Saginaw Spirit 2015 Off-Season Thread
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Kingpin794
Smart A** In A Jersey
Hope everyone had a good Easter weekend. It's the first Monday of the offseason so I figured player report cards would be a good way to open the discussion.
Note: I won't be doing grades for guys that didn't finish the year here obviously, so no Paterson, Lodge, Moutrey, etc. Also I won't be doing one for Ringuette since he won't be returning next year, but I would like to thank him for his time as a member of the Spirit and wish him luck in whatever he pursues after his OHL career.
On to the forwards:
Dylan Sadowy (A): I don’t think I need to go into detail on him. We all know what he brings to the table and what he means to the team. THE prototypical Gilbert forward.
Tye Felhaber (A): It was a pleasant surprise when one of the most offensively gifted forwards of the 2014 OHL draft was still around when we picked. Tye came as advertised. It took some time to get acclimated but once he was given more responsibility in the second half, he flourished. His stick handling allows him to make something out of nothing. Combine that with his lethal shot that has that allowed him to get 20 goals, and you can see why he was thought of so highly going into this season. He does lack on the defensive end. Doesn’t seem interested in playing D sometimes honestly, if he can just play semi respectable D, then he could be a first round pick next year.
Mitchell Stephens (B): I know a lot of people wanted to see his numbers explode this season as he was slated to be one of the “go to†players, but he did more than double his offense output from his rookie year. On top of that though, he one of our better two-way players IMO. He’s been given lots of PK time and he’s done a good job with it. His speed means that most forwards won’t be skating by him. He does seem to be a carry in and shoot first guy in the offensive zone though. I’d like to see him get out of that habit as it kills offensive possession at times. He also seems to hold back on that top gear of his acceleration a lot too. He needs to use that to his advantage more as it may be his best tool.
Connor Brown (B): Another guy that fits into Gilbert’s system very well. Production wise he started off hot and looked like a potential 30 goal guy. He seemed to slow down a bit offensively as the season progressed. However, he is another quality PK forward, and adds plenty of grit by not hesitating to stand up for his younger teammates. The C on his sweater and his style of play as well as being the only 19 year on the roster, makes him a great OA candidate for next year.
Jesse Barwell (B): Piece one of the Jimmy Lodge trade, which continues to look better every day, took the extra time given to him in the second half and used it well. He started out here playing a very perimeter game. So while he did possess strong skills with the puck on his stick, it was limited in effect along the boards. He learned to find his way into the center of the ice though and get to the net. I believe he has developed into the legitimate top 6 forward that many thought he could become. He’ll have to continue to limit his perimeter play though if he doesn’t want to back track.
Devon Paliani (B): He’s been a point of discussion among Spirit fans recently about just what exactly his value/ceiling is. I’ll continue to say that he has been one of my favorite players since coming over for Sudbury. He’s a high energy guy that isn’t afraid to throw a hit (there as so many guys that fit that bill on this team and that’s a good thing to me). And that is where it ends for a lot of people, but I believe the diminutive forward has more potential than that. I think he has good goal scoring sense and could be a 20/20 guy if you slot him into some more playing time. If you put him with a good play maker, a nice symbiotic relationship could occur. One to keep an eye on for next year.
Vladislav Kodola (C+): He was brought over from Sarnia to add offensive depth once the last of our veteran forwards had been dealt and he did exactly what he was asked to do. His numbers aren’t gonna pop out at you but he did have a hand in quite a few crucial goal towards the end of the season. The thing that keeps me from handing him a B or higher though is that he wasn’t interested in playing defense all the time. He did show some effort those last two games though. I’ll give him credit for that. I did find myself yelling at him quite a lot however when he handled the puck. He didn’t seem too fond of passing the puck and over handled just to look fancy way too often for my taste. That along with a high import pick, and him being a 96 means to me that his rental time in Saginaw is over after this year.
Artem Artemov (C+): I thought it was an up and down season for the first year import. He is equally strong offensively as he is on the defensive side of the puck. His shot can be deceptively effective and his handling of the puck and skating is slightly above average. To me though he just seemed to disappear for long periods of time only to reappear and string some more points together and then disappear again and so on. So to me consistency would be the biggest issue with him at this point.
Mitchell Webb (C+): This is the part of the post where people throw their hands up at me and tell me I’m crazy but hear me out. He played a lot of fourth line duty with two guys that are honestly borderline good enough for OHL level competition. He still put up 13 points though. I know that doesn’t seem like a lot, but I think he has some offensive potential. I don’t mean point per game skill. I mean 35 to 45 point 3rd line grinder/PK specialist on a contending team. I think we should hold onto him and let him get some PK time, move him up a line, and see what he does with it. I like the effort he puts in and I believe he should be rewarded for it. I know a lot won’t agree with me on this assessment though but if these kind of guys are doing the little things right, you got to give them the time to grow.
Kris Bennett (C+): Again, another Gilbert forward. Works hard, hits, plays D. Watching him in camp and pre season I thought he was due for a break out season (45 points). He didn’t quite reach that but I learned to change my expectations as the season wore on. I still think he didn’t quite produce like he could have though. I like him as a depth guy for next year, but after that, he might be one of the players that is improved upon through trade to solidify our line up for a possible title run.
Adam McPhail (C): This guy kind of came out of left field to me coming into this season. Not a lot of hype around him when he was drafted and not really thought of among fans in the off season. Got signed to add a body into the line up on a young team. He was a serviceable enough guy for the year. Played a grinder role fairly well and put up the occasional point. Beyond that though he never really stood out to me. Don’t think there’s a long term future for him here but I’ve been proven wrong before.
Blake Clarke (D+): I feel bad for the guy. He had so much promise after his stellar rookie season. When he came here for a fresh start I was excited that we might be getting the high end prospect that many thought he could still be. Sadly though injury after injury has seemed to rob this guy of any real development as a player. I can’t see us keeping him as a 19 year old next year in the hopes that he finally hits his potential when there are younger guys just as good/better waiting behind him, looking for ice time. Someone is gonna want to take another chance on him though and that is where his value lies IMO.
Jack Webb (D): He just isn’t an OHL level forward skill wise. He isn’t overly physical either so he doesn’t really fit the grinder role either. He seems like he’d be much better suited to playing junior B or something. I just don’t believe he’s going to make it in this league.
Note: I won't be doing grades for guys that didn't finish the year here obviously, so no Paterson, Lodge, Moutrey, etc. Also I won't be doing one for Ringuette since he won't be returning next year, but I would like to thank him for his time as a member of the Spirit and wish him luck in whatever he pursues after his OHL career.
On to the forwards:
Dylan Sadowy (A): I don’t think I need to go into detail on him. We all know what he brings to the table and what he means to the team. THE prototypical Gilbert forward.
Tye Felhaber (A): It was a pleasant surprise when one of the most offensively gifted forwards of the 2014 OHL draft was still around when we picked. Tye came as advertised. It took some time to get acclimated but once he was given more responsibility in the second half, he flourished. His stick handling allows him to make something out of nothing. Combine that with his lethal shot that has that allowed him to get 20 goals, and you can see why he was thought of so highly going into this season. He does lack on the defensive end. Doesn’t seem interested in playing D sometimes honestly, if he can just play semi respectable D, then he could be a first round pick next year.
Mitchell Stephens (B): I know a lot of people wanted to see his numbers explode this season as he was slated to be one of the “go to†players, but he did more than double his offense output from his rookie year. On top of that though, he one of our better two-way players IMO. He’s been given lots of PK time and he’s done a good job with it. His speed means that most forwards won’t be skating by him. He does seem to be a carry in and shoot first guy in the offensive zone though. I’d like to see him get out of that habit as it kills offensive possession at times. He also seems to hold back on that top gear of his acceleration a lot too. He needs to use that to his advantage more as it may be his best tool.
Connor Brown (B): Another guy that fits into Gilbert’s system very well. Production wise he started off hot and looked like a potential 30 goal guy. He seemed to slow down a bit offensively as the season progressed. However, he is another quality PK forward, and adds plenty of grit by not hesitating to stand up for his younger teammates. The C on his sweater and his style of play as well as being the only 19 year on the roster, makes him a great OA candidate for next year.
Jesse Barwell (B): Piece one of the Jimmy Lodge trade, which continues to look better every day, took the extra time given to him in the second half and used it well. He started out here playing a very perimeter game. So while he did possess strong skills with the puck on his stick, it was limited in effect along the boards. He learned to find his way into the center of the ice though and get to the net. I believe he has developed into the legitimate top 6 forward that many thought he could become. He’ll have to continue to limit his perimeter play though if he doesn’t want to back track.
Devon Paliani (B): He’s been a point of discussion among Spirit fans recently about just what exactly his value/ceiling is. I’ll continue to say that he has been one of my favorite players since coming over for Sudbury. He’s a high energy guy that isn’t afraid to throw a hit (there as so many guys that fit that bill on this team and that’s a good thing to me). And that is where it ends for a lot of people, but I believe the diminutive forward has more potential than that. I think he has good goal scoring sense and could be a 20/20 guy if you slot him into some more playing time. If you put him with a good play maker, a nice symbiotic relationship could occur. One to keep an eye on for next year.
Vladislav Kodola (C+): He was brought over from Sarnia to add offensive depth once the last of our veteran forwards had been dealt and he did exactly what he was asked to do. His numbers aren’t gonna pop out at you but he did have a hand in quite a few crucial goal towards the end of the season. The thing that keeps me from handing him a B or higher though is that he wasn’t interested in playing defense all the time. He did show some effort those last two games though. I’ll give him credit for that. I did find myself yelling at him quite a lot however when he handled the puck. He didn’t seem too fond of passing the puck and over handled just to look fancy way too often for my taste. That along with a high import pick, and him being a 96 means to me that his rental time in Saginaw is over after this year.
Artem Artemov (C+): I thought it was an up and down season for the first year import. He is equally strong offensively as he is on the defensive side of the puck. His shot can be deceptively effective and his handling of the puck and skating is slightly above average. To me though he just seemed to disappear for long periods of time only to reappear and string some more points together and then disappear again and so on. So to me consistency would be the biggest issue with him at this point.
Mitchell Webb (C+): This is the part of the post where people throw their hands up at me and tell me I’m crazy but hear me out. He played a lot of fourth line duty with two guys that are honestly borderline good enough for OHL level competition. He still put up 13 points though. I know that doesn’t seem like a lot, but I think he has some offensive potential. I don’t mean point per game skill. I mean 35 to 45 point 3rd line grinder/PK specialist on a contending team. I think we should hold onto him and let him get some PK time, move him up a line, and see what he does with it. I like the effort he puts in and I believe he should be rewarded for it. I know a lot won’t agree with me on this assessment though but if these kind of guys are doing the little things right, you got to give them the time to grow.
Kris Bennett (C+): Again, another Gilbert forward. Works hard, hits, plays D. Watching him in camp and pre season I thought he was due for a break out season (45 points). He didn’t quite reach that but I learned to change my expectations as the season wore on. I still think he didn’t quite produce like he could have though. I like him as a depth guy for next year, but after that, he might be one of the players that is improved upon through trade to solidify our line up for a possible title run.
Adam McPhail (C): This guy kind of came out of left field to me coming into this season. Not a lot of hype around him when he was drafted and not really thought of among fans in the off season. Got signed to add a body into the line up on a young team. He was a serviceable enough guy for the year. Played a grinder role fairly well and put up the occasional point. Beyond that though he never really stood out to me. Don’t think there’s a long term future for him here but I’ve been proven wrong before.
Blake Clarke (D+): I feel bad for the guy. He had so much promise after his stellar rookie season. When he came here for a fresh start I was excited that we might be getting the high end prospect that many thought he could still be. Sadly though injury after injury has seemed to rob this guy of any real development as a player. I can’t see us keeping him as a 19 year old next year in the hopes that he finally hits his potential when there are younger guys just as good/better waiting behind him, looking for ice time. Someone is gonna want to take another chance on him though and that is where his value lies IMO.
Jack Webb (D): He just isn’t an OHL level forward skill wise. He isn’t overly physical either so he doesn’t really fit the grinder role either. He seems like he’d be much better suited to playing junior B or something. I just don’t believe he’s going to make it in this league.
Kingpin794
Smart A** In A Jersey
Defense and Goalies:
Greg DiTomaso (A): The second half of the Lodge trade may be better than the first half. (Seriously, I hope someone sent a gift basket to Missy’s GM). He put up 20 points in 47 games which was good for the highest PPG by a defenseman on our team. He was also a +6 in those games. That means not only was he the only D-man to be plus on a team that was well outscored, but he also had the highest plus minus of ANY player on the team. Yes higher than Sadowy even. He’s got the potential to be the anchor OA defenseman two years from now.
Chase Stewart (B+): I initially was very hesitant about this guy. He came in hitting everything in sight whether it was a clean hit or not. That meant he saw quite a bit of time in the box for cheap hits early on. But it was nice to see the evolution of his game as time passed. He learned to time his hits much better and learned that not everything should be solved with a check. That doesn’t mean that he lost his grit though. He also seemed to become more comfortable with the puck on his stick by the end of the year as well, adding another dimension to his game. I like his long term potential for us. Gonna be a guy no one wants to mess with.
Keaton Middleton (B): The kid is a big. Real big and he’s not afraid to use it to his advantage. I particularly like a play he had in game 4 where he went to battle with Bailey in the corner. They fought it out for about 15 seconds but in the end Middleon was able to out muscle the older and highly touted NHL draftee and get the puck. He looked poised for the most part out there as a 16 year old. Has good mobility for a man of his size but still needs to work on speed and footwork which are his two main weaknesses. How well he fixes these, will determine just how high his ceiling is.
Marcus Crawford (B): A year down in the OJHL as a 16 year seemed to do him good at times. He came in and started out hot and looked like a future PP QB. He seemed to hit a wall during the course of the season as his point production slowed severely. His decision making and first pass are probably his weak point. Pairing him with a guy like Stewart could allow for him to lean more towards his offensive skills next year. I think he still has potential to be that PP QB we saw at the beginning of the season.
Michael Holmes (C+): I think guy fits into the Ringuette/Walch mold. He’s not a big hitter or an offensive stud. If you don’t notice him out there and he comes out as a non minus for the night, then he’s done his job. His positioning/spacing is what allows him to have good or bad nights. At times he spaces very well and keeps the play in front of him but a lot of other times he lets himself get beat outside by faster and better skaters. He also isn’t the best with the puck on his stick. I think he panics a bit too much when he has it. I’m on the fence as to whether I think he’ll be here next year or if he’ll be moved for an OA defenseman to mentor the younger guys in the off season.
Troy Henley (C-): Ryan Orban wanted out and we shipped him out. I don’t know we got the better end of the deal however. There was a lot of hype around him as a possible first round pick in the 2013 OHL draft. From what I’ve seen of him, he’s not that type of talent. I think he tops out as a bottom pair guy and that’s about it. He might fit as the 7th D-man for next year for a time, but after that I do not know.
Evan Cormier (B+): He’s intriguing that’s for sure. He started out so hot and looked so poised for the sheer amount of shots he was facing early on. It got to him after a while though. Had a little rough patch but his showings at the Dow in the playoffs showed again why some believe he is a potential franchise goalie. To me he reminds me of Paterson. He isn’t overly athletic but his positioning is strong. He also reminds me of Paterson in that at times he came make ridiculous saves and then have a softie slip though…in the same game. It’s one of the things that bugged me about Jake so much. The focus factor. If he can limit the cheapies, he’s gonna be really really good. If he doesn’t, he’ll just be a pretty good goalie.
David Ovjannikov (C-): Very uncoordinated on skates. Cringed every time he stepped out to play the puck. He lets in WAY too many soft goals. I will give him credit though because he did have a game or two that he was solid including the playoff clinching game at Plymouth. I just don’t think he has a future here with Murdaca, who out played him at camp, and is signed and ready for backup duty.
Greg DiTomaso (A): The second half of the Lodge trade may be better than the first half. (Seriously, I hope someone sent a gift basket to Missy’s GM). He put up 20 points in 47 games which was good for the highest PPG by a defenseman on our team. He was also a +6 in those games. That means not only was he the only D-man to be plus on a team that was well outscored, but he also had the highest plus minus of ANY player on the team. Yes higher than Sadowy even. He’s got the potential to be the anchor OA defenseman two years from now.
Chase Stewart (B+): I initially was very hesitant about this guy. He came in hitting everything in sight whether it was a clean hit or not. That meant he saw quite a bit of time in the box for cheap hits early on. But it was nice to see the evolution of his game as time passed. He learned to time his hits much better and learned that not everything should be solved with a check. That doesn’t mean that he lost his grit though. He also seemed to become more comfortable with the puck on his stick by the end of the year as well, adding another dimension to his game. I like his long term potential for us. Gonna be a guy no one wants to mess with.
Keaton Middleton (B): The kid is a big. Real big and he’s not afraid to use it to his advantage. I particularly like a play he had in game 4 where he went to battle with Bailey in the corner. They fought it out for about 15 seconds but in the end Middleon was able to out muscle the older and highly touted NHL draftee and get the puck. He looked poised for the most part out there as a 16 year old. Has good mobility for a man of his size but still needs to work on speed and footwork which are his two main weaknesses. How well he fixes these, will determine just how high his ceiling is.
Marcus Crawford (B): A year down in the OJHL as a 16 year seemed to do him good at times. He came in and started out hot and looked like a future PP QB. He seemed to hit a wall during the course of the season as his point production slowed severely. His decision making and first pass are probably his weak point. Pairing him with a guy like Stewart could allow for him to lean more towards his offensive skills next year. I think he still has potential to be that PP QB we saw at the beginning of the season.
Michael Holmes (C+): I think guy fits into the Ringuette/Walch mold. He’s not a big hitter or an offensive stud. If you don’t notice him out there and he comes out as a non minus for the night, then he’s done his job. His positioning/spacing is what allows him to have good or bad nights. At times he spaces very well and keeps the play in front of him but a lot of other times he lets himself get beat outside by faster and better skaters. He also isn’t the best with the puck on his stick. I think he panics a bit too much when he has it. I’m on the fence as to whether I think he’ll be here next year or if he’ll be moved for an OA defenseman to mentor the younger guys in the off season.
Troy Henley (C-): Ryan Orban wanted out and we shipped him out. I don’t know we got the better end of the deal however. There was a lot of hype around him as a possible first round pick in the 2013 OHL draft. From what I’ve seen of him, he’s not that type of talent. I think he tops out as a bottom pair guy and that’s about it. He might fit as the 7th D-man for next year for a time, but after that I do not know.
Evan Cormier (B+): He’s intriguing that’s for sure. He started out so hot and looked so poised for the sheer amount of shots he was facing early on. It got to him after a while though. Had a little rough patch but his showings at the Dow in the playoffs showed again why some believe he is a potential franchise goalie. To me he reminds me of Paterson. He isn’t overly athletic but his positioning is strong. He also reminds me of Paterson in that at times he came make ridiculous saves and then have a softie slip though…in the same game. It’s one of the things that bugged me about Jake so much. The focus factor. If he can limit the cheapies, he’s gonna be really really good. If he doesn’t, he’ll just be a pretty good goalie.
David Ovjannikov (C-): Very uncoordinated on skates. Cringed every time he stepped out to play the puck. He lets in WAY too many soft goals. I will give him credit though because he did have a game or two that he was solid including the playoff clinching game at Plymouth. I just don’t think he has a future here with Murdaca, who out played him at camp, and is signed and ready for backup duty.
willy29
Registered User
willy29
Registered User
Where does Saginaw go with its first round pick (Fwd or D) and multiple second round picks?
Thoughts.....wish list?
Thoughts.....wish list?
As promised earlier here are my grades for the season. I looked at Kingpins and we are fairly close in a lot of our assessments.
I do want to preface these rankings with the fact I am going to be as positive as possible with these. These are young kids and they, their parents, and friends read this stuff. They all got to play in the OHL this year and we didnt so hats off to them.
Players listed in numerical order by position
Forwards
Dylan Sadowy (A+) One of the best all around forwards in the OHL. Looked faster this year and was dangerous around the net and is a stellar PK guy. Point production hit a few slumps towards the end of the season but that was to be expected playing on a line with 2 17 years olds and having teams able to load up defensively against you. Will challenge for 100 points next season.
Kris Bennett (B) If this kids puck skills matched his work ethic he would lead the league in points. Just doesn't seem to have the offensive toolkit to put up a ton of points. However, he plays 100% all shift, every time he is on the ice and can handle his own on the PK. Probably tops out as a 3rd line defensive energy guy (put him and Brown together and I'll be a happy fan next year). One of the players I really like who doesn't light up the score board.
Mitchell Webb (C+) Didnt look out of place in his role on the 4th line. Played physical more often than not and scored a TKO victory in a fight. Offensive game isnt there but could easily carve out a niche in the OHL as a depth player if he improves his defensive game and ramps up the physical play.
Devon Paliani (B) We got this kid for a 12th round pick???? No wonder Sudbury is in the dumps. I really like the game Devon brought to Saginaw. He played all throughout the lineup this year and I think he really settled in as a 3rd line guy who will add some secondary scoring, (add him the 3rd man on the Brown-Bennett line and watch them outwork other teams). Hard working kid who despite his size plays pretty physical. His size is his limiting factor as of now however as he is pretty small. Possesses underrated offensive skills . Great value add by the GM in my opinion.
Adam McPhail (C) McPhail is a tough kid. Took a couple of beatings this year and came back each time. Doesn't have much of an offense game and isn't the fastest out there, but he was willing to drop the gloves and play physical when he got ice time. My hats off to him.
Connor Brown (B+) I was always a big fan of the tools that Addison brought to the table in Saginaw. He never put them together here (seems to be doing better in Ottawa) and I was glad to see what we got in return for him. Brown is a leader. Plain and simple. He seems like the kind of guy who would run though a wall for a teammate. Pound for pound probably one of the best fighters in the OHL and not afraid to drop the gloves at all. If there wasn't a 10 game fight limit I would guess he would have dropped them at least 20 times. Brown's offensive downfall is that he has hands of stone. Wouldn't be fair if he could use his hands to score on you and then punch your face in.
Vladislav Kodola (B-) I was disappointed at first when I read that we had acquired Kodola as I felt we could have used our high pick in this years Import draft to acquire a top level player for the rebuild. We still might as I am not sure what Vlad's situation is with pro leagues back home. But, the more I thought about it and the more I seen Kodola play the more that opinion changed. This trade seems like a tip of the cap to Igor to get one of his clients out of a situation where he wasn't seeing much ice time. Also, Kodola is an extremely gifted offensive player. When he had his game going 100% he is a force out there in the offensive zone (I went to an away game in Sarnia the end of the year where he was the best player on the ice bar none). His size and defensive ability aren't good though and I felt like that limits his game. But I think him and Artemov could be lights out offensively if they play together. Especially if you dont put a ton of stock into +/- like I do.
Jack Webb (D) In his defense he didn't get to see a ton of ice time but I think his game is better suited as a top 6 player in Jr B than as fourth line guy in the OHL. I think he could really flourish down there as he scored 15 points as a 16 year old last season. If he develops a physical game and works on his skating he may be able to stick to an OHL team down the road.
Mitchell Stephens (B+) The points didn't come for Mitchell this season like I had anticipated, but midway through the year something dawned on me. Mitch isnt going to be an offensive force like I thought, not because he isn't a talented player, but because that's not the game he is suited for most with his skill set. Mitch is a top 6 forward in the OHL, but I think his skills are most suited for a 3rd or 4th line center role in the NHL. He is defensively responsible, can flat out fly when he sees open ice, likes to muck it up, and can shoot and score the puck. Where I think he could improve on is his playmaking. He would be the kind of player I am looking for to fill a Mike Fischer like role in an NHL player. Someone who has all the tools in the tool box, but settles in as a 3rd line PK guy who could see some 2nd PP unit work at the next level.
Tye Felhaber (A) Man I am glad that Gilbert and Paliafito got this kid to report. Has the offensive tools to be one of the best offensive players ever to wear a Spirit uniform. Still needs to improve his 200 ft game but after one season I cant wait for more from him as a fan of this team.
Blake Clarke (I) Like Kingpin said, I feel for this kid. I am giving him an incomplete for this season as an injury zapped most of his season and I think really limited his play once he returned. You can tell watching him play that he has off the charts hockey IQ. But he just seems gun shy after the injuries. I still think the kid has the ability and skills to play and thrive in this league but I think he will need to work to put it all back together soon.
Jesse Barwell (B) I have been a fan of Barwell back to his Oakville Rangers days and was really happy his was part of the return for Lodge. Has a solid all around game and is a legitimate top 6 player in the league. I would prefer to seem him play on the second line with Stephens centering as I think Barwell's playmaking fits in well with Stephens shooting proficiency and they both are defensively responsible forwards, as Barwell managed a +3 in Saginaw on a year we allowed 59 more goals than we scored.
Artem Artemov (B+) I'm a much bigger fan of Artem than Kingpin I have a feeling. I don't feel like I am going out on a limb when I say I think Artem has one of the top 5 wrist shots currently in the OHL. It's devastatingly heavy and accurate. Frankly I think he needs to use it WAY more often than he does. Add that to the fact he has above average playmaking ability and puck skills I believe he should be drafted this season without question. Will he? I dont know, as he does have some consistency issues as Kingpin alluded to and his defense is still coming along. But I feel in two years when we are "going for it" he and Felhaber will be in the top 10 scorers in the league.
Defencemen
Greg DiTomaso (B+) Really surprised with his game after we got him in the Lodge deal. Showed some offensive skills I didn't know he had while maintaining his defensive game. Doesn't have the top gear of the elite offensive defense-man or the physical play of an elite defensive defense-man but I think he is a solid top 4 defense-man who can play on the top pair until Middleton is ready to take that next step.
Chase Stewart (B+) Him fighting Callaghan was probably the most excited I have been at a Spirit game in the last 5 years. He stepped up big there. If I am an OHL team I am going to draft at least one dman from Thunder Bay every year. The kids up there are as tough as nails and Stewart is no exception. Devastating physical play from the day he was called up almost to a fault. As the year went on I think his skating improved and he picked his spots with the big hits better. Will never be a power play guy but I think he has a spot on the team for years to come. Personally one ofmy favorite players on the roster.
Marcus Crawford (B-) I read somewhere that Crawford had an injury this year so this rating may be a tad lower than is should be if he was healthy. He is a good playmaker in the offensive zone and has a shot that can get though traffic. He just seemed to be slow getting back on defense multiple times this year. If that was injury related then I think he can be leaps and bounds better next year. If not he needs to either work on his foot speed or work to not pinch on defense as often.
Troy Henley (C+) I like Troy. I think his attitude is great for the lockerroom. His game I felt improved on the defensive side as the year went on and I think he can stick as a bottom pair guy. Offensively his game isn't there. If that comes around I feel he can play higher than this rating suggests.
Michael Holmes (C+) I think he is very similar to Henley. Has moments but really needs to step his game up to stick long term. Next year will be make or break.
Keaton Middleton (A-) How did Middleton last until the 3rd round? Seriously. 19 other teams were caught sleeping on him. He seems like a slightly less polished version of Logan Stanley who went in the 1st and I feel like Middleton outplayed him this year. He had some growing pains as expected with a 16 year old dman seeing the amount of ice he did but wow. If his foot speed catches up to his body he will be dynamite. Never will put up crazy offensive numbers but will be a critical shutdown player on a championship run. I think he goes higher in the NHL draft next year than most people think.
Jacob Ringuette (Round of applause) I cant give Ringuette a rating as I think that his value to the team was more than what he could do on the ice. He never was a player who got many accolades but finished the season as the only O/A on the club. Not a great offensive player (although he could surprise every now and then) but one has to appreciate that he gave everything he had to help his team win. Lead by example and wasnt afraid to sacrifice bumps and brusies to block shots. A real Gilbert type dman. Hope that he gets a chance to keep playing the game and I think Gilbert will do what he can to make sure he is on a team somewhere next season.
Goalies
Evan Cormier (B+) Went from one the best defensive clubs in the OHL to the youngest and maintained his save percentage. That's pretty impressive if you ask me. Let in a few softies, and that's why I didn't rank him in the A category. He gets unfairly dogged on by some Spirit fans as they are used to having a goalie like Paterson playing for them the last few years. Cormier can be just as good with time in my opinion and he isn't eligible for the draft until 2016. I think he can be a top 7 goaltender selected in that draft.
David Ovsjannikov (C) Would have preferred to see Murdaca up at the end of the year but I think the team was out of cards to call players up. With his height I feel like there are just to many holes for opponents to find the back of the net. I think with some tuning and getting used to his size that David can be an OHL goaltender. Just stay in the crease and let the dmen play the puck.
I do want to preface these rankings with the fact I am going to be as positive as possible with these. These are young kids and they, their parents, and friends read this stuff. They all got to play in the OHL this year and we didnt so hats off to them.
Players listed in numerical order by position
Forwards
Dylan Sadowy (A+) One of the best all around forwards in the OHL. Looked faster this year and was dangerous around the net and is a stellar PK guy. Point production hit a few slumps towards the end of the season but that was to be expected playing on a line with 2 17 years olds and having teams able to load up defensively against you. Will challenge for 100 points next season.
Kris Bennett (B) If this kids puck skills matched his work ethic he would lead the league in points. Just doesn't seem to have the offensive toolkit to put up a ton of points. However, he plays 100% all shift, every time he is on the ice and can handle his own on the PK. Probably tops out as a 3rd line defensive energy guy (put him and Brown together and I'll be a happy fan next year). One of the players I really like who doesn't light up the score board.
Mitchell Webb (C+) Didnt look out of place in his role on the 4th line. Played physical more often than not and scored a TKO victory in a fight. Offensive game isnt there but could easily carve out a niche in the OHL as a depth player if he improves his defensive game and ramps up the physical play.
Devon Paliani (B) We got this kid for a 12th round pick???? No wonder Sudbury is in the dumps. I really like the game Devon brought to Saginaw. He played all throughout the lineup this year and I think he really settled in as a 3rd line guy who will add some secondary scoring, (add him the 3rd man on the Brown-Bennett line and watch them outwork other teams). Hard working kid who despite his size plays pretty physical. His size is his limiting factor as of now however as he is pretty small. Possesses underrated offensive skills . Great value add by the GM in my opinion.
Adam McPhail (C) McPhail is a tough kid. Took a couple of beatings this year and came back each time. Doesn't have much of an offense game and isn't the fastest out there, but he was willing to drop the gloves and play physical when he got ice time. My hats off to him.
Connor Brown (B+) I was always a big fan of the tools that Addison brought to the table in Saginaw. He never put them together here (seems to be doing better in Ottawa) and I was glad to see what we got in return for him. Brown is a leader. Plain and simple. He seems like the kind of guy who would run though a wall for a teammate. Pound for pound probably one of the best fighters in the OHL and not afraid to drop the gloves at all. If there wasn't a 10 game fight limit I would guess he would have dropped them at least 20 times. Brown's offensive downfall is that he has hands of stone. Wouldn't be fair if he could use his hands to score on you and then punch your face in.
Vladislav Kodola (B-) I was disappointed at first when I read that we had acquired Kodola as I felt we could have used our high pick in this years Import draft to acquire a top level player for the rebuild. We still might as I am not sure what Vlad's situation is with pro leagues back home. But, the more I thought about it and the more I seen Kodola play the more that opinion changed. This trade seems like a tip of the cap to Igor to get one of his clients out of a situation where he wasn't seeing much ice time. Also, Kodola is an extremely gifted offensive player. When he had his game going 100% he is a force out there in the offensive zone (I went to an away game in Sarnia the end of the year where he was the best player on the ice bar none). His size and defensive ability aren't good though and I felt like that limits his game. But I think him and Artemov could be lights out offensively if they play together. Especially if you dont put a ton of stock into +/- like I do.
Jack Webb (D) In his defense he didn't get to see a ton of ice time but I think his game is better suited as a top 6 player in Jr B than as fourth line guy in the OHL. I think he could really flourish down there as he scored 15 points as a 16 year old last season. If he develops a physical game and works on his skating he may be able to stick to an OHL team down the road.
Mitchell Stephens (B+) The points didn't come for Mitchell this season like I had anticipated, but midway through the year something dawned on me. Mitch isnt going to be an offensive force like I thought, not because he isn't a talented player, but because that's not the game he is suited for most with his skill set. Mitch is a top 6 forward in the OHL, but I think his skills are most suited for a 3rd or 4th line center role in the NHL. He is defensively responsible, can flat out fly when he sees open ice, likes to muck it up, and can shoot and score the puck. Where I think he could improve on is his playmaking. He would be the kind of player I am looking for to fill a Mike Fischer like role in an NHL player. Someone who has all the tools in the tool box, but settles in as a 3rd line PK guy who could see some 2nd PP unit work at the next level.
Tye Felhaber (A) Man I am glad that Gilbert and Paliafito got this kid to report. Has the offensive tools to be one of the best offensive players ever to wear a Spirit uniform. Still needs to improve his 200 ft game but after one season I cant wait for more from him as a fan of this team.
Blake Clarke (I) Like Kingpin said, I feel for this kid. I am giving him an incomplete for this season as an injury zapped most of his season and I think really limited his play once he returned. You can tell watching him play that he has off the charts hockey IQ. But he just seems gun shy after the injuries. I still think the kid has the ability and skills to play and thrive in this league but I think he will need to work to put it all back together soon.
Jesse Barwell (B) I have been a fan of Barwell back to his Oakville Rangers days and was really happy his was part of the return for Lodge. Has a solid all around game and is a legitimate top 6 player in the league. I would prefer to seem him play on the second line with Stephens centering as I think Barwell's playmaking fits in well with Stephens shooting proficiency and they both are defensively responsible forwards, as Barwell managed a +3 in Saginaw on a year we allowed 59 more goals than we scored.
Artem Artemov (B+) I'm a much bigger fan of Artem than Kingpin I have a feeling. I don't feel like I am going out on a limb when I say I think Artem has one of the top 5 wrist shots currently in the OHL. It's devastatingly heavy and accurate. Frankly I think he needs to use it WAY more often than he does. Add that to the fact he has above average playmaking ability and puck skills I believe he should be drafted this season without question. Will he? I dont know, as he does have some consistency issues as Kingpin alluded to and his defense is still coming along. But I feel in two years when we are "going for it" he and Felhaber will be in the top 10 scorers in the league.
Defencemen
Greg DiTomaso (B+) Really surprised with his game after we got him in the Lodge deal. Showed some offensive skills I didn't know he had while maintaining his defensive game. Doesn't have the top gear of the elite offensive defense-man or the physical play of an elite defensive defense-man but I think he is a solid top 4 defense-man who can play on the top pair until Middleton is ready to take that next step.
Chase Stewart (B+) Him fighting Callaghan was probably the most excited I have been at a Spirit game in the last 5 years. He stepped up big there. If I am an OHL team I am going to draft at least one dman from Thunder Bay every year. The kids up there are as tough as nails and Stewart is no exception. Devastating physical play from the day he was called up almost to a fault. As the year went on I think his skating improved and he picked his spots with the big hits better. Will never be a power play guy but I think he has a spot on the team for years to come. Personally one ofmy favorite players on the roster.
Marcus Crawford (B-) I read somewhere that Crawford had an injury this year so this rating may be a tad lower than is should be if he was healthy. He is a good playmaker in the offensive zone and has a shot that can get though traffic. He just seemed to be slow getting back on defense multiple times this year. If that was injury related then I think he can be leaps and bounds better next year. If not he needs to either work on his foot speed or work to not pinch on defense as often.
Troy Henley (C+) I like Troy. I think his attitude is great for the lockerroom. His game I felt improved on the defensive side as the year went on and I think he can stick as a bottom pair guy. Offensively his game isn't there. If that comes around I feel he can play higher than this rating suggests.
Michael Holmes (C+) I think he is very similar to Henley. Has moments but really needs to step his game up to stick long term. Next year will be make or break.
Keaton Middleton (A-) How did Middleton last until the 3rd round? Seriously. 19 other teams were caught sleeping on him. He seems like a slightly less polished version of Logan Stanley who went in the 1st and I feel like Middleton outplayed him this year. He had some growing pains as expected with a 16 year old dman seeing the amount of ice he did but wow. If his foot speed catches up to his body he will be dynamite. Never will put up crazy offensive numbers but will be a critical shutdown player on a championship run. I think he goes higher in the NHL draft next year than most people think.
Jacob Ringuette (Round of applause) I cant give Ringuette a rating as I think that his value to the team was more than what he could do on the ice. He never was a player who got many accolades but finished the season as the only O/A on the club. Not a great offensive player (although he could surprise every now and then) but one has to appreciate that he gave everything he had to help his team win. Lead by example and wasnt afraid to sacrifice bumps and brusies to block shots. A real Gilbert type dman. Hope that he gets a chance to keep playing the game and I think Gilbert will do what he can to make sure he is on a team somewhere next season.
Goalies
Evan Cormier (B+) Went from one the best defensive clubs in the OHL to the youngest and maintained his save percentage. That's pretty impressive if you ask me. Let in a few softies, and that's why I didn't rank him in the A category. He gets unfairly dogged on by some Spirit fans as they are used to having a goalie like Paterson playing for them the last few years. Cormier can be just as good with time in my opinion and he isn't eligible for the draft until 2016. I think he can be a top 7 goaltender selected in that draft.
David Ovsjannikov (C) Would have preferred to see Murdaca up at the end of the year but I think the team was out of cards to call players up. With his height I feel like there are just to many holes for opponents to find the back of the net. I think with some tuning and getting used to his size that David can be an OHL goaltender. Just stay in the crease and let the dmen play the puck.
In my dream scenario Tippett or Levin falls to Saginaw. The odds of that happening are slim however as I believe they are 1 and 2 in this class.
If Hayden Davis is there I wouldn't mind selecting him.
Forwards I like for Saginaw in the first are in this order Pastujov, Tippett, Levin, Vilardi, McLeod, Lodina, Meireles. Pastujov would be a dream if he would commit. I highly doubt it though. Him and his brother will both play NCAA if I had to guess.
Ian Blacker or Farrance would be nice on D as well but I believe they have pretty solid NCAA commits.
willy29
Registered User
Reading Levin to Sudbury.....so does Tippett fall to the Petes or does Windsor or Flint pick him?
I have heard that Windsor is pretty solid in on Vilardi. Also, we all know Missy is going to take McLeod. I can see Flint taking a dman over a forward (especially if they move Jones to London). That leaves Peterborough. Do they go for the hometown kid in Tippett or maybe reach for a player like Gilmour. I have seen Gilmour listed a ton to the Petes by scouts who know way more about the O than I do. So unless Flint grabs him at 3, Tippett could fall to Saginaw at 6. With his connection to Stephens that seems like a no brainer.
willy29
Registered User
Looks like big Jim will have picks #6 overall, #30, #38, #46, #48, #52, #64...........Should pick up some good pieces or to use in a trade for an OA d-man
As far as I'm aware picks from this draft can only be traded for picks not for players. If I am wrong about that I apologize. Not that we are hurting for future picks to trade for an OA defenseman this off season.
Correct, there's a trading window this week (not sure when it exactly opens) where teams can make trades involving picks only. There were a few last year.
willy29
Registered User
Looks they get their 3rd round in 2017 pick back along with Kitchener's 3rd round pick in 2016
Kingpin794
Smart A** In A Jersey
With limited roster spots up for grabs and 2 open O/A spots where we could make additions it makes total sense to move this years 3rd for 2 down the road. Smart move by the GM. Now to add some serious talent Saturday and I will be a happy fan.
Just wanted to add, I seen today Middleton and Cormier were named to the OHL All Rookie Second Team. Congratulations to Evan and Keaton!
willy29
Registered User
Does Saginaw select Tippett or choose someone else?
From the scouts mock draft, if Windsor passes on him, Saginaw will take him.
1) Sudbury - Levin
2) Windsor - Vilardi
3) Flint - Lodnia
4) Miss. - McLeod
5) Petes - Meireles
6) Saginaw - Tippett
From the scouts mock draft, if Windsor passes on him, Saginaw will take him.
1) Sudbury - Levin
2) Windsor - Vilardi
3) Flint - Lodnia
4) Miss. - McLeod
5) Petes - Meireles
6) Saginaw - Tippett
Kingpin794
Smart A** In A Jersey
willy29
Registered User
Stephens & Cormier selected for the U18 tournament in Switzerland.
http://www.hockeycanada.ca/en-ca/Team-Canada/Men/Under-18/2014-15/World-Championship/Camp-Roster
http://www.hockeycanada.ca/en-ca/Team-Canada/Men/Under-18/2014-15/World-Championship/Camp-Roster
bcspirit
Registered User
If he is still on the board at six there is not much of a chance Big Jim passes on him, with the family connection and skill level he would be an extremely nice addition to the forward corps.
I doubt if Owen Tippett is available at the 5th pick that the Peterborough Petes will pass on the hometown boy. The Petes will likely pick him, if he is available.
willy29
Registered User
Tippett will be picked by Flint. Not sure whom the Petes or Saginaw will take at this point.
Kingpin794
Smart A** In A Jersey
Draft is tomorrow. For the first round the guys I think they should be eyeing IMO are Tippett, Lodnia, or Davis in that order. After that, IDK. It's just a crap shoot to guess but based on scouting reports maybe go for guys like Robert Proner, Finn Evans or Jack Phibbs in the second. Maybe use a third on the other Pastujov brother.
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