Thoughts on Niagara and Mississauga from October 16

Went down to the Hershey Centre last night to check out the Dogs and Majors. Once bitter rivals, the bite between these two Central Division teams has left the building. When the Majors first moved to the Hershey Centre and the Dogs left for Niagara, you'd be hard pressed to find a more intense match up. But as one reader pointed out in comments not long ago, the bitterness among these two teams has long since dissipated. With only a handful of players still around from before the switch, the rivalry seems long forgotten.

This game was a real testament to that, for the majority. Definitely not the prettiest game to watch. Lacked any real energy for the first half of the game, especially from the IceDogs. There were some fisticuffs at the end of the game, but that was more to do with a cheap shot by Johnson Andrews than anything else. Possibly a little frustration from what appeared to be a lifeless IceDog team.

Perhaps the Dogs were tired after their longwinded shootout victory over Owen Sound the night before, because only a handful of their players showed any giddy-up at all. The lack of energy from their end really allowed the Majors to dictate the pace of play for the majority of the game. Of note, the IceDogs powerplay is particularly atrocious and almost frustrating to watch. They really miss Alex Pietrangelo and Drew Schiestel on the back end. Not one of the many different powerplay combinations could generate much of anything for the Dogs, including the ol' fashioned five forward powerplay unit (which I'm completely against using). This team is sitting at under 6 percent right now for their powerplay unit, that's by far the lowest in the league. With only 3 powerplay goals all year, the Dogs are close to giving up as many shorthanded markers (2) as they've scored powerplay goals. That right there is the definition of a struggling unit. It's almost as if the Dogs would prefer other teams didn't take penalties against them so that play could remain five on five. The other thing I've noticed as far as the Dogs go is the breaking up of the DeSousa/Friesen/Agozzino line in order to try and spread the wealth offensively. That line was performing so well and really dictating the pace of play. While spreading the wealth and getting production from your other lines is important, so is scoring goals. I'd much prefer the Dogs keeping that line together and pressure the secondary units to step up their game. One line working well together is better than 4 lines working averagely. Plus that aforementioned "mini" forward line really set the pace of games. They tired out opposing defenses and really brought energy to the ice and this is something the Dogs lacked tonight. It'll be interesting to see how the Dogs handle the struggling Sudbury Wolves (losers of 6 in a row) today at home.

As for the Majors, they played a really strong game. Defensively, the effort was tremendous. Chris Carrozzi didn't have to do a whole heck of a lot tonight, as the Dogs were kept to the outside for the majority of the game. I really think this team is one really solid offensive forward away from being a serious OHL contender. Getting Gregg Sutch back in a week or two shoudln't hurt.

Here are some thoughts on individual players...

Mississauga St. Michael's Majors




Tim Billingsley (PHX)
I think Billingsley is really starting to come around again. This is the third time I've seen him this season and he's gotten better each time. I think the background of my disappointment with Billingsley is that I remember how promising he looked in his first two years in the league, as a somewhat hard-nosed two way rearguard. Last year was a huge step backward for him, but he seems to be slowly putting it back together. I think the key for him is keeping things simple with the puck, like he did tonight. He's not a blessed puck mover so as long as he can make smart decisions with the puck and not rush movement up ice, he can limit his turnovers. Last night he actually laid a few nice hits too, which is an element that has been absent in Billingsley's game of recent times. He needs to play that way in order to be successful defensively. I think Dave Cameron has to be happy with Billingsley's progression this year too since he actually received some powerplay time tonight and didn't look out of place either.

Brett Flemming (WSH)
Good to see Brett back on defense after he was up at forward the last time I saw him play. Glad to see that experiment over. He's back paired with Cameron Gaunce on the Majors top defensive unit and I continue to be impressed with his play. His best asset is his mobility which he uses to play both ends of the ice. Made several nice rushes up ice tonight. He also used his speed to make a solid play at the defensive end. Turnover at the blueline led to a breakaway by Andrew Shaw, but Flemming caught up to him and forced him to a somewhat weak backhand attempt. It was good on him to not take a penalty on the play, but to play Shaw clean (although how much damage would an IceDog powerplay do anyway?) Was somewhat disappointed by the fact that he saw little powerplay time though. He finished the game a solid +2.

Casey Cizikas (NYI)
Thought he played a pretty solid game. As always, he was active on the penalty kill and I like the fact that he's starting to show a bit of grit to his game (saw his fight against Matt Clark recently). He's been more consistent this year in playing active and going to the net with and without the puck. He scored on a very nice tip in of William Wallen's point shot. Cizikas finished with a goal and an assist.

Jordan Mayer (2010, but 1991 born)
I'm always impressed by Jordan Mayer. He's definitely one of the elite skating forwards in the OHL. He can turn on the jets and really blow by an opposing defense. I like his fearless attitude too. Not the biggest, but he works hard in the corners and is active near the crease. Corey Bureau's third period goal was all Mayer. He drove hard into the offensive zone, came up with the puck, kept possession and found Bureau at the side of the net for the nice finish. His speed and work ethic really do wonders to confuse opposing teams defenses. As one of the youngest players eligible for the draft last year, here's hoping NHL teams have taken note of his progression this season.

Devante Smith-Pelly (2010)
Even though he was held off the scoresheet, I thought Smith-Pelly was the most impressive Majors forward on the night. Not always a consistent point producer, I don't think it's long before he starts hitting the stat line consistently. I really liked the newly formed Smith-Pelly/Cizikas/Wallen line. The thing I like about Smith-Pelly is that he plays bigger than he actually is. Only average sized, he generates a lot of power in his skating stride and it makes him very hard to contain on the rush. At times I've questioned his offensive ceiling and overall skill set, but I'm starting to believe it's more a matter of confidence with the puck on his stick. He showed a couple highlight reel moves tonight, one as he got past the Dogs defenseman with some nifty puckhandling, but couldn't get a serious scoring chance out of it. I think we're only seeing the tip of the iceberg with Smith-Pelly.

Cameron Gaunce (COL)
Cameron Gaunce was typical Cameron Gaunce tonight. Steady as he goes. Gaunce is almost always a solid two way defender who makes smart decisions with the puck. Sometimes he gets himself in trouble when he tries to do too much, like one turnover he had at the blueline that nearly led to an odd man rush. Not the most blessed stick handler you'll see, he's better when he relies on his on ice vision to make quick plays, rather than trying to play the puck possession game (part of the reason why the Gaunce/Flemming pairing works so well IMO). Gaunce can absolutely wire it from the back end too, scoring on a nice hard point shot in the first period. I also like the added physicality to his game this year. Always a criticism against Gaunce, it appears hes working on becoming more of a physical threat.

Chris Carrozzi (ATL)
Carrozzi was solid when he had to be tonight. Wasn't really tested a whole lot, but when he was he was up to the occasion. Made a nice save by sliding over to hug the post on the Andrew Shaw breakaway attempt. Made a couple second chance saves on goal mouth scrambles by standing his ground. One such occurrence happened because of Carrozzi's poor clear of the puck which led directly to a turnover and a couple scoring chances, but none of Niagara's forwards were able to get the puck over his pads. Carrozzi has always been a really steady goalie who doesn't necessarily wow you, but who won't lose the game for you either. It'll be interesting to see what happens as the season goes on. Whether the Majors keep Carrozzi to continue to split time with J.P. Anderson, or whether they trade him to one of the teams looking for a starting goaltender (ala Windsor). He made 22 saves for the shutout victory.

Niagara IceDogs





Alex Friesen (2010 but 1991 born)
Friesen has really taken steps forward this year. He's learned to use his speed to generate offensive opportunities and has a lot more confidence in carrying the puck into the zone. In a way, he's a very similar player to Mississauga's Jordan Mayer. Friesen was one of the few IceDogs who looked like they were actually tying tonight, but he often got swallowed by the Majors defense as he entered the zone. It'll be interesting to see if his steps forward this season earn him NHL draft attention.

Chris DeSousa (2010, but 1990 born)
This year is DeSousa's last chance at being drafted and he's playing like he wants it. I thought he was Niagara's best forward tonight. Not the greatest skater in the world (which can spell trouble for smaller players at the next level), DeSousa uses solid strength and positioning to get by defenders. It almost felt like he was all by himself out there, as he'd do well to get puck possession in the offensive zone, but receive no support from it. I think he's got a real nose for the puck too and has a pretty high level of hockey sense. Once the Alex Pietrangelo situation is cleared up, I'd be surprised if DeSousa wasn't the next IceDog captain (should Petro not return).

Matt Petgrave (2010)
I continue to see a lot of potential in this kid. He's not really putting up points right now, but I think it'll be really interesting to see what he does at the end of the year. An OHL rookie who played AAA last year, Petgrave is still going through some growing pains. He still turns the puck over in the offensive zone by making poor decisions. He still takes himself out of position going for the big hit. But, you can see the potential in him. The way he skates the puck up ice. The way he reads plays offensively. I'd love to see him get more playing time on the powerplay. It's pretty obvious that the PP isn't working as it is, so why not give Petgrave a chance on the first unit, so that he can develop his skills and get some experience.

Petteri Simila (MTL)
I thought Simila was outstanding tonight. The Dogs have been really blessed to get the quality of goaltending they have been getting so far this season. If not for Simila, this game could have been 6 or 7 nothing. You'd be blind to not notice his size on the ice, at 6'6 he's a behemoth goaltender. But I like the way he challenges shooters and makes himself even bigger. Often times you'll see big goaltenders stay deep in their net, but I like to see them stay aggressive and come right out to the top of the blue ice. He takes away the bottom of the net really well and controls the rebounds from his pads, directing them to the corner. Like some big goaltenders, I do think he needs to work on his lateral mobility. On two of the goals tonight he got beat going side to side (the Lopes SH goal, and the Corey Bureau goal). A skating and strength coach should help him improve his overall agility. He made 38 of 42 saves and took the loss.

Anyone else see the game?

2009 CHL Import Draft Results, Scouting Reports, and News

Yesterday, the Canadian Hockey League held its annual Import Draft where CHL teams get the opportunity to add import talent to their teams. There is two rounds of the draft, and a team can pass on or trade their pick at any time. Just to remind you, CHL clubs are permitted to carry 2 import players on their team every year.

While the Import Draft can be a bit of a crap shoot, many of the players drafted do come over. Last year for example, of the first round selections made by OHL clubs, 17 came over, while 3 (one of which is coming over this year) did not. That's an 85% success rate for your pick coming over. Players chosen in the 2nd round tend to come over at a lower rate, with only 2 of the 6 selections coming over last year.

The rate of success achieved by your picks is a different story. Some players come over but fail to make the team (Maximillian Engelbrecht for Niagara), or are cut loose after a short time (Edgar Rybokov for Erie). While other players end up becoming star players in the league (see Evgeni Grachev and Andrei Loktionov last year).

Let's take a look at all the selections made by OHL clubs this year, as well as some notes and scouting reports I've compiled to help you gauge your expectations.

The Results

3. Plymouth Whalers - Gabriel Landeskog - Forward
Everything I've read about Landeskog points to him being a potential star in the making. Because of a late 1992 birthdate, he's not eligible for the NHL Entry Draft until 2011. At only 16, this winger managed to play a few games for Djurgarden in the Swedish Elite League this year. At the Under 18's, he was voted by coaches in the tourney as one of the top 3 players for Team Sweden. It's pretty easy to see why Plymouth traded up to try and secure this guys rights. It also appears he's pretty set on coming over next year.
Scouting Report: Here is what the guys at Eliteprospects.com had to say about him (here): "An offensively skilled forward with good speed, technical skills and hockey sense. Landeskog likes to shoot the puck and finish plays himself. Scoring touch is pretty good, but he could pass the puck more often. Loves to throw his body around and play physical and is a very good penalty killer."
Stats: (Again thanks to Eliteprospects.com)

2008-2009	Stockholm/Vit	TV-Pucken	8	9	8	17	8
	Djurgården J18	J18 Elit	5	4	5	9	39
	Djurgården J18	J18 Allsvenskan	3	1	2	3	2
	Djurgården J20	SuperElit	31	7	14	21	63
	Djurgården	Elitserien	3	0	1	1	2
	Team Sweden U17 (all)	International	6	5	0	5	6
	Team Sweden U18	WJC-18	6	4	0	4	24
	Team Sweden U18 (all)	International	8	4	1	5	28

6. Kitchener Rangers - Tomas Tatar - Forward
Tatar is the NHL 2nd rounder (60th) of the Detroit Red Wings. If you recognize the name, it's probably from the most recent World Junior Hockey Championships, where Tatar was the offensive catalyst for the surprising Slovakians. He finished the tournament among the top 5 in scoring and showcased his dynamite offensive skills. It remains to be seen whether he comes over or not. He played last year in the Slovakian men's league, so who knows whether his contractual situation allows him to come over. Judging by Kitchener trading up for this pick, you have to think they've got a pretty good shot at convincing him to come over and be a part of a team on the upswing.
Scouting Report: Here are a couple quotes from Red Wings management (thanks to the guys at Red Wings Central): "He's one of those guys the puck just follows," said Jim Nill, the Red Wings' assistant GM. "He's got the offensive instincts, the head and the hands. He can make those little plays and he has a nose for the net." "He's a little bit bigger than Jiri Hudler, but this guy can skate," said Hakan Andersson, the Red Wings' director of European scouting. "If there's one knock on Hudler, it's that he doesn't have that top speed. Tatar has good top speed. He has good offensive instincts, too. He can shoot the puck, he can make a play, he can beat a defenseman 1-on-1."
Stats: (Thanks to Eliteprospects)

2008-2009	HKM Zvolen	Slovakia	48	7	8	15	20
	Slovakia U20	WJC-20	7	7	4	11	4

9. Sault Ste. Marie Greyhounds - Robin Lehner - Goaltender
It would appear the Hounds have found their starting goaltender for next season. And while you have to wonder what that means for Bryce O'Hagan, Lehner appears to be a very talented netminder. He was the 2nd round pick (46th) of the Ottawa Senators at the 2009 Entry Draft and started for Sweden at the most recent World Junior Championships. He has also already committed to coming over.
Scouting Report: Here is what the guys at Eliteprospects had to say about him: "A butterfly goalie with excellent size and good overall skills. Uses his big frame to his advantage and challenges the shooters, although perhaps not with the desired consistency. Rebound control is somewhat suspicious, but overall mobility quite impressive for a big guy. Moves pretty well side to side and is tough to beat down low."
Stats: (EliteProspects)

2008-2009	Frölunda J18	J18 Allsvenskan	2	2.56	.933
	Frölunda J20	SuperElit	22	3.05	.903
	Team Sweden U18	WJC-18	4	2.80	.916
	Team Sweden U18 (all)	International	9	2.25	.899

12. Barrie Colts - Alexander Burmistrov - Forward
Everything I've read concerning this guy, points to the fact that he's considered one of the top Russian players available for the 2010 NHL Entry Draft, and a potential first round selection. He lit it up at the most recent Under 18's, with 11 points in 7 games for the Silver medal winning Russian team. I guess the mystery remains as to whether he comes over, considering the allure of the KHL. But maybe he's thinking the CHL did great for Dmitri Kulikov's draft stock this year and he has a motivation to be a high NHL draft selection.
Scouting Report: Hockeysfuture Russian hockey writer Alessandro Seren Rosso says that "Burmistrov is a center with great reading and a damn good shot as well. He has to do a little work on his frame & defensive play." At The Hockey News, they had fellow players give scouting reports on Burmistrov following the Ivan Hlinka tournament. “Burmistrov was also someone to take note of,” Colinn Bowman of team U.S.A. said. “Not an overly big guy, but has tremendous puck skills and is a shifty center.” Added Taylor Hall: “This kid was unreal. I thought he was the best player on the ice for the Russians. He wasn’t really quick, but he had great hands and passed through sticks and skates with ease.”
Stats: (Eliteprospects)

2008-2009	Ak Bars-2 Kazan	Russia3	34	25	25	50	54
	Ak Bars Kazan	KHL	1	0	0	0	0
	Russia U18	WJC-18	7	4	7	11	6

15. Owen Sound Attack - Roman Berdnikov - Forward
Berdnikov is a bit of an unknown. He's a Russian forward who's a 1992 birthdate and elgible for the 2010 NHL entry Draft. He's apparently a slick skating forward with skill, whom you'd have to imagine is coming over.
Scouting Report: Attack General Manager Dale Degray describes Berdnikov as a "highly skilled, offensive right winger."
Stats: (the only ones I could find).

2008-2009	Russia	WJC 17	4	2	2	4	10
	Russia	WJ A Challenge	4	0	1	1	0

18. Peterborough Petes - Jiri Sekac - Forward
Another guy who seems to be a bit of a mystery. A slightly undersized forward, Sekac played for HC Kladno's Under 18 team this year, putting up impressive stats. He's also a 1992 born, making him eligible for the 2010 NHL Entry Draft. Outside of that I've got nothing.
Scouting Report: -
Stats: (thanks to Elite Prospects)

2008-2009	Czech Republic	Under 17 4 Nations	3	0	3	3	-
2008-2009	HC Kladno U18	Czech U18	46	38	49	87	48

21. Niagara IceDogs - Petteri Simila - Goaltender
Simila was Mr. Irrelevant this year the NHL Entry Draft. He was the last player chosen in the draft, by the Montreal Canadiens (211). With Jeremy Smith likely headed to play professional hockey, the Dogs are likely looking for someone to split time with youngster Mark Visentin. Simila is a giant goaltender (listed at 6'6) and he was the back-up for Karpat's (Finnish League) Under 20 team. Obviously this leads him to be a bit of a mystery as well.
Scouting Report: All I've got on Simila is that Trevor Timmins, Director of Montreal Player Development, states he's a gamble selection. He's been working with the goaltending coach of Pekka Rinne and that he believes he has a high projection curve. That could also mean that if he's working with goaltending coaches over there, he may not want to come over here. We'll see.
Stats: (Elite Prospects)

2008-2009

Kärpät U20

Jr. A SM-Liiga

17

3.61

.897

24. Windsor Spitfires - Tom Kuhnhackl - Forward
Kuhnhackl is a very talented German forward, apparently qquite possibly the best prospect to ever come out of Germany. He's a 1992 born, with good size at 6'2, who is supposed to be a first round talent for 2010. With Richard Panik (last year's pick) already committed to coming over this year, The Spits roll the dice on Kuhnhackl, who apparently already has a contract in the DEL (Top German League) for next season. That being said, don't be surprised if Windsor works their magic and gets him over here as well, especially since they are likely to have some holes in their line up next year. If not, he could pull a Panik and come over next year.
Scouting Report: According to translating a few German articles, he compares to Marco Sturm at the same age. He also had very good speed and stickhandling ability. With his coach saying "he can do magical things with the puck."
Stats: (Elite Prospects)

2008-2009	EV Landshut	Germany2	42	11	10	21	34
2008-2009	Germany U18	WJC-18	6	1	1	2	4

2008-2009

Germany

World Under 17 HC

5

4

3

7

2

27. Oshawa Generals - Alain Berger - Forward
Berger is a late 1990 born forward who was passed up in this year's NHL Entry Draft. He's a monster at 6'4, 200lbs and actually saw some time with Bern in the Swiss League this year. He played for the relegated Swiss team at the WJC's this year (in Division 1 because of 2008's relegation). He has already stated his intentions of coming over. Two years ago, he was named a top 3 player by coaches on the Under 18 Swiss team.
Scouting Report: Generals G.M. Chris DePiero says. “Alain is a big strong kid and he’s more mature because of the experience he’s been able to obtain playing at home."
Stats:

2008-2009	Bern	NLA	19	0	0	0	6
	Bern U20	Elite Jr. A	2	2	3	5	6
	Young Sprinters	NLB	22	9	9	18	32
	Schweiz U-20	NLB	6	3	0	3	20
	Switzerland U20	WJC-20 D1	4	1	1	2	6

30. Ottawa 67's - Peter Mrazek - Goaltender
Mrazek is a 1992 born goaltender who is eligible for the 2010 NHL Entry Draft. He's not the biggest goaltender, but he's put up impressive stats in the Czech Junior leagues. He was on the Czech Under 18 team, but was the 3rd goalie and didn't see any action. The 67's have to be hoping that he comes in and challenges Chris Perugini for the number one spot. A little healthy competition only makes everyone play to the best of their abilities.
Scouting Report: I can't find anything on the type of style he brings to the ice.
Stats: (Elite Prospects)

2008-2009	HC Vitkovice U18	Czech U18	28	1.99	.946
	HC Vitkovice U20	Czech U20	13	2.49	.924
	Czech Republic U18	WJC-18	0	0	0

33. Saginaw Spirit - Tadeas Galansky - Goaltender
Galansky is another Czech netminder, a late 92 birthdate, which makes him eligble for the 2011 NHL Entry Draft. He's already got good size at 6'1 and put up good stats in the Czech Under 18 league. Galansky has to be thought of as a potential back up goaltender for Edward Pasquale. Pasquale played a ton last year and perhaps this can explain his lackluster play in the playoffs, as he tired.
Scouting Report: "He brings good size to the position and he has a lot of upside," stated Spirit Director of Scouting Jim Paliafito, "He had close to a .930 save percentage on a team that struggled in his home league."
Stats: Elite Prospects

2008-2009	HC Kometa Brno U18	Czech U18	5	2.17	.935
	HC Havirov U18	Czech U18	34	2.22	.938

36. Erie Otters - Ramis Sadikov - Goaltender
Sadikov is a behemoth goaltender from Russia, listed at 6'5, 220lbs. As an early 1991 birthdate, he was passed over in this years NHL Entry Draft. Not a whole lot is known about Sadikov since his stats from this year are nowhere to be found. He was drafted in the first round of the recent KHL draft, which tells you he must have some ability.
Scouting Report: -
Stats: -

39. Sudbury Wolves - Stefan Stepanov - Defence
Stepanov is a young defender, a late 92 birthdate, whom isn't eligible for the NHL Draft until 2011. He is averagely sized at 6'0, 170lbs. Stepanov is highly regarded and considered one of the best defensive prospects among his age group. He was also a recent draftee in the KHL Draft, but has already committed to coming over and playing in Sudbury, where they could use a little defensive help.
Scouting Report: Here is a great and promising scouting report I've found. Thanks to Ian Dunham at Even Strength. "He is primarily an offensive defenseman, using phenomenal skating ability and hockey sense to jump into the play for scoring chances. Instead of using bone crushing hits on opposing forwards, Stepanov uses sound positional play to stop attacking forwards. Stepanov is supremely confident with the puck, often tapping his stick on the ice and shouting for a pass. Although this can give away his position, it shows how much Stepanov wants to participate in the play. He scored a beautiful goal with a heavy wrist shot while pinching in from the point on the power play. Stepanov also has an array of tricks up his sleeve, often playing the puck off the boards to himself or his line mates. Stepanov also has the ability to rush the puck from one end of the ice to the other, somewhat like Sergei Fedorov did while playing defense in Detroit. Stepanov passes with great accuracy, and many of his passes were too strong for other players to handle. Stepanov still needs to grow and fill out, but once he does, he will be a integral part of any team he plays with. Stepanov is truly a special player." HF's Russian writer Alessandro Seren Rosso also calls Stepanov one of the top players available for Russia in 2011.
Stats: (Elite Prospects)

2008-2009

Krylia Sovetov

Russia2

8

0

0

0

10

42. Saginaw Spirit - Ivan Telegin - Forward
Telegin is a big forward, at 6'3, 190lbs. As a 92 birthdate, he is eligible for the 2010 NHL Entry Draft. He played in the Russian 3rd league this year, for which I can not find stats. However he did play for Russia at the Under 17's and another Under 17 4 Nations event, putting up solid stats in both.
Scouting Report: Courtesy of Spirit Director of Scouting Jim Paliafito, ""Ivan plays hard and goes to the net with authority courtesy his big size. He has the potential to bring a lot to a team's offense." Also, take this for what it is worth, but here is a quote from a poster at HF who states he saw Telegin play at the Under 17's. "His center (#24 Ivan Telegin) was also just as impressive, he is listed as 6ft but has clearly grown since. He was great on the PK and was an immovable force in front of the net on the PP."
Stats:

2009	Russia	World Under 17 HC	5	2	2	4	-
			5	2	2	4

2008-2009

Russia

Under 17 4 Nations

3

2

1

3

-

45. Kitchener Rangers - Patrik Andersson - Defence
Andersson is a 1990 birthdate, whom has already gone through 2 NHL Drafts without being selected. He has good size at 6'2, 185lbs. His addition means the end of the Simon Gronvaldt experiment in Kitchener. The Rangers probably went with a little older of a player due to the fact that they are looking to make a run in the OHL this year and want some experience on the backend. Andersson's team in the Under 20 Swedish League won the league title last season, of which he was a big part of.
Scouting Report: From the Kitchener Rangers website, "Scouts describe Andersson as a big puck moving defenseman who is strong at both ends of the ice."
Stats: Elite Prospects

2008-2009	Brynäs J20	SuperElit	36	7	17	24	26
	Team Sweden U19 (all)	International	7	0	3	3	0

48. Ottawa 67's - Matias Sointu - Forward
Sointu is an undersized Finnish forward who was a 7th round selection of the Tampa Bay Lightning in the 2008 NHL Entry Draft. As a 1990 born forward, he still isn't taking a regular shift in the SM-Liiga (Finnish top league), so it is likely he's looking to cross the pond in hopes of more playing time and an NHL contract.
Scouting Report: From HF's Profile, "A forward with soft hands and natural goal scoring ability, Sointu would likely be ranked much higher amongst European prospects in his draft class if it were not for his slight frame. Sointu has fantastic hockey vision to go along with his soft hands and, if he can overcome his size, could be an impact offensive player."
Stats: Elite Prospects

2007-2008	Ilves U18	Jr. B SM-sarja	10	8	6	14	6
	Ilves U20	Jr. A SM-Liiga	41	21	19	40	38
	Finland U18	WJC-18	6	3	0	3	8
2008-2009	Ilves U20	Jr. A SM-Liiga	7	1	1	2	6

51. Brampton Battalion - Forward - Valeri Kniazev
Kniasev is an average sized offensive forward who's 1992 birthdate makes him eligible for the 2010 NHL Entry Draft. Interestingly enough, Kniazev is a bit of a mystery, but with a good reason. He's Russian born, but plays in the Czech Junior League due to a move to the Czech Republic when he was a child. He appears to be very motivated to make the jump to North America so that he can increase his draft stock for 2010. He's going to have big shoes to fill following the likely loss of Evgeni Grachev to professional hockey in the Rangers organization.
Scouting Report: Battalion Head Coach Stan Butler describes him: "He plays hard and competes hard. I was told he’s a tremendous skater and an intense kid." While Kniazev himself says "“I think I’m a very good skater with a good shot. I can pass. I’m not a player who is always going to rush on his own.”
Stats:

2008-2009	Sparta Prague U18	Czech U18	21	5	3	8	-
	Sparta Prague U20	Czech U20	24	19	21	40	-

54. Sudbury Wolves - Edijs Leitans - Forward
Leitans is a monsterous forward who was born and plays in Germany, but who holds a citizenship in both Germany and Latvia. Thus, he plays for Latvia internationally. With Stepanov and Leitans, you have to wonder if that means the end of Sergei Sheleg's time in Sudbury. At 6'5, 215lbs, it's pretty easy to guess what he'll bring to the table. And if it's not obvious, check out his penalty minute totals from this years Division 1 World Under 18's.
Scouting Report: Wolves’ Coach/GM Mike Foligno says “Eddie is the big power forward we were looking to find in the Import draft. He loves to play physical but he has the hands to score big goals. Both players are here for at least two years and we are confident that they will be effective players for us.”
Stats: Elite Prospects

2008-2009	Iserlohner Junioren	DNL	22	2	9	11	38
	Jungadler Mannheim	DNL	5	4	7	11	8
	Latvia U18	WJC-18 D1	5	1	2	3	33

58. London Knights - Anton Klementyev - Defence
Klementyev, a 1990 born defenceman, was drafted in the 5th round of the 2009 NHL Entry Draft by the New York Islanders. He's played the past two seasons in the Russian 3rd League, and is likely looking to get exposure in North America.
Scouting Report: A great scouting report supplied by the guys over at Russianprospects.com (Alessandro Seren Russo also writes for them). "A reliable defensive defenseman…right stick, plays on right side…average-to-good skating…good speed and acceleration…hard to be knocked off the puck, he has very good stability and balance on skates…can work on his agility and mobility…average technical skills…he tries to play simple and isn’t creative with the puck…doesn’t have the skills for an opening pass…relies mostly on tape-to-tape passes…playing his simple way he rarely makes errors with the puck…can release a quick shot, but has to work on it…good mental game, plays hard…strong player along the boards…good physical presence, but he must put it on ice more constantly…good overall conditioning…good defensive hockey sense, knows when to step up and when to be patient not anticipating too much…rarely off position back in the zone…knows how shadow shots, isn’t scared by the puck while defending…mainly a stay-at-home defenseman who can occasionally showcase a not bad touch…a reliable player.."
Stats: Also supplied by Russian Prospects

2008-2009	Russia	Tyumen Cup	4	0	1	1	6
	Lokomotiv	KHL	1	0	0	0	0

62. London Knights - Kalle Ekelund - Defence
The Knights chose again at the beginning of the 2nd round and took another, what appears to be, stay at home defenceman. Ekelund is a 6'3, 190, 1990 born player who has been passed over in the last 2 NHL Entry Drafts. He's also played the past two seasons in the Swedish Second League, otherwise known as the Allsvenskan league. With the selection of Klementyev and Ekelund, I'm guessing this spells the end for Vladimir Roth in London.
Scouting Report: I've got nothing other than a very small quote from a Swedish poster on HF, "very solid 2-way d-man played two years against men with Nybro."
Stats: Elite Prospects

2008-2009	Nybro IF	Allsvenskan	42	2	0	2	12
	Team Sweden U19 (all)	International	4	1	0	1	2

68. Oshawa Generals - Jakub Strnad - Forward
Strnad is an undersized 92 born Czech forward who played this past season in both the Czech Under 18 and Under 20 leagues. With Robert Kousal, Alex Denezhkin, and now Alain Berger, the Gens have a bit of a logjam among Euro's. My guess is that Kousal leaves for home, Denezhkin and Berger take the spots, and Strnad doesn't come over, perhaps until next year.
Scouting Report: -
Stats: Elite Prospects

2008-2009	HC Kladno U18	Czech U18	14	2	9	11	6
	HC Kladno U20	Czech U20	32	2	6	8	10

70. Barrie Colts - Denis Gladkov - Forward
The Colts draft another 2010 eligible Russian forward, this time the average sized Gladkov. I can honestly say that I can't find anything on Gladkov. A complete mystery.
Scouting Report: -
Stats: -

72. Erie Otters - Victor Perezhogin - Forward
Again a virtual unknown as of this time. All that is known is that he's a forward at 6'1, 190, whose 1992 birthdate makes him eligible for the 2010 NHL Entry Draft.
Scouting Report: -
Stats: -

73. Guelph Storm - Vadim Guskov - Forward
The 2nd round of the Import draft sure can be difficult to track. Guskov is yet another guy I can't find anything on. He's a 6'0 forward who was passed over in the NHL Entry Draft this season.
Scouting Report: -
Stats: -

75. Sarnia Sting - Ted Brithen - Forward
A guy I could actually find some information on! Brithen is a late 90 born center who went undrafted in the 2009 NHL Entry Draft. He's of average size (6'0), and slight in build. He played this past season for Rogle's Under 20 team in the SuperElit league in Sweden. He did however get in to Elitserien games for the big club. Impressive for a player his age. With only one euro spot taken by Miroslav Preisinger, Brithen has to be a good bet to be one of those rare second rounders who comes over.
Scouting Report: Thanks to the guys at Elite Prospects: "An allround center with good hockey sense. Brithén plays a smart two-way game and is valuable on the powerplay unit as well as in shorthanded situations. He has a good release, that he should use more often. Also a skilled playmaker."
Stats: Elite Prospects

2008-2009	Rögle J20	SuperElit	40	16	30	46	18
	Rögle	Elitserien	2	0	0	0	0

That concludes this years CHL Import Draft, for the full draft list, click here.

Let's not forget that Richard Panik, a selection in last year's Import Draft, will be suiting up for the Windsor Spitfires this season.

Richard Panik - Forward
Panik was a 2nd round selection (51) of the Tampa Bay Lightning at this year's NHL Entry Draft and brings good size to the forward position at 6'3, 200lbs. Like Tomas Tatar, Panik was a part of the surprising Slovak team at the 2009 WJC's. He had a mediocre tournament, which really dropped his draft stock from being a potential first round pick, to a mid-late 2nd. There have been questions about his work ethic and conditoning, something the Spitfires will correct quite early.
Scouting Report: THN ranked Panik 31st for this year's draft. Here is a small blurb on what they had to say. "There's no doubting his talent level, but commitment is another issue. He has the skills, but is he going to bring it every night?" From Bob Mackenzie's Draft Preview, ISS had this to say, "After a strong performance at the 2008 U18 tournament in Kazan, Russia, he had a disappointing showing at this year's WJC. Then, a season ending injury in knocked him out of World U-18 in Fargo, Minn. Consistency and ability to play the North American style of game are the two biggest question marks that come with Panik, but his offensive upside is extremely high. He has good outside speed and quick hands. "
Stats: Elite Prospects

2008-2009	HC Trinec U20	Czech U20	16	10	9	19	36
	HC Trinec	Czech	15	1	1	2	4
	HC Havirov	Czech2	3	2	1	3	0
	Slovakia U20	WJC-20	7	2	3	5	4

Also, pay close attention to the following scenario. It's purely speculation on my part, but I have to wonder why the Mississauga St. Michael's Majors traded their Import selection. Consider this. The Majors are hoping to make a run at the Eastern Conference this year, and they only have one Import spot filled up (by William Wallen) after Kaspers Daugavins graduates to the professional ranks. Owner Eugene Melnyk has always been a big player in the Import draft, so it strikes me odd that he wouldn't attempt to bring over more talent for that run. UNLESS, he's planning on saving a spot for Senators first round pick Erik Karlsson, whom was an import selection by the Majors last year. Karlsson is coming over to North America this year after signing with the Senators in May. If you are following me here, Melnyk also owns the Senators, and used that influence to get fellow Sens draftee Kaspers Daugavins on to the Majors. While Karlsson could play in the NHL, and appears to be quite talented, would Melnyk rather Karlsson play in the AHL or the OHL, should he fail to make the NHL? My hunch says the OHL, to give Melnyk's Majors a shot at a Memorial Cup title. First and foremost, I'm sure the plan is for Karlsson to be playing in the NHL, on a depleted Sens blueline. However, should they deem him not ready, I'd expect Melnyk is keeping that spot open in Mississauga for Karlsson. Just my two cents.

Also, just to give everyone a recap, there were a ton of trades leading up to and at the Import Draft. Some big names changing places. I've thrown in two big trades that happened a week or so before the draft too. This is taken right from the OHL website (here).

To Mississauga: Greg Sutch To Sarnia: Kale Kerbashian, Kyle Neuber, draft picks

To Kingston: Zach Harden, Kaine Geldart To Peterborough and Plymouth: Draft pick

To London: Michael Hutchinson To Barrie: Draft picks

To Sault Ste. Marie: T.J. Battani, Vern Cooper To Plymouth and Kitchener: Draft picks

To Sarnia: Adam Courchaine To Ottawa: Draft picks

To Guelph: Adam Comrie, Matt Hoyle To Saginaw: Josh Shalla, Draft picks

To Barrie: Luke Pither To Belleville: Draft picks

Just to let you know, the goaltender traded to Guelph, Matt Hoyle, was the starter for Harvard this past season as a freshman. A 1990 born, Hoyle was once a highly touted OHL prospect who went the NCAA route instead. However, judging by magnitude of the trade, I'd say you can expect him to leave Harvard to become Guelph's starter next season. Should be an interesting guy to keep an eye on.