Filip Hallander – McKeen's Hockey

NHL: CULLEN – 20 FANTASY POINTS – An 18-year-old defenceman who is already a star, goaltenders stepping up, Zegras making an impact in Philadelphia, and more!

Scott Cullen — Sat, 01 Nov 2025 17:45:04 +0000

ELMONT, NY - OCTOBER 11: New York Islanders defenseman Matthew Schaefer (48) warms up before a game between the Washington Capitals and New York Islanders at UBS Arena on October 11, 2025 in Elmont, New York. (Photo by Andrew Mordzynski/Icon Sportswire)

Each week, I dig into the stats to find information that can help you make better fantasy hockey decisions. This week, an 18-year-old defenceman who is already a star, goaltenders stepping up, Zegras making an impact in Philadelphia, and more!

#1 The first overall pick in the 2025 Draft by the New York Islanders, 18-year-old Matthew Schaefer has been incredibly impressive to start his NHL career, registering eight points (3 G, 5 A) and 31 shots on goal in his first 10 games. The last 18-year-old defenceman to score at a higher rate over a full season was Phil Housley, who had 66 points (19 G, 47 A) in 77 games in 1982-1983. The last 18-year-old defenceman to average more than three shots on goal per game was Bobby Orr, in 1966-1967. It’s very early in Schaefer’s career and 10 games is not a big enough sample to determine a player’s fate, but what if this is only the beginning? What if he improves on what could be historically great production? That is the potential that lurks for the Islanders and fantasy managers alike.

#2 When the Florida Panthers drafted Spencer Knight with the 13th overall pick in 1999, he was one of the top up-and-coming goalie prospects in the game. It has not been a smooth path for him, but the Chicago Blackhawks acquired him last season and he seems to have found his game this season. He has a .914 save percentage and 8.72 Goals Saved Above Expected in all situations, which ranks third behind Winnipeg’s Connor Hellebuyck (9.58 GSAx) and Montreal’s Jakub Dobes (8.89 GSAx).

#3 With Ukko-Pekka Luukkonen was injured in the preseason, the Buffalo Sabres thrust Alex Lyon into the role of starting goaltender and Lyon, who has been a career backup, has responded to the challenge. He has delivered a .912 save percentage and 3.24 GSAx, which could make it difficult for Luukkonen to reclaim the crease. His case was not bolstered by allowing four goals on 23 shots at Toronto in his season debut.

#4 When the Philadelphia Flyers acquired Trevor Zegras in the summer, it was seen as a risk worth taking. Zegras is a highly skilled playmaker but had just 32 points (12 G, 20 A) in 57 games for Anaheim last season. He has had two seasons with more than 60 points, so it’s clear that he can do better, and he is at least off to a productive start in Philadelphia, contributing 12 points (4 G, 8 A) and 16 shots on goal in 10 games. His low shot rate is a concern, but it’s good to see him putting up points early because it will help him stay in a prominent role with the Flyers.

#5 A 27-year-old right winger who had played a total of 95 regular-season games prior to this season, Justin Brazeau is making the most of his opportunity with the Pittsburgh Penguins. It’s not like he is suddenly playing a ton, though this season’s 13:29 ATOI would be the highest of his career, but he has mostly played a second-line role alongside Evgeni Malkin and Brazeau has 12 points (6 G, 6 A) with 22 shots on goal in 12 games. Brazeau also has 17 hits and 12 blocked shots, which gives him a solid statistical base, but if he could see that ice time creep up a little bit more then there is a better chance for his production to be sustainable. Even if he’s not a point-per-game player over the long haul, if Brazeau scores 20-plus goals that would have to be considered a major step forward in his career.

#6 There is a bigger window for Brazeau to get comfortable in a top six forward role for the Penguins because Rickard Rakell will be out for 6-to-8 weeks following hand surgery. Rakell had eight points (3 G, 5 A) and 17 shots on goal in nine games before getting hurt, and rookie Filip Hallander has moved onto Sidney Crosby’s line in Rakell’s absence. It’s too soon to recommend Hallander, but he does have a couple of assists in the past four games, so he’s worth keeping an eye on for managers in deep leagues.

#7 Chicago Blackhawks centre Frank Nazar had a strong start to the season but that has continued. Nazar has 11 points (5 G, 6 A) in 11 games and is averaging 19:37 of ice time per game, ranking second among Blackhawks forwards behind only Connor Bedard. There is some valid concern about his percentages as he is scoring on 21.7 percent of his shots on goal and has a five-on-five on-ice shooting percentage of 14.8 percent, both of which are quite lofty and highly likely to regress.

#8 The Vancouver Canucks have lost right winger Conor Garland to an undisclosed injury and when Brock Boeser had to leave Thursday’s game against the Blues early, that provided even more ice time for blue collar winger Kiefer Sherwood, who played a career high 24:12 against the Blues and recorded a hat trick, giving him nine goals in 12 games. He’s also a hitting machine, with 54 in 12 games after recording 462 last season, so he is very valuable in fantasy circles.

#9 Columbus Blue Jackets winger Dmitri Voronkov made nice progress last season, going from 34 points as a rookie in 2023-2024 to 47 points (23 G, 24 A) last season, and it looks like he’s on track to continue that upward momentum in his third season. He has 10 points (5 G, 5A) and 21 shots on goal in 10 games and has a spot on Columbus’ top line with Sean Monahan and Kirill Marchenko as well as getting first unit power play time, good spots for him to remain productive.

#10 The Seattle Kraken are off to a solid start and they are giving 2024 eighth overall pick Berkly Catton a legitimate chance to stick, especially with Kaapo Kakko and Jared McCann both injured. Catton has three assists in five games and is skating at left wing on Seattle’s top line with Matty Beniers and Jordan Eberle. Catton had 225 points (92 G, 133 A) in 125 games across the past two seasons in the Western Hockey League, so he has strong offensive pedigree, and the Kraken could definitely use more offensive skill.

#11 Veteran winger Marcus Johansson has reached a stage of his career where he can move into a variety of roles. He’s a skilled player who might just fit in near the bottom of the depth chart, but he knows his way around the offensive zone, so if there are openings he can move up and, right now, he is skating on Minnesota’s top line with Kirill Kaprizov and Marco Rossi. Johansson has five points (2 G, 3 A) in his past four games and played more than 22 minutes against San Jose on Sunday.

#12 As the Calgary Flames look for answers, and no easy ones seem to be forthcoming, they are giving Morgan Frost a shot at right wing alongside Nazem Kadri and Jonathan Huberdeau. Frost has five points (1 G, 4 A) during a five-game point streak, which is a good way to hold onto a spot higher on the depth chart. He has had two seasons with more than 40 points in his career, but never more than 46, so it’s fair to be cautious about just how much he can produce over the long haul.

#13 Knowing primarily for his checking prowess, Tampa Bay Lightning centre Anthony Cirelli put up a career-high 59 points (27 G, 32 A) last season and has started strong this season, too. Through 11 games, Cirelli has 10 points (6 G, 4 A) and 19 shots on goal. He is scoring on 41.6 percent of his shots, a ridiculously high rate, so that is going to regress, but with Brandon Hagel on his left side, he has a reliable linemate. The right side is more of a revolving door, but Cirelli is a solid source of secondary offence for Tampa Bay.

#14 When the Los Angeles Kings traded defenceman Jordan Spence to the Ottawa Senators in the offseason, that created more of an opening for Brandt Clarke to have a regular spot on the Kings blueline. Clarke has five points (1 G, 4 A) and 10 shots on goal in his past four games, which is a promising sign for a young offensive defenceman. The challenge will be finding his way to the Kings’ top power play unit, where he can maximize his offensive output, but is currently running with five forwards.

#15 The Pittsburgh Penguins traded to acquire Arturs Silovs in the offseason, desperately hoping that he could help stabilize their goaltending. Incumbent starter Tristan Jarry was coming off a down season, during which he was demoted to the AHL, but now the Jarry and Silovs tandem is giving the Penguins a chance to win almost every night, as the Penguins’ .921 save percentage is best in the league. Silovs, who struggled in Vancouver last season before starring during Abbotsford’s run to the Calder Cup in the AHL, has a .919 save percentage in six games for Pittsburgh, splitting time in the crease with Jarry.

#16 Sometimes, the right partner can help steady goaltending. It’s happening in Columbus, too, as Jeat Greaves has emerged as a quality option for the Blue Jackets, but Elvis Merzlikins also has a .915 save percentage in five games. After three consecutive seasons of below average performance, he is off to a good start in 2025-2026 and it might be a case of less is more. He’s more effective when sharing the crease rather than trying to handle a full starter’s workload.

#17 Veteran left winger Jaden Schwartz has helped the Kraken to a good start this season, contributing nine points (4 G, 5 A) and 19 shots on goal through the first 10 games. He is a six-time 20-goal scorer and last season’s 26 goals was the second highest total of his career, so he has known his way around the net for a long time and on a team without offensive stars, like the Kraken, they need solid veterans like Schwartz to deliver.

#18 Montreal Canadiens winger Patrik Laine suffered a core muscle injury that is expected to keep him out of the lineup for 3-4 months, a tough financial hit for him considering that his contract expires at the end of the season. He wasn’t off to much of a start this season anyway, with one assist and six shots on goal in five games. If looking for sources of secondary scoring in Montreal, maybe Oliver Kapanen will have a chance because he has taken over as the second line centre, between Alex Newhook and Ivan Demidov and Kapanen has seven points (4 G, 3 A) in 11 games despite playing just 12:24 per game.

#19 With standout Nashville Predators defenceman Roman Josi considered week-to-week with an upper-body injury, Brady Skjei moves into his spot on Nashville’s top power play unit. He has just three assists and 17 shots on goal in 12 games, but Skjei is playing more than 23 minutes per game and if he is getting time on PP1, then that’s always worth considering. Skjei had 10 power play points, out of 33 points total, last season, so when the opportunity presents itself, he can contribute with the man advantage.

#20 Staying in Nashville, rookie winger Matthew Wood has landed a spot alongside Filip Forsberg and Ryan O’Reilly on the Predators’ top line and he is not playing a lot yet, he does have a goal and an assist with 11 shots on goal in five games. If he proves that he belongs and can lift his ice time from the current 12:40 per game that he is playing, then Wood – the 15th pick in the 2023 Draft – could have a chance to provide value.

*Advanced stats via Natural Stat Trick

NHL: CULLEN – 20 FANTASY POINTS – With the season starting on Tuesday, players are starting to move, and rookies are starting to get noticed

Scott Cullen — Sat, 04 Oct 2025 16:17:49 +0000

Each week, I dig into the stats to find information that can help you make better fantasy hockey decisions. With the season starting on Tuesday, players are starting to move, and rookies are starting to get noticed.

#1 The Edmonton Oilers traded future considerations to the Utah Mammoth for goaltender Connor Ingram. While Ingram is coming off a tough season in Utah, when he had a .882 save percentage in 22 games and ended up in the NHL/NHLPA Player Assistance Program, he had a .907 save percentage across 77 games in the previous two seasons, so there is a world in which he is capable of handling a starting job, but he’s more like insurance. Ingram is expected to start the season in the American Hockey League and, if he regains his form, he will be an option for the Oilers if Stuart Skinner continues to struggle.

#2 Ingram wasn’t the only goalie moving, as the Vegas Golden Knights are reportedly going to sign former Flyers netminder Carter Hart. As one of the infamous accused in the Hockey Canada trial this summer, Hart was going to come with some controversy and there was a petition to stop the Golden Knights from signing him, but if reports are correct, it looks like Hart will share the crease in Vegas with Adin Hill, which will send Akira Schmid to the American Hockey League. Hart, 27, had a couple of excellent seasons to start his career before dropping off dramatically in his third campaign. In the three seasons that he has played since then, Hart has been a little better than average, so he should be able to fulfill the on-ice expectations. Hart’s arrival probably puts a limit on Hill’s fantasy appeal. He delivers consistently solid results but played in a career-high 50 games last season and Hart’s presence makes it less likely that he will see that many games this season.

#3 Oft-injured centre Josh Norris is looking for a fresh start with the Sabres after last season’s trade from Ottawa and Norris has delivered seven points (3 G, 4 A) in four preseason games. He has managed just four shots on goal, so it’s reasonable to expect that he won’t score on 75 percent of his shots long-term, but Norris is earning a prime opportunity to play with Tage Thompson and Zachary Benson on Buffalo’s top line. Norris scored a career-high 35 goals in 66 games in 2021-2022 with the Senators and managed 21 goals in 56 games last season, so if he manages to stay healthy, a 30-goal season is not out of the question.

#4 With Zach Hyman out until November while he recovers from a wrist injury suffered in last year’s playoffs, the Oilers are naturally taking a look at options to fill his role on the top line and physical winger Trent Frederic is getting a shot alongside Connor McDavid on the top line. Frederic is known much more for his physical play and had just 15 points (8 G, 7 A) in 58 games last season, but he is just one season removed from contributing a career-best 40 points (18 G, 22 A) for the Boston Bruins in 2023-2024. Anyone who plays alongside McDavid will generate interest for fantasy managers, but Frederic’s fantasy relevance is going to be closely tied to who his linemates are in Edmonton.

#5 After getting a chance to play late last season and into the playoffs with the Blues, 2022 first-round pick Jimmy Snuggerud is a rookie to watch heading into the 2025-2026 season. He had 51 points (24 G, 27 A) in 40 games as the captain at the University of Minnesota last season and indications in St. Louis are that Snuggerud will start the season on the first line, with Robert Thomas and Pavel Buchnevich, while also getting a spot on the Blues’ first power play unit. It’s risky to put expectations on rookies but it sure looks like Snuggerud will have a chance to be productive right out of the gate.

#6 Carolina has given 2023 first-rounder Bradly Nadeau a chance in a scoring role and he’s at least offering a good accounting of himself. In five preseason games, Nadeau has five points (3 G, 2 A) and 15 shots on goal, so he’s certainly a credible option if the Hurricanes have a need on the wing in their middle six. That doesn’t look like a huge need, given what they have on the roster already, but Nadeau had 58 points (32 G, 26 A) in 64 games as an AHL rookie last season, so he’s knocking on the door, whether that gets answered at the start of the season or some time in the not-too-distant future.

#7 A rebuilding team like the Pittsburgh Penguins has to hope that they can find some young players that will help take this team into its next era and 2025 first-round pick Ben Kindel has impressed in training camp. He has three points (1 G, 2 A) and 15 shots on goal in six preseason games and might get a nine-game trial at the start of the season. With veteran winger Bryant Rust injured for at least a couple of weeks and Danton Heinen getting waived, that could provide the opportunity. Kindel had 99 points (35 G, 64 A) in 65 games for Calgary of the WHL last season, so he has some offensive chops, and may be worth watching as the season gets underway.

#8 If not Kindel, maybe it will be Filip Hallander getting a shot with the Penguins. The 2018 second-round pick played three games for the Penguins in the 2021-2022 and 2022-2023 seasons but returned to Sweden, and last season produced 53 points (26 G, 27 A) in 51 games for Timra in the Swedish Hockey League.

#9 A seventh-round pick by the Detroit Red Wings in 2023, Emmitt Finnie has made huge strides since then and is challenging for a roster spot in Detroit to start the season. getting a top line shot in Detroit. A high-energy winger, Finnie was the captain for the Kamloops Blazers of the Western Hockey League last season, putting up 84 points (37 G, 47 A) in 55 games. He joined Grand Rapids of the American Hockey League at the end of the season and contributed five points (1 G, 4 A) in 13 regular season plus playoff games. It’s entirely possible that Finnie will start the season in the AHL, but he’s seen time on Detroit’s top line, with Dylan Larkin and Lucas Raymond, and if he starts the season in that spot, Finnie might have fantasy value early in his NHL career.

#10 A 2022 first-round pick by the Chicago Blackhawks, defenceman Sam Rinzel played two seasons at the University of Minnesota, putting up 60 points (12 G, 48 A) in 79 games before joining the Blackhawks at the end of last season. He contributed five assists and 22 shots on goal in his first nine games, with three of those points coming on the power play. Rinzel is slated to quarterback Chicago’s top power play unit, so the rookie blueliner has a chance to be productive immediately.

#11 Rinzel’s teammate in Chicago, centre Frank Nazar, signed a seven-year contract extension worth more than $46 million in the summer, a big commitment for a player who has played a total of 56 games in his NHL career. Nazar has 27 points (13 G, 14 A) and 93 shots on goal in those 56 games, which suggests that the Blackhawks are projecting good things for their 2022 first-round pick. Nazar is on PP1 to start the season and is skating between veterans Teuvo Teravainen and Tyler Bertuzzi at even strength.

#12 A fifth-round pick in 2019 by the New Jersey Devils, right winger Arseni Gritsyuk has shown some potential in the preseason, chipping in four points (2 G, 2 A) with 12 shots on goal in five games. He doesn’t have an easy path to ice time in New Jersey, but after scoring 44 points (17 G, 27 A) in 49 KHL games last season, he should be NHL-ready.

#13 With injuries hitting the defending Stanley Cup champs hard, look for second-year right winger Mackie Samoskevich to take advantage of the opportunity offered to him. He had 31 points (12 G, 19 A) in 72 games last season and is looking like he could start the season on the Panthers’ first power play unit.

#14 Veteran forward Max Domi is getting the first crack at replacing Mitch Marner on right wing with Auston Matthews and Matthew Knies on the Maple Leafs’ top line. Domi is a solid playmaker, though not in Marner’s class, and he is a couple of years removed from a 56-point season. His inconsistent play does suggest that he might not last the whole season in that spot, and the Leafs have Matias Maccelli available to push Domi for that spot in the lineup.

#15 With all the quality depth that the Devils have on the wings, it comes as a bit of a surprise that Evgenii Dadonov is getting a shot on the top line with Jack Hughes and Jesper Bratt. Dadonov had 40 points (20 G, 20 A) in 80 games for Dallas last season, but he is 36, so maybe not the prime candidate to last in that spot.

#16 Acquired from the Montreal Canadiens as part of the return in the Noah Dobson trade, Emil Heineman is getting a look on the Islanders’ top line with Bo Horvat and Jonathan Drouin. Heineman had 18 points (11 G, 7 A) in 62 games as a rookie for the Habs last season but played fewer than 12 minutes per game. If he plays a bigger role with the Islanders, perhaps there is some offensive potential to be unlocked. He has two goals and eight shots on goal in four preseason games.

#17 The Philadelphia Flyers acquired Nikita Grebenkin from the Toronto Maple Leafs as part of the Scott Laughton trade at least season’s trade deadline and Grebenkin has been impressive in Flyers camp. He has one goal and nine shots on goal in four preseason games, but he also brings a physical presence and is getting a look alongside veterans Sean Couturier and Travis Konecny, a decent indication that the Flyers are interested in seeing what he can do for them.

#18 In Vancouver, an injury to Nils Hoglander may help Jonathan Lekkerimaki secure a regular spot in the lineup to start the season. He had a modest six points (3 G, 3 A) in 24 games for the Canucks last season but showed well in the AHL, with 28 points (19 G, 9 A) in 36 games for Abbotsford, so it could be worth watching the 2022 first-round pick.

#19 With a few injuries up front, including to right winger Kaapo Kakko, the Seattle Kraken are giving 2021 third-round pick Ryan Winterton a chance to play. He had 37 points (18 G, 19 A) in 56 games for Coachella Valley of the AHL last season and he has three points (2 G, 1 A) and seven shots on goal in four preseason games, which might be enough to get him a spot on the opening night roster.

#20 Coming off a disappointing 2024-2025 season, the Nashville Predators are naturally open to having new faces challenge for spots in the lineup. James Wood was a first-round pick in 2023 and was in contention for a spot but is week-to-week with a lower-body injury. That could create room for 2025 fifth overall pick Brady Martin, an 18-year-old who has three points (2 G, 1 A) and four shots on goal in three preseason games. If not Martin, maybe it could be 2022 first-round pick Joakim Kemell, who had 40 points (15 G, 25 A) in 65 AHL games for Milwaukee last season.

MCKEEN’S 2024 NHL PROSPECT REPORT – #23 Pittsburgh Penguins – Organization Overview – Top 15 Prospects

Josh Bell — Mon, 03 Jun 2024 11:45:37 +0000

For the first time in the Sidney Crosby era, the Pittsburgh Penguins have failed to make the playoffs in consecutive seasons. Is the Crosby-Malkin-Letang core coming to an end? Crosby (36-years old) is entering the last year of his contract and Malkin (37) has two years left. Letang (37) still has four years left. General manager Kyle Dubas came into his first year at the helm thinking this was a playoff, contending team, making a massive blockbuster deal to acquire Erik Karlsson from the San Jose Sharks, giving up a first-rounder and numerous other pieces. But by the trade deadline, he was a seller, sending star Jake Guentzel to the Carolina Hurricanes for a trio of prospects and a second-round pick.

The Penguins are in a tough spot. With their aging core, do they make another push for the playoffs? Or is it time to tear it down? The prospect cupboard has been starting to refill since Dubas arrived, drafting Brayden Yager 14th overall last year, plus adding Ville Koivunen, Cruz Lucius, and Vasili Ponomarev in the Guentzel deal. There are also draftees Owen Pickering, Joel Blomqvist, Samuel Poulin, and Tristan Broz in the system who all show some promise. The Penguins don’t have a first rounder in 2024 but still have its 2025 and 2026 picks. This offseason should be extremely telling of the direction this club will go. The core is good enough to make a push, but this club is not what it used to be. The main three pieces that have remained through the Cup years are nearing the end, and Dubas and company will have some tough decisions to make - starting this summer.

RNK	PLAYER	POS	AGE	HT/WT	TM	Acquired	GP	G(W)	A(L)	PTS(GAA)	PIM(SPCT)
1	Brayden Yager	C	19	5-11/165	Moose Jaw (WHL)	`23(14th)	57	35	60	95	20
2	Ville Koivunen	LW	20	6-0/175	Karpat (Fin-Liiga)	T(Car-3/24)	59	22	34	56	26
3	Joel Blomqvist	G	22	6-2/185	Wilkes-Barre (AHL)	`20(52nd)	45	25	12	2.16	0.921
4	Owen Pickering	D	20	6-4/180	Swift Current (WHL)	`22(21st)	59	7	39	46	35
5	Vasily Ponomarev	C	22	5-10/180	Tuc-Chi-WBS (AHL)	T(Car-3/24)	45	9	21	30	16
6	Samuel Poulin	C	23	6-1/205	Wilkes-Barre (AHL)	`19(21st)	41	16	15	31	35
7	Tristan Broz	C	21	6-0/180	Denver (NCHC)	`21(58th)	43	16	24	40	13
8	Cruz Lucius	RW	20	6-0/185	Wisconsin (B1G)	T(Car-3/24)	36	13	21	34	10
9	Mikhail Ilyin	LW	19	6-0/180	Severstal Cherepovets (KHL)	`23(142nd)	65	12	17	29	20
10	Filip Hallander	LW	23	6-1/185	Timra (SHL)	T(Tor-7/21)	51	14	22	36	18
11	Sergei Murashov	G	20	6-0/170	Loko Yaroslavl (MHL)	`22(118th)	34	24	4	2.03	0.930
12	Emil Pieniniemi	D	19	6-2/170	Karpat (Fin-Liiga)	`23(91st)	38	2	4	6	10
13	Emil Jarventie	LW	19	5-9/165	KOOVEE (Fin-Mestis)	`23(217th)	41	9	12	21	12
14	Zam Plante	C	19	5-9/160	Fargo (USHL)	`22(150th)	57	26	45	71	4
15	Corey Andonovski	RW	25	6-1/195	Wilkes-Barre (AHL)	FA(3/22)	63	7	23	30	99

1. Brayden Yager, C, Moose Jaw Warriors (WHL)

Brayden Yager continued to terrorize WHL defenses. The dynamic center amassed 95 points in 57 games for the Moose Jaw Warriors, showcasing his elite shooting ability and knack for finding teammates. He's quite strong and compact, which helps him out in various ways, whether that's staying on his feet as he fights through checks or generating a lot of power through his shot. While his offensive production is undeniable, consistency remains a talking point. There were stretches where he dominated, but there were also quieter nights. The bright spots, however, were undeniable. His work on the power play was a highlight, and his burgeoning two-way play suggests a well-rounded future. He'll need to add strength to compete at the NHL level, but the raw tools are undeniably there. Expect him to spend another year in the WHL before turning pro, but his NHL debut could be on the horizon soon.

2. Ville Koivunen, LW, Karpat (Liiga)

Ville Koivunen's 2023-24 campaign was a story of mid-season upheaval. Drafted by Carolina in 2021, he started strong with Liiga's Kärpät, notching 56 points in 59 games. His playmaking ability and offensive instincts were on full display. However, a blockbuster trade in March sent him to the Pittsburgh organization. Questions remain about Koivunen's transition to North America. While his offensive talent is undeniable, his defensive awareness and overall physicality need refinement. The upcoming season will be crucial. Can he adapt to the smaller ice surface and the NHL's quicker pace? The team will likely give him time to develop in the AHL, but a late-season call-up isn't out of the question if he impresses. Koivunen's long-term success hinges on his ability to translate his offensive brilliance to the pro game.

3. Joel Blomqvist, G, Wilkes-Barre/Scranton Penguins (AHL)

Drafted 52nd overall in 2020 by Pittsburgh, Joel Blomqvist's stock soared in 2023-24. He manned the crease for the Wilkes-Barre/Scranton Penguins, putting on a clinic. Blomqvist led all rookie goalies in wins (25) and finished near the top in both save percentage (.921) and goals-against average (2.16). He even earned a call-up to the AHL All-Star Classic. He’s an aggressive netminder who plays far out of the crease to cut down angles and shows capable of moving fluidly in the crease as well. He plays a good technical game although can get a bit lost in high-pressure scrambles. Questions remain about his ability to translate this success to the NHL, but his calm demeanour and athleticism are encouraging signs. His performance has undoubtedly boosted his standing within the organization. He could be pushing for an NHL backup role sooner rather than later.

4. Owen Pickering, D, Swift Current Broncos (WHL)

Owen Pickering's 2023-24 season was a year of refinement. Drafted 21st overall by Pittsburgh in 2022, he started the year battling an undisclosed injury. After a brief stint with the AHL's Wilkes-Barre/Scranton Penguins in 2022-23, he was reassigned to the WHL's Swift Current Broncos and remained there this season. There, he showcased his impressive physical tools (6’ 3”, 179 lbs) and strong skating. He chipped in offensively (46 points in 59 games) but consistency remained a question mark. Flashes of brilliance – heady plays and a booming shot – were overshadowed by stretches of disappearing acts. While Pickering's potential as a future top-four defenseman remains, his development hinges on ironing out his inconsistencies and making smarter decisions with the puck. This upcoming season will be crucial in determining if he can take that next step.

5. Vasily Ponomarev, C, Wilkes-Barre/Scranton Penguins (AHL)

Ponomarev's 2023-24 was a season of AHL development. He bounced between three teams (Chicago Wolves, Tucson Roadrunners, Wilkes-Barre/Scranton Penguins) due to trades and call-ups, amassing 30 points in 45 games. He continues to look comfortable in the AHL this season, showing off two-way skill and all-around offensive ability. He isn’t going to wow or dazzle with his skill, but he’s consistent and seems to do all the little things right. Those are the exact type of players needed to fill out a roster. Skating and puck protection are his strongest assets, but decision-making remains a work in progress. This inconsistency is a cause for concern. He has the tools to be a top-six winger, but can he harness his talent and become a consistent producer? The answer to that question will determine his NHL ceiling.

6. Samuel Poulin, C, Wilkes-Barre/Scranton Penguins (AHL)

Samuel Poulin's 2023-24 campaign with the Pittsburgh Penguins was a rollercoaster. Drafted 21st overall in 2019, the winger played practically all season with the AHL's Wilkes-Barre/Scranton Penguins - outside of a brief three-game trip to the NHL. While flashes of potential emerged, injuries and stretches of disappearing acts plagued him. Inconsistency remains a major question mark. There's undeniable talent – a scorer's touch and strong skating. But decision-making lapses and a lack of focus at times raise concerns. The Penguins gave him a late-season call-up, hoping to reignite his spark. While scoreless in those games, it was a chance to prove his NHL readiness. Poulin's future is a wait-and-see. A dominant AHL season could earn him a permanent NHL spot. However, if inconsistency rears its head again, further development is likely needed. This season was a microcosm of his potential – exciting glimpses overshadowed by stretches of inconsistency.

7. Tristan Broz, C, Wilkes-Barre/Scranton Penguins (AHL)

Tristan Broz is a skilled and intelligent center with a well-rounded game. He excels as a playmaker, using his exceptional vision and anticipation to find open teammates and create scoring chances. His quick hands and accurate shot make him a threat from the slot, and his speed and agility allow him to navigate through traffic with ease. He's also a responsible defender, using his active stick and positioning to disrupt opponents' cycles. The forward has the ability to attack hard, be relied upon as a playmaker, and create space for himself but the problem is that he’s too inconsistent in his effort level. He can disappear in games or show some delays in his processing. With continued development, he has the potential to become a top six forward and a key piece on the Penguins' power play. His upside as a playmaking center with a scoring touch makes him a promising prospect.

8. Cruz Lucius, RW, University of Wisconsin (NCAA)

The brother of Winnipeg Jets first round pick Chaz Lucius, Cruz Lucius is a dynamic and electrifying winger with a rare combination of speed, skill, and competitiveness. He excels at creating scoring chances off the rush, using his quick feet and agility to dance around defenders. His shot is heavy and accurate, and his vision and anticipation allow him to find open teammates and create opportunities. A relentless forechecker, he uses his speed and physicality to harass defenders and force turnovers. There is a need to become more explosive to get the space he needs to operate as a playmaker at the next level. He’s not huge or overly strong either, so when pressured, can fail to secure the puck. With continued development, there is potential to become a top-six forward and a key contributor on the Penguins' top lines. His upside as a high-scoring, physical winger makes him an exciting prospect in the pipeline.

9. Mikhail Ilyin, LW, Severstal Cherepovets (KHL)

Drafted 142nd overall in 2023, Mikhail Ilyin is an intriguing prospect that might just end up being a much-needed steal for the Penguins. After splitting his year between the MHL and KHL in his draft year, he stuck in the KHL in 2023-24, collecting 29 points (12 goals, 17 assists) in 65 games. He’s a less-than-flashy winger who plays a smart, simple game. While not necessarily driving play, he doesn’t slow it down but rather matches the pace that his teammates dictate. He does compete hard, never giving up on a play. He supports his teammates well and isn’t afraid to play a physical game. His skating will need to see some significant improvement if he’s going to be successful at the next level, but he did take strides forward this year in that department. Ilyin looks like he could be a solid bottom six contributor.

10. Filip Hallander, LW, Timra IK (SHL)

Filip Hallander's NHL dream took a detour this season. After surprising everyone by signing a five-year deal with Timrå IK in the SHL, the Penguins prospect carved out a niche role. His 36 points in 51 games weren't remarkable, but his ability to play both center and wing offered versatility. Hallander showcased his trademark skating and decent playmaking, but questions linger about his offensive consistency. Did this stint in Sweden move the needle on his NHL potential? The jury's still out. Now 23, he remains a bit of a tweener – not quite a top-six forward, but with skills that could translate to a bottom-six role. The next chapter in his development will be fascinating to watch. Will he return to North America and chase an NHL opportunity, or continue honing his game in Europe? One thing is certain: Filip Hallander's hockey journey is far from over.

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 – PITTSBURGH PENGUINS – Top 20 Prospect Profiles – Organizational Rank #31

Brock Otten, Derek Neumeier, Chapin Landvogt and Josh Bell — Sun, 08 Oct 2023 14:22:59 +0000

1. Owen Pickering

The Pittsburgh Penguins are notorious for trading away their first-round picks. With just their second first-round selection since 2014, the Pens drafted Pickering 21st overall in 2022. The defender was coming off a strong rookie season in the WHL with the Swift Current Broncos and was an impressive presence with Team Canada at the Under-18s. He returned to the Broncos in 2022-23 as the captain of the team, taking a noticeable step forward in his game. At the end of that recent WHL season, he joined the AHL Wilkes-Barre/Scranton Penguins to finish his year. He’s a very smart, mobile defender. The lightness on his feet and his fluid stride should help carry him to the NHL. He won’t bring a ton of offense but could turn into a reliable two-way defender. It’s still early in his development, but Pickering is on his way to becoming a middle-pairing mainstay.

2. Brayden Yager

Yager is a sturdy two-way pivot and a trustworthy workhorse that a coach can send over the boards and rely on in any situation. He's good on the powerplay, he's good on the penalty kill, he's good at matching up against the opposition’s best players, and he's good in the dying minutes of a game whether you're trying to defend a lead or tie the score up. He's quite strong and compact, which helps him out in various ways, whether that's staying on his feet as he fights through checks or generating a lot of power through his shot. Speaking of his shot, it's a major selling point and is his single best attribute. He can beat goalies clean with his wrister, and he doesn't need to reach high-danger ice to do so. With so many different things working in his favour it's pretty surprising that he doesn't leave more of a consistent impact. Too many games come and go where he just isn't enough of a factor, so learning how to leave more of a stamp on the game is key. At minimum, he is a safe prospect with a very high floor.

3. Samuel Poulin

Another rare first-round pick for the Penguins, they drafted Poulin in 2019, also 21st overall. He already had two strong QMJHL seasons under his belt at that time and returned to the Sherbrooke Phoenix as the captain post-draft continue his strong QMJHL career. He made the move to the AHL in 2021-22 with the WBS-Pens, looking like he was adjusting well in his first season. This year, he struggled out of the gate and took an extended leave of absence for personal reasons, which he later disclosed were related to mental health. Poulin has NHL size and the strength to match, combined with soft hands and good skating ability. It seems as though he’s lost some confidence, which he can hopefully recapture. His ceiling may have dropped slightly since his QMJHL days, and he looks like a bottom nine asset at this point.

4. Valterri Puustinen

A late pick in the 2019 NHL Draft, the Penguins called Puustinen’s name 203rd overall. He was coming off his rookie season in the Liiga, where he remained for two more years, playing for HPK. He made the jump to the AHL in 2021-22, even playing in his first NHL game, and adjusted seamlessly to the North American game. He looked even better last season, as the most productive player on the WBS-Penguins. The Finnish winger is quick and he shines in his playmaking ability although he also has a hard, accurate shot to surprise goaltenders. He’s competitive, always looking to get himself in the mix and make things happen. With how late of a pick he was, you could call Puustinen a success already with how his development has gone. He’s not done yet though and should continue to improve until he makes the NHL as a bottom nine winger.

5. Filip Hallander

It seems like Hallander has been around forever at this point, mainly due to how often his name has come up in news. Drafted 58th overall in 2018 by the Penguins, he was traded to the Toronto Maple Leafs in the 2020 Kasperi Kapanen trade, just to be traded back to the Penguins in 2021 in the Jared McCann deal. Hallander spent the three seasons following the draft in the SHL, playing as a secondary scoring option. In the last two years, he’s moved to North America and Wilkes-Barre/Scranton, where he has appeared to be developing well. He’s a jack-of-all-trades that can be plugged anywhere in the lineup and be impactful. He has a very nice wrist shot and low-key playmaking ability. He could be a bottom six, depth forward that could play up the lineup when needed. He’s currently unsigned and heading back to Sweden in 2023-24, putting his NHL future in question.

6. Joel Blomqvist

Blomqvist heard his name called 52nd overall in the 2020 Draft. He was coming off a strong season in the U20 SM-liiga for Karpat U20 where he was named Best Goaltender in the league. He stayed in Finland for the 2020-21 season, playing mostly in the Mestis, the Finnish tier-two league, before making the successful jump to the Liiga in 2021-22. He spent last season there as well, signing his entry-level deal with the Penguins at the end of the campaign, and heading overseas. He’s an aggressive netminder who plays far out of the crease to cut down angles and shows capable of moving fluidly in the crease as well. He plays a good technical game although can get a bit lost in high-pressure scrambles. He could challenge Lindberg for a future backup role after spending some time in the AHL.

7. Tristan Broz

The Penguins drafted Broz 58th overall in 2021 after two good seasons in the USHL where he was quite productive, especially in the playoffs. In 2021-22, he made the jump to the NCAA with the University of Minnesota but struggled to adjust his game to the harder, faster league. Given how deep the Golden Gophers were, Broz decided to switch to the University of Denver last season where he saw better production but was still a depth option. The forward has the ability to attack hard, is reliable as a playmaker, and can create space for himself although he is unfortunately too inconsistent in his effort level. He can disappear in games or show some delays in his processing. He still has time to work out the kinks, but at this point, he looks more like an AHLer and potential call-up option.

8. Filip Lindberg

Another late draft pick from 2019, it was actually the Minnesota Wild who drafted Lindberg as an overager, 197th overall. The Finnish netminder was coming off a very strong rookie season NCAA University of Massachusetts when he was drafted. He continued that collegiate success for two more seasons, leading the team to an NCAA championship in 2020-21. With the goaltender not signing with the Wild, the Penguins swooped in and signed him to an entry-level deal after the conclusion of that successful season. He immediately joined the AHL squad but has played limited games in his two seasons there. He’s an athletic, mobile goaltender that is very strong with his rebound control. Given that he split time at UMass, there is a question of how he would handle a larger load in net. He’s currently unsigned and heading to the Liiga in 2023-24, so there’s another big question mark for his NHL future. He’s still worth keeping an eye on and could become a very reliable backup.

9. Emil Pieniniemi

Pieniniemi is one of those “jack of all trades” defenders who is solid enough at everything but does not have a true standout quality. For a 6- 2” blueliner, he moves quite well, and his strong mobility is the key to his success as a composed two-way player. He plays a generally mistake free game and is solid in coverage with good defensive zone awareness. However, without high end skill or physicality, what’s the upside? Is this a player with a true NHL projection? It would appear that Pieniniemi will continue his development with OHL Kingston this season, where he will receive immediate top four ice time. It will be a great place to nurture his offensive game. At this point, the most likely scenario sees him become a potential bottom pairing defender who could provide solid depth at some point. However, Pittsburgh will gain more feedback about his upside based on his performance this season.

10. Jonathan Gruden

Gruden’s upside at the NHL level is likely capped, but he has worked hard to make himself a viable bottom six option for the Penguins. He’s coming off his best season yet as a pro and could push for a fourth line spot in 2023-24. The former London Knights standout is the son of former NHL assistant and current Toronto Marlies (AHL) coach John Gruden. Jonathan’s game has always been about the energy he brings away from the puck and his ability to create through hard work and perseverance in the offensive end. He’s a relentless forechecker and he’s finally strong enough to consistently win board battles against men at the pro level. He has also worked hard to improve his skating, allowing him to be more elusive and dangerous in the offensive end. Gruden is not a high skill or highly creative player. He keeps things simple and operates best as a complementary piece on the wing. He isn’t very likely to develop into a top nine option at the NHL level, however his tenacious approach could make him a valuable role player and penalty killer.

11. Emil Jarventie

It was fairly shocking to see Jarventie drop to the seventh round this year; we had him ranked 100th. He can be very dangerous in transition with his speed and skill. Improving his play off the puck is going to be the focus.

12. Sergey Murashov

What do the Pens have in Murashov? That’s probably still a mystery given the unpredictable nature of the MHL, especially for netminders. But his athleticism and play tracking stand out as positives, especially because he’s not the biggest goalie.

13. Taylor Gauthier

The Penguins signed Gauthier as a free agent out of the WHL last year and he ended up splitting the year between the AHL and ECHL, not uncommon for first year netminders. The crease is going to be crowded in Wilkes-Barre this year, but Gauthier has shown that he deserves playing time.

14. Raivis Ansons

A Memorial Cup champion with Saint John two years ago, Ansons’ first pro season did not go according to plan. The Latvian winger really struggled to be an impact player. The Penguins still have high hopes for him, but they may need to be patient.

15. Lukas Svejkovsky

Svejkovsky’s final WHL season was a major success, earning him a contract with Pittsburgh. Like Ansons, his first pro season last year was a disappointment that saw him limited to a depth role. Can Svejkovsky’s skating progress to the point that it needs to?

16. Isaac Belliveau

While there are questions as to whether Belliveau is a good enough athlete to be an NHL defender, there is no denying his positive development with Gatineau the last two seasons. He turns pro this year and his performance will be telling about his ultimate upside and chances.

17. Corey Andonovski

There is a bit of a trend with many of Pittsburgh’s listed forward prospects and Andonovski fits right in. He is an intelligent two-way player, but his offensive skills are limited. He could end up a good fourth line, penalty killing option.

18. Zam Plante

Even if Plante’s post draft year in the USHL was a disappointment, his long-term potential remains intriguing. Attending Minnesota-Duluth this fall, the focus will be on improving his strength and quickness to help him overcome his lack of stature.

19. Chase Yoder

Another forward in the Pens’ system with the skill set to develop into a bottom six player. Yoder skates well and can kill penalties. He’ll probably need a big offensive senior season at Providence College to earn a contract following graduation.

20. Ty Glover

Former Western Michigan forward had a tough first year in Wilkes-Barre, but there's still upside for him to develop into an NHL player. Glover is an intriguing athlete who blends size, speed, and strength away from the puck. However, his play on the puck will need to improve if he wants to be an NHL player, even in a checking line role.

MCKEEN’S 2023 NHL PROSPECT REPORT – #31 – Pittsburgh Penguins

Josh Bell — Thu, 11 May 2023 23:38:32 +0000

Prospect System Ranking – 31^st

A move up from the bottom ranked organization last year more a testament to the Lightning selling harder. After having won back-to-back Stanley cups in 2015-16 and 2016-17, they were eliminated in the second round the following season and have now been eliminated in the first round from 2018-19 to 2021-22, while missing the playoffs entirely this past season. Sidney Crosby and Evgeni Malkin had strong seasons individually at ages 35 and 36 respectively, and remained through the next three seasons together, Malkin with a fourth year. Kris Letang is signed through 2027-28. They represent 25.5% of the salary cap with no move contracts. The Penguins are currently searching for a new GM. Regardless of who that is they likely remain committed to the present, even as their stars approach the twilight of their careers. At least for the coming season, given Crosby appeared as dominant as ever with something in the tank yet to give.

Pittsburgh retains their first-round picks for the upcoming three drafts, as outgoing GM Ron Hextall stubbornly hung on to his 2023 pick, to some criticism. They added solid defender Owen Pickering at last year’s draft, and he represents their top prospect, but likely a couple of seasons away. They will be hoping Samuel Poulin is able to make the transition to the NHL this coming season but is likely a bottom six contributor. Their third ranked prospect, Drew O’Connor is expected to contribute next season in a support role as well. There is not a lot of immediate help on the horizon and the new management will have some decisions to make but do have some assets to deploy for help now.

PITTSBURGH, PA - SEPTEMBER 27: Pittsburgh Penguins right wing Samuel Poulin (22) looks on during the third period in the preseason NHL game between the Pittsburgh Penguins and the Columbus Blue Jackets on September 27, 2021, at PPG Paints Arena in Pittsburgh, PA. (Photo by Jeanine Leech/Icon Sportswire)

Owen Pickering

The Pittsburgh Penguins are notorious for trading away their first-round picks. With just their second first-round selection since 2014, the Pens drafted Owen Pickering 21st overall. The defender was coming off a strong rookie season in the WHL with the Swift Current Broncos and was an impressive presence with Team Canada at the Under-18s. He returned to the Broncos in 2022-23 as the captain of the team, taking a noticeable step forward in his game. With his WHL season done, he recently joined the Wilkes-Barre/Scranton Penguins in the AHL. He’s a very smart, mobile defender. The lightness on his feet and his fluid stride should help carry him to the NHL. He won’t bring a ton of offense but could turn into a reliable two-way defender. It’s still early in his development, but Pickering is on his way to becoming a middle-pairing defender.

2. Samuel Poulin

The only other first-round pick for the Penguins since 2014, they drafted Samuel Poulin in 2019, also 21st overall. He already had two strong QMJHL seasons under his belt at that time and returned to the Sherbrooke Phoenix as the captain post-draft and continued his strong QMJHL career. He made the move to the AHL in 2021-22 with the WBS-Pens, looking like he was adjusting well in his first season. This year, he did struggle out of the gate and took an extended leave of absence for personal reasons which he later disclosed was for mental health reasons. He recently returned to the AHL. Poulin has NHL size and the strength to match, combined with soft hands and good skating ability. It does seem as though he’s lost some confidence, which he can hopefully find again. His ceiling may have dropped slightly since his QMJHL days, looking like a bottom nine asset at this point.

4. Drew O’Connor

One of the older prospects left out there, Drew O’Connor is now set to graduate from this list after spending significant time with the Penguins this season. O’Connor was brought into the Pens’ system as an NCAA free agent in 2020 after his second season at Dartmouth College where he was the Ivy League Player of the Year. Ever since, he’s been on the cusp of sticking in the NHL, bouncing between the Penguins and the WBS-Pens. He plays a power-forward style game that plays a hard game. He’s quick on the forecheck and does everything in his power to ensure his team has the puck. He can chip in offensively but likely won’t be a big producer. He should stick where he is now, as a depth forward that gets plugged into the bottom six. This will be his last appearance on this list as he earns a spot in the big leagues.

5. Valtteri Puustinen

A late pick in the 2019 NHL Draft, the Penguins called Valtteri Puustinen’s name 203rd overall. He was coming off his rookie season in the Liiga, where he stuck for two more years, with HPK. He made the jump to the AHL in 2021-22, even playing in his first NHL game, while seamlessly adjusting to the North American game. He looks even better this season, as the most productive player on the WBS-Penguins. The Finnish forward is a quick winger that shines in his playmaking ability but also has a hard, accurate shot to surprise goaltenders. He’s a competitive player, always looking to get himself in the mix and make things happen. With how late of a pick he was, you could call Puustinen a success already with how his development has gone. He’s not done yet though and should continue to improve until he’s in the NHL as a bottom nine winger.

6. Filip Lindberg

Another late draft pick in the 2019 NHL Draft, it was actually the Minnesota Wild who drafted Filip Lindberg as an overager, 197th overall. The Finnish netminder was coming off a very strong rookie season in the NCAA with the University of Massachusetts when he was drafted. He continued that success in the league for two more seasons, leading the team to an NCAA championship in 2020-21. With the goaltender not signing with the Wild, the Penguins swooped in and signed him to an entry-level deal after that season. He immediately joined the AHL squad but has played limited games in his two seasons there. He’s an athletic, mobile goaltender that is very strong in his rebound control. Given that he split time at UMass, there is a question of how he would handle a larger load in net. Still, he’s worth keeping an eye on and could become a very reliable backup.

7. Filip Hallander

It seems like Filip Hallander has been around forever at this point, mainly due to how often his name has come up in news. Drafted 58th overall in 2018 by the Penguins, he was traded to the Toronto Maple Leafs in 2020 in the Kasperi Kapanen trade, just to be traded back to the Penguins in 2021 in the Jared McCann deal. After being drafted, through both trades, Hallander spent three seasons in the SHL, playing as a secondary scoring option. In the last two years, he’s moved to North America and Wilkes-Barre/Scranton, where he has appeared to be progressing well in his development. He’s a jack-of-all-trades player, that can be plugged anywhere in the lineup and his impact is felt. He has a very nice wrist shot and low-key playmaking ability. He could be a bottom six, depth forward that could play up the lineup when needed.

Joel Blomqvist

Yet another goaltender in the system for the Penguins, Joel Blomqvist heard his name called in the 2020 NHL Draft, 52nd overall. He was coming off of a strong season in the U20 SM-liiga for Karpat U20 where he was named Best Goaltender in the league. He stayed in Finland for the 2020-21 season, playing most of his time in the Mestis, the Finnish tier-two league, before making the successful jump to the Liiga in 2021-22. He spent this season there as well, recently signing his entry-level deal with the Penguins and heading overseas. He’s an aggressive netminder that plays far out to cut down angles and moves fluidly in the crease. He plays a good technical game although can get a bit lost in high-pressure scrambles. He should challenge Lindberg for a future backup role after spending some time in the AHL.

8. Tristan Broz

The Penguins drafted Tristan Broz 58th overall in the 2021 NHL Draft after a good two-season career in the USHL where he was quite productive, especially in the playoffs. In 2021-22, he made the jump to the NCAA and the University of Minnesota but struggled to adjust his game to the harder, faster league. Given how deep the Golden Gophers were, Broz decided to switch to the University of Denver this season where he saw better production but was still a depth defender. The forward has the ability to attack hard, be relied upon as a playmaker, and create space for himself but the problem is that he’s too inconsistent in his effort level. He can disappear in games or show some delays in his processing. He has some time to work out the kinks still, but at this point, he looks more like an AHLer and maybe a call-up option.

9. Jonathan Gruden

It’s been quite the road for Jon Gruden. The left winger was drafted by the Ottawa Senators, 95th overall in 2018, out of the USNTDP where he was a point-per-game player. He then went to the NCAA’s Miami University, where he didn’t see the same productivity but was still a contributing member of the team. He decided to move to OHL the following season, joining the London Knights where he found that production again, granted as an older player in the league. Gruden was sent to the Penguins in the Matt Murray trade, and has stuck in the AHL ever since, showing off his competitiveness in each of his three seasons, and taking noticeable steps forward in his development each year. He could end up as a bottom-line contributor, but more likely as a depth forward in the AHL that earns the occasional call-up.

10. Corey Andonovski

An undrafted prospect, Corey Andonovski came up through the prep school circuit, playing with St. Andrew’s College. He spent one year in the BCHL with the Chilliwack Chiefs before making the jump to the NCAA and Princeton University. He spent all four years there, losing 2020-21 to the pandemic. But his final two seasons were strong enough to earn the attention of the Penguins who signed him as a free agent at the end of the 2021-22 season. He’s spent this season in the AHL as a depth forward, which may end up being his ceiling as he’s already 24 years old. He’s a good skater that has speed and plays a hard game, not afraid to throw his body around. He’s worth keeping an eye on moving forward as he could surprise and earn bottom-line minutes as a call-up at some point.

MCKEEN’S 2022-23 NHL YEARBOOK – PITTSBURGH PENGUINS – Top 20 Prospects

Contributors – Brock Otten, Derek Neumeier, Chapin Landvogt, Arlo Schulz — Sun, 18 Sep 2022 20:21:01 +0000

1 - Owen Pickering D

To describe Pickering's progress and development over the past few years as "stratospheric" would still be something of an understatement. After all, it's not often that you see a prospect get picked as late as the 9th round of the WHL Bantam Draft only to get selected in the 1st round of the NHL Entry Draft three years later. Even more amazing, the 6'5" defender still seems like he's just scratching the surface of what he can accomplish and how good he can ultimately become. Growing up, he honed his mobility and puck control as an undersized blueliner, but he didn't lose those skills as he underwent a massive growth spurt in his mid-teens. While he is still filling into his new body right now, defensemen with his combination of size and mobility are hot commodities, so the Pens are likely thrilled to have landed Pickering at 21st overall in 2022. He moves around the ice effortlessly; he is comfortable having the puck on his stick in full flight and he thinks the game reasonably well in all three zones. While he might not currently be as polished as some other top prospects, his Swift Current team is rebuilding and is already giving him loads of ice time in all situations as their number-one defenseman. That kind of role and workload should be a big boon to his long-term development, getting the reps that will help him gain experience. The Broncos are also primed for big playoff pushes in the upcoming years, which will provide him with valuable learning opportunities. Few prospects have the raw, unrefined potential that Pickering possesses, and that will make him a fascinating player to continue following as his career moves forward. - DN

2 - Samuel Poulin LW

The powerhouse Penguins haven’t drafted in the first round very much in recent years, but Poulin is one of those rare selections (from 2019). His first pro season last year has to be considered a successful one. Upon first glance, his point totals likely won’t excite you, but his 37 points actually placed him second in scoring on a low scoring Wilkes-Barre team. The stocky power winger was able to translate his high energy, pesky game to the pro level rather seamlessly. He is always in attack mode, hungry for the puck on the forecheck and backcheck. Poulin is more than just a run of the mill checker, though. He can attack the offensive zone with pace and create off the rush with soft hands. His strength on the puck is one of his best qualities as he can be difficult to knock off stride and separate from the puck. Poulin also has a goal scorer’s touch, especially in tight. He projects as a versatile middle six winger who can play in any situation for the Penguins in the future, perhaps even working alongside Sidney Crosby at some point in the twilight of his career. However, that is not likely to be next season given the Penguins depth at forward. Poulin will return to Wilkes-Barre for another season, hopefully improving his offensive production further. He should then be ready for a full-time gig in 2023-24, just in time for several middle six contracts to come off the books in Pittsburgh. - BO

3 - Joel Blomqvist G

Pittsburgh’s 2^nd round selection in 2020, Blomqvist has spent two straight seasons seeing fairly limited time in Liiga play while racking up outstanding GAAs and save percentages. After his initial pro season in Finland in 20-21 saw most of his playing time and success coming in second tier Mestis, he saw his role grow with Kärpät this season, ultimately climaxing in the postseason during which he accumulated an astronomic 1.10 GAA and .950 save percentage over seven games, which followed a 1.32 GAA and .940 save percentage in 20 regular season contests. He ended the season with a single game cameo for Pittsburgh’s AHL affiliate. Although not terribly large, he makes the most out of his 6’2 frame. A thinking man’s goaltender, Blomqvist stands out for being calm and controlled in his movements. His technical skills indicate that he’s very well-schooled. His performances have been very consistent thanks to strong composure, puck-tracking abilities, and a fantastically accurate understanding of when to commit himself in making his saves. Blomqvist remains unsigned at this time and is once again scheduled to suit up for Kärpät in Liiga play, with the starter’s job on his plate. AN ELC with the Penguins should come soon, where he will be able to challenge fellow Finn Filip Lindberg for future time in the NHL crease. – CL

4 - Pierre-Olivier Joseph D

The Penguins are going to be facing quite the predicament this training camp when it comes to Joseph. The talented puck mover is no longer exempt from waivers, which means that if he does not make Pittsburgh’s roster, they will have to make him available to other NHL teams. Given his pedigree as a prospect, it seems unlikely that he would pass through waivers unclaimed. A former first round selection of Arizona, he was acquired in the Phil Kessel trade in 2019. Joseph has improved in each of his three pro seasons thus far and the time is now for Pittsburgh to clear a path for him to make the big club and play regularly. His best asset is his mobility. Joseph is an extremely fluid mover whose game is completely built around his ability to cover the ice effortlessly. He is a skilled puck mover who can quarterback the powerplay and lead the attack in transition. Given the age of Pittsburgh’s puck movers, it would be smart for the Penguins to see what they have in Joseph. When drafted, his defensive game and presence was a work in progress, however this has improved to the point where he is no longer a defensive liability. There would likely still be growing pains at the NHL level, however the reward is potentially worth the risk. The new one-way, two-year contract the Penguins gave Joseph this offseason points to him being a part of this team long term, but either way, he should be an NHL player next season finally - BO

5 - Drew O'Connor LW

A free agent signing out of Dartmouth College a few years ago, O’Connor has emerged as one of Pittsburgh’s top young prospects and players. He has split the first two years of his pro career between Pittsburgh and Wilkes-Barre, performing at a near point per game mark in his AHL time. He started off red hot with Pittsburgh to start the season, but then had some problem with injuries and he struggled to re-find that form. O’Connor is a big winger with a big shot who can play a power game. He is strong down low and near the crease and is difficult to separate from the puck. He also skates quite well, especially North/South, allowing him to compete hard for space and clear paths for linemates. At the NHL level, his physical play and two-way game have been fairly inconsistent, but that should improve as he gains confidence at the level. Armed with a one-way contract, O’Connor should start the year with Pittsburgh, barring a poor training camp. Playing time will be hard to come by given the team’s depth, but the Penguins really like what he can offer and there is a chance that he makes some veterans expendable. His NHL potential is not likely extremely high, but in a weak system, he stands out. - BO

6 - Valtteri Puustinen RW

One of the keys to Pittsburgh’s sustained success has been their ability to find gems later in the draft and through the undrafted free agent market. Insert 5’9 Finnish winger Valtteri Puustinen, a seventh-round selection by the Pens in 2019. After two successful Liiga campaigns, he made his North American pro debut last year and it was an extremely successful one. He led Wilkes-Barre in scoring and even caught the eye of the Penguins coaching staff in his lone NHL game following a brief call-up. Puustinen is a highly intelligent offensive player. He has a very clear understanding of how to play without the puck, sliding in and out of coverage and showing great anticipation. He also has a very strong shot that allows him to be dangerous from anywhere on the ice. The combination of these two things makes him the perfect complementary winger on a scoring line. Somewhat undersized, it will be interesting to see how Pittsburgh employs Puustinen in the future. His talents would likely be wasted in a checking line role, so look for them to wait until an opening occurs on a scoring line before they give him a true audition. Look for him to be one of Pittsburgh’s top call-up options this coming season, especially if someone inside their top six goes down. - BO

7 - Filip Hallander LW

Hallander only just completed his first pro season in North America, but he has had a pretty strange career already. A second-round selection by Pittsburgh in 2018, Hallander was traded to the Toronto Maple Leafs in the Kasperi Kapanen deal. A year later, the Penguins reacquired him in the famous Jared McCann deal (in which McCann was then lost to Seattle from Toronto in the expansion draft). At this point, Pens management and scouts are likely pretty certain in what they have in Hallander. His offensive upside is rather limited. He is not exceptionally skilled. His production in the SHL and at the AHL level last year prove that. However, he does have a skill set built for a bottom six role. He skates pretty well. He has positional versatility. He is very responsible defensively and can excel in a penalty killing role. The Penguins will definitely be grooming Hallander to be a bottom six player, perhaps even in a shutdown defensive role. How long it takes him to realize that potential remains to be seen. He will likely play out the entire year in the AHL in hopes of improving his confidence and ability with the puck, so that he is ready for the pace in the NHL. Pittsburgh is likely to be patient with him in hopes that he can develop a little further as an offensive player. - BO

8 - Lukas Svejkovsky C

Svejkovsky had an eventful 2021-22 season. In his overage year, he got dealt midseason from Medicine Hat to Seattle, where he helped the Thunderbirds embark on a somewhat surprising run to the WHL finals and earned himself an entry-level contract with the Penguins in the process. Amazingly, he finished the season as the Tigers points leader despite only playing half a season for them. A 2020 4^th rounder, Svejkovsky is an undersized but creative, shifty forward. With a penchant for producing points at every level, Svejkovsky skates well and is engaged in all three zones. He does well with the puck on his stick, able to create opportunities sometimes out of nothing. His knock will always be lack of size, and the question is whether or not the son of former NHLer Jaroslav will be able to overcome this. He doesn’t possess any elite skills that stand out, and although he’s creative with the puck and responsible without it, there aren’t many NHL regulars of his stature that don’t compensate with high-end skill elsewhere. That being said, he acquitted himself well at the junior level and now is slated to move to the pro ranks in 2022-23 with the Penguins’ AHL affiliate in Wilkes-Barre. He will likely need some time to adjust, and it will be interesting to see how he does playing against much bigger opponents. - AS

9 - Filip Lindberg G

A former NCAA standout and champion with UMass, Lindberg was a free agent signing by Pittsburgh last offseason. His season got off to a great start with Wilkes-Barre before he suffered an ankle injury in November that ended his freshman professional campaign. So, what the Penguins truly have in Lindberg remains to be seen. The 6’1 Finnish netminder is an excellent athlete. His play tracking ability is extremely impressive because of how quick he is post to post. As such, he has a penchant for the highlight reel save, taking away the bottom part of the net with ease. The Penguins goaltending development team will be working hard with him to harness his natural athleticism, improving the finer technical components of his game. In reality, Lindberg is probably the closest thing the Penguins have to a top goaltending prospect at the pro level right now and he will be splitting time with Dustin Tokarski in Wilkes-Barre. Tokarski likely serves as the team’s top call-up and that means Lindberg can focus on staying healthy and improving over a full year of pro. Whether he has the potential to be an NHL starter or not remains to be seen, with more being known after this current season on the farm. - BO

10 - Jonathan Gruden C

Much like Filip Hallander, Gruden is being groomed as a potential checking line player by the Penguins. Since being drafted out of the U.S. NTDP, his development path has not been conventional. He started at the University of Miami but left school early to join the London Knights of the OHL, where he was solid as a point per game player in his lone season. Since then, he has improved over two pro seasons with Wilkes-Barre, establishing himself as a top-notch high energy forward. Like Hallander, Gruden is not the world’s most skilled player, but he makes up for it with extreme tenacity. He competes consistently for pucks and has transformed himself into a fantastic forechecker and someone who wins the majority of his 50/50 puck battles. His ability to outwork defenders and sustain pressure deep in the offensive zone is an admirable trait. Additionally, Gruden is a strong defensive presence who takes a physical approach and proudly makes himself difficult to play against. The key for him will be to continue to improve his skating and speed so that he can be just as effective in that role at the NHL level. Pittsburgh will be looking for him to improve yet again at the AHL level this upcoming season before his waiver eligibility runs out the following year. - BO

11 - Nathan Legare

A big, physical, hardworking winger, Legare is coming off of his first pro season with Wilkes-Barre, where he played more of a depth role. The Pens will be looking for him to use his big shot more often this season.

12 - Zam Plante

We liked Plante’s potential to be an impactful middle six energy player heading into this year’s draft. Improving his athleticism will be a must, but he’ll have several years to do that. He likely spends another year in Chicago (USHL) this year before heading to UMD after that.

13 - Tristan Broz

It was tough for Broz to break into a deep lineup at the University of Denver this past season, but he did play a depth role for the NCAA champions. The power forward loves attacking the net and should see an increase in responsibility and production as a sophomore.

14 - Jordan Frasca

Frasca used a strong overage year as a springboard to earn an ELC from Pittsburgh this season. The big center offers intriguing upside as a two-way stalwart at the pro level, but how his skill set translates (especially in terms of pace) is a mystery.

15 - Taylor Gauthier

Another free agent signing by the Pens, Gauthier has been one of the WHL’s best goaltenders for a few seasons now. However, due to his average size, there has been a reluctance to draft/sign him previously. Pittsburgh took a chance, and he will start his pro career this season.

16 - Isaac Belliveau

The 6’2 defender will return to the QMJHL for his overage season in hopes that he can continue to improve his four-way mobility and confidence with the puck.

17 - Raivis Kristians Ansons

There is a lot to like about this Latvian winger. He was great in a supporting role this season, helping Saint John capture the Memorial Cup. His versatility will impress pro coaches and he should be an immediate top nine player for Wilkes-Barre this season.

18 - Sergei Murashov

An athletic netminder, Murashov was a fourth-round selection by Pittsburgh in 2022. Playing in the Lokomotiv program, he will try to break through into the KHL level this season, at least partially.

19 - Ryan McCleary

The right shot defender showed great progression in Portland this past season, playing heavy minutes for a strong team. Pittsburgh will be looking for continued improvement in his skating ability before potentially signing him at some point this season.

20 - Corey Andonovski

A free agent signing by Pittsburgh out of Princeton, Andonovski will be groomed as a potential defensive specialist and penalty killer. The big winger is intelligent, physical, and an improving skater, qualities that could make him a great fourth liner in the future.

2021-22 TOP 15 PROSPECTS: PITTSBURGH PENGUINS – RANK: #29 – TIER VI

McKeen's Hockey — Sat, 11 Sep 2021 11:21:33 +0000

Pittsburgh Penguins

#29 Pittsburgh - See above. This system has a severe lack of real NHL-level talent.

PITTSBURGH, PA - SEPTEMBER 19: Pittsburgh Penguins right wing Samuel Poulin (22) looks on during the first period in the NHL game between the Pittsburgh Penguins and the Columbus Blue Jackets on September 19, 2019, at PPG Paints Arena in Pittsburgh, PA. (Photo by Jeanine Leech/Icon Sportswire)

Samuel Poulin

While perhaps harsh, Poulin failed to meet expectations last season, splitting time between Sherbrooke (who he spent his entire QMJHL career with previously) and Val-d’Or. He seemed to have a hard time finding his role on a very deep Foreurs team, used to having to be the focal point of the attack. That being said, he still performed very well in the playoffs as he scored 11 goals and eight assists for 19 points in 15 games.

He has not lost any of his offensive qualities including his excellent shot, his scoring touch, as well as a high-quality game of finesse paired with an imposing physical presence. He remains a player who is physically ready to move on to the pros and he does possess an impeccable work ethic. His high-end hockey sense makes him a likely NHL player in some capacity. He still has a great chance to establish himself as a first- or second-line winger in the NHL where he will score a significant number of goals if paired with a quality center or playmaker. - BB

Pierre-Olivier Joseph

The former first round pick and key piece in the Phil Kessel return is coming off of a very successful sophomore professional season. Not only did Joseph emerge as one of Wilkes/Barre’s top defenders, but he helped Pittsburgh out greatly as an injury fill-in, seeing time in all situations and excelling in a largely third pairing role.

Drafted because of his impact on the transition game, Joseph remains a standout in this area because of his high-end mobility. A strong puck carrier, he has learned to refine his decision-making approach and has become a very reliable puck mover. Joseph has also learned to be more physically assertive in the defensive end and has become a strong transitional defender too. A now well-rounded defender, Joseph has a chance to be a quality second pairing contributor for the Penguins. This coming season, he will battle for a third pairing spot on the Pens, however, his strong performance at the NHL level last year should give him good odds to spend the majority of the 2021/22 season in the big leagues. - BO

Filip Hallander

Originally drafted in the second round of the 2018 draft by the Pittsburgh Penguins, then part of the trade with the Toronto Maple Leafs for Kasperi Kapanen, Hallander is now part of the Penguins organization once again while being the key return of a deal that saw Jared McCann moved to Toronto. The move may prove to be a true blessing for his NHL ambitions. Part of what was a considerable prospect logjam in Toronto, Hallander now finds himself in a prime position to be on the NHL radar within the next two seasons and admittedly, with an organization that is very much in need of what he brings to the table.

Extremely competitive and very adept at being aware of not only where his teammates are, but of how plays are developing, Hallander is coming off his best season as a Swedish pro. Playing in a career-high 58 games between the regular season and playoffs, he collected a total of 15 goals, which was third on the team and just one behind the actual goal-scoring leaders, including NYR prospect Nils Lundkvist. Furthermore, he appeared to find a smoother form of skating that allows him to transition more quickly and work his way around opponents. Hallander is at a point in his career where he could push for a lower line role with the Penguins this fall, as he very well understands his job in all three zones and is already a strong forechecker, attributes that were pivotal in him being named to Sweden’s national team for this past World Championships (one point and +2 in five games). He is already signed and although time spent in the AHL may be his most immediate future, a good showing there would all but guarantee a call-up at some point in the upcoming season. - CL

Tristan Broz

A late blooming two-way force, Broz entered the 2021 draft as a highly versatile forward with a strong all-around game. While he has never generated the hype of some of this year’s other Minnesota natives, he has been on a slow, but steady upward trajectory since spending his age 14 season at Shattuck St. Mary’s. More a playmaker than a shooter, he plays a flash-free game that grows more impressive with each subsequent viewing of mistake free, efficiently play-driving hockey. Although none of his individual tools grade out as below average, everything plays above its baseline level thanks to Broz’ hockey sense. He is very hard to play against, backchecking very tight to his man, and pushing the opposition to the outside lane, without a clear way from them to break into the slot. He has proven himself capable in all situations and having a positive impact there. His offensive game is similarly efficient.

His solid frame should continue to fill out during his time at the University of Minnesota, which in turn, should allow him to continue to be strong in the corners, where he already excels at the USHL level. It should also be expected that his skating will tick upwards with increased strength. After two to three seasons with the Gophers, Broz should be ready to turn pro and continue his slow and steady march to a middle six role in the NHL with the Penguins. - McKeen’s Draft Guide 2021

Radim Zohorna

When the Penguins signed Zohorna out of the Czech league last offseason, the expectations were quite low. He was already on the older side as a prospect at 24. His production in the Czech league, even following a breakout season, was modest. At best, he looked like organizational depth. However, he blew those expectations out of the water by not only performing extremely well in the AHL, but by playing well for the main club in a brief stint to cover injuries.

The 6’6, 230 lbs forward looks every bit an NHL player. His skating ability has been much better than originally advertised and, in combination with his reach and strength, this makes him a very dangerous offensive weapon. He loves to drive wide on defenders before cutting to the middle, using his frame to protect the puck. He is more than that, though. He can play any of the three forward positions. He can play the penalty kill. He is responsible at both ends and his effort level is high. How Pittsburgh continues to find these diamonds in the rough is remarkable, but it would appear that they have done it again. Zohorna enters training camp with a good chance to earn a fourth line role, even with the additions of Brock McGinn and Danton Heinen. While Zohorna’s top end potential remains a bit of a mystery, he does look to have staying power in the league. - BO

Joel Blomqvist

A second-round selection in 2020 by the Penguins, Blomqvist had a fairly successful first full pro season in Finland, playing mainly out of the Mestis (second Finnish tier) level. He also won his first two Liiga games with Karpat and was the third goalie for Finland at the World Junior Championships. Blomqvist is a calm and composed goaltender with advanced technical skills. He reads and tracks the play well, rarely overcommitting and making the most of his 6’2 frame to eat up space. He may not have the elite level athletic ability you look for, but his vision and consistency help to make up for it.

The 2021/22 season should be an even better one for Blomqvist. He likely emerges as the starter in Karpat in his first full Liiga season and has the inside track at the starter’s job for Finland at the World Juniors. After that, there is a good chance that he signs his ELC and comes to North America. By then, the Penguins could have an opening for the back-up role behind Tristan Jarry, of which Blomqvist and the newly signed Filip Lindberg would have the inside track. Blomqvist’s performance this season should give us a better indication of his high-end upside. - BO

Jordy Bellerive

Jordy Bellerive was a lethal scorer in Junior that went undrafted but worked his way into an entry level deal with the Pens a few seasons ago with his speed, consistent effort and willingness to do anything to win. His scoring and play driving ability make him someone who could contribute to a bottom six role with the potential to have low double digit goal totals.

He plays a physical brand of hockey and is most effective playing a north/south game where his feet and strength give him an advantage on the forecheck. He is an effective cycle player who has some good small area skills coming off the wall. His vision as he curls off the wall is quite good even though he hasn’t found much success as a playmaker in the AHL to this point. His shot is fine, but his shot selection is what stands out the most. He is a player that gets in tight, can play a net front game and make some skill plays within that context. It would be a reach for him to make the Penguins out of camp this year, but as the season wears on if he is effective during the season at the AHL level it is not out of the realm of possibility that he sees an NHL game or two. At this point, his high-end projection is probably as a third line forward. - VG

Anthony Angello

Entering his final year of prospect eligibility, Angello finally looks ready to claim a regular NHL job, hopefully sparing himself the indignity of aging out of prospectum. A big, rangy forward who spent three years at Cornell before turning pro, he has seen his game improve steadily over three seasons since signing with Pittsburgh, which originally selected him in the fifth round back in 2014. At the time, he was seen as more of a pure power forward type, not scoring often in the USHL, but spending a ton of time in the penalty box.

The ensuing years have seen Angello add a greater element of danger to his offensive game, while also refining his physical game so that he has retained the fear factor while staying on the right side of the line when it comes to infractions. This isn’t to say that he is now a powerhouse power forward, but that he should be able to contribute at least some depth scoring from a bottom six role in the NHL, with an expected peak in the range of 20-25 points in a full season. The remaining range in his expected future value comes from proving to his coaches that he is worthy of special team time. Angello played some on the power play in the AHL, but the penalty kill was a foreign land. That might remain the case, but even if he can just play regularly, he will be a great success based on where he was drafted. - RW

Valterri Puustinen

A standout in Liiga the last two seasons, the undersized forward has signed his ELC with the Penguins and expectations are high heading into his first pro season in North America. Starring for HPK, Puustinen has been among the highest scoring young players in Finland, finishing with the highest point per game average of any U22 player in Liiga action in 2020/21. The 5’9 winger is certainly ready for his next challenge.

While Puustinen is slightly on the shorter side, he is ultra-quick and dynamic with the puck. He loves to push the pace and excels on the powerplay with his ability to control the half wall. The Penguins have to be hoping that his offensive skill set translates so that they can get a badly needed injection of youthful skill into their lineup. The question is, how will Puustinen adjust to the smaller ice surface, given his lack of stature? Will he be able to find consistent success playing through the middle or will he be kept to the perimeter? He should start the coming season in the AHL, barring a real standout performance at training camp, however, with a good start he could see NHL action by midseason as an injury call up. - BO

Nathan Legare

Nathan Légaré continues his good progress. He was an important factor in the success of his junior team in Val-d'Or. Surrounded by a ton of talent on the Foreurs, Legare was able to really focus on improving his offensive skills this past season. He went from being a player who excels in pressure and forecheck, who works well physically in one-on-one battles and who possesses a heavy shot, to a player with a little bit more of a cerebral game.

He still has work to do on his skating in order to be a consistent offensive contributor at the pro level. Even if his skating never improves, he still has a good chance to be a bottom six forward due to his strong offensive instincts and well-rounded game. Who wouldn't want a versatile power forward who can score, play hard, forecheck well, and who plays a smart two-way game? Don't be surprised to see him turn out to be a good third line winger in the NHL. Legare will turn pro this season and play with Wilkes-Barre, hopefully playing an immediate middle six role for the Penguins AHL team. Given the lack of depth in the system, he could move quickly to the main club if he performs well. - BB

Drew O'Connor

A free agent signing by the Penguins out of Dartmouth last season, O’Connor’s first pro season was a success split between the AHL and the NHL. The big power winger has the potential to be an impact bottom six player as early as this coming season.

Filip Lindberg

A standout at UMass in a platoon role, the former Minnesota Wild draft pick left college after his junior year in order to become a UFA. Signing with Pittsburgh, he gets a chance in a weaker system to prove that he can be an NHL goaltender. His athleticism is his calling card, and he could be the starter in Wilkes-Barre this season.

Mark Friedman

Claimed off waivers from the Philadelphia Flyers last season, Friedman performed well for Pittsburgh in a third pairing role in limited action. So much so that he could contend for a permanent spot in the lineup this season. The former Bowling Green product is unspectacular, but a reliable decision maker with the puck.

Calle Clang

Clang, a third-round selection in 2020, is coming off a very good season with Kristianstads IK of the Allsvenskan where he was named the league’s top junior player. This season, Clang will try to earn a spot on Rogle in the SHL, a team that finished second in the SHL last season. The 6’2 netminder looks like someone who could possibly provide competition to Joel Blomqvist in the Pittsburgh crease in the future.

Cam Lee

Also a free agent signing by the Penguins out of college last season (Western Michigan), Lee’s first pro season had some ups and downs. The 6’0 defender is a wonderful skater and puck mover, but he must find greater consistency in the defensive end. Pittsburgh will be looking for improvement in this area in 2021/22 as he assumes a top pairing role with Wilkes-Barre.

McKeen’s 2020-21 Hockey Yearbook: Toronto Maple Leaves Top 20 Prospects

Rachel Howard — Mon, 21 Dec 2020 22:20:07 +0000

McKeen's Top 20 New York Rangers prospects for the 2020-21 season. You can read an organizational assessment prior to the draft in Ryan Wagman's article found here. Following the draft we provided a review on each teams performance based on our rankings found here.

Nick Robertson, LW (53^rd overall, 2019. Previous ranking: 1)

As a draft eligible player, the physically immature Robertson had a tough time being a consistent contributor. This was especially true about his engagement level without the puck. Last year, with improved strength and conditioning, he was able to maintain that high intensity level through every shift. He has become one of the better forecheckers in the OHL, who seemed to force multiple turnovers per game due to his energy and IQ. Stronger on the puck, he also took his goal scoring ability to new heights. His shot is a weapon that can score in so many different ways. He can create his own shooting lanes with deceptive hands cutting through the middle. He can be a triggerman near the dot. His wrist shot release allows him to score from practically anywhere. Kyle Dubas has already stated that Robertson will be given every opportunity to make the Maple Leafs roster next year. However, he will need to improve his top end speed and his strength both on and off the puck in order to be able to play his game at the NHL level. He has the potential to be an impact top 6 player within a few years. – BO

Rodion Amirov, LW (15^th overall, 2020. Previous ranking: NA)

Amirov split his draft year between four distinct levels. The plurality of his games played were in the KHL, although his ice time there was very limited, and he had more ice time in fewer games in the MHL, Russia’s junior league, where he dominated. He demonstrates excellent skating prowess, in terms of power, lateral movement and shiftiness. He also has high end finishing ability. More than a mere offensive force, he has spent time on the penalty kill and uses his stick well defensively. Between his various levels of competition, he has played against strong competition for long enough to have a pretty good picture of who he is and what he can do. Amirov’s puck skills suggest an easy top six outcome in his prime. His hands are quick and soft. He reads the game at an advanced level, enabling him to spot avenues for scoring chances better than most. He doesn’t force plays and tries to keep things simple. He skates well, too, keeping up a healthy pace. The main concern is his underdeveloped frame. Additional muscle would give his skating stride more power while improving his stamina and assist him for puck battles. – RW

Roni Hirvonen, C (59^th overall, 2020. Previous ranking: NA)

2018-19’s top U17 scorer in Finland’s top junior league and last year’s top scorer among U18 players in Liiga, where he received ample ice time, we know that Hirvonen can produce against older players. He is also a fascinating player to watch. A natural center who has spent extensive time on the wing, he is very comfortable playing up the middle in all three zones. His skating stride is inefficient, yet he gets from A-to-B quickly and plays a dynamic East-West game, spurred on by excellent edge work. On the other hand, there are no concerns about Hirvonen’s puck skills. He can cut slaloms through multiple layers of the defense with ease. Despite being undersized, he drives hard to the net when he has the puck, and when the puck is with a linemate, he installs himself on the lip of the crease creating a nuisance for the netminder. In fact, he has done well at making his presence felt in all facets of the game. I would be surprised if he does not make the Finnish WJC roster as an 18-year-old this year. He isn’t too far away from a productive middle six NHL role. – RW

Topi Niemela, D (64^th overall, 2020. Previous ranking: NA)

The only 17-year-old blueliner to spend all of last season in Liiga, Niemela earned the trust of his coaches with his mature ability to read the play and his reliability off the puck. While his decision making sometimes betrayed his inexperience, he kept his head up, his feet active, and his gaps tight. A right-handed shot, his hockey IQ trails only his skating ability among his assets. He has great mobility, with a smooth and strong skating stride. He is balanced and moves very well laterally and backwards as well as his straight-ahead speed. His feet keep him in the right place at the right time. Niemela has never been a big goalscorer, but he loves to shoot the puck. He tends to sacrifice some power in order to quicken his release, but the shot are accurate and he generally gets the puck past the initial point coverage. Niemela is also a plus puck mover. His hands are quick and secure, and he is a precise passer. He has a lot of physical maturing in front of him, but projects as an all-situations middle pairing defender who can eat up a lot of minutes. – RW

Filip Hallander, LW (58^th overall, 2018. Previous ranking: 2)

Hallander, acquired as part of the Kasperi Kapanen trade with Pittsburgh, is coming off a season shortened due to a leg injury. He may not be that flashy, but he has good hands and is incredibly competitiveness and plays with great awareness. He can be creative on the rush, but he still needs to work on his approach when the game is standing still, as he can play impatient. Even so, he is a smart player who reads the forecheck well and seem to know where to position himself to stop an attack. Hallander is useful on both the power play and the penalty kill. On the power play, he is strong around the crease and in the slot and has been compared to Patric Hornqvist in that sense, earning significant minutes on one of the top teams in the SHL last season as a result. He is expected to spend one more season with Lulea before stepping over in 2021-22, by which time, he should be ready. He lacks elite tools but with strong poise, competitiveness, and awareness on the ice combined with the ability to play various roles he is a good bet to be impactful. – JH

Nick Abruzzese, C (124^th overall, 2019. Previous ranking: 3)

Abruzzese led all freshmen in scoring nationally last season. For his efforts, he was named both the ECAC and the Ivy league Rookie of the Year. He seems set to give the Maple Leafs far more value than they expended with the 2019 fourth-round pick. He has an incredibly calm demeanor, be it on the forecheck or the backcheck. He has excellent vision and can make clean passes without too many turnovers. He was often the player leading the rush although he tended to hang out around the blue line in his defensive zone and trailing on the back check, suggesting he still has work to do on his game away from the puck, although his spot on the Crimson’s first power play unit suggests that his offensive game is doing quite alright. He is a good skater and glides effortlessly up and down the ice. Abruzzese is on the smaller side, but he is not afraid to battle for the puck along the boards. While he can finish, he is fonder of dishing out the puck than of taking the shot himself. His development curve so far suggests that his game is still growing. – JS

Joey Anderson, RW (73^rd overall, 2016. Previous ranking: 5 [New Jersey[])

Anderson has had his ups and downs where performance is concerned and adjusting properly to the pace of the NHL game, but remains a highly likely long-term NHLer. He hasn’t yet hit the mark on the little things that turn into bigger things at the higher level. Offensively, he has talent when it comes to getting to the net and finding scoring opportunities. On the other hand, his play on the backend needs to tighten up ever so slightly to be considered for a role with more dynamic players. He will also have to find more grit and an extra gear to reach his ceiling and solidify a spot in Toronto’s crowded NHL roster. Anderson is great at capitalizing on turnovers and recognizing plays before they happen and if he can keep on adding to his hockey IQ and anticipating instead of reacting more often, his path will become clearer. With the NHL experience he already has, he may be ready to stay up with Toronto, who acquired him from New Jersey for Andreas Johnsson, but a little more AHL time could also be beneficial in the long run. - SC

Mikko Kokkonen, D (84^th overall, 2019. Previous ranking: 4)

Although he was overshadowed by some of the other young defensemen on the Jukurit last year, Kokkonen’s play improved as the season went on. He is an effective distributor of the puck and can start offensive transitions with crisp and accurate long-range passes. He could be a bit more creative with the puck, but he shows poise and good offensive vision. He has a good wrist shot with a quick release and the ability to get pucks through traffic on a regular basis. He reads the game well and his positioning is solid in all three zones. He shows calculated movement as he rarely gets caught out of position. He plays a stable, if unspectacular two-way game, although his skating remains a concern. It is somewhat clunky and lacks explosiveness. He will have to improve his foot speed and lateral mobility as well. On a more positive note, he is sturdy and has good balance. Kokkonen is physically strong for his age and may be closer to a finished product than others of his level. He doesn’t have the highest ceiling, but he could develop into a dependable NHL defenseman on a moderate timetable. - MB

Yegor Korshkov, RW (31^st overall, 2016. Previous ranking: 5)

Korshkov is a good fit as a top Leafs prospect at the moment. Not only is he a big body but he moves well, plays with a strong drive and makes his presence known on the ice. People count his size as one of his top attributes but his ability to carry the puck is actually what allows him such success in the goal scoring department. As a player coming from the KHL, Korshkov had few adjustments to make in order to keep up at top Marlies pace and earn a call up to the Leafs, even scoring in his debut. That being said, Korshkov is a good defensive player, yet he tends to be a little too cautious in his own end and is prone to standing still too long. The only time he seems motivated is when he is breaking out or with the puck on his stick, and he needs to keep in mind that hockey is a two way game and to be a top level player he will have to be good in his own end as well. Aside from that, he is both a physically and mentally mature enough player to find himself with a spot on the Leafs and frankly it would come as little surprise to see him up as an occasional second liner. The future is bright for a player as strong and hard working as Korshkov, with size, skill and a keen eye for playmaking. The Leafs would be smart to try him up more frequently this coming season. - SC

Timothy Liljegren, D (17^th overall, 2017. Previous ranking: 7)

With Liljegren approaching the end of his entry level contract and his best season in the with the Toronto Marlies yet, he is hopefully proving his worth when it will come to re-signing the first rounder. Although his career has not come without struggles and inconsistencies as well as a severe ankle injury that put him out for a long stretch last season, his turbulent career has proven his durability. Liljegren has grown tremendously over last season and his offensive play has grown even more to the point where he was playing both penalty kill and powerplay. He continues to carry the puck with ease and has improved his scoring chances, and he is no longer afraid to shoot and does well at getting the puck to the net. His weak spots continue to be in his own end and defending one on one during turnovers, where he desperately needs to work on his physicality in order to compete at the next level. He also needs to keep his feet moving and his eyes off the puck. Despite not making the main camp roster, look for Liljegren to show up as a bottom four defenseman should the Leafs call him up again. – SC

Veeti Miettinen, RW (168^th overall, 2020. Previous ranking: NA)

Born only a few days too late to have been eligible for the 2019 draft, Miettinen spent a second full season in Finland’s junior league, once again producing at elite rates, far above one point-per-game, and this time leading the Jr. A SM-liiga altogether. He is a versatile player who proved last year that he can kill penalties in addition to his offensive exploits. Miettinen’s game is well-rounded; He is a strong skater with a dangerous shot, featuring both wrist shots and snap shots. He is a fine stickhandler who utilizes his linemates well and he plays a proactive game off the puck. His primary downside at this juncture is his size. Short and lean, he doesn’t have a physical game to speak of. He is headed to North America next season to play collegiately at St. Cloud State. Because of that path, he will have plenty of time to grow accustomed to the North American game before he turns pro, where he currently projects as a reasonable third line type. – RW

Mac Hollowell, D (118^th overall, 2018. Previous ranking: 8)

Hollowell has been a pleasant surprise for the organization. Sure he is on the smaller side for a defenseman, measuring up at 5-10”, 170lbs, but can he ever skate. He is a dynamic skater whose smooth strides help him keep space between himself and his opponents and his passing skills help to keep him from entering danger zones with the puck or over carrying it. Hollowell still has a lot left to learn, having just completed his rookie professional season, but with any luck he will be fit to aim for a debut with the big squad next season for a game or two. That being said, once he is physically mature, look for Hollowell to be a bottom four defenseman as he already has the skill to fit in at the NHL level. His work ethic and fearlessness alone will be what helps set him apart from the rest of his defensive cohort. - SC

Filip Kral, D (149^th overall, 2018. Previous ranking: 9)

Kral is a steady defensive player with limited offensive upside. Last season he has shown more confidence with the puck and better decision making overall which has led to a bit of an offensive outburst. The hard shooting Czech had his best offensive production with his 12 goals and 36 assists as an overage player. He is a good skater who manages his own zone very well. He is a first pass guy but isn’t really a rush-leading defenseman. His vision and passing skills are both fine but he doesn’t ooze offensive skill. Defensively he is sound with a good control of his gaps and spacing in his own zone. He manages the cycle well despite not being an overtly physical player. His production comes from making smart, safe, fundamental hockey plays while on the ice with some lethal offensive weapons such as he had last season with Spokane. Don’t expect him to flash big production at the next level but he could fit nicely into a bottom pairing. - VG

Joseph Woll, G (62^nd overall, 2016. Previous ranking: 10)

For a rookie goaltender in the AHL, Woll did fairly well considering the change of pace coming from the NCAA Boston College to the Toronto Marlies. As a younger goaltender he does tend to bite a little early when it comes to dekes but stays strong in two-on-one situations. As a big body, he moves well and his rebound control is good as he stays strong in his crease. The future is still bright though, for Woll, as he has the potential to be a starting goaltender for the Leafs in the future. He still needs to work on playing the puck better and positioning when it comes to finding ways to see past players and find the puck in scrum situations but overall he made a good adjustment to the harder shots and quicker pace of the AHL level. As far as Toronto’s system goes, Woll stands a good chance of seeing starting time in the future but as always keep in mind that goaltenders often take a longer time to develop. – SC

William Villeneuve, D (122^nd overall, 2020. Previous ranking: NA)

One of the top sleepers out of the QMJHL in the 2020 draft class, it may be easy to forget that he was selected second overall in the circuit’s 2018 Entry Draft. Despite his slow start to the current year, Villeneuve was the top scoring defender in the ‘Q’ last year. His game is predicated on solid decision making and finesse. A right-handed shot, he plays with poise at both ends and moves the puck soundly. He is not the most physical defender and needs to add strength in addition to his skating, which holds him back from a higher ranking as his technical efficiency is not quite matched by power or speed. The only CHL player drafted by the Leafs in 2020, He may not have the tools you look for in a power play quarterback, although his shot and puck skills will help him contribute in the offensive end. The overall game will have a chance to play at higher levels. – RW

Adam Brooks, C (92^nd overall, 2016. Previous ranking: 11)

Despite being a hard worker and trying to keep a focused attitude, forward Brooks has yet to really differentiate himself from his other Toronto Marlies teammates. He plays a simple game, does well on the penalty kill and keeps attackers to the outside in his own end and there is nothing wrong with that or his skill level. It simply comes down to the fact that Brooks has a good stride, can shoot and plays in a compact way where he does not get in the way and is aggressive enough to win puck battles but the details in his game are the loose ends that he needs to tie up. He does a lot of chasing of the puck and not enough anticipating of the play where he gets sloppy and ends up responsible for turnovers. At this point, Brooks will have to fine tune his game in time for next season or run the risk of becoming a trade commodity if he wants a chance at returning with the Leafs again as a bottom six call up, to say nothing of securing a full-time role. - SC

Semyon Der-Arguchintsev, C (76^th overall, 2018. Previous ranking: 12)

A skilled playmaker, Der-Arguchintsev had his best season to date in the OHL that saw him finish third in the league in assists with 63. Playing alongside fellow Leafs’ prospect Nick Robertson, SDA (as he is affectionately known) showed some progress physically which helped him to utilize his creativity and puck skill more consistently. However, it is important to note that while Der-Arguchintsev was near the top in total assists, the majority of those were either secondary or powerplay assists. His 18 primary assists at even strength were tied for 21st in the OHL, and his 42 total primary points were tied for 68th in the circuit. Additionally, he saw a shift to the wing later in the year, with his projection as an NHL center looking bleak. Maple Leaf fans will need to be patient with SDA as he continues to mature physically. His upside remains high, but with each passing year, it seems less likely that he reaches it. - BO

Mikhail Abramov, C (115^th overall, 2019. Previous ranking: 13)

While Abramov’s point totals may not look totally impressive at first glance last season, his 35 goals alone nearly bested any teammate’s point totals. To say Abramov was on an island with Victoriaville last year is more or less accurate; the team took a step back from the previous season and teammate Yegor Serdyuk missed significant time. Despite this, Abramov still put on a clinic as the team’s primary option in terms of offence. He is slight of build but a great skater and confident puckhandler. At 161 pounds, he is hardly a finished product, but he has some potential as a scoring option down the line. It is a commendation to his hockey sense and skating that he can play some center at that size. However, due to his sight build, it is likely scoring lines or bust for the Russian forward. - MS

Pontus Holmberg, LW/C (156^th overall, 2018. Previous ranking: 14)

Holmberg has shown steady progression as a player since he was drafted in 2018. He is a puck skilled winger with good hockey sense who can make creative plays. He plays a quick-thinking game and controls the puck well. His skating is good, and while he is not the fastest player, he has strong lower body-balance and is quite agile. His production is still inconsistent, and he still takes too many nights off. He is the type of player that can have five brilliant games and then not show up on the scoreboard for ten straight games. He finished the season on a high note though, which hopefully is promising. He has a good wrist shot but has averaged fewer than one shot on goal per game. He has not earned the coaches trust to play top line minutes in the SHL, but he has signed a two-year extension with the team. His NHL projection is long-term, and the 21-year-old will need more time to develop before he can compete for a spot in the NHL. - JH

Ian Scott, G (110^th overall, 2017. Previous ranking: UR)

Originally drafted after a statistically awful season in the WHL, Scott had a moderately better one to follow before everything came together in a season for the ages to finish off his junior career, leading his team to a league championship. He was expected to compete for the title of “goalie of the future” with Joseph Woll last year, but a hip problem led to surgery last December, ending his professional debut before he actually suited up in a game. There is a ton of mystery in what happens next for Scott. He is healthy, but the WCHL will not be an option next year as Toronto’s affiliate in Newfoundland will not play this season due to the pandemic, while the organization brought in Alex Stalock and Michael Hutchison to play with Woll in the AHL. Clearly, Scott needs to play. He flashed enough in 2018-19 that a return to that trajectory would make for a great feel-good story of perseverance. Flashes of excellence aside, we don’t really have a way to currently project his ultimate ceiling. - RW

McKeen’s 2020-21 Hockey Yearbook: Top 300 Prospect Rankings

McKeen's Hockey — Fri, 04 Dec 2020 17:09:56 +0000

These are our final prospect ranking prior to the start of the season. As a subscriber you can download the list in an excel chart and can link to the player pages in the chart found here. As always, the rankings you see below are based on our 20-80 scouting system looking at five categories for skaters (Skating, Shot, Puck Skills, Hockey Smarts, Physicality) and six for netminders (Athleticism/Quickness/Speed, Compete/Temperament, Vision/Play Reading, Technique/Style, Rebound Control, Puck Handling). Our prospect team spent large portions of their last few months pre-COVID in the rinks, watching the players below and many others, and further work on video (Instat Hockey has been a terrific resource in recent days) before passing judgement on their future projections.

The 20-80 scouting system is meant to allow players from different leagues in different parts of the world to be compared to one another, such that grades on a player in the OHL can be directly compared to grades from an AHL player, and to grades of someone playing in the MHL.

PROSPECT CRITERIA

Players under 26 years of age as of the September 15th prior (Sep. 15, 1994) to the season in question who have appeared in less than 60 NHL games (30 for goalies) and less than 35 in any one season – or 25 last year (20 for goalies, 15 last season) are considered prospects

RANK	PLAYER	NHL	POS	AGE	HT/WT	ACQUIRED
1	Alexis Lafreniere	NYR	LW	19	6-1/195	`20(1st)
2	Tim Stutzle	Ott	C	18	6-1/185	`20(3rd)
3	Quinton Byfield	LA	C	18	6-4/215	`20(2nd)
4	Trevor Zegras	Ana	C	19	6-0/170	`19(9th)
5	Kirill Kaprizov	Min	LW	23	5-10/200	`15(135th)
6	Lucas Raymond	Det	LW	18	5-11/170	`20(4th)
7	Dylan Cozens	Buf	C	19	6-3/185	`19(7th)
8	Bowen Byram	Col	D	19	6-0/195	`19(4th)
9	Peyton Krebs	VGK	C	19	5-11/180	`19(17th)
10	Jake Sanderson	Ott	D	18	6-1/185	`20(5th)
11	Moritz Seider	Det	D	19	6-3/185	`19(6th)
12	Jamie Drysdale	Ana	D	18	5-11/175	`20(6th)
13	Igor Shesterkin	NYR	G	25	6-1/190	`14(118th)
14	Alexander Holtz	NJ	RW	18	6-0/190	`20(7th)
15	Cole Perfetti	Wpg	LW	19	5-10/180	`20(10th)
16	Marco Rossi	Min	C	19	5-9/185	`20(9th)
17	Vasili Podkolzin	Van	RW	19	6-1/190	`19(10th)
18	Victor Soderstrom	Ari	D	19	5-11/180	`19(11th)
19	Nick Robertson	Tor	LW	19	5-9/160	`19(53rd)
20	Cole Caufield	Mtl	RW	19	5-7/165	`19(15th)
21	Yaroslav Askarov	Nsh	G	18	6-3/175	`20(11th)
22	Spencer Knight	Fla	G	19	6-3/195	`19(13th)
23	Philip Broberg	Edm	D	19	6-3/200	`19(8th)
24	Jack Quinn	Buf	RW	19	6-0/180	`20(8th)
25	Matthew Boldy	Min	LW	19	6-1/190	`19(12th)
26	Nils Lundkvist	NYR	D	20	5-11/180	`18(28th)
27	Seth Jarvis	Car	RW	18	5-10/175	`20(13th)
28	Ty Smith	NJ	D	20	5-10/180	`18(17th)
29	Grigori Denisenko	Fla	LW	20	5-11/185	`18(15th)
30	Barrett Hayton	Ari	C	20	6-1/190	`18(5th)
31	Alex Newhook	Col	C	19	5-10/195	`19(16th)
32	Thomas Harley	Dal	D	19	6-3/190	`19(18th)
33	Alex Turcotte	LA	C	19	5-11/185	`19(5th)
34	Vitali Kravtsov	NYR	RW	21	6-3/185	`18(9th)
35	Philip Tomasino	Nsh	C	19	5-11/180	`19(24th)
36	Connor McMichael	Wsh	C	19	5-11/175	`19(25th)
37	Dawson Mercer	NJ	C	19	6-0/180	`20(18th)
38	Ilya Sorokin	NYI	G	25	6-2/180	`14(78th)
39	Gabriel Vilardi	LA	RW	21	6-3/200	`17(11th)
40	Ryan Merkley	SJ	D	20	5-11/170	`18(21st)
41	Alexander Romanov	Mtl	D	20	5-11/185	`18(38th)
42	Kaiden Guhle	Mtl	D	18	6-2/190	`20(16th)
43	Samuel Poulin	Pit	LW	19	6-1/205	`19(21st)
44	K'Andre Miller	NYR	D	20	6-3/205	`18(22nd)
45	Scott Perunovich	StL	D	22	5-10/175	`18(45th)
46	Evan Bouchard	Edm	D	21	6-2/195	`18(10th)
47	Braden Schneider	NYR	D	19	6-2/200	`20(19th)
48	Juuso Valimaki	Cgy	D	22	6-2/205	`17(16th)
49	Cam York	Phi	D	19	5-11/175	`19(14th)
50	Anton Lundell	Fla	C	19	6-1/185	`20(12th)
51	Morgan Frost	Phi	C	21	5-11/180	`17(27th)
52	Owen Tippett	Fla	RW	21	6-1/200	`17(10th)
53	Albert Johansson	Det	D	19	5-11/165	`19(60th)
54	Liam Foudy	CBJ	C	20	6-0/175	`18(18th)
55	Kieffer Bellows	NYI	LW	22	6-0/200	`16(19th)
56	Arthur Kaliyev	LA	RW	19	6-2/190	`19(33rd)
57	Oliver Wahlstrom	NYI	RW	20	6-1/205	`18(11th)
58	Nils Hoglander	Van	RW	20	5-9/185	`19(40th)
59	Matias Maccelli	Ari	LW	20	5-11/170	`19(98th)
60	Tobias Bjornfot	LA	D	19	6-0/200	`19(22nd)
61	Jacob Bernard-Docker	Ott	D	20	6-0/180	`18(26th)
62	Connor Zary	Cgy	C	19	6-0/180	`20(24th)
63	Dominik Bokk	Car	RW	20	6-1/180	T(StL-9/19)
64	Ryan Suzuki	Car	C	19	6-0/180	`19(28th)
65	Dylan Samberg	Wpg	D	21	6-3/190	`17(43rd)
66	Jake Bean	Car	D	22	6-1/175	`16(13th)
67	Josh Norris	Ott	C	21	6-1/195	T(SJ-9/18)
68	Rasmus Kupari	LA	C	20	6-1/185	`18(20th)
69	Jakob Pelletier	Cgy	LW	19	5-9/165	`19(26th)
70	Drake Batherson	Ott	RW	22	6-1/190	`17(121st)
71	Jan Jenik	Ari	RW	20	6-1/180	`18(65th)
72	John-Jason Peterka	Buf	LW	18	5-11/190	`20(34th)
73	Kirill Marchenko	CBJ	LW	20	6-3/190	`18(49th)
74	Bode Wilde	NYI	D	20	6-2/195	`18(41st)
75	John Beecher	Bos	C	19	6-3/210	`19(30th)
76	Tyler Madden	LA	C	21	5-10/155	T(Van-2/20)
77	Jack Studnicka	Bos	C	21	6-1/170	`17(53rd)
78	Jake Oettinger	Dal	G	22	6-4/210	`17(26th)
79	Alex Formenton	Ott	LW	21	6-2/165	`17(47th)
80	Matthew Robertson	NYR	D	19	6-3/200	`19(49th)
81	Calen Addison	Min	D	20	5-10/180	T(Pit-2/20)
82	Ty Dellandrea	Dal	C	20	6-0/185	`18(13th)
83	Akil Thomas	LA	C	20	5-11/170	`18(51st)
84	Mavrik Bourque	Dal	C	18	5-10/180	`20(30th)
85	Ian Mitchell	Chi	D	21	5-11/175	`17(57th)
86	Jason Robertson	Dal	LW	21	6-2/195	`17(39th)
87	Hendrix Lapierre	Wsh	C	18	5-11/180	`20(22nd)
88	Brendan Brisson	VGK	C	19	5-11/180	`20(29th)
89	Theodor Niederbach	Det	C	18	5-11/175	`20(51st)
90	Zac Jones	NYR	D	20	5-10/175	`19(68th)
91	Robert Mastrosimone	Det	LW	19	5-10/160	`19(54th)
92	Joe Veleno	Det	C	20	6-1/195	`18(30th)
93	Rodion Amirov	Tor	LW	19	6-0/170	`20(15th)
94	Jake Neighbours	StL	LW	18	5-11/195	`20(26th)
95	Julien Gauthier	NYR	RW	23	6-4/225	T(Car-2/20)
96	Justus Annunen	Col	G	20	6-4/215	`18(64th)
97	Egor Zamula	Phi	D	20	6-4/175	FA(9/18)
98	Shane Pinto	Ott	C	20	6-2/190	`19(32nd)
99	Noel Gunler	Car	RW	19	6-2/175	`20(41st)
100	Ridly Greig	Ott	C	18	5-11/165	`20(28th)
101	Jesse Ylonen	Mtl	RW	21	6-1/185	`18(35th)
102	Samuel Fagemo	LA	RW	20	6-0/195	`19(50th)
103	Mattias Norlinder	Mtl	D	20	5-11/180	`19(64th)
104	Olli Juolevi	Van	D	22	6-3/200	`16(5th)
105	Kristian Vesalainen	Wpg	LW	21	6-3/205	`17(24th)
106	Raphael Lavoie	Edm	RW	20	6-4/195	`19(38th)
107	Jan Mysak	Mtl	C	18	5-11/180	`20(49th)
108	Cayden Primeau	Mtl	G	21	6-3/180	`17(199th)
109	Pavel Dorofeyev	VGK	LW	20	6-1/170	`19(79th)
110	Morgan Barron	NYR	C	22	6-2/200	`17(174th)
111	Ville Heinola	Wpg	D	19	5-11/180	`19(20th)
112	Dylan Holloway	Edm	C	19	6-0/205	`20(14th)
113	Jack Dugan	VGK	RW	22	6-2/185	`17(142nd)
114	Alexander Khovanov	Min	C	20	5-11/195	`18(86th)
115	Jacob Perreault	Ana	RW	18	5-11/195	`20(27th)
116	Jake Evans	Mtl	C	24	6-0/185	`14(207th)
117	Adam Beckman	Min	LW	19	6-1/170	`19(75th)
118	Jett Woo	Van	D	20	6-0/205	`18(37th)
119	Nolan Foote	NJ	LW	20	6-3/190	T(TB-2/20)
120	Logan Brown	Ott	C	22	6-6/220	`16(11th)
121	Martin Kaut	Col	RW	21	6-1/175	`18(16th)
122	Jack Rathbone	Van	D	21	5-10/175	`17(95th)
123	Ozzy Wiesblatt	SJ	RW	18	5-10/185	`20(31st)
124	Ryan O'Rourke	Min	D	18	6-0/180	`20(39th)
125	Lukas Reichel	Chi	LW	18	6-0/170	`20(17th)
126	Jordan Harris	Mtl	D	20	5-11/180	`18(71st)
127	Lukas Dostal	Ana	G	20	6-1/170	`18(85th)
128	Egor Afanasyev	Nsh	RW	19	6-3/205	`19(45th)
129	Conor Timmins	Col	D	22	6-1/185	`17(32nd)
130	Lassi Thomson	Ott	D	20	6-0/190	`19(19th)
131	Eeli Tolvanen	Nsh	RW	21	5-10/175	`17(30th)
132	Kasper Simontaival	LA	RW	18	5-9/180	`20(66th)
133	Roni Hirvonen	Tor	C	18	5-9/165	`20(59th)
134	Thomas Bordeleau	SJ	C	18	5-9/180	`20(38th)
135	Benoit-Olivier Groulx	Ana	C	20	6-1/195	`18(54th)
136	Tyler Kleven	Ott	D	18	6-4/200	`20(44th)
137	Tyson Foerster	Phi	C	18	6-1/195	`20(23rd)
138	Helge Grans	LA	D	18	6-2/205	`20(35th)
139	Jonathan Dahlen	SJ	LW	23	5-11/185	T(Van-2/19)
140	Marat Khusnutdinov	Min	C	18	5-11/175	`20(37th)
141	Alexander Alexeyev	Wsh	D	21	6-3/200	`18(31st)
142	Pierre-Olivier Joseph	Pit	D	21	6-2/170	`17(23rd)
143	Topi Niemela	Tor	D	18	5-10/160	`20(64th)
144	Oskari Laaksonen	Buf	D	21	6-2/165	`17(89th)
145	Filip Hallander	Tor	LW	20	6-1/185	T(Pit-8/20)
146	Serron Noel	Fla	RW	20	6-5/205	`18(34th)
147	Martin Chromiak	LA	LW	18	6-0/185	`20(128th)
148	Shakir Mukhamadullin	NJ	D	18	6-3/180	`20(20th)
149	Mattias Samuelsson	Buf	D	20	6-3/215	`18(32nd)
150	Janne Kuokkanen	NJ	LW	22	6-1/190	T(Car-2/20)
151	Ryan Johnson	Buf	D	19	6-0/175	`19(31st)
152	Sean Farrell	Mtl	C	19	5-8/175	`20(124th)
153	Martin Fehervary	Wsh	D	21	6-1/190	`18(46th)
154	Ukko-Pekka Luukkonen	Buf	G	21	6-4/195	`17(54th)
155	Will Lockwood	Van	RW	22	5-11/175	`16(64th)
156	Isac Lundestrom	Ana	C	21	6-0/185	`18(23rd)
157	Michael DiPietro	Van	G	21	6-0/195	`17(64th)
158	Jonatan Berggren	Det	RW	20	5-10/185	`18(33rd)
159	Kevin Bahl	NJ	D	20	6-6/230	T(Ari-12/19)
160	Aliaksei Protas	Wsh	C	19	6-5/205	`19(91st)
161	Reilly Walsh	NJ	D	21	5-11/180	`17(81st)
162	Nick Abruzzese	Tor	C	21	5-9/160	`19(124th)
163	Tyler Tucker	StL	D	20	6-1/205	`18(200th)
164	Arseni Gritsyuk	NJ	RW	19	5-10/170	`19(129th)
165	Klim Kostin	StL	C	21	6-3/195	`17(31st)
166	Brayden Tracey	Ana	LW	19	6-0/175	`19(29th)
167	Joel Hofer	StL	G	20	6-3/160	`18(107th)
168	Joey Anderson	Tor	RW	22	6-0/195	T(NJ-10/20)
169	Yegor Spiridonov	SJ	C	19	6-2/195	`19(108th)
170	Sam Colangelo	Ana	RW	19	6-1/205	`20(36th)
171	Joey Keane	Car	D	21	6-0/185	T(NYR-2/20)
172	Jared McIsaac	Det	D	20	6-1/195	`18(36th)
173	Jamieson Rees	Car	C	19	5-10/175	`19(44th)
174	Ivan Morozov	VGK	C	20	6-1/180	`18(61st)
175	Rem Pitlick	Nsh	C	23	5-11/200	`16(76th)
176	Tyce Thompson	NJ	RW	21	6-0/170	`19(96th)
177	Michael McLeod	NJ	C	22	6-2/195	`16(12th)
178	Jaret Anderson-Dolan	LA	C	21	5-11/190	`17(41st)
179	Dustin Wolf	Cgy	G	19	6-0/165	`19(214th)
180	Antti Tuomisto	Det	D	19	6-4/190	`19(35th)
181	Brett Berard	NYR	LW	18	5-9/155	`20(134th)
182	Luke Evangelista	Nsh	RW	18	5-11/170	`20(42nd)
183	Joel Blomqvist	Pit	G	18	6-1/180	`20(52nd)
184	Joni Ikonen	Mtl	C	21	5-10/170	`17(58th)
185	Olivier Rodrigue	Edm	G	20	6-1/165	`18(62nd)
186	Lucas Elvenes	VGK	RW	21	6-0/175	`17(127th)
187	Anthony Angello	Pit	RW	24	6-5/205	`14(145th)
188	Tuukka Tieksola	Car	RW	19	5-10/160	`19(121st)
189	Declan Chisholm	Wpg	D	20	6-1/190	`18(150th)
190	Cole Koepke	TB	LW	22	6-1/195	`18(183rd)
191	Valtteri Puustinen	Pit	RW	21	5-9/185	`19(203rd)
192	Ty Smilanic	Fla	C	18	6-1/175	`20(74th)
193	Patrik Puistola	Car	LW	19	6-0/175	`19(73rd)
194	Justin Barron	Col	D	19	6-2/190	`20(25th)
195	Andrew Peeke	CBJ	D	22	6-3/210	`16(34th)
196	Michael Vukojevic	NJ	D	19	6-3/210	`19(82nd)
197	Alec Regula	Chi	D	20	6-3/200	T(Det-10/19)
198	Connor Corcoran	VGK	D	20	6-1/185	`18(154th)
199	Jeremy Swayman	Bos	G	22	6-1/190	`17(111th)
200	Pyotr Kochetkov	Car	G	21	6-1/175	`19(36th)
201	Mikey Anderson	LA	D	21	6-0/195	`17(103rd)
202	Carter Savoie	Edm	LW	18	5-9/190	`20(100th)
203	Samuel Walker	TB	C	21	5-11/160	`17(200th)
204	William Wallinder	Det	D	18	6-4/190	`20(32nd)
205	Jack Drury	Car	C	20	5-11/180	`18(42nd)
206	Emil Andrae	Phi	D	18	5-9/185	`20(54th)
207	Cal Petersen	LA	G	26	6-3/190	FA(7/17)
208	Jeremie Poirier	Cgy	D	18	6-0/200	`20(72nd)
209	Tarmo Reunanen	NYR	D	22	6-0/180	`16(98th)
210	Simon Holmstrom	NYI	RW	19	6-1/185	`19(23rd)
211	Aleksi Saarela	Fla	RW	23	5-11/200	T(Chi-10/19)
212	Anton Johannesson	Wpg	D	18	5-9/155	`20(133rd)
213	Lauri Pajuniemi	NYR	RW	21	6-0/185	`18(132nd)
214	Morgan Geekie	Car	C	22	6-2/180	`17(67th)
215	Shane Bowers	Col	C	21	6-2/190	T(Ott-11/17)
216	Sasha Chmelevski	SJ	C	21	5-11/190	`17(185th)
217	Ruslan Iskhakov	NYI	C	20	5-8/155	`18(43rd)
218	Cole Schwindt	Fla	RW	19	6-2/185	`19(81st)
219	Hugo Alnefelt	TB	G	19	6-3/195	`19(71st)
220	Nikita Okhotyuk	NJ	D	20	6-1/195	`19(61st)
221	Sampo Ranta	Col	LW	20	6-2/205	`18(78th)
222	Alexander Volkov	TB	LW	23	6-1/190	`17(48th)
223	Alexander True	SJ	C	23	6-5/205	FA(7/18)
224	John Leonard	SJ	C	22	5-11/190	`18(182nd)
225	Carl Grundstrom	LA	LW	23	6-0/195	T(Tor-1/19)
226	Dmitri Semykin	TB	D	20	6-3/200	`18(90th)
227	Cal Foote	TB	D	22	6-4/215	`17(14th)
228	Jean-Luc Foudy	Col	C	18	5-11/175	`20(75th)
229	Alex Barre-Boulet	TB	C	23	5-10/165	FA(3/18)
230	Tristen Robins	SJ	RW	19	5-10/175	`20(56th)
231	Max Gildon	Fla	D	21	6-3/190	`17(66th)
232	Nikita Alexandrov	StL	C	20	6-0/180	`19(62nd)
233	Michael Benning	Fla	D	18	5-9/180	`20(95th)
234	Justin Sourdif	Fla	RW	18	5-11/175	`20(87th)
235	Tanner Laczynski	Phi	C	23	6-1/200	`16(169th)
236	Eamon Powell	TB	D	18	5-11/165	`20(116th)
237	Kaedan Korczak	VGK	D	19	6-3/190	`19(41st)
238	Drew Commesso	Chi	G	18	6-1/180	`20(47th)
239	Nikolai Kovalenko	Col	RW	21	5-10/175	`18(171st)
240	Pius Suter	Chi	C	24	5-11/170	FA(7/20)
241	Wade Allison	Phi	RW	23	6-2/205	`16(52nd)
242	Bobby Brink	Phi	RW	19	5-10/165	`19(34th)
243	Lukas Cormier	VGK	D	18	5-10/180	`20(68th)
244	David Farrance	Nsh	D	21	5-11/190	`17(92nd)
245	Roby Jarventie	Ott	RW	18	6-2/185	`20(33rd)
246	Dmitri Voronkov	CBJ	LW	20	6-4/190	`19(114th)
247	German Rubtsov	Phi	C	22	6-2/190	`16(22nd)
248	Vitaly Abramov	Ott	RW	22	5-9/175	T(CBJ-2/19)
249	Alex Laferriere	LA	RW	19	6-0/175	`20(83rd)
250	Trey Fix-Wolansky	CBJ	RW	21	5-8/185	`18(204th)
251	Isaac Ratcliffe	Phi	LW	21	6-5/200	`17(35th)
252	Kale Clague	LA	D	22	6-0/180	`16(51st)
253	Landon Slaggert	Chi	LW	18	5-11/180	`20(79th)
254	Wyatt Kalynuk	Chi	D	23	6-1/180	FA(7/20)
255	Mikko Kokkonen	Tor	D	19	5-11/200	`19(84th)
256	Kevin Mandolese	Ott	G	20	6-4/180	`18(157th)
257	Daniil Tarasov	CBJ	G	21	6-5/185	`17(86th)
258	Evan Barratt	Chi	C	21	6-0/190	`17(90th)
259	Tyler Benson	Edm	LW	22	6-0/200	`16(32nd)
260	Yegor Korshkov	Tor	RW	24	6-4/215	`16(31st)
261	Hunter Skinner	NYR	D	19	6-2/175	`19(112th)
262	Riley Damiani	Dal	C	20	5-9/165	`18(137th)
263	Ryan McLeod	Edm	C	21	6-2/205	`18(40th)
264	Ilya Konovalov	Edm	G	22	6-0/195	`19(85th)
265	Will Cuylle	NYR	LW	18	6-3/205	`20(60th)
266	Evan Vierling	NYR	C	18	6-0/165	`20(127th)
267	Emil Heineman	Fla	LW	19	6-0/180	`20(43rd)
268	Zayde Wisdom	Phi	RW	18	5-10/195	`20(94th)
269	Hunter Jones	Min	G	20	6-4/195	`19(59th)
270	Ty Tullio	Edm	RW	18	5-10/165	`20(126th)
271	Jordan Spence	LA	D	19	5-10/165	`19(95th)
272	Dmitri Zavgorodny	Cgy	LW	20	5-9/175	`18(198th)
273	Alex Beaucage	Col	RW	19	6-1/195	`19(78th)
274	Matiss Kivlenieks	CBJ	G	24	6-2/190	FA(5/17)
275	Artyom Zub	Ott	D	25	6-2/200	FA(5/20)
276	Urho Vaakanainen	Bos	D	22	6-0/185	`17(18th)
277	Dmitri Samorukov	Edm	D	21	6-2/180	`17(84th)
278	Michal Teply	Chi	LW	19	6-3/185	`19(105th)
279	Colby Ambrosio	Col	C	18	5-8/170	`20(118th)
280	Mads Sogaard	Ott	G	20	6-7/195	`19(37th)
281	Jeremy Lauzon	Bos	D	23	6-3/205	`15(52nd)
282	Dennis Gilbert	Col	D	24	6-2/200	T(Chi-10/20)
283	Trent Frederic	Bos	C	22	6-4/215	`16(29th)
284	Lucas Carlsson	Chi	D	23	6-0/190	`16(110th)
285	Zack Macewen	Van	RW	24	6-3/205	FA(3/17)
286	Brandon Hagel	Chi	LW	22	6-1/175	FA(10/18)
287	Vasily Ponomarev	Car	C	18	5-10/180	`20(53rd)
288	Jakub Zboril	Bos	D	23	6-1/200	`15(13th)
289	Garrett Pilon	Wsh	RW	22	5-11/190	`16(87th)
290	Jeremy Bracco	Car	RW	23	5-9/180	FA(10/20)
291	Dylan Sikura	VGK	RW	25	6-0/170	T(Chi-9/20)
292	Kyle Capobianco	Ari	D	23	6-1/180	`15(63rd)
293	Sami Niku	Wpg	D	24	6-0/175	`15(198th)
294	John Farinacci	Ari	C	19	5-11/185	`19(76th)
295	Jackson Lacombe	Ana	D	19	6-1/170	`19(39th)
296	David Cotton	Car	LW	23	6-3/205	`15(169th)
297	Erik Portillo	Buf	G	20	6-6/210	`19(67th)
298	Jacob Truscott	Van	D	18	6-1/170	`20(144th)
299	Mikhail Berdin	Wpg	G	22	6-2/165	`16(157th)
300	Cam Hillis	Mtl	C	20	5-10/170	`18(66th)

MCKEENS 2020 NHL PROSPECT REPORT: SWEDEN – Top Prospects Dominated by Defensemen

Jimmy Hamrin — Sat, 03 Oct 2020 14:57:09 +0000

Brynäs Victor Söderström during the hockey match in SHL between Brynäs and Djurgården
Photo: Kenta Jönsson / BILDBYRÅN

Sweden’s top prospects are dominated by defenseman. Victor Soderstrom leads a group of defenders soon to be NHL-bound in significant roles while there is no sure thing among the top forwards.

Outside of North America, Sweden is the country where NHL clubs most often goes to find prospects, and in the last three years, defensemen have been drafted high, specifically. As a Swedish based prospect writer, almost every article I write in recent years seem to be about defenseman. That does look to change over the 2020 and 2021 drafts with forwards featured at the top of most listings.

Some of the already highly drafted defenseman are already making impact in North America with Rasmus Dahlin (BUF) emerging as a star, but also guys like Adam Boqvist (CHI), Rasmus Sandin (TOR) and Erik Brannstrom (OTT) ready to make an impact. The development curve for defensemen is often longer and this season we have seen a guy like Rasmus Andersson (drafted 2015) take big steps on the Calgary blueline. Meaning, the most NHL ready today might not the be the best defenseman in the long run.

Back in Sweden a majority of the top prospects are defenseman. As a matter of fact, the top four on my best Swedish prospects are all defenseman. I have Victor Soderstrom (ARI) leading the group slight ahead of Philip Broberg (EDM) and the two big risers from the 19/20 season in Nils Lundkvist (NYR) and Albert Johansson (DET).

Victor Soderstrom close to making the Coyotes blue line in terms of development. He is by far the most NHL ready defenseman of all the top prospects from Sweden. His hockey sense and skill level are already good enough for the NHL and with more consistency and strength he will be a top four defenseman for many years in this league. I even see potential as a top pairing. Soderstrom played over 20 minutes per game at the SHL level and produced well offensively. The fact that he is a right-handed defenseman with Coyotes being strong on the left side (Ekman-Larsson, Chychrun and Hjalmarsson) will open a spot for him sooner if he can take advantage of the opportunity.

Philip Broberg played an exhibition game with the Oilers prior to the bubble playoffs. He had impressed at the training camp but at that exhibition game it became clear he still is one or two years away from the NHL. The long-term projection is still high even though I have put Soderstrom ahead of him (had it the other way around before their draft). Broberg ‘s excellent reach, puck skills and skating are what impressed the Oilers management at the camp and made him get a chance over 2018 draftee Evan Bouchard, for example. In the game he played Broberg got in some trouble early and looked very raw. Soderstrom’ game is more ready in that he plays smarter and has shown that he can use his tools effectively. Broberg became better during that game and his toolbox is stronger long term than Soderstroms but there is no guarantee he will learn to use all of it. Broberg will need to show more consistency in a bigger role in the SHL this upcoming season before he gets another look at the NHL. With Broberg and afore-mentioned Bouchard, Ethan Bear (2017 draft) and Caleb Jones (2017 draft) the Oilers have an interesting blueline in the pipeline after suffering over a decade on that position.

Nils Lundkvist had a breakout season in the SHL and has little to prove there. He earned a spot on the national men’s team and was ready to compete for a spot. The Covid-19 pandemic change the scenario and he will therefore play another year in Sweden. I do not see that as a bad thing as one extra year in the SHL had not hurt any prospect yet. He will get a chance to grow and play with higher expectations on his shoulders. The right-handed defenseman is a terrific passer with strong decision-making. With a strong right side (Fox, DeAngelo and Trouba) the Rangers will have no need to hurry Lundkvist. If we lived under normal circumstance and Lundkvist joined a September camp, he probably would have started in the AHL. To compare with Soderstrom and Broberg, Lundkvist is more simplistic and less powerful in his game. He cannot match Brobergs skating combined with size/reach nor Soderstroms puck skills combined with smooth skating.

Albert Johansson was a player I thought fell too low in the draft as he had shown first round upside. This season he came up in the SHL and played too well for them to send him down. He got a bigger and bigger role and his puck skills combined with a strong hockey sense and puck skills makes Detroit’s famous Swedish scout Hakan Andersson look brilliant again with the 60^th pick in 2019. Johansson is a smart defenseman that has an NHL future written all over him and he plays a team first game. Maybe not as a top pair defenseman but as a second or third pair. Detroit signed him but there is no need for them to rush him and he will play his last junior season as a strong SHL defenseman on one of the top teams in the league. Johansson may yet surprise us and become the best of the group, but he is not as smooth as Soderstrom as fast or big as Broberg or as smart as Lundkvist which makes his ceiling lower. He still makes inconsistent decisions and lacks strength in the defensive side of the game.

After those top four on my list, I only have one more affiliated defenseman as a strong make-NHL candidate. I rank him seventh in total and the player I am talking about is Mattias Norlinder. He was snubbed his first draft eligible year but got picked 64^th his second year of eligibility. What makes him so interesting is his elite skating ability. Norlinder is not top-pair skilled but a solid puck mover with above average hands. He can help his team in any role. He reads the game well and will become an efficient two-way defenseman in a second or third pairing. He was signed by a top club in the SHL after being a top defenseman in Allsvenskan last season. Beside his skating and puck-moving the upside is not high enough for him to compete with the other defensemen on this list. Size is also an important component for this type of defenseman that relies so much on his skating. If there is good reach combined with strong skating and hockey sense, he becomes much more effective. Norlinder is average sized while a guy like Broberg is 6´4. It is not the only difference between those two but Broberg’s floor will always be higher, as well as his ceiling.

When it comes to forwards, the top guys usually step over the ocean and are ready earlier. Elias Pettersson (VAN) is of course a big star and Emil Bemstrom (CBJ) is a regular with Columbus. Other recent teenagers like David Gustafsson (WPG), Isac Lundestrom (ANA) and Lias Andersson (NYR) have all played 20 plus games in the big league.

Putting those to the side there are a group of forwards still in Sweden that are offensively skilled who I am not sure if they have what it takes to earn a top six forward spot and they are all not good enough in other areas to play in a another role. That group include Nils Hoglander (VAN), Samuel Fagemo (LAK), Jonathan Dahlén (SJS) and Dominik Bokk (CAR). There is no denying their offensive skills though. Sweden also has one really interesting prospect who can play in various roles who I also see as a good bet to become an NHL player and that is the smart power forward, Filip Hallander (PIT).

The two most interesting now are Hoglander and Fagemo though. They were both among the top players at the World juniors and they produced big numbers. Hoglander is a smallish but strong balanced board winger with elusive skills and elite puck skills. I am not sure if his hockey sense is good enough and he has yet to put up points at senior level. He showed at the World juniors that he was a decent playmaker and had various ways to attack, which is what I have not seen him do at senior level. Size will be a factor, even if it is not the biggest concern as he is strong and physically competitive beyond his size. Hoglander plays individually and needs to get better at using his teammates and help drive the play. There will always be a lower ceiling if a player cannot play various roles, the power play for example; Hoglander has yet to show that he can set up a power play or to be a finisher.

Fagemo is simpler to understand. He is a one-way forward with strong instincts and a good shot. He really has a knack for scoring goals which always is useful. His numbers, as well as the underlying ones, will suggest that he will keep scoring goals. But what happens he when he does not score? Fagemo’s defensive game is not strong as his skating is not elite. He will need good support to be successful as a top six forward in the NHL. And that could be the problem. If he gets a slotted chance with the Kings, he may succeed and be able to stick in the NHL but if he does not? He will have hard time earning his coaches trust playing the way he is now. To be become a top six winger in the NHL is extremely hard and there are many who compete for those spots. And if you are not a star (and he is not), you will need other circumstances to run in your favor. So, for both him and Hoglander, I do not deny their skills as a top six forward, it is more that their style of play is not dynamic enough for me to see them as a sure thing.

Filip Hallander – McKeen's Hockey

NHL: CULLEN – 20 FANTASY POINTS – An 18-year-old defenceman who is already a star, goaltenders stepping up, Zegras making an impact in Philadelphia, and more!

NHL: CULLEN – 20 FANTASY POINTS – With the season starting on Tuesday, players are starting to move, and rookies are starting to get noticed

MCKEEN’S 2024 NHL PROSPECT REPORT – #23 Pittsburgh Penguins – Organization Overview – Top 15 Prospects

1. Brayden Yager, C, Moose Jaw Warriors (WHL)

2. Ville Koivunen, LW, Karpat (Liiga)

3. Joel Blomqvist, G, Wilkes-Barre/Scranton Penguins (AHL)

4. Owen Pickering, D, Swift Current Broncos (WHL)

5. Vasily Ponomarev, C, Wilkes-Barre/Scranton Penguins (AHL)

6. Samuel Poulin, C, Wilkes-Barre/Scranton Penguins (AHL)

7. Tristan Broz, C, Wilkes-Barre/Scranton Penguins (AHL)

8. Cruz Lucius, RW, University of Wisconsin (NCAA)

9. Mikhail Ilyin, LW, Severstal Cherepovets (KHL)

10. Filip Hallander, LW, Timra IK (SHL)

MCKEEN’S 2023-24 NHL YEARBOOK – PITTSBURGH PENGUINS – Top 20 Prospect Profiles – Organizational Rank #31

1. Owen Pickering

2. Brayden Yager

3. Samuel Poulin

4. Valterri Puustinen

5. Filip Hallander

6. Joel Blomqvist

7. Tristan Broz

8. Filip Lindberg

9. Emil Pieniniemi

10. Jonathan Gruden

11. Emil Jarventie

12. Sergey Murashov

13. Taylor Gauthier

14. Raivis Ansons

15. Lukas Svejkovsky

16. Isaac Belliveau

17. Corey Andonovski

18. Zam Plante

19. Chase Yoder

20. Ty Glover

MCKEEN’S 2023 NHL PROSPECT REPORT – #31 – Pittsburgh Penguins

Prospect System Ranking – 31st

2. Samuel Poulin

6. Filip Lindberg

MCKEEN’S 2022-23 NHL YEARBOOK – PITTSBURGH PENGUINS – Top 20 Prospects

2021-22 TOP 15 PROSPECTS: PITTSBURGH PENGUINS – RANK: #29 – TIER VI

McKeen’s 2020-21 Hockey Yearbook: Toronto Maple Leaves Top 20 Prospects

Nick Robertson, LW (53rd overall, 2019. Previous ranking: 1)

Rodion Amirov, LW (15th overall, 2020. Previous ranking: NA)

Roni Hirvonen, C (59th overall, 2020. Previous ranking: NA)

Topi Niemela, D (64th overall, 2020. Previous ranking: NA)

Filip Hallander, LW (58th overall, 2018. Previous ranking: 2)

Nick Abruzzese, C (124th overall, 2019. Previous ranking: 3)

Joey Anderson, RW (73rd overall, 2016. Previous ranking: 5 [New Jersey[])

Mikko Kokkonen, D (84th overall, 2019. Previous ranking: 4)

Yegor Korshkov, RW (31st overall, 2016. Previous ranking: 5)

Timothy Liljegren, D (17th overall, 2017. Previous ranking: 7)

Veeti Miettinen, RW (168th overall, 2020. Previous ranking: NA)

Mac Hollowell, D (118th overall, 2018. Previous ranking: 8)

Filip Kral, D (149th overall, 2018. Previous ranking: 9)

Joseph Woll, G (62nd overall, 2016. Previous ranking: 10)

William Villeneuve, D (122nd overall, 2020. Previous ranking: NA)

Adam Brooks, C (92nd overall, 2016. Previous ranking: 11)

Semyon Der-Arguchintsev, C (76th overall, 2018. Previous ranking: 12)

Mikhail Abramov, C (115th overall, 2019. Previous ranking: 13)

Pontus Holmberg, LW/C (156th overall, 2018. Previous ranking: 14)

Ian Scott, G (110th overall, 2017. Previous ranking: UR)

McKeen’s 2020-21 Hockey Yearbook: Top 300 Prospect Rankings

MCKEENS 2020 NHL PROSPECT REPORT: SWEDEN – Top Prospects Dominated by Defensemen

Sweden’s top prospects are dominated by defenseman. Victor Soderstrom leads a group of defenders soon to be NHL-bound in significant roles while there is no sure thing among the top forwards.

Prospect System Ranking – 31^st

Nick Robertson, LW (53^rd overall, 2019. Previous ranking: 1)

Rodion Amirov, LW (15^th overall, 2020. Previous ranking: NA)

Roni Hirvonen, C (59^th overall, 2020. Previous ranking: NA)

Topi Niemela, D (64^th overall, 2020. Previous ranking: NA)

Filip Hallander, LW (58^th overall, 2018. Previous ranking: 2)

Nick Abruzzese, C (124^th overall, 2019. Previous ranking: 3)

Joey Anderson, RW (73^rd overall, 2016. Previous ranking: 5 [New Jersey[])

Mikko Kokkonen, D (84^th overall, 2019. Previous ranking: 4)

Yegor Korshkov, RW (31^st overall, 2016. Previous ranking: 5)

Timothy Liljegren, D (17^th overall, 2017. Previous ranking: 7)

Veeti Miettinen, RW (168^th overall, 2020. Previous ranking: NA)

Mac Hollowell, D (118^th overall, 2018. Previous ranking: 8)

Filip Kral, D (149^th overall, 2018. Previous ranking: 9)

Joseph Woll, G (62^nd overall, 2016. Previous ranking: 10)

William Villeneuve, D (122^nd overall, 2020. Previous ranking: NA)

Adam Brooks, C (92^nd overall, 2016. Previous ranking: 11)

Semyon Der-Arguchintsev, C (76^th overall, 2018. Previous ranking: 12)

Mikhail Abramov, C (115^th overall, 2019. Previous ranking: 13)

Pontus Holmberg, LW/C (156^th overall, 2018. Previous ranking: 14)

Ian Scott, G (110^th overall, 2017. Previous ranking: UR)