Crzy's 2016 Draft Rankings - December

[Crzydrvr]

(all stats current as of 16-01-03, 3:40 pm)

 

 

1. C Auston Matthews, ZSC Lions (Swiss Elite League) [17/09/97]

[6'2", 194 lbs][Lefty][PROSPECT GRADE: S]
[22 GP, 14 G, 11 A, 25 Pts, 4 PIM, +/-0][NHL Comparable: Jonathan Toews/Eric Staal]
Potential Peak: Hockey Hall of Famer and franchise savior
Projection: Elite top line Center, perennial 70+ point player in his prime

Bust Factor: None; barring injuries, will spend at least a decade in the NHL no problem

Offense: 9.5
Defense: 8.5
Physicality: 8.5
Skating: 8.5
Intangibles: 9.0
NHL-Readiness: 9.0
Potential: 9.5

Aggregate Score: 62.5

 

Report: Would take a miracle to knock him off of the top spot in the draft. Excels in all facets of the game; skating used to be a slight weakness, but after improving his first step and overall explosiveness Matthews has shown the ability to pull away from defenders. Working very hard on his all-round game under Crawford, active stick and uses his reach advantage well. Not necessarily a crash and banger, but he’s gritty and with his strength can protect the puck better than anyone in Europe right now. Offensively, he shows not only the standard “great vision, great scoring” but also an advanced knowledge of the nuances of the game. Loves to make subtle moves with the stick in order to change up the angle and release of his shot, fooling a lot of goalies. Excels in tight spaces because of his intelligence, reaction speed is ridiculous and will create gaps that didn’t exist with his puck skills. Offensively, very similar to Eric Staal in terms of overall skillset, but his work ethic and drive demolish Staal’s by far; keeps his feet moving, and a catalyst to positive plays in all zones. Never a passenger.

 

One criticism was that Matthews was more of a cerebral, work around the game type than Eichel. Well, Matthews has asserted himself as a guy who similarly breaks open games, albeit in a different, quieter manner. A mature player who could be scoring in the NHL right now, Matthews is more than ready to contribute in the NHL, he’s ready to assert himself as the centerpiece of an NHL franchise for the next decade.
 

 

2. D Jakob Chychrun, Sarnia Sting (OHL) [31/03/98]

[6'2", 214 lbs][Lefty][PROSPECT GRADE: A+]
[33 GP, 5 G, 19 A, 24 Pts, 20 PIM, +10][NHL Comparable: Rob Blake]
Potential Peak: Elite franchise two-way defenseman
Projection: Top pairing two-way defenseman, perennial 40+ point player

Bust Factor: Low; reoccurring injury issues are a concern

Offense: 9.0
Defense: 8.5
Physicality: 8.0
Skating: 9.0
Intangibles: 9.0
NHL-Readiness: 8.0
Potential: 9.0

Aggregate Score: 60.5

 

Report: In terms of raw ability, might have even more than reigning Calder Trophy winner Aaron Ekblad. Booming shot and slick passing abilities make him an asset offensively, while his vision and smarts give him the ability to be a transition menace. Powerful skater with excellent mobility, especially for his size; gives him the capability to jump up into as well as lead rushes. Plays a solid defensive game, utilizing his size and reach to contain opponents. Could stand to be more physical, but very good with angles and body positioning. A natural leader and mature player on and off the ice. Has been the Sting’s number 1 defenseman since the moment he stepped on the ice for them, and is arguably the best defenseman in the OHL right now in terms of talent.

 

That being said, he needs more polish in all facets of the game in order to truly dominate at the NHL level; offensively, has looked tentative and less aggressive and authoritative with the puck this season. That is part of the reason why scouts rave about his potential; if he’s this good already, think about how much better he’ll be when given a chance to work with an NHL team’s development group. As well-rounded a defenseman as you can get in this draft.

 

3. W Jesse Puljujarvi, Karpat Oulu (SM-Liiga) [07/05/98]

[6'3", 205 lbs][Righty][PROSPECT GRADE: A+]
[31 GP, 5 G, 7 A, 12 Pts, 12 PIM, +4][NHL Comparable: Blake Wheeler]
Potential Peak: Ilya Kovalchuk 2.0
Projection: Top line scoring winger, 65+ point player in his prime

Bust Factor: Low; with his size and skating, should get plenty of chances to stick

 

Offense: 9.0
Defense: 8.0
Physicality: 8.0
Skating: 9.0
Intangibles: 8.5
NHL-Readiness: 8.5
Potential: 9.0

Aggregate Score: 60.0

 

Report: Insanely gifted physical specimen. Guys who are going to be 6’3” as adults should not skate like that; similar to Jay Bouwmeester in the sense that his top speed and mobility are all top of the line despite huge size. Definitely more of a straight line skater though, agility is good but not elite. Has all the tools needed for success; hard shot, slick passing abilities and a solid grasp of the offensive zone. Hands are good, but not elite, not the best at handling the puck, the biggest knock I have; will be a very simple player at the NHL level. Hockey smarts is on the cusp of elite, but not quite; sometimes overthinks and tends to get a little down on himself, team-first attitude who needs a little more selfishness when on the attack. Works hard at both ends of the ice, maybe needs to learn to stop and start from a mental standpoint, but he puts his head down and drives the net. Consistently good night in and night out. Needs more strength, willing to battle but is overmatched against older, bigger players.

 

He’s very close to the NHL, yet remains an unpolished gem. Lots of inefficiency in his game, effort of input will go in but the output isn’t what he’d like sometimes; nuances of the game are a work in progress, little tricks that NHL-level players use and Puljujarvi will need such as subtle changing the angle of his shot. Elite talent who has yet to put it all together, but if he does you have an elite sniper/playmaker whose skating and conditioning allow him to dominate possession while playing big minutes. That being said, questions about his overall toolbox exist making him a bit of a wildcard as to his overall star power.

 

4. Patrik Laine, Tappara Tampere (SM-Liiga) [19/04/98]

[6'4", 209 lbs][Righty][PROSPECT GRADE: A+]
[24 GP, 8 G, 8 A, 16 Pts, 0 PIM, +2][NHL Comparable: Comparison unavailable]
Potential Peak: Hall of Fame power winger
Projection: Top line power forward, perennial 65+ point player in his prime

Bust Factor: Moderate; needs development on the defensive side

Offense: 9.5
Defense: 8.0
Physicality: 9.0
Skating: 8.5
Intangibles: 8.0
NHL-Readiness: 8.0
Potential: 9.0

Aggregate Score: 60.0

 

Report: Elite offensive threat in the offensive zone. Generates shots at a high rate, but also has incredible hands and deft playmakers’ touch that make him a threat to pass as well. Physical freak whose size and mindset allows him to dominate other players; more than willing to lay down the hit. Killer instinct and goes for soft scoring areas the moment they’re open. Not a dumb hockey player, but hockey IQ noticeably drops outside of the offensive zone. Defense is a work in progress, still somewhat prone to puck-watching and generally just not being a factor; it has improved substantially, however, from where he was even just a season ago. Skating too has improved substantially as his feet have started catching up to his body. Consistency of effort is still an issue, but as per his trajectory it’s much better on a game to game and even shift to shift basis.

 

With his size, physicality and gamebreaking abilities, he might have the most upside of any player in the draft. A truly unique monster who if he pans out will be a terror for seasons to come, like Alex Ovechkin without the skating. Not great with authority from past instances, but seems to have matured as a person and has backed it up with his massive growth on the ice over the last year and a half.

 

5. F Clayton Keller, USA-U18s (USNTDP) [29/07/98]

[5'10", 168 lbs][Lefty][PROSPECT GRADE: A]
[29 GP, 18 G, 40 A, 58 Pts, 20 PIM][NHL Comparable: Patrick Kane]
Potential Peak: Franchise scoring winger
Projection: Top Line playmaking winger, perennial 70+ point player in his prime

Bust Factor: High; size and strength make him less suited to non-scoring roles

Offense: 9.5
Defense: 7.5
Physicality: 7.5
Skating: 9.0
Intangibles: 8.0
NHL-Readiness: 8.5
Potential: 9.5

Aggregate Score: 59.5

 

Report: Arguably the most electrifying offensive talent in the draft, including Matthews. Shifty, elusive and explosive skater, almost impossible to contain due to constantly moving around looking for seams; speed is good, but it’s the ability to move in tight areas that make him an elite skater. Excellent wrist and backhand shots, quick and accurate, as well as elite vision and playmaking touch make him a threat to score on every shift. Hands of silk, easily the best on the USNTDP team and possibly (probably?) the draft; puck is on a string. Defensively, tends to cheat on the breakout, but still backchecks and holds his responsibilities as well as most offensively gifted forwards (which is still far from good enough at the NHL level). Defensively tends to lean on lifting sticks and steals. Would be greatly improved with more strength, which is unlikely, but dodges hits as well as anyone in the draft and will go into the scoring areas for chances; doesn’t shy away from making plays.

 

A one-dimensional player, but that one dimension is as dynamic as it gets. The kind of player that everyone pays to see. NTDP personnel rave about him. On pure talent alone, there’s only 1 player in this draft who’s got more of it, and that has less to do with skills and more on genes. A personal favorite.

 

6. F Pierre-Luc Dubois, Cape Breton Screaming Eagles (QMJHL) [24/06/98]

[6'3", 202 lbs][Lefty][PROSPECT GRADE: A]
[38 GP, 25 G, 31 A, 56 Pts, 61 PIM, +22][NHL Comparable: Comparison Unavailable]
Potential Peak: Elite two-way forward and franchise face
Projection: Top line two-way forward, perennial 60+ point player in his prime

Bust Factor: Low; might be the smartest player in the draft

Offense: 9.0
Defense: 8.5
Physicality: 8.5
Skating: 8.5
Intangibles: 8.0
NHL-Readiness: 8.0
Potential: 9.0

Aggregate Score: 59.5

 

Report: Extremely competitive and gritty forward in all areas of the ice; never quits on a play. Competitive level combines with elite hockey smarts, vision and anticipation for arguably the most complete player in the entire QMJHL. Offensively, gets to scoring areas and uses his size effectively in generating space for not only himself but his linemates. Excellent passer and playmaker. Accurate, hard wrister that can beat goalies clean, but tends to use it only when it’s a good idea to do so; not a pure volume shooter. Above average skater whose mobility allows him to make plays in transition and in the offensive zone.

 

Easily the most well-rounded forward in the draft, with no weaknesses. A natural leader and the kind of player teams are looking for when it comes to the playoffs. Not a pure bruiser type, but his playstyle involves a lot of body on body and he revels in it, let alone shy away. Family friends with the Couturiers apparently, and it shows in his playstyle, but he’s got offensive upside up the wazoo. A personal favorite.

 

7. W Alexander Nylander, Mississauga Steelheads (OHL) [02/03/98]

[6'0.5", 172 pds][Righty][PROSPECT GRADE: A]
[33 GP, 21 G, 28 A, 49 Pts, 6 PIM, +8][NHL Comparable: Kristian Huselius/Ales Hemsky]
Potential Peak: Elite offensive talent, perennial PPG player
Projection: Top line offensive winger, 60+ point player in his prime

Bust Factor: High; one-dimensional, needs more strength, better team play

Offense: 9.5
Defense: 7.5
Physicality: 7.5
Skating: 9.0
Intangibles: 8.0
NHL-Readiness: 8.0
Potential: 9.0

Aggregate Score: 58.5

 

Report: Elite offensive talent, the best in the OHL for this draft. Complete player offensively, with a sniper’s shot and playmaking abilities. Elite vision, sees plays that other players don’t; hands of silk, makes plays out of nothing. Skates fast and has the edgework to separate himself from defenders, very elusive and mobile. Will occasionally use his reach advantage against defenders who are used to the skilled must equal small stereotype, but otherwise tends to be overmatched in that department; somewhat soft, sometimes a perimeter player. Average defensive player, can play and will use his stick but overall is mediocre.

 

Gets a lot of attention for bloodlines, and shares many similar qualities to his father and his dad. Tremendous upside, unlike a lot of players with skill size is not an issue which makes him tough to contain and easier to justify spending a pick on. Prior to the season, had questions about his ability to share the puck and his consistency of effort; wasn't a great team player. Still needs a lot of development, but excellent potential and a very good pick for teams that miss out on the top 5 players.

 

8. LW Matthew Tkachuk, London Knights (OHL) [11/12/97]

[6'1", 195 pds][Lefty][PROSPECT GRADE: A]
[29 GP, 14 G, 45 A, 59 Pts, 40 PIM, +26][NHL Comparable: James van Riemsdyk]
Potential Peak: All-Star playmaking forward
Projection: Top line playmaking winger, 60+ point player in his prime

Bust Factor: Moderate; questions about actual upside and talent

Offense: 9.0
Defense: 7.5
Physicality: 8.5
Skating: 8.0
Intangibles: 8.5
NHL-Readiness: 8.0
Potential: 9.0

Aggregate Score: 58.5

 

Report: Oodles of offensive skill. Excellent playmaker, lots of touch and go passes, great vision and accuracy in his passing. Not a puckhandling type of player, very willing to defer to others on zone entries, but still possesses some measure of skill in that area. Gritty player with excellent balance, very effective along the boards as a set-up guy in the offensive zone or as a netfront or crease presence. Will drive to scoring areas, very good in close, and has excellent sense of where to position his body and stick to make himself a scoring option. Average defensive player at the junior level, but looks to be improving in that area as the season goes on; more a case of interest than lack of skill. Not a truly elite skater, more of a strength on his feet type than a rocket, but possesses good top speed. Needs more strength in order to improve his acceleration and first step.

 

Right now, playing as more of a complementary role on the offensive. Which is fine, given his skillset. The type of player who meshes well with players who want the puck on their sticks, as he finds a way to get it to them so they can make plays. Huge pest, other teams absolutely hate him. Great upside, elite offensive awareness and bloodlines make him an intriguing prospect.

 

9. D Mikhail Sergachev, Windsor Spitfires [25/06/98]

[6'3", 206 pds][Lefty][PROSPECT GRADE: A]
[38 GP, 10 G, 16 A, 26 Pts, 30 PIM, +6][NHL Comparable: Rasmus Ristolainen]
Potential Peak: Elite two-way defenseman
Projection: Top pairing two-way defenseman, 40+ point player in his prime

Bust Factor: Moderate; is he a top defender or just more physically mature?

Offense: 9.0
Defense: 8.5
Physicality: 8.0
Skating: 8.5
Intangibles: 8.0
NHL-Readiness: 7.5
Potential: 9.0

Aggregate Score: 58.5

 

Report: Tremendous talent with the ability to anchor his team at both ends of the ice. Bomb of a point shot, excellent PP QB with his ability to create open lanes for passes. Excellent passer, gets the puck up the ice effectively. Also a good puck rusher, with burgeoning confidence in his ability to skate with the disc. Defensively, always in good position, always has a stick on the puck. Very good skater with all-around mobility and good speed and acceleration. Uses his size well, but he’s not a full-on bruiser, preferring to use his reach and range to make plays, rather than big hits, so he could be more physical. A very dynamic quality to his game, does not sit back and wait for plays to happen.

 

Overall, a complete defenseman with no major weaknesses and a lot of upside. Shows glimpses of gamebreaking potential. The second best defenseman in the draft at this point in time. An excellent pick for teams that require a big, rangy blue chip defender.

 

10. C German Rubtsov, Russia U18 (MHL) [27/06/98]

[6'1", 174 pds][Lefty][PROSPECT GRADE: A]
[15 GP, 9 G, 10 A, 19 Pts, 4 PIM, +11][NHL Comparable: Patrik Elias/Ryan O’Reilly]
Potential Peak: Elite two-way forward and franchise player
Projection: Top line scoring center, 55+ point player in his prime

Bust Factor: Moderate; Russian player has options if he fails to make the big show

Offense: 9.0
Defense: 8.0
Physicality: 8.0
Skating: 9.0
Intangibles: 8.0
NHL-Readiness: 7.5
Potential: 9.0

Aggregate Score: 58.5

 

Report: Intelligent player, responsible and has incredible ability to control the pace of the game. Excellent hockey sense. Excellent playmaker with good vision, ability to find seams. More of a passer than a sniper, but has the ability to rifle wristers and beat goalies clean. Hands are very good, puck control allows him to extend plays and create opportunities to pass or shoot. Feisty player, doesn’t back down from a physical confrontation, and competes hard. Skating is above average, excellent speedster with good acceleration. Excellent defensive player at the Russian junior level, backchecks with authority, positions himself well, keeps his stick in lanes, and is very good at closing off passing options in the neutral zone.

 

Russian factor might come into play, as well as quality of competition, but as a competitor and athlete he’s a natural leader who plays a team-first game despite having the talent to produce purely offensively if he so chose. Instead, he goes one better and dominates at both ends of the ice. Quietly one of the best players available in the draft. A personal favorite.

 

11. D Dante Fabbro, Penticton Vees (BCHL) [20/06/98]

[6'1", 185 pds][Righty][PROSPECT GRADE: A]
[26 GP, 9 G, 33 A, 42 Pts, 18 PIM][NHL Comparable: Kevin Shattenkirk]
Potential Peak: Franchise two-way defenseman
Projection: Top pairing defenseman, perennial 40+ point player in his prime

Bust Factor: Moderate; hard to gauge where he is in development compared to peers

Offense: 9.0
Defense: 8.0
Physicality: 8.0
Skating: 8.5
Intangibles: 8.0
NHL-Readiness: 8.0
Potential: 9.0

Aggregate Score: 58.5

 

Report: All-around complete defenseman. Good skater and very agile, though it’s hard to judge compared to peers. Complete offensively, excellent reads in the offensive zone and has an ability to find lanes in transition. Accurate passer, hard and accurate snapshots and wristshots; not overwhelmingly powerful, but places them in good spots and is overall good enough to conceivably score 10+ goals at the NHL level. Gets gritty, although will need a bit more muscle mass to effectively use his body to its full effect defensively. Mostly active stick, can occasionally puckwatch but is very solid positional player which allows him to get away with it at the Jr. A level; above average defensively, but definitely a case of “offense is the best defense” which is what makes him most effective. Not overwhelmingly flashy, but is constantly putting the puck where opponents hate it; relentless when making plays.

 

Has very good hockey IQ for the most part, not a pure bruiser or lug and can make plays; more of a puck mover than a pure puck rushing defenseman. That being said, his dominance against lesser quality players make him a huge wildcard for drafting teams who would want to see him perform against better players. A prototypical modern NHL blueliner with mobility, a lot of poise and upside.

 

12. D Olli Juolevi, London Knights (OHL) [05/05/98]

[6'2", 180 pds][Lefty][PROSPECT GRADE: A]
[28 GP, 4 G, 19 A, 23 Pts, 6 PIM, +22][NHL Comparable: T.J. Brodie/Morgan Rielly]
Potential Peak: Franchise top pairing two-way defenseman
Projection: 1st pairing defenseman, 30-40 point player in his prime

Bust Factor: Moderate; has high level of smarts but needs to develop strength

Offense: 9.0
Defense: 8.0
Physicality: 7.5
Skating: 9.0
Intangibles: 8.0
NHL-Readiness: 8.0
Potential: 9.0

Aggregate Score: 58.5

 

Report: Elite transition player. Heads up player with excellent vision and passing skills. Strong hockey smarts and creativity give him the ability to make some ridiculous outlet passes from his own end. Silky smooth skater with the ability to move laterally and shift on a dime. Active stick, lacks strength and size but makes up for it with good positioning, reach and puckmoving abilities. Hard shot and a good PP quarterback with his ability to read the play, but not really a natural point getter in that sense. Not an overwhelming physical specimen (gets outmuscled in tough areas of the ice), but very much the kind of player who symbolizes the modern defenseman.

 

Not a pure offensive force, but the kind of defenseman who you’d expect most of his improvement to come naturally as he learns the position and the training rooms more. An excellent value pick in a deep draft at the top. Again, needs to develop his physique in order to win battles at the OHL level, never mind the NHL level. A personal favorite.

 

13. C Michael McLeod, Mississauga Steelheads (OHL) [03/02/98]

[6'2", 187 pds][Lefty][PROSPECT GRADE: A]
[37 GP, 15 G, 27 A, 42 Pts, 45 PIM, +5][NHL Comparable: David Legwand]
Potential Peak: Elite franchise scoring center
Projection: Borderline 1st/2nd line center, 45-55 point player in his prime

Bust Factor: Low; speed and defensive responsibility game will keep him in the NHL

 

Offense: 8.5
Defense: 8.5
Physicality: 8.0
Skating: 9.0
Intangibles: 8.0
NHL-Readiness: 8.0
Potential: 8.5

Aggregate Score: 58.5

 

Report: Might be the best skater in the draft. First steps and overall acceleration are tremendous, and top speed is not only NHL-caliber, but probably NHL-elite. Combines with strong lateral mobility and agility and top-notch hockey sense to control the game at both ends of the rink. Good defensive player who gets into lanes, and is a willing and capable combatant in the tough areas of the ice thanks to his size and reach; very consistent effort. Offensively, has a hard wrister but isn’t a corner-picker, seems to lack accuracy to his shot; a playmaker with great passing abilities, a good sense of positioning and vision, and excellent hands.

 

Acts as the conduit for the Steelheads’ explosive top line, with most transitional and offensive plays beginning or working through him; good facilitator. Plays similarly to David Legwand in his prime, with his size, two-way game, and explosive skating. A scouts’ favorite, could be a top 5 pick if he can refine his offensive game a little more; still very much a player who needs development time in order to hit his full potential.

 

14. RW Julien Gauthier, Val D’Or Foreurs (QMJHL) [15/10/97]

[6'4", 224 pds][Righty][PROSPECT GRADE: A]
[30 GP, 29 G, 8 A, 37 Pts, 16 PIM, +17][NHL Comparable: Johan Franzen]
Potential Peak: Elite all-star top line power forward
Projection: Borderline 1st/2nd line power winger, 50+ point player in his prime

Bust Factor: Low; talent should translate to a depth role if required

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

Aggregate Score: 58.5

 

Report: Huge winger with a very balanced skillset. Good skater with great balance and top speed make him hard to contain. Not a flashy player, but has the puckhandling ability and playmaking skills to move the puck to teammates and create space in the offensive zone. Hard shot, not a pure finisher but drives the net hard and with his size and strength is basically unstoppable at the junior levels. Keeps his stick open and available at all times, makes him a passing option on the rush as well as an excellent netfront presence with his deflections. Defensively, is fairly solid, backchecks effectively with good positioning, is a regular penalty killer and is able to translate his size well when fighting for the puck along the boards.

 

Uses his size extremely effectively, not a huge bruiser but can lay the big hit when required; doesn’t run around and physically abuse other players. Puck control skills are enhanced/covered by his elite puck protection skills; size, strength and reach make it nigh-impossible to steal the puck from him in the offensive zone. Very polished, might even be able to contribute in the NHL immediately out of the draft. A modern power forward who excels at his role.

 

15. W Tyson Jost, Penticton Vees (BCHL) [14/03/98]

[6'0", 194 pds][Lefty][PROSPECT GRADE: A]
[32 GP, 25 G, 40 A, 65 Pts, 33 PIM][NHL Comparable: Simon Gagne]
Potential Peak: Top line scoring forward and perennial All-Star
Projection: Borderline 1st/2nd line forward, perennial 50+ point player in his prime

Bust Factor: Moderate; talented for sure, but might need time to adjust to higher levels

Offense: 9.0
Defense: 7.5
Physicality: 8.0
Skating: 9.0
Intangibles: 8.0
NHL-Readiness: 7.5
Potential: 9.0

Aggregate Score: 58.0

 

Report: Prodigious offensive talent. Equally lethal at both scoring and making plays, a high level of offensive awareness and playmaking abilities. Excellent shot, very accurate and hard. Great vision and probably the most dynamic player in any Junior A league in Canada. An excellent facilitator who will make the right play in order to score. Plays with some grit and fire, will backcheck, though he had a tendency to leave the zone early looking for offense which has decreased over time. Skating is smooth and mobile, good agility, and has been on an upward trend as he develops strength; should turn into a big plus as all it lacks is a bit of explosiveness. Is always moving and looking for opportunities. Smooth hands that allow him to dominate offensively.

 

If he wasn’t playing in the BCHL, he might get more hype as a top pick. Very few holes besides continued development in the defensive side of the game, needs to play harder competition. Lower body strength continues to need work in order to battle against bigger opponents, but should not be a problem. A likely big riser once he hits the NCAA as he’s a bluechip prospect hidden in a lower-tiered league.

[Crzydrvr]

16. W Kieffer Bellows, USA-U18s (USNTDP) [10/06/98]

[6'0", 195 pds][Lefty][PROSPECT GRADE: A]
[30 GP, 25 G, 18 A, 43 Pts, 46 PIM][NHL Comparable: James Neal]
Potential Peak: Elite top line scoring forward, All-Star sniper
Projection: Borderline 1st/2nd line scoring forward, perennial 50+ point player in his prime

Bust Factor: Moderate; simply too talented to not become an NHL scorer of some kind

Offense: 9.0
Defense: 7.5
Physicality: 8.5
Skating: 8.5
Intangibles: 8.0
NHL-Readiness: 7.5
Potential: 9.0

Aggregate Score: 58.0

 

Report: Might be the most natural scorer in the draft. Always keeps his stick available for a pass, knows where and how to place his shot for opportunities. Heavy shot with excellent accuracy, incredible release, is really quick off his stick. Equally adept at wrist, snap and slap shots, good variety and can take shots from almost any body position. Drives the net hard and plays with a lot of jam, knows where scoring areas are; even though he has a great shot, he doesn’t play a perimeter game and is constantly trying to get to the front of the net. Discipline is a bit of an issue, will need to tone down the 2 minute minors as he develops.

 

Skating speed is good, can keep up with the play and has excellent balance, though it’s not fully “elite”. Average player defensively, but showing good improvement in positioning and stickwork. A capable passer, not going to be confused for a playmaker but good enough to keep plays alive. Probably more of a complementary scorer than a driver of play, but a player who is capable of scoring 30 goals in the NHL.

 

17. LW Max Jones, London Knights (OHL) [17/02/98]

[6'3", 200 pds][Lefty][PROSPECT GRADE: A]
[32 GP, 17 G, 16 A, 33 Pts, 59 PIM, +15][NHL Comparable: Chris Kreider]
Potential Peak: Rick Nash, with a big mean streak
Projection: Borderline 1st/2nd line power forward, 50+ point player in his prime

Bust Factor: Moderate; actually quite skilled, should translate into depth role if needed

Offense: 8.5
Defense: 7.5
Physicality: 9.0
Skating: 9.0
Intangibles: 8.0
NHL-Readiness: 7.5
Potential: 8.5

Aggregate Score: 58.0

 

Report: Old school power forward with snarl and aggression. Excellent shot, heavy, accurate and with a quick release; allows him to be a scoring threat from mid-distance. Excellent skater with a lot of power to his stride, big man who can fly. Physical, feisty player who needs to tone down some of the stickwork in order to not be a liability, but his size and ability to play the body make him a presence on the ice. Can make passes, but isn’t a strength; not a naturally gifted player in terms of hockey sense and smarts, generally making himself open for a good play but not great with the puck himself.

 

Defensively, is competent at the junior levels, though he suffers from the same faults the average junior player has; positioning, stickwork, etc. all need polish in order to be NHL-caliber. Has all the tools and tantalizes with his skillset, but will need to demonstrate that he has the toolbox and mental game to keep up with his body.

 

18. LW Tyler Benson, Vancouver Giants (WHL) [15/03/98]

[6'0", 196 pds][Lefty][PROSPECT GRADE: A]
[28 GP, 8 G, 17 A, 25 Pts, 40 PIM, +/-0][NHL Comparable: Marian Hossa]
Potential Peak: Elite All-Star two-way winger
Projection: 2nd line playmaking winger, 45+ point player in his prime

Bust Factor: Low; simply too talented to not become an NHL player of some kind

 

Offense: 8.5
Defense: 8.0
Physicality: 8.5
Skating: 9.0
Intangibles: 8.0
NHL-Readiness: 7.5
Potential: 8.5

Aggregate Score: 58.0

 

Report: Has everything you’d want in a top prospect. A responsible player who backchecks and plays well defensively, while having the offensive abilities to lead his team night in and night out. Brilliant playmaker with excellent vision and passing acumen. Good stickhandler and puck carrier who can move the puck in transition. Not a pure scoring threat but has a quick and heavy wrist shot. Plays with grit and uses his body to protect the puck well. Excellent skater in all directions, has some explosive burst and ability to separate from defenders. Defensively keeps an active stick and plays well positionally.

 

A smart hockey player and natural leader. Playing on a bad team, he seems to be less invested and isn’t as dominant as he was in his rookie season, but lately his game has picked back up offensively. Still, he possesses all the tools for success and is the type of player who needs to play with players his own skill level to truly make use of his smarts.

 

19. C Logan Brown, Windsor Spitfires (OHL) [05/03/98]

[6'6", 218 pds][Lefty][PROSPECT GRADE: A]
[30 GP, 6 G, 29 A, 35 Pts, 18 PIM, +15][NHL Comparable: Nik Antropov]
Potential Peak: Elite playmaking center, in the mold of a Mats Sundin
Projection: 2nd line playmaking center, 45+ point player in his prime

Bust Factor: Moderate; needs to work on his consistency and two-way play

Offense: 9.0
Defense: 7.5
Physicality: 8.0
Skating: 8.5
Intangibles: 8.0
NHL-Readiness: 7.5
Potential: 9.0

Aggregate Score: 57.5

 

Report: Intriguingly massive offensive center. Smooth skater, very good edgework, and has excellent mobility, but doesn’t quite have that top speed or that first step acceleration. Protects the puck well, uses his size to force his way into the zone. Excels against his age group down low and along the boardswith his reach advantage and puck skills. Doesn’t have a mean streak, doesn’t use his body as well as he could. Defensively, has a decent sense of positioning but could use his stick more. Tends to make excellent reads at both ends of the ice, a true playmaker who can hit his teammates for cross-ice passes or breakouts. Heavy accurate shot, not used often and doesn’t quite have the release that scorers have.

 

Excellent hands, very good stickhandler and passer who uses it in conjunction with his frame to create havoc for defenders. An offensive threat when he feels like it, but has issues with consistency and assertiveness. His combination of size, mobility and skill make him a literally huge prospect; might require a bit of polish, but there’s a lot of talent to work with.

 

20. D Chad Krys, USA-U18s (USNTDP) [10/04/98]

[5'11", 184 pds][Lefty][PROSPECT GRADE: A]
[24 GP, 1 G, 16 A, 17 Pts, 24 PIM][NHL Comparable: Brian Rafalski]
Potential Peak: Elite offensive defenseman
Projection: Borderline 1st/2nd pairing defenseman, 30+ point player in his prime

Bust Factor: Moderate; size and strength will need to improve

Offense: 8.5
Defense: 8.0
Physicality: 7.5
Skating: 9.0
Intangibles: 8.0
NHL-Readiness: 7.5
Potential: 9.0

Aggregate Score: 57.5

 

Report: A really smooth but undersized American defenseman. Excellent puck skills and playmaking abilities, great vision and offensive awareness. Solid defensively, with solid grasp of stickwork and lane blocking. Whatever defensive lapses he does have are masked by his excellent skating, all-round skater with no weaknesses; extremely mobile and speed/acceleration allow him to recover quickly. Not a big player, isn’t afraid to engage but doesn’t look for it and will never intimidate with his ability to check. Excellent outlet passer, great in transition either carrying or passing the puck off. Shot is accurate and gets it off well, but lacks the ability to threaten; needs to build strength to put more power into his shot.

 

Definitely more of a playmaker who works around the play than a take-charge type. Plays big minutes in all situations for the U18s. Has a level of upside that suggests his ceiling could be higher; hasn’t shown the same level of pure dominance from his younger days, but constantly keeps the game in control with his deft passing and ability to read the play.

 

21. F Rasmus Asplund, Farjestad BK [03/12/97]

[6'0", 176 pds][Lefty][PROSPECT GRADE: A]
[27 GP, 3 G, 2 A, 5 Pts, 10 PIM, +5][NHL Comparable: Justin Williams]
Potential Peak: Complementary top line scoring winger
Projection: 2nd line scoring winger, 45+ point player in his prime

Bust Factor: Moderate; needs to continue to develop his strength and confidence

Offense: 8.5
Defense: 8.0
Physicality: 7.5
Skating: 9.0
Intangibles: 8.0
NHL-Readiness: 8.0
Potential: 8.5

Aggregate Score: 57.5

 

Report: Underrated and excellent two-way winger with some scoring touch. Speedster has the ability to separate from defenders with an excellent first step and top speed. Very good footwork, overall very mobile. Has good vision offensively, solid playmaker and puck distributor. Quick wrist shot, not a natural scorer but can threaten with his footspeed and shot release. Very responsible defensively, uses his stick to block lanes on the backcheck. Not a bigtime physical player, but very well rounded otherwise; pretty good face-off man with good hand-eye coordination.

 

22. F Will Bitten, Flint Firebirds (OHL) [10/07/98]

[5'10", 168 pds][Lefty][PROSPECT GRADE: A]
[35 GP, 19 G, 23 A, 120 Pts, 18 PIM, -3][NHL Comparable: Joe Pavelski/Zach Parise]
Potential Peak: Top line two-way forward
Projection: 2nd line scoring forward, 45+ point player in his prime

Bust Factor: High; undersized forward who might lack the strength to play his style

Offense: 8.5
Defense: 8.0
Physicality: 8.0
Skating: 9.0
Intangibles: 8.0
NHL-Readiness: 7.5
Potential: 8.5

Aggregate Score: 57.5

 

Report: Offensive sparkplug with an industrious work ethic. Up there with McLeod as some of the best skaters in the entire OHL; elite first stride and top speed make him a breakaway threat every game. Very good defensively, extremely active stick and always quick to backcheck. Physically frail, but hits often; workmanlike attitude and gets in deep in the tough areas of the ice. Good stickhandler and playmaker with an accurate wrister who is always buzzing around looking to create an opportunity. A personal favorite.

 

23. C Sam Steel, Regina Pats (WHL) [03/02/98]

[5'11", 175 pds][Lefty][PROSPECT GRADE: A]
[40 GP, 12 G, 26 A, 38 Pts, 8 PIM, +2][NHL Comparable: Mike Ribeiro]
Potential Peak: Elite top line playmaking center
Projection: 2nd line playmaking center, 45+ point player in his prime

Bust Factor: High; extremely talented, but slight of build and plays like it

Offense: 9.0
Defense: 8.0
Physicality: 7.0
Skating: 9.0
Intangibles: 8.0
NHL-Readiness: 7.5
Potential: 8.5

Aggregate Score: 57.0

 

Report: Another in the line of highly skilled, pure playmakers from the WHL. Elite vision and puckhandling skills; simply makes plays others don’t. Quick, accurate wrister makes him an offensive zone threat, though he needs to use it more often. Excellent skater with a sneaky fast stride and good mobility. Decently intelligent player who positions himself well; makes himself open offensively and covers passing options defensively. Sometimes shies away from physical play, can get forced to the perimeter. Needs to build more strength, but overall has the ability to be a gamebreaking player with development.

 

24. D Charlie McAvoy, Boston University Terriers (NCAA) [21/12/97]

[6'1", 211 pds][Lefty][PROSPECT GRADE: A]
[17 GP, 1 G, 7 A, 8 Pts, 27 PIM, -4][NHL Comparable: Dmitry Kulikov]
Potential Peak: Complementary top pairing two-way defenseman
Projection: 2nd pairing two-way defenseman, 25+ point player in his prime

Bust Factor: Moderate; should turn into an NHLer, but needs to adjust to the pro game

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

 

Report: A heady defenseman who can be relied upon in any and all situations. Smart player who generally makes all the right decisions. Good hard shot, not a world beater but places it well. Gritty player, lacks a bit in height and reach but otherwise plays very well defensively; good sense of positioning. Good passer who can hit forwards with accuracy on the rush. Very mobile, not going to blow the world away with his speed but moves around the ice very well. Might only be a complementary player, doesn’t take over games the way some other defenders do, but can be relied upon to contribute every shift in a positive way.

 

25. F Carl Grundstrom, MODO Hockey (SHL) [01/12/97]

[6'0", 194 pds][Lefty][PROSPECT GRADE: A]
[27 GP, 2 G, 5 A, 7 Pts, 20 PIM, -4][NHL Comparable: Craig Smith]
Potential Peak: Complementary top line scoring forward
Projection: 2nd line scoring winger, 40+ point player in his prime

Bust Factor: Moderate; could go either way as most prospects, but fairly well-rounded

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

 

Report: Well-rounded shoot-first forward. Good skills, can stickhandle and pass the puck well. Good sense of positioning, finds soft areas for scoring chances. Not a true one-shot scorer, but has a good, quick release and good accuracy; going to be more of a volume shooter at the NHL level. Gritty, isn’t afraid to battle for the puck, although somewhat overmatched against grown men. Defensively, has good effort on the backcheck but needs to fine-tune his in-zone play. A good, quick skater with strong balance. A very complete player who with a bit of development can be an excellent asset for teams that need shot generators.

 

26. F Luke Kunin, University of Wisconsin Badgers (NCAA) [04/12/97]

[6'0", 196 pds][Righty][PROSPECT GRADE: A]
[16 GP, 6 G, 5 A, 11 Pts, 16 PIM, -4][NHL Comparable: David Booth]
Potential Peak: Complementary top line scoring forward
Projection: 2nd line scoring forward, 40+ point player in his prime

Bust Factor: Moderate; not a truly gifted scorer but has some bottom line potential

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

Aggregate Score: 57.0

 

Report: Shoot-first center who plays a hardnosed game. Drives the net hard, excellent balance on his skates allows him to force himself into scoring areas. Not a naturally talented forward, but has good offensive instincts and the ability to deflect pucks; a real pesky forward in the home plate. Heavy shot that he uses early and often; decent passer but doesn’t quite have the vision to be an all-round playmaker. Doesn’t stand out defensively, which is pretty good for a freshman, but doesn’t show the defensive acumen of a true grinder forward yet. A good skater with some jump who keeps his feet moving at all times. Plays center, but is probably best suited next to an excellent facilitator/playmaker who can get him the puck and let him skate.

 

27. D Markus Niemelainen, Saginaw Spirit (OHL) [08/06/98]

[6'6", 200 pds][Lefty][PROSPECT GRADE: A-]
[38 GP, 1 G, 21 A, 22 Pts, 12 PIM, -4][NHL Comparable: Patrick Wiercioch]
Potential Peak: Top pairing two-way defenseman
Projection: 2nd pairing two-way defenseman, 20+ point player in his prime

Bust Factor: High; huge (literally) project who will need to improve his all-round game

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

Aggregate Score: 56.5

 

Report: Towering two-way defenseman. A good skater for his size, mobile and gets up and down the ice well. An excellent passer who moves the puck quickly in transition, and has slowly been given the green light to push the puck up ice with good rushes. Not a mean player, but he’ll take the body and has a big advantage with his size. Uses his stick to break up passing plays, covers a wide range defensively with his wingspan and skating. Offensively, generally is very good at being the PP quarterback but will need to build more strength, as his point shot is fairly soft for a defender of his caliber and size. Coming into the season some knocks were his ability to process the game, but so far he’s been fairly good at recognizing plays as they develop; rarely caught making a bad decision, though his overall offensive upside is a bit of a wildcard. A personal favorite, although one who requires a fair bit of work in order to reach his potential.

 

28. C Dillon Dube, Kelowna Rockets (WHL) [20/07/98]

[5'10", 180 pds][Lefty][PROSPECT GRADE: A-]
[33 GP, 17 G, 22 A, 39 Pts, 34 PIM, +8][NHL Comparable: T.J. Oshie]
Potential Peak: Complementary top line scoring forward
Projection: 2nd line scoring forward, 40+ point player in his prime

Bust Factor: High; plays bigger than his size, but is he dynamic enough to make it?

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

Aggregate Score: 56.5

 

Report: Undersized forward who can do it all for the Rockets. Sneakily effective, doesn’t necessarily stand out with his pure skill but is lethal in the offensive zone with quick hands, good playmaking abilities and good vision. Quick release and can finish from around the net; good sense of space and overall just a smart player in the offensive zone. Crashes and bangs, can be a tough player to play against, although needs to build more strength overall. Shifty skater, good top speed and excellent footwork and mobility. Needs to improve defensively, though it is not bad at the junior level; isn’t great along the boards and in the corners defensively, and with his pit bull mentality can sometimes get caught out of position, but is improving every game in this regard. Could be a Callahan-type forward at the NHL level.

 

29. F Cameron Morrison, Youngstown Phantoms (USHL) [27/08/98]

[6'2", 203 pds][Lefty][PROSPECT GRADE: A-]
[29 GP, 17 G, 15 A, 32 Pts, 20 PIM, +16][NHL Comparable: David Backes]
Potential Peak: Complementary top line scoring forward
Projection: Borderline 2nd line power forward, 35+ point player in his prime

Bust Factor: Moderate; bit of a project, but has great tools and smarts combo

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

Aggregate Score: 56.5

 

Report: High-potential offensive threat. A good skater with good edgework, although he needs to continue to develop that acceleration. Another gritty type who will battle along the tough areas of the ice; uses his size well, with his reach and strength. Lacks a mean streak. Defensively capable at the junior level, but will need to work on his defensive coverage; masks some of his capabilities by just being able to outwork and out strength his opponents. A well-rounded player offensively, with above average hands, passing and hockey sense. Can score from midrange, has good power and quick release to his wrister; might be NHL-level already, although his accuracy could improve. Starting to gain traction among scouts for his combination of size and skill.

 

30. D Kale Clague, Brandon Wheat Kings (WHL) [05/06/98]

[6'0", 178 pds][Lefty][PROSPECT GRADE: A-]
[39 GP, 1 G, 13 A, 14 Pts, 21 PIM, +2][NHL Comparable: Thomas Hickey]
Potential Peak: Top pairing two-way defenseman
Projection: 2nd pairing defenseman, 20+ point player in his prime

Bust Factor: High; has not produced up to his potential

Offense: 8.5
Defense: 7.5
Physicality: 7.5
Skating: 9.0
Intangibles: 8.0
NHL-Readiness: 7.5
Potential: 8.5

Aggregate Score: 56.5

 

Report: Elite-skating defenseman with all the tools. Equally adept at rushing the puck in transition or making a heady outlet pass. Excels at quarterbacking powerplays with his vision, playmaking skills and excellent shot. Skating is top notch, with lateral agility and speed allowing him to effectively evade checkers and penalty killers. Physically slight, sometimes shies away from physical play, but has bursts where he looks angry and plays the body. Defensive ability is a mixed bag, though generally he is effective thanks to some good smarts and skating; decent at positioning himself, and if he’s out of position he can recover quickly. Looks like an excellent player, but seems to be having some confidence issues and doesn’t look to push the play as much as he used to; isn’t as aggressive offensively. Like the rest of the team, he has a lot of potential, it’s a matter of finding ways to tap into his immense potential. A great pick late-first as he has the potential to be a top 10 draft pick.

[Crzydrvr]

31. W Alex Debrincat, Erie Otters (OHL) [18/12/97]

[5'7", 160 pds][Righty][PROSPECT GRADE: A-]
[30 GP, 33 G, 23 A, 56 Pts, 12 PIM, +18][NHL Comparable: Mike Cammalleri/Brendan Gallagher]
Potential Peak: Top line scoring winger
Projection: 2nd line scoring forward, 45+ point player in his prime

Bust Factor: Extremely High; pure scoring ability is intriguing, however

Offense: 9.0
Defense: 7.5
Physicality: 7.5
Skating: 8.5
Intangibles: 8.0
NHL-Readiness: 7.5
Potential: 8.5

Aggregate Score: 56.5

 

Report: The single biggest wildcard in the entire draft. A top-15 talent offensively, with the complete package of tools: excellent hands, laser shot, pinpoint passing and very good offensive vision. Gets to scoring areas, uses his shiftiness to get by defenders well. Quick release on his wrister makes him a scoring threat from the moment he gets the puck. Knows where to be offensively, always in the thick of play. Quick skater with a lot of jump, though his top speed isn’t elite. Decent defensively, but lack of size hurts him when covering opponents. Battles hard and has a lot of heart, but tends to get beaten down vs big skilled opponents; doesn’t ever stay down, though. Talent-wise deserves to be a 1st rounder without question, not a product of McDavid and could be a home run pick.

 

32. D Libor Hajek, Saskatoon Blades (WHL) [04/02/98]

[6'1", 198 pds][Lefty][PROSPECT GRADE: A-]
[38 GP, 3 G, 14 A, 17 Pts, 28 PIM, -6][NHL Comparable: Mirco Mueller]
Potential Peak: Complementary top pairing shutdown defenseman
Projection: 2nd pairing defensive defenseman, 15+ point player in his prime

Bust Factor: High; doesn’t quite fit the mold of modern puckmoving defensemen

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

Aggregate Score: 56.5

 

Report: Defensive defenseman with two-way potential. Mobile skater with excellent acceleration, allows him to get away from forecheckers, although top speed could improve. Not the meanest player, but isn’t afraid of the rough stuff and can dish it out when required. Excellent defensively, good sense of where to be and where to place his stick blade, right where opponents don’t want. Keeps his head up, good coverage of open players, and blocks shots. Has some offensive potential, has the ability to skate with the puck and has a pretty accurate pass. Won’t be an offensive dynamo, shot is below average and stickhandling is average, but is able to rush the puck in transition. Once strength builds up, shot should get better. A quality player who can slide up and down your lineup as required.

 

33. RW Tage Thompson, University of Connecticut Huskies (NCAA) [30/10/97]

[6'4", 185 pds][Righty][PROSPECT GRADE: A-]
[18 GP, 7 G, 7 A, 14 Pts, 6 PIM, -8][NHL Comparable: Jimmy Hayes]
Potential Peak: Complementary top line power winger
Projection: Borderline 2nd line power winger, 35+ point player in his prime

Bust Factor: Moderate; not a super talented player, but works hard

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

Aggregate Score: 56.0

 

Report: Big winger with some two-way potential. Still growing into his body, very much a player with a ton of raw potential, but doesn’t stand out in any one area of the game. Uses his long reach well in breaking up plays and covering in the defensive zone. Not a mean player, but will get into gritty areas and has an advantage with his size. Skating isn’t bad, but will need to improve his acceleration to match his solid top speed, footwork and mobility. Plays a very simple offensive game, gets to the front of the net and creates havoc with his presence. Passing ability is decent, but not elite; not going to be a gamebreaker. Has a hard shot but uses it less than netfront deflections and rebounds; quick release and sense of where to go. A spacemaker for linemates who can finish off plays.

 

34. C Pascal Laberge, Victoriaville Tigres (QMJHL) [09/04/98]

[6'1", 162 pds][Righty][PROSPECT GRADE: A-]
[33 GP, 13 G, 24 A, 37 Pts, 43 PIM, -6][NHL Comparable: Antoine Vermette]
Potential Peak: Borderline top line shutdown center
Projection: Borderline 2nd line two-way forward, 35+ point player in his prime

Bust Factor: Moderate; could translate his skills to a depth role if needed

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

Aggregate Score: 56.0

 

Report: Two-way threat with good skills. Has changed his game from his midget and bantam days, has developed his all-round game tremendously. Good, quick skater with a good burst who uses it to effectively cover neutral zone passing options. Good sense of where to be defensively and uses his stick well in checking opposing players. Offensively, more of a passer than a sniper; well-rounded game extends to offensive skills, with a balanced set of hands, passing and shooting abilities. Not a gamebreaker. Can and will get physical, but is thin and still in need of bulking up to play his style of game in the pros. Bears watching, as there’s untapped offensive potential; could be a steal if he can continue to develop.

 

35. LW Adam Mascherin, Kitchener Rangers (OHL) [06/06/98]

[5'9", 199 pds][Lefty][PROSPECT GRADE: A-]
[33 GP, 19 G, 27 A, 46 Pts, 8 PIM, +16][NHL Comparable: Jaden Schwartz]
Potential Peak: Complementary top line scoring winger
Projection: 2nd line scoring winger, perennial 40+ point player in his prime

Bust Factor: High; undersized and not a great skater

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

Aggregate Score: 56.0

 

Report: Stocky talented offensive dynamo. Didn’t have a great rookie season, but a coaching change has given him the green light to produce. Excellent hands and passing abilities, and a heavy, accurate shot (which could use some work on the release). Average defensive player, suffers from the normal puckwatching as most offense-first guys, but is working on that aspect of his game. Not big, but quite heavy and controls the puck well. Skating is so-so, his edgework and agility are above average but overall speed is not a plus. Offensively, is an elite talent and deserves close attention as a potential 1st round pick.

 

36. W Simon Stransky, Prince Albert Raiders (WHL) [21/12/97]

[6'0", 169 pds][Lefty][PROSPECT GRADE: B+]
[30 GP, 11 G, 20 A, 31 Pts, 9 PIM, +7][NHL Comparable: Jiri Hudler]
Potential Peak: Complementary top line playmaking forward
Projection: 2nd line playmaking forward, 40+ point player in his prime

Bust Factor: High; skating and strength need work

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

Aggregate Score: 55.5

 

Report: Elite playmaker getting a lot of attention from scouts. Excellent vision, able to find passing lanes that others don’t. Great hands, able to create space with his stickhandling and passing abilities. Shot is weak and will improve with more strength. Defensively inconsistent, can have great games and less great games, but generally is good with backchecking duties.  Not a physical player, not soft per say but not going to look for that kind of play. Can sometimes be a perimeter player, but his passing skills can break down defenses. Elusive skater with good mobility and edgework, but not a fast player. In general, would benefit greatly from an increase in strength in both upper and lower body. A prospect on the rise and with could be a very good option at the NHL level.

 

37. D Cam Dineen, North Bay Battalion (OHL) [19/06/98]

[5'11", 182 pds][Lefty][PROSPECT GRADE: B+]
[36 GP, 6 G, 27 A, 33 Pts, 12 PIM, +1][NHL Comparable: Keith Yandle]
Potential Peak: Top pairing offensive defenseman
Projection: 2nd pairing offensive defenseman, 25+ point player in his prime

Bust Factor: High; needs to improve defensively to earn minutes in the NHL

Offense: 8.5
Defense: 7.0
Physicality: 7.5
Skating: 9.0
Intangibles: 8.0
NHL-Readiness: 7.0
Potential: 8.5

Aggregate Score: 55.5

 

Report: Came out of nowhere and has been the best offensive defenseman in the OHL. Smooth skating defender with excellent mobility, allows him to jump into the rush and recover. Elite puck rusher with the ability to move the puck in transition. PP QB who will only improve as he gains more strength; passing and vision is great but shot is weak. Not going to be a big player, lacks a mean streak. Defensively is still a work in progress, but has shown tremendous improvement from the beginning of the season to now; better reads, better positioning and even PK time for a good program. A personal favorite, and if he continues his stellar play will likely find himself in the first round come June.

 

38. D Victor Mete, London Knights (OHL) [07/06/98]

[5'10", 174 pds][Lefty][PROSPECT GRADE: B+]
[36 GP, 4 G, 20 A, 24 Pts, 12 PIM, +36][NHL Comparable: John-Michael Liles]
Potential Peak: Top pairing offensive defenseman
Projection: 2nd pairing two-way defenseman, 20+ point player in his prime

Bust Factor: Extremely High; extremely undersized defenseman

Offense: 8.5
Defense: 7.5
Physicality: 7.0
Skating: 9.0
Intangibles: 8.0
NHL-Readiness: 7.0
Potential: 8.5

Aggregate Score: 55.5

 

Report: Mobile offense-first defender. Excellent hands, good passing and playmaking abilities make him a threat to drive play at all times. Good power play QB with an accurate shot, though he needs more power behind it. Moves well in all directions, a fast and elusive skater with the puck. Tends to get bullied physically, not a big player and not going to be a feisty one either. Much improved defensively, but still suffers in the tough areas due to lack of strength; less puck watching, more active stick etc. Could be a good value pick with his upside.

 

39. F Nathan Bastian, Mississauga Steelheads (OHL) [06/12/97]

[6'4", 208 pds][Righty][PROSPECT GRADE: B+]
[36 GP, 12 G, 25 A, 37 Pts, 36 PIM, +1][NHL Comparable: Dainius Zubrus]
Potential Peak: 2nd line power forward
Projection: 3rd line power winger, 30+ point player in his prime

Bust Factor: High; needs to continue to develop offensively to have a chance

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

Aggregate Score: 55.5

 

Report: Raw talent with loads of work ethic and character. Gets to scoring areas and has the ability to finish, but is more of a playmaker with good passing abilities; good vision and poise. Not a pure offensive force, prefers to delegate to other players and use his size to create space; asserts himself in all 3 zones. Knows how to use his body, but not a mean player per say. Decent player defensively who uses his size to win puck battles, though he has lapses in which he’ll start puck watching. Skating and footwork are decent, but need to continue to improve in order to move onto the next level. Not a gamebreaker but remains an intriguing player who could go either way at this point in time.

 

40. RW Taylor Raddysh, Erie Otters (OHL) [18/02/98]

[6'2", 202 pds][Righty][PROSPECT GRADE: B+]
[37 GP, 14 G, 34 A, 48 Pts, 12 PIM, +23][NHL Comparable: Patrick Maroon]
Potential Peak: 2nd line power winger
Projection: 3rd line two-way winger, 30+ point player in his prime

Bust Factor: High; needs to improve his skating

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

Aggregate Score: 55.0

 

Report: Another big complementary player. Has some offensive skills, good passer with the ability to make plays. Not a great shooter, needs more velocity on his shot but that should come with more development. Active defensive player who gets in lanes well. Not a true physical specimen and lacks a mean streak, but can protect the puck well and win puck battles. Skating is average, foot speed and acceleration need improvement. Plays with some highly talented players, so his overall contribution to the team will come through getting to the front of the net; is he just a product of great teammates?

 

 

41.   D Lucas Johansen, Kelowna Rockets (WHL)

42.   D Adam Fox, USA-U18s (USNTDP)

43.   F Jonathan Dahlen, Timra IK (SWE-2)

44.   D Luke Green, Saint John Sea Dogs (QMJHL)

 

 

 

45. D Jake Bean, Calgary Hitmen (WHL) [09/06/98]

[6'1", 170 pds][Lefty][PROSPECT GRADE: B+]
[39 GP, 15 G, 23 A, 38 Pts, 20 PIM, +3][NHL Comparable: Dennis Wideman]
Potential Peak: Top pairing offensive defenseman
Projection: 2nd pairing offensive defenseman, 25+ point player in his prime

Bust Factor: High; will need to improve his mobility to contribute at higher levels

Offense: 8.5
Defense: 7.5
Physicality: 7.0
Skating: 8.0
Intangibles: 8.0
NHL-Readiness: 7.5
Potential: 8.5

Aggregate Score: 55.0

 

Report: Knows how to get it done offensively. Good passer and playmaker who can move the puck up the ice. Elite shooter, has good velocity and release but is incredibly accurate with the placement of his shot; can aim in low for deflections in front or just plain rip it on his own; excellent triggerman on the PP. Good hands make him a threat in the offensive zone. Defensively, finds himself in position but lacks the ability to adjust well to changes; tends to be a chaser more than a guy in control. Not a physical player, rail thin and can be overmatched against bigger players. Skating lacks power and authority, so while footwork is decent, overall ability is slightly compromised; needs to improve his acceleration and overall speed. Needs a strength coach to take advantage of his offensive abilities, but has the ability to put up points.

 

46.   W Jesper Bratt, AIK (Sweden-2)

47.   C Trent Frederic, USA-U18s (USNTDP)

48.   F Riley Tufte, Blaine Bengals (USHS)

49.   D Samuel Girard, Shawinigan Cataractes (QMJHL)

 

 

 

50. D Logan Stanley, Windsor Spitfires (OHL) [26/05/98]

[6'7", 220 pds][Lefty][PROSPECT GRADE: B+]
[36 GP, 2 G, 9 A, 11 Pts, 71 PIM, +8][NHL Comparable: Hal Gill]
Potential Peak: Borderline top pairing shutdown defenseman
Projection: 2nd pairing defensive defenseman, 15+ point player in his prime

Bust Factor: Extremely High; does he have the puck skills to succeed?

Offense: 7.0
Defense: 8.0
Physicality: 9.0
Skating: 8.0
Intangibles: 8.0
NHL-Readiness: 7.0
Potential: 8.0

Aggregate Score: 55.0

 

Report: Big hulking defenseman with some upside. Easily the most physically dominant defender in the OHL right now with his size and penchant for big hits. Uses his reach effectively to expand his defensive range, hard to get around him. Skating is decent, footwork and acceleration could use work but he’s mostly mobile for his size and has some speed. Not a puckhandler or great passer, but will rush the puck and has a hard shot from the point. If he continues to develop, you’ve got a very unique and effective shutdown blueliner.

 

51. C Noah Gregor, Moose Jaw Warriors (WHL) [28/07/98]

[6'0", 173 pds][Lefty][PROSPECT GRADE: B+]
[39 GP, 15 G, 21 A, 36 Pts, 14 PIM, -9][NHL Comparable: Mike Santorelli]
Potential Peak: Borderline top line playmaking center
Projection: Borderline 2nd line playmaking center, 35+ point player in his prime

Bust Factor: High; production is heavily skewed towards the PP

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

Aggregate Score: 55.0

 

Report: Shifty offensive stalwart. Not going to wow with any highlight-reel goals, but consistently able to keep the puck, control the pace of the game, and make crisp passes. Good hands in front, knows where the scoring areas are and is a capable scorer in close. Not going to be a big player, needs to develop physically. Good footwork and overall mobility, although top speed could be improved with more strength. Not a strong defensive player necessarily, but positions himself well. Needs to develop more consistency on a shift to shift basis. Quietly capable, could be an interesting sleeper in the draft.

 

52. F Cliff Pu, London Knights (OHL) [03/06/98]

[6'1", 188 pds][Righty][PROSPECT GRADE: B+]
[32 GP, 8 G, 10 A, 18 Pts, 12 PIM, +5][NHL Comparable: Blake Comeau]
Potential Peak: 2nd line scoring winger
Projection: 3rd line two-way forward, 30+ point player in his prime

Bust Factor: Moderate; has some tools that suggest a potential role as a depth player is possible

Offense: 8.0
Defense: 7.5
Physicality: 7.5
Skating: 9.0
Intangibles: 8.0
NHL-Readiness: 7.0
Potential: 8.0

Aggregate Score: 55.0

 

Report: The very definition of sleeper pick. An excellent skater with great speed, acceleration, agility and footwork. Defensively, backchecks hard if a little haphazardly, isn’t a naturally smart defensive player but generally the effort is there. Drives the net well and has a good frame, but is still learning to se his size effectively; lacks a mean streak but has good balance. Has a quick release on his shot and good hands, which suggest his offensive skill is more than he is currently showing. A decent playmaker, good passing, but not necessarily an elite thinker of the game. Plays fairly simple energy game, doesn’t get minutes in London but has a ton of upside and with some development could have a Dvorak-like development curve.

 

 

53.   D Ryan Lindgren, USA-U18s (USNTDP)

54.   F Brett Howden, Moose Jaw Warriors (WHL)

55.   D Cole Candella, Hamilton Bulldogs (OHL)

56.   F Givani Smith, Guelph Storm (OHL)

57.   D Andrew Peeke, Green Bay Gamblers (USHL)

58.   W Joey Anderson, USA-U18s (USNTDP)

 

 

 

59. D Sean Day, Mississauga Steelheads (OHL) [09/01/98]

[6'3", 230 pds][Lefty][PROSPECT GRADE: B+]
[29 GP, 3 G, 10 A, 13 Pts, 19 PIM, -10][NHL Comparable: Comparison unavailable]
Potential Peak: Complementary top pairing offensive defenseman
Projection: 2nd pairing two-way defenseman, 20+ point player in his prime

Bust Factor: Extremely High; needs to improve his decision-making in all facets of the game

Offense: 8.0
Defense: 7.0
Physicality: 8.0
Skating: 9.0
Intangibles: 8.0
NHL-Readiness: 6.5
Potential: 8.5

Aggregate Score: 55.0

 

Report: Toolsy defenseman with a lot of potential. Elite skater with excellent mobility in all directions, enables him to toe the line in the offensive zone as well as carry the puck in transition. Good passer with crisp accuracy. A hard shot from the point, which combines with his passing to make him a threat on the powerplay. Inconsistent physical player, but he lands some big open ice hits and isn’t afraid to muck it up. Average defensive player, gets caught puck watching and relies mostly on his athleticism to keep damage to a minimum. Quite frankly, consistently makes bad judgment calls with and without the puck, forcing plays or simply; offensively could be an 8.5 or 9.0 if it weren’t for the lack of hockey sense or offensive awareness. Has potential but is dropping fast.

 

 

60.   D Jacob Moverare, HV71 (SHL)

61.   F Boris Katchouk, Sault Ste. Marie Greyhounds (OHL)

62.   W Vitaly Abramov, Gatineau Olympiques (QMJHL)

63.   D J.D. Greenaway, USA-U18s (USNTDP)

64.   D Jacob Cederholm, HV71 (SHL)

65.   F Jordan Kyrou, Sarnia Sting (OHL)

66.   D Dennis Cholowski, Chilliwack Chiefs (BCHL)

67.   D Max Lajoie, Swift Current Broncos (WHL)

68.   D Benjamin Gleason, Hamilton Bulldogs (OHL)

69.   D Keaton Middleton, Saginaw Spirit (OHL)

70.   F Otto Koivula, Ilves U20 (SWE-J20)

71.   F Alan Lyszczarczyk, Sudbury Wolves (OHL)

72.   F Vladimir Kuznetsov, Acadie-Bathurst Titan (QMJHL)

73.   C Tim Wahlgren, MODO J20 (Swe-J20)

74.   C Otto Somppi, Halifax Mooseheads (QMJHL)

75.   F Tim Gettinger, Sault Ste. Marie Greyhounds (OHL)

 

 

Goalies to Watch: 

 

1.       G Carter Hart, Everett Silvertips (WHL)

2.       G Zach Sawchenko, Moose Jaw Warriors (WHL)

3.       G Joseph Woll, USA-U18s (USNTDP)

4.       G Vladislav Sukhachyov, Belye Medvedi Chelyabinsk (MHL)

5.       G Daniel Marmenlind, Orebro HK  (Swe-J20)

6.       G Evan Fitzpatrick, Sherbrooke Phoenix (QMJHL)

7.       G Ryan Edquist, Madison Capitols (USHL)

8.       G Tyler Parsons, London Knights (OHL)

9.       G Mikhail Berdin, Russia U18 (MHL)

10.     G Stephen Dhillon, Niagara IceDogs (OHL)

[AlbertaBoy12]

I love reading your reports! thanks for doing this!

[JTech780]

Awesome read as usual.

The one thing that keeps sticking out for me in this draft is the size of the prospects. After Matthews and Chychrun it is a winger heavy 1st round. This is a good year for Calgary to add a top 6 winger with size.

I have Gauthier a bit higher, I see him as a top 10 lock. Great size, great skater, good hands and a quick release. He is a pure sniper, and does need a bit of refining on his overall game. If he does fall to an area where Calgary is drafting I would be very excited to get him into the system.

[The_People1]

Great stuff crzydrvr!

 

I do feel there's a top 2 in this draft in Matthews and Chychrun.  After that, there's a cluster in that second tier but comparing this year's draft to last season's draft, a prospect like Mikko Rantanen looked better than Jesse Puljujarvi at the same age.  Rantanen was in that 8 to 12 rank last season while Puljujarvi is top 4 this season.  So last year's draft was deeper at the top end.

 

But ya, there are some big RHS RWs in the top 10 and that's exactly what the Flames are looking for. Puljujarvi, Laine, and Gauthier, all RHS RWs, deserve a fair look.

[JTech780]

Great stuff crzydrvr!

 

I do feel there's a top 2 in this draft in Matthews and Chychrun.  After that, there's a cluster in that second tier but comparing this year's draft to last season's draft, a prospect like Mikko Rantanen looked better than Jesse Puljujarvi at the same age.  Rantanen was in that 8 to 12 rank last season while Puljujarvi is top 4 this season.  So last year's draft was deeper at the top end.

 

But ya, there are some big RHS RWs in the top 10 and that's exactly what the Flames are looking for. Puljujarvi, Laine, and Gauthier, all RHS RWs, deserve a fair look.

 

Puljujarvi is dominating the WJC right now he has 15 points in 6 games, Rantanen has 4 points. I have Puljujarvi number 2 on my board, I think he is much better than Rantanen and I really like Rantanen.

 

As of right now here is my top 10:

 

1.Matthews

2.Puljujarvi

3.Chychrun

4.Laine

5.Tkachuk

6.Nylander

7.Gauthier

8.Dubois

9.McLeod

10.Keller

[cross16]

I would have to agree, I think at the same age Puljujarvi is better than Rantanen. Puljujarvi has been one of the best forwards at the World Juniors and while I agree and understand the World Juniors arn't everything its still very, very tough for 17/18 year olds to stand out and he did. Was dominant and next to impossible to contain/shut down and thats pretty special.

 

I'm personaly really liking the top 8 or so prospects in the draft rankings so far. I think it falls off after that and then is a good but not great year althought I do find the more research/scouting you do and the more you read about it the better you end up liking the draft this year. I do think though that the top 6 or 7 in this year's class are as good if not better than the same range last year. There is some pretty rare blends of size/skill at the top of this year's draft. 

[Crzydrvr]

I have Gauthier a bit higher, I see him as a top 10 lock. Great size, great skater, good hands and a quick release. He is a pure sniper, and does need a bit of refining on his overall game. If he does fall to an area where Calgary is drafting I would be very excited to get him into the system.

 

I do think Gauthier will be a very safe pick and as good of a bet to be an NHLer as anyone outside of Auston Matthews. He's the kind of player who will be in the NHL sooner rather than later, and probably making an impact as well.

 

At the same time though, I also think he benefits from sheer physical stature, and while I like the way he uses it, it's also not the kind of style that lends itself to consistently elite production against players of a similar strength and caliber. I don't think he has the upside to be a truly elite player, and quite frankly in terms of overall upside among the 1st round caliber players, he's in the bottom third of that group in terms of production if all of them manage to hit their relative peaks. He's a very safe pick and one who can make an impact in ways that aren't valued on a scoresheet, which will keep his value high.

 

That being said, I've always stated that because I don't have any obligations to existing organizations, I'm more apt to take risks and chances on players who are less polished but have higher upside. If you're an NHL GM, the prevailing perception is that you can't be fired for picking the safe player, but you can be fired to taking a risk and having it blow up in your face (which has already been proven false; quite frankly as long as you lose you'll be fired, but in the heat of the moment most GMs don't see this). Job security means taking the safe bet, and Gauthier is a pretty darn safe bet to not completely turn into a failure, so of course NHL organizations would rate him highly.

 

On the other hand, I have the luxury of being able to put Keller in my top 5, which is honestly not far off from where most scouts value his skills, but because of his size teams are bumping him down their lists. Better go with the big man who can guarantee you quality hockey rather than the smallish, one-dimensional short player.

 

Gauthier is probably a top 10 pick in June, but I don't value him quite that high, mostly due to his lack of elite level offensive abilities.

[cross16]

I actually agree on Gauthier. I really like him but I don't think he is a high end/high impact prospect. he should be taken in the 10-15 range IMO but likely will go higher. Very simlar to Lawson Crouse last year althought so far I do think Gauthier release is better than Crouse's but I also think Crouse handles the puck better. 

 

Wouldn't shock me to see Gauthier fall a little bit like Crouse did last year. I agree completely with what Crzy said about safe picks but I also think you are seeing a bit of a change there. With scoring continuing to trend down or flat line I think GMs are feeling the pressure to add talent into their organization and if that means taking a bit of a smaller player who is very skilled I think more are starting to lean that way. Not all, but some. 

[The_People1]

Crouse's size was a bit of an anomaly in last year's top 12.  This year however, Gauthier's size somewhat negated by the size of the others because size is abundant in the top 12. So, the separation between one player to the next will come down to skill.

Puljujarvi is dominating the WJC right now he has 15 points in 6 games, Rantanen has 4 points. I have Puljujarvi number 2 on my board, I think he is much better than Rantanen and I really like Rantanen.

 

As of right now here is my top 10:

 

1.Matthews

2.Puljujarvi

3.Chychrun

4.Laine

5.Tkachuk

6.Nylander

7.Gauthier

8.Dubois

9.McLeod

10.Keller

I would have to agree, I think at the same age Puljujarvi is better than Rantanen. Puljujarvi has been one of the best forwards at the World Juniors and while I agree and understand the World Juniors arn't everything its still very, very tough for 17/18 year olds to stand out and he did. Was dominant and next to impossible to contain/shut down and thats pretty special.

 

I'm personaly really liking the top 8 or so prospects in the draft rankings so far. I think it falls off after that and then is a good but not great year althought I do find the more research/scouting you do and the more you read about it the better you end up liking the draft this year. I do think though that the top 6 or 7 in this year's class are as good if not better than the same range last year. There is some pretty rare blends of size/skill at the top of this year's draft. 

 

Don't get me wrong, I think like Puljujarvi is an excellent prospect but I just feel Rantanen was better last season.  But ya, can't argue with Puljujarvi's WJC performance and certainly if the Flames manage to draft him, he would be a great fit.  RHS RW with size and scoring.  He's like the missing piece to the Flames puzzle.

[jjgallow]

So where is the cutoff?  Where can one expect a reasonable chance at a franchise player this year?   

 

Top 8?

[Cowtownguy]

How many heads are going to explode if Edmonton gets another top 2-3 pick? They cannot get another 1st this year can they?

[cross16]

How many heads are going to explode if Edmonton gets another top 2-3 pick? They cannot get another 1st this year can they?

 

 

Yes they can. Process is still a randon draw althought now they are going to draw for picks 1, 2 and 3 so worst team can now potential pick 4th where under old rules they could pick no lower than 2.

 

I'm not overly concerned about Edmonton getting another 2-3 pick. They are going to have a cap mess on their hands in 2 seasons when McDavid is up anyway so they really only have 2 more seasons to make headway with whoever they get in the draft this year and unless they get someone who can right away play in their top pairing on D (not happening BTW) I'm not too worried. 

[The_People1]

Yes they can. Process is still a randon draw althought now they are going to draw for picks 1, 2 and 3 so worst team can now potential pick 4th where under old rules they could pick no lower than 2.

 

I'm not overly concerned about Edmonton getting another 2-3 pick. They are going to have a cap mess on their hands in 2 seasons when McDavid is up anyway so they really only have 2 more seasons to make headway with whoever they get in the draft this year and unless they get someone who can right away play in their top pairing on D (not happening BTW) I'm not too worried. 

 

I thought only the top 2 picks are lotteries... ? 

 

In any event, this "cap hell" thing is overrated because assets like a top 3 pick can be readily converted into cost effective depth players.  Cap hell only applies when you have depth players signed to expensive contracts... ie. Lecavalier, Mike Richards, etc. 

[cross16]

I thought only the top 2 picks are lotteries... ? 

 

In any event, this "cap hell" thing is overrated because assets like a top 3 pick can be readily converted into cost effective depth players.  Cap hell only applies when you have depth players signed to expensive contracts... ie. Lecavalier, Mike Richards, etc. 

 

 

Top 3 according to this http://www.nhl.com/ice/news.htm?id=728795

 

While cap hell may not be the appropriate term the Oilers are going to have a situation on their hands. Draisaitl,McDavid and Nurse are all going to need new deals in 2 more years and they will still have Klefboom, Sekera, Eberle, RNH and Hall under contract. I get it is an asset I jsut don't think it will be as beneficial becuase they won't be able to keep everyone. It won't tip the scales to suddenly make them a cup contender I guess if what I was trying to say. 

[The_People1]

Top 3 according to this http://www.nhl.com/ice/news.htm?id=728795

 

While cap hell may not be the appropriate term the Oilers are going to have a situation on their hands. Draisaitl,McDavid and Nurse are all going to need new deals in 2 more years and they will still have Klefboom, Sekera, Eberle, RNH and Hall under contract. I get it is an asset I jsut don't think it will be as beneficial becuase they won't be able to keep everyone. It won't tip the scales to suddenly make them a cup contender I guess if what I was trying to say. 

 

If something is an asset, then it cannot be a liability by definition.  An asset is intrinsically beneficial.

 

I always thought it was just the top 2 picks being lotteries.  They really should just make the top 3 picks unweighted and then revert back to standings/playoff finishes for the remainder of the first round.  But ya, theoretically, the Oilers can get a #1 pick again if they finish last again in the standings.

[cross16]

If something is an asset, then it cannot be a liability by definition.  An asset is intrinsically beneficial.

 

I always thought it was just the top 2 picks being lotteries.  They really should just make the top 3 picks unweighted and then revert back to standings/playoff finishes for the remainder of the first round.  But ya, theoretically, the Oilers can get a #1 pick again if they finish last again in the standings.

 

 

I never said it was a liability and in fact I said it was an asset. 

 

All i'm saying is personaly I'm not going to freak out if the OIlers get another top pick because they still have several holes that 1 draft pick or 1 top prospect can't fix and that the cap is going to be an issue for them very soon. 

[DirtyDeeds]

I never said it was a liability and in fact I said it was an asset. 

 

All i'm saying is personaly I'm not going to freak out if the OIlers get another top pick because they still have several holes that 1 draft pick or 1 top prospect can't fix and that the cap is going to be an issue for them very soon. 

They are headed in this direction. They will have to trade some of those picks(players) It would not surprize me if they traded their pick(even #1 if they lucked out) this year for a top pairing D guy.

[The_People1]

I never said it was a liability and in fact I said it was an asset. 

 

All i'm saying is personaly I'm not going to freak out if the OIlers get another top pick because they still have several holes that 1 draft pick or 1 top prospect can't fix and that the cap is going to be an issue for them very soon. 

 

Fair enough.

 

I'm just saying, as long as players perform to their contract, then Cap Hell is a non-issue because these players would be an asset rather than a liability.

[AlbertaBoy12]

They are headed in this direction. They will have to trade some of those picks(players) It would not surprize me if they traded their pick(even #1 if they lucked out) this year for a top pairing D guy.

I can only imagine what the return would be on that as every team would want that shot at matthews. Arizona would probably be giving up a couple good d prospects or ekman-larson for that kind of talent.

[cross16]

Fair enough.

 

I'm just saying, as long as players perform to their contract, then Cap Hell is a non-issue because these players would be an asset rather than a liability.

 

Agreed and your right "cap hell" was not a good choice of words on my part. I guess what i was trying to say was that its not like the OIlers are going to keep collecting all this talent and will wind up being so good. The cap is going to preven them from hoarding talent just like it has for the Hawks but your right it does give them an option to take form a surplus and add to a need. 

[Crzydrvr]

So where is the cutoff?  Where can one expect a reasonable chance at a franchise player this year?   

 

Top 8?

 

I consider 5 players in this draft to have franchise cornerstone upside without question: The top 4 of Matthews, Puljujarvi, Laine and Chychrun, as well as Clayton Keller. All are top 3 talents in my mind, and guys who could become not just top line players, but elite top line players who you would build around. The "core" of a core, so to speak.

 

Another 7 or so players would in my mind be considered Top Tens as well, and would (in my mind) be reasonably expected to become top line players at some point in their career. That would be the next tier, with Dubois, Nylander, Tkachuk, Sergachyov, Rubtsov, Fabbro and Juolevi. Outside of the aforementioned 12, there are a number of players who could conceivably hit that point, but most have warts that make it less likely to happen. The Josts, Browns, Bellows and Krys' of the world. Higher risk, but high upside players.

 

So depending on your definition of "franchise" player, it could be as little as 3, or as many as 14 or 15. It's a very deep draft at the top.

[cross16]

Cryzrdvr was curious as to your thoughts about Dillon Dube. Sounds like you like him based on your report but do you also see him as a guy on the rise? I admit I'm a Rockets fan so potentially biased but I feel like with the way he is trending he could be a top 25 or maybe top 20 pick by the tine the draft rolls around. Very well rounded player who I've had my eye on since the Memorial Cup and a guy I'd love for the flames to target.

[conundrumed]

17th please. I've watched him lots, daydream of a Flames uni.

Physical. Annoying. Dangerous.

Yes please.