Hi All,
I have had a few requests as the freewebs.com server has gone down and people have been emailing me to get it to them. So I will post it here.
Cup’s 2007 NHL Entry Draft Guide
By Dan Stewart
Contents:
•The Top 120 Prospect List.
•Profiles and full scouting reports on the top 60 prospects plus small write-ups on another 30 prospects available in the 2007 NHL entry draft.
•Sleepers and possible late round gems.
•A first round mock draft of who I expect the NHL teams to pick and what my reasons for this selection based on team need and other intangibles.
•Top prospects for the 2008 NHL Entry Draft.
•A Look Back…
The Top 120.
1. Patrick Kane, RW, London (OHL)
2. Kyle Turris, C, Burnaby (BCHL)
3. Alexei Cherepanov, RW, Omsk (Russia)
4. Jakub Voracek, RW, Halifax (QMJHL)
5. James vanRiemsdyk, LW, U.S. National U-18
6. Sam Gagner, C, London (OHL)
7. Karl Alzner, D, Calgary (WHL)
8. Logan Couture, C, Ottawa (OHL)
9. Keaton Ellerby, D, Kamloops (WHL)
10. Angelo Esposito, C, Quebec (QMJHL)
11. Ryan McDonagh, D, Cretin-Derham High (Minn.) (U.S. high school)
12. Zach Hamill, C, Everett (WHL)
13. Kevin Shattenkirk, D, U.S. National U-18
14. Colby Cohen, D, Lincoln (USHL)
15. Nicholas Petrecki, D, Omaha (USHL)
16. Jonathon Blum, D, Vancouver (WHL)
17. Mikael Backlund, C, Vasteras (Sweden-2)
18. Oscar Moller, W, Chilliwack (WHL)
19. Joakim Andersson, C, Frolunda Jr. (Sweden Jr.)
20. Brandon Sutter, C/RW, Red Deer (WHL)
21. T.J Brennan, D, St. John's (QMJHL)
22. Max Pacioretty, LW, Sioux City (USHL)
23. Simon Hjalmarsson, C/W, Frolunda Jr. (Sweden Jr.)
24. Brett Maclean, LW, Oshawa (OHL)
25. Bill Sweatt, LW, Colorado College (WCHA)
26. Lars Eller, W, Frolunda Jr. (Sweden Jr.)
27. Nick Ross, D, Regina (WHL)
28. Tyson Sexsmith, G, Vancouver (WHL)
29. Maxim Mayorov, W, Leninogorsk (Russia-2)
30. Ian Cole, D, U.S. National U-18
31. James O'Brien, C, U. of Minnesota (WCHA)
32. David Perron, W, Lewiston (QMJHL)
33. Zack Torquato, C, Erie (OHL)
34. Thomas Hickey, D, Seattle (WHL)
35. Jeremy Smith, G, Plymouth (OHL)
36. Patrick White, C, Grand Rapids High (Minn.) (U.S. high school)
37. Alex Plante, D, Calgary (WHL)
38. Colton Gillies, C, Saskatoon (WHL)
39. Logan Macmillan, C, Halifax (QMJHL)
40. Stefan Legein, RW, Mississauga (OHL)
41. Kevin Marshall, D, Lewiston (QMJHL)
42. Nick Palmieri, RW, Erie (OHL)
43. Trevor Cann, G, Peterborough (OHL)
44. Mark Katic, D, Sarnia (OHL)
45. Dana Tyrell, C/RW, Prince George (WHL)
46. John Negrin, D, Kootenay (WHL)
47. Nick Spaling, C, Kitchener (OHL)
48. Ted Ruth, D, U.S. National U-18
49. Tommy Cross, D, Westminster School (Conn.) (U.S. high school)
50. Keven Veilleux, C, Victoriaville (QMJHL)
51. Josh Kidd, D, Erie (OHL)
52. Akim Aliu, C/RW, Sudbury (OHL)
53. Linden Rowat, G, Regina (WHL)
54. Maxim Gratchev, LW, Rimouski (QMJHL)
55. Antoine Lafleur, G, P.E.I. (QMJHL)
56. T.J. Galiardi, W, Dartmouth (ECAC)
57. Eric Doyle, D, Everett (WHL)
58. Casey Pierro-Zabotel, W, Merritt (BCHL)
59. Vladimir Ruzicka, C, Slavia (Czech Rep.)
60. Mark Owuya, G, Djurgarden Jr. (Sweden Jr.)
61. Ruslan Bashkirov, LW, Quebec (QMJHL)
62. Taylor Ellington, D, Everett (WHL)
63. Juraj Valach, D, Tri-City (WHL)
64. Jesse Jyrkkio, D, Assat Jr. (Finland Jr.)
65. Mike Hoeffel, W, U.S. National U-18
66. Denis Reul, D, Heilbronn (Germany-3)
67. Michael Biega, LW, Salisbury High (Conn.) (U.S. High School)
68. Luca
i, C, Dubendorf (Swiss-3)
69. Egor Averin, LW, Omsk (Russia)
70. Maxime Tanguay, C, Rimouski (QMJHL)
71. Joel Gistedt, G, Frolunda (Sweden )
72. Jens Hellgren, D, Frolunda Jr. (Sweden Jr.)
73. Drayson Bowman, C/LW, Spokane (WHL)
74. Niklas Lucenius , C, Tappara Jr. (Finland Jr.)
75. Evgeni Dadonov, RW, Chelyabinsk (Russia)
76. Maxim Goncharov, D, CSKA 2 (Russia-3)
77. Kent Patterson, G, Cedar Rapids (USHL)
78. Sergei Korostin, RW, Dynamo Moscow (Russia)
79. Alex Grant, D, Saint John (QMJHL)
80. Marek Benda, G, Karlovy Vary Jr. (Czech Jr.)
81. Olivier Fortier, C, Rimouski (QMJHL)
82. Nick Larson, C, Hill-Murray School (Minn.) (U.S. high school)
83. David Stich, D, Saint John (QMJHL)
84. Aaron Palushaj, RW, Des Moines (USHL)
85. Niklas Torp, D, HV 71 Jr. (Sweden Jr.)
86. Nikolai Lukyanchikov, D, Stupino (Russia-2)
87. Riley Nash, C, Salmon Arm (BCHL)
88. Joseph Lavin, D, U.S. National U-18
89. Michal Repik, RW, Vancouver (WHL)
90. Dale Mitchell, RW, Oshawa (OHL)
91. Dion Knelson, C, U of Alaska (CCHA)
92. Brad Malone, W, Sioux Falls (USHL)
93. David Skokan, C, Rimouski (QMJHL)
94. Nico Sacchetti, C, Virginia High (Minn.) (U.S. high school)
95. Alexander Vasiliev, LW, Dynamo Moscow 2 (Russia-3)
96. Bryan Cameron, C, Belleville (OHL)
97. Justin McCrae, C, Saskatoon (WHL)
98. Drew Leblanc, W, Hermantown High (Minn.) (U.S. high school)
99. Spencer Machacek, RW, Vancouver (WHL)
100. Yakov Seleznev, D, Leninogorsk (Russia-2)
101. Craig Smith, C, Waterloo (USHL)
102. Brad Phillips, G, U.S. National U-18
103. Jean-Simon Allard, C, St. John's (QMJHL)
104. Ben Ryan, C, Des Moines (USHL)
105. Simon Lacroix, D, Shawinigan (QMJHL)
106. Yannick Weber, D, Kitchener (OHL)
107. Christopher Didomenico, C, Saint John (QMJHL)
108. Fredrik Andersson, W, Sodertalje (Sweden-2)
109. Joshua Turnbull, C, Waterloo (USHL)
110. Dwight King, C/LW, Lethbridge (WHL)
111. Kurtis Mucha, Portland (WHL)
112. Blake Kessel, D, Waterloo (USHL)
113. Radim Ostrcil, D, Vsetin (Czech Rep.)
114. Harri Ilvonen, D, Tappara Jr. (Finland Jr.)
115. Vitali Karamnov, C, Dynamo Moscow (Russia)
116. Juraj Mikus, D, Trencin (Slovakia)
117. John Murray, G, Kitchener (OHL)
118. Jason Gregoire,W, Lincoln (USHL)
119. Artem Dubinin, D, Togliatti 2 (Russia-3)
120. Lassi Kokkala, C, TPS Jr. (Finland Jr.)
Draft Prospects Profiles
1. Patrick Kane
Position: Winger
Shoots: Left
Date of Birth: November 19, 1988
Height: 5’-9â€
Weight: 162 LBS
06-07 League: OHL
06-07 Team: London
Stats: 58 GP 62 G 83 A 145 PTS
Strengths: Possesses the best puck skills in the entire draft. As the overused but applicable saying goes, he can stickhandle in a phone booth. He plays with great drive and is always striving to be the very best. Pat is surprisingly hard to knock off the puck and possesses great balance. His skating is good and he has a water bug like quickness that helps him elude bigger checkers, Pat is equally able to set-up a play using ultra fine passing ability or finish off the play with his tremendous shot availability and hands down low. Despite being small in stature Pat protects the puck very well using his body and positioning.
Weakness: He is extremely confident in himself to the point of having an attitude of arrogance about him that will hopefully change with age, his size is the only other issue that Pat may have but I wouldn’t count on it holding him back or stopping an NHL team from grabbing him up in the top 3 of the draft. Needs to get stronger. His defensive play is spotty and inconsistent but if a team is looking for a defensive forward they wouldn’t be looking at Kane anyway, his game is pure offence.
NHL Potential: First line scoring winger.
Boom or Bust Potential: Medium Risk, As long as the crackdown on obstruction is upheld and Pat gets some weight on his frame, he is a sure thing.
Extra Notes: Patrick was to play NCAA hockey but because of unearned high school credits and wanting to stay closer to home (Buffalo, NY) he decided to join London of the OHL.
2. Kyle Turris
Position: Center
Shoots: Right
Date of Birth: August 14, 1989
Height: 6’-0.5â€
Weight: 170 LBS
06-07 League: BCHL
06-07 Team: Burnaby
Stats: 53 GP 66 G 55 A 121 PTS
Strengths: Turris is an excellent skater with blazing speed. Extremely poised and has great puck skills. His vision is unmatched in his draft class. He pulls off moves at top speeds that most would find difficult in their low gear. His passing skills are superb and can thread the needle with pin point accuracy while being under pressure. There is no panic in Kyle’s game. He already has an NHL caliber shot that he can get off in a hurry and is very accurate. Turris has great hockey sense and on ice vision which helps him to be a dynamic playmaker. He is not a vocal leader but people tend to follow him as he leads by example. Most complete player available.
Weakness: Already his speed is good but if he had just a bit better first step acceleration, he would be an all out great skater. Strength is the only other weakness Kyle needs to focus on, a summer in the weight room would alleviate a lot of this concern and would serve him well next year at the.
NHL Potential: Top line NHL center.
Boom or Bust Potential: Low Risk, Once he gets stronger he will be a solid scoring NHL center.
Extra Notes: He is one of the more grounded and humble kids available this June. Kyle has committed to the University of Wisconsin for next season.
3. Alexei Cherepanov
Position: Winger
Shoots: Left
Date of Birth: January 15, 1989
Height: 6’-1â€
Weight: 183 LBS
06-07 League: Russia
06-07 Team: OMSK
Stats: 46 GP 18 G 11 A 29 PTS
Strengths: Alexei has explosive acceleration and is a deceptively fast skater, Always thinking offence and looking for a loose puck or rebound to fire home, Has a real nose for the net and has a wide array of excellent shots to use, not afraid to go into traffic to get a scoring chance or drive to the net for that rebound or shot, one of this drafts best finishers, possesses exceptional hands and can make a defender look silly with a nice move while at full stride, on ice vision is great and he does not cower from physical play as a lot of young skilled Russians often do, hockey sense is strong and work rate is above average for his age group.
Weakness: Like a lot of young offensive wizards his age, the only real time he sees his own zone is when he goes back to congratulate his goalie on the win, he needs to back check on a consistent basis and learn to read when to make the safe play and not gamble. Holds the puck a little more than he should trying to make plays that sometimes just are not there, needs to try and use his teammates better. Strength is one area he could improve but overall Alexei is almost NHL ready now.
NHL Potential: First Line NHL Goal Scoring Winger.
Boom or Bust Potential: Med risk, High reward. Could be the grand slam pick of the draft or another highly skilled Russian that is unwilling to put the effort in.
Extra Notes: Cherepanov was nominated as best forward at the WJC and has broken rookie scoring record in the Russian League this year previously held by Pavel Bure.
4. Jakub Voracek
Position: Winger
Shoots: Left
Date of Birth: August 15, 1989
Height: 6’-2â€
Weight: 188 LBS
06-07 League: QMJHL
06-07 Team: Halifax
Stats: 59 GP 23 G 63 A 86 PTS
Strengths: Jakub possesses a great winning attitude, always upbeat and optimistic, Voracek is a very coachable player, unselfish and well liked by teammates, who will do what needs to be done for the overall good of the team. Very determined and hard working both in game and in practice he has a good skating stride and can get to where he needs to be, has good speed and can skate around the defender to create a scoring chance. Protects the puck well in traffic and along the boards, has a goal scorers shot but also is a very effective passer, playmaker. Doesn’t look for rough and tough play but thrives in it and can make you play buy scoring a goal or setting one up rather than fighting or taking a bad penalty. He has the hockey sense to know when to jump back and support his defenseman with an outlet. A big game pressure player and very good overall package.
Weakness: Upper body strength and acceleration are his only real blemishes. The big Czech can at times got into spells where he looks to set up teammates to a fault when he should be shooting. He doesn’t have that many weaknesses in his game to speak of.
NHL Potential: First line, playmaking winger.
Boom or Bust Potential: Low Risk, Medium Reward. I see a very good playmaking forward who will battle for pucks.
Extra Notes: Jakub still has a hard time with the English language needing help with many day to day words but that has not held him back from adjusting well to his new life here in NA.
5. James van Riemsdyk
Position: Winger
Shoots: Left
Date of Birth: May 4, 1989
Height: 6’-3â€
Weight: 200 LBS
06-07 League: United States Development Program
06-07 Team: U.S. National U-18
Stats: 42 GP 33 G 30 A 63 PTS
Strengths: JVR possesses a strong, long skating stride, very athletic, strong on the puck in high traffic areas protecting the puck well with his body and/or outside leg along the boards, has great balance, very mobile for a big kid, possesses a hard accurate shot that is NHL ready now, can play a dominant physical game, great size and strength, plays a solid north south game, is not afraid to get his nose dirty, drives to the net, sometimes tries to go through defenders with his size, very coach able, James has decent hands and a good selection of hard accurate shots, very determined and hard working. Underrated playmaking skills finish off this impressive package.
Weakness: Consistency, it will come as he matures and his game develops, his conditioning needs improvement, can look lost on the ice in his own end on some occasions, should continue to work on defensive positioning even though he does put forth an effort already, will need to fill out his frame as he will be expected to play a physical game at the next level.
NHL Potential: Top Six, Skilled Power Forward.
Boom or Bust Potential: Low Risk, should play in the NHL on a scoring line in a couple years. If he doesn’t make it as a skilled PF his skating and size alone would make him a very good checking line winger.
Extra Notes: Committed to play for the University of New Hampshire. JVR also has good taste in music as he lists John Mayer as one of his favorite musicians.
6. Sam Gagner
Position: Center
Shoots: Right
Date of Birth: August 10, 1989
Height: 5’-11â€
Weight: 190 LBS
06-07 League: OHL
06-07 Team: London
Stats: 53 GP 35 G 83 A 118 PTS
Strengths: Gagner is blessed with great hockey sense and vision, his work ethic is strong, a real leader who is potential NHL captain material, he has a great overall attitude. Plays the game with a fire and intensity that is contagious to his teammates. Excellent puck handling skills and excels at finding the open man with a tape to tape pass. He can really dangle with the puck at high speeds. Sam has an underrated shot that he doesn’t use as much as he should. Gagner may not win many fastest skater contests but he has a quickness about him that serves him well in the OHL and will continue at the next level. Sam is very mature for his age and has a lot of character.
Weakness: Size, but with the new rules and open game no team will be hesitant to select him in the top 10 next June. He excels on the PP but needs to work on five on five play and getting those ugly goal scoring chances, Sam also possesses just adequate skating and strength that will keep him in the CHL for another year or two. He needs to build up his leg and core muscles this summer as weak leg strength will hold back his skating.
NHL Potential: Top six NHL center.
Boom or Bust Potential: Low Risk, Once he gets stronger he will be a solid two-way NHL threat.
Extra Notes: Sam is the son of former NHL’er Dave Gagner. Additionally, Dave is now Sam’s assistant coach with the London Knights of the Ontario Hockey League after the Hunters hired him on this year.
7. Karl Alzner
Position: Defense
Shoots: Left
Date of Birth: September 24, 1988
Height: 6’-2â€
Weight: 209 LBS
06-07 League: WHL
06-07 Team: Calgary
Stats: 63 GP 8 G 39 A 47 PTS
Strengths: Plays a very dependable mistake free game from the backend. This above average skater likes to make the safe play and not gamble with too many offensive rushes. His balance and strength along the boards are assets. Karl is a leader who takes charge of in game situations and can also chip in offensively with a good hard point shot and his able passing skills. He is a workhorse, a very consistent prospect who never takes a game or practice off. His defensive stick work is amazing for a young defender. He is a nice heady calm defender.
Weakness: I would love to see him use his large frame and play a little more of a physical game. Not a lot to pick from with regards to weaknesses, maybe just that he does have limited offensive upside (by his own defense first choosing) and he will never be a big, hard hitting defender who makes opposing forwards keep their heads up.
NHL Potential: A very dependable top four defensive defender, playing 28 -30 minutes a night and on the PK.
Boom or Bust Potential: Low risk, Medium reward. Karl should be ready for his first NHL shift maybe next season, but certainly by 08-09.
Extra Note: A very impressive feat for a young 18 year old Alzner is that he was chosen to play for Canada on a deep defensive core in a WJC tournament usually dominated by 19 and 20 year old players.
8. Logan Couture
Position: Center
Shoots: Left
Date of Birth: March 28, 1989
Height: 6’-0â€
Weight: 188 LBS
06-07 League: OHL
06-07 Team: Ottawa
Stats: 54 GP 26 G 52 A 78 PTS
Strengths: He possesses a very complete game. His game is full of grit and determination as well as loads of skill. His passing is top notch and his ability to read the play is excellent. Logan is a playmaker but he can also finish with his hard, accurate wrist shot. He is in the play wherever it goes, offensive zone or defensive zone. Logan is a complete player who prides himself on team success rather than his stats or awards. Couture drives to the net and does not shy away from physical play. Logan has leadership qualities that could make him a potential NHL captain one day.
Weakness: Durability is a valid concern because Logan missed so much time this year and never really got on track once he did come back. His skating could use work as he does not possess a very good overall stride and his first step acceleration is below par.
NHL Potential: First line do it all NHL center.
Boom or Bust Potential: Low risk, med/high reward. Logan will eventually be an NHL’er, if he is going to be a star it is really up to him as he possesses a lot of the tools needed already.
Extra Note: If it weren’t for the multiple set backs with injuries and illnesses he sustained this season, Logan might have cracked the top 5.
9. Keaton Ellerby
Position: Defense
Shoots: Left
Date of Birth: November 5, 1988
Height: 6’-3.5â€
Weight: 194 LBS
06-07 League: WHL
06-07 Team: Kamloops
Stats: 69 GP 2 G 23 A 25 PTS
Strengths: Ellerby plays a very mobile defensive style, he stays with the attacking forward and uses his size well to contain. He can play a very effective game when he keeps it simple. His positioning is good. His outlet passes are usually accurate and he rarely gives the puck away by way of the errant pass. Ellerby is at his best when he plays a physical brand of hockey. He has been known to drop the gloves and can handle himself well in those situations. He is a good team guy and a hard worker. Possesses good defensive instincts. His skating is great for a kid his size. He looks good rushing the puck out of his zone.
Weakness: He is still growing and needs to add muscle to his thin frame. Needs to work on his point shot. Knowing when to jump into offensive play or when to hang back needs work. I am not expecting him to be a consistent offensive threat at the next level although his confidence and offensive game have grown in the second half of the season. Still a very raw prospect.
NHL Potential: Top 4 physical defender with some offensive potential.
Boom or Bust Potential: Medium Risk, Ellerby does possess some offensive potential but it is far from a sure thing that he will put up a lot of points in the NHL.
Extra Notes: Ellerby was never drafted as a bantam player as he was an undersized defender in his draft year. It wasn’t until after 5-6 inch growth spurt over the following summer that he started attracted interest.
10. Angelo Esposito
Position: Center
Shoots: Left
Date of Birth: February 20, 1989
Height: 6’-1â€
Weight: 180 LBS
06-07 League: QMJHL
06-07 Team: Quebec
Stats: 60 GP 27 G 52 A 79 PTS
Strengths: Excellent skating stride, great first step acceleration, very fast, nice vision, good hands in traffic, great shot, can play a physical game but does not on a consistent enough basis, good size and strength, plays a solid two way game and is not apposed to back checking. Has a great driving stride when taking the puck to the net. Works hard in training and preparation. Makes those around him better. Angelo possesses the best overall potential package in the draft
Weakness: Not always into the game and has trouble fighting through checks when he is the focal point. Immature and can get a pout on if things don’t go the way he wants or expects. Looks disinterested at times and needs to shake the big game flop tag that he has garnered.
NHL Potential: Top Six, Scoring Forward.
Boom or Bust Potential: High Risk, Highest Reward in the entire draft.
Extra Note: Has been given the lazy tag by a lot of scouts and fans alike. Was over hyped a few years ago and that overexposure is now catching up to him. In my opinion Angelo has all the tools needed to be an NHL Star but he has yet to figure that out for himself. Esposito has been compared to Alexander Daigle but again in my opinion he has better hockey sense than Daigle ever had.
11. Ryan McDonagh
Position: Defender
Shoots: Left
Date of Birth: June 13, 1989
Height: 6’-1â€
Weight: 200 LBS
06-07 League: USHS
06-07 Team: Cretin-Derham
Stats: 23 GP 10 G 23 A 33 PTS
Strengths: Ryan is an accomplished two way defender who possesses excellent vision and anticipation, his point shot is accurate as well as hard, outlet passes are accurate and well placed, he supports his defense partner well, can either dominate in his own end shutting down opposition or by jumping into the play to create an odd man rush, skating is above average and transitions well, his defensive awareness is a strength, he can and will play physical if play dictates so. Ryan is always willing to compete and has a take charge personality on the ice when needed. Ryan will surely be a dependable NHL defender after some NCAA seasoning.
Weakness: His overall conditioning, if he could add some upper body strength this summer it would help his adjustment to the Collage ranks immensely, it will be interesting to see how Ryan handles the jump playing against better competition next season.
NHL Potential: Top 4, two way dependable defender.
Boom or Bust Potential: Low/Med Risk, should develop into a good NHL regular.
Extra Note: Was the winner of the Mr. Hockey award. Ryan will attend Wisconsin in the fall.
12. Zach Hamill
Position: Center
Shoots: Right
Date of Birth: September 23, 1988
Height: 5’-11â€
Weight: 180 LBS
06-07 League: WHL
06-07 Team: Everett
Stats: 69 GP 32 G 61 A 93 PTS
Strengths: Zach has great hands and is one of the better passers/playmakers in the whole draft. His stick handling is breath taking. He is a hard working, passionate finesse type prospect. His vision is great and hockey sense is good but his main asset is his creativity with the puck. Some guys have it but most don’t and it is not something you can teach. His skating is good, not great but his hands are soft and he makes plays that have you jumping out of your chair. He can turn the tied of the game with one play, a game breaker.
Weakness: Foot speed and acceleration as well as strength concerns. A summer in the gym and with a power skating coach would help immensely. Consistency is another area Zack should focus on as he disappeared for long stretches during the season. Some attack his game because he is not a defensive player who back checks consistently but he just will never be a defensive guy.
NHL Potential: Top six playmaking center.
Boom or Bust Potential: Med risk, high reward. Zack could develop into a nice skilled NHL center down the line.
Extra Note: Zach holds the scoring record for the Silvertips franchise and also led the WHL in regular season scoring.
13. Kevin Shattenkirk
Position: Defender
Shoots: Right
Date of Birth: January 29, 1989
Height: 5’-11â€
Weight: 193 LBS
06-07 League: United States Development Program
06-07 Team: U.S. National U-18
Stats: 48 GP 12 G 22 A 33 PTS
Strengths: Kevin is a solid offensive defender who makes good heady passes and rarely leaves a teammate out to dry. He is blessed with great on ice vision and hockey sense and knows when to join the rush. Kevin also has a lot of determination and great leadership abilities. He is a real team first guy. His point shot is accurate and hard and he knows when to pinch and when to fall back and play strong positional defense.
Weakness: Foot speed and acceleration are two areas where he needs to get better. His conditioning as well as his overall strength are two more areas he could improve upon. Being mildly undersized is another small concern but he should grow to be over 6’ and have a playing weight around 210 LBS.
NHL Potential: Top 4 offensive defender.
Boom or Bust Potential: Med risk, Medium reward. Kevin will be an offensive defender who plays pro hockey, that is a fact. If he plays in the NHL, AHL or Europe is the question that needs to be answered.
Extra Note: Kevin lists the New York Rangers as his favorite hockey team. He is committed to Boston University.
14. Colby Cohen
Position: Defender
Shoots: Right
Date of Birth: April 25, 1989
Height: 6’-2â€
Weight: 200 LBS
06-07 League: USHL
06-07 Team: Lincoln
Stats: 53 GP 13 G 47 A 60 PTS
Strengths: He is blessed with good mobility and skating but his real strength is in his phenomenal offensive instincts. His size is a real blessing as this draft is full of solid offensive defenders but they are all undersized by NHL standards. This alone could make him a hot commodity and get him drafted first round when most scouting services have him early mid second. His point shot is hard and accurate as well as his tape to tape passes. Plays physical by delivering checks as well as dropping the gloves when needed. This past season he dropped the mitts with Nicholas Petrecki and came out with the decision in my opinion.
Weakness: His defensive zone coverage needs a lot of work as he tends to overplay the puck and also not play with the urgency needed to be a solid defender. Work ethic may be a small concern as some times he looks like he gives up on defensive plays.
NHL Potential: Top 4 Offensive, physical defender.
Boom or Bust Potential: High Risk, High Reward. Cohen has the potential to be a big time steal with all the tools he possesses.
Extra Note: Colby started the year with the USNDP but had a falling out very early on and left the program to join Lincoln of the United States League.
15. Nicholas Petrecki
Position: Defender
Shoots: Left
Date of Birth: July 11, 1989
Height: 6’-3â€
Weight: 213 LBS
06-07 League: USHL
06-07 Team: Omaha
Stats: 54 GP 11 G 14 A 25 PTS
Strengths: An absolute monster on the ice, Nick plays with a mean nasty edge that few skilled prospects play with. He is extremely strong and at times looks like a man among boys. This mobile, hard working, physical defender has a nice skating stride that is strong. His defensive game is good as long as he plays a simple game and plays the body. He loves to get the big hit that turns the momentum of the game. Willing and able to drop the gloves when a need to arises. Has a decent first pass out of the zone. Very good leadership qualities and nice consistency for such a young defender.
Weakness: Limited offensive abilities and a knack for taking avoidable penalties at inopportune times and areas of the ice are a concern. Needs to work on his shot as it is very inaccurate. Lacks offensive hockey sense and may never put up points at the pro level. Prone to giving the puck away if he tries to get to fancy in the offensive zone.
NHL Potential: Top 6 physical defensive defender.
Boom or Bust Potential: Med Risk, med reward. Nick should be a steady defensive force and could potentially be ready within one year of NCAA primping as his skating and strength are already there.
Extra Note: The big two way defender will attend Boston College in the fall.
16. Jonathon Blum
Position: Defence
Shoots: Right
Date of Birth: January 30, 1989
Height: 6’-0â€
Weight: 163 LBS
06-07 League: WHL
06-07 Team: Vancouver
Stats: 72 GP 8 G 43 A 51 PTS
Strengths: A slick skater with above average speed and good lateral movement, his footwork is very good, Jon has a great offensive mind and shows his best stuff quarterbacking the PP, his defensive coverage is good and he has a lot of upside in the new NHL as a puck rushing defenseman, has the sense to know when it is safe to jump and when not to, elite passing skills compliment his offensive awareness, possesses forward’s hands and puck handling skills. Blum has loads of character and even though he has gone through some hardships in his young life, he is still a happy go lucky type with his heart in the right place.
Weakness: Reed thin frame and underdeveloped upper body are the main concern, will Jon be able to put on the 30 plus pounds of muscle he needs to be able to jump to the pros, another much smaller issue is he needs make his end be his primary concern even though his strength is obviously as an offensive defender.
NHL Potential: Top 6 offensive defender and PP quarterback.
Boom or Bust Potential: Medium Risk, he will be a very good offensive NHL defender if he can add the required weight.
Extra Notes: He was largely overshadowed this season on a very deep defense that featured Predator draft pick Cody Franson, Duck draft pick Brendan Mikkelson, Wild draft pick AJ Thelen, as well as WHL overage players Brett Festerling and Kyle Lamb, next year he should have a large season stats wise. When three or more of this years defense moves on.
17. Mikael Backlund
Position: Center
Shoots: Left
Date of Birth: March 17, 1989
Height: 6’-0â€
Weight: 194 LBS
06-07 League: Sweden 2
06-07 Team: Vasteras
Stats: 18 GP 1 G 2 A 3 PTS
Strengths: Great hockey sense and on ice vision are his best attributes. Backlund can do it all skill wise and is a very good skater blesses with great speed and soft hands that can dangle at that high speed. He can finish with a nice shot but his strength is as a playmaker that can set-up a winger with a nifty pass when it looks like there is no lane. Has the size to play in the NHL now and is a good faceoff man.
Weakness: Needs to be more consistent but that should come with age and maturity as well as needing to work on his defensive game. Mikael also has the injury prone tag that he must show is not valid.
NHL Potential: Top six playmaking center
Boom or Bust Potential: Med Risk, if he can prove to be healthy and stay that way he should be a productive NHL playmaking center.
Extra Note: Backlund has been a solid first round prospect all year but really cemented his position after a dominant U18 tournament, posting 6 goals in six games.
18. Oscar Moller
Position: Center
Shoots: Right
Date of Birth: January 22, 1989
Height: 5’-11â€
Weight: 180 LBS
06-07 League: WHL
06-07 Team: Chilliwack
Stats: 68 GP 32 G 37 A 69 PTS
Strengths: Oscar is a highly skilled winger who possesses great hands and a great scoring touch. He is a gritty winger who doesn’t mind getting his nose dirty. Versatile, can play Wing or Center. Controls the puck and the game very well with his smarts. A very good skater both speed/acceleration wise and balance. Has good vision and great hockey sense. Very coachable and highly determined to succeed. Nice hands and can dangle with the puck. A good hard shot fills out his game. Doesn’t mind being hit and can play physical when play dictates. He plays with a shifty playing style and can elude defenders very well. Plays a complete game in all three zones.
Weakness: At times Oscar holds onto the puck too much and tries to make a play when it is just not there causing turnovers. He also needs to have more consistency in his defensive play. He, like most kids in Major Junior, need to work on overall strength.
NHL Potential: Top six two-way/scoring winger.
Boom or Bust Potential: Low Risk, High Reward. Not the sexiest of picks available but should end up being a very safe pick.
Extra Note: Oscar was named the MVP for his team (White) at the annual CSS top prospects game in Quebec City this past January as he collected 2 points, 1 goal and 1 assist, in a losing effort.
19. Joakim Andersson
Position: Center
Shoots: Left
Date of Birth: May 2, 1989
Height: 6’-2â€
Weight: 198 LBS
06-07 League: Sweden JR.
06-07 Team: Frolunda JR.
Stats: 41 GP 20 G 26 A 46 PTS
Strengths: Plays a physical two-way game, possesses soft hands and some nice playmaking ability in his game. Joakim is a very dependable forward who consistently back checks and has nice defensive awareness. Hard to rattle, cool under pressure. Excellent in the faceoff department. Not overly flashy but he plays hard and works hard, gets the jobs done asked of him weather it be on the PP or the PK, is easy to coach. One of the more complete prospects available in the draft.
Weakness: His acceleration and overall skating stride could use work as well as a consistent effort in using his large frame game in and game out. Sometimes Andersson can be too passive and try to stick check when instead he should play the body.
NHL Potential: Steady Two-Way NHL forward.
Boom or Bust Potential: Med Risk, I think he will make it to the NHL probably in a Marcus Nilson type role.
Extra Note: Played for a formidable Frolunda Jun team that also has Potential first rounders Lars Eller and Simon Hjalmarsson in the lineup.
20. Brandon Sutter
Position: Center
Shoots: Right
Date of Birth: February 14, 1989
Height: 6’-3â€
Weight: 170 LBS
06-07 League: WHL
06-07 Team: Red Deer
Stats: 71 GP 20 G 37 A 57 PTS
Strengths: A good skating two-way forward whose strength is his playmaking ability and his hard work. His hockey sense and very good shot make Brandon a very nice prospect full of grit and skill. Most games I’ve seen he has displayed a good work ethic and possesses a nice skill set but I am not sure if he is as talented as some of his Uncles or father were. One thing he undoubtedly shares with them is his heart and tireless work ethic.
Weakness: Strength, Sutter is reed thin and at 6’-3†170 lbs he desperately needs to add 20 to 30+ pounds of muscle to his frame. Also, at times this season, his heart and determination has been questioned which is a rarity in the Sutter bloodlines, I think this is unfounded and not true. Other than the strength issues there really is nothing wrong with his game. Does a lot of thing good and not a lot great.
NHL Potential: Top 6 two-way playmaking center.
Boom or Bust Potential: Med risk, med reward. Hard to say so early into his development but I think Brandon will bring a lot more skill to the NHL team that drafts him than most other bird dogs think he has.
Extra Note: Brandon might be suffering from trying to live up to the expectations of a family name like the Sutters let alone being coached by his father Brent with Red Deer.
21. T.J. Brennan
Position: Defender
Shoots: Left
Date of Birth: February 10, 1989
Height: 6’-0.25â€
Weight: 204 LBS
06-07 League: QMJHL
06-07 Team: St. John’s
Stats: 68 GP 16 G 25 A 41 PTS
Strengths: T.J. is a very good skater with good mobility, he is an offensive defender but he is also very positionally sound in his own end which couldn’t be said earlier in the year. This shows that he is also a quick study and listens to his coaches. Brennan has a heavy point shot that he uses on the PP and also possesses good passing abilities. T.J. is a tough kid who does not back away from the extracurricular activities.
Weakness: His hockey sense is not great but he does have good defensive awareness. He is very raw and almost an unknown quantity. He is still very early in his development and T.J. could go along way and become a great defender.
NHL Potential: Top 6 defensive defender with some offensive upside.
Boom or Bust Potential: High risk, high reward. T.J. is really not known what his potential could be as he has improved so much from last October to this April already.
Extra Note: Not drafted by a CHL team, Brennan was signed as a FA by St. John’s and I bet there are a few OHL teams kicking their own butts about that one. QMJHL Rookie of the year winner.
22. Max Pacioretty
Position: Winger
Shoots: Left
Date of Birth: November 20, 1988
Height: 6’-1.5â€
Weight: 203 LBS
06-07 League: USHL
06-07 Team: Sioux City
Stats: 60 GP 21 G 42 A 63 PTS
Strengths: Max is a large body that likes to play a physical brand of hockey. His skating is fluid and while I wouldn’t consider him a burner he does have more than one gear. The big Connecticut native has nice hands and a cannon of a shot that he uses early and often. His playmaking skills are a bit underrated as he possesses good on ice vision and anticipation.
Weakness: Consistency is an area he has struggled with as well as defensive support. Driving back defensivly into his own zone is not really a part of his game right now but if he added that kind of dimension he would be a hot commodity come June 22nd. Max could also improve his skating and physical play with a little work on his leg strength as he will find it increasingly difficult to play the way he did this past season in Sioux City at the next level when U. of M.’s season starts.
NHL Potential: Top two line scoring winger.
Boom or Bust Potential: Med Risk, Med Reward. It would not be a stretch to see Max rounding out his game into a Brian Rolston type of NHL forward.
Extra Note: Max was named rookie of the year in the USHL this past season and has committed to the University of Michigan for the fall.
23. Simon Hjalmarsson
Position: Winger
Shoots: Left
Date of Birth: February 1, 1989
Height: 5’-11â€
Weight: 161 LBS
06-07 League: Sweden Jr.
06-07 Team: Frolunda Jr.
Stats: 41 GP 31 G 23 A 54 PTS
Strengths: A highly skilled offensive force, Simon has a decent shot and can also set-up plays with his deft passing skills. His skating is top notch and he possesses very good acceleration which helps his play along the boards and his drive to the net. He is a very flashy player and you know when he is on the ice. His puck handling skills are good and he can use them to get through defenders who play the puck instead of the body on him. Simon can play an effective two-way game and has PK skills.
Weakness: He is small and is easily pushed off the puck with hard physical play. Simon needs to add muscle to his core and legs. He could use a little more physical edge to his play.
NHL Potential: Top six scoring winger.
Boom or Bust Potential: Med Risk, as long as he can put on some muscle and prove he can play in a more physical element, he will be a good pro.
Extra Note: Simon had a strong U18 tournament for team Sweden which elevated his draft status with 9 points in six games.
24. Brett Maclean
Position: Winger
Shoots: Right
Date of Birth: December 24, 1988
Height: 6’-1â€
Weight: 196 LBS
06-07 League: OHL
06-07 Team: Oshawa
Stats: 68 GP 47 G 53 A 100 PTS
Strengths: Brett is a skilled winger that plays with dome jam. Not overly physical with regards to the big hits or dropping the gloves but he consistently goes to the net as well as win most puck battles along the boards. His hands are good and he has a good shot. Maclean’s best asset is his playmaking ability as he is good at drawing the defender to him and then dishing off to a line mate (Tavares, who is not all that bad either). His on ice vision is good. No questioning his offensive abilities.
Weakness: His skating is a concern as his feet are slow and he doesn’t always keep them moving. His stride is very choppy and sometimes Brett can look lazy on his skates. Also his physical play is lacking, as he does go to the net, he often times doesn’t finish his checks or go to the net with authority. Consistency is a little concern but really it is with all young prospects.
NHL Potential: Top six playmaking winger.
Boom or Bust Potential: Med risk, med reward. Brett should be a good pro winger as long as he works on some of his areas of concern (Skating, consistency and overall quickness)
Extra Note: Played with John Tavares which may have padded his goal scoring stats a bit but in the same token Tavares stats might have been padded a bit by having Brett dishing to him all season as well. Was having an outstanding OHL playoffs to cap his draft year when he was suspended 6 games for a check into the cross bar that broke the nose of Belleville Bulls Bryan Cameron.
25. Bill Sweatt
Position: Winger
Shoots: Left
Date of Birth: September 21, 1988
Height: 6’-0â€
Weight: 180 LBS
06-07 League: WCHA
06-07 Team: Colorado College
Stats: 30 GP 9 G 17 A 26 PTS
Strengths: A fast skating two way winger, Bill has a nose for the net which can attest to the points he was able to put up as a NCAA rookie. He is one of if not the faster skaters available. The Elburn Illinois native plays a very aggressive hard working style but that is not all he has to offer. Bill has nice hockey sense and can lay a sweet pass.
Weakness: Consistency and overall strength issues but none of which is a real deterrent as both will come with age and experience. Needs to shot more often as he has an underrated shot.
NHL Potential: Top 9 playmaking speedster.
Boom or Bust Potential: Low Risk, Med reward. Bill has the speed, defensive awareness and determination to be at the very least a good NHL role player, but, the potential is there to be so much more.
Extra Note: Bill Sweatt won the Bob Johnson Award as CC’s rookie of the year. The reason Bill picked Colorado College to play his NCAA hockey at was mostly due to the fact that his older brother Lee was already playing for the Tigers.
I have had a few requests as the freewebs.com server has gone down and people have been emailing me to get it to them. So I will post it here.
Cup’s 2007 NHL Entry Draft Guide
By Dan Stewart
Contents:
•The Top 120 Prospect List.
•Profiles and full scouting reports on the top 60 prospects plus small write-ups on another 30 prospects available in the 2007 NHL entry draft.
•Sleepers and possible late round gems.
•A first round mock draft of who I expect the NHL teams to pick and what my reasons for this selection based on team need and other intangibles.
•Top prospects for the 2008 NHL Entry Draft.
•A Look Back…
The Top 120.
1. Patrick Kane, RW, London (OHL)
2. Kyle Turris, C, Burnaby (BCHL)
3. Alexei Cherepanov, RW, Omsk (Russia)
4. Jakub Voracek, RW, Halifax (QMJHL)
5. James vanRiemsdyk, LW, U.S. National U-18
6. Sam Gagner, C, London (OHL)
7. Karl Alzner, D, Calgary (WHL)
8. Logan Couture, C, Ottawa (OHL)
9. Keaton Ellerby, D, Kamloops (WHL)
10. Angelo Esposito, C, Quebec (QMJHL)
11. Ryan McDonagh, D, Cretin-Derham High (Minn.) (U.S. high school)
12. Zach Hamill, C, Everett (WHL)
13. Kevin Shattenkirk, D, U.S. National U-18
14. Colby Cohen, D, Lincoln (USHL)
15. Nicholas Petrecki, D, Omaha (USHL)
16. Jonathon Blum, D, Vancouver (WHL)
17. Mikael Backlund, C, Vasteras (Sweden-2)
18. Oscar Moller, W, Chilliwack (WHL)
19. Joakim Andersson, C, Frolunda Jr. (Sweden Jr.)
20. Brandon Sutter, C/RW, Red Deer (WHL)
21. T.J Brennan, D, St. John's (QMJHL)
22. Max Pacioretty, LW, Sioux City (USHL)
23. Simon Hjalmarsson, C/W, Frolunda Jr. (Sweden Jr.)
24. Brett Maclean, LW, Oshawa (OHL)
25. Bill Sweatt, LW, Colorado College (WCHA)
26. Lars Eller, W, Frolunda Jr. (Sweden Jr.)
27. Nick Ross, D, Regina (WHL)
28. Tyson Sexsmith, G, Vancouver (WHL)
29. Maxim Mayorov, W, Leninogorsk (Russia-2)
30. Ian Cole, D, U.S. National U-18
31. James O'Brien, C, U. of Minnesota (WCHA)
32. David Perron, W, Lewiston (QMJHL)
33. Zack Torquato, C, Erie (OHL)
34. Thomas Hickey, D, Seattle (WHL)
35. Jeremy Smith, G, Plymouth (OHL)
36. Patrick White, C, Grand Rapids High (Minn.) (U.S. high school)
37. Alex Plante, D, Calgary (WHL)
38. Colton Gillies, C, Saskatoon (WHL)
39. Logan Macmillan, C, Halifax (QMJHL)
40. Stefan Legein, RW, Mississauga (OHL)
41. Kevin Marshall, D, Lewiston (QMJHL)
42. Nick Palmieri, RW, Erie (OHL)
43. Trevor Cann, G, Peterborough (OHL)
44. Mark Katic, D, Sarnia (OHL)
45. Dana Tyrell, C/RW, Prince George (WHL)
46. John Negrin, D, Kootenay (WHL)
47. Nick Spaling, C, Kitchener (OHL)
48. Ted Ruth, D, U.S. National U-18
49. Tommy Cross, D, Westminster School (Conn.) (U.S. high school)
50. Keven Veilleux, C, Victoriaville (QMJHL)
51. Josh Kidd, D, Erie (OHL)
52. Akim Aliu, C/RW, Sudbury (OHL)
53. Linden Rowat, G, Regina (WHL)
54. Maxim Gratchev, LW, Rimouski (QMJHL)
55. Antoine Lafleur, G, P.E.I. (QMJHL)
56. T.J. Galiardi, W, Dartmouth (ECAC)
57. Eric Doyle, D, Everett (WHL)
58. Casey Pierro-Zabotel, W, Merritt (BCHL)
59. Vladimir Ruzicka, C, Slavia (Czech Rep.)
60. Mark Owuya, G, Djurgarden Jr. (Sweden Jr.)
61. Ruslan Bashkirov, LW, Quebec (QMJHL)
62. Taylor Ellington, D, Everett (WHL)
63. Juraj Valach, D, Tri-City (WHL)
64. Jesse Jyrkkio, D, Assat Jr. (Finland Jr.)
65. Mike Hoeffel, W, U.S. National U-18
66. Denis Reul, D, Heilbronn (Germany-3)
67. Michael Biega, LW, Salisbury High (Conn.) (U.S. High School)
68. Luca
i, C, Dubendorf (Swiss-3)69. Egor Averin, LW, Omsk (Russia)
70. Maxime Tanguay, C, Rimouski (QMJHL)
71. Joel Gistedt, G, Frolunda (Sweden )
72. Jens Hellgren, D, Frolunda Jr. (Sweden Jr.)
73. Drayson Bowman, C/LW, Spokane (WHL)
74. Niklas Lucenius , C, Tappara Jr. (Finland Jr.)
75. Evgeni Dadonov, RW, Chelyabinsk (Russia)
76. Maxim Goncharov, D, CSKA 2 (Russia-3)
77. Kent Patterson, G, Cedar Rapids (USHL)
78. Sergei Korostin, RW, Dynamo Moscow (Russia)
79. Alex Grant, D, Saint John (QMJHL)
80. Marek Benda, G, Karlovy Vary Jr. (Czech Jr.)
81. Olivier Fortier, C, Rimouski (QMJHL)
82. Nick Larson, C, Hill-Murray School (Minn.) (U.S. high school)
83. David Stich, D, Saint John (QMJHL)
84. Aaron Palushaj, RW, Des Moines (USHL)
85. Niklas Torp, D, HV 71 Jr. (Sweden Jr.)
86. Nikolai Lukyanchikov, D, Stupino (Russia-2)
87. Riley Nash, C, Salmon Arm (BCHL)
88. Joseph Lavin, D, U.S. National U-18
89. Michal Repik, RW, Vancouver (WHL)
90. Dale Mitchell, RW, Oshawa (OHL)
91. Dion Knelson, C, U of Alaska (CCHA)
92. Brad Malone, W, Sioux Falls (USHL)
93. David Skokan, C, Rimouski (QMJHL)
94. Nico Sacchetti, C, Virginia High (Minn.) (U.S. high school)
95. Alexander Vasiliev, LW, Dynamo Moscow 2 (Russia-3)
96. Bryan Cameron, C, Belleville (OHL)
97. Justin McCrae, C, Saskatoon (WHL)
98. Drew Leblanc, W, Hermantown High (Minn.) (U.S. high school)
99. Spencer Machacek, RW, Vancouver (WHL)
100. Yakov Seleznev, D, Leninogorsk (Russia-2)
101. Craig Smith, C, Waterloo (USHL)
102. Brad Phillips, G, U.S. National U-18
103. Jean-Simon Allard, C, St. John's (QMJHL)
104. Ben Ryan, C, Des Moines (USHL)
105. Simon Lacroix, D, Shawinigan (QMJHL)
106. Yannick Weber, D, Kitchener (OHL)
107. Christopher Didomenico, C, Saint John (QMJHL)
108. Fredrik Andersson, W, Sodertalje (Sweden-2)
109. Joshua Turnbull, C, Waterloo (USHL)
110. Dwight King, C/LW, Lethbridge (WHL)
111. Kurtis Mucha, Portland (WHL)
112. Blake Kessel, D, Waterloo (USHL)
113. Radim Ostrcil, D, Vsetin (Czech Rep.)
114. Harri Ilvonen, D, Tappara Jr. (Finland Jr.)
115. Vitali Karamnov, C, Dynamo Moscow (Russia)
116. Juraj Mikus, D, Trencin (Slovakia)
117. John Murray, G, Kitchener (OHL)
118. Jason Gregoire,W, Lincoln (USHL)
119. Artem Dubinin, D, Togliatti 2 (Russia-3)
120. Lassi Kokkala, C, TPS Jr. (Finland Jr.)
Draft Prospects Profiles
1. Patrick Kane
Position: Winger
Shoots: Left
Date of Birth: November 19, 1988
Height: 5’-9â€
Weight: 162 LBS
06-07 League: OHL
06-07 Team: London
Stats: 58 GP 62 G 83 A 145 PTS
Strengths: Possesses the best puck skills in the entire draft. As the overused but applicable saying goes, he can stickhandle in a phone booth. He plays with great drive and is always striving to be the very best. Pat is surprisingly hard to knock off the puck and possesses great balance. His skating is good and he has a water bug like quickness that helps him elude bigger checkers, Pat is equally able to set-up a play using ultra fine passing ability or finish off the play with his tremendous shot availability and hands down low. Despite being small in stature Pat protects the puck very well using his body and positioning.
Weakness: He is extremely confident in himself to the point of having an attitude of arrogance about him that will hopefully change with age, his size is the only other issue that Pat may have but I wouldn’t count on it holding him back or stopping an NHL team from grabbing him up in the top 3 of the draft. Needs to get stronger. His defensive play is spotty and inconsistent but if a team is looking for a defensive forward they wouldn’t be looking at Kane anyway, his game is pure offence.
NHL Potential: First line scoring winger.
Boom or Bust Potential: Medium Risk, As long as the crackdown on obstruction is upheld and Pat gets some weight on his frame, he is a sure thing.
Extra Notes: Patrick was to play NCAA hockey but because of unearned high school credits and wanting to stay closer to home (Buffalo, NY) he decided to join London of the OHL.
2. Kyle Turris
Position: Center
Shoots: Right
Date of Birth: August 14, 1989
Height: 6’-0.5â€
Weight: 170 LBS
06-07 League: BCHL
06-07 Team: Burnaby
Stats: 53 GP 66 G 55 A 121 PTS
Strengths: Turris is an excellent skater with blazing speed. Extremely poised and has great puck skills. His vision is unmatched in his draft class. He pulls off moves at top speeds that most would find difficult in their low gear. His passing skills are superb and can thread the needle with pin point accuracy while being under pressure. There is no panic in Kyle’s game. He already has an NHL caliber shot that he can get off in a hurry and is very accurate. Turris has great hockey sense and on ice vision which helps him to be a dynamic playmaker. He is not a vocal leader but people tend to follow him as he leads by example. Most complete player available.
Weakness: Already his speed is good but if he had just a bit better first step acceleration, he would be an all out great skater. Strength is the only other weakness Kyle needs to focus on, a summer in the weight room would alleviate a lot of this concern and would serve him well next year at the.
NHL Potential: Top line NHL center.
Boom or Bust Potential: Low Risk, Once he gets stronger he will be a solid scoring NHL center.
Extra Notes: He is one of the more grounded and humble kids available this June. Kyle has committed to the University of Wisconsin for next season.
3. Alexei Cherepanov
Position: Winger
Shoots: Left
Date of Birth: January 15, 1989
Height: 6’-1â€
Weight: 183 LBS
06-07 League: Russia
06-07 Team: OMSK
Stats: 46 GP 18 G 11 A 29 PTS
Strengths: Alexei has explosive acceleration and is a deceptively fast skater, Always thinking offence and looking for a loose puck or rebound to fire home, Has a real nose for the net and has a wide array of excellent shots to use, not afraid to go into traffic to get a scoring chance or drive to the net for that rebound or shot, one of this drafts best finishers, possesses exceptional hands and can make a defender look silly with a nice move while at full stride, on ice vision is great and he does not cower from physical play as a lot of young skilled Russians often do, hockey sense is strong and work rate is above average for his age group.
Weakness: Like a lot of young offensive wizards his age, the only real time he sees his own zone is when he goes back to congratulate his goalie on the win, he needs to back check on a consistent basis and learn to read when to make the safe play and not gamble. Holds the puck a little more than he should trying to make plays that sometimes just are not there, needs to try and use his teammates better. Strength is one area he could improve but overall Alexei is almost NHL ready now.
NHL Potential: First Line NHL Goal Scoring Winger.
Boom or Bust Potential: Med risk, High reward. Could be the grand slam pick of the draft or another highly skilled Russian that is unwilling to put the effort in.
Extra Notes: Cherepanov was nominated as best forward at the WJC and has broken rookie scoring record in the Russian League this year previously held by Pavel Bure.
4. Jakub Voracek
Position: Winger
Shoots: Left
Date of Birth: August 15, 1989
Height: 6’-2â€
Weight: 188 LBS
06-07 League: QMJHL
06-07 Team: Halifax
Stats: 59 GP 23 G 63 A 86 PTS
Strengths: Jakub possesses a great winning attitude, always upbeat and optimistic, Voracek is a very coachable player, unselfish and well liked by teammates, who will do what needs to be done for the overall good of the team. Very determined and hard working both in game and in practice he has a good skating stride and can get to where he needs to be, has good speed and can skate around the defender to create a scoring chance. Protects the puck well in traffic and along the boards, has a goal scorers shot but also is a very effective passer, playmaker. Doesn’t look for rough and tough play but thrives in it and can make you play buy scoring a goal or setting one up rather than fighting or taking a bad penalty. He has the hockey sense to know when to jump back and support his defenseman with an outlet. A big game pressure player and very good overall package.
Weakness: Upper body strength and acceleration are his only real blemishes. The big Czech can at times got into spells where he looks to set up teammates to a fault when he should be shooting. He doesn’t have that many weaknesses in his game to speak of.
NHL Potential: First line, playmaking winger.
Boom or Bust Potential: Low Risk, Medium Reward. I see a very good playmaking forward who will battle for pucks.
Extra Notes: Jakub still has a hard time with the English language needing help with many day to day words but that has not held him back from adjusting well to his new life here in NA.
5. James van Riemsdyk
Position: Winger
Shoots: Left
Date of Birth: May 4, 1989
Height: 6’-3â€
Weight: 200 LBS
06-07 League: United States Development Program
06-07 Team: U.S. National U-18
Stats: 42 GP 33 G 30 A 63 PTS
Strengths: JVR possesses a strong, long skating stride, very athletic, strong on the puck in high traffic areas protecting the puck well with his body and/or outside leg along the boards, has great balance, very mobile for a big kid, possesses a hard accurate shot that is NHL ready now, can play a dominant physical game, great size and strength, plays a solid north south game, is not afraid to get his nose dirty, drives to the net, sometimes tries to go through defenders with his size, very coach able, James has decent hands and a good selection of hard accurate shots, very determined and hard working. Underrated playmaking skills finish off this impressive package.
Weakness: Consistency, it will come as he matures and his game develops, his conditioning needs improvement, can look lost on the ice in his own end on some occasions, should continue to work on defensive positioning even though he does put forth an effort already, will need to fill out his frame as he will be expected to play a physical game at the next level.
NHL Potential: Top Six, Skilled Power Forward.
Boom or Bust Potential: Low Risk, should play in the NHL on a scoring line in a couple years. If he doesn’t make it as a skilled PF his skating and size alone would make him a very good checking line winger.
Extra Notes: Committed to play for the University of New Hampshire. JVR also has good taste in music as he lists John Mayer as one of his favorite musicians.
6. Sam Gagner
Position: Center
Shoots: Right
Date of Birth: August 10, 1989
Height: 5’-11â€
Weight: 190 LBS
06-07 League: OHL
06-07 Team: London
Stats: 53 GP 35 G 83 A 118 PTS
Strengths: Gagner is blessed with great hockey sense and vision, his work ethic is strong, a real leader who is potential NHL captain material, he has a great overall attitude. Plays the game with a fire and intensity that is contagious to his teammates. Excellent puck handling skills and excels at finding the open man with a tape to tape pass. He can really dangle with the puck at high speeds. Sam has an underrated shot that he doesn’t use as much as he should. Gagner may not win many fastest skater contests but he has a quickness about him that serves him well in the OHL and will continue at the next level. Sam is very mature for his age and has a lot of character.
Weakness: Size, but with the new rules and open game no team will be hesitant to select him in the top 10 next June. He excels on the PP but needs to work on five on five play and getting those ugly goal scoring chances, Sam also possesses just adequate skating and strength that will keep him in the CHL for another year or two. He needs to build up his leg and core muscles this summer as weak leg strength will hold back his skating.
NHL Potential: Top six NHL center.
Boom or Bust Potential: Low Risk, Once he gets stronger he will be a solid two-way NHL threat.
Extra Notes: Sam is the son of former NHL’er Dave Gagner. Additionally, Dave is now Sam’s assistant coach with the London Knights of the Ontario Hockey League after the Hunters hired him on this year.
7. Karl Alzner
Position: Defense
Shoots: Left
Date of Birth: September 24, 1988
Height: 6’-2â€
Weight: 209 LBS
06-07 League: WHL
06-07 Team: Calgary
Stats: 63 GP 8 G 39 A 47 PTS
Strengths: Plays a very dependable mistake free game from the backend. This above average skater likes to make the safe play and not gamble with too many offensive rushes. His balance and strength along the boards are assets. Karl is a leader who takes charge of in game situations and can also chip in offensively with a good hard point shot and his able passing skills. He is a workhorse, a very consistent prospect who never takes a game or practice off. His defensive stick work is amazing for a young defender. He is a nice heady calm defender.
Weakness: I would love to see him use his large frame and play a little more of a physical game. Not a lot to pick from with regards to weaknesses, maybe just that he does have limited offensive upside (by his own defense first choosing) and he will never be a big, hard hitting defender who makes opposing forwards keep their heads up.
NHL Potential: A very dependable top four defensive defender, playing 28 -30 minutes a night and on the PK.
Boom or Bust Potential: Low risk, Medium reward. Karl should be ready for his first NHL shift maybe next season, but certainly by 08-09.
Extra Note: A very impressive feat for a young 18 year old Alzner is that he was chosen to play for Canada on a deep defensive core in a WJC tournament usually dominated by 19 and 20 year old players.
8. Logan Couture
Position: Center
Shoots: Left
Date of Birth: March 28, 1989
Height: 6’-0â€
Weight: 188 LBS
06-07 League: OHL
06-07 Team: Ottawa
Stats: 54 GP 26 G 52 A 78 PTS
Strengths: He possesses a very complete game. His game is full of grit and determination as well as loads of skill. His passing is top notch and his ability to read the play is excellent. Logan is a playmaker but he can also finish with his hard, accurate wrist shot. He is in the play wherever it goes, offensive zone or defensive zone. Logan is a complete player who prides himself on team success rather than his stats or awards. Couture drives to the net and does not shy away from physical play. Logan has leadership qualities that could make him a potential NHL captain one day.
Weakness: Durability is a valid concern because Logan missed so much time this year and never really got on track once he did come back. His skating could use work as he does not possess a very good overall stride and his first step acceleration is below par.
NHL Potential: First line do it all NHL center.
Boom or Bust Potential: Low risk, med/high reward. Logan will eventually be an NHL’er, if he is going to be a star it is really up to him as he possesses a lot of the tools needed already.
Extra Note: If it weren’t for the multiple set backs with injuries and illnesses he sustained this season, Logan might have cracked the top 5.
9. Keaton Ellerby
Position: Defense
Shoots: Left
Date of Birth: November 5, 1988
Height: 6’-3.5â€
Weight: 194 LBS
06-07 League: WHL
06-07 Team: Kamloops
Stats: 69 GP 2 G 23 A 25 PTS
Strengths: Ellerby plays a very mobile defensive style, he stays with the attacking forward and uses his size well to contain. He can play a very effective game when he keeps it simple. His positioning is good. His outlet passes are usually accurate and he rarely gives the puck away by way of the errant pass. Ellerby is at his best when he plays a physical brand of hockey. He has been known to drop the gloves and can handle himself well in those situations. He is a good team guy and a hard worker. Possesses good defensive instincts. His skating is great for a kid his size. He looks good rushing the puck out of his zone.
Weakness: He is still growing and needs to add muscle to his thin frame. Needs to work on his point shot. Knowing when to jump into offensive play or when to hang back needs work. I am not expecting him to be a consistent offensive threat at the next level although his confidence and offensive game have grown in the second half of the season. Still a very raw prospect.
NHL Potential: Top 4 physical defender with some offensive potential.
Boom or Bust Potential: Medium Risk, Ellerby does possess some offensive potential but it is far from a sure thing that he will put up a lot of points in the NHL.
Extra Notes: Ellerby was never drafted as a bantam player as he was an undersized defender in his draft year. It wasn’t until after 5-6 inch growth spurt over the following summer that he started attracted interest.
10. Angelo Esposito
Position: Center
Shoots: Left
Date of Birth: February 20, 1989
Height: 6’-1â€
Weight: 180 LBS
06-07 League: QMJHL
06-07 Team: Quebec
Stats: 60 GP 27 G 52 A 79 PTS
Strengths: Excellent skating stride, great first step acceleration, very fast, nice vision, good hands in traffic, great shot, can play a physical game but does not on a consistent enough basis, good size and strength, plays a solid two way game and is not apposed to back checking. Has a great driving stride when taking the puck to the net. Works hard in training and preparation. Makes those around him better. Angelo possesses the best overall potential package in the draft
Weakness: Not always into the game and has trouble fighting through checks when he is the focal point. Immature and can get a pout on if things don’t go the way he wants or expects. Looks disinterested at times and needs to shake the big game flop tag that he has garnered.
NHL Potential: Top Six, Scoring Forward.
Boom or Bust Potential: High Risk, Highest Reward in the entire draft.
Extra Note: Has been given the lazy tag by a lot of scouts and fans alike. Was over hyped a few years ago and that overexposure is now catching up to him. In my opinion Angelo has all the tools needed to be an NHL Star but he has yet to figure that out for himself. Esposito has been compared to Alexander Daigle but again in my opinion he has better hockey sense than Daigle ever had.
11. Ryan McDonagh
Position: Defender
Shoots: Left
Date of Birth: June 13, 1989
Height: 6’-1â€
Weight: 200 LBS
06-07 League: USHS
06-07 Team: Cretin-Derham
Stats: 23 GP 10 G 23 A 33 PTS
Strengths: Ryan is an accomplished two way defender who possesses excellent vision and anticipation, his point shot is accurate as well as hard, outlet passes are accurate and well placed, he supports his defense partner well, can either dominate in his own end shutting down opposition or by jumping into the play to create an odd man rush, skating is above average and transitions well, his defensive awareness is a strength, he can and will play physical if play dictates so. Ryan is always willing to compete and has a take charge personality on the ice when needed. Ryan will surely be a dependable NHL defender after some NCAA seasoning.
Weakness: His overall conditioning, if he could add some upper body strength this summer it would help his adjustment to the Collage ranks immensely, it will be interesting to see how Ryan handles the jump playing against better competition next season.
NHL Potential: Top 4, two way dependable defender.
Boom or Bust Potential: Low/Med Risk, should develop into a good NHL regular.
Extra Note: Was the winner of the Mr. Hockey award. Ryan will attend Wisconsin in the fall.
12. Zach Hamill
Position: Center
Shoots: Right
Date of Birth: September 23, 1988
Height: 5’-11â€
Weight: 180 LBS
06-07 League: WHL
06-07 Team: Everett
Stats: 69 GP 32 G 61 A 93 PTS
Strengths: Zach has great hands and is one of the better passers/playmakers in the whole draft. His stick handling is breath taking. He is a hard working, passionate finesse type prospect. His vision is great and hockey sense is good but his main asset is his creativity with the puck. Some guys have it but most don’t and it is not something you can teach. His skating is good, not great but his hands are soft and he makes plays that have you jumping out of your chair. He can turn the tied of the game with one play, a game breaker.
Weakness: Foot speed and acceleration as well as strength concerns. A summer in the gym and with a power skating coach would help immensely. Consistency is another area Zack should focus on as he disappeared for long stretches during the season. Some attack his game because he is not a defensive player who back checks consistently but he just will never be a defensive guy.
NHL Potential: Top six playmaking center.
Boom or Bust Potential: Med risk, high reward. Zack could develop into a nice skilled NHL center down the line.
Extra Note: Zach holds the scoring record for the Silvertips franchise and also led the WHL in regular season scoring.
13. Kevin Shattenkirk
Position: Defender
Shoots: Right
Date of Birth: January 29, 1989
Height: 5’-11â€
Weight: 193 LBS
06-07 League: United States Development Program
06-07 Team: U.S. National U-18
Stats: 48 GP 12 G 22 A 33 PTS
Strengths: Kevin is a solid offensive defender who makes good heady passes and rarely leaves a teammate out to dry. He is blessed with great on ice vision and hockey sense and knows when to join the rush. Kevin also has a lot of determination and great leadership abilities. He is a real team first guy. His point shot is accurate and hard and he knows when to pinch and when to fall back and play strong positional defense.
Weakness: Foot speed and acceleration are two areas where he needs to get better. His conditioning as well as his overall strength are two more areas he could improve upon. Being mildly undersized is another small concern but he should grow to be over 6’ and have a playing weight around 210 LBS.
NHL Potential: Top 4 offensive defender.
Boom or Bust Potential: Med risk, Medium reward. Kevin will be an offensive defender who plays pro hockey, that is a fact. If he plays in the NHL, AHL or Europe is the question that needs to be answered.
Extra Note: Kevin lists the New York Rangers as his favorite hockey team. He is committed to Boston University.
14. Colby Cohen
Position: Defender
Shoots: Right
Date of Birth: April 25, 1989
Height: 6’-2â€
Weight: 200 LBS
06-07 League: USHL
06-07 Team: Lincoln
Stats: 53 GP 13 G 47 A 60 PTS
Strengths: He is blessed with good mobility and skating but his real strength is in his phenomenal offensive instincts. His size is a real blessing as this draft is full of solid offensive defenders but they are all undersized by NHL standards. This alone could make him a hot commodity and get him drafted first round when most scouting services have him early mid second. His point shot is hard and accurate as well as his tape to tape passes. Plays physical by delivering checks as well as dropping the gloves when needed. This past season he dropped the mitts with Nicholas Petrecki and came out with the decision in my opinion.
Weakness: His defensive zone coverage needs a lot of work as he tends to overplay the puck and also not play with the urgency needed to be a solid defender. Work ethic may be a small concern as some times he looks like he gives up on defensive plays.
NHL Potential: Top 4 Offensive, physical defender.
Boom or Bust Potential: High Risk, High Reward. Cohen has the potential to be a big time steal with all the tools he possesses.
Extra Note: Colby started the year with the USNDP but had a falling out very early on and left the program to join Lincoln of the United States League.
15. Nicholas Petrecki
Position: Defender
Shoots: Left
Date of Birth: July 11, 1989
Height: 6’-3â€
Weight: 213 LBS
06-07 League: USHL
06-07 Team: Omaha
Stats: 54 GP 11 G 14 A 25 PTS
Strengths: An absolute monster on the ice, Nick plays with a mean nasty edge that few skilled prospects play with. He is extremely strong and at times looks like a man among boys. This mobile, hard working, physical defender has a nice skating stride that is strong. His defensive game is good as long as he plays a simple game and plays the body. He loves to get the big hit that turns the momentum of the game. Willing and able to drop the gloves when a need to arises. Has a decent first pass out of the zone. Very good leadership qualities and nice consistency for such a young defender.
Weakness: Limited offensive abilities and a knack for taking avoidable penalties at inopportune times and areas of the ice are a concern. Needs to work on his shot as it is very inaccurate. Lacks offensive hockey sense and may never put up points at the pro level. Prone to giving the puck away if he tries to get to fancy in the offensive zone.
NHL Potential: Top 6 physical defensive defender.
Boom or Bust Potential: Med Risk, med reward. Nick should be a steady defensive force and could potentially be ready within one year of NCAA primping as his skating and strength are already there.
Extra Note: The big two way defender will attend Boston College in the fall.
16. Jonathon Blum
Position: Defence
Shoots: Right
Date of Birth: January 30, 1989
Height: 6’-0â€
Weight: 163 LBS
06-07 League: WHL
06-07 Team: Vancouver
Stats: 72 GP 8 G 43 A 51 PTS
Strengths: A slick skater with above average speed and good lateral movement, his footwork is very good, Jon has a great offensive mind and shows his best stuff quarterbacking the PP, his defensive coverage is good and he has a lot of upside in the new NHL as a puck rushing defenseman, has the sense to know when it is safe to jump and when not to, elite passing skills compliment his offensive awareness, possesses forward’s hands and puck handling skills. Blum has loads of character and even though he has gone through some hardships in his young life, he is still a happy go lucky type with his heart in the right place.
Weakness: Reed thin frame and underdeveloped upper body are the main concern, will Jon be able to put on the 30 plus pounds of muscle he needs to be able to jump to the pros, another much smaller issue is he needs make his end be his primary concern even though his strength is obviously as an offensive defender.
NHL Potential: Top 6 offensive defender and PP quarterback.
Boom or Bust Potential: Medium Risk, he will be a very good offensive NHL defender if he can add the required weight.
Extra Notes: He was largely overshadowed this season on a very deep defense that featured Predator draft pick Cody Franson, Duck draft pick Brendan Mikkelson, Wild draft pick AJ Thelen, as well as WHL overage players Brett Festerling and Kyle Lamb, next year he should have a large season stats wise. When three or more of this years defense moves on.
17. Mikael Backlund
Position: Center
Shoots: Left
Date of Birth: March 17, 1989
Height: 6’-0â€
Weight: 194 LBS
06-07 League: Sweden 2
06-07 Team: Vasteras
Stats: 18 GP 1 G 2 A 3 PTS
Strengths: Great hockey sense and on ice vision are his best attributes. Backlund can do it all skill wise and is a very good skater blesses with great speed and soft hands that can dangle at that high speed. He can finish with a nice shot but his strength is as a playmaker that can set-up a winger with a nifty pass when it looks like there is no lane. Has the size to play in the NHL now and is a good faceoff man.
Weakness: Needs to be more consistent but that should come with age and maturity as well as needing to work on his defensive game. Mikael also has the injury prone tag that he must show is not valid.
NHL Potential: Top six playmaking center
Boom or Bust Potential: Med Risk, if he can prove to be healthy and stay that way he should be a productive NHL playmaking center.
Extra Note: Backlund has been a solid first round prospect all year but really cemented his position after a dominant U18 tournament, posting 6 goals in six games.
18. Oscar Moller
Position: Center
Shoots: Right
Date of Birth: January 22, 1989
Height: 5’-11â€
Weight: 180 LBS
06-07 League: WHL
06-07 Team: Chilliwack
Stats: 68 GP 32 G 37 A 69 PTS
Strengths: Oscar is a highly skilled winger who possesses great hands and a great scoring touch. He is a gritty winger who doesn’t mind getting his nose dirty. Versatile, can play Wing or Center. Controls the puck and the game very well with his smarts. A very good skater both speed/acceleration wise and balance. Has good vision and great hockey sense. Very coachable and highly determined to succeed. Nice hands and can dangle with the puck. A good hard shot fills out his game. Doesn’t mind being hit and can play physical when play dictates. He plays with a shifty playing style and can elude defenders very well. Plays a complete game in all three zones.
Weakness: At times Oscar holds onto the puck too much and tries to make a play when it is just not there causing turnovers. He also needs to have more consistency in his defensive play. He, like most kids in Major Junior, need to work on overall strength.
NHL Potential: Top six two-way/scoring winger.
Boom or Bust Potential: Low Risk, High Reward. Not the sexiest of picks available but should end up being a very safe pick.
Extra Note: Oscar was named the MVP for his team (White) at the annual CSS top prospects game in Quebec City this past January as he collected 2 points, 1 goal and 1 assist, in a losing effort.
19. Joakim Andersson
Position: Center
Shoots: Left
Date of Birth: May 2, 1989
Height: 6’-2â€
Weight: 198 LBS
06-07 League: Sweden JR.
06-07 Team: Frolunda JR.
Stats: 41 GP 20 G 26 A 46 PTS
Strengths: Plays a physical two-way game, possesses soft hands and some nice playmaking ability in his game. Joakim is a very dependable forward who consistently back checks and has nice defensive awareness. Hard to rattle, cool under pressure. Excellent in the faceoff department. Not overly flashy but he plays hard and works hard, gets the jobs done asked of him weather it be on the PP or the PK, is easy to coach. One of the more complete prospects available in the draft.
Weakness: His acceleration and overall skating stride could use work as well as a consistent effort in using his large frame game in and game out. Sometimes Andersson can be too passive and try to stick check when instead he should play the body.
NHL Potential: Steady Two-Way NHL forward.
Boom or Bust Potential: Med Risk, I think he will make it to the NHL probably in a Marcus Nilson type role.
Extra Note: Played for a formidable Frolunda Jun team that also has Potential first rounders Lars Eller and Simon Hjalmarsson in the lineup.
20. Brandon Sutter
Position: Center
Shoots: Right
Date of Birth: February 14, 1989
Height: 6’-3â€
Weight: 170 LBS
06-07 League: WHL
06-07 Team: Red Deer
Stats: 71 GP 20 G 37 A 57 PTS
Strengths: A good skating two-way forward whose strength is his playmaking ability and his hard work. His hockey sense and very good shot make Brandon a very nice prospect full of grit and skill. Most games I’ve seen he has displayed a good work ethic and possesses a nice skill set but I am not sure if he is as talented as some of his Uncles or father were. One thing he undoubtedly shares with them is his heart and tireless work ethic.
Weakness: Strength, Sutter is reed thin and at 6’-3†170 lbs he desperately needs to add 20 to 30+ pounds of muscle to his frame. Also, at times this season, his heart and determination has been questioned which is a rarity in the Sutter bloodlines, I think this is unfounded and not true. Other than the strength issues there really is nothing wrong with his game. Does a lot of thing good and not a lot great.
NHL Potential: Top 6 two-way playmaking center.
Boom or Bust Potential: Med risk, med reward. Hard to say so early into his development but I think Brandon will bring a lot more skill to the NHL team that drafts him than most other bird dogs think he has.
Extra Note: Brandon might be suffering from trying to live up to the expectations of a family name like the Sutters let alone being coached by his father Brent with Red Deer.
21. T.J. Brennan
Position: Defender
Shoots: Left
Date of Birth: February 10, 1989
Height: 6’-0.25â€
Weight: 204 LBS
06-07 League: QMJHL
06-07 Team: St. John’s
Stats: 68 GP 16 G 25 A 41 PTS
Strengths: T.J. is a very good skater with good mobility, he is an offensive defender but he is also very positionally sound in his own end which couldn’t be said earlier in the year. This shows that he is also a quick study and listens to his coaches. Brennan has a heavy point shot that he uses on the PP and also possesses good passing abilities. T.J. is a tough kid who does not back away from the extracurricular activities.
Weakness: His hockey sense is not great but he does have good defensive awareness. He is very raw and almost an unknown quantity. He is still very early in his development and T.J. could go along way and become a great defender.
NHL Potential: Top 6 defensive defender with some offensive upside.
Boom or Bust Potential: High risk, high reward. T.J. is really not known what his potential could be as he has improved so much from last October to this April already.
Extra Note: Not drafted by a CHL team, Brennan was signed as a FA by St. John’s and I bet there are a few OHL teams kicking their own butts about that one. QMJHL Rookie of the year winner.
22. Max Pacioretty
Position: Winger
Shoots: Left
Date of Birth: November 20, 1988
Height: 6’-1.5â€
Weight: 203 LBS
06-07 League: USHL
06-07 Team: Sioux City
Stats: 60 GP 21 G 42 A 63 PTS
Strengths: Max is a large body that likes to play a physical brand of hockey. His skating is fluid and while I wouldn’t consider him a burner he does have more than one gear. The big Connecticut native has nice hands and a cannon of a shot that he uses early and often. His playmaking skills are a bit underrated as he possesses good on ice vision and anticipation.
Weakness: Consistency is an area he has struggled with as well as defensive support. Driving back defensivly into his own zone is not really a part of his game right now but if he added that kind of dimension he would be a hot commodity come June 22nd. Max could also improve his skating and physical play with a little work on his leg strength as he will find it increasingly difficult to play the way he did this past season in Sioux City at the next level when U. of M.’s season starts.
NHL Potential: Top two line scoring winger.
Boom or Bust Potential: Med Risk, Med Reward. It would not be a stretch to see Max rounding out his game into a Brian Rolston type of NHL forward.
Extra Note: Max was named rookie of the year in the USHL this past season and has committed to the University of Michigan for the fall.
23. Simon Hjalmarsson
Position: Winger
Shoots: Left
Date of Birth: February 1, 1989
Height: 5’-11â€
Weight: 161 LBS
06-07 League: Sweden Jr.
06-07 Team: Frolunda Jr.
Stats: 41 GP 31 G 23 A 54 PTS
Strengths: A highly skilled offensive force, Simon has a decent shot and can also set-up plays with his deft passing skills. His skating is top notch and he possesses very good acceleration which helps his play along the boards and his drive to the net. He is a very flashy player and you know when he is on the ice. His puck handling skills are good and he can use them to get through defenders who play the puck instead of the body on him. Simon can play an effective two-way game and has PK skills.
Weakness: He is small and is easily pushed off the puck with hard physical play. Simon needs to add muscle to his core and legs. He could use a little more physical edge to his play.
NHL Potential: Top six scoring winger.
Boom or Bust Potential: Med Risk, as long as he can put on some muscle and prove he can play in a more physical element, he will be a good pro.
Extra Note: Simon had a strong U18 tournament for team Sweden which elevated his draft status with 9 points in six games.
24. Brett Maclean
Position: Winger
Shoots: Right
Date of Birth: December 24, 1988
Height: 6’-1â€
Weight: 196 LBS
06-07 League: OHL
06-07 Team: Oshawa
Stats: 68 GP 47 G 53 A 100 PTS
Strengths: Brett is a skilled winger that plays with dome jam. Not overly physical with regards to the big hits or dropping the gloves but he consistently goes to the net as well as win most puck battles along the boards. His hands are good and he has a good shot. Maclean’s best asset is his playmaking ability as he is good at drawing the defender to him and then dishing off to a line mate (Tavares, who is not all that bad either). His on ice vision is good. No questioning his offensive abilities.
Weakness: His skating is a concern as his feet are slow and he doesn’t always keep them moving. His stride is very choppy and sometimes Brett can look lazy on his skates. Also his physical play is lacking, as he does go to the net, he often times doesn’t finish his checks or go to the net with authority. Consistency is a little concern but really it is with all young prospects.
NHL Potential: Top six playmaking winger.
Boom or Bust Potential: Med risk, med reward. Brett should be a good pro winger as long as he works on some of his areas of concern (Skating, consistency and overall quickness)
Extra Note: Played with John Tavares which may have padded his goal scoring stats a bit but in the same token Tavares stats might have been padded a bit by having Brett dishing to him all season as well. Was having an outstanding OHL playoffs to cap his draft year when he was suspended 6 games for a check into the cross bar that broke the nose of Belleville Bulls Bryan Cameron.
25. Bill Sweatt
Position: Winger
Shoots: Left
Date of Birth: September 21, 1988
Height: 6’-0â€
Weight: 180 LBS
06-07 League: WCHA
06-07 Team: Colorado College
Stats: 30 GP 9 G 17 A 26 PTS
Strengths: A fast skating two way winger, Bill has a nose for the net which can attest to the points he was able to put up as a NCAA rookie. He is one of if not the faster skaters available. The Elburn Illinois native plays a very aggressive hard working style but that is not all he has to offer. Bill has nice hockey sense and can lay a sweet pass.
Weakness: Consistency and overall strength issues but none of which is a real deterrent as both will come with age and experience. Needs to shot more often as he has an underrated shot.
NHL Potential: Top 9 playmaking speedster.
Boom or Bust Potential: Low Risk, Med reward. Bill has the speed, defensive awareness and determination to be at the very least a good NHL role player, but, the potential is there to be so much more.
Extra Note: Bill Sweatt won the Bob Johnson Award as CC’s rookie of the year. The reason Bill picked Colorado College to play his NCAA hockey at was mostly due to the fact that his older brother Lee was already playing for the Tigers.
Oh, I haven't seen anything... hahaha... quite like this... AHAHAHA....... in awhile..... oh mercy, you are killing me...
