Thoughts on Niagara from the Weekend

The Niagara IceDogs are in the home stretch. There are 15 games left in the 2009-10 OHL regular reason and the team currently sits 5 points out of a playoff spot in the Eastern Conference. The Dogs are chasing the Brampton Battalion, Sudbury Wolves, and Oshawa Generals who are all 5 or 6 points ahead of them. Perhaps this team, in a rebuilding season, has deserved a slightly better fate thus far. The team plays hard and on any given night can beat any team in this league, (see their victories over London, Mississauga, Plymouth, and Kitchener this year). But they lack the top end talent to be able to string together consistent performances at both ends of the ice.

I caught the team's Thursday night game against the London Knights on t.v., however traveled to St. Catharines for their Saturday night affair against the Windsor Spitfires. This weekend was no truer example of the team's aforementioned consistency issues. On Thursday, the Dogs played outstanding defensive hockey and got under the skin of the visiting Knights, defeating them by a score of 2-1. However on Saturday, the team looked completely over matched against the Spitfires, falling 5-2 and getting out-shot 47-21.

If anything, the team's ability to occasionally play at a high level speaks volumes to the bright future this team has. As early as next season this team could compete for home ice advantage in the OHL playoffs. Young players like Freddie and Dougie Hamilton, Mark Visentin, and Ryan Strome will be a year older, stronger, and wiser. While players like Alex Friesen and Andrew Agozzino will be inching towards their final years in the league and should become more dominant offensive forces. And let's not forget the bevy of high end draft selections the Dogs have in the next few years. If anything, the fluctuation in performance by the team this year could be a good thing. After all, it's something all young teams go through. The players can identify the things they need to do night in and night out to make this team consistently competitive.

Let's take a look at some individual performances from the Dogs top end prospects this weekend.

Alex Friesen (2010, but 1991 born)
After getting past over last year, Friesen has become a much better player this season. He's still a speedy energy forward, but he's much more adept at handling the puck and as a result he's seen his offensive performance greatly increase. Friesen has become a very capable two way forward who uses his speed to forecheck hard and to generally get under the skin of the opposition. He's even added a physical element to his game this year which shows NHL scouts that this part of his game could develop more if need be. He absolutely laid out Taylor Hall on Saturday on the penalty kill. Hall came flying around the net with the puck and Friesen met him just as he passed it off. Hall sat out a few shifts and was visibly shaken up. Offensively, he had a mediocre weekend, with only an assist on the first Niagara goal on Saturday, but he brings much more to the ice than that. I think he's got a serious chance of being drafted this year in the later rounds. His progression this year bodes well for the type of offensive leaps forward we could see next year and he looks to be developing into a quality NHL checking line prospect.

Andrew Agozzino (2010, but 1991 born)
The new Dogs captain had a strong weekend. He played a solid game on Thursday against the Knights, but was held scoreless. On Saturday he scored the Dogs only 2 goals against Windsor. The first was off a nice redirect in front of the net, the second on a wrap around that caught Windsor goaltender Philip Grubauer off guard. Agozzino has played well all season and is coming off a record breaking performance at this years OHL All Star Game. I've heard a lot of fans hoping he gets drafted this season after getting passed over last year. Quite frankly, I'm just not sure it happens. As good as Agozzino has been this year, was he really any worse last year when NHL teams balked at him (much to my surprise)? Andrew Agozzino is the same player he was last year. Lots of heart, goal scoring ability, developing two way play, tenacity, but with the size and explosiveness concerns that scared away NHL teams. More than likely, Agozzino develops into a similar player as Saginaw's captain Tyler Murovich. Undersized and a solid OHL player, but a borderline NHL prospect. I'd love for him to prove me wrong though since few have earned it more.

Reggie Traccitto (Overage Free Agent)
Traccitto has been one of the most improved players in the league this season. He's emerged as the Dogs top defender and currently sits tied with London's Steve Tarasuk for goals scored from the blueline (with 15). Previously his career high in goals was 4. Traccitto's best asset is definitely his big shot from the point (who'd have guessed?). He does a great job of getting it off in traffic, especially on the one timer. While he was held goalless over the weekend, he did hit a post against Windsor off a one timer. Traccitto has also greatly improved his discipline. Previously he had a hard time controlling his emotions and was prone to taking stupid or lazy penalties in the defensive zone. He's taken great steps forward in that department and has actually turned into a very solid OHL defender. He lays it all on the line when he's on the ice, blocks shots, dives to get pucks out of the zone and does a good job in defensive zone coverage. The question remains, is Traccitto an NHL prospect? I'd say no, but I think he could easily play in the ECHL or perhaps even the AHL next season and find some success. The biggest thing that will likely hold him back is his lack of role at the next level. He's not quick or mobile enough to be a puck moving defenseman. He's not a good enough playmaker or distributor to be considered a serious offensive defenseman. And he's just not big enough to be a shut down type of guy. But you have to give props for the type of improvement he's made this year.

Freddie Hamilton (2010)
I just can't put my finger on Freddie Hamilton. He doesn't dazzle you or do anything that makes you say wow, yet we've got to consider him a serious prospect for the 2010 NHL Entry Draft. Often with players like Hamilton whom you say, "I don't really notice him until he puts two in the back of the net," it's a matter of having strong hockey sense. Hamilton just knows where to be on the ice, whether it be a goal scoring situation or a back checking assignment. On Thursday he scored both Niagara goals in the 2-1 victory. The first was off a rebound in front of the net which he comfortably put home. The second was off a nice wrister top shelf on a 2 on 1. On Saturday, he was much less noticeable and it's just a matter of stringing together consistent offensive performances. I think the question moving forward is, is Hamilton a winger or a center. He has the strong defensive tendencies you like to see in your center ice man and he's looked comfortable at the position before. However, I'd argue he's looked better offensively on the wing this season, simplifying the game and allowing him to go hard to the net for loose pucks. The big next step for Hamilton is increasing his strength and ability to carry the puck. I think his future lies in being a responsible two way winger who has the hands and hockey sense to be a quality goal scorer. If he can add that element of being strong with the puck and being able to carry it to the net, it'd make him an even stronger...and more obvious offensive contributor.

Ryan Strome (2011)
The big piece of the Pietrangelo trade, Strome has a lot of pressure on his shoulders going forward. In Barrie, I was always impressed with him, despite the lack of ice time he was receiving. He showed both an ability to carry the puck and elusive skating ability. But in Niagara, I've been underwhelmed with his performance with increased ice time. He was invisible all weekend and seems lost at times in the offensive zone. No reason to panic yet as he'll get every chance to improve going into next season.

Matt Petgrave (2010)
I continue to be impressed with Petgrave and I struggle to wonder why we don't hear his name more often in discussion for the 2010 NHL Draft. He's not the biggest, but he's a real battler. He played a lot against Nazem Kadri and Taylor Hall this weekend and did a pretty admirable job. Against the Knights and Kadri, he had a fantastic game and really frustrated Kadri specifically with his mirroring job. He got Kadri to take a couple of undisciplined penalties against him and generally got under his skin. Offensively he was great in that game too and brought the puck up ice very effectively. He earned an assist on the Freddie Hamilton 2 on 1 goal by starting the breakout quickly and joining the rush with Hamilton on the odd man rush. Against Windsor, he had a bit of a tougher game. He took some undisciplined penalties and had a few bad turnovers as he tried to force action up ice against a tough Windsor forecheck. Considering he's got good mobility, a high intensity level, and developing puck rushing ability, I have trouble believing Petgrave isn't receiving some form of attention from NHL scouts. He could definitely be a dark horse on draft day and looks to at least be a great find by the IceDogs as a future top 4 defenseman as they move forward.

Dougie Hamilton (2011)
Only played the game against London on Thursday, sitting out the battle against Windsor on Saturday. Played a solid game against the Knights, which has been the average for Hamilton this year. He's a serious NHL prospect moving forward with great size, improving offensive capabilities and the potential to become a physical shut down defender. He's right in there with a group of about 6 or 7 really solid defenders from the OHL in the 1993 birth group that could end up being first round picks in 2011.

Mark Visentin (2010)
The feeling seems to be that Visentin has become the top available goaltender from the OHL for this year's NHL draft. While slightly sluggish to that conception, I've come around to this belief as well. The improvement he's made this season from last is tremendous and really speaks volumes about his work ethic. Visentin is very positionally sound, finds pucks through traffic, controls his rebounds and does pretty much everything you ask a strong butterfly goaltender to do. On Thursday he was tremendous against London, keeping Niagara ahead as London pressed for a tie in the third period. I really like how he follows the play and seems able to read and predict pass and shot attempts. On Saturday, he was less effective. It seems like he was fighting the puck a bit and had a few shots squeak through his equipment. He also had trouble handling the puck and gave it away nearly every time he tried to do something with it. Marty Turco he is not, and this is something he'll need to improve upon moving forward...even if puckhandling ability in goaltenders has decreased in value since the inception of the trapezoid. Moving forward it's all about consistency for Visentin and being able to be a wall night in and night out. With his work ethic, I have no doubt he'll get there and develop into a top goaltender in this league. The really interesting thing will happen at the Under 18's, where he'll have a shot at cracking Team Canada's roster. Calvin Pickard of the WHL seems like a lock to be the starting goaltender of that team, since his team is already out of the playoff race, but Visentin could very well be his back up, or even surprisingly press him for playing time. With a strong finish to the season, Visentin could very well be a top 60 NHL Draft selection.

Anyone else with thoughts about the IceDogs and their weekend, or about the season thus far in general?

Thoughts on Niagara and Owen Sound from December 30

Wanting to see the return of Joey Hishon to the Owen Sound Attack line up, I caught this one on the OHL Action Pack tonight.

The first period and a half was a real snooze fest. Really sloppy, disjointed play. It was clear that both of these two teams were rusty from the holiday layoff. When the pace finally did pick up, these two teams traded powerplays and scoring chances, with the Attack eventually coming out on top by a score of 3-1. For a large portion of the game though, Attack goaltender Scott Stajcer kept his team in the game by making a few big saves (especially on Andrew Agozzino).

It was a tough game for the Dogs. Already shorthanded defensively because Jay Gilbert's sitting at home waiting for a trade and Dougie Hamilton is at the World Under 17 Hockey Challenge, the Dogs suffered two defensive injuries relatively early on in the game, to Reggie Traccitto and Keith Maisonville. As a result, they looked dead tired by the end of this one and just had nothing left in the tank, allowing the Attack to take control of the game in the later part of the 3rd period. I think defenseman Matt Petgrave must have played 80% of the third period (no joke). However, as tired as the defense looked, the forwards looked even more distressed. If Majors coach Dave Cameron likes to roll four lines, Dogs coach Mike McCourt likes to roll two. I'm not sure why he played his forwards into the ground tonight, but Friesen, Agozzino and Hamilton especially were out there every other shift and it was obvious that they were tired. On powerplays, these guys were playing the full two minutes (save maybe 10-15 seconds as the penalty ended), and then they'd be out there two shifts later. While the Friesen, Agozzino and Hamilton line is obviously the teams most dangerous, it doesn't hurt to give them a break. It only makes them more effective in the long run...or say at the end of the game when your team needs a go ahead goal.

The Attack just plain didn't deserve to win this one. They got lucky that Niagara looked so tired. They were very sloppy. So many passes failed to connect, breakouts failed to occur and most of their game was played in the neutral zone as they attempted to get the puck by a Niagara defense. Even on the powerplay, despite scoring two goals with the man advantage, they did not look strong. One goal on a wild goal mouth scramble, the other on a long winded screen shot from the point (with the third coming with the empty net). First game back from the break, but this team did not look like a unit with great chemistry. A lot of individual efforts and just general disconnect.

On to individual player performances...

Niagara IceDogs







Alex Friesen (2010, but 1991 born)
Already passed over in one draft, I'd be very surprised to see Friesen passed over again this year. He's progressed incredibly well this year and taken huge steps forward offensively. His speed and work ethic in the offensive zone make him a real tough guy to contain. He was generating chances for the better part of the first two periods, although was not able to put anything up on the board. Kind of a jack of all trades type of a player, he projects well as a potential energy player at the next level.

Andrew Agozzino (2010, but 1991 born)
Agozzino has been just as good this year for the Dogs. He's the new captain, and he's playing with a lot of determination. He had a few really good chances to score tonight but just couldn't beat Scott Stajcer. Two stymied one time chances at the side of the net (saved by a sliding Stajcer), and one partial breakaway. He's got very good instincts on where to be for scoring chances, getting himself in good position for goal opportunities. The question is whether he's got a serious chance of being selected in 2010, the second time around. While I think Friesen has a good shot, I'm not as confident about Agozzino's chances. I was fairly high on Agozzino last year, when he was pretty much the same player he is now, and he failed to get drafted then. Scouts seem to be enamored with progression, of which Friesen has seen. Agozzino is the same player he was last year and if it wasn't good enough for NHL scouts last year, why would it be now? I'm still pulling for him though.

Freddie Hamilton (2010)
Hamilton was kind of along for the ride with Friesen and Agozzino tonight. He didn't really have a great game. Had a few chances set up by his linemates, but failed to get anything off. He's never a liability on the ice, but I don't see the upside that NHL Central Scouting does, when they ranked him 17th among OHL skaters in November. He did earn an assist on Josh Moes powerplay goal, although the goal was manufactured by Moes and not necessarily set up by Hamilton directly.

Matt Petgrave (2010)
Quite frankly, as an NHL prospect, I prefer Niagara's Petgrave to Hamilton. He had a very strong game tonight, especially considering he probably played 40 minutes. He brings the puck up ice with confidence and effectiveness. Has kind of a hunched over skating stride, but his mobility is solid. He keeps the puck in on the powerplay well, although I'd like to see him shoot the puck more. Whiffed on a beautiful chance to score on a one timer, as he snuck in from the point but didn't get much on the shot. He did make a couple of bad pinches, but he hustles back to his zone and never gives up on the play. Defensively he was excellent. Not afraid to take the body despite not being overly large, and he's surprisingly effective in the corners and in front of the net. Saved a goal with a very nice defensive play early in the game by tying up Joey Hishon as he tried to put home an easy tap in goal off a juicy rebound to the side of the net. Every time I see him, he seems to get better.

John Chartrand (2011)
I was surprised to see Chartrand get the start tonight over Mark Visentin. Petteri Simila is at the World Juniors as Finland's back up, and Chartrand was called up from Streetsville of the OJHL. He was the Dogs 4th rounder from 2009. Considering that when I heard he was getting the start and proceeded to check his Junior A stats this season (which aren't pretty), I was not expecting much out of him. But he was surprisingly strong. Made the saves he had too, kept his rebounds under control and looked generally calm in net. He seems like he could be the teams back up goaltender next season. The two goals scored against him were not really his fault. A wild goal mouth scramble and a screened shot from the point. Despite taking the loss, he was named the game's second star.

Owen Sound Attack





Garrett Wilson (FLA)
In the other times I've seen the Attack this season, Wilson had been a beast, but he was really quiet tonight. Outside of two very strong shifts, he wasn't noticeable to me. On one of the shifts he took a very nice feed from Steve Shipley and rang one off the post. And on the other, which just happened to be late in the third period, he did a good job to block a point shot and beat the Dogs defender to the loose puck for the open net clincher that made it 3-1. Still like the progression he's made this season.

Joey Hishon (2010)
Definitely was better than when I had seen him earlier in the season. But it's clear that he doesn't seem to have his full legs under him just quite yet. He was probably the best Attack forward on the night though (which isn't really saying much). Generated a few scoring chances off the rush and did a much better job of trying to use his teammates than he was earlier in the year. Did a good job on the penalty kill too, putting one off the crossbar on a shorthanded rush as he used the Niagara defender as a screen. A solid performance, but not an outstanding one.

Steven Shipley (2010)
For Steven's sake, I think I need to watch all of Owen Sound's games. He seems to play well when I'm watching. He didn't have an amazing game or anything, but was effective and had a few very good shifts. I was particularly impressed with his work on the penalty kill where he showed a lot of heart blocking shots and outworking Niagara players for loose pucks. His play away from the puck does seem to be improving, even if he could stand to use his size more to his advantage. He also had a shorthanded chance to score, breaking in and beating Andrew Agozzino (who was on the point) wide to the net, but a backtracking Matt Petgrave managed to lift his stick at the last second preventing a serious scoring chance. He was credited with the first Attack goal on the goal mouth scramble, where he simply shoveled the puck into the net. I still don't think the Attack are using him correctly though. I find him to be much more successful as a winger who can use his size to take the puck to the net from the outside lanes. He was also being used on the point on the powerplay again, which just does not work. He needs to be down low.

Geoffrey Schemitsch (2010)
I thought Schemitsch played another strong game. While he had some struggles in bringing the puck up ice and starting the rush (like every Attack defenseman), he did manage to break through into the offensive zone on a few occasions and picked his spots to pinch effectively. Defensively he was very solid, and did a good job on a couple odd man rushes, on one occasion taking the passing lane away from Andrew Agozzino and then collapsing on him forcing a poor shot attempt. He scored the game winning goal on a very good powerplay for him. Did a great job to keep the puck in the zone a couple of times, then managed to get the puck back and let a wrister go that found its way past Chartrand. He's got points in his last 6 games and is really heating up again. I'm very curious to see where Central Scouting has this guy when they release their rankings in a couple of weeks. I'm starting to wonder if I'm drinking crazy juice because I'm the only one talking about this kid.

Roman Berdnikov (2010)
Was not impressed by Berdnikov at all tonight. Was set up a few times by Joey Hishon or Bobby Mignardi and failed to get a shot off. The puck was rolling on him all night and he just had a really hard time. Took a lazy hooking penalty in the offensive zone out of frustration too. Playing with Hishon and Mignardi on that first line is a great opportunity for him, but he's going to have to play better than he did tonight to stay there.

Jesse Blacker (TOR)
Blacker had maybe the best game I've seen him play this season, which isn't really saying much. He was still only average on the night, but at least he seems to be limiting his turnovers. Still had one really bad one that resulted in Andrew Agozzino's partial breakaway though. If he could harness his raw abilities, he really could be quite an outstanding player. His combination of speed and puck handling ability makes him tough to stop once he gets up to full stride. Had a few nice rushes that generated scoring chances tonight. He was quiet defensively too, which is a good thing. One thing that I've noticed this year though is the absence of Blacker's physical game. Last year with Windsor, he was the type of defenseman who had the ability to lay a big hit, but I haven't seen that from him this year.

Scott Stajcer (NYR)
Stajcer was outstanding tonight. He really won this one for his team. Made several key saves in the first two periods to keep his team in the game, robbing Andrew Agozzino point blank a couple of times. One was a very nice save as he slide cross crease to rob a one timing Agozzino (who did fail to elevate the puck though). His rebound control was very strong tonight too. While Owen Sound has struggled with consistency, Stajcer has been largely effective for the last couple of months (after starting the season very poorly). Here's hoping he can continue to play well and that Owen Sound continues to climb up the standings of the Western Conference. He was the game's first star and took the win.

Anyone else with thoughts?

The Sunday Top 10 - Mini Mights

In today's Sunday Top 10, I rank the best undersized players in the OHL. For this list, any player listed at 5'9 and under was considered for this list. I realize that the selection of the 5'9 marker is completely subjective, however here is my reasoning. I find that when players are 5'11, or 5'10, they are often considered undersized, but more often than not, their ability to crack the NHL is not questioned as largely as players who are 5'9 or 5'8. Once you start talking about a player who is under 5'9, you get into the "too small for the NHL argument." This is just in my experience in following junior hockey and the draft, and again is completely subjective. But you've got to draw the line somewhere for a list like this, and I went with 5'9. Also, all players are considered according to their listed OHL weight (according to www.ontariohockeyleague.com).

The interesting thing is, this was actually a very hard list to make for me. Some very good and interesting players failed to make this list, like William Wallen, Tyler Murovich, and Kaine Geldart. I think it speaks volumes to the way the game has changed, that so many "undersized" players can not only play, but make an impact in the Ontario Hockey League.

Anyway, here is my top 10 players 5'9 and under:

10. Andrew Agozzino - Niagara IceDogs - Listed at 5'9
Agozzino does everything for the IceDogs, from playing on the team's top line and leading the team in regular season and playoff scoring, to killing penalties and demonstratingg leadership qualities. Agozzino is one of those stereotypical undersized forwards who wears his heart on his sleeve and plays hard every shift. Perhaps due to his size, he hasn't been ranked all season for the 2009 NHL entry draft (by Central Scouting), however I wouldn't be surprised at all if he was still drafted. Generally speaking, for a player to succeed in the NHL at 5'9, he's got to have two things, speed and heart. Agozzino has both.

9. Ryan Hayes - Plymouth Whalers - Listed at 5'9
A former standout with the U.S. Under 18 team, Hayes left Boston College last year for Plymouth with little fanfare. He had some trouble adjusting to the league last year, but this year went much better for him. He finished 2nd on Plymouth with 26 goals, and was even better in the playoffs with 5 goals and 5 assists in 9 games. Hayes uses his speed very well and has an excellent shot. He finds the scoring areas very well too, which makes him a dangerous sniper in the mold of a Brian Gionta. Hayes has also worked hard to become involved in all areas of the game, increasing his desire to enter high traffic areas. While it may be too little, too late for Hayes to be drafted into the NHL, he'll likely be one of the better overagers in the league next year, should he return to Plymouth.

8. Ryan O'Connor - Barrie Colts - Listed at 5'8
O'Connor is one of two defenseman, as well as one of two 1992 born rookies on this list. O'Connor impressed me greatly in my viewings of Barrie this season. He has a ways to come in terms of learning the defensive side of the game, but he moves the puck well and can really shoot the puck and run a powerplay. I think it's pretty impressive that O'Connor, as a 1992 5'8 defenseman, was able to hold his own in most areas, considering his lack of strength and growth at this stage. Here's hoping that he has a bit of a growth spurt before the draft in 2010, because as rare as it is for forwards under 5'10 to be drafted, it's even rarer for defenseman at that size to get the call at the next level. He reminds me a lot of the way Columbus Blue Jackets defenseman Kris Russell looked in the WHL when he played for Medicine Hat. Russell grew to 5'10, so hopefully O'Connor can hit a similar height eventually.

7. Chris DeSousa - Niagara IceDogs - Listed at 5'9
Similar to Agozzino, DeSousa is an undersized forward who does it all for the Dogs. As I mentioned in my draft preview, DeSousa had the highest goal total of any draft eligible OHL forward. Quite an impressive feat. He drives hard to the net and he has an outstanding shot. He'll be a big time goal scorer in this league. However, he's more involved in the physical side of the game than Agozzino. He loves to throw the body and is often the first player into a scrum to protect his teammates. It's that hardline attitude that I believe will get DeSousa drafted somewhere in 2009. Should Alex Pietrangelo not return next season, DeSousa could also be wearing the C for Niagara in 2009-10.

6. Michael Quesnele - Sault Ste. Marie Greyhounds - Listed at 5'9
Quesnele is the 2nd and last defenseman to appear on this list. At 5'9, Quesnele has been a main contributor on the Greyhounds blueline for over three seasons now. He even wore the A on rotation this season. While his offensive numbers have never really taken that step forward, he remains a solid puck moving defenseman who can also contribute at the defensive end. What has made Quesnele effective and allowed him to play a key role, is his fearlessness and willingness to engage opposing forwards physically. He loves to take the body, which is what you like to see in your defenseman, regardless of size. Quesnele is another guy who's likely to return as an overager next season, where he'll try to lead an up and coming Greyhounds defense back to the playoffs. However, Quesnele did see some time in the ECHL this year following the regular season's completion.

5. Daniel Erlich - London Knights - Listed at 5'6
At 5'6, Erlich is the smallest player on this list, but he might also be the most skilled. Erlich is a solid all around offensive player who is elusive and finds the scoring areas. He isn't afraid to go into the middle of the ice or to the front of the net to make a play. With how deep London was this year, Erlich is likely to receive an increased role next season. And I expect him to improve his offensive numbers drastically (not like they were poor this season). I honestly wouldn't be surprised if he was in the top 10 in scoring next season, he's that talented.

4. Ryan Spooner - Peterborough Petes - Listed at 5'9
Spooner is the 2nd and last 1992 born rookie to make this list. He was largely very impressive in his first season in the OHL after being the 5th overall pick in the 2008 Priority draft. He shows explosive speed and offensive creativity, however I have to wonder if the best is yet to come. In my viewings this season, he seemed over matched at times and was unable due make room for himself to use his skill, because of size and strength inadequacies. But, like most 1992's, I'm sure Spooner will grow and continue to get stronger. I wouldn't be surprised if he ends up at around 5'10-5'11, 180, rather than the 5'9, 160lbs he's listed at now.

3. Dale Mitchell - Windsor Spitfires - Listed at 5'9
This little spark plug has been as advertised for the Windsor Spitfires, after coming over from Oshawa. Similar to Chris DeSousa, Mitchell has made his living by getting under the skin of opposing players, laying the body, and by using his wicked shot to pot goals. He was fantastic for Windsor in the OHL playoffs, sporting a rather stylish 70's porn stache. Mitchell, a 2007 draft pick by the Toronto Maple Leafs, has already signed with the Leafs and will be looking to make an impression at the pro level next season. However, his sights are currently set on trying to help Windsor win the Memorial Cup (although they aren't off to a great start).

2. Chris MacKinnon - Kitchener Rangers - Listed at 5'9
MacKinnon, for whatever reason, has had trouble finding a team to stay with. With three seasons of OHL hockey under his belt, MacKinnon is already on his 4th team. However, whatever the circumstances, MacKinnon has managed to produce offensively, netting 81 points for Kitchener this season, leading them in points by 15. This undersized forward can produce offensively, in particular as an excellent playmaker. While his pro career might be a little cloudy, one thing is for certain; if he returns as an overager to Kitchener next season, he should be among the league leaders in scoring. With all the talent Kitchener has coming in, and with the young talent they already have improving, MacKinnon could be right in the middle of things offensively for a very strong team.

1. Brett Parnham - Oshawa Generals - Listed at 5'9
It's hard to argue that the league's 2nd highest goal scorer from the 2008-09 season, isn't also the league's best "undersized" player. Voted in the Coaches Poll as the most dangerous player in the goal area, as well as having the best shot and the 3rd hardest shot, it's obvious at to where Parnham's talent lies. Parnham just plain ol' knows how to score. While his pro potential may be hurt by a lack of skating talent (in combination with his size issues), it's hard to argue over Parnham's OHL success. Should he return as an overager next season (instead of signing a professional contract), Parnham will likely be right up there again next season, a threat to score 50 in a league where few can do it.

Stay tuned for next week's Top 10!

Niagara IceDogs End of the Season Report

The Niagara IceDogs 2008-09 season came to an end last night following the teams' 5-2 loss to Belleville in Game 5 of the Eastern Conference semi finals. The team fought hard throughout these playoffs, and there is no doubt in my mind that the coaching staff and management have to be happy with the effort level, considering that in my opinion, the team overachieved this season.

The core of this team is still very young, with a vast majority of them eligible for the draft this year. You have to expect that over the next couple of years, this team has a very good shot at being a very good hockey team.

Let's take a look at my final report on the team this season...

Jeremy Smith - Drafted by Nashville in 2007/54th

With the season over, and Smith already signed by Nashville, you have to think he could be headed to the AHL or ECHL sometime soon. I wish him nothing but success at the professional level, and I expect him to find it. He was absolutely sensational after coming over from Plymouth at midseason. Without him, I'm not even sure the Dogs make the playoffs, let alone advance to round 2. He was great throughout the playoffs too. Smith is just a solid technical goaltender. He comes out and plays the angles very well. He directs rebounds into the corner with ease and always seem to have control of the game. He is athletic and anticipates the play well, and has a very good glove hand. One thing that Smith does incredibly well and deserves attention, is his ability to make the saves through traffic. I think that speaks volumes of his technical ability. At the next level, professional goaltenders are to be expected to fight through screens and he does this among the best that I've seen at this level. He makes himself so large in net. The only thing I can say that Smith might need to work on, is letting the play come to him a bit more. In that, I mean that teams catch him cheating a lot. He'll really cheat for the glove save and they'll expose him down low, or vice versa. He can also get caught flopping, again as teams try to force him into cheating on the play. With Chet Pickard also graduating next year (more than likely), and Mark Dekanich already in the AHL, you have to wonder if Smith plays next season in the AHL, or the ECHL. Either way, I wish him the best. He's a solid prospect.

Mark Visentin - 2010 NHL Draft Eligible

This year was a great learning experience for Visentin. He got a lot of playing time at the start of the season before Smith's arrival. He won gold as a member of Team Ontario at the Under 17 World Hockey Challenge. And he was able to learn the ropes from a savvy veteran like Smith. When he did play, Visentin did look overmatched. He is relatively solid technically, but he wasn't able to react to the play quick enough, and he was prone to letting in some really bad goals, perhaps due to nerves ot lack of focus. But he was one of 2 92 born goaltenders in the O this year, so you have to give him some credit. I think the Dogs are going to look for big things from him next season with Smith all but gone and no one else really to take his place. I do expect Niagara to bring in a veteran, perhaps overager to help Visentin next year too.

Alex Pietrangelo - Drafted by St. Louis in 2008/4th

I think it's obvious that Petro has talent. He's an effortless skater who brings the puck up with ease. He is aggressive in attacking the offensive zone and is great at creating offense. When he returned from St. Louis, I found that he was struggling a bit defensively, perhaps maybe due to a lack of confidence with his demotion. However, after the WJC's, he came back a different player. He was a dominant force at both ends of the ice and was crucial in leading the charge into the playoffs. In the playoffs, I think it was a bit of a different story though. I actually think he struggled a bit in the playoffs. To me, it looked like he was trying to do too much. He was turning the puck over a lot, especially coming out of his own zone, as he attempted to force the breakout. Defensively, some games, he was absent. Whether that was because the team was trailing and the coaching staff told him to be aggressive, remains to be seen. But at times, I found him to be running around like a chicken with its head cut off. I think that he also showed a different side of himself in the playoffs. He was very physical, but in some not good ways as he was taking some bad penalties out of frustration. Alex Pietrangelo is a great talent and player, but I don't think he is ready for the big time, and by keeping him for those 8 games, the Blues did more harm than good to him. Next season, they are going to be faced with a tough decision. In my mind, he hasn't progressed enough to handle the NHL. He'd be much better off returning to Niagara, playing and leading an up and coming hockey team. However, it remains to be seen if that is what will happen.

Drew Schiestel - Drafted by Buffalo in 2007/59th

Schiestel is another guy who had an up and down season. He started the year off very well IMO. He was playing outstanding hockey. But when Pietrangelo returned, he definitely lost a step. I'm not sure whether that was because he was no longer in the spotlight, or for another reason. Throughout the middle part of the season and towards the end, he struggled on a lot of nights. With defensive zone coverage and with turnovers in both ends. He always has been a terrific skater, but I found him to be too reserved. He would get through everyone on the rush, enter the offensive zone, and then simply dump the puck in. Rather than carry it in and create offensively. He became too timid. However, in the playoffs, I felt like he played some of the best hockey I've ever seen him play. He was absolutely better than Pietrangelp in the playoffs, in my opinion. He played inspired hockey at both ends of the ice. He used his speed to enter the offensive zone and to lead the offensive attack, following through with his rushes and creating offense, unlike earlier in the season. He played hard defensively and played very physical, but smart physical. He really stepped it up. He's currently unsigned by the Sabres, but if they saw him play in the playoffs, they'd be crazy not to give him a contract.

Mathew Maione - 2009 NHL Draft Eligible

If this guy wasn't so injury prone, he could be quite the player for the Dogs. He's a tremendous skater from the backend. He is smart with the puck and can run the point on the powerplay. Defensively, he's solid one on one and in zone coverage. He isn't afraid to go into the corners, despite being undersized at 5'10. The guy battles hard and he has skill. At the end of the regular season, he was playing absolutely tremendous hockey. However, in the playoffs, it was pretty clear he was playing hurt, as he wasn't playing much. While I don't think he has any chance of getting drafted this year, he's a guy who could take big steps and one day earn a contract, if he can stay healthy and get some confidence.

Alex Friesen, Andrew Agozzino, Matt Sisca, and Chris DeSousa - 2009 NHL Draft Eligible

You might wonder why I chose to lump these guys together. It's not a slight at them, it just has to do with what a lot of people tell me when they watch the Dogs play. The thing I hear most is that people can't tell the difference between these four guys when they play. To an extent, I can see why. They are all undersized, they all are relatively quick and have no trouble entering the danger areas. They also all relatively skilled. However, I do think that they bring different things to the ice. Alex Friesen is probably the best skater of the bunch, and is a great forechecker. He works hard for everything he gets. If he had a slightly better skill set and slightly better hands, he would have been a point per game player this season. He did play incredibly well in the playoffs though and showed that he does have the ability to start generating offense on a more consistent basis. Andrew Agozzino was solid all season for the Dogs. He is well rounded, can skate, can score, plays both ways. He also had a very strong playoffs. I know that he's been relatively frustrated with the lack of attention he has been receiving for the draft, but to an extent I can see why. He is undersized, and he doesn't really have a standout quality. He is talented offensively, but is he talented enough to play on a scoring line. And he is a hard worker who can play both ways, but is he a good enough forechecker and mucker to play a 3rd line role. That being said, I would still be surprised if he isn't at least a late round pick. Matt Sisca might be the most skilled of any of them, but is also the smallest and the softest. I think that one day, he will be the leading scorer for the Dogs, perhaps as early as next season. However, I'm not sure I like the prospects of him getting drafted. Chris DeSousa has the best chance of the four of getting drafted in my opinion. He is undersized, but he's also the best at getting the most out of his size. He has good lower body strength and is good in working the corners. He uses his speed to his advantage and he has one heck of a shot that he gets off very quickly. On top of that, he's a quality pest who isn't afraid to drop the mitts or lower the boom with an open ice hit. If I were to rank them in order of how I think scouts view them for the draft I'd say 1) DeSousa, 2) Agozzino, 3) Friesen, 4) Sisca.

Andrew Shaw - 2009 NHL Draft Eligible

This fan favourite is a treat to watch. He works hard every shift, he forechecks incredibly hard, he isn't afraid of anyone. On top of that, I actually think he's a very skilled hockey player who just wasn't given enough ice time this year to show it. In the playoffs, when Marco Insam went down, Shaw began to see consistent shifts with the top 6, and he showed flashes of brilliance. He's a great playmaker and he has a nose for the net. I think he has some things going for him that could get him drafted. One, he's one of the youngest players eligible for the draft. Two, he's still a beanpole, so once he gets stronger, he's going to become even more effective with the type of game he likes to play. Three, he's going to see more ice time next year and should vastly improve his numbers. And four, he's a bit of an enforcer prospect who could profile as an NHL pest. I really hope someone takes a chance on this kid on draft day. I don't think they'll be disappointed in the long run.

Freddie Hamilton - 2010 NHL Draft Eligible

Hamilton was solid all year long for the Dogs. He plays both ways and you can tell that he has good hockey sense. His lack of strength really held him back from contributing more offensively this season, as well as his average skating, in particular his acceleration. With a summer to get stronger and faster, Hamilton should be ready to be a solid offensive contributor for the Dogs next season. I also see him as a future captain of the Dogs, you can tell he has the leadership capabilities in him. I think that should he progress next season, he'll be an NHL draft pick in 2010.

Ryan Yessie's Thoughts on Niagara and Guelph from February 6 & 7

This past weekend, Ryan was able to take in two games at the Sarnia Sports and Entertainment Centre. These were the February 6 game against the Niagara Ice Dogs, and the February 7 game against the Guelph Storm.

The following are his reports...

February 6 - Thoughts on the Niagara Ice Dogs


Alex Friesen - LC - YOB: 1991 - 5’9” - 183lbs. NHL: Eligible in 2009
Report: Feb/6/09: Friesen showed off some good bursts of speed at times tonight in Sarnia he had a quick release and Friesen flew up the ice. It was hard to notice too much as both teams seemed to be playing a shutdown style of hockey. Friesen played with a bit of an edge which was a little unexpected from a smallish player.

Andrew Agozzino - LW - YOB: 1991 - 5’9” - 188lbs. NHL: Eligible in 2009
Report: Feb/6/09: I’m very surprised Agozzino isn’t rated by CSB this kid may be small but he’s got a lot of speed, and has a laser of a shot with quick release. It was hard to really gauge how good this guy really is offensively in a 1-0 win but he definitely looks like a player who could be of interest in a team come draft day. (Agozzino had 2 PIM)

Alex Pietrangelo - RD - YOB: 1990 - 6’4” - 210lbs. NHL: 1st Round - 4th Overall by St. Louis in 2008
Report: Feb/6/09: What can I really say about Pietrangelo that hasn’t already been said. He looked like a man among boys. He knew when to pinch and when to play back, his positioning in general was amazing, although he didn’t play the 45 mins. I saw him last time he definitely logged about 25-30 which is impressive considering they played the night before. Pietrangelo moved the puck very well and at one point passed the puck blue line to blue line and across the rink past one sting player and through the legs of another player to hit the tape on a streaking forward, it was ridiculous witnessing that kind of passing. If he was on about 2/3rds of the other NHL teams he never would have been sent back to the OHL. (Pietrangelo had 2 PIM)

Jeremy Smith - G - YOB: 1989 - 6’0” - 170lbs. NHL: 2nd Round - 54th Overall by Nashville in 2007
Report: Feb/6/09: Jeremy Smith going to Niagara may have been the best thing for him. He’s the undisputed starter and last night looked very impressive tonight he had outstanding recovery, and his reflexes were great. Smith looks like he’s recovered from a disappointing first half in Plymouth. (Smith stopped 27 of 28 shots)

February 7 - Thoughts on the Guelph Storm


In the most exciting game all season at the SSEC Jamie Arniel lit up his former team when it counted late in the third then again in overtime to get a critical two points from the Guelph Storm. The game was a fierce and extremely physical back and forth battle with a playoff feel to it. It was also full of current and soon to be NHL prospects.

Peter Holland - LC - YOB: 1991 - 6’2” - 190lbs. NHL: Eligible in 2009
Report: Feb/7/09: This is a guy I spent a lot of time watching. He never really stood out, but at the same time he appeared to play 23-25 mins. Of mistake free hockey so that may in it’s own stand out for Holland. He only took one shot, it just missed top corner and it was an absolute laser with a quick release, I was also impressed with his composure with the puck. He actually appears to be able to protect the puck surprisingly well, he didn’t look like a big man on the ice, but when he needed to protect the puck in the cycle he certainly acted like one. Holland seemed to make some decent tape to tape passes, and his never quit attitude helped him earn a few assists tonight. Holland’s positioning on the ice was exceptional. He also displayed good patience and maturity well beyond that of most 17 year old players. He didn’t take the game over, or make any dynamic plays but you could tell from the action tonight his hockey sense is extremely impressive. His speed was decent but not great, hopefully he can add 10lbs. To his frame and not affect his speed. (Holland had 2A, 2 PIM)

Taylor Beck - LW - YOB: 1991 - 6’1” - 207lbs. NHL: Eligible in 2009
Report: Feb/7/09: Taylor Beck has greatly improved his skating. I have heard that his skating has been his one key weakness, but tonight he looked slightly above average for someone his size, and considering he’s 17 years old. Beck’s positional play was very good, if he wasn’t in the right position during the play, he quickly put himself there. Beck was willing to throw his weight around, but could still stand to play a little more physical as he would be best suited as a power forward. Beck had a decent shot with a good release. The biggest knock on Beck tonight would have been that he took a bad penalty and didn’t play with quite enough intensity edge that you’d expect out of a player his size and skill. He looks like he could be a decent early-mid second rounder. (Beck had 2 PIM)

Michael Latta - RC - YOB: 1991 - 5’11” - 197lbs. NHL: Eligible in 2009
Report: Feb/7/09: Latta was the least impressive of Guelph’s big 4 forwards (Holland, Beck, Latta, Buck). Latta showed some decent skating, but certainly could use some work for a player under 6ft. Latta played well defensively, but didn’t put out much offensively which might have been part of the reason why he wasn’t very noticeable. I have heard Latta plays with an edge but I really didn’t see it tonight. Latta left the game late in the 3rd period and didn’t return for the rest of regulation or overtime as Miroslav Preisinger caught him with his head down and absolutely hit Latta clean, but like a truck in the open ice putting him down for a few minutes before leaving the ice with a little assistance. The hit actually caused enforcer Ryan Baldwin to attack both Miroslav Preisinger and Jordan Hill which landed Baldwin an instigating penalty that resulted in a late tying goal for Sarnia. Latta is a player I would not remove from the top 50 as CSB has indicated him (42nd) but he isn’t someone I’m completely sold on either. Hopefully I will see him later on in the season and get a bit better result. (Latta had 2 PIM)

Brandon Buck - LW - YOB: 1988 - 6’1” - 191lbs. NHL: Free Agent
Report: Feb/7/09: Buck was extremely impressive and arguably Guelph’s best player on the ice. He plays on a line with Holland and Kennedy which has really helped him get that extra space to show off his skills, which include impressive skating ability, and absolutely roofed a laser of a shot to give Guelph the 3-2 lead, then banged home another to give his team another 4-3 lead, both goals would have been clutch if Guelph walked out with a win tonight. Buck may be someone to watch after the Storm’s season is over as he may earn himself a pro tryout contract. Buck has recorded atleast a point in his last 7 of 8 games, for a total of 11 points over those 8 games. (Buck had 2G)

Corey Syvret - LD - YOB: 1989 - 6’3” - 205lbs. NHL: 6th Round - 181st Overall by Florida in 2007
Report: Feb/7/09: Syvret played a strong physical game, however was fortunate to have lenient referee’s as he was continuously clutching and grabbing as well as playing hard physically. If this was 2004 Syvret may be a lot more valuable but since wrapping your arms around your opponent whenever they move past you is no longer a play you can get away with most games, he will likely see himself getting called for several minor penalties if the Panthers choose to give him an entry level contract and he plays in a faster league such as AHL/ECHL. His positioning wasn’t bad at all, but he didn’t show any offensive potential. All in all this is the first time I’ve seen him actually look like a NHL level prospect, and he has gotten noticeably stronger, but he needs to be more disciplined and was very fortunate not to get several holding calls if he ever wants a shot at being a reserve defenceman in the NHL.

Tim Campbell - LD - YOB: 1991 - 6’0” - 185lbs. NHL: Eligible in 2009
Report: Feb/7/09: Campbell looked like a pretty decent player out there. Campbell got 3rd pairing minutes, but he played with the puck a lot during the first half of the game. His passes were always tape to tape and didn’t make a mistake out there, and was also willing to engage physically. His offensive potential doesn’t look high, but he is a player to watch as he may get grabbed up very late this year if scouts notice him. He could also be drafted as an 18 year old when players like Syvret, Martine and Priamo leave, because as it stands he could very easily earn the #2 defensive spot with Chiarot next season and get a chance to prove himself. Campbell; a rookie, is leading the Storm in +/- with a +13 rating this season.

Ben Chiarot - LD - YOB: 1991 - 6’3” - 214lbs. NHL: Eligible in 2009
Report: Feb/7/09: Chiarot was a big physically intimidating force out there. He can hit very hard, however will put himself out of position to do so. Chiarot was surprisingly willing to carry the puck up ice and had decent skating for a player his size and age. Chiarot is still finding himself in the OHL but has put up 8 of his 10 points in the last 20 games played (and 2 in his first 31). Scored his 2nd career goal in an intelligent play to pinch up from the point and put the puck past Spence for the first goal of the game. However there is also the bad, poise and patience may be a big concern as Chiarot panicked in overtime when he received the puck looking to clear the zone, he launched it into the stands with practically zero pressure and had the room to carry the puck out of the zone. The delay of game penalty resulted in an Overtime/Power Play goal that ended the game. Chiarot looks like a project at this point with some boom or bust potential. He’ll pegged as Guelph’s #1 defenceman next year and should have his trial by fire on whether or not he is a legitimate NHL prospect. He has his good and bad, but a few more viewings may make his potential more clear, but he already has NHL ready size as a 17 year old. (Chiarot had 1G, 2 PIM)

Denis Hollenstein - LW - YOB: 1989 - 6’0” - 167lbs. NHL: Eligible in 2009
Report: Feb/7/09: Hollenstein is a very streaky player in his second OHL season. He’s unlikely to be drafted but if he can continue to improve he may give himself an outside shot at a pro contract at the end of next season. He showed tremendous patience with the puck and scored a nice goal due to his poise. (Hollenstien had 1G)

Joe Rogalski - RD - YOB: 1991 - 6’2” - 185lbs. NHL: Eligible in 2010
Report: Feb/7/09: I usually don’t comment on Sting players outside mid-season and final report, but Rogalski deserves an exception of this rule with the way he has played lately. The jury was still out on Rogalski mid-way through the season but recently he’s been playing with a confidence he’s never had before. Getting more and more shifts with Katic has seemed to spark his creativity. He must have been given the green light by coach MacQueen because he’s been rushing the puck up ice, and occasionally has looked similar to Katic when doing so. Rogalski has extremely deceptive speed for a 6’2” defenceman who looks bigger than his listing. He is easily Sarnia’s second fastest defenceman, and his puck moving skills are becoming more evident every game. Proof of this came in last night’s only goal as he hit Matt Martin with a tape to tape pass through 3 defenders, the pass came from his own goal line and hit Martin who scored the winning goal on a breakaway. Rogalski also played solid tonight vs. Guelph. As the game picked up physically Rogalski showed that he’s not just a tall puck carrying defenceman that he can also throw the body as well. Rogalski set up Jamie Arniel late in the 3rd period with a perfect tape to tape pass once again through a couple defenders that was clutch for Sarnia. The only knock on Rogalski might be that he doesn’t contribute as much as he could offensively, and that if he could add 20lbs. To his frame without losing much speed could really raise his stock. Rogalski is already arguably the best North American defenceman in the 2010 draft, and his recent play is reinforcing that possibility. (Rogalski had 2A in 2GP this weekend)

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Ryan will be in Windsor Thursday to check out the brand new WFCU Center, and to see the Sarnia Sting take on the Windsor Spitfires.

Niagara Ice Dogs Mid-season Report

Much like Ryan, I get to see a lot of one OHL team in particular due to the fact that I live in the Niagara region and therefore the team I get to see the most is the Niagara Ice Dogs. Since it would be redundant for me to report on them each game, I tend not to focus on them. Instead, I wrote a report about 1/4 into the season on the Ice Dogs, and this can be found here.

The following is my midterm report on some of the more important prospects on the team...

Alex Friesen - NHL Draft Eligible in 2009

Friesen is one of several undersized draft eligible forwards on the team. He also has the lowest chance of getting drafted. While he's quick on his feet, is fearless in attacking the net, and can show some flashes of skill, he is ultimately not skilled enough to be a scoring forward at the professional level. Friesen's only hope is to improve his play defensively, and become more aggressive physically. Only then, in combination with his speed and work ethic, will he be able to find a measure of success at the next level. As mentioned, he does show some skill at times, however, he has trouble finishing off plays. I find that he gets outmuscled too, and perhaps rushes his scoring chances in fear of being taken off the puck. I think with added strength and confidence, he will one day be a quality OHL contributor, however, I don't see him being much of a pro prospect.

Andrew Agozzino - NHL Draft Eligible in 2009

Another undersized forward, Agozzino has been the Ice Dogs most consistent offensive performer this season. He's elusive and quick on his feet, and he's not afraid to go to the net, with or without the puck. He is a good stick handler and despite his size, does a pretty good job shielding the puck with his body as he goes hard to the net. He's got a great shot, that he gets off quickly, as evidenced by his team leading (tied with DeSousa) 23 goals. Aggy is also a solid two way player who's one of the Ice Dogs better penalty killers, notching 3 shorties this season. As for the negatives, I think Aggy needs to become a better all around offensive player. As of right now, he's strictly a north-south player who skates hard up and down the ice, creating chances off the rush. However, once the offense sets up, he can tend to disappear. He just needs to do better with the cycle and get himself into scoring positions more. Closely related, I find that at times he seems lost in the offensive zone when he doesn't have the puck on his stick, and when he does have the puck on his stick, he makes questionable decisions. I think Aggy would really benefit from having a top quality offensive player at center who can feed him the puck. Perhaps these negatives are what CSB believes is holding him back from cracking their mid term rankings, or maybe it's size. Either way, they don't see him as an NHL draft pick currently. Of course, I'd have to disagree as I think someone takes him, but I'd be surprised if it was anything higher than a 6-7 rounder.

Freddie Hamilton - NHL Draft Eligible in 2010

Hamilton, the Dogs first round selection in the 2008 Priority draft, has been a very useful player this season. He does all the little things right and is a very smart player for his age. He's a solid two way player who sees the ice well in setting up his teammates, and has played on nearly every line in every situation for the Dogs this season. He was also a member of the Gold medal winning Team Ontario team at the recent World Under 17 Hockey Challenge. Right now, a few things are preventing him from being more involved offensively. He needs to improve his strength for one, but what 16 year old doesn't. He gets muscled off the puck easily in the offensive zone and as of right now is purely an opportunist incapable of creating his own offensive chances. He also needs to improve his skating which is only adequate as of right now. I think next year, we'll see more out of him in his draft season.

Andrew Shaw - NHL Draft Eligible in 2009

Still a favourite of mine, Shaw has improved tremendously as the season has gone along. At the beginning of the season, he was in and out of the lineup and was having to rely on his fists to keep him in their consistently. However, he's improved his offensive production each month, and has slowly been earning more ice time, including some powerplay and shorthanded time, from coach Cheech. He's a fearless forechecker who's often the first forward into the offensive zone, and he hits hard, despite not being very strong yet. Let's not forget this is an OHL rookie here. Shaw is very skilled, and I'm confident that if he had more skilled linemates, he'd have more points. He sees the ice very well and is an excellent playmaker. He's also adequate defensively and makes an effort to come back to the defensive zone. Did I mention that this guy fights too and is not afraid to stick up for his teammates? He's quite a complete player. So what's holding him back? Easily strength. As of right now, for the type of game he plays, he's just not strong enough. Their is no coincidence that he has improved every month over the course of the season. The Ice Dogs have him on a strength program and as he gets stronger, he becomes more confident in playing the type of game he excels at. I think he breaks out big time next year with a summer of training. I think if he can continue to improve his offensive production through to the end of the season, he has a chance to get himself drafted.

Marco Insam - NHL Draft Eligible in 2009 (but DOB: 1989)

Insam is the Dogs import selection from this past year. He's a big Italian winger who lumbers up and down the ice with authority. He does have some skating issues, but most is due to a slow first few steps. Once he gets moving, his top speed isn't concerning for a man his size. But he bangs around and can lay out some monster hits. He's really improved offensively from the start of the season and actually has 6 goals in his last 9 games. He has one heck of a cannon of a shot, both his slapper and his wrister. However, he does need to improve on his ability to get it on net. One thing, I'd like to see Insam do more of is crash the net and be a big presence in the crease. He's quite the imposing figure, yet I find too often he stays to the perimeter hoping someone will hit him for the one timer. While getting himself into position to unload his weapon has to be a priority for him, with his size he also needs to crash the net and pick up some easier goals. He has been doing this a little more lately, but not enough IMO. As of this point, I think the Dogs have to be happy with their import selection, and he's likely a guy who comes back as an overager next season and has a big impact. As for being a pro prospect, I'd say not likely, unless he can improve on some areas.

Chris DeSousa - NHL Draft Eligible in 2009

DeSousa might be the most legit NHL prospect of the mini quad (Aggy, DeSousa, Friesen, and Sisca). Like the others, he's fearless and drives hard to the net with and without the puck. However, unlike the others, he's a top notch body checker and a quality pest. He loves to get under the skin of opponents and is not afraid to drop the mitts. DeSousa's biggest asset is definitely his shot, which is NHL caliber. He gets it off very quickly, and it's very accurate. Actually, other than a slow start, DeSousa has been one of the best goal scorers in the OHL this season. If you were to take his scoring per game since November and adapt it to the whole season, he'd be 2nd in the OHL in goals. His speed is average, but he has great anticipation and reads the play well, setting himself up to get his shots off. I was more surprised that DeSousa was left off the CSB midterm ranking than Agozzino, but perhaps being a late 1990 and undersized went against him. That being said, I'd be very surprised and disappointed if he wasn't drafted in June, especially if he can continue to score goals while playing an aggresive in your face game.

Matthew Sisca - NHL Draft Eligible in 2009

Sisca is the fourth member of the mini quad. He's put up some good offensive stats this season and he thinks the game quite well. He reacts well to the play and does a good job of finding his teammates. Overall, he's just a solid offensive player who does most things well, but nothing exceptionally. I think that their are some things that hold him back from being considered a legitimate professional prospect. For one, he's small and he plays small. He doesn't drive to the net with the puck on his stick, is easily muscled off the puck, and easily pushed around in the slot. He's also only an adequate skater who doesn't have that top gear a lot of smaller offensive players need to survive at the next level. And while he's improved his defensive play since a benching from coach Cheech, he's still a rather one dimensional player who misses assignments on a regular basis. His offensive production has greatly cooled off of late too, after his hot start. I think he can be a quality OHL contributor in the future for what is likely a strong Niagara team (with all these quality 1990's and 1991's), but a serious professional prospect he is not.

Alex Pietrangelo - NHL Drafted in 2008 by St. Louis/4th

Petro has single handidly made the Ice Dogs a better team. He has changed the dynamic of the team and has brought stability to a defense which has largely been a mess this season due to injury and lack of experience. He's such a dynamic offensive player who anticipates the play so well, it's not fair. He joins the rush at will, and when he wants to, he can use his strong skating and stickhandling ability to gain the offensive zone. Speaking of his puck carrying ability, he consistently makes players miss and creates many chances off his strong rushes. He's also using his shot WAY more this season, and is not afraid to put the puck on net. On the downside, I don't think Petro's defensive game has made any strides this season. He's a smart player, but he'd much rather be leading the rush than staying behind. And while this is clearly what makes him a strong prospect, he needs to pick his spots better and he needs to make more of an effort defensively. Since he's returned from the World Juniors, he's done a much better job of this, which is promising because he does have the potential to be a strong defender both ways because of his skating ability. As of this point, the one thing everyone always brings up is his lack of physicality, despite his size. I think it's safe to say Petro will never be a physical player and people just need to move on. He's much more of a positional defender ala Jay Bouwmeester, and if that's what works for him, than so be it. A strong prospect with a very bright future.

Drew Schiestel - NHL Drafted in 2007 by Buffalo/59th

Schiestel has been kind of up and down this season. Offensively, he's great. He's one of the better skaters in the OHL and he moves around the ice effortlessly. He leads the rush with confidence and has no trouble gaining the offensive zone. However, one thing that I've always felt held Schiestel back, is what he does with the puck once he gains the zone. A guy like Petro rushes into the offensive zone with authority and drives hard to the net and isn't afraid to take it end to end. This often results in a strong scoring chance. Schiestel will rush the puck up the ice with ease, gain the zone, but then ease off and dump the puck in or pass it off, instead of taking it all the way to the net with momentum. He has the skills to do this, but he doesn't, so often these fancy rushes result in nothing. He also needs to work on his shot, in particular with his ability to get it through to the net. His shot drifts high on him a lot, and he needs to focus on keeping it low and on net. Defensively, he's up and down. Sometimes you'll find him making great plays and playing strong off the puck. Other times, he'll look disinterested and lose his man in coverage. He's also developed a bit of a habit of taking undisciplined penalties in his own zone, perhaps out of laziness or frustration. When he focuses, and when he engages physically, he's a quality defender. In the end with Schiestel, it's all about consistency and he needs to develop it.

Mark Visentin - NHL Draft Eligible in 2010

Visentin will be one of the youngest players available for the 2010 draft, so he's got a lot of maturing to do. It has been surprising enough that he has been able to earn a spot on the Ice Dogs roster this season after being the club's 3rd round pick in the 2008 Priority draft. It's been quite the year for Visentin, as he was actually the back up for the aforementioned gold medal winning Ontario squad at the World Under 17 Hockey Challenge. His play, well it's shown promise. He's solid positionally in that he anticipates the play well, and he moves well in his crease. He just needs to work on some of the things that come with more experience. He needs to challenge shooters more by coming out and reading the angles. He needs to control rebounds better. And he needs to improve his five hole and his glove hand. But, very rarely do 16 year old goaltenders look great in the OHL, or CHL for that matter. He's got a lot to learn, but he's got a solid foundation to work with. With Jeremy Smith in Niagara now, he's also got a good teacher for the rest of the season.

Jeremy Smith - NHL Drafted in 2007 by Nashville/54th

Smith has been a revelation since coming over to Niagara at the trade deadline. He's 4-1 and the Ice Dogs are playing their best hockey of the season in front of them. I'm not sure how he was struggling so much in Plymouth, but he has to be glad to have been given a second life. Smith's two best assets are his positioning and his rebound control. He comes out to challenge shooters, but also reacts well by having quick feet. He rarely coughs up a big rebound and does a great job of directing shots to the corners. I think, like any butterfly goaltender, he has some problems with the top of the net, and as the season goes along, it'll be interesting to see how much that may get abused. But you can't argue with results, and Smith has brought a calming presence to the Dogs, and with him in net, they may be a legit playoff threat.

Thoughts on the Niagara Ice Dogs Thus Far

Living in the Niagara area, the OHL team I've been following for the past two years has been the Niagara Ice Dogs. Any game reports (for the most part), that I post here come from watching teams play the Ice Dogs. At risk of sounding redundant, I rarely post my thoughts on Niagara players. However the Dogs have a lot of very interesting players on their roster this year...

Here are my thoughts on some of the Ice Dogs at the quarter mark of the season...

Drew Schiestel (Drafted 2007 by Buffalo/59th)

Drew is easily the heart and soul of Niagara's defense without Alex Pietrangelo. For the first half of last year, Schiestel was terrible. He was even close to being a healthy scratch a few times. But a light bulb went off eventually and Schiestel became a different player. When he's at his best, he's a slick skating defenseman who leads the rush, quarterbacks the powerplay with ease, is sound defensively and takes the body. He's one of the best skaters in the OHL period, nevermind for a defenseman. Only Sarnia's Mark Katic gives him a run as a defenseman. However he does still have some consistency issues. At times, he does appear to coast, especially defensively. And other times he's rather passive physically and fails to get involved. But he can be a difference maker offensively at any time with his puck rushing ability. This year he's been outstanding offensively. He's improved his work on the powerplay, as he does a great job getting his shot through to the net. A lot of his assists this year have come from either tips off his shots from the point, or from rebounds. He is an Ice Dog worst -9. For most players this could be a troubling stat. However a lot of this comes from the fact that Drew likes to take chances. When the team is struggling offensively, Drew can tend to try to do too much. He''ll rush the puck everytime and occasionally get caught up the ice. However, I'm not really worried about this at the next level. I'm not sure how to profile Drew for the NHL. He's got all these offensive tools, size, skating ability and potential to improve defensively. However, I'm not really sure how he's going to fit into an NHL role. I think the best thing to say is that we'll wait and see. He could end up developing into a premier puck moving defenseman, if his defensive game improves more.

Andrew Agozzino (Draft Eligible 2009)

If he wasn't 5'9, Agozzino would easily be considered a first round selection for the upcoming draft. That being said, if he continues at his current pace, he should still be considered. While he is considerably undersized, he's an outstanding skater who has greatly improved his strength and stability this year. He drives hard to the net and is not afraid of contact. He rarely misses a chance to score and has great hands, especially in the slot and infront of the crease. Agozzino is also excellent defensively and is one of the Dogs premier penalty killers. The combination of all these factors should make him an attractive NHL selection despite his small stature. He's the type of player who is built for today's NHL game. That being said, I am slightly worried about his NHL potential. At 5'9, can he continue to play the game he does in the OHL. While he does have offensive skills, I don't think he has the raw offensive ability to be a first line forward in the NHL. That means he's going to continue to have to play with a little sandpaper and continue to drive to the net and be effective near the crease. He's also going to have to transfer his defensive prowess to the next level. If he can do this, he should be able to become a solid NHL fixture.

Mathew Sisca (Draft Eligible 2009)

Sisca is even smaller than Agozzino. And he looks it. At 5'8, Sisca is also a great skater, but doesn't quite have the strength and stability that Aggy does. Nor does he attack the net with such confidence. However, Sisca has proven to be an excellent playmaker and offensive player. He loves to explode down the wing and release his hard shot. He's got great on ice vision and has even been used on the point on the powerplay. He had a lot of injury problems last year, so he's still finding his feet. Is he a potential NHL draft pick? I'd say yes, but only in the later rounds.

Alex Friesen (Draft Eligible 2009)

Another of the Ice Dogs mini mights that are eligible for the draft. Friesen is a fairly similar player to Agozzino. He's lightning quick, he isn't afraid to go to the net and he plays with sandpaper. There are a couple main differences in their game. For one Friesen doesn't yet have the strength that Agozzino does. He can get pushed off the puck at times and isn't as great at winning battles in the corners. Friesen is also not as good defensively as Agozzino, although he isn't terrible either. And the main difference is that Friesen just hasn't been able to translate his offensive ability to solid point totals just yet. Friesen definitely has the skills, but he's been relatively snakebitten thus far. I think he definitely leads the team in posts hit and being robbed by opposing goalies. He has been hitting the scoresheet a lot more often lately, since being put on the same line as Agozzino. Since they play a similar game, they tend to complement each other well. If he can finish out the season strong, I think he's a potential middle of the draft selection.

Chris DeSousa (Draft Eligible 2009)

The last of the four Niagara 2009 mini forwards. DeSousa has easily been the most disappointing thus far. After watching him last season, I expected him to take a step forward offensively this year and really become a leader of this team. However, he's definitely struggled out of the gate. Through the beginning part of the season, he wasn't playing with as much intensity as I had seen before, and offensively he was generating next to nothing. In the past couple weeks, he has defenitely picked up his play though. At his best, DeSousa is an extremely physical player who can lay the body and will drop the gloves. He also is excellent defensively and next to Agozzino, is the Dogs best penalty killing forward. His skating is solid and for a 5'9 guy, he's got a lot of balance to his stride. Offensively, he's not creative and is a pure up and down type player, but he's got good hands and can drive to the net and finish off plays. I think he's got a shot at being drafted because he could develop into a solid NHL pest/agitator.

Marco Insam (Draft Eligible 2009, 1989 born)

Insam is the Ice Dogs Euro import this year. He was brought over from Italy and has actually been way better than expected. At the beginning of the year he looked out of place, but was apparently playing with a cracked rib and eventually missed some time. Since returning, he's been a completely different player. He's a big mother who hits like a train and is a physical force. He's nearly impossible to beat in the corners and he's great in the slot. His skating isn't tremendous but it's not completely terrible either. The main weapon of Insam is his shot. This guy has an NHL shot. While I've never seen it gunned before, I would be willing to bet it's the hardest on the team and one of the hardest in the OHL. His wrist shot is incredibly hard as well. He has 5 goals in his last 5 games. Probably not on anyone's radar yet, but if he can become a more consistent player, I think he'll start getting more attention.

Andrew Shaw (Draft Eligible 2009)

He's got 2 goals and 0 assists so far this year. So why am I writing about him? He's become my favourite player on this team. He's an OHL rookie who's actually a roller hockey star. He played tier 2 last year. The only reason he has yet to start hitting the scoresheet more is because he's playing 3rd-4th line minutes and not playing with the team's offensive stars. He skates incredibly well. He's got great puck skills and goes hard to the net. He wins the battles in the corners and he fights. He's like a little ball of energy (well 5'11, not quite as little as the other four). Kory Nagy proved last year that players can get drafted without having a solid regular season showing. I hope someone is scouting this kid and I hope he starts getting more ice time, because he's a player.

Andrew Merrett (Draft Eligible 2009, born in 1989)

A lot more was expected of Merrett this year after breaking out last year. He even managed to earn an invite to the BlueJackets prospect camp this past offseason. However he just hasn't had the same impact this year thus far. He's a big guy and he has good hands and a good shot. But he has some major shortcomings. For one, his skating is quite poor. He's having trouble keeping up with a Niagara team which is essentially filled with speedsters. He also is nearly incapable of creating an offensive chance for himself. He's got one job and one job only, and that's to bang home rebounds and crowd the crease. Niagara's version of Tomas Holmstrom I guess you could say. In times I saw him last year I thought he might be able to develop into a pro prospect. But now I'm being lead to believe his production last year was a result of some of the talented players he was playing with like Mike Swift or Stefan Legein.

Josh Day (Overager)

A lot was made of Day last year. He was Alex Pietrangelo's defense partner in Niagara and he looked good beside him. He was the steady, calming influence for the young Petro. He ended up finishing the season with a great plus/minus and there was a lot of talk he was going to be signed to an NHL contract. He never signed a contract but he ended up getting the invite to the camp of the Toronto Maple Leafs, but was unfortunately not able to earn a contract from them or their AHL affiliate. He returned to Niagara about three weeks ago and has been adequate since. Personally, I've never been a fan. At least a fan of him having the potential to be an NHL defenseman. I thought he was incredibly overrated last year while playing with Petro. He is relatively steady defensively, he can contribute on the rush and he's a good leader, but at the end of the day, I think every OHL or CHL team has a player like him. Good junior player, but not someone who is going to make an impact at the next level.

John Cullen (Draft Eligible 2009)

Cullen is a goaltender the Ice Dogs found playing Tier 2 in the United States and brought him into the fold this year. He's had his ups and downs, but he has the potential to be a good goaltender, especially only being a 1991. He's very quick and agile and moves around his crease very well. He anticipates the play and is very vocal on the ice, which is great for such a young kid. He's made some improvements on his rebound control so far this season, as well as his ability to play the angles and challenge shooters. You can tell the goaltending coaches are really working with him. The only thing he's really struggled with thus far is shootouts. He's essentially been embarassed in the shootouts that he has participated in. He flops around and goes down way to early and gets caught out of position. Unfortunately, this area of his game can be exposed at times in regular gameplay as well. He has a tendency to hit the butterfly too early and teams have been going high on him. However, he is improving. Is he someone that could get drafted? Probably not this year, but he's a very raw athlete and I think that he'll only get better as his OHL career goes on. Who knows though, maybe he continues to improve as the season goes on and puts himself among the top eligible OHL goaltenders.

Jay Gilbert (Draft Eligible 2009)

Gilbert is a big strapping defenseman who has slowly seen an increasing role with the Dogs. At the beginning of the year, he struggled at times. He had a tendency to overhandle the puck and panic, leading to turnovers or failed breakouts. He also was getting caught out of position going for hits. However, he's getting better as the season goes along. He's picking his spots better in being physical and he's keeping it simple with the puck. His skating is not amazing, but it's not the worst I've seen for a big defender. The reality is that size can sell for defenseman. Big, physical guys do have a tendency to get drafted. I'd say keep an eye on him.