Egor Sokolov – McKeen's Hockey

MCKEEN’S 2024 NHL PROSPECT REPORT – #24 Ottawa Senators – Organization Overview – Top 15 prospects

Player Profiles - Brock Otten, Team Overview - Robert Howard — Fri, 31 May 2024 19:05:20 +0000

The Senators and their fans were cautiously optimistic entering the 2023-24 season. They had new ownership in Michael Andlauer, after long time owner Eugene Melnyk passed away, promising calm after some tumultuous years. That did not last long, as a terrible start made it clear they were on the way to missing the playoffs for the eighth time in nine years under Pierre Dorion. His mutual departure was hastened by an error that cost the franchise a first-round pick by not disclosing a no trade list as part of a trade to another team. He was replaced by Steve Staois who had just joined as President of Hockey Operations in September, on an interim basis, but was made permanent by the new year. Staois replaced coach D.J. Smith with long time Senators stalwart Jacques Martin, also on an interim basis, to analyze the team before a coaching change was made. In May, Travis Green became the next head coach of the team.

Despite continued turmoil, and recent deadline trades, the Senators continue to boast one of the best young cores in the NHL. Graduated prospects, Tim Stutzle (22-years old), Jake Sanderson (21), and Ridly Greig (21), all from an outstanding 2020 draft, join young stars captain Brady Tkachuk (24), Drake Batherson (26), injury plagued Josh Norris (25), Thomas Chabot (27), and Jakob Chychrun (26). They have two first round picks, acquiring Boston’s first round pick in the summer trade of Alex Debrincat to Detroit. In the pipeline, the biggest hope is in goal, and great hope one of Mads Sogaard or Leevi Merilainen continue to develop as they have. Sogaard is waivers exempt next season, so his time is now to show he belongs in the NHL. We will see if they can find the Andlauer promised stability and could surprise teams this season.

1. Mads Sogaard, G, Belleville Senators (AHL)

The big Danish netminder is about to hit a crossroads in his pro career. After splitting last year between the NHL and the AHL, Sogaard has taken a back seat to veterans Korpisalo and Forsberg in Ottawa this season. The good news is that he’s played much better with Belleville. The bad news is that he’s struggled mightily in a handful of NHL appearances this year. The other bad news is that he will no longer be exempt from waivers next season. Insert the crossroads. With Korpisalo and Forsberg still on the books next year, what does Ottawa do with Sogaard? Do they move/waive one of Forsberg/Korpisalo? Do they look to sneak him through waivers or try to find a trade partner for him? The latter would be shocking because he still has significant NHL upside due to his size and athleticism, but stranger things have happened. The reality is that his play has to do the talking during training camp next year.

RNK	PLAYER	POS	AGE	HT/WT	TM	Acquired	GP	G(W)	A(L)	PTS(GAA)	PIM(SPCT)
1	Mads Sogaard	G	23	6-7/195	Belleville (AHL)	`19(37th)	32	18	9	2.45	0.916
2	Zack Ostapchuk	C	20	6-3/205	Belleville (AHL)	`21(39th)	69	17	11	28	47
					Ottawa (NHL)	`21(39th)	7	0	0	0	0
3	Leevi Merilainen	G	21	6-2/160	Belleville (AHL)	`20(71st)	24	10	9	2.87	0.906
4	Tyler Kleven	D	22	6-4/200	Belleville (AHL)	`20(44th)	53	5	16	21	51
					Ottawa (NHL)	`20(44th)	9	0	1	1	2
5	Angus Crookshank	LW	24	5-10/180	Belleville (AHL)	`18(126th)	50	24	22	46	60
					Ottawa (NHL)	`18(126th)	13	2	1	3	4
6	Roby Jarventie	RW	21	6-3/195	Belleville (AHL)	`20(33rd)	22	9	11	20	22
					Ottawa (NHL)	`20(33rd)	7	0	1	1	4
7	Egor Sokolov	LW	23	6-4/235	Belleville (AHL)	`20(61st)	71	21	25	46	69
8	Stephen Halliday	C	21	6-3/210	Ohio State (B1G)	`22(104th)	38	10	26	36	30
9	Tyler Boucher	RW	21	6-1/205	Belleville (AHL)	`21(10th)	21	2	3	5	34
10	Jorian Donovan	D	20	6-1/180	Bfd-Sag (OHL)	`22(136th)	66	13	33	46	73
11	Maxence Guenette	D	23	6-1/180	Belleville (AHL)	`19(187th)	58	7	27	34	18
					Ottawa (NHL)	`19(187th)	7	0	0	0	2
12	Lassi Thomson	D	23	6-0/190	Belleville (AHL)	W(Ana-10/23)	67	6	15	21	56
13	Hoyt Stanley	D	19	6-2/185	Cornell (ECAC)	`23(108th)	35	2	8	10	22
14	Tomas Hamara	D	20	6-0/185	Kit-Bfd (OHL)	`22(87th)	44	1	19	20	22
15	Kevin Reidler	G	19	6-6/200	Dubuque (USHL)	`22(151st)	39	27	5	2.86	0.902

2. Zack Ostapchuk, C, Belleville Senators (AHL)

Zach Ostapchuk exploded onto the prospect scene a few years ago after a breakout postseason with the Vancouver Giants (WHL) and he hasn’t looked back since. Two WJC gold medals and a cup of coffee in the NHL later and Ostapchuk is still very much relevant as an NHL prospect. The big forward is the prototypical middle six forward in today’s NHL. He has size. He is surprisingly quick. He possesses great attention to detail as a two-way forward. He brings physicality. At this point, it’s just about increasing his confidence with the puck at the pro level and learning to adjust to the pace of the pro game. It’s not inconceivable to see Ostapchuk in a bottom six role with the Senators to open next year if he has a strong training camp, especially since he’s had a strong finish to the year in the AHL.

3. Leevi Merilainen, G, Belleville Senators (AHL)

Depth is never a bad thing, especially at the goaltending position. Due to Ottawa’s depth this year, Merilainen has had to spend a good chunk of his first pro season in North America in the ECHL. This is common; many NHL netminders have had to spend time in the East Coast Hockey League. The good news is that he has been solid in both the ECHL and in his time with Belleville (AHL). Merilainen continues to work hard to improve his positioning and puck tracking to help him with his consistency, something that he has struggled with dating back to his OHL days with Kingston. However, as the solid season in Liiga last year proved, he’s come a long way. The next step is finding a permanent spot in the AHL for him, possibly at the expense of 2018 draft pick Kevin Mandolese. Between Merilainen and Sogaard, the Senators do have a great chance of finding a quality NHL netminder.

4. Tyler Kleven, D, Belleville Senators (AHL)

Kleven’s first pro season has to be classified as a success. The big, physical defender has excelled in Belleville, even showing well offensively at times, which is certainly not going to be his calling card. He excels in the defensive end with his strong mobility, reach, and aggressive physical nature; simply put, Kleven can be a nightmare for opposing forwards in the defensive end. From an offensive perspective, the majority of his offense is created from his big point shot and ability to get pucks through traffic from the point. He’s not likely to be much of a point producer at the NHL level, but he is still on track to become a PK anchor and second pairing option for Ottawa in the near future. That near future could be as early as next season, depending on what happens with Jakob Chychrun.

5. Angus Crookshank, LW, Belleville Senators (AHL)

You never know how a player is going to bounce back from a serious injury. The former New Hampshire standout tore his ACL and missed the entire 2021/22 season. Last year ended up being his first full season of pro hockey and Crookshank was quite solid. However, this year, he’s really taken his game to that next level as Belleville’s leading scorer. He’s even played very well in a small sample in Ottawa, scoring his first few NHL goals. He profiles as a versatile, fan favourite whose energy in the offensive end is infectious. He excels driving the net and he’s managed to improve his speed post knee injury. He has also greatly improved his on puck play and shooting ability as a pro, which has improved his outlook and upside. He has proven this year that he is knocking on the door of a full-time spot in Ottawa.

6. Roby Jarventie, RW, Belleville Senators (AHL)

At this point, Roby Jarventie just needs to stay healthy. He’s battled injuries the last two seasons in Belleville and has been shut down the rest of this year after knee surgery. The good news is that the knee has apparently been the source of his issues the last two years; this could be the permanent fix, allowing him to develop uninterrupted. The big, power winger excels playing a North/South game thanks to his speed and skill when driving wide. He likely has the highest offensive upside of any forward in the Ottawa system currently as he could end up as a consistent 25 goal guy with the Senators in the future. Just when is that future? It will depend on his rehab following the knee surgery. It seems likely that Ottawa will want him in the AHL again when he returns to try to ease him back in and that delays his timeline.

7. Egor Sokolov, LW, Belleville Senators (AHL)

A few years ago, Sokolov was considered one of the top prospects in Ottawa’s system. He had been a QMJHL star, an AHL All-star, and was looking like a potential top six forward in the future. However, the big winger’s development appears to have plateaued, as he has had a tough time breaking through to the NHL level. His skating just has never gotten to the point that it needed to in order for him to be a scoring line forward. Even though he’s passed through waivers this year, he’s still producing in the AHL and has NHL upside. Will that be realized as part of the Ottawa organization? A pending RFA, Sokolov could be a non-tender candidate. He could also be a trade candidate, or even a KHL candidate. This offseason should be an interesting one for him.

8. Stephen Halliday, C, Belleville Senators (AHL)

Things didn’t exactly go as planned at Ohio State this year as the team underperformed in comparison to expectations, however Halliday did have another solid season as a sophomore. The USHL’s modern day all-time leading scorer recently signed with the Senators and is finishing out the year with Belleville. He is a big, playmaking center whose game has made huge strides over the last five years. He’s gone from being a one dimensional and inconsistent player with big skating concerns to a play driving power pivot who actually projects as a solid pro because of his mobility and engagement level improvements. Now he will need to prove that those improvements will play well at the pro level. If all goes well, Halliday is the kind of player who could move quickly through the system. He projects as a middle six center who can be a quality net front presence on the powerplay.

9. Tyler Boucher, RW, Belleville Senators (AHL)

Boucher is every draft pundits favourite joke these days because of how highly he was selected by the Senators (10th overall in 2021) and how poorly his development has gone thus far. While expectations regarding his potential need to be tempered, we believe that he has been unfairly criticized. While he was undoubtedly overdrafted, and he may never be able to shake that in the eyes of the scouting community, he remains someone with a possible NHL future. Unfortunately, injuries and suspensions have really played a large role in his stagnation. Just this year, Boucher’s start as a pro with Belleville was delayed because of a groin injury suffered during training camp. Since returning, he has been more of a role player. An excellent forechecker and a consistent physical threat, he should, at the very least, develop into a quality checking line player. He has the ability to use his speed on the counterattack, and his hands in tight are better than people think. Don’t close the book on Boucher just yet.

10. Maxence Guenette, D, Belleville Senators (AHL)

An AHL All Star this year; Max Guenette has taken another step forward in what had to be considered an integral year for his development. A third-year pro, Guenette is both a pending RFA and someone facing waivers next season. He needed another solid year and to earn NHL ice time this year to prove that he could be a part of Ottawa’s future on the back end. His calling card has always been his offensive capabilities and his ability to run the powerplay. A breakout machine thanks to quick thinking and quick feet, the big, right shot defender has always put-up numbers. However, he continues to work hard to round out his game in the defensive end and has had his best pro year in that regard. He has put himself in a position to earn a spot on Ottawa’s blueline next year and projects as a third pairing guy who can help move the puck and can quarterback the secondary powerplay unit.

PROSPECT CRITERIA: Players under 26 years of age as of 9/15/2024 who have appeared in less than 60 games (30 for goalies) and less than 25 in one season (25 for goalies).

MCKEEN’S 2023-24 NHL YEARBOOK – OTTAWA SENATORS – Top 20 Prospect Profiles – Organizational Rank #20

Brock Otten, Derek Neumeier, Chapin Landvogt and Josh Bell — Sun, 08 Oct 2023 14:04:24 +0000

OTTAWA, ON - FEBRUARY 11: Ottawa Senators Center Ridly Greig (17) before a face-off during second period National Hockey League action between the Edmonton Oilers and Ottawa Senators on February 11, 2023, at Canadian Tire Centre in Ottawa, ON, Canada. (Photo by Richard A. Whittaker/Icon Sportswire)

Top 20 Ottawa Senators Prospects

1. Ridly Greig

Greig’s path has continued to climb upwards since he started in the WHL and that trajectory is a big reason why he’s going to be a graduate from this list in short order. The forward wrapped up a strong WHL career in 2021-22 as the captain of the Brandon Wheat Kings, putting up 63 points in only 39 games, while also helping Canada to a gold medal at the World Juniors. He’s practically the epitome of the “Pesky Sens'' as a hard-fought, gritty player who is absolutely fearless, while playing a highly competitive brand of hockey. At the same time, he brings an impressive shot, and hands that look softer and softer every time he hits the ice. Greig is already playing in the NHL after starting last season with a strong showing in the AHL and it seems that he’ll there stick as a middle-six asset and fan favorite.

2. Zach Ostapchuk

A bit of a surprising selection by the Senators when they called his name 39th overall in the 2021 NHL Draft, Ostapchuk has spent the last two seasons proving doubters wrong. On top of two World Juniors appearances where he won two gold medals, his WHL career has taken off. In 2021-22, he was named captain of the Vancouver Giants and showed that he’s a big-game player, taking his game to another level in the playoffs, where he contributed nearly two points-per-game. With over a point per game last season, he looks too good for the WHL now and is ready to take the next step. Ostapchuk is hard on the puck, brings a physical edge, and plays a solid two-way, slightly defensive-leaning game. He also has great speed and is capable of generating great plays. His game looks like it will translate very well as a bottom nine winger.

3. Mads Sogaard

Standing at a hulking 6-7”, Sogaard doesn’t need to do much in the net to stop the puck. Drafted 37th overall in 2019, the Danish goaltender made the interesting jump from the NAHL to the WHL’s Medicine Hat Tigers, where he had a very good rookie season. He spent one more season in the WHL, performing well, before the pandemic hit. He started the 2020-21 season in Denmark and played very well, before jumping to the AHL at the end of the year. He spent more of 2021-22 in the AHL getting used to the pace and he split his time fairly evenly between the AHL and NHL last season. He moves well but can let through a bad goal a little more often than one would like. His path to the NHL may have been a little faster than anticipated as Sogaard is still pretty raw, but it looks like he’s now in the NHL to stay.

4. Egor Sokolov

Another prospect that fits the mould of a Senator, Sokolov made the jump from Russia to the QMJHL in 2017-18, his draft year. He had a solid rookie year but was ultimately passed over in the NHL Draft. He took a step forward with the Cape Breton Eagles the following year but was once again passed over. In his final year of draft eligibility, his game took a big leap in the right direction , with 92 points in 52 games, and the Senators took notice, calling his name 61st overall. He immediately made the jump to the AHL, emerging as one of the Belleville Senators' top players ever since. At 6- 3”, 223 pounds, he’s a big body who is so hard to knock off the puck, he knows how to get to the dangerous areas, and has a great shot. Sokolov’s skating is a little slow and rough, but he has the tools to slide in as a bottom six forward.

5. Lassi Thomson

Drafted 19th overall in 2019, it hasn’t seemed to come together for Thomson and that has to be a concern moving forward, with reasonable doubts not that he ever will live up to expectations. Making the jump from Finland to the WHL in his draft year, Thomson slid in seamlessly with the Kelowna Rockets, putting up good numbers and looking comfortable in doing so. After the draft, he headed back to Finland to play in the Liiga, looking ready to take a step forward in the first season before struggling in the second. He moved back to North America in 2020-21, and has mainly stuck in the AHL ever since. His game is more defensive leaning at this point, bringing physicality and good timing, but his processing with the puck is a real issue. He has the tools, but just hasn’t been able to put it all together and may have hit his ceiling as a call-up option.

6. Tyler Kleven

Kleven won’t be a blueliner who piles up the points, but he could very well become a consistent, top six defender. Drafted 44th overall in 2020, Kleven had just wrapped up his time with the USNTDP and was poised to make the jump to the University of North Dakota. After three seasons on campus, he signed his entry-level deal last year, and made the jump straight to the NHL. He is a big, defence-first prospect with a heavy shot and no qualms about playing a physical game. He’s a little slow and you don’t want him to hold on to the puck for too long, but his ability to play hard and break up plays should allow him sticking in the league. The hope would be that he can figure out his on-puck play while standing out in his off-puck performance.

7. Leevi Merilainen

Ever since the Senators called Merilainen’s name 71st overall in the 2020 Draft, there has been excitement around him from the Senators fanbase. He was drafted out of Karpat out of the U20 SM-sarja where he had very strong numbers and that continued into his DY+1 season. He then made the jump to the OHL’s Kingston Frontenacs for a an up-and-down season, with a good record but not-so-great underlying numbers and was overall just a little inconsistent. He went back to Finland last season to play in the Liiga where he looked better - enough to earn a call back to North America to spend more time with the B-Sens and Senators. Merilainen is a very agile, athletic goaltender, but he’s not consistent enough to be considered a future No. 1. If he can figure it out, he could be a reliable No. 2 or 3.

8. Tyler Boucher

Speaking of players who surprised the industry by when they were drafted by the Senators, Ottawa called Boucher’s name 10th overall in 2021, one of the biggest first round draft shocks of the last decade. Ottawa has made some good calls recently though, so perhaps they knew something no one else did. The USNTDP forward then jumped to Boston University where he was unable to put things together before jumping to the OHL Ottawa 67’s. He’s a bit of a complicated prospect in that his physicality is what could carry him to the NHL, but his development has been repeatedly marred by injuries over the past few years, questioning his durability, especially considering his power forward role. Boucher has a great, hard shot, but there are concerns with the rest of his game. At this point, he projects as a bottom six winger - maybe. It’s not likely he lives up to the weight of lofty draft standing.

9. Stephen Halliday

The Senators are no stranger to selecting double-overage players in the Draft. First eligible in 2020, Halliday did not hear his name called until two years later, 104th overall in 2022. Spending the three years prior with the USHL Dubuque Fighting Saints, Halliday popped off in 2021-22, doubling his production and being named to the First All-Star Team. He moved up to the NCAA with Ohio State last season, continuing to play very well, producing over one point-per-game as an older freshman. He has a big body and protects the puck extremely well with a pleasing level of creativity in his game. He can dish the puck out well too, but his overall ceiling, especially considering his status as a late bloomer, may be muted. He’s likely an AHL regular at this point but could earn the occasional call-up. However, he has surprised in the past.

10. Maxence Guenette

A late draft pick in the 2019 Draft, the Senators called Guenette’s name 187th overall. The QMJHL defender for the Val-d’Or Foreurs has so far been a success. After spending two more seasons in the Q, he made the jump to the AHL and has been a very consistent, reliable defender. He can play big minutes, he’s light on his feet, moves very well, and plays a solid overall defensive game. He doesn’t have a whole lot of offensive upside but there is enough for him to become a bit of a two-way rearguard as opposed to being a strictly defensive guy. Guenette is very reliable. He won’t be a top guy but has the potential to slide into a bottom pairing. For a player selected in the 7th round to be on that path has to be considered a win so far for the Senators.

11. Roby Jarventie

Jarventie showed very promising progression last year in his second AHL season, even if he missed a chunk of time due to injury. He plays a straightforward North/South game and can put the puck in the net. A dark horse to earn significant time with the Senators this year?

12. Jacob Bernard Docker

We’re just not sure why we keep seeing Bernard-Docker high up on prospect lists given how little his offensive game has translated to the pro level. He should play in some capacity, but will he ever be more than an average bottom pairing defender?

13. Angus Crookshank

Is there a more underrated prospect in the Sens system than Crookshank, who led Belleville in goal scoring last year; one season removed from a significant knee injury? He’s a hard worker who could end up being a great complementary piece in Ottawa’s middle six.

14. Phillippe Daoust

The former Memorial Cup standout missed nearly the entire 2022-23 AHL season with an upper body injury. He will be looking to bounce back healthy this season and emerge as one of Belleville’s go-to offensive players.

15. Jorian Donovan

One of the most improved players in the OHL last season, Donovan’s confidence with the puck exploded as he became more aggressive, looking to use his skating and skill to be an impact puck mover. There is still work to be done defensively but his growth thus far has been profoundly positive.

16. Tomas Hamara

Conversely, Hamara’s season in the OHL was not a positive one, as he struggled mightily in the defensive end for the Kitchener Rangers as a rookie. He will return to Kitchener this year and will be asked to play a larger role on a rebuilding team.

17. Kevin Reidler

The hulking Swedish netminder had a good season in the J20 league and will be moving to the USHL this season to play with Dubuque. He likely has his eyes set on the NCAA route.

18. Donovan Sebrango

A former standout with the Canadian WJC team, Sebrango needed a fresh start after toiling in the Detroit system. Now in Ottawa, he will look to earn a large role in Belleville and get his career back on track.

19. Hoyt Stanley

Stanley was a McKeen’s favourite for the 2023 draft and, in our opinion, the Senators got a possible steal as late as they selected him. The mobile defender is incredibly raw and is very much a long-term project. The Cornell program should be great for him.

20. Oskar Pettersson

An effective straight-line attacker, Pettersson was solid in a supporting role for Sweden at the recent World Juniors. The hope is that he can earn more ice time and responsibility at the SHL level this coming season.

MCKEEN’S 2023 NHL PROSPECT REPORT – #19 Ottawa Senators

Josh Bell — Wed, 17 May 2023 11:33:17 +0000

There was hope that this would be the year the rebuilding Senators would finally see some playoff action for the first time in six years. While they fell short, the future remains bright. GM Pierre Dorion had built an excellent core in Brady Tkachuk (23-years-old), Josh Norris (24), Drake Batherson (25), Tim Stutzle (21), Jake Sanderson (20), and Thomas Chabot (26), all poised to hit their prime together. The timeline was accelerated with the addition of Alex DeBrincat (25) in the summer, and then Jakob Chychrun (25) at the deadline, adding two impact young players. Whether they can re-sign RFA DeBrincat remains the outstanding question heading into next season.

Ottawa has graduated an impressive group and explains the downgrade in ranking from 19^th to 12^th. It also includes Shane Pinto, the 32^nd overall pick in 2019, who can also be a difference maker going forward. Ridly Greig, the 28^th overall pick in 2020 made an appearance in 20 NHL games and would appear to have made the team for the 2023-24 season and will bring both grit and skill that should mesh well with the current group. They have no picks until the fourth round in the upcoming draft, signaling the end of the rebuild. Look for Dorion to add more character veterans, similar to Claude Giroux, and likely dip into picks for future years. Finding a lasting solution in net will also be a focus.

Ridly Greig

Ridly Greig’s path has just continued to climb upwards since he started in the WHL and is a big reason why he’s going to be a graduate from this list in short order. The forward wrapped up a strong WHL career in 2021-22 as the captain of the Brandon Wheat Kings, putting up 63 points in only 39 games, while also helping Canada to a gold medal at the World Juniors. He’s practically the epitome of the “Pesky Sens” as a hard-fought, gritty player that is absolutely fearless, and is a highly competitive forward. At the same time, he brings an impressive shot, and hands that look softer and softer every time he hits the ice. Greig is already playing in the NHL after starting the season with a strong showing in the AHL and it seems that’s where he’ll stick as a middle-six asset that Sens fans will love.

2. Zack Ostapchuk

A bit of a surprising selection by the Senators when they called his name 39th overall in the 2021 NHL Draft, Zack Ostapchuk has spent the last two seasons proving doubters wrong. On top of two World Juniors appearances where he won two gold medals, his WHL career seemed to take off. In 2021-22, he was named captain of the Vancouver Giants and showed that he’s a big-game player, truly stepping up in the playoffs where he was nearly a two-point-per-game player. With over a point per game this regular season, he looks too good for the WHL now and is ready to take the next step. He’s hard on the puck, brings a physical edge, and plays a solid two-way, slightly defensive-leaning, game. He also has some great speed and can make some great plays. His game looks like it will translate very well as a bottom-nine winger.

3. Mads Sogaard

Standing at a hulking 6-foot-7, Mads Sogaard doesn’t need to do much in the net to start the puck. Drafted in 2019, 37th overall, the Danish goaltender had made the interesting jump from the NAHL to the WHL’s Medicine Hat Tigers, where he had a very good rookie season. He spent one more season in the WHL where he had another good season before the pandemic hit. He started the 2020-21 season in Denmark and played very well, before jumping to the AHL at the end of the year. He spent more of 2021-22 in the AHL getting used to the pace and this season has split his time fairly evenly between the AHL and NHL. He moves well but can let through a bad goal a little more than one would like. His path to the NHL may have been a little faster than ideal as he’s still pretty raw, but it looks like he’s in the NHL to stay.

4. Egor Sokolov

Another prospect that fits the mould of a Senator. Egor Sokolov made the jump from Russia to the QMJHL in 2017-18, his draft year. He had a solid rookie year but was ultimately passed over in the NHL Draft. He took a step forward with the Cape Breton Eagles the following year but was once again passed over. In his final year of draft eligibility, he took a big jump forward, with 92 points in 52 games and the Senators took notice, calling his name 61st overall. He immediately made the jump to the AHL and has become one of the Belleville Senators' top players ever since. At 6-foot-3, 223 pounds, he’s a big body that’s so hard to knock off the puck, knows how to get to the dangerous areas, and has a great shot. His skating is a little slow and rough, but he has the tools to slide in as a bottom-six forward.

5. Lassi Thomson

Drafted in 2019, 19th overall, it hasn’t seemed to come together for Lassi Thomson and that has to be a question moving forward if he ever will. Making the jump from Finland to the WHL in his draft year, Thomson slid in with the Kelowna Rockets seamlessly, putting up good numbers and looking comfortable. After the draft, he headed back to Finland to play in the Liiga, looking ready to take a step forward in the first season before struggling in the second. He moved back to North America and has mainly stuck in the AHL ever since. He’s more defensive leaning at this point, bringing physicality and good timing, but his processing with the puck is a real issue. He has the tools, but just hasn’t been able to put it together and may have hit his ceiling as a call-up option.

6. Tyler Kleven

Tyler Kleven won’t be a player that piles up the points, but he could very well become a consistent, top-six defender. Drafted 44th overall in the 2020 NHL Draft, Kleven had just wrapped up his time with the USNTDP and was poised to make the jump to the University of North Dakota. After three seasons, Kleven signed his entry-level deal this year, recently making the jump straight to the NHL. Kleven’s a big, defence-first prospect that has a heavy shot and no qualms about playing a physical game. He’s a little slow and you don’t want him to hold on to the puck for too long, but his ability to play hard and break up plays should lead to him sticking in the league. The hope would be that he can figure out his on-puck play while standing out in his off-puck performance.

7. Leevi Merilainen

Ever since the Senators called Leevi Merilainen’s name 71st overall in the 2020 NHL Draft, there has seemed to be excitement around him from Senators fans. He was drafted out of Karpat out of the U20 SM-sarja where he had very strong numbers and that continued into his DY+1 season. He then made the jump to the OHL’s Kingston Frontenacs for a year where he had an up-and-down season, with a good record but not-so-great numbers and was overall just a little inconsistent. He went back to Finland this season to play in the Liiga where he looked better - enough to earn a call back to North America where he’s spent time with the B-Sens and Senators. He’s a very agile, athletic goaltender, but he’s not consistent enough to be considered a future No. 1. If he can figure it out, he could be a reliable No. 2 or 3.

8. Tyler Boucher

Speaking of players that the Senators have drafted recently that surprised, Ottawa called Tyler Boucher’s name 10th overall in the 2021 NHL Draft, shocking the hockey world. They’ve made some good calls recently though, so it was worth keeping an eye on. Bouncer was selected out of the USNTDP and then jumped to Boston University where he couldn’t seem to put things together before jumping to the OHL’s Ottawa 67’s. He’s a bit of a complicated prospect in that his physicality is what could carry him to the NHL, but he’s also been marred with injuries over the past few years, questioning his durability in the role he’s now known for. He does have a great, hard shot as well, but there are concerns with the rest of his game. At this point. he projects as a bottom-six winger - maybe. It’s not likely he lives up to the weight of the 10th overall selection.

9. Stephen Halliday

The Senators are no stranger to selecting double-overage players in the NHL Draft. First eligible in the 2020 NHL Draft, they drafted Stephen Halliday two years later in 2022, 104th overall. Spending the three years prior with the Dubuque Fighting Saints in the USHL, Halliday popped off in 2021-22, doubling his production and being named to the First All-Star Team. He moved up to the NCAA and Ohio State University this season, continuing to play very well, over a point-per-game as an older freshman. He’s a big body who protects the puck extremely well and does have a level of creativity in his game. He can dish the puck out well too, but his overall ceiling, especially only popping off as an older player relative to his peers. He’s likely an AHL regular at this point but could earn the occasional call-up. However, he has surprised in the past.

10. Maxence Guenette

A late draft pick in the 2019 NHL Draft, the Senators called Maxence Guenette’s name 187th overall. The QMJHL defender for the Val-d’Or Foreurs has so far been a success for the Senators. After spending two more seasons in the Q, he’s made the jump to the AHL and has been a very consistent, reliable defender. He can play big minutes, he’s light on his feet and moves very well and plays a solid defensive game. He doesn’t have a whole lot of offensive upside but could become a bit of a two-way rearguard versus being a strictly defensive guy. He’s a very reliable player that won’t be a top guy but does have the potential to slide into a bottom pairing. For a player selected at 187 to be on that path has to be considered a win so far for the Senators.

MCKEEN’S 2022-23 NHL YEARBOOK – OTTAWA SENATORS – Top 20 Prospects

Contributors – Brock Otten, Derek Neumeier, Ethan Hetu, Dylan Krill — Sun, 18 Sep 2022 20:01:50 +0000

VANCOUVER, BC - APRIL 24: Ottawa Senators center Shane Pinto (57) skates up ice during their NHL game against the Vancouver Canucks at Rogers Arena on April 24, 2021 in Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada. (Photo by Derek Cain/Icon Sportswire)

1 - Jake Sanderson D

Jake Sanderson was the highest-drafted defenseman at the 2020 draft, and since that point, he’s become the Senators’ top prospect without any NHL games under his belt. The six-foot-two, 190-pound defenseman has been one of the best defensemen in all of college hockey. While he only got into 23 games for the University of North Dakota last season, Sanderson was a dynamic force to be reckoned with, scoring at above a point-per-game rate and earning a selection to Team USA at the 2022 Beijing Winter Olympics. Sanderson just does so many things right in all three zones. His skating is exceptional, and he has been and will continue to be a top transitional defenseman. He likes having the puck on his stick and can be relied upon as an offensive generator both on the power play and at even strength. He’s shown an ability to fit seamlessly with highly talented teammates, something that is important to note as he’s joining a Senators team that has recently supercharged their top-six forward attack. Defensively, Sanderson plays an extremely well-rounded game, combining sound positioning, aggressive, intentional defensive stick work, and threatening (if not overwhelming) physicality. Sanderson might not have the same dynamic, special quality as other top defensive prospects, but that’s not to say that he can’t take over shifts when he’s on. He has a set of tools that will allow him to become a strong NHL defenseman and the sort of defender who has a chance to anchor a top-four pairing for many years and even, if things break right, potentially become a true top-of-the-lineup force. There might be some growing pains with Sanderson’s game, as it looks like he possibly might face top-four duty immediately as a rookie, but there are few on-ice challenges Sanderson isn’t equipped to handle and he’ll be part of what could be an exciting season in Ottawa. - EH

2 - Shane Pinto C

Expectations for Pinto were sky high coming into last season. After a strong NHL debut following his sophomore year at North Dakota in 2021, many had Pinto penciled in as a Calder Trophy candidate. However, a shoulder injury quickly killed any chance of that as Pinto was lost for the year after surgery in November. Now the expectation is that Pinto will be ready to go for training camp and is once again a Calder Trophy candidate. In a lot of ways, there are parallels between Pinto and current Senators breakout star Josh Norris. Both are well-rounded centers who excel at both ends of the ice. Both have good size and can be used as strong net front presences or down low to prolong possession. Both have good shots and scoring instincts. Realistically, Pinto and Norris could occupy the middle center spots in Ottawa’s lineup for the better part of the next decade. Pinto does need to continue to improve his skating and quickness. It is just about the only part of his game that needs improvement. Given the nature of his injury (upper body), one has to hope that Pinto has been working hard to improve this during his recovery. He should enter the year as Ottawa’s third line center and will be given significant responsibility across a variety of different situations. - BO

3 - Ridly Greig C

Whether you love Greig or hate him depends largely on whether or not he's on your team — and those feelings can burn intensely in both directions. The 28^th overall selection in the 2020 draft, and the son of former NHLer and hockey lifer Mark Greig (who currently scouts for the Philadelphia Flyers), Ridly is chaos personified on the ice. He is a center with a very impressive and well-rounded offensive toolkit and the scoring totals to match, yet one who isn't content to simply coast on his skill. If anything, he loves the nasty side of the sport the most. He will throw hits with targeted ferocity and is happy to talk trash, make stick jabs behind the refs' backs, get dirty in post-whistle scrums and utilize whatever other psychological warfare that he can to annoy the hell out of his opponents. His competitive edge is truly special, and when he is on the top of his game there are few prospects in the hockey world who can leave an impact in quite the same way that he can, which was on display at this summer's World Juniors reboot, where he was one of Canada's top forwards. However, like most players cut from similar cloth, that persona comes with drawbacks. He was suspended multiple times during his WHL career and will, perhaps fittingly, have to serve a one-game suspension to begin his NHL career after cross-checking Pierre-Luc Dubois in a preseason game in the fall of 2021. If the Senators can properly harness and focus Greig's destructive tendencies then they will be able to deploy a forward who can be a unique kind of difference-maker, especially come playoff time. - DN

4 - Egor Sokolov LW

Things really turned around for Sokolov after he committed to improving his conditioning heading into his final QMJHL season with Cape Breton in 2020. By shedding some weight, he really exploded and emerged as one of the best players in the entire CHL. As a result, Ottawa took him in the second round, in his final year of draft eligibility. Thus far as a pro, Sokolov has not disappointed, continuing to play the power game that he established as a junior player. He blends power and skill extremely well and as such, he can be a real load for defenders to handle as he drives the net. Without question, he has the offensive upside to be a top six forward at the NHL level. He could eventually be a very nice complement to some of the other young forwards Ottawa has in their stable. Is he ready for a full time NHL role? The results in an eight-game trial last year suggest that he is not and needs to continue to improve his skating and play away from the puck. However, the competition for bottom six spots in training camp will be fierce and Sokolov will be right in the thick of it. Best case scenario, he spends time in a checking line role this year, perhaps even earning some secondary powerplay time. Worst case scenario, he goes back to the AHL for another season and continues to develop. - BO

5 - Lassi Thomson D

A first-round selection by Ottawa, there was some concern that Thomson’s development had stagnated. Playing in Liiga, he was less than impressive. He even struggled in the half season he played in the AHL in 2020-21. However, he really turned a corner last season, emerging as a top defender in Belleville and leapfrogging someone Jacob Bernard-Docker, among others, on the Ottawa depth chart. Thomson has always possessed intriguing potential because of his athletic ability. He has a booming point shot that creates a lot of primary and secondary chances. He can skate with the puck, and he can defend aggressively, using his mobility to stay ahead of the action. On the other hand, his positioning and decision making have always been raw and have led to miscues at both ends. Last year, he worked to correct that and played a much safer game. As a result, he blossomed. So, what’s next for Thomson? After 16 games at the NHL level last year, he figures to earn more NHL time this coming season. Is he likely to beat out Jake Sanderson for a permanent role? Very unlikely. However, it is also likely that he becomes the team’s top call up in case of injury. After his breakout campaign, he definitely looks like he could be a #4-6 defender for the Senators in the coming years. - BO

6 - Mads Sogaard G

The hulking, 6’7 Danish netminder has been solid as a pro so far after a strong two-year stint with Medicine Hat of the WHL. Sogaard even got a nice two game audition with the Senators as an injury call up late last season, beating the Detroit Red Wings in his NHL debut. Ottawa attempted to solidify their goaltending by bringing in veteran Cam Talbot this offseason to pair with Anton Forsberg, which leaves Sogaard ticketed for the AHL yet again. However, he should also be the team’s first call up in case of injury. What makes Soogard so intriguing is that he’s an excellent athlete for a goaltender of his size. He takes up the upper portion of the net naturally with his size, but he can also cover his posts well with quick pads to take away the lower portion. It is just the technical components that continue to need refinement. Things like learning to control rebounds better, tracking the puck more efficiently and finding a balance between being aggressive and staying deep to use his size to his advantage. There might not be a better instructor to work with Sogaard than new Senators goaltending coach Zac Bierk, a large goaltender himself. Under his tutelage, Sogaard should be able to develop into an NHL netminder. Talbot’s deal is only for one year so if Sogaard has an even stronger pro year, they may opt to give him the reins in 2023-24. - BO

7 - Zack Ostapchuk C

It was a tale of two seasons in one for Ostapchuk, who came out of the gate slow in 2021-22 but turned it on down the stretch, captaining the WHL’s Giants to a massive upset of top-seeded Everett in the first round. This earned an invite to Team Canada’s under-20 team in August, where Ostapchuk anchored the third line and helped contribute to a gold medal. A Senators 2021 2^nd rounder, Ostapchuk is a lanky center who will likely never put up big offensive numbers but contributes in many other ways. Unlike most players, Ostapchuk seems more comfortable in high-traffic areas, not less. He defends well, kills penalties, and can finish plays from in tight. His skating is decent, but it will need improvement in order to play at the next level. Ostapchuk plays a direct style without much deception in his game, and offensively does his best work as the net-front presence. He gains coaches trust immediately with his defensive play, faceoffs and understanding of situations in games. Ostapchuk is adept at protecting the puck and can work in tight spaces, something that will translate well to the pro game. It will be interesting to see if the offensive side of the game comes for Ostapchuk, who admitted that he cheated for offense a bit to start last season before getting back to his game. He projects as a third-line center in the NHL, provided his progression continues. This upcoming season will likely be his last in junior. - AS

8 - Roby Jarventie RW

Rather than play another year in Liiga, Jarventie decided to play in the AHL as a 19-year-old last season, something that will likely have a positive impact on his long-term development. While his production was only average, it needs to be viewed with context. His 33 points were fifth best among U20 players in the AHL. For context, another big winger who had similar production recently in his 19-year-old AHL season was Adrian Kempe of the Los Angeles Kings, who is coming off a 35-goal season in the NHL. Jarventie also was very good at the Summer World Junior Championships for Finland, perhaps operating as their best player. All signs would point to him having a breakout year for Belleville this season. He is at his best when he can use his size and speed to drive wide, looking for opportunities to use his big shot. Armed with a big one timer, he can also be a weapon on the powerplay, working the area near the faceoff circle. The skill, size, and quickness combination is very interesting and Jarventie’s potential is that of a quality middle six scorer. That said, he will need to find a way to make other areas of his game more consistent. That includes his two-way play, attention to detail away from the puck, and his decision making with it. Still a bit of a longer-term project, the return on Jarventie will not be known for a few years still. - BO

9 - Jacob Bernard-Docker D

Calling JBD’s first full pro season a complete and utter disappointment would be unfair. However, the expectations were very high for the two-way defender out of the University of North Dakota. After turning pro late in 2021, Bernard-Docker actually jumped right to the NHL and played for Canada at the World Championships. Yet last year, he struggled mightily on the offensive side of things and the pace of play really seemed to overwhelm him and his decision making at times. No one doubts that JBD can be an NHL defender on his defensive play alone. He is an intelligent positional defender who uses plus mobility to be quick to pucks and quick to close lanes. However, his upside as an NHL player is starting to look somewhat limited. As mentioned, it would appear that Lassi Thomson has passed him on the team’s depth chart and there is no question that Jake Sanderson will do so immediately at training camp this year. So where does that leave Bernard-Docker? He likely spends the majority of another year in the AHL to try to increase his confidence with the puck at the pro level. Then Ottawa will have to make a judgment call on him. After this season, a lot more will be known. Without a significant step forward, he may end up being more of a depth defender, rather than the potential top four candidate we previously thought. - BO

10 - Tyler Boucher RW

The 10th overall selection from the 2021 NHL Draft, Tyler Boucher has yet to prove worthy of being a top 10 pick, but still shows promise to become a very physical and tough player that no team will look forward to playing against. There aren’t many players like Boucher, and that’s what makes him so unique. He has the ability to impact the game by wearing out opponents with his aggressiveness and being physical anytime there’s an opportunity, sometimes being over-aggressive. Boucher had previously played for the USNTDP, but unfortunately missed games due to having Covid-19 and also a knee injury that he obtained early in the year. During the 2021-2022 season, Boucher started the year at Boston University and played 17 games, but only produced three points (2G,1A). After a slow start, Boucher elected to leave BU and made the move to the OHL to play for the Ottawa 67’s. During his time with the 67’s, Boucher finished with 14 points (7G,7A) in 24 games. Boucher’s best assets are his physicality and competitiveness. To have a player that makes opponents think twice before going into the corners to retrieve a puck is very valuable. No matter who the opponent is, he will not back down. His presence alone allows his team to play a more simplified game, doing all the dirty work for his line. Not only is he physical, but he also brings great energy each shift. Outworking his opponents with his strength, making him very efficient in puck battles and keeping puck possession. Going into the 2022-2023 season, Boucher will look to take a step and become more of an offensive threat. With a full healthy season, Boucher will be one of the toughest players to play against in the OHL. You could also expect an increase in points. - DK

11 - Tyler Kleven

Kleven is easily one of the most physical defensive prospects on the planet right now. The 6’4 defender is also mobile for his size. This combination gives him some potential as a #4-6 defender for Ottawa. His puck skill and defensive zone awareness still needs improvement.

12 - Tomas Hamara

An intelligent two-way defender, Hamara was a third-round selection of the Sens this past draft. After giving Hamara an ELC already, it seems very likely that he’ll play in Kitchener of the OHL this season after being selected in the import draft.

13 - Leevi Merilainen

Expectations for Merilainen were pretty high heading into last OHL season with Kingston, but his performance was largely underwhelming. He will be loaned to Karpat of Liiga this season. His play tracking and ability to fight through traffic will need to improve.

14 - Stephen Halliday

The USHL’s new all time leading scorer, Halliday finally earned a draft selection after dedicating himself to improving his conditioning and off puck play. The big power center should be an immediate impact player for an improving Ohio State program this season.

15 - Angus Crookshank

A knee injury ended Crookshank’s first full pro season before it even began. Now fully healthy again, Crookshank will look to prove that the injury has not hindered his development. The high-energy, well-rounded winger still has a great chance to develop into a impactful third liner.

16 - Philippe Daoust

The Sens sent Daoust back to Saint John (QMJHL) for his overage season a few months into last season after he struggled at the AHL level. He helped the Sea Dogs capture a Memorial Cup, but does need to improve his pace and speed this offseason.

17 - Jonny Tychonick

Tychonick will take advantage of an exception allowing seniors to return for a fifth year. The athletic defender has yet to live up to the hype, so this season at UNO might be his final chance to impress the Senators.

18 - Mark Kastelic

The big power forward got into some NHL games with Ottawa last season and did not look out of place. The former Calgary Hitmen standout needs to continue to improve his quickness, but he has bottom six potential.

19 - Maxence Guenette

Guenette’s first pro season with Belleville had its ups and downs, but he did prove that he can compete at the AHL level. An intelligent two-way defender, Guenette will need to continue to improve at both ends to be an NHL player. A lack of true standout quality may hurt him.

20 - Oliver Johansson

The real wild card of Ottawa’s system. He has shown great skill and touch at the J20 level but has not broken through to the SHL full time. His upside is significant, and this year should give Senators management and fans a better indication of his likelihood of reaching it.

2021-22 TOP 15 PROSPECTS: OTTAWA SENATORS – RANK: #4- TIER II

McKeen's Hockey — Fri, 10 Sep 2021 16:35:31 +0000

Ottawa Senators

#4 Ottawa - Graduations are thinning out the upper tier, and will continue to hollow out the system this year as a few more top guys look ready for the NHL.

VANCOUVER, BC - APRIL 22: Ottawa Senators center Shane Pinto (57) skates up ice during their NHL game against the Vancouver Canucks at Rogers Arena on April 22, 2021 in Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada. (Photo by Derek Cain/Icon Sportswire)

Jake Sanderson

One of the most powerful skating defensemen on the planet, Sanderson – son of similarly fast former Hartford Whaler Geoff Sanderson – could probably find his way into the Ottawa lineup now, but he prefers a second season in Grand Forks, North Dakota, playing workhorse minutes with a chance at glory (NCAA title) over fighting for third pairing minutes on the Senators with the chance at being demoted to Belleville for the sake of more playing time. This decision is understandable and will not harm his long-term prospects in the least.

In addition to Sanderson’s wheels, he also plays with a clear physical edge, ready, willing, and able to lay an opponent flat at the hint of an opportunity. His off-puck game is more than just looking for checking chances, though, as he is more than capable of ending a rush with a well-times stick check, and good luck trying to catch him out cheating his own-zone responsibilities for a fast break opportunity. For all of his speed and defensive abilities, Sanderson is also rather capable with the puck. He has a strong point shot and the touch to make plays with the puck, both handling the puck himself, and dishing it off to better-positioned teammates. Ottawa has a good number of high-end talents coming down the defensive pipeline, but more than any of them, Sanderson projects as a future #1, all-situations, game changer. - RW

Shane Pinto

Another Senators prospect who we were not as high on as the Senators at the time of his draft selection, Pinto was not so much a late bloomer as he was a multi-sport athlete who committed later than most to hockey. He emerged practically out of nowhere in his draft year, playing first for Lincoln, and then for Tri-City in the USHL, bringing a two-way, heavy game with enough skill to imagine a middle-six outcome. The Senators saw him as more of a top six center, and after two years at the University of North Dakota, they might have been correct.

Pinto brings great size, a strong skating stride, and the type of offensive zone skill set that works best when he has at least one other highly skilled player on his line that he can work in support of. He is hard to play against without being overly physically aggressive. He is very hard to dislodge from his preferred stomping grounds between the dots, and more often than not, between the hash marks. Pinto signed his ELC at the conclusion of his sophomore season, finishing his collegiate career one point shy of a point-per-game average, and then moved right into the NHL where he fit right in, at both ends. In addition to the point accumulation, Pinto is even stronger off the puck, holding things in check in his own end and doing the ‘little things’ reliably, such as his strength on faceoffs. He may or may not begin this year in the NHL, but if not, it won’t be long before he is a regular. - RW

Jacob Bernard-Docker

We were definitely wrong to not rank Bernard-Docker as a first round talent in 2018. In fact, were it not for the presence of Jake Sanderson and Thomas Chabot in the Ottawa system, we would say right now that JBD has the makings of a future top pairing defender in the NHL. That assessment starts with his ability to eat up a huge number of minutes on the blueline without any tangible degradation in the quality of his play. When we look at his skill set, on an individual skill basis, nothing there sticks out, for good, nor bad. He does everything at a solid, if unspectacular level. But it all ties together in his head, so the totality of his game is clearly better than the sum of his parts.

He can hold the line against the best the opposition has to offer. He can help make sure that the puck is moving in the right direction more often than not, even against those opposing first lines. He can be trusted to defend tight leads late in games. His right-handed shot is solid enough to deserve some time on a second power play unit. It would be preferential to see him spend one year in the AHL to work on his confidence playing the puck, as he can be prone to the safe play when he has enough time for something a little more daring, but his time in the AHL shouldn’t be long. He will be up soon, and to stay, and if not as a #1, the second pairing is his floor. - RW

Alex Formenton

After a strong rookie pro season with Belleville that saw Formenton make the 2019/20 AHL All Rookie team, the expectations were very high for him coming into last year. While his offensive production at both the AHL and NHL level did leave a little to be desired, Formenton did manage to establish himself as an NHL player in the second half. Playing a checking line role, Formenton managed to score four goals (in 20 games) and excelled as a penalty killer, utilizing his speed to the best of his capabilities.

Of course, speed is the highlight of Formenton’s game and is what put him on the NHL radar in the first place. An aggressive forechecker and attacker, there have never been any doubts about his ability to play a checking line role at the NHL level. It would appear that he has locked himself into that role for Ottawa this coming year. However, his upside as a scorer and someone who can play higher up in the lineup does remain a question mark. The next two seasons will be crucial for Formention, first to establish himself as a high-end checker, but then to build up confidence in his offensive abilities (specifically as a goal scorer) so that he can earn more responsibility from DJ Smith and the Ottawa coaching staff. - BO

Tyler Boucher

The son of longtime NHL goalie Brian Boucher, Tyler was adding a much-appreciated offensive component to his game this year, showing the potential to play higher up the lineup than he had in the past, before being struck with a season-ending knee injury in January. The result is a projection based on less ice time than most. Given the questions surrounding his high-end offensive upside, it was a surprise to see the Senators select him inside the Top 10 in 2021.

To his credit, in the short period of time that Boucher was able to take the ice this year, he took on a more offensively active role and was flourishing in it. Beyond just using his clear size and strength advantage to play a physical game, he was more effective at using physicality for puck possession, both gaining the puck and keeping it away from opponents. If not fending off checkers, he also showed some budding creativity with the puck, both in terms of what he could do with and passing with good touch. Boucher also showed strong enough skating ability to be able to play on a skill line. He has good edges, his stride is smooth, and he reaches top speed fairly quickly through crossovers. For all that he has seemingly added to his offensive game, the Senators are hoping that he can be a modern-day power forward (closer to a young Wayne Simmonds or a Tom Wilson than Ryan Reaves) after he finishes his stint at Boston University. Of course, he will have to prove that he is fully recovered from his knee injury to reach that projection. - McKeen’s Draft Guide 2021

Ridly Greig

Ridly Greig is one of the most intense players on the ice during his games. He is a relentless forechecker, back checker and physical presence. He doesn’t take a shift off, and makes his opponents take notice when he is on the ice. He is a player you would describe as “in the fabric of the game.” His game is more than just straight effort though. Greig isn’t just a wrecking ball. He is an intelligent player and is helpful in the transition game even if he isn’t the fleetest of foot. His skating lets him down a bit as his edges and tight turns are not as effective as they could be when trying to maintain speed during dynamic directional changes. His speed in the north/south style of game is fine which suits his style of play though.

His shot is a good weapon for Greig as he has velocity and accuracy. His playmaking is good, but not elite. Greig makes a living working hard on puck retrievals and driving to the net with and without the puck. He has a bit of Kris Draper in him, where you know exactly what he will give you and where you can line him up. He will be able to handle difficult line assignments, provide energy and could be a 20-goal support player. He plays a brand of hockey that old school hockey people will love and despite not being a physical monster (in terms of his physical size), it has not prevented him from playing like one. - VG

Tyler Kleven

One of the beneficiaries of the COVID-forced absences of players from Michigan and Boston University from the WJC, Kleven actually only appeared in two games for the Gold Medal winning American side but made his mark when he had the opportunity. Tall, strong, and rangy, he is first and foremost a defensive-minded defender. He keeps tight gaps, and closes them effectively and efficiently, shutting down opposing rushes with ease. A strong, swift skater, his legs greatly assist in his at-home duties. Kleven also occasionally attempts to put his feet to use in the offensive zone, although any fleeting success he has there is at least as much a function of the timing of his foray as it is about his inherent skillset.

He has the booming shot you might expect given his size, although he doesn’t give it the full wind-up treatment all that often. His hands, lacking much suppleness, hold back his ability to produce offense, and limit his puck carrying to 2-3 steps, and his passing game to mostly D-to-D type movement. I would expect Kleven to spend another two years on campus, emerging at the end as half of a reliable shutdown pair, adding time on the penalty kill to his duties at even strength. More of a coach’s favorite than a player sought after in fantasy hockey, Kleven should develop into a solid pro. - RW

Egor Sokolov

Sokolov is the personification of perseverance. A former highly touted young prospect, he went through the draft twice after two decent seasons in the QMJHL. However, entering his final year of draft eligibility, Sokolov dedicated himself to improving his conditioning and the results were extraordinary. He transformed himself into one of the best players in the QMJHL and was rewarded with a second-round selection by the Senators.

The biggest takeaway from that final QMJHL season was that by improving his conditioning, Sokolov was also able to improve his skating considerably. A big, strong power winger, Sokolov’s hands and finishing ability are excellent. By improving his overall quickness and elusiveness, everything else fell into place. As a first-year pro in Belleville last year, Sokolov continued his incredible progression by leading the AHL in rookie goal scoring with 15. At this point, he should begin to push for a roster spot in Ottawa as early as this season, given the rebuilding nature of the Senators. He has the potential to be a top six forward for Ottawa and someone who figures into their long-term plans despite the incredible forward depth that they have accrued. - BO

Logan Brown

It is clear that the Ottawa Senators still believe in Logan Brown as a potential NHL forward, as they protected him from the Seattle Kraken in the expansion draft. But it is also clear that the opportunity window for the former 11th overall pick is slowly closing. Now eligible for waivers, Brown has seen the likes of Tim Stutzle, Colin White, and Drake Batherson pass him on the depth chart. This coming season may be his final opportunity to earn a permanent spot on the Senators.

A massive center, Brown has always been lauded for his playmaking ability, vision, and puck protection talents. He can drive time of possession in the offensive end. His play away from the puck has certainly come a long way from his time in the OHL, but consistency has remained an issue. Brown has become a high end first line player in the AHL, but at the NHL level, he has looked a step behind the play and has been unable to dominate down low and near the net the way that he has shown at other levels. Knowing that this may be his last training camp to make a positive impression, Brown has to come into training camp this year and earn that permanent spot. It is not too late for him to live up to his potential as a top six center. - BO

Roby Jarventie

For as much as Jarventie’s disappointing showing at the last WJC can be seen as concerning, his consistently strong domestic play should be seen as more telling of the positive developmental steps taken in the year since the Senators made him a second-round pick. A big, bodied winger with a very strong shot and a good skating stride, the most likely case is that his shutout at the WJC (no points in six games) was the exception and his impressive work in Liiga (top goal scorer among rookies in that circuit) and in a late-season short stint in the AHL were the rule.

The question that Ottawa will be trying to answer this year as Jarventie (likely) spends the season with AHL Belleville, is can he be anything more than a sniping winger who has to be shielded from defensive situations? He has never been one to spend time on the penalty kill, and that is unlikely to change going forward, but he has at least shown in his past that he can play in the dirty areas and do well enough when it comes to fighting for loose pucks. Likely he will need at least two full(ish) seasons in the AHL to both acclimate to the North American game and establish how he can fit in productively. The best-case scenario is a top six NHL power play specialist who puts the puck in the net. Worst case is a quickish return to Finland, where he plays the same role. - RW

Leevi Merilainen

Ottawa Senators and Kingston Frontenac fans alike wait with bated breath to see how Merilainen performs in his first season in North America, as he will backstop the Shane Wright led Fronts in the OHL this year. Fresh off a strong performance for Finland at the World Junior summer showcase, Merilainen is rising quickly up the Ottawa prospect depth chart.

Mads Sogaard

The massive (6’7) Danish netminder was undefeated, a perfect 7-0, in his first pro season on a Belleville team with a bit of a logjam in net. The loss of Joey Daccord to Seattle should open up more opportunity for him this coming season and with another good year, he could really put himself in a grouping among the best goaltending prospects on the planet.

Filip Gustavsson

Yes, yes...another goalie. Really, these three could be ranked in any order, with Gustavsson being the closest to making an impact. Formerly acquired as part of the Derick Brassard deal to Pittsburgh, Gustavsson was solid in a cup of coffee at the NHL level last season and will push Anton Forsberg for the back-up gig behind Matt Murray this season.

Lassi Thomson

2020/21 was perhaps a year to forget for the former first-round selection. The smooth skating two-way defender took a step backwards in Liiga to start the year, then had a tough time with the pace and physicality of the AHL to finish the year. Entering his second pro season, he will look to bounce back before he gets passed on the depth chart by other prospects in a deep system.

Angus Crookshank

After a solid, but unspectacular three years at the University of New Hampshire (a low scoring, balanced team), Crookshank turned pro after his junior season and had a terrific pro debut to close out last year with Belleville. A pest with skill, Crookshank looks the part of a future elite third liner for the Sens and could move quickly through the system with another solid pro year.

2020 NHL DRAFT: Re-entry Candidates Part One – Canada (WHL, OHL, QMJHL, BCHL)

Fri, 31 Jan 2020 11:56:12 +0000

The art of scouting is an imperfect science. For various reasons, players get missed. Maybe said player was on a bad team and was subsequently under-scouted. Maybe said player worked through injuries in their draft year and as a result could never fully show what he was capable of. Or maybe said player did not get the ice time required to shine.

On the other hand, players can be skipped over because scouts felt that they were not good enough. That said, teenagers are far from a finished product on the ice. Their games mature just as their minds and bodies do. That is why it is critical to track players as they move through their second and third years of draft eligibility. For North American players with birth dates from January 1st to September 15th, they will be eligible for three NHL drafts. For players with birth dates from September 16th to December 31st, they will be eligible for two NHL drafts. And for European players (who are still developing in European leagues), extend that eligibility by one year in both cases.

In recent years, we have had a major shift in drafting philosophy, with more teams selecting players in their second and third years of eligibility. For one, these players are finding success at the NHL level, such as Cam Atkinson, Mike Hoffman, Ryan Dzingel, Brandon Montour, and Connor Hellebuyck, to name just a few. Secondly, teams are able to draft more polished products who have shown a steep progression curve. And thirdly, in the case of draft and follow NCAA bound players, NHL teams will have a few years longer to decide whether they want to sign said players to one of their precious 50 contracts inside the limit.

Last year, eleven “re-entry” candidates went in the Top 100 alone (four more than 2018); Pyotr Kochetkov, Samuel Fagemo, Brett Leason, Mattias Norlinder, Erik Portillo, John Ludvig, Ronnie Attard, Ilya Konovalov, Viktor Lodin, Tyce Thompson, Matej Blumel. In our “second chances” article last year (LINK HERE Part 1, Part 2, Part 3 ) we wrote about six of these eleven. In total 42 were taken among the 217 total players drafted in Vancouver. While that is down from the 46 taken in 2018, it is still nearly 20% of all draft picks. Additionally, of those 42, we identified and wrote about 14 in our aforementioned second chances series. We hope to identify even more this year.

In 2020, we have some very interesting candidates. OHL goaltender Nico Daws has been one of the best goaltenders in the CHL and was a member of Team Canada at the WJC. Lethbridge defenseman Alex Cotton currently leads all WHL defenseman in scoring only a year after being passed over at the draft. Hulking Slovakian goaltender Samuel Hlavaj has been one of the best goaltenders in the QMJHL and played for team Slovakia (again) at the WJC’s. Parker Ford of Providence is among the top freshman scorers in the NCAA and played for team U.S.A. at the WJC. This series of articles intends to highlight them and many other candidates who could be part of that 20% this year. We start with the Canadian Junior Leagues - WHL, OHL, QMJHL and the BCHL. Tomorrow we will publish the prospects playing in the US in the USHL and the NCAA. We will wrap up the series with the European prospects on Sunday.

Western Hockey League

Josh Williams. Photo by Andy Devlin. Courtesy of the WHL

Alex Cotton - Defenseman - Lethbridge Hurricanes

Cotton, an 18 year old (2001 born), 6-2” defender, has been an absolute revelation in the WHL this year. After scoring only 11 points in his rookie year (and first draft year) last year, he has exploded in 2019-20. He leads all WHL defenseman in scoring with 51 points (as of this writing) and is one of only two U19 defenders to be averaging over a point per game in the CHL (along with Jamie Drysdale, with Thomas Harley and Isaac Belliveau just below). This is especially impressive considering that the Hurricanes find themselves as one of the top teams in the WHL thanks in part to Cotton’s contributions.

“Cotton is a big part of a lethal powerplay unit and that has inflated his numbers a bit (5 goals and 20 assists on the powerplay), but his overall game has improved dramatically from a year ago. He is solid in his own zone and uses his size to protect the net area. He has an active stick in traffic that enables him to poke pucks out of harm’s way. He is also capable along the wall where he can pin opponents and move the puck along the wall. He was always a capable first pass defender who started zone exits but this year he is more comfortable with the puck on his stick. His confidence with the puck is a huge part of his impressive start to the season. He is a volume shooter from the point and gets his shot through with a combination of one-timers and quick release wrist shots. With teams starting to attack his shot more he has been able to open some passing lanes and has started to pile up the assists. His skating motion isn’t the most fluid but he moves around the ice fine. His offensive production this year has more than tripled that of his draft year which is an impressive progression that certainly merits him being considered for the draft this time around.” (Vince Gibbons)

Oliver Okuliar - Left Wing - Lethbridge Hurricanes

A teammate of Cotton’s in Lethbridge, Okuliar is playing in his first season in the WHL after switching CHL leagues this offseason, transferring from the QMJHL. He has been sensational for the Hurricanes, second on the team in scoring behind Dylan Cozens, and top five in the WHL in goal scoring with 28. He also recently suited up for Team Slovakia at the WJC’s, where he was a solid contributor. A 6-1” winger, Okuliar has been passed over in two straight NHL drafts, despite producing offensively. However, his new pace and the improvements made to his game may have NHL teams taking a longer look at him now.

“Oliver Okuliar has taken his game to new heights since joining the Western League this year. The physical play and tight defensive style have really brought out the best in his two-way game. What he has shown this season makes you think he looks the part of an NHL prospect. He has a good frame that he uses well in puck protection, cycling the puck, being a net front presence, and getting in on the forecheck. His production has improved dramatically in part because of opportunity but also because of consistency. He has been held pointless only six times this season and has only been held pointless in back to back games once. His skating won’t wow you, but he moves around the ice fine and has a pretty good burst, especially going after loose pucks. He processes the game very well and picks up the right man on the back check. He is on the first unit for both the power play and the penalty kill where he is still a threat to score because of his good anticipation and work ethic. His shot in terms of quality of the shots he takes and his release/accuracy are strong parts to his game. His passing skills are good and he has found strong chemistry playing with Dylan Cozens (Buf) each having already scored 20 goals before the halfway mark of the season.” (Vince Gibbons)

Josh Williams - Right Wing - Edmonton Oil Kings

Last year was a very tough season for Williams. He entered the year as a potential first round selection after a very strong performance at the Ivan Hlinka, where he led Canada in goals en route to a gold medal. However, his WHL season was a major disappointment and it saw him dealt from Medicine Hat to Edmonton. He ended up going undrafted (which was still a surprise, despite his poor season). This year, he has really turned things around. He currently leads the Oil Kings in goals, is averaging just under a point per game, and has become a much more engaged player without the puck. One would have to think that he is back on the draft radar again.

“Josh Williams has at times over the past two seasons looked like a legitimate goal scoring threat. He has also looked completely disinterested and frustrated with his game. At the Hlinka-Gretzky tournament he looked a finisher, absolutely lethal, quick on forecheck and engaged ready to push for top half of the draft but returning to Medicine Hat he struggled to find his game. He was pushed down the line up then traded, then pushed down the line up again due to a lack of consistency and production. This year he has found his stride. He is engaged on the forecheck, playing physical and working hard. This has led to a huge increase in confidence and production on the Division leading Oil Kings. He has rediscovered his scoring touch leading the team in goals, and second in points. His shot rates per game have nearly doubled as has his shooting %. This increase is from driving the net more and getting to scoring areas rather than shooting from the perimeter. His feet aren’t great but his work rate is back up this year and you can see that in his game now.” (Vince Gibbons)

Ontario Hockey League

Nico Daws of the Guelph Storm. Photo by Terry Wilson / OHL Images.

Nico Daws - Goaltender - Guelph Storm

An OHL champion in his draft year with the Guelph Storm, Daws did not get much opportunity to show scouts what he was capable of, playing behind veteran Anthony Popovich. This year, the Storm were supposed to be a bottom feeding rebuilding team, but Daws’ performance has carried them back into playoff position. He has been one of the best goaltenders in the OHL this year, leading the league in both GAA and save percentage. And while his WJC performance may not have been terrific, he has no doubt shown enough to scouts to suggest that he could be a top 100 draft selection in June. Although the fact that he had to miss the CHL Top Prospect’s Game with an oblique injury had to be disappointing for those same scouts.

“What a difference a year can make. Last year, Guelph rode veteran Anthony Popovich hard as they could not trust Daws in critical situations in a Championship year. But Daws dedicated himself to improving his conditioning this offseason, shedding 25lbs. The difference that this has made to his game has been astounding. He is a new goaltender. He is noticeably quicker post to post, exhibiting more explosiveness in his pushes. This is allowing him to use his 6-4” frame more aggressively to challenge and square up to shooters. His confidence level has been sky high, as he is seeing pucks well and controlling his rebounds quite well for a larger goaltender. He does a terrific job of fighting through traffic to locate pucks and rarely gives up second chances. People will point to his poor showing at the WJC and discredit his NHL potential, but Daws has everything you want from a pro goalie. Those who see him regularly in the OHL know how good he has been and can look past a couple bad games at the International level (a new experience for him). He is unquestionably the top goaltender available from the OHL for this year’s draft. Guelph has struggled to start the second half though, so it will be worth watching to see how he closes out his season.” (Brock Otten)

Pavel Gogolev - Left Wing - Guelph Storm

Speaking of the Guelph Storm, another of the players heavily responsible for their surprise season is Gogolev. Two years ago, Gogolev was perhaps the most surprising undrafted player at the 2018 NHL Draft, after posting 30 goals for the Peterborough Petes. We at McKeens Hockey had him ranked 74th and multiple other scouting agencies also had him inside their top 100. However, concerns over his engagement level away from the puck scared scouts away despite the great production. Last year, he was traded to the Storm (in exchange for Ryan Merkley), but lost a good chunk of his season to a fractured ankle. This year, in his final year of NHL Draft eligibility, he has returned with a vengeance, with over 1.5 points per game and a consistent spot inside the top 10 of OHL scoring.

“I was a fan in his original draft year and was pretty shocked when he went undrafted in 2018. However, he did have some warts, in particular his vision/poise with the puck and his engagement level without it. Fast forward two years and he is a completely different player. He still has that terrific shot and ability to drive the pace of play across the blueline, but he has really cut down on his turnovers and improved his decision making. He has also increased his intensity level ten-fold, hustling for loose pucks in all three zones, battling hard in the corners, and excelling in traffic with improved strength and conditioning. What he has done for Guelph this year, putting the team on his back offensively some nights, has been really impressive. Gogolev 100% deserves to be drafted finally this year.” (Brock Otten)

Billy Constantinou - Defense - Sault Ste. Marie Greyhounds

Like Gogolev, Constantinou is another player to have been ranked inside McKeens’ Top 100, only to go undrafted, this time in 2019. A trade to the lowly Kingston Frontenacs really killed his draft stock as it magnified his weaknesses defensively and prevented him from showcasing his offensive abilities. After a slow start, Constantinou found himself dealt again, this time to Sault Ste. Marie, and it has allowed him to blossom into the player many thought that he could become. Up close to a point per game as a defender, he is in the midst of a breakout season and at only 18 (2001 born), Constantinou should receive very heavy consideration at the draft in 2020.

“Quite frankly, he was not good in Kingston, last year or to start this year. Turnovers and engagement level were major issues to start the year. But the trade to Sault Ste. Marie has really allowed his game to blossom. He is back to being a prominent puck mover and is seeing regular time on the powerplay, where his decision making is really improving. His decision making five on five, has also improved greatly as he is making better decisions on when to be aggressive with the puck and is trusting his skating ability to help him open up breakout lanes. Defensively, improvement is still needed, but he has been way more engaged and involved with the Soo, taking more pride in his play below the hash marks, competing for space and becoming more difficult to play against. By the end of the year, he could be top 5 in defenseman scoring and given his adequate size (6-0”) and mobility, he should be a lock to be selected this time in June.” (Brock Otten)

Evgeniy Oksentyuk - Left Wing - Flint Firebirds

After an electric performance at last year’s U18s that helped Belarus make the quarterfinals, many expected that the diminutive (5-7”) Oksentyuk would draw consideration for the NHL draft. After going undrafted, he was selected by Flint in the CHL Import Draft and has been an impact player in the OHL this season. He currently sits second behind Ty Dellandrea in scoring for the Firebirds and is the 6th highest scoring 2001 born player in the league as of this writing (ahead of top NHL prospects like Jamieson Rees, Yegor Afanasyev, and Ryan Suzuki). The NHL is changing for the better when it comes to embracing undersized forwards, but his 5-7” build may still scare some scouts away. However, his skill level is undeniable.

“A tireless player who possesses an inordinate amount of skill with the puck. His motor never seems to stop running and he plays a lot bigger than his 5-7” frame. Oksentyuk certainly does not back down from physical challenges and is willing to play through the middle of the ice. He has extremely quick feet and accelerates quickly, which allows him to be a quick strike kind of player who excels in transition to create odd man rushes. What is most noticeable about Oksentyuk is his ability to handle the puck and keep possession through the moves that he makes at top speed. His edgework is terrific, as he can stop and turn on a dime. But maintaining possession of the puck, while at full speed, and while making these cuts, makes him very difficult to defend. He has left many OHL defenders looking like pylons this season. Equal parts playmaker and goal scorer, Oksentyuk has the skill level to be a pro player. Yes, he is undersized. However, he plays with the ferocity needed to overcome that lack of size, and I believe deserves to be drafted this time around.” (Brock Otten)

Quebec Major Junior Hockey League

Egor Sokolov. Photo courtesy of the QMJHL.

Egor Sokolov - Right Wing - Cape Breton Eagles

Massive Russian winger who is currently in his third year in the QMJHL and his third year of draft eligibility. The 6-4”, 240lbs forward has consistently been in the top 5 of QMJHL scoring this year and recently suited up for Team Russia at the World Junior Championships. He has improved every year in the ‘Q’ and scouts are very likely to have taken notice.

“The big Russian winger is actually a slightly trimmer Russian winger from last season – with his pounds down from 241 to 231 this season – and the 6-4” mountain of a man has used that slimmer build to improve his skating speed. His stride is much improved, and that has allowed the Yekaterinberg giant to more-than-double his points-per-game from last season for the Cape Breton Eagles. His strength is a huge calling card, and one that should continue in the pro ranks, as he has excellent balance and great puck protection. He’s not afraid to go to the net and sniff out rebounds, either. His skating is still a bit of an issue for his future prospects, but his improvements in this area show a lot of promise. He has attended one NHL camp, with Columbus in 2018, and he really wants to stay in North America to continue playing. A feature role on the silver-medal-achieving Russians only further demonstrates his uses. A team will take a flyer on the beast from the far east.” (Mike Sanderson)

Samuel Hlavaj - Goaltender - Sherbrooke Phoenix

The 6-4” Hlavaj has been one of the better goaltenders in the QMJHL this year, in his first year in the league after transferring from the USHL. The Slovakian netminder was highly ranked by NHL Central Scouting for last year’s draft but was not selected. Now, the 19-year-old has posted the highest save percentage in the Q and one of the highest in the CHL. While his numbers at the WJC were not terrific, he was better than they would indicate for a weaker Slovakian team.

“Most scouts will tell you – play anywhere and if you’re good enough, they’ll find you. While that might be true, it mustn’t have felt true for Hlavaj, the rookie sensation in the nets for the top team in the QMJHL, the Sherbrooke Phoenix. While a fixture on his native Slovakian international teams, he didn’t generate much interest stateside with his pedestrian numbers with a woeful Lincoln Stars team last season. Still, the Phoenix saw enough potential in the 6-4” netminder to make him their first import selection in June and he has blown away all expectations in the QMJHL, being a large factor in their best start in franchise history. Hlavaj is a big netminder and plays like it, covering lots of cage even in desperation, but he also moves very fast, especially post-to-post. He is a very confident goalie and doesn’t get fazed by much, paired with his impressive league leading GAA and save percentage numbers. A starting nod for a second year in a row at the World Juniors doesn’t hurt the profile, either.” (Mike Sanderson)

Shawn Element - Center - Cape Breton Eagles

Element is a two-way center who was recently dealt from Acadie-Bathurst to Cape Breton, after starting the season as the Titan captain. The 2000 born, 6-0” forward has already set new career highs in both goals and points and is poised to be part of a long playoff run with Cape Breton. Element also took part in the CHL Super Series against Russia as part of team QMJHL.

“Element’s talents were never strictly to pick up points; even as a QMJHL first rounder his projection was as a useful, energy, strong two-way forechecking forward who would pick up points, but not as his calling card. The boxcar numbers would belie his true value, and this was true even in midget, with just 21 points in 32 games in his 15-year-old season. Two factors have brought Element into the conversation as an NHL prospect – playing a very important role for a rebuilding Acadie-Bathurst squad, and putting up strong boxcar numbers for the first time. Element’s 34 points in 32 games with the Titan was the first time he was over a point-a-game in his career for a significant chunk of time, and his physical play and feistiness was only amplified as captain of the floundering Titan. He has continued that hot stick with the Cape Breton Eagles after a mid-season trade. Element does all the little things well, and can play up and down the lineup, making him a sure professional, even if most only noticed a year or two later.” (Mike Sanderson)

Brett Budgell - Left Wing - Charlottetown Islanders

A former highly touted prospect once thought to be a first round candidate at the NHL Draft, Budgell had a very disappointing draft year last season and went undrafted. The 6-0”, Newfoundland native has returned to Charlottetown and is playing inspired hockey, leading the low scoring, but effective Islanders, in scoring. Like Josh Williams, mentioned earlier in this article, Budgell may have put himself back on the scouting map.

“Like many on this list, Budgell benefitted from an increased role on an Islanders team that needed scoring. Budgell fits that category, while still providing his typical full-out effort every night. His other advantage is finding chemistry with the most talented member on his team – St. Louis prospect Nikita Alexandrov. The pair have been very solid when put together, as both have low centers of gravity and work magic along the boards in the offensive zone. Budgell is a touch undersized for the pro ranks to play the role he does – grinder, energy forward who generates off the forecheck and off the rush – but he continues to show promise to put it all together. He also shows great chemistry playing with talented linemates, as not only does Alexandrov feature in his best highlights, but his midget linemate was Carolina first rounder Ryan Suzuki.” (Mike Sanderson)

BCHL

Danny Weight - Center - Penticton Vees

Last year was a tough one for Danny Weight, son of former NHL Stanley Cup Champion Doug Weight. He became buried on the depth chart of a strong U.S. U18 squad and was eventually left off of the roster for the IIHF U18’s. This demotion essentially killed his chances of being drafted. However, he has bounced back strong this year in the BCHL with Penticton (along with Flyers first round pick Jay O’Brien), finding himself near the top of league scoring. The Boston College commit was also recently named to the CJHL Top Prospect’s Game, one of the few 2001’s at the event. It would appear that his resurgence has him back on the map as an NHL draft prospect.

“After spending the past few years with the US development program, the son of NHL veteran Doug Weight brought his talents to the Penticton Vees in the BCHL. Although it’s only for this season, as he is committed to Boston College next season, it's a very good move as he can step into a much larger role after playing on a very deep USNTDP. Playing in such a deep program wasn't giving him the opportunity to play in all roles and get a good portion of ice time. Weight was one of only a handful of players from the USNTDP that didn't get drafted and needed to make a change in response to the snub. He comes from NHL bloodlines, has decent size, can play physical, has some offensive skills as he is producing at a point per game ratio, and plays a well-rounded game. Although he needs to improve in a few areas, his goal is to get drafted, but he may be more likely to do a couple more camp invites as an undrafted player.” (Kevin Olexson)

Philippe Lapointe - Right Wing/Center - Trail Smoke Eaters

A university of Michigan recruit, Lapointe is the son of former NHL’er Martin. After playing the last few years in the USHL, Lapointe switched to the BCHL this year where he has been the captain of one of the league’s best teams and has also one of the league’s best point per game averages (just behind teammate and top 2021 draft prospect Kent Johnson).

“The son of ex NHLer Martin Lapointe has stepped into a big role in his first season with Trail in the BCHL. After overcoming an injury to start the season, he has settled in and looks really comfortable playing for the Smoke Eaters. Lapointe is hard working and very focused, has good leadership qualities and was rewarded for his efforts by being named the team’s Captain in his first season. He is a nice offensively gifted player, with 15 goals and 28 assists in only 24 games, he is producing at almost 2 points a game pace and is determined to become a top player. He keeps his head up, has a good shot, distributes the puck very well, and has been an impact player and difference maker. Lapointe is a smart 2-way player who competes hard, knows where to go on the ice, and leads by example. He has committed and set his sights on the University of Michigan program for next season and should continue to flourish.” (Kevin Olexson)

**Special thanks to the McKeen’s Hockey staff for contributing to this article (Ryan Wagman, Vince Gibbons, Mike Sanderson, Kevin Olexson, Marco Bombino, Jimmy Hamrin, Alessandro Seren Rosso, and Viktor Fomich). Additionally, thanks to Russ Cohen (@sportsology) and Will Scouch (@Scouching) for their contributions.

MCKEEN’S 2020 IIHF WORLD JUNIOR GUIDE: RUSSIA

Alessandro Seren Rosso — Sat, 21 Dec 2019 21:31:59 +0000

ORNSKOLDSVIK, SWEDEN - APRIL 23: Russia’s Yaroslav Askarov #1 attempts to make a blocker save against Sweden’s Simon Holmstrom #25 while Semyon Chistyakov #6 defends during preliminary round action at the 2019 IIHF Ice Hockey U18 World Championship at Fjallraven Center on April 23, 2019 in Ornskoldsvik, Sweden. (Photo by Steve Kingsman/HHOF-IIHF Images)

Typically, the Russian team enters the World Junior Tournament as one of the contenders, and the 2020 squad is no exception. The Russians have never failed to medal two years in a row, and will feature coach Valeri Bragin, who appearance on the big screens has almost become Christmas tradition, and will be looking for gold this time. In the 2019 tournament, the deep 2000-born class had several representatives on the roster, and that experience will make the Russians among the teams to beat.

If last year the team lacked a bit in size, this year, the defense looks very tight and has more experience than ever. The leader of the backend will be Alexander Romanov (MTL). Last year, the blueliner was awarded best defenseman honors, and this year he can be an even bigger difference-maker for the Russians after a further season of development playing on a stacked CSKA Moscow lineup. While the team isn’t as big up front, the skills and skating should make up for it. While experience will be a wild card for Bragin when making his picks, considering that several of the forwards have already played – and scored – at the KHL level.

Gone are the days when the Russians had their achilles’ heel between the pipes. Nowadays, even in the NHL, the Russians are among the best in goal, and the music isn’t going to change in the Czech Republic. With a super talent as Yaroslav Askarov (born in 2002!) and two experienced options in Amir Miftakhov and Daniil Isayev – who have already played pro hockey in the KHL.

The Russians will bring to the Czech Republic several talented players from the domestic league, like last year’s first-rounder Vasili Podkolzin (VAN), Grigori Denisenko (FLA) – who made the tournament’s All-Star team last year – Pavel Dorofeyev (VGK), and Kirill Marchenko (CBJ). They will be interestingly mixed with some of the CHL top talents as Alexander Khovanov (MIN) and Egor Zamula (PHI). Unfortunately for Bragin, the flamboyant forward Dmitry Zavgorodny is injured and won’t take part in the tournament.

ORNSKOLDSVIK, SWEDEN - APRIL 18: RussiaÕs Vasili Podkolzin #19 looks on from the bench during preliminary round action against Slovakia at the 2019 IIHF Ice Hockey U18 World Championship at Fjallraven Center on April 18, 2019 in Ornskoldsvik, Sweden. (Photo by Steve Kingsman/HHOF-IIHF Images)

Yaroslav Askarov, G

Everyone knows that Bragin values experience over raw talent, and all things considered, Askarov is going to make the roster as the third-string goalie for the Russians. However, if things don’t go well with goaltending, Askarov can be Bragin’s trump card, and there are little doubts that he can cope with the competition. The Omsk, Russia native, is considered the best goalie to come out from the Russian goalie factory since Andrei Vasilevsky. Last year, he was awarded Best Goalie honors at the U18s and is expected to be picked in the first round of the upcoming 2020 NHL Draft.

Egor Zamula, D

Undrafted in the NHL, Zamula was signed by the Flyers in Fall 2018 – and after Philadelphia signed him, his production in the WHL skyrocketed and is at about a point per game for the second straight season. Zamula’s development is confirming the Flyers’ great intuition after he went surprisingly undrafted in the 2018 draft. Considering Zamula’s play in the WHL, it’s expected that he will play a leading role for the Russians on the blueline, further cementing his position as one of the top prospects for a franchise, which already showed a great eye on young Russian defensemen when they selected Ivan Provorov.

Alexander Romanov, D

A player who gets awarded Best Defenseman honors as a one-year underage needs no introduction. In spite of his age, Alexander Romanov is a lock on CSKA’s lineup in the KHL. His average time on ice increased, and he plays more physically and generally safer in his own zone. He doesn’t often get on the scoresheet, but that’s not his role – however, considering his level, it’s expected that he will appear more often in the stats, last year he scored 8 (1+7) points in seven games. Romanov is one of the best d-men of the world of his age group, and he is expected to patrol the blueline for the Motherland in most of the key situations.

Daniil Zhuravlyov, D

A returnee from last year’s squad, Zhuravlyov, is having a strong rookie season in the KHL, with eight (1+7) points in 30 games playing a hair less than fourteen minutes a night. The Avalanche prospect is progressing nicely with Ak Bars Kazan and is reaching new heights that will help him to be a leading defenseman in the upcoming tournament. Zhuravlyov needs to improve in several areas of his game – he needs to bulk up and improve his skating – but he’s headed in the right direction. Zhuravlyov can be a good weapon for Bragin during powerplay stints and to provide a good backup plan should things not go as expected with Zamula and Romanov.

Daniil Misyul, D

The New Jersey Devils prospect didn’t make the team last year, but this time around he is expected to make an impact thanks to his physical play and energy. Misyul is very strong, plays bigger than his size, and can be physically dominant at the junior level. Paired with interesting puck skills, Misyul is one of the reasons why the Russians are expected to have one of the tightest defenses of the tournament. If he keeps his cool and focuses on clearing the crease without exaggerating, Bragin will have a real shutdown machine at his disposal.

Vasili Podkolzin, W

After last year’s accolades, Podkolzin struggled a bit this season, failing to score at the KHL level and gathering only one point at the recent Canada – Russia Series. However, last year’s first rounder is a complete player who plays and competes hard, and if he gets onto the right path early in the tournament, he can quickly become unstoppable. With his spectacular acceleration and strong puck skills, Podkolzin can be a force for the Russians, especially if he finds his scoring touch again. Bragin needs Podkolzin to score in the Czech Republic, but he will also have other options when it comes to creating offensive chances.

Alexander Khovanov, C

Due to a lack of high-quality center, Khovanov is going to be the most important man on the roster for Bragin as he is the only true number one center the Russians will have at their disposal right now. The Moncton Wildcats forward is having a spectacular season in the QMJHL and was nothing short of great at the recent Russia – Canada series. Unfortunately for Bragin, however, he will not be playing side by side with Dmitry Zavgorodny in the Czech Republic. Khovanov is expected to be the first-line center for the team and eat up many minutes.

Pavel Dorofeyev, W

One of the top talents for his year of birth, Dorofeyev, is already amassing points in the KHL and is expected to play a significant role for the Russians as one of the go-to guys who can take the game on himself and creating scoring chances on his own. The Vegas prospect is developing nicely in the KHL and has already made the highlight reels more than once. Dorofeyev can be a real virtuoso with the puck and on the right day he can be a threat for any team, Canada and the USA included. He is an excellent skater who can be very dangerous when the game opens up but needs to be more consistent.

Grigori Denisenko, W

After a stellar performance last year – Denisenko was included in the tournament’s All-Star team – the Panthers prospect is expected to be even stronger this year with more experience under his belt. Denisenko is expected to play on the first line with Alexander Khovanov and Nikita Alexandrov. Of course, much of the Russian offense will depend on how Denisenko will play with the puck. Moreover, he needs to focus and play a disciplined game – recently, in the KHL, he picked up a two-game suspension for an illegal hit. Having said that, Denisenko is certainly one of the most talented players in the tournament, and he has all the tools to repeat – if not improve – last year’s accomplishments.

Kirill Marchenko, W

A returnee from last year’s squad, Marchenko will have a whole another role on the team this time around. He will most likely play with his teammates Ivan Morozov (VGK) and Vasili Podkolzin, trying to take advantage of their chemistry, which is responsible for Marchenko’s great play of late in the KHL. The 2018 second-round pick is playing pro hockey exclusively this year, and he showed that he can score and play a technique-sound game even against established professional players. If Marchenko, Morozov, and Podkolzin find some chemistry and the right groove, expect them to find twine with regularity, even in the most important games.

Sleeper

Egor Sokolov, W

The big-sized winger made huge strides forward in the latest few seasons when he moved to the CHL, scoring an impressive 51 points in 31 regular-season games for Cape Breton in the QMJHL. He also played very well at the recent Canada – Russia series and it was quite strange to see him passed over last season, even if he didn’t post astonishing numbers. However, the Russian winger is expected to add size to the lineup and find place on the second or third line of the team, maybe with Dorofeyev and Dmitry Voronkov (CBJ). If things go well for him at the WJC, considering the kind of numbers he is amassing in the QMJHL, he’ll sign with an NHL franchise next year.

2019 CIBC Canada Russia Series – Prospect notes on QMJHL, OHL, WHL and Russian teams

Michael Sanderson, Michael Rand and Vince Gibbons — Mon, 18 Nov 2019 20:34:22 +0000

Between November 4-14, a travelling band of Russian U20 hockey talent, many of whom are vying for a spot on Russia’s final WJC roster, traversed Canada, from East to West, to play in the annual CIBC Canada Russia series. The visiting Russians were joined, as applicable, by Russian talent playing in the CHL, as they split the series, and in fact, each leg of the series.

McKeen's assigned some of its regional writers to track the games, in arena when possible, to give you our impressions of these priority contests.

QMJHL, by Mike Sanderson

The series started on the east coast, as Saint John and Moncton hosted the first two games. The two teams split the two games by identical 4-3 scores, but with Team QMJHL needing an extra frame to do so in their victory, and points were Russia - 4; QMJHL - 2 after two games in the series.

Team QMJHL featured much of the best Canadian hopefuls east of Ontario, with one notable exception. Alexis Lafrenière of the Rimouski Oceanic, the named captain of the squad, suffered an injury on the weekend before play began, and opted out of the series to recover.

For Team Russia, head coach Valery Bragin smartly used his CHL players to his advantage, to combat both inexperience and jet lag. Bragin used his QMJHL players to their maximum, using the two games out east to give plenty of ice time to his top line of Rimouski’s Dmitry Zavgorodniy, Cape Breton’s Egor Sokolov and Moncton’s Alexander Khovanov.

That proved fruitful immediately, as Zavgorodniy and Khovanov each had four points in the series opener, a 4-3 Russia victory at TD Station in Saint John. The chemistry that Sokolov, Zavgorodniy and Khovanov showed in the early going of this series was impressive.

Khovanov was the playmaker who can also fire the puck. Zavgorodniy used his speed effectively to go wide on defenders. Sokolov used his giant body to set up shop where he likes, and protect the puck and his ice strongly. The three made an effective line, and could be a scoring line for Russia next month.

Russia only brought two draft eligible players to the series in Canada – forwards Rodion Amirov and Maxim Groshev. Amirov’s creativity was on full display, as he used his low center-of-gravity and skating abilities to turn routine plays into the impressive, and keep defenders on their toes. He was also very strong along the boards in these two games for his size, using that strength from below to protect the puck. Groshev has a nose for the net and used it to his most potential, scoring a goal in Game 2 in Moncton by going to the net and burying a rebound.

Zavgorodniy wasn’t the only player whose speed caught defenders off guard. It was clearly in the gameplan for Russia to overwhelm the QMJHL defense with speed down the wing and cut to the net from the bottom of the circle. Team QMJHL didn’t adjust to that plan and consistently struggled to handle the speed wide from the Russian attackers.

Vasili Podkolzin, perhaps the most talented of the homegrown Russian players, showed his breakaway speed for a couple of dangerous chances, though he also showed his immaturity with a bad penalty in Game 2.

Because of the speed of the Russians, and the absence of Halifax’s Jared McIsaac due to injury, no QMJHL defenseman impressed in the series.

Also deserving mention is the contrast in styles from the two teams. Since this is a short series and featuring players who don’t play together on a regular basis, players were relying on their talent and not systems.

Russia brought a more East-West approach to the game, while the QMJHL squad played a simpler, North-South game with less creative movement. The Russians came to exploit it more than team QMJHL.

There were a lot of good takeaways from the Q forwards, with one draft-eligible forward leading the pack. Drummondville’s Dawson Mercer showed that he could hang with any player on the roster, demonstrating strong forechecking and puck retrieval skills, along with a nose for the net and a great one-timer in the two games.

Mercer showed as well as any QMJHL forward hoping to earn a berth with Team Canada’s training camp next month. The two-way forward produced at both ends of the ice and without the puck, attracting attention for all the right reasons as a winger who could play up and down the lineup. He also showed some great chemistry with Moncton’s Jakob Pelletier.

Raphael Lavoie showed his great offensive potential with a number of great chances, and scored the game-winner in the second contest in overtime, as Team QMJHL downed the Russians in Moncton 4-3. The upside Lavoie showed was that he can be deft and creative with the puck even in a North-South scheme. The downside of Lavoie is he showed that he is solely an offensive player in this context, and that could see him on the outside looking in come Christmas time. Team Canada will be looking for players who can play up and down the lineup, and Lavoie will need to show more jam to improve his chances.

Both goaltenders for team QMJHL impressed, and both had solid saves on their slates through the two games. It’s likely Olivier Rodrigue of Moncton holds the edge over Alexis Gravel of Halifax, based on experience.

Ty Dellandrea of Team OHL. Photo by Luke Durda/OHL Images

OHL, by Michael Rand

The annual CIBC Canada/Russia series made its way through Ontario this past week featuring some of the future stars you will be seeing on TV come World Juniors just after Christmas. This year could be an unusual situation where Canada could be dressing multiple draft eligible players.

Quinton Byfield of the Sudbury Wolves is one of those eligible players that could be selected by Team Canada come the end of December. He is one of the most talented players in this draft and has clearly separated himself as a top five talent. He managed to register two assists in the two games, and showed why he is a bona fide NHL prospect. Using his speed and sheer power, he was able to create many scoring chances. One of the things he does very well that stands out to me is his back pressure. When the puck is turned over, he will hound you until he gets it back for his team.

One of the other impressive draft eligible players was the Erie Otters’ Jamie Drysdale. The smooth skating and elusive defenseman really stood out. His ability to transition from defense to offense is some of the best I have seen at this age in a while. Watching him play, it is very evident that he exudes a ton of confidence and reads off his teammates very well. When there is an opportunity for him to join the rush, he does so.

Cole Perfetti, of the Saginaw Spirit, will be another one of those names that you will be hearing come June for sure, but potentially in December as well. He showed well over the two games adding a goal in the first game. What makes Perfetti such an exciting prospect to watch is his poise with the puck and his goal scoring ability. He reads very well off his teammates and can get into those “soft areas” on the ice to let his shot go. What also impressed me was his ability to show off his passing skills and demonstrate his high level of hockey IQ. Again, another very intriguing and promising prospect who could crack the World Junior team this season.

Amongst some of the already drafted players, several stood out. Ty Dellandrea, the Dallas Stars prospect playing for the Flint Firebirds made a positive impression. He was a physical and dominant force when he was on the ice. He managed to score one goal in the two games, but left a strong impression. His speed, tenaciousness, and smarts for the game were some of the takeaways I took from his games.

Niagara Ice Dogs player and Los Angeles Kings prospect, Akil Thomas, showed some strong play as well. A player I feel that Team Canada will lean heavily on come Christmas time showed why he almost made the NHL this season. His strong two-way play drives any line he is on and that was evident in these games. He popped in one goal in the two games, but was force on the ice when he was out there.

The London Knights’ Connor McMichael, a Washington Capitals prospect, showed why he is one to be considered for December as well. Putting the puck in the back of the net during both games and showing strong two-way play only caught the attention of many in attendance. He has a lethal shot and strong hockey IQ that was on display in both games.

Another strong outing came from Thomas Harley of the Mississauga Steelheads. His ability to create offense from the back end is very impressing. The Dallas Stars prospect showed his skating ability and high level IQ for generating his offensive chances. I suspect to hear his name right in contention come December.

For the Russians, I thought Vancouver Canucks prospect Vasili Podkolzin was their most consistent player. That said, I still wonder why does he not put up more points? This guy consistently drives play and is threat on the ice always. That was no more evident than the assist he had in the second game.

Ivan Morozov (VGK) was a little quiet in the first game, but picked it up in the second game and eventually went on to score in the shootout. Personally, I was expecting more from this player, but he fared fine. It will be interesting to see if he finds himself onto this Russian team come Christmas time.

Finally, one of the draft eligible Russian players, Maxim Groshev, had a strong showing. He is a very strong skater and fared well playing with Podkolzin. I thought he showed some offensive flashes, and showed his speed effectively. On numerous occasions, he would change speeds coming down the wing to create separation from himself and the D man.

Team Canada is going to have some difficult decisions ahead of them come late December. I think you are going to see a very competitive selection camp and could potentially see a couple of surprise faces donning the Maple Leaf come Boxing Day.

WHL, by Vince Gibbons

This week’s WHL vs Russia games only reinforced what we already knew about the WHL, that it consistently produces high caliber defenders. Head coach Mitch Love employed three dangerous defenseman on his first power play unit; something that is almost never seen at this level of hockey. In a somewhat methodical first game the WHL left it late, scoring in the last minute to force overtime and then scoring in overtime to secure a win in Saskatoon (2-1). In Prince Albert, special teams really moved to the forefront as the WHL went three for four on the power play in the second period and really started to take control of the game. They were unable to hold on and again went to overtime. OT solved nothing but the Russians were able to snatch victory in the game by going three for three to start the shootout. This set up a unique second shootout for the overall series win in which Nolan Foote scored two shootout goals to lead the CHL teams to a series victory over Russia. A few players stood out with their in game performances:

Team WHL

Bowen Byram was the most dangerous player on either team over the two games. He joins the rush as well as anyone and played a half wall position on the power play where he had space to drive the net. His puck handling and release make him hard to defend. In game one he scored the equalizer and set up the OT winner. In game two he had no points but was a big part of the buildup for two power goals with his dynamic skating and playmaking abilities.

Calen Addison was paired with Byram making for a lethal offensive combination on the blue line. His skating ability was on full display, as was his vision. He can move the puck around so effectively and has great feigns and dekes that open up the ice for him. Physically the Russians we able to hem him in a bit but his playmaking and ability to get pucks to the net stood out in the offensive zone. Scoring the OT winner in game one plus making a series of nice passes on the powerplay, which led to a special teams clinic by the WHL in the second period of game two really left an impression.

Ty Smith wore the “C” for the WHL and showed how dangerous his skating makes him. He is so adept at moving the puck from blue line to blue line either by carrying or moving the puck. On the power play Smith played the middle of the blue line where he made excellent passes on his forehand and backhand leading to two assists in the second game. He took a couple of holding penalties where he lost positioning on his man, a reminder that he still needs to clean up his play in his own zone, but overall he was very strong across the two games.

Nolan Foote’s presence around the net is very noticeable. On the powerplay he scored two goals all within three feet of the goalie. His game below the dots is impressive as he can protect the puck very well and has an excellent shot with a quick release. His six shots were second on the team. When on the cycle his skating is less of an issue and he can look very dominant. He also led team WHL in the shootout going 2 for 3 with a couple of really nice finishes.

In terms of draft eligible players both Connor Zary and Braden Schneider acquitted themselves quite well. Zary looked dangerous carrying the puck and was part of a second powerplay unit that netted a goal in Game 2 where he had the primary assist. Schneider was a very solid stay at home defender with a roster that always look to move forward. He was physical and controlled the board play in his own zone while making sound defensive decisions and outlet passes.

Russia

Egor Zamula was a solid but not necessarily spectacular player for Russia over both games. He logs a ton of minutes in all situations; defensively he controls his own zone well. He uses his size very effectively, his reach in particular where he can create turnovers quickly. He moves the puck well and can hit a homerun pass because he always has his head up. He moves the puck quickly on the powerplay which creates opportunities down low.

Ivan Morozov carries the puck well and is not scared to drive to the net with or without the puck. His shot is dangerous and he led the Russians in the WHL games with 5 shots. He made a couple of very nice plays including a nice little saucer pass into the slot for the game tying goal in game two. He is a very hard working player and was noticeable on the back check where his pressure prevented sustained offensive zone time for team WHL. He also managed to score two of three shootout attempts in the final game.

Amir Miftakhov was Russia’s best player on a night where they played with the lead for 54 minutes. He was very controlled and poised in the net. His reaction saves were impressive and he did a nice job of pushing rebounds away from the crease if he couldn’t cover the puck. He isn’t a big goalie and relies on his reads to get into position rather than filling up the entire net. He also came in cold for the second shootout and made two big saves to give Russia a chance to win the series. I could see him establishing himself in the KHL in the next few seasons and being a goalie that comes to North America in his mid-twenties like so many have tended to in the past few seasons.

The CHL managed to edge out the Russians in the series. Both teams managed to collect three wins. The Russians impressed with getting a final victory as it was their 6^th game in 10 days with an enormous amount of travel and time zone adjustment.