Crzy's 2015 NHL Draft Thread

[CheersMan]

So if we do end up drafting a kid nemed Connor it's likely 1 with the 1st name Kyle.

Would that make you happy jj?

That kid actually looks pretty good from the link Crzy posted.

********************************************************************************

Despite the start I see the Flames as a bubble team. No way are we going to pass the California teams long term yet while the Central has Chi-town, St. L while Minny, Nashville  & Dallas aren't to be taken lightly.

In the Pacific the Orca will try a last ditch effort to try to win more then an participant ribbon for the clones so will raid the cupboard that idn't as deep as fans imagine for that last push.

 

So unless we get really lucky in the lottery we'll pick around the perimeter between playoffs & possible lottery (10-14).

We'll aim higher so TD trades will be made to add. If we finish on the non-contender part of the bubble I can see Treliving & BB having brain storming type meeting & decide what is needed as upgrades. I figure they'll be active in the week leading to the draft & continue to the last minute.

 

We're close but keep that cigar in the box.

Agreed, we are closer to Kyle Connor than Connor McDavid thanks to coach Hartley. I challenge our Fans no longer mention the possibility of McDavid becoming a Flame by means of draft. We are not picking 1 or 2 or 3 or 4. Let's move on.

[conundrumed]

Hey crzy, the u17 tourney is hot on my heels, anyone in particular you'd like me to keep an eye on?

I'm trying to track teams for a heads up, but it ain't exactly going quickly.

Been watching Chychrun, what a flipping bull! Tossing guys in the O around like nothing in his rookie campaign. Big and tough, holy shizzle!!

[Crzydrvr]

Hey crzy, the u17 tourney is hot on my heels, anyone in particular you'd like me to keep an eye on?

I'm trying to track teams for a heads up, but it ain't exactly going quickly.

Been watching Chychrun, what a flipping bull! Tossing guys in the O around like nothing in his rookie campaign. Big and tough, holy shizzle!!

 

In no particular order:

 

Canada:

 

Tyler Benson

Sam Steel

Kale Clague

Nolan Patrick

David Quenneville

Tyson Jost

Jake Kryski

Brett Howden

Dante Fabbro

Josh Anderson

Nolan Volcan

Beck Malenstyn

Sean Day

Logan Brown

Travis Barron

Adam Mascherin

Jakob Chychrun

Taylor Raddysh

Will Bitten

Jordan Kyrou

Keaton Middleton

Cliff Pu

Matthew Timms

Pascal Laberge

Luke Green

Samuel Girard

Mitchell Balmas

Pierre-Luc Dubois

Felix Lauzon

Evan Fitzpatrick

 

US:

 

Chad Krys

Max Jones

James Greenway

Patrick Khodorenko

Clayton Keller

Luke Martin

Adam Fox

Joey Anderson

William Lockwood

Nick Pastujov

 

Russia:

 

Dmitry Sokolov

Vitaly Ibramov

Vladimir Kuznetsov

Artem Manukyan

Vyacheslav Shevchenko

 

Sweden:

 

Alexander Nylander

Jesper Bratt

Alexander Andersson

William Fallstrom

Linus Lindstrom

Adam Tilander

Jacob Cederholm

Jacob Moverare

 

Czech Republic (roster not confirmed):

 

Tomas Smerha

Kristian Reichel

Tomas Polak

 

Germany (roster not confirmed):

 

Tobias Eder

Christoph Kiefersauer

 

 

Most of these guys are either likely top-60 picks in their NHL draft classes, or are intriguing enough that they may work themselves into that equation sooner rather than later.

[conundrumed]

The roster parts overseas are killing me, can't find nuttin'. Maybe the full scale programs will be out tomorrow, Canada white v US exhibition, maybe Black v Sweden, haven't decided.

No Germany, add Slovakia & Finland.

Sean Day, yeah, really keen to see him. Pu, Pastujov, Chychrun, Kyrou, Jones, Krys I'm pretty familiar with.

Kuznetzov? Younger bro?

I'll see the Russia squad on Sunday, still ironing out the details!

Thanks for the list boss, love your work!

[conundrumed]

I created a thread in International Hockey if anyone's interested. Apparently, Hockey Canada is streaming some games if anyone's interested in watching, I explained it there.

[conundrumed]

For Crzy,

 

Jones and Keller have been omg. Keller small but dynamic, Jones is big, talented and likes physicality. Both extremely dangerous.

Pastujov's been good, but he's definitely more of a playmaker. Khodorenko I'd rate with Pastujov, likely a little ahead, good playmaker as well.

Add: Ryan Lindgren. Very good defensive dman with solid passes and all around making good, smart plays.

He's the US captain, and for good reason. Not on the scoresheet so much, but an exceptional smaller (for now) dman. Light years ahead of Greenway, who is a giant.

 

From Canada, Sean Day is head of the class, but note Chychrun hasn't played. The only other standout has been Zach Poirier of the Soo Greyhounds. He isn't particularly fast, he isn't a great playmaker, he's just showing to be a pretty smart player, using the space well to garner scoring chances and he's got a nifty set of hands and a nose for the net. He continually is the one guy that seems to like hitting much bigger opponents.

Sam Steel is playing well. Black moved Poirier onto his line with Benson, but Benson has not played well (imo). Then Poirier took a misconduct (oops...plays tough). I'll also acknowledge Dante Fabbro has been solid.

I'd put Clague well ahead of Patrick, but it's just one tourney. Patrick's attention has been atrocious at times. In the US game, at least 4 times...1 particular non-chalant moment was getting drilled behind his own net when he had nothing but time to have a look while he retrieved the puck, right after that, Max Jones drilled him again and must have laughed, "pay attention!" when he did it. Patrick floated off gingerly. Not good leadership from the Captain. He had a lot of mistakes last night.

Pu looks like a soft perimeter player that tends to like to avoid contact.

Very honourable mention to Girard, though tiny for a dman, moves the puck extremely well.

Add: Givani Smith. When the intensity gets higher, this is the guy you notice. Hard as nails, plays with a ton of heart that makes him very noticeable. Not sure how he's doing with Barrie, but this kid near single-handedly ups the effort and intensity.

 

From your list of Russians, you'll want to add Shabanov, Sokolov and N.A. Popugayev. Shabanov's on the small side but very crafty. The latter 2 are skilled giants. Russia's a BIG team, only the USA tends to match them for size.

 

I've not seen Sweden, Finland or Slovakia, outside of cracking jokes with Sweden in the halls!

RBC is sucking for attendance, screw you Sarnia. Forest has been packed. Great event to meet people/players.

Craig Button is a deadly guy with a smile and time for everyone. Bob Mackenzie...maybe notsomuch. I respect the guy, but being full of yourself is pretty laughable. It's Canada, hockey lives in us, no point in regarding yourself with great importance. Half of us can argue with you just fine.

Extremely cool experience. I'm pretty chatty when it comes to hockey, so that probably helps lol.

 

Best player I've seen, is the same guy I saw from Honeybaked last year, so I'll say it again.

Max Jones. Can't wait to see how he fairs in the OHL. Makes me laugh looking at the OHL draft, can you say Tyler Seguinitis?

People, you have to stream a US game and check this kid out! Big, brash and dangerous! Elimination starts tomorrow, patch it to your TVs!! Great hockey.

USA has the advantage of a consistent year-long team, keep that in mind. Because that's a big reason why they'll likely destroy everyone else.

[Crzydrvr]

Crzy's Rankings, November 2014

 

 (1)[1] [C]Connor McDavid, Erie(OHL)

 (2)[2] [C]Jack Eichel, Boston University(NCAA-HE)

 (3)[3] [D]Noah Hanifin, Boston College(NCAA-HE)

 (4)[4] [D]Oliver Kylington, AIK(SWE-2)

 (5)[5] [C]Mathew Barzal, Seattle(WHL)

 (6)[6] [C]Dylan Strome, Erie(OHL)

 (7)[9] [D]Zach Werenski, Michigan(NCAA-B10)

 (8)[10] [D]Jeremy Roy, Sherbrooke (QMJHL)

 (9)[18] [F]Mitchell Marner, London(OHL)

 (10)[15] [C]Nick Merkley, Kelowna(WHL)

 (11)[7] [C]Colin White, USA-U-18s(USNTDP)

 (12)[8] [F]Yevgeni Svechnikov, Cape Breton(QMJHL)

 (13)[17] [F]Jeremy Bracco, USA-U18s(USNTDP)

 (14)[11] [C]Travis Konecny, Ottawa(OHL)

 (15)[14] [D]Rasmus Andersson, Barrie(OHL)

 (16)[13] [F]Kyle Connor, Youngstown(USHL)

 (17)[34] [D]Ivan Provorov, Brandon(WHL)

 (18)[12] [F]Pavel Zacha, Sarnia(OHL)

 (19)[25] [C]Jansen Harkins, Prince George(WHL)

 (20)[52] [F]Filip Chlapik, Charlottetown(QMJHL)

 (21)[16] [C]Mikko Rantanen, TPS(Liiga)

 (22)[19] [F]Jordan Greenway, USA-U18s(USNTDP)

 (23)[20] [F]Nikita Korostelev, Sarnia(OHL

 (24)[21] [F]Jesse Gabrielle, Brandon(WHL)

 (25)[31] [F]Daniel Sprong, Charlottetown(QMJHL)

 (26)[32] [D]Alexandre Carrier, Gatineau(QMJHL)

 (27)[23] [C]Aleksi Saarela, Assat(Liiga)

 (28)[33] [F]Sebastian Aho, Karpat(Liiga)

 (29)[27] [D]Ryan Pilon, Brandon(WHL)

 (30)[35] [F]Anthony Beauvillier, Shawinigan(QMJHL)

 (31)[36] [D]Jakub Zboril, Saint John(QMJHL)

 (32)[38] [D]Parker Wotherspoon, Tri-City(WHL)

 (33)[37] [D]Thomas Chabot, Saint John(QMJHL)

 (34)[49] [F]Brock Boeser, Waterloo(USHL)

 (35)[40] [D]Brandon Carlo, Tri-City(WHL)

 (36)[42] [D]Mitchell Vande Sompel, Oshawa(OHL)

 (37)[39] [F]Robin Kovacs, AIK(ASK)

 (38)[24] [F]Dmytro Timashov, Quebec(QMJHL)

 (39)[43] [F]Jens Looke, Brynas(SHL)

 (40)[41] [F]Brendan Warren, USA-U18s(USNTDP)

 (41)[30] [F]Lawson Crouse, Kingston(OHL)

 (42)[45] [D]Jesper Lindgren, MODO(SHL)

 (43)[48] [F]Julius Nattinen, JYP(Liiga)

 (44)[47] [F]Matthew Tkachuk, USA-U18s(USNTDP)

 (45)[29] [F]Kay Schweri, Sherbrooke(QMJHL)

 (46)[NR] [F]Joel Eriksson Ek, Farjestads(SHL)

 (47)[46] [D]Jonas Siegenthaler, GCK(NLB)

 (48)[NR] [F]Dennis Yan, Shawinigan(QMJHL)

 (49)[44] [F]Paul Bittner, Portland(WHL)

 (50)[51] [D]Erik Cernak, HC Kosice(SVK)

 (51)[50] [F]Fredrik Forsberg, Leksand(SHL)

 (52)[58] [F]Adam Musil, Red Deer(WHL)

 (53)[59] [F]Timo Meier, Halifax(QMJHL)

 (54)[54] [F]Christian Fischer, USA-U18s(USNTDP)

 (55)[53] [F]Yakov Trenin, Gatineau(QMJHL)

 (56)[NR] [D]Gustav Bouramman, Sault Ste. Marie(OHL)

 (57)[22] [F]Nathan Noel, Saint John(QMJHL)

 (58)[55] [F]Filip Ahl, HV71(SWE-J20s)

 (59)[26] [F]Ryan Gropp, Seattle(WHL)

 (60)[56] [F]Graham Knott, Niagara(OHL)

 (61)[NR] [F]Jakob Forsbacka-Karlsson, Omaha(USHL)

 (62)[NR] http://whl.ca/stats/player.php?id=26595'> [D]Noah Juulsen, Everett(WHL)

 (63)[57] [D]Gabriel Gagne, Victoriaville(QMJHL)

 (64)[60] [D]Matthew Spencer, Peterborough(OHL)

 (65)[NR] [F]Roope Hintz, Ilves(Liiga)

 (66)[28] [F]A.J. Greer, Boston University(NCAA-HE)

 (67)[NR] [F]Thomas Novak, Waterloo(USHL)

 (68)[NR] [F]Pavel Karnaukhov, Calgary(WHL)

 (69)[NR] [F]Jake DeBrusk, Swift Current(WHL)

 (70)[NR] [F]Denis Malgin, ZSC(NLA)

 

 (1)[2] [G]Daniel Vladar, HC Kladno(CZE)

 (2)[1] [G]Callum Booth, Quebec(QMJHL)

 (3)[3] [G]Mackenzie Blackwood, Barrie(OHL)

 (4)[NR] [G]Matej Tomek, Topeka(NAHL)

 (5)[4] [G]Felix Sandstrom, Brynäs J20(SWE-J20)

[420since1974]

Right now, it looks like Calgary will be picking in the 10 - 20th range.

 

I would suggest that Rasmus Andersson should receive serious consideration.

 

He is a right shooting defense-man, 6'0", 210 lbs.

 

24 GP, 4G, 15A, 19P, +/- = -5

 

"He was selected to the roster for the World Junior Under-18 Tournament in April, 2013 as a player almost two years younger than the rest, save Connor McDavid. An impact type blue-liner who has tremendous vision, and instincts. Heavy shooter who can lead the rush, or guide it from the backline. Superb passer who leads many of the transitional rushes. Smooth strong skater who is positionally very strong and able to read and adjust in his zone, along with his ability to contribute offensively. Strong and thick already, he will work on quickness and defensive side of the game. Another intriguing Swedish hopeful who was on the radar very early, maybe due to the fact his Father is a former NY Ranger and has had an older brother already selected. He is another early touted player that hasn’t continued to rise from his early press billings. Extremely poised and gifted as a puck carrier and distributor, due to excellent vision and touch, but seems to have not regained his early swagger in his possessions. This is his first year in the OHL, and had a season in the Swedish Allsvenskan the year before. Needs to stay patient but also not overplay his possessions. Needs a whole lot more snark and physicality in his own end, and if he can add that to his already strong tools as a puck-carrier and PP guy, he may get his name called early." 

--Bill Placzek--

[s4xon]

I doubt Calgary will draft a D-man in the first round. For some reason, I see them continuing with the Forward pick in the first, and 2nd/3rd rounds for D-men.

[Khrox]

My thing is, depending on how deep the draft is first 2-3 rounds draft BPA, by rounds 4-5 I think you can draft either BPA or best player that fills positional need. Especially by the last few rounds. How many players in rounds 5-7 really make it? Not as many, if we draft by positional need it could at least help force competition and possibly find some hidden gems. Really best player available of the last 60 or so drafted players, doubt you really see a huge gap in skill, so character and needs could be taken there.

[s4xon]

My thing is, depending on how deep the draft is first 2-3 rounds draft BPA, by rounds 4-5 I think you can draft either BPA or best player that fills positional need. Especially by the last few rounds. How many players in rounds 5-7 really make it? Not as many, if we draft by positional need it could at least help force competition and possibly find some hidden gems. Really best player available of the last 60 or so drafted players, doubt you really see a huge gap in skill, so character and needs could be taken there.

 

First 2 if not 3 rounds should always be BPA.  3rd round you can get into BPA in position needed.  After that, its a crapshoot.

[Crzydrvr]

Crzy's Top 100, December 23rd

 

1.(1)[1] [C]Connor McDavid, Erie(OHL)

2.(2)[2] [C]Jack Eichel, Boston University(NCAA-HE)

3.(3)[3] [D]Noah Hanifin, Boston College(NCAA-HE)

4.(4)[4] [D]Oliver Kylington, AIK(SWE-2)

5.(5)[5] [C]Mathew Barzal, Seattle(WHL)

6.(7)[9] [D]Zach Werenski, Michigan(NCAA-B10)

7.(6)[6] [C]Dylan Strome, Erie(OHL)

8.(10)[15] [C]Nick Merkley, Kelowna(WHL)

9.(9)[18] [F]Mitchell Marner, London(OHL)

10.(8)[10] [D]Jeremy Roy, Sherbrooke (QMJHL)

11.(11)[7] [C]Colin White, USA-U-18s(USNTDP)

12.(17)[34] [D]Ivan Provorov, Brandon(WHL)

13.(15)[14] [D]Rasmus Andersson, Barrie(OHL)

14.(18)[12] [F]Pavel Zacha, Sarnia(OHL)

15.(14)[11] [C]Travis Konecny, Ottawa(OHL)

16.(41)[30] [F]Lawson Crouse, Kingston(OHL)

17.(12)[8] [F]Yevgeni Svechnikov, Cape Breton(QMJHL)

18.(13)[17] [F]Jeremy Bracco, USA-U18s(USNTDP)

19.(16)[13] [F]Kyle Connor, Youngstown(USHL)

20.(19)[25] [C]Jansen Harkins, Prince George(WHL)

21.(30)[35] [F]Anthony Beauvillier, Shawinigan(QMJHL)

22.(22)[19] [F]Jordan Greenway, USA-U18s(USNTDP)

23.(25)[31] [F]Daniel Sprong, Charlottetown(QMJHL)

24.(34)[49] [F]Brock Boeser, Waterloo(USHL)

25.(20)[52] [F]Filip Chlapik, Charlottetown(QMJHL)

26.(26)[32] [D]Alexandre Carrier, Gatineau(QMJHL)

27.(21)[16] [C]Mikko Rantanen, TPS(Liiga)

28.(23)[20] [F]Nikita Korostelev, Sarnia(OHL

29.(24)[21] [F]Jesse Gabrielle, Brandon(WHL)

30.(NR)[NR] [D]Nicolas Meloche, Baie-Comeau(QMJHL)

31.(36)[42] [D]Mitchell Vande Sompel, Oshawa(OHL)

32.(31)[36] [D]Jakub Zboril, Saint John(QMJHL)

33.(35)[40] [D]Brandon Carlo, Tri-City(WHL)

34.(33)[37] [D]Thomas Chabot, Saint John(QMJHL)

35.(32)[38] [D]Parker Wotherspoon, Tri-City(WHL)

36.(29)[27] [D]Ryan Pilon, Brandon(WHL)

37.(37)[39] [F]Robin Kovacs, AIK(ASK)

38.(27)[23] [C]Aleksi Saarela, Assat(Liiga)

39.(39)[43] [F]Jens Looke, Brynas(SHL)

40.(42)[45] [D]Jesper Lindgren, MODO(SHL)

41.(28)[33] [F]Sebastian Aho, Karpat(Liiga)

42.(45)[29] [F]Kay Schweri, Sherbrooke(QMJHL)

43.(46)[NR] [F]Joel Eriksson Ek, Farjestads(SHL)

44.(43)[48] [F]Julius Nattinen, JYP(Liiga)

45.(38)[24] [F]Dmytro Timashov, Quebec(QMJHL)

46.(50)[51] [D]Erik Cernak, HC Kosice(SVK)

47.(47)[46] [D]Jonas Siegenthaler, GCK(NLB)

48.(56)[NR] [D]Gustav Bouramman, Sault Ste. Marie(OHL)

49.(49)[44] [F]Paul Bittner, Portland(WHL)

50.(51)[50] [F]Fredrik Forsberg, Leksand(SHL)

51.(53)[59] [F]Timo Meier, Halifax(QMJHL)

52.(54)[54] [F]Christian Fischer, USA-U18s(USNTDP)

53.(58)[55] [F]Filip Ahl, HV71(SWE-J20s)

54.(48)[NR] [F]Dennis Yan, Shawinigan(QMJHL)

55.(52)[58] [F]Adam Musil, Red Deer(WHL)

56.(40)[41] [F]Brendan Warren, USA-U18s(USNTDP)

57.(64)[60] [D]Matthew Spencer, Peterborough(OHL)

58.(55)[53] [F]Yakov Trenin, Gatineau(QMJHL)

59.(61)[NR] [F]Jakob Forsbacka-Karlsson, Omaha(USHL)

60.(62)[NR] http://whl.ca/stats/player.php?id=26595'> [D]Noah Juulsen, Everett(WHL)

61.(60)[56] [F]Graham Knott, Niagara(OHL)

62.(59)[26] [F]Ryan Gropp, Seattle(WHL)

63.(69)[NR] [F]Jake DeBrusk, Swift Current(WHL)

64.(63)[57] [F]Gabriel Gagne, Victoriaville(QMJHL)

65.(67)[NR] [F]Thomas Novak, Waterloo(USHL)

66.(NR)[NR] [F]Denis Guryanov, Togliatti(MHL)

67.(65)[NR] [F]Roope Hintz, Ilves(Liiga)

68.(NR)[NR] [D]Gabriel Carlsson, Linkoping(SWE-J20s)

69.(68)[NR] [F]Pavel Karnaukhov, Calgary(WHL)

70.(NR)[NR] [F]Blake Speers, Sault Ste. Marie(OHL)

71.(70)[NR] [F]Denis Malgin, ZSC(NLA)

72..(NR)[NR] [D]Loik Léveillé, Cape Breton(QMJHL)

73.(NR)[NR] [D]Jacob Larsson, Frolunda(SHL)

74.(NR)[NR] [D]Thomas Schemitsch, Owen Sound(OHL)

75.(NR)[NR] [F]Jack Roslovic, USA-U18s(USNTDP)

76.(NR)[NR] [F]Dante Salituro, Ottawa(OHL)

77.(57)[22] [F]Nathan Noel, Saint John(QMJHL)

78.(NR)[NR] [F]Nicolas Roy, Chicoutimi(QMJHL)

79.(NR)[NR] [F]Glenn Gawdin, Swift Current(WHL)

80.(NR)[NR] [F]Adam Marsh, Saint John(QMJHL)

81.(NR)[NR] [F]Michael Spacek, Pardubice(CZE)

82.(NR)[NR] [F]Erik Foley, Cedar Rapids(USHL)

83.(NR)[NR] [F]Tyler Soy, Victoria(WHL)

84.(NR)[NR] [F]Kameron Kielly, Charlottetown(QMJHL)

85.(NR)[NR] [F]Deven Sideroff, Kamloops(WHL)

86.(NR)[NR] [D]Veeti Vainio, Blues U20(FIN Jr.A)

87.(NR)[NR] [D]Kyle Capobianco, Sudbury(OHL)

88.(NR)[NR] [D]Chaz Reddekopp, Victoria(WHL)

89.(NR)[NR] [F]Kevin Stenlund, HV71(SWE-J20s)

90.(NR)[NR] [F]Terrell Draude, Calgary(WHL)

91.(66)[28] [F]A.J. Greer, Boston University(NCAA-HE)

92.(NR)[NR] [F]David Kase, Chomutov(CZE2)

93.(NR)[NR] [D]Vince Dunn, Niagara(OHL)

94.(NR)[NR] [F]Radovan Bondra, Team Slovakia U20(SVK)

95.(NR)[NR] [F]Jean-Christophe Beaudin, Rouyn-Noranda(QMJHL)

96.(NR)[NR] [D]Brendan Guhle, Prince Albert(WHL)

97.(NR)[NR] [D]Guillaume Brisebois, Acadie-Bathurst(QMJHL)

98.(NR)[NR] [F]Brad Morrison, Prince George(WHL)

99.(NR)[NR] [F]Zachary Senyshen, Sault Ste. Marie(OHL)

100.(NR)[NR] [F]Gustav Franzen, Kitchener(OHL)

 

1.(1)[2] [G]Daniel Vladar, HC Kladno(CZE)

2.(2)[1] [G]Callum Booth, Quebec(QMJHL)

3.(5)[4] [G]Felix Sandstrom, Brynäs J20(SWE-J20)

4.(4)[NR] [G]Matej Tomek, Topeka(NAHL)

5..(NR)[5] [G]Veini Vehvilainen, JYP(FIN-2)

6.(3)[3] [G]Mackenzie Blackwood, Barrie(OHL)

7.(NR)[NR] [G]Anton Krasotkin, Yaroslavl(MHL)

8.(NR)[NR] [G]Nick McBride, Prince Albert(WHL)

9.(NR)[NR] [G]Ryan Larkin, Cedar Rapids(USHL)

10.(NR)[NR] [G]Luke Opilka, USA-U18s(USNTDP)

 

Happy Holidays from me to you all.

[JTech780]

Through the first two days of the World Junior Championships I have been really impressed with Lawson Crouse, he's a big boy at 6'4" 212lbs, he's a very good skater with good hands and he plays a high energy game. Not sure what his offensive upside is but he has all the tools to be a very good NHLer.

 

Connor McDavid looks like he is still trying to find his touch, which isn't surprising after coming back from a broken hand.

 

Jack Eichel has an amazing blend of power and smoothness, I know McDavid is the number one prospect for good reason, but Eichel is very close.

 

Noah Hanifin is a super smooth skater, and has good size. I think he has very good chance to be a better player than Aaron Ekblad and Seth Jones.

 

I was expecting a little more than Erik Cernak, I thought he was fairly noticeable last year as a 16 year old, but he wasn't very good against Canada.

 

One player that I am a little curious about is Alexander True from Denmark. Good size at 6'4", showed good skating ability and some decent hands. He is currently playing on a very young Seattle Thunderbirds team. Might be a guy to keep an eye on in the late rounds.

[Crzydrvr]

 

Through the first two days of the World Junior Championships I have been really impressed with Lawson Crouse, he's a big boy at 6'4" 212lbs, he's a very good skater with good hands and he plays a high energy game. Not sure what his offensive upside is but he has all the tools to be a very good NHLer.

 

Connor McDavid looks like he is still trying to find his touch, which isn't surprising after coming back from a broken hand.

 

Jack Eichel has an amazing blend of power and smoothness, I know McDavid is the number one prospect for good reason, but Eichel is very close.

 

Noah Hanifin is a super smooth skater, and has good size. I think he has very good chance to be a better player than Aaron Ekblad and Seth Jones.

 

I was expecting a little more than Erik Cernak, I thought he was fairly noticeable last year as a 16 year old, but he wasn't very good against Canada.

 

One player that I am a little curious about is Alexander True from Denmark. Good size at 6'4", showed good skating ability and some decent hands. He is currently playing on a very young Seattle Thunderbirds team. Might be a guy to keep an eye on in the late rounds.

 

I should explain why Crouse jumped so high in my rankings after dropping by a fair bit earlier. He's a guy who really stands out in initial viewings being such a polished player. But he's also got some real good hockey sense and he's a guy who could easily have 30 points in the OHL instead of 16, but tends to make the smart play rather than use his pure talents to score. And that's really exceptional because a lot of prospects in their draft years have that "point-getter" mindset which generally causes a large chunk of the group to put up good numbers but suffer in their all-around game. The more you watch Crouse, the more you realize that he's not just a case of underachieving; he's going to be an NHL-ready player right out of juniors, if not next year or the year after.

 

Eichel is definitely the most NHL-ready player in this draft, McDavid notwithstanding. I think he might get off to a faster start than McDavid does simply because he's got an NHL body right now and is used to playing against grown men. McDavid is the kind of guy who will get it going after a slight adjustment period, his hockey sense and puck poise will help him transition to the NHL a la Ekblad.

 

Cernak has had a good season, but he was being lit up against Canada partly because he might already be the most trustworthy defender the Slovaks have. Who else could they turn to in order to match up against the top Canadians? That's a case where you have to take the results with a grain of salt, because it's hard to be competitive against the Canadians when it feels like you're basically playing a man down every shift. It's tough when your 2 best defenders are also the youngest defenders on the roster. The fact that he was continually relied upon is a demonstration of how highly the coaching staff thinks of him.

[The_People1]

http://www.isshockey.com/

 

Crouse has moved up to 3rd overall.  From watching him play in World Juniors, i think his ceiling is something like Andrew Ladd.  It's not bad but i think he needs to show more offense before he actually gets picked that high in June.

[Crzydrvr]

2015 NHL Draft Midterm Rankings, Jan. 25th

 

1.(1)[1]F Connor McDavid, Erie Otters (OHL) [13/01/97]
[6'1", 187 pds][Lefty][PROSPECT GRADE: S]
[24 GP, 22 G, 39 A, 61 Pts, 30 PIM, +34][NHL Comparable: Sidney Crosby/Pavel Datsyuk]
Potential Peak: Generational Talent and one of the faces of the NHL
Projection: Franchise Center, perennial 90+ point player in his prime

Bust Factor: Low; simply too talented to not become an NHL scorer of some kind
Offense: 9.5
Defense: 8.5
Physicality: 8.0
Skating: 10.0
Intangibles: 9.0
NHL-Readiness: 9.0
Potential: 10.0

Aggregate Score: 64.0
Strengths:
-purest 18-year old skater I’ve ever seen; would be elite in the NHL right now

-hockey sense and offensive awareness is insane; excellent playmaker and stickhandler

-defensive game has improved; excellent awareness and positioning
Weaknesses:

-still has room for improvement strength-wise

2.(2)[2]F Jack Eichel, Boston University Terriers (Hockey East - NCAA) [28/10/96]
[6'2", 194 pds][Righty][PROSPECT GRADE: S]
[21 GP, 12 G, 23 A, 35 Pts, 14 PIM, +20][NHL Comparable: Mike Modano]
Potential Peak: Franchise center and one of the faces of the NHL
Projection: Elite scoring center, perennial PPG seasons in his prime
Bust Factor: Low; gets a little complacent at times
Offense: 9.5
Defense: 8.0
Physicality: 8.5
Skating: 9.0
Intangibles: 9.0
NHL-Readiness: 9.5
Potential: 9.5

Aggregate Score: 63.0
Strengths:
-elite offensive force; excellent puck poise and offensive awareness
-physically superior player; knows how to use his size and skill against older opponents

-great hands and an excellent shot; one-shot scorer
Weaknesses:
-needs more urgency without the puck; defensively, still could use some fine-tuning

 

3.(3)[3]D Noah Hanifin, Boston College Eagles (Hockey East - NCAA) [25/01/97]
[6'3", 205 pds][Lefty][PROSPECT GRADE: A+]
[23 GP, 3 G, 11 A, 14 Pts, 10 PIM, +10][NHL Comparable: Ryan Suter/Alex Pietrangelo]
Potential Peak: Franchise two-way defenseman, one of the faces of the NHL
Projection: Elite two-way blueliner, 50+ point seasons in his offensive prime
Bust Factor: Low; two-way responsibility should keep him in the NHL
Offense: 9.0
Defense: 9.0
Physicality: 8.0
Skating: 9.5
Intangibles: 8.5
NHL-Readiness: 8.5
Potential: 9.0

Aggregate Score: 61.5
Strengths:
-prototypical modern NHL skating D-man; tremendous all-around mobility and agility
-excellent hockey sense and uses it extremely effectively in all 3 zones
Weaknesses:
-lacks a mean streak in his game
-could use a little more consistency on a game-to-game basis

 

4.(6)[7]D Zach Werenski, University of Michigan Wolverines (Big 10 - NCAA) [19/07/97]
[6'2", 214 pds][Lefty][PROSPECT GRADE: A+]
[19 GP, 3 G, 13 A, 16 Pts, 4 PIM, +13][NHL Comparable: John Carlson]
Potential Peak: Franchise two-way defenseman
Projection: Top pairing two-way blueliner, 45+ point seasons in his offensive prime
Bust Factor: Moderate; still has a lot of room for development
Offense: 9.0
Defense: 8.5
Physicality: 8.5
Skating: 9.0
Intangibles: 8.5
NHL-Readiness: 8.0
Potential: 9.0

Aggregate Score: 60.5
Strengths:
-strong puckmoving and offensive defenseman; excellent passer and puck rusher
-excellent hockey sense and all-around awareness
Weaknesses:
-could use a little more consistency to his game
-defensively, could still use a little more polish

 

5.(4)[4]D Oliver Kylington, Farjestads BK (SHL) [19/05/97]
[6'0", 181 pds][Lefty][PROSPECT GRADE: A+]
[15 GP, 4 G, 3 A, 7 Pts, 6 PIM, +/-0][NHL Comparable: Oliver Ekman-Larsson/P.K. Subban]
Potential Peak: Franchise two-way defenseman
Projection: Top pairing offensive defender, 50+ point player in his scoring prime
Bust Factor: Moderate; little bit of a rover in his game
Offense: 9.0
Defense: 8.5
Physicality: 8.5
Skating: 9.5
Intangibles: 8.0
NHL-Readiness: 8.0
Potential: 9.0

Aggregate Score: 60.5
Strengths:
-gifted offensive skills; excellent passer/playmaker and elite shot from the point
-explosive skater with excellent speed and acceleration
Weaknesses:
-defensively, still has the occasional hiccup/lapse in judgment

-offensive mindset occasionally leads to forced plays and bad reads

 

6.(9)[9]F Mitchell Marner, London Knights (OHL) [05/05/97]
[5'11", 164 pds][Righty][PROSPECT GRADE: A+]
[43 GP, 35 G, 56 A, 91 Pts, 43 PIM, +37][NHL Comparable: Claude Giroux]
Potential Peak: Franchise center and perennial All-Star
Projection: Top line scoring forward, 75+ point seasons in his offensive prime
Bust Factor: Moderate; consistency, strength may be the determining factors
Offense: 9.5
Defense: 8.0
Physicality: 8.0
Skating: 9.0
Intangibles: 8.0
NHL-Readiness: 8.0
Potential: 9.0

Aggregate Score: 60.0
Strengths:
-elite offensive player; has the tools and smarts to dominate offensively

-excellent skater with great mobility and speed
Weaknesses:
-isn’t the biggest player
-defensively, could use a little more polish

 

7.(7)[6]F Dylan Strome, Erie Otters (OHL) [07/03/97]
[6'3", 187 pds][Lefty][PROSPECT GRADE: A]
[44 GP, 29 G, 52 A, 81 Pts, 28 PIM, +34][NHL Comparable: Joe Thornton/Jason Spezza]
Potential Peak: Franchise playmaking center
Projection: Top line playmaking center, 70+ point seasons in his offensive prime
Bust Factor: Moderate; size and hockey sense should allow him to carve out a career
Offense: 9.0
Defense: 8.0
Physicality: 8.0
Skating: 8.5
Intangibles: 8.5
NHL-Readiness: 8.0
Potential: 9.0

Aggregate Score: 59.0
Strengths:
-strong hockey sense; elite vision and feel for the game
-excellent playmaker and passer of the puck
Weaknesses:
-could be more physical, given his size
-still needs to refine his defensive game

8.(5)[5]F Mathew Barzal, Seattle Thunderbirds (WHL) [26/05/97]
[6'0", 177 pds][Righty][PROSPECT GRADE: A]
[17 GP, 7 G, 11 A, 18 Pts, 6 PIM, +/-0][NHL Comparable: Claude Giroux/Matt Duchene]
Potential Peak: Franchise center and perennial All-Star
Projection: Top line playmaking center, 70+ point seasons in his prime
Bust Factor: Moderate, has had an inconsistent season and a major injury
Offense: 9.0
Defense: 8.0
Physicality: 8.0
Skating: 9.5
Intangibles: 8.0
NHL-Readiness: 7.5
Potential: 9.0

Aggregate Score: 59.0
Strengths:
-all the tools in the world; elite skater with excellent speed, acceleration and agility
-excellent offensive arsenal; offensive vision and acumen combined with great passing skills
Weaknesses:
-hasn’t put forth a consistent effort on a shift-to-shift basis

-needs to build strength to handle bigger opponents
 

9.(8)[10]F Nick Merkley, Kelowna Rockets (WHL) [23/05/97]
[5'10.5", 187 pds][Righty][PROSPECT GRADE: A]
[46 GP, 14 G, 51 A, 65 Pts, 51 PIM, +19][NHL Comparable: David Krejci]
Potential Peak: Franchise center and perennial All-Star
Projection: Top line playmaking forward, 60+ point seasons in his offensive prime
Bust Factor: Moderate; might not have the scoring instincts to hold a top line role
Offense: 9.0
Defense: 8.5
Physicality: 8.0
Skating: 8.5
Intangibles: 8.0
NHL-Readiness: 8.0
Potential: 9.0

Aggregate Score: 59.0
Strengths:
-elite playmaker with excellent offensive awareness and vision
-plays a very well-rounded, responsible game
Weaknesses:
-not going to be a big player
-skating is functionally good, but not truly elite

 

10.(10)[8]D Jeremy Roy, Sherbrooke Phoenix (QMJHL) [14/05/97]
[6'0", 182 pds][Righty][PROSPECT GRADE: A]
[40 GP, 5 G, 34 A, 39 Pts, 18 PIM, +3][NHL Comparable: Drew Doughty]
Potential Peak: Franchise two-way defenseman
Projection: Top pairing two-way defender, 40+ point seasons in his scoring prime
Bust Factor: Moderate; needs to continue to build strength
Offense: 9.0
Defense: 8.5
Physicality: 8.0
Skating: 9.0
Intangibles: 8.0
NHL-Readiness: 7.5
Potential: 9.0

Aggregate Score: 59.0
Strengths:
-elite hockey sense and feel for the game
-excellent skater; mobility and speed allow him to move the puck out of danger at will
Weaknesses:
-not going to be a big player
-needs to build more strength; would improve shot as well as boardwork

 

11.(12)[17]D Ivan Provorov, Brandon Wheat Kings (WHL) [13/01/97]
[6'0", 200 pds][Lefty][PROSPECT GRADE: A]
[41 GP, 11 G, 30 A, 41 Pts, 32 PIM, +16][NHL Comparable: Niklas Kronwall]
Potential Peak: Franchise two-way defenseman
Projection: Top pairing defenseman, 35-45 point seasons in his scoring prime
Bust Factor: Moderate; might already have peaked in physical development
Offense: 8.5
Defense: 8.5
Physicality:8.5
Skating: 8.5
Intangibles: 8.0
NHL-Readiness: 8.0
Potential: 9.0

Aggregate Score: 59.0
Strengths:
-extremely well-rounded; can pass, shoot, and play defense at a high level
-definitely plays bigger than his size; stocky build and throws some big hits at times
Weaknesses:
-skating is good, but not elite

-might not be an elite offensive blueliner

12.(16)[41]F Lawson Crouse, Kingston Frontenacs (OHL) [23/06/97]
[6'3", 200 pds][Lefty][PROSPECT GRADE: A]
[32 GP, 16 G, 7 A, 23 Pts, 55 PIM, +1][NHL Comparable: Nathan Horton]
Potential Peak: 1st line two-way forward
Projection: Borderline 1st/2nd line forward, 50+ point seasons in his offensive prime
Bust Factor: None; no doubt that he’s going to be an NHLer, question is in what capacity
Offense: 8.5
Defense: 8.5
Physicality: 8.5
Skating: 8.5
Intangibles: 8.0
NHL-Readiness: 8.5
Potential: 8.5

Aggregate Score: 59.0
Strengths:
-as complete a player as you’ll find; pro-style player who hits, backchecks at a high level
-uses his size effectively to win battles, get to the net
Weaknesses:
-doesn’t have the offensive upside of other elite-level players
-playmaking skills and vision are not elite

 

13.(17)[12]F Evgeni Svechnikov, Cape Breton Screaming Eagles (QMJHL) [31/10/96]
[6'3", 205 pds][Lefty][PROSPECT GRADE: B]
[36 GP, 17 G, 29 A, 46 Pts, 46 PIM, +8][NHL Comparable: Blake Wheeler]
Potential Peak: All-Star scoring forward
Projection: Borderline 1st line scoring forward, 55+ point seasons in his offensive prime
Bust Factor: Moderate; depends on whether his defense and consistency issues sort out
Offense: 9.0
Defense: 7.5
Physicality: 8.0
Skating: 9.0
Intangibles: 8.0
NHL-Readiness: 8.0
Potential: 9.0

Aggregate Score: 58.5
Strengths:
-excellent hands; offensive skills and awareness are off the charts
-elite skater (could be byproduct of skating as average-sized player growing up?)
Weaknesses:
-defensive focus and positioning need improvement
-sometimes takes some poor penalties; mentally, needs to mature

 

14.(14)[18]F Pavel Zacha, Sarnia Sting (OHL) [06/04/97]
[6'3", 210 pds][Lefty][PROSPECT GRADE: A]
[26 GP, 11 G, 12 A, 23 Pts, 47 PIM, +2][NHL Comparable: Gabriel Landeskog]
Potential Peak: Top line power forward
Projection: Borderline 1st line scoring winger, 55+ point seasons in his scoring prime
Bust Factor: Low; should be a quality depth forward at worst
Offense: 8.5
Defense: 7.5
Physicality: 9.0
Skating: 9.0
Intangibles: 8.0
NHL-Readiness: 8.0
Potential: 8.5

Aggregate Score: 58.5
Strengths:
-excellent shot and has some good skills offensively; soft hands

-plays a robust physical game
Weaknesses:
-defense needs improvement
-will need to cut down on bad penalties; needs to improve focus

 

15.(11)[11]C Colin White, USA-U18s (USNTDP) [24/10/95]
[6'0", 183 pds][Righty][PROSPECT GRADE: A]
[26 GP, 10 G, 14 A, 24 Pts, 20 PIM, +/- n/a][NHL Comparable: Logan Couture]
Potential Peak: All-Star two-way blueliner
Projection: Borderline 1st/2nd line two-way forward, 50+ point seasons in his offensive prime
Bust Factor: Low; should likely make the NHL in some capacity
Offense: 8.5
Defense: 8.5
Physicality: 8.0
Skating: 9.0
Intangibles: 8.5
NHL-Readiness: 7.5
Potential: 8.5

Aggregate Score: 58.5
Strengths:
-excellent skater with top tier-level acceleration and powerful strides
-hockey sense, effort and elite two-way game are big pluses
Weaknesses:
-had a bout of mononucleosis that makes judging his play to date difficult
-not going to be a big player

  

16.(15)[14]F Travis Konecny, Ottawa 67s (OHL) [11/03/97]
[5'10", 171 pds][Righty][PROSPECT GRADE: A]
[42 GP, 19 G, 22 A, 41 Pts, 24 PIM, -6][NHL Comparable: Nathan MacKinnon]
Potential Peak: Top line scoring forward
Projection: Borderline top line scoring forward, 55+ point seasons in his scoring prime
Bust Factor: Moderate; size and strength are concerns
Offense: 9.0
Defense: 8.0
Physicality: 8.0
Skating: 9.0
Intangibles: 8.5
NHL-Readiness: 7.5
Potential: 8.5

Aggregate Score: 58.5
Strengths:
-powerful skater; might have the most explosive acceleration in the draft
-excellent hands; adept at both making plays and finishing
Weaknesses:
-not going to be a big player
-needs to put forth more consistent effort; looks like he’s often overthinking on the ice
   

17.(27)[21]F Mikko Rantanen, TPS Turku (SM-Liiga) [29/10/96]
[6'4", 209 pds][Lefty][PROSPECT GRADE: A]
[37 GP, 4 G, 11 A, 15 Pts, 16 PIM, -1][NHL Comparable: Mikko Koivu]
Potential Peak: 1st line two-way forward
Projection: Borderline 1st/2nd line scoring forward, 45-55 point seasons in his offensive prime
Bust Factor: Low; plays a very responsible two-way game

Offense: 8.5
Defense: 8.5
Physicality: 8.0
Skating: 8.5
Intangibles: 8.0
NHL-Readiness: 8.0
Potential: 8.5

Aggregate Score: 58.0
Strengths:
-smooth skater, especially given his size
-very good hockey sense and plays in all 200 feet of the ice
Weaknesses:
-could be more physical, given his size
-not going to be a game-breaker offensively

 

18.(21)[30]F Anthony Beauvillier, Shawinigan Cataractes (QMJHL) [08/06/97]
[5'10", 181 pds][Lefty][PROSPECT GRADE: A]
[47 GP, 33 G, 39 A, 72 Pts, 58 PIM, +13][NHL Comparable: David Perron]
Potential Peak: Top line scoring forward
Projection: Borderline top line scoring forward, 55+ point seasons in his offensive prime
Bust Factor: High; needs to improve all-around play
Offense: 8.5
Defense: 7.5
Physicality: 8.0
Skating: 9.0
Intangibles: 8.0
NHL-Readiness: 7.5
Potential: 8.5

Aggregate Score: 57.5
Strengths:
-shifty skater with excellent acceleration and agility; high motor player
-scorer’s instinct; deadly in the offensive zone with his shot and offensive awareness
Weaknesses:
-plays bigger than his size, but not going to be a big player
-defensively, has a habit of watching the puck; busts out of the zone early

 

19.(20)[19]F Jansen Harkins, Prince George Cougars (WHL) [23/05/97]
[6'1", 180 pds][Lefty][PROSPECT GRADE: A]
[47 GP, 14 G, 39 A, 53 Pts, 33 PIM, +4][NHL Comparable: Derick Brassard]
Potential Peak: 1st line forward
Projection: Borderline 1st/2nd line two-way forward, 50+ point seasons in his offensive prime
Bust Factor: Moderate; responsible two-way player who will need development time
Offense: 8.5
Defense: 8.0
Physicality: 8.0
Skating: 8.5
Intangibles: 8.0
NHL-Readiness: 7.5
Potential: 8.5

Aggregate Score: 57.0
Strengths:
-has excellent vision and hockey sense; makes plays at both ends of the ice
-good skater with good speed and overall mobility
Weaknesses:
-not a natural scorer
-not going to be a big player

 

20.(24)[34]F Brock Boeser, Waterloo Blackhawks (USHL) [25/02/97]
[6'1", 192 pds][Righty][PROSPECT GRADE: A]
[31 GP, 21 G, 17 A, 38 Pts, 10 PIM, -10][NHL Comparable: Kyle Okposo]
Potential Peak: 1st line scoring forward
Projection: 2nd line scoring forward, 50+ point seasons in his offensive prime
Bust Factor: Moderate; needs time to develop strength to play against pros
Offense: 8.5
Defense: 7.5
Physicality: 8.0
Skating: 8.5
Intangibles: 8.0
NHL-Readiness: 8.0
Potential: 8.5

Aggregate Score: 57.0
Strengths:
-high compete level; good skater, looks even better thanks to edgework and quick feet
-natural scorer with excellent offensive awareness and overall hockey sense
Weaknesses:
-still gets caught puckwatching at times; needs to improve defensively
-will battle in the tough areas, but is going to need more muscle

 

21.(18)[13]F Jeremy Bracco, USA-U18s (USNTDP) [17/03/97]
[5'9", 173 pds][Righty][PROSPECT GRADE: A]
[37 GP, 15 G, 36 A, 51 Pts, 4 PIM, +/- n/a][NHL Comparable: Jiri Hudler]
Potential Peak: 1st line scoring forward
Projection: Borderline 1st/2nd line scoring forward, 55+ point seasons in his prime
Bust Factor: Extremely High; not big and plays a heavily offense-based game
Offense: 9.0
Defense: 7.5
Physicality: 7.5
Skating: 8.5
Intangibles: 8.0
NHL-Readiness: 7.5
Potential: 9.0

Aggregate Score: 57.0
Strengths:
-elite player offensively; can make plays in the offensive zone at a high level
-shifty player who is deadly from the hashmarks in
Weaknesses:
-undersized and can sometimes shy away from contact
-will need some work in order to improve his all-around game

 

22.(23)[25]F Daniel Sprong, Charlottetown Islanders (QMJHL) [17/03/97]
[6'0", 192 pds][Righty][PROSPECT GRADE: A]
[48 GP, 22 G, 31 A, 53 Pts, 10 PIM, -6][NHL Comparable: Phil Kessel]
Potential Peak: 1st line scoring forward
Projection: 2nd line scoring forward, 50+ point seasons in his offensive prime
Bust Factor: High; needs to improve his overall awareness in all zones
Offense: 9.0
Defense: 7.5
Physicality: 7.5
Skating: 9.0
Intangibles: 8.0
NHL-Readiness: 7.5
Potential: 8.5

Aggregate Score: 57.0
Strengths:
-excellent skater with elite speed and acceleration
-has all the tools offensively; passes well and is a natural scorer
Weaknesses:
-needs to improve play away from the puck
-tends to be a selfish player with a case of tunnel vision

 

23.(33)[35]D Brandon Carlo, Tri-City Americans (WHL) [26/11/96]
[6'5", 205 pds][Righty][PROSPECT GRADE: A]
[41 GP, 3 G, 17 A, 20 Pts, 49 PIM, -2][NHL Comparable: Brendon Dillon/Braydon Coburn]
Potential Peak: Top pairing shutdown defender
Projection: 2nd pairing shutdown defenseman, 20+ point seasons in his prime
Bust Factor: Low; grit and intangibles should keep him in a depth role
Offense: 7.5
Defense: 8.5
Physicality: 8.5
Skating: 8.5
Intangibles: 8.0
NHL-Readiness: 7.5
Potential: 8.5

Aggregate Score: 57.0
Strengths:
-polished defensively; active stick and tough along the boards and corners
-very good skater with good all-around mobility
Weaknesses:
-not going to be a big point producer
-could stand to improve his shot

 

24.(25)[20]F Filip Chlapik, Charlottetown Islanders (QMJHL) [03/06/97]
[6'1", 190 pds][Lefty][PROSPECT GRADE: A-]
[43 GP, 23 G, 29 A, 52 Pts, 22 PIM, +4][NHL Comparable: Adam Henrique]
Potential Peak: 1st line two-way forward
Projection: 2nd line two-way forward, 45+ point seasons in his offensive prime
Bust Factor: Moderate; defensive abilities should keep him in NHL as a grinder
Offense: 8.5
Defense: 8.0
Physicality: 8.0
Skating: 8.5
Intangibles: 8.0
NHL-Readiness: 7.5
Potential: 8.5

Aggregate Score: 57.0
Strengths:
-responsible player; backchecks hard and plays a solid positional game
-has some skills offensively; makes some good passes and has vision
Weaknesses:
-not going to be a gamebreaker
-doesn’t have a dynamic offensive skillset

 

25.(30)[NR]D Nicolas Meloche, Baie-Comeau Drakkar (QMJHL) [18/07/97]
[6'2", 199 pds][Righty][PROSPECT GRADE: A-]
[44 GP, 10 G, 24 A, 34 Pts, 99 PIM, -3][NHL Comparable: Zach Bogosian]
Potential Peak: Top pairing defenseman
Projection: 2nd pairing two-way defender, 30+ point seasons in his offensive prime
Bust Factor: Moderate; concerns about projectability
Offense: 8.5
Defense: 8.0
Physicality: 8.5
Skating: 8.0
Intangibles: 8.0
NHL-Readiness: 7.5
Potential: 8.5

Aggregate Score: 57.0
Strengths:
-uses his size effectively; physically punishing player
-very effective PP QB with his hard shot and playmaking
Weaknesses:
-skating is technically good, but could still use improvement
-still has the occasional lapse in judgment

 

26.(13)[15]D Rasmus Andersson, Barrie Colts (OHL) [27/10/96]
[6'0", 210 pds][Righty][PROSPECT GRADE: A]
[43 GP, 8 G, 32 A, 40 Pts, 52 PIM, +4][NHL Comparable: Dennis Wideman]
Potential Peak: Top pairing defenseman
Projection: 2nd pairing defender, 30+ point seasons in his scoring prime
Bust Factor: High; hasn’t really developed at all over past 2 seasons

Offense: 8.5

Defense: 8.0
Physicality: 8.5
Skating: 7.5
Intangibles: 8.0
NHL-Readiness: 8.0
Potential: 8.5

Aggregate Score: 57.0
Strengths:
-excellent on the PP with his passing and bomb of a shot
-willing to crash and bang; plays gritty game

Weaknesses:
-skating is average at best
-defensively has lapses in judgment

 

27.(28)[23]F Nikita Korostelev, Sarnia Sting (OHL) [08/02/97]
[6'1", 196 pds][Righty][PROSPECT GRADE: A-]
[34 GP, 16 G, 20 A, 36 Pts, 14 PIM, +8][NHL Comparable: Tyler Toffoli]
Potential Peak: 1st line scoring forward
Projection: 2nd line scoring forward, 45+ point seasons in his offensive prime
Bust Factor: Moderate; could become a decent depth player
Offense: 8.5
Defense: 8.0
Physicality: 8.0
Skating: 8.0
Intangibles: 8.0
NHL-Readiness: 7.5
Potential: 8.5

Aggregate Score: 56.5
Strengths:
-natural scorer with good instincts offensively; knows where to be
-willing and capable backchecker with good positioning
Weaknesses:
-could stand to improve his consistency on a game-to-game

-skating looks awkward (gets where he needs to go, though)

 

28.(31)[36]D Mitchell Vande Sompel, Oshawa Generals (OHL) [11/02/97]
[5'10", 180 pds][Lefty][PROSPECT GRADE: A-]
[36 GP, 6 G, 34 A, 40 Pts, 26 PIM, +14][NHL Comparable: Ryan Murphy]
Potential Peak: Borderline top pairing offensive defender
Projection: 2nd pairing offensive defender, 35+ point seasons in his prime
Bust Factor: High; undersized and needs improvement in own zone
Offense: 9.0
Defense: 7.5
Physicality: 7.5
Skating: 9.0
Intangibles: 8.0
NHL-Readiness: 7.0
Potential: 8.5

Aggregate Score: 56.5
Strengths:
-elite offensive skills; excellent passer and has good offensive awareness
-excellent skater with great speed and agility
Weaknesses:
-defensively still needs work; has been shuffled to forward and back based on situation
-will need a fair amount of development time to polish his game

 

29.(34)[33]D Thomas Chabot, Saint John Sea Dogs (QMJHL) [30/01/97]
[6'2", 179 pds][Lefty][PROSPECT GRADE: A-]
[44 GP, 8 G, 19 A, 27 Pts, 34 PIM, +15][NHL Comparable: Danny DeKeyser]
Potential Peak: Top pairing two-way defender
Projection: 2nd pairing defender, 30+ point seasons in his offensive prime
Bust Factor: Moderate; will need time to bulk up and round out his game
Offense: 8.5
Defense:8.0
Physicality: 7.5
Skating: 8.5
Intangibles: 8.0
NHL-Readiness: 7.5
Potential: 8.5

Aggregate Score: 56.5
Strengths:
-very good skater with very good speed and acceleration
-well-rounded game; has very good hockey sense and uses it well in all zones
Weaknesses:
-frame is good but strength is a major concern
-defensively, still has occasional lapses in judgment; needs to improve boardwork

 

30.(26)[26]D Alexandre Carrier, Gatineau Olympiques (QMJHL) [08/10/96]
[5'11", 168 pds][Righty][PROSPECT GRADE: A-]
[47 GP, 6 G, 32 A, 38 Pts, 43 PIM, -6][NHL Comparable: Kris Russell]
Potential Peak: Top pairing offensive defender
Projection: 2nd line defender, 30+ point seasons in his offensive prime
Bust Factor: High; extremely undersized defender
Offense: 8.5
Defense: 8.0
Physicality: 7.5
Skating: 9.0
Intangibles: 8.0
NHL-Readiness: 7.0
Potential: 8.5

Aggregate Score: 56.5
Strengths:
-underrated defensive game; hockey sense allows him to be effective two-way defender
-excellent skater with great mobility
Weaknesses:
-plays bigger than his size, but ineffective due to small frame
-will need time to polish game into pro-style of play

[Crzydrvr]

Crzy's 2015 Midterms, Jan. 25 (31-100, Goalies)

 

31.(19)[16] [F]Kyle Connor, Youngstown(USHL)

32.(22)[22] [F]Jordan Greenway, USA-U18s(USNTDP)

33.(40)[42] [D]Jesper Lindgren, MODO(SHL)

34.(51)[53] [F]Timo Meier, Halifax(QMJHL)

35.(32)[31] [D]Jakub Zboril, Saint John(QMJHL)

36.(65)[67] [F]Thomas Novak, Waterloo(USHL)

37.(29)[24] [F]Jesse Gabrielle, Brandon(WHL)

38.(35)[32] [D]Parker Wotherspoon, Tri-City(WHL)

39.(39)[39] [F]Jens Looke, Brynas(SHL)

40.(45)[38] [F]Dmytro Timashov, Quebec(QMJHL)

41.(41)[28] [F]Sebastian Aho, Karpat(Liiga)

42.(44)[43] [F]Julius Nattinen, JYP(Liiga)

43.(36)[29] [D]Ryan Pilon, Brandon(WHL)

44.(42)[45] [F]Kay Schweri, Sherbrooke(QMJHL)

45.(47)[47] [D]Jonas Siegenthaler, GCK(NLB)

46.(37)[37] [F]Robin Kovacs, AIK(ASK)

47.(57)[64] [D]Matthew Spencer, Peterborough(OHL)

48.(46)[50] [D]Erik Cernak, HC Kosice(SVK)

49.(55)[52] [F]Adam Musil, Red Deer(WHL)

50.(43)[46] [F]Joel Eriksson Ek, Farjestads(SHL)

51.(67)[65] [F]Roope Hintz, Ilves(Liiga)

52.(48)[56] [D]Gustav Bouramman, Sault Ste. Marie(OHL)

53.(49)[49] [F]Paul Bittner, Portland(WHL)

54.(52)[54] [F]Christian Fischer, USA-U18s(USNTDP)

55.(50)[51] [F]Fredrik Forsberg, Leksand(SHL)

56.(59)[61] [F]Jakob Forsbacka-Karlsson, Omaha(USHL)

57.(53)[58] [F]Filip Ahl, HV71(SWE-J20s)

58.(54)[48] [F]Dennis Yan, Shawinigan(QMJHL)

59.(77)[57] [F]Nathan Noel, Saint John(QMJHL)

60.(58)[55] [F]Yakov Trenin, Gatineau(QMJHL)

61.(83)[NR] [F]Tyler Soy, Victoria(WHL)

62.(63)[69] [F]Jake DeBrusk, Swift Current(WHL)

63.(61)[60] [F]Graham Knott, Niagara(OHL)

64.(66)[NR] [F]Denis Guryanov, Togliatti(MHL)

65.(80)[NR] [F]Adam Marsh, Saint John(QMJHL)

66.(56)[40] [F]Brendan Warren, USA-U18s(USNTDP)

67.(62)[59] [F]Ryan Gropp, Seattle(WHL)

68.(60)[62] http://whl.ca/stats/player.php?id=26595'> [D]Noah Juulsen, Everett(WHL)

69.(64)[63] [F]Gabriel Gagne, Victoriaville(QMJHL)

70.(73)[NR] [D]Jacob Larsson, Frolunda(SHL)

71.(78)[NR] [F]Nicolas Roy, Chicoutimi(QMJHL)

72.(68)[NR] [D]Gabriel Carlsson, Linkoping(SWE-J20s)

73.(69)[68] [F]Pavel Karnaukhov, Calgary(WHL)

74.(70)[NR] [F]Blake Speers, Sault Ste. Marie(OHL)

75.(71)[70] [F]Denis Malgin, ZSC(NLA)

76.(81)[NR] [F]Michael Spacek, Pardubice(CZE)

77..(72)[NR] [D]Loik Léveillé, Cape Breton(QMJHL)

78.(79)[NR] [F]Glenn Gawdin, Swift Current(WHL)

79.(86)[NR] [D]Veeti Vainio, Blues U20(FIN Jr.A)

80.(75)[NR] [F]Jack Roslovic, USA-U18s(USNTDP)

81.(76)[NR] [F]Dante Salituro, Ottawa(OHL)

82.(82)[NR] [F]Erik Foley, Cedar Rapids(USHL)

83.(84)[NR] [F]Kameron Kielly, Charlottetown(QMJHL)

84.(87)[NR] [D]Kyle Capobianco, Sudbury(OHL)

85.(89)[NR] [F]Kevin Stenlund, HV71(SWE-J20s)

86.(98)[NR] [F]Brad Morrison, Prince George(WHL)

87.(90)[NR] [F]Terrell Draude, Calgary(WHL)

88.(NR)[NR] [F]Hayden McCool, Windsor(OHL)

89.(91)[66] [F]A.J. Greer, Boston University(NCAA-HE)

90.(85)[NR] [F]Deven Sideroff, Kamloops(WHL)

91.(74)[NR] [D]Thomas Schemitsch, Owen Sound(OHL)

92.(92)[NR] [F]David Kase, Chomutov(CZE2)

93.(99)[NR] [F]Zachary Senyshen, Sault Ste. Marie(OHL)

94.(93)[NR] [D]Vince Dunn, Niagara(OHL)

95.(94)[NR] [F]Radovan Bondra, Team Slovakia U20(SVK)

96.(97)[NR] [D]Guillaume Brisebois, Acadie-Bathurst(QMJHL)

97.(NR)[NR] [D]Jeremy Lauzon, Rouyn-Noranda(QMJHL)

98.(95)[NR] [F]Jean-Christophe Beaudin, Rouyn-Noranda(QMJHL)

99.(NR)[NR] [F]Brent Gates, Green Bay(USHL)

100.(96)[NR] [D]Brendan Guhle, Prince Albert(WHL)

 

1.(1)[1] [G]Daniel Vladar, HC Kladno(CZE)

2.(NR)[NR] [G]Ilya Samsonov, Magnitogorsk(MHL)

3.(6)[3] [G]Mackenzie Blackwood, Barrie(OHL)

4.(2)[2] [G]Callum Booth, Quebec(QMJHL)

5.(3)[5] [G]Felix Sandstrom, Brynäs J20(SWE-J20)

6.(4)[4] [G]Matej Tomek, Topeka(NAHL)

7..(5)[NR] [G]Veini Vehvilainen, JYP(FIN-2)

8.(7)[NR] [G]Anton Krasotkin, Yaroslavl(MHL)

9.(9)[NR] [G]Ryan Larkin, Cedar Rapids(USHL)

10.(8)[NR] [G]Nick McBride, Prince Albert(WHL)

 

 

Off the Board:

 

38.(27)[23] [C]Aleksi Saarela, Assat(Liiga)

88.(NR)[NR] [D]Chaz Reddekopp, Victoria(WHL)

100.(NR)[NR] [F]Gustav Franzen, Kitchener(OHL)

 

 

***

 

 

It's hard to believe it'll be 5 years since I started to do this yearly draft rankings thread. Originally I just did it for the heck of it, but eventually I did it because I wanted to share my thoughts and ideas about the next ones coming up. I think I did okay, or at least I've never had any complaints. But this year is the first time that I've really felt that having to articulate these thoughts was a chore, and a burden. While I still watch games and still formulate an opinion, having to organize lists that are increasingly cumbersome and large is something that I've found to be tiresome.

 

I've been lucky in that I've managed to work my way into a postsecondary program that'll give me the skills I need to break into the hockey industry as a part of the inner workings, rather than simply being a fan. It's not always easy but it's amazingly fun to be around people who share the same interests. And hopefully I can leverage my skills and charisma (just kidding, don't have that) into one day being a legitimate upper management position in the big leagues. My goal is still the same as it was when I was a kid, to lift the Stanley Cup on my own merits and work.

 

Part of that entails the notion that my opinions and ideas would be kept part of the organization I work for. So this thread would have to come to an end one day if I had my way. But I've grown attached to it and to the people who've still hung around to read this thread over the past few years, so I would rather end it on my own terms, and not because a contract I signed held me to silence. I've had some time to think about it and I've come to the decision that this will be my last year posting this thread. I'll do my best to hold to the monthly posts until June so that I don't leave anyone hanging (least of all, me).

 

That isn't to say I'll stop posting, and maybe I'll even chip in my rankings in other threads. But it's hard to do this and those $20 tickets to games adds up over time. But for now I'm going to say, thanks for everything guys, let's just enjoy these last 5 months and see where it goes.

 

I have plans for other things like a small blog, so I'll still be around, and I hope you guys will continue to be involved in anything I put out. This is where I really got my start in terms of hockey fandom and I have been lucky to be able to love the game as much as I do. You guys have been awesome and if you ever need an opinion, I've definitely got some.

 

-Crzy

 

***

 

P.S. Look forward to some shifts throughout the rankings, as I start throwing guys onto my ND list. There are some guys on the list right now who've only held even because they've played well up to a point, but now that their play seems to have stabilized (in a bad way) those guys will start dropping hard. And there are a number of players who I really like that didn't make it to the top 100, simply because I want to see if it's simply a hot streak or if they are really stepping it up in the second half of the season.

[Crzydrvr]

Crzy's Mock Draft, Feb. 2, 2015

 

 

 

1. CAR: Connor McDavid: At this point, the position is McDavid's to lose. Potential to be a franchise-changer & generational talent.

2. BUF: Jack Eichel: Sabres will take the consensus #2;gives them a group of centers that will help them contend for years to come.

3. EDM: Noah Hanifin: Oilers miss out on the elite forwards, but Hanifin is as close to a surefire elite defenseman as you can get.

4. ARZ: Mitch Marner: Domi's running mate in London, Marner is an elite scoring forward & might be even better than his compatriot.

5. TOR: Dylan Strome: Leafs finally nab that big Ontario center; will need some time to develop but he's a good start to their rebuild.

6. CBJ: Zach Werenski: American defender has impressed with his relatively seamless transition to the NCAA.

7. NJD: Matt Barzal: Little off-the-board right now, but Barzal looks like he's going to have a huge second half; talented franchise center.

8. OTT: Pavel Zacha: Big, aggressive and immensely talented power forward; can play both center and wing.

9. COL: Oliver Kylington: Big-time talent has been shuffled around a fair bit this season; could be a franchise defender with the right team.

10. PHI: Lawson Crouse: Flyers need some talent in their pipeline; Crouse is a big, skilled power winger with character and upside.

11. DAL: Ivan Provorov: Russian defenseman slips slightly due to Russian bias, but Dallas gets a great two-way defender.

12. LAK: Mikko Rantanen: Fits the Kings' bill as a responsible two-way player with talent; plays on a bad team but showed well at WJCs.

13. MIN: Timo Meier: Fast-rising Swiss forward plays like his country's most famous export; versatile and useful in all situations.

14. FLO: Travis Konecny: Former top-5 pick in the making has solidified himself in the first round with his excellent play over past few weeks.

15. SJS: Colin White: Skilled forward has yet to fully hit his stride after being touted as a top-10 pick; could be a gem with good development.

16. BOS: Kyle Connor: Versatile, skilled American scorer gives the Bs some more bluechip talent in their pipeline.

17. CGY: Jeremy Roy: Right-handed shot, elite level hockey sense makes him an attractive, if slightly off-the-board, pick for the Flames.

18. WPG: Brandon Carlo: Big defenseman skates very well, plays very good defense, and could be an excellent NHLer after he fills out

19. VAN: Nick Merkley: Kelowna forward has been lights-out in the WHL; somewhat undersized, but a gamer who does the little things well.

20. WSH: Evgeni Svechnikov: Another extremely talented Russian who drops; big, skates well, and has tons of offensive potential.

21. CHI: Brock Boeser: Natural scorer has put himself on the map with an excellent campaign thus far.

22. TBL (via NYR): Filip Chlapik: Bolts have so much talent all over their organization; Chlapik gives them a responsible center with upside.

23. EDM (via PIT): Jansen Harkins: Oilers start building up the middle; Harkins has pedigree, skill and a solid two-way game.

24. TBL: Daniel Sprong: Already got his center, may as well take the talented scoring winger; one-dimensional, but it's a good dimension.

25. DET: Thomas Novak: Wings go off the board and take the American forward; turned heads at the Hlinka and just kept turning them.

26. BUF (via STL): Jakub Zboril: Czech defender has yet to fill out his frame; pick with long-term upside.

27. WPG (via BUF-NYI): Paul Bittner: Winterhawks forward has been playing well of late; imposing size and solid scoring instincts.

28. ANA: Nikita Korostelev: Sarnia forward is a pure scorer; one-dimensional player with potential for two-way excellence.

29. MTL: Thomas Chabot: Another Sea Dogs defender with a large frame; excellent two-way player with good hockey sense.

30. NSH: Jeremy Bracco: Smallish forward has electrifying offensive skills; will be given the time needed to develop in Smashville.

[JTech780]

I would be OK if that's how it worked out for Calgary. It would be close between Roy and Carlo, Carlo has the size and physical play advantage, but I think he has higher bust potential than Roy.

[s4xon]

Hey Crazy,

 

Haven't heard much from this draft except for McDavid, Eichel, Hanifin, Kylington, Marner, and Strome.

 

Where do you see Calgary picking now that they're 2nd in the division?  And Who?

 

Can you mock up rounds 1 and 2?

[Crzydrvr]

Hey Crazy,

 

Haven't heard much from this draft except for McDavid, Eichel, Hanifin, Kylington, Marner, and Strome.

 

Where do you see Calgary picking now that they're 2nd in the division?  And Who?

 

Can you mock up rounds 1 and 2?

 

 

I'd say around the 18-22 range is a good bet. Sportsclubstats has our odds of making the playoffs at around 90%, but at the same time there are a fair number of teams ahead of us atm.

 

My personal hope is that we can nab Jeremy Roy with our first pick. He's got tremendous hockey smarts and has recently added a bit of a tough streak as well for a 6'1" defender. A right handed shot who plays elite at both ends of the ice. His biggest weakness is his lack of a second gear in terms of his skating, but overall he's very smooth and mobile and I think he's got the potential to be a top pairing defenseman in the NHL with the right development. In any other draft we could be talking about him as a top 10 or top 15 pick at least, but as it stands it looks like he'll be available where we select.

 

Ask and ye shall receive, I'll have a mock up in a couple of days (I haven't kept up the monthly rankings so it's the least I could do, haha).

[Crzydrvr]

Crzy's Mock Draft, March 19th

 

1. CAR: Connor McDavid: Is there even any doubt at this point?

2. BUF: Jack Eichel: See McDavid.

3. ARZ: Mitch Marner: Does this constitute off the board pick? Yes. But Marner is a tremendous talent and he's Domi's running mate.

4. EDM: Noah Hanifin: Oilers have a scary D-Core if they add Hanifin to an already potent group of high-potential defenders.

5. TOR: Dylan Strome: Nobody wants to play in TO, so they're going to have to draft their way to success; Strome is an elite center.

6. CBJ: Zach Werenski: American defender has impressed with his relatively seamless transition to the NCAA.

7. PHI: Lawson Crouse: Crouse makes the players around him better by being the spacemaker on his line and that's not seen on a scoresheet..

8. NJD: Matt Barzal: In any other draft year, this guy is a top-3 draft pick; has slowed down a little, but he's a highlight-reel talent.

9. DAL: Ivan Provorov: Before you say I'm getting lazy, it's only a coincidence that every player up to this point is projected to the same team as last time. I swear. At this point passing on Provorov would be a mistake so Dallas gladly takes the Russian.

10. FLO: Pavel Zacha: Finisher with a nasty streak would add a different (and much-needed) element to the Panthers' forward core.

11. COL: Oliver Kylington: Offensive defenseman has talent, without question, but his inconsistent year drops him slightly.

12. SJS: Mikko Rantanen: End of an era in SJ; Rantanen brings a smart game and some size to a depleted prospect pool.

13. OTT: Travis Konecny: Sens get to see a lot of the 67s forward; dynamic player, but needs to learn to protect himself.

14. CGY: Jeremy Roy: Still needs some time, but he might be one of the most polished QMJHL defensemen in the last 10 years.

15. BOS: Kyle Connor: Bruins like their American, NCAA-bound forwards; Connor has elite offensive upside.

16. WPG: Timo Meier: Somewhere out there, Nikolaj Ehlers is one very happy camper.

17. CAR (via LAK): Brock Boeser: Has worked his way up the lists steadily; natural finisher who could fit in on an NHL scoring line.

18. WSH: Colin White: Caps add to a bolstered group of young forwards with addition of underrated two-way center.

19. MIN: Jansen Harkins: Prince George center has been stellar over the second half of the season; excellent hockey sense and skill.

20. VAN: Nick Merkley: Vancouver picking another WHL talent; Merkley has taken a backseat to Draisaitl, but remains a solid talent.

21. BUF (via NYI): Paul Bittner: Winterhawks winger is a big body and knows how to use it; has come on strong after a soft first half.

22. EDM (via PIT): Filip Chlapik: Czech forward plays a responsible two-way game; slowed down slightly from the first half of the year.

23. DET: Brandon Carlo: Wings grab that coveted right-handed shot through the draft; has a huge frame and top-4 potential.

24. TOR (via NSH): Jakub Zboril: Sea Dogs defenseman has the natural talent to be a strong defender at the NHL level.

25. PHI (via TBL): Jake DeBrusk: Scrappy forward wows with his consistent effort and offensive instincts; might go even higher on some lists.

26. ARZ (via CHI): Thomas Chabot: Second of Saint John's dynamic defensive duo; rangy defender with excellent upside to his game.

27. MTL: Thomas Novak: Habs have a history of USHL picks; Novak has quietly been one of the best two-way players in the league.

28. ANA: Daniel Sprong: Has the offensive talent and potential of a higher draft pick; Ducks nab another excellent late-first rounder.

29. WPG (via BUF-STL): Anthony Beauvillier: Sparkplug forward has been catalyst to the Cataractes' revival in Shawinigan.

30. TBL (via NYR): Evgeny Svechnikov: Bolts have another skilled Russian fall into their laps; best possible situation for the talent.

 

31. BUF: Nicolas Meloche: Has quietly been one of the best defenders in the Q.

32. ARZ: Parker Wotherspoon: The definition of steady in the dictionary is simply his name.

33. EDM: Jesse Gabrielle: Oilers go way off the board to pick Pats winger; plays mean, but lacks consistency.

34. CBJ (via TOR-LAK): Jordan Greenway: Excellent skater with size, but the winger has yet to put a full game's effort out on the ice.

35. CAR: Jacob Larsson: Sleeper Swede could be one of the best players out of the 2nd round.

36. CBJ: Joel Eriksson Ek: Has played his way into the SHL as a draft-eligible player; underrated offensive talent with good poise.

37. BOS (via PHI-NYI): Erik Cernak: Slovak one of just 2 draft-eligible defenders playing consistent minutes in top league in last 14 years.

38. NJD: Jeremy Bracco: Bracco might be the most dynamic forward in the draft, but his size and lack of elite skating drop him.

39. OTT (via DAL): Gabriel Carlsson: Raw defenseman needs development time, but has excellent feel for the game.

40. NJD (via FLO): Denis Guryanov: Surprise in the early 2nd round, but this could be a home run pick; Guryanov is a 1st round talent.

41. COL: Roope Hintz: Finnish forward has an excellent motor and tremendous hockey sense.

42. SJS: Guillaume Brisebois: Played for an offensively inept squad and was one of their best players from the backend.

43. OTT: Jack Roslovic: USNTDP forward forced his way into the picture with outstanding second half.

44. CGY: Zachary Senyshen: Greyhounds forward just quietly plays a well-rounded, smart game.

45. TBL (via BOS): Noah Juulsen: One of the smartest defensemen in the draft; could be an excellent top 4 defender with time.

46. WPG: Ryan Pilon: Wheat Kings defender has polished his game considerably since being acquired..

47. LAK (via LAK-BUF): Christian Fischer: Fits the Kings template as a skilled forward with two-way potential.

48. CGY (via WSH): Jens Looke: Swede oozes skill; excellent vision and playmaking skills.

49. MIN: Mackenzie Blackwood: Wild tab first goalie in mid 2nd; big goalie with natural athleticism and good glove hand.

50. CGY (via VAN): Jesper Lindgren: Slightly off-the-board, but slick defender evokes images of a young Karlsson.

51. BUF (via NYI): Daniel Vladar: Czech goalie stands 6'5"; may have the best reflexes in the draft.

52. PIT: Alexander Dergachyov: Russian center garnering rave reviews for his offensive talent.

53. DAL (via DET): Graham Knott: Big winger with a nose for the net; steadily climbed the rankings since September.

54. CHI^: Austin Wagner: Always plays with energy, but recently this Pats winger has added a scoring touch to his game.

55. NSH: Vince Dunn: Ice Dogs defenseman has stepped into a leading role for a decent team as an 18-year old.

56. NYR (via TBL): Erik Foley: Drops a little in the draft, but this Cedar Rapids product could be an excellent NHL energy winger.

57. PHI (via CHI): Nikita Korostelev: Sting forward has had a rough time since December, but his scoring instincts are intriguing.

58. EDM (via MTL): Nicolas Roy: Former 1st overall pick in the QMJHL has had an up and down campaign.

59. CBJ (via ANA): Jakob Forsbacka-Karlsson: BJs get a draft gift with this dropper; JFK has excellent offensive abilities.

60. WPG (via BUF-STL): Jonas Siegenthaler: Swiss defender has done well in limited minutes in Swiss top league.

61. ARZ (via NYR): Rasmus Andersson: Quite the fall for the projected top-15 draft pick entering the season.

 

^compensatory pick awarded as a result of not signing Kevin Hayes

[cross16]

I like Jeremy Roy too. He has a TJ Brodie feel to him at the same age. Not saying I think he will become TJ Brodie because Brodie's development is outside the norm, but he's got a similar skill set at the same age. Neither were overly stout in their own zone but both were smart enough to understand defensive positioning and where to be to play effective defence, both were great skaters and both could knew how to utilize skating to get out of trouble. Brodie to me flashed more offensive upside and probably is the better natural skater but there are similarities there for sure. Fact that Roy is a RH shot could be a bonus.

[JTech780]

Hey Crzy, I was hoping that you could shed a but more light on a couple of guys that I really like for our 15 and 45 picks. Jakub Zboril and Zach Senyshyn. Zboril seems like he has decent size and offensive instincts, and all plays with an edge. He is starting to creep up my chart and I now have him ahead of Jeremy Roy.

Senyshyn could be that diamond in the rough that every team looks for in the draft. He's big and he's a very good skater. He just didn't get a ton of playing time on the Greyhounds but he has all the skills to be a good player. One article I read on him said that in 3 years he could be he guy that everyone asks how to that team get him there.

[Crzydrvr]

Hey Crzy, I was hoping that you could shed a but more light on a couple of guys that I really like for our 15 and 45 picks. Jakub Zboril and Zach Senyshyn. Zboril seems like he has decent size and offensive instincts, and all plays with an edge. He is starting to creep up my chart and I now have him ahead of Jeremy Roy.

Senyshyn could be that diamond in the rough that every team looks for in the draft. He's big and he's a very good skater. He just didn't get a ton of playing time on the Greyhounds but he has all the skills to be a good player. One article I read on him said that in 3 years he could be he guy that everyone asks how to that team get him there.

 

Senyshen is a favorite of mine, he's been extremely impressive in all facets of the game despite playing behind a stacked Greyhounds team. Excellent shot, goes to scoring areas, makes plays and moves the puck effectively, great skater, and backchecks hard. Watching this kid is a treat because he makes the players around him better, he is such a smart player. He's not the most physical player but the rest of his game is elite and he's probably in play for a first-round or early second round selection, because I've seen a lot of scouts and they're always impressed by the 3rd line kid who plays like a 1st liner.

 

Zboril has all the tools you want in a defender, he's very well-rounded. The biggest thing he needs to do is get stronger, he and Chabot are quite light for hockey players (a problem that's magnified since they're defenders). Plays the position very well, doesn't get too high or low. Good skater with strong edgework, not a blazingly fast skater but mobile. Plays more physical than Chabot (not to the point he's considered punishing, but he's no pushover), but sometimes runs around or panics and overall is a little raw with his skills. The tools are definitely there and I could see him becoming an extremely effective number 2 or 3 defenseman once he hits his prime (he's going to go through some growing pains as his adjustment will be a little steeper than more NHL-ready defenders). He's one of those guys who takes a little time, but once he gets some video work and gets used to the pace and physicality of the NHL, he'll be an extremely reliable option for any team.

 

Senyshen, if he continues to develop even merely at a steady pace, is going to be an effective 3rd line NHL forward in the mold of a Darren Helm, regardless of the team he goes to, and could even be better than that if everything goes right. Zboril is a little harder to project and could go either way at this point, depending on how hard he chooses to work and how well the team drafting him can help him to improve.