It's time to update my draft board for the 2026 NHL draft now that we're past the halfway point of the OHL season.
Back in early November (my preliminary list), I released my first official ranking. The depth of the league is tremendous this year thanks to the influx of young talent due to the NCAA eligibility rules changing. Comparing the lists, Belchetz falls down to third due to some inconsistencies in his game, but also thanks to the tremendous play of Chase Reid and Caleb Malhotra. Roobroeck and Edwards also fall considerably. While it looks like the OHL could have four players drafted in the lottery, the number selected in the first round is truly up in the air right now. However, I'd definitely classify it as a solid year for the league.
A reminder that this list does not include potential re-entry candidates (players already passed over in the draft). Egor Barabanov and Matthew Minchak, for example, would easily be on this list. I do a separate list for them closer to the draft.
Here's my list:
1. Chase Reid - Defense - Soo Greyhounds
At this point, based on his performance for the Greyhounds and his strong WJC appearance for the United States, Reid has to be the top ranked player from the OHL for this draft. He has the size, skill, quickness, and offensive sense to be a big time point producer and powerplay quarterback at the NHL level. However, I do believe that his defensive game can continue to grow. He has an active stick and he’s at his best when he’s aggressive; it’s about getting him to be more physically assertive on a consistent basis. With his retrieval habits and quickness, it’s rare for him to have to defend down low, but when he does get trapped, he needs to be better at taking away space and winning those battles for the puck. I believe that his decision making with the puck has improved a lot this year, which was definitely a focal point heading into the season. It’s a bit of a throwback name, but Reid reminds me a lot of watching Eric Desjardins star with the Flyers all those years. Has the same qualities and can have a similar NHL impact for many years. I recently wrote a really in-depth report on Reid for McKeen’s Hockey, which you can find here.
2. Caleb Malhotra - Center - Brantford Bulldogs
Malhotra has grown on me significantly over the course of the season and I’ve now got him ahead of Belchetz, even with his unique profile. I just really like how Malhotra has found ways to improve almost every month…all while playing a key role on one of the best teams in junior hockey. In the first few months, I just wasn’t sure that we were looking at a high impact offensive player at the NHL level. I loved the “sense” and competitiveness, but I just wasn’t convinced that Caleb would be more than his father Manny. Worthy of a first round selection? Absolutely. But a lottery pick? However, with each viewing it seems like Malhotra has added new layers to his game. He’s become exponentially more confident with the puck and this is leading to creativity and a level of assertiveness that we didn’t necessarily see early on. He’s not just relying on his vision to make plays, he’s now creating time and space for himself to help him utilize his high end vision/sense. Additionally, Malhotra’s pace has also increased over the year and he’s been more aggressive making plays through the middle, using speed to attack defenses head on. This has helped redefine his offensive upside for the pro level through my eyes.
3. Ethan Belchetz - Wing - Windsor Spitfires
Given Belchetz’s unique skill set, I truly didn’t see myself ranking him here at the beginning of the season, nor believing that he could be drafted outside of the top ten. But here we are. So that begs the question…why? I guess I’m just left wanting more from him at times. Yes, big men take longer to develop consistency as they improve conditioning and truly learn to utilize their gifts. Early on this season and at the Hlinka/Gretzky, I was loving what I was seeing from Belchetz from a physical perspective. But the last few months? I’ve found that to be quite inconsistent from game to game, shift to shift. I know some scouts have concerns over his play reading ability and overall feel for the game and I do believe those concerns are legitimate. He’s got a chance to capture the OHL goal scoring title this year, but I’m actually not sure that he’s going to be a high end goal scorer at the NHL level. Even with his huge frame, he’s not going to bully defenders in the slot and near the crease the way that he does at the OHL level, and I’m not sure his shot is an elite characteristic. The hands are very high end though. The key for Belchetz, on top of really learning to use his size to dominate physically, is improving his playmaking ability. Make better reads. Draw in pressure. At the end of the day, this feels like a hypercritical report on him. It’s because I have such high expectations for him. The size and skill combination is just so rare and he has a chance to be a special player with some adjustments to his game. The OHL playoffs are going to be huge for his stock; a chance for him to prove that he can elevate his game and dominate tight checking hockey.
4. Adam Novotny - Wing - Peterborough Petes
I actually believe that there is a world where Novotny could be drafted ahead of Belchetz. This is the kind of player NHL scouts fall in love with; the kind of player they believe will be a high impact playoff performer. He doesn’t need the puck to be an impactful player. He’s among the OHL’s leaders in forced turnovers and he is an absolute menace on the forecheck and backcheck. He’s not physical in the sense that he’s throwing heavy hits, but he’s competitive in terms of taking away space and playing through checks. Novotny also plays at a very high pace as an offensive player and is a strong finisher, two very important characteristics of a strong top two line support player in today’s NHL. NHL teams are going to view Novotny as the kind of guy that they can develop into that winger who can play with a team’s top playmaker. There are some teams in the lottery right now who will be looking to turn things around quickly and Novotny will be seen as the kind of prospect who can move quickly, perhaps even seeing NHL action as early as next year. A competitive winger with no real weakness and a pro frame? You can sign me up and sign up pretty much every team in the league.
5. Brooks Rogowski - Center - Oshawa Generals
This is where things get really interesting for me. I believe that there is a significant gap between number four and five on this list. We’re talking lottery picks versus fringe first rounders. Of this next group, Rogowski is the guy who interests me the most. Does he disappear offensively at times? Absolutely. Do I wish he were more physical? Absolutely. Does he need to improve his finishing ability and shot? Absolutely. But, big pivots with the ability to skate like Rogowski does, do not grow on trees. While he’s not much of a physical presence, I actually think Rogowski’s attention to detail and overall defensive ability is among the best of any forward in this class. He consistently impresses me off the puck in his own end and in the neutral zone. Bottom line, I don’t think we’re looking at a high upside offensive player at the NHL level. However, I do believe that Rogowski is extremely raw and has the opportunity to develop into a very useful and unique NHL piece. The OHL put out an outstanding piece recently talking about Rogowski only recently truly focusing on hockey, previously committed to baseball. Give him time.
6. Pierce Mbuyi - Wing - Owen Sound Attack
I get why Mbuyi is ranked lower pretty consistently. He’s undersized for the kind of game he plays and he had a poor Hlinka/Gretzky and start to the year that really tarnished him in the eyes of many. However, he’s been really good since, even if the Owen Sound Attack have been wildly inconsistent. Truthfully, I’m not even confident in this placement of Mbuyi. But there’s just something about his game and approach that makes me confident that he can be an impactful NHL player. He’s ultra aggressive. He’s very agile and is confident and quick on his edges. He processes the game well and is effective with/without the puck. With the way the Attack are playing lately, we’re going to get a chance to see Mbuyi get a chance at redemption on the big stage at the U18’s and I hope he makes the most of it, likely playing a larger offensive role this time. I’d put his odds of being a first rounder at slim to none, but, again, there’s something about Mbuyi that makes me a believer.
7. Nikita Klepov - Wing - Saginaw Spirit
I really want to like Klepov more. It almost seems like a contradiction that I have Mbuyi ranked ahead of him given that their NHL projections are similar, yet Klepov has the better frame. I’d bet significant money that Klepov is the higher NHL selection. So why do I have Klepov behind Mbuyi? I think that Mbuyi’s skating ability and pace of play are a tad better and I think that carries more weight in today’s game. Klepov is an excellent tactician. He’s a play creator. And he wants the puck and will fight to earn touches. He’s been deadly on the powerplay at the OHL level and I think he can be a powerplay asset at higher levels too. Really hoping that the U.S. adds Klepov to their IIHF U18 roster as it would be great to get more views on him against higher competition (where he has previously excelled). But, there’s just a small part of me that sees him as a bit of a higher risk prospect because I question if he’s a dynamic enough skater for the game he plays. And if it doesn’t, is he more than just a complementary middle six type or worse?
8. Jaxon Cover - Wing - London Knights
This is all about projectability. Cover is far from a polished product and it shows on the ice. Consistency has been an issue. He’s been pressing a bit the last few months and the production has dried up…to an extent. Given his inexperience on the ice and at higher levels, there’s a considerable chance that Cover does not become an NHL player. At the other end of the spectrum is the argument that Cover is just scratching the surface of his upside because of those same things. Additionally, there is a lot of trust in the Hunters and London to develop pro prospects. You’ve got a winger with high end puck skill, a pro frame, and strong skating ability, who can struggle away from the puck and with his decision making. But even, those areas show potential to be standout traits as he continues to work with the Hunters. He’s almost a blank canvas. His draft stock will unquestionably be determined by the interview process at the combine (in addition to how he finishes the year, of course). NHL teams will want to find out about his mindset and how he is willing to work to close the gaps that currently exist.
9. Ryan Roobroeck - Wing - Niagara IceDogs
The offensive production has improved the last few months, but the questions about his game and how well it translates remain. When I first started to think about my rankings a month or so ago, it was before the wave of midseason rankings came out. However, in conversation with others, I had a feeling that he’d be outside the first round on quite a few lists and that having him ninth made sense. Look, there’s no questioning Roobroeck’s offensive abilities. I also believe that he’s a very intelligent player. A true dual threat with the puck on his stick, especially given his high-end shooting ability. But, I have major questions about his pace, quickness, two-way commitment, and physical engagement. It would be unfair to expect Roobroeck to develop into a power forward. He’s not likely to ever be the type to truly utilize his size to his advantage. If anything, it’s always been a criticism of his game dating back to his minor hockey days. However, I think the above criticisms are fair and make his projection murky despite some true standout qualities. The upside is real, but so is the downside. I’ve made the comparison before, but Michael Dal Colle failed to take the next step for the same reasons despite standout offensive production at the OHL level.
10. Alessandro Di Iorio - Center - Sarnia Sting
Things haven’t gone according to plan in Sarnia this year as they find themselves in the basement of the Western Conference. Di Iorio got a late start to the year after getting injured in the preseason and his offensive production has definitely been disappointing. However, he’s still got a lot of things going for him. Strong skater. Intelligent two-way player. His shot is a weapon that projects well. The creativity and puck play has shown flashes, at least enough to suggest that there’s more upside here. Could he end up being a Mikael Backlund kind of player at the NHL level? Given how things have gone in Sarnia this year, the U18’s are going to be huge for him.
11. Thomas Vandenberg - Center - Ottawa 67’s
Has been so consistent for the 67’s this year and a very critical component of their team success. He does everything for Coach Cameron and he projects to be that kind of similar Swiss army knife at higher levels too. Considering that he’s one of the youngest players eligible this year, I find his reliability extremely admirable. As you might expect from a player utilized in a lot of different ways, Vandenberg has a well rounded skill profile. He’s a powerful skater, although I think his skating can actually reach higher levels as he matures further physically. He competes away from the puck. He finds soft spots in coverage and has an above average shot and finishing ability. He’s not a high skill or a highly creative player. He might end up being better suited for the wing at the pro level. But, I like his odds of developing into an NHL player in some capacity.
12. Ryder Cali - Center - North Bay Battalion
Along with Vandenberg, Cali is very young for this class (another early September birth date), which suggests his game could blossom further with physical maturation. I really appreciate how Cali already has such a strong sense of self on the ice; he understands his role and has a clear identity. He shows well as a two-way forward. He uses his size to gain leverage near the crease or to win battles to extend possession along the wall. He’s been really effective as a net front presence this year, showing great hands and strong scoring instincts. In a lot of ways, Cali is like Rogowski in that I wouldn’t call him a power forward despite having the size to be. He plays hard, but he’s not overly physical. Some might see that as a drawback. Similar to the other pivots in this range, I’m not sure Cali is a high upside guy, but he has a well rounded enough profile to suggest that he could be a long time pro. Good frame. Good skater. Smart player. Those guys can find a way to carve out a role.
13. Alexander Bilecki - Defense - Kitchener Rangers
Even with the Rangers bringing in Jared Woolley and getting Andonovski back, Bilecki has continued to produce offensively. This guy is a true hidden gem and I’m not sure I understand why he hasn’t received more love from the scouting community. He’s an offensively oriented defender who has good size (6’2) and skating ability. He’s shown an ability to quarterback the powerplay and has been a difference maker in the transition game. Defends aggressively and has a great stick in the neutral zone; although he’s struggled at times defending down low. Think of Columbus’ Luca Marrelli if you want a recent comparison. I think Bilecki is massively underrated currently and should be considered a top 50 draft prospect.
14. Vladimir Dravecky - Defense - Brantford Bulldogs
Even though I do have some questions about his ability to defend at higher levels, this is someone I have a lot of time for as a top two round selection. Dravecky is one of the draft’s most skilled and creative defenders IMO. He’s got quick feet and soft hands and he routinely carves up the neutral zone to help advance play up ice for the Bulldogs. Yeah, he’ll turn the puck over; he can take liberties with the puck. But with how often he’s successful at taking on defenders one on one and escaping pressure, you live with it. As the season has gone on, he’s cut down on the turnovers anyway. Dravecky is definitely someone that you’d classify as a high upside player. As a late born 2007, there’s less runway for physical improvements and that will be a concern for NHL scouts as they wonder how successful he’ll be in the defensive end at higher levels. But, I’ve found him to be more than adequate in the defensive end at the OHL level and that gives me enough hope that he can continue to get better and leverage his skills to be an NHL defender.
15. Beckham Edwards - Center/Wing - Sarnia Sting
I came into the season really high on Edwards. But I’m now left with more questions about his game as I don’t think he’s really taken a big step forward with Sarnia; similar to the aforementioned Di Iorio. He’s a dynamic straight line attacker because of his speed and because of the threat of his shot, but he can skate himself into trouble and I’ve found his offensive game to be a little “one note.” I think he can eventually become a quality two-way player, but right now his play away from the puck is pretty inconsistent. I do think he profiles best as a winger at the pro level too. There’s some Easton Cowan kind of upside here, or Jordan Kyrou, but there’s also Liam Foudy, who had a difficult time developing enough variance to his game to be an NHL player. It’s the risk you take. He’s a late second, early third guy for me now, given the lack of development in his game so far this season.
16. Layne Gallacher - Center/Wing - Guelph Storm
Gallacher is going to earn a lot of fans in the scouting community down the stretch with Guelph. The key cog in the Luchanko to Brantford deal, Gallacher missed a good chunk of action before the new year, but he’s back and playing well for his new team. He has shown a lot of different layers to his game in his first full OHL season. He’s been one of the league leaders in hits per game and has been a menace in puck pursuit. Gallacher skates well and generates good linear speed allowing him to be a factor, on and off the puck. He’s shown solid offensive zone instincts and awareness as a goal scorer, finding success near the crease. Given that he’s played sparingly at higher levels (he spent most of last year at the AAA level with Ajax/Pickering), I think he has some untapped upside as he gains more confidence. This is the kind of guy you draft in the third round and then look really good for down the line. There’s a good chance that Gallacher is higher on my final list so long as he continues to play well for Guelph.
17. Cole Zurawski - Wing - Owen Sound Attack
Went through a real dry spell through December and the beginning of January, but this is still a high upside offensive player. Really effective transition player who is most effective when he can attack the offensive zone with speed. The hands are top notch; he’s probably one of the more creative players on this list. Zurawski is also a high end shooter, although his high volume approach isn’t always the most effective. Wrap that up in a pro frame and you have a very interesting prospect. So what’s the disconnect? That’s a great question. The off puck play remains pretty inconsistent. Decision making with the puck the same. Is this a player with a ton of tools but no toolbox? He recently committed to Notre Dame and I think the College game will be really good for him in the future. Between Owen Sound and Notre Dame, you have two programs that have excelled at improving their players’ play away from the puck and physical engagement. Bodes well for his development IMO.
18. Adam Nemec - Wing - Sudbury Wolves
Joined the Wolves following the WJC’s (where he was solid for the Slovaks) and has been an immediate impact player on the scoresheet. He’s only been held off the score sheet once (as of writing this). The work rate is solid. Nemec knows his role and plays it to a tee. He’s such an effective net front presence and is dangerous in that home plate area because he’s got good hands and a quick release. The majority of his damage has been done on the powerplay where Nemec takes up that spot in the bumper. I do have some concerns about his projectability given that he’s older for this class and that his skating needs work. Nemec isn’t much of a threat with the puck in transition. Will he be able to keep up with higher skilled players at the NHL level as a complementary piece? Does he have the athletic tools teams want from their bottom six?
19. Colin Fitzgerald - Center - Soo Greyhounds
Truthfully, I’m not sure this is the right ranking for Fitzgerald, but I’m holding steady on him for now. But, his ice time with the Greyhounds is decreasing and the production has really fallen off a cliff. Am I ranking him this high still based on previous expectations and a hope that he can turn things around? Absolutely, it’s all about projection. Fitzgerald is still an aggressive two-way center with goal scoring upside. He’s generating chances, they’re just not going in. At some point, if the production doesn’t improve, he’s got to drop in rankings over concerns over his offensive skill set and upside. The skating still needs to improve further too. Consider Fitzgerald a work in progress.
20. Carter Stevens - Wing - Guelph Storm
Stevens is a player not blessed with elite physical tools, but who makes the most of it because of his work ethic and strong three zone awareness. He’s not a high event player per say; not the kind of guy who wows you with creativity, a big hit, or speed. But, there’s a quiet efficiency there that could make him a terrific complementary middle six piece at higher levels. Stevens is one of those guys that the puck just finds in the offensive zone. He also has a clear identity on the ice and understands his role is to keep plays alive along the wall and get to the net. He has good hands in tight and his shot is a potential plus weapon once he improves his release and confidence. But, I do wonder how NHL scouts are going to view his pace and skating ability. Not the most efficient stride. Additionally, he’s battled injuries this year, so durability is going to be a concern.
21. Callum Croskery - Defense - Soo Greyhounds
Croskery got a late start to the year after suffering an injury during the preseason, but he’s slowly been getting better with each passing week. We’re starting to see him become more aggressive offensively by jumping up in the rush or pinching deep to make plays in the offensive zone. His mobility is good and it allows him to play aggressively defensively, consistently looking to make plays in the neutral zone. There are some solid tools here, it’s just a matter of what you project Croskery to be. Average sized, jack of all trades type defenders are among the most difficult to scout and rank. How will a guy like Croskery carve out a role at the NHL level? Can the defensive game keep improving and can he add a layer of physicality to his game to be a strong defensive asset? Can he continue to gain confidence in his offensive abilities and develop into someone who can quarterback a powerplay? He’s someone I’m closely monitoring in the second half to see how he continues to settle in.
22. Maksim Sokolovskii - Defense - London Knights
Glad to see big Maks earning more consistent ice time since the trade deadline. The offensive game hasn’t really developed like I expected it might, but he’s definitely become more of a standout defensively. Using his size more consistently along the wall to win battles and not just in the open ice (to chase big hits). He’s such a stalwart defending down hill; nearly impossible for OHL skaters to play through or around in transition because of his solid mobility and big reach. That’s what is going to get NHL scouts most excited. Is there offensive upside? His puck management in the defensive end has improved for sure. But, even if you’re not sold on him being a capable offensive contributor, the defensive upside has to excite you given that he’s playing in his first year at higher level hockey and improving.
23. Zach Jovanovski - Goaltender - Guelph Storm
While the numbers aren’t fantastic for Jovanovski, he’s been a workhorse for the Storm this year and I find myself consistently impressed by his composure in the crease. Not a lot of wasted movement from him and he tracks the play well. Very in control at all times and holds his posts well. I think he does a great job of limiting second chance opportunities too; pucks seem to stick to him. He’s not the world’s most agile or athletic netminder; at least by today’s standards. He’ll need to continue to improve his quickness post to post and ability to get in and out of the butterfly to ensure that he doesn’t get trapped deep. I’m not sure I see a high end starter, but I think he can be an NHL netminder with the right upgrades. There’s just something about his game.
24. Ryder Fetterolf - Goaltender - Ottawa 67’s
I know that he’ll have his detractors in the NHL scouting community because of his size, but if we can value Jack Ivankovic for what he is, why can’t we do the same for Fetterolf, who has to be the front runner for OHL netminder of the year at this point. The rookie out of Gilmour Academy has been an unreal find for the 67’s and is one of the main reasons they find themselves battling the Bulldogs for the East Division. He’s kind of the antithesis of Jovanovski. He relies on his athleticism and compete level to make saves. Yeah, he’ll need to work on his rebound control to limit second chances, but I think he tracks the play really well and puts himself in position to make the initial save. We know the track record for smaller, elite junior goaltenders isn’t great, but in the middle rounds, why on Earth wouldn’t you take a chance on Fetterolf to find out.
25. Adam Levac - Center - Peterborough Petes
Levac has been a pleasant surprise for the Petes this year, emerging as their top center. He’s a hard worker and has really impressed with his vision and playmaking ability. There’s a lot of a guy like Casey Cizikas in his game. Well rounded profile, but not necessarily a high skill or high upside player. Teams will be looking for him to upgrade his quickness, especially given his size and projection as a possible third line pivot down the line. But you’d blind not to be impressed with his play this year. Average physical tools, but an intelligent and hard working player. Unfortunately, it looks like he’ll be sitting for a while after a brutal (and boneheaded) slew foot during a fight recently.
26. JC Lemieux - Wing - Sudbury Wolves
Has been outstanding for the Wolves since being acquired as part of the package for Pharand and Villeneuve. Truthfully, I’m not shocked either. I knew he had this level of play in him. However, I think it’s also important to state that I’m not sure Lemieux can climb a whole lot further than this and he would have been ranked around this spot even without the hot start with the Wolves. As much as I love Lemieux the OHL player, I’m also somewhat concerned that he could be one of those classic tweeners. The “physical tools” are not high end for a forward with his average size. The compete level is solid. He’s an intelligent player. But, would he project as either a top two line player or a bottom six player at the NHL level? I mean, I didn’t agree with NHL Central Scouting’s ranking of him (184th), but that’s essentially why he was that low. But, you could do a heck of a lot worse with a mid round selection.
27. Braidy Wassilyn - Wing - London Knights
This low ranking will probably be pretty shocking to some people, but I have to be honest with my current assessment. I know the ice time has fluctuated in London, but he’s also been wildly inconsistent. I don’t think he’s a player that’s truly found his OHL identity yet despite entering the league with a ton of hype. Additionally, I find him to be a passenger in the offensive end too often given the on puck skill that he flashes. Lastly, similar to Lemieux ranked a spot ahead, I don’t see high end physical tools in an average sized frame. Will he ever be a high end skater? Happy to continue to re-assess this ranking, but I’m a little shocked that he’s continued to be ranked highly by some in the scouting community.
28. Wesley Royston - Wing - Owen Sound Attack
After a hot start with Owen Sound (following a trade from Erie), Royston has been ice cold the last month and a bit…much like the rest of the Attack. This is just a player who consistently passes the eye test even though the production is pretty poor for a late born 2007 playing their third year in the league. The frame/skating combination is legit. Can he truly learn to harness that? Obviously that is the million dollar question. The good news is that with the new NCAA eligibility rules, teams can afford to be more patient with him. If those rules didn’t exist, Royston would be lower on my list because you’d have to sign him in two years and there’s a chance that he takes longer than that to put it together. But, now he can play with Owen Sound next year and then look at a decent NCAA program to play 2-3 years at and by then, he might be more consistent physically and an elite level bottom six contributor.
29. Brody Pepoy - Wing - Saginaw Spirit
One of my favourite mid round “sleepers” eligible this year. The production has been wildly inconsistent, but behind that top unit in Saginaw, the whole team has suffered through that issue. There are just so many terrific flashes that suggest Pepoy could have some really nice upside. He plays up tempo and is engaged and energetic without the puck. He can beat defenders one on one with skill and is always looking to get to the middle of the ice. His shot flashes as a high end weapon. He is powerful off his edges, allowing him to evade checks. One of those guys who could be drafted in the fourth round who then explodes in his draft year plus one. Or, he could fail to find that consistency and never materialize as an NHL prospect. I mean, it’s the chance you take, but I think Pepoy is a fascinating prospect.
30. Rowan Henderson - Wing - Sudbury Wolves
His game has really come on in the last month. Post trade deadline with Sudbury clearing some space, he’s taking on a little more responsibility and his game seems to be blossoming. I mean, the production is still pretty bad for a late ‘07 (much like Royston), but his game is pretty projectable given that he’s one of the quickest skaters eligible this year and he brings an element of physicality. The question is, can the hands catch up to the feet to allow him to blossom further offensively? As is, I like his vision with the puck; he’s a better playmaker than goal scorer. This is not a high upside player, but he’s someone you could envision being a part of your bottom six and your PK unit; think along the lines of Jordan Martinook.
31. Parker Vaughan - Wing - North Bay Battalion
One of those guys who just always seems to be on the cusp of a breakout…and then he fades again. Good frame. Good skater. Plays a heavy, North/South game. Off puck play is not always consistent. Has struggled at times this year with his finishing and making plays at full speed. Yet, because he has the potential to be a solid complementary middle six player, he’s an intriguing mid round option. As mentioned with Pepoy, he’s the kind of guy who could breakout big time in his draft plus one and make his NHL team look pretty intelligent.
32. Aiden O’Donnell - Wing - Oshawa Generals
A well rounded winger who started the year red hot on Brantford before trades pushed him down and eventually to another team; Oshawa. While the offensive production for the rebuilding Generals has been inconsistent, his work rate has been extremely admirable. His physical game has really picked up with an Oshawa jersey on and I think his improvements off the puck have really changed his outlook as a pro for the better. O’Donnell is a good skater. Skill and creativity are only average. However, he’s a really smart player. Times cuts well, takes care of the puck in all three zones, and keeps his feet moving. I don’t think we’re looking at a top end NHL player, but he could easily develop into a very useful pro in the Matt Henricks vein.
33. Jacob Xu - Defense - London Knights
Came into the season with a lot of hype, but really failed to show considerable improvement from last year, ultimately leading to him becoming an expendable asset for Kitchener. Since the trade to London, I think his game has really picked up. He’s making safer decisions with the puck and keeping things simple. Does it cause a re-evaluation of his offensive upside? I mean, yeah, I’m not sure he’s going to be an offensive contributor at higher levels. However, he’s been a physical rock with the Knights and is getting a lot of ice time from Dale Hunter early on. His strong mobility in combination with his physical approach makes him a real defensive asset. I think if he continues to play as well as he has lately, he’ll be higher on my final list. Curious to see if the Hunters can get more out of him with the puck in the future.
34. Maks Corovic - Goaltender - Brantford Bulldogs
OK, so he’s only played a single game for the Bulldogs this year, but these are the times we live in given the new NCAA eligibility rules. I’d assume Corovic will be the starter for the Bulldogs next year. He’s been absolutely lights out with Collingwood of the OJHL. His current .947 save percentage is the second best in the last 30 years among U18 netminders. I know the OJHL isn’t quite what it used to be because of the new NCAA eligibility rules, but that’s mighty impressive. Corovic was impressive at the WJAC too in his lone appearance. Considering that he played prep last year, I think he’s flying under the radar a little bit. I really hope that he’s on HC’s radar for the U18’s because I’m not sure the quality of goaltending we’re going to get from the CHL for that event. Corovic meets the two standard requirements these days; he’s got size and he’s athletic. Technically, he’ll have to clean a few things up to play at higher levels (rebound control, angles/aggressiveness), but there’s real upside here.
35. Ryan Brown - Wing - London Knights
Back in November I wrote, “We've been patiently waiting for the Ryan Brown breakout year to happen and we're still waiting.” Well, a trade to the London Knights later and we’re finally seeing it. Brown has been sensational for London, especially on the powerplay. He’s shown a new found confidence in his shooting ability and has scored some pretty impressive goals as a Knight. He’s still an energetic player too and that’s why he’s quickly found himself in the good graces of Dale Hunter. If this kind of production continues, there’s no way Brown is left unranked by NHL Central Scouting at season’s end. A year ago at this time, Brown’s projection was as a quality middle six winger who could be a complementary goal scorer. That projection is looking possible again. I just want to see him sustain this level of play.
36. Caden Harvey - Wing - Windsor Spitfires
The production has dried up as he has been pushed down the lineup thanks to some acquisitions. However, I still believe that there is a chance that Harvey gets drafted. He’s got a really well rounded profile in a solid frame. Everything about his game is average to a little above average. He competes hard and plays a physical game. He can play a variety of roles. He skates pretty well and can play that power game. He’s committed to Penn State and likely heads there in another year or two. It’s easy to see him developing into a potential bottom six piece.
37. Alex McLean - Wing/Center - Kingston Frontenacs
McLean has been outstanding for the Frontenacs since coming over from Guelph. It’s been interesting to see the development in his game. In Guelph, he was a relentless worker who was tasked with bringing energy and physicality as a complementary piece. In Kingston, he’s been running their powerplay and is blossoming offensively. McLean isn’t the biggest and isn’t the most explosive skater, but he is a really smart player who consistently finds success playing through traffic because of how he draws in pressure, protects the puck, and makes quick decisions. Equal parts goal scorer and playmaker, he’s likely to develop into a top producing offensive forward in the OHL. The question is how much can the physical tools improve to give him a positive NHL outlook? You draft McLean and then give him 3-4 more years in the OHL/NCAA and hope that you end up with a quality middle six option who can play on your powerplay. I’m obviously saying that McLean is going to be a four time NHL all star, but from a stylistic comparison, think Joe Pavelski. Remember, Pavelski was a 7th round selection for similar reasons.
38. Lucas Ambrosio - Defense - Erie Otters
Look, I get the allure. The size and skating combination is terrific. He can blow things up defensively and does have terrific upside as a Brandon Carlo style defensive defender. In essence, he’s this year’s David Bedkowski. However, his game is just so raw still. While he shows flashes of being a stalwart in the defensive end (particularly as a rush defender), his reads and ability to defend the net front are very inconsistent. It’s tough playing on a rebuilding Erie team that is constantly hemmed in their own end, but I do question the defensive IQ at times. Additionally, the offensive game is nearly non-existent. Again, there’s flashes of clean exits and the ability to use his feet to get clearance, but then there’s also turnovers and poor plays that contribute to Erie getting hemmed in their own end. I’m sure he’ll be drafted higher than this because NHL teams love this kind of profile, but the success rate over the last decade has been insanely low. The reality is that even the best stay at home NHL defenders show competency offensively at the junior level. There just aren’t many Erik Cernak type success stories.
39. Rylan Singh - Defense - Guelph Storm
It was a really rough start to the year for Singh, who I had very high expectations for coming into the season as a late born 2007. However, he’s been better the last few months and that’s great to see. While Singh’s offensive production has been pedestrian, that’s his bread and butter and ticket to the next level. He’s a play creator who can use his strong four way mobility to evade pressure, creating shooting and passing lanes, particularly running the point inside the offensive zone. Defensively, he’s been better lately, but he still needs to grow in this area. He gets overwhelmed defending high traffic areas and needs to get stronger and increase his physical intensity. At the end of the day, I wonder if NHL teams view him as a pick given that he hasn’t been producing at a high level as one of the older players in this class.
40. Joseph Salandra - Wing - Barrie Colts
A human wrecking ball. Salandra is the epitome of a player who plays bigger than his size. He’s not tall, but he’s strong as an ox and he is relentless in his pursuit of the puck. He’s easily one of the most physical players that I’ve seen available for this draft. Offensively, he leans playmaker over scorer, able to force turnovers and get pucks to the net, or find passing lanes out of the cycle. He’s not a terrific skater for his size, but his work ethic makes up for that as he has a motor that never quits. But, what’s the NHL upside here? A Nathan Walker type bottom six shift disturber? If you can get that in the mid to late round, Salandra’s well worth a pick.
41. Weston Cameron - Wing/Center - Kitchener Rangers
Missed the first part of the year with a staph infection, but has impressed with limited ice time since returning (even if he’s been cycled in and out of the lineup of late after Kitchener’s big acquisitions). This is all about projection. Cameron has power forward upside. He’s a decent skater for his 6’4 frame and his explosiveness could be upgraded further as he improves his strength/conditioning. He’s shown upside as a powerplay net front/bumper presence because of his soft hands. He’s a committed two-way player who is physical in pursuit of opponents and the puck. He’s played almost exclusively on the wing this year, but he’s a natural center who could make the switch back to that position in the future when Kitchener’s depth is less impressive. Considering the physical tools that Cameron possesses, I was shocked to see him left off of NHL Central Scouting’s midterm rankings.
42. Ondrej Ruml - Defense - Ottawa 67’s
Basically I see Ruml as a Jakub Fibigr clone. I know that might appear to be a lazy comparison considering their nationality and career paths thus far, but they are similar kinds of players with similar questionable paths to the NHL due to their average size and jack of all trades label. Ruml has been a steady presence on the puck for the 67’s this year. He skates well. He can make plays in transition and will look for opportunities to jump up in the play. He’s been more than adequate defensively. I’m just not sure he’s elite enough in any one category (similar to Fibigr). I’d expect Ruml to be drafted in a similar range.
43. Vladislav Yermolenko - Goaltender - Niagara IceDogs
Consistency has still been an issue. He can be prone to some pretty weak goals. Can get himself caught out of position. For a 2007 born player, he’s still quite raw. However, out of Belarus, he’s really getting his first taste of higher level hockey. He’s got really quick pads and takes away the bottom of the net well. I think he’s improved his quickness and agility over the course of the year. When he’s on, he can be really difficult to beat because he’s tracking pucks and challenging shooters to make up for a lack of elite size. I know some in the industry really like him as a “sleeper” this year.
44. Matthew Humphries - Goaltender - Oshawa Generals
Humphries was acquired from Niagara earlier this year and has split the season between Aurora (OJHL) and Oshawa. He’s been up with Oshawa lately (thanks to a Gravelle injury) and has been playing a lot and playing very well. His excellent save percentage has been no fluke for the rebuilding Generals. He’s seeing a ton of rubber and keeping them in games. Humphries is the classic case of why being a larger netminder (6’4) is so advantageous, especially when you factor in how aggressive Humphries is in challenging shooters. He just swallows up space and squares to shooters well. I also really admire his compete level in the crease. He gives up a decent amount of second chance opportunities because his rebound control needs work, but he has quick pads and excellent reflexes and never gives up on a play. His quickness post to post and overall agility would only be classified as average, but given his size, it might be adequate enough. If he keeps playing the way he has been for Oshawa, he certainly won’t be rated the 34th best netminder in NA by Central Scouting at year’s end.
45. Ben Reisnecker - Defense - Niagara IceDogs
Right shot defender with size and good defensive instincts. Physical at times, but that component of his game needs to become more consistent. Earlier this year, I thought that we might start to see a bit more offense from him as the year went on, but I’d actually argue that it’s been the opposite. We’ve seen even less. Additionally, I haven’t seen much progress in his mobility over the year. It’s not bad, but his transitional agility and gap control need work in order for him to be a better rush defender. Maybe worth a later round flyer in hopes that his defensive game becomes more elite.
46. Nathan Amidovski - Wing - Brampton Steelheads
Amidovski was a player that I had high hopes for this year, especially after a good start for the 67’s. But he really faded and then fell out of favor with the 67’s, eventually getting moved to the Steelheads. Even with greater ice time and responsibility in Brampton, the offensive production hasn’t picked up. I think Amidovski has pro qualities. Good frame. Good skater. Shows a scoring touch in the home plate area and has good puck protection tendencies. However, he just hasn’t been very noticeable, on or off the puck, for the better part of two months. Hard to justify a higher ranking without seeing progress.
47. Quinn McKenzie - Center - Soo Greyhounds
McKenzie has been a real find for the Greyhounds organization out of the Shattuck St. Mary’s program. He’s a real dynamic player because of his skill, tenaciousness, and playmaking ability with the puck. He may be small, but he plays a pretty fearless game, always looking to get to the net. I’m not entirely sure that he’s a center at higher levels, he’ll need to prove that he can handle defensive responsibilities against bigger/stronger players, but his offensive skill set would translate well to the wing. I guess the million dollar question is, why isn’t McKenzie getting any love for the draft? He wasn’t ranked by NHL Central Scouting. The answer to that is pretty simple actually. He’s not a dynamic or explosive skater for his size and that means his production in transition (where McKenzie does a lot of his damage) may not translate well. It’s certainly why I’ve got him a bit lower down compared to his impact in the OHL this season. I think NHL teams might be more likely to see how his game translates to the NCAA level first.
48. Ryder Carey - Wing - North Bay Battalion
Carey’s ice time has decreased over the season and his offensive production has dried up pretty substantially because of it. That’s going to make his projection at the next level a little more murky. I like the skating and work ethic combination, especially since he’s not small. He’s also one of the youngest players eligible this year, so he could hit a growth spurt too. But, realistically, he’s going to need to produce a little more offensively in the second half if he wants to remain in the draft conversation.
49. Elliot Arnett - Defense - Owen Sound Attack
Old school defender who has emerged as one of the OHL’s most physical defenders in his second year in the league. I definitely admire his approach. I mentioned earlier that Arnett resembles some former OHL defenders like Tyler Tucker and Zach Bell. However, outside of a solid frame and a tenacious approach, his game has holes. He’s not a terrific skater and he can be beat in transition or beat to dump ins. His desire to lay the body also takes him out of position at times. Offensively, he hasn’t been extremely effective. Puck management is an area that needs attention. How he closes out the year on a struggling Owen Sound team will be closely monitored.
50. Arvin Jaswal - Goaltender - Barrie Colts
Backing up Ben Hrebik is no tall task considering how good he’s been this year, but Jaswal has been up to it and then some. There really hasn’t been much of a drop off when the Colts have gone to Jaswal. He’s a classic, athletic butterfly netminder. Similar to a guy like Ryder Fetterolf, he’s a real competitor in the crease who makes a lot of second and third chance saves. The bad news is that he’s giving those up; his rebound control needs work. But, I really like how aggressive he is in challenging shooters, trusting his athleticism to help him recover and cover his posts. However, he’s also a bit of a classic flopper, in the sense that his excess movement can take him out of position. Technically, he’ll need some refinement. However, he’s someone who could end up being one of the best netminders in the OHL by the time he graduates. The question is, will he play enough down the stretch to impress NHL scouts?
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