Chuckalinsky said:
With the 05 draft completed, I'm wondering if you've got a good look at the 06 crop. As usual, this early in the year there seems to be a lot of names thrown around as potential superstars. Just curious as to your thoughts on some of the top end players as compared to years gone by. It seems top-end heavy, but as I mentioned, it usually does this early. Thanks Steblick, if you have the time to get to this.
In the past, I would be in the Czech Republic at this time getting a grasp on the '06 prospects but marraige and other work commitments is making that difficult this year.
BUT based on previous viewings I would say watch the Czechs this draft. Frolik is an obvious choice but Tlusty, Kveton, Ruzicka, Kana are all likely (except the latter) 1st round prospects. My sleeper at this point is Backstrom from Sweden who plays a very mature, intelligent game and seemed to be coming on all last season. I'd give him top 10 status at this early point. I like him much more than Lagerstrom, the consensus no. 2 Swede at this point. I have a hunch that Oksala- if he starts utilizing his huge frame- could start making a move on Joensuu as Finland's best 2006 prospect. But he still has a way to go to achieve that yet.
Vasyunov has not lived up to the hype and promise of 2 years ago. It may be another mediocre year for Russians but Vishnevsky may be the best Russian DF prospect sence Grebeschkov and Tyutin.
I didn't really concentrate on Canadian players last season- so you can just look at what others say about them here- although I personally did like the sound, consistent, mature play of Belleville DF DeGray. And of course it's hard not to notice Bryan Little- although he'll be under the microscope since it will be his third year in the league. He reminds me of a poor man's Crosby.
The WHL does not look great for 2006 prospects at this point but there are always some uncovered gems lurking there. Butler, the Portland goalie, should be among the first goalies picked. Mueller shold be a force and Everett, with several highly-ranked players (including Hamill for 2007) should draw a lot of scouts.
Hope this helps.