edgevolution
GO USA!
I think Haula is a darkhorse prospect. Selected in the 7th round and went on to put up 24 points in 34 games as a freshman playing for the University of Minnesota. I think he could be a pretty good 2nd liner someday.
There is a difference between a darkhorse and a "steal". A darkhorse is merely a prospect considered to have a potentially intriguing skillset who could develop into a useful NHL player.
Interesting definition. My issue with that then is that virtually all late draft picks are darkhorses. IMO a draft pick can't be a steal until he is an NHL regular. You do use 'intruiging skillset' which excludes guys drafted to be grinders, so I suppose that makes it about half of the late rounders.
From my perspective McKegg is not a steal, he might be considered a darkhorse, while Dennis Wideman was a steal at #241
First - we start with all late draft picks (3rd round plus)
Second - guys elevate their game substantially (become a darkhorse)
Third - become impact NHL players (was a steal)
The word steal has basically become redudant, because people use so much in the wrong context here. I hear people declaring a prospect a steal moments after he has been drafted (I used to be guilty of such stupidity) ; how can an asset be a steal until it's proven its worth?
So i agree with you. I would not suggest all late round picks are darkhorses. There are many late round picks who i feel i am capable of basically disgarding from this definition simply based on their skillset. Not many late round picks to my eyes have an "intruiging skillset".
A steal is a proven asset (So NHL player) who was acquired or taken below his current value/worth.
A darkhorse is simply a prospect who can be considered to be highly promising or possess a certain quality that is itself promising and can for the future be considered as an above average NHL asset.
Simon Despres if he's considered a dark horse prospect
Brandon Kozun
6th Rounder, doesn't get much love because of his size but kid plays with heart and brings it his all every shift.
Had 23 or so goals in the AHL his first year. I can see him making the Kings this year or next.
New York Rangers:
Jesper Fasth - Skilled, fast and a good overall hockey player. He will be playing on the top line in the SEL this year after being drafted in the 6th round in '10.