Ohio Jones
Game on...
(Quick note on ranking methodology – I rank based on a combination of potential, probability and proximity. Potential is weighted most, but the closer a prospect is to the NHL the more confident the projection. By the same token, a Russian prospect playing at home may appear lower due to the "KHL" effect.)
Graduating
LW Kaapo Kakko (1/2 2019)
C/RW Nick Suzuki (1/13 2017)
RD Dante Fabbro (1/14 2016)
C Sam Steel (Traded in Hedman deal)
C/W Nikolai Prokhorkin (4/94 2012) (returned to Europe)
Top 25
LD Xavier Bernard (4/107 2018)
RW Nikolai Chebykin (3/68 2015)
RD Alex Cotton (4/124 2020)
LD Cam Dineen (Trade)
RD Hunter Drew (FA 2020)
LW Eric Florchuk (4/119 2018)
C Cole Fonstad (3/91 2018)
LW Ethan Keppen (3/87 2019)
LD Nikolai Knyzhov (FA 2019)
C/LW Hugh McGing (FA 2020)
RD Nicolas Meloche (2/50 2015)
RD Cole Moberg (4/99 2019)
C Josh Nodler (7/192 2019)
G Keith Petruzzelli (2/50 2017)
RD Luke Prokop (5/130 2020)
LD Kristians Rubins (FA 2020)
LW Henrik Rybinski (5/148 2019)
LW Nate Sucese (FA 2020)
LW Jeffrey Truchon-Viel (FA 2019)
Top 25 Profiles
Rank Position Name (Acquired) [previous ranking]
1. LD Ty Smith (1/10 2018) [6] When Columbus traded down - three times - from the #6 slot in this summer’s entry draft, it all but assured that Smith would take over top spot. After a terrific training camp he avoided the tire fire that was the 2019-20 Devils, returning to Spokane to earn his second consecutive WHL defenceman of the year award - joining just Dion Phaneuf and Kris Russell as repeat winners. Along the way he won gold with Canada at the Worlds, playing a two-way supporting role to the National team’s flashier defenders. Missed out on a likely Memorial-Cup appearance this spring, but added strength that should serve him well next year when he should lock down a role in the starting 6 for new Head Coach Lindy Ruff on the rebuilding Devils’ blueline. His decision-making picked up as the season went along, possibly a result of his training camp exposure to the pro game. Smart, mobile and creative, Smith’s floor is as a reliable top-4 defender who plays in every situation, his upside is as a top-pairing play driver.
2. C Morgan Frost (2/52 2017) [5] – we thought last summer that Frost would be at least a season away from getting a taste of the NHL, but he actually got in some games with the Flyers early this season to help cover for a rash of injuries. He started strong before fading, showing he definitely has more development to do before he can play a meaningful role a the NHL level. A cerebral playmaker who can run a power play from the sideboards, he needs to continue to add strength and speed and work on his play away from the puck. He may have a shot to start the season in the NHL depending on the Flyers’ player movement decisions, but even if he starts in the AHL, in the long run he projects as a top-6 playmaker and a core piece of the Flyers’ future.
3. L/RW Kirill Marchenko (3/68 2018) [7] - Big, skilled winger rose dramatically on this list throughout the year despite a KHL contract extension that will keep him in Russia through the 2021-22 season. Marchenko has produced at every level, including almost a point per game with the Russian U20 squad to earn WJC silver on Russia’s top line with Morozov and Podkolzin. With his size, speed and hands he looked really, REALLY good. Unfortunately, unless he jumps ship early Columbus fans in both leagues will have to be patient. Big top 6 scoring winger with top line upside.
4. C Adam Beckman (3/75 2019) [9] – Okay, I knew I liked Beckman’s game, but I certainly didn’t see the kind of explosion in production we’ve witnessed this season (which I hope explains why I had him ranked as low as 20 last summer). Another big riser on this list, Beckman racked up the hardware in the shortened WHL season as top scorer and player of the year. Showcased great finish as well as playmaking all season. As his body matures and starts to catch up with his vision and deadly hands, he could become a real force. Still a work in progress - needs to get stronger, faster and more responsible (like most teens) - but the development arc is enticing.
5. C Hendrix Lapierre 1/26 2020) [new] - Trading down to add an extra first round pick gave Columbus the luxury to roll the dice on this intriguing talent. Injury concerns make Lapierre a real draft wildcard after he lost most of the season to concussions - the most recent of which was re-diagnosed as a neck injury. If healthy (and that’s a big if), he has the talent and tools to be an impact two-way playmaking center - and COVID means he hasn’t missed as much development time.
6. RD Braden Schneider (1/20 2020) [new] - Schneider defends at a high level, bringing above-average mobility and toughness. Won’t see a lot of PP time, and some question whether his effectiveness comes from his physical maturity, but we see a right-handed Jake Muzzin who can be a defensive lynchpin and minute-eater in a top-4 role, while still contributing on offence.
7. RD Ryan O’Rourke (1/30 2020) [new] - Needs to mature into his lanky frame and add a little more speed, but has a solid combination of defensive acumen, nastiness, hustle and leadership, even at a young age - and more offensive spark than he’s given credit for. A long-term project, but with the drive and maturity he’s already shown as the Greyhounds’ young captain I wouldn’t bet against him carving out an NHL career. Traded up into the end of the first round to grab him.
8. RD Jett Woo (1/29 2018) [8] – Left off Canada’s WJC roster again, Woo channeled his anger into strong play for the Hitmen. A couple of years away from being a consideration for Vancouver, but we can be patient. Projects as a top-4 two-way presence and fan favourite.
9. C Morgan Geekie (3/74 2017) [11] – Geekie continues to impress in the AHL - a source of consistency for a Charlotte squad that has had its ups and downs this season. He continues to display better-than-expected production while being a strong presence on the defensive side of the puck. Upside may be limited to third line duty in the NHL, but in a useful role as a 200-ft contributor. Made an impression in a March call-up, scoring 3g 1a in the Canes' last two games before the shutdown. He's expected to centre the Canes' fourth line in 2020-21.
10. C/RW Kole Lind (2/50 2017) [HM] - Lind’s season was nothing short of a revelation for Utica - and for Columbus. After looking completely out of his depth in his rookie pro season, he made the necessary adjustments and is produced consistently at both ends of the ice, even challenging for a spot on Vancouver’s taxi squad for the play-in round. A playmaker who is willing to skate hard and get dirty, Lind showed some finish as well. Back in the long-term mix for Vancouver, and back in the top 10 on this list. Just goes to show how tough the jump in level can be at first. He'll have an outside chance at a bottom six role in Vancouver this season, but a return to the AHL for one more year is certainly possible.
11. W Robert Mastrosimone (Trade) [10] - good freshman season at BU in limited minutes, putting up 17 points. Has enough speed, skill and hustle to hang with top line players as a complimentary scoring option. Wheeler: “He never gives up on a puck, he can score goals in tight, he can hang onto the puck, he can make plays on the power play, he can block shots on the penalty kill. Every team needs those players.”
12. G Lukas Dostal (3/71 2018) [12] – After a superb performance in the 2019 WJC, this year’s edition was a disappointment for the host Czechs, as Dostal looked vulnerable prior to getting knocked out of the tournament with injury in game 3. That said, Dostal had a very strong season in the Finnish Liiga, posting a sparkling 1.89 gaa and .923 save% on the way to being named Top Goalie. With less-than-ideal size (6-1/166) Lukas relies on his agility, instincts and fast hands. It remains to be seen whether his style can play at the highest levels, but the Liiga experience is encouraging. Has time to develop, as Anaheim is locked in with John Gibson as their long-term starter.
13. RD Mitch Reinke (FA 2018) [HM] - Reinke is looking like the best of a trio of smallish puck-moving depth defenders ahead of Bryson and Dineen. Smart, fluid, creative - but defensively a bit small and suspect, and will never be much of a hitter. As the Blues make moves to re-up Pietrangelo, they may just create some room for him to challenge for a spot - if not on the roster, then as one of their first call-ups. Outside chance he might be someone who interests Seattle.
14. L/RW Jonathan Dahlen (Trade) [7] – After some AHL struggles, Dahlen returned to Timra in the Allsvenskan and dominated. His upside remains high, but he needs to show he can perform consistently against tougher opposition - and show interest in returning to North America - before he can reclaim a spot in our top 10. With his incredible 4-way mobility and soft hands, we’re not betting against him - and as Sam Jose enters rebuild mode there should be plenty of opportunity in the years to come.
15. LW Jake Neighbours (2/42 2020) [new] - One of my favourite players from the early years of the HFNHL was Steve Konowalchuk. Complementary scorer, physical presence, two-way play, leadership... loved the guy. That’s who I see looking at Neighbours. Too much skill to call him a “lunch pail” guy, but that’s the approach he takes to the game - similar to fellow WHL products Geekie and Lind. He’ll be a favourite wherever he plays.
16. LD Jacob Bryson (FA 2019) [13] – Bryson is another smaller, mobile defender in the Jackets system as they invest in smarts and skill on the back end. The 22-year-old had a good rookie showing with Rochester, showcasing his ability to defend against men despite his smaller frame and making good decisions with the puck. Production was less than hoped for, but that’s the book on Bryson: highly mobile, reliable defensively, but won’t bring you out of your seat on offence. Makes safe plays consistently and doesn’t overcommit. Buffalo’s deep blue line means there’s no hurry, but Bryson gives them an option as an injury call-up.
17. G Isaiah Saville (3/68 2019) [17] – Just skip up to Lukas Dostal at #12, and that’s basically the book on Saville: talented and mobile, but a bit on the small side for a modern goalie. Saville has earned rookie and goalie honours in the NCAA at various points this season, backstopping a surprising UNO squad with the confidence of a veteran, albeit with mixed results behind a young team. Made the US WJC team but didn’t see any game action behind wunderkind Spencer Knight (for all the good it did the Americans, who missed the podium). Saville has lots of time to bake in college, assuming the NCAA figured out how to play games this season.
18. LW Jakub Lauko (2/40 2018) [10] – Lauko had a thoroughly snake-bitten season even before COVID cut it short. He picked up a concussion shortly before the World Juniors kicked off in his home country, but recovering enough to make the team - only to be taken out with a knee-on-knee hit in his first shift. His development is effectively delayed a full season at this point, hopefully the extended layoff allowed him to add strength to help protect him moving forward. Still an intriguing playmaking prospect on the wing for a veteran Boston lineup that will be looking for injections of youth in the coming seasons.
19. LD Samuel Bolduc (3/76 2019) [HM] - Was delighted when the NHL Isles nabbed the big, mobile blueliner in the second round last summer, and more thrilled when he and fellow Jacket Xavier Bernard got traded to powerhouse Sherbrooke in anticipation of a Memorial Cup run - then the season came to a screeching halt. Signed his ELC with the Isles, who see him as a potential top-4 defender with possible PP upside.
20. C Vasiliy Ponomarev (2/44 2020) [new] - Lots of different opinions on Pony. Skill aplenty combined with 200 foot hustle, but the production was underwhelming which led some observers to question his effort. We think the chance of getting a top-6 guy with good instincts in all zones is worth the gamble, but if he doesn’t stick in a top 6 role after his ELC he’ll likely be KHL-bound.
21. LW Pavel Novak (3/67 2020) [new] - Blessed with good hockey sense, Novak understands the game and can score and create. In the third round, that’s enough to get you consideration. Now the bad: scouts disagree on some of the basics, from his skating to his physicality to his play away from the puck and in traffic. Let’s hope some NHL team sees what we see: a middle-six blazer who creates and capitalizes on turnovers.
22. LW Will Cuylle (3/69 2020) [new] - Classic power winger is a throwback to another Blue Jackets draft pick from the O: James Neal. He has size and isn’t afraid to use it, and he has a monster of a shot with power and accuracy. Works hard to separate opponents from the puck - and occasionally from their teeth. A late first/early second rounder a decade ago. Now? We’ll see if there’s a place in the game for a power winger who currently lacks a top gear.
23. LW Joe Snively (FA 2019) [14] – Former Hobey Baker nominee had a solid debut for the Capitals’ farm team in Hershey, making up in mobility and creativity what he lacks in size. Remains to be seen whether he can carve out a role at the NHL level, but he showed in his rookie pro season he is willing to do whatever is asked of him, and as a great local success story (only the second Washington native in the Capitals organization after Glen Metropolit), he’ll be given lots of rope.
24. RD Seth Barton (6/164 2018) - Increased his point total by 50% in his sophomore year at U-Mass, while also earning his second consecutive Hockey East All-Academic nod. Has started to add muscle to his lanky 6-3 frame, which should help him more effectively shift opponents on the defensive side of play. Two more years in college before the Red Wings have to decide whether to sign him.
25. RW Brett Berard (4/98 2020) [new] - With smaller players continuing to find success in the new NHL, why not gamble a fourth-round pick on a guy who has skill and creativity in an oh-so-small package? Especially one who is working to model his game after Brad Marchand (presumably with less licking - COVID, after all...). Only 5-9/152, but as one of the youngest players eligible for this summer’s... er, fall’s (?) draft, Berard has time to grow a bit. Committed to Providence for 2021-22.
Graduating
LW Kaapo Kakko (1/2 2019)
C/RW Nick Suzuki (1/13 2017)
RD Dante Fabbro (1/14 2016)
C Sam Steel (Traded in Hedman deal)
C/W Nikolai Prokhorkin (4/94 2012) (returned to Europe)
Top 25
- LD Ty Smith [6]
- C Morgan Frost [5]
- RW Kirill Marchenko [7]
- C Adam Beckman [9]
- C Hendrix Lapierre [new]
- RD Braden Schneider [new]
- RD Ryan O’Rourke [new]
- RD Jett Woo [8]
- C Morgan Geekie [11]
- RW Kole Lind [14]
- W Robert Mastrosimone [10]
- G Lukas Dostal [13]
- RD Mitch Reinke [15]
- L/RW Jonathan Dahlen [17]
- LW Jake Neighbours [new]
- LD Jacob Bryson [19]
- G Isaiah Saville [18]
- LW Jakub Lauko [21]
- D Samuel Bolduc [HM]
- C Vasiliy Ponomarev [new]
- LW Pavel Novak [new]
- LW Will Cuylle [new]
- LW Joe Snively [22]
- RD Seth Barton [HM]
- RA Brett Berard [new]
LD Xavier Bernard (4/107 2018)
RW Nikolai Chebykin (3/68 2015)
RD Alex Cotton (4/124 2020)
LD Cam Dineen (Trade)
RD Hunter Drew (FA 2020)
LW Eric Florchuk (4/119 2018)
C Cole Fonstad (3/91 2018)
LW Ethan Keppen (3/87 2019)
LD Nikolai Knyzhov (FA 2019)
C/LW Hugh McGing (FA 2020)
RD Nicolas Meloche (2/50 2015)
RD Cole Moberg (4/99 2019)
C Josh Nodler (7/192 2019)
G Keith Petruzzelli (2/50 2017)
RD Luke Prokop (5/130 2020)
LD Kristians Rubins (FA 2020)
LW Henrik Rybinski (5/148 2019)
LW Nate Sucese (FA 2020)
LW Jeffrey Truchon-Viel (FA 2019)
Top 25 Profiles
Rank Position Name (Acquired) [previous ranking]
1. LD Ty Smith (1/10 2018) [6] When Columbus traded down - three times - from the #6 slot in this summer’s entry draft, it all but assured that Smith would take over top spot. After a terrific training camp he avoided the tire fire that was the 2019-20 Devils, returning to Spokane to earn his second consecutive WHL defenceman of the year award - joining just Dion Phaneuf and Kris Russell as repeat winners. Along the way he won gold with Canada at the Worlds, playing a two-way supporting role to the National team’s flashier defenders. Missed out on a likely Memorial-Cup appearance this spring, but added strength that should serve him well next year when he should lock down a role in the starting 6 for new Head Coach Lindy Ruff on the rebuilding Devils’ blueline. His decision-making picked up as the season went along, possibly a result of his training camp exposure to the pro game. Smart, mobile and creative, Smith’s floor is as a reliable top-4 defender who plays in every situation, his upside is as a top-pairing play driver.
2. C Morgan Frost (2/52 2017) [5] – we thought last summer that Frost would be at least a season away from getting a taste of the NHL, but he actually got in some games with the Flyers early this season to help cover for a rash of injuries. He started strong before fading, showing he definitely has more development to do before he can play a meaningful role a the NHL level. A cerebral playmaker who can run a power play from the sideboards, he needs to continue to add strength and speed and work on his play away from the puck. He may have a shot to start the season in the NHL depending on the Flyers’ player movement decisions, but even if he starts in the AHL, in the long run he projects as a top-6 playmaker and a core piece of the Flyers’ future.
3. L/RW Kirill Marchenko (3/68 2018) [7] - Big, skilled winger rose dramatically on this list throughout the year despite a KHL contract extension that will keep him in Russia through the 2021-22 season. Marchenko has produced at every level, including almost a point per game with the Russian U20 squad to earn WJC silver on Russia’s top line with Morozov and Podkolzin. With his size, speed and hands he looked really, REALLY good. Unfortunately, unless he jumps ship early Columbus fans in both leagues will have to be patient. Big top 6 scoring winger with top line upside.
4. C Adam Beckman (3/75 2019) [9] – Okay, I knew I liked Beckman’s game, but I certainly didn’t see the kind of explosion in production we’ve witnessed this season (which I hope explains why I had him ranked as low as 20 last summer). Another big riser on this list, Beckman racked up the hardware in the shortened WHL season as top scorer and player of the year. Showcased great finish as well as playmaking all season. As his body matures and starts to catch up with his vision and deadly hands, he could become a real force. Still a work in progress - needs to get stronger, faster and more responsible (like most teens) - but the development arc is enticing.
5. C Hendrix Lapierre 1/26 2020) [new] - Trading down to add an extra first round pick gave Columbus the luxury to roll the dice on this intriguing talent. Injury concerns make Lapierre a real draft wildcard after he lost most of the season to concussions - the most recent of which was re-diagnosed as a neck injury. If healthy (and that’s a big if), he has the talent and tools to be an impact two-way playmaking center - and COVID means he hasn’t missed as much development time.
6. RD Braden Schneider (1/20 2020) [new] - Schneider defends at a high level, bringing above-average mobility and toughness. Won’t see a lot of PP time, and some question whether his effectiveness comes from his physical maturity, but we see a right-handed Jake Muzzin who can be a defensive lynchpin and minute-eater in a top-4 role, while still contributing on offence.
7. RD Ryan O’Rourke (1/30 2020) [new] - Needs to mature into his lanky frame and add a little more speed, but has a solid combination of defensive acumen, nastiness, hustle and leadership, even at a young age - and more offensive spark than he’s given credit for. A long-term project, but with the drive and maturity he’s already shown as the Greyhounds’ young captain I wouldn’t bet against him carving out an NHL career. Traded up into the end of the first round to grab him.
8. RD Jett Woo (1/29 2018) [8] – Left off Canada’s WJC roster again, Woo channeled his anger into strong play for the Hitmen. A couple of years away from being a consideration for Vancouver, but we can be patient. Projects as a top-4 two-way presence and fan favourite.
9. C Morgan Geekie (3/74 2017) [11] – Geekie continues to impress in the AHL - a source of consistency for a Charlotte squad that has had its ups and downs this season. He continues to display better-than-expected production while being a strong presence on the defensive side of the puck. Upside may be limited to third line duty in the NHL, but in a useful role as a 200-ft contributor. Made an impression in a March call-up, scoring 3g 1a in the Canes' last two games before the shutdown. He's expected to centre the Canes' fourth line in 2020-21.
10. C/RW Kole Lind (2/50 2017) [HM] - Lind’s season was nothing short of a revelation for Utica - and for Columbus. After looking completely out of his depth in his rookie pro season, he made the necessary adjustments and is produced consistently at both ends of the ice, even challenging for a spot on Vancouver’s taxi squad for the play-in round. A playmaker who is willing to skate hard and get dirty, Lind showed some finish as well. Back in the long-term mix for Vancouver, and back in the top 10 on this list. Just goes to show how tough the jump in level can be at first. He'll have an outside chance at a bottom six role in Vancouver this season, but a return to the AHL for one more year is certainly possible.
11. W Robert Mastrosimone (Trade) [10] - good freshman season at BU in limited minutes, putting up 17 points. Has enough speed, skill and hustle to hang with top line players as a complimentary scoring option. Wheeler: “He never gives up on a puck, he can score goals in tight, he can hang onto the puck, he can make plays on the power play, he can block shots on the penalty kill. Every team needs those players.”
12. G Lukas Dostal (3/71 2018) [12] – After a superb performance in the 2019 WJC, this year’s edition was a disappointment for the host Czechs, as Dostal looked vulnerable prior to getting knocked out of the tournament with injury in game 3. That said, Dostal had a very strong season in the Finnish Liiga, posting a sparkling 1.89 gaa and .923 save% on the way to being named Top Goalie. With less-than-ideal size (6-1/166) Lukas relies on his agility, instincts and fast hands. It remains to be seen whether his style can play at the highest levels, but the Liiga experience is encouraging. Has time to develop, as Anaheim is locked in with John Gibson as their long-term starter.
13. RD Mitch Reinke (FA 2018) [HM] - Reinke is looking like the best of a trio of smallish puck-moving depth defenders ahead of Bryson and Dineen. Smart, fluid, creative - but defensively a bit small and suspect, and will never be much of a hitter. As the Blues make moves to re-up Pietrangelo, they may just create some room for him to challenge for a spot - if not on the roster, then as one of their first call-ups. Outside chance he might be someone who interests Seattle.
14. L/RW Jonathan Dahlen (Trade) [7] – After some AHL struggles, Dahlen returned to Timra in the Allsvenskan and dominated. His upside remains high, but he needs to show he can perform consistently against tougher opposition - and show interest in returning to North America - before he can reclaim a spot in our top 10. With his incredible 4-way mobility and soft hands, we’re not betting against him - and as Sam Jose enters rebuild mode there should be plenty of opportunity in the years to come.
15. LW Jake Neighbours (2/42 2020) [new] - One of my favourite players from the early years of the HFNHL was Steve Konowalchuk. Complementary scorer, physical presence, two-way play, leadership... loved the guy. That’s who I see looking at Neighbours. Too much skill to call him a “lunch pail” guy, but that’s the approach he takes to the game - similar to fellow WHL products Geekie and Lind. He’ll be a favourite wherever he plays.
16. LD Jacob Bryson (FA 2019) [13] – Bryson is another smaller, mobile defender in the Jackets system as they invest in smarts and skill on the back end. The 22-year-old had a good rookie showing with Rochester, showcasing his ability to defend against men despite his smaller frame and making good decisions with the puck. Production was less than hoped for, but that’s the book on Bryson: highly mobile, reliable defensively, but won’t bring you out of your seat on offence. Makes safe plays consistently and doesn’t overcommit. Buffalo’s deep blue line means there’s no hurry, but Bryson gives them an option as an injury call-up.
17. G Isaiah Saville (3/68 2019) [17] – Just skip up to Lukas Dostal at #12, and that’s basically the book on Saville: talented and mobile, but a bit on the small side for a modern goalie. Saville has earned rookie and goalie honours in the NCAA at various points this season, backstopping a surprising UNO squad with the confidence of a veteran, albeit with mixed results behind a young team. Made the US WJC team but didn’t see any game action behind wunderkind Spencer Knight (for all the good it did the Americans, who missed the podium). Saville has lots of time to bake in college, assuming the NCAA figured out how to play games this season.
18. LW Jakub Lauko (2/40 2018) [10] – Lauko had a thoroughly snake-bitten season even before COVID cut it short. He picked up a concussion shortly before the World Juniors kicked off in his home country, but recovering enough to make the team - only to be taken out with a knee-on-knee hit in his first shift. His development is effectively delayed a full season at this point, hopefully the extended layoff allowed him to add strength to help protect him moving forward. Still an intriguing playmaking prospect on the wing for a veteran Boston lineup that will be looking for injections of youth in the coming seasons.
19. LD Samuel Bolduc (3/76 2019) [HM] - Was delighted when the NHL Isles nabbed the big, mobile blueliner in the second round last summer, and more thrilled when he and fellow Jacket Xavier Bernard got traded to powerhouse Sherbrooke in anticipation of a Memorial Cup run - then the season came to a screeching halt. Signed his ELC with the Isles, who see him as a potential top-4 defender with possible PP upside.
20. C Vasiliy Ponomarev (2/44 2020) [new] - Lots of different opinions on Pony. Skill aplenty combined with 200 foot hustle, but the production was underwhelming which led some observers to question his effort. We think the chance of getting a top-6 guy with good instincts in all zones is worth the gamble, but if he doesn’t stick in a top 6 role after his ELC he’ll likely be KHL-bound.
21. LW Pavel Novak (3/67 2020) [new] - Blessed with good hockey sense, Novak understands the game and can score and create. In the third round, that’s enough to get you consideration. Now the bad: scouts disagree on some of the basics, from his skating to his physicality to his play away from the puck and in traffic. Let’s hope some NHL team sees what we see: a middle-six blazer who creates and capitalizes on turnovers.
22. LW Will Cuylle (3/69 2020) [new] - Classic power winger is a throwback to another Blue Jackets draft pick from the O: James Neal. He has size and isn’t afraid to use it, and he has a monster of a shot with power and accuracy. Works hard to separate opponents from the puck - and occasionally from their teeth. A late first/early second rounder a decade ago. Now? We’ll see if there’s a place in the game for a power winger who currently lacks a top gear.
23. LW Joe Snively (FA 2019) [14] – Former Hobey Baker nominee had a solid debut for the Capitals’ farm team in Hershey, making up in mobility and creativity what he lacks in size. Remains to be seen whether he can carve out a role at the NHL level, but he showed in his rookie pro season he is willing to do whatever is asked of him, and as a great local success story (only the second Washington native in the Capitals organization after Glen Metropolit), he’ll be given lots of rope.
24. RD Seth Barton (6/164 2018) - Increased his point total by 50% in his sophomore year at U-Mass, while also earning his second consecutive Hockey East All-Academic nod. Has started to add muscle to his lanky 6-3 frame, which should help him more effectively shift opponents on the defensive side of play. Two more years in college before the Red Wings have to decide whether to sign him.
25. RW Brett Berard (4/98 2020) [new] - With smaller players continuing to find success in the new NHL, why not gamble a fourth-round pick on a guy who has skill and creativity in an oh-so-small package? Especially one who is working to model his game after Brad Marchand (presumably with less licking - COVID, after all...). Only 5-9/152, but as one of the youngest players eligible for this summer’s... er, fall’s (?) draft, Berard has time to grow a bit. Committed to Providence for 2021-22.
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