I decided to watch this one on the OHL Action Pack tonight...in hopes that I'd see a terrific goaltending match up between two of the league's top draft eligible netminders (Subban vs. Altshuller). Not to mention that sole possession of 5th place in the East was on the line too. But Kevin Baille started for Oshawa, ruining my initial hopes (although the goaltending match up was still solid).
Overall, the game wasn't very good. Not really a lot of solid scoring chances, some undisciplined penalties, and a general lack of pep. But the Bulls hung on to get the win in the shootout (thanks to Subban) and have now won 4 in a row and are suddenly one of the hottest teams in the East.
Some player reports:
Belleville Bulls
#10 - Austen Brassard (Drafted by Winnipeg)
Liked what I saw from Brassard. I had heard he had become a lot more committed to his play away from the puck and had improved his consistency from shift to shift...and I saw evidence of that tonight. While he wasn't great offensively in terms of creating chances (what player was tonight?), he worked hard away from the puck and was up on the forecheck forcing a few turnovers, throwing some good hits and working well along the boards for loose pucks. He also made a couple of very nice plays on the backcheck. We know he's got offensive skill and can bury pucks around the crease, but the progression of his overall game is very encouraging for his NHL potential.
#14 - Luke Judson (Overage Free Agent)
I've always been a fan of Judson's and I'm at the point now, where I'm just not sure if he'll end up earning a professional contract (be it NHL, AHL, or what have it). But he's had a solid start to the year, in a season where he had a lot to prove as Belleville's captain...after last year's disappointment. Always a hard worker and one of the best two way wingers in the league...Judson has added an element of speed this season. This is promising for his future as a hockey player, because with the type of hard nosed game he plays, it was crucial that he improve his footspeed, which it looks like he has this offseason. He scored Belleville's lone goal (non shootout) by taking a pass from Brendan Gaunce, beating Colin Suellentrop to the outside with speed, and cutting back towards the net to tuck it under Kevin Baille's legs.
#16 - Brendan Gaunce (NHL Draft Eligible in 2012)
I've had some questions about Gaunce's ranking on my early season top 30. A lot of people just don't see him being as high as I have him. And that's fine. But he does so many little things well. He's not flashy, and perhaps that's the reason he doesn't get as much respect. He definitely needs to work on his ability to carry the puck at top speed and receive passes in motion. He's not going to dipsy doodle around defenders like Ryan Strome or Nail Yakupov. But he's just a very solid, power center. I think of a guy like Keith Primeau when I see Gaunce play. Just a very smart player. His passing game is very underrated. A lot of people talk about his ability to score close to the net...and his heavy shot. But he's a center for a reason...and he's very patient with the puck and he knows how to create offensive chances for his linemates. He's also a stalwart on the penalty kill and a terrific backchecker. He forechecks hard, finishes his checks and wears an A already. His skating isn't an issue like many are saying it is. Without the puck, he moves very well and is quick to close on defenders on the forecheck. With the puck, he moves a little slower because he isn't the world's most confident looking puck handler...which is perhaps where this lack of skating talk comes from (or maybe it's that his brother Cameron was never the world's most gifted skater from the blueline). I look at Gaunce and see a guy who'll probably play 1000 games in the NHL and make someone very happy.
#24 - Garrett Hooey (NHL Draft Eligible in 2012)
After the amazing preseason he had, I think a lot of people expected Hooey to really break out offensively. But he hasn't been terrific thus far...and was pretty unnoticeable in this game.
#26 - Stephen Silas (Drafted by Colorado)
He's having a very good season thus far and is really starting to blossom as a defensive leader. The Bulls were relying on him to be that last year, but I just don't think he was ready...and as a result...he took a lot of flak. But the Bulls are playing strong defensive hockey this year and Silas is right in the middle of it. He looked very solid tonight. Moved the puck quickly and efficiently. Covered off in his own end. He's increased his physical output this year too and seems more confident in pushing forwards around near the net (maybe as a result of improved conditioning?). He's not one of those guys you notice a lot, but on the back end that's a good thing sometimes. He needed a solid year to get signed by Colorado (in all likelihood)...and he's doing a great job of making an impression thus far.
#30 - Malcolm Subban (NHL Draft Eligible in 2012)
Since returning from that ankle injury that caused him to miss a month of action, Subban has been a brick wall. He's given up 5 goals in 4 games and hasn't lost. And that includes his solid performance in Oshawa tonight. He's definitely an unorthodox goaltender. One of those hybrid types of relies on his pure athleticism to stop pucks (not quite as wild as a Tim Thomas, but perhaps more like LA's Jonathan Quick). He's a fantastic skater in the crease, and that's one of the first things you always notice about him. He moves laterally, and north/south very effortlessly. And he's also very quick to get down in that butterfly...which combined with his flexibility and quickness, make him damn near impossible to beat along the ice (think former Bulls goaltender Mike Murphy). But he definitely cheats a bit at times and can go down early and leave space up high. It's obvious that this "scouting report" has gotten around the league because when teams play the Bulls with Subban in net, they spend all night trying to go high...just as the Generals did tonight. They finally beat him in the 3rd when Nicklas Jensen weighted him out at the side of the net, got him to commit to the butterfly and roofed a wrister over his shoulder. As he moves forward to the NHL level, they'll have to get him to stay up longer otherwise NHL forwards will feast on him. But the athleticism is the obvious draw. Nothing shows this off more than the shootout. Subban stopped all six shooters tonight and is now a perfect 9 for 9 this year. He moves so well in his crease that he's hard to beat one on one. With the way he's returned from his injury, it might be hard to argue against the fact that he's reclaimed his goaltending crown from Altshuller and Murray as the league's top draft eligible netminder.
Oshawa Generals
#12 - Mark Petaccio (NHL Draft Eligible in 2012)
I saw the Generals play a few weeks ago when Petaccio first returned from injury and he was a lot better in that game...but he still wasn't terrible tonight. He played on a pretty effective third line with Sebatian Uvira and Cole Cassels. The line did well to work the cycle along the boards and even drew a penalty or two from their consistent pressure. As a guy with size, he's intriguing. I'm just not sure how much offensive potential he has.
#15 - Andy Andreoff (Drafted by Los Angeles)
I've heard some criticism about Andreoff's play since he came back from Kings (and Monarchs) camp (although I think Oshawa fans have been pretty disappointed by the play of most of their players this year). And to be honest, I wasn't incredibly impressed with him tonight. I loved the way Andreoff played last year. Simple, hard, and straight through people. His power game and tenacity generated his offensive scoring chances. Tonight he seemed to be playing too cute with the puck at times. And while he remains a solid two way forward, I felt like he was trying to do too much.
#17 - Nicklas Jensen (Drafted by Vancouver)
Jensen had a solid game. Generated a few solid scoring chances using his solid puck carrying/protection ability. Shook off a few checks while maneuvering behind the net with the puck, and put a pass right on Andy Andreoff's stick in front of the crease, but he rifled it high. Jensen scored on the powerplay to send the game to overtime. He took a pass from Andreoff at the side of the net, took his time, baited Subban to the butterfly and rifled it top cheese over Subban's shoulder. I'd still love to see him become more involved without the puck (on a consistent basis)...and more physical. But he's a solid goal scoring prospect for the next level.
#21 - Scott Laughton (NHL Draft Eligible in 2012)
Laughton had an excellent game and was probably Oshawa's most dangerous offensive player on the night (despite being held scoreless). He had a couple of very dangerous rushes, where he used his speed to beat defenders across the blueline and to the net. One in particular in the first period gave Oshawa one of its best chances to score on the night, when he grabbed the puck, flew past Brady Austin and put a snap shot on Subban who just got a piece of it. He was physical. He played well on the penalty kill. The criticism about Laughton I was hearing at the beginning of the year was that he was focusing too much on trying to put up points and as such was not as effective as an all around player. But he seems to have gotten back to playing a more straight ahead game, while keeping that intensity level high. If he continues to play hard, the points will start to come.
#38 - Lucas Lessio (Drafted by Phoenix)
Lessio has been great so far this year, one of the few players who hasn't underachieved on Oshawa to start 2011. He appears to have figured out how to harness his speed to his advantage and is finishing off his scoring chances with more consistency. Part of that comes from an increased willingness to play that dirty role in front of the net...the prototypical crease crasher. He had a couple of nice rushes tonight, although nothing that created a serious scoring chance. Although one did draw a penalty, as he got hauled down on a partial breakaway. As long as he continues to play with high energy every shift, Lessio will continue to be an impact player.
That's it for the game. Stay tuned this week as NHL Central Scouting will release their preliminary rankings...and I'll have the first version of the Media poll rankings I always do.
Showing posts with label Lucas Lessio. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Lucas Lessio. Show all posts
Sunday, November 13, 2011
Saturday, February 19, 2011
Game Report: Greyhounds and Generals from February 18
I had a chance to watch this one last night. Even though it featured two teams heading in opposite directions (one up, one down), I figured that it'd be a good watch because of the quality of 2011 eligible talent playing.
But I was wrong. This one was pretty ugly. The Hounds were demolished by the Generals 6-1, who controlled the tempo of play (even if the Hounds outshot the Gennies) and capitalized on nearly every one of their scoring chances. It was just not a good game to assess any of the Hounds players because they were badly outplayed.
The one thing that always sticks out for me when I watch the Generals, is how balanced their scoring attack is. Every time I watch them, different players step up as the stand outs. This team is going to be damn good next year, as long as they can find a solution on defense and in net (with the pending graduations of players like de Haan, Di Salvo, Valentine, etc).
Player reports:
Sault Ste. Marie Greyhounds
#5 - Ryan Sproul (Draft eligible in 2011)
Perhaps the player I was most excited about watching, considering how well he's been producing lately. I saw him about a month ago, where he looked fantastic. Last night was a horror story though. I'd have to imagine that was probably the worst game he's played all year. He was on the ice for four of the Generals six goals, and definitely deserved his -4 rating. He hit rock bottom in the second period (the last of the four goals he was on the ice for) when he coughed up the puck in his own end on the powerplay and the Generals scored a shortie. He tried to carry it over from behind his net, and turned it over to Andy Andreoff who slid it past Perugini. While still on the powerplay, I guess interim Coach Dave Torrie wanted to show some confidence in his young blueliner, so Sproul went back out there. Except he then tried to pass the puck up the ice from behind his own net, but ended up giving it away to Nicklas Jensen...who was luckily offside. That was the last we saw of Sproul (save a few sporadic shifts) until late in the third. It was late in the third that we finally got to see that hard shot of his, where he rang one of the post with a boomer from the point. He has to take this performance as a learning piece and move on. Hopefully this doesn't ruin any of the confidence he's gotten from his strong production of late.
#6 - Colin Miller (Draft Eligible in 2011)
If Miller were on a stronger team, I think we'd be talking about him as a possible selection. I've been impressed with him this year and he's one of those quietly effective guys (similar to a Stuart Percy in Mississauga). He was one of the few Hounds who had a decent game (had a couple nice hits, was strong defensively), but wasn't flawless as he was responsible for the first period goal by Andy Andreoff. He tried to keep the puck in at the point, but was caught pinching and the Gens went back on a 2 on 1, which Andreoff scored on. When he keeps it simple, he's a very effective player.
#7 - Daniel Catenacci (Draft Eligible in 2011)
I'm a fan, but it wasn't a good game by the Cat. He was completely neutralized by the Generals defense and wasn't really able to get anything going. The one good moment he did have was the thunderous check on Daniel Maggio against the boards, which was impressive considering the size difference.
#17 - David Broll (Draft Eligible in 2011)
I thought he was probably the best of the Hounds draft eligibles on the night. His skating looks improved since the beginning of the season, which is big for the type of power forward game he brings. He actually showed some good hands and offensive creativity that I hadn't seen from him before. In the first period, he went inside and out on a Generals defender in the slot to create a scoring chance for a teammate. He was relatively effective on the forecheck too.
#19 - Brett Findlay (Draft Eligible in 2011)
I thought Findlay had a good first period, but disappeared after that. This was the first time I've seen him play center, but he was more noticeable down the middle than he was on the wing in my previous viewings. At this point, I'm not sure he's a serious candidate to get drafted without elite size, and any real distinguishable characteristics.
#27 - Nick Cousins (Draft Eligible in 2011)
The most admirable thing about Cousins was that he was one of the few players still going hard in the third period when the game was out of reach. Unfortunately, he just wasn't very effective on the night, save for a nice rush in the first where he used a burst of speed to the outside to get past the defender for a scoring chance. Truthfully, I'm not sure I have a handle on the type of player he'll be at the next level (considering his lack of size).
Oshawa Generals
#4 - Scott Valentine (Drafted by Anaheim)
Valentine had a great game. He still doesn't have a contract from the Ducks, but with the way he's played this season, I'd be surprised if he didn't get one. He'll have to refine his approach for the next level, but the skill set is there for a quality third pairing guy in the NHL. As par for the course, Valentine had a couple of huge checks on players crossing the blueline. Bringing the puck across the blueline along the boards is like a death sentence when Valentine is on the ice. He's learned to pick his spots better this year too, as he was previously run around looking for the big hit and could get a bit lost defensively. Offensively, he did a nice job bringing the puck up ice and has improved his breakout pass and his first few steps (although he's always been a strong skater).
#11 - Alain Berger (Overage free agent)
Berger has had a good season for the Generals. Perhaps not to the level that I expected, but with the balanced scoring attack Oshawa has been employing, being third in goals on the team and on pace for 30 on the season is still solid. Berger remains most effective on the powerplay (third in the league in powerplay goals), where he scored last night (one of two on the night). He's not the most gifted skater, but he plays the game hard, he goes hard to the net and he has good hands in close. Both of his goals on the night were of that ilk. As a big body in front of the net on the powerplay, I think there's a chance he gets a look from an NHL team for a contract this offseason.
#15 - Andy Andreoff (Draft eligible in 2011, but 1991 born)
Passed over in two drafts already, Andreoff has been one of the league's most improved players this season and has a serious shot of getting drafted this year. He has the size, skill, and intensity to get a look. I thought he was Oshawa's best player on the night. The first goal he scored was beautiful, as he stole the puck off Colin Miller at his own blueline, took it all the way to the net, toe dragged around a sliding Derek Hartwick and deposited it past Chris Perugini. The second goal was just as nice, as he came in short handed, stole the puck off Ryan Sproul, and slipped the puck through Perugini's fivehole on the backhand. He was physical, he showed skill and he's made great strides this year. I think he would make a quality late round selection by an NHL club this year.
#17 - Nicklas Jensen (Draft eligible in 2011)
Jensen had a good game, even if he didn't get on the scoresheet. He finished plus three, as part of the big Andreoff and Berger line. He's definitely at his best when he's got the puck on his stick, where he's very hard to stop. His play without the puck offensively is still inconsistent (at least IMO), where at times he's a factor on the forecheck or with the cycle along the boards, but other times he isn't nearly as aggressive. But being able to keep the motor running 24/7, should be able to come to him with greater experience. He was also solid on the PK last night, where he helped to keep the Hounds at 0 for 5.
#24 - Calvin de Haan (Drafted by the New York Islanders)
Even if some people have been disappointed slightly by his offensive production this season, he's really improved in his own end. That's not to say that he's ever been a poor defender, but he's taken his defensive game to the next level this season. The Hounds were just not able to do anything offensively when de Haan was on the ice. He anticipates direction so well and is a very strong lateral and backwards skater, that he's very tough to beat to the net. He's also added a physical element to his game this year and has become tough to win battles in the corner against. I'm not one for NHL comparisons, but de Haan really reminds me of now ex Leaf, Tomas Kaberle, in the way that he approaches things offensively and defensively.
#25 - Colin Suellentrop (Draft eligible in 2011)
There are a lot of quality defenseman available from the OHL this year, and Suellentrop is right in that mix. He was very good defensively on the night, and the Hounds just couldn't really get anything past him. With his size, above average skating ability, and physical willingness, I think he's definitely an NHL draft pick. The offensive game has improved as the season has gone on too, as he slowly increases his confidence in carrying the puck up ice and making good passes out of the zone (instead of chipping it out).
#27 - Christian Thomas (Drafted by the New York Rangers)
What a season Thomas has had for the Generals. He had another solid game on the night and has 10 goals in the month of February (in 8 games). Some people look at his size and question whether he can keep up his play at the next level, but I think he definitely can. He may be small, but he's very quick, he's aggressive and he's hard to knock off the puck. He also doesn't need much room to get his shot off. These are all critical qualities for smaller players to succeed at the next level IMO. He finished the game with a goal and an assist. The goal was off a cross crease pass by Lucas Lessio, which Thomas one timed to the back of the net. He was also fantastic on the penalty kill, much like the rest of his Oshawa teammates on the night.
#38 - Lucas Lessio (Draft eligible in 2011)
This was definitely one of the better games I've seen Lessio play this season. From what I've been hearing around the league, he seems to have really ironed out some of those consistency issues in the past few months and is playing harder every game. Right now, his game offensively still revolves around his speed. He's very quick (especially those first few steps) and he's aggressive in using his speed, either with the puck on his stick or in trying to beat defenders to a loose puck. He needs to work on improving his play around the boards and in using his teammates, but I still think he's got a lot of potential. He did make a very nice pass to Christian Thomas for his goal.
But I was wrong. This one was pretty ugly. The Hounds were demolished by the Generals 6-1, who controlled the tempo of play (even if the Hounds outshot the Gennies) and capitalized on nearly every one of their scoring chances. It was just not a good game to assess any of the Hounds players because they were badly outplayed.
The one thing that always sticks out for me when I watch the Generals, is how balanced their scoring attack is. Every time I watch them, different players step up as the stand outs. This team is going to be damn good next year, as long as they can find a solution on defense and in net (with the pending graduations of players like de Haan, Di Salvo, Valentine, etc).
Player reports:
Sault Ste. Marie Greyhounds
#5 - Ryan Sproul (Draft eligible in 2011)
Perhaps the player I was most excited about watching, considering how well he's been producing lately. I saw him about a month ago, where he looked fantastic. Last night was a horror story though. I'd have to imagine that was probably the worst game he's played all year. He was on the ice for four of the Generals six goals, and definitely deserved his -4 rating. He hit rock bottom in the second period (the last of the four goals he was on the ice for) when he coughed up the puck in his own end on the powerplay and the Generals scored a shortie. He tried to carry it over from behind his net, and turned it over to Andy Andreoff who slid it past Perugini. While still on the powerplay, I guess interim Coach Dave Torrie wanted to show some confidence in his young blueliner, so Sproul went back out there. Except he then tried to pass the puck up the ice from behind his own net, but ended up giving it away to Nicklas Jensen...who was luckily offside. That was the last we saw of Sproul (save a few sporadic shifts) until late in the third. It was late in the third that we finally got to see that hard shot of his, where he rang one of the post with a boomer from the point. He has to take this performance as a learning piece and move on. Hopefully this doesn't ruin any of the confidence he's gotten from his strong production of late.
#6 - Colin Miller (Draft Eligible in 2011)
If Miller were on a stronger team, I think we'd be talking about him as a possible selection. I've been impressed with him this year and he's one of those quietly effective guys (similar to a Stuart Percy in Mississauga). He was one of the few Hounds who had a decent game (had a couple nice hits, was strong defensively), but wasn't flawless as he was responsible for the first period goal by Andy Andreoff. He tried to keep the puck in at the point, but was caught pinching and the Gens went back on a 2 on 1, which Andreoff scored on. When he keeps it simple, he's a very effective player.
#7 - Daniel Catenacci (Draft Eligible in 2011)
I'm a fan, but it wasn't a good game by the Cat. He was completely neutralized by the Generals defense and wasn't really able to get anything going. The one good moment he did have was the thunderous check on Daniel Maggio against the boards, which was impressive considering the size difference.
#17 - David Broll (Draft Eligible in 2011)
I thought he was probably the best of the Hounds draft eligibles on the night. His skating looks improved since the beginning of the season, which is big for the type of power forward game he brings. He actually showed some good hands and offensive creativity that I hadn't seen from him before. In the first period, he went inside and out on a Generals defender in the slot to create a scoring chance for a teammate. He was relatively effective on the forecheck too.
#19 - Brett Findlay (Draft Eligible in 2011)
I thought Findlay had a good first period, but disappeared after that. This was the first time I've seen him play center, but he was more noticeable down the middle than he was on the wing in my previous viewings. At this point, I'm not sure he's a serious candidate to get drafted without elite size, and any real distinguishable characteristics.
#27 - Nick Cousins (Draft Eligible in 2011)
The most admirable thing about Cousins was that he was one of the few players still going hard in the third period when the game was out of reach. Unfortunately, he just wasn't very effective on the night, save for a nice rush in the first where he used a burst of speed to the outside to get past the defender for a scoring chance. Truthfully, I'm not sure I have a handle on the type of player he'll be at the next level (considering his lack of size).
Oshawa Generals
#4 - Scott Valentine (Drafted by Anaheim)
Valentine had a great game. He still doesn't have a contract from the Ducks, but with the way he's played this season, I'd be surprised if he didn't get one. He'll have to refine his approach for the next level, but the skill set is there for a quality third pairing guy in the NHL. As par for the course, Valentine had a couple of huge checks on players crossing the blueline. Bringing the puck across the blueline along the boards is like a death sentence when Valentine is on the ice. He's learned to pick his spots better this year too, as he was previously run around looking for the big hit and could get a bit lost defensively. Offensively, he did a nice job bringing the puck up ice and has improved his breakout pass and his first few steps (although he's always been a strong skater).
#11 - Alain Berger (Overage free agent)
Berger has had a good season for the Generals. Perhaps not to the level that I expected, but with the balanced scoring attack Oshawa has been employing, being third in goals on the team and on pace for 30 on the season is still solid. Berger remains most effective on the powerplay (third in the league in powerplay goals), where he scored last night (one of two on the night). He's not the most gifted skater, but he plays the game hard, he goes hard to the net and he has good hands in close. Both of his goals on the night were of that ilk. As a big body in front of the net on the powerplay, I think there's a chance he gets a look from an NHL team for a contract this offseason.
#15 - Andy Andreoff (Draft eligible in 2011, but 1991 born)
Passed over in two drafts already, Andreoff has been one of the league's most improved players this season and has a serious shot of getting drafted this year. He has the size, skill, and intensity to get a look. I thought he was Oshawa's best player on the night. The first goal he scored was beautiful, as he stole the puck off Colin Miller at his own blueline, took it all the way to the net, toe dragged around a sliding Derek Hartwick and deposited it past Chris Perugini. The second goal was just as nice, as he came in short handed, stole the puck off Ryan Sproul, and slipped the puck through Perugini's fivehole on the backhand. He was physical, he showed skill and he's made great strides this year. I think he would make a quality late round selection by an NHL club this year.
#17 - Nicklas Jensen (Draft eligible in 2011)
Jensen had a good game, even if he didn't get on the scoresheet. He finished plus three, as part of the big Andreoff and Berger line. He's definitely at his best when he's got the puck on his stick, where he's very hard to stop. His play without the puck offensively is still inconsistent (at least IMO), where at times he's a factor on the forecheck or with the cycle along the boards, but other times he isn't nearly as aggressive. But being able to keep the motor running 24/7, should be able to come to him with greater experience. He was also solid on the PK last night, where he helped to keep the Hounds at 0 for 5.
#24 - Calvin de Haan (Drafted by the New York Islanders)
Even if some people have been disappointed slightly by his offensive production this season, he's really improved in his own end. That's not to say that he's ever been a poor defender, but he's taken his defensive game to the next level this season. The Hounds were just not able to do anything offensively when de Haan was on the ice. He anticipates direction so well and is a very strong lateral and backwards skater, that he's very tough to beat to the net. He's also added a physical element to his game this year and has become tough to win battles in the corner against. I'm not one for NHL comparisons, but de Haan really reminds me of now ex Leaf, Tomas Kaberle, in the way that he approaches things offensively and defensively.
#25 - Colin Suellentrop (Draft eligible in 2011)
There are a lot of quality defenseman available from the OHL this year, and Suellentrop is right in that mix. He was very good defensively on the night, and the Hounds just couldn't really get anything past him. With his size, above average skating ability, and physical willingness, I think he's definitely an NHL draft pick. The offensive game has improved as the season has gone on too, as he slowly increases his confidence in carrying the puck up ice and making good passes out of the zone (instead of chipping it out).
#27 - Christian Thomas (Drafted by the New York Rangers)
What a season Thomas has had for the Generals. He had another solid game on the night and has 10 goals in the month of February (in 8 games). Some people look at his size and question whether he can keep up his play at the next level, but I think he definitely can. He may be small, but he's very quick, he's aggressive and he's hard to knock off the puck. He also doesn't need much room to get his shot off. These are all critical qualities for smaller players to succeed at the next level IMO. He finished the game with a goal and an assist. The goal was off a cross crease pass by Lucas Lessio, which Thomas one timed to the back of the net. He was also fantastic on the penalty kill, much like the rest of his Oshawa teammates on the night.
#38 - Lucas Lessio (Draft eligible in 2011)
This was definitely one of the better games I've seen Lessio play this season. From what I've been hearing around the league, he seems to have really ironed out some of those consistency issues in the past few months and is playing harder every game. Right now, his game offensively still revolves around his speed. He's very quick (especially those first few steps) and he's aggressive in using his speed, either with the puck on his stick or in trying to beat defenders to a loose puck. He needs to work on improving his play around the boards and in using his teammates, but I still think he's got a lot of potential. He did make a very nice pass to Christian Thomas for his goal.
Sunday, October 24, 2010
Game Report: 67's and Generals from October 24
The NFL is on all day & Monday night, so why not watch a matinee OHL game instead? That was my thinking process today in deciding to catch Ottawa and Oshawa on the OHL Action Pack. I had yet to see Ottawa play this year and what a better game to watch than a divisional match up against the Gennies?
The Generals completely dominated play in this game, yet came out on the losing end. Oshawa did manage to salvage a point by getting the game to overtime (after scoring three straight goals in the third period), but Petr Mrazek backstopped the 67's to a shootout victory.
Ottawa had a lot of difficulty with the size and speed of Oshawa's forwards. While the 67's defense did do well to contain the initial rushes of Oshawa's forwards, it was the second effort and the constant motor of the Generals that gave them trouble. Every shift was worked almost like clockwork. Drive to the net, stymied, but then regain possession of the puck and set up in the Ottawa end. Ottawa had only 6 shots in the second and third period combined. It was definitely thanks to Petr Mrazek that they came out on top.
And for the Generals, it was some sloppy defensive and neutral zone play that cost them. Some bad turnovers by the defense really ruined the strong game by Oshawa's forwards. I think they really need to acquire a big, tough, physical stay at home guy (say is Dalton Prout available?). But their forwards are among the best in the entire league.
Here are the player reports:
Oshawa Generals
#4 - Scott Valentine (Drafted by Anaheim in 2009)
He had a pretty tough game I thought. He's really stepped it up offensively this year, but part of that could be because he's taking more chances. Looked to take the puck into the offensive zone a lot and was constantly pinching to try and keep the puck in...occasionally getting caught. The first 67's goal was a direct result of a Valentine turnover in his own zone. He tried to skate the puck out from behind the net, tried and failed to elude the forechecking Tyler Toffoli. Toffoli picked his pocket and put it past Zador. Also still tries to look for the big hit in the defensive zone. Ryan Hanes came down the wing one on one with Valentine. Valentine went for the big hit but Hanes stepped around him (and went through him) and went in alone. But Zador made the save. Big hits are a big part of Valentine's game, but he needs to be more patient. He'll get killed at the next level defensively, if he doesn't let the play come to him first. But I love the fact that he's becoming more involved offensively, as I've always felt he had the talent. He just needs to pick his spots better.
#7 - Tony DeHart (Drafted by the New York Islanders in 2010)
DeHart wasn't incredibly noticeable to be honest. Not really a bad thing. He was active offensively and did a good job of bringing the puck up ice. Defensively, he was solid.
#17 - Nicklas Jensen (NHL Draft Eligible in 2011)
One of the most impressive performances I've seen of a draft eligible prospect so far this season. Funny thing is that he didn't register a point, but sure as hell deserved one. He was absolutely fantastic. I can't say enough good things about his play. First thing you'll notice is how strong he is on his skates. His first step isn't amazing (but not poor either), but once he gets going he's very hard to stop. He protects the puck with his body very well and had a couple really nice rushes where he put the 67's defenders on his back on the way to the net but just couldn't finish. On another play, he outhustled the 67 defenders to a loose puck along the wall, cut hard to the middle, got knocked hard, but maintained possession of the puck while skating on one leg. Just a bull on skates. Very agile for a big man too. Made a really nice play behind the net, changing direction very quickly to generate a wrap around chance, but was stoned by Mrazek going post to post. He hustled defensively too and had a couple of good plays in his own zone to break up scoring chances. Put me on the Jensen bandwagon.
#21 - Scott Laughton (Draft Eligible in 2012)
Was quite impressed by the Generals first rounder. You can see why he's currently 2nd in goals scored by players from the 2010 Priority draft (behind only first overall pick Galchenyuk). Fills the open space on the ice well and skates well too. Scored a goal off a nice feed from Christian Thomas, where Laughton fired a wrist shot past Mrazek, catching him going cross crease. He's going to be an excellent player in this league.
#22 - Boone Jenner (Draft Eligible in 2011)
One of the few Generals forwards I was disappointed with. He's such a big guy, I wish he'd use his size more. I'm not asking him to be Cam Neely, but I felt like I rarely noticed him because he wasn't very active off or on the puck. I don't think the skating is as much of an issue as some other people have said...as he kept up well with the pace. He just didn't do a whole heck of a lot.
#24 - Calvin de Haan (Drafted by the New York Islanders in 2009)
de Haan is too good for this league. At this point, a lack of size and strength was probably the only thing that kept him out of the NHL this year. In the first period, I was a little disappointed with his play as I felt he was being a bit too conservative. But he really picked it up in the second and third period, rushing the puck up ice with ease. He's just such a smart player. It's little things that make you appreciate the high level at which he thinks the game. For example, on the powerplay he was forced to receive a choppy pass at the blueline, bobbled it a bit, and gained control with two Ottawa 67's PK'ers directly to his left and right. A lot of defenseman force a pass and panic, but de Haan gained control and out waited his opponents, keeping possession instead of passing. Then he got to his teammate on the wing. The game tying goal was a thing of beauty too. Took a pass, went to the middle of the ice, was going to shoot and decided against it, partially losing the puck behind him. But he kicked the puck up from skate to stick, kept on going and wired it far side past Mrazek with about a minute left. Defensively, he was flawless too.
#27 - Christian Thomas (Drafted by the New York Rangers in 2010)
Had a very solid game and is really firing on all cylinders right now. He is not afraid to shoot from anywhere on the ice, but at the same time he's smart about it. Gets himself into position to shoot really quickly and was constantly trying to use opposing defenders as a screen. But it was his passing game that really stood out today. It's his playmaking ability that has taken the step forward this year. He's much more patient with the puck and is letting the play develop around him. His assist on Scott Laughton's goal was especially nice, as he rushed down the ice, was cut off, spun out and waited just long enough to draw the defenders in to him. Then he fired a pass to Laughton in the slot for the goal. He's always got the motor running too and is constantly lifting sticks and winning battles in the corners. He has to be a shoe in for an invite to Team Canada's Under 20 camp at this point.
#38 - Lucas Lessio (Draft Eligible in 2011)
Jensen definitely stole the spotlight today, but Lessio was pretty good too. Right now, his speed is his best weapon. In particular, his first step/acceleration is fantastic. He's at full speed in only a couple of strides and it really makes him an impact player. Not only off the rush, but he closes in on defenders very quickly in the offensive zone as their trying to get the puck out. But don't confuse that as forechecking, which is something I'd love to see him use his speed for more. He had a couple of really nice rushes to the net, but couldn't finish on any of them. He was OK along the boards, but he needs to engage physically more.
#33 - Michael Zador (Drafted by Tampa Bay in 2009)
A big year for Zador in a lot of ways. He's being expected to be the starter for a team with aspirations in winning the Eastern Conference. And he's trying to earn a contract from Tampa Bay. While he hasn't been terrible this year, he hasn't been fantastic either. He did come up with a few big stops for the Generals, but at the same time he probably should have had the Cody Ceci goal. He still gives up way too many juicy rebounds into the slot area, of which Ottawa was never in position to capitalize on. On the plus side, he kept his team in the shootout, making four quality saves before giving up the game winner to Thomas Nesbitt. It'll be interesting to see what the Generals do this year. My hunch would guess that they try and get another quality goaltender to push Zador.
Ottawa 67's
#16 - Tyler Toffoli (Drafted by Los Angeles in 2010)
Toffoli had a good game. He was one of the few 67 forwards who was doing a whole heck of a lot. Was forcing a lot of turnovers in the offensive and neutral zones, and it was good to see him hustling. The skating looks a bit better, but he'll still need to work on becoming more explosive towards the net. Scored a nice goal by catching Scott Valentine coming out from behind the net, stripping him and firing a wrist shot past Michael Zador. On the downside, he did take a stupid penalty with about two minutes left, that lead to the eventual game tying goal. He was forechecking hard, forced the Generals defender out, but then used his stick to try and hold him up. He had no chance of getting the puck as the defender was past him, so it was just a sloppy play on his part.
#17 - Steven Janes (Draft Eligible in 2011)
Janes is a big guy and he skates well. That's really about all I can tell about him at this time. He worked the cycle well and is definitely tough to separate from the puck, but I'm not sure about the level of offensive skill he has. Definitely a lunch pail type guy, but with his size and speed, he could generate interest from NHL teams.
#18 - Shane Prince (Draft Eligible in 2011)
I was really disappointed in Prince's play. There is definitely some speed to his game, but it seemed like every time he had the puck, he had it stripped or he was muscled off it. As such, he wasn't really able to create anything offensively, save a nice saucer pass off the rush to Cody Lindsay...who would have been in all alone had he been able to coral the puck. I'm definitely going to need to see him play again (live this time) to make a fair judgment on his draft status.
#33 - Dalton Smith (Drafted by Columbus in 2010)
Offensively he was completely invisible. But he was very physical and had a couple of thunderous hits. But I'd definitely like to see him become more involved with the puck on his stick.
#77 - Ryan Martindale (Drafted by Edmonton in 2010)
If I hadn't have been looking for #77, I don't think I would have noticed he was playing. Martindale was completely invisible and it shows he's still battling the consistency issues he has since he came into the OHL. As a 1991, he needs to be better.
#83 - Cody Ceci (Draft Eligible in 2012)
Ceci looks good...and improved. He definitely looks a little bigger and a little stronger. He did a nice job of containing Oshawa's forwards off the rush and did an even better job of winning battles against them in the corner. He also looks more involved offensively and had a couple of nice rushes with the puck. He scored his goal from the point, releasing a wrister goal through a crowd and into the back of the net.
#1 - Petr Mrazek (Drafted by Detroit in 2010)
Mrazek was absolutely fantastic. He got beat on a couple of well placed shots that caught him going the wrong way in his crease, taking away his angle. He might want the Alain Berger goal back at the side of the net, but his defense was more to blame for leaving two players wide open at the side of the net on the powerplay. He didn't really know how to play it and was caught in the middle of his net...probably anticipating a pass in hopes that one of his defenders would pressure Berger. But he really kept Ottawa in a game they didn't deserve being in. He comes out to challenge shooters and did a VERY good job of controlling his rebounds. He managed to hang on to pretty much everything. He showcased a good glove today too, with a couple of highlight worthy glove saves. I definitely noticed that he isn't flopping around nearly as much as he was last year either, and seems to have reformed his style a bit so that he can take away the upper half. He made 35 saves...and stopped all five shooters in the shootout for the win.
The Generals completely dominated play in this game, yet came out on the losing end. Oshawa did manage to salvage a point by getting the game to overtime (after scoring three straight goals in the third period), but Petr Mrazek backstopped the 67's to a shootout victory.
Ottawa had a lot of difficulty with the size and speed of Oshawa's forwards. While the 67's defense did do well to contain the initial rushes of Oshawa's forwards, it was the second effort and the constant motor of the Generals that gave them trouble. Every shift was worked almost like clockwork. Drive to the net, stymied, but then regain possession of the puck and set up in the Ottawa end. Ottawa had only 6 shots in the second and third period combined. It was definitely thanks to Petr Mrazek that they came out on top.
And for the Generals, it was some sloppy defensive and neutral zone play that cost them. Some bad turnovers by the defense really ruined the strong game by Oshawa's forwards. I think they really need to acquire a big, tough, physical stay at home guy (say is Dalton Prout available?). But their forwards are among the best in the entire league.
Here are the player reports:
Oshawa Generals
#4 - Scott Valentine (Drafted by Anaheim in 2009)
He had a pretty tough game I thought. He's really stepped it up offensively this year, but part of that could be because he's taking more chances. Looked to take the puck into the offensive zone a lot and was constantly pinching to try and keep the puck in...occasionally getting caught. The first 67's goal was a direct result of a Valentine turnover in his own zone. He tried to skate the puck out from behind the net, tried and failed to elude the forechecking Tyler Toffoli. Toffoli picked his pocket and put it past Zador. Also still tries to look for the big hit in the defensive zone. Ryan Hanes came down the wing one on one with Valentine. Valentine went for the big hit but Hanes stepped around him (and went through him) and went in alone. But Zador made the save. Big hits are a big part of Valentine's game, but he needs to be more patient. He'll get killed at the next level defensively, if he doesn't let the play come to him first. But I love the fact that he's becoming more involved offensively, as I've always felt he had the talent. He just needs to pick his spots better.
#7 - Tony DeHart (Drafted by the New York Islanders in 2010)
DeHart wasn't incredibly noticeable to be honest. Not really a bad thing. He was active offensively and did a good job of bringing the puck up ice. Defensively, he was solid.
#17 - Nicklas Jensen (NHL Draft Eligible in 2011)
One of the most impressive performances I've seen of a draft eligible prospect so far this season. Funny thing is that he didn't register a point, but sure as hell deserved one. He was absolutely fantastic. I can't say enough good things about his play. First thing you'll notice is how strong he is on his skates. His first step isn't amazing (but not poor either), but once he gets going he's very hard to stop. He protects the puck with his body very well and had a couple really nice rushes where he put the 67's defenders on his back on the way to the net but just couldn't finish. On another play, he outhustled the 67 defenders to a loose puck along the wall, cut hard to the middle, got knocked hard, but maintained possession of the puck while skating on one leg. Just a bull on skates. Very agile for a big man too. Made a really nice play behind the net, changing direction very quickly to generate a wrap around chance, but was stoned by Mrazek going post to post. He hustled defensively too and had a couple of good plays in his own zone to break up scoring chances. Put me on the Jensen bandwagon.
#21 - Scott Laughton (Draft Eligible in 2012)
Was quite impressed by the Generals first rounder. You can see why he's currently 2nd in goals scored by players from the 2010 Priority draft (behind only first overall pick Galchenyuk). Fills the open space on the ice well and skates well too. Scored a goal off a nice feed from Christian Thomas, where Laughton fired a wrist shot past Mrazek, catching him going cross crease. He's going to be an excellent player in this league.
#22 - Boone Jenner (Draft Eligible in 2011)
One of the few Generals forwards I was disappointed with. He's such a big guy, I wish he'd use his size more. I'm not asking him to be Cam Neely, but I felt like I rarely noticed him because he wasn't very active off or on the puck. I don't think the skating is as much of an issue as some other people have said...as he kept up well with the pace. He just didn't do a whole heck of a lot.
#24 - Calvin de Haan (Drafted by the New York Islanders in 2009)
de Haan is too good for this league. At this point, a lack of size and strength was probably the only thing that kept him out of the NHL this year. In the first period, I was a little disappointed with his play as I felt he was being a bit too conservative. But he really picked it up in the second and third period, rushing the puck up ice with ease. He's just such a smart player. It's little things that make you appreciate the high level at which he thinks the game. For example, on the powerplay he was forced to receive a choppy pass at the blueline, bobbled it a bit, and gained control with two Ottawa 67's PK'ers directly to his left and right. A lot of defenseman force a pass and panic, but de Haan gained control and out waited his opponents, keeping possession instead of passing. Then he got to his teammate on the wing. The game tying goal was a thing of beauty too. Took a pass, went to the middle of the ice, was going to shoot and decided against it, partially losing the puck behind him. But he kicked the puck up from skate to stick, kept on going and wired it far side past Mrazek with about a minute left. Defensively, he was flawless too.
#27 - Christian Thomas (Drafted by the New York Rangers in 2010)
Had a very solid game and is really firing on all cylinders right now. He is not afraid to shoot from anywhere on the ice, but at the same time he's smart about it. Gets himself into position to shoot really quickly and was constantly trying to use opposing defenders as a screen. But it was his passing game that really stood out today. It's his playmaking ability that has taken the step forward this year. He's much more patient with the puck and is letting the play develop around him. His assist on Scott Laughton's goal was especially nice, as he rushed down the ice, was cut off, spun out and waited just long enough to draw the defenders in to him. Then he fired a pass to Laughton in the slot for the goal. He's always got the motor running too and is constantly lifting sticks and winning battles in the corners. He has to be a shoe in for an invite to Team Canada's Under 20 camp at this point.
#38 - Lucas Lessio (Draft Eligible in 2011)
Jensen definitely stole the spotlight today, but Lessio was pretty good too. Right now, his speed is his best weapon. In particular, his first step/acceleration is fantastic. He's at full speed in only a couple of strides and it really makes him an impact player. Not only off the rush, but he closes in on defenders very quickly in the offensive zone as their trying to get the puck out. But don't confuse that as forechecking, which is something I'd love to see him use his speed for more. He had a couple of really nice rushes to the net, but couldn't finish on any of them. He was OK along the boards, but he needs to engage physically more.
#33 - Michael Zador (Drafted by Tampa Bay in 2009)
A big year for Zador in a lot of ways. He's being expected to be the starter for a team with aspirations in winning the Eastern Conference. And he's trying to earn a contract from Tampa Bay. While he hasn't been terrible this year, he hasn't been fantastic either. He did come up with a few big stops for the Generals, but at the same time he probably should have had the Cody Ceci goal. He still gives up way too many juicy rebounds into the slot area, of which Ottawa was never in position to capitalize on. On the plus side, he kept his team in the shootout, making four quality saves before giving up the game winner to Thomas Nesbitt. It'll be interesting to see what the Generals do this year. My hunch would guess that they try and get another quality goaltender to push Zador.
Ottawa 67's
#16 - Tyler Toffoli (Drafted by Los Angeles in 2010)
Toffoli had a good game. He was one of the few 67 forwards who was doing a whole heck of a lot. Was forcing a lot of turnovers in the offensive and neutral zones, and it was good to see him hustling. The skating looks a bit better, but he'll still need to work on becoming more explosive towards the net. Scored a nice goal by catching Scott Valentine coming out from behind the net, stripping him and firing a wrist shot past Michael Zador. On the downside, he did take a stupid penalty with about two minutes left, that lead to the eventual game tying goal. He was forechecking hard, forced the Generals defender out, but then used his stick to try and hold him up. He had no chance of getting the puck as the defender was past him, so it was just a sloppy play on his part.
#17 - Steven Janes (Draft Eligible in 2011)
Janes is a big guy and he skates well. That's really about all I can tell about him at this time. He worked the cycle well and is definitely tough to separate from the puck, but I'm not sure about the level of offensive skill he has. Definitely a lunch pail type guy, but with his size and speed, he could generate interest from NHL teams.
#18 - Shane Prince (Draft Eligible in 2011)
I was really disappointed in Prince's play. There is definitely some speed to his game, but it seemed like every time he had the puck, he had it stripped or he was muscled off it. As such, he wasn't really able to create anything offensively, save a nice saucer pass off the rush to Cody Lindsay...who would have been in all alone had he been able to coral the puck. I'm definitely going to need to see him play again (live this time) to make a fair judgment on his draft status.
#33 - Dalton Smith (Drafted by Columbus in 2010)
Offensively he was completely invisible. But he was very physical and had a couple of thunderous hits. But I'd definitely like to see him become more involved with the puck on his stick.
#77 - Ryan Martindale (Drafted by Edmonton in 2010)
If I hadn't have been looking for #77, I don't think I would have noticed he was playing. Martindale was completely invisible and it shows he's still battling the consistency issues he has since he came into the OHL. As a 1991, he needs to be better.
#83 - Cody Ceci (Draft Eligible in 2012)
Ceci looks good...and improved. He definitely looks a little bigger and a little stronger. He did a nice job of containing Oshawa's forwards off the rush and did an even better job of winning battles against them in the corner. He also looks more involved offensively and had a couple of nice rushes with the puck. He scored his goal from the point, releasing a wrister goal through a crowd and into the back of the net.
#1 - Petr Mrazek (Drafted by Detroit in 2010)
Mrazek was absolutely fantastic. He got beat on a couple of well placed shots that caught him going the wrong way in his crease, taking away his angle. He might want the Alain Berger goal back at the side of the net, but his defense was more to blame for leaving two players wide open at the side of the net on the powerplay. He didn't really know how to play it and was caught in the middle of his net...probably anticipating a pass in hopes that one of his defenders would pressure Berger. But he really kept Ottawa in a game they didn't deserve being in. He comes out to challenge shooters and did a VERY good job of controlling his rebounds. He managed to hang on to pretty much everything. He showcased a good glove today too, with a couple of highlight worthy glove saves. I definitely noticed that he isn't flopping around nearly as much as he was last year either, and seems to have reformed his style a bit so that he can take away the upper half. He made 35 saves...and stopped all five shooters in the shootout for the win.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
Posts
