Brock
Registered User
With the 2005 draft finished up, and some deletions from the prospect list through signings and trades, it's time for the Florida Post to re-rate the current system of Panther prospects.
1. Mike Richards
Acquired - 28th overall 2003 Draft
The future leader of the Panthers, has finally worked his way up the prospect world ladder. He led the Canadian WJC team to victory and had an outstanding AHL playoff in his first professional action. While the jury is still out on his offensive potential at the HFNHL level, the Panthers brass does expect him to become an offensive contributor on the second line for many years.
Otten's take: "What can be said here. Richards has surpassed every expectation of him so far. We think his offensive potential is severely underrated. Our scouting staff truly believes he can become a Doug Gilmour like player at the next level. He's a VERY large part of our future."
Last Year's Rating - 5th
ETA - 1 Year
2. Rob Schremp
Acquired - 6th in 2004 Draft
The Panthers received a lot of flack for picking Schremp at 6th overall in the 2004 draft. His supposed attitude and issues surrounding his defensive game really tagged his reputation. But he bounced back with a tremendous year in the OHL with powerhouse London. He erased a lot of concerns by putting forth a consistent effort and even working on his defensive game much to the delight of coach Dale Hunter. Next season is a big one for him, with the departure of a lot of key players in London, Schremp has the offensive load to carry. Should be a fixture on a Panthers scoring line in the future.
Otten's take: "It was very nice to see him really improve the things we told him to work on this year. We hope he can continue to develop an overall game and become the leader for London this year after their loss of Corey Perry. We'd like to see him become more of a factor with 5 on 5 situations."
Last Year's Rating - N/a
ETA - 2 years
3. Tuuka Rask
Acquired - 19th overall 2005 Draft
A new addition from the 2005 draft, Rask is the latest in the line of top Finnish goaltending prospects. The Panthers first rounder has a lot of potential, if he can work on his consistency. Rask adds to the depth to an already deep goaltending prospect pool. Will continue to develop in Finland and will look to show off his stuff for Finland in the upcoming WJC's.
Otten's Take: "We aren't huge fans of taking goalies in the first round, but Rask is a top prospect and when he was still there at our selection, we had to take him. We've got a few years to sign him now because of the CBA, but we'll leave him in Finland for at least another season before bringing him to the AHL."
Last Year's Rating - N/a
ETA - 4 years
4. Brent Burns
Acquired - 66th in 2003 Draft
The real mystery of the Panthers system, Burns has a lot of potential. After finally settling on a position, Burns is fully a defenseman now. At 6'4 and over 200lbs, Burns brings a tremendous skating ability and a real knack for the offensive game. His defensive game still requires work, but he's really progressed and learned a lot in the AHL last year. The Panthers see him as a future second pairing defenseman with power play QB written all over him.
Otten's Take: "Yes, Brent is a defenseman for good now. He's not the next Mathieu Dandenault or anything. He's progressing very nicely and starting to settle down back there. We'd like to see him become a little more physical because of his size, but he's still young and maturing. Kid has a mammoth shot from the point. He should be with us next season, as a part of our top 6."
Last Year's Rating - 7th
ETA - 1 Year
5. Marek Svatos
Acquired - unknown
While not incredibly big, Svatos oozes with offensive potential. Alongside Rob Schremp, Svatos may have the most potential of any Florida prospect. What's held Svatos back has been injuries (in particuliar shoulder injuries) and inconsistency. He has to put it all together this year in order to remain a part of the Panthers future.
Otten's Take: "He didn't have a great year in the AHL last season, with the lockout. But a lot of guys in his situation didn't. He wanted to be playing in the HFNHL. We want to see him play another relatively injury free season, as his shoulder is still a bit of a concern with us because of his slender frame."
Last Year's Rating - 9th
ETA - 1 year
6. Doug Lynch
Acquired - Trade with Toronto
Caught in a bit of limbo, Lynch still remains a solid defensive prospect. His development took a bit of a step backward last year in the AHL, but he still remains a future second pairing guy who does everything well, but nothing great. Should be able to bounce back this year.
Otten's Take: "Lynch is a solid two-way guy. He won't dazzle you. His offensive numbers in his rookie season in the AHL may have been a bit of an illusion because we don't expect him to be a huge offensive force in the HFNHL. If he can settle down as a solid 4 or 5 guy, we will be very happy with his development."
Last Year's Rating - 8th
ETA - 1 Year
7. Yared Hagos
Acquired - Unknown
Hagos has finally decided to come over to North America this year, which should see a spike in his development and worth in the prospect world. A hard worker who should translate well to the North American game, Hagos will spend this year in the AHL and try to show the Panthers how much offensive potential he has.
Otten's Take: "We feel this guy is really underrated. He's one of the strongest players we've ever seen for a guy his age. He works hard, especially in the corners and is a tremendous defensive player. He's our third line center of the future and we truly feel that if he develops the way we feel he should, then he could be a future Selke candidate."
Last year's rating - 13th
ETA - 2 years
8. Dany Roussin
Acquired - 238th in 2003 Draft
The big year for Roussin, because he finally breaks away from Sid the Kid and goes out on his own in the hockey world. A lot of people have critcized Roussin for hanging on Crosby. But you can't argue his ability to score. It should be very interesting to see how Roussin produces in his first professional season.
Otten's take: "An interesting player. A lot of people say that he leached off of Crosby last year and that he's not all that good of a hockey player. But let me tell you, he can score. He played without Sid for stretches and he maintained his production even with other team's focusing on him. I think he's going to surprise a lot of people in the AHL this year."
Last Year's Rating - 19th
ETA - 2 Years
9. David Shantz
Acquired - 35th in 2004 Draft
Shantz had a disaster of a year last season. He didn't play well out of the gate for Mississauga and eventually gave up his starter's job to Michael Ouzas. This offseason, Shantz was traded to the highly ranked Peterborough Petes. This season could be a huge bounce back for Shantz, where he can lead a very good team and resurrect his OHL status.
Otten's Take: "Shantz is still a favourite of our scouting staff, even after last season's disaster. We spoke to him recently and he's ready and focused to play for Peterborough this year and lead them to a Memorial Cup. We still have a lot of faith in David."
Last year's Rating - N/a
ETA - 4 Years
10. Evan Mcgrath
Acquired - 60th in 2004 Draft
After a disastrous 2003 OHL season, where Mcgrath saw his stock fall from potential top 10 selection to out of the first round entirely, the Panthers second round pick from 2004 had an excellent season in 2004, re-establishing himself on the prospect scene. He had a breakthrough season for the Kitchener Rangers and worked hard to dispell his consistency problems. Another Panthers prospect who is about to embark on a very important season. With the departure of fellow Panthers prospect and former teammate Mike Richards, Mcgrath takes over full responsibility as the Rangers top offensive threat. If he can lead the Rangers to victory, Mcgrath will do even better to improve his status in the prospect universe.
Otten's Take: "We've heard a lot of rumours about Mcgrath during his draft season that saw him plummet. He might have been playing with an injury, which caused his inconsistency, especially physically. This year he was much better. We'd still like him to become more of a factor in every game as he still tends to float occasionally. But with Mike Richards gone, Deboer is really going to work with him. We think he's got a chance to lead the OHL in scoring."
Last Year's Rating - N/a
ETA - 3 Years
11. Kevin Bieska
Acquired - free Agent
From relative unknown to nearly top 10 prospect in a season, Bieska has been a real surprise for the Panthers. He had an outstanding rookie season in the AHL where he saw himself become an excellent two way threat, a nasty mean defenseman who showed promise for the offensive end of the ice as well. The Bowling Green grad will look to establish himself as no fluke as he continues to progress in the AHL.
Otten's take: "A great pickup for us. Our scouting staff really liked him at Bowling Green. He plays a really simple game and is tough as nails. But we didn't expect him to be such a factor offensively this year in the AHL. He still needs to improve his skating a little more, but we really like his potential."
Last Year's Rating - N/a
ETA - 2 Years
12. Chris Campoli
Acquired - 259th in 2004 Draft
A very similar situation to Bieska, Campoli was a very late, 19 year old selection in the 2004 draft for the Panthers. He also had an outstanding rookie season in the AHL. While not as mean as Bieska, Campoli is cut from a similar cloth as a two way defensive threat. He will also look to cement his reputation in the AHL and then challenge for a roster spot with the Panthers.
Otten's Take: "Campoli came into the AHL this year as a very mature player. We were always a big fan of his in Erie so we took a flyer on him late in the 2004 draft. He's not a big guy, but he works hard and should develop into an NHL defenseman."
Last Year's Rating - N/a
ETA - 2 Years
13. Julien Ellis-Plante
Acquired - 156th in 2004 Draft
Another late selection for the Panthers, Plante blossomed in the QMJHL this year, winning the top goaltending award. He's not a big goaltender, but he makes up for it with quickness. He looks to continue his strong play in the QMJHL before moving on to his professional career in the AHL. He also has a strong chance to be a goaltender for team Canada at the upcoming WJC's.
Otten's Take: "Ellis is yet another 2004 draft pick who had a solid season. Well more then a solid season, he was pretty much the best goalie in the Q. We really hope he can get a spot as one of Canada's goalies at this year's WJC's. We talked to coach Sutter and he said he was very impressed with Julien. Wow we've got a couple really quality goaltenders for the future."
Last year's Rating - N/a
ETA - 4 Years
14. Ryan Oulahen
Acquired - 112th In 2003 Draft
Much like Hagos, Oulahen is a hard working, two way centre. He had an excellent season for the Brampton Battalion in the OHL, as their captain. Voted as one of the best defensive players in the OHL, Oulahen has an excellent shot at becoming an NHL player.
Otten's Take: "A real darkhorse. Watch out for Oulahen. He's really flown under the radar but I've spoken to several OHL coaches who believe he could become an outstanding third line center in the NHL. If I were to make a list, I'll tell you right now, he'd be higher up."
Last Year's Rating - N/a
ETA - 3 Years
15. Randall Gelech
Acquired - 162nd in 2004 Draft
Gelech is a gritty WHL grad who had a very solid AHL rookie season. He will look to improve even more on his offensive stats, while continuing with his strong work ethic. Very close to being an NHL player.
Otten's take: "A nice young player. He works hard, he has good hands and he does everything you ask of him. Could become a very good third liner for us in the future, possibly even near future."
Last Year's Rating - N/a
ETA - 2 Years
16. Casey Borer
Acquired - 104th in 2004 Draft
A strong, strudy stay at home defenseman, Borer had a solid showing at last year's WJC for team USA (one of the few who did). He'll continue his collegiate career this season for St. Cloud State where he anchors their defense. Maybe Borer can get his first NCAA goal this season. It's unknown whether he will turn pro after this season.
Otten's Take: "Borer is a guy we really like because he's a great skater and solid defensively. A lot of times you get these stay at home defenseman who are so big they can't move very well. But Borer is an excellent skater and projects as a part of our future d-core."
Last Year's Rating - N/a
ETA - 4 Years
17. Michael Vernace
Acquired - 99th in the 2005 Draft
Came out of nowhere this year to be an OHL rookie of the year candidate (losing to Benoit Pouliot) and being named to the All rookie team. He's a solid offensive defenseman who needs to continue working on his defensive game. With another great year, he could really start to generate some buzz.
Otten's Take: "We had a chance to see him a lot this year while watching Oulahen. He's a great offensive defenseman. Leads the rush, quarterbacks the powerplay. He's working on his defensive game, but if anyone can teach defense, Stan Butler can."
Last year's Rating - N/a
ETA - 4 Years
18. BJ Crombeen
Acquired - 97th in 2003 Draft
Crombeen is a future pest type winger who posted career high goals in the OHL with Barrie last year (31). He begins his professional career now and will look to continue with success in the AHL. The Panthers have several players who are similar to Crombeen, so he needs to have a good year to keep himself in Florida's plans.
Otten's Take: "BJ is a real feisty guy with some solid offensive skills. He should definitely be an NHL player for us in the future, it's just at what capacity. He's going to play in the AHL this year and that should give us a real good read on whether he's a future 4th line pest or something more."
Last year's rating - HM
ETA - 3 Years
19. Kyle Kluberantz
Acquired - 93rd in 2004 Draft
Kluberantz is one guy on this prospect list who could rise the most on next years list. He's an offensive defenseman playing with the Wisconsin Badgers in the NCAA. He posted 18 points in his freshman year and should improve those numbers this season as a sophomore. He still needs work defensively, and needs to add strength but the potential is there.
Otten's Take: "Kyle is another guy to keep an eye on. He was excellent in the USHL before moving on to Wisconsin this year where he had an excellent freshman season offensively. We actually thought he'd struggle this year but he far exceeded our expecatations. He's got a few years to really improve defensively too."
Last Year's Rating - N/a
ETA - 4 Years
20. Ivan Khomutov
Acquired - trade with Carolina
A very interesting prospect, Khomutov spent last year in the AHL as a 19 year old (one of only a couple in the league). He struggled for the most part, posting only 17 points. But as such a young player, he can't be written off yet. He will look to bounce back this year, with a year of professional hockey already under his belt.
Otten's Take: "A lot of people in the league seemed to forget about this guy after he had a very very medicore season in the AHL. But they are forgetting he's only 19 years old. He's still got a lot of potential and we'll be patient with him."
Last year's Rating - N/a
ETA - 3 Years
Honorable Mention (In No Particuliar Order):
Wade Dubielewicz - 20th last year
Karl Stewart - 15th last year
Cody McCormick - Honorable Mention last year
Keith Yandle
Jonathan Siglet
Andrei Plehanov
Otten's Take: "A couple of the guys in this section, would be rated in my personal top 20. Dubie should begin to compete for a backup spot with us as he's learned nearly everything he can in the AHL. Stewart and McCormick could play 4th line roles for us as early as this season. They bring a lot of energy and feistyness to the table. Keith Yandle was one of our main targets in the draft this year. We had him rated pretty high. He's actually going to Moncton of the QMJHL this year where Ted Nolan expects him to be a big part of his offense from the back end. Watch out for this kid. Jonathan Siglet has forgone the rest of his NCAA career to play in the AHL with us. We expect him to earn a roster spot there. He's been working out a lot this summer and he's got a lot of potential. Andrei Plehanov is a guy we'd love to see come over to North America to play in the AHL. He's a very good defenseman and a real darkhorse in our organization."
Thanks to Panthers GM Brock Otten for supplying some quotes to us for this article.
The future in Florida looks very bright.
Esteban Santour,
Florida Post
1. Mike Richards
Acquired - 28th overall 2003 Draft
The future leader of the Panthers, has finally worked his way up the prospect world ladder. He led the Canadian WJC team to victory and had an outstanding AHL playoff in his first professional action. While the jury is still out on his offensive potential at the HFNHL level, the Panthers brass does expect him to become an offensive contributor on the second line for many years.
Otten's take: "What can be said here. Richards has surpassed every expectation of him so far. We think his offensive potential is severely underrated. Our scouting staff truly believes he can become a Doug Gilmour like player at the next level. He's a VERY large part of our future."
Last Year's Rating - 5th
ETA - 1 Year
2. Rob Schremp
Acquired - 6th in 2004 Draft
The Panthers received a lot of flack for picking Schremp at 6th overall in the 2004 draft. His supposed attitude and issues surrounding his defensive game really tagged his reputation. But he bounced back with a tremendous year in the OHL with powerhouse London. He erased a lot of concerns by putting forth a consistent effort and even working on his defensive game much to the delight of coach Dale Hunter. Next season is a big one for him, with the departure of a lot of key players in London, Schremp has the offensive load to carry. Should be a fixture on a Panthers scoring line in the future.
Otten's take: "It was very nice to see him really improve the things we told him to work on this year. We hope he can continue to develop an overall game and become the leader for London this year after their loss of Corey Perry. We'd like to see him become more of a factor with 5 on 5 situations."
Last Year's Rating - N/a
ETA - 2 years
3. Tuuka Rask
Acquired - 19th overall 2005 Draft
A new addition from the 2005 draft, Rask is the latest in the line of top Finnish goaltending prospects. The Panthers first rounder has a lot of potential, if he can work on his consistency. Rask adds to the depth to an already deep goaltending prospect pool. Will continue to develop in Finland and will look to show off his stuff for Finland in the upcoming WJC's.
Otten's Take: "We aren't huge fans of taking goalies in the first round, but Rask is a top prospect and when he was still there at our selection, we had to take him. We've got a few years to sign him now because of the CBA, but we'll leave him in Finland for at least another season before bringing him to the AHL."
Last Year's Rating - N/a
ETA - 4 years
4. Brent Burns
Acquired - 66th in 2003 Draft
The real mystery of the Panthers system, Burns has a lot of potential. After finally settling on a position, Burns is fully a defenseman now. At 6'4 and over 200lbs, Burns brings a tremendous skating ability and a real knack for the offensive game. His defensive game still requires work, but he's really progressed and learned a lot in the AHL last year. The Panthers see him as a future second pairing defenseman with power play QB written all over him.
Otten's Take: "Yes, Brent is a defenseman for good now. He's not the next Mathieu Dandenault or anything. He's progressing very nicely and starting to settle down back there. We'd like to see him become a little more physical because of his size, but he's still young and maturing. Kid has a mammoth shot from the point. He should be with us next season, as a part of our top 6."
Last Year's Rating - 7th
ETA - 1 Year
5. Marek Svatos
Acquired - unknown
While not incredibly big, Svatos oozes with offensive potential. Alongside Rob Schremp, Svatos may have the most potential of any Florida prospect. What's held Svatos back has been injuries (in particuliar shoulder injuries) and inconsistency. He has to put it all together this year in order to remain a part of the Panthers future.
Otten's Take: "He didn't have a great year in the AHL last season, with the lockout. But a lot of guys in his situation didn't. He wanted to be playing in the HFNHL. We want to see him play another relatively injury free season, as his shoulder is still a bit of a concern with us because of his slender frame."
Last Year's Rating - 9th
ETA - 1 year
6. Doug Lynch
Acquired - Trade with Toronto
Caught in a bit of limbo, Lynch still remains a solid defensive prospect. His development took a bit of a step backward last year in the AHL, but he still remains a future second pairing guy who does everything well, but nothing great. Should be able to bounce back this year.
Otten's Take: "Lynch is a solid two-way guy. He won't dazzle you. His offensive numbers in his rookie season in the AHL may have been a bit of an illusion because we don't expect him to be a huge offensive force in the HFNHL. If he can settle down as a solid 4 or 5 guy, we will be very happy with his development."
Last Year's Rating - 8th
ETA - 1 Year
7. Yared Hagos
Acquired - Unknown
Hagos has finally decided to come over to North America this year, which should see a spike in his development and worth in the prospect world. A hard worker who should translate well to the North American game, Hagos will spend this year in the AHL and try to show the Panthers how much offensive potential he has.
Otten's Take: "We feel this guy is really underrated. He's one of the strongest players we've ever seen for a guy his age. He works hard, especially in the corners and is a tremendous defensive player. He's our third line center of the future and we truly feel that if he develops the way we feel he should, then he could be a future Selke candidate."
Last year's rating - 13th
ETA - 2 years
8. Dany Roussin
Acquired - 238th in 2003 Draft
The big year for Roussin, because he finally breaks away from Sid the Kid and goes out on his own in the hockey world. A lot of people have critcized Roussin for hanging on Crosby. But you can't argue his ability to score. It should be very interesting to see how Roussin produces in his first professional season.
Otten's take: "An interesting player. A lot of people say that he leached off of Crosby last year and that he's not all that good of a hockey player. But let me tell you, he can score. He played without Sid for stretches and he maintained his production even with other team's focusing on him. I think he's going to surprise a lot of people in the AHL this year."
Last Year's Rating - 19th
ETA - 2 Years
9. David Shantz
Acquired - 35th in 2004 Draft
Shantz had a disaster of a year last season. He didn't play well out of the gate for Mississauga and eventually gave up his starter's job to Michael Ouzas. This offseason, Shantz was traded to the highly ranked Peterborough Petes. This season could be a huge bounce back for Shantz, where he can lead a very good team and resurrect his OHL status.
Otten's Take: "Shantz is still a favourite of our scouting staff, even after last season's disaster. We spoke to him recently and he's ready and focused to play for Peterborough this year and lead them to a Memorial Cup. We still have a lot of faith in David."
Last year's Rating - N/a
ETA - 4 Years
10. Evan Mcgrath
Acquired - 60th in 2004 Draft
After a disastrous 2003 OHL season, where Mcgrath saw his stock fall from potential top 10 selection to out of the first round entirely, the Panthers second round pick from 2004 had an excellent season in 2004, re-establishing himself on the prospect scene. He had a breakthrough season for the Kitchener Rangers and worked hard to dispell his consistency problems. Another Panthers prospect who is about to embark on a very important season. With the departure of fellow Panthers prospect and former teammate Mike Richards, Mcgrath takes over full responsibility as the Rangers top offensive threat. If he can lead the Rangers to victory, Mcgrath will do even better to improve his status in the prospect universe.
Otten's Take: "We've heard a lot of rumours about Mcgrath during his draft season that saw him plummet. He might have been playing with an injury, which caused his inconsistency, especially physically. This year he was much better. We'd still like him to become more of a factor in every game as he still tends to float occasionally. But with Mike Richards gone, Deboer is really going to work with him. We think he's got a chance to lead the OHL in scoring."
Last Year's Rating - N/a
ETA - 3 Years
11. Kevin Bieska
Acquired - free Agent
From relative unknown to nearly top 10 prospect in a season, Bieska has been a real surprise for the Panthers. He had an outstanding rookie season in the AHL where he saw himself become an excellent two way threat, a nasty mean defenseman who showed promise for the offensive end of the ice as well. The Bowling Green grad will look to establish himself as no fluke as he continues to progress in the AHL.
Otten's take: "A great pickup for us. Our scouting staff really liked him at Bowling Green. He plays a really simple game and is tough as nails. But we didn't expect him to be such a factor offensively this year in the AHL. He still needs to improve his skating a little more, but we really like his potential."
Last Year's Rating - N/a
ETA - 2 Years
12. Chris Campoli
Acquired - 259th in 2004 Draft
A very similar situation to Bieska, Campoli was a very late, 19 year old selection in the 2004 draft for the Panthers. He also had an outstanding rookie season in the AHL. While not as mean as Bieska, Campoli is cut from a similar cloth as a two way defensive threat. He will also look to cement his reputation in the AHL and then challenge for a roster spot with the Panthers.
Otten's Take: "Campoli came into the AHL this year as a very mature player. We were always a big fan of his in Erie so we took a flyer on him late in the 2004 draft. He's not a big guy, but he works hard and should develop into an NHL defenseman."
Last Year's Rating - N/a
ETA - 2 Years
13. Julien Ellis-Plante
Acquired - 156th in 2004 Draft
Another late selection for the Panthers, Plante blossomed in the QMJHL this year, winning the top goaltending award. He's not a big goaltender, but he makes up for it with quickness. He looks to continue his strong play in the QMJHL before moving on to his professional career in the AHL. He also has a strong chance to be a goaltender for team Canada at the upcoming WJC's.
Otten's Take: "Ellis is yet another 2004 draft pick who had a solid season. Well more then a solid season, he was pretty much the best goalie in the Q. We really hope he can get a spot as one of Canada's goalies at this year's WJC's. We talked to coach Sutter and he said he was very impressed with Julien. Wow we've got a couple really quality goaltenders for the future."
Last year's Rating - N/a
ETA - 4 Years
14. Ryan Oulahen
Acquired - 112th In 2003 Draft
Much like Hagos, Oulahen is a hard working, two way centre. He had an excellent season for the Brampton Battalion in the OHL, as their captain. Voted as one of the best defensive players in the OHL, Oulahen has an excellent shot at becoming an NHL player.
Otten's Take: "A real darkhorse. Watch out for Oulahen. He's really flown under the radar but I've spoken to several OHL coaches who believe he could become an outstanding third line center in the NHL. If I were to make a list, I'll tell you right now, he'd be higher up."
Last Year's Rating - N/a
ETA - 3 Years
15. Randall Gelech
Acquired - 162nd in 2004 Draft
Gelech is a gritty WHL grad who had a very solid AHL rookie season. He will look to improve even more on his offensive stats, while continuing with his strong work ethic. Very close to being an NHL player.
Otten's take: "A nice young player. He works hard, he has good hands and he does everything you ask of him. Could become a very good third liner for us in the future, possibly even near future."
Last Year's Rating - N/a
ETA - 2 Years
16. Casey Borer
Acquired - 104th in 2004 Draft
A strong, strudy stay at home defenseman, Borer had a solid showing at last year's WJC for team USA (one of the few who did). He'll continue his collegiate career this season for St. Cloud State where he anchors their defense. Maybe Borer can get his first NCAA goal this season. It's unknown whether he will turn pro after this season.
Otten's Take: "Borer is a guy we really like because he's a great skater and solid defensively. A lot of times you get these stay at home defenseman who are so big they can't move very well. But Borer is an excellent skater and projects as a part of our future d-core."
Last Year's Rating - N/a
ETA - 4 Years
17. Michael Vernace
Acquired - 99th in the 2005 Draft
Came out of nowhere this year to be an OHL rookie of the year candidate (losing to Benoit Pouliot) and being named to the All rookie team. He's a solid offensive defenseman who needs to continue working on his defensive game. With another great year, he could really start to generate some buzz.
Otten's Take: "We had a chance to see him a lot this year while watching Oulahen. He's a great offensive defenseman. Leads the rush, quarterbacks the powerplay. He's working on his defensive game, but if anyone can teach defense, Stan Butler can."
Last year's Rating - N/a
ETA - 4 Years
18. BJ Crombeen
Acquired - 97th in 2003 Draft
Crombeen is a future pest type winger who posted career high goals in the OHL with Barrie last year (31). He begins his professional career now and will look to continue with success in the AHL. The Panthers have several players who are similar to Crombeen, so he needs to have a good year to keep himself in Florida's plans.
Otten's Take: "BJ is a real feisty guy with some solid offensive skills. He should definitely be an NHL player for us in the future, it's just at what capacity. He's going to play in the AHL this year and that should give us a real good read on whether he's a future 4th line pest or something more."
Last year's rating - HM
ETA - 3 Years
19. Kyle Kluberantz
Acquired - 93rd in 2004 Draft
Kluberantz is one guy on this prospect list who could rise the most on next years list. He's an offensive defenseman playing with the Wisconsin Badgers in the NCAA. He posted 18 points in his freshman year and should improve those numbers this season as a sophomore. He still needs work defensively, and needs to add strength but the potential is there.
Otten's Take: "Kyle is another guy to keep an eye on. He was excellent in the USHL before moving on to Wisconsin this year where he had an excellent freshman season offensively. We actually thought he'd struggle this year but he far exceeded our expecatations. He's got a few years to really improve defensively too."
Last Year's Rating - N/a
ETA - 4 Years
20. Ivan Khomutov
Acquired - trade with Carolina
A very interesting prospect, Khomutov spent last year in the AHL as a 19 year old (one of only a couple in the league). He struggled for the most part, posting only 17 points. But as such a young player, he can't be written off yet. He will look to bounce back this year, with a year of professional hockey already under his belt.
Otten's Take: "A lot of people in the league seemed to forget about this guy after he had a very very medicore season in the AHL. But they are forgetting he's only 19 years old. He's still got a lot of potential and we'll be patient with him."
Last year's Rating - N/a
ETA - 3 Years
Honorable Mention (In No Particuliar Order):
Wade Dubielewicz - 20th last year
Karl Stewart - 15th last year
Cody McCormick - Honorable Mention last year
Keith Yandle
Jonathan Siglet
Andrei Plehanov
Otten's Take: "A couple of the guys in this section, would be rated in my personal top 20. Dubie should begin to compete for a backup spot with us as he's learned nearly everything he can in the AHL. Stewart and McCormick could play 4th line roles for us as early as this season. They bring a lot of energy and feistyness to the table. Keith Yandle was one of our main targets in the draft this year. We had him rated pretty high. He's actually going to Moncton of the QMJHL this year where Ted Nolan expects him to be a big part of his offense from the back end. Watch out for this kid. Jonathan Siglet has forgone the rest of his NCAA career to play in the AHL with us. We expect him to earn a roster spot there. He's been working out a lot this summer and he's got a lot of potential. Andrei Plehanov is a guy we'd love to see come over to North America to play in the AHL. He's a very good defenseman and a real darkhorse in our organization."
Thanks to Panthers GM Brock Otten for supplying some quotes to us for this article.
The future in Florida looks very bright.
Esteban Santour,
Florida Post
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