Haydn Fleury – McKeen's Hockey

MCKEEN’S 2022-23 NHL YEARBOOK – TAMPA BAY LIGHTNING – NHL Player Profiles

Scott Cullen – Forwards and Defense, Catherine Silverman - Goaltending — Fri, 16 Sep 2022 21:42:47 +0000

TORONTO, ON - MAY 10: Tampa Bay Lightning Defenceman Victor Hedman (77) celebrates his first period goal with Center Steven Stamkos (91) and Right Wing Nikita Kucherov (86) during Round 1 Game 5 of the NHL Stanley Cup Playoffs between The Tampa Bay Lightning and Toronto Maple Leafs on May 10, 2022 at Scotiabank Arena in Toronto, ON. (Photo by Gerry Angus/Icon Sportswire)

FORWARDS

Nikita Kucherov

The twenty-nine-year-old Russian forward is one of the most offensively talented players in the NHL today. While missing the entire 2021 shortened season due to injury may have helped an already strong Tampa team win a Stanley Cup, his absence from the lineup over the last two seasons may have quieted the buzz surrounding 2019 Hart Trophy winner. Despite only playing in 47 regular season games in 2021-22, Kucherov still produced 69 points. While he is one of the best finishers in the league with a career shooting percentage of 15.0%, his ability to process the game quickly and think creatively enables him to be a stellar playmaker as well. If he stays healthy this season, we can expect over 100 points from Kucherov.

Brayden Point

When he injured himself in the seventh game of the first round series against Toronto in May, his importance to the Lightning’s Stanly Cup chances became clear. Although the strong Lightning team were able to handle Florida and New York, the Lightning desperately needed a healthy Point to stand a chance against the juggernaut Avalanche. Point is small for an NHL center at 5-foot-10, but he makes up for it through his tenacity and smarts. Given the bumper position on the Lightning’s first powerplay unit, Point helps balance the Bolts’ strength on the wings with a quick release and the ability to support his teammates. And while he doesn’t spend any time on the penalty kill, it’s worth noting he takes penalties at a very low rate compared to his peers.

Steven Stamkos

There was a point in time when Steven Stamkos was the main guy in Tampa. While the captain and former first overall pick is undoubtedly still a star, being surrounded by immense talent helps take some of the spotlight off of him. Missing only one game last season, Stamkos was able to break the 40-goal mark for the sixth time in his career as well as break the 100-point mark for the first time in his career. Perhaps most known for his one-timer on the powerplay, Stamkos is also a deadly finisher at even strength too. He was the only player in the NHL last season who scored more than 20 goals with at least a 20% shooting percentage at even strength. This should be a milestone season for Stamkos as he is 19 goals and 9 assists shy of 500 a piece, as well as only 28 points and 78 games shy of 1,000. It would be impressive if he could reach all four.

Nick Paul

Pending unrestricted free agency, Nick Paul was traded by the Ottawa Senators around the NHL’s trade deadline to the Tampa Bay Lightning. After fitting in like a circle through a circular hole, Paul extended with the Lightning long term. Despite being a rather late bloomer, getting drafted in the fourth round of the 2013 draft and not becoming an NHL regular until the 2019-20 season, Paul was thought highly of around the league. When the 6-foot-3 winger arrived in Florida, it became evident why. Paul was a dominant force on the defensive side of the game, particularly as a tenacious forechecker. While the Ontario native lacks offensive output, scoring only 80 points in 248 NHL regular season games, he helps his teammates on the ice with him as well as those who hop on the ice after him. He’s one of the better support players in the league, and the players he’s supporting are quite talented.

Brandon Hagel

The Saskatoon native went in the sixth round of the 2016 NHL draft. A few seasons later, he would make a weak Chicago Blackhawks roster at twenty-two years of age. After putting up 24 points in 52 games in his rookie season with the Blackhawks, he extended with them for three years. However, after a hot start for Hagel, and a disappointing start for the Blackhawks, the Lightning came calling. Hagel finished the season with 25 goals and 19 assists in 77 games. The winger is all forward all of the time. He’s a solid forechecker who is willing to get to the dirty areas to get things done. He does leave you wanting a bit more from him in his own end at even strength, but his skating abilities and grit keeps him as an option to kill penalties. He’ll play a much more sheltered role in Tampa than he would have in Chicago, which will be a much better fit for him.

Ross Colton

When Ross Colton scored 9 goals in 30 games in his rookie campaign, he would become one of two players. Either his scoring would settle down, or he’d be another late-round pick from Steve Yzerman’s era that would find himself as an NHL regular. After last season, it appears that the latter is correct. Colton was somewhat of a swiss army knife for the Lightning last season, playing all over the lineup. Despite only averaging just shy of 13 minutes per game, Colton still managed to bury 22 goals and added 17 assists along to it. Colton has proven that he has an above average shot while being a good player in transition and is willing to get to dirty areas. This also helps him create a large penalty differential for the Lightning, however, he hasn’t faired as much success as he’d like on the Lightning’s second powerplay unit so far in his NHL career.

Alex Killorn

At thirty-two years old, Killorn set a career-high 34 assists and 59 points while playing all 82 games for the fourth time in his career last season. However, certain parts of his game have begun to fall off a tad. We didn’t see the solid defensive side of the game that we’ve been used to seeing out of Killorn last season, and also spent a good deal of time in the box taking 33 minor penalties. Entering his eleventh, and perhaps last season as a member of the Tampa Bay Lightning, it appears he still has the trust of Jon Cooper in all situations. Given his commitment to his team, Killorn has spent time in the net front role and on the penalty kill regularly throughout his career. You can bet that Killorn will settle into his role and make his potential last run with the Lightning count.

Corey Perry

After losing to the Tampa Bay Lightning in the 2020 and 2021 Stanley Cup Finals, Corey Perry decided to join them. However, he may have just been cursed as he lost in his third straight appearance. The 2021-22 season felt a bit like a revival for Perry. He played all 82 games, coming close to a 20-goal season. Unlike his last few teams, the Tampa Bay Lightning have a tremendous forecheck which fit Perry’s game. Even at thirty-six, he was able to play the physical type of game that made him successful in Anaheim. He was getting on pucks on the wall, around the net, and sometimes the other team got the puck into the neutral zone. Perry even got a fair deal of time on the powerplay where he spent time as the net front man as well as some time in the bumper. The now rejuvenated Perry will look to give it another try this season.

Patrick Maroon

It’s been over four years now since there was a Stanley Cup Final without Patrick Maroon in it. The 6-foot-3 winger is known around the league as one of the most lovable tough guys. His big frame makes him difficult to handle low in the offensive zone. He makes his money on the forecheck, screening the goalie, retrieving rebounds, and taking the puck to the net. He doesn’t have the skating ability or puck skills to play up the lineup, but he’s become extremely effective in his role. In the 587 minutes he spent with Corey Perry and Pierre-Edouard Bellemare last season at 5-on-5, the Lightning outscored their opponents 25-9. While Maroon only put up 27 points last season, he doesn’t need to be a producer.

DEFENSE

Victor Hedman

At this point in his career, Victor Hedman isn’t a secret. The 6-foot-6 Swede blew his previous career-high of 72 points out of the water with 85 last season. It was also the first time in his career that he was able to bury 20 goals. If it weren’t for Cale Makar and Roman Josi, Hedman would’ve won the Norris Trophy for the second time in his career. For such a big man, Hedman is an incredible all-around skater. Whether it comes to gap control in the neutral zone, carrying the puck forward in transition, or keeping the puck in the offensive zone, Hedman can be depended on to get the job done. His game isn’t filled with flash as much as his consistent execution breeds success. He also heads the Lightning’s powerplay unit with his IQ, skating and passing abilities, helping with zone entries, setting up one-timers, sending shots through bodies, and keeping the puck in the zone. Unless something unfortunate happens, Hedman will continue to be a staple on the Lightning again this season.

Mikhail Sergachev

The twenty-four-year-old Russian is a smooth skating offensive-defenseman. Sergachev is an efficient passer in all three zones. He breaks the puck out well, can move the puck north on regroups, and can manage the point in the offensive zone. He’s been fairly consistent in his point production over his first five seasons, keeping a 39-point pace per 82 games. Behind Ryan McDonagh and Victor Hedman, Sergachev saw himself falling into a role on the third pair. As a result, he didn’t have a regular partner at even strength last season. With McDonagh being moved to Nashville, there is an opportunity for Sergachev to jump up the lineup. He’d most likely play alongside Erik Cernak, who he had a 56.8 CF% and 53.7 xGF% with in 267 minutes at 5-on-5 last season. Playing alongside a defensive-defenseman would unlock a new level to Sergachev’s game, allowing him to take more risks which would amplify the offensive skills he’s shown in his career so far.

Erik Cernak

The 6-foot-3 Slovakian is the Lightning’s go-to man to shut down opposing forwards. His impact might not show up in the box score, but Jon Cooper’s usage of Cernak tells you all you need to know. He receives a hefty dosage of defensive zone starts. He started shifts in his own end twice as much as his offensive zone shift starts last season. He also eats up a ton of shorthanded minutes. Over 14.5% of his total time-on-ice last season was on the penalty kill. Cernak isn’t the type of defensive-defenseman that sits back and plays a conservative game either. He has the skating ability to support his big frame. He will take the battle to you at the blue line or in the corner. He can also move the puck up ice once he forces the turnover, where he’s not afraid to join the rush. After signing an extension in July, and hoping for a healthy season, the twenty-five-year-old will be looking to make another jump this season and put his name alongside the likes of Jaccob Slavin as one of the top defensive-defensemen in the game.

Ian Cole

Expecting to move Mikhail Sergachev up the lineup this season, the Lightning went out and signed Ian Cole to fill his spot on the bottom pairing. The thirty-three-year-old veteran will be entering his thirteenth NHL season, offering a veteran presence to a team that’s been to the last three Stanley Cup Finals. Cole is coming off of a one season stint with the Carolina Hurricanes where he scored 2 goals and added 17 assists in 75 games. Prior to that, he spent three seasons with the Colorado Avalanche and Minnesota Wild where he was put in a defensive, depth role. That’s probably what we can expect Cole to see in Tampa. He’s good at shutting plays down in transition and moving the puck back up the ice, but he lacks top-end skill to be effective in offensive zone play. He’ll kill penalties and will be able to step into a shutdown second-pair role if either Hedman or Sergachev miss time due to injury or suspension.

Cal Foote

The former first round draft pick will be entering his third season with the Lightning. Entering the league in a sheltered, bottom-pairing role has helped him adjust to the speed of the game. At times, he can be a bit weak in his own end. His 6-foot-4 frame won’t get him pushed around, but he has trouble reading the play at times – something that made him effective at the junior levels. However, he has shown flashes of what made him such a highly regarded prospect five years ago. He has the ability to retrieve pucks and move them quickly up ice when he is confident. With the exit of Jan Rutta, a spot with Victor Hedman could be up for Foote to grab. Perhaps the ability to play with one of the best defensemen in the game will help Foote take the next step in his career.

GOALTENDING

Andrei Vasilevskiy

At this point, not much needs to be said about Andrei Vasilevskiy that hasn’t already been well-established. He’s quickly become the most successful goaltender among his class, quickly surpassing other highly touted names like Matt Murray and Frederik Andersen to stand head and shoulders above the rest as the best of the 2010’s draftees.

There’s little risk that Tampa is going to see much of a change in net, barring some kind of injury or uncharacteristic regression year for Vasilevskiy. While most of the league has made a move towards operating with a goaltending tandem that splits starts and rides hot hands, the Lightning have very firmly put all their chips into Vasilevskiy’s basket – and with very little in the way of free cap space to spend on bringing in another option, they’ll most likely continue doing what’s been working for them. Vasilevskiy, who thrives on fluid movements and a healthy dose of high-end strength to bail the team out when they need it most, should be the heavily favored starter most nights – and on the nights he desperately needs a break, Brian Elliott is once again sitting second string on an incredibly team-friendly deal to fill in the gaps. There’s relief on the way in coming years, as the Lightning have smartly invested in some quality goaltending drafting and should be ready for Hugo Alnefelt to get a shot before too long. But for now, the team has been trying to maximize Vasilevskiy’s value while he’s in his prime – and by all accounts, with three Stanley Cup Finals and two cups in the last three years, their strategy seems to be working.

Projected starts: 65-70

Lightning Rod – Carolina Hurricanes 2018-19 Season Preview

Robert Howard — Sat, 15 Sep 2018 20:25:02 +0000

REVIEW/STATE OF PLAY - After missing the playoffs for nine straight seasons and not progressing beyond sixth in their division - despite favourable draft positions - new owner Tom Dundon promised a shake up and has been delivering. He replaced Ron Francis as General Manager with Don Waddell, who had been with the organization running business operations. Team great Rod Brind’Amour, an assistant coach with the team for the prior seven years, was appointed coach, replacing Bill Peters.

They further delivered change by agreeing to a blockbuster deal involving two number five NHL draft Picks in Elias Lindholm and Noah Hanifin in exchange for dominating 6’6 defenseman Dougie Hamilton along with Michael Ferland and promising prospect Adam Fox. Jeff Skinner was moved for a prospect and draft picks while Justin Faulk is one of the most prominent names in trade rumours as a goal scoring right shot defender and will bring a considerable return. The turnover of the line-up will include the addition of their last two first round picks Marin Necas and Andrei Svechnikov in prominent roles in the top six.

REVAMPING THE LINE UP – MORE CHIPS TO FALL - Faulk has seen a decline in point over the last three seasons from a high of 49, however scored 15, 16, and 17 goals the three previous seasons. A shooting percentage half of what he had in those season (3.8%) meant eight in 2017-18. A coveted right-hand defender he will also draw considerable return on the trade market. The Faulk situation is complicated by a strong defensive core with over $25 million dollars per season in cap space devoted to six players – Hamilton, Jacob Slavin, Faulk, free agent acquisition Calvin De Haan, Brett Pesce and Trevor van Reimsdyk. A formidable top six but a position of strength to trade from.

They will need some of that space to address the forward group and Hamilton brings a right-handed shot, 17 goals of his own and fills the hole Faulk will leave in his wake. De Haan was signed to bolster the left side of the defense. Hamilton and De Haan will likely line up together provide some relief for the shut down pairing of Slavin and Pesce.

Sebastian Aho

DANGEROUS DUOS AND HIGH END ROOKIES - The offense on the forward group is led by the tandem of Sebastian Aho and Teuvo Teravainen who had 65 and 64 points respectively. Their emergence last season was a ray of light in a dark year but will find it a challenge to take another step forward next season without some supporting help. A regression could be in store for both. Micheal Ferland was added bringing much needed size to the forward group. He scored a career high 21 goals lining up beside Sean Monahan and Johnny Gaudreau and can play with skill players in a complementary role.

More importantly they will be looking for an improvement from within primarily with an injection of youth throughout the line-up. Victor Rask had a disappointing season posting his lowest point totals and spent time as a healthy scratch. A return to form would help but will be largely reliant on how new coach Brind’Amour uses him.

Number two over all pick in the 2018 NHL Andrei Svechnikov looks NHL ready and brings high end skill to the wing. He may find himself with reliable Jordan Staal to allow a role in the top six supported by a premier defensive forward. They are also hoping Martin Necas can make the leap to the NHL. Their first-round pick in 2017 scored seven points in 10 NHL games before leaving to shine in the Czech Extraliga and could be ready to challenge Rask for a spot on the depth chart at center.

GOAL NIGHTMARE - Goaltending was an enormous disappointment after acquiring Scott Darling, ‘the best backup in the league’ from Chicago with his glittering numbers. He stumbled badly and no one saw a 0.888 SV% as part of the plan. A large hole remains at the back end for the team. Cam Ward left the team after 13 years signing with Chicago as a free agent. They added Petr Mrazek in free agency on a one-year, $1.5 million ‘show me’ contract. At 26-years-old and once touted as a promising goaltending prospect, he and Darling have shown promise in the past. The Canes need one of them to fill a big hole in the crease.

The veteran leadership on the team will rest with Jordan Staal and Justin Williams Staal is one of the better two-way center men in the league and always among the faceoff leaders - this season he was 6^th with a face off win percentage of 56.6% for players who took more than 1000 faceoffs. A fixture on the ice in critical situations. Williams turns 37 and is an UFA at the end of the season. Third in team scoring he provides solid two-way play. A terrific leader and example in a room of youngsters. Coach Brindamour will rely on them heavily.

OUTLOOK - A team in rebuilding mode once again entering a year of transition. With the introduction of youth and time to learn a new system, it will be an up and down year for the Hurricanes.

Carolina – System Overview

Ryan Wagman — Thu, 14 Sep 2017 21:14:21 +0000

For many teams, a common organizational building tactic has been to go young with forwards while leaning towards experience on the blueline. The thinking behind this maxim is that forwards have been statistically proven to peak earlier while defensemen can be slower to develop. Also, as hockey IQ is more important (in aggregate) for blueliners, and as hockey IQ is inarguably at least somewhat a function of experience, you are bound to find smarter defensemen among the older set.

This is one of the most prominent ways by which the Hurricanes differ from the accepted wisdom. Their top four defensemen last year (Justin Faulk, Jaccob Slavin, Noah Hanifin, Brett Pesce) ranged from 20-25 years of age. One the other hand, five of their six oldest regular skaters were forwards (Lee Stempniak, Jay McClement, Viktor Stalberg, Derek Ryan, Jordan Staal). The one blueliner to break that straight flush (Ron Hainsey) was traded at the deadline to Pittsburgh.

Even including offseason moves, the blueline in Raleigh will continue to be exceptionally young. Three of their expected top six have 1991 birth dates and the other three are younger. If that all was not enough, two of the Hurricanes’ top prospects, Jake Bean and Haydn Fleury, are defensemen.

All of that said, on some level, the Canes recognize the skew of their NHL roster, as well as the presence from within of Bean and Fleury and have lately taken to focusing their player procurement efforts on adding youthful skill to the forward ranks. Outside of those two, there is only one other blueliner in the top 20. Looking at quantity of prospects instead of just quality, Carolina has almost as many prospect eligible goalies in the system as they do blueliners. There is some hyperbole in that statement, but also a grain of truth.

As the team understands that it will not have an acute need for replenishment along the blueline in the near future, they have focused heavily on forwards in their past few drafts. One way to measure their focus is through an examination of the top half of their recent drafts.

In Carolina’s last three draft classes, they made 17 total selections in the first four rounds. (why yes, they have been sellers, how did you know?) Only three of those 17 selections were used on defensemen. Three others were used on netminders. Which means that the Hurricanes have been laser focused on stockpiling young forwards over the past three years.

They see the unbalance in the team’s experience level on the blueline and the aging – and thereby slowing down – of their trusted forwards, and have been diligently working to restock that particular cupboard. A full 15 of the current top 20 are forwards.

Further, as it does not look like any of those big 15 are in line to secure a regular NHL job this year, we are likely to be seeing all, or almost all of them back in these lists next offseason. And considering that the Hurricanes need one or two of those talented youngsters to come to join last year’s sensation (Sebastian Aho) in order to pose a greater threat to playoff contention, if none of the young forwards make the team this year, they are likely to be in a position to make another high pick next year.

Martin Necas at the Ivan Hlinka 2016 tournament.

1 Martin Necas – Often the most dynamic, eye-catching player on the ice, the only real downsides to Necas’ status as a prospect are his rail thin frame and the fact that for all of his dominance, his point totals underwhelm. Both issues are likely elements of youth. He is supremely offensively gifted and is mature enough physically to be playing with men in the Czech Republic’s top league. Despite his lack of mass, has been willing to play in the dirty areas. Although a first round pick in the recent CHL Import Draft, he seems likely to return to Kometa Brno again this year.

Jake Bean of the Calgary Hitmen was selected by the Carolina Hurricanes in the first round of the 2016 NHL Entry Draft in Buffalo, NY on Friday June 24, 2016. Photo by Aaron Bell/CHL Images

2 Jake Bean – Hampered by injury in his first post draft season, when healthy, Bean was still a dynamic offensive presence from the blueline, producing at over a one point per game pace on a mediocre Calgary Hitmen squad. Not very physical, he is at least usually aggressive with his stick in coverage. With the puck, he is an animal, with near elite puck skills. Patient before shooting, when he does release, you can be sure that he has found a seam. Likewise, his passes are highlight reel worthy.

3 Haydn Fleury – Although his production in the WHL was solid, it always underwhelmed for a player once drafted seventh overall in the NHL draft. While his first year AHL numbers were not as strong, comparatively, Fleury’s overall game seems to have taken much needed steps forward. A good skater and puck mover, he has highly advanced defensive zone IQ. Calm and patient with the puck, his decisions in his own zone tend to be correct. A great penalty killer as well. Has second pairing upside.

Julien Gauthier of the Val-d'Or Foreurs was selected by the Carolina Hurricanes in the first round of the 2016 NHL Entry Draft in Buffalo, NY on Friday June 24, 2016. Photo by Aaron Bell/CHL Images

4 Julien Gauthier – One of several Hurricanes’ prospects to end the year with QMJHL champions Saint John, the chiseled Gauthier looks more like a linebacker on the Carolina Panthers than a future winger for the Hurricanes. A strong skater with an excellent wrist shot, it should not surprise that his best attribute is his physical game. He is simply imposing. Now ready for the AHL, he should be in a goal scorer’s role and he has the hands to succeed from tight and close.

5 Janne Kuokkanen – A solid skater with an above average shot as well as strong puck skills, Kuokkanen had a promising first season in North America, providing reliable secondary scoring for London during the regular season before turning things up a notch in the postseason. Strong on the puck with good possession skills, he is the type of player who helps drive play in the right direction. He has a high work rate, is prominent in all three zones and possesses high end hockey IQ.

6 Aleksi Saarela – A main part of the return from the Rangers in the trade of Eric Staal to Broadway, Saarela has always been a high-end scorer at the international level, while producing at a middle six clip in Liiga play. After coming over to the AHL to finish this last season, showed tremendous instincts for loose pucks, with plus short distance skating to win those foot races as well. A pestering player, he has a quick release on his snapshot and impressive puck skills.

7 Nicolas Roy – Formerly the top pick in the QMJHL Entry draft, Roy struggled in his first few years in the league before exploding in his first post NHL draft year. Although skating is a black mark against his name, the rest of his game is very impressive. Uses excellent size to create room for himself and has a powerful wrist shot that can be deadly from the slot on in. Not the guy you want leading the rush, but definitely a good asset to have join it as a trailer.

8 Lucas Wallmark – Seen as more of a playmaker in the SHL, Wallmark showed a pleasantly surprising goal scorer’s touch in his first season in the AHL, in spite of an average at best shot in his arsenal. A bit on the scrawny side, he can show some surprising physicality at times. Has plus puck skills and generally reads the game well in all three zones. Possesses middle six potential if he can continue to prove that his hockey IQ can supercede his average skating and thin frame.

Stelios Matheos

9 Stelio Mattheos – Similar to Roy above, once upon a time the number pick in the WHL bantam draft, Mattheos has been carving himself a nice career in the W, but has not been able to live up to his advance billing. He is smart and plays a solid two-way game, with no hesitation to use his strength and size to play in the dirty areas. Much of his offense comes from in tight. There should be more offense in the tank, as evidenced by his increased production when superstar Nolan Patrick was out of the lineup.

10 Eetu Luostarinen – One of many late bloomers in the Carolina system, Luostarinen has great two-way center potential. He looked far better in his Liiga debut than his numbers would suggest, after less than half a season playing at high level U20 hockey in Finland. Has strong situational awareness and uses his stick well in coverage. Also has very quick hands which work to his advantage in the offensive zone. A bit of a surprise selection but Carolina has earned the benefit of the doubt with their Finnish scouts.

11 Warren Foegele – A strong skater with plus hockey sense, Foegele has followed a strange path to the professional game. Drafted out of an Ontario-based high school, he moved on to the college game at New Hampshire, until he walked away a few games into his sophomore campaign to join the Kingston Frontenacs. In the OHL, he has been more productive at the most important times, elevated his scoring rate in both of his playoff campaigns and finishing his career with a great Memorial Cup performance.

12 Hudson Elynuik – Very tall and lanky, Elynuik accelerates very well, but has a sub-par top speed. He grinds out shifts, is patient with the puck and has strong puck protection skills. A solid shot is also evident, allowing him to improve his goal scoring output by over 50% from his draft year to his first post draft campaign. Want to see more commitment to a complete game, including increased use of his big frame, and more aggressiveness at both ends.

13 Callum Booth – Acquired last season by Saint John from Quebec to help in the later goings, he struggled a bit down the stretch, before picking things up in the QMJHL postseason, leading his new teammates to a title, losing only once in 18 games. Tall, Booth positions himself aggressively, cutting down angles. Poised and calm, when he is on, he is a game stealer. You can tell he is off as he seems slower to respond to passes and seems sluggish moving from post to post.

14 Andrew Poturalski – One of the top rookie scorers in the AHL this year, Poturalski was a late bloomer signed by Carolina as a free agent out of the University of New Hampshire. His hands are much quicker than his feet, which are average at best. He has great vision, finding soft spots in coverage for himself and for teammates. Carries the confidence to try to thread the needle on tricky passes. Delivers a decent shot, too, but his career prospects are centered on his ability to create for his linemates.

Alex Nedeljkovic

15 Alex Nedeljkovic – One of the most electric netminders of the 2015 WJC tournament, Nedeljkovic struggled immensely in his first pro season. He stopped barely 88% of shots faced in the AHL and spent around one third of his season in the ECHL as a result. Very athletic between the pipes, he overcame his lack of stature in the OHL through strong positioning and technique, an aggressive approach and very quick glove. With Daniel Altshuller not brought back, Nedeljkovic is the next in line for an NHL job.

16 Morgan Geekie – A late bloomer, Geekie jumped his production from 25 points in his first draft eligible season to 90 in his second time around. The improved results led to increased exposure and Carolina selected the Tri-City center in the third round. Only moderate on his feet, he combines high hockey IQ with a strong shot and well above average puck handling and passing ability. Very lanky, he needs to add more muscle to his frame.

17 Spencer Smallman – A fifth round pick who was a toss-up as to whether or not the Hurricanes would offer him an ELC, Smallman took a giant leap forward in his age 20 season for an exceptional Saint John team shattering previous career marks in both goals and assists. A strong skater with a great hockey mind, he works well as an aggressive complementary linemate to more offensively gifted players. An excellent penalty killer.

18 Luke Martin – A low upside, high floor defensive prospect, Martin was one of the youngest regulars in the NCAA last year, taking a regular shift on the blueline for Michigan. He is not much of a shooter and his puck skills are basically limited to making a good first pass out of the zone, but he skates very well for his size, and has advanced understanding of defensive zone positioning. Could stand to leverage his plus size more.

19 Matt Filipe – A feisty power forward in the USHL, with a strong wrist shot, Filipe showed much the same tool-set in his freshman year at Northeastern, although he found it harder to hit the back of the net. He is a strong skater and still plays a very physical brand of hockey. With some higher profile forwards having graduated, Filipe should be given a more offensive-driven and have more opportunities to take target practice with opposing netminders.

20 Steven Lorentz – Not very much upside here, but Lorentz has come a long way from being an afterthought drafted in his second year of eligibility. Seen as a project with limited scoring projection, but great size and a “character” guy, the long-time Peterborough Pete had a strong two-way overage season, finally earning an ELC from Carolina. Has high enough hockey IQ and work ethic to contribute in a depth role at the higher levels.

Once some of the higher end players on this list are ready enough to push the underwhelming bottom six forwards currently on the Hurricanes off, Carolina will be ready to complete for a postseason berth again. If this organization can get to the point where they are no longer automatic sellers at the deadline, it will be interesting to see if they go back to a more balanced approach at the draft.

CHL Canada- Russia series: WHL prospects shine, providing some solid WJC auditions

Andy Levangie — Mon, 23 Nov 2015 17:59:41 +0000

Photo; Marissa Baeker

Team WHL started game one like they were shot from a cannon. Their speed was evident and their puck pursuit was tenacious. They were virtually uncontested in transition and through the neutral ice, making for easy entries and lots of offensive zone time for the WHL. It looked for two periods as though Russia didn’t have an answer, showing very little push back.

The way they were playing no one could tell that Russia had been on Canadian soil almost a week already, to combat there expected jet lag. After two periods and a goalie change, Russia had staked Team WHL a six goal lead, as the Dub looked to have game one under control. However, the Russian’s outscored Canada three to one in the third period and began laying the groundwork for a far more competitive game two.

As head coach Dave Lowry said:

“They played the third period how we expect them to start (the next) game… Let’s not take anything away from the way they started the third… At the end of the day you can’t not like the effort and the result”

The head coach was right, a win is a win, and pretty dominant one at that, but game two was a different story and the coach’s speculation for Kamloops was correct. Lowry shuffles his lines and rewarded two of his standout forwards from game 1 sliding Collin Shirley and Deven Sideroff on either side of Matthew Barzal on the “top line” for team WHL. Feeding off their home crowd they were one of the best lines in game two.

Skating to a relatively even first period Russia went toe to toe, keeping Team WHL to the outside, and making life much easier for Maxim Tretiak in goal. Proving to be far more stable in game two, Russia looked more confident from the crease out. Canada opened the scoring on a scramble around the crease that was banged home by some good hand-eye co-ordination from Jansen Harkins (#47 WPG 2015).

Two back-to-back defensive breakdowns right in front of the WHL net led to quick goals by Russia. Sideroff had a great individual effort to even up the score 2-2 by the end of the second. Team WHL would not be denied, outshooting Russia 12-5 and taking the lead with 3:13 left, on a great individual effort by an otherwise quiet Jayce Hawryluk (#32 FLA 2014). Choosing a great time step up and seal the game. Coach Lowry called it the day before, and echoed the sentiment after game two.

“We saw what we expected to see (from Russia), we stuck with it and got better as the game went on”

Goalies:

Some were surprised to see two draft eligible goalies out of the three chosen for the WHL leg of this series. Experienced or not, the selection was deserve given their WHL performance this season. Goaltending is wide open for the upcoming World Junior Tournament and the WHL contingent should strongly be considered.

Zach Sawchenko (2016):

Locked in from the get go with very few Russian chances occurring in the first half, handling most everything that was thrown his way with ease… Looks big in the net, challenges shooters well... A big reason for Moose Jaw’s resurgence.

Carter Hart (2016):

Coming in in relief is never easy when your team is rolling, and would likely want another chance at the 9 shots he faced, surrendering three goals… His season to date boasts a 1.93 GAA and .933 SV%, which are tops among non-over-age goalies in the WHL.

Adin Hill (ARI 2014 #76):

Lowry clearly showed confidence in Hill, and despite his teams struggles this year he boasts a more than respectable .926 SV% with three shutouts... His big frame fills the net, relying on position to block pucks… Covers the bottom of net well and doesn’t give up big holes…

Lowry liked what he saw:

“he was in a zone tonight and we didn’t want to get him out of rhythm… We left the door open(for a switch) but we had talked about through the evaluation process there was chance one guy was going to get a game, that was the case tonight.”

Defense:

Joe Hicketts (Signed DET):

Returning from last years team, his ice time and situational play (EV,PP,PK) at the WHL leg of the Super Series, proves he will be depended on this holiday season by his Victoria Royals head coach... Small in stature but plays an impressive physical game matching up against bigger opponents with a strong lower body… Sound positioning with good agility and four-way movement. A complete player with and without the puck… His Coach knows his game well, entrusting him to mentor the younger D on Team WHL in both games.

Brandon Guhle (#51 BUF 2015):

Makes a strong case for himself with slick skating. Displays less flash, but plays a really solid all around/two-way game. A dependable player any coach would love to have. Makes a good first pass and defends really well on the wall and down low… provides a shutdown presence, but questions arise about his ability to contribute in all areas of play.

Photo: Marissa Baeker

Haydn Fleury (#7 CAR 2014):

Could be considered the best defender over the two games, skates well and imposes his physical will on others… Keeps opposing offences to the perimeter and possesses a long and effective reach breaking up plays… Fires a quick and powerful point shot, working the line with good instincts and improving agility….

Noah Juulsen (#26 MTL 2015):

Brings a lot of the same qualities as Guhle, with some offensive upside… A quick and much improved decision maker who quells trouble with a few efficient skating strides… Thinks well in unison with his feet, stays fluid and creates play-making options… He sees the ice with above average IQ, plays quickly in transition starting the rush and leading sustained zone time… Could certainly be an asset on the hybrid international ice in Finland with some extra room to push the pace.

______________

There were a lot of options from a defensively strong WHL, an intriguing inclusion were some highly touted NHL draft prospects, Jake Bean & Kale Clague. These defensemen both split time with Hicketts and were thrust into important roles against a big Russian team with some varying results. With so many valuable options it would seem Hockey Canada was challenging these young men; look for them at the U18 in April.

Jake Bean (2016):

Showed offensive upside, an ability to break out on the rush and a knack for jumping into the play. Bean’s skating was a big asset, however at times he looked over-matched defending and had some issues with positioning and physical play down low... He should get his shot one-day, but in World Junior tournament full of 19-year-olds he looks to be a year or two away, until he rounds out defensively.

Kale Clague (2016):

Shows some really strong offensive instincts and releases pucks off his stick as fast and he receives them. Opened the scoring in game one by taking a cross ice pass, waiting a split second for his screen to line up, and snapping it. Defensively, Clague appeared well rounded and turned the puck over less than Bean. Strong two-way game and ability to rely on a system and less on individual play is an asset. He plays on a strong Brandon team, so showing success within a highly skilled lineup is not a surprise.

Forwards:

Brayden Point (#79 TBL 2014)

If there was any doubt about the lone returning forward from the WHL, he made an impression, elevating himself from the 13^th forward spot he occupied last year… Undersized as forwards go, his acceleration has improved… in this series he exhibited a separation gear and high speed instincts that gave him time and space to exhibit his crafty stick handling. Looked assertive on offence, driving down the wall and making timely cuts to the middle, opening space and turning defenders. Leaned on for leadership by wearing the C for the WHL. He has been tearing up the league this season, and should be a lock in a skilled top six on the World Junior team.

Matthew Barzal (#16 NYI 2015)

Flashed his usual crafty skills - lining up at the top centre spot for both games. The distributor is a strong candidate for an offensive role in December. His ability to find open wingers and tiny passing lanes can be invaluable as an offensive catalyst. High skill and offensive IQ could be especially valuable with more room to work with on the wider Finnish ice .. brings a good history of rising to the occasion when playing for Hockey Canada.

Collin Shirley (undrafted):

Lowry referenced injury replacements and their chance to make an impression to Team Canada brass. Shirley certainly gave scouts something to think about with a strong showing over two games, with one goal and four assists. He complemented the creativity of Barzal & Point really well. Although he’s a long shot to make the team, the ability to play with highly skilled players isn’t always easy (see Crosby and Kunitz in Sochi).

Deven Sideroff (#83 ANA 2015):

Shirley’s running mate in both games was none other than his Kamloops teammate. He hasn’t been blessed with the greatest teams throughout his WHL career, but he looks intelligent on the ice, a trait that bodes well on a team of highly skilled player. He fit in well in this structure and attacked the net with strong drive .. possesses a good shot and plays determined, especially in front of the net.

With a strong OHL crop, and some serious size and skill turning heads in the QMJHL I don’t expect a massive showing of WHL forwards on the upcoming World Junior team. While the WHL is historically known for its quality defenders, you could see names at all positions making this team. Not to mention the players who were selected for this team and had to withdraw due to injury (Rourke Chartier, Travis Sanheim, Dillon Dube, John Quenneville & Jake DeBrusk). If they are all healthy, it makes the Scouts and Coaches from Hockey Canada’s job that much more difficult. Looking forward to the coming weeks of hockey and finding out which players become household names when the puck drops in December in Finland.

2014 NHL Draft: Top 5 defensive defenceman – Ekblad towers

Grant McCagg — Thu, 05 Jun 2014 11:00:56 +0000

Best defensive defenceman

As one of the rare juniors to be granted special status, Aaron Ekblad has already had three seasons to refine his skating and overall game, and in that time the improvement to his mobility and resultant defensive game has been palpable. "His skating has come a long way since he was a 15-year-old." said one scout. "His smarts and poise are what set him apart from other defensive prospects, along with his imposing size of course."

Andreas Englund was outstanding in his own end for Sweden at the U-18's, exhibiting great gap control, positioning and aggressiveness. Jack Dougherty's mobility, passing skills and smarts helps him stay out of trouble defensively, while Haydn Fleury's size/skating combination make him a difficult blueliner to beat one-on-one. Dominik Masin and Johnathon MacLeod were both solid defensively at the U-18's, showing poise, strong decision making, and in particular, a robust style that wore down their opponents.

1. Aaron Ekblad

2. Andreas Englund

3. Jack Dougherty

4. Haydn Fleury

5. Dominik Masin

5. Johnathan MacLeod

2014 NHL Draft: Top 5 Offensive defenceman – Honka in control

Grant McCagg — Thu, 22 May 2014 14:40:50 +0000

Best offensive defenceman

When you come across a defensive prospect with speed, agility, heady passing and a lethal shot, you have a potential NHL power play quarterback. "He's an elite offensive defenceman," noted one scout who has Julius Honka ranked in his top 20. "He controls play with his elusiveness, mobility and puck skills." Honka made a seamless adjustment to the North American game, leading all rookie WHL defencemen is scoring this season,

While Anthony Deangelo has some question marks entering the draft, offensive ability is not one of them. He's a speedy puck carrier with great passing skills and a hard, accurate shot. Aaron Ekblad has an ability to find open lanes to unleash his heavy slapshot, and distributes the puck smartly. Jack Dougherty's mobility, puck skills and point shot are all above average, while Hayden Fleury uses his skating skills to jump up in the play or lead the rush.

1. Julius Honka

2. Anthony Deangelo

3. Aaron Ekblad

4. Jack Dougherty

5. Haydn Fleury

McKeen’s 2014 Top 30 NHL Draft Rankings (March, 2014)

Iain Morrell — Wed, 12 Mar 2014 20:40:18 +0000

Photo by Terry Wilson / OHL Images.

Sam Bennett of the Kingston Frontenacs has vaulted to the top of the McKeen's March rankings for the 2014 NHL Entry Draft.

Bennett's game has grown steadily during a breakout sophomore season highlighted by a 25-game consecutive point streak from November to late January, the longest of the OHL season so far (17-29-46).

The Holland Landing, Ontario native sits sixth in league scoring and is now the one to catch in the race for the coveted first-overall pick.

There's nothing sewn up just yet, however, as Bennett's lead is certainly a modest one with no clear-cut consensus among the top group of three including Barrie Colts' blueliner Aaron Ekblad and Kootenay centre Sam Reinhart.

Reinhart has kept pace with his 'Sam' counterpart by posting the WHL's longest consecutive point streak of the season - a 22-game run (18-30-48).

The Kootenay Ice captain and Vancouver native saw his streak come to an end at the start of this month - in a game against Prince Albert and Leon Draisaitl, who trails closely behind Reinhart in the draft rankings in the No. 4 slot.

The German-born Draisaitl has also been scorching hot since disappointing showings at the World Juniors and Top Prospects Game. After going nine straight games without a goal in January, Draisaitl has 17 goals in his past 18 games (17-22-39) and has nudged past Reinhart into fourth among WHL scorers with 99 points.

The top four haven't pulled away from the pack either. If anything, the gap has been closed by the likes of Danish roadrunner Nikolaj Ehlers of the Halifax Mooseheads.

Like Draisaitl, Ehlers never got the engines ignited at the Top Prospects Game, but has been sensational otherwise in an incredible rookie year.

The native of Aalborg, Denmark is in the midst of an 11-game points streak in which he has scored 17 times including six multi-goal games (17-12-29). Ehlers has climbed up to third overall in QMJHL scoring with 100 points including 47 goals, fifth-most in the league. In fact, after an initial transition period, he has hit the back of the net 39 times in his last 41 games.

Ehlers is shooting to become the highest-drafted Danish-born NHLer in history, the honour currently belonging to Mikkel Boedker of the Phoenix Coyotes who was selected eighth overall in 2008.

The balance of an impressive top 10 are highlighted by a quartet of OHL forwards with Michael Dal Colle of the Oshawa Generals holding down the sixth spot, and followed closely by Jared McCann (Sault Ste Marie), Nick Ritchie (Peterborough), and Brendan Perlini (Niagara).

Haydn Fleury of the Red Deer Rebels fills out the top 10 - sitting in the No. 9 spot - and remains the only other defenceman besides Ekblad to hold down a top-ten place.

Other significant risers in the March rankings include William Nylander, the son of former NHLer Michael Nylander, and Czech-born forward David Pastrnak, playing together for Sodertalje in Sweden's second division Allsvenskan.

NHL scouts have seen a pair of 17-year-old's often standing out as the best players on their team - with Nylander flashing dominant form at times - and rebounding from a dreadful start to the season.

Kasperi Kapanen (KalPa), Jakub Vrana (Linkopings), Robby Fabbri (Guelph), and Roland McKeown (Kingston) also made noteworthy gains in the March rankings.

Despite plenty of movement among the top 30 however, it remained a rather exclusive group with the only new entrant being Swiss-born forward Kevin Fiala, playing for HV 71 in the Swedish J20 League, who makes his debut at No. 28.

RANK	LAST	PLAYER	POS	TEAM	HT/WT	DOB
1	3	Sam Bennett	C	Kingston (OHL)	6-0/180	20-Jun-96
2	2	Aaron Ekblad	D	Barrie (OHL)	6-3/215	7-Feb-96
3	1	Sam Reinhart	C	Kootenay (WHL)	6-1/185	6-Nov-95
4	5	Leon Draisaitl	C	Prince Albert (WHL)	6-2/210	27-Oct-95
5	8	Nikolaj Ehlers	LW	Halifax (QMJHL)	5-11/165	13-Feb-96
6	4	Michael Dal Colle	LW	Oshawa (OHL)	6-2/180	20-Jun-96
7	7	Jared McCann	C	Sault Ste Marie (OHL)	6-0/180	31-May-96
8	6	Nick Ritchie	LW	Peterborough (OHL)	6-2/230	5-Dec-95
9	10	Haydn Fleury	D	Red Deer (WHL)	6-2/200	8-Jul-96
10	9	Brendan Perlini	LW	Niagara (OHL)	6-2/205	27-Apr-96
11	11	Jake Virtanen	RW	Calgary (WHL)	6-1/205	17-Aug-96
12	16	William Nylander	C	Sodertalje (Swe)	5-11/175	1-May-96
13	12	Julius Honka	D	Swift Current (WHL)	5-10/180	3-Dec-95
14	22	David Pastrnak	RW	Sodertalje (Swe)	6-0/170	25-May-96
15	25	Kasperi Kapanen	RW	KalPa (Fin)	6-0/180	23-Jul-96
16	13	Ivan Barbashev	C	Moncton (QMJHL)	6-1/185	14-Dec-95
17	23	Jakub Vrana	RW	Linkopings (Swe)	5-11/185	28-Feb-96
18	14	Adrian Kempe	LW	MoDo (Swe)	6-1/185	13-Sep-96
19	21	Alex Tuch	RW	NTDP (USA)	6-3/215	10-May-96
20	18	Joshua Ho-Sang	C	Windsor (OHL)	5-11/165	22-Jan-96
21	17	Dylan Larkin	C	NTDP (USA)	6-1/190	30-Jul-96
22	15	Nick Schmaltz	C	Green Bay (USHL)	5-11/175	23-Feb-96
23	28	Robert Fabbri	C	Guelph (OHL)	5-10/170	22-Jan-96
24	30	Roland McKeown	D	Kingston (OHL)	6-1/195	20-Jan-96
25	19	Sonny Milano	LW	NTDP (USA)	5-11/185	12-May-96
26	24	Nikolai Goldobin	RW	Sarnia (OHL)	5-11/180	7-Oct-95
27	27	Jack Glover	D	NTDP (USA)	6-3/195	17-May-96
28	NR	Kevin Fiala	LW	HV 71 (Swe)	5-10/185	22-Jul-96
29	29	Jack Dougherty	D	NTDP (USA)	6-1/185	25-May-96
30	20	Anton Karlsson	LW	Frolunda (Swe)	6-1/190	3-Aug-96

2014 NHL Draft: Rebel Haydn Fleury number two with a bullet

Andy Levangie — Wed, 05 Mar 2014 15:00:57 +0000

Towering Haydn Fleury is fourth in team scoring on the offensively challenged Red Deer Rebels, leading all defensemen (63-7-35-42, 9^th in the league). The Rebels are the seventh worst team in goal scoring (189) in the WHL and have won only four of the last 15 games, dropping them to a .500 record (30-30-1-4) and a battle for a playoff spot. Fleury has struggled along with the rest of Brent Sutter’s squad in February with a disappointing minus eight on the month (13-1-6-7, - 8), after posting a plus 19 the prior four months. He has cooled offensively since turn of the calendar in January with only two goals (26-2-12-14, -1). He marked an impressive pace to begin the year with a 0.75 points per game on the quiet offensive team (37-5-23-28, +18) with an intriguing package of hockey smarts and size.

The Rebels assistant captain is currently ranked second among defensemen, tenth overall, in McKeen’s Hockey’s 2014 NHL Draft midterm report in January. Fleury played for Team Canada and won gold at the 2013 Ivan Hlinka tournament contributing one goal in five games (5-1-0-1). In a surprisingly slim defensive pool in this years NHL Draft he will draw much scrutiny in the early picks of the first round. Clearly the consensus second choice to highly touted defense prospect, Aaron Eklund, in most expert rankings, edging slightly ahead of fellow WHL defenseman Julius Honka at #12 according to McKeen’s. Notable this season is the clear separation of these top three prospects from the rest of the defensive pack with the fourth ranked defenseman, Brycen Martin, not appearing until the 26^th pick overall according to McKeen’s. The dearth of quality high end rearguards may prompt some teams to move more quickly on draft day than anticipated.

Andy Levangie provides a scouting report:

____________________________________

Photo by Rob Wallator

Haydn Fleury, D, 2014, Red Deer Rebels

Already a towering presence at 6, 3”, 200 lbs and quickly becoming a minute eating top pair rearguard for Brent Sutter’s Rebels squad .. a rare opportunity for a 17 year old in the WHL, noted for developing many top NHL defenseman .. rarely found out of position, constantly shifting small distances to cut down angles and disrupt passing plays, especially close to the crease .. intelligent instincts clearly evident .. possesses the physical ability to lean on opposing players and a long reach to protect the puck allowing him to create turnovers and disrupt the oppositions forecheck .. creates calm around his goaltender intelligently chipping pucks or making a short pass to relieve pressure and put a teammate in position to quickly clear the zone .. uses size well in front of the net to control opponents.. always looking to drive the play away from the middle of the ice in his own end .. a punishing force along the wall in his own zone .. .. strong gap control, but can get caught tracking the puck and not the body .. a fluid skater with a strong stride that drives forward and has length to it, quickness needs improvement as do most big young defenseman growing into their frame .. adequate top speed with notable reverse skating evident when tracking attacking offensive players .. rarely beaten to the outside or forced onto his heels .. needs continued work on speed and explosiveness to reach an NHL level .. above average offensive instincts with a quick deceptive wrist shot from the point which springs from his stick with surprising force, rising off the ice, making it elusive to blockers, and finding the top of the net .. a quick wind up creates a strong slap shot .. guards his blueline well on the power play, keeping puck in, rarely remaining static and constantly looking to push pucks low .. stays open and makes himself an option for his teammates, choosing his pinches wisely .. smart instincts provide a good balance between growing offensive skills and his already solid defensive play.

Top Prospects Game Review: Team Cherry Defence

Grant McCagg — Wed, 29 Jan 2014 17:14:36 +0000

Aaron Irving surprisingly emerged among the top performers at the 2014 BMO CHL/NHL Top Prospects Game played earlier this month in Calgary.

A former ninth-overall pick in the 2011 WHL Bantam Draft, Irving is enjoying a breakthrough season with the Edmonton Oil Kings and is currently tied for second among WHL rookies with a plus-20 rating.

The Edmonton native continued to bolster his stock for the 2014 NHL Draft with a gritty all-around effort which has subsequently moved him into second-round territory.

Irving drew a grade of 8.0 (out of 10) to lead the blueline for Team Cherry, while Anthony DeAngelo of the Sarnia Sting had a night to forget and earned a failing grade as a result.

Here is a look at how the blueline performed for Team Cherry, who wound up falling 4-3 to Team Orr on a late goal from Jared McCann of the Sault Ste. Marie Greyhounds.

Team Cherry (RED) - Defence

Aaron Irving, D, Edmonton Oil Kings (WHL) - Game Grade: 8.0

Irving ended up being a great partner for Fleury as he had enough sense and mobility to back up his partner's tendency of being up the ice too much. He played a mistake-free game for the most part up until the last nine minutes, got beat to the outside by Virtanen once and a lucky bounce enabled Point to get around him. Other than that a solid game defensively, decent mobility, moved the puck well, anticipated the play well and played with an edge. Draft Ranking: 30-50

Photo By Aaron Bell, OHL Images

Jacob Middleton, D, Ottawa 67's (OHL) - Game Grade: 7.5

He helped his draft stock as much as any player in the game with possible exception of Irving, one of the more aggressive defencemen in the game without getting wildly out of position, got in a fight, challenged Lemieux to a fight, moved the puck adequately, defended okay, competed hard. Like McKeown he's prone to making errors, but he kept them to a minimum in this game even if he ended up a minus-2. Much of that was the product of having DeAngelo as his partner. Draft Ranking: 40-60

Photo by Rob Wallator

Haydn Fleury, D, Red Deer Rebels (WHL) - Game Grade: 7.0

Fleury had a bit of riverboat gambler in him, sometimes he seemingly forgot he's not supposed to be behind the opposing team's net looking for a pass, but he created offence and skated very well, so he usually got away with his soirees, and most of them came with his team looking for a goal. Needs to keep working on his decision making and positioning, but as he learns his craft better, you will have a pretty good package there with his size, skating, shot and offensive abilities. Draft Ranking: 5-10

Roland McKeown, D, Kingston Frontenacs (OHL) - Game Grade: 6.5

He was one of the least noticeable rearguards in this game, which is good and bad for him. He's touted as an offensive defenceman, so it was bad in that respect, but it also means he wasn't making a lot of glaring mistakes as the game went on, which is perhaps even more important as he's been trying to do too much in Kingston. Considering his recent struggles he probably didn't hurt his ranking too much with those scouts that have seen him lately. Showed good skating skills and a hard shot, but did nothing that really stood out during the game. Draft Ranking: 20-30.

Alexis Vanier, D, Baie-Comeau Drakkar (QMJHL) - Game Grade: 6.5

Considering his skating issues I thought he'd get burned more than he did, and while he was beaten two or three times with speed, it was by the likes of Goldobin and Virtanen, and only once was it to the outside. He and Ritchie were the two oak trees in the game, when he hits someone they stop moving forward, rubbed out a few guys trying to go behind the net. His hockey sense is decent, usually played within his limitations. Needs to keep working on skating and puck moving. He has a bomb from the point but he didn't use his slapshot, preferring to wrist a few in on net. His skating is a concern, but if it improves you have to like the Sheldon Souray-type game he may be able to bring a few years down the road. Draft Ranking: 40-60

Anthony DeAngelo, D, Sarnia Sting (OHL) - Game Grade: 4.5

It was no coincidence that he was on the ice for most of Team Cherry's chances and goals - he had worrisome issues in his own end, including positioning, decision making, lack of size and effort. A lot easier to like his game with the puck than without it, but in this game the bad far outweighed the good. In his defence, he should never have been killing penalties, but it provided us with a glaring indication of just how weak he can be defensively. No denying his puck skills and power play effectiveness, but will he be able to play 5-on-5 in the show? Draft Ranking: 35-55

McKeen's Hockey 2014 Draft Rankings

2014 NHL Draft: McKeen’s Top 30 Midterm Rankings (Jan-2014)

McKeen's Hockey — Thu, 23 Jan 2014 22:53:41 +0000

The 2014 NHL Draft remains a very close race for number one overall. None of the top contenders have separated themselves definitively and the picture is becoming increasingly competitive as Kingston’s Sam Bennett continues his rapid rise in the rankings unseating Leon Draisaitl from Prince Albert to enter the top three. Draisaitl was on a torrid eight game burst (8-8-12-20) before a difficult World Junior tournament that saw him ejected for two games.

Brendan Perlini progresses from #12 to enter the top ten at number eight while climbing to fifth in goal scoring in the OHL with 28 in 44 games (44-28-32-60), 12 of them scored since December 13^th.

Michael Dal Colle holds his fourth place ranking while slightly edging Sam Bennett in OHL scoring. He currently ranks 5^th (46-29-38-67) while Bennett is 6^th (40-26-40-66). An impressive Top Prospects game in which he scored, and could have had more, solidified his status.

Sam Reinhart holds tenaciously to the number one spot despite a growing crowd of contenders. Captaining his squad in the Top Prospects game with a commanding performance highlighted his potential versus his peers.

Here are our Mid Term Rankings:

RANK	LAST	PLAYER	POS	TEAM	HT/WT	DOB
1	1	Sam Reinhart	C	Kootenay (WHL)	6-1/185	06-Nov-95
2	2	Aaron Ekblad	D	Barrie (OHL)	6-3/215	07-Feb-96
3	5	Sam Bennett	C	Kingston (OHL)	6-0/180	20-Jun-96
4	4	Michael Dal Colle	LW	Oshawa (OHL)	6-2/180	20-Jun-96
5	3	Leon Draisaitl	C	Prince Albert (WHL)	6-2/210	27-Oct-95
6	6	Nick Ritchie	LW	Peterborough (OHL)	6-2/230	05-Dec-95
7	9	Jared McCann	C	Sault Ste Marie (OHL)	6-0/180	31-May-96
8	10	Nikolaj Ehlers	LW	Halifax (QMJHL)	5-11/165	13-Feb-96
9	12	Brendan Perlini	LW	Niagara (OHL)	6-2/205	27-Apr-96
10	8	Haydn Fleury	D	Red Deer (WHL)	6-2/200	08-Jul-96
11	7	Jake Virtanen	RW	Calgary (WHL)	6-1/205	17-Aug-96
12	13	Julius Honka	D	Swift Current (WHL)	5-10/180	03-Dec-95
13	19	Ivan Barbashev	C	Moncton (QMJHL)	6-1/185	14-Dec-95
14	16	Adrian Kempe	C	MoDo (Swe)	6-1/185	13-Sep-96
15	15	Nick Schmaltz	C	Green Bay (USHL)	5-11/175	23-Feb-96
16	11	William Nylander	C	Rogle (Swe)	5-11/175	01-May-96
17	20	Dylan Larkin	C	NTDP (USA)	6-1/195	30-Jul-96
18	21	Joshua Ho-Sang	C	Windsor (OHL)	5-11/165	22-Jan-96
19	25	Sonny Milano	LW	NTDP (USA)	5-11/185	12-May-96
20	24	Anton Karlsson	LW	Frolunda (Swe)	6-1/190	03-Aug-96
21	22	Alex Tuch	RW	NTDP (USA)	6-3/215	10-May-96
22	17	David Pastrnak	RW	Sodertalje (Swe)	6-0/170	25-May-96
23	26	Jakub Vrana	RW	Linkopings (Swe)	5-11/185	28-Feb-96
24	NR	Nikolai Goldobin	RW	Sarnia (OHL)	5-11/185	07-Oct-95
25	23	Kasperi Kapanen	RW	KalPa (Fin)	6-0/180	23-Jul-96
26	14	Brycen Martin	D	Swift Current (WHL)	6-2/185	09-May-96
27	NR	Jack Glover	D	NTDP (USA)	6-3/195	17-May-96
28	29	Robert Fabbri	C	Guelph (OHL)	5-10/170	22-Jan-96
29	NR	Jack Dougherty	D	NTDP (USA)	6-1/185	25-May-96
30	18	Roland McKeown	D	Kingston (OHL)	6-1/195	20-Jan-96