Frederik Gauthier – McKeen's Hockey

Toronto – System Overview

Ryan Wagman — Sat, 16 Sep 2017 11:57:55 +0000

Apres Matthews, le deluge. After Matthews, comes the flood. The Brian Burke era in Toronto, begun with so much truculence and aggression – at least from the front office – ended with a whimper. As good as Phil Kessel was in Toronto – and he was good, even if he could never live down the price paid to get him – the Maple Leafs were a decade-long tire fire, broken up only by the vagaries of a strike-shortened season.

Freed from Burke and his pugilistic bent to team building, the Leafs tanked hard and began the rebuild with a hyper-skilled approach to the draft. In three consecutive years, Toronto had a top ten choice and maxed out on each, selecting William Nylander, Mitch Marner, and Auston Matthews in consecutive years.

In the latter two years, the Maple Leafs also had a number of extra picks to play with and it seemed like each and every selection was made with upside in mind. In fairness, the organization left over by Burke was fairly barren, with Connor Brown and Josh Leivo representing the best of a bad lot. Even with the top picks of those two drafts already NHL stars, nine of the 20 players drafted in those two classes are ranked among the current top 20. The talent influx was so great, the Leafs had to literally walk away from three of the players they selected, for sheer lack of available contract space.

Not only did the Leafs run out of contract room. Between the high end players drafted, and a few others signed as free agents from Europe, the team found itself at the draft this year with a loaded talent base, and now actually in need of some of character players. If not exactly hearkening back to the days of “truculence and aggression”, they have now turned their sights on players who, while not lacking in skill, are more fitting to the high-energy, two-way types that new head Coach Mike Babcock likes to use to fill out the bottom end of the NHL roster.

Whereas in the last two years they took hyper-talented players like Dmytro Timashov, Martins Dzierkals, and Adam Brooks with their mid-round picks, all three offensive minded junior hockey producers who made up in points what they lacked in size and strength, this year, those middle round picks were used on Vladislav Kara, Fedor Gordeev, and Ryan McGregor. These three all have in common questions about their offensive skills, and plaudits about their two-way games. They also all have projectable frames, especially the 6-6”, 215 pound Gordeev.

A system can never have enough talent in its ranks, but there is something to be said for having diversity in the types of talents available. The approach to their 2017 draft class is not necessarily a statement about a new direction for their scouting staff, as much as it an admission that they did not have enough of that type of player and that the talented youngsters they already had did not seem like locks that they could remain effective when playing down in the lineup. That said, some of the putatively offensive players in the system have already been accruing experience playing bottom six minutes in the AHL, such as Timashov, and Trevor Moore.

Timothy Liljegren

1 Timothy Liljegren – Seen as one of the top draft prospects 12 months ago, Liljegren’s draft year was slowed by being repeatedly shuffled between levels and teams, as well as a bout with mononucleosis. One of the best skaters available in the 2017 draft class, his raw puck skills verge on the elite, although they have not often showed themselves yet in game situations. Can be devastating when he plays the aggressor. Effectiveness in his own zone comes and goes, but flashes enough to expect that part of his game to grow and improve with time and steady development.

Toronto Maple Leafs Right Wing Kasperi Kapanen (37). (Photo by Gerry Angus/Icon Sportswire)

2 Kasperi Kapanen – One of the main pieces coming back to Toronto in the Phil Kessel trade, Kapanen took a big step forward last year, finally converting his mature and toolsy game into high end offensive production. A strong skater, he regularly shows good instincts with and without the puck. He has quick hands, which he combines with good patience with the puck. Plays with high energy and effort levels. Showed in the NHL playoffs that he was ready for a middle role with the Leafs.

3 Travis Dermott – Although he missed a stretch of time to injury, when healthy Dermott was showed a dynamic, puck moving modern day game from the blueline in his rookie pro season. Undersized, but he maximizes every inch and pound of his frame, catching opponents off-balance with some explosive hits. Can create danger with the puck on a rush. Very mature defensive game highlighting aggressiveness and positioning. Heads up player who loves to walk the line.

Carl Grundstrom HELSINKI, FINLAND - JANUARY 4: Sweden vs Finland semifinal round - 2016 IIHF World Junior Championship. (Photo by Andre Ringuette/HHOF-IIHF Images)

4 Carl Grundstrom – A hard working forward with a strong and diverse collection of offensive tools, Grundstrom’s prospect stock took a big step forward last year between great performances for Sweden at the WJC, for Frolunda in the European champions Hockey League and in a late season cameo with the Marlies in the AHL playoffs. An excellent skater with a high hockey IQ and great hands, he is expected to play in Sweden again this year, but could be in the NHL sooner than later.

5 Jeremy Bracco – Ending his junior career on a high, winning both a WJC gold medal and a Memorial Cup, Bracco’s decision to leave Boston College only five games into his freshman season seems to have paid off. He is a fantastic skater with breathtaking puck skills. Undersized but with a nose for the net, he will sometimes play possum only to strike with deadly force once opposing defenders are occupied with one or other of his linemates. Has near elite hands.

6 Adam Brooks – The two-time defending assist leader in the WHL is finally going to bring his sublime passing skills to the AHL this year. Forced into an overage WHL season due to the Marlies’ numbers crunch last year, Brooks creates plays for linemates more through his high hockey IQ and instincts than through pure puck skills. Although undersized, he is more than functional in his own zone and plays a valuable role in getting the puck back and beginning the transition to an offensive attack.

7 Josh Leivo – Along with Garret Sparks, one of only two prospects left in the system from the Brian Burke era, Leivo plays with some of the jam that characterized that time in Maple Leafs’ history. Hampered by injuries throughout his pro career, he produced very well with the NHL club when healthy last year, but that was rare. A solid skater with energy who loves to crash the net, this year is likely his last chance to break through with Toronto.

8 Joseph Woll – By far the highest upside goalie among all netminders in the system, Woll had a very promising first NCAA season with Boston College. Very strong at blocking the bottom half of the net, thanks to quick legs. Likes to challenge the shooter when the puck is straight ahead, but will play deeper in his crease the closer the puck is to the walls. He reads plays fairly well, but can get in trouble due to sloppy footwork.

9 Andreas Borgman – A dynamic skater with great acceleration who relishes open ice hits, Borgman signed as a free agent this spring after helping to lead HV71 to an SHL title. He plays a two-way game, although his play is stronger in his own end than when supporting the attack. He reads the play well and tends to keep a tight gap. His upside is somewhat limited due to his moderate offensive tools, but between his skating and his off-puck work, he will play in the NHL.

10 Calle Rosen – It is not by design that the two talented Swedish blueliners signed by Toronto this offseason rank one next to the other. Of the two, Rosen is more physically unassuming, but carries a bomb from the point. He is also a powerful skater who demonstrates good puck control and precise passing. He is advanced positionally, but can exhibit a general lack of poise when playing without the puck. Has top four upside, but needs own zone refinement to get there.

11 Andreas Johnsson – A smart, smallish player with great instincts, Johnsson proved last year that his game can translate nicely to North America. While he was not the offensive force that he had been in the SHL, he was still able to flash soft hands and a very hard shot. Has a special talent for getting off clean shots through a maze of legs. Will play in the dirty areas, but avoids getting directly involved in puck scrums. Can get to a second gear with his feet.

12 Frederik Gauthier – Although he has less offensive upside than anyone on this list, excepting (probably) the goalie, Gauthier is almost exactly what Mike Babcock looks for in a fourth line center. Huge, with a gigantic wingspan, he plays a strong possession game and is great defensively, particularly on the penalty kill. Solid skater for his size. Has good faceoff technique. Can be used for tough shifts, leaving the favorable situations for his more talented teammates.

13 Kerby Rychel – An offensive force as a junior, Rychel’s game has slowly been morphing into that of his father Warren’s since turning pro. Of course he will never be a 1980’s style goon, but it is fair to point out that he has gone from a bruising power forward with good discipline to a bruising, undisciplined power forward. To his credit, he is a strong skater and he loves to unleash his powerful shot. Attitude issues helped him get traded from Columbus. Will need to earn his chances with Toronto.

14 Martins Dzierkals – The most effective player on last year’s Latvia entry at the WJC, Dzierkals is an exciting player with great puck skills. Drafted out of Latvia before moving on to Rouyn-Noranda, the Maple Leafs had an extra year before needing to sign him to an ELC, so he will play with the Marlies this year on an AHL-only contract. He is a dynamic offensive threat who grades very well on both his skating and puck skills. Plays with more jam than many players his size.

15 Yegor Korshkov – A big physical winger who’s playing style seems more geared to the North American game than the KHL where he is now entering his fourth season. Korshkov uses a variety of shot types to threaten opposing netminders, although his release could stand to be quicker. Although his shot is the stronger tool, his tendency is to play in a passing role. A 200-foot player, his KHL contract expires after this season.

16 Eemeli Rasanen – As awe-inspiring as Rasanen’s towering 6-7” frame is, he also has game to go along with his length. A very good skater, particularly for his size, can be part of the rush instead of only a trailer. His short area quickness still needs refinement. Better at moving the puck around than teeing one up from the point. Came along defensively in leaps and bounds in his first OHL season. Very comfortable at closing gaps and pushing opponents to the walls. Uses his size, but plays clean.

17 Andrew Nielsen – A big boy with an even bigger shot, Nielsen was the runaway scoring leader among Marlies’ defensemen as an AHL rookie, thanks largely to his cannon. In many cases, the facts embedded in the last sentence would be enough for a top ten or even top five ranking. Nielsen lands here due to his clunky, slow skating. He can get away with it at times in his own zone due to great reach and a willingness to get inside opponents and force them to the outside.

18 Dmytro Timashov – A fantastic scorer in the QMJHL with sublime playmaking skills, Timashov still flashed those elements of his game in his first pro season, but struggled in general at even strength. He was still able to get himself into position to score, but was not able to capitalize nearly as much as he did as a junior. Although short, he is stocky, and his stature should not be what holds him back. Needs to prove he can produce on a depth line before moving up.

19 Miro Aaltonen – A small skill player, Aaltonen had a great season in the KHL before signing as a free agent with Toronto. Never signed by Anaheim, which drafted him in 2013, he developed for a few years in Liiga before his year in Russia. He can be selfish on the puck, has a strong enough shot that his approach often pays off. Will shoot from anywhere. His skating is average at best, which results in him disappearing from the action when the puck is not on his stick.

20 Rinat Valiev – Although his second pro season was beset by injuries, Valiev still has a lot to recommend him as a potential third pairing NHL blueliner. He has a solid frame, coupled with excellent mobility and edge work. He makes smart plays in all zones and helps the puck keep moving in the right direction. Can play a very strong game, as well, although could do better at maintaining discipline. Has been passed on the Toronto depth chart, but still worth keeping an eye on.

Even with so many breathtaking young talents already established in the NHL, the Maple Leafs still have an upper echelon system bursting with the next wave. Fully rebuilt from Brian Burke’s mismanagement, Toronto has been able to target different types of players giving the system both breadth and depth. The next question the management team will have to answer is how it plans to integrate their youth now that there is legitimate NHL talent up and down the NHL roster.

Leivo excites, Nylander electrifies at Maple Leafs Rookie Tournament

David Burstyn — Thu, 25 Sep 2014 22:38:51 +0000

LONDON, ONT. -- Toronto's top draft pick from this summer didn't need much time to leave a big impression. William Nylander suited up for just one of Toronto's three games at the Rookie Tournament - and electrified the proceedings with his creative playmaking and dazzling stick skills. Second-year pro Josh Leivo was also a standout at the tournament and arguably the best player in camp for the Leafs.

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William Nylander -- Only dressed for one game however electrified with his outstanding puck skills and ability to manufacture offence .. highly creative and constantly pushing the pace to get pucks on goal and makes plays .. showed little regard for his own safety as he willingly attacked the net; driving wide on defenseman who were upwards of 7 inches and 50 pounds heavier than him .. showcased some sizzling moves in close .. able to penetrate scoring areas with a quick flick of the wrist and solid acceleration courtesy of an explosive first step .. shifty and elusive as he can dangle in tight quarters and always seems to make a play .. on the other hand, he struggled defending and was easily pushed off pucks when players were able to catch him .. substantial upgrades to his strength levels will be mandatory as he weighs a slight 170 pounds and is physically weak .. nevertheless, he has all the ingredients to be a first-line NHL player capable of piling up points.

Frederik Gauthier -- Played primarily on the second line and saw ample ice time in penalty-killing situations .. an extremely big body who uses his expansive frame to cut down angles as he plays a determined and spirited two-way game .. his strength lies in his ability to shut down others as he is an ideal match-up type player .. his skating has shown considerable improvement .. not a burner quickness wise - yet can reach a fast top gear by virtue of large powerful strides and a wide stance that digs in and swallows up ice .. his turns and crossovers have become smoother as he steadily rounds out his stride mechanics .. can be a bit of a puck chaser in the offensive zone; does a good job of setting up the play upon entering the zone but can be slightly lost when the play develops .. needs to continue to hone his offensive game however his calling card will be his attention to detail and tenacity away from the puck .. possesses third-line centre potential if he can improve on his offensive totals; otherwise he will be a very talented fourth-line centre.

Josh Leivo -- Arguably one of the best players in camp for the Leafs, Leivo owns a good set of hands and can defend well as he reads plays and anticipates well in all three zones .. his skating has improved in leaps and bounds and is now considered a strength .. a solid lower body aided by increased muscle mass has allowed him to become powerful in his initial bursts - and he now uses his edges well to cut into the ice .. highly skilled and instinctive inside the offensive zone; his passes spring line mates into the clear .. clever at deploying fake shots and a series of moves to inch his way closer to the goal .. his shot can handcuff goalies as he sports a deceptive release often taking the shot off the tip of his blade .. his snap shot is his best weapon .. his overall decision making inside the offensive zone has also developed and matured - displayed poise and a calculated approach as he was dangerous every time he gained the zone .. a complementary third-line player who has the propensity to put up 35-40 points in a few short seasons as long as he exhibits game-to-game consistency.

Matt Finn -- Came into camp in tip-top shape as he looked lean and muscular .. a driving force on the back end as his decision making and patience with the puck made him a threat every time he crossed the red line .. played within his limitations but recognized when to pinch and generally made good decisions so as not to get caught at the line .. positioned himself well to unleash his booming point shot .. his defensive game marked maturity as he allowed plays to come to him .. still struggles laterally when forced to move across but disguises his weakness by pushing players into bad spots with his stick and body positioning .. smart in terms of knowing his connection with respect to the developing play - and is rarely caught out of position .. played with unbridled confidence to make a play with the puck - appears on his way with some AHL seasoning.

Tom Nilsson -- A simple, two-way defenceman who prides himself more on taking care of business in the defensive zone yet showed healthy puck skills to launch a play up ice .. possesses good range and plays with some physicality .. threw several body checks and plays an irritating style of play that both infuriates and intimidates the opposition .. demonstrated proper use of his frame in order to contain players along the glass .. possesses a slight gallop to his stride but is a qualified skater who can make plays with the puck without breaking stride .. spearheaded a few rushes and was able to maintain pressure inside the zone .. pinched deep on the power play as he dropped down well below the blue line .. displayed the potential to be a steady, cost-effective third-pairing type as he does a little bit of everything.

CHL 2014 IIHF WJHC Participants On-Ice Stats

Gus Katsaros — Fri, 27 Dec 2013 20:22:56 +0000

A short post with the focus on participating players dressing for their respective countries in the 2014 IIHF World Junior Championships and their member clubs in the CHL playing overseas in Sweden.

I broke away from the traditional goals-assists-points statistics and focused on the breakdown of ON-ICE even strength goals for/against as well as on the percentage basis for their respective teams. The legend is located just before the table.

Some additional details break down the draft year, team that drafted the player (none of these players have been traded to another NHL team). There are very few undrafted players as this tournament is drafted prospect heavy, but there are many European exceptions – along with some draft-eligible players for 2014 (and two notable 2015 draft eligible players in Connor McDavid and Jack Eichel – as a late birthday).

ESGF - Even Strength Goals For (On-Ice)

ESGA - Even Strength Goals Against (On-Ice)

%TmESGF - Percentage of On-Ice Even Strength Goals For

%TmESGA - Percentage of On-Ice Even Strength Goals Against

Draft Team - Team that drafted this player

Draft Yr - Draft Year

DOB - Date of Birth

Country	Team	Pos	ESGF	ESGA	%Tm ESGF	%Tm ESGA	Draft Team	Draft Yr	DOB
Canada
Josh Anderson	London Knights	C	29	13	20.28	25.00	CBJ	2012	1994/05/07
Chris Bigras	Owen Sound Attack	D	26	30	27.08	27.78	Col	2013	1995/02/22
Jonathan Drouin	Halifax Mooseheads	C	36	19	25.71	19.00	TBL	2013	1995/03/28
Aaron Ekblad	Barrie Colts	D	25	24	22.12	25.53	--	--	1996/02/07
Zachary Fucale	Halifax Mooseheads	G	0	0	0.00	0.00	MTL	2013	1995/05/28
Frederik Gauthier	Rimouski Oceanic	C	25	24	22.12	60.00	Tor	2013	1995/04/26
Bo Horvat	London Knights	LW	37	19	25.87	36.54	Van	2013	1995/04/05
Charles Hudon	Chicoutimi Sagueneens	LW	27	29	26.21	26.36	MTL	2012	1994/06/23
Scott Laughton	Oshawa Generals	C	36	27	30.00	33.75	Phi	2012	1994/05/30
Curtis Lazar	Edmonton Oil Kings	C	41	18	32.80	30.00	Ott	2013	1995/02/02
Taylor Leier	Portland Winterhawks	LW	39	20	23.93	18.02	Phi	2012	1994/02/15
Anthony Mantha	Val-d’Or Foreurs	LW	50	33	29.07	37.50	DET	2013	1994/09/16
Connor McDavid	Erie Otters	C	42	20	24.85	42.55	--	--	1997/01/13
Josh Morrissey	Prince Albert Raiders	C	40	29	34.48	42.65	Wpg	2013	1995/03/28
Jake Paterson	Saginaw Spirit	G	0	0	0.00	0.00	Det	2012	1994/05/03
Adam Pelech	Erie Otters	D	44	21	26.04	44.68	NYI	2012	1994/08/16
Nicolas Petan	Portland Winterhawks	C	52	27	31.90	24.32	WPG	2013	1995/03/22
Derrick Pouliot	Portland Winterhawks	D	51	37	31.29	33.33	Pit	2012	1994/01/16
Griffin Reinhart	Edmonton Oil Kings	D	15	11	12.00	18.33	NYI	2012	1994/01/24
Sam Reinhart	Kootenay Ice	C	32	28	31.37	31.82	--	--	1995/11/06
Kerby Rychel	Guelph Storm/Windsor Spitfires	LW	32	19	26.67	19.19	CBJ	2013	1994/10/07
Czech Republic
Radek Faksa	Kitchener Rangers	C	23	33	24.21	28.70	Dal	2012	1994/01/09
Jan Kostalek	Rimouski Oceanic	D	24	26	21.24	65.00	Wpg	2013	1995/02/17
Marek Langhamer	Medicine Hat Tigers	G	0	0	0.00	0.00	PHX	2012	1994/07/22
David Nemecek	Saskatoon Blades	D	23	28	21.30	20.00	--	--	1995/06/29
Michal Plutnar	Tri-City Americans	D	6	11	6.67	11.58	--	--	1994/02/21
Petr Sidlik	Victoriaville Tigres	D	24	32	24.24	25.20	--	--	1994/01/18
Dominik Volek	Red Deer Rebels	RW	23	20	23.47	26.32	--	--	1994/01/12
Patrik Zdrahal	Rimouski Oceanic	RW	12	16	15.00	30.19	--	--	1995/04/09
Finland
Julius Honka	Swift Current Broncos	D	42	33	35.59	32.04	--	--	1995/12/03
Henri Ikonen	Kingston Frontenacs	LW	40	25	32.00	21.93	TB	2013	1994/04/17
Mikko Vainonen	Kingston Frontenacs	D	36	22	28.80	19.30	Nsh	2012	1994/04/11
Germany
Tim Bender	London Knights	C	16	4	11.19	7.69	--	--	--
Marvin Cupper	Shawinigan Cataractes	G	0	0	0.00	0.00	--	--	--
Leon Draisaitl	Prince Albert Raiders	C	31	30	26.72	44.12	--	--	1995/10/27
Markus Eisenschmid	Medicine Hat Tigers	C	13	20	11.50	21.05	--	--	1995/01/22
Dominik Kahun	Sudbury Wolves	C	10	15	7.94	12.10	--	--	1995/07/02
Maximilian Kammerer	Regina Pats	C	1	5	0.91	6.41	--	--	--
Norway
Jorgen Karterud	SSM Greyhounds	RW	14	16	10.22	31.37	--	--	1994/05/06
Russia
Ivan Barbashev	Moncton Wildcats	C	31	33	30.39	34.74	--	--	1995/12/14
Nikita Zadorov	London Knights	C	12	4	8.39	7.69	Buf	2013	1995/04/16
Valentin Zykov	Baie-Comeau Drakkar	RW	22	9	16.30	10.11	LAK	2013	1995/05/15
Slovakia
Martin Reway	Gatineau Olympiques	LW	31	21	27.93	18.75	Mtl	2013	1995/01/24
Sweden
Andre Burakovsky	Erie Otters	LW	35	16	20.71	34.04	WSH	2013	1995/02/09
Oscar Dansk	Erie Otters	G	0	0	0.00	0.00	CBJ	2012	1994/02/28
Nick Sorensen	Quebec Remparts	RW	22	12	18.49	13.79	Ana	2013	1994/10/23
Switzerland
Phil Baltisberger	Guelph Storm	D	34	15	20.12	28.30	--	--	1995/11/13
Jason Fuchs	Rouyn-Noranda Huskies	LW	23	20	16.79	30.77	--	--	1995/09/14
Fabrice Herzog	Quebec Remparts	RW	30	28	25.21	32.18	TOR	2013	1994/12/09
Mirco Mueller	Everett Silvertips	D	21	20	19.09	27.03	SJ	2013	1995/03/21
Vincent Praplan	North Bay Battalion	LW	22	21	24.44	60.00	--	--	1994/06/10
Yannick Rathgeb	Plymouth Whalers	D	19	27	22.89	27.55	--	--	1995/10/24
United States
Adam Erne	Quebec Remparts	LW	30	27	25.21	31.03	TBL	2013	1995/04/20
Ryan Hartman	Plymouth Whalers	C	21	37	25.30	37.76	Chi	2013	1994/09/20
Anthony Stolarz	London Knights	G	--	--	--	--	Phi	2012	1994/01/20

**********

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In defense of Rimouski’s Frederik Gauthier

Iain Morrell — Wed, 20 Mar 2013 13:58:22 +0000

It's been an up-and-down rookie season for Frederik Gauthier of the Rimouski Oceanic - and also an enlightening one.

The native of Mascouche, Quebec has showcased various dimensions to his game that will make him an enticing pick at the 2013 NHL Draft this summer.

Gauthier was initially committed to attend Harvard University and consequently remained an extra year in midget, leading College Esther-Blondin to a league title while capturing MVP honours.

However, he opted instead to go the major junior route and sparkled early in his QMJHL debut.

Gauthier earned top-line duties from Rimouski coach Serge Beausoleil, impressive for a 17-year-old, by displaying an aggressive physical edge over the first few months that helped elevate him near top-ten territory.

He emerged an imposing presence at both ends of the rink, proactively utilizing his massive 6-foot-5, 210-pound frame to create space and scoring opportunities.

His season was derailed in early November however after being struck in the face by a puck which required surgery to repair a broken jaw and cost him two weeks.

What returned post-injury was a more tentative version as Gauthier seemed to lose the overt nastiness that had been a key factor in his early success.

His play also raised questions about his offensive vision and creativity. As one regional scout noted in a recent game review, 'he's just not attacking the net and using his teammates as much as I'd like to see. Not seeing a lot of creativity either, mind you he's not getting a lot of power play time, but perhaps the coach can't be blamed.'

Gauthier's diligence and attention to defensive detail has continued throughout however.

He comes back deep to help his defensemen and goalie, sacrificing his body to make vital goal-saving plays in and around his net.

It's a coveted quality which when factored along with his great natural attributes like size, skating, and co-ordination, could translate into a solid NHL future as a shutdown and penalty-killing specialist.

Developing into something more may end up being just a bonus.

Here are a pair of scouting reviews including a recent game report plus a review of Gauthier's performance at last year's U17 World Challenge courtesy of McKeen's Director of Scouting David Burstyn.

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Frederik Gauthier (C/W, 2013), Rimouski

A potential power pivot given his size and physical approach .. uses size assertively to create initial space, slight shoulder nudges to knock an opponent off course .. boasts smooth skating mechanics - and excellent lateral mobility for his size .. light and agile - able to reverse directions with speed and fluidity .. boasts a terrific top gear, but can still add power to a stride that already has good length, flexibility, and thrust .. needs to work on his skating quickness and acceleration .. developing strength and building muscle mass will fill in the pieces here .. his frame is still rangy and relatively thinnish - with plenty of muscle potential .. notably talented with his feet - and accentuated by excellent foot-eye co-ordination - proactively moves his feet in order to block passes or make plays .. remarkably co-ordinated on his feet for such a big man .. exhibits decent skill and control with the end of his blade - able to deliver sharp passes using the tip of blade at full stretch .. could be a more assertive shooter .. excels defensively and distinguishes himself killing penalties .. demonstrates tremendous stamina - able to sustain a high work rate through a full two-minute shift in his own end - and still have some jump left at the end .. could be killing penalties in the NHL within a couple of years .. works diligently to get back in proper lanes and close gas on his checks .. can engulf opponents with an imposing gull-like wingspan .. decent playmaker - moves the puck with confidence and skill - in open ice - but will require work on his puckhandling in tighter quarters - and heavier traffic .. can struggle with control at times and also shows limits in his ability to sense stick pressure .. gaps close on him .. must work on refining his play selection and puckmoving decisions .. makes blind passes to areas rather than to specific targets .. seems to miss some field of vision at times .. tends to fixate and gravitate to the puck in pursuit situations - and will waste energy on fruitless routes.

(2012 U17 World Challenge Report, Jan. 2012)

Made a verbal commitment to Harvard and is one of three players on Team Quebec that are currently playing for the midget program of College Esther-Blondin .. at times, he looked a little overwhelmed by the pace of the games due to him not playing at the major junior level .. his peers certainly moved quicker than him to get into position as he looked a step behind plays that were developing in the offensive zone .. a physical specimen already tipping the scales at 6-foot-3 and 205 pounds (now listing at 6-5, 210) .. displays good natural ability but focuses more on making the simple play .. packs a hard snapshot and willingly goes to the net .. uses his size advantageously whenever he can, either to block passing or shooting lanes or along the wall to keep pressure inside the zone .. his hands are merely okay as he had a hard time settling down passes as they bounced off his stick .. not a pure playmaker type, but more of an up-and-down center who gives you size up the middle .. a player to watch as he possesses many of the ingredients that make up a player.

McKeen’s 2013 NHL Draft Rankings – March

McKeen's Staff — Thu, 28 Feb 2013 23:25:38 +0000

Perception is everything when it comes to scouting 17 and 18-year-old hockey players - and the only real certainty is that you just don't know how a player will turn out.

The microscope intensifies at this time of the season - with six months in the books - as every facet of a player's game being dissected and chewed up and whatever is left - in the words of Sir Arthur Conan Doyle - must be the truth.

However, along with clarity also comes skepticism and doubts about whether they will ultimately fall short of fulfilling potential.

As is the case with every draft class, the shine has rubbed off for some of this year's first-round candidates, having had holes and shortcomings exposed.

Initially presumed a sure-fire NHL prospect, but now veering towards 'boom-or-bust' territory.

Certainly Russian thoroughbred Valeri Nichushkin headed down that path before restoring his stock with a 'man-against-boys' performance at the U-18 Five Nations earlier this month in Sweden. Nichushkin entered this season as a probable top ten pick, so his major rise is more a re-adjustment than a sudden epiphany.

GAUTHIER SOMEBODY THAT I USED TO KNOW

Rimouski center Frederik Gauthier is one of the developing wildcards for this draft. There was talk over the opening months that Gauthier might challenge the top 10 as he appeared to be shaping into a big two-way force. However, since suffering a broken jaw, his play has regressed alarmingly with the edgy physical side he displayed earlier giving way to a more tentative version. He's also let his defensive play slide, an area once considered a given area of strength.

There are also growing concerns about Prince Albert blueliner Josh Morrissey and specifically whether he will develop the strength and jam to defend at the next level. There's not much push-back to his game and his lean body is getting knocked around pretty good as the playoff race thickens.

Medicine Hat winger Hunter Shinkaruk can expect a similar rough ride against NHL bodies, however his stock has softened over questions about his vision and game sense - even despite the impressive stat totals. A strong playoff push from Shinkaruk would help put him back in the top-ten discussions.

It hasn't been a great campaign for Andre Burakovsky of Malmo, a significant faller in this month's McKeen's top 30 rankings. A detailed report on Burakovsky and his progress to date will be published shortly on the site.

THERE A NURSE IS IN THE HOUSE

Along with Nichushkin, another heavy mover this month was Sault Ste Marie defenseman Darnell Nurse whose game has blossomed recently under the tutelage of Greyhounds coach and former NHLer Sheldon Keefe. Nurse has advanced his game further than many of his peers - and ditto for Halifax wizard Jonathan Drouin whose progress appears to have no bounds. Drouin is currently riding a phenomenal 24-game scoring streak (22-32-54) - and has left no choice but to bump him ahead of injured teammate Nathan MacKinnon.

The only newcomer to the top 30 this month is Owen Sound defenseman Chris Bigras, a steady riser all season, bumping Guelph's Jason Dickinson.

RANK	LAST	PLAYER	POS	HT/WT	BORN	TM (LG)	GP-G-A-PTS
1	1	Seth Jones	D	6-3/205	10-3-1994	Portland (WHL)	55-10-38-48
2	3	Jonathan Drouin	LW	5-11/185	3-28-1995	Halifax (QMJHL)	43-37-57-94
3	2	Nathan MacKinnon	C	6-0/180	9-1-1995	Halifax (QMJHL)	41-28-41-69
4	4	Elias Lindholm	C	6-0/190	12-2-1994	Brynas (Swe)	48-11-19-30
5	5	Aleksander Barkov	C	6-2/210	9-2-1995	Tappara (Fin)	49-21-25-46
6	6	Ryan Pulock	D	6-0/210	10-6-1994	Brandon (WHL)	53-14-29-43
7	7	Sean Monahan	C	6-2/190	10-12-1994	Ottawa (OHL)	50-26-43-69
8	19	Valeri Nichushkin	RW	6-4/195	3-4-1995	Traktor (KHL)	18-4-2-6
9	15	Darnell Nurse	D	6-3/190	2-4-1995	Sault Ste Marie (OHL)	60-11-25-36
10	8	Adam Erne	LW	6-1/195	4-20-1995	Quebec (QMJHL)	60-25-41-66
11	10	Rasmus Ristolainen	D	6-3/205	10-27-1994	TPS Turku (Fin)	47-2-11-13
12	11	Valentin Zykov	LW	6-0/210	5-15-1995	Baie-Comeau (QMJHL)	59-35-34-69
13	13	Anthony Mantha	RW	6-4/200	9-16-1994	Val d'Or (QMJHL)	60-45-37-82
14	9	Hunter Shinkaruk	LW	5-10/180	10-13-1994	Medicine Hat (WHL)	57-32-41-73
15	17	Mirco Mueller	D	6-3/185	3-21-1995	Everett (WHL)	54-6-19-25
16	22	Robert Hagg	D	6-2/200	2-8-1995	MoDo (Swe)	25-0-1-1
17	14	Nikita Zadorov	D	6-5/230	4-15-1995	London (OHL)	54-5-17-22
18	20	Alexander Wennberg	C	6-1/190	9-22-1994	Djurgardens (Swe 2)	45-14-17-31
19	12	Frederik Gauthier	C	6-5/210	4-26-1995	Rimouski (QMJHL)	55-19-37-56
20	23	Bo Horvat	C	6-0/200	4-5-1995	London (OHL)	59-28-27-55
21	21	Max Domi	C	5-9/195	3-2-1995	London (OHL)	56-35-40-75
22	16	Andre Burakovsky	LW	6-1/180	2-9-1995	Malmo (Swe 2)	42-4-7-11
23	18	Josh Morrissey	D	6-0/185	3-28-1995	Prince Albert (WHL)	62-15-28-43
24	27	Kerby Rychel	LW	6-1/200	10-7-1994	Windsor (OHL)	60-35-42-77
25	24	Curtis Lazar	C	6-0/195	2-2-1995	Edmonton (WHL)	65-34-18-52
26	25	Zachary Fucale	G	6-1/180	5-28-1995	Halifax (QMJHL)	39-5-2, 2.39
27	26	Linus Arnesson	D	6-1/190	9-21-1994	Djurgardens (Swe 2)	30-0-1-1
28	28	Eric Comrie	G	6-1/170	7-6-1995	Tri-City (WHL)	20-14-3, 2.62
29	29	Ryan Hartman	C	5-11/185	9-20-1994	Plymouth (OHL)	51-23-34-57
30	NR	Chris Bigras	D	6-0/190	2-22-1995	Owen Sound (OHL)	59-6-25-31
		* Goalies (W-L-T, GA)

McKeen’s 2013 NHL Draft midterm rankings

MCKEEN'S STAFF — Wed, 30 Jan 2013 20:49:53 +0000

The lockout ended, the NHL returned, and draft watchers were treated to a World Junior feast.

January was indeed a special month - and especially for Portland Winterhawks' blueliner Seth Jones, who emphatically claimed top spot in the McKeen's midterm rankings for the 2013 NHL Draft.

No. 1 had been up for grabs heading into the Christmas break, as the likes of Jones and Jonathan Drouin had effectively closed the gap on frontrunner Nathan MacKinnon.

The race was expected to remain a close one - and perhaps even come down to the final wire.

However, Jones broke from the pack with captivating performances at both the WJC and Top Prospects Game.

Historically, underagers are usually 'seen but not heard' at the under-20 world juniors, but not this year as the top five ranked prospects were all on display - and featured prominently.

Jones sparkled throughout, taking control of games with his prodigious talents and helping guide Team USA to a gold medal - playing in a top pairing with Buffalo draft pick Jake McCabe.

It wasn't the only eye-catching performance as a number of draft-eligible players made definitive statements on the world stage.

Mirco Mueller of the Everett Silvertips displayed remarkable poise for a 17-year-old while handling a heavy load for Switzerland, impressive sixth-place finishers. The biggest riser on our midterms, Mueller led the Swiss with a plus-7 rating to rank fifth overall at the tournament - and then followed up with another striking effort at the Top Prospects Game.

A pair of Swedes - Alexander Wennberg and Linus Arnesson - also seized the moment in Ufa, Russia, and have consequently cracked the first round.

The Djurgarden teammates grew in stature as the tournament progressed, and particularly Arnesson who thrived after being thrust into a main role with key blueline injuries to Jonas Brodin, Hampus Lindholm, and Oscar Klefbom.

Yet another youngster making waves at the WJC's was big Russian winger Valeri Nichushkin, the hero of the bronze-medal game. Nichushkin certainly flashed high-end individual skills that will likely bump him up on some lists, however he did not do enough in our opinion to dispel questions about his consistency, team play, and overall vision.

In fact, he slips to third among the Russians, surpassed by bullish winger Valentin Zykov who continued to rampage up the charts and now is pushing the top ten. The Baie-Comeau star has points in every game this month (12-10-16-28) - aside from the Top Prospects Game - including a six-point effort against Rouyn-Noranda.

Another mover this past month was Rimouski pivot Frederik Gauthier, currently second in QMJHL rookie scoring behind Zykov. The 6-foot-5 pivot vaults up the No. 12 spot having made significant gains in his overall game.

Quebec Remparts winger Adam Erne is the lone newcomer to the top 10 - sliding into the No. 8 slot.

Three OHLers also climbed the rankings having drawn plenty of praise for their steady development - those being Darnell Nurse (Sault), Bo Horvat (London), and Ryan Hartman (Plymouth).

---------------

RANK	LAST	PLAYER	POS	HT/WT	BORN	TM (LG)	GP-G-A-PTS
1	2	Seth Jones	D	6-3/205	10-3-1994	Portland (WHL)	40-9-27-36
2	1	Nathan MacKinnon	C	6-0/180	9-1-1995	Halifax (QMJHL)	37-26-36-62
3	3	Jonathan Drouin	LW	5-11/185	3-28-1995	Halifax (QMJHL)	31-24-38-62
4	5	Elias Lindholm	C	6-0/190	12-2-1994	Brynas (Swe)	40-7-17-24
5	4	Aleksander Barkov	C	6-2/210	9-2-1995	Tappara (Fin)	41-18-21-39
6	9	Ryan Pulock	D	6-0/210	10-6-1994	Brandon (WHL)	40-10-21-31
7	6	Sean Monahan	C	6-2/190	10-12-1994	Ottawa (OHL)	40-18-36-54
8	13	Adam Erne	LW	6-1/195	4-20-1995	Quebec (QMJHL)	48-21-38-59
9	7	Hunter Shinkaruk	LW	5-10/180	10-13-1994	Medicine Hat (WHL)	47-30-32-62
10	8	Rasmus Ristolainen	D	6-3/205	10-27-1994	TPS Turku (Fin)	39-2-10-12
11	22	Valentin Zykov	LW	6-0/210	5-15-1995	Baie-Comeau (QMJHL)	49-32-30-62
12	17	Frederik Gauthier	C	6-5/210	4-26-1995	Rimouski (QMJHL)	43-16-35-51
13	10	Anthony Mantha	RW	6-4/200	9-16-1994	Val d'Or (QMJHL)	47-38-31-69
14	12	Nikita Zadorov	D	6-5/230	4-15-1995	London (OHL)	44-3-14-17
15	20	Darnell Nurse	D	6-3/190	2-4-1995	Sault Ste Marie (OHL)	49-10-20-30
16	11	Andre Burakovsky	LW	6-1/180	2-9-1995	Malmo (Swe 2)	33-3-4-7
17	NR	Mirco Mueller	D	6-3/185	3-21-1995	Everett (WHL)	43-5-18-23
18	15	Josh Morrissey	D	6-0/185	3-28-1995	Prince Albert (WHL)	48-13-22-35
19	19	Valeri Nichushkin	RW	6-4/195	3-4-1995	Traktor (KHL)	17-3-2-5
20	NR	Alexander Wennberg	C	6-1/190	9-22-1994	Djurgardens (Swe 2)	36-12-13-25
21	18	Max Domi	C	5-9/195	3-2-1995	London (OHL)	47-28-36-64
22	16	Robert Hagg	D	6-2/200	2-8-1995	MoDo (Swe Jr)	23-9-11-20
23	NR	Bo Horvat	C	6-0/200	4-5-1995	London (OHL)	49-23-23-46
24	14	Curtis Lazar	C	6-0/195	2-2-1995	Edmonton (WHL)	51-23-14-37
25	24	Zachary Fucale	G	6-1/180	5-28-1995	Halifax (QMJHL)	31-5-2, 2.49
26	NR	Linus Arnesson	D	6-1/190	9-21-1994	Djurgardens (Swe 2)	22-0-1-1
27	26	Kerby Rychel	LW	6-1/200	10-7-1994	Windsor (OHL)	48-26-25-51
28	29	Eric Comrie	G	6-1/170	7-6-1995	Tri-City (WHL)	20-14-3, 2.62
29	NR	Ryan Hartman	C	5-11/185	9-20-1994	Plymouth (OHL)	39-19-22-41
30	23	Jason Dickinson	C	6-1/180	7-4-1995	Guelph (OHL)	47-15-22-37
		* Goalies (W-L-T, GA)

2013 NHL Draft – Top 30 Comments

McKeen's Staff — Thu, 20 Dec 2012 09:08:42 +0000

1) Nathan MacKinnon, C, Halifax (QMJHL) - Multi-faceted gamebreaker equipped with speed, power, a cunning shot - and the ability to process and execute at sonic tempo. His nine-game goal streak in October is the longest in the league so far (14-5-19).

2) Seth Jones, D, Portland (WHL) - Powerful and skilled with tremendous skating speed and range. Few blueline prospects have ever possessed this kind of athleticism and raw natural physical ability - and he's still just scratching the surface.

3) Jonathan Drouin, LW, Halifax (QMJHL) - Rarely takes a back seat to top-rated linemate Nate MacKinnon and often drives the bus with his mesmerizing speed and skill set. Cracking Canada's U20 World Junior team as an underager is yet another feather in the cap.

4) Aleksander Barkov, C, Tappara (Fin) - An instinctive, methodical forward with remarkable poise and polish. The ceiling here may be limitless given his rare accomplishments at such a tender age - as an impact scorer in the Finnish SM-liiga as a 17-year-old.

5) Elias Lindholm, C, Brynas (Swe) - Top junior-aged scorer in the Swedish Elitserien and key catalyst on the point of the Brynas power play. A diverse all-around forward with skill, imagination, a fiery competitive streak - and the goods to go first overall.

6) Sean Monahan, C, Ottawa (OHL) - A clutch performer who shows up when the games matter most. Continues to produce offense without last season's strong support cast, though was set back by a 10-game suspension for an errant elbow.

7) Hunter Shinkaruk, LW, Medicine Hat (WHL) - A dynamic top-end talent who can turn defenders with a blinding change of pace and lightning-fast stick skills. Emerging as prime attraction for the Tigers and helping fill the void of departed super-scorer Emerson Etem.

8) Rasmus Ristolainen, D, TPS Turku (Fin) - Impressively averages 20-plus minutes per game as an 18-year-old in the Finnish SM-liiga. Looks to be among the safer picks as he's a big, strong, aggressive blueline leader who can be relied on in any situation.

9) Ryan Pulock, D, Brandon (WHL) - A 'jack-of-all-trades' defenseman equipped with a cannon of a slapshot. Thrives offensively driven by sharp anticipation but needs to continue tightening up in down-low defensive situations. (Pictured above)

10) Anthony Mantha, RW, Val d'Or (QMJHL) - Lethal sniper boasting a rare mix of size, mobility and shooting abilities. Gives goalies nightmares thanks to a dynamic release, however he needs to play with more intensity away from the puck.

11) Andre Burakovsky, LW, Malmo (Swe 2) - Sent NHL tongues wagging with standout international performances at the Ivan Hlinka and 4 Nations tournies. Pure offensive talents are impressive featuring terrific skating speed and a big-game wristshot.

12) Nikita Zadorov, D, London (OHL) - Enormous rearguard is slowly learning 'on the job' and continues to improve his defensive reads and involvement. A growing contributing factor in the Knights' current unbeaten streak before reporting to Russia's WJC camp.

13) Adam Erne, LW, Quebec (QMJHL) - Vaulting up the charts and proving our preliminary ranking was on the low side. Creative playmaker with power, skill, and a ferocious appetite for the puck - can go around or through opponents.

14) Curtis Lazar, C, Edmonton (WHL) - Tough full-menu forward who augments his game by playing staunch defense and doing all the little things away from the puck. Finding the net again with seven goals in eight December games after a dry November (12-0-6-6).

15) Josh Morrissey, D, Prince Albert (WHL) - Instrumental in anchoring this season's turnaround in the standings for the Raiders, from last place to first. Dynamic skater and puck rusher, but lack of size and defensive holes can appear cavernous at times.

16) Robert Hagg, D, MODO (Swe J20) - Struggled at the 4 Nations Tournament in November, yet has the ingredients to be a solid two-way defenseman as he hits, can log the puck up ice, and packs a rocket point shot. Effort level can be higher in key defensive times.

17) Frederik Gauthier, C, Rimouski (QMJHL) - Dominated Midget last season taking his team to within a win of the Telus Cup, then bypassed a Harvard University commitment. Large, energetic two-way pivot - but hasn't been as intense since returning from broken jaw.

18) Max Domi, C, London (OHL) - An offensive tyrant playing on the top line of the OHL's best team - the recently-unbeatable London Knights - currently on a 21-game streak. Easily climbs higher with improved emphasis placed on his play without the puck.

19) Valeri Nichushkin, RW, Traktor (Rus) - Boasts arguably the best package of size, speed and, skill, but his stock is tempered by the 'Russian' factor plus doubts about how much vision there is. Showed lots of flash but not much substance in Canada-Russia Challenge.

20) Darnell Nurse, D, Sault Ste Marie (OHL) - Excellent athleticism and character - has the tools to be a quality shutdown defender at the next level if he can add weight to a slender frame. Gradually learning to simplify his game - and that 'less is best' in his case.

21) J.T. Compher, C, NTDP (USA) - Plays a hard, 'take-no-prisoners' style of game and can also punish opponents on the score sheet. Beginning to come around after being derailed early this season by concussions.

22) Valentin Zykov, LW, Baie-Comeau (QMJHL) - Russian import acclimatized instantly to the QMJHL and has been turning heads since the opening whistle with enticing mix of skill, power, and moxy. An absolute tank of a player impossible to knock off the puck.

23) Jason Dickinson, C, Guelph (OHL) - Curiously fell off the grid through November and December, raising concerns about his intensity and work ethic. Expect the freefall to continue unless he starts to play with more jam and gets involved.

24) Zachary Fucale, G, Halifax (QMJHL) - Likely the first goalie off the board given attractive raw natural technical abilities. Record is stellar - leads Q with 21 wins - for the country's top team - although his personal stats are a bit underwhelming.

25) Jacob de la Rose, LW, Leksands (Swe 2) - Starting to find his way as a 17-year-old Swedish rookie in the second-tier Allsvenskan. Projects as valuable complementary player who plays a spirited game and does all the little things. Offensive ceiling is the unknown.

26) Kerby Rychel, LW, Windsor (OHL) - Slightly off his goal production from last season and not playing with the same type of determination or intensity either. Needs to ramp up his defensive efforts - and pick up the footspeed and skating.

27) Hudson Fasching, C, NTDP (USA) - There's appealing size and raw natural ability here yet he is still plagued by inconsistency leaving viewers uncertain as to which player will show up. His skating also needs to show improvement.

28) William Carrier, LW, Cape Breton (QMJHL) - Solid two-way winger ran up impressive 11-game point streak through mid-Nov (8-11-19) for lowly Screaming Eagles. Struggled along with team since then though - minus-15 in past 11 games

29) Eric Comrie, G, Tri-City (WHL) - All-competitive workhorse has appeared in 31 of 34 games so far this season for Americans. Great technician with excellent game-reading abilities and lateral quickness - among best-skating goalies available in draft.

30) Steven Santini, D, NTDP (USA) - An effective defender with a healthy mean streak - and heavy hits that destroy opponents - ideal complement for a puckmoving partner. Safer pick is showing steady improvement this season and continues to get better each game.

LEGEND: DEC., 2012 RANK) PLAYER, POS, TM (LG)

2013 Draft Notebook: Up And Adam

McKeen's Staff — Wed, 19 Dec 2012 21:33:05 +0000

Everything is coming together for Quebec winger Adam Erne.

The industry and creativity never stops from the hard-working New Haven, C.T. native - among the biggest risers on our December list - moving solidly into the top 15.

Erne's truncated skating stride has been identified as a shortcoming in the past, however his quickness and top speed have improved significantly over the past year.

Another of this month's chartbusters is Baie-Comeau winger and Russian import Valentin Zykov. Although taking a Russian with your first-round pick is sometimes akin to writing your own pink slip, Zykov has been too good to dismiss any longer.

Strength and skill in a compact, subtly-dynamic package, Zykov possesses remarkable power for his size and age thanks to a well-developed body. Opponents are just bouncing off the St. Petersburg native, whose ability to hold off checkers, protect the puck, and create plays to the net - makes him a tantalizing NHL prospect.

Solid two-way defenseman Linus Arnesson also turned heads for Sweden at the U-20 4-Nations last month, and has moved into the top-40 discussions - bolstering what is going to be an exceptional second round. If this were a regular NHL season, general managers would be valuing second-round holdings as first-round commodities.

PETAN-ICAL GROWTH

Out west, Seth Jones' Portland teammate Nicolas Petan has been 'lights out' over the past two months, delivering goals at a clip that is making it easier to overlook his diminutive stature.

Already blessed with top-drawer playmaking vision and skill, the Delta, B.C. native has an eye-popping 16 goals in his past 20 games, blowing by his 14 goals as a rookie in `11-12.

Some will see Petan and his tiny 5-foot-8, 165-pound frame as a non-starter, that he simply isn't big enough to replicate his game against meaty NHL opponents. Other 'glass-half-full' thinkers could project a brighter NHL future based on his innate talent and impressive development.

Petan, like Arnesson, is another fast-developing prospect entering the top-40 fray upon starting the year pencilled into the third round or thereabouts.

Add another from the Portland hockey factory in Oliver Bjorkstrand to the mix, as the Danish winger has impressed in every viewing and is one to watch over the second half of the WHL season. Bjorkstrand is tricky and slippery - and looks taller than his 5-foot-10 listing. There's a bit of Kris Versteeg in the Dane's skill set - which is highlighted by a wicked wristshot.

Sleek Val d'Or winger Anthony Mantha continues to vault up the rankings and terrorize QMJHL goalies with his spectacular shot. The Longueuil, Quebec native has 28 goals from 155 shots - second-most in the league. Though still a project defensively, Mantha has been a consistent force at the other end of the rink, recording at least two shots in all but one of his 34 games this season.

THE STRAIGHT SANTINI

Aside from Zykov, the other player that managed to dislodge an incumbent from the top 30 November rankings was hard-hitting NTDP blueliner Steven Santini of Mahopac, New York.

Santini has always been admired for an efficient, straight-forward style - and this season has shown steady progress in his puckmoving and skill development.

Dropping down this month are London Knights center Bo Horvat and Seattle Thunderbirds rearguard Shea Theodore, who drew a lofty No. 2 ranking from Central Scouting on the preliminary WHL list.

Horvat would make an ideal second rounder as his skill and hockey sense are at a first-round level, but can expect trouble keeping up at the NHL level unless his mobility improves. While Theodore, a skilled and offensively-inclined blueliner, will need to develop better defensive structure - and prove that he can defend capably against outside speed.

Among those knocking on the first-round door include slick Finnish winger Artturi Lehkonen, the top junior-aged rookie scorer in the Finnish SM-liiga. The Piikkio, Finland native sits third overall among newcomers behind veteran Steve Moses and 24-year-old former OHL star Justin Azevedo.

Regina winger Morgan Klimchuk had been coming on like gangbusters through November (14-10-16-26) after a subpar start, but fell off the radar again this month, recording just a pair of assists in his last seven games. The Calgary native is the type of prospect that NHL clubs will have plenty of time for on draft day - even overlooking some inherent flaws. He boasts excellent strength on the puck for his size which is complemented by an accurate shot and good offensive instincts. When the goals dry up though, Klimchuk doesn't provide the same defensive competency like a Curtis Lazar does.

The Everett Silvertips also have an intriguing package in Swiss-born blueliner Mirco Mueller, who was moving into first-round range prior to losing partner Ryan Murray, the second-overall pick last summer. The Winterthur native has regressed since Murray was lost for the season to a shoulder injury, and is not showing the same confidence in his physical play.

WHAT THE DICKINSON

On the flip side, the last month wasn't a great one for Guelph forward and Georgetown, Ontario native Jason Dickinson.

What appeared to be untapped upside in October - looked more like unfulfilled potential in November as Dickinson has failed to bulge the twine in 17 of the past 18 games, the exception being a hat trick against Mississauga.

Getting more involved and filling in the intensity gaps while be imperatives if he is to prevent further slides. His skill set coupled with an erratic compete level, compares somewhat to that of former Guelph player Peter Holland, who subsequently blossomed in the pros following an underachieving junior career.

Another player whose stock has softened over the past month is Prince Albert blueliner Josh Morrissey (Calgary, AB).

Despite being arguably the cream of this year's crop in terms of pure puckmoving savvy, Morrissey has raised plenty of red flags with his play in his own end. Nevertheless, he remains a legitimate top-ten candidate if he can tighten up the defensive efforts and bring a more consistent physical element.

As far as wildcards go, talented Russian winger Valeri Nichushkin is a classic.

Blessed with an enticing mix of size, speed, skill, and power, Nichushkin is capable of scoring NHL-caliber goals when motivated and playing a courageous game.

Yet there have always been questions about how well he reads and senses the game - concerns which remained unanswered based on his flashy - and fruitless - performance during the CHL Subway Series.

CREEPERS & SLEEPERS

Steadily sneaking up the list has been speedy and tenacious two-way winger Marc-Olivier Roy of the Blainville-Broisbriand Armada.

A former third-round pick of Montreal in the 2010 QMJHL Midget Draft, Roy has already matched his rookie totals from `11-12 and is attracting notice with his penalty totals (52) - and plus-rating rating which stands at a striking plus-51 over his 109-game QMJHL career including playoffs.

Chicago Steel rookie Thomas Ebbing may fit the bill in the department of smooth, versatile two-way centermen. The Troy, Michigan native and Bowling Green recruit has adapted quickly to the USHL and continues to show improvements with each game.

Scouts are keeping tabs on the Medicine Hat blueline where the Tigers feature a pair of intriguing wildcards in Kyle Becker and Spenser Jensen.

Both offer excellent size as well as some attractive attributes, with Becker an efficient, mobile puckmover who has put up an impressive 16 points as a rookie after going unclaimed in his draft year. The Langley, B.C. native fired 13 goals in `11-12 to lead all defensemen in the B.C. Major Midget Hockey League, where he had been re-assigned by the Tigers following wrist surgery in August of 2011.

Conversely, Jensen is more a stay-at-home type with a physical dimension, and carries higher expectations having been the 14th overall pick in the 2010 WHL Bantam Draft.

A diligent and responsible defender who is tough to beat 1-on-1, the Airdrie, Alberta native has improved dramatically from his rookie season in which he played primarily at forward. Expect his stock to keep rising if the puckmoving and finesse skills can be upgraded.

AUGER'S WELL FOR FUTURE

Among the most improved players in the OHL this season has been 6-foot-7 Guelph winger Justin Auger (Waterloo, ON). Bypassed in the last draft, Auger has since taken a leap forward thanks to vastly improved skating. The new mobility is allowing him to make use of his gigantic reach and excellent compete level - and the by-product has been a more poised and confident puckhandler and playmaker.

Another towering prospect to entice NHL clubs will be 6-foot-6, 225-pound winger Tyler Hill, a Hagersville, Ontario native with dual citizen ship and playing at Hotchkiss High School following a brief USHL appearance with Chicago.

A former fifth-round OHL pick of the Ottawa 67's, Hill will be scrutinized this season as he is a classic Jekyll-and-Hyde type prone to coasting through games only to burst out with a flashy end-to-end rush and stickhandling clinic.

The quest for beef is drawing a crowd in Rimouski to see the intriguing duo of Frederik Gauthier and Samuel Morin.

Gauthier is 6-foot-5 and sits third among QMJHL rookie scorers, while Morin is the tallest player in the draft at 6-foot-7.

A native of St-Henri, Quebec and the seventh-overall pick in the 2011 QMJHL Priority Selection, Morin moves well for his size and is throwing his frame around with more authority this season - as reflected in his 78 penalty minutes - seventh-most in the league.

However, mark him a 'long term' project as there are gaps that contribute to a more difficult projection. Not a gifted puckhandler nor intuitive defender, Morin must continue to solidify his defensive decisions while developing as a suffocating defender that exploits his aggression and mammoth wingspan. His reactions and body language need to progress substantially.

2013 Top 30 NHL Draft Rankings – Dec, 2012

MCKEEN'S STAFF — Wed, 19 Dec 2012 08:18:24 +0000

Nathan MacKinnon is safe - for the time being.

The Cole Harbour, Nova Scotia native stayed atop the McKeen's December rankings for the 2013 NHL Draft, but with less margin for error now after exceptional performances from his main challengers for the first-overall spot.

Aleksander Barkov leads Tappara with 14 goals and sits among the top ten scorers in the Finnish SM-liiga - and padded a whirlwind month by taking home MVP honours at the U-20 4-Nations Tournament last month in Sundsvall, Sweden (3-0-3-3).

However, it was the play of the gold medal-winning host Swedes which left an even bigger impression with the NHL scouting fraternity. Specifically Elias Lindholm (3-1-1-2) and Andre Burakovsky (3-0-1-1), as the duo were dominant whenever they were on the ice - in spite of unassuming stat lines.

MacKinnon's lead was compromised the most though by Halifax linemate Jonathan Drouin.

Peel your eyes away from the Ste-Agathe, Quebec native if you can. His overall game has shown remarkable growth since the beginning of the season, his tempo and decision-making speed seemingly increasing with each passing game. The knock on Drouin coming in was his ordinary size along with associated concerns on whether he survives an 'inside' game at the NHL level.

Well, you can't hit what you can't catch - or so it goes - and Drouin has been a blur in the offensive zone. Teammates such as MacKinnon have been the benefactors of Drouin's inspired work on both sides of the puck. He makes those around him better by creating space using his intellect and skating superiority.

Rounding out the Fab Five - and not to be outdone - is stud Portland blueliner Seth Jones, the son of former NBA star Popeye Jones, who is starting to figure it out after a tentative start in his WHL debut.

Jones posted an impressive nine-game assist streak (9-2-12-14) and is looking ever more comfortable on the ice and resembling the player that took over games last season with the U.S. National Team Development Program.

After MacKinnon, pick one of the next four names out of a hat - and NHL clubs are sure to get an outstanding prospect.

Whichever player winds up fifth overall on draft day, they join an impressive list of current and potential future NHL stars to go in the No. 5 slot over the past decade; Morgan Rielly, Ryan Strome, Nino Niederreiter, Brayden Schenn, Luke Schenn, Karl Alzner, Phil Kessel, Carey Price, Blake Wheeler and Thomas Vanek.

RANK	LAST	PLAYER	POS	HT/WT	BORN	TM (LG)	GP-G-A-PTS
1	1	Nathan MacKinnon	C	6-0/180	9/1/1995	Halifax (QMJHL)	30-22-30-52
2	2	Seth Jones	D	6-3/205	10/3/1994	Portland (WHL)	31-8-20-28
3	9	Jonathan Drouin	LW	5-11/185	3/28/1995	Halifax (QMJHL)	24-19-29-48
4	4	Aleksander Barkov	C	6-2/210	9/2/1995	Tappara (Fin)	31-14-14-28
5	3	Elias Lindholm	C	6-0/190	12/2/1994	Brynas (Swe)	32-6-15-21
6	5	Sean Monahan	C	6-2/190	10/12/1994	Ottawa (OHL)	26-13-24-37
7	7	Hunter Shinkaruk	LW	5-10/180	10/13/1994	Medicine Hat (WHL)	31-19-25-44
8	6	Rasmus Ristolainen	D	6-3/205	10/27/1994	TPS Turku (Fin)	28-2-5-7
9	8	Ryan Pulock	D	6-0/210	10/6/1994	Brandon (WHL)	30-10-19-29
10	15	Anthony Mantha	RW	6-4/200	9/16/1994	Val d'Or (QMJHL)	34-28-22-50
11	18	Andre Burakovsky	LW	6-1/180	2/9/1995	Malmo (Swe 2)	22-1-3-4
12	13	Nikita Zadorov	D	6-5/230	4/15/1995	London (OHL)	31-2-10-12
13	21	Adam Erne	LW	6-1/195	4/20/1995	Quebec (QMJHL)	34-19-25-44
14	11	Curtis Lazar	C	6-0/195	2/2/1995	Edmonton (WHL)	34-14-10-24
15	12	Josh Morrissey	D	6-0/185	3/28/1995	Prince Albert (WHL)	35-8-17-25
16	14	Robert Hagg	D	6-2/200	2/8/1995	MODO (Swe J20)	23-9-11-20
17	17	Frederik Gauthier	C	6-5/210	4/26/1995	Rimouski (QMJHL)	30-13-21-34
18	20	Max Domi	C	5-9/195	3/2/1995	London (OHL)	34-18-27-45
19	10	Valeri Nichushkin	RW	6-4/195	3/4/1995	Traktor (Rus)	8-0-2-2
20	23	Darnell Nurse	D	6-3/190	2/4/1995	Sault Ste Marie (OHL)	35-6-17-23
21	22	J.T. Compher	C	5-11/185	4/8/1995	NTDP (USA)	22-3-5-8
22	NR	Valentin Zykov	LW	6-0/210	5/15/1995	Baie-Comeau (QMJHL)	35-22-14-36
23	16	Jason Dickinson	C	6-1/180	7/4/1995	Guelph (OHL)	34-12-17-29
24	19	Zachary Fucale	G	6-1/180	5/28/1995	Halifax (QMJHL)	21-3-1, 2.58
25	26	Jacob de la Rose	LW	6-2/190	5/20/1995	Leksands (Swe 2)	27-4-2-6
26	24	Kerby Rychel	LW	6-1/200	10/7/1994	Windsor (OHL)	35-19-13-32
27	25	Hudson Fasching	C	6-2/215	7/28/1995	NTDP (USA)	24-6-7-13
28	27	William Carrier	LW	6-1/200	12/20/1994	Cape Breton (QMJHL)	34-16-26-42
29	30	Eric Comrie	G	6-1/170	7/6/1995	Tri-City (WHL)	16-12-3, 2.64
30	NR	Steve Santini	D	6-1/210	3/7/1995	NTDP (USA)	24-0-8-8

* Goalies (W-L-T, GA)

McKeen’s Top 30 – November, 2012

McKeen's staff — Thu, 08 Nov 2012 20:51:41 +0000

Sweden stole the draft headlines in 2011, and this past summer it was defensemen taking the spotlight - with eight of the top 10 picks.

Next June, it could very well be the QMJHL grabbing all the attention.

The 'Q' is back - and in a big way.

Led by the Halifax trio of Nathan MacKinnon, Jonathan Drouin, and top-rated goalie Zach Fucale - seven players from the revitalized QMJHL earned spots in the McKeen's preliminary rankings for the 2013 NHL Draft.

Four other forwards have also stepped up to claim top-round berths - Val d'Or sniper Anthony Mantha, big Rimouski pivot Frederik Gauthier, gritty shooter Adam Erne, and strong-skating William Carrier.

It would mark quite a turnaround for a league that produced just one lone first-rounder last time - Russian import Mikhail Grigorenko.

The 'Q' factor is one of the storylines emerging so far in a draft year that is showing signs of being above-average in quality - and possibly special.

Certainly this draft class are shooting the lights out across junior - and beyond - with three of our top 10 flourishing in European pro leagues in Elias Lindholm, Aleksander Barkov, and Rasmus Ristolainen.

Maintaining or climbing the rankings won't be an easy task however since the depth of talent for 2013 exceeds what we've witnessed over the past few drafts.

Normally, in an average crop year, there are about 15-20 players that initially stand out as distinct first-round candidates.

There won't be any passengers this time around - with at least 40 'A' grade prospects waging battle for a coveted top-30 placing.

We can expect movement among the top tier as well heading into a busy month of November - a key time for NHL scouts to assess how players respond as the level of play elevates.

It's shaping up to be quite a race - in spite of the dampening effect of this tortuous NHL labour dispute.

Really, all we can do is drown ourselves in the World Juniors - and the draft - and hope the powers that be come to their senses - soon.

MCKEEN'S 2013 NHL DRAFT RANKINGS (NOV, 2012)

RANK	PLAYER	POS	HT/WT	BORN	TM (LG)	GP-G-A-PTS
1	Nathan MacKinnon	C	6-0/180	9/1/95	Halifax (QMJHL)	16-18-11-29
2	Seth Jones	D	6-3/205	10/3/94	Portland (WHL)	13-4-6-10
3	Elias Lindholm	C	6-0/185	12/2/94	Brynas (Swe)	19-5-8-13
4	Aleksander Barkov	C	6-2/205	9/2/95	Tappara (Fin)	19-10-9-19
5	Sean Monahan	C	6-2/195	10/12/94	Ottawa (OHL)	14-6-16-22
6	Rasmus Ristolainen	D	6-3/205	10/27/94	TPS Turku (Fin)	17-0-5-5
7	Hunter Shinkaruk	LW	5-10/165	10/13/94	Medicine Hat (WHL)	18-11-14-25
8	Ryan Pulock	D	6-0/210	10/6/94	Brandon (WHL)	16-7-11-18
9	Jonathan Drouin	LW	5-11/185	3/28/95	Halifax (QMJHL)	10-10-13-23
10	Valeri Nichushkin	RW	6-4/195	3/4/95	Chelmet (Rus 2)	15-8-2-10
11	Curtis Lazar	C	6-0/195	2/2/95	Edmonton (WHL)	15-8-3-11
12	Josh Morrissey	D	6-0/185	3/28/95	Prince Albert (WHL)	16-3-11-14
13	Nikita Zadorov	D	6-5/230	4/15/95	London (OHL)	14-0-4-4
14	Robert Hagg	D	6-2/195	2/8/95	MODO (Swe J20)	17-5-9-14
15	Anthony Mantha	RW	6-3/200	9/16/94	Val d'Or (QMJHL)	15-15-13-28
16	Jason Dickinson	C	6-1/180	7/4/95	Guelph (OHL)	15-8-9-17
17	Frederik Gauthier	C	6-4/215	4/26/95	Rimouski (QMJHL)	17-10-10-20
18	Andre Burakovsky	LW	6-1/180	2/9/95	Malmo (Swe 2)	16-0-2-2
19	Zachary Fucale	G	6-1/180	5/28/95	Halifax (QMJHL)	12-1-0, 2.53
20	Max Domi	C	5-9/195	3/2/95	London (OHL)	15-7-13-20
21	Adam Erne	LW	6-1/195	4/20/95	Quebec (QMJHL)	15-11-13-24
22	J.T. Compher	C	5-11/180	4/8/95	NTDP (USA)	6-2-1-3
23	Darnell Nurse	D	6-3/190	2/4/95	Sault Ste Marie (OHL)	16-4-9-13
24	Kerby Rychel	LW	6-1/200	10/7/94	Windsor (OHL)	17-10-5-15
25	Hudson Fasching	C	6-3/195	7/28/95	NTDP (USA)	13-3-5-8
26	Jacob de la Rose	LW	6-2/190	5/20/95	Leksands (Swe 2)	16-1-0-1
27	William Carrier	LW	6-1/200	12/20/94	Cape Breton (QMJHL)	17-10-16-26
28	Shea Theodore	D	6-2/185	8/3/95	Seattle (WHL)	14-4-7-11
29	Bo Horvat	C	6-0/200	4/5/95	London (OHL)	15-6-5-11
30	Eric Comrie	G	6-0/175	7/6/95	Tri-City (WHL)	9-6-2, 2.46
	* Goalies (W-L-T, GA)