2016 NHL Draft Thread

[Crzydrvr]

Feel free to talk all about the draft and the days leading up to it in this all-encompassing thread.

 

Crzy's Final Rankings, 2016, 1-30

 

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

[6'2.25", 216 lbs][Lefty][PROSPECT GRADE: S]
[36 GP, 24 G, 22 A, 46 Pts, 6 PIM, +16][NHL Comparable: Eric Staal]
Potential Peak: Hockey Hall of Famer and franchise savior
Projection: Elite top line Center, perennial 75+ point player in his prime

Bust Factor: None; barring injuries, will spend at least a decade in the NHL

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: Still number one on my list, but not by much. Oozes hockey sense and is a difference maker all 200 feet of the ice. Plenty of room for growth in terms of spacing defensively, but shows great anticipation and likes to cut off passing lanes which could suggest that he has more room for growth in that area of the ice. Already a complete player in the other 2 zones. Puck protection is elite, hands are great, has a scorer’s shot (which can still be refined in terms of accuracy) and overall has all the tools needed for success. A mature player and has the off-ice work ethic and personality to bear the burden of being a franchise player in any market.

 

I don’t think he’s an elite two-way player immediately, nor do I think he’ll be that true shutdown center in the mold of an Anze Kopitar, but he reminds me of Eric Staal pre-Edler knee on knee. Excellent footwork and quick first step allow him to burst by defenders, while his size and shot make him a threat to score from anywhere in the offensive zone. Staal was a two-way force and a strong possession player in his own right and Matthews can be a similarly impactful player, if not more so.
 

 

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

[6'3.75", 201 lbs][Righty][PROSPECT GRADE: A+]
[46 GP, 17 G, 16 A, 33 Pts, 6 PIM, +6][NHL Comparable: n/a]
Potential Peak: Hall of Fame scoring winger
Projection: Top line scoring forward, 70+ point player in his prime

Bust Factor: Moderate; might need some developmental time to reach full potential

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

Aggregate Score: 60.5

 

Report: Monstrous winger with the kind of raw potential only seen maybe once a decade. Big and strong, not a super physical player but can throw his weight around and has the wingspan of a condor to boot. Smart player offensively, somehow manages to find openings in the defense and create chances despite being the biggest player on the ice more often than not. Best one-timer in the draft since Stamkos, and arguably even better than that. Great hands, holds the puck with his size and stickhandling and is an underrated playmaker. Will need improvement defensively in terms of neutral zone positioning and lane coverage, but shows effort on the backcheck and is not a completely one-dimensional player; would be much improved with better agility and acceleration.

 

Besides position, could make an argument the only difference between Laine and Matthews lies mostly in the intangibles that they bring. Matthews brings the Crosby/Tavares/McDavid personality in front of the media, very serious and careful not to make a mistake (not surprising, given he shares an agency with the former 2). Laine is in the mold of a young Ovechkin, very much excitable and joyful no matter who he’s around. Both fill a role in the locker room, although I could see old-school types prefer Matthews as captaincy letter material over Laine. Without question, Laine’s season might be the most “exceptional” of any draft prospect of the past few seasons just in terms of storyline alone, having won just about everything he could and playing the keynote role with every team he played for.

 

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

[6'4", 203 lbs][Righty][PROSPECT GRADE: A+]
[50 GP, 13 G, 15 A, 28 Pts, 22 PIM, +5][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: 8.0
Potential: 9.5

Aggregate Score: 60.0

 

Report: Could have even more raw potential than Laine; the fact that these two are in the same draft, and moreso are not fighting it out as the consensus top ranked forwards, speaks volumes to the strength of number 1. Not as physical as Laine, but a smoother skater and is a better two-way player thanks to his smarts and speed. Still seems to be working through some issues with his accuracy in-game, but has the potential to score 30+ goals at the NHL level. A mature player and could make the adjustment to the NHL faster than Laine, in terms of earning his minutes and trust from the coaching staff.

 

Super well-rounded forward with no glaring weaknesses to his game, although there are times you’d wish he would do something to stand out more from the crowd. Definitely athletically gifted, although he lacks the pure strength of a Laine. His major gift is his ridiculous lung capacity; supposedly clocking a VO2 max around 74 in informal sessions in Finland, that puts him on par with some of the best marathon and middle distance runners on the entire planet (for comparison’s sake, Lance Armstrong clocks in at 84.0, and the current 1 mile world record holder clocks in at 77.0). If you’re looking for a player who can keep up deep into a playoff overtime game, you won’t find many better choices than Puljujarvi.

 

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

[6'2.5", 205 lbs][Lefty][PROSPECT GRADE: A]
[62 GP, 42 G, 57 A, 99 Pts, 112 PIM, +40][NHL Comparable: Jamie Benn]
Potential Peak: Elite two-way forward and franchise face
Projection: Top line power forward, perennial 60+ point player in his prime

Bust Factor: Low; very well-rounded player and has some agitator traits

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

Aggregate Score: 59.0

 

Report: Still just as feisty as before, a pest with immense talent and a well-rounded game. Had a slightly disappointing playoff run, but nevertheless remains Canada’s best bet to be a top line scoring threat in the NHL out of this draft. Tough to overlook his offensive tools, although he has an advantage based on the league he plays in. Plays a powerful game, drives the net hard, has good hands, and a scorer’s mentality to boot. Footwork and acceleration could use work, but nevertheless is a good skater and not a huge weakness. Will need another year or two in all likelihood before playing in the NHL fulltime, but the pure potential is mouth-watering.

 

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

[5'10", 164 lbs][Lefty][PROSPECT GRADE: A]
[62 GP, 37 G, 70 A, 107 Pts, 40 PIM][NHL Comparable: Patrick Kane]
Potential Peak: All-Star scoring winger, perennial PPG player
Projection: Top Line playmaking winger, 65+ 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: 8.0
Potential: 9.5

Aggregate Score: 59.0

 

Report: Has added a more well-rounded element to his game as the year went on. Heavily relied on for faceoffs and playing PK minutes by the end of the season, Keller might have more defensive potential than originally thought, a la Claude Giroux. That’s in addition to his offensive exploits and zone entry wizardry. That being said, he’s probably going to end up on the wing, while still taking charge of the entry points and transition responsibilities.

 

There’s nothing I can say here that hasn’t otherwise already been said besides those points. He’s just that good. I’m extremely tempted to move him up to 4^th but Dubois’ size and snarl factor gives him the slightest of edges. Keller was dominant against just about anyone he faced, whether it be fellow top prospects, other USHL teams, NCAA squads, the whole 9 yards. Arguably the smartest player in the offensive zone in the entire draft, the best playmaker in the entire draft, and doesn’t shy away from the rough stuff, someone is going to be very lucky.

 

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

[6'2", 200 lbs][Lefty][PROSPECT GRADE: A]
[62 GP, 11 G, 38 A, 49 Pts, 51 PIM, +23][NHL Comparable: Rob Blake]
Potential Peak: All-Star two-way defenseman
Projection: Top pairing two-way defenseman, perennial 40+ point player in his prime

Bust Factor: Moderate; reoccurring injury issues are a concern

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

Aggregate Score: 58.5

 

Report: I still think he’s the best defenseman in the draft, if only by a hair. Arguably regressed compared to his rookie season in the OHL, although he picked up his play towards the end of the season somewhat. There’s a lot to like about his toolset and I think his overall hockey sense is better than being given credit for. In my opinion Chychrun remains the only defender in the first round with legitimate number 1 defenseman potential at this point in time, although he needs to be given the time to develop into that role like Alex Pietrangelo. A clear example of a player who needs a strong organizational development path in order to achieve anything close to his potential. Definitely has the biggest bust factor of the top 4 defensemen in the sense that if he doesn’t work out he’s likely a weak number 4 or 5 defender at the NHL level.

 

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

[5'11", 190 pds][Lefty][PROSPECT GRADE: A]
[48 GP, 42 G, 62 A, 104 Pts, 43 PIM][NHL Comparable: Logan Couture]
Potential Peak: Elite scoring forward and perennial All-Star
Projection: Top line forward, 55+ point player in his prime

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

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: Dominated the U18s with Canada, and was IMO among the best 3 forwards in the entire tournament along with Keller and Brown. Excellent skater, can be physical and feisty when needed, has tremendous finish and excellent passing abilities and vision. Soft hands allow him to make plays in tights space. Protects the puck well but needs to build more strength in his core and legs, in order to improve his balance and keep him on his feet when fighting off defenders.

 

Will need probably a year or two in order to fully build up his body, but the guy has the talent to be a premier top line forward, capable of playing whatever role is asked of him. Originally I thought he’d be a winger at the NHL level, but he’s shown enough that he could very well be a top 20 center in the league someday.

 

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

[6'1", 200 pds][Lefty][PROSPECT GRADE: A]
[57 GP, 30 G, 77 A, 107 Pts, 80 PIM, +45][NHL Comparable: James van Riemsdyk]
Potential Peak: All-Star power forward/pest
Projection: Top line power winger, 55+ point player in his prime

Bust Factor: Low; questions about actual upside and talent

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

Aggregate Score: 58.5

 

Report: Definitely raised his draft stock with an outstanding performance through the OHL playoffs. A really gritty forward, has the skills to play a run and gun game but is at his best when he’s tough in the corners, parking himself in front of the net and generally being a ***** to play against. Wore off a little in the Memorial Cup.

 

Will play in the NHL in some capacity, and that alone makes him a very valuable asset in the draft. After the 1^st overall selections there aren’t many prospects out there who are as safe a bet to hitch your horse to.

 

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

[6'0.5", 192 pds][Righty][PROSPECT GRADE: A]
[45 GP, 14 G, 53 A, 67 Pts, 30 PIM][NHL Comparable: Kevin Shattenkirk]
Potential Peak: Elite two-way defenseman
Projection: Top pairing defenseman, 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: 7.5
Potential: 9.0

Aggregate Score: 58.0

 

Report: Not the biggest defenseman. That being said, his ability to move the puck in transition, play the gap, and place his stick in the right spots all scream “elite hockey sense”. A good skater who will be much improved with more strength, Fabbro is mobile and elusive, two qualities that make him suited to today’s NHL with its heavy emphasis on the forecheck. A very effective PP QB with an accurate shot, and knows when and where to place it in order to generate a rebound opportunity or a redirection. Will need two years in the NCAA before turning pro at least, but his overall skillset might make him the best defender in this draft in 10 years’ time.

 

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

[6'0.5", 178 pds][Righty][PROSPECT GRADE: A]
[57 GP, 28 G, 47 A, 75 Pts, 18 PIM, +8][NHL Comparable: Kristian Huselius]
Potential Peak: All-Star offensive talent, PPG player in his prime
Projection: Top line offensive winger, 60+ point player in his prime

Bust Factor: High; still one-dimensional, but extremely talented

Offense: 9.5
Defense: 7.0
Physicality: 7.5
Skating: 9.0
Intangibles: 8.0
NHL-Readiness: 7.5
Potential: 9.5

Aggregate Score: 58.0

 

Report: Outstanding offensive dynamo with the complete arsenal of tricks. Variety of shots, excellent playmaker with arguably the best hands in the draft. Skating is elite and allows him to make quick movements and burst by opposing players, tremendous footwork and acceleration allow him to move in all directions. Not a really engaged player defensively, definitely a weak point in his game (although he rebounded with an outstanding playoff performance and a solid U18 run). Has pretty good reach for a player of his style of play, but doesn’t play a physical game. Still, considering what he can do offensively (and the numbers do not tell the whole story for him in this particular case), he’s very worthy of being one of the top draft selections in 2016.

 

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

[6'2", 182 pds][Lefty][PROSPECT GRADE: A]
[57 GP, 9 G, 33 A, 42 Pts, 16 PIM, +38][NHL Comparable: Anton Stralman/Ryan Suter]
Potential Peak: Elite two-way defenseman
Projection: Top pairing defenseman, 35-45 point player in his prime

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

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

Aggregate Score: 58.0

 

Report: Still just as elite a transition player. Still an effortless skater. Still an excellent defender. Just a very effective player in all areas of the ice. Juolevi isn’t likely to be that PP QB or a dominating producer from the backend, but he’s the prototypical modern NHL defenseman who can move pucks to your forwards and drive possession metrics. He makes the forwards’ jobs so much easier and it’s very easy to see why he’s so heavily thought of. If he has a weakness, it’s his thin frame and lack of physicality, but everything else is well above average. Just a solid, solid player whose production might vary but overall effectiveness remains constant.

 

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

[6'2.25", 221 pds][Lefty][PROSPECT GRADE: A]
[67 GP, 17 G, 40 A, 57 Pts, 56 PIM, +15][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; more of a risk-reward gambler than the other top defensemen

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: The most gamebreaking player this draft has to offer among defensemen. Loves to rush the puck, bomb of a shot and excellent QB in the offensive zone, in addition to his size and overall range of coverage with his wingspan and skating. Not the most physically aggressive player but willing to throw the big hit. Bit of a riskier player, not as intuitive a defender as a guy like Juolevi and needs to iron out some bad habits but has more creativity offensively to make up for it; has had moments where he looks lackadaisical and nonchalant with his play though. Was given more leeway to make plays compared to the other 2 big name OHL defenders from this draft. That being said, he’s going to be an NHLer; just 3 other 18-year olds (Bryan Berard, Aaron Ekblad and Ryan Ellis) and 5 first-time draft-eligibles (Drew Doughty and Chris Pronger were late-birthdates) have won the award for top OHL defensemen in the last 25 years, and that’s a pretty stellar group of names to be associated with.

 

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

[6'6.25", 220 pds][Lefty][PROSPECT GRADE: A]
[59 GP, 21 G, 53 A, 74 Pts, 40 PIM, +24][NHL Comparable: Joe Thornton]
Potential Peak: Elite playmaking center, in the mold of a Mats Sundin
Projection: Borderline 1st/2nd line playmaking center, 50+ point player in his prime

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

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

Aggregate Score: 57.5

 

Report: Pure playmaker with the kind of frame that makes scouts drool. Excellent puckhandler with a pinpoint pass. Vastly improved level of engagement in the second half, showed off his puck protection abilities and size to excellent effect and was at times dominant everywhere on the ice. Not a great shooter, has a bit of a slow release and isn’t terribly accurate; I originally thought he was just unwilling to shoot but after seeing him more I realized he may have been compensating earlier in the season for this weakness, which explains quite a bit. Reminds me of Ryan Johansen in the way he’s rocketed up draft boards, big (literally) riser who is likely to be a top 10 pick with his performance over the second half, and even has an outside shot at finding himself in the top 5 or 6, which would be a massive surprise just like 2010.

 

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

[6'0", 197 pds][Lefty][PROSPECT GRADE: A]
[62 GP, 50 G, 31 A, 81 Pts, 101 PIM][NHL Comparable: James Neal]
Potential Peak: Elite scoring forward, All-Star sniper
Projection: Borderline 1st/2nd line scoring forward, 50+ point player in his prime

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

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

Aggregate Score: 57.5

 

Report: If you’re looking for a goal scorer, this guy is your man. A sniper who plays a power forward game, Bellows is as truculent a player as there is in the draft. Not overly big but gets in your face and is probably guilty of being undisciplined at many times. Shot is both heavy and accurate with a quick release, allowing him to get it off from anywhere and everywhere. Good hands and stickhandling help create space. Defensively hounds the opponents and has solid defensive positioning and awareness. Can get tunnel vision and not going to be a big assists guy at higher levels, will probably be sticking to generating rebounds for apples. Quick skater with good mobility. Dogged and determined guy who fits in well anywhere in your top 9.

 

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

[6'0.5", 190 pds][Lefty][PROSPECT GRADE: A]
[28 GP, 12 G, 14 A, 26 Pts, 10 PIM, +12][NHL Comparable: Ryan O’Reilly]
Potential Peak: Top line two-way forward
Projection: 2nd line two-way center, 45+ point player in his prime

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

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

Aggregate Score: 57.5

 

Report: Will be a massive wildcard on draft day, but the talent is there. Slowed down offensively in the second half of the season and then got caught up in the doping scandal. That being said, he’s got all the tools and has loads of hockey sense to boot. Fast, mobile and agile skater, plays a harder game than his size would indicate, excellent variety of shots and a quick release, strong playmaker with good vision and the ability to open up space, and a faceoff and defensive ace for his team. Probably the best defensive center Russia has produced in years, a very responsible player with a great sense of where to positioning his body and stick, as well as a relentless attitude on the backcheck. Could be a home run, but a very safe floor if he avoids the lure of big money back home.

 

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

[6'2", 185 pds][Lefty][PROSPECT GRADE: A]
[57 GP, 21 G, 40 A, 61 Pts, 71 PIM, +10][NHL Comparable: David Legwand]
Potential Peak: Top line playmaking center
Projection: 2nd line two-way center, 40-50 point player in his prime

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

 

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: He might only have dropped a few spots in my rankings, but make no mistake; he had a hugely disappointing end to the season in my mind. The U18s are one thing, but when you watch him play you really wonder whether he’s relying too much on his skating in order to create. At the NHL level where everyone is a good skater, his advantage is far less pronounced (it was already less of a factor against the best U18s in the world rather than the regular OHLers he faced during the season). I think he’s a safe bet to be a Darren Helm type forward at the NHL level, but there needs to be major upgrades in his shot accuracy and release, and he has the tendency to slow down when he receives the puck unlike, say, a Nathan MacKinnon type. Physically, he has all the tools to be a good second line center, and he has some playmaking and stickhandling skills, but I’m not sold on the overall package. He’ll score 80 points in the OHL next year though.

 

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

[5'11.25", 193 pds][Righty][PROSPECT GRADE: A]
[34 GP, 19 G, 13 A, 32 Pts, 34 PIM, -9][NHL Comparable: Mike Fisher]
Potential Peak: Top line scoring forward
Projection: 2nd line scoring forward, 45+ point player in his prime

Bust Factor: Moderate; a likely NHLer, but needs 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

 

Report: Definitely impressed as the year went on. Surprisingly small (but built like a truck) for his style of play, but still showed excellent smarts and offensive instincts that suggest he could conceivably score 25+ goals at the NHL level. Great finisher, plays hard and has good defensive instincts. Needs to get stronger on his skates and needs to improve his acceleration in order to fully utilize his skills. Not quite as smooth on the visuals as a guy like Rubtsov or McLeod, plays a more direct game with more straight up and down the ice play. A really goo bet in a draft that’s very wide open, could move up and down the draft board based on where teams see other players.

 

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

[5'11", 185 pds][Lefty][PROSPECT GRADE: B+]
[68 GP, 13 G, 46 A, 59 Pts, 18 PIM, +18][NHL Comparable: Keith Yandle]
Potential Peak: Top pairing two-way defenseman
Projection: 2nd pairing offensive defenseman, 35+ point player in his prime

Bust Factor: Moderate; has had a massive development curve

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

Aggregate Score: 57.0

 

Report: His biggest weakness is that he needs to fill out; once he does that, not only is he better capable of handling stronger forwards in tough areas of the ice but his skating power and overall speed and acceleration should also jump accordingly. As it is now, he’s a super smart and agile defenseman who can feed passes in traffic and run a PP. Went from bad defensively to one of Stan Butler’s most reliable defenders, not unlike what T.J. Brodie ended up going through in his time in the OHL. A bit of a gamble, but he’s a high-reward player and fits the modern mold of what a defender should be to a T, with his vision and mobility.

 

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

[6'1", 174 pds][Righty][PROSPECT GRADE: A-]
[56 GP, 23 G, 45 A, 68 Pts, 64 PIM, -3][NHL Comparable: Antoine Vermette]
Potential Peak: Top line two-way center (with shades of Patrice Bergeron?)
Projection: 2nd line two-way forward, 40-50 point player in his prime

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

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: Another big riser, though his final draft position will depend on whether teams feel his offensive production is because of his skillset or because of the league he plays in. Needs bulking up but shows shades of bringing a strong netfront presence. Very effective skater, good acceleration and footwork allow him to make quick movements with or without the puck. Primarily a playmaker, has very good puckhandling skills but could stand to use his excellent shot more. Nonstop motor allows him to be a threat on the forecheck and defensively, although he still has room for growth. All in all, a complete player who still has some untapped offensive upside in there.

 

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

[6'2", 203 pds][Lefty][PROSPECT GRADE: A]
[63 GP, 28 G, 24 A, 52 Pts, 106 PIM, +30][NHL Comparable: Chris Kreider/Dustin Brown]
Potential Peak: A faster Milan Lucic
Projection: Borderline 2nd/3rd line power forward, 40+ point player in his prime

Bust Factor: Moderate; should translate into depth role if needed, but could go the Kassian route

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

Aggregate Score: 57.0

 

Report: He’ll be drafted high on one basis alone; he brings the kind of game that no other player in this draft does. An absolute terror to defend with his frame and shot. Doesn’t have the same kind of vision and offensive awareness that a pure playmaker might, but is not as bad as people tend to think due to his playstyle. Shot is powerful but needs accuracy, not a pure finisher. Undisciplined and will need to find a balance between punishing guys and going too far; tends to overcommit to checks and ends up leaning in with his upper body too much, which not only exposes him if he misses (which doesn’t happen much because when he commits, he commits HARD) but also tends to leave a wake of devastating injuries, which looks really bad on a resume.

 

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

[6'0.25", 199 pds][Righty][PROSPECT GRADE: A]
[37 GP, 3 G, 22 A, 25 Pts, 56 PIM, +10][NHL Comparable: Trevor Daley]
Potential Peak: Top pairing two-way defenseman
Projection: 2nd pairing two-way defenseman, 30+ point player in his prime

Bust Factor: Moderate; should turn into an NHLer, but needs to improve decision-making in order to hit potential

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 defenseman who can make an impact everywhere on the ice. Can make breakout passes and runs the point on the PP extremely well. Excellent 4-way skater who toes the line on the point and covers a lot of ice thanks to his skating and balance. Good puck rusher but needs to work on his shot, which lacks the power of some other players in the draft; accurate wrister but not a lot of sizzle. Plays a physical game but on bad days can be hit or miss with his judgment calls on the pinch, can sometimes get caught trying to make the big hit. A noted gym rat with a ridiculous physique, and a high potential player who will need to adjust to the NHL game.

 

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

[5'10.25", 176 pds][Lefty][PROSPECT GRADE: A]
[46 GP, 4 G, 8 A, 12 Pts, 16 PIM, +10][NHL Comparable: Justin Williams]
Potential Peak: 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 assert himself offensively

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

Aggregate Score: 57.0

 

Report: Slightly undersized but effective. Excellent skater all-around, having good footwork and acceleration, a top speed that causes problems for pro-level defenders and the edgework and strength to make quick cuts inside or out and power to the net. Quick release and hockey sense is strong, not a highlight-reel player but consistently makes the right play in order to create scoring chances. Very effective defensively with his speed and smarts and can take draws. A very well-rounded player, although not the most physical; far from soft though.

 

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

[6'3", 231 pds][Righty][PROSPECT GRADE: A]
[54 GP, 41 G, 16 A, 57 Pts, 24 PIM, +24][NHL Comparable: Rick Nash]
Potential Peak: Top line power forward
Projection: 2nd line power winger, 40-50 point player in his prime

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

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

Aggregate Score: 57.0

 

Report: If nothing else, was arguably the most physically impressive specimen at the draft combine. A big guy who knows how to use his size to protect the puck and create havoc offensively. Doesn’t pile on the penalty minutes either, which makes him in some ways a more enticing power forward prospect than a Max Jones for example. Excellent skater with netdriving abilities. A responsible player defensively who can be counted on to be in the right spots more often than not. Not a great playmaker, and was used accordingly by his coach this year lowering his assist totals even further, although he has the hands to make a play. Needs to be more engaged in order to fully utilize his tools.

 

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

[5'11.5", 195 pds][Lefty][PROSPECT GRADE: A]
[49 GP, 7 G, 9 A, 16 Pts, 53 PIM, -2][NHL Comparable: Andrew Ladd/Patric Hornqvist]
Potential Peak: Top line scoring forward
Projection: Borderline 2nd/3rd 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: Underrated forward has a very well-rounded skillset. Plays a very simple game, not a highlight-reel stickhandling type. North-south, make the right play and go to the net type. Skating allows him to open up lanes and be a threat off the rush. Very good defensive player who backchecks hard. Not a punishing physical player, but he can lay some big hits and is a very stocky build. Not a super high-upside player, but a very good complementary type forward who can do the dirty work and be a bit of a pest to play against.

 

25. (43) F Jonathan Dahlén, Timra IK (SWE-2) [20/12/97]

[5'11", 178 pds][Lefty][PROSPECT GRADE: A-]
[51 GP, 15 G, 14 A, 29 Pts, 8 PIM, +/-0][NHL Comparable: Jeff Skinner]
Potential Peak: Top line scoring winger
Projection: 2nd line scoring forward, 45+ point player in his prime

Bust Factor: High; Small and not a prototypical elite skater to boot

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: Turned heads with his tremendous performance towards the end of the season. An offensive dynamo with slick hands and a highlight reel full of big goals from Timra’s late-season and playoff run. Sneaky quick release and has some accuracy to his wrister, and an excellent playmaker with the ability to see the ice and play one step ahead of defenders. Skating stride is choppy, and his top speed isn’t out of the ordinary, but Dahlen is excellent at creating space by using his edgework and agility; in other words, his skating is very suitable for his style of play. Doesn’t shy away from rough play and defensively the effort is there, but he still displays an offense-first mindset which can cause him to break out early. A potential gamebreaker, which this late in the draft is very rare and valuable.

 

26. (66) D Dennis Cholowski, Chilliwack Chiefs (BCHL) [15/02/98]

[6'1", 177 pds][Righty][PROSPECT GRADE: A-]
[50 GP, 12 G, 28 A, 40 Pts, 16 PIM, +2][NHL Comparable: Andrei Markov]
Potential Peak: Top pairing two-way defenseman
Projection: 2nd pairing two-way defenseman, 30+ point player in his prime

Bust Factor: High; has a long development path waiting but the raw ability is outstanding

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

Aggregate Score: 56.5

 

Report: If it weren’t for Fabbro, Cholowski would be the best defender the BCHL has produced in over a decade. Super smart and always seemingly in the right position to make a play either offensively or defensively. Slick passer with soft hands and the vision and accuracy to make things happen in transition. A mobile skater with good footwork but his lack of muscle means that his top speed and balance aren’t where they could be. Defensively is at his finest when getting the puck out of the zone with a quick outlet pass, but is excellent at keeping opponents to the outside with his active stickwork and positioning. Shot is good, but is more importantly accurate and quick to get off.

 

If I had to make the call I might push him even higher on the list just by virtue of potential alone. Honestly, I like Dahlen and Cholowski more than a few of the names ahead of them on my draft board.

 

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

[5'11.5", 197 pds][Lefty][PROSPECT GRADE: A-]
[30 GP, 9 G, 19 A, 28 Pts, 46 PIM, +/-0][NHL Comparable: Marian Hossa]
Potential Peak: Top line two-way winger
Projection: Borderline 2nd/3rd line playmaking winger, 40+ point player in his prime

Bust Factor: High; has had a tough year with injuries and a bad team

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

Aggregate Score: 56.5

 

Report: Another highly touted player who had an iffy draft year, though to a larger extent than the likes of Chychrun and Bitten. Suffered through injuries and probably came back too early, for a team that was outmatched on a frequent basis last season. Has good offensive instincts and is overall a very good playmaker and distributor when he can. A good netfront presence and has an excellent shot, can finish plays with accurate wristers or a powerful one-timer. Understands where to be defensively and is a decent backchecker. His biggest weakness comes from the team he plays on; Benson brings a gritty game but is overly relied on for everything on a team that lacks depth. Has led to overexposed risk of injury and an inconsistent level of effort, from a player that was widely considered to be one of the hardest workers in the draft. The talent is there, but he needs time to recover and will be slower coming along in large part due to his environment in juniors.

 

28. (30) D Kale Clague, Brandon Wheat Kings (WHL) [

[5'11.75", 184 pds][Lefty][PROSPECT GRADE: A-]
[71 GP, 6 G, 37 A, 43 Pts, 54 PIM, +25][NHL Comparable: T.J. Brodie]
Potential Peak: Top pairing two-way defenseman
Projection: 2nd pairing two-way defenseman, 25+ point player in his prime

Bust Factor: High; needs to continue developing his all-round game

 

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: Tremendous second half has him as a possible 1^st round candidate once again. Definitely not the most physically imposing defender and will need to bulk up. One of the best skaters in the draft, top speed, acceleration and all-around mobility are elite and allow him to make rushes with the puck and cover a wider range defensively. Surprisingly effective defensively, helped along by his elite skating, although will need to continue developing that part of his game. Excellent passer and a very competent powerplay point man, but likely isn’t going to be a major force at the NHL level. Hard point shot and an accurate wrister to boot, allowing him the ability to threaten from the outside or get the puck on net. A project pick that likely won’t be in the NHL for at least 3 years, but has a lot of upside that may make the wait worth it.

 

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

[5'10", 167 pds][Lefty][PROSPECT GRADE: A-]
[67 GP, 30 G, 35 A, 65 Pts, 32 PIM, -29][NHL Comparable: Zach Parise]
Potential Peak: Top line scoring forward
Projection: 2nd line energy 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: 7.5
Physicality: 8.0
Skating: 9.0
Intangibles: 8.0
NHL-Readiness: 7.0
Potential: 8.5

Aggregate Score: 56.5

 

Report: A likely dropper, if only because of the team he plays for at the current moment. Being trapped in limbo with Flint and basically unsure of where he’ll be next season isn’t good for purposes of draft placement. Massive credit for being the driver of the Firebirds despite his age and size. Elite acceleration makes him a breakaway threat, has good hands, some finishing touch and a quick release and solid passing abilities. Plays like Sam Bennett did in his draft year defensively, a pitbull who will fight you again and again until he retrieves the puck. I don’t know if he has elite hockey sense, but the character and heart is there to be an NHL scorer.

 

30. (48) F Riley Tufte, Blaine High Bengals (USHS-MN)/Fargo Force (USHL) [10/04/98]

[6'5", 211 pds][Lefty][PROSPECT GRADE: A-]
[25 GP, 47 G, 31A, 78Pts, 53PIM][NHL Comparable: Rick Nash]
Potential Peak: Top line scoring winger
Projection: 2nd line scoring winger, 45+ point player in his prime

Bust Factor: High; proven to score at HS level, but adjustment to the USHL was not pretty

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

Aggregate Score: 56.0

 

Report: Lots of potential but easily the most raw prospect out of the top rounds of the draft. Very skilled and with his size, unstoppable with Blaine High; good stickhandler and quick release make him a threat to score in close. Skating is excellent especially for his size, with the mobility of a smaller player. A good passer, but can get a case of tunnel vision at times, needs to move the puck better. Doesn’t use his size as well as he could, but is good at protecting the puck. A work in progress defensively, will need coaching on the finer points of positioning but the effort is there. Could be a home run pick and brings the kind of dimension that’s rare for a sniper, as his reach and frame differentiate him from the average player.

[Crzydrvr]

Crzy's Rankings, 2016, 31-120

 

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

[6'0.75", 173 pds][Lefty][PROSPECT GRADE: A-]
[68 GP, 24 G, 40 A, 64 Pts, 28 PIM, +8][NHL Comparable: Mike Green]
Potential Peak: Elite offensive defenseman
Projection: 2nd pairing offensive defenseman, 35+ point player in his prime

Bust Factor: High; will need to improve his mobility and decision-making

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

Aggregate Score: 56.0

 

Report: Not as smooth as a guy like Juolevi, but in some respects a more dynamic and dangerous player. Played in a beneficial system with the Hitmen, but was at times their number 1 point producing option such as when Sanheim wasn’t around. Skating is good, although he could stand to be faster and stronger on his skates (which should come with added muscle). Bouwmeester-like offensively in terms of preferring a wrister from the slot rather than a bomb from the point, but considering its accuracy there’s a very good reason for that. Weak physically, has problems with gap control and defensive awareness. A major boom or bust pick, the abilities are there but a very one-dimensional player as of right now. Needs a good summer of training and more responsibility defensively next season.

 

32. (41) D Lucas Johansen, Kelowna Rockets (WHL) [16/11/97]

[6'1.75", 176 pds][Lefty][PROSPECT GRADE: B+]
[69 GP, 10 G, 39 A, 49 Pts, 20 PIM, +11][NHL Comparable: Danny DeKeyser]
Potential Peak: Top pairing two-way defenseman
Projection: 2nd pairing two-way defenseman, 25+ point player in his prime

Bust Factor: Moderate; not a surefire NHLer, but not a really risky player either

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

Aggregate Score: 56.0

 

Report: Coming out of the Kelowna factory of defensemen alone should make him a valuable commodity. Well-rounded blueliner, ability to get around the ice makes him a strong transition player and allows him to play solid positional defence, although he could add a higher top gear. Smart and intuitive defender, not big on the hits but offers a lot in the way of forcing defenders to the outside and tying up open sticks. Has a high panic threshold, uses his skating, passing and puckhandling abilities to get the team moving up ice. Not a flashy player, but a quietly effective one who can do it all. Needs to build more muscle, but doesn’t seem to be a huge hitter regardless and is unlikely to ever have that as a part of his game.

 

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

[5'11", 179 pds][Lefty][PROSPECT GRADE: A]
[72 GP, 23 G, 47 A, 70 Pts, 24 PIM, -8][NHL Comparable: Mike Ribeiro]
Potential Peak: 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: 8.5
Defense: 7.5
Physicality: 7.0
Skating: 9.0
Intangibles: 8.0
NHL-Readiness: 7.5
Potential: 8.5

Aggregate Score: 56.0

 

Report: Elite playmaker with a bit of scoring touch. Definitely a powerplay specialist in terms of production, remains to be seen how he will translate to the higher levels. Excellent distributor of the puck, has the vision and hands to make some ridiculous passes. An elite skater with excellent edgework, allowing him to accelerate, weave and break through the neutral zone for rush opportunities. Shows signs of defensive smarts, has some potential in that regard. Physically slight, not the greatest at fighting off bigger players and could be considered a perimeter player against the hitting game. The skills are there, but does he have the mentality to survive the pro game?

 

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

[5'10.5", 184 pds][Lefty][PROSPECT GRADE: A-]
[65 GP, 26 G, 40 A, 66 Pts, 50 PIM, +8][NHL Comparable: T.J. Oshie]
Potential Peak: 2nd line scoring forward
Projection: Borderline 2nd/3rd line scoring forward, 35-45 point player in his prime

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

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: Intelligent, versatile sparkplug. Well-rounded offensively, although he leans towards being more of a playmaker with his vision allowing him to distribute the puck well. A gritty player who gets to scoring areas and doesn’t shy away from physicality. Not a super speedster, but has the edgework to confuse defenders and open space offensively. A responsible two-way forward with a lot of jam, backchecks hard. Highly intelligent and makes the right play on a consistent basis. Doesn’t stand out in any one facet of the game, but is above average at everything you look for in a potential NHL prospect.

 

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

[6'2.5", 209 pds][Lefty][PROSPECT GRADE: B+]
[60 GP, 34 G, 32 A, 66 Pts, 42 PIM, +38][NHL Comparable: David Backes]
Potential Peak: Complementary top line power forward
Projection: Borderline 2nd/3rd line power forward, 40+ point player in his prime

Bust Factor: Moderate; bit of a project, but has the physical tools to succeed in a lower line role

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

Aggregate Score: 55.5

 

Report: Power forward with jam to his game. Decent skater, has the speed but needs to improve his footwork and acceleration; not a super mobile guy. A very good shooter with the ability to get off his wrist or snap shots quickly, and combines it with solid board play and netfront work to be arguably the USHL’s most dangerous scorer not on the USNTDP. Not fancy but very effective at making the simple support pass, allowing him to extend plays when required without being a detriment to the cycle game. A hard worker at both ends of the ice, and you can see some of his all-around potential in watching him play as he’s a pretty smart player.

 

36. (62) F Vitali Abramov, Gatineau Olympiques (OHL) [08/05/98]

[5'9", 175 pds][Lefty][PROSPECT GRADE: B+]
[63 GP, 38 G, 55 A, 93 Pts, 36 PIM, +36][NHL Comparable: Sergei Samsonov]
Potential Peak: Top line playmaking forward
Projection: 2nd line scoring forward, 45+ point player in his prime

Bust Factor: Extremely High; needs to develop his defensive awareness

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

Aggregate Score: 55.5

 

Report: Super talented Russian wonder. A quick skater with excellent acceleration, although his top speed could still use a boost. A complete package offensively, with the hands and shot to be a threat anywhere on the ice. Excellent vision makes him an effective playmaker. Surprisingly effective along the boards with the puck, but has problems getting it back and will need coaching in order to better play to his strengths in defensive battles. Prone to puck watching in the defensive zone, although effort is there on the backcheck. Wildcard, could be a late first or could drop to the 3^rd round or later.

 

37. (54) F Brett Howden, Moose Jaw Warriors (WHL) [29/03/98]

[6'2", 190 pds][Lefty][PROSPECT GRADE: B+]
[68 GP, 24 G, 40 A, 64 Pts, 61 PIM, -7][NHL Comparable: Alex Killorn]
Potential Peak: 2nd line two-way forward
Projection: 3rd line two-way forward, 35+ point player in his prime

Bust Factor: Moderate; questions around upside at the pro level

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

Aggregate Score: 55.5

 

Report: Has all the tools needed to be an excellent foil to a skill player at the NHL level. A big frame with long wingspan and has the ability to use it in the dirty areas of the ice. Plays a simple game offensively, avoids risky plays but is very adept at the cycle game with his physical tools and shot. A decent skater, but needs to work on his acceleration. An above average defender who understands how to cover passing lanes and support his teammates along the boards. Doesn’t have an absurd amount of upside, but a relatively safe pick who can do the dirty work for skilled linemates.

 

38. (46) W Jesper Bratt, AIK (SWE-2) [30/07/98]

[5'10", 174 pds][Lefty][PROSPECT GRADE: B+]
[48 GP, 8 G, 9 A, 17 Pts, 6 PIM, +1][NHL Comparable: Mikkel Boedker]
Potential Peak: Complementary top line scoring winger
Projection: Borderline 2nd/3rd line scoring forward, 40+ point player in his prime

Bust Factor: High; pure scoring ability is intriguing, but will need to round out his game

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: Speedster out of Sweden has been among the best players of his age group for a few years now. Shifty, explosive skater who uses it to his advantage in entering the offensive zone and creating space offensively. Excellent hands and playmaking abilities, has some finish but needs to use his shot and quick release more. Bit of a puck hog, can hold onto the puck trying to make the perfect play, but the offensive talent is there. Physically frail, not afraid to battle but fairly ineffective against pro players. Needs to improve his awareness defensively, can get caught watching or jumping the zone early for opportunities, but there’s potential for improvement with his hockey smarts. High-risk, but potentially high-reward player.

 

39. (NR) D Frederic Allard, Chicoutimi Saguenéens (QMJHL) [27/12/97]

[6'1", 179 pds][Righty][PROSPECT GRADE: B+]
[64 GP, 14 G, 45 A, 59 Pts, 34 PIM, -7][NHL Comparable: Jason Demers]
Potential Peak: Complementary top pairing two-way defender
Projection: 2nd pairing offensive defenseman, 25-35 point player in his prime

Bust Factor: High; will need time and good development coaching, but the tools are there

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

Aggregate Score: 55.5

 

Report: A highly effective transition defenseman at the QMJHL level. Allard doesn’t have super high-end skills, but his patience and vision make him a threat in the offensive zone and a high-end outlet passer from his own zone. Has noticeably gotten stronger and improved his shot and ability to handle the physical game, although there’s still room for improvement in both those areas. A very good skater who can change directions quickly, allowing him to transition from offense to defence and vice-versa. Needs more strength to improve his balance on his skates. Committed defensively, and has an active stick, but needs to be more consistent with his gap control and positioning. A sleeper prospect, another high-risk high-reward type player.

 

40. (61) F Boris Katchouk, Sault Ste. Marie Greyhounds (OHL) [18/06/98]

[6'1.25", 190 pds][Lefty][PROSPECT GRADE: B+]
[63 GP, 24 G, 27 A, 51 Pts, 61 PIM, +7][NHL Comparable: Jakob Silfverberg]
Potential Peak: 2nd line two-way forward
Projection: 3rd line two-way forward, 25-35 point player in his prime

Bust Factor: Moderate; could be a solid depth option if nothing else

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

Aggregate Score: 55.5

 

Report: Is going to be a 1^st round pick in all likelihood. A very versatile, quiet yet effective player. Effective forechecker who plays the physical game well, and overall is a responsible defender who covers the neutral zone lanes well and supports his defenders down low. Skating is above average, and shows good footwork allowing him to fool defenders with his ability to change speeds. Very smart, doesn’t make too many moves but is able to play a strong support game and is very effective on the cycle. I question the offensive upside, not a great stickhandler and isn’t an elite finisher, but his smarts allow him to be in position for deflections and his effort level gets him assists.

 

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

[6'5.5", 195 pds][Righty][PROSPECT GRADE: B+]
[36 GP, 14 G, 18 A, 32 Pts, 12 PIM, -14][NHL Comparable: Jimmy Hayes]
Potential Peak: Complementary top line power winger
Projection: 3rd line power winger, 30-40 point player in his prime

Bust Factor: Moderate; big forward but is the upside there?

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

Aggregate Score: 55.5

 

Report: First thing you notice is that he’s huge. Massive growth spurt has made him a versatile player at the NCAA level, able to use his frame and wingspan to protect the puck and create havoc offensively. Not a creative player, won’t be a gamebreaker at the pro level but has a powerful one-timer and decent release on his shot. Decent hands, can deflect point shots and finish in close. A mature player defensively, very polished and the fact that his father’s a coach at the NHL and AHL levels shows in his positioning and stickwork. Skating is average, speed is decent but his acceleration has suffered with his growth spurt. Could be more physical given his size, hasn’t completely polished that side of his game. Theoretically could be a solid depth player at worse, or a spacemaker for skilled players at best.

 

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

[5'9", 193 pds][Lefty][PROSPECT GRADE: B+]
[65 GP, 35 G, 46 A, 81 Pts, 16 PIM, +19][NHL Comparable: Mike Cammalleri]
Potential Peak: Complementary top line scoring winger
Projection: Borderline 2nd/3rd line scoring winger, 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: 7.0
Potential: 8.5

Aggregate Score: 55.5

 

Report: An elite sniper with some grit to his game. A smaller player, but his stocky build allows him to protect the puck and battle in tight areas of the ice. Very good edgework and agility allow him to open up space offensively, but his top speed and acceleration could be improved. Defensively still a work in progress, although his sense of positioning has improved over the course of his junior career. One of the best shooters in the entire draft, if not the best; powerful shot with a sneaky release and pinpoint accuracy. Also an excellent playmaker with the hands to put the puck towards dangerous spots. Has NHL potential for sure, but a bit of a project and a risky bet as he’s not likely to stick around in a lower line role.

 

43. (44) D Luke Green, Saint John Sea Dogs (QMJHL) [12/01/98]

[6'1", 185 pds][Righty][PROSPECT GRADE: B+]
[61 GP, 10 G, 25 A, 35 Pts, 29 PIM, +18][NHL Comparable: Tyson Barrie]
Potential Peak: Complementary top pairing two-way defenseman
Projection: 2nd pairing offensive defenseman, 30+ point player in his prime

Bust Factor: High; needs to continue to polish his all-around game

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

Aggregate Score: 55.5

 

Report: Former number 1 overall draft pick in the QMJHL draft. Excellent skater with great balance, agility and acceleration, a true mobile defenseman who can jump up into the rush and get back in position. Strong technical player offensively, with good hands and passing ability, and overall a solid point option on the power play. Needs to bulk up and build his strength, as he can be knocked around by bigger players on occasion. Defensive growth has been apparent, showing better instinctive defensive skills such as the ability to anticipate and reading opponents much better; will need to continue developing his sense of positioning. A raw player, suffered a concussion due to a hit by Pierre-Luc Dubois right before the playoffs which may affect his draft position but might have the most potential of anyone that could be available in the second round.

 

44. (NR) W Linus Lindstrom, Skellefteå AIK J20 (SWE-J20) [08/01/98]

[5'11.75", 168 pds][Lefty][PROSPECT GRADE: B+]
[40 GP, 14 G, 30 A, 44 Pts, 28 PIM, +9][NHL Comparable: Victor Rask]
Potential Peak: Complementary top line playmaking forward
Projection: Borderline 2nd/3rd line playmaking forward, 40+ point player in his prime

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

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: Skilled Swede who was turning heads in the J20 league this season. A decent but not exceptional skater, will need to build up strength in order to improve his overall top speed and acceleration; good mobility and edgework. Not afraid to mix it up, although his lack of any sort of weight hurts him in that area of the game. Pass-first player, but has a pretty accurate shot and when he simplifies his game he’s closer to an all-around offensive type rather than a pure sniper or playmaker. Defensive play is average, shows some effort and engagement but will need to improve his ability to read the play and avoid puckwatching at times.

 

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

[6'1.5", 196 pds][Lefty][PROSPECT GRADE: B+]
[69 GP, 3 G, 23 A, 26 Pts, 76 PIM, -19][NHL Comparable: Mirco Mueller]
Potential Peak: Borderline top pairing shutdown defenseman
Projection: 2nd pairing shutdown defenseman, 10-20 point player in his prime

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

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

Aggregate Score: 55.5

 

Report: Not quite a pure defensive defenseman, but has limited offensive upside. A decent passer and shooter, but stickhandling is a concern and shot is just average. Nevertheless, finds ways to move the puck up the ice and is far from a black hole offensively. Very good skater, has speed, acceleration, and the all-round mobility to be a difference maker at both ends of the ice. Has the ability to throw a big hit and is tough to play against along the boards. Well-developed sense of positioning and gap control, and has an uncanny ability to read and/or anticipate plays. Might be the best defender in the draft from a strictly defensive standpoint and definitely the best defensive player outside the top 10.

 

46. (53) D Ryan Lindgren, USA-U18s (USNTDP) [11/02/98]

[5'11.75", 203 pds][Lefty][PROSPECT GRADE: B+]
[61 GP, 6 G, 19 A, 25 Pts, 60 PIM][NHL Comparable: Ryan McDonagh]
Potential Peak: Borderline top pairing two-way defenseman
Projection: 2nd pairing defensive defenseman, 20+ point player in his prime

Bust Factor: Moderate; better offensive ability than stats would suggest

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

Aggregate Score: 55.5

 

Report: Reliable defenseman with untapped offensive potential. A good skater, speed allows Lindgren to cover a lot of defensive ice, and overall is above average at every facet of his skating. Strong balance allows him to be a presence along the boards, not a huge hitter but definitely engages. Good passing abilities and decent hands, although he could be more creative and/or patient with the puck rather than make the safe play all the time. Acts as a trailer rather than leading the rush itself, although he definitely thinks defense first. Strong reads and positioning allow him to get the puck, and his passing moves it back out just as quickly. A modern defensive defenseman, if he put his mind to it he could be an excellent two-way option at the pro level, like he was with the fabled Shattuck St. Mary’s prep teams.

 

47. (65) W Jordan Kyrou, Sarnia Sting (OHL) [08/05/98]

[6'0", 169 pds][Righty][PROSPECT GRADE: B+]
[65 GP, 17 G, 34 A, 51 Pts, 14 PIM, +13][NHL Comparable: Marcus Johansson]
Potential Peak: Borderline top line playmaking forward
Projection: Borderline 2nd/3rd line playmaking forward, 40+ point player in his prime

Bust Factor: High; had issues with consistency and drive, especially earlier in the year

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

Aggregate Score: 55.5

 

Report: Highly creative playmaker has been moving up draft boards since midway through the year. Kyrou possesses some high-end offensive chops; excellent hands and vision make him an excellent distributor of the puck. An excellent skater, decent top speed but the acceleration and edgework are near elite and allow him to move laterally off the rush, opening up space for both him and his linemates. Not necessarily soft, but his lack of size and strength hurt him when setting up shop along tough areas of the ice. Defense is a work in progress, but he’s got some ability to read the play and is very good at cutting off passes, which suggests it won’t be a weakness with continued effort. Can wow you on some plays, but shift to shift can be hit or miss and is guilty of getting too fancy with the puck on occasion. Overall, a worthwhile selection especially this deep into a draft.

 

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

[6'1", 192 pds][Righty][PROSPECT GRADE: B+]
[63 GP, 12 G, 19 A, 31 Pts, 24 PIM, +12][NHL Comparable: Andrew Cogliano]
Potential Peak: 2nd line playmaking forward
Projection: 3rd line energy winger, 25-35 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: 7.5
Potential: 8.0

Aggregate Score: 55.5

 

Report: Can’t imagine the bullying this kid must have suffered from grade 1 to roughly grade 10 with that name. Outstanding skater, great top speed and acceleration, quick first step and strong edgework and agility keep defenders on their toes. Good playmaker whose hands are able to keep up with his skating; uses his speed to open up lanes for teammates. A hard worker who had to fight for his ice time on a stacked roster, gets in the dirty areas and isn’t afraid of anyone, although he could still put on about 10 pounds of muscle as he isn’t a strong player by any means. Excellent forechecker and backchecker with his speed, takes good routes to pressure opposing puck carriers and is willing to block shots but will need to continue developing his sense of spacing and positioning. A massive dark horse in the draft and with his outstanding playoff run a likely top 40 draft pick.

 

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

[5'7", 160 pds][Righty][PROSPECT GRADE: B+]
[60 GP, 51 G, 50 A, 101 Pts, 28 PIM, +18][NHL Comparable: Brendan Gallagher]
Potential Peak: Borderline top line scoring winger
Projection: Borderline 2nd/3rd line scoring forward, 40+ point player in his prime

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

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

Aggregate Score: 55.5

 

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.

 

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

[5’11.25", 175 pds][Lefty][PROSPECT GRADE: B+]
[72 GP, 28 G, 45 A, 73 Pts, 33 PIM, -2][NHL Comparable: Mike Santorelli]
Potential Peak: Borderline top line playmaking center
Projection: Borderline 2nd/3rd line playmaking center, 40+ 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: 8.5

Aggregate Score: 55.5

 

Report: A medium risk medium reward type player. A lot of offensive awareness and an excellent distributor of the puck in the offensive zone. Combines it with a variety of quick, accurate and powerful shots to be a major threat for opposing defenders. A good skater who could use more strength to really take the next step in terms of speed and balance. Shows shades of defensive awareness and ability to read the play, does a decent job of cutting off lanes. Will in all likelihood need at least 3 years of development.

 

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

52.                 (NR) F Mitchell Mattson, Grand Rapids High Thunderhawks (USHS-MN)

53.                 (20) D Chad Krys, USA-U18s (USNTDP)

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

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

56.                 (39) F Nathan Bastian, Mississauga Steelheads (OHL)

57.                 (27) D Markus Niemelainen, Saginaw Spirit (OHL)

58.                 (NR) F Janne Kuokkanen, Kärpät U20 (FIN-U20)

59.                 (36) W Simon Stransky, Prince Albert Raiders (WHL)

60.                 (42) D Adam Fox, USA-U18s (USNTDP)

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

62.                 (NR) W Dmitry Sokolov, Sudbury Wolves (OHL)

63.                 (40) W Taylor Raddysh, Erie Otters (OHL)

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

65.                 (49) D Samuel Girard, Shawinigan Cataractes (QMJHL)

66.                 (NR) D Riley Stillman, Oshawa Generals (OHL)

67.                 (56) F Givani Smith, Guelph Storm (OHL)

68.                 (NR) F Jack Kopacka, Sault Ste. Marie Greyhounds (OHL)

69.                 (68) D Benjamin Gleason, Hamilton Bulldogs (OHL)

70.                 (NR) F Wade Allison, Tri-City Storm (USHL)

71.                 (55) D Cole Candella, Hamilton Bulldogs (OHL)

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

73.                 (38) D Victor Mete, London Knights (OHL)

74.                 (NR) F Aapeli Rasanen, Tappara U20 (FIN-U20)

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

76.                 (60) D Jacob Moverare, HV71 (SHL)

77.                 (64) D Jacob Cederholm, HV71 (SHL)

78.                 (NR) D Jordan Sambrook, Erie Otters (OHL)

79.                 (NR) D David Bernhardt, Djurgårdens IF J20 (SWE-J20)

80.                 (NR) D Filip Hronek, HC Hradec Kralove (CZE)

81.                 (NR) F Artur Kayumov, Team Russia U18 (MHL)

82.                 (NR) F Maxime Fortier, Halifax Mooseheads (QMJHL)

83.                 (NR) D David Quenneville, Medicine Hat Tigers (WHL)

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

85.                 (NR) C Connor Bunnaman, Kitchener Rangers (OHL)

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

87.                 (NR) F Oskar Steen, Färjestad BK (SHL)

88.                 (NR) D Linus Nassen, Luleå HF J20 (SWE-J20)

89.                 (NR) F Ondrej Najman, HC Dukla Jihlava U20 (CZE-U20)

90.                 (NR) F Otto Makinen, Tappara U20 (FIN-U20)

91.                 (NR) F Wade Allison, Tri-City Storm (USHL)

92.                 (NR) D Jake Ryzcek, Waterloo Blackhawks (USHL)

93.                 (NR) F Jonathan Ang, Peterborough Petes (OHL)

94.                 (NR) F Linus Weissbach, Frölunda HC J20 (SWE-J20)

95.                 (NR) D Linus Hogberg, Växjö Lakers HC J20 (SWE-J20)

96.                 (NR) W Eetu Tuulola, HPK U20 (FIN-U20)

97.                 (NR) D Colby Sissons, Swift Current Broncos (WHL)

98.                 (71) F Alan Lyszczarczyk, Sudbury Wolves (OHL)

99.                 (NR) F William Knierim, Dubuque Fighting Saints (USHL)

100.               (NR) F Jordy Stallard, Calgary Hitmen (WHL)

101.               (NR) F Travis Barron, Ottawa 67s (OHL)

102.               (NR) F Kristian Reichel, HC Litvinov (CZE)

103.               (NR) F Brett Murray, Carleton Place Canadians (CCHL)

104.               (NR) F Domenic Commisso, Oshawa Generals (OHL)

105.               (74) C Otto Somppi, Halifax Mooseheads (QMJHL)

106.               (NR) F Hudson Elynuik, Spokane Chiefs (WHL)

107.               (NR) F Max Zimmer, Chicago Steel (USHL)

108.               (NR) F Garrett Pilon, Kamloops Blazers (WHL)

109.               (NR) F Tanner Kaspick, Brandon Wheat Kings (WHL)

110.               (NR) F Matt Filipe, Cedar Rapids RoughRiders (USHL)

111.               (NR) F Tobias Eder, Tölzer Löwen (GER-3)

112.               (NR) F William Lockwood, USA-U18s (USNTDP)

113.               (NR) F Colin Grannary, Merritt Centennials (BCHL)

114.               (NR) F Michael Graham, Eden Prairie High Eagles (USHS-MN)

115.               (NR) D Brinson Pasichnuk, Bonnyville Pontiacs (AJHL)

116.               (NR) F Brandon Hagel, Red Deer Rebels (WHL)

117.               (NR) D Vojtech Budik, Prince Albert Raiders (WHL)

118.               (NR) F Ivan Kosorenkov, Team Russia U18 (MHL)

119.               (NR) D Josh Mahura, Red Deer Rebels (WHL)

120.               (NR) F Max Gerlach, Medicine Hat Tigers (WHL)

Crzy's Rankings, 2016, Top 10 Goalies:

 

1.       (6) G Evan Fitzpatrick, Sherbrooke Phoenix (QMJHL)

2.       (1) G Carter Hart, Everett Silvertips (WHL)

3.       (NR) G Filip Gustavsson, Luleå J20 (Swe-J20)

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

5.       (8) G Tyler Parsons, London Knights (OHL)

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

7.       (NR) G Colton Point, Carleton Place Canadians (CCHL)

8.       (9) G Mikhail Berdin, Russia U18 (MHL)

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

10.     (NR) G Samuel Harvey, Rouyn-Noranda Huskies (QMJHL)

[Flyerfan52]

Thanks Crzy.

I enjoy reading your in-depth analysis of these kids & often refer to it.

Great that you have the links to previous years as well as to let us see how the draftees are doing going down the road.

[Crzydrvr]

Thanks Crzy.

I enjoy reading your in-depth analysis of these kids & often refer to it.

Great that you have the links to previous years as well as to let us see how the draftees are doing going down the road.

 

Thanks mate, appreciate it! We'll see how long those links remain active, I know the board mods have already gotten rid of the 2011 and 2012 lists but I'm a big believer in using the resources you have to continue evaluating development. Those might be dated, but they remain resources (even if they have their fair share of bad opinions ).

 

***

 

Crzy's Draft Rankings, 2016, Overagers to Watch:

 

1.     F Henrik Borgstrom, HIFK U20 (FIN-U20)

2.     F Kasper Bjorkqvist, Espoo Blues U20 (FIN-U20)

3.     F Dylan Gambrell, University of Denver Pioneers (NCAA)

4.     F Anatoly Golyshev, Avtomobilist Yekaterinburg (KHL)

5.     F Yegor Korshkov, Lokomotiv Yaroslavl (KHL)

6.     D Lucas Carlsson, Brynas IF Gavle (SHL)

7.     F Brayden Burke, Lethbridge Hurricanes (WHL)

8.     F Jack Walker, Victoria Royals (WHL)

9.     G Veini Vehvilainen, JYP (FIN)

10.   D Casey Fitzgerald, Boston College Eagles (NCAA)

11.   D Joseph Masonius, University of Connecticut Huskies (NCAA)

12.   D Stepan Falkovsky, Ottawa 67’s (OHL)

13.   F Adam Brooks, Regina Pats (WHL)

14.   F Rem Pitlick, Muskegon Lumberjacks (USHL)

15.   F Andrei Svetlakov, CSKA Moskva (KHL)

16.   F Brett McKenzie, North Bay Battalion (OHL)

17.   D Chase Priskie, Quinnipiac University Bobcats (NCAA)

18.   F Tanner Laczynski, Chicago Steel (USHL)

19.   F Matt Luff, Hamilton Bulldogs (WHL)

20.   D Zach Osburn, Michigan State Spartans (NCAA)

[Crzydrvr]

Crzy's 4-Round Mock Draft, 2016:

 

1.         TOR: C Auston Matthews

2.         WPG: LW Patrik Laine

3.         CBJ: RW Jesse Puljujarvi

4.         EDM: LW Matthew Tkachuk

5.         VAN: F Pierre-Luc Dubois

6.         CGY: W Alexander Nylander

7.         ARZ: LD Olli Juolevi

8.         BUF: LD Mikhail Sergachev

9.         MTL: C Logan Brown

10.       COL: LD Jake Bean

11.       NJD: F Clayton Keller

12.       OTT: LD Jakob Chychrun

13.       CAR: F Tyson Jost

14.       BOS: RW Julien Gauthier

15.       MIN: LW Kieffer Bellows

16.       DET: RD Dante Fabbro

17.       NSH: C German Rubtsov

18.       PHI: F Luke Kunin

19.       NYI: F Riley Tufte

20.       ARZ (via NYR): RD Charles McAvoy

21.       CAR (via LAK): C Michael McLeod

22.       WPG (via CHI): LD Dennis Cholowski

23.       FLO: LW Max Jones

24.       ANA: C Pascal Laberge

25.       DAL: F Rasmus Asplund

26.       WSH: LD Kale Clague

27.       TBL: F Brett Howden

28.       STL: W Carl Grundstrom

29.       BOS (via SJS): LW Boris Katchouk

30.       ANA (via TOR-PIT): LD Cam Dineen

***

31.       TOR: LW Tyler Benson

32.       EDM: LD Libor Hajek

33.       FLO: LD Lucas Johansen

34.       CBJ: RW Jordan Kyrou

35.       CGY: W Nathan Bastian

36.       WPG: F Cliff Pu

37.       ARZ: F Jonathan Dahlen

38.       BUF: RW Tage Thompson

39.       MTL: RW Taylor Raddysh

40.       COL (via SJS-COL): C Janne Kuokkanen

41.       NJD: W Vitali Abramov

42.       OTT: G Evan Fitzpatrick

43.       CAR: F Will Bitten

44.       TBL (via BOS): LD Ryan Lindgren

45.       MTL (via BUF-MIN): F Cam Morrison

46.       DET: F Henrik Borgstrom

47.       NSH: RD Filip Hronek

48.       PHI: F Dillon Dube

49.       BOS (via NYI): LD J.D. Greenaway

50.       CHI (via CAR-NYR): W Alex DeBrincat

51.       LAK: F Dylan Gambrell

52.       PHI (via CHI): W Tanner Kaspick

53.       ARZ*: G Filip Gustavsson

54.       CGY (via FLO): C Sam Steel

55.       PIT (via VAN-ANA): W Adam Mascherin

56.       CGY (via DAL): RD Luke Green

57.       TOR (via WSH): G Tyler Parsons

58.       TBL: W Jesper Bratt

59.       STL: RW Wade Allison

60.       SJS: G Carter Hart

61.       PIT (via TOR-PIT): W Linus Lindstrom

***

62.       TOR: LW Tim Gettinger

63.       EDM: F Vladimir Kuznetsov

64.       VAN (via PIT-BUF-NYI-VAN): RD Frederic Allard

65.       CBJ: G Zach Sawchenko

66.       CGY: LD Riley Stillman

67.       CAR (via WPG): LD Jacob Cederholm

68.       ARZ: F Brayden Burke

69.       BUF: LD Max Lajoie

70.       MTL: C Trent Frederic

71.       COL: W Simon Stransky

72.       TOR (via PIT-NJD): LD Benjamin Gleason

73.       NJD (via OTT): RW Joey Anderson

74.       CAR: LD Logan Stanley

75.       CAR (via BOS): W Aapeli Rasanen

76.       NSH (via BUF-ANA-NJD-FLO-MIN): W Givani Smith

77.       NJD (via DET): F Jack Kopacka

78.       NSH: F Otto Koivula

79.       PHI: RD Andrew Peeke

80.       OTT (via NYI): LD Jacob Moverare

81.       NYR: C Connor Bunnaman

82.       PHI (via LAK): F Mitchell Mattson

83.       CHI: G Colton Point

84.       EDM (via FLO): W Matt Filipe

85.       ANA: G Joseph Woll

86.       BUF (via DAL): C Tim Wahlgren

87.       STL (via WSH): C Ondrej Najman

88.       TBL: LD Markus Niemelainen

89.       BUF (via STL): LD Samuel Girard

90.       DAL (via SJS): G Antoine Samuel

91.       EDM (via PIT): LD Lucas Carlsson

***

92.       TOR: RD Jordan Sambrook

93.       ANA (via EDM): F Rem Pitlick

94.       FLO (via VAN): D Josh Anderson

95.       CHI (via CBJ): LD Adam Fox

96.       CGY: C Noah Gregor

97.       WPG: F Jonathan Ang

98.       NYR (via ARZ): LD Chad Krys

99.       BUF: F Anatoly Golyshev

100.     MTL: F Hudson Elynuik

101.     TOR (via COL): LD Stepan Falkovsky

102.     NJD: F William Knierim

103.     OTT: F Jordy Stallard

104.     CAR: W Daniel Kurovsky

105.     NJD (via BOS): LD David Bernhardt

106.     MIN: G Dylan Wells

107.     DET: LD Cole Candella

108.     NSH: F Kasper Bjorkqvist

109.     PHI: W Maxime Fortier

110.     NYI: C Otto Makinen

111.     SJS (via NYR): LD Victor Mete

112.     LAK: LW Travis Barron

113.     CHI: W Oskar Steen

114.     FLO: W Artur Kayumov

115.     ANA: G Daniel Marmenlind

116.     DAL: LD Josh Mahura

117.     WSH: LD Brinson Pasichnuk

118.     TBL: C Otto Somppi

119.     STL: F Eetu Tuulola

120.     PHI (via ARZ-SJS): C Adam Brooks

121.     PIT: LD Linus Nassen

[FueltheFlames1075]

Crzy, what do you think of Adam Brooks from the Regina Pats? I see that you have him going to Philly around where I thought he might go. I think that he would be a solid 3rd or 4th round choice for the Flames.

[Crzydrvr]

Crzy, what do you think of Adam Brooks from the Regina Pats? I see that you have him going to Philly around where I thought he might go. I think that he would be a solid 3rd or 4th round choice for the Flames.

 

C Adam Brooks, Regina Pats (WHL) [06/05/96]

[5'10", 174 pds][Lefty][PROSPECT GRADE: B-]

[72 GP, 38 G, 82 A, 120 Pts, 30 PIM, +41]

Potential Peak: Borderline 2nd/3rd line playmaking winger

Projection: AHL Top-6 forward

Bust Factor: Extremely High; is his production a product of massive gains in skill development or just an increased role?

Offense: 8.0 (7.5) [7.0]

Defense: 8.0 (7.5) [7.0]

Physicality: 7.5 (7.0) [7.0)

Skating: 8.0 (7.5) [7.0]

Intangibles: 8.0 (8.0) [8.0]

NHL-Readiness: 7.5 (7.0) [6.0]

Potential: 8.0 (7.5) [7.0]

Aggregate Score: 55.0 (52.0) [49.0]

 

You can definitely tell he's had 2 full years of WHL experience over the rest of the draft class. He knows how to produce and he has an advantage in terms of understanding the structure of his system; doesn't make many mistakes with the puck and is overall a responsible player at the junior level. He's also more polished in terms of physical development; his skating is nothing special, although he's got some quick feet and good acceleration, which appear to be the product of tons of effort in the weight room and on the practice ice.

 

I think he's a relatively smart player offensively, but I also struggle to see anything exceptional that makes him stand out. I don't think he has any elite skills. Even a lot of the projects at this point have something that stands out from the crowd that says "Okay, if the rest of his game rounds out he could really be something". Brooks isn't a masterful defensive player from a pro perspective. He isn't an athletic freak of nature. His actual puckhandling, finishing, and playmaking abilities are merely "good" rather than any sort of standout talent. It'd be one thing if he was a '97, but after 2 years you expect to be wowed more and so Brooks' abilities are simply in line with what he should be doing instead of standing out from the pack. His production is great but quite frankly he needed it more than anything, because as a veteran he was expected to be a key cog of the offense and just meeting those expectations (say, 80 points) would have killed any chance to get drafted as it would just be chalked up to more ice time and better linemates.

 

He is worth taking a chance on, if only because of his sneaky good offensive awareness. If there's ever an overager who makes it at Brooks' size, it's because they're primarily playmakers, who tend to need the kind of hockey sense and processing abilities in order to break down defenses without using brute force. Brooks is no exception and there's a chance, however small, that he could be an NHLer because of said ability to read and react.

 

If he were a year younger, he would be perceived differently for sure. Then again, my personal preference is to go for 18 and 19 year olds with higher ceilings even if they might not be as polished as an Adam Brooks. I wouldn't hate the pick and I've heard he's a good kid, but you would be reaching big for Brooks in the 3rd round as a prospect who's about to turn 20 and played in a junior league as a 20 year old.

[xstrike]

Crazy, I'm curious as to what you think of our 6th OA pick. You've got Tkachuk at #8 behind Jost and Keller.

 

Actually, I kinda want to know about your impressions of the draft. You have Juolevi at #12 but he was taken at #5, Sergachev went sooner than 12, and Chrychun took a nosedive. Fabbro was picked later than your rank too by a good margin.

 

Personally, I think Arizona is getting a steal taking Chrychun at #16.

[StarkRaving]

Crazy, I'm curious as to what you think of our 6th OA pick. You've got Tkachuk at #8 behind Jost and Keller.

 

Actually, I kinda want to know about your impressions of the draft. You have Juolevi at #12 but he was taken at #5, Sergachev went sooner than 12, and Chrychun took a nosedive. Fabbro was picked later than your rank too by a good margin.

 

Personally, I think Arizona is getting a steal taking Chrychun at #16.

The Coyotes may have won the first round.  I really like Keller, and Chychrun has the potential to be a top pairing guy. 

[conundrumed]

Detroit made out well by shedding Datsyuk's salary, like bandits I'd say. ARI has to be #1 in prospect rankings, hands down. Keller and Chychrun, that's a fantastic haul, holy crap.

Maximum Destruction Jones to Anaheim, they sure aren't interested in getting softer, heysoos H christa

Van with Juolevi at 4, cough cough, 4????

Poor Puljujarvi, dang!

[travel_dude]

We picked Parsons over Gustavsson.

 

We did get Dillon Dube at 56, though.

[StarkRaving]

We picked Parsons over Gustavsson.

 

We did get Dillon Dube at 56, though.

I'm a little surprised at that.  I thought I'd heard that the Flames were interested in Gustavsson.  It'll be interesting to see how Parsons and Tkachuk perform next year.

 

Was Dillon Dube a face-off rock star in the 2015 Memorial Cup, or was that the Cassels kid?

[Crzydrvr]

Crazy, I'm curious as to what you think of our 6th OA pick. You've got Tkachuk at #8 behind Jost and Keller.

 

Actually, I kinda want to know about your impressions of the draft. You have Juolevi at #12 but he was taken at #5, Sergachev went sooner than 12, and Chrychun took a nosedive. Fabbro was picked later than your rank too by a good margin.

 

Personally, I think Arizona is getting a steal taking Chrychun at #16.

 

I think Tkachuk, for where this team is, was the right pick. I stress this a lot but as I'm not affiliated with anyone I have no need to protect my job or build a well-rounded team. I can rank who I feel is the best bet, whether by upside or safety, without having to fear for the consequences if they don't pan out.

 

I don't think Tkachuk had the highest upside at pick 6. But I believe that given his smarts and style of play, he will be a top 6 NHL forward of some capacity. That, as stated above, gives him value and makes him a worthwhile pick anywhere from 4 to 12.

 

Juolevi will also be an NHLer and I love his ability to move the puck and his skating. I had him lower because I think he's less of an offensive catalyst and more of a complementary player offensively. He will always be an elite two-way guy, but his offense might comes in spurts like Hamhuis, like Vlasic, because the style he plays is reliant on the ability of his teammates more than a more individualistic player like Sergachev.

 

Normally I have a tendency to rank defensemen higher because they're more valuable if they pan out. This year that crop of forwards was just really really good and made it hard to set the rankings in stone.

 

This draft, anyone from 3-12 could have gone anywhere, so I'd hesitate to call it a reach, and Vancouver picked for position a little in my opinion as well. I wouldn't do the same, but that's how the cards fell.

 

Sergachev has ridiculous upside, but will need time to develop, and to be fair I predicted he'd be a top 8 pick. I just wouldn't take him that high. Windsor gave him a ton of leeway and I think that his adjustment to the NHL will take longer than the likes of Juolevi and Chychrun.

 

Fabbro will be a steal, I'm very certain of that. After this NCAA season he'll be considered a bluechip prospect and in two years people will be wondering how some of the players selected ahead of him went that high.

 

Chychrun was expected to dive, but I like to take the long view. One of the things I take into account is their talent level in midget and bantam. That talent normally doesn't just go away, and Chychrun still showed he had that talent. He just didn't do it consistently enough, but it's there, and so I am willing to hedge my bets and say that he'll live up to the billing previously exerted. This is far from a John McFarland situation, where it was readily apparent that his abilities were not translating as well to either the OHL game or his NHL projections as initially thought.

 

I'm a little surprised at that.  I thought I'd heard that the Flames were interested in Gustavsson.  It'll be interesting to see how Parsons and Tkachuk perform next year.

 

Was Dillon Dube a face-off rock star in the 2015 Memorial Cup, or was that the Cassels kid?

 

You're probably thinking of Cassels. Dube was good but as a 17 year old was hard pressed to play big minutes on a Memorial Cup team with Draisaitl and Merkley by that point.

[cross16]

Agree on Fabbro. I actually think there is a very realistic chance he is he top Dman in the draft when over the long term. I think he got very underrated in the draft process.

Dube played a 3rd line role in they memorial cup and mostly on the wing. They moved him up a bit when they struggled offensively.

[Crzydrvr]

6. Matthew Tkachuk: A

54. Tyler Parsons: B+

56. Dillon Dube: A-

66: Adam Fox: B+

96: Linus Lindstrom: A

126: Mitchell Mattson: A-

156: Eetu Tuulola: B+

166: Matthew Phillips: B

186: Stepan Falkovsky: B+

 

Overall, as a neutral observer I would be very pleased with this draft. 6 players the Flames selected I would have taken in the top 65 picks or so, another I had ranked 96th, and the 12th best overager available in my opinion.

 

That is a strong haul and I expect at least 2 NHL players and another 2 who are possible assets in trades if nothing else out of the entire group of 8.

[CheersMan]

Crazydriver, I just wanted to give a big thank you for supplying us with your wealth of information.  The amount of work that went into these individual player assessments appears to be enormous.  I still find myself looking back at them from time to time.  Hope you are able to offer this again next year.  I’m curious though, is this a hobby for you or are you a scout at some capacity?

[Crzydrvr]

Crazydriver, I just wanted to give a big thank you for supplying us with your wealth of information.  The amount of work that went into these individual player assessments appears to be enormous.  I still find myself looking back at them from time to time.  Hope you are able to offer this again next year.  I’m curious though, is this a hobby for you or are you a scout at some capacity?

 

Hobby (a really expensive hobby, hence the ), but looking to make it fulltime at an NHL front office somewhere. Let's just say I'm looking....

 

I used to be able to spend more time building these lists every month, but working at 2 separate places (because it's expensive to buy tickets and games-on-demand) means it takes all of my time just watching the games. I tried to stop writing up these lists this year, but unfortunately I couldn't completely cut it off, I just love it too much . Again, the only reason I managed to have time to put this final list together was the fact I was let go at one of my jobs, leaving me with just enough extra time to get it out with three days to spare.

 

In the end it's just my opinion, I have as many hits as I do misses like anybody. We'll see whether I can continue to provide these moving forward, but I appreciate and have always appreciated the fact that the gals and guys who frequent this board enjoy reading what I write. It's where everything started for me (back in 2011, good times) so if I do write anything prospect-related, there's no other place I'd put it. Eventually this will have to end like all good things (if not because I've moved on, then because my contract will stipulate that all information is proprietary knowledge of the team  ) but for now I don't think it hurts.

 

But yeah, I wouldn't change anything for the world (besides maybe learning to skate earlier so my NHL dreams weren't dashed at 11). I love hockey, partially because I'm so crap at it that the only way I can be around the sport is by watching games.

 

Thanks for taking the time to read my stuff! I'm glad you found it useful and hopefully I can put out more next year!

[CheersMan]

Hobby (a really expensive hobby, hence the ), but looking to make it fulltime at an NHL front office somewhere. Let's just say I'm looking....

 

I used to be able to spend more time building these lists every month, but working at 2 separate places (because it's expensive to buy tickets and games-on-demand) means it takes all of my time just watching the games. I tried to stop writing up these lists this year, but unfortunately I couldn't completely cut it off, I just love it too much . Again, the only reason I managed to have time to put this final list together was the fact I was let go at one of my jobs, leaving me with just enough extra time to get it out with three days to spare.

 

In the end it's just my opinion, I have as many hits as I do misses like anybody. We'll see whether I can continue to provide these moving forward, but I appreciate and have always appreciated the fact that the gals and guys who frequent this board enjoy reading what I write. It's where everything started for me (back in 2011, good times) so if I do write anything prospect-related, there's no other place I'd put it. Eventually this will have to end like all good things (if not because I've moved on, then because my contract will stipulate that all information is proprietary knowledge of the team  ) but for now I don't think it hurts.

 

But yeah, I wouldn't change anything for the world (besides maybe learning to skate earlier so my NHL dreams weren't dashed at 11). I love hockey, partially because I'm so crap at it that the only way I can be around the sport is by watching games.

 

Thanks for taking the time to read my stuff! I'm glad you found it useful and hopefully I can put out more next year!

 

All the best with your NHL aspirations.  Cheers Man!