:00.001-05:002023-02-19T12:22:19.723-05:00Sunday Top 10 - Overagers Worth Signing (2023)<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4Pf6xCJYVtqCA9Dh0De4KX10LZveuhI38bU86tpSJC3ux_Y04aGN63h2qOtA1Q2CfecX_WSFLwo5b8lbnJb1Y5jKd-ZbS45pJdOpyvZxW-fLtggouhTMsnkz3-38a_Wl8AkA3K76E1I1q6nFkl5--Bjzhwh1q7IFgj0tolMuaKcbqC9jrOosxoIj4dw/s390/sundaytop10.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="260" data-original-width="390" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4Pf6xCJYVtqCA9Dh0De4KX10LZveuhI38bU86tpSJC3ux_Y04aGN63h2qOtA1Q2CfecX_WSFLwo5b8lbnJb1Y5jKd-ZbS45pJdOpyvZxW-fLtggouhTMsnkz3-38a_Wl8AkA3K76E1I1q6nFkl5--Bjzhwh1q7IFgj0tolMuaKcbqC9jrOosxoIj4dw/s320/sundaytop10.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br /><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">This is a yearly tradition (take a look at the Sunday Top 10 sidebar for other years). It's time to examine the top overagers in the OHL, available to be signed by NHL teams for the 2023 calendar year. We've already had one sign with an NHL team (Nolan Burke), but he will be included in this list for continuity. </div><div style="text-align: left;"> <br />This list does intend to rank players according to the likelihood that they continue their career at the professional level. Likely more than half of the players on this list will not end up getting a professional contract and will play in the CIS. It's the nature of the beast. The bottom line is that a few will and many will not (be signed) and those players who do not, will take advantage of their education package while continuing to play a high level of hockey at a Canadian University.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />It's important to note that this list does not include overagers who have yet to sign NHL contracts, despite having their draft rights owned by a team, such as OHL leading scorer Matt Maggio. This list is for those players who are NHL free agents after going through the draft two or three times (depending on their birth date).</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />Here's the list:</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>1. Logan Morrison - Center - Ottawa 67's</b></div><div style="text-align: left;">At this point, I just don't know how you overlook Morrison. Many of us were surprised and disappointed that he didn't get drafted last year after finishing sixth in league scoring. This year, he's returned as an OA and currently sits second in league scoring. Yeah, I know the skating is a concern. If he makes the NHL, he's going to be a below average skater for the league. It's clear that there are some limitations preventing him from really improving this area of his game. That said, he does so many other things well. He's one of the most intelligent players...on and off the puck...in the OHL. He rarely makes a poor read. He rarely turns over the puck in the offensive zone. His vision and passing ability elevates the play of his wingers. He's committed in all three zones. Outside of skating, there really isn't a significant weakness in his game. Would he still be a long shot to carve out an NHL career? Absolutely. But any of the players on this list would fall under that category. At worst, I think he can still end up as a really good AHL scorer and call up option/tweener. At best, his IQ helps him overcome some of his skating deficiencies and he develops into a Tyler Bozak esque diamond in the rough. </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>2. Nolan Burke - Center - Sarnia Sting</b></div><div style="text-align: left;">Already signed by the Nashville Predators to an ELC earlier this season, Burke has shown positive progression in back to back OHL seasons. The key to taking his game to another level this year has been the improvements made to his skating coming into the year. He's really added a step and it's allowed him to be more of a primary play driver, rather than a passenger. He's got great scoring instincts and he's strong on the puck, allowing him to play a North/South power game. What's the NHL upside? I'm not entirely sure. But he's a well rounded enough player and is a good enough scorer that he could eventually find his way into the middle six in Nashville if his skating can continue to improve. </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>3. Avery Hayes - Wing - Peterborough Petes</b></div><div style="text-align: left;">His play thus far with the Petes (well under his usual production) is likely going to decrease his odds of getting an ELC, but I still like his chances of eventually carving out a decent pro career. He's not big, but he's about as relentless of a player you'll find. He's kind of like a Tasmanian Devil out there. The fact that his motor never stops will earn him a look at the next level. However, he also happens to be a skilled finisher and play creator. He's got great hands and his strong edgework and agility give him strong puck protection skill despite lacking size. He's not the kind of explosive linear mover you typically like to see from an undersized forward, but his overall skating ability would be considered solid. He loves to incorporate the mohawk stride into his attacking approach in transition, although the transition of that particular style/skill to the next level has not had terrific results. The reality is that Hayes could at least serve a purpose as a high energy, F1, bottom six player at the next level and I'd be shocked if he doesn't get at least an AHL deal.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><div><b>4. Kyle McDonald - Wing - North Bay Battalion</b></div><div>Big man got a late start to the season after trying out for Belleville of the AHL, then missed a few months through the mid part of the year due to injury. However, when he has played, he's been phenomenal. McDonald is a player who knows and understands his role on the ice. At 6'4, and pushing 220lbs, he is a near immovable object from the net front area at this level. However, he has really soft hands and a great shot; the goal scoring totals the last two years are no fluke. No, he's not the most dynamic skater. No, he's not the most skilled player with the puck in transition. But, there is still a place for hulking, complementary power wingers in today's game. It wouldn't shock me at all if McDonald is the only other player on this list to earn an NHL ELC.</div></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>5. Evan Vierling - Center - Barrie Colts</b></div><div style="text-align: left;">After not signing with the Rangers last year, Vierling has returned to the OHL to be one of the league's better forwards. He's playing with so much more assertiveness compared to last year. The offensive skill set is well rounded. He's got a good shot, but he's probably most effective as a distributor. Because he's being more assertive, he's making better decisions with the puck this year. What is Vierling at the next level? That's the question. I'm not sure he's skilled enough to be a top six guy. I'm also not sure he's tenacious or strong enough in all three zones to be a typical bottom six guy. Ultimately, that's why the NYR opted not to sign him. That said, players can re-invent themselves at the pro level to survive and I think Vierling does enough things well that he could be one of those types. He's another guy that I expect to earn an AHL deal.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>6. James Hardie - Wing - Mississauga Steelheads</b></div><div style="text-align: left;">You have to give it up to Hardie. Honestly, this is a young man who has worked hard to improve the areas of his game NHL scouts had deemed insufficient. He's always been able to score, but in his draft year, there were major concerns over his skating, off puck play, and decision making. Over his OHL career, he's improved all three of those areas. Mississauga gutted their roster this year to start a rebuild and they've actually been playing better since doing that because Hardie has elevated his play and truly embraced being a leader to these talented young players. I don't think Hardie gets an NHL deal. He's going to have to take a longer route to the NHL. But, if he can continue to show the perseverance that he has thus far, I won't be betting against him eventually earning an ELC. </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>7. Nick DeGrazia - Wing - Sudbury Wolves</b></div><div style="text-align: left;">DeGrazia is on this list because he's one of the best skaters in the OHL. An NHL or AHL team is going to look at him and wonder how they could use this to eventually make him a bottom six asset. His quickness, edgework, and ability to blend both is incredibly impressive. This year, his hands have improved and he's not overskating the puck or opportunities as much. He's also improved his strength and balance to be better at playing through traffic. He's not going to be a scorer at the NHL...or even AHL level. However, if he can continue to round out the rest of his game at the pro level, he could be a useable asset and a versatile player for coaches. Again, few players can skate like he does.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>8. Sean McGurn - Center - London Knights</b></div><div style="text-align: left;">Is there a more underrated player than McGurn in the OHL? He was great for London last year and has been even better this year as the team's captain, leading London in scoring as of writing this. There's nothing elite about his game. But the sum of its parts make him a consistent on ice leader at this level and someone who can play in any situation asked of him. What is he at the next level? I'm not quite sure. But he's smart enough to find a way to stick in some capacity as a pro, especially if he can make further upgrades to his skating. </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>9. Riley Piercey - Wing - Flint Firebirds</b></div><div style="text-align: left;">Massive winger has been good for Flint this year. A little quicker than you might expect given his length and he can be a real difficult cover in transition because of his ability to blend skill/control at his top speed. As a North/South attacker and complementary piece, there could be a place for him at the pro level. Given his size and skill combination, I'd be shocked if he doesn't earn an AHL deal and then attempt to work his way up. A strong playoff run with the Firebirds could earn him even more.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>10. Brett Brochu - Goaltender - London Knights</b></div><div style="text-align: left;">I could have gone in a variety of different directions with #10, but decided to give the nod to Brochu. Look, you can't argue with his success. He's led the league in GAA before. He's won an OHL goaltender of the year award. After this year concludes, he's going to average 30 wins across three seasons in the league. The only thing missing from his resume is an OHL Championship and he'll try to change that this year. However, the other reality is that Brochu is a 6'0 netminder who can give up goals to the upper portion of the net. His athleticism and play reading ability are standout qualities, but he'll have to work hard to be even more technically sound with his positioning and aggressiveness at the next level. If he has a great OHL playoffs this year, I think he gives himself a great chance at earning an AHL/ECHL deal. If he struggles (like last year), he may end up as more of a CIS candidate.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b><u><i>Honorable Mentions</i></u></b></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b><u>Defense</u></b></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><div>Kitchener's <b>Lleyton Moore</b> was having a really good year in Oshawa to start the year but since going to Kitchener, I've been a bit disappointed in his play. The finish to the year will be key for him. His skating ability is terrific and always has been, but I think he's worked hard to become stronger in the defensive end to become more complete this season. Mississauga's <b>Kasper Larsen</b> hasn't been as good as he was last year, but he's still a unique player because he's a 6'5, 230lbs puck mover who can also clear the crease. Saginaw's <b>Mitchell Smith</b> has always been a favourite of mine because of his high end skating ability. He's playing a bit of a different role with the Spirit this year but he's still found a way to produce offensively from the back-end. Windsor's <b>Michael Renwick</b> is a 6'0, right shot defender who is solid at both ends. He brings a consistent physical presence and has a good point shot. Ottawa's <b>Anthony Costantini</b> is a heady, puck mover who has made great strides in the defensive end this year. Like Renwick, he's also a right shot defender. Sudbury's <b>Dylan Robinson</b> is certainly intriguing because of his size (6'6) and production. He's physical. He can make plays with the puck. His mobility is a bit awkward and his decision making can leave some to be desired, but the overall package is intriguing.</div></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b><u>Forwards</u></b></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">Ottawa's <b>Cameron Tolnai</b> has had a really strong year. He can play the power game from the middle and has become one of the better two-way centers in the OHL (and faceoff men). Oshawa's <b>Ryan Gagnier</b> is a high energy guy who is a real puck hound. He's smart and tenacious and it's led to a real nice production increase this year. I bet there are some competitive teams out there kicking themselves for not bringing him in at the trade deadline. Hamilton's <b>Sahil Panwar</b> has been unreal since going to the Bulldogs (along with Nick Lardis). He skates well and he is competitive at both ends. Kitchener's <b>Reid Valade</b> is a spark plug winger who loves to attack North/South. He has a good shot and could end up being a bottom six goal scorer at the next level. London's <b>George Diaco</b> is likely too small for the NHL. At only 5'7, he's not producing at the clip that he would need to in order to draw the attention of scouts. But, I just really love watching him play. He's one of the most creative and skilled players in the league and I wanted to make sure that he got mention.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div>Brock Ottenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08237782074032840702noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2553903000955128175.post-69962486497557899592023-01-21T19:15:00.000-05:002023-01-21T19:15:47.210-05:00Midseason Top 50 for the 2023 NHL Entry Draft<div style="text-align: left;">What an unbelievable OHL Trade Deadline it was this year. We saw over a half dozen teams across the league really load up and this is going to make the stretch run and the playoffs incredibly exciting.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">As is the case each year, the passing of the deadline signals that it is time to update my draft rankings. Recently you saw NHL Central Scouting release their rankings. You'll see several differences in my rankings, but also some similarities. </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">At this point, I would probably call this draft crop from the OHL a little underwhelming. This is especially true given the strength of some other regions. There are only a couple of players that I would consider first round locks and it's conceivable that the OHL does not have a player selected inside of the lottery. Additionally, I'm not crazy about the depth the league has to offer this year. I wouldn't be shocked if the number of players selected from the league hovers around 30. </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><div>For those unfamiliar with my lists, I only include first time eligible players. So a guy like Spencer Sova isn't listed despite the fact that I'd expect him to receive very heavy draft consideration. I do a list of "re-entries" or second/third year eligible players prior to the draft.</div><div><br /></div><div>And for comparison's sake, <a href="http://ohlprospects.blogspot.com/2022/11/preliminary-top-50-for-2023-nhl-entry.html">here's my preliminary top 50</a> from November. Additionally, <a href="http://ohlprospects.blogspot.com/2022/12/preliminary-mediascout-top-10-for-2023.html">here is the preliminary media/scout poll</a> from late December.</div><div><br /></div><div>Here's the list:</div><div><br /></div><div><b>1. Colby Barlow - Wing - Owen Sound Attack</b></div><div>I'm in the midst of writing my report on Barlow for McKeen's (look for that in the next week or so), which would ultimately be a much deeper dive than this write up. However, here's why Barlow is my number one. I see a prospect with a very safe NHL projection. All the things he does well, he should continue to do well at the next level because of his combination of size, quickness, physicality, and IQ. At the very least, he is going to end up as a quality middle six player who can play in any situation. That safety in a year where the OHL does not seemingly have many safe bets is attractive. I think Barlow's playmaking and vision is extremely underrated. His goal scoring production this year has been impressive, but he can pass the puck too. It's rare to see him make a poor play or read in the offensive zone. He's probably one of the better forecheckers in the OHL already. He finishes plays off in a multitude of ways. He's defensively reliable and intelligent. I'm not worried in the least about him being too physically mature. It's not like Barlow is 6'4, 220lbs, or dominating because of his sheer strength in the absence of skill. If anything, I think his game could hit another level still with better conditioning and strength. I see three things being key to him unlocking his upside as a top six player. One; improving his ability to blend speed and skill. He can struggle to cleanly corral pucks when he's at full speed or trying to pick up speed. This leads to missed opportunities. Two; Improving his hands and shot even further. This sounds ridiculous to say given that Barlow is currently third in the league in goal scoring as a U18 player, but I actually think he's capable of being an even more dangerous goal scorer with some adjustments. That would include improving his catch ability on imperfect passes, in addition to blending his skating and shooting ability to create better angles for his wrist shot. Third; becoming a more consistent physical presence. Barlow is unquestionably a hard worker, but I'd love to see him really punishing people on a shift by shift basis. If he could become that true power forward, he becomes an even more valuable player.</div><div><br /></div><div><b>2. Quentin Musty - Wing - Sudbury Wolves</b></div><div>Just when you think you've got Musty figured out, it seems like a poor performance throws a wrinkle in that. My live viewings of him this year have been poor. While my video viewings of him have been terrific. I was really starting to grow to like him but then I saw him play in Hamilton recently and he had a very poor game. Now...granted he played through a hand injury in that game (which has kept him out of action since), so it's probably measured with a grain of salt. Point being, he's a tough player to form a steady opinion on. There's so much good...especially under new coach Derek MacKenzie. He is highly skilled. He shows well as both a scorer and playmaker. His decision making with the puck has slowly started improving; his turnovers are being limited. He is playing with more physical tenacity and finding his way to the middle of the ice more consistently. His upside is, without question, the highest of any OHL player eligible this year. Yet...I'm just not sure an NHL scout will be willing to risk their neck for him as a first rounder. His defensive game is nearly non existent. He is often the last player back to the defensive zone and the first to exit. His first step quickness is not terrific. His ability to utilize his shot and get himself in scoring position remains a work in progress. And, while it has shown progress, his puck management remains a development target. I had a scout ask me the other day about what Musty can do to shake his reputation as a "risky selection" (we actually answered this on the THN podcast). It's a great question. The answer is probably continue to show the positive growth that he has the last month or two. When he returns from his injury, hopefully he can continue to show progress. If he's able to improve on the above areas, the upside truly is that of a first line player.</div><div><br /></div><div><b>3. Calum Ritchie - Center - Oshawa Generals</b></div><div>Speaking of consistency, insert Cal Ritchie. He came into the year as a potential top 7/8 pick, but is now looking more like a mid to late first rounder. Given Oshawa's rebuilding status, it has to be tough on Ritchie and I understand how he's probably not ready to be the true focal point of an offense. But what scouts have to be asking themselves is "how do we view Ritchie's high end potential?" I've had a few tell me about how his projection may have shifted to that of a middle six guy instead of a true, top center. Even through his offensive struggles at even strength, Ritchie's defensive effectiveness has remained consistent. He's an intelligent two-way player. As an offensive player his two most valuable assets are his hands and his playmaking sense. He's shooting the puck more and hesitating less this year, but he's still a pass first player with the puck and always will be IMO. As a transitional attacker, Ritchie's skating limitations have prevented this from being a consistent part of his game. I think his top speed is actually good, but his boots are a little heavy. Adding that quickness would really help him shed defenders at even strength more consistently. It seems like every time he falls into a bit of a lull in production and performance, he breaks out in a big way (like his performance in the first TSN game of the year against Kitchener). It makes him tough to truly peg. I kind of want to move him down further , but then I'm sucked back in by that package of size and skill from the middle. It feels like a trap...that if we underappreciate Ritchie as a draft prospect, he's going to burn us in the future.</div><div><br /></div><div><b>4. Carson Rehkopf - Center - Kitchener Rangers</b></div><div>I am firmly on the Rehkopf bandwagon (<a href="https://twitter.com/BrockOtten/status/1604528091119747072?s=20&t=2uHay2V_XQOUdwI5k8BBWg">see this twitter thread on him</a>). IMO, he's going to be an NHL first round pick so long as he can continue to produce down the stretch on a deep Kitchener team. Similar to Colby Barlow, I see a real safe projection here. Rehkopf is a very powerful skater and he uses this in so many different ways to be effective across all three zones. His quickness is a real problem for OHL defenders considering his length and puck protection ability. He's starting to realize this too and is looking for situations to exploit this advantage more consistently. Rehkopf also has a deceptive and quick release, perhaps among the best of any forward in this OHL class. His potential as a goal scorer is huge. Lastly, he's a disruptive defensive force because of his length, quickness, and physicality. Really, he's been great all year and I don't think he's getting the kind of respect he deserves. He started the year off with a great Hlinka/Gretzky and he's just continued to perform well. I don't think it's outside the realm of possibility that Rehkopf is even higher on my year end list at the expense of Musty/Ritchie. However, I want just a little more time to analyze his puck skill and overall ceiling. Production for him down the stretch will be critical, especially if he continues to be more of a third line option. He needs to make the most of his ice time.</div><div><br /></div><div><b>5. Beau Akey - Defense - Barrie Colts</b></div><div>Oliver Bonk has emerged as the top defender available from the OHL in the eyes of many, but for me it's still Beau Akey. I think Bonk is the better two-way defender now, but I think Akey has the higher NHL upside of the two. Akey is among the best skaters in this OHL draft class and the best of the defenders. His impact on the transition game is profound when he's being aggressive as a transporter. He can carve up space and really put pressure on opposing defenses thanks to his elite level top speed and effortless four way mobility. His hands are excellent and his small area skill is good enough to help him weasel his way out of pressure at both ends. Even with Brandt Clarke back in Barrie, I would expect Akey continues to produce offensively (he has so far). However, I think Akey can be a solid defensive player too. The IQ is there, but he just loses too many battles for positioning right now. As he gains strength, I see him becoming a quality two-way player. His elite four way mobility will eventually become an asset at both ends. Depending on how his year finishes out, Akey could be a borderline first rounder for me too. He just seems like the kind of player who doesn't yet realize how truly good he could be.</div><div><br /></div><div><b>6. Carey Terrance - Center - Erie Otters</b></div><div>I feel like Terrance is flying under the radar right now because the Otters just aren't great and because his production is fairly modest. But he leads the team in goal scoring as of writing this and is a player who I like better every time I watch him play. Similar to a few of the other players listed so far, I think Terrance has a very safe NHL projection. He's one of the best skating forwards in this OHL crop and he's a solid defensive center/forechecker. He also has an underrated shot and release. At the very least, there's a path to being a Cody Eakin type. But, his offensive tools, as raw as they are, could easily continue to improve as the Erie team improves around him. These days, I don't bet against athleticism. I think the other thing I really like about Terrance is how he already understands how to weaponize his speed. He changes pace well to be deceptive and he's very effective exploding off the wall and out of the cycle. Thus far, I'm still trying to get a read on his processing and vision as a distributor. I think it's a required area of growth. The same could be said for his skill blending ability, not dissimilar from Barlow and Rehkopf. Maybe he ends up having to play the wing at the next level where his speed, tenacity, and goal scoring touch could make him a really good complimentary piece? At the end of the day, I'm confused as to why he's not on more lists as a top two round pick.</div><div><br /></div><div><b>7. Coulson Pitre - Wing - Flint Firebirds</b></div><div>Pitre is my kind of player. If you've followed my work for a long time, you'd know that power forward types like Pitre are my jam. I thought he started the year pretty poorly; he seemed a bit lost with trying to carve out a role on a deep forward group and he got away from the things that made him successful last year. But the last few months, he's been outstanding. The physicality is consistent. He understands how to play without the puck. He's a solid skater. But what I like most about Pitre's game is his vision with the puck. It's rare to find power forward types who see the ice the way that Pitre does. His IQ grade is quite high. As a late 2004, I do understand that some may believe he has less room for development and what you see might be what you get here. No question, I do believe there are players ranked below Pitre who have higher upside. But if I'm drafting in the second round, Pitre is an attractive target because he does so many things well and already has a pro style game. It's not far fetched to say that he develops into a Nick Foligno, Jason Zucker type. </div><div><br /></div><div><b>8. Oliver Bonk - Defense - London Knights</b></div><div>Yes, he's moving up my list finally. And no...it's not out of peer pressure. But I've had to watch a lot of the Knights and lot of isolated videos of Bonk to really develop more of an appreciation for how he is playing this year. He's probably the best defenseman (in London) on one of the best teams in the OHL. That's an impressive feat for (essentially) a first year player. Bonk's best attribute is unquestionably his IQ/processing ability at both ends. He's got a great stick in the defensive zone and always seems to be in the right spot to break up plays. He doesn't chase the play and has the poise of a five year OA. This is evident at the offensive end too, where he is great at picking his spots to jump up in the play. Yes, he's got a great point shot, but he's scoring a lot from the backend because he times pinches well and finds those soft spots in coverage consistently. I had someone mention to me the other day that Bonk could be a Devon Toews type at the NHL level and that's certainly possible if he can continue to upgrade his four way mobility. However, as I have been all year, I'm still a little weary regarding his projection. I think the skill, skating, and physicality components of his game grade out as average. There have been so many similar OHL defenders who have failed to take that next step because they aren't athletic enough/skilled enough to take advantage of their high end IQ. That said, he is growing on me because he does so many of the little things well. Is he Matt Finn? Is he Travis Dermott? Is he Calvin de Haan? Is he Devon Toews? The range of outcomes is vast and I just need to see him even more. However, I do feel like he will continue to rise on my list.</div><div><br /></div><div><b>9. Luca Pinelli - Wing - Ottawa 67's</b></div><div>It was not shocking to see Pinelli lower on NHL Central Scouting. Undersized and not a dynamic skater can be a tough combination to overcome. For that reason, I see Pinelli as more a second/third round prospect. But I know he has his fans in the scouting community. Even if his production has slowed a bit, he's still playing well for the 67's. He's such a smart player who has a very well rounded offensive profile. He can get after it on the forecheck and makes great reads without the puck. He's skilled enough to be a play driver at the junior level and he uses deception to help him carry in transition, overcoming his lack of explosiveness. Pinelli has a good shot. He competes hard at both ends. Like I said, just a well rounded profile. The flip side of this is that there may be some projection issues here. What is Pinelli at the NHL level? I don't see him as a true offensive catalyst there without significant improvements to his skating. So is he then more of a complimentary piece then? Probably. Looking at someone like Michael Bunting is probably the best case scenario for Pinelli. Worse case, he ends up as more of a tweener like Nic Petan. </div><div><br /></div><div><b>10. Cam Allen - Defense - Guelph Storm</b></div><div>Great to see him return from his shoulder injury. I was worried that his participation in the Top Prospect's Game was in doubt Interestingly enough, Guelph had been playing their best hockey as of late without Allen. That's certainly not a criticism, but it means that now that he has returned, he should have a little less pressure on him to perform and he can work to keep things simple and play within the flow of the game. Coming into the year, I had him ranked first in Ontario. I loved him as a U17 player and I loved him at the Hlinka/Gretzky. But his play this year has pointed to some limitations in his processing at both ends. When he keeps things simple, he's at his best. Does that mean that his potential as an offensive defender might be limited? Lots of questions and not a ton of answers right now. All signs point to the U18's this year being a huge event for Allen. That is if the projection of the standings remains about the same and Guelph ends up losing in round one or missing completely. Some of the concerns scouts have with Allen this year were the same that they had with Spencer Sova last year who went through a similar curve. Hopefully Allen's draft stock doesn't take a similar dive. And if it does...look at how well Sova is playing this year, proving that he should have been drafted last year.</div><div><br /></div><div><b>11. Hunter Brzustewicz - Defense - Kitchener Rangers</b></div><div>There are a lot of things that I like about Brzustewicz's game. His four way mobility is an asset. His edgework and lateral quickness help him at both ends and give him escapability to start the breakout. It also helps him when he's running the point in the offensive end. He keeps pucks in well and he pushes laterally well to open up lanes that he can exploit. I also really like the way he processes the game with the puck on his stick. Similar to a guy like Oliver Bonk, he keeps things simple. Quick outlets. Safe dump ins. He always seems to have his head up and his puck management is sound. I guess the question I have is what's the upside? He's not a dynamic or explosive mover, which will limit his ability to impact the game offensively at the next level. He has struggled defensively at times, both in his reads and in handling physicality. He will ultimately become a quality two-way defender IMO, but will that be at the NHL level? Earlier I mentioned a guy like Travis Dermott and if you go back and look at Dermott's scouting report from junior, you'll see a pretty similar player. Dermott has had some trouble carving out a niche at the NHL level without a true standout skill. Lots of pressure on the Rangers in the second half and I want to see how Brzustewicz handles that.</div><div><br /></div><div><b>12. Matthew Mania - Defense - Sudbury Wolves</b></div><div>Upside, upside, and more upside. Playing under Derek MacKenzie, Mania has been terrific as an offensive defender. He skates really well. He's starting to take more chances with the puck, jumping up into the play. He's very skilled and is the type of offensive blueliner who can seemingly go end to end when he wishes. Mania is also doing a much better job in the offensive end, getting pucks on net, making better decisions on his pinches, etc. Defensively, he's a work in progress. There needs to be an increase in physical intensity. He can be pushed around too easily along the wall and near the crease and it puts the Wolves at a disadvantage. He, flat out, needs to be more difficult to play against. However, you just can't ignore what he's been able to do with the puck on his stick in recent months. As said, his offensive upside is significant. Can the defensive game show growth by the end of the year? </div><div><br /></div><div><b>13. Andrew Gibson - Defense - Soo Greyhounds</b></div><div>I'm really coming around on Gibson. He's a slow burn and he really requires many viewings to gain an appreciation of. I recently did a long thread on twitter on Gibson (<a href="https://twitter.com/BrockOtten/status/1611804244121714689?s=20&t=X3NLDqI-Stp8q5cMkzDXdQ">here</a>). In a nutshell, Gibson is a raw, potential two-way defender. 6'3, right shot defenders with decent mobility and an all around game do not grow on trees. Gibson is terrific in the offensive zone. He's not the most innately skilled or flashy; he keeps things simple. However, he supports the play really well and is gaining confidence in his ability to play deep in the offensive zone. Defensively, he is physical and has the kind of length that makes him a disruptive force to transitional attackers. His footwork isn't always clean, but I have faith that Brendan Taylor and the Hounds coaching staff can really bring the best out of him. The track record is there. I think the most concerning thing for me is his puck management in the defensive end. He can get bottled up in the defensive zone and turnovers have been an issue. He doesn't shoulder check enough and he doesn't yet have the confidence to use his feet consistently to help him clear forecheckers. Again, though, I would harbour to guess that this gets cleaned up eventually. Over the rest of the year my focus will be on determining Gibson's NHL upside. </div><div><br /></div><div><b>14. Ondrej Molnar - Wing - Erie Otters</b></div><div>He has only played a handful of games in the OHL, but I've been impressed with many components of his game. He's an electric skater who can really put pressure on opposing defenses. He has elite level elusiveness with his agility and ability to stop/start in the offensive zone. He's actually been a little better without the puck than I expected too. He can be effective on the forecheck with his speed. On the man advantage, his vision and passing ability has been very noticeable. However, at even strength, he's been a lot less effective. He's struggling to find ways to get to the inside and is getting pushed off the puck too easily. There are some strength deficits here. He seems hesitant to really take control too. He's passing up shooting opportunities and seems to be lacking confidence in that area. Unquestionably, his offensive upside is high. As he gets stronger and becomes more confident on North American ice, he could be a really electric player. I hope he sticks it out in Erie moving forward and into next year because they're building something good with guys like him, Terrance, Pano Fimis, Malcolm Spence and whoever they select early in 2023.</div><div><br /></div><div><b>15. Ethan Miedema - Wing - Kingston Frontenacs</b></div><div>The big piece moved in the Shane Wright to Windsor deal, Miedema hasn't had the best start to his time in Kingston. But it's obviously very early. The issue with Miedema has been consistency this year. He's big and skilled. He can be a physical presence. I've always been impressed with his passing ability and vision with the puck, especially coming off the wall. But there's a definite need to improve his quickness and balance so that he can shed defenders more consistently. And it would be great to see him take the bull by the horns more often. There's a passiveness to his game at times that you don't like to see from a 6'4 forward. Can he put it all together? There will be a lot of eyes on him in the second half to see how he plays in Kingston where he will be expected to be more of a focal point of the attack. </div><div><br /></div><div><b>16. Quinton Burns - Defense - Kingston Frontenacs</b></div><div>IMO, Burns is one of the most underrated players in this OHL crop right now. He's played incredibly well for Kingston this year and is playing a lot for the Fronts across a variety of different situations. He's very mobile and is a strong skater. He's extremely physically aggressive and makes life difficult for opposing forwards; there's a real edge to his game. He moves the puck well inside the offensive zone. He's learning to be better as a carrier in transition and will eventually be the type who consistently looks to push pace and use his legs to start the breakout. Similar to Andrew Gibson, his puck management in the defensive zone has been a weakness at times. Additionally, I'm still trying to figure out just how skilled Burns is. What's the true upside here? But a defender with good mobility, size, and physically who isn't a liability with the puck? Sign me up.</div><div><br /></div><div><b>17. Denver Barkey - Center - London Knights</b></div><div>Similar to Pinelli, it's not shocking to see Barkey disrespected by scouting agencies given that he's undersized and not the world's most dynamic skater. I don't think he's a top two round selection, but he's definitely someone I have a ton of time for in the mid rounds. There are a lot of paths to the NHL for Barkey if he can work to improve his quickness/speed. He's already a great defensive player who is a valuable penalty killer. He plays much bigger than his size and never backs down from a battle. He's also a skilled and deceptive playmaker whose quick hands afford him the time and space that his lack of quickness does not. I ultimately see him becoming a very versatile player as a pro who can slide up and down the lineup. Maybe he's a tweener. Maybe he's not more than a fourth liner and PK'er. Maybe he's a lot more than that. The range of outcomes is wide. Don't doubt the London development model. London has some reinforcements now, but for most of the year Barkey has been the straw that stirs the drink for the Knights. There's no way you can let him get outside the top 120 or so.</div><div><br /></div><div><b>18. Joey Willis - Center/Wing - Saginaw Spirit</b></div><div>Is Willis truly an NHL prospect? There's no way you're watching Saginaw games and not coming away impressed with his play. He's been so good as a rookie, even if the production hasn't been consistent. He plays both ends. He's smart. He's an excellent playmaker. He's got great hands. He makes a couple really impressive plays every game, even if it's not showing on the score sheet. Yet, I do understand the concerns over his projectability. In a lot of ways, it's similar to the Barkey situation and thus I've lumped them together. Willis is not a dynamic skater. His strides lack power. He's also not the biggest at 5'10. That combo can be difficult for scouts. Additionally, he's kind of a player without a position. I'm not sure if he's a winger or a center long term. Sometimes as an analyst you have to try to separate the great junior players from the great NHL prospects. All that said, I have to trust my eyes here. I'm banking on processing ability here. I think it's important to realize that Willis is playing his first year above the AAA level. He's going to be behind the eight ball from a conditioning and strength perspective. I believe there is room for his athletic tools to improve and I'm happy to look his way in those middle rounds, banking on long term upside.</div><div><br /></div><div><b>19. Brad Gardiner - Center - Ottawa 67's</b></div><div>Gardiner is a creative and intelligent pivot who has proven to be a versatile, swiss army knife for the 67's this year. He's been everywhere from the first line to the fourth line and he's played in every situation imaginable. I really like how he plays through traffic. His game is predicated by quick touches and quick feet and for that reason he's a tough cover. He protects the puck really well by spinning off checks and keeping his feet moving. While his first step quickness is not impressive, he builds up to a solid top speed which he can use to apply pressure on the attack. I've seen him pretty high on some lists lately, like Craig Button's. I've been impressed, but I'm also still trying to get a read on the high end upside here. </div><div><br /></div><div><b>20. Easton Cowan - Wing - London Knights</b></div><div>Similar to Barkey, Cowan has been really good for London this year. The two have developed remarkable chemistry with each other. Cowan loves to play at a breakneck pace. His motor is really good. He's hard on pucks. He drives the net. Yeah, he's not big, but he plays the way you want smaller players to play; fearless. I love how quickly he makes decisions too. High IQ player who can pass it off, but also has a quick release to help him finish off plays. I don't think he's got fantastic upside as a scoring line option at the NHL level, but I see someone who could carve out a long career as a high energy checking line player. Hopefully he doesn't get buried down the stretch by London's depth. </div><div><br /></div><div><b>21. Alex Pharand - Center - Sudbury Wolves</b></div><div>Pharand is a big bodied center who knows his role. He is aggressive in pursuit of the puck, he protects it well in the cycle, and he heads to the net as a screen option. His hands are actually quite good. You don't score as often as he has this year if they weren't. He can put pucks home under pressure and finishes equally well on his backhand as he does his forehand. The boots are a bit heavy. He's not a strong puck carrier at this time. The overall ceiling might be a little limited. But he's still a 6'3 natural center with good hands and physicality who shows potential as a two-way player. These are the types that NHL scouts love. </div><div><br /></div><div><b>22. Nick Lardis - Wing - Hamilton Bulldogs</b></div><div>Lardis sure is enjoying life with the Bulldogs so far with the opportunity to operate as a primary scoring option and the focal point of an attack. He's at nearly two points per game with Hamilton. I'm going to need a ton of views on Lardis in the second half because I, admittedly, don't feel like I have a good read on him at this time. In Peterborough, it felt like he was too often simply a passenger, despite possessing the quickness and skill to be a difference maker with the puck. But in Hamilton, the early returns have been great as he can be the one leading the charge over the blueline, with the flow of the game being dictated by his actions. He's a strong skater, which is critical given his lack of size. That much has always been obvious. But can he work his way into the middle of the ice? What kind of upside does he have as a goal scorer? I'm sure I'll have a more concrete opinion by season's end, especially given the kind of ice time he's getting in Hamilton.</div><div><br /></div><div><b>23. Tristan Bertucci - Defense - Flint Firebirds</b></div><div>There is definitely a path to the NHL for a defender like Bertucci. Good size. Good mobility, especially laterally and backwards. Plays with physicality. Has a good stick in the defensive zone and tracks the play well. He's been a stalwart in the defensive end. The offensive production actually has been pretty good too. Bertucci makes a good first pass and does have good scanning habits. He's not the kind of defender who is skilled enough to be a powerplay QB at the next level, but he can start the breakout efficiently and that counts for something. John Marino comes to mind as a comparison and a best case scenario for Bertucci. More likely, he probably has less potential than some of the other defenders from the OHL this year, but he has the intangibles that NHL scouts are really going to like. It's early, but it would not shock me if he's a top three round selection come June.</div><div><br /></div><div><b>24. Matthew Soto - Wing - Kingston Frontenacs</b></div><div>Soto is a high energy, chance of pace attacker who loves to play up tempo. Feels like I'm describing an NBA point guard prospect, but that's kind of how I see Soto. Even though he loves to push pace and is at his best in transition, he's also got great vision. His decision making with the puck always stands out as a positive for me. Quick wingers who can make quick decisions transition well to the next level. He's far from the tunnel vision type. I guess my concerns with Soto are upside related. Consistency has been an issue for him. Part of that is related to playing on a young Kingston team. Part of that stems from the fact that he needs to improve his strength/conditioning to be better playing through contact. Is he skilled or creative enough to be a top six winger? Can other parts of his game improve with experience and strength, rounding him into a more complete two-way presence? Love him as a mid round candidate.</div><div><br /></div><div><b>25. Cooper Foster - Center - Ottawa 67's</b></div><div>Foster is quietly having a really good year in a middle six role for the 67's. He was the NOJHL MVP last year as a U17 player and his transition to the OHL has been pretty seamless. He has a really well rounded profile. Good skater. Good skill. Intelligent. Competitive. Equal parts playmaker and scorer. The issue I have had so far is trying to figure out what Foster would be at the next level. I have zero doubt that he will be a really good OHL player, perhaps even next year. But the lack of a true standout attribute, in combination with average size makes his projection a bit murky. I really like him at this point as a mid/later round option. Higher than that, I'm just not sure. </div><div><br /></div><div><b>26. Cole Brown - Wing - Hamilton Bulldogs</b></div><div>The production isn't great, but Brown is the kind of intriguing athlete that teams have been selecting in the mid rounds a lot lately. There is a wide range of outcomes regarding Brown's development because I feel like he's still finding his way in the league. It will be interesting to see how he plays in the second half with a ton of ice time and powerplay responsibility. At this point, Brown is very much a North/South winger who knows his role is to get to the net. He relishes in this and he finds success in it. He flashes an ability to drive wide, using his length/frame to protect the puck too. However, he disappears for stretches and needs to find a way to impact the game more consistently without the puck. Maybe that's as a forechecker. As a physical component. As a two-way winger (using that length). The skating isn't terrible for a player of his size at this age, but adding more explosiveness would definitely be key moving forward. It would help him to be better in pretty much every facet. </div><div><br /></div><div><b>27. Owen Outwater - Center - Kingston Frontenacs</b></div><div>Since acquiring Outwater, it's been interesting to see the chemistry develop at this level between he and Soto, former minor hockey teammates with the Oakville Rangers. I kind of see them as polar opposites to be honest and perhaps that's why it's working well. Outwater is this athletic, but raw pivot who is currently at his best when he can push pace. He's quite quick for a big, lanky pivot and he uses his speed to drive the middle. At times, this is to a fault, as he can try to drive through people when he should be dishing off; there is some tunnel vision at play here. I'm actually not completely convinced that he's a center long term. But, for now, he is being developed as such. I'm also not completely sold on the high end skill level, which means the rest of his game is going to really need to round into form, but there is definitely an intriguing package of athleticism here. Kind of like Brown, the range of outcomes is vast.</div><div><br /></div><div><b>28. Lucas Moore - Defense - Hamilton Bulldogs</b></div><div>Moore is an undersized, right shot defender who has quietly been very good for the Bulldogs this year. There's a real simplicity to his game as a puck mover. He transitions quickly and is comfortable making an exit pass or using his feet to clear the defensive zone. He's not a completely dynamic linear attacker, but his four way mobility is sound. His decision making in the offensive zone is solid too. Makes quick decisions, uses his feet to get clearance, gets pucks on net. Defensively, I like the intensity level to make up for his lack of size. But he can chase the play at times and for a player with good mobility, his footwork can get sloppy defending attackers with pace. I'm not entirely convinced that he's more than a really good OHL defender in the future, but there's enough positives that I'd still look at him in the mid to late rounds. </div><div><br /></div><div><b>29. Angus MacDonell - Center - Mississauga Steelheads</b></div><div>One of the many new pieces brought in by the Steelheads, I really like MacDonell. I think he's a future captain in the league and someone who will be a really good OHL player. His energy level on the ice is infectious and consistent. It's go, go, go. He's not a big kid at 5'10, but he competes hard and is just a solid all around player. The rest of the skill set probably grades out as average. His shot is probably the best of that; there's a solid goal scoring ceiling here. Would he be better as an attacking winger? Hard to say. I'd say yes, but we'll see how Mississauga develops him. The upside likely isn't very high, but he's an easy player to like and cheer for. His intangibles should get him a look in the later rounds.</div><div><br /></div><div><b>30. Valentin Zhugin - Wing - Guelph Storm</b></div><div>At this point of my rankings, I see most of the guys listed as long shots to be drafted this year. So I'm going to rank a guy like Zhugin pretty high. His upside is quite high. He is extremely quick and he is very skilled. Zhugin is a dynamic transitional attacker. When you watch Guelph play, he always seems to stand out, but the production just doesn't match the eye test. Why is that? I'm not sure the processing ability is great. A lot of his impressive rushes end up not really creating much in the way of a dangerous opportunity. Additionally, he needs to find a way to work between the hash marks more consistently. There is a need to add strength and physical intensity to his game. I could see a team taking a swing at him late because of his speed and skill combo.</div><div><br /></div><div><b>31. Matthew Mayich - Defense - Ottawa 67's</b></div><div>Mayich has been really good for the 67's this year; one of the team's unsung heroes thus far. He's a 6'2 defender with good mobility and a strong defensive IQ. His projection at the next level would definitely be as a stay at home type, however he shows flashes of being a capable puck mover too. Is there offensive upside? Tough to say.</div><div><br /></div><div><b>32. James Petrovski - Defense - Owen Sound Attack</b></div><div>Another good sized defender (6'3), Petrovski is definitely a lot more raw than Mayich. He hasn't really found that niche in the league that many expected he could carve out. His four way mobility is pretty decent for a big kid and he shows flashes of being very good at both ends of the ice. However, consistency has been an issue. Puck management has been an issue. Kind of a similar player to Nolan Collins last year when the Pens took him in the sixth round.</div><div><br /></div><div><b>33. Donovan McCoy - Defense - Peterborough Petes</b></div><div>McCoy has been a disappointment for me this year. Really thought he'd have a monster breakout year, but that just hasn't happened. I like the mobility. I like the defensive zone intensity. He's playing a lot for the Petes, which is great, but the fact that his offensive game and decision making haven't taken that next step is concerning in regards to his upside. Way too early to give up on him, but as a late born 2004, the expectations were going to be higher. </div><div><br /></div><div><b>34. Joey Costanzo - Goaltender - Windsor Spitfires</b></div><div>It is bizarre to me that Costanzo was not listed at all by NHL Central Scouting. Do I think he's a lock to be drafted? No. But I think he's the better goaltender and a better goaltending prospect than the other four OHL goalies they listed. Costanzo has been terrific for Windsor since coming over from Niagara. This is especially true of late. He never quits on a play. He's athletic. He could be the starter for one of the main contenders in the OHL. </div><div><br /></div><div><b>35. Konnor Smith - Defense - Peterborough Petes</b></div><div>Massive stay at home defender is one of the most physical players in the OHL. The 6'5 behemoth is one mean customer. He truly suffocates in the defensive end. But his play with the puck is pretty weak at this point. Turnovers are an issue in the defensive end. Four way mobility is a concern too. But, I'd bet on him being drafted late because of how he could project as a depth, shutdown crease clearer.</div><div><br /></div><div><b>36. Adam Zidlicky - Wing - Mississauga Steelheads</b></div><div>Very curious to see how Zidlicky does with more ice time and responsibility in Mississauga. Decent results so far. Look, I don't think the upside is high. But Zidlicky is a hard worker, has a nose for the net, and I think could potentially develop into a useful role player at the next level if his skill development can take that next step. The bloodlines are great.</div><div><br /></div><div><b>37. Anthony Romani - Wing - North Bay Battalion</b></div><div>Romani is another guy that I think eventually becomes a really good OHL player. He's pretty skilled. His hands in tight are particularly impressive. I think he sees the ice pretty well and is a responsible two-way player. Romani is versatile. If he were a better skater, he'd be a more consistent offensive contributor and that's the next step for him. Could be the kind of guy who suddenly explodes with greater conditioning, or he could be more of a solid OHL player only type.</div><div><br /></div><div><div><b>38. Matthew Andonovski - Defense - Kitchener Rangers</b></div><div>Another defender with good size, mobility, and physicality. But another guy I'm not certain has the skill or sense with the puck to be a longtime NHL defender. How he plays down the stretch for the Rangers will dictate where he ends up slotting in for the draft, especially in comparison to the likes of Mayich, Petrovski, Smith, etc.</div></div><div><br /></div><div><b>39. Chris Barlas - Center/Wing - Ottawa 67's</b></div><div>Honestly, Barlas is probably not an NHL draft prospect this year, but I'm listing him anyway. He's not big, but he competes hard. He knows his role on this 67's team is to provide energy from the bottom six and he does just that. His combination of quickness, physicality, ability to protect the puck, and shot should make him a quality goal scorer at some point during his junior career. Can he be a high energy, bottom six guy in the NHL too if he develops accordingly?</div><div><br /></div><div><b>40. Luke McNamara - Center - Saginaw Spirit</b></div><div>Center with good size who just hasn't put it all together consistently in the OHL. He can have a few shifts every game where he flashes impressive potential as a play driver, but mixes that in with too many where he's not visible. Would love to see him use his size to attack the net more consistently and be more assertive. Was originally touted as one of the better goal scorers in this age group and in order for that to happen, he'll need to increase his intensity.</div><div><br /></div><div><b>41. Ethan Hay - Center - Flint Firebirds</b></div><div>Really good defensive center who can take key faceoffs. Solid enough skater. Intelligent. I'm just not sure he's skilled enough to be a true offensive catalyst. Can he have a similar trajectory to a guy like Tyler Gaudet (a blast from the past who ended up earning an NHL contract but now plays in Germany)?</div><div><br /></div><div><b>42. Marco Mignosa - Wing - Soo Greyhounds</b></div><div>At this point the physical tools just haven't caught up to the brain. Mignosa is very clearly a smart player. He understands how to position himself in the offensive zone and his anticipation/reads are usually spot on. I think he looks quicker this year too. However, there's still work to be done as a skater and in terms of his strength on the puck. He's too easily kept to the perimeter and that limits his production and his projection.</div><div><br /></div><div><b>43. Calem Mangone - Wing - Saginaw Spirit</b></div><div>I really like Mangone. He's really fun to watch when he's on his game because of how quick and skilled he is. He's tenacious too, which is good for his long term projection. However, the last few months he just hasn't been quite as effective. Maybe partially snake bitten, but also not noticeable enough as a late born 2004, who also happens to be undersized. </div><div><br /></div><div><b>44. Juan Copeland - Wing - Niagara IceDogs</b></div><div>Hard for players on this Niagara team to look good at this point of the season. It's been a rough year for the franchise. Copeland is the team's best hope at the NHL Draft IMO. Good speed and creativity on the wing. Is at his best when he's attacking wide and looking to get to the net. His decision making with the puck leaves some to be desired, but he's going to be a point per game player in this league and probably a 35+ goal scorer by the time he graduates. Not sure he's a true NHL prospect, but I've always been intrigued by him.</div><div><br /></div><div><b>45. Charlie Robertson - Goaltender - North Bay Battalion</b></div><div>Big goalie who is going to play in the CHL Top Prospect's Game this year. Other than Bjarnason and Ratzlaff, it's not a strong year for goalies in the CHL, so that's Robertson's gain and a great opportunity to impress scouts considering his back-up role in North Bay this year. Tall and lanky, Robertson kind of resembles a young Matt Murray in the crease from an appearance perspective. He's actually very aggressive in challenging shooters, something you don't often see from big, young netminders who usually seem more comfortable playing deep. His agility and quickness is a work in progress, as you might expect. Consistency has also been a bit of an issue, which is not a surprise. Bottom line, Robertson is getting a look because he's big, shows some positive play tracking ability, and could have great potential if he can continue to get quicker in the crease.</div><div><br /></div><div><b>46. Nic Sima - Wing - Saginaw Spirit</b></div><div>Sima is a big winger with good speed; he's an intriguing athlete. The rest of his game remains a work in progress. North/South, he looks good. He can operate as the F1. He uses his length well on the backcheck. He shows promise as a transitional leader. But the hands and finishing ability need to improve for him to score consistently in this league. If you draft Sima, you're banking on unlocking his potential based on his athletic build and traits.</div><div><br /></div><div><b>47. Declan Waddick - Wing/Center - Niagara IceDogs</b></div><div>Not the biggest. Not the quickest. Maybe that means I've lost you already. But Waddick is an impressive thinker on the ice. Always puts himself in good position to make a play. Has a good compete level. I think he's eventually going to be a very good player in this league. But an NHL prospect? That will be reliant on whether he can get quicker.</div><div><br /></div><div><b>48. Alex Assadourian - Center - Niagara IceDogs</b></div><div>He's been fantastic since the trade to Niagara. I love to see this because I was a big fan of his heading into the year. He's ultra quick, but I feel like he's still learning how to use his speed to be a truly effective all around, impact player in the OHL. Getting more ice time in Niagara hopefully unlocks that and the early returns are great. At his best, Assadourian is a feisty, speedy, play driving pest. There's NHL upside there if he can prove that he has the skill to play at the next level.</div><div><br /></div><div><b>49. Alexis Daviault - Defense - Erie Otters</b></div><div>It's been a pretty disappointing season for Daviault. He came into the year as one of the better defenders in the age group, but he's been very underwhelming this year. As a U17 player, we saw someone who was aggressive (for his size) in the defensive end, but who also showed promise as a puck mover. This season, I don't think he's been as aggressive defensively and thus, not as effective given that he's only average sized. And he's been fairly timid with the puck, especially in his time with Erie. The big return of the Christian Kyrou trade needs to turn things around.</div><div><br /></div><div><b>50. Bronson Ride - Defense - Niagara IceDogs</b></div><div>Massive defender who is now going to get significantly more ice time with Niagara after a move from Windsor. His potential as a defensive stalwart is great. His mobility isn't terrible considering his size and when combined with his reach, he can be very disruptive. The key for Ride is simply to become more difficult to play against physically. For a big guy, his ability to win those 50/50 battles has been pretty inconsistent. Additionally, decision making with the puck...especially under pressure, has been an issue. Could see an NHL team looking his way late banking on defensive upside, but let's see how he closes out the year.</div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div></div>Brock Ottenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08237782074032840702noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2553903000955128175.post-22913792721634820232023-01-13T21:31:00.000-05:002023-01-13T21:31:08.393-05:002023 NHL Central Scouting Midterm Rankings<div style="text-align: left;">NHL Central Scouting has released their first official draft ranking for 2023. Let's see how the OHL players were ranked. In total, 55 were listed. I'll be releasing my own midseason rankings very shortly (likely by the end of the month). See below for some commentary on these rankings.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>Skaters:</b></div><div style="text-align: left;">1. Colby Barlow (10)</div><div style="text-align: left;">2. Quentin Musty (11)</div><div style="text-align: left;">3. Calum Ritchie (17)</div><div style="text-align: left;">4. Oliver Bonk (18)</div><div style="text-align: left;">5. Beau Akey (25)</div><div style="text-align: left;">6. Cam Allen (29)</div><div style="text-align: left;">7. Carson Rehkopf (31)</div><div style="text-align: left;">8. Andrew Gibson (32)</div><div style="text-align: left;">9. Hunter Brzustewicz (33)</div><div style="text-align: left;">10. Quinton Burns (37)</div><div style="text-align: left;">11. Coulson Pitre (41)</div><div style="text-align: left;">12. Brad Gardiner (43)</div><div style="text-align: left;">13. Ethan Miedema (45)</div><div style="text-align: left;">14. Ondrej Molnar (48)</div><div style="text-align: left;">15. Luca Pinelli (49)</div><div style="text-align: left;">16. Carey Terrance (50)</div><div style="text-align: left;">17. Tristan Bertucci (51)</div><div style="text-align: left;">18. Alex Pharand (54)</div><div style="text-align: left;">19. Matthew Mania (62)</div><div style="text-align: left;">20. Cooper Foster (74)</div><div style="text-align: left;">21. Easton Cowan (75)</div><div style="text-align: left;">22. Owen Outwater (76)</div><div style="text-align: left;">23. Denver Barkey (84)</div><div style="text-align: left;">24. Konnor Smith (87)</div><div style="text-align: left;">25. Matthew Soto (88)</div><div style="text-align: left;">26. Ethan Hay (90)</div><div style="text-align: left;">27. Luke McNamara (92)</div><div style="text-align: left;">28. Nick Lardis (96)</div><div style="text-align: left;">29. Florian Xhekaj (103)</div><div style="text-align: left;">30. Cole Brown (105)</div><div style="text-align: left;">31. Matthew Andonovski (115)</div><div style="text-align: left;">32. James Petrovski (116)</div><div style="text-align: left;">33. Matthew Mayich (122)</div><div style="text-align: left;">34. Blake Smith (123)</div><div style="text-align: left;">35. Nic Sima (133)</div><div style="text-align: left;">36. Spencer Sova (136)</div><div style="text-align: left;">37. Djibril Toure (156)</div><div style="text-align: left;">38. Alexis Daviault (169)</div><div style="text-align: left;">39. Anthony Romani (170)</div><div style="text-align: left;">40. Chris Barlas (171)</div><div style="text-align: left;">41. Angus MacDonell (172)</div><div style="text-align: left;">42. Joey Willis (174)</div><div style="text-align: left;">43. Calem Mangone (176)</div><div style="text-align: left;">44. Marco Mignosa (191)</div><div style="text-align: left;">45. Donovan McCoy (192)</div><div style="text-align: left;">46. Lucas Moore (207)</div><div style="text-align: left;">47. Bronson Ride (210)</div><div style="text-align: left;">48. PJ Forgione (214)</div><div style="text-align: left;">49. Wyatt Kennedy (216)</div><div style="text-align: left;">50. Valentin Zhugin (219)</div><div style="text-align: left;">51. Adam Zidlicky (220)</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>Goaltenders:</b></div><div style="text-align: left;">1. Charlie Robertson (12)</div><div style="text-align: left;">2. Nathan Day (14)</div><div style="text-align: left;">3. Charlie Schenkel (23)</div><div style="text-align: left;">4. Zach Bowen (29)</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">For the full list, <a href="https://www.nhl.com/news/connor-bedard-tops-css-north-american-midterm-rankings/c-339850714?tid=277764372">see here</a>.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><u><i>Comments:</i></u></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">1. When we compare this to my own rankings (nearly solidified) the following players would be ranked higher by me: Carey Terrance, Luca Pinelli, Matthew Mania, Denver Barkey, Joey Willis, Easton Cowan, Nick Lardis, Angus MacDonell.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">2. When we compare this to my own rankings (nearly solidified) the following players would be ranked lower by me: Oliver Bonk, Brad Gardiner, Cooper Foster, Konnor Smith.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">3. This list looks similar to what I expected it to look like given NHL Central Scouting's track record. I expected guys like Barkey, Willis, Lardis, etc to be lower. I expected Bonk to be ranked quite high. The only real surprise for me is Carey Terrance. He's the type of player that NHL CSS typically really likes. I think they're underrating him because of the quality of the team he's playing on and subsequent production deficits. Similarly, the fact that so few OHL players ranked highly is not surprising. At this point, I'd set the over/under at 3.5 for the number of OHL players selected in the first round this year.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">4. Good to see Spencer Sova ranked. I think he's the top re-entry guy from the OHL currently. I'd even be more aggressive with that ranking than 136. A bit surprised to see Linus Hemstrom not on the list. I think he deserves to be. </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div>Brock Ottenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08237782074032840702noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2553903000955128175.post-16049812242968682102022-12-29T19:37:00.001-05:002022-12-30T07:31:24.287-05:00OHL Trade Deadline Preview 2022/23<div style="text-align: left;">Some traditions are worth keeping up. An OHL Trade Deadline preview is a piece that I have been writing here for many years. And, quite often, my predictions have been fairly accurate. </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">The difference this year is that the vast majority of the deals have already happened. It's been a very busy year in the OHL for blockbuster trades, with most OHL teams getting things done prior to the deadline. We've seen the Kitchener Rangers load up in recent weeks. Sarnia and Peterborough have made their big moves previously. Few teams have room for an OA without drastically shaking up their locker rooms (by swapping out a player wearing a letter...for example). So who's left to move?</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">I'm going with a slightly different format this year. I'm going to break things down by the big players remaining that I expect to move...with some different scenarios that I could see happening. Of course, I will also make a final prediction as to what actually DOES happen.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">Let's begin...</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b><u>Pavel Mintyukov - Saginaw</u></b></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">I do think that there is a chance Saginaw does not move Mintyukov, who IMO has been the best player in the OHL this year. The Spirit are well positioned in the Western Conference and could make a nice run in the playoffs. That said...this is also a team that moved on from Josh Bloom in order to get assets to acquire Hunter Haight; a move that made them better next year. The Spirit are, IMO, the top contender to host the Memorial Cup next year. They are going to want to have the best team possible for that run. Mintyukov will not be a part of that run as he will turn pro. So if you can move Mintyukov for a player who can still contribute this year, but also make the Spirit better next year, it's going to be a move that Saginaw management explores. Zayne Parekh and Mitchell Smith can handle the puck moving and powerplay duties this year. </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">Ideally, I could see Saginaw targeting a high end '04 or '05 defender for Mintyukov because they would be closer to contributing now and in the future. Problem is, what team that is trying to compete would be willing to make that swap, or has a player who fits that bill? Additionally, what team has Import room and/or would be willing to swap out Imports? The restrictions on moving imports complicates things. Peterborough for example has Tommy Purdeller contributing decently for them and he would need to be waived if they brought in Mintyukov (assuming Brian Zanetti is not swapped instead).</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">I see five teams as true contenders for Mintyukov's services, should Saginaw decide to move him. Barrie, Ottawa, London, Windsor, and Peterborough.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">Here are the scenarios:</div><div style="text-align: left;"><div>#1A - Pavel Mintyukov to Peterborough for Jack Van Volsen & Brian Zanetti (straight up)</div><div>#1B - Pavel Mintyukov to Peterborough for Donovan McCoy & Draft Picks (also waive Tommy Purdeller)</div><div><br /></div><div>Here we have two different scenarios involving Peterborough who really could use Mintyukov to beef up their middling powerplay and improve their transition game. Both of these options would make a lot of sense for Saginaw. #1 gives them another quality defender who can contribute now and a really, really good young player in Van Volsen. #2 gives them a quality young defender who can contribute now and who should be even better next year when they hope to host the Memorial Cup. Both of these scenarios also make the Petes better.</div><div><br /></div><div>#2 - Pavel Mintyukov to Ottawa for Frankie Marrelli & Draft Picks</div><div><br /></div><div>I really do think Ottawa is the perfect place for Mintyukov. This team has been so good this year and Mintyukov would make them that much better. Because of their depth on defense, Marrelli hasn't played a ton this year. Additionally, because of their young depth on defense, his loss wouldn't be massive for the future. For Saginaw, they get a really good young defender (I've been very impressed with Marrelli) who can be a large part of their future, but who also should be able to handle a larger role this year. </div><div><br /></div><div>#3 - Pavel Mintyukov to Windsor for Anthony Cristoforo</div><div><br /></div><div>I just can't see Windsor doing this. Cristoforo has been so good this year as an '06. Yes, Mintyukov would be an upgrade, but at this cost? There's also no way that Saginaw trades Mintyukov to a division rival without getting Cristoforo or say...Ethan Miedema in return. I see this as very unlikely.</div><div><br /></div><div>#4 - Pavel Mintyukov to London or Barrie</div><div><br /></div><div>I can't see this happening either. London already has some very talented puck moving defenders and I don't see them moving someone like Isaiah George or Jackson Edward to appease the Spirit. They are more likely to bring in a strong defensive presence IMO. Where as Barrie, I see them making moves to correlate with Brandt Clarke's likely return. But, they don't need Mintyukov if Clarke is coming back. They'd already have a nice collection of puck movers. Mintyukov and Clarke on the same team would be outrageously entertaining to watch, but also extremely volatile defensively.</div><div><br /></div><div><span style="color: red;">MOST LIKELY SCENARIO</span></div><div><b><i>#2 - Pavel Mintyukov to Ottawa for Frankie Marrelli & Draft Picks</i></b></div><div><b><i><br /></i></b></div><div><b><u>Brett Harrison - Oshawa</u></b></div><div><br /></div><div>While there's no guarantee that Mintyukov moves, I think it's nearly certain that Brett Harrison does. The Generals already moved Lleyton Moore and they're committed to re-tooling. Harrison is one of the top veteran forwards available. He has flexibility from a positional perspective as he can play center or the wing. He can play all situations. He is a goal scorer. Pretty much every team who wishes to compete in the playoffs could use him and will likely be competing for his services.</div><div><br /></div><div>No question, Oshawa will be looking for a quality young player in return, especially based on the market value set by other trades this year. I don't think a collection of draft picks gets this done. They're going to be looking for a quality '05 or '06 (first rounder).</div><div><br /></div><div>I see five teams who truly make sense for Harrison; London, Ottawa, Windsor, Barrie, and Peterborough.</div><div><br /></div><div>Here are the scenarios:</div><div><div>#1 - Brett Harrison to London for Luca Testa </div><div><br /></div><div>This just makes too much sense right? The Knights pick up a home town kid in Harrison who also happens to fill a need of another veteran goal scorer in their lineup. Harrison maybe isn't the kind of hard nosed player that Dale Hunter normally likes, but he can coax that out of young players. In Testa, the Generals would be getting a high upside offensive forward. London probably doesn't want to move him, but they've seen positive development from their '05's this year and could afford to move Testa. There's a chance that the Knights hold firm and actually don't make moves; we did speak of them as sellers when they started the season so poorly. But, I think the Hunters realize the wide open nature of the Western Conference currently and will seek to make themselves better.</div><div><br /></div><div>#2 - Brett Harrison to Ottawa for Frankie Marrelli </div><div><br /></div><div>It just seems inevitable that Marrelli moves doesn't it? The 67's will want to make themselves better and he's their top trade chip. This one for one would work for both teams. Ottawa gets a bigger bodied goal scorer to support their smaller, high IQ playmakers. The Generals get another quality young defender to build around with Danford and Luca Marrelli (not brothers).</div><div><br /></div><div>#3 - Brett Harrison to Windsor for Chris O’Flaherty & Draft Picks</div><div><br /></div><div>Windsor gets another quality top six forward to help them with their run. He can also help improve their penalty kill. Oshawa gets O'Flaherty, a power forward type with goal scoring potential whose high energy game would fit in well with what the Generals usually like in their players. </div><div><br /></div><div>#4 - Brett Harrison to Barrie for Cole Beaudoin </div></div><div><br /></div><div>This scenario sees the Generals acquiring another high end '06 in Beaudoin who could be a big part of their future down the middle. He has struggled with pace a bit this year, but the upside is high. Barrie could be getting another forward with positional flexibility (like they already have). He'd probably play the wing for the Colts and help anchor their second line to improve their scoring depth.</div><div><br /></div><div>#5 - Brett Harrison to Peterborough for Justin DeZoete & Draft Picks</div><div><br /></div><div>I see this scenario as the least likely. If the Generals are going to trade Harrison to a heated rival like Peterborough, they would probably want a bigger fish in return than DeZoete. And I just don't see the Petes moving Van Volsen for Harrison. I think they'd want a bigger fish. DeZoete is a high energy goal scorer who could likely be a General for another few years, but does he really fit their timeline? I think they'd prefer an '05 or '06.</div><div><br /></div><div><span style="color: red;">MOST LIKELY SCENARIO</span></div><div><b><i>#1 - Brett Harrison to London for Luca Testa</i></b> </div><div><br /></div><div><b><u>Danny Zhilkin - Guelph</u></b></div><div><br /></div><div>Does Zhilkin move? The Storm have shown some signs of life lately. The swap of Namestnikov for Pastujov has really worked well. The preseason favourite Storm have been massively disappointing this season but if they can get themselves into the playoffs, there's a chance that they could still make noise. On the other hand, I think that the Storm have realized that this team isn't built for a run this year and instead will trade a veteran like Zhilkin in hopes of trying again next year. That means, they'd want a player back who can contribute now and in the future...similar to the Pastujov deal.</div><div><br /></div><div>Zhilkin's speed and tenacity down the middle will be highly coveted. He wasn't good in last year's playoffs, but someone will take the chance that he can be better the second time around. </div><div><br /></div><div>So who needs a pace pushing center who can do a little bit of everything?</div><div><br /></div><div>Here are the scenarios:</div><div><div>#1 - Danny Zhilkin to Sarnia for Easton Wainwright & Draft Picks</div><div><br /></div><div>I really like this scenario for both teams. Zhilkin would fit in really nicely in Sarnia. I think they'd really like to add another high end center to pair with Nolan Burke. Zhilkin would increase their team speed quotient too. Wainwright has been forced down the depth chart in Sarnia this year but I think he's got great potential in this league and could find a lot of success with the Storm. However, as much as I like the concept of this trade, I see it as far fetched. The Storm and Sting have already made a big trade. The odds of them making another is slim. The Storm have disappointed greatly this year. Would the Sting really want to bring in TWO of their veteran players when they have had trouble with consistency themselves?</div><div><br /></div><div>#2 - Danny Zhilkin to Peterborough for Justin DeZoete, James Guo, & Draft Picks</div><div><br /></div><div>A kind of mish mash offer from Peterborough for Zhilkin. Of course, it could involve Van Volsen, but again I'm not sure they offer him up for Zhilkin given that he's been only average this year and was not strong in last year's playoffs. DeZoete and Guo give the Storm two pieces who could play prominent roles down the line. But would Guelph want more?</div><div><br /></div><div>#3 - Danny Zhilkin to London for Luka Testa (straight up)</div><div><br /></div><div>We talked about the Knights and a possible desire to add a quality forward. Zhilkin fits the London Knight model. He plays with pace. He's tenacious. He can be utilized in a variety of roles. I also love the return for Guelph of Testa. Or even if it's an '05 like Mathieu Paris. This could be a good fit. </div><div><br /></div><div>#4 - Danny Zhilkin to Windsor for Chris O’Flaherty & Bronson Ride</div></div><div><br /></div><div>On one hand, I think Windsor could be better off looking for a high end winger. They're fairly deep down the middle already. On the other hand, players like Oliver Peer have positional flexibility. And they could consider moving Maillet or Abraham to the wing. Or even using Zhilkin there. This Windsor team could use another difference maker up front and Zhilkin could definitely be that. I like the fit in Sarnia the best, but I think this is the most likely landing spot. As for the return, Guelph is getting two quality young players back who could help them re-tool for next year.</div><div><br /></div><div><span style="color: red;">MOST LIKELY SCENARIO</span></div><div><b><i>#4 - Danny Zhilkin to Windsor for Chris O’Flaherty & Bronson Ride</i></b></div><div><br /></div><div><b><u>The Hamilton Bulldogs OAs - Logan Morrison, Avery Hayes, & Gavin White</u></b></div><div><br /></div><div>The Bulldogs are suffering from a post championship hangover this year and simply don't have the depth to compete in the Eastern Conference. As such, look for at least two of their excellent overage players to move. They are all among the best players at their position in the OHL and they would hold great value, even if they are overagers with a limited market. Best of all, these are proven playoff performers with championship experience. All three could be huge difference makers for any team in the league.</div><div><br /></div><div>But who actually has room for an OA? There's Ottawa. There's Peterborough. That might be it unless a team is really willing to shake up their OA situation. One example of this would be Windsor, if they choose to move on from goaltender Mathias Onuska. But that would require them to go out and make another deal to acquire a non OA goaltender (maybe Patrick Leaver? Josh Rosenzweig? Another netminder?). </div><div><br /></div><div>Here are some scenarios:</div><div><div>#1 - Logan Morrison & Gavin White to Peterborough for Jack Van Volsen, Sahil Panwar, & Draft Picks</div></div><div>#2 - Logan Morrison & Avery Hayes for Jack Van Volsen, Sahil Panwar, & Draft Picks</div><div><br /></div><div>A package deal involving two of these OA's makes the most sense for maximizing return value. I've actually heard that Hamilton has explored packaging them for such a reason. In this scenario the Petes are going absolutely all in. They have one open OA spot and move Panwar (who they acquired earlier this year) for an upgrade too. I've mentioned a few times about the Petes only moving Van Volsen for a true difference maker and Morrison and White/Hayes are just that. If you're going to go all in, this is the type of move you make. That's why I see Peterborough as the top contender for at least one of these OA's services. For Hamilton, acquiring a young difference maker like Van Volsen would be huge and a no brainer. For Peterborough, I like the Morrison and White package best. White gives them another high end puck mover who can help their powerplay and Morrison gives them an incredible one/two punch down the middle with he and Tucker Robertson. They can then shift Avon and Lockhart to the wing. </div><div><br /></div><div><div>#3 - Avery Hayes to Ottawa for Jack Dever & Draft Picks</div></div><div><br /></div><div>Ottawa has an open OA spot and Hayes would be absolutely perfect for them. He plays the game similar to the way the rest of their forwards do. He would be a Dave Cameron player for sure. Jack Dever is a depth player for the 67's this year but he does have solid middle six potential in the future. Likely some higher end picks would need to be included here.</div><div><br /></div><div>#4 - Avery Hayes to Windsor for Chris O'Flaherty & Draft Picks</div><div><br /></div><div>This seems the most far fetched, even if Hayes is someone that Windsor could really use. But would Windsor be willing to make this move and then have to make another by moving Onuska out for another goaltender? </div><div><br /></div><div><span style="color: red;">MOST LIKELY SCENARIOS</span></div><div><b><i>#1 - Logan Morrison & Gavin White to Peterborough for Jack Van Volsen, Sahil Panwar, & Draft Picks</i></b></div><div><b><i>#3 - Avery Hayes to Ottawa for Jack Dever & Draft Picks</i></b></div><div><br /></div><div><b><u>Artyom Grushnikov - Hamilton</u></b></div><div><br /></div><div>If Hamilton is going to go full rebuild, why would they hang on to Grushnikov? The defensive stalwart would be one of the top defensive options on the market and could really help a contending team with an import spot available. For that reason, I do see him moving.</div><div><br /></div><div>So who are the contenders?</div><div><br /></div><div>Ottawa, London, Windsor, and Barrie seem like the most likely candidates who also have available import spots (or who have imports who are underperforming). </div><div><br /></div><div>Here are the scenarios:</div><div><div>#1 - Artyom Grushnikov to London for Mathieu Paris & Draft Picks</div><div><br /></div><div>I could see London being the top contender for Grushnikov. We know how much the Hunters value defenders like Grushnikov who have length, mobility, and physicality. They have an open import spot currently, although they've been holding out hope that Kasper Halttunen comes. Grushnikov could be a veteran that the team could pair with one of their puck movers, such as Logan Mailloux (given his roving tendencies). In Paris, the Bulldogs would be getting a young center with potential who has been pushed down the depth chart in London as a rookie.</div><div><br /></div><div>#2 - Artyom Grushnikov to Windsor for Bronson Ride & Draft Picks</div><div><br /></div><div>This scenario sees the Spitfires waive Tomas Hebek in order to bring in Grushnikov. They saw him first hand in last year's playoffs and know that he could bring a ton of value to their back-end. Wouldn't he be a terrific partner for young offensive blueliner Cristoforo?</div><div><br /></div><div>#3 - Artyom Grushnikov to Barrie for Grayson Tiller & Draft Picks</div></div><div><br /></div><div>Grushnikov would be a great add for Barrie if they end up getting Brandt Clarke back. They could immediately pair the two together to form a terrific top four pairing. In Tiller, the Bulldogs get a quality young defender who can play an immediate top four role for them as they rebuild.</div><div><br /></div><div>#4 - Artyom Grushnikov to Ottawa for Jack Dever & Draft Picks</div><div><br /></div><div>The 67's are bound to have their hands in every cookie jar. He'd be a great add for them. I could even see him being a part of a package with someone like Avery Hayes, which would increase the deal to likely involving someone like Frankie Marrelli. </div><div><br /></div><div><span style="color: red;">MOST LIKELY SCENARIO</span></div><div><i><b>#1 - Artyom Grushnikov to London for Mathieu Paris & Draft Picks</b></i></div><div><i><b><br /></b></i></div><div><b><u>Nolan Dann - Niagara</u></b></div><div><br /></div><div>Nolan Dann is a better player than he has shown in Niagara this year. The IceDogs gave up a couple of second rounders for him in the offseason, but we know that they've already moved out other players that they've recently acquired. Why not Dann too? For his sake, I hope he moves and I think that interest in him would be high as a middle six depth option. This is especially true considering that teams likely wouldn't have to give up as much to acquire him, yet his impact could be quite high with a change of scenery.</div><div><br /></div><div>Two teams that I think could be really interested in Dann are Barrie and Mississauga. The Steelheads need more scoring depth and these two teams have been consistent trade partners in the last 24 months. It also allows Mississauga (under performing recently) to make a low key move to improve without giving up the farm. Barrie could use Dann as a second line winger to improve their scoring depth. Of course, lots of teams could use Dann in a similar role. Would North Bay be interested? What about Windsor? Bill Bowler has spoken out about the team's desire to improve, but not sacrifice the farm or next year's success. Adding Dann at a lesser cost could make a ton of sense. What about one of those bubble seller/buyer teams like Owen Sound or Flint?</div><div><br /></div><div>Here are some scenarios:</div><div><div>#1 - Nolan Dann to Barrie for Draft Picks</div><div>#2 - Nolan Dann to Mississauga for Draft Picks</div></div><div>#3 - Nolan Dann to North Bay for Draft Picks</div><div>#4 - Nolan Dann to Windsor for Draft Picks</div><div>#5 - Nolan Dann to Flint for Draft Picks</div><div>#6 - Nolan Dann to Owen Sound for Draft Picks</div><div>#7 - Nolan Dann to London for Draft Picks</div><div>#8 - Nolan Dann to Ottawa for Draft Picks</div><div><br /></div><div>Let's discuss this all together. IMO the most likely scenario sees him going to Mississauga. They need to do something to capitalize on their final year with James Hardie, LDBB, Kasper Larsen, etc. This is a great low key move that could really pay dividends. Dann would fill out their secondary scoring. Barrie would be the second most likely destination IMO. They have a need for another scoring line winger. I'd put Windsor as third most likely and they'd be familiar with him from his time in Sarnia.</div><div><br /></div><div><span style="color: red;">MOST LIKELY SCENARIO</span></div><div><b><i>#2 - Nolan Dann to Mississauga for Draft Picks</i></b></div><div><b><i><br /></i></b></div><div><b><u>Other Potential Moves</u></b></div><div><b><u><br /></u></b></div><div>Here are some other players that I anticipate could draw trade interest between now and the deadline: Andre Anania, Ethan Larmand, Ryan Gagnier, Kalvyn Watson, Patrick Leaver, Alec Belanger, Ben Roger, Josh Rosenzweig, David Jesus, Liam Gilmartin, Kaleb Lawrence, and Tristan Lennox.</div><div><br /></div><div>There's also obviously the chance that a team like Flint becomes a surprising seller by moving someone like Amadeus Lombardi for a King's ransom, but I don't see it. Ditto for Mississauga or Owen Sound going full rebuild. Mississauga could easily blow up this piece if they decide to push their chips into a full rebuild. Move Del Bel Belluz. Move Del Mastro. Look for spots for their OA’s. Maybe even move Owen Beck for a massive package. It’s definitely possible and I have heard rumblings. We shall see.</div><div><br /></div><div>Kaleb Lawrence could make sense for Owen Sound to move. He's been OK this year in his first truly healthy year, but they'll be in a serious numbers crunch next year with a bunch of quality 03's and only so many OA spots. I feel like he could be the odd man out (assuming he's not signed and placed in the AHL). If they can get good value for him now, they could move him and give more ice time to players like Brennan and first round pick Ben Cormier. </div><div><br /></div><div>Andre Anania and Ethan Larmand could move in Sudbury. They too will have a numbers crunch next year as they figure out their OA's. Both players could have some decent value right now and would help alleviate that numbers crunch next year. Anania, in particular, could be a great #5 for playoff bound teams. </div><div><br /></div><div>Ryan Gagnier would be a great OA acquisition as a high energy guy who can play a variety of different roles. He's had a really good year. But would Ottawa or Peterborough look at him for their final OA spot(s) or go to a slightly bigger fish?</div><div><br /></div><div>What about the goaltenders? Would any of them move? As mentioned, if Windsor decides to "upgrade" their OA spot, Onuska could be the odd man out causing them to have to bring in another netminder. It does seem pretty unlikely IMO.</div><div><br /></div><div><span style="color: red;">MOST LIKELY SCENARIOS</span></div><div><b><i>#1 - Andre Anania to North Bay for Draft Picks</i></b></div><div><b><i>#2 - Kaleb Lawrence to Barrie for Draft Picks</i></b></div><div><b><i><br /></i></b></div><div>Here we have the Battalion bringing in Anania to give them better defensive depth thanks to the injuries to Mathurin and Avery Winslow. Winslow should be back relatively soon, but Mathurin won't be back until the playoffs, if at all. We would also see Barrie bringing in a big body to support their somewhat smaller forward group, plus there's a strong chance that they'll be able to fit him into their lineup next year as an OA. </div><div><br /></div><div><b><u>Shane Wright - Seattle (NHL)/Kingston</u></b></div><div><b><u><br /></u></b></div><div>One last player to mention and that's Shane Wright. As the deadline draws near, the debate as to whether Wright is returning to the OHL is heating up. Either way, I would expect his rights to be dealt. In that situation, the return will be entirely draft pick based and contingent on his arrival (a massive haul of conditional picks). </div><div><br /></div><div>Firstly, I'm still not convinced Wright returns. Seattle has been pretty steadfast in the media saying that they feel comfortable with him playing limited minutes in the NHL to get his feet wet and that they heavily value the practice and development time he is getting at the pro level. I feel much better about Brandt Clarke's return than Wright's. I'd honestly put it at 50/50 and others I've spoken to feel the same way.</div><div><br /></div><div>Secondly, as mentioned, his rights WILL move. So who is going to be aggressive in his pursuit? I would expect every competitive team in the OHL. But, it will get complicated. The Wright camp (himself and agency) and the Kraken management group will have great influence on this decision, especially if they are truly entertaining the idea of sending him back. If Kingston wants to cash in on those conditional picks, they'd be wise to listen. If the Kraken don't like his destination, they definitely won't be sending him back.</div><div><br /></div><div>With that in mind, here are the three teams that I expect to be the front runners. The first two are obvious in Ottawa and London. Ottawa is at the top of the standings and they've been a great program for development during the last few decades. London is at the top of the standings and they've been a great program for development during the last few decades. See the pattern? But what about the third team?...and this one could surprise you; the North Bay Battalion. Now, I already see your faces...Wright's not going to agree to go to North Bay. Hold your horses. One; the Battalion may just be the best team in the OHL right now. Two; there is a lot of faith in Stan Butler, Ryan Oulahen, and Adam Dennis' ability to prepare young centers for pro hockey by becoming better and more aggressive two-way players. Three; The Kraken already have two prospects playing for North Bay in Ty Nelson and Kyle Jackson. Four; Both Ron Francis and Dave Lowry in Seattle are Northern Ontario boys at heart and would definitely pitch North Bay as an attractive location to finish the year. That's a lot of checkmarks.</div><div><br /></div><div>So where does Shane Wright's rights (tongue twister) end up? I'm not making a prediction on this one outside of the three teams that I mentioned.</div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div></div>Brock Ottenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08237782074032840702noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2553903000955128175.post-18978352481907656912022-12-14T15:58:00.000-05:002022-12-14T15:58:38.448-05:00Preliminary Media/Scout Top 10 for 2023<div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 9pt;"><span style="font-size: small;">Time for the first media/scout poll for the 2023 NHL Draft!</span></span></div>
<p align="LEFT" style="font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="color: #333333;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">For
those unfamiliar with how this works, I poll many of the OHL's
brightest minds; those who cover the league incredibly well and know
the OHL inside, and out. These contributors supply me with their top
10 available players from the OHL, in addition to some comments. I
then put it all together and provide you with a cumulative list. Call
it "the consensus."</span></span></span></p>
<p align="LEFT" style="font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="color: #333333;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">At
this point, this OHL crop does appear to be on the weaker side.
Coming into the year, there was a lot of hope for it. Cal Ritchie was
being discussed as a possible top 7-8 selection. Cam Allen was in
consideration to be the top defender available. There was some hope
that a few high end Imports would come over. Instead, it now appears
that there is no guarantee that an OHL player will be selected inside
the lottery and there may not be more than two or three taken in the
first round. Additionally, the depth available does not appear to be
strong either. That said, it's still quite early in the scouting
season. Lots of time for players to turn things around.</span></span></span></p>
<p align="LEFT" style="font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="color: #333333;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">As
always, this list involves contributions from a rather colourful cast
of characters. Contributing their rankings and thoughts to this
preliminary list for 2023 were:</span></span></span></p>
<p align="LEFT" style="orphans: 2; widows: 2;"><span style="color: black;"><span style="text-decoration: none;"><span style="font-family: Verdana;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-style: normal;"><b><span style="background: transparent;">Corey
Pronman</span></b></span></span></span></span></span><span style="color: black;"><span style="text-decoration: none;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-style: normal;"><span style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="background: transparent;"> </span></span></span></span></span></span></span><span style="color: black;"><span style="text-decoration: none;"><span style="font-family: Verdana;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-style: normal;"><span style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="background: transparent;">-
NHL Prospects Writer for</span></span></span></span></span></span></span><a href="https://theathletic.com/nhl/"><span style="color: #1155cc;"><span style="text-decoration: none;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-style: normal;"><u><span style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="background: transparent;"> </span></span></u></span></span></span></span></span></a><a href="https://theathletic.com/nhl/"><span style="color: #1155cc;"><span style="text-decoration: none;"><span style="font-family: Verdana;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-style: normal;"><u><span style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="background: transparent;">TheAthletic</span></span></u></span></span></span></span></span></a><span style="color: black;"><span style="text-decoration: none;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-style: normal;"><span style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="background: transparent;"> </span></span></span></span></span></span></span><span style="color: black;"><span style="text-decoration: none;"><span style="font-family: Verdana;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-style: normal;"><span style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="background: transparent;">(</span></span></span></span></span></span></span><a href="https://twitter.com/coreypronman"><span style="color: #1155cc;"><span style="text-decoration: none;"><span style="font-family: Verdana;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-style: normal;"><u><span style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="background: transparent;">@coreypronman</span></span></u></span></span></span></span></span></a><span style="color: black;"><span style="text-decoration: none;"><span style="font-family: Verdana;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-style: normal;"><span style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="background: transparent;">)</span></span></span></span></span></span></span></p>
<p align="LEFT" style="line-height: 0.45cm; margin-bottom: 0cm; margin-top: 0.42cm; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="color: black;"><span style="text-decoration: none;"><span style="font-family: Verdana;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-style: normal;"><b><span style="background: transparent;">Dominic
Tiano</span></b></span></span></span></span></span><span style="color: black;"><span style="text-decoration: none;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-style: normal;"><span style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="background: transparent;"> </span></span></span></span></span></span></span><span style="color: black;"><span style="text-decoration: none;"><span style="font-family: Verdana;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-style: normal;"><span style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="background: transparent;">-
Writer for The</span></span></span></span></span></span></span><a href="http://ohlwriters.me/"><span style="color: #1155cc;"><span style="text-decoration: none;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-style: normal;"><u><span style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="background: transparent;"> </span></span></u></span></span></span></span></span></a><a href="http://ohlwriters.me/"><span style="color: #1155cc;"><span style="text-decoration: none;"><span style="font-family: Verdana;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-style: normal;"><u><span style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="background: transparent;">OHL
Writers</span></span></u></span></span></span></span></span></a><span style="color: black;"><span style="text-decoration: none;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-style: normal;"><span style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="background: transparent;"> </span></span></span></span></span></span></span><span style="color: black;"><span style="text-decoration: none;"><span style="font-family: Verdana;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-style: normal;"><span style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="background: transparent;">(</span></span></span></span></span></span></span><a href="https://twitter.com/dominictiano"><span style="color: #1155cc;"><span style="text-decoration: none;"><span style="font-family: Verdana;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-style: normal;"><u><span style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="background: transparent;">@dominictiano</span></span></u></span></span></span></span></span></a><span style="color: black;"><span style="text-decoration: none;"><span style="font-family: Verdana;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-style: normal;"><span style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="background: transparent;">)</span></span></span></span></span></span></span></p>
<p align="LEFT" style="line-height: 0.45cm; margin-bottom: 0cm; margin-top: 0.42cm; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="color: black;"><span style="text-decoration: none;"><span style="font-family: Verdana;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-style: normal;"><b><span style="background: transparent;">Ryan
Kennedy</span></b></span></span></span></span></span><span style="color: black;"><span style="text-decoration: none;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-style: normal;"><span style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="background: transparent;"> </span></span></span></span></span></span></span><span style="color: black;"><span style="text-decoration: none;"><span style="font-family: Verdana;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-style: normal;"><span style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="background: transparent;">-
Editor in Chief for</span></span></span></span></span></span></span><a href="http://www.thehockeynews.com/"><span style="color: #1155cc;"><span style="text-decoration: none;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-style: normal;"><u><span style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="background: transparent;"> </span></span></u></span></span></span></span></span></a><a href="http://www.thehockeynews.com/"><span style="color: #1155cc;"><span style="text-decoration: none;"><span style="font-family: Verdana;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-style: normal;"><u><span style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="background: transparent;">The
Hockey News</span></span></u></span></span></span></span></span></a><span style="color: black;"><span style="text-decoration: none;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-style: normal;"><span style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="background: transparent;"> </span></span></span></span></span></span></span><span style="color: black;"><span style="text-decoration: none;"><span style="font-family: Verdana;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-style: normal;"><span style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="background: transparent;">(</span></span></span></span></span></span></span><a href="https://twitter.com/THNRyanKennedy"><span style="color: #1155cc;"><span style="text-decoration: none;"><span style="font-family: Verdana;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-style: normal;"><u><span style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="background: transparent;">@THNRyanKennedy</span></span></u></span></span></span></span></span></a><span style="color: black;"><span style="text-decoration: none;"><span style="font-family: Verdana;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-style: normal;"><span style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="background: transparent;">)</span></span></span></span></span></span></span></p>
<p align="LEFT" style="line-height: 0.45cm; margin-bottom: 0cm; margin-top: 0.42cm; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="color: black;"><span style="text-decoration: none;"><span style="font-family: Verdana;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-style: normal;"><b><span style="background: transparent;">Scott
Wheeler</span></b></span></span></span></span></span><span style="color: black;"><span style="text-decoration: none;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-style: normal;"><span style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="background: transparent;"> </span></span></span></span></span></span></span><span style="color: black;"><span style="text-decoration: none;"><span style="font-family: Verdana;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-style: normal;"><span style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="background: transparent;">-
NHL Prospects Writer for</span></span></span></span></span></span></span><a href="https://theathletic.com/nhl/"><span style="color: #1155cc;"><span style="text-decoration: none;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-style: normal;"><u><span style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="background: transparent;"> </span></span></u></span></span></span></span></span></a><a href="https://theathletic.com/nhl/"><span style="color: #1155cc;"><span style="text-decoration: none;"><span style="font-family: Verdana;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-style: normal;"><u><span style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="background: transparent;">TheAthletic</span></span></u></span></span></span></span></span></a><span style="color: black;"><span style="text-decoration: none;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-style: normal;"><span style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="background: transparent;"> </span></span></span></span></span></span></span><span style="color: black;"><span style="text-decoration: none;"><span style="font-family: Verdana;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-style: normal;"><span style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="background: transparent;">(</span></span></span></span></span></span></span><a href="https://twitter.com/scottcwheeler"><span style="color: #1155cc;"><span style="text-decoration: none;"><span style="font-family: Verdana;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-style: normal;"><u><span style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="background: transparent;">@scottcwheeler</span></span></u></span></span></span></span></span></a><span style="color: black;"><span style="text-decoration: none;"><span style="font-family: Verdana;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-style: normal;"><span style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="background: transparent;">)</span></span></span></span></span></span></span></p>
<p align="LEFT" style="line-height: 0.45cm; margin-bottom: 0cm; margin-top: 0.42cm; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="color: black;"><span style="text-decoration: none;"><span style="font-family: Verdana;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-style: normal;"><b><span style="background: transparent;">Will
Scouch</span></b></span></span></span></span></span><span style="color: black;"><span style="text-decoration: none;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-style: normal;"><span style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="background: transparent;"> – </span></span></span></span></span></span></span><span style="color: black;"><span style="text-decoration: none;"><span style="font-family: Verdana;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-style: normal;"><span style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="background: transparent;">Founder
of</span></span></span></span></span></span></span><a href="https://www.youtube.com/c/Scouching"><span style="color: #1155cc;"><span style="text-decoration: none;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-style: normal;"><u><span style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="background: transparent;"> </span></span></u></span></span></span></span></span></a><a href="https://www.youtube.com/c/Scouching"><span style="color: #1155cc;"><span style="text-decoration: none;"><span style="font-family: Verdana;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-style: normal;"><u><span style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="background: transparent;">Scouching
Draft Analytics</span></span></u></span></span></span></span></span></a><span style="color: black;"><span style="text-decoration: none;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-style: normal;"><span style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="background: transparent;"> </span></span></span></span></span></span></span><span style="color: black;"><span style="text-decoration: none;"><span style="font-family: Verdana;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-style: normal;"><span style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="background: transparent;">&
Contributor to</span></span></span></span></span></span></span><a href="https://www.mckeenshockey.com/"><span style="color: #1155cc;"><span style="text-decoration: none;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-style: normal;"><u><span style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="background: transparent;"> </span></span></u></span></span></span></span></span></a><a href="https://www.mckeenshockey.com/"><span style="color: #1155cc;"><span style="text-decoration: none;"><span style="font-family: Verdana;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-style: normal;"><u><span style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="background: transparent;">McKeen's
Hockey</span></span></u></span></span></span></span></span></a><span style="color: black;"><span style="text-decoration: none;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-style: normal;"><span style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="background: transparent;"> </span></span></span></span></span></span></span><span style="color: black;"><span style="text-decoration: none;"><span style="font-family: Verdana;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-style: normal;"><span style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="background: transparent;">(</span></span></span></span></span></span></span><a href="https://twitter.com/Scouching"><span style="color: #1155cc;"><span style="text-decoration: none;"><span style="font-family: Verdana;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-style: normal;"><u><span style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="background: transparent;">@Scouching</span></span></u></span></span></span></span></span></a><span style="color: black;"><span style="text-decoration: none;"><span style="font-family: Verdana;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-style: normal;"><span style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="background: transparent;">)</span></span></span></span></span></span></span></p>
<p align="LEFT" style="line-height: 0.45cm; margin-bottom: 0cm; margin-top: 0.42cm; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="color: black;"><span style="text-decoration: none;"><span style="font-family: Verdana;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-style: normal;"><b><span style="background: transparent;">Peter
Baracchini - </span></b></span></span></span></span></span><span style="color: black;"><span style="text-decoration: none;"><span style="font-family: Verdana;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-style: normal;"><span style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="background: transparent;">Draft
Content at </span></span></span></span></span></span></span><a href="https://thehockeywriters.com/author/pbaracchini/"><span style="color: #1155cc;"><span style="text-decoration: none;"><span style="font-family: Verdana;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-style: normal;"><u><span style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="background: transparent;">The
Hockey Writers</span></span></u></span></span></span></span></span></a><span style="color: black;"><span style="text-decoration: none;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-style: normal;"><span style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="background: transparent;"> </span></span></span></span></span></span></span><span style="color: black;"><span style="text-decoration: none;"><span style="font-family: Verdana;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-style: normal;"><span style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="background: transparent;">(</span></span></span></span></span></span></span><a href="https://twitter.com/PBaracchini"><span style="color: #1155cc;"><span style="text-decoration: none;"><span style="font-family: Verdana;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-style: normal;"><u><span style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="background: transparent;">@PBaracchini</span></span></u></span></span></span></span></span></a><span style="color: black;"><span style="text-decoration: none;"><span style="font-family: Verdana;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-style: normal;"><span style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="background: transparent;">)</span></span></span></span></span></span></span></p>
<p align="LEFT" style="line-height: 0.45cm; margin-bottom: 0cm; margin-top: 0.42cm; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="color: black;"><span style="text-decoration: none;"><span style="font-family: Verdana;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-style: normal;"><b><span style="background: transparent;">Mike
Morreale - </span></b></span></span></span></span></span><span style="color: black;"><span style="text-decoration: none;"><span style="font-family: Verdana;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-style: normal;"><span style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="background: #ffffff;">Staff
writer for </span></span></span></span></span></span></span><a href="http://www.nhl.com/ice/blog.htm?author=2316&view=headline"><span style="color: black;"><span style="text-decoration: none;"><span style="font-family: Verdana;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-style: normal;"><u><span style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="background: transparent;">NHL.com</span></span></u></span></span></span></span></span></a><span style="color: black;"><span style="text-decoration: none;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-style: normal;"><span style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="background: #ffffff;"> </span></span></span></span></span></span></span><span style="color: black;"><span style="text-decoration: none;"><span style="font-family: Verdana;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-style: normal;"><span style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="background: #ffffff;">(</span></span></span></span></span></span></span><a href="https://twitter.com/mikemorrealeNHL"><span style="color: black;"><span style="text-decoration: none;"><span style="font-family: Verdana;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-style: normal;"><u><span style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="background: transparent;">@mikemorrealeNHL</span></span></u></span></span></span></span></span></a><span style="color: black;"><span style="text-decoration: none;"><span style="font-family: Verdana;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-style: normal;"><span style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="background: #ffffff;">)</span></span></span></span></span></span></span></p>
<p align="LEFT" style="line-height: 0.45cm; margin-bottom: 0cm; margin-top: 0.42cm; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="color: black;"><span style="text-decoration: none;"><span style="font-family: Verdana;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-style: normal;"><b><span style="background: transparent;">Mat
Sheridan</span></b></span></span></span></span></span><span style="color: black;"><span style="text-decoration: none;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-style: normal;"><span style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="background: transparent;"> </span></span></span></span></span></span></span><span style="color: black;"><span style="text-decoration: none;"><span style="font-family: Verdana;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-style: normal;"><span style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="background: transparent;">-
OHL Regional Scout for</span></span></span></span></span></span></span><a href="https://nhlentrydraft.com/"><span style="color: black;"><span style="text-decoration: none;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-style: normal;"><span style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="background: transparent;"> </span></span></span></span></span></span></span></a><a href="https://nhlentrydraft.com/"><span style="color: #1155cc;"><span style="text-decoration: none;"><span style="font-family: Verdana;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-style: normal;"><u><span style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="background: transparent;">Future
Considerations</span></span></u></span></span></span></span></span></a><span style="color: black;"><span style="text-decoration: none;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-style: normal;"><span style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="background: transparent;"> </span></span></span></span></span></span></span><span style="color: black;"><span style="text-decoration: none;"><span style="font-family: Verdana;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-style: normal;"><span style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="background: transparent;">(</span></span></span></span></span></span></span><a href="https://twitter.com/sheridan_mat"><span style="color: #1155cc;"><span style="text-decoration: none;"><span style="font-family: Verdana;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-style: normal;"><u><span style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="background: transparent;">@sheridan_mat</span></span></u></span></span></span></span></span></a><span style="color: black;"><span style="text-decoration: none;"><span style="font-family: Verdana;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-style: normal;"><span style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="background: transparent;">)</span></span></span></span></span></span></span></p>
<p align="LEFT" style="line-height: 0.45cm; margin-bottom: 0cm; margin-top: 0.42cm; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="color: black;"><span style="text-decoration: none;"><span style="font-family: Verdana;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-style: normal;"><b><span style="background: transparent;">Dylan
Krill </span></b></span></span></span></span></span><span style="color: black;"><span style="text-decoration: none;"><span style="font-family: Verdana;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-style: normal;"><span style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="background: transparent;">-
OHL Regional Scout for</span></span></span></span></span></span></span><a href="https://www.mckeenshockey.com/"><span style="color: black;"><span style="text-decoration: none;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-style: normal;"><span style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="background: transparent;"> </span></span></span></span></span></span></span></a><a href="https://www.mckeenshockey.com/"><span style="color: #1155cc;"><span style="text-decoration: none;"><span style="font-family: Verdana;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-style: normal;"><u><span style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="background: transparent;">McKeen’s
Hockey</span></span></u></span></span></span></span></span></a><span style="color: #1155cc;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-style: normal;"><u><span style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="background: transparent;"> </span></span></u></span></span></span></span><span style="color: black;"><span style="text-decoration: none;"><span style="font-family: Verdana;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-style: normal;"><span style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="background: transparent;">(</span></span></span></span></span></span></span><a href="https://twitter.com/dylan_krill"><span style="color: #1155cc;"><span style="text-decoration: none;"><span style="font-family: Verdana;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-style: normal;"><u><span style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="background: transparent;">@dylan_krill</span></span></u></span></span></span></span></span></a><span style="color: black;"><span style="text-decoration: none;"><span style="font-family: Verdana;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-style: normal;"><span style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="background: transparent;">)</span></span></span></span></span></span></span></p>
<p align="LEFT" style="line-height: 0.45cm; margin-bottom: 0cm; margin-top: 0.42cm; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="color: black;"><span style="text-decoration: none;"><span style="font-family: Verdana;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-style: normal;"><b><span style="background: transparent;">Matt
Young</span></b></span></span></span></span></span><span style="color: black;"><span style="text-decoration: none;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-style: normal;"><span style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="background: transparent;"> </span></span></span></span></span></span></span><span style="color: black;"><span style="text-decoration: none;"><span style="font-family: Verdana;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-style: normal;"><span style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="background: transparent;">-
OHL broadcaster (</span></span></span></span></span></span></span><a href="https://twitter.com/mattyoung71"><span style="color: #1155cc;"><span style="text-decoration: none;"><span style="font-family: Verdana;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-style: normal;"><u><span style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="background: transparent;">@mattyoung71</span></span></u></span></span></span></span></span></a><span style="color: black;"><span style="text-decoration: none;"><span style="font-family: Verdana;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-style: normal;"><span style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="background: transparent;">)</span></span></span></span></span></span></span></p>
<p align="LEFT" style="line-height: 0.45cm; margin-bottom: 0cm; margin-top: 0.42cm; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="color: black;"><span style="text-decoration: none;"><span style="font-family: Verdana;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-style: normal;"><b><span style="background: transparent;">Josh
Tessler</span></b></span></span></span></span></span><span style="color: black;"><span style="text-decoration: none;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-style: normal;"><span style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="background: transparent;"> </span></span></span></span></span></span></span><span style="color: black;"><span style="text-decoration: none;"><span style="font-family: Verdana;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-style: normal;"><span style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="background: transparent;">-
Director of Scouting for</span></span></span></span></span></span></span><a href="https://smahtscouting.com/"><span style="color: #1155cc;"><span style="text-decoration: none;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-style: normal;"><u><span style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="background: transparent;"> </span></span></u></span></span></span></span></span></a><a href="https://smahtscouting.com/"><span style="color: #1155cc;"><span style="text-decoration: none;"><span style="font-family: Verdana;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-style: normal;"><u><span style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="background: transparent;">Smaht
Scouting</span></span></u></span></span></span></span></span></a><span style="color: black;"><span style="text-decoration: none;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-style: normal;"><span style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="background: transparent;"> </span></span></span></span></span></span></span><span style="color: black;"><span style="text-decoration: none;"><span style="font-family: Verdana;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-style: normal;"><span style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="background: transparent;">(</span></span></span></span></span></span></span><a href="https://twitter.com/JoshTessler_"><span style="color: #1155cc;"><span style="text-decoration: none;"><span style="font-family: Verdana;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-style: normal;"><u><span style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="background: transparent;">@JoshTessler_</span></span></u></span></span></span></span></span></a><span style="color: black;"><span style="text-decoration: none;"><span style="font-family: Verdana;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-style: normal;"><span style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="background: transparent;">)</span></span></span></span></span></span></span></p>
<p align="LEFT" style="line-height: 0.45cm; margin-bottom: 0cm; margin-top: 0.42cm; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<b><span style="color: black;"><span style="text-decoration: none;"><span style="font-family: Verdana;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-style: normal;"><span style="background: #ffffff;">Tony
Ferrari –</span></span></span></span></span></span></b><span style="color: black;"><span style="text-decoration: none;"><span style="font-family: Verdana;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-style: normal;"><span style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="background: #ffffff;">
NHL Draft Content </span></span></span></span></span></span></span><span style="color: black;"><span style="text-decoration: none;"><span style="font-family: Verdana;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-style: normal;"><span style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="background: transparent;">for</span></span></span></span></span></span></span><a href="http://www.thehockeynews.com/"><span style="color: #1155cc;"><span style="text-decoration: none;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-style: normal;"><u><span style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="background: transparent;"> </span></span></u></span></span></span></span></span></a><a href="http://www.thehockeynews.com/"><span style="color: #1155cc;"><span style="text-decoration: none;"><span style="font-family: Verdana;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-style: normal;"><u><span style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="background: transparent;">The
Hockey News</span></span></u></span></span></span></span></span></a><span style="color: black;"><span style="text-decoration: none;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-style: normal;"><span style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="background: transparent;"> </span></span></span></span></span></span></span><span style="color: black;"><span style="text-decoration: none;"><span style="font-family: Verdana;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-style: normal;"><span style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="background: transparent;">(</span></span></span></span></span></span></span><b><a href="https://twitter.com/theTonyFerrari">@theTonyFerrari</a></b><span style="color: black;"><span style="text-decoration: none;"><span style="font-family: Verdana;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-style: normal;"><span style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="background: transparent;">)</span></span></span></span></span></span></span><span style="color: black;"><span style="text-decoration: none;"><span style="font-family: Verdana;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-style: normal;"><span style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="background: #ffffff;">
</span></span></span></span></span></span></span>
</p>
<p align="LEFT" style="line-height: 0.45cm; margin-bottom: 0cm; margin-top: 0.42cm; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="color: black;"><span style="text-decoration: none;"><span style="font-family: Verdana;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-style: normal;"><b><span style="background: #ffffff;">Olivia
Carter</span></b></span></span></span></span></span><span style="color: black;"><span style="text-decoration: none;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-style: normal;"><span style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="background: #ffffff;"> </span></span></span></span></span></span></span><span style="color: black;"><span style="text-decoration: none;"><span style="font-family: Verdana;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-style: normal;"><span style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="background: #ffffff;">-
OHL Regional Scout </span></span></span></span></span></span></span><span style="color: black;"><span style="text-decoration: none;"><span style="font-family: Verdana;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-style: normal;"><span style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="background: transparent;">for</span></span></span></span></span></span></span><a href="https://nhlentrydraft.com/"><span style="color: black;"><span style="text-decoration: none;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-style: normal;"><span style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="background: transparent;"> </span></span></span></span></span></span></span></a><a href="https://nhlentrydraft.com/"><span style="color: #1155cc;"><span style="text-decoration: none;"><span style="font-family: Verdana;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-style: normal;"><u><span style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="background: transparent;">Future
Considerations</span></span></u></span></span></span></span></span></a><span style="color: black;"><span style="text-decoration: none;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-style: normal;"><span style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="background: #ffffff;"> </span></span></span></span></span></span></span><span style="color: black;"><span style="text-decoration: none;"><span style="font-family: Verdana;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-style: normal;"><span style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="background: #ffffff;">(</span></span></span></span></span></span></span><a href="https://twitter.com/oliviamcarter"><span style="color: #1155cc;"><span style="text-decoration: none;"><span style="font-family: Verdana;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-style: normal;"><u><span style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="background: #ffffff;">@oliviamcarter</span></span></u></span></span></span></span></span></a><span style="color: black;"><span style="text-decoration: none;"><span style="font-family: Verdana;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-style: normal;"><span style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="background: #ffffff;">)</span></span></span></span></span></span></span></p>
<p align="LEFT" style="line-height: 0.45cm; margin-bottom: 0cm; margin-top: 0.42cm; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="color: black;"><span style="text-decoration: none;"><span style="font-family: Verdana;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-style: normal;"><b><span style="background: #ffffff;">Joely
Stockl</span></b></span></span></span></span></span><span style="color: black;"><span style="text-decoration: none;"><span style="font-family: Verdana;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-style: normal;"><span style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="background: #ffffff;">
– OHL Regional Scout for</span></span></span></span></span></span></span><a href="http://draftprospectshockey.com/"><span style="color: black;"><span style="text-decoration: none;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-style: normal;"><span style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="background: #ffffff;"> </span></span></span></span></span></span></span></a><a href="http://draftprospectshockey.com/"><span style="color: black;"><span style="text-decoration: none;"><span style="font-family: Verdana;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-style: normal;"><u><span style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="background: #ffffff;">Drafts
Prospects Hockey</span></span></u></span></span></span></span></span></a><span style="color: black;"><span style="text-decoration: none;"><span style="font-family: Verdana;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-style: normal;"><span style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="background: #ffffff;">
(</span></span></span></span></span></span></span><a href="https://twitter.com/joely_stockl04">@joelystockl04</a><span style="color: black;"><span style="text-decoration: none;"><span style="font-family: Verdana;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-style: normal;"><span style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="background: #ffffff;">)</span></span></span></span></span></span></span></p>
<p align="LEFT" style="line-height: 0.45cm; margin-bottom: 0cm; margin-top: 0.42cm; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="color: black;"><span style="text-decoration: none;"><span style="font-family: Verdana;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-style: normal;"><b><span style="background: #ffffff;">Jared
Brown</span></b></span></span></span></span></span><span style="color: black;"><span style="text-decoration: none;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-style: normal;"><span style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="background: #ffffff;"> </span></span></span></span></span></span></span><span style="color: black;"><span style="text-decoration: none;"><span style="font-family: Verdana;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-style: normal;"><span style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="background: #ffffff;">-
Head Scout for</span></span></span></span></span></span></span><a href="http://draftprospectshockey.com/"><span style="color: black;"><span style="text-decoration: none;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-style: normal;"><span style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="background: #ffffff;"> </span></span></span></span></span></span></span></a><a href="http://draftprospectshockey.com/"><span style="color: black;"><span style="text-decoration: none;"><span style="font-family: Verdana;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-style: normal;"><u><span style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="background: #ffffff;">Drafts
Prospects Hockey</span></span></u></span></span></span></span></span></a><span style="color: black;"><span style="text-decoration: none;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-style: normal;"><span style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="background: #ffffff;"> </span></span></span></span></span></span></span><span style="color: black;"><span style="text-decoration: none;"><span style="font-family: Verdana;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-style: normal;"><span style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="background: #ffffff;">(</span></span></span></span></span></span></span><a href="https://twitter.com/JaredBrownn97"><span style="color: #1155cc;"><span style="text-decoration: none;"><span style="font-family: Verdana;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-style: normal;"><u><span style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="background: #ffffff;">@JaredBrownn97</span></span></u></span></span></span></span></span></a><span style="color: black;"><span style="text-decoration: none;"><span style="font-family: Verdana;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-style: normal;"><span style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="background: #ffffff;">)</span></span></span></span></span></span></span></p>
<p align="LEFT" style="line-height: 0.45cm; margin-bottom: 0cm; margin-top: 0.42cm; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="color: black;"><span style="text-decoration: none;"><span style="font-family: Verdana;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-style: normal;"><span style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="background: #ffffff;">and
of course...myself (</span></span></span></span></span></span></span><a href="https://twitter.com/BrockOtten"><span style="color: #1155cc;"><span style="text-decoration: none;"><span style="font-family: Verdana;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-style: normal;"><u><span style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="background: #ffffff;">@BrockOtten</span></span></u></span></span></span></span></span></a><span style="color: black;"><span style="text-decoration: none;"><span style="font-family: Verdana;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-style: normal;"><span style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="background: #ffffff;">)</span></span></span></span></span></span></span></p>
<p align="LEFT" style="margin-bottom: 0cm; orphans: 2; widows: 2;"><span style="color: #333333;"> </span></p>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="color: #333333;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">Here's
the List:</span></span></span></div><div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="color: #333333; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 12px;"><br /></span></span><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b>1.
Cal Ritchie – Center – Oshawa Generals<br /></b></span></span></span><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">Total
Votes: 16<br /></span></span></span><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">Highest
Ranking: 1<sup>st</sup> (10x)<br /></span></span></span><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">Lowest
Ranking: 2<sup>nd</sup> (6x)<br /></span></span></span><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">Comments:<br /></span></span></span><span style="color: black;">“<span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">I
really, really struggle with Calum Ritchie to this point. I know I’ve
seen better than </span></span></span><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">what
he’s shown so far this season, but I do see some good application
of his size to </span></span></span><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">protect
pucks, move them up the ice and move them to teammates in effective
ways, </span></span></span><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">but
the results just haven’t been there. He’s still in my first
round, but to me, other </span></span></span><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">talented
players have surpassed him so far this year. I’ll keep my eye on
him, and his </span></span></span><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">tracked
data isn’t bad, but it ain’t on the same level as my #1 OHLer,
and is simply </span></span></span><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">lagging
behind many top junior prospects in my prior years of experience in a
variety </span></span></span><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">of
areas.” - Will Scouch</span></span></span></div><div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="color: black;">“<span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">He's
just smart and skilled and once he has the puck, it's hard to get it
off him. He can get to the net, and plays that power forward game so
he can score. I think he's going to create a lot of interest just
because a lot of what he does will translate to the next level. He's
excellent on the power play too.” - Mike Morreale</span></span></span></div><div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="color: black;">“<span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;">A
full package and complete centreman, Calum Ritchie can do it all
whenever he’s on the ice. He’s extremely skilled and has great IQ
and awareness to be a highly effective playmaker at the next level.
He can find the seams very well and can execute plays perfectly with
tape to tape or long stretch plays. He has soft hands in tight
spaces, great control to maintain possession and provides excellent
support for his teammates. While he has average speed, he has strong
edges to weave his way through traffic and his body positioning
allows him to gain the inside edge on his opponents. He has a high
end compete level and work ethic and does a great job engaging on the
forecheck to force turnovers. Defensively he’s very sound, forcing
the opposition to the outside in order to regain possession. Having
all the tools and qualities of an NHL centre already, Ritchie should
hear his name early on in the draft.” - Peter Baracchini</span></span></span></span></div><div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif;">
</span></span></span></span><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="color: black;">“<span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">Despite
the lack of production and not meeting his high expectations, I still
believe Ritchie should be in consideration for going top 10 in the
NHL Draft. Ritchie is a very responsible two-way centre who possesses
elite hockey sense and high-end tools in both his shot and vision. He
reads and anticipates play very well in all three zones and is highly
effective at pick pocketing opponents. He’s not the most dynamic
player, but there are flashes where he pulls you out of your seat
with his blend of skill and creativity with the puck. I believe
Ritchie’s skill-set and all-around game will allow him to adjust to
the NHL very well.” - Dylan Krill</span></span></span></div><div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="color: black;">“<span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">Calum
Ritchie plays very conservatively at times, especially in the neutral
zone. Often, he is the last forward into the offensive zone. In
situations in which he is the F1, he quickly distributes the puck
once entering the zone (out of his hands before the perimeter). When
the Generals are mid-cycle, Ritchie is completing quite a few cross
perimeter passes instead of driving into dangerous areas. I’d like
to utilize his handling and reach to skate around attackers at the
perimeter to try to acquire space down low. If he can use his
stick-handling to open up separation and drive into the slot, his 5v5
production will go up.” - Josh Tessler</span></span></span></div><div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="color: black;">“<span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">A
smart and cerebral player, it is hard to argue that Calum Ritchie is
not deserving of the top draft-eligible player in the OHL. While he
had his ups and downs in his rookie season last year, he showed
glimpses of his potential and has started the year off well in
Oshawa. Ritchie is dangerous with the puck on his stick, capable of
driving the middle of the ice to gain an offensive zone entry or
getting a quick wrist shot off through multiple layers of defence.
Ritchie’s off-puck play makes him a threat as well. He takes smart
routes in the defensive zone and is routinely in position to support
his defencemen. He plays with pace, always moving his feet, to
disrupt defensive zone breakouts for the opposition and causing havoc
below the hashmarks. Ritchie could serve to add some quickness to his
step as he lacks top-end acceleration, but he's easily been one of
the Generals best players so far this season.” - Mat Sheridan</span></span></span><br /><br /><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b>2.
Colby Barlow – Wing – Owen Sound Attack<br /></b></span></span></span><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">Total
Votes: 16<br /></span></span></span><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">Highest
Ranking: 1<sup>st</sup> (3x)<br /></span></span></span><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">Lowest
Ranking: 7<sup>th</sup> (1x)<br /></span></span></span><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">Comments:<br /></span></span></span><span style="color: black;">“<span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">The
reason why Barlow is #1 on my list right now is that I see him as
both a safe NHL contributor and a bit of a unicorn. Players like
Barlow are pretty rare to find. Wingers with good size, speed,
physicality, and the ability to play both ends well do not grow on
trees. How many strong goal scorers can also be counted on to be on
the ice in the final minute to protect a lead? Many prominent goal
scorers in the NHL need to have their zone starts sheltered because
they can't be trusted in the defensive end. That's far from the case
with Barlow. Am I concerned about his ability to create his own
chances at the NHL level due to some inconsistencies in his
transitional skill set? Yeah...a little bit. But I do think that the
hands will catch up to the feet at some point and I think he does so
many other things well that it's easy to see him being a long time
complementary piece. A modern day Steve Larmer?” - Brock Otten</span></span></span></div><div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="color: black;">“<span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">Barlow’s
just one of those players who, in skill, shot, makeup, build, and
approach, just looks like a pro already. He plays a very projectable,
consistent, intentional, direct game that blends scoring with
competitiveness.” - Anonymous</span></span></span></div><div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="color: black;">“<span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">Mainly
shines in the defensive end and shows good efforts in taking up space
when </span></span></span><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">challenging
his opponents in all areas of the ice. His stick work is really good,
he’s able to </span></span></span><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">block
passes and intercept in the defensive zone to turn the play
offensive. Able to make </span></span></span><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">those
smart puck handling decisions for passing lanes and creating good
shot opportunities.” - Olivia Carter</span></span></span></div><div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="color: black;">“<span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">A hot take has Colby Barlow well into my 2nd round. He’s got a
great shot in </span></span></span><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">a
variety of scenarios, but that’s about all I’ve really been able
to put down as a </span></span></span><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">positive.
His tracked data across both games is bad. His ability to get chances
at 5v5 </span></span></span><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">seems
to be very limited whenever I’ve seen him, but perhaps I’m just
not watching </span></span></span><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">the
right games. He has isolated moments where I’m really taken with
his one on one </span></span></span><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">skill
and finishing ability, but more often than not, I find myself
wondering what all </span></span></span><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">the
fuss is about. He’s scored his even strength goals off of rebounds
and tips rather </span></span></span><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">than
creating his own chances, and has a few empty netters at time of
writing. He </span></span></span><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">brings
back memories of how enamored I was with Matt Puempel’s ability to
shoot </span></span></span><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">the
puck, ignoring other key areas of the game that required attention.
Similar to </span></span></span><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">Cam
Allen, there are just other players who have impressed me more to
this point </span></span></span><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">that
knocks Barlow down that bring other traits to the game that I believe
are more </span></span></span><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">important
in the context of an NHL Draft.” - Will Scouch</span></span></span></div><div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="color: black;">“<span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">Barlow
is closing the gap on Ritchie for me with his outstanding play as of
late. He possesses the athletic tools scouts drool over. He’s a
strong power forward with high-end finishing ability. He plays the
game at a high tempo and pushes the pace with his explosive linear
speed with or without the puck. Consistently displays the ability to
find open space between the dots where he’s ready to receive the
puck and deliver his powerful one-timer toward the net. His shooting
technique, power, and off-puck scoring instincts give him the
potential to be a 30 goal scorer in the NHL. He’s equally effective
on the forecheck and in defensive roles, showing that he’s a
versatile, ultra-competitive player. Utilizes his size to play a
physical forechecking game and create turnovers. Barlow can shoot,
skate, play physical, and defend. What’s there to dislike? He’s
going to have a promising NHL career as a top six forward.” - Jared
Brown</span></span></span></div><div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="color: black;">“<span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">The
scoring is undeniable. He gets to the net and has some really nice
hands in tight. He and Pinelli have gone back and forth as the OHL
points leader among draft eligibles. So why am I constantly left
asking for more from Barlow? He is a great complimentary player who
goes to the net, puts himself into position for his teammates to set
him up. Barlow is the definition of a “meat and potatoes” player,
who just does the right thing most of the time and gets rewarded for
it. The problem is that he doesn’t carry the play himself or create
for his teammates. The Owen Sound captain is a hard worker but lacks
the play-driving ability of a Pinelli. His tools are good but not
great all around and his playmaking is average. Dynamism,
facilitation, and the transition game are areas that leave you
wanting more.” - Tony Ferrari</span></span></span><br /><br /><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b>3.
Quentin Musty – Wing – Sudbury Wolves<br /></b></span></span></span><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">Total
Votes: 16<br /></span></span></span><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">Highest
Ranking: 3<sup>rd</sup> (5x)<br /></span></span></span><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">Lowest
Ranking: 9<sup>th</sup> (1x)<br /></span></span></span><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">Comments:<br /></span></span></span><span style="color: black;">“<span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">Musty
is having a great start to the season. His overall skill set –
shot, vision, passing – all scream NHL potential. The knock on
Musty has been the lack of consistency not just from game to game,
but shift to shift. Others argue that the effort is lacking as well.
I think we are seeing less and less of that and I expect Musty to be
higher on this list by the end of the season after he’s put those
knocks behind him.” - Dominic Tiano</span></span></span></div><div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="color: black;">“<span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">Quintin
Musty is definitely an interesting prospect. The 2021 first overall
pick in the OHL Priority Selection Draft has some of the best hands
and skillset in this year’s draft class. He’s got excellent
control of the puck and has the knack to constantly drive hard to the
net, utilizing his size to his advantage. Combining the high-end
skill and power forward like game will definitely attract a number of
teams. While he has the dazzling skill and hands, his decision making
and lack of IQ with and without the puck has hurt his draft stock.
There are times where he tries to do too much and ends up turning the
puck over or makes some questionable decisions with the puck. He is
definitely a high-risk, high-reward kind of player.” - Peter
Baracchini</span></span></span></div><div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="color: black;">“<span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">Quentin
has solid north-south speed and size that allows him to move the puck
past traffic with ease. He has excellent puck protection and uses his
reach to push the puck away from oncoming pressure while driving
through the neutral zone on the rush. While Musty has quality
north-south speed, he seems to be struggling with east-west speed and
that presents challenges when Musty is on the forecheck as he
struggles to keep pace with attackers who are looking to skate
laterally around Musty. When Musty has the puck in the offensive zone
and is facing tight pressure, he struggles to push the puck past the
attacker and then recapture possession. If Musty can further develop
his handling in high pressure situations, he will be difficult to
contain for attackers.” - Josh Tessler</span></span></span></div><div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="color: black;">“<span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">Although
Musty was projected as a first round pick after the Hlinka Gretzky
Tournament, he has had more negatives than positives this season. A
one dimensional player with his lethal scoring and offensive
intelligence, lots of development needed in the other aspects of his
game. Potentially comparable to an 18 year old Arthur Kaliyev.” -
Joely Stockl</span></span></span></div><div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="color: black;">“<span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">I’m
not the biggest fan of Musty. I’ve had too many rather poor or
frustrating viewings than positive ones. There’s no denying his
high-end level of skill with the puck to be a dynamic playmaker and
threat on the powerplay. But when things aren’t going his way, he
can give off horrible body language, force plays, or be selfish and
try and do too much with the puck which leads to turnovers. I also
think he’ll struggle with the pace of the NHL level as his first
few steps still need further development. His ceiling is very high
but I view him as a boom-or-bust pick.” - Jared Brown</span></span></span></div><div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="color: black;">“<span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="color: black;"><span style="text-decoration: none;"><span style="font-family: Arial;"><span style="font-style: normal;"><span style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="background: transparent;">Musty
has been hit or miss depending on the game you’ve seen. In one
game, he will be a dominant offensive force, attacking defenders with
the puck and using his strength and skill to overwhelm them. In
others, he will fade to the background and allow himself to be
outplayed by lesser talent on his team. He’s begun to find some
consistency recently, especially as a facilitator, which hasn’t
always been his forte. The American is a July birthday so he is on
the younger side of the draft class as well, making his high-end tool
set even more attractive if a team thinks they can get him to put it
together more consistently.” - Tony Ferrari</span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span><br /><br /><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b>4.
Cam Allen – Defense – Guelph Storm<br /></b></span></span></span><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">Total
Votes: 16<br /></span></span></span><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">Highest
Ranking: 2<sup>nd</sup> (1x)<br /></span></span></span><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">Lowest
Ranking: 9<sup>th</sup> (1x)<br /></span></span></span><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">Comments:<br /></span></span></span><span style="color: black;">“<span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">Allen
is still second on this list and one of the top defencemen available
in this draft. While a little undersized, he's a right-shot
defenceman with excellent puck-moving ability, and those are always
sought after at the next level. Add in Allen's leadership ability as
he was Captain of Team Canada at the Ivan Hlinka tournament and you
have a pretty complete player. The fact that he got off to a slow
start in Guelph this year was a bit worrisome but it was a slow start
across the board for a Storm team just now finding its legs. I think
Allen could have a big second half of the year, but he's still the
second-best OHL player available.” - Matt Young</span></span></span></div><div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="color: black;">“<span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">Allen
is in a similar boat as Calum Ritchie, playing on a below-average
team and tasked to log huge minutes on the backend for Guelph. He’s
a well-rounded defenseman who can play in all situations and does a
bit of everything. He’s an athletic skater with great power and
agility off his edges. He cuts and changes directions swiftly with
effective weight shifts on the puck. His offensive instincts are at a
high level and he has the ability to create offense inside the
offensive zone. He’ll be able to score goals here and there at the
pro level due to his heavy point shot and active shooting. I love the
way he defends the rush, forcing puck carriers to dump the puck with
his tight gap control. Has a bit of that old-school nastiness in his
game to play “playoff hockey”. I still see him as a top 20 pick
despite his struggles this year.” - Jared Brown</span></span></span></div><div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="color: black;">“<span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">The
year hasn’t gone well for Allen or the Storm. Allen approached 40
points last season and then was named captain of Canada’s Hlinka
team, setting up a year in which the young defender could grab hold
of the status as the draft’s top defender. Now, he’s in a battle
for the top defender coming for the OHL. He has the mobility and raw
tools that should make him a high-end prospect but he hasn’t been
effective this year and his ranking reflects that.” - Tony Ferrari</span></span></span></div><div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="color: black;">“<span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">If
you recall, I had Allen ranked at #1 on my preseason list and I
thought he was the best defender available in this draft class. His
play at the Hlinka/Gretzky largely backed that up. Since then it's
been all downhill. I think he's slowly turning things around and
playing better, but he still looks like a different player than the
one we had seen previously; slightly lost and without a true
identity. To me, it looks like he has succumbed to the pressures of
being a potential high pick in his NHL draft year. The fact that
Guelph has been bad hasn't helped either. So he's feeling draft
pressure and the pressure to turn around his team. As such, a lot of
the errors being made have come from forcing things. Forcing
breakouts. Picking bad times to pinch or activate. Chasing the puck
in the defensive end. He just looks like he's trying to do too much
out there. In the last month or so, I have found his puck management
has been better, but it's been at the expense of not really taking
chances either. Is his upside limited? I don't think you can really
rank him extremely low at this point given previous performances, but
he's going to need a strong second half (and potentially a strong
U18's) to save his chances at being a top 50 pick.” - Brock Otten</span></span></span></div><div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="color: black;">“<span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">I’ve
really struggled with Cam Allen, even going back to last year with
the Guelph Storm. His skill level and deception from the offensive
blueline is undeniable, and the shot he can let go is probably among
the best in the draft this year, but whenever I’ve seen and tracked
him this year, I just can’t bring myself to see him as a top
defender in this class. He’s not managing gaps well, he’s not
moving pucks with his feet or hands particularly effectively outside
the offensive zone, and there are a lot of players that have been
more intriguing to me playing outside the OHL that knocks him down
into my second round. He could easily be higher on this list in the
future, but so far, I just do not see it with Allen and would let
someone else take him in the first round.” - Will Scouch</span></span></span><br /><br /><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b>5.
Hunter Brzustewicz – Defense – Kitchener Rangers<br /></b></span></span></span><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">Total
Votes: 16<br /></span></span></span><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">Highest
Ranking: 3<sup>rd</sup> (1x)<br /></span></span></span><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">Lowest
Ranking: 10<sup>th</sup> (3x)<br /></span></span></span><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">Comments:<br /></span></span></span><span style="color: black;">“<span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">I
liked Brzustewicz’ s game so much at the start of the season I
named him my Draft Eligible Defenceman of the Month for October. I
think the most impressive thing I’ve found so far is his decision
making. I can’t, through 20 plus games, remember a bad decision
he’s made. He’s not flashy like some others, he’s just steady
eddie going about eating huge minutes for the Rangers and doing the
right things right the first time.” - Dominic Tiano</span></span></span></div><div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="color: black;">“<span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">Hunter
Brzustewicz’s overall upside may not be as high as other defenders
in this draft. However, his offensive production of 18 points in 22
games says otherwise. Even though he doesn’t stand out or is flashy
with his play, he still manages to make the right decision with or
without the puck. He displays great playmaking abilities as he’s
always scanning the ice to make a play or stretching the play up with
a strong breakout pass. He’s a very mobile skater and possesses a
responsible game within his own end. While he won’t wow you at any
point, he does catch your attention with his simplistic style.” -
Peter Baracchini</span></span></span></div><div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"></span></span></span><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="color: black;">“<span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">Brzustewicz
has been a strong player for the Rangers so far this season. He has
the ability to create in the offensive zone with the puck on his
stick, drawing in opponents to find teammates in open space and does
well to get shots through traffic. His ability to make a clean first
pass allows his team to transition quickly and create offensive odd
man rushes. He keeps a good gap when defending and uses his strength
to close off opponents in front of the net and in the corners. I
think he projects as an impact defenceman at the next level and will
continue to be an important part of the Rangers core moving forward.”
- Mat Sheridan</span></span></span></div><div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="color: black;">“<span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">Confidence,
confidence, and more confidence with Brzustewicz. Not many defenders
in this draft class can handle the puck and drive the play from the
back end like he can. He quarterbacks each Kitchener powerplay and
moves the puck around with tremendous intelligence and awareness. I
would argue him as the best offensive defenseman in this draft class,
at least from the OHL.” - Joely Stockl</span></span></span></div><div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="color: black;">“<span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">He’s
one of the older defenders in the draft class and he’s racked up
some points this year but he hasn’t been able to truly put himself
ahead of the pack as a blueliner. He lacks defensively and his
offensive game has been predicated on making a high-quality first
pass and allowing teammates to work their magic. The flair in the
offensive zone hasn’t quite come out as of yet but he has a history
of it so the hope is that he continues to gain confidence and brings
more of it to the table.” - Tony Ferrari</span></span></span></div><div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b>6.
Luca Pinelli – Wing – Ottawa 67's<br /></b></span></span></span><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">Total
Votes: 13<br /></span></span></span><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">Highest
Ranking: 1<sup>st</sup> (3x)<br /></span></span></span><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">Lowest
Ranking: Outside of the Top 10 (3x)<br /></span></span></span><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">Comments:<br /></span></span></span><span style="color: black;">“<span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">The
67’s would not be having the kind of season that they are without
Pinelli taking the leap forward that he has. He plays hard, he’s
got skill, he’s always around the puck in the offensive zone, he’s
much stronger than his listed height and weight suggest, and he has
become a driver on a top team night-in and night-out. He deserves
mid-round attention because of it.” - Anonymous</span></span></span></div><div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="color: black;">“<span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">We’re
already getting off the board here, but I absolutely have loved what
I’ve seen </span></span></span><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">out
of Luca Pinelli. Huge production, but his game goes so far beyond
offense in my </span></span></span><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">opinion.
He’s an excellent analyzer of play all over the ice, causing
turnovers and </span></span></span><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">headaches
for opponents without the puck. If he were a couple inches taller,
he’d </span></span></span><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">probably
be among the top C’s in this draft and he’s steadily worked his
way into my </span></span></span><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">top
20, which I certainly didn’t expect coming into this season. He’s
creating, he’s </span></span></span><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">finishing,
he plays hard, he brings so many tools that I look for and the
tracked data </span></span></span><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">backs
that up. He’s been by far the most consistently impressive OHL
player to me so </span></span></span><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">far
this season.” - Will Scouch</span></span></span></div><div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="color: black;">“<span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">Pinelli
is constantly looking to find space in medium and high danger areas
to key up dangerous passing lanes for the 67’s to exploit. His
desire to grab open ice down low has led to many quality one-timer
shots on net. Pinelli also will take over the cycle and look to
distribute the puck to dangerous areas. When driving up the ice,
Pinelli won’t force the puck into highly pressured areas. He will
peel back, regroup and find an open teammate to pass towards. There
is a lot to like in Pinelli’s game and I could see him as a top six
contributor down the road.” - Josh Tessler</span></span></span></div><div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="color: black;">“<span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">Pinelli
has been one of the most impressive draft-eligible players this
season to date. While he plays on a strong Ottawa 67s team, he has
been one of their most dangerous players in every game. His ability
to find open space in the offensive zone is impressive, as he is able
to go undetected through multiple layers of defence and strike with a
quick shot. With the puck on his stick, he is eerily calm. He never
forces a play and is able to maintain the puck even when he is being
pressured by numerous players on the opposing team. While he can
stand to add more strength to his frame, if Pinelli continues to play
like he has, he is going to continue to rise on many scouts’
lists.” - Mat Sheridan</span></span></span></div><div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="color: black;">“<span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="color: black;"><span style="text-decoration: none;"><span style="font-style: normal;"><span style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="background: transparent;">Not
only is Pinelli fighting Barlow for the scoring lead amongst
draft-eligible OHL'ers but the 67’s forward is the creative and
driving force on his line. He brings the dynamism and skill that is
required to be an offensive difference-maker at the NHL level but
Pinelli is also incredibly intelligent. His biggest knock is size but
he isn’t afraid to outwork bigger players and plays a sound two-way
game, intercepting passes and disrupting puck carriers defensively.
Pinelli is a true dual-threat attacker who can make his teammates
better.” - Tony Ferrari</span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span><br /><br /><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b>7.
Beau Akey – Defense – Barrie Colts<br /></b></span></span></span><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">Total
Votes: 14<br /></span></span></span><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">Highest
Ranking: 3<sup>rd</sup> (1x)<br /></span></span></span><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">Lowest
Ranking: Outside of the Top 10 (2x)<br /></span></span></span><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">Comments:<br />
</span></span></span><span style="color: black;">“<span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">Among
the defenders from the OHL available this year, Akey has emerged as
my personal favourite. I think his offensive upside is the highest
because of his creativity and escapability, and his skating ability
is already one of the best in the OHL. The defensive game is
inconsistent. He needs to increase his physical intensity. He needs
to learn to use his strong mobility better to his advantage in the
defensive end. But, at the end of the day, I think he can be a very
strong two-way contributor eventually in the same mold as Toronto's
TJ Brodie.” - Brock Otten</span></span></span></div><div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="color: black;">“<span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">Skilled
defenseman who can skate. He's trending, more natural offensive touch
than someone like Allen.” - Anonymous</span></span></span></div><div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="color: black;">“<span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">If
you like raw defenders who can really skate and play with skill, Akey
is your guy. I </span></span></span><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">really
have enjoyed watching him through last season and into this one, but
he’s a </span></span></span><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">pretty
raw player that has some shortcomings in his game. If he’s got the
puck or a </span></span></span><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">chance
to jump into a rush, the skating ability comes out, he finds space,
and can </span></span></span><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">generate
production. Without the puck, he sits back. Lets opponents come to
him, </span></span></span><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">and
far too often lets them through without consistent pressure to turn
pucks over. </span></span></span><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">Akey
is a guy that looks impressive, and certainly could be in time, but
has holes that </span></span></span><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">will
need to be patched. Still, the mobility, skill and upside as a
transitional defender </span></span></span><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">that
leans offensive has left him as my top OHL defender this year so
far.” - Will Scouch</span></span></span></div><div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="color: black;">“<span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">Despite
Akey being my 10th ranked OHL player and 4th ranked defenseman, I
still believe he has the highest potential out of the 4 defensemen. I
also believe he has the most refining to do in order to reach that
potential. Akey is a highly mobile defenseman who is very effective
in transition because of his ability to drive play from the back. His
4-way mobility is high-end and he has very good skill that he
displays consistently, being able to beat opponents 1-1 and open up
space for himself. I think Akey’s defensive game is where I want to
see him improve the most. He has a very active stick, but I don’t
think he’s always in control of it. He kind of just throws his
stick out and creates chaos. I believe opponents at the next level
will be able to take advantage of that and it will become more and
more difficult to defend, making him less effective. Akey has a lot
of room to move up this ranking and I wouldn’t be shocked if he
ends up being my 5th ranked OHL player by the end of the year.” -
Dylan Krill</span></span></span></div><div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b>8.
Carson Rehkopf – Center/Wing – Kitchener Rangers<br /></b></span></span></span><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">Total
Votes: 13<br /></span></span></span><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">Highest
Ranking: 4<sup>th</sup> (1x)<br /></span></span></span><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">Lowest
Ranking: Outside of the Top 10 (3x)<br /></span></span></span><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">Comments:<br /></span></span></span><span style="color: black;">“<span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">Rehkopf
has a solid all-around game but his best asset might be his shot;
he's one of the better goal scorers of this draft class. He's got
good size (6-3, 195), skates really well and has good hockey IQ.” -
Mike Morreale</span></span></span></div><div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="color: black;">“<span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">I
might be a lot higher on Kitchener Rangers forward Carson Rehkopf
than others, but I just love what he brings to the table. He’s a
highly competitive, two-way centre that plays with an edge and has a
wicked release with his wrist shot. He has great hands and with his
long reach with his stick, he has no problem making moves at a quick
pace to get around defenders with such ease. He’s a smooth skater
with great speed to beat players to the outside or get the jump on a
breakaway and can make moves in tight on goalies with no problem.
He’s quick, in your face and can play a sound defensive game as
well. Having that high-end skill and smarts should make him highly
sought after.” - Peter Baracchini</span></span></span></div><div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="color: black;">“<span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">Rehkopf
has a lot of tools that many scouts are looking for in first round
candidates. He has the size, skating, skill, but also the defensive
awareness that makes him so valuable. The one thing that may keep
Rehkopf outside of the first is that although there aren’t any
glaring weaknesses to his game, none of his strengths are considered
elite at this time. However, he has a very solid all-around game and
is very effective on both sides of the puck. He reads and anticipates
play very well, having great positioning to stay in the play and make
it difficult on opponents to find open space. He suppresses many
chances in transition and displays great compete on back checks. I
believe Rehkopf is still quite raw and has a lot of room to grow
offensively, making him someone to keep an eye on.” - Dylan Krill</span></span></span></div><div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="color: black;">“<span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">Though
his production hasn’t been through the roof thus far, Rehkopf
certainly has all of the tools to be an impact player. He has the
shot, the confidence, the hands, but it hasn’t seemed to come
together for him yet this season. He needs to become a game changer
for Kitchener, and it has been difficult for him because of the
older, elite talent ahead of him in the lineup. There is still lots
of time for him to get it together, but as of now, his stock is
certainly dropping out of the first round.” - Joely Stockl</span></span></span></div><div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="color: black;">“<span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">Rehkopf
has tons of raw potential when you put together his size and skilled
hands. I like his elusiveness and deceptive body language while
controlling the puck. I find his skating to be fluid and agile for a
big man and allow him to be an effective puck transporter through the
neutral zone. Carries the puck with confidence and soft hands. He
possesses high-end handling skills. His hands are always free off his
hip allowing him to take a quick shot on net or a quick pass that
opponents aren’t expecting. He’s got a very quick release on his
wrister and is an accurate shooter between the dots. He will utilize
his size to knock players off the puck and be physically abrasive. He
has the potential to be a power forward with above average puck
skills which aren’t all that common in the NHL.” - Jared Brown</span></span></span></div><div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b>9.
Oliver Bonk – Defense – London Knights<br /></b></span></span></span><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">Total
Votes: 9<br /></span></span></span><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">Highest
Ranking: 5<sup>th</sup> (1x)<br /></span></span></span><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">Lowest
Ranking: Outside of the Top 10 (7x)<br /></span></span></span><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">Comments:<br /></span></span></span><span style="color: black;">“<span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">As
is often the case with London Knights, Bonk has come into his own as
the season — and his role — has progressed. He’s the two-way
right-shot defenceman that every team covets. While his game isn’t
dynamic, he can comfortably make plays and influence the game in all
three zones.” - Anonymous</span></span></span></div><div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="color: black;">“<span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">A
real good understanding of the game due in large part to the tutelage
of his father and former NHL forward Radek. He skates really well,
and is good at distributing the puck on transition. He's got a decent
ceiling and is improving. Oliver was named OHL Rookie of the Month
for November after leading all rookies with 14 points (three goals,
11 assists) in 12 games.” - Mike Morreale</span></span></span></div><div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="color: black;">“<span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">I’m
a big fan of Bonk for many reasons, but what makes him my top
defensemen from the OHL is his defensive game and how well his tools
will translate to the NHL. There have been many games where Bonk is
by far the most effective player in the defensive zone. He has a very
active stick and has excellent stick positioning, quickly taking away
space and time from opponents. He’s consistently timing his stick
checks perfectly, making it very difficult for opponents to get a
clear shot off. He’s able to use his size and strength well to
clear the net-front and pin opponents to the boards. His defensive
game alone makes him an intriguing prospect, but he is starting to
gain more confidence and is showing more of his offensive abilities
by driving play in transition, being a strong puck mover and
utilizing his cannon of a shot more. He’s relied on heavily and can
eat minutes for his team. His offensive game is still raw, but I
really like the foundation of his game and the potential he has to
become a middle-pair defensively minded defenseman who can contribute
offense and compliment his teammates very well.” - Dylan Krill</span></span></span></div><div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="color: black;">“<span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">My
first (but not last) London Knights player on the list and the son of
a former NHLer in Radek Bonk. He's got good size at 6'2" and is
yet another right-handed shot on defence in this list. Bonk is also a
first-year player in the OHL having spent his 16-year-old season in
junior B with the exception of a small 10-game stint in the OHL. In a
world where everyone is raving about Logan Mailloux's offensive game
this year, Bonk is roughly posting a similar points-per-game pace at
a younger age and flying under the radar doing it and getting a lot
of rope from Dale Hunter who is usually far more reliant on his
veterans.” - Matt Young </span></span></span><br /><br /><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b>10.
Denver Barkey – Center – London Knights<br /></b></span></span></span><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">Total
Votes: 7<br /></span></span></span><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">Highest
Ranking: 3<sup>rd</sup> (2x)<br /></span></span></span><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">Lowest
Ranking: Outside of the Top 10 (9x)<br /></span></span></span><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">Comments:<br /></span></span></span><span style="color: black;">“<span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">Very
strong positioning around the defensive zone, strong efforts to
disrupt the plays </span></span></span><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">and
possesses strong anticipation. He’s quick and tight on his edges,
quick cuts when being </span></span></span><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">challenged
and puck handles very well.” - Olivia Carter</span></span></span></div><div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="color: black;">“<span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">I’ve
had my eye on Barkey since last year in the preseason, and in a
similar vein to </span></span></span><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">Pinelli,
I’m highly drawn to his style of play. He’s got skill and speed,
sure, but he also </span></span></span><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">utilizes
it very well off-puck. He drives great transition results going both
directions, </span></span></span><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">but
involves himself defensively at a huge rate relative to other
forwards, especially </span></span></span><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">those
that may lack some size. He gets his chances from dangerous areas
through his </span></span></span><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">sneaky
positioning and ability to quickly change angles and spots on the
ice, but also </span></span></span><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">can
create chances offensively and has done so in both games tracked to
this point. </span></span></span><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">He’s
a skilled, feisty player that could slip in the draft due to being
undersized and </span></span></span><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">perhaps
not the best under pressure with the puck, but he’s been an
excellent puck </span></span></span><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">transporter
through his carries to this point, and he checks a ton of boxes in my </span></span></span><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">books.”
- Will Scouch</span></span></span></div><div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="color: black;">“<span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">After
a nine-game point streak with 13 in that span, Denver Barkey’s
offensive creativity and awareness is what stands out and has put him
on the map for the draft. He’s a quick and agile skater as he’s
got a really strong burst of acceleration and speed. He’s quick and
shifty in transition with great hands as he’s a dynamic playmaker.
He has the vision to draw opponents, create space for his teammates
and find the seams with crisp passes. His smarts and positioning
allows him to always be in the right spot on the ice, with or without
the puck. He isn’t afraid to attack the net and use his soft hands
in tight to beat goaltenders. If Barkey wasn’t on your radar
before, he should be now as he continues to make a name for himself.”
- Peter Baracchini</span></span></span></div><div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="color: black;">“<span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">Barkey
is a highly efficient puck mover. He does a good job of finding tight
passing lanes in transition and using them quickly without
deliberation. When he doesn’t have control of the puck and his
teammates do, he is constantly looking to establish open ice near
them in every zone to open up quality outlet passing lanes. Barkey
will utilize speed nicely on the rush. When entering into the
offensive zone as the F2, he uses his speed to get past the defense
and provide his teammates with quality passing lanes. Once Barkey
gets control of the puck, he activates quickly and drives to the net.
When facing tight pressure in low danger, he will complete quality
passes underneath the attacker’s stick. He uses whatever space he
has.” - Josh Tessler</span></span></span></div><div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="color: black;">“<span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="color: black;"><span style="text-decoration: none;"><span style="font-family: Arial;"><span style="font-style: normal;"><span style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="background: transparent;">The
London Knights center has been one of the most entertaining draft
eligibles in the OHL this season. He plays with incredible offensive
instincts. You can find him rolling off defenders and darting toward
the net, working the puck off the wall before finding a teammate in a
pocket of space, or pulling off any number of crafty offensive
maneuvers. He has a good shot and could stand to use it a bit more.
His vision and passing ability to go along with his quick hands has
been what's made Barkey such an effective player. He works the
give-and-go as good as anyone in the OHL, understanding the geometry
behind beating defensive structures. Barkey has a high work rate to
go with his skill and pace, making him worth discussing among the top
end OHLers.” - Tony Ferrari</span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span><br /><br /><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><u><b><span style="background: transparent;">Honorable
Mentions</span></b></u></span></span></span></div><div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><b><u><br /></u></b></span><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b>Matthew
Soto – Wing – Kingston Frontenacs<br /></b></span></span></span><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">Total
Votes: 5<br /></span></span></span><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">Highest
Ranking: 7<sup>th</sup> (2x)<br /></span></span></span><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">Comments:<br /></span></span></span><span style="color: black;">“<span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">I
had no idea who Matthew Soto was going into the season but between he
and Owen </span></span></span><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">Outwater,
I’ve liked those Kingston linemates quite a bit. Soto brings
tenacity, pace, </span></span></span><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">fierce
one on one confidence, and offensive creativity that gives him a spot
at the tail </span></span></span><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">end
of my list. I question his NHL likelihood as an offensive player due
to his lack of </span></span></span><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">true
footspeed relative to how much effort it looks like he’s putting
out there, but </span></span></span><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">with
some efficiency improvement in his skating and playing with a bit
more dynamic </span></span></span><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">pace,
he could be a nice energy forward you could snag in the mid to late
rounds. </span></span></span><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">He’s
also among the younger players in this year’s draft, and that bodes
well for </span></span></span><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">future
development in my view.” - Will Scouch</span></span></span></div><div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="color: black;">“<span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">Soto
has excellent spatial awareness. He will pass the puck underneath the
attacker’s stick when he is driving the rush and an attacker is
closing in on him and in between a teammate of Soto’s. If he runs
out of options in the offensive zone and an attacker has put tight
pressure on him, he will once again go underneath the stick. When
pressure has tightened up on him, he constantly shows that he can
navigate out of pressure. He has been able to showcase his
escapability on the regular against OHL defensemen.” - Josh Tessler</span></span></span></div><div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="color: black;">“<span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">One
of the younger players available in the draft and just making the
2023 draft by 16 days, Soto is averaging a point per game in
Kingston. The 2021 fifth-overall pick is an intelligent player with a
strong work ethic and has become a terrific playmaker since coming to
the league. His acceleration could use work but as we've seen in the
past, skating is something that can be improved as players get bigger
and stronger; his overall IQ makes up for that deficiency right now
but it is something that will need to improve in order to play with
the pace at the next level.” - Matt Young</span></span></span></div><div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"></span></span></span><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="color: black;">“<span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">Soto’s
dynamic skating and fast-paced offensive style are extremely fun to
watch when he’s on his game. The issue is when he isn’t on his
game, he can be invisible due to his lack of effectiveness without
the puck. His transition speed is elite and has confident puck
handles in full flight. He can explode up ice with the puck and also
possesses the edgework to spin off pressure and maintain control of
the puck along the boards. I love his ability to quickly identify
passing options and move the puck accurately in motion. I’d like to
see him attack the middle of the ice more consistently off the wall
instead of staying stuck on the perimeter with the puck. I can see
Soto driving play in transition with his blazing speed and above
average hands as a middle six winger in the NHL, but needs to develop
more consistency in his game.” - Jared Brown</span></span></span><br /><br /><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b>Coulson
Pitre – Wing – Flint Firebirds<br /></b></span></span></span><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">Total
Votes: 5<br /></span></span></span><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">Highest
Ranking: 8<sup>th</sup> (3x)<br /></span></span></span><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">Comments:<br /></span></span></span><span style="color: black;">“<span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">NHL
teams are always looking for the next Tom Wilson types, and that's a
tall order. He's a pretty unique player. But Pitre does have some
similar qualities. He plays that power game but also skates well
enough to be a factor in transition and has high end vision/smarts
with the puck that make him a strong playmaker. Consistency has been
a bit of an issue to start the year, but it's important to note that
he's counted upon to be more of a secondary threat for Flint and his
ice time/responsibility has fluctuated to a degree.” - Brock Otten</span></span></span></div><div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="color: black;">“<span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">Pitre
is just a good player. That has been clear in each of the last two
seasons. If you watch the Firebirds, it doesn’t take long to
recognize that he’s driving play as a young player on that team
(and the proof is in his goal differential results). Pitre is a smart
player who understands where to be to support play and how to use
spacing to his advantage. He’s also got more of a goal-scoring
touch than we’ve seen so far this season. I expect him to push for
40 goals next year.” - Anonymous</span></span></span></div><div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="color: black;">“<span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">I’m
not sure how many to-10 lists Pitre will make either and I admit I
thought long and hard about it. I just like where his game is at
right now. He can be a physical force who moves pretty well. He’s
not shy about mixing it up either. He’s a power forward from
yester-year. But he also has pretty good vision and playmaking
skills. If he could add a touch more scoring ability to his
repertoire, he would be intriguing. But I am putting him in my top-10
anyway.” - Dominic Tiano</span></span></span><br /><br /><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b>Ethan
Miedema – Wing – Windsor Spitfires<br /></b></span></span></span><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">Total
Votes: 4<br /></span></span></span><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">Highest
Ranking: 4<sup>th</sup> (1x)<br /></span></span></span><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">Comments:<br /></span></span></span><span style="color: black;">“<span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">A
strong paced playmaker who is able to safely create cross ice passes
and set up well </span></span></span><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">around
the offensive zone to set his linemates up for scoring opportunities.
He’s able to create </span></span></span><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">decent
offensive rushes, possesses an accurate shot and has okay positioning
overall.” - Olivia Carter</span></span></span></div><div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="color: black;">“<span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">Big
forward with skill. His skating is rough but there's a pro toolkit
here. He'd score more on a different team.” - Anonymous</span></span></span></div><div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="color: black;">“<span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">A
6'4" winger averaging nearly a point per game that played in a
long playoff run in his first year in the league. There's a lot to
like here and he's playing for Marc Savard in Windsor who has helped
take several players to the next level in their game. I'm excited
about what Miedma can become later on as players of his size always
take a bit longer. He could take some time once he becomes a
professional player but the wait could be worth it for a team that is
patient for the former fourth-overall OHL selection.” - Matt Young</span></span></span></div><div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></span></span></div><div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="color: black;">“<span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">After
a very slow start, Miedema is starting to get his game going. He’s
got a big frame and great hands that give him a chance to put himself
on a highlight reel at a moment's notice. He isn’t using his shot
nearly enough which has affected his point totals but he has
developed as a playmaker this season. If he can develop a bit more
consistency and help Windsor get back on track, it would go a long
way toward making him a riser among OHL draft eligibles.” - Tony
Ferrari</span></span></span><br /><br /><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b>Nick
Lardis – Wing – Peterborough Petes<br /></b></span></span></span><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">Total
Votes: 4<br /></span></span></span><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">Highest
Ranking: 7<sup>th</sup> (1x)<br /></span></span></span><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">Comments:<br /></span></span></span><span style="color: black;">“</span><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">Lardis has impressed me this year more than a number of OHLers. </span></span></span><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">Coulson
Pitre and Owen Outwater really pushed for this last spot too, but
Lardis’ </span></span></span><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">ability
to use his edges to find space, keep up with play, and gain scoring
chances </span></span></span><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">with
an excellent release on his shot has been really fun to watch. He’s
determined, </span></span></span><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">pretty
skilled, and has offensive tools that could project with some time
and </span></span></span><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">patience.”
- Will Scouch</span></span></span></div><div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="color: black;">“<span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">I
don’t know how many top-10 lists Lardis will make, but he should
make them all and I say that with all the bias I can muster because I
just love the way he plays. He’s constantly flying down his wing
taking on defenders and driving wide, but he will also take it right
to the net. And he’s a natural goal scorer who can score in
multiple ways. I wonder if he would get more attention if he wasn’t
playing in Peterborough.” - Dominic Tiano</span></span></span></div><div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="color: black;">“<span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">Lardis’
speed and scoring ability have stood out to me. His start to the year
was impressive but the trade acquisition of Brennan Othmann by the
Petes has limited his offensive opportunities and ice time. He’s
got the speed and top-notch acceleration to be a threat off the rush
and drive defenders off their blueline. He should look to drive the
middle of the ice more in transition and not stick only to the
outside lane. He’s dangerous in the slot as he possesses a quick
release off the pass and is excellent at finding the soft spots in
coverage to get lost and open for his teammates. He still has lots of
physical maturing to be had so he can be heavier on pucks and
withstand contact better, but the speed and finishing touch give him
a high ceiling.” - Jared Brown</span></span></span><br /><br /><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b>Carey
Terrance – Center – Erie Otters<br /></b></span></span></span><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">Total
Votes: 2<br /></span></span></span><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">Highest
Ranking: 7<sup>th</sup> (1x)<br /></span></span></span><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">Comments:<br /></span></span></span><span style="color: black;">“<span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">With
every viewing, I become more intrigued by Terrance. I think he's just
scratching the surface of his potential. What I have really grown to
appreciate about his game is that he works through traffic really
well down low with great small area quickness and puck protection
habits. For such a strong skater, he's actually more consistently
effective inside the blue line, IMO. Once he learns how to truly
harness his speed to be a full length playmaker and pace pusher, look
out. And even if the transitional puck skill never really develops,
he still brings a lot to the table as a potential two-way center and
workhorse. At worst, he could be a Cody Eakin type. At best, he's a
much more involved offensive player. Really curious to see how he
closes out the year as he gains confidence.” - Brock Otten</span></span></span></div><div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="color: black;">“<span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">Terrance
is an elite skater with a solid two-way game and his offence has
taken a step forward from a year ago. Terrance is a team-worst -12
but he's also lining up most nights as the Otters' number-one centre
in his draft year which is never an easy task. The fact that he heads
up the penalty kill in Erie and wears a letter at 17 years old tells
me all I need to know about the character and two-way game at his
age. There's a lot to like and I think Otters' fans should be excited
for the future with Terrance and Malcolm Spence yet to play their
best hockey in the league.” - Matt Young</span></span></span><br /><br /><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b>Andrew
Gibson – Defense – Soo Greyhounds<br /></b></span></span></span><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">Total
Votes: 2<br /></span></span></span><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">Highest
Ranking: 9<sup>th</sup> (1x)<br /></span></span></span><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">Comments:<br /></span></span></span><span style="color: black;">“<span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">He's
big, can skate and works hard. His offensive sense is a question
though.” - Anonymous</span></span></span></div><div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="color: black;">“<span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">A
two-way right-handed defenseman who exhibits a lot of patience, a
good first pass and smarts on the back end. He'll just need to
improve his decision-making.” - Mike Morreale</span></span></span><br /><br /><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b>Easton
Cowan – Wing – London Knights<br /></b></span></span></span><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">Total
Votes: 1<br /></span></span></span><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">Highest
Ranking: 10<sup>th</sup> (1x)<br /></span></span></span><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">Comments:<br /></span></span></span><span style="color: black;">“<span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">Cowan
is your definition of a utility player. He brings tremendous
playmaking ability, but also plays big penalty kill minutes and
covers for the defense often. Cowan is a player you want on the ice
in the last minute of the game, whether your team is down a goal, or
up a goal. This is a player that is being overlooked, and is one of
my sleeper picks in this draft.” - Joely Stockl</span></span></span><br /><br /></div>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
</p>
<p style="font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; margin-bottom: 0cm; text-decoration: none;">
<span style="color: #222222;"><span style="background: #ffffff;"> </span></span>
</p>
<p style="font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; margin-bottom: 0cm; text-decoration: none;">
<span style="color: black;"><span style="background: transparent;"> </span></span>
</p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><br />
</p>Brock Ottenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08237782074032840702noreply@blogger.com0