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50. Chuck Kobasew (NR), RW, Calgary
Drafted this year by the Calgary Flames in the 1st round (14th overall), Kobasew had an excellent season last year with Boston College. As a freshman, he put up outstanding numbers and was 4th in scoring in all of Hockey East. Although he doesn't have great size at 6'0 195 lbs, Kobasew is a power forward and drives to the net with authority. He is a goal scorer, and has scored big at every level he's played. He scores most of his goals from close range, off of rebounds, deflections, etc. He is a gritty, determined and very competitive player. Kobasew is also a smooth skater and has soft hands around the net. In a predictable move this summer, Kobasew left Boston College for the Kelowna Rockets of the WHL. Being from Canada, most people knew Chuck wasn't comfortable being so far from home at college. When his best friend on the team, Krys Kolanos, decided to turn pro, whispers of the move started to heat up. Now that Chuck is a lot closer to home and in a familiar environment, expect him to put up some big numbers in juniors. He will probably need 2-3 years to develop before he's ready to crack the Flames lineup, but with the team in desperate need of goal scorers, Kobasew could step in much sooner.
49. Juraj Kolnik (NR), RW Islanders
The New York Islanders got a steal when they selected Kolnik in the 4th round (101st overall) of the 1999 Draft. Kolnik was with the Rimouski Oceanic when drafted, and this is another example of teams not taking offensive players from the QMJHL serious enough. Since the QMJHL is the highest scoring league of the three major junior leagues, scouts tend to think the high numbers most players put up are just the results of playing in a league not known for defense. Therefore, the scores are 8-3 and 10-2, instead of 3-2 and 2-1. Anyway, Kolnik is a speedster and a highly skilled offensive player. He has a deadly shot and excellent hockey sense. After 29 games in the NHL this past season, expect him to stay with the Islanders for a lot longer this year.
48. Ales Hemsky (NR), RW, Edmonton
After scoring 100 points as a rookie with the Hull Olympiques of the QMJHL, the Edmonton Oilers made Ales Hemsky the 13th overall selection of the 2001 Draft. A highly skilled offensive player with great speed and hockey sense, Hemsky has the potential to be a goal scorer in the same mold as Martin Havlat. One of the big knocks on Hemsky though is that he is a soft player and tries to avoid the physical play. With 2-3 years of development, he should be able to step in and make an impact in the NHL. Expect him back with the Olympiques next season.
47. Brian Campbell (NR), D, Buffalo
Considered too small to play in the NHL and also a defensive liability, the Buffalo Sabres took a chance on Brian Campbell by selecting him in the 6th round of the 1997 Draft. Since then, Campbell has spent the last two years in the minors working on his defensive game. He always had the offensive skills, but now he is in the progress of turning into a two-way defenseman, although he will never be known for his defense. Some have compared Campbell to a poor man's Brian Rafalski. Campbell could crack Buffalo's lineup this season, but if he doesn't, he'll continue his development in the AHL. He has the potential to be a top 5 NHL defenseman.
46. David Hale (NR), D, New Jersey
As usual with the Devils, their 1st Round pick in 2000 was an unpredictable one. They decided on defenseman David Hale from Sioux City of the USHL with the 22nd overall pick, a shocking selection to many. Hale is a stay-at-home defenseman who reminds some of Scott Stevens. He doesn't do much offensively, but is a physical force on the ice. He plays a very intense and physical game, punishing the opposition in front of the net and along the boards. He is a good skater and a crisp outlet passer. Hale spent this year in college with the University of North Dakota, and will return again this season. Expect him to make the jump to the NHL in about four years.
45. Mathieu Garon (HM), G, Montreal
A 2nd round pick back in 1996, Garon is ready for NHL duty. After finishing his junior hockey career in the QMJHL, he has been developing in the AHL for the past three seasons. He will start this season in the AHL again, and will be recalled to the NHL when an injury occurs to one of Montreal's current goalies or when Jeff Hackett is finally moved. Garon is a butterfly style goaltender and has the potential to be a starter some day. In 11 NHL games last season, he had a 4-5-1 record along with 2 shutouts, both against the Atlanta Thrashers. Some people have said that he is a better goaltender than Jose Theodore, but that remains to be seen. Keep an eye on Garon in the future.
44. Tim Gleason (NR), D, Ottawa
The Ottawa Senators liked Gleason so much, they made a drafted day trade to move up to the 23rd overall spot in order to select him in 2001. A 6'0 199 pound defenseman, Gleason plays a very good two-way game. He's got excellent speed, and team's love his physical play as well as his offensive skills. He quarterbacks the power play and is very effective at rushing the puck up the ice. He had a poor showing in this year's OHL playoffs, which some say hurt his draft position. Gleason is likely 2-3 years away as he need to develop more in juniors and might need a season or two in the minors. He has a lot of raw skill, and if he can put it all together, he'll be a top 4 NHL defenseman some day.
43. Mikael Tellqvist (NR), G, Toronto
A 3rd round pick in 1999, Tellqvist has dominated the Swedish Elite League for the past two seasons. He has led Djurgården to the SEL Championship the last two years as well. Tellqvist has very quick feet and reads the play well. He is a very patient and focused goaltender. He recently signed a contract with the Leafs this summer and will likely be the back-up to Curtis Joseph this season. Tellqvist has been compared to Mike Richter, and has the potential to be a starting goaltender in a few years. Expect him to play 15-20 games for Toronto this year.
42. Niklas Kronvall (NR), D, Detroit
Drafted 29th overall by the Detroit Red Wings in 2000, Kronvall has been developing with Djurgården in the Swedish Elite League. A smooth skater with excellent puck rushing ability and offensive instincts, some feel Kronvall is too small for the NHL. At 5'11 165 lbs, he needs to bulk up and improve his strength to make it in the NHL. With a deep blue line, the Red Wings will allow Kronvall the time he needs to develop. In 2-3 years when Chelios and Duchesne likely will be retired, that is when we can likely expect Kronvall to step in. In the meantime, he will continue to work on his strength, intensity and confidence in the SEL.
41. Alexei Smirnov (38), LW, Anaheim
The Ducks rolled the dice on the big, skilled forward from Moscow Dynamo with the 12th pick overall in the 2000 NHL entry draft. Smirnov is huge; he is very strong and a magician with the puck. He scores highlight-reel goals and has the makings of a future superstar. Smirnov's attitude, however, has been in question. Despite all the talent, he's known for his lack of competitiveness; his indifference towards his team's success has been alarming. Another cause for distress is Smirnov's 2 goals last year for Dynamo. It is clear that Alexei doesn't have all the pieces in place at the moment. He remains a project, and will require several seasons of development before entering the NHL.
40. Brooks Orpik (HM), D, Pittsburgh
Orpik is a stay-at-home defenseman who plays with grit and a mean streak. A 1st round pick (18th overall) in 2000 by Pittsburgh, he recently signed a contract with the Penguins and will forgo his senior season at Boston College. With the Penguins in need of defensive help, Orpik could make the team out of camp, although a season in the minors seems likely. Named after Herb Brooks, Orpik is they type of defenseman the Penguins have been lacking in recent years. He'll keep opponents out of the crease and will keep pucks out of the net, although he won't provide much offense. Orpik will be a future top 4 defenseman.
39. Fredrik Sjostrom (NR), RW, Phoenix
Described as one of the best skaters in the entire 2001 draft, the Phoenix Coyotes made a deal with the Calgary Flames on draft day to move up to 11th overall in order to take Sjostrom. Sjostrom is a highly skilled player who has one of the best work ethics you will ever see. He collapsed in the locker room during a game last season because he overextended himself. Some scouts aren't sold on his offensive potential, but he has been compared to Martin Havlat of the Ottawa Senators. Sjostrom will come over to North America this season and play with the Calgary Hitmen of the WHL. He will need about 2-3 more years of development before he's ready to become a regular NHLer.
38. Barret Jackman (40), D, St. Louis
A two-way defenseman, Barret Jackman was drafted 17th overall in 1999 by the Blues. He spent the past two seasons with the Regina Pats developing his game in juniors after being drafted. He has been the Pats' go-to-guy and played for team Canada at the 2001 World Junior Championships in Moscow, Russia. He plays a tough, physical game and does a good job intimidating the opposition. On the offensive end, he has a good shot from the point and is effective at keeping the play moving smoothly. Jackman has a good chance to make the Blues this season, and playing alongside Chris Pronger and Al MacInnis, he should be able to learn a lot and improve some areas of his game. He could help stabilize the Blues defense this season and look for him to make an impact.
37. Bryan Allen (29), D, Vancouver
Compared to Chris Pronger and Derian Hatcher, the Vancouver Canucks made Bryan Allen the 4th overall selection of the 1998 Draft. A big, mean, stay-at-home defenseman, Allen has struggled with some fluke injuries over the last few years. This year he was healthy for the full season and played some great hockey, scoring 25 points in 75 games for the Kansas City Blades of the IHL. Allen received a 6 game call-up with the Canucks, and played well despite registering no points or penalty minutes. He also saw action with the Canucks in the playoffs against Colorado, appearing in 2 games. Provided that Allen can stay healthy in the future, he has the potential to be a top 4 physical defenseman. He might find himself as a regular in the NHL this season for Vancouver, but he might need another year of development in the minors.
36. Christian Berglund (NR), RW, New Jersey
The 37th overall pick in the 1998 NHL entry draft, Berglund is a tough customer. Aside from being offensively gifted, Christian is a hard-nosed individual. 142 penalty minutes in 49 games last year in Farjestad, Sweden indicate that he enjoys playing a tough and intimidating style of hockey. In addition, Berglund has good straight away speed and soft hands around the net. Signed and ready, don't be surprised to see Christian in New Jersey's lineup next year. He fits Larry Robinson's two-way style perfectly, and has shown few growing pains.
35. Igor Knyazev (NR), D, Carolina
Knyazev was an underrated player from the 2001 draft class. Selected 15th overall, Igor is very dependable, mature and consistent for his age. He is exceptional in one-on-one situations and plays a tough, bruising style. Although he is not an offensive defenseman, Igor makes good decisions with the puck and has a sneaky shot from the point. Knyazev could join the Canes' blue line as soon as a year from now. His game is well rounded; a hard worker and an intense competitor, Knyazev has a bright future ahead of him.
34. Nikita Alexeev (NR), RW, Tampa Bay
Drafted 8th overall by the Tampa Bay Lightning in 2000, Alexeev played for the OHL's Erie Otters this past season. Blessed with great size (6'5 215 lbs.), the 19-year-old Russian is an excellent skater for someone so big. Alexeev's upside is a two-way scoring power forward, and he might just get an NHL opportunity this season. Tampa Bay GM Rick Dudley has not ruled out the possibility of Alexeev playing on the top two lines this upcoming season. He was one of the final cuts last season, and barring a horrible training camp, he seems like a good bet to make the team. Expect some good things in the future.
33. Jordan Leopold (NR), D, Calgary
Leopold is Calgary's future powerplay quarterback. Selected 44th overall in the 1999 NHL entry draft by Anaheim, he was later traded to the Flames for Andrei Nazarov and a 2nd rounder. Coming off an excellent year in College, Leopold has top-notch offensive instincts. He was the top scoring defenseman in the WCHA and was nominated for the Hobey Baker award. Jordan is a confident puck handler, an accurate passer, with a low, hard shot from the point. Leopold is expected to complete another year of college before making the jump to the NHL.
32. Dan Hamhuis (NR), D, Nashville
Basically an unknown prospect heading into last season, Dan Hamhuis emerged as a force on the blue line for the Prince George Cougars of the WHL. Selected 12th overall in 2001 by the Nashville Predators, most scouts feel he has more skill than Mike Komisarek, yet lacks Komisarek's size and ability to physically dominate a game. Hamhuis plays a similar style to Scott Niedermayer. Blessed with good offensive skills, Hamhuis is a very mobile for a defenseman and is an excellent open-ice hitter. He provides leadership on and off the ice and is a player that teammates look up to. When he reaches his full potential, he'll be a top 3 defenseman in the NHL. He is about 2 years away from stepping in, but it will be worth the wait.
31. Lars Jonsson (HM), D, Boston
Drafted 7th overall in 2000, Lars Jonsson has a great amount of potential. After putting up solid numbers for Leksand in a Swedish tier-2 league during his draft year, Jonsson played this season in the Elite league. He had a tough time adapting to the increase in competition and had a poor season. He plays an offensive minded game, and is known for his excellent speed, vision and puckhandling ability, which enables him to make great plays on the ice. He's also solid defensively, and has a cannon from the point, which he keeps low for deflections. Jonsson is still young and will remain in Sweden to develop for a few more years. Expect him to make an impact 3-4 years from now.
30. Krys Kolanos (NR), C, Phoenix
Drafted by the Coyotes 19th overall in the 2000 Draft, Kolanos improved his stock tremendously this season with Boston College. He was the 3rd leading scorer in the Hockey East division last season with 50 points in 41 games as a sophomore. Kolanos capped off his excellent campaign by scoring the winning goal in overtime during the National Championship game against the University of North Dakota. The win gave Boston College their 1st national championship since 1949, a 52 year drought. Kolanos recently announced that he is turning pro and will forfeit the final two years of his college eligibility. He has not signed a contract with the Coyotes yet, but it's likely a deal will be completed before training camp. Kolanos has a chance to crack Phoenix's lineup this season, but if he isn't ready he'll start the year with the Springfield Falcons of the AHL
29. Anton Volchenkov (NR), D, Ottawa
The Senators knew what they were getting with the 21st overall selection in the 2000 NHL entry draft. Volchenkov is a big, two-way blue liner with admirable hockey sense. He plays well in one-on-one situations and likes to throw his body around as well. Coming off an excellent year in development, Anton showcased additional offensive awareness and shot the puck with more consistency. A fluid skater, Volchenkov looks tireless on the ice; he is hard working and an intense competitor. Showing nothing but positive signs, Volchenkov is a year away from entering the Sens' defensive depth chart.
28. Mikko Koivu (NR), C, Minnesota
The younger brother of Saku Koivu, Mikko was selected 6th overall by the Wild in 2001. A big, strong center who plays more physical than his brother but is not as quick, Mikko is a playmaker with good offensive skills and nice scoring touch. He is good on face-offs and is responsible defensively. The Wild will have to be patient with this youngster, as he needs a few more seasons to develop over in Finland. Many people were surprised to see him drafted so high, but he should be a good player in 3-4 years.
27. Pascal Leclaire (NR), G, Columbus
A highly touted goaltender for the past few years, the Columbus Blue Jackets selected Pascal Leclaire with the 8th overall pick in 2001. Although he is still a top prospect, Leclaire struggled this past season while recovering from an assortment of problems, including a groin injury and mononucleosis. He was also cut from the 2001 Canadian World Junior Championship team, and it certainly was a season he would like to forget. A 6'1 185 pound goaltender that plays a butterfly style in the mold of Patrick Roy, Leclaire will be given time to develop and mature into a top NHL goaltender.
26. Kiril Safronov (22), D, Phoenix
A hot prospect leading up to the 1999 Draft, Safronov was selected 19th overall by the Phoenix Coyotes. A two-way defenseman, Safronov plays a solid all-around game. In his own zone, he plays physical and is responsible defensively. On offense, he quarterbacks the power play and is very adept at rushing the puck up the ice. He also makes good outlet passes to his teammates, resulting in rushes up the ice. He is a future top 3 defenseman in the making. Safronov will likely make the Coyotes this upcoming season, considering the team has dealt away veterans Keith Carney and Jyrki Lumme, and they are now looking for reliable help on the blue line.
25. Ron Hainsey (NR), D, Montreal
Touted as a probable 2nd round pick for the 2000 Draft, the defenseman from the University of Mass-Lowell was surprisingly selected 13th overall by the Montreal Canadiens. After finishing up his sophomore season this year, Hainsey signed a three year contract with the Canadiens. He will forgo the final two years of his college eligibility and will develop in the AHL with the Quebec Citadelles. An offensive defenseman with good hockey sense, Hainsey is a fierce competitor and a gritty performer. He is known for his excellent puck rushing ability, which has reminded some of Brian Leetch. Hainsey will need a season or two in the minors before he is ready to step into the NHL. His upside is a top 4 defenseman.
24. Mike Komisarek (NR), D, Montreal
A native of Islip Terrace, New York, the Canadiens selected University of Michigan defenseman Mike Komisarek 7th overall in 2001. At 6'4 225 lbs, Komisarek is a force defensively on the ice. He plays a two-way game, but his rough, physical style is what scouts love. Some felt he should have went higher in the draft and only slipped because some teams didn't want to wait a few years for him to step into the NHL, as he has said he would like to remain in college and finish his career before turning pro. He is 3-4 years away, but the Canadiens have themselves a winner.
23. Tuomo Ruutu (NR), C, Chicago
The Chicago Blackhawks surprised a lot of people by taking the highly touted Tuomo Ruutu 9th overall in 2001. A native of Finland, Ruutu can play all three forward positions. He plays a physical game combined with speed and excellent offensive instincts. He is known as a pest on the ice, and often gets under the skin of opponents. He is also not afraid to drop the gloves, as he has not backed down from tougher opponents in the past. He has two brothers, Jarkko and Mikko, who have been drafted in the NHL. Jarkko was drafted 68th overall in 1998 by Vancouver, and Mikko was taken 201st overall by Ottawa in 1999. Tuomo's potential is a 2nd liner who will score about 60-70 points a year while playing a physical game that will tick off the opposition. He will stay in Finland for 2-3 more years before coming over to North America.
22. Dan Blackburn (NR), G, Rangers
The Rangers selected Blackburn with the 10th overall pick in this year's draft. A poised goaltender with quick reflexes and excellent focus, Blackburn plays a very similar style to Toronto Maple Leaf's netminder Curtis Joseph. He was named WHL Player of the Year and WHL Rookie of the Year in 1999-00 as a 16-year-old, and has been named the WHL Goaltender of the Year the past two seasons. It's unlikely the Rangers will rush him into the NHL as an 18-year-old, unless he comes to camp and proves he is ready. Expect him back with the Kootenay Ice for at least another season. If he is indeed sent back to juniors, Blackburn will battle it out with Pascal Leclaire for the starter spot on Team Canada at the 2002 World Junior Championships, which are being held in the Czech Republic.
21. Ryan Miller (NR), G, Buffalo
A former 5th round pick in 1999 by the Buffalo Sabres, Miller has developed into one of the top young goalies in the world. He won the Hobey Baker award as the top player in college this season as a sophomore with the Michigan State Spartans. Miller took over the starter's job in the beginning of the year and had an outstanding season, posting a 31-5-4 record along with a 1.32 GAA and a .950 save percentage in 40 games, including 10 shutouts. He now has 17 shutouts in his college career, a new NCAA record. A potential NHL starter, Ryan will return for his final two seasons of college hockey. Expect him to continue to dominate the competition.
20. Vaclav Nedorost (HM), C, Colorado
After being ranked 1st overall among Europeans in Central Scouting's mid-season rankings, Nedorost fell to 6th in the final rankings, yet was scooped up fairly high in the 2000 Draft by the Colorado Avalanche at 14th overall. A two-way center, Nedorost is an excellent skater and a creative playmaker. His top end potential is a solid second line center in the mold of Peter Forsberg, minus the mean streak and big offensive numbers. Nedorost has signed a contract with the Colorado Avalanche, and has a shot at making the club this season, although his likely destination is the Hershey Bears of the AHL.
19. Alexei Semenov (NR), D, Edmonton
A huge defenseman (6'6 210 lbs.), the Oilers fell in love with Alexei Semenov and drafted him 36th overall in the 1999 Draft. He has tons of upside and is the complete package. He is very capable offensively and with his vision and playmaking skills is able to effectively quarterback the power play. He uses his big frame to his advantage, leveling opponents with big body checks. He is a gritty, all-around player and one that should be a fan favorite in Edmonton for years. He won the award for the best defenseman in the OHL this past season and the year before won the award for the best defensive defenseman. If Semenov continues to develop and improve, he'll be a top 3 defenseman who excels in all game situations. Probably will need at least one season in the minors before taking his game to the next level.
18. Maxime Ouellet (16), G, Philadelphia
Drafted 22nd overall by the Flyers in 1999, Philly fans were quite angry about the selection. Brian Boucher and J-M Pelletier were already developing in the system and the team failed to fill its most important need on defense. Two years later, Pelletier is with the Hurricanes, Boucher showed promise in his rookie season but was horrible last year, and Ouellet has franchise goaltender written all over him. Another French-Canadian butterfly goaltender, Ouellet just finished his four-year junior career. He was the starter for team Canada at the 2001 World Junior Championships and led them to a bronze medal with a solid performance. After appearing in 2 games with the Flyers last year and a few in the AHL, Ouellet was returned to the QMJHL for his final junior season. He appeared in only 25 games for the Rouyn-Noranda Huskies before suffering a broken hand that ended his season. He will come to training camp this year in hopes of beating out Brian Boucher for the back-up spot, but he probably will spend a year or two in the minors before stepping in to the NHL.
17. Jamie Lundmark (10), C, Rangers
The Rangers, with the 9th selection of the 1999 Draft, took center Jamie Lundmark from the Moose Jaw Warriors of the WHL. A two-way player with excellent speed and offensive skills, Lundmark is the type of player who will give you something every night. He thrives under pressure and loves to be the go-to-guy. He's a fierce competitor and an excellent leader. Compared to the likes of Steve Yzerman and Joe Sakic, Lundmark is one of the top prospects in the Rangers' organization. He could win a spot on the roster this season with a good showing in camp, but if he needs more time, he'll be sent to the minors to develop his game with the Hartford Wolf Pack of the AHL.
16. Stephen Weiss (NR), C, Florida
Often compared to Steve Yzerman, the player he grew up idolizing, Stephen Weiss of the Plymouth Whalers was the Florida's 1st round selection (4th overall) in 2001. A creative playmaker with excellent speed, vision and hockey sense, some scouts feel Weiss is a better prospect than Jason Spezza. Weiss' lack of size (5'11 178 lbs.) is believed to be one of the reasons why he wasn't drafted before Spezza. Weiss outplayed Spezza in the OHL playoffs this year and increased his stock during the last portion of the season. He could crack the Panthers' lineup this year, but expect him to spend at least 1 more season in junior hockey before getting a taste of NHL action.
15. Kris Beech (6), C, Pittsburgh
Drafted 7th overall by the Washington Capitals in 1999, Beech was recently dealt to Pittsburgh as the centerpiece of the Jaromir Jagr deal. A two-way playmaking center, Beech has the potential to be a very good 2nd liner in the future. He needs time in the minors to work on some areas of his game, including his attitude. He has been known to have attitude problems and is sometimes a selfish player. He ripped the coaches of the 2001 Canadian World Junior team after he was one of the final cuts. Beech also has been known to be injury prone. However, the Penguins ar every high on the 20 year old and will give him a chance to make the team this season, but expect him to spend the majority of the season in the AHL.
14. Pavel Vorobiev (HM), RW, Chicago
The Blackhawks selected a gem when they drafted Vorobiev 11th in the 2001 NHL entry draft. The way to describe Pavel's game is plenty of leadership, heart and a lot of hard work. He is an extremely intelligent player who likes to get involved physically. Vorobiev is not very big, but he is a fearless, fiery competitor, who uses his great speed to create scoring chances. It is safe to say that the future captain will not have a lot of trouble adjusting to the NHL style of game. Another year in Russia is likely; however he will gain more strength and experience.
13. Alexander Svitov (NR), C, Tampa Bay
Svitov is a big man with soft hands. Selected 3rd overall in the 2000 NHL entry draft, Svitov embodies a physical two-way style admired by Lightning GM Rick Dudley. Alexander is very good at using his size to intimidate the opposition; he is a banger along the boards and on the open ice. Known for his on-ice emotional outbursts, Svitov is also an underrated offensive talent. He is a fine playmaker and scores a lot of goals in front of the net. The Lightning failed to sign him before the given deadline, thus he is expected to spend another year with Omsk of the Russian Superleague.
12. Ari Ahonen (43), G, New Jersey
The Devils selected Finnish goaltender Ari Ahonen 27th overall in 1999. Criticized for taking another goalie in the 1st round after selecting JF Damphousse in 1997, this selection is looking like another excellent one for head scout David Conte and the rest of the Devils' scouts. Ahonen posted an 18-13-4 record with a 2.77 GAA and a .920 save percentage in 37 games for HIFK in Finland. He also played outstanding during the 2001 World Junior Championships, leading Finland to a silver medal. A confident netminder with quick reflexes and a great glove hand, Ahonen signed with the Devils this summer and will play for the Albany River Rats of the AHL in 2001-02. Expect him to back up Martin Brodeur in 2 years, and then eventually when Brodeur retires, is traded or leaves via free agency, Ahonen will take over as the number 1 goaltender.
11. Jani Rita (NR), RW, Edmonton
Rita is a speedy forward with excellent defensive instincts. Drafted 13th overall in the 1999 draft, Rita has been compared to fellow countryman Jere Lehtinen in his two-way ability. Rita uses his size, strength and skating ability to score goals. He is suited to the North American game and could contribute with the Oilers as soon as this season. Jani's scoring touch has been a question mark, as his stats in Jokerit have been below expectations. But an outstanding performance at the World Junior Championships has raised his stock dramatically. Jani could see a checking role with the Oilers this season, but he will need an excellent training camp to do so.
10. Kristian Huselius (48), LW, Florida
Originally drafted in the 2nd round (47th Overall) of the 1997 Draft, Huselius is coming off a dominant season in the Swedish Elite League. He led all SEL players in goals, assists, points, power play goals and shorthanded goals, finishing with 32 goals, 35 assists, 67 points and 26 penalty minutes in 49 games. An excellent offensive player, Huselius is best known for his top-notch stickhandling. He has come to terms with the Panthers on a contract and is basically a lock for a spot in the NHL this upcoming season. Although some feel he will have a tough time adjusting to the North American game since he is an extremely soft player, Huselius is a favorite to win the Calder Trophy. He has the potential to score around 70 points a season in the future.
9. Raffi Torres (31), LW, Islanders
With the 5th overall pick of the 2000 NHL entry draft, the New York Islanders selected a physical two-way left winger from Brampton of the OHL. Raffi has a mean streak which, combined with his work ethic, forecasts him as a first-class NHL pest. He plays a tirelessly energetic game, mainly highlighted by body-crunching checks. Needless to mention, Raffi possesses soft hands and blazing speed on the ice. Torres will make the Islanders this season, and become a vital physical specimen on the team.
8. Pavel Brendl (4), RW, Philadelphia
Originally drafted by the Rangers 4th overall in 1999, Brendl was recently dealt to the Flyers in the deal that brought Eric Lindros to New York. Considered a floater and a player with a horrible work ethic and attitude, many feel that Brendl is a high-risk prospect. There is no denying that his offensive potential is sky-high, but he will need to improve his work ethic and attitude in order to become a top NHLer. With the depth that the Flyers have up front, expect Brendl to spend this season with the Philadelphia Phantoms of the AHL, the Flyers top minor league affiliate.
7. Jeff Jillson (15), D, San Jose
Just call Jillson a poor man's version of Chris Pronger. When the Sharks selected Jeff with the 14th pick of the 1999 NHL entry draft, they might have hit the jackpot. Jillson is a unique package of size and skill; he plays a consistent defensive game, possesses soft hands and manifests a powerful shot from the point. The second-team all-American moves the puck efficiently and can quarterback the powerplay. Passing on his senior year in Michigan, Jillson will have one goal in mind: making the San Jose Sharks opening roster. We're not willing to bet against that.
6. Mika Noronen (11), G, Buffalo
A surprise selection 21st overall in 1997, the Buffalo Sabres selected Mika Noronen, a goaltender from Finland. The selection is looking like a great one for Buffalo. Noronen came over to North America before the 1999-00 season, and took the AHL by storm, leading the Rochester Americans with a 33-13-4 record, along with a 2.18 GAA and a .920 SPCT, including 6 shutouts, in 54 games. Mika capped it off by being named the top rookie in the AHL. Noronen was sent back to the AHL this past year to get some quality playing time and he again posted excellent numbers. With Dominik Hasek shipped off to Detroit this summer, Noronen will battle it out with Bob Essensa for the backup spot with the Sabres during training camp. A potential superstar goaltender, Noronen is considered the top goaltending prospect currently drafted by many NHL experts. Expect him in the NHL by 2002-03.
5. Stanislav Chistov (NR), RW, Anaheim
Drafted by the Mighty Ducks 5th overall in 2001, many scouts felt that if Chistov was at least 6'0 tall, instead of 5'9, he would have seriously challenged Kovalchuk for 1st overall. Frequently compared to Paul Kariya, Chistov has tremendous offensive skills combined with excellent speed. A highly skilled player who lifts people out of their seats with his eye-opening moves, Chistov should provide a lot of goal scoring help to the Ducks in the future. He will continue to play over in Russia to further develop. He is likely 2-3 years away, but keep a close eye on this kid.
4. Dany Heatley (8), LW, Atlanta
The Atlanta Thrashers drafted Heatley out of the University of Wisconsin with the 2nd overall pick of the 2000 Draft. Heatley really came on during his draft year, torturing WCHA goaltenders en route to a solid season. A power forward in the mold of Dave Andreychuk, Heatley has the potential to be an excellent player down the road. He has good speed, great hockey sense and an outstanding shot. He plays with grit and determination, and has good leadership qualities. He would have put up better numbers this year in college, but he was basically the main weapon on the team and opposing players did whatever they could to shut him down. He signed a contract with the Thrashers at the end of last season, and most likely will crack Atlanta's lineup out of training camp this year. Expect around 40-50 points this season and much more down the road. A Kovalchuk-Stefan-Heatley duo will be a deadly one in the future.
3. Jason Spezza (NR), C, Ottawa
The Senators made a draft day trade with the New York Islanders to acquire the 2nd overall pick to select Spezza, a highly regarded center since he started playing juniors as a 15 year old. It cost Ottawa all-star center Alexei Yashin, but many feel it was worth it. Spezza is a playmaking center with excellent vision and hockey sense. He is a natural scorer and should have no time putting up big numbers in the NHL. Compared to Jason Allison, one of the big knocks on Jason is his skating, which scouts say is average. He has been working on his skating all summer and is determined to make the NHL. He has a chance to crack the Senators' lineup this season and play in the NHL as an 18-year-old, but if the team feels he is not ready, they will send him back to the Windsor Spitfires of the OHL. Spezza has the potential to be an all-star 1st line center in a couple of years.
2. Rostislav Klesla (17), D, Columbus
The Columbus Blue Jackets made Klesla their first ever Entry Draft selection when they took him 4th Overall in 2000. He made the Blue Jackets out of training camp last season, but after 8 games in the NHL, the team sent him back to the Brampton Battalion of the OHL to further develop his game. Klesla won a gold medal with the Czech Republic at the 2001 World Junior Championships last season and was one of the top players in juniors last season. He plays an excellent two-way game, and combines top-notch offensive skills with gritty, physical play in his own zone. He has an absolute rocket for a shot and should have no problem scoring goals in the NHL. His upside is a top 2 defenseman, but if he keeps improving he could turn out to be a bona fide number 1. He is a heavy favorite to win the Calder Trophy this season.
1. Ilya Kovalchuk (NR), LW, Atlanta
The Atlanta Thrashers made Kovalchuk the first Russian to ever be selected 1st overall when they drafted him with the 1st pick in the 2001 Entry Draft. A feisty, competitive player with great offensive potential, Kovalchuk has been described as a blend of Owen Nolan and Pavel Bure. He has been known as a selfish player and has shown some attitude problems, but the Thrashers feel comfortable that Kovalchuk will be a star in a couple of years. He is being touted as one of the best players to ever come from Russia, a list that includes Slava Fetisov, Sergei Fedorov, Alexei Yashin and Pavel Bure, among others. He had an excellent season with Spartak of the Upper League and clearly proved to scouts that he was a better prospect than Jason Spezza. Expect the young Russian to be a contender this year for the Calder Trophy with the Atlanta Thrashers.
