NHL Central Scouting Midterm Rankings

Today, NHL Central Scouting released their midterm rankings for the 2010 NHL Entry Draft. In case you're unfamiliar with the annual midterm rankings, they are different from the preliminary ones released in November (found here). Central Scouting's preliminary rankings are separated by league, so the OHL had it's own ranking (top 25 skaters and a ranked list of goalies). Well the midterm rankings have a different format. All North American skaters are combined into a top 210, while the North American goalies combine to form a top 32.

Before you go and slam the rankings, keep a few things in mind.

1. Historically, NHL Central Scouting, is the last to catch on to a scouting "trend." For instance, you may look at all the other independent scouting agencies (ISS, Redline, McKeens, etc), and see a player rising up the rankings (for instance Jeff Skinner), but then look on Central Scouting and see them much lower. Just to give you an example from last year, at midterm they had Matt Hackett as the 8th highest rated NA goalie for 2009, when many agencies had him as the top one. Then, the final rankings roll around and BOOM!, Hackett is number one. Some people like to say they're behind the eight ball, while I like to think they're just more patient. It generally takes a lot to really sway them in favor of really jumping a player in their rankings.

2. It's only one ranking. This list isn't the be all and end all of rankings. For whatever reason, Central Scouting can seem to be down on certain players, or very high on certain players that other scouting agencies aren't. For example, every other scouting agency was high on Kyle Clifford by the end of last season. Central Scouting...not so much. Despite rave reviews and high rankings from everyone else, they had Clifford at 182 on their final ranking. He ended up being the 26th North American player chosen (35th overall to LA). Just because they've got a player ranked low does not mean he won't go high and conversely just because they like a player doesn't mean that he'll get drafted (see Eric Doyle from the WHL).

3. In saying, Central Scouting does a great job and they shouldn't be used to print off and become toilet paper. A lot of NHL teams use these ranking as a way to target certain players they may not have seen play yet.

If you're still with me after the rant, here's how the OHL players stack up. You can find the official list here.

Skaters
1. Taylor Hall: NA Ranking = 1
2. Tyler Seguin: NA Ranking = 2
3. Cam Fowler: NA Ranking = 3
4. Erik Gudbranson: NA Ranking = 6
5. Alexander Burmistrov: NA Ranking = 7
6. John McFarland: NA Ranking = 10
7. Tyler Toffoli: NA Ranking = 22
8. Ryan Martindale: NA Ranking = 24
9. Austin Watson: NA Ranking = 25
10. Ivan Telegin: NA Ranking = 26
11. Ryan Spooner: NA Ranking = 38
12. Steven Shipley: NA Ranking = 44
13. Joey Hishon: NA Ranking = 46
14. Jeff Skinner: NA Ranking = 47
15. Stephen Silas: NA Ranking = 51
16. Brandon Archibald: NA Ranking = 58
17. Justin Shugg: NA Ranking = 62
18. Brock Beukeboom: NA Ranking = 63
19. Josh Shalla: NA Ranking = 64
20. Andrew Yogan: NA Ranking = 65
21. Dalton Smith: NA Ranking = 66
22. Devante Smith-Pelly: NA Ranking = 67
23. Cameron Wind: NA Ranking = 80
24. Sam Carrick: NA Ranking = 87
25. Greg Mckegg: NA Ranking = 94
26. Freddie Hamilton: NA Ranking = 102
27. Christian Thomas: NA Ranking = 114
28. Gregg Sutch: NA Ranking = 115
29. Austin Levi: NA Ranking = 117
30. Jared Knight: NA Ranking = 123
31. Philip Lane: NA Ranking = 124
32. Joe Rogalski: NA Ranking = 142
33. Adam Sedlak: NA Ranking = 145
34. Myles McCauley: NA Ranking = 162
35. Brandon Alderson: NA Ranking = 167
36. Geoffrey Schemitsch: NA Ranking = 169
37. Reid McNeill: NA Ranking = 171
38. Michael Sgarbossa: NA Ranking = 183
39. Derek Froats: NA Ranking = 189
40. Alex Cord: NA Ranking = 194

Goalies
1. Mark Visentin: NA Ranking = 8
2. Philip Grubauer: NA Ranking = 9
3. Ramis Sadikov: NA Ranking = 11
4. Scott Wedgewood: NA Ranking = 13
5. Dalton McGrath: NA Ranking = 16
6. Michael Houser: NA Ranking = 18
7. J.P. Anderson: NA Ranking = 20
8. Petr Mrazek: NA Ranking = 26
9. Kevin Bailie: NA Ranking = 28
10. Bryce O'Hagan: NA Ranking = 30

Just as a reminder, here was my midterm Top 30.

Comments:

• If you compare my rankings with theirs, I think you'll notice the biggest differences being the rankings of Jeff Skinner and Jared Knight. 9 and 12 spot differences respectively. I gotta disagree with Central Scouting here. With Knight, I think I understand the reasoning. Basically it comes back to what I was saying about them being behind the eight ball sometimes. Knight has only recently (the last month or so) been rolling on all cylinders (correlated with his Diabetes diagnosis and treatment). I think it comes down to them taking into consideration his poor performance to start the year. By the end of the season, I'd expect him a lot higher. As for Skinner, well this one I just don't get. Here is the OHL's leading goal scorer, a dynamic offensive player and yet he's ranked 47th. Sure Skinner is undersized at 5'10, but he's stocky and he's a very good skater. I want to compare Skinner to former OHL'er Bryan Little. Little was the same size in the OHL, just as good offensively (similar skill set IMO), but not as good a skater as Skinner. Yet Little was ranked 7th in 2006 by Central Scouting (both midterm and final). What makes them different?

• I don't really get the Myles McCauley addition. Maybe in the preliminary rankings, when he was playing some good hockey for Plymouth. But he hasn't scored a goal in 16 games. He's only got 2 assists in that time too. As a draft re-entry 1991, I just don't see him as being good enough to crack this list. Especially true considering there are a whole host of draft re-entry's having better seasons like Taylor Carnevale, Alex Friesen, and Darren Archibald.

• Alex Cord is a weird inclusion too, even if he's the last guy rated. It's an honor just to be included on this list, so I think it's worth talking about. A former high OHL draft pick, but Cord has played but three games with the Majors this season. When not with the Majors, he's been playing with the Oakville Blades of the OJAHL (Junior A). There he has 6 points in 24 games. I don't see the allure of adding him considering some of the quality players left off of this list (Corey Durocher, Matt Petgrave, Roman Berdnikov).
  

• Last thing I want to mention is the inclusion of Gregg Sutch...especially pretty high. I didn't even expect to see Sutch on this list, but it's a nice surprise. I like him a lot as a player and even more from what I've heard and read about his personality and character. But he's had a very tough year with injuries and hasn't been able to get his offensive game going. But he's a very physical player and a big guy who can skate too. I think he does have offensive talent, just needs to get back into a consistent groove. In case you want a very good read, check out Sutch's blog entry from The Hockey News where he discusses the difficulties he's had this season. You can find it here.

So what do YOU think?

Five Game Reports from Ryan Yessie!

Ryan's been really busy lately, so he hasn't had the chance to send me a ton of game reports in recent weeks. Well turns out he's been hard at work over that time, and then decided to send me them all at once!

Get ready for the monster post to end all monster posts.

We've got game reports on the following games...

December 10 - Plymouth at Sarnia
December 12 - Erie at Sarnia
December 17 - Kitchener at Sarnia
December 19 - Brampton at Sarnia
December 29 - Plymouth at Sarnia

Some great stuff here folks, make sure you give it a read. Ryan has organized it very nicely for everyone.

December 10th -





In the always exciting teddy bear toss Joe Rogalski pulls out the highlight reel for this one, then scoring a second goal before Jordan Hill and Zach MacQueen scored goals in the shootout to win in this exciting divisional match-up.

Tyler Seguin - #9 - C - YOB: 1992 - 6’1” - 186lbs.
NHL: Eligible in 2010
Report: Dec/10/09: I was curious to see if I was going to jump off the Taylor Hall train and onto the Tyler Seguin bandwagon as it seems many have done. But that wasn’t the case tonight. Seguin displayed great speed, handing the puck in tight situations, and getting his shots to the net. He was good defensively and was very willing to be the first man back. On the other hand Seguin’s overall effort wasn’t as impressive on a consistent basis. He took a few pointless penalties. None of which resulted in a goal, however it was a very close game the entire 60 minutes, and Seguin spent 6 of that sitting in the box. There is no denying Seguin’s top 3 placement, and I for those that remember (refer back to Brock’s 2010 outlook around May 09 for proof) That I was one of the first that slated Tyler Seguin as a top talent in this draft, and still believe he is top 3.. But watching him compared to Hall several times last year, and again this year, personally there’s no question Hall is the more projectable talent.
(Seguin had 1G, 6PIM tonight)

A.J. Jenks - #22 - LW/C - YOB: 1990 - 6’2” - 200lbs.
NHL: 4^th Round - 100^th Overall by Florida in 2008
Report: Dec/10/09: Jenks played pretty good in this game. You can really see his evolution as a hockey player compared to 2 seasons ago when he got drafted. He displayed excellent speed, and looks bigger and hits harder than his 6’2” 200lb. Frame suggests. Jenks drove to the net protecting the puck well. He threw big hits, and generally was effective on his shifts. He was taking some draws and apparently is now considered both a winger and a center as he looked pretty decent in the circle. I still believe, especially with the skill set he’s developed he would factor in as a power forward, but with the recent issues with the Panthers and Power Forwards (ex. Anthony Stewart, Kendal McArdle) maybe he’d be better off shying away from the Power Forward reputation. Both Plymouth goals were set up by Jenks tonight. Very impressed with his overall performance tonight, but he will still need to shake the reputation of disappearing in the important games as he did last playoffs.
(Jenks had 2A tonight)

Jamie Devane - #23 - LW - YOB: 1991 - 6’5” - 217lbs.
NHL: 3^rd Round - 68^th Overall by Toronto in 2009
Report: Dec/10/09: Devane is a guy I saw play 5 times last year in person, and I don’t remember once saying this guy looks like a NHL prospect-like talent. Apparently Brian Burke disagreed and drafted him early in the 3^rd round. I made sure I kept a close eye on him whenever he was on the ice. He’s a very good skater especially for someone 6’5” and was willing to engage physically without really trying to take anyone out. He was decent with moving the puck, however offensively you really didn’t get the impression he was looking to create any offense, and looked lost at times in terms of what he was supposed to be doing. A few good intangibles, but I still disagree with Burke’s call on this guy as an early 3^rd round talent. Devane is a bottom 6 guy who may be able to create some energy, but really lacks offensive impact, furthermore he didn’t stand out defensively either.

Austin Levi - #7 - D - YOB: 1992 - 6’4” - 195lbs.
NHL: Eligible in 2010
Report: Dec/10/09: Keeping consistent with the big sized players in Plymouth is 6’4” defenceman Austin Levi. Levi is a solid skating puck mover, that throws a big hit. I can count 8 hits he threw off the top of my head, so there was likely more in this game. However close to half of those required him to go out of position. Levi looked a lot like what I saw in Jesse Blacker last year in many ways, however with the strong physical element. If Levi can become content with the hits he throws while maintaining his defensive positioning, he has all the puck moving and skating skills to become a 2^nd pairing two-way defenceman in the NHL one day. If he cannot he could wind up being a very physical and useful AHL defenceman. Certainly interested to see him play a few more times.
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December 12th -





Erie got out to a quick 2-0 lead, and depite two great plays by Jesse Stoughton, the Sting could not solve Janus for that 3rd goal as Erie sneaks out with a 3-2 victory.

David Shields - #5 - D - YOB: 1991 - 6’3” - 215lbs.
NHL: 6^th Round - 168^th Overall pick by St. Louis in 2009
Report: Dec/12/09: Shields was very good defensively today. He looks like he has a decent shot, but also doesn’t appear to be much for focusing on his offensive game however. Shields is a safe defensive defenceman who doesn’t hesitate to throw the body when the opportunities. Shields looks like he has legit NHL potential as a 5^th-7^th defenceman that plays a safe defensive role with the team.
(Shields had -1, 4 PIM)

Tyler Hostetter - #10 - D - YOB: 1991 - 5‘11” - 195lbs.
NHL: Signed as a Free Agent by Philadelphia in 2009
Report: Dec/12/09: Hostetter seemed to spend a lot of time with Shields tonight, and that works well as these two are polar opposites. While being safe and not getting badly out of position, Hostetter’s game seems to be that of a simple puck moving defenceman. He doesn’t appear to have a big shot from the point, but he’s very smart when moving the puck. Like Shields he doesn’t project to be more than a 5^th-7^th defenceman.
(Hostetter had 1A, +2, 2 PIM)

Andrew Yogan - #12 - C - YOB: 1991 - 6‘3” - 200lbs.
NHL: Eligible in 2010
Report: Dec/12/09: Yogan is a guy I’ve been pretty high on for this draft. I like his combination of size, puck control, and a sniper’s shot. Yogan wasn’t overly impressive but still played hard, was willing to rush the puck up the ice. His skating isn’t great, but it’s good enough at this point of his career. He was very good along the boards, and unlike what I’ve seen from some others that are good along the boards, Yogan also can unleash a great shot from places other than the front of the net. Yogan is a guy I would have liked to see more from, but he didn’t play bad either.
(Yogan had 2 PIM)

Greg McKegg - #14 - C - YOB: 1992 - 5‘11” - 190lbs.
NHL: Eligible in 2010
Report: Dec/12/09: Not sure what to make of McKegg sometimes. To one extent he carries the puck with confidence, has a solid shot, and looks bigger than he really is. On the other side he disappears for decent amounts of time when I watch him play. McKegg didn’t really stand out for most of the game. He’s a sure fire prospect, but I question his first 3 round potential. McKegg is someone I’d like to see a little more of to get a better judge of his true talent.

Jaroslav Janus - #14 - C - YOB: 1992 - 5‘11” - 190lbs.
NHL: Eligible in 2010
Report: Dec/12/09: Janus as expected stood on his head tonight. Janus’ positioning is not exactly the most technically sound in the game, but he makes it work for him. He always is centered to the shooter, doesn’t come out as much as he should, and always seems to be able to put himself in front of the shot. He gave up a few big rebounds but he did a great job. Jesse Stoughton burned him twice, that landed him with a goal and an assist, but other than that he absolutely shut down a Sarnia team that was buzzing (no pun intended) the entire second half of the game to try to get that 3^rd goal to tie the game up.
(Janus stopped 29 of 31 shots)
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December 17 -





Kitchener wins 5-2 in a game where almost all of their prospect relevent players were out of the line-up for numerous reasons, I was still able to catch two significant names for the Rangers.

Jeff Skinner - #53 - C - YOB: 1992 - 5‘10” - 197lbs.
NHL: Eligible in 2010
Report: Dec/17/09: Skinner was a very important player for Kitchener despite not putting up any statistics. Skinner showed off solid speed, and worked hard every shift on this night. I had the pleasure of talking to one of Kitchener’s scouts during this game. He stated that Skinner has been doing a great job for them defensively all year, as he’s not just a guy who’s putting up points for them. Skinner looks like a high end two-way player that may suffer a little at the highest level in points, but it would be based on how important he is in his own end. No indications to me show that Skinner will be anything but a top 6 forward; but even if that doesn’t happen his work ethic and willingness to help out in his own end will always make Skinner a valuable player.

Ryan Murphy - #24 - D - YOB: 1993 - 5‘11” - 160lbs.
NHL: Eligible in 2011
Report: Dec/17/09: Murphy was a critical part of the Rangers victory tonight. Murphy displays great speed, and carries the puck up the ice with confidence and the ability to accelerate when needed. Murphy reminds me a lot of Mark Katic in his speed, and ability to carry the puck. He’s a little smaller, but carries the puck up the ice a lot more. Murphy moved the puck very well. Being in the weak 2011 draft, Murphy is almost guarenteed a spot in the 1^st round, however like the former 6^th overall ranked Katic found out, Murphy could see his stock drop slightly if he gets banged up between now and June 2011.
(Murphy had 1A)
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December 19 -






Again I was only partially observing as I was up in the suite for a Christmas party. However the great view did give me an excellent angle to scout the game. It’s remarkable how much easier it is to recognize and detect certain areas of a players game from that angle. However, I was also engaging with those that invited me up in the box, so I apologize to Brock that I didn’t quite apply my usual focus on my scouting duties, especially since he watched the game lol. Brampton wins 2-1.

Matt Clark - #5 - D - YOB: 1990 - 6‘4” - 218lbs.
NHL: 2^nd Round - 37^th Overall by Anaheim in 2009
Report: Dec/19/09: I was surprised where Clark was drafted this year, however there’s no denying his physical presence was a very attractive option to one take appear on Anaheim’s blue line. Clark threw a few very solid hits, he finished his checks, but was very smart in his own zone, as well making sure he didn’t get caught. The game was a bit of a tight one defensively. Clark snuck in from the point a few feet and unleashed a big and smart slap shot, showing he’s more than just a physical defensive defenecman. I say it was a smart slap shot because he waited a moment before he blasted it, with everything going on for Campbell it seemed to mess with his rhythm.
(Clark had 1G, -1, 2 PIM)

Cameron Wind - #8 - D - YOB: 1992 - 6‘1” - 200lbs.
NHL: Eligible in 2010
Report: Dec/19/09: Wind is a guy I’ve heard a lot of from Brock. Compared to my liking for Brett Flemming last year, Wind is projected as a mid round prospect who could be a 4^th-6^th puck moving defenceman. What I really like about Wind isn’t that he moves the puck well.. But he positions himself and moves around to move the opposition with him to open up the angles. He seems to use these angles and that method to open up passing lanes. Where other defencemen that move the puck well thread the needle, if Wind doesn’t like what he’s looking at he’ll quickly shift his positioning and scan the opposition for holes, was very impressed with his ability to do this on numerous occasions. I think it would be interesting to see if Wind rushed the puck more often if he could be more of an impact on the offensive end of the ice. Wind has a lot of size and I was a little surprised and disappointed by his lack of willingness to hit. The word “raw” comes to mind when assessing Wind’s placement as a prospect. He has several interesting intangebles and although he seems to already utilize his hockey sense, positioning and puck movement, I think he may have some untapped offensive skills, as well as the size to punish the opposition along the boards.

Philip Lane - #10 - RW - YOB: 1992 - 6‘2” - 194lbs.
NHL: Eligible in 2010
Report: Dec/19/09: Gotta be honest with Lane, I was expecting a lot out of him tonight and he showed me very little. Lane was on a 4 game goal scoring streak coming into this game. However he bobbled the puck on more than one offensive opportunity, and didn’t produce. However he did use his body well in this game, protecting the puck at times, and willing to get in the corners, he looks like a potential power forward, but there weren’t too many parts to his game that impressed me on this occasion.

Patrick Killeen - #1 - G - YOB: 1990 - 6‘4” - 204lbs.
NHL: 6^th Round - 180^th Overall pick by Pittsburgh in 2008
Report: Dec/19/09: I was never very high on Killeen, and I never considered him that strong of a prospect. Even after two periods I didn’t think he was that great. But in the 3^rd period he stole this game away from Sarnia. Killeen absolutely stood on his head in the 3^rd period. He was able to use his size to make the first as well as the second save. Rebound control appears to be an issue, and probably could have made life a lot easier on himself by controlling the puck, but he used his size very effectively. He was recorded as stopping 21 of 22 shots but the shot clock was broken half the game (happened in another game as well) So I can assure you he faced around 35 shots.
(Killeen stops 21 of 22 shots)
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December 29 -





Plymouth comes into Sarnia and takes a 5-2 win in a game that was much closer than it appeared on the scoreboard for the first 55 minutes or so.

Tyler Seguin - #9 - C - YOB: 1992 - 6’1” - 186lbs.
NHL: Eligible in 2010
Report: Dec/29/09: Seguin came out again with top speed, but I have to say his play tonight made it very evident why he was left off the WJC team. Despite playing with the fast pace offense that he is known for, he seems to be having a rough time creating offense and at time appears to be doing too much. Many times on this evening Seguin tried to make a move on the defenceman, one we’ve seen players like Steven Stamkos, John Tavares, and most recently Taylor Hall perform and accomplish. Seguin makes it far too blatant when attempting to make a one on one move against the defenceman and got stuffed multiple times. He was at his best carrying the puck along the boards, and swerving out of the direction of the opposition. It’s clear he’ll need to add more strength. His puck movement and skating was superb as always, but another flaw that seems to be coming up as an issue is his discipline. Seguin again like last game took undisciplined penalties at opportunistic times. He feels like a mix of Matt Duchene and Nazem Kadri to me. He has this top end talent (more so than Kadri) But makes really undisciplined plays at times that need to be addressed before he can max out his potential at the NHL level. It’s been disappointing watching him play in the games I’ve seen him this year after how dominant he looked last year.
(Seguin had 2 PIM)

Jamie Devane - #23 - LW - YOB: 1991 - 6’5” - 217lbs.
NHL: 3^rd Round - 68^th Overall by Toronto in 2009
Report: Dec/29/09: Devane looked much better to me today. Again he did not look like anything special, and really wasn’t involved in any of the offensive play, I did however notice him chasing down the puck on a few plays, he has great speed for someone at his size, and got in a fight with Kyle Neuber, one of the premiere OHL heavyweights and really held his own.. I would have given Neuber the decision but for being 2 years younger and not really seeming to be that much of a fighter Devane would say impressed me in his fight. He looks like someone who could take on one of the bottom 2 lines and play with energy, speed, and throw down when needed. He won’t be a great NHLer or much of a point producer, but he will likely be an asset to a team in the NHL.
(Devane had 5 PIM)

Robbie Czarnik - #27 - C - YOB: 1990 - 6’0” - 175lbs.
NHL: 3^rd Round - 63^rd Overall by Los Angeles in 2008
Report: Dec/29/09: Czarnik is another guy I could see entering an energy line role in the NHL. Certainly looks like his 6’0” was a little generous, looks more like 5’10” 175 to me, but he plays quick along the boards, multiple times appeared to have a motor that wouldn’t quit, and really worked hard to help his team, but especially looked at home along the boards. This was a close game for a while, and Czarnik’s play was necessary for Plymouth to gain the advantages during puck battles. He displayed solid speed. Although I don’t see him being a top 6 forward in the NHL he certainly has some interesting upside as a high energy 3^rd liner, and is someone who seems like they’re starting to adjust well to the OHL.
(Czarnik had 2A, +2)

Austin Levi - #7 - D - YOB: 1992 - 6’4” - 195lbs.
NHL: Eligible in 2010
Report: Dec/29/09: Levi played a much more disciplined game than he did a few weeks ago. Wasn’t going out of position to make the big hits, he didn’t hit nearly as much, but he was very effective in his own zone. Smooth transition on the puck movement tonight. He’s not likely to be a top 4 defenceman as it stands right now, however he reminds me a lot like Jesse Blacker with a more physical element. I think Austin’s development could be an interesting thing to watch, because I like the assets he has, and the way he’s used them so far this year.

Matt Hackett - #31 - G - YOB: 1990 - 6’3” - 170lbs.
NHL: 3^rd Round - 77^th Overall pick by Minnesota in 2009
Report: Dec/29/09: There really seems to be no holes in Hackett’s game. He’s well positioned, he anticipates the play very well, he seems to be comfortable giving up rebounds as he tends to kick them to the side to either whenever he can. Hackett has impressed me this year and last since he’s taken over the starting job in Plymouth. He once again played great tonight.
(Hackett stopped 33 of 35 shots)

Sunday Top 10 - Players to Watch for Tomorrow's Trade Deadline

The OHL Trade Deadline is looming. By tomorrow afternoon (Monday the 11th), teams will be set moving forward towards the end of the season and playoffs. Obviously, a lot of the action has already occurred. Big trades involving the likes of Alex Pietrangelo and Phil Grubauer have taken center stage over the last week or so leading up to the deadline. But that doesn't mean the action is over. There are a ton of rumours floating around and I'm sure we're bound to see some more trade fireworks tomorrow morning.

So let's take a look at the 10 most likely candidates to be playing for a different team come tomorrow. The list is in no particular order.

Matt Clark/Ken Peroff/Brad Albert - Brampton Battalion
The Battalion are one of the worst teams in the OHL, absolutely no question. While they play a solid defensive game, there offense just isn't good enough to get them very far, should they even make the playoffs. What's interesting though is that Brampton has been incredibly quiet during these turbulent trade times. Are they a seller? The main reason Brampton's defense has been so strong is the play of these three veteran blueliners. Peroff and Albert are overagers, while Clark is likely in his last OHL season before going pro. So what benefit does Brampton have to holding on to these guys and not helping their rebuild by dealing them. All three could provide veteran leadership to a contender's blueline. I'd be very surprised if at least one of them isn't dealt tomorrow.

Cody St. Jacques - Guelph Storm
This guy just can't find a home. He hasn't been great for Guelph this year, but he hasn't been god awful either (save maybe the last few games). St. Jacques has already been traded once this season after requesting a trade from Sault Ste. Marie. However Guelph has just gotten back Brandon Foote and he'll be the team's starting netminder from here on out. There are a few teams out there iffy about their back up goaltenders, and there might not be a better (or cheaper) option to acquire a veteran tender than St. Jacques.

Peter Holland - Guelph Storm
It's hard to tell what Guelph's plan is. Their season thus far has been brutal, to put it lightly. The team has underperformed severely after having pretty high expectations to start the year. They've got a wealth of talent in the 1991 age group which means they should be strong next year, but then again we said that this year too. The thing this team probably needs most is a shake up and the name we've heard most often is Peter Holland, who, of the big three (Holland, Latta, Beck), has been the most disappointing. If the Storm can deal Holland in a deal that can give them a different look, I think they do it. I'm sure Anaheim wouldn't mind him getting dealt either since it looks like his development hasn't gone according to plan so far.

Tyler Randell - Kitchener Rangers
After coming over from Belleville last year and performing well for Kitchener as a gritty goal scorer, Randell has not had a good year. He's been given chances to shine for the team in a scoring role but just hasn't been able to bring any consistency to the table. The Rangers are very likely to be buyers at the deadline and Randell is likely an attractive trade piece that Kitchener will try and use to improve. Big guys with the potential to be gritty goal scorers are always going to find a home in this league, so my guess is he'll still have a fair amount of value if teams covet him in a return.

Mavric Parks - Kitchener Rangers
This one is tricky. He's the name we're hearing most right now as trade bait, but at the same time does moving him make sense? My guess is that Steve Spott doesn't want to move him...but feels like moving him makes sense considering that he's got a lot of value right now. Brandon Maxwell was brought in to be the number one goaltender, and even though he's been inconsistent this year, he's likely the guy they go with next year. So the Rangers either deal Parks now when his value is at it's highest, or they move him next year as an overager. Tough call considering the team is really concentrated on making a run in the Western Conference. My guess is if all the Rangers are being offered is draft picks for Parks...they hold on to him. But if they can flip him for a quality roster player who'll help both now and next year, they'll do it and hope Maxwell is up to the challenge.

Philip McRae - London Knights
It's hard to envision a team that's in first place in their division as a seller. It's even harder when that team is the Knights, a perennial buyer. But I think the Hunters are slightly worried about the damage the past few years of trades has done to the teams youth core. With a bevy of talent still on the roster, the team can afford to move a big name piece for youth in hopes that others step up and continue to keep this team in a top four or five spot in the Conference. The most likely name would be Phil McRae, who's had a bit of a disappointing season, but still has a lot of talent. If the Knights can get back a quality 92 and a draft pick for McRae (or any other big name player on their roster), I think they do it.

Jamie Doornbosch - Peterborough Petes
The rumours have been rampant over the past week about teams scouting the Petes (in particular Windsor). The name that everyone keeps bringing up is Zack Kassian, but I'm not sold on the Petes wanting to trade him at this time. They're still in the thick of things for the East Division and Kassian is the key to their triumphs. If he can elevate his game in the second half, this team will be fine. I think a name that's more likely is Jamie Doornbosch. Easily one of the more underrated players in the OHL, Doornbosch can run a powerplay, move the puck and has improved his defensive game considerably. He'd be a dynamite pick up for a contending team looking to add another puck mover...say a team that lost out on Alex Pietrangelo.

Austin Levi/Colin MacDonald - Plymouth Whalers
Something's up in Whaler land. The team used a 4th rounder (no chump change) to acquire Jay Gilbert...when the team already had a fairly crowded defense. Rumor has the Whalers are serious buyers as they believe with the offense they've assembled and Matt Hackett in goal, they can make a push in the West...and they're probably right. If the Whalers make a move to acquire another talented player, I'd expect one of Austin Levi or Colin MacDonald are on the way out. Both are attractive trade pieces as up and coming 1992 defenseman and should be able to fetch the Whalers a pretty solid player...say like Phil McRae.

Jordan Skellett - Saginaw Spirit
Saginaw is a little confusing to me this year. Are they buyers or are they sellers? They go and move TJ Brodie, Nick Crawford, and Anthony Peters, but then go and pay a hefty price for Jordan Hill in Sarnia. Odd. Saginaw's playing better hockey of late, but they still aren't likely to be big movers in the West. Skellett is a talented offensive overager who could jump right into the Top 6 of any team in the league. My guess is they'll look to move him to a team who needs a playmaking forward and look to get a quality player back in return so that the team can still make the playoffs.

Eric O'Dell - Sudbury Wolves
You have to wonder what's up in Sudbury. The team is playing poorly yet again, despite a fairly talented roster. And despite being chronically close to being out of the playoffs in the East, the rumors indicate the Wolves are going to be buyers. Well I don't buy it (pun intended). The team is in disarray really, and could massively use an infusion of youth. Eric O'Dell is the team's best player and could fetch quite the trade package from someone looking to add one of the league's top centers. My guess is that the Wolves will have suitors for him, it's just a matter of whether they want to pull the trigger. And if they were smart, they would.

BONUS
Shawn Lalonde - Belleville Bulls
Anyway I can, I'll cheat to add more players to a Sunday Top 10. I add Lalonde as a bonus because he's someone who's attracted trade attention all season long and who's rumored to be going just about everywhere. However, I don't think he'll be traded. And here's why. If Lalonde was going to be traded, I think it would have been done by now. Either he doesn't want to leave Belleville or the team doesn't want to move him. The Bulls are obviously rebuilding, but they are also still looking to make the playoffs. Thus the acquisitions of guys like Panik, Bezzo, and Peters. Lalonde is the team's driving force and without him, they definitely aren't a playoff team. I just think if something was going to happen with him, it would have happened already.

That's it folks. Stay tuned for tomorrow's deadline! Next Sunday I'll be putting together a Winners and Losers of the Trade Deadline Top 10.

Any guesses as to where these guys go...or better yet, any guys you feel should definitely be on this list?

Thoughts on Plymouth and Niagara from January 7

Been busy as heck lately so I haven't had time to go check out a game live in a few weeks, so you'll have to settle for a report based on action caught from the OHL Action Pack! Hadn't seen Plymouth in a little while so I figured I'd catch the Whalers take on the IceDogs in Niagara.

Was an...interesting game to say the least. From a fan angle it was frustrating to watch so I can't imagine what the coaches were feeling. Well actually, I can imagine what Whalers Coach/GM Mike Vellucci was feeling because everyone got to see it at the end of the second period when he was ejected from the game for arguing with referee Mike Bolibruck. Really can't say I blame him. Way too many questionable calls, especially against the Whalers. Hooking was being called on players just trying to gain body position on opposing players. Then there was the terrible no goal call on Robbie Czarnik's shorthanded backhand that very clearly went into the net. Admittedly, this wasn't necessarily the fault of the referee, since he do go upstairs for it, but all those things just added up for Vellucci and he lost it. Nothing I hate more than watching an OHL game where the referee takes the game out of the players hands and puts it in his own. Just let them play, we don't need a game in which half of it was played 5 on 4. I don't like ranting about the refs very often because, quite frankly, they've got one heck of a tough job. But tonight's game was really bad.

As for the game itself, the Dogs largely dominated the play thanks in part to the number of powerplays they received. An impressive performance for Niagara who's looking to get back in the race for an Eastern Conference playoff spot. Once the Pietrangelo and DeSousa deals are completed (plus whoever else Niagara deals), this team could actually be better than they currently are, despite the fact you would label it as an act of selling. DeSousa is at home awaiting a trade and Petro hasn't played for Niagara all year. If they can add a couple more talented bodies to their roster, they'll be better off.

Some individual player performances (mostly Plymouth since I just saw Niagara).

Plymouth Whalers






Colin MacDonald (2010)
I've been reading and hearing a lot of talk starting to generate about this kid and his status for the 2010 draft. Plymouth fans in particular seem to hold him in very high regard. In a way, I don't think I'd really notice him if I wasn't actually paying attention to him, which...I think is a compliment. It means he's not making mistakes. Very good size, solid mobility, seems to make the smart play with the puck. Just a very quietly effective defender. On one particular play, he did a great job staying with the Dogs best skater (Alex Friesen) as he attacked on the rush, staying in front of him by moving efficiently backwards and laterally. However in the first period he did get beat to the outside by Dogs forward Andrew Agozzino as he failed to keep his feet moving. Second time I've noticed him get caught flat footed this season. He needs to be ready at all times defensively and seems to be somewhat vulnerable to players who suddenly turn on the jets at the blueline. The only thing I can really say is that if he were more physical, he'd easily be on the draft radar. That package of size, mobility and aggression gets you drafted high (just as Matt Clark), but without that aggression in his game, he'll have a harder time getting attention.

Austin Levi (2010)
I still don't really know what to make of Levi. Like MacDonald, I find myself enamored with his combination of size and mobility. He's also a more physically engaged player and it seems to me that eventually he'll develop into a guy who'll take the body hard. I think he's also got offensive potential as he can rush the puck and can run the point on the powerplay. But right now, it seems to be all about projection, rather than current ability. I just don't know if he project as an offensive defenseman, or a stay at home defenseman. He didn't have a good game either. When he rushes the puck, he seems to do so in an ineffective fashion. In a way, it seems like he really is "rushing" the play. Gets up ice as fast as he can, almost just to avoid falling under the trap of the forecheck. It's more out of desperation, it feels or looks forced. Perhaps that's a confidence issue. Defensively, he got abused on the game winning goal by Andrew Shaw. Got caught in the offensive zone, and lost his man behind him. Shaw picked up the pass and went away on the breakaway for the goal. There are things to like about Levi, those sort of natural physical gifts, but the rawness to his game makes me queezy. Plymouth fans, what's the deal, what do you think?

Tyler Seguin (2010)
Had a good, but not great game. Was really strong in the first half, but seemed distracted by the officiating in the second half. In the first half, had a couple of absolutely beautiful rushes into the offensive zone. His ability to pick up the puck, get to top speed quickly, and handle the puck at that top speed is what sets him apart from others in his age group. Just blew right past Dougie Hamilton and Reggie Traccitto, picking up the puck at the blueline and splitting the D to go in alone on Visentin who made a nice toe save. Later in the period he made a beautiful cross ice feed to Beau Schmitz for a one timer goal on the powerplay. His on ice vision and overall hockey intelligence is through the roof. Even though I still prefer Taylor Hall (as an NHL draft selection), the debate between these two will rage on until June.

Garrett Meurs (2011)
Meurs might just be the most offensively talented 1993 in the league. He has incredible offensive skills and in a way, I think playing in Plymouth and in Tyler Seguin's shadow has prevented him from receiving the attention that Boone Jenner and Matt Puempel have. His hands in close to the net are top notch and he puts himself in good positions to capitalize on offensive opportunities, which tells me he has a high hockey IQ. Until the end of the season, it's just going to be about refining his game. Limiting turnovers in the offensive zone, doing a better job in the corners, getting back defensively. A lot of potential with Meurs.

Jamie Devane (TOR)
I'm just not sure Devane is ever going to be able to live up to the fact that he was drafted as high as he was in the NHL. As an OHL player, he has effective traits. He hits hard and he hits smart (doesn't take himself out of position looking for the big hit). He's responsible defensively and is a good penalty killer. Actually had a great chance shorthanded as he stole the puck, fought through a check and put a good shot on net that Visentin gloved. He's also not afraid to be the bear in front of the net. But as far as being an NHL player, I still don't think I see the upside. There are a ton of players across the CHL who can give you the exact same things Devane can and none of them will see life outside the CIS. The offensive hockey sense doesn't seem to be there. In the offensive end, he skates around or goes straight to the net, but he's not really involved offensively. As a forechecker, he could really stand to develop into a higher energy player who attacks the opposition. And when he does get offensive opportunities, I don't think he has the hands to be a goal scorer. Realistically, is he any different of a player than current Leaf farm hand (and former OHL'er) Andre Deveaux? And even then, Deveaux actually had finishing ability in close in the OHL.

Robbie Czarnik (LAK)
Really liked what I saw from Czarnik. First time I've seen him play since the 2008 Under 18's (where he was excellent for a bronze medal winning American team). Was on a rotation with Garrett Meurs and Josh Brittain as the guys who saw time with Tyler Seguin. Had really good speed and had no qualms about using it to take the puck hard to the net. Shorthanded in the second period, he took advantage of a turnover (and a bad pinch by Matt Petgrave) and took the puck the other way on a one on one rush. Made a nice move to get around Dougie Hamilton, freeing up some space for himself to get a nice backhand off on the way to the net. The shot beat Visentin and went off the inside of the post and in...however it was called a no goal (despite the obvious replay of it being over the line). All game he was involved near the puck, whether it be offensively or defensively. He seems to be a great pick up for the Whalers and also seems to have some chemistry with Tyler Seguin which bodes well for his production in the second half.

Josh Brittain (ANA)
Brittain had a fairly effective game. Played within his strengths, took the body, had a few scoring chances and managed to avoid taking one of the games 19 minor penalties. I think the Ducks still have to be disappointed in his offensive production this season. Dare I say he might be in danger of not receiving a contract offer from them?

Scott Wedgewood (2010)
As the back up to probably the best goalie in the OHL (Matt Hackett), you aren't going to get a lot of playing time. But Wedgewood does seem to be making the most of it. He started tonight and played a solid game. He didn't make any really big saves, but he made the ones he had to. Comes out to cut down angles, controlled his rebounds relatively well (save the first Andrew Fritsch goal). Seems to have good mobility. As one of the youngest 1992's available this year, I'm sure he's got NHL scouts looking at him, when they do actually get the chance to see him play. Made 30 of 33 saves and took the loss.

Niagara IceDogs






Andrew Fritsch (2011)
The Dogs 3rd rounder from 2009, Fritsch has had a solid season thus far. In fact, not much has been made about his play despite the fact that he's currently 4th among 1993's in goal scoring with 10. Now, a lot of that has to do with his current hot streak, but it's no fluke. Fritsch has very good goal scoring instincts and will absolutely develop into a quality goal scorer in this league. He finds the open ice well and is developing into a player who can work a cycle and outwork a defense for his offensive chances. With improved strength will come an improved shot and that will allow him to take even greater advantage of the positions to score he puts himself in. I think he's a 1993 to keep an eye on.

Mark Visentin (2010)
Arguably the top goalie available from the OHL this year, Visentin has earned himself that trip to the CHL Top Prospects Game. He's improved leaps and bounds from last year, where at times he looked over matched in the league. While he was always mobile in his crease, his overall improvement comes from improvement in two areas specifically. One is just overall confidence. He looks much calmer in net. He didn't have to make a lot of saves tonight, but he was there when he needed to be, robbing Seguin on a breakaway and Devane in close with huge saves. The other thing is rebound control. He's knocking pucks to the corner and he's dictating the pace of play. Made a tremendous recognition play on the Andrew Shaw game winner. Plymouth made a long shoot in on net that Visentin used his blocker to deflect up to Dylan MacEachern at the blueline. He recognized the opportunity for Shaw's break and used the rebound to spring the play into action. It's those little things and the massive improvement that have lead to NHL Central Scouting having such a high opinion of him. Made 18 of 20 saves for the win.

Thoughts? Questions? Comments?

School Your Pool - Pietrangelo & Other Thoughts

Be sure to check out my latest article for School Your Pool.

Pietrangelo & Other Thoughts

I discuss a whole bunch of issues from the last week that have crossed my mind from the return of Alex Pietrangelo, to the Windsor/Belleville trade to the World Under 17 Hockey Challenge.

Thoughts on Niagara and Owen Sound from December 30

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

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

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

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

On to individual player performances...

Niagara IceDogs







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

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

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

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

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

Owen Sound Attack





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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Anyone else with thoughts?

My Midseason Top 30 for the 2010 NHL Entry Draft

With the OHL season past the mid way point, the end of 2009 upon us and the NHL Central Scouting midterm ranking coming out in about two weeks, I figured what a great time to release my Top 30 OHL players for the draft.

This is, of course, the second of three lists that I release during the season. The initial ranking from early October can be found here.

For my midterm ranking, I generally don't comment on the guys inside my Top 30. I usually leave that for the comment section if I receive any questions. Instead, I comment on three different categories of players. Under the radar guys outside of my top 30, risers, and fallers.

Here is the midseason Top 30:
1. Taylor Hall - F - Windsor Spitfires
2. Tyler Seguin - F - Plymouth Whalers
3. Cam Fowler - D - Windsor Spitfires
4. Erik Gudbranson - D - Kingston Frontenacs
5. Jeff Skinner - F - Kitchener Rangers
6. Alexander Burmistrov - F - Barrie Colts
7. John McFarland - F - Sudbury Wolves
8. Ivan Telegin - F - Saginaw Spirit
9. Austin Watson - F - Windsor Spitfires
10. Ryan Spooner - F - Peterborough Petes
11. Tyler Toffoli - F - Ottawa 67's
12. Stephen Silas - D - Belleville Bulls
13. Steven Shipley - F - Owen Sound Attack
14. Ryan Martindale - F - Ottawa 67's
15. Brandon Archibald - D - Sault Ste. Marie Greyhounds
16. Brock Beukeboom - D - Sault Ste. Marie Greyhounds
17. Joey Hishon - F - Owen Sound Attack
18. Jared Knight - F - London Knights
19. Devante Smith-Pelly - F - Mississauga St. Michael's Majors
20. J.P. Anderson - G - Mississauga St. Michael's Majors
21. Philip Grubauer - G - Belleville Bulls
22. Christian Thomas - F - Oshawa Generals
23. Geoffrey Schemitsch - D - Owen Sound Attack
24. Mark Visentin - G - Niagara IceDogs
25. Dalton Smith - F - Ottawa 67's
26. Andrew Yogan - F - Erie Otters
27. Justin Shugg - F - Windsor Spitfires
28. Petr Mrazek - G - Ottawa 67's
29. Greg McKegg - F - Erie Otters
30. Austin Levi - D - Plymouth Whalers

10 Players to Watch That Aren't in the Top 30:
Philip Lane - F - Brampton Battalion
Admittedly, Lane was the last guy I cut from my list. So label him number 31 if you wish. As much as I like the package of skill he brings to the table, I'm concerned about a few things regarding his high end potential. His offensive consistency needs to improve. He goes through stretches of 3-4 games where he looks like a budding power forward who can really put the puck in the net, but then disappears offensively for stretches of games after that. In those stretches, he seems to have trouble handling the puck and finishing off his chances. Is he a big forward who's still growing into his hands, or will he always be a strong forechecking/energy forward who's offense is inconsistent?

Bryce O'Hagan - G - Sault Ste. Marie Greyhounds
Unfortunately for O'Hagan, the Hounds found themselves Robin Lehner in the Import Draft. I'm sure the late 1991 tender was hoping that this could be his year to show his stuff. He started out really well, but he's been plagued by inconsistencies. Again, unfortunately for O'Hagan he's playing for a highly competitive team who can't afford to play him if he's struggling, especially when they've got Robin Lehner right there. O'Hagan may have as much talent as any goaltender in this OHL draft class, but as a late 1991 in his third OHL season, there comes a time when you've got to start putting it together every night.

Joe Rogalski - D - Sarnia Sting
I know that there are quite a few people out there who are high on Rogalski. And admittedly I like him too. If Lane would have been 31, Rogalski would have been 32. But I have question marks regarding him going forward. Again, we are looking at a late 1991 player in his third OHL season who's faults just haven't improved enough this season. He still turns the puck over way too much in his own zone and he struggles with the breakout. Mobility isn't the issue, nor is his one on one defensive game. I think it could be a hockey sense problem, which tends to scare me away from defenseman.

Brandon Alderson - F - Sarnia Sting
With Alderson, I think we're looking at a guy who could be in the Top 30 by the end of the season. Tremendous size at 6'4, 200lbs, but a very good skater at that size. Offensively, he was inconsistent to start the season, but he's starting to get more and more ice time and he's benefiting from it. 7 points in the 9 games of December and he currently sits second on the struggling Sting with 10 goals on the season. Big guys who can skate and put the puck in the net don't grow on trees, as much as scouts wish they did.

Corey Durocher - F - Kingston Frontenacs
While he's struggled a bit recently, Durocher is another big, lanky forward who skates well and has some offensive ability. For Durocher, I think it's a matter of conditioning and strength. He tries to be a physical forward who plays a power game, but he doesn't have the strength to win the majority of lose battles or take the puck hard to the net. He's in his first season in the OHL, which means there's likely to be that learning curve. I like his potential though and I think he's a guy to keep an eye on.

Matt Petgrave - D - Niagara IceDogs
Here's a guy with a very high ceiling, IMO. With a strong second half on the score sheet, he could easily find himself in the Top 30 too. Only averaged sized, but plays a lot bigger than he is. Has become one of the more feared open ice hitters in the league in his rookie OHL season. He skates very well and has the potential to become a quality puck rusher. He needs to do a better job with the puck, as he can be turnover prone, but I think he's already shown marked improvement in this area. A potential smooth skating, two way physical defenseman, sounds good doesn't it?

Freddie Hamilton - F - Niagara IceDogs
I like Freddie Hamilton a lot and I have no doubt that he'll be an NHL draft pick come June. However, I don't rank him in my Top 30 because I'm not sure I see the potential in him that I see in some of the other guys I've ranked. He's one of those jack of all trades players. Solid both ways, can skate fairly well, can put the puck in the net. But there's nothing about him that really makes you say wow, and in a draft crop like this year's OHL one, that can hurt.

Sam Carrick - F - Brampton Battalion
Started off the season tremendously well. But then went into a very long stretch of offensive inability, and as a result he became a bit of a pugilist and got away from some of the things that makes him a great player. Quite often, he's the only Brampton forward generating offensive chances, which has no doubt hurt his offensive statistics. That being said, I think there's more to Carrick than we're seeing. As a more complimentary player who can do the dirty work on a line and put the puck in the net, I think he'd be having a lot more success. Instead, he's being counted on as an offensive catalyst which IMO he is not as well suited.

Roman Berdnikov - F - Owen Sound Attack
Missed a large portion of the first part of the season as he recovered from offseason surgery. But he's starting to come around slowly. He's kind of a pesky winger and you can tell he's got offensive skills. Many Imports often take a few games to get used to the speed and rigor of the OHL game, and I think Berdnikov is no different. With Joey Hishon returning, he's got himself a linemate with high end offensive ability and he's got 3 goals in the two games since Hishon returned. I think he's someone to keep an eye on in the second half.

Dalton McGrath - G - Barrie Colts
McGrath may not be pretty in stopping the puck, but he's efficient. In his first year in the OHL, McGrath is backing up Peter Di Salvo in Barrie and he's doing a damn fine job. In fact, he's yet to really have a bad game. His rebound control is very poor, but he's very athletic and does a good job in recovery. He ends up making more saves than he has too on most nights, but the important thing is that he has a natural ability and sense to put himself in the right position to make the save. Rebound control can be improved and technicalities can be taught, but innate ability to follow the puck and make the save can not.

Rising Up the Charts:
Jared Knight
After struggling with health problems, Knight finally got a diagnosis on his concerns. He has diabetes. While it sucks to learn that you've any life altering illness, in some ways it is great to know that what you have can be controlled. Many professional athletes (hockey players included) have battled through diabetes and come out on top. Since the start of treatment, Knight has become a new player. He's got 12 goals in his last 14 games and he's playing the best hockey of his OHL career.

Jeff Skinner
Underrated for too long, Skinner is now starting to get the attention he deserves. Just a tremendous and dynamic offensive player who's tenacity in the offensive zone makes him a threat every time he's on the ice. Sure he's undersized, but you can't teach the hockey sense and goal scoring ability he possesses. He's one goal away from first in the OHL (27) and if he ends up finishing the season at or near the top of OHL goal scoring, I just can't see an NHL team passing him up inside the Top 15.

Geoffrey Schemitsch
Here's a guy who's not getting the love he rightfully deserves. Really, how much separates him from a guy like Stephen Silas (whom I really like too)? In a lot of ways, I see Calvin de Haan in Schemitsch. However at this point of the season, de Haan was already receiving a lot of hype and attention. Schemitsch moves the puck well, he plays in all situations, he has good mobility, he seems to think the game at another level. Just a very solid defenseman, who's not flashy but effective. If Owen Sound can go on a bit of a run with Hishon back to form, I think Schemitsch will start receiving more attention as the best defenseman for an improving team.

Philip Grubauer
Playing for a struggling Belleville team, Grubauer has been excellent this year. He's just a solid butterfly goalie who challenges shooters and actually does a good job of controlling rebounds. A very capable technical goalie who just happens to be very athletic too. He completely dominated the Division IA World Juniors for Germany. While Germany was head and shoulders the class of the tournament, he played his part and was excellent (from what I've heard). I think he's pretty close to being the best goalie available from the OHL.

Joey Hishon
I'd bet a lot of people may label him a faller, but I'd say his time of "falling" is over. He's back and healthy and playing with fire in his belly for Owen Sound. When he struggled at the beginning of the season, a lot of it was out of frustration over how poorly the rest of his team was playing too. With Owen Sound playing better, Hishon's return marks great timing. In the two games he's played since returning, he's got 5 points and according to Owen Sound fans, he looks fantastic.

Falling Off the Charts:
J.P. Anderson
I've still got him as the top OHL goaltender available, but I admit it's getting REALLY close. Guys like Grubauer, Visentin, and Mrazek are putting a lot of pressure on him. I also admit that his ranking probably has a lot to do with how impressive he was as a 16 year old. I still have faith him, but he hasn't had a good year (after all I believe I had him pegged for OHL goaltender of the year). He's been outplayed by Chris Carrozzi and really needs to step up his game. Anybody who saw the OHL playoffs last year knows the ability is there, but he needs to start showing it. If he doesn't pick it up in the second half, he runs the risk of falling completely out of my Top 30.

Josh Shalla
I know a lot of people are high on Shalla, but I'm not one of them. If you erase his 5 point game against Owen Sound in November, he's got 2 goals and 4 assists in his last 15 games. He got off to a great start with Saginaw, but he's cooled off considerably lately. As a late 1991, I'd like to see him putting up even better numbers, especially considering the talent he plays with in Saginaw. He's got decent hands and offensive instincts, but he's one of those guys who leaves you wanting more and it makes me question how high his NHL ceiling is.

John McFarland
Now let me get this out there. I like John McFarland. I like the skill set he brings to the table and I think he's got a lot of NHL potential once he realizes the type of game he needs to play to be successful. But there is no question he's had a disappointing season (even if he's been a lot better in December). So while I still like him and would still draft him in the Top 20, I think he's getting passed by players who are performing at a higher level and who have similar NHL upsides.

Andrew Yogan
Yogan is really struggling lately. With his side and skill combination, he was an anonymous bet for the first round of 2010 at this time last year. But as a late 1991 in his 3rd year in the league, he just hasn't taken the necessary steps forward this season. He uses his body away from the puck, but he's become too much of a finesse player with the puck. He needs to get back to doing the little things that made him successful with Erie to end last season. The package is there, but an adjustment in play is needed. He's got 4 goals in his last 15 games and is a -17 in that span.

Adam Sedlak
A lot was expected of Sedlak this season. He was a highly touted Import selection, one that was supposed to develop into an excellent two way defender. But he hasn't developed as well as many had hoped this season. A nice package of size and mobility, there are questions about his hockey sense and his ability to play through the forecheck. He's still got time to put it together. Maybe a recent cut from the Czech Republic World Junior team will motivate him.

Michael Houser
After starting the season so well, Houser has struggled in the last two months and has seen his starts starting to diminish as Michael Hutchinson has played better and better. One thing that does make Houser still an intriguing prospect is that he's one of the (if not THE) youngest prospects available for the 2010 Draft (September 13 birthday). He's also playing in his first season in the league coming over from the USHL. There's potential there. I'm interested to see how he finishes the season, but right now I've got him as the 6th best goalie available from the OHL.

That's it folks. I'd love to hear your comments or your questions. If you want to know more about a player, or a reasoning behind a ranking, just ask.