Thanks for the info Brock. I echo Anton' s surprise to see Foegele ranked ahead of Kuokkanen. Is your ranking primarily a how they did vs future expectations? Also, I'm surprised to see Necas going to the OHL next season...how firm is that plan and when did it come together?
RE: Foegele versus Kuokkanen
Honestly, Foegele was one of my favourites to watch in the OHL this season. His game is very well suited to the pros. Protects the puck extremely well. Smart with and without the puck. Wins battles and plays hard at both ends. Has speed. Has good instincts. Felt like every time he was on the ice, especially in the playoffs, he was able to make something happen.
Where as I don't see Kuokkanen's game translating as well as Foegele's. I think there's more doubt there based on his deficiencies away from the puck. His offensive potential is higher, but he's not as safe a bet. Where as I truly believe Foegele could and should be a consistent 15/20 3rd line center at the NHL level. One of those guys every Stanley Cup contender needs.
Upside is important when ranking players, but so is likelihood of developing into an NHL player IMO. If I saw Kuokkanen as a potential top line talent, I think it would be a different story. Where as I see it as comparing a guy I'm pretty confident can be a very good 3rd line center versus a guy who could be a decent secondary scoring option on the 2nd line.
RE: Necas
This is based off of the things that I've read on social media. Seems like the Saginaw media believes he will report. I have nothing concrete and perhaps my wording in the article suggests that. But that's why I said "looks like" and not "definitely will."
I guess we shall see, but I would expect Necas will be in the OHL.