Thoughts on Kitchener and Windsor from February 11

Game number 8 of my "10 Match-ups to watch in 2009-2010," saw the 3rd place in the West Kitchener Rangers taking on the 1st place Windsor Spitfires. The Rangers have been awfully inconsistent over the last two months, but I still expected this one to be closer than it was. The Rangers were largely dominated by the Spitfires being outshot 46-18 and outscored 6-2. That's not a good enough effort for a team with second or even third round aspirations in the playoffs.

The Spitfires have been looking better and better lately as they start to get everyone back to good health. They're starting to play with more of a chip on their shoulder and have become increasingly "gritty" and physical as the regular season winds down. This is going to be a necessity this year for the Spitfires if they want to get past teams like Plymouth in the West and Barrie in the East during their Memorial Cup defense.

Some individual thoughts...

Kitchener Rangers





John Moore (CBJ)
Thought he played a very good game. I think his play has improved over the course of the season, after being somewhat underwhelming for the first part of it. Maybe the expectations were just set too high. He was coming off winning the USHL's Top defenseman award, a first round NHL draft selection and a near make of his NHL team. Pretty much the same circumstances that John Carlson came to London under last year and completely set the league on fire. I think many people looked at Moore's resume and assumed he'd make the same kind of immediate impact as one of the league's best defenseman. While that hasn't really come to fruition, I think he has made progress. He's confident in carrying the puck and he's definitely a great skater. Had one really nice rush tonight as he deked around the Windsor forechecker, dipsy-doodled through the neutral zone, went right to the net and got a chance on a wrap around. He also scored a nice goal as he slid behind the Windsor defense on the cycle and buried a wrist shot past Phil Grubauer off a nice feed from Chris MacKinnon. Defensively, he seems a lot more composed, less running around like a chicken with his head cut off. I think he's still going to need to improve his play away from the puck in his own end, and increase his intensity level, but he's definitely a future NHL player.

Ryan Murphy (2011)
Murphy had his ups and downs tonight. The ups were his usual beautiful rushes up ice with the puck. He makes it look so effortless. But on the downside, he made a gaff on the second period Adam Wallace goal as he tried to hit a bouncing puck with his stick, instead of using his glove, the puck went behind him, Windsor gained possession and eventually scored on a loose puck in the slot. After that, he seemed to play a lot less. He was even seeing little time on the powerplay, which made no sense to me. But cest la vie. I just hope Murphy grows another inch by this time next year so we don't have to hear about the defenseman under 6'0 ft crap.

Jeff Skinner (2010)
Skinner played a really good game tonight I thought. Showed an ability to fight through bigger and more physical defenders. Mark Cundari and Harry Young were really on him all night, hitting him, tossing him around, but he never gave up and he managed to still get his fair share of scoring opportunities. The first Rangers goal by Matt Tipoff was all Skinner as he fought his way to the net, dragged the puck and missed the net with a shot, only for it to take a nice carom off the end boards right to Tipoff for the easy put away. It's games like this where Skinner cements his place among the top end of OHL players available for this draft IMO. While he's not going out there throwing massive bodychecks, his intensity level is still high and he's got this motor that just keeps running and running every shift. Those types of players will always get their scoring chances.

Jeremy Morin (ATL)
I thought Morin played a pretty good game too. He he was robbed by Phil Grubauer a few times, once on a two on one where he tried to roof it on a sliding Grubauer and the other time as he came down the wing and released a wicked wrister that Grubauer got enough of to direct it off the crossbar. Every time I've seen him play I've been very impressed by his ability to get himself in position to score. In a lot of ways, he reminds me of former Oshawa winger Brett MacLean, who despite not being the world's greatest skater, was elusive and slippery in the offensive zone and had a outstanding ability to get shots off in traffic and while in motion. MacLean has done very well for himself so far in his professional career so I'd expect Morin to follow a similar path.

Brandon Maxwell (COL)
The story for Brandon Maxwell this year has been his bouts with inconsistency. Just look at his stat line, especially over the course of the last month. Some tremendous performances mixed with some incredibly poor ones. Now, I must admit. I think Maxwell has been the recipient of some unfortunate luck and play from the team in front of him at times this year. Some of those terrible stat lines have been a result of his team just laying out a big turd, especially at the defensive end. Tonight was really no different. He made 40 saves and for the most part, kept his team in a game that they had no right to be in. But...on the flip side, there were a few "iffy" goals that he gave up that could have really given his team a boost. He made some big saves, but he didn't necessarily make them when they were most needed (aka after the team battled back to make it 4-2). The talent is definitely there. He's a very athletic goaltender who's a good skater, moves well in his net, can stretch out for the save. He also appears to be pretty good at taking away the top part of the net, good glove and blocker and does a good job limiting the rebounds of shots to his upper body. It's the lower part of the ice that he seems to be vulnerable too. I think a lot of that stems with some poor mechanics. He challenges the shooters, but seems to play the wrong angles at times. For example on the first goal by Greg Nemisz, he came out to cut down the one time shot, but he was too far over to the left of his net, exposing the right side which is where Nemisz put it (and put it right along the ice). He seems to really over commit to plays at times too, like the Cam Fowler goal where Maxwell completely committed to a pass, only for Fowler to get the puck back and put it home five-hole. In time, I think he can develop into a good goaltender...if he's got the work ethic (which I have no idea if he does because I don't know him or his habits).

Windsor Spitfires





Taylor Hall (2010)
Hall had a great game for creating scoring chances and a terrible one for finishing them. Obviously this isn't the norm for Hall, but he had a lot of trouble with the puck tonight. I think I counted about 3 or 4 glorious opportunities for Hall to put home a goal, but he either fanned on the shot or just couldn't get enough of his stick on it. But he was all over the ice creating with his speed. Did manage an assist on the first one timed Nemisz goal, with a very nice pass to the center of the ice through the Rangers defense. Playmaking is definitely an underrated part of Hall's game similar to the way it was for John Tavares last year.

Ryan Ellis (NSH)
Ellis had a pretty good game. He finished with a goal and two assists, but it was a fairly quietly productive night. The goal was scored on the empty net to make it 6-2, while the two assists were not really critical to the plays made on the goals. For as big a supporter I've been of Ellis over the past couple of seasons, I am starting to have some question marks creep into my head about his play. If anything, I've kind of been underwhelmed by the lack of "dynamic" development in his game this year. By that I mean, he hasn't really developed into the game changing, shift dominating defenseman I figured he would be this season. He's still a beast on the powerplay, but five on five, he hasn't really taken that next step as a dominant two way defenseman. If anything, I think the biggest hurdle has been his lack of improvement in skating. Not an atrocious skater by any means, but he's not good enough to be an elite puck rusher at the next level. Just looking at a guy like John Moore tonight, his skating and ability to stretch the defense out makes him a dynamic player. But Ellis doesn't have that same quality. This concerns me because at the next level, he's really going to need to take advantage of his offensive gifts (shot, passing ability, game awareness), but I fear that his lack of physical gifts could prevent him from doing this. Just what type of role does he play in the NHL? Is he the next John Slaney, or does he develop into a quality NHL offensive defenseman. I'm just not as sure as I once was about his NHL future.

Stephen Johnston (DET)
The move to Windsor seems to have been a blessing for Johnston so far, who was getting suffocated in Belleville by a rebuild process. This is an important season for Johnston, as he needs to be signed by the Wings as a 2008 draft pick. Unfortunately for him, injuries have really slowed his development, but playing in Windsor seems to have re-animated his game as he's playing the best hockey he's played in a while. He was very dangerous all night. He looked good off the rush, using his speed to generate scoring opportunities. Flew right by Rangers defenseman Patrik Andersson coming down the wing, but was stoned by Maxwell as he cut across the net. He also looked good in the cycle and did a good job in puck possession and the hunt for it on the forecheck. Johnston was also a solid contributor on a Windsor penalty kill that held Kitchener to 0 for 7 tonight. If he can string together a strong performance to close out this season, there may yet be hope for Johnston to earn a contract from Detroit.

Adam Henrique (NJ)
Henrique seems to be picking things up again after struggling through the past month and a half following the World Juniors. Truthfully, I think he injured himself at the tournament more than we were lead to believe (a minor shoulder injury suffered in an exhibition game). Lingering injury, combined with a move down to the teams third line seem to have combined to slow Henrique's production to only 2 goals in his last 11 games. But him and Johnston seem to have developed some chemistry and Henrique looked better tonight than he has lately. Although he's still not as aggressive in carrying the puck and doesn't seem to be as dynamic of a player as the one who left for the WJC's in December.

Cam Fowler (2010)
Don't really have too much to say about Fowler that hasn't already been said. He's a tremendous defenseman and a tremendous talent. His mobility, combined with his elite physical and hockey oriented skills make him a great NHL prospect. His goal was scored as he picked up the puck in the corner, took the puck to the net, attempted a shot that was blocked only to come right back to him where he shot it again, beating Maxwell five hole. For more on Fowler, check out my profile of him for School Your Pool here.

Kenny Ryan (TOR)
Ryan looks much improved from when I saw him earlier this season. Big change seems to be in his conditioning. His energy level seems way up and he was active on the forecheck all night. He also seems to be generating way more offensively. In the first period, he had a couple of great opportunities that nearly resulted in goals. One a drive to the net that saw him finish with a slapper to the chest of Maxwell, another a partial breakaway that was foiled by Brandon Maxwell. When college players make that jump to the OHL, they often look lost in their first month or so and Ryan was no different. Ryan was another player who's strong work on the penalty kill helped keep the Rangers at 0 for 7 on the night.

Justin Shugg (2010)
This was the best game I've seen Shugg play. He was all over the place tonight and turned in a very solid effort. He earned two assists on the night, one of which he was critically a part of. This was the first Windsor goal where his hard work along the boards resulted in the puck getting to Mark Cundari at the point who released a shot tipped in by Scott Timmins. Shugg also demonstrated some solid stick work that I hadn't previously seen, with a great drive to the net through two Rangers players, only to lose the puck as he was nearly free on Maxwell. Similar to Saginaw's Josh Shalla, I'm still not really sure what to make of his NHL potential and thus his draft position, but if tonight is any indication, he might have a future as a hard working, offensively productive, complimentary top 6 forward.

Mark Cundari (STL)
Cundari played a very good game. He's had kind of an up and down season thus far, with most of his troubles stemming from a desire to develop into an elite offensive defenseman. When he's not trying to force action up ice (by rush or pass), and when he's playing things safer, he's a very good defenseman. Because when he limits the amount he rushes, he's actually one of the better shut down defenders in the league, as he displayed tonight. Did a great job keeping Jeff Skinner in check, and really was throwing his body around. Rubbed out Skinner twice in one shift then skated by the Kitchener bench looking for a fight. He's going to need to keep that high intensity level in order to play the type of game he does at the next level, where being a 5'10 stay at home defenseman can be tough. But I have faith that he'll develop into a quality defender at the next level, when he'll eventually learn his limits and stick to the things he's best at.

Greg Nemisz (CGY)
Not a whole lot to say really, other than what I've been saying all season long. The improvements he's made to his skating have really helped his game. He's much more involved off the rush and he's even harder to contain in the slot as his mobility makes him more elusive. Both goals were scored off one timers in the slot. Still needs to improve his consistency from shift to shift and his ability to use his size with the puck on his stick, but I'm hopeful playing at the next level will unlock that more, as it often can for players like Nemisz.

Eric Wellwood (PHI)
As I had in one of my recent Sunday Top 10's (here), Wellwood is definitely one of the most improved players in the OHL season. He's evolved into more than just a solid penalty killer and checking line forward. He's gained confidence with the puck on his stick and is taking more opportunities to develop offensive scoring chances. Playing with Taylor Hall doesn't hurt either. One thing I have really been impressed with lately is his increasing motivation to become involved physically. He's really starting to develop into a gritty type forward. Had one really nice hit on a Rangers player tonight (I believe Ben Thomson). A great draft selection by the Flyers.

Philip Grubauer (2010)
Grubauer was excellent tonight, even if he only faced 18 shots. Of those 18, quite a few were excellent scoring opportunities. The best save was on Jeff Skinner, as he slid across his crease in the splits to rob a streaking skinner with his glove. He made a similar save on Jeremy Morin earlier in the game on a 2 on 1. Grubauer is definitely very athletic and moves very well from post to post. He challenges shooters, does a good job of finding the puck in traffic and uses a kind of hybrid style to keep shooters guessing. He's still yet to lose in regulation for the Spitfires (with only one shootout loss), so the move to Windsor has to do nothing but good for his draft status.

That's it folks. Any questions?

Ryan Yessie's Thoughts on Belleville and Sarnia from October 9

Sarnia's rookies put on an outstanding performance as they score five 2nd period goals to dismantle the Belleville Bulls 9-4.

Bjorn Krupp - #4 - D - YOB: 1991 - 6’3” - 195lbs.
NHL: Signed by Minnesota as a Free Agent in 2009
Report: Oct/9/09: Krupp looks A LOT bigger than last year, however he is the same old player. Really disappears during the game, plays decently in his own zone, still does not hit nearly as much as someone his size should. Personally I’m a little surprised Minnesota used an entry level free agent contract on Krupp. He has the intangibles to be a potential NHL stay at home defenceman but there’s other 1991’s out there with far more upside.
(Krupp was a -2)

Stephen Johnston - #10 - C - YOB: 1990 - 6’1” - 190lbs.
NHL: 6th Round - 181st Overall by Detroit in 2008
Report: Oct/9/09: Johnston once again was not an impact player in the Belleville/Sarnia game, however he was as usual steady. He’s a great skating forward, who does a good job in his own zone, and is willing to initiate as well as take contact to make the play. He will have a tough time in Detroit with players like Abdelkader and Helm playing a more prominent role with fairly similar games, but Johnston could find himself a spot in the NHL on someone’s 3rd line, but it’s becoming more and more apparent if Johnston makes it, it’ll be as an energy/PK specialist type role.
(Johnston was a +1 w/ 2PIM)

Shawn Lalonde - #9 - D - YOB: 1990 - 6‘1” - 195lbs.
NHL: 3rd Round - 68th Overall by Chicago in 2008
Report: Oct/9/09: Lalonde played outstanding tonight offensively. He is a very smooth slick skater out there, and looks a lot bigger than 6’1” - 195 out there. He looked a lot like John Carlson from London last year the way he carried the puck up the ice at times, and would pinch in from the point at the right time. He has a blast from the point, and a very quick and accurate wrist shot, which is how he scored his goal tonight. Offensively Lalonde has everything you’d look for an in offensive defenceman, with above average size than most of your speedy puck moving defencemen. Defensively he looked like he was willing to hit when the situation called for it, defensively he didn’t look like anything special but wasn’t a burden to his team either. I’ve been really impressed with how much Lalonde has developed over the last 2 years.
(Lalonde had 1G, -1)

Stephen Silas - #26 - D - YOB: 1992 - 6‘0” - 190lbs.
NHL: Eligible in 2010
Report: Oct/9/09: Silas is a defenceman I’m pretty high on going into this draft. You look at his points and how he looks on the ice and you’d think offensive defenceman, and you’d be right, but I think a lot like former Sting defenceman Mark Katic; Silas gets unfairly labeled and judged based on his offensive contributions. Silas made multiple solid defensive plays, and only gave up defensive positioning at opportune times, he didn’t cause any mistakes that lead to a breakaway or any goals. Silas is a smooth skater, and willing to carry the puck, but passes it off at intelligent times. He looks mature beyond his years and plays every shift to the end. Silas took on Miro Preisinger in a fight, Preisinger who is built pretty solidly, and has already shown well in another fight did seem to do more damage, but Silas who is not really regarded as much of a fighter at all hung in and held his own against a very tough opponent.
(Silas had 1A, -2, 7PIM)

Matthew Tipoff - #27 - LW - YOB: 1990 - 6‘0” - 190lbs.
NHL: Eligible in 2010
Report: Oct/9/09: Tipoff could arguably be the best player on the Belleville Bulls based on his performance tonight, and his track record based on this season so far. Tipoff plays with a very high energy hitting anything that moved, and skating very well. Tipoff carried the puck, but instead of a lot of players that carry it across the blueline he would go after advantageous positioning in order to set up a scoring chance rather than throwing it at the net. His puck protection is great for someone who isn’t particularly big. Tipoff did release a few shots and he did appear to have a quick release. I could really see this guy ending up like an Alex Burrows type player with a little less physicality, and without the fighting, I could really see him playing an energy line type role but still producing points. Tipoff was critical on the PK despite Sarnia scoring twice with him on the ice. He never seems to leave during PK time, and really prevented a few goals from going in. I was huge on him after seeing him play last year, and my opinions only get better on him after his performance at the RBC Center this season.
(Tipoff had 2A, +0)

Philipp Grubauer - #33 - G - YOB: 1990 - 6‘0” - 180lbs.
NHL: Eligible in 2010
Report: Oct/9/09: Grubauer was pulled after giving up 4 goals on 24 shots, but honestly Grubauer couldn’t have been held responsible for any of those goals. All of Sarnia’s goals on him were passing plays where any goaltender would have been scored on, and one was a rebound. Grubauer showed great positioning, and was always in an ideal spot to make the save. Rebounds were few and far between despite getting burned on one of them. This game easily could have been 6 or 7-0 after the first if it wasn’t for Grubauer, and after 20 minutes it looked like Grubauer was going to steal this game. That wasn’t the case after the explosion of offense in the second period. Grubauer really didn’t look like he let the goals phase him even with a 2-1 or 3-1 score he came out and made a big save right after the goals. Very quick glove hand and kicked the pads out quickly as well. Like I said the stats can’t really explain his performance and he may be one of those goaltenders who doesn’t have great statistics that gets picked higher than those that do, based on scouts seeing things like what I saw today. Very impressed with Grubauer.
(Grubauer stopped 20 of 24 shots)

Nathan Chiarlitti - #5 - D - YOB: 1992 - 6‘0” - 185lbs.
NHL: Eligible in 2010
Report: Oct/9/09: This was quite possibly the best game of Chiarlitti’s career. He was his usual poised self defensively doing a great job stopping the offense, especially getting involved in the corners battling for loose pucks. Chiarlitti is very good defensively, but he’s not one for a lot of action in front of the net, his best area’s are either in the corners, behind the net or taking on the winger coming off the boards. Offensively Chiarlitti has shown a very solid and accurate wrist shot from the point, in which he used to score his second goal of the season tonight. He moved the puck well up the ice in transition which lead to him helping break out Ben O’Quinn and Jesse Stoughton for a shorthanded goal. Chiarlitti is not a guy who stands out on a game to game basis, but is always solid, reliable and is starting to show off his offensive assets. Chiarlitti is an average skater, but if he can either become more physical or quicker on his feet he should establish himself as a sure fire prospect in the 2010 draft.
(Chiarlitti had 1G, 1A, +3, 4PIM, named 1st Star of the game)

Brandon Alderson - #18 - RW - YOB: 1992 - 6‘4” - 195lbs.
NHL: Eligible in 2010
Report: Oct/9/09: This may have been Alderson’s best game of the year that I’ve seen. There’s the good and the bad, however as a rookie the bad is more along the lines of something he just needs to improve on. Alderson apparently doesn’t fight as he’s had several opportunities to, but outside the rough stuff he reminds me a lot of what a young Brandon Mashinter brought to the team. Alderson goes right to the net and establishes himself there, that is how he scored one of this two goals tonight. He is very difficult to move and if he can add 15-20 lbs to his frame he'd be a force. He was good along the boards and threw a few good hits, but overall he’s still being considered a little soft, and if he developed a mean streak he could become a lot more valuable as a hockey player. Alderson’s skating desperately needs to be improved, especially someone at his size it’ll be essential for him to become a better skater and get bigger. Alderson has shown he has good hands and has used them in tight areas, as well as unleashing a solid wrist shot to score a second goal on the night. Alderson could be labeled a project in terms of being an NHL prospect. He has a lot to work on, but has the hands and the size to be a player to watch over the next few years. If he develops his skating to an acceptable level for a prospect by the time he’s an overager he could become somewhat of a less physical/fighter but more offensive upside version of Brandon Mashinter.
(Alderson had 2G, +2, 2PIM)

RY

Sunday Top 10 - 2008 Draftees Who Need to Have a Big Season

This Sunday we take a look at 10 players who have a lot riding on their performance this season. These players are 2008 NHL Entry Draft selections whom have yet to be signed by their NHL clubs. They have yet to be signed because their performance since being drafted has been underwhelming. Thus, these ten players need to take steps forward this season in order to show their NHL clubs that their progression should equal an entry level contract.

This year, seven OHL players taken in the 2007 NHL Draft were unsigned by their NHL clubs (here). One has since signed an NHL contract (Richard Greenop). Two years ago, six OHL players taken in the 2006 NHL Draft were unsigned by their NHL clubs (Ben Shutron, Ryan Daniels, Aaron Snow, Luke Lynes, James DeLory, Devin DiDiomete). Two have since signed NHL contracts (DeLory and DiDiomete). The point being that history tells us that some of these ten players will not be offered a contract.by their NHL clubs (Ben Shutron, Ryan Daniels, Aaron Snow, Luke Lynes, James DeLory, Devin DiDiomete). Two have since signed NHL contracts (DeLory and DiDiomete). The point being that history tells us that some of these ten players will not be offered a contract.

Let's take a look at the 10 who need to step it up!

10. Tim Billingsley - Mississauga St. Michael's Majors
Drafted by: Phoenix, 189th overall
After a decent 2007-08 season, where he posted 27 points from the back end, Billingsley was drafted by Phoenix. This past year saw massive regression in his game. He missed considerable time due to two different injuries. One suffered at the beginning of the season, and a mild knee injury suffered around mid season. Perhaps this prevented him from finding a groove. I think it also played a part in his decreased role in Mississauga. With the emergence of Brett Flemming and Blake Parlett, Billingsley was pushed to the outside of the Majors top 3. His offensive game saw massive reduction, going from 27 points, to a measly 8 assists. And although Billingsley has always been billed as more of a defensive player, that part of his game also took a hit IMO. He looked lost at times defensively and played considerably more passive than previously before. In order to earn a contract, he's going to have to return to the form of 2007-08. The Majors are going to be looking to make a run at the Eastern Conference title and they are going to need Billingsley to play solidly as the teams 4th defenceman. If he continues to struggle or fight injuries, he risks losing his spot on the depth chart to 91's like David Corrente and Josh McFadden.

9. Kyle DeCoste - Sault Ste. Marie Greyhounds
Drafted by: Tampa Bay, 147th
DeCoste has progressed very little offensively since he was drafted in 2008. In Brampton, DeCoste was stuck in a numbers game and perhaps never got to really show what he was capable of. A scrappy, gritty forward, DeCoste seemed to improve after a midseason trade to the Soo. In 26 games with the Greyhounds, DeCoste was able to match what he did offensively in 37 games with Brampton. With Sault Ste. Marie hoping to improve enough to make the playoffs this season, DeCoste is going to be counted on to provide energy, leadership and offence. I think DeCoste should be looking at the progression made by a guy like Anthony Peluso this year and aim for something similar in order to impress Tampa.

8. Patrick Killeen - Brampton Battalion
Drafted by: Pittsburgh, 180th
This big netminder had a very solid rookie OHL season in 2007-08 earning a platoon role with Oilers draft pick (and signee) Bryan Pitton. This earned him a late draft selection by the Penguins. However this season, things seemed to fall apart for him. So much so that the Battalion had to trade for a true number one in Thomas McCollum, relegating Killeen to back up. This season Brampton is rebuilding and McCollum has moved on. It will be Killeen's ship to steer, as he attempts to lead a young and inexperienced Battalion team to a playoff spot in the East. He needs to rebound well (no pun intended).

7. Stephen Johnston - Belleville Bulls
Drafted by: Detroit, 181st
The speedster Johnston was drafted by Detroit after a very strong showing in the 2008 playoffs for Belleville. Bigger things were expected of him this season as his role increased and to his credit, he did produce reasonably well with 36 points (a 27 point improvement). However, his inconsistent play prevented him from cementing a role in the top 6, forcing Belleville to go out and acquire bigger guns in Nick Palmieri, Brandon Mashinter and Luke Pither. This year, Belleville is going to be counting on Johnston to be one of their offensive leaders, thanks to the graduation of the majority of their key players from last season. Hopefully he's up to the challenge.

6. Jason Missiaen - Peterborough Petes
Drafted by: Montreal, 116th
Missiaen, standing a gigantic 6'7, was given the starting goaltender spot after the trade of Trevor Cann to London. His performance was hot and cold, not unlike his 2007-08 season. Missiaen continues to battle consistency as he'll be lights out one night, and give up 7 goals the next. This season, Peterborough will be aiming for better than the 7th spot in the conference and Missiaen is going to have to play a crucial role. Every goaltender can have an off night, but the Petes are going to need Missiaen to have those off nights a lot less than he has in the past. Considering that Missiaen has apparently played well at previous development camps for Montreal, a solid season in helping Peterborough to home ice in the playoffs would most definitely earn him an ELC.

5. Chris Carrozzi - Mississauga St. Michael's Majors
Drafted by: Atlanta, 154th
Carrozzi is in a tough position. After leading the Majors to a strong playoff position in 2007-08, and playing another 47 games this past season, you'd think his job was safe. However, Carrozzi shares netminding duties with one of the top young goaltenders in the OHL, J.P. Anderson. Due to some unspectacular play towards the later part of 2008-09, Anderson began slowly take over the starter's job. After Carrozzi faltered in the playoffs, Anderson took over and promptly put in one of the best performances of the 2009 playoffs. This season, the two goaltenders are likely headed for a platoon situation, at least to start. However, Carrozzi has more to lose here. Should he continue to be outplayed by Anderson, his starts will slowly diminish and with it Atlanta's interest in him. Perhaps best for him would be a trade to another team with goaltending insecurities. That being said, if Carrozzi can step up his game and go toe to toe with Anderson, forcing a true, earned platoon situation, he's likely to impress Atlanta scouts enough to get a contract offer.

4. A.J. Jenks - Plymouth Whalers
Drafted by: Florida, 100th
Jenks failed to take a step forward this past season in Plymouth. The big two way forward failed to match the offensive numbers he put up in his draft year and was especially disappointing in the playoffs where he failed to provide the secondary scoring the Whalers needed to advance. His skating still remains an issue, as does his consistent offensive production. That being said, Plymouth is undergoing a bit of an offensive retooling, and it's possible he could find himself on the top offensive line with Tyler Seguin and Ryan Hayes. This will be his chance to show Florida that he has offensive abilities and can take that next step forward.

3. Mitch Gaulton - Erie Otters
Drafted by: New York Rangers, 171st
Gaulton's inclusion on this list is not to do with performance, but injury. Gaulton has played only 42 games in the past 2 seasons due to a dislocated elbow and subsequent Tommy John surgery to repair the ligaments. This former 4th overall pick in the OHL Priority Draft needs to have an injury free season very badly. From all reports, he's completely healthy now and is ready to help lead Erie's defence corps. While he has lost precious development time, Gaulton remains a very talented kid. As long as he stays healthy, I think we could see a big season from him and accordingly a contract offer from the Rangers.

2. Jared Staal - Sudbury Wolves
Drafted by: Phoenix, 49th
I'm not sure why I include Staal on this list because I'm fairly certain he'll still get a contract from Phoenix. The question remains, will he earn it, or will it be given because he's a Staal and the Coyotes are banking on some form of a late bloomer. This past season in Sudbury he took no steps forward, failing to meet his goal production from 2007-08. He still fails to use his size to his advantage, he still needs work on his skating and it's beginning to look less and less likely that he's an NHL quality prospect. This year in Sudbury, bigger things are expected of him and the team.

1. Tyler Beskorowany - Owen Sound Attack
Drafted by: Dallas, 59th
After a quietly effective performance during the 2007-08 season, the Stars made Beskorowany their 2nd round selection. The tall and lanky netminder shows a lot of potential, but at the same time had a disappointing 2008-09 season. He started the year at the team's number one netminder, but as the year went along, his inconsistencies cost him playing time to the improving Scott Stajcer. So much so, that Stajcer was the team's starting netminder in the 2009 playoffs. Now it's likely that Beskorowany will be traded in order to get more playing time. He's going to need to step up huge for whatever team he eventually plays for, in order to not turn into the next Josh Unice (who went unsigned this year from the 2007 draft). Ironically, one possible destination for Beskorowany could see him as Unice's replacement in Windsor.

My Thoughts on Belleville from December 18

Last night, the Belleville Bulls defeated the Niagara Ice Dogs 3-2 at home in Belleville. It was a high paced game that saw many scoring chances for each team. The Bulls managed to cling to a third period lead thanks to the remarkable goaltending of Mike Murphy, who made several highlight reel saves en route to preserving the lead and the win.

Again, oddly enough, Ryan was recently able to see Belleville, so one can make comparisons between what we saw.

Bjorn Krupp - NHL Draft Eligible in 2009

I've yet to be impressed with Krupp this season. He was probably at the worst I've seen him tonight. At least in the other times that I had seen him this season, he wasn't impressive because he was invisible. He was unimpressive tonight because he stuck out for the wrong reasons. Had two absolutely terrible giveaways infront of the Belleville net. One where he tried to make a pass from behind the net, but the pass was intercepted. The other where he tried to skate the puck out from behind his net and was driven off the puck by a forechecker. Luckily for him, neither time could Niagara capitalize. A lot of his trouble seems to be stemming from this inability to handle the puck. It's almost as if his confidence in doing so is low and he's making things too difficult for himself. On the plus side, he did make one nice defensive play on a one on one rush where a Niagara forward tried to drive around him, but was rubbed off the puck. In a sense, Krupp showed there why he is at least getting attention from NHL scouts (other than his last name). But in the end, his overall lack of many redeeming playing qualities should severely hold back his draft position. At least if I were drafting, and from the sounds of things Ryan as well, I wouldn't touch him with a ten foot pole.

Cory Tanaka - Overager and NHL free agent

I think Cory Tanaka is going to get an NHL contract and I'm going to tell you why. He's a tireless forechecker, he's a great skater, he's strong on and off the puck despite his size disadvantage, and he's one of the best penalty killing forwards in the OHL, if not the best. His offensive skills aren't incredible, which is why he doesn't hit the scoresheet that often. But the other intangibles he brings, screams capable 4th liner/depth player. Every NHL team needs guys like Tanaka just as much as they need players who can score. He was all over the ice tonight, scored a goal, and was wearing the C in Eric Tangradi's absence.

Shawn Lalonde - Drafted by Chicago in 2008/68th

Lalonde was great tonight. He generally plays a more reserved game when paired with partner P.K. Subban, so it was great to see him taking more responsibility on offense. He scored on a beautiful end to end rush where he went through the entire Ice Dogs team and roofed it top corner on goaltender Mark Visentin. On this rush, he showed that extra gear and skating ability that he possesses. Defensively, he was rock solid too. He made a couple really nice plays to break up scoring chances, in particular using an active stick to break up a partial 2 on 1. Just a really smart player who I have no doubts will be an NHL'er in some capacity.

Stephen Johnston - Drafted by Detroit in 2008/181st

Despite the fact that he was a team leading -2 on the night and did not hit the scoresheet, he actually played a pretty solid game. Definitely one of the best skaters on the ice, and looks great on the big ice in Belleville. Attempted to drive to the net a few times using his speed on the outside, but ended up getting pushed off the puck. I think his strength is currently holding him back from being more involved on a consistent basis. I think he's still a really raw player who's only using his speed to try and generate offense as of now. But as he gets stronger and plays a larger role on the team, I think we'll see those offensive numbers climb because he has skill and he's not afraid to get his nose dirty.

Luke Judson - NHL Draft Eligible in 2009

I had never really noticed this guy before when seeing Belleville, but I thought he looked great on a line with Stephen Johnston. He matched Johnston's speed step for step, but was more successful in using his body to prevent defenders from getting to the puck. He was also aggressive on the forecheck and took the body a few times. Considering he's not getting a lot of playing time right now on a deep Belleville team, is he another diamond in the rough for Belleville? He certainly looked like a legit NHL draft prospect tonight.

Nick Palmieri - Drafted by New Jersey in 2007/79th

Is really excelling since the trade from Erie and is averaging a point per game for the first time in his OHL career. He was outstanding tonight, the best player on the ice for either team. Strength wise, and in the corners, he was a man among boys. I can't remember one time where he didn't come out from a battle in the corner with the puck on his stick. The most impressive thing about his game is how good a skater he is for a big man. When he gets going, there is almost no stopping him from getting to the net, at least at this level. In Erie, I never saw him use his size to his advantage as much as he did tonight, which has to be very promising to the Devils. His great play ended up paying off as he scored the eventual game winner on the powerplay off a nice one timer set up by Stephen Silas.

Andy Bathgate - NHL Draft Eligible in 2009

Bathgate was pretty good tonight. Showed a lot of hustle and was skating hard. He forechecked well and even forced a turnover on one occasion that lead to a scoring chance. He did a good job centering a line with Mashinter for most of the night and was able to play the cycling game that he likes to play. I'm not sure that I'd be using an NHL draft pick on him just yet, but I think he's a guy to pay attention to while Tangradi is away at the WJC's to see if he can step up his offensive production.

Bryan Cameron - Drafted by Los Angeles in 2007/82nd

I'm a big fan of Cameron's. And while he didn't have the greatest of games, he was still a factor. I think the thing that sticks out most for Cameron is his intelligence on the ice. He's a very slippery player who seems to always find himself in a position for a scoring chance in front of the net. It's almost like the puck and his stick are magnetically attracted to each other within 5 feet of the crease. He does a little bit of everything too, really solid all around player. He cycles well, he'll go to the net hard, and he's also pretty good defensively, as evidence by the fact that he was on the ice with 30 seconds left to help preserve the lead. I don't think he's ever going to be an NHL star, but I think he's going to find himself as a very useful secondary player who can be a consistent 20 goal scorer. Kind of reminds me a little bit of Andrew Brunette.

Stephen Silas - NHL Draft Eligible in 2010

Silas looked great tonight for a 2010 eligible defenseman. There is no wonder why he was named to the Ontario Under 17 team. He looked great at rushing the puck up the ice showcasing good skating ability. He also played the first powerplay unit with Shawn Lalonde and help set up the winning goal by Palmieri with a beauty pass right on the tape. Defensively, he didn't look out of place at all. He made smart decisions with the puck and wasn't getting outmuscled in the corners. He even made a great play on a rushing Chris DeSousa, using his stick and then his body to separate DeSousa from the puck, which is no easy feat. I think this guy is legit first round talent for 2010. For my money, he looked more comfortable than Erik Gudbranson in Kingston, although I'm not sure he's as good of an NHL prospect.

Matthew Tipoff - NHL Draft Eligible in 2009

A late 1989 birthday, Tipoff has benefited greatly from this because he's been able to breakout offensively in his draft year. He looked very solid tonight. Was all over the ice, buzzing around and waiting for something to happen. He worked the cycle effectively and continuously found the front of the net waiting for a scoring chance. Even though he didn't hit the scoresheet, I've seen him do that earlier this season, so I know he can score. It's hard to gauge where he falls come draft day because of the fact that he's a late 89, but I'd harbor a guess and say he's at least an NHL mid rounder.

Brandon Mashinter - Overager and NHL free agent

Mashinter played in his first game after coming over in a trade from Kitchener that saw Tyler Randell leave the Bulls for the Rangers. Mashinter is a really big body who's been able to produce offensively this season. He drives hard to the net and is nearly impossible to separate from the puck in the corners. Thus he is an extremely effective player in the cycle and is ultimately a great addition by Bulls management. His skating is mediocore, but for the type of game he plays, I'm not sure it needs to be any better. As far as earning an NHL contract, I've seen less players get one, so I wouldn't be surprised if he did too.

Mike Murphy - Drafted in 2008 by Carolina/165th

What else can you say about Mike Murphy. It's funny because for the first two periods, he definitely wasn't having his best game. He was really fighting the puck and giving up some bad rebounds and looking awkward on a few other saves. But just when you think he's having an off game, he steals the show in the third period. To me, this is the mark that makes Murphy the best goaltender in the OHL. Belleville was badly outplayed in the last 10 minute of the game, but Murphy shut the door, including an absolute highlight reel save on Chris DeSousa with 7 seconds left. DeSousa was left all alone infront of the net, but couldn't beat Murphy who sprawled to make the save. I hear a lot of people criticize Murphy for his uncharacteristic style. Or should I say, his lack of conventional goaltending mechanics. But the bottom line is this, the guy can stop the puck. I also hear a lot of people say that he's lucky because he finds himself out of position a lot. But, someone can only be lucky so long before you have to start thinking they are good. The fact that Murphy makes so many of these highlight reel saves is a testament to his athleticism and his ability to read plays. Yes, before he gets to the next level, he's going to have to work on some things. He's going to have to not go down so early, and he's got to do a better job of controlling his rebounds. But I ask you this, what junior aged goaltender doesn't have something they need to work on? I then follow it up with the following question, how many of those goalies have the natural athletic ability of Murphy? If anything, I think this guy is only going to get better when a goaltending coach can really get him to fine tune some things. But what do I know?

Ryan Yessie's Thoughts on Belleville from December 13

Ryan Yessie was able to attend the Bulls vs. the Sting last Saturday. Sarnia returned the favour on Belleville from last month. Belleville got out to a quick 2-0 lead before Sarnia scored 4 unanswered goals to defeat the East leading Bulls 4-2. Belleville ran out of gas by the middle of the second after playing 3 games in 3 nights.

Here are Ryan's thoughts on the Bulls...

Bjorn Krupp - YOB: 1991 - 6’2” - 190 lbs. NHL: Eligible in 2009
Report: Dec/13/08: I have heard the good and the bad about Krupp, and I was able to see him first hand. He really didn’t impress me, he had good positioning defensively, and played his own zone very well, but no skating, puck movement or offensive abilities to really speak of. However between the good reports, and his last name he should hear his name called sometime in the late rounds of 2009. But keep in mind Uwe Krupp went late in the draft and went a few years before his name became known, so this may be the same for Bjorn as he really showed no glaring weaknesses.

Shawn Lalonde - YOB: 1990 - 6’1” - 190 lbs. NHL: 3rd Round - 68th Overall by Chicago in 2008
Report: Dec/13/08: Lalonde played fairly well he displayed some speed and ability to rush the puck on occasion. Lalonde was very good with his positioning, and what really surprised me was his big shot from the point. Lalonde doesn’t look like anything special out there, but at the same time if he continues his course, he could one day be a #5 defenceman that can help out in the mould of Mike Van Ryn without quite the natural talent Van Ryn entered the league with, or as much physicality, but you can tell Lalonde has put on some muscle since last year. (Lalonde had 4 PIM)

Stephen Johnston - YOB: 1990 - 6’1” - 185 lbs. NHL: 6th Round - 181st Overall by Detroit in 2008
Report: Dec/13/08: I’ll be honest I didn’t know what the hell the Red Wings were thinking drafting this guy, he didn’t look like anything special and he didn’t contribute much offensively. However the Red Wings have earned the right to draft questionable players, because they always seem to pan out. Johnston is starting to show why the Red Wings were so adamant about selecting him. He displayed great speed, possibly the fastest skater on Belleville on this night. His key to success seems to be the way he glides down the ice, he has effortless looking strides but travels so fast. He was effective in all 3 zones. He also distributed the puck very well throughout the game, especially early setting up Tyler Randell twice. (Johnston had 2A, 2 PIM)

Tyler Randell - YOB: 1991 - 6’1” - 195 lbs. NHL: Eligible in 2009
Report: Dec/13/08: Randell looked fairly impressive, he drove to the net, and made scoring chances happen, and they happened for him on this night. Two goals before the game was even 8 minutes in. Randell showed great patience on the first goal outwaiting the veteran Spence and had an open cage to put it into in the end, the second goal he just ripped a wrist shot past the net minder. If it wasn’t for a great save Randell would have had a hat-trick. He plays with an edge at times but that seems to get him into penalty trouble sometimes. His size and speed don’t exactly stand out, but he shows a willingness to drive to the net, and at 17 the way he plays he could turn into a project that pays off in the end for some team out there. (Randell had 2 G)

Nick Palmieri - YOB: 1989 - 6’2” - 215 lbs. NHL: 3rd Round - 79th Overall by New Jersey in 2007
Report: Dec/13/08: What can i say, this guy looks like a real NHL prospect. Considering his size I haven’t seen a big man skate like that since Anthony Stewart when he was with Kingston. To some Anthony Stewart might be a somewhat mediocre name to compare him to, but those who saw Stewart play in Kingston would know why I’m making this comparison. This was one of those games where stats didn’t tell the whole story. He drove to the net hard, protected the puck impressively well, and was willing to move the puck appropriately to set up the right play. He was reading and anticipating the play very well. He used his body more than I’ve ever seen him, and he certainly played bigger than his already imposing size. I liked the way Palmieri played and I seriously believe if he can continue to improve his game the way he has he could turn into a 2nd line power forward.

Matthew Tipoff - YOB: 1990 - 5’11” - 180 lbs NHL: Eligible in 2009
Report: Dec/13/08: Like Stephen Johnston; Tipoff went under most teams radar last year and didn’t produce too much. He as well could have landed a late round pick, however his birthdate was in October which left his first draft eligible year to be 2009. Tipoff played great, he showed off some solid skating abilities, always had his stick in the passing lanes, and played with a very high amount of energy throughout the game and was continuously a nuisance to whoever had the puck for the Sting when he was on the ice. He doesn’t have a great deal of positioning as he was noticeable because he was flying around the ice and didn’t stop moving his feet. I was impressed with this considering they played 3 games in 3 nights, and Belleville was not at their highest level tonight. Tipoff moved the puck well, and looks like a legitimate mid round prospect that may be worth taking a chance on. (Tipoff had 1A)

Philip Grubauer - YOB: 1991 - 6’0” - 165 lbs. NHL: Eligible in 2010
Report: Dec/13/08: With a late birthdate Grubauer won’t be eligible till next year, but with the way Mike Murphy is playing I was fortunate enough to see him play as he has only played 3 games in the past month. He played his best game in over a month, but still let in a soft goal. He looks like he may have some potential but it’s hard to tell as he did have a tired team in front of him, but makes you appreciate even more what Murphy has done on a nightly basis. Grubauer played fairly well positionally, but his biggest weakness seemed to be when players were driving or crashing the net, he appeared to become very nervous and that was the result of two of the three goals allowed. He needs to focus on the shooter first and not be distracted by whats going on around him if he wants to turn into a legitimate prospect. (Grubauer stopped 31 of 34 shots)