HockeyTV is free the next few days. So I watched the USNTDP 18 v. Boston U game. Reinforced two opinions, created a new one, and changed a few.
I was a big Berard fan before watching him play an entire game. After watching him against college players, I am even more impressed. He doesn't let his size keep him from engaging and going to the front of the net. He created something almost every time he had the puck on his stick. He was also terrific at disrupting 50/50 plays to create an opportunity for himself or a teammate to gain control. Berard was especially noticeable on the power play where he pressured the defense every time before making a quick pass. After watching him, he is one of three players (along with Seeley and Finley) who I hope the Canes can draft with their late second and two thirds.
Faber has a lot of potential. He didn't have a good game—two pretty sloppy turnovers—but still showed strong skating and even laid at least two good hits. While not in my top 3, I think he would also be a good use of one of the picks.
Commesso. Like most, I don't know exactly what makes a good goalie prospect. Still, I saw a lot of McElhinney. He is really calm even when there is a scrum in the crease. Never seemed out of position. Another player I would be good with if the Canes decided to draft a goalie.
None of Smilinac, Peterson, Slaggert stood out in this game. Maybe using a fourth on any of these three would be ok—though there are other players I would prefer.
Sanderson would be a great pick if the Canes lose in the play-in and up 14/15. Doubt he will still be available, but he is one defender who would be worth picking up in the first round. The combination of skating, physicality, and vision are really impressive.
As far as already-drafted players: Farrance was easily the best player on the ice. He seemed able to take the puck pretty much wherever he wanted. His defense was solid, not NHL shutdown level but no major holes. Fensore is both quick and fast. On the power play he can make plays. However, he lost the puck 6 of the 7 times I noticed he was engaged. His size is likely going to mean he won't make the NHL.