Lian Bichsel – McKeen's Hockey

NHL: Victor Nuño – DYNASTY STOCK WATCH – Dallas Stars Edition

Victor Nuño — Sat, 24 Jan 2026 13:22:48 +0000

Dallas Stars defenseman Lian Bichsel (6). (Photo by Bailey Hillesheim/Icon Sportswire)

McKeen’s Hockey: Dynasty Stock Watch

Dallas Stars Edition

Team Outlook

The Dallas Stars remain one of the league’s most structurally sound organizations, blending a competitive NHL roster with a quietly strong development system. With a veteran core anchored by Roope Hintz, Jason Robertson, and Miro Heiskanen, Dallas continues to contend in the present while maintaining a steady pipeline of young talent capable of supplementing the roster in the coming years. Their success has limited true rebuilding opportunities, which means prospects must force their way into meaningful roles rather than being handed them.

For dynasty managers, Dallas represents a classic patience test. Opportunities will be earned slowly, and not every highly regarded name will find premium deployment in a deep lineup. Identifying which prospects possess the upside to break through and which may stall in support roles is critical. This edition focuses on three young assets trending upward and three whose market value may currently exceed their long-term fantasy outlook.

Buy Candidates

Arno Tiefensee, G (23)

Why Buy?

Tiefensee is emerging as one of the more intriguing goaltending prospects in the Stars’ system, and his recent progression suggests he may be closer to NHL relevance than many managers realize. He has shown strong technical structure, excellent rebound control, and improving puck tracking since arriving in North America, allowing him to handle heavier workloads with growing consistency. His calm positioning and ability to manage lateral plays stand out, particularly for a goaltender still adjusting to the smaller ice surface. While Hockey Prospecting currently pegs him at just a 19% percent chance of becoming an NHL regular, with comparables ranging from Keith Kinkaid to Mike Vernon, that wide spectrum reflects both the volatility of goaltender development and the upside still present in his profile. Notably, his overall trajectory and recent performance suggest he may now carry more upside than fellow Dallas prospect Remi Poirier, who has stalled somewhat in his development curve.

This is an ideal speculative buy window. Despite the modest projection, Tiefensee has delivered strong results in the AHL this season, posting a .922 save percentage and a 2.37 goals against average on a competitive Texas roster. Dallas continues to prioritize internal goaltending development, and while Jake Oettinger remains firmly entrenched as the starter, the organization lacks a clear long-term backup or succession plan. Tiefensee already looks capable of growing into at least a reliable NHL backup, with realistic 1B upside if his trajectory continues. Don’t let his time in the ECHL dissuade you from acquiring him. In deeper dynasty formats, acquiring a young goaltender on a structurally strong team before his role and value solidify can offer significant long-term return.

Emil Hemming, RW (19)

Why Buy?
Hemming continues to solidify himself as one of the most complete forward prospects in the Stars’ pipeline. His combination of pace, forechecking pressure, and offensive instincts allows him to impact the game in multiple ways, and his transition game remains one of his strongest assets. His calling card remains his shot, which already looks NHL ready, with a quick release and the ability to beat goaltenders cleanly from range. He attacks defenders with confidence, generates controlled entries at a high rate, and has made impressive strides in both his off-puck game and playmaking, rounding out his profile beyond pure finishing. His development curve this season suggests he is beginning to convert tools into sustainable production.

Hemming represents an excellent blend of floor and ceiling. He was once again an important contributor for Finland at the World Junior Championship, reinforcing his ability to perform in high-leverage international settings, and his production with the Barrie Colts has continued to trend upward as the season has progressed. His pNHLe has climbed significantly, now up to 64 after sitting closer to 40 earlier in the season, a meaningful jump that reflects his improving offensive impact. While his current comparables remain modest, names like Mike Amadio and Chris Tierney, the upward trajectory is encouraging. If that trend continues, his long-term value could rise considerably beyond what those early projections suggest. He still projects as a reliable top nine NHL winger with legitimate top six upside if his offensive processing continues to evolve. His shot volume and willingness to play through contact give him strong multi-category appeal, while Dallas’ long-term need for young, cost-controlled wingers creates a realistic path to opportunity. With his name still flying slightly under the radar compared to flashier prospects, this remains a prime time to acquire him before broader recognition catches up.

Lian Bichsel, D (21)

Why Buy?
Bichsel remains one of the more polarizing defense prospects in the system, but his physical toolkit and defensive maturity are becoming increasingly difficult to ignore. At 6-foot-5, he brings elite reach, strength along the boards, and strong net-front presence, and his impact is already showing up in measurable ways. Over the past two seasons, the only defenseman averaging more hits per game is Jeremy Lauzon, placing Bichsel firmly among the league’s most physical blueliners. While his offensive game remains limited, his puck movement has improved, and he is showing more confidence activating in transition and supporting the rush. His reads in the defensive zone continue to sharpen, allowing him to neutralize top competition effectively.

Bichsel offers a profile that is often undervalued but extremely useful in the right formats. His production is somewhat unidimensional, he averages roughly one shot per game and blocks fewer than one per contest, which limits his appeal in points leagues, but his elite hit volume can single-handedly swing weekly matchups in category formats. His Evolving Hockey player card does raise some concern, as his defensive impact has not yet translated into increased deployment, and he is currently sitting just under 16 minutes per night. That said, he remains a young defender with fewer than 65 NHL games played, and as he earns more trust and ice time, his peripheral totals could climb even further. Do not expect meaningful point production, that is not his profile, but in leagues that reward hits, blocks, and time on ice, Bichsel projects as a quietly valuable top four defender who can be acquired at a significant discount.

Sell Candidates

Cameron Schmidt, RW (19)

Why Sell?
Schmidt plays with pace and edge, and his motor is a bigger driver of his game than his pure scoring touch. While the goals have come in bunches at the junior level, his overall impact is more dependent on forechecking pressure, transition energy, and opportunistic offense than sustained play-driving. His skating remains only average by NHL standards, and his defensive engagement is still inconsistent, which complicates his projection into a reliable top six role. That profile lines up with his Hockey Prospecting probability dipping to 28% percent, which is still a respectable mark, but more in line with a middle-six energy forward than a true scoring-line fixture.

This is a classic case of market value outpacing certainty. Goal scorers often carry inflated perception early in development, and Schmidt’s highlight-reel production has driven optimism. Yet his pathway to top six minutes in a deep Dallas system is far from guaranteed. If another manager views him as a future first-line sniper, this is an excellent opportunity to capitalize before role limitations and developmental volatility compress his long-term fantasy ceiling.

Ayrton Martino, LW (23)

Why Sell?
Martino’s development curve has flattened considerably since turning professional, with his AHL production plummeting after a strong NCAA run. While he still flashes the same pace and transition ability that made him effective at the collegiate level, his impact at five-on-five has been far more limited against pro competition. His offense now looks more dependent on opportunistic touches than on consistent play-driving, and his lack of high-end puck skills or finishing ability has become more pronounced at this level. That regression is captured in the data, as his pNHLe in the Rank King application has fallen sharply from 52 to 20, a major signal that his earlier scoring projection was overly optimistic.

This is a clear case of expectations needing a reset. What once looked like a potential middle six scoring winger now profiles more as a depth or complementary forward with limited point ceiling. His comparables to Josh Bailey and Kirby Dach in the NHL Rank King application are starting to look increasingly wishful rather than predictive, given how little offensive gravity he is generating in the AHL. With his perceived value still anchored to his NCAA résumé in some circles, this remains a reasonable sell window before his long-term projection settles into a much more modest fantasy outcome.

Mavrik Bourque, C (24)

Why Sell?
Bourque remains one of the most talented playmakers in the Stars’ system, and his offensive intelligence continues to stand out. He processes the game at a high level, distributes effectively through traffic, and thrives as a facilitator on the power play. At the AHL level, he has consistently driven offense and shown the vision required to run a line. His Evolving Hockey player card based on his NHL time paints a more sobering picture, showing him as below average for an NHLer both offensively and defensively. That gap between skill reputation and underlying impact raises real questions about whether he can reach another level in production.

Bourque now profiles best as a middle six distributor rather than a primary offensive driver. With his reputation still carrying some weight, the window to get what you can for him is closing. Hopefully someone in your league still views him as a reliable NHL scorer, as the chances of that happening are growing smaller by the day.

Summary

Player	Role	Key Insight
Arno Tiefensee	Buy	Rising goaltender with NHL backup and long-term upside
Emil Hemming	Buy	Well-rounded winger with strong top six projection
Lian Bichsel	Buy	Physical defender with top four potential and strong peripherals
Cameron Schmidt	Sell	Goal scorer with volatile projection and role risk
Ayrton Martino	Sell	Speed winger likely capped as a middle-six contributor
Mavrik Bourque	Sell	Skilled playmaker whose fantasy ceiling may be limited by role

2025 NHL PROSPECTS REPORT: #23 DALLAS STARS – Top 15 NHL Affiliated Prospects

Thu, 22 May 2025 18:48:51 +0000

ST. PAUL, MN - APRIL 06: Dallas Stars defenseman Lian Bichsel (6) looks on during the second period of the NHL game between the Dallas Stars and Minnesota Wild on April 6th, 2025, at the Xcel Energy Center in St. Paul, MN. (Photo by Bailey Hillesheim/Icon Sportswire)

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Dallas 25 Prospects

MCKEEN’S 2024-25 NHL YEARBOOK – DALLAS STARS – Top 15 Prospect Profiles – Organizational Rank #17

Introduction - Dave Hall, Profiles - Derek Neumeier — Thu, 19 Sep 2024 18:00:42 +0000

_{DALLAS, TX - OCTOBER 05: Dallas Stars Center Mavrik Bourque (22) passes the puck during the game between the Dallas Stars and the St. Louis Blues on October 5, 2023 at the American Airlines Center in Dallas, TX. (Photo by George Walker/Icon Sportswire)}

Prospect System Ranking – 17th (Previous Rank - 10th)
GM: Jim Nill Hired: April 2013
COACH: Peter DeBoer Hired: June 2022

The Dallas Stars have consistently been praised for their drafting ability, and for good reason. Not only has their track record of hitting on picks held up, but they also manage to keep the team competitive while retaining first-round picks. It appears that GM Jim Nill follows a fire safe strategy of sticking with the high probability draft picks, while leveraging the rest. Since his hiring in 2013, Nill has only missed the first round once (in 2023) and has now carved out quite the significant list of “hits”.

Those first and second-round picks have now formed the backbone of the Stars' high-end and relatively young core, highlighted by the incredible haul in 2017 of Miro Heiskanen, Jake Oettinger, and Jason Robertson. They are now being complemented by more recent finds, including Wyatt Johnston (2021 first round) and Logan Stankoven (2021 second round), as well as Thomas Harley (2019 first round), who enjoyed a breakthrough year in 2023-24. Don’t forget about 2015 second-rounder Roope Hintz, who has also blossomed into a well-versed heavy hitter on this team’s top six installment.

Logan Stankoven, currently ranked as McKeen’s seventh overall prospect, hasn’t technically graduated yet but is expected to make the jump out of training camp full-time. Fresh off of a Rookie of the Year-worthy campaign in the AHL, scoring 57 points in 47 games, Stankoven said goodbye to his minor league career with a strong showing during the final regular season stretch and Conference Final run.

Beyond Stankoven, the Stars' top prospect group includes Mavrik Bourque (34th), who has transitioned to the AHL seamlessly, firing at nearly a point-per-game pace with 129 points in 147 games for the Texas Stars. On defence, Lian Bichsel (ranked 76th) and Christian Kyrou (ranked 170th) are developing well and look set to follow in Thomas Harley’s footsteps as key pieces of the Stars’ backend over the next few seasons.

With a young core, and a few more midrange-pedigree names on the way, the window looks wide open for the Stars to remain competitive for the foreseeable future.

Dallas Stars Top-15 Prospects

1. Logan Stankoven

From the first few shifts of his very first NHL game, it was abundantly obvious that Stankoven was never going back to the AHL ever again. As exceedingly rare as it is to see someone of his size step into the sport’s best league and immediately start making an impact, those who have closely followed “Stank” over the past few seasons weren’t surprised one bit, because there haven’t been any challenges that he’s faced where he hasn’t been fit for the task. He’s a Tasmanian Devil who never quits on plays or takes a shift off, but he combines that energy with elite hockey sense and play tracking, making him a delightfully chaotic entity who is constantly disrupting enemy possessions and creating bang-bang scoring chances. He’s a truly special kind of player, and is already quite unique from everyone else in the entire NHL.

2. Mavrik Bourque

Bourque’s full-time arrival in the NHL was delayed, understandably, by his AHL teammate Stankoven grabbing a spot within the deep Dallas forward corps first. He won’t have to wait long, however, because he’s already proven himself more than worthy of receiving that opportunity. And spending more time down on the farm with the Texas Stars allowed him to keep racking up points, which eventually led to him finishing with the distinction of being the league’s top scorer and thereby winning the corresponding John B. Sollenberger Trophy, which is one heck of a consolation prize. His game is built around blending high-end smarts, vision, playmaking ability, and character, and the fact that he is a center who looks casually comfortable in all three zones is delicious icing on the cake. How high his ceiling will reach as an NHLer will depend on how much more speed he can add to his game.

3. Lian Bichsel

In a prospect pool largely consisting of players who are on the smaller side, Bichsel stands out in a big way — literally. In fact, there aren’t many top prospects across the entire hockey world who are as physically imposing as the substantial Swiss. Making matters even more enticing, he is fully aware of how he can use his enormous size to his advantage, and clearly gets a vexatious kick out of inflicting severe punishment on opponents in ways that help his teams win games. He’s also a powerful and technically proficient skater, and once he gets some wind under his sails it can be jaw-dropping to watch him fly down the ice. His puck control and the decisions he makes with it are spotty at times, but they’re both improving nicely. It’s only a matter of time before he’s a force of nature at the NHL level.

4. Emil Hemming

The Stars said that they had Hemming higher on their draft list than where they picked him, and it's easy to understand why. His game is readily projectable to the NHL level, and he also shows occasional flashes that he can eventually become a high-end performer and difference-maker. He was dominant early on last year at the Finnish junior level, and while he didn't shine quite as much in the Liiga after getting called up full time, he still held his own and already looked like he belonged playing against men. He's a dangerous shooter, especially with his one-timer, and he can drive play forward with his physicality and straight-line speed. If he can't reach his ceiling as a scoring-line winger, his game is well-rounded enough that he should be able to find a spot or role elsewhere in the lineup.

5. Christian Kyrou

There’s no denying that Kyrou is a prospect with an enviable amount of pure skill, as evidenced by his ability to create points and highlight-reel plays during his OHL days. The challenge for him since then, however, has been adjusting his style of play in a way that is more conducive to success at the AHL level. His riverboat gambler ways of old, where he hung onto pucks for extended periods of time as he looked for ways to dance around opponents or make other fancy plays, simply don’t work as well within the structured confines of the pro leagues. He also doesn’t have the size, reach, or athleticism needed to readily help him clean up his own mistakes when they happen. The foundation of an NHL powerplay quarterback is still buried deep somewhere inside of him, but it might take an archaeologist’s patience and precision to unearth it.

6. Matej Blumel

Blumel didn’t get to see any action with the big club last season after a six-game cup of tea the year before, and getting inarguably bumped down the organization’s forward depth chart certainly has to sting, but producing a 30-goal season in the AHL as a 23-year-old is nothing to sneeze at. There will always be interest in players who have a knack for filling the back of the net, and he’s proven over the course of his young career so far, across different leagues and levels, that he’s one of those guys. The elusive part for him has been showing exactly what else he can do really well. Nothing else in his game grades out all that highly, which raises concerns about how he’d handle the workload of a full NHL season. His goal-scoring prowess can only buy him so much time if he doesn’t add something else notable with it.

7. Tristan Bertucci

It was a trying season for Bertucci, who was one of the few competent defensemen on a terrible Firebirds squad, and on top of that, also played through injury down the stretch. He was asked to do a lot of heavy lifting for his club, probably more than he was ready for. However, the Stars must have been impressed by how well he handled his challenging circumstances, because they signed him to his entry-level contract this March, a full season sooner than they needed to. The impressive tools that give him NHL potential - and led to Dallas using a 2nd-round pick on him - are still there: the reach, the fluid four-direction mobility, the smooth puck control in motion, and the vision in the offensive zone. If his difficult situation has wizened up some of the immature tendencies in his game, then it will have been worth it in the long run.

8. Antonio Stranges

The question about Stranges has always been whether or not he can become more than a one-trick-pony, and as we near the four-year mark of his draft day that question is still very much unanswered. In all fairness, his trick — the 10 & 2 or “mohawk” skating style — is pretty darn impressive, and there are still times where he can use it to make magic happen. The problem is that having to rely on it makes him more predictable, and predictable forwards are easier to defend. So, what else does he have to work with? His pucks skills can be pretty slick at times, and his wrist shot is sneakily dangerous. He blended these tools to flash more offensive pop in the OHL than has been seen so far in the AHL, so maybe there’s still more potential in here somewhere that can still be unlocked.

9. Ayrton Martino

It seems like the NCAA keeps partitioning further and further into the haves and the have-nots due to its loose recruitment rules, and that has to make things harder for prospects like Martino, who are plenty talented but don’t receive a ton of support around them. The good news for the Stars is that while Clarkson University might not be the best place for a prospect’s development, talent doesn’t usually just disappear if it isn’t nurtured in the most ideal of environments, and Martino sure has a lot of talent at his disposal. He is blazingly quick with both his hands and his feet, which allows him to create separation space for himself and then make complicated plays at his top speed. He’ll be heading back to college for his senior year, and once that’s wrapped up Dallas will surely be waiting with a contract and a pen.

10. Aram Minnetian

Minnetian is a sneakily good young blueliner. He doesn’t always get the attention or credit that he deserves because he doesn’t put up gaudy point totals or get crowds roaring by landing big hits. What he does do, however, is keep tight gaps against opposing forwards, retrieve pucks deep in his own end, evade oncoming forecheck pressure, and exit the defensive zone cleanly with possession by skating it out or passing it out. And he does all of those things with advanced precision and dependability. It’s not a coincidence that both the NTDP in 2022-23 and Boston College in 2023-24 were highly successful teams while using him as one of their go-to defenders. Minnetian will still need to find another gear in his game and evolve from being a good defender into a great defender to stand out enough to win an NHL roster spot, but things are moving in the right direction.

11. Kyle McDonald

McDonald is an interesting prospect because the strengths and weaknesses of his game are both so pronounced. First, the good: he is an excellent net-front presence. He's so big and strong that he can bully his way to the enemy crease. The bad is, well, almost everything else. His skating is slow and clunky, and he doesn't drive play. The only achievable NHL pathway for him is as a depth winger and powerplay specialist, but it’s a realistic possibility.

12. Chase Wheatcroft

Wheatcroft had a fantastic season in 2022-23, earning the contract that Dallas offered him as an undrafted free agent. However, the transition to the professional level wasn't immediately smooth. That said, during his WHL days he was a late bloomer who went through a bumpy development, so these kinds of trials aren't new to him. The key for him now will be to forge a clear identity as a two-way forward who can chip in work wherever his team needs it.

13. Justin Ertel

Ertel needed a big 2023-24 season to turn things around and earn his entry-level contract, and he delivered emphatically. He really leaned into his role on North Bay as a penalty killer, pest, and physical presence and got great results from it, especially during the playoffs. That’s an encouraging sign, because that kind of specialization, although not glamorous, is his best ticket to playing in the NHL one day.

14. Gavin White

After winning back-to-back OHL championships White had some wind under his sails coming into his first professional season. He handled the difficulty level of the AHL just fine when he played but got caught in a bit of a numbers game on the crowded Texas blueline and didn't always get to dress for games, usually through no fault of his own. He drives puck possession effectively using his feet, though it doesn't often result in producing points.

15. Connor Punnett

From his hits to his shots, everything that Punnett does is strong and heavy. And that's a good thing for him, because it set him apart from other young, undrafted defensemen so much that Dallas wanted to sign him as a free agent prospect. He's a tough customer who’s not afraid to stick up for his teammates, and that leadership trait was part of why Barrie named him their captain this season.

MCKEEN’S 2024 NHL PROSPECT REPORT – #10 Dallas Stars- Organization Overview – Top 15 Prospects

Player Profiles - Derek Neumeier, Team Overview - Robert Howard — Fri, 07 Jun 2024 15:00:06 +0000

DALLAS, TX - APRIL 22: Dallas Stars center Logan Stankoven (11) reacts to a goal score during game one of the Western Conference First Round between the Dallas Stars and the Vegas Golden Knights on April 22, 2024 at American Airlines Center in Dallas, Texas. (Photo by Matthew Pearce/Icon Sportswire)

In over a decade as GM, Jim Nill has kept the franchise largely in contention, while retooling his roster to add surprisingly elite young talent throughout the line-up, despite not drafting particularly high. Nill has largely hung onto his picks, particularly his first rounders. That has netted him outstanding graduated prospects Wyatt Johnston and Thomas Harley. Johnston delivered an outstanding playoff, and Harley emerged as a potential top pairing offensive defenseman with a high ceiling. They will be joined by second round phenom, Logan Stankoven, who immediately made his presence felt in the NHL. Add them to three emerging superstars under 25-years of age in goaltender Jake Oettinger, Defenseman Miro Heiskanen and Jason Robertson. Oettinger and Heiskanen could be future award winners and are already among the best at their positions in the league. Robertson delivered 107 points a year ago and led the team in scoring this year. That is a core that will be a Stanley Cup threat for a long time alongside Roope Hintz (27).

After qualifying for the conference finals for a second straight season, having the 10th ranked prospect group is quite an achievement for their scouts and development team. They have placed three players in the McKeen’s top 60 in the aforementioned Stankoven (5th overall), AHL scoring leader, Mavrik Bourqe (23rd) and Lian Bischel (57th), a 6’ 6” defender who can skate like the wind. Nill has also shown a tendency to be patient with his prospects, and all evidence to date would have done nothing to convince him otherwise. All three players look to be impact NHL’ers. Dallas only has three picks in the upcoming draft but is more likely to trade for more picks than move prospects or even future picks. Standing pat and letting his excellent group of youngsters gain another year of experience together, particularly in the playoffs, may be the smart bet.

RNK	PLAYER	POS	AGE	HT/WT	TM	Acquired	GP	G(W)	A(L)	PTS(GAA)	PIM(SPCT)
1	Logan Stankoven	C	21	5-8/170	Texas (AHL)	`21(47th)	47	24	33	57	26
					Dallas (NHL)	`21(47th)	24	6	8	14	4
2	Mavrik Bourque	C	22	5-10/190	Texas (AHL)	`20(30th)	71	26	51	77	32
3	Lian Bichsel	D	19	6-6/233	Rogle (SHL)	`22(18th)	29	2	2	4	28
					Texas (AHL)	`22(18th)	16	1	6	7	34
4	Christian Kyrou	D	20	5-10/170	Texas (AHL)	`22(50th)	57	8	15	23	22
5	Matej Blumel	LW	23	6-0/200	Texas (AHL)	FA(6/22)	72	31	31	62	37
6	Tristan Bertucci	D	18	6-1/180	Flint (OHL)	`23(61st)	61	10	34	44	77
7	Antonio Stranges	LW	22	5-11/185	Texas (AHL)	`20(123rd)	55	11	12	23	10
8	Ayrton Martino	LW	21	5-11/185	Clarkson (ECAC)	`21(73rd)	31	9	18	27	8
9	Kyle McDonald	RW	22	6-4/220	Texas (AHL)	FA(3/23)	58	15	11	26	22
10	Chase Wheatcroft	C	21	6-2/190	Texas (AHL)	FA(3/23)	46	3	13	16	28
11	Gavin White	D	21	6-0/195	Texas (AHL)	`22(115th)	49	0	11	11	18
12	Aram Minnetian	D	19	5-11/190	Boston College (HE)	`23(125th)	40	3	6	9	29
13	Francesco Arcuri	C	20	6-2/195	Idaho (ECHL)	`21(175th)	64	25	21	46	38
14	Brad Gardiner	C	19	6-0/180	Ottawa (OHL)	`23(79th)	67	16	33	49	34
15	Ben Kraws	G	23	6-5/195	St. Lawrence (ECAC)	FA(3/24)	37	14	17	2.49	0.919

1. Logan Stankoven, C, Texas Stars (AHL)

From the first few shifts of his very first NHL game it was abundantly obvious that Stankoven was never going back to the AHL ever again. As exceedingly rare as it is to see someone of his size step into the sport’s best league and immediately start making an impact, those who have closely followed “Stank” over the past few seasons weren’t surprised one bit, because there haven’t been any challenges that he’s faced where he hasn’t been fit for the task. He’s a Tasmanian Devil who never quits on plays or takes a shift off, but he combines that energy with elite hockey sense and play tracking, making him a delightfully chaotic entity who is constantly disrupting enemy possessions and creating bang-bang scoring chances. He’s a truly special kind of player and is already quite unique from everyone else in the entire NHL.

2. Mavrik Bourque, C, Texas Stars (AHL)

Bourque’s full-time arrival in the NHL was delayed, understandably, by his AHL teammate Stankoven grabbing a spot within the deep Dallas forward corps first. He won’t have to wait long, however, because he’s already proven himself more than worthy of receiving that opportunity. And spending more time down on the farm with the Texas Stars allowed him to keep racking up points, which eventually led to him finishing with the distinction of being the league’s top scorer and thereby winning the corresponding John B. Sollenberger Trophy, which is one heck of a consolation prize. His game is built around blending high-end smarts, vision, playmaking ability and character, and the fact that he is a center who looks casually comfortable in all three zones is a delicious icing on the cake. How high his ceiling will reach as an NHLer will depend on how much more speed he can add to his game.

3. Lian Bichsel, D, Rogle BK (SHL)

In a prospect pool that largely consists of players who are on the smaller side of things, Bichsel stands out in a big way — literally. In fact, there aren’t many top prospects across the entire hockey world who are as physically imposing as the substantial Swiss. Making matters even more enticing, he is fully aware of how he can use his enormous size to his advantage, and clearly gets a vexatious kick out of inflicting severe punishment on opponents in ways that help his teams win games. He’s also a powerful and technically proficient skater, and once he gets some wind under his sails it can be jaw-dropping to watch him fly down the ice. His puck control and the decisions he makes with it are spotty at times, but they’re both improving nicely. It’s only a matter of time before he’s a force of nature at the NHL level.

4. Christian Kyrou, D, Texas Stars (AHL)

There’s no denying that Kyrou is a prospect with an enviable amount of pure skill, as evidenced by his ability to create points and highlight-reel plays during his OHL days. The challenge for him since then, however, has been adjusting his style of play in a way that is more conducive to success at the AHL level. His riverboat gambler ways of old, where he hung onto pucks for extended periods of time as he looked for ways to dance around opponents or make other fancy plays, simply don’t work as well within the structured confines of the pro leagues. He also doesn’t have the size, reach or athleticism needed to readily help him clean up his own mistakes when they happen. The foundation of an NHL powerplay quarterback is still buried deep somewhere inside of him, but it might take an archaeologist’s patience and precision to unearth it.

5. Matej Blumel, LW, Texas Stars (AHL)

Blumel didn’t get to see any action with the big club this season after a six-game cup of tea last year, and getting inarguably bumped down the organization’s forward depth chart certainly has to sting but producing a 30-goal season in the AHL as a 23-year-old is nothing to sneeze at. There will always be interest in players who have a knack for filling the back of the net, and he’s proven over the course of his young career so far, across different leagues and levels, that he’s one of those guys. The elusive part for him has been showing what else, exactly, he can do really well. Nothing else in his game grades out all that highly, which raises concerns about how he’d handle the workload of a full NHL season. His goal-scoring prowess can only buy him so much time if he doesn’t add something else notable with it.

6. Tristan Bertucci, D, Flint Firebirds (OHL)

It was a trying season for Bertucci, who was one of the few competent defensemen on a terrible Firebirds squad, and on top of that, also played through injury down the stretch. He was asked to do a lot of heavy lifting for his club, probably more than he was ready for. However, the Stars must have been impressed by how well he handled his challenging circumstances, because they signed him to his entry-level contract this March, a full seasoner sooner than they needed to. The impressive tools that give him NHL potential, and led to Dallas using a 2nd-round pick on him, are still there: the reach, the fluid four-direction mobility, the smooth puck control in motion, and the vision in the offensive zone. If his difficult situation has wisened up some of the immature tendencies in his game, then it will have been worth it in the long run.

7. Antonio Stranges, LW, Texas Stars (AHL)

8. Ayrton Martino, LW Clarkson University (NCAA)

9. Kyle McDonald, RW, Texas Stars (AHL)

McDonald is an interesting prospect because the strengths and weaknesses of his game are so pronounced and far apart from each other. First, the good: he is an excellent net-front presence on the powerplay. He's so big and strong that he can bully his way to the enemy crease and is quite a handful to box out or tie up once he gets there. Most of his goals are of the greasy variety, but he's also a heavy finisher from mid-range if he has enough time and space. The bad is, well, almost everything else. His skating is slow and clunky, he doesn't drive much play himself, and he's not as much of a physical presence as you'd like to see. The only probable NHL pathway for him is as a 4th-line winger and powerplay specialist, but luckily for him and the Stars, he has a realistic chance to earn that pigeonholed role.

10. Chase Wheatcroft, C, Texas Stars (AHL)

Wheatcroft had a fantastic final season in the WHL in 2022-23, collecting praise as one of the best players in the league and fully earning the contract that Dallas offered him as an undrafted free agent. However, like what was experienced by a lot of former overage junior stars who have worn those same shoes, the transition to the professional level wasn't immediately smooth. His welcome to the AHL included battling through injury, bouncing around the lineup looking for a consistent role, and sitting at times as a healthy scratch. That said, during his WHL days he was a late bloomer who went through a bumpy development and came out better on the other side, so these kinds of trials aren't entirely new to him. The key for him now will be to keep forging a clear identity as a trustworthy two-way forward who can chip in good work wherever his team needs it.

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

MCKEEN’S 2024 NHL PROSPECTS REPORT: TOP 30 NHL PROSPECTS

McKeen's Hockey — Sat, 01 Jun 2024 12:22:26 +0000

At McKeen’s Hockey we do a ranked affiliated prospect list twice a season. Our first, this ranking, follows the end of the regular season for most prospects but does not include the playoffs. It is a ranking of the top 200, plus the top 15 by team, prior to the NHL Draft. Once the NHL Draft is complete, we begin the process of updating the organizational ranking to a top 20, and then rank the top 300. That is completed in August, once the dust has settled on free agency, and any trades that are made in the meantime. We include that ranking in our McKeen’s NHL Yearbook, published in late August, Early September.

Our team of 16 scouts are based in key markets around the world, in the rinks, supported by video scouting. They utilize some terrific tools from Hudl/InStat, which can isolate so many aspects of a player’s game, along with proprietary statistics. They spend countless hours in rinks and in front of screens and are deeply familiar with these players and their progression. Our management team of Brock Otten (Director of Scouting) and Derek Neumeier (Assistant Director of Scouting/Senior Western Regional Scout), along with Video Scouting Coordinator, Josh Bell, will take the teams input and finalize the list you see below. Brock, Derek and Josh are responsible for the player write-ups in the Prospect Guide.

The organizational rankings are based on an algorithm that takes into account how many prospects are ranked within the top 200. The teams are broken down by the number of prospects in our top 1 -25, 26 - 50, 51 - 100, and 101 - 200. A weight is attached to each group and then some subjective tweaking is done based on our knowledge of the players. There can be a wider discrepancy in the top 25 group than the latter groupings that needs to be taken into account.

Here is our definition of an NHL prospect: Players under 26 years of age as of 9/15/2024 who have appeared in less than 60 NHL games (30 for goalies) and less than 35 in one season (25 for goalies).

Check back in with us in the fall to see how things change following the draft. We are releasing out top 30 NHL Prospects free to non-subscribers. If you want to learn more, link here.

Subscribers can link to the full top 200 listing here

Here is an excerpt of Brock Otten's Risers and Fallers article from the magazine to give you more perspective and a little taste of our content.

The best part of scouting is the somewhat unpredictable nature of human development. Some players improve dramatically from one year to the next…others do not. When we compare the rankings from our 2023-24 NHL Yearbook (where we did a Top 300 prospect ranking) to now, these are the players who have risen/fallen the most.

Risers

Logan Stankoven (27 to 5) - Dallas Stars

Stankoven’s jump from one of the best players in the WHL to one of the best players in the AHL has been impressive. So has his quick start in the NHL.

Ryan Leonard (32 to 6) – Washington Capitals

Leonard is returning to Boston College after a Championship barely eluded him this year. However, he has proven to be an elite play driver to go with his strong off puck play.

MONTREAL, QC - FEBRUARY 11: Look on Montreal Canadiens right wing Joshua Roy (89) during warm-up before the St. Louis Blues versus the Montreal Canadiens game on February 11, 2024, at Bell Centre in Montreal, QC (Photo by David Kirouac/Icon Sportswire)

Josh Roy (63 to 35) – Montreal Canadiens

Roy continues to prove doubters wrong after a terrific AHL season with Laval. His skill set has become so well rounded since being drafted.

Conor Geekie (68 to 18) – Utah

Geekie’s power game from the middle of the ice makes him such an interesting prospect for today’s NHL. His skating continues to improve.

Mavrik Bourque (79 to 23) – Dallas Stars

Bourque emerged as one of the best players in the AHL this season as a sophomore professional. He’s ready to take that next step with the Stars.

Gabe Perreault (86 to 19) – New York Rangers

Once thought to be the third wheel on the talented Will Smith/Ryan Leonard threesome, Perreault’s progression as a play driver at Boston College this season has altered the perception that he can be a front-line NHL player.

Bradly Nadeau (109 to 34) – Carolina Hurricanes

Drafting early out of the BCHL has yielded inconsistent results, however Nadeau was exceptional as a freshman at Maine. Did he leave school too early though?

Jagger Firkus (112 to 47) – Seattle Kraken

Firkus took his game to another level this year in his final WHL season, leading the league in scoring. He’s ready to be a pro.

Gavin Brindley (122 to 66) – Columbus Blue Jackets

One of the most improved players in the NCAA this year, Brindley emerged as a star for the University of Michigan and really altered his projection as a potential top six forward.

Quentin Musty (125 to 51) – San Jose Sharks

The dynamic American winger worked hard to fine tune components of his game in Sudbury this year and deserves a bump for improving his consistency.

Jani Nyman (135 to 81) – Seattle Kraken

Nyman emerged as one of the top goal scorers in Finland this season as a U20 player. This, combined with his strong WJC performance, has helped push him up our board north.

Logan Mailloux (145 to 45) – Montreal Canadiens

Mailloux proved to be way more refined at the AHL level than previously perceived. Simply put, he was one of the best defensive prospects in the AHL this year.

Josh Doan (153 to 55) - Utah

What a terrific story to the end of the Coyotes franchise. Doan emerged as a potential star this season and finished the year strong in the NHL, scoring in his debut.

Riley Heidt (157 to 44) – Minnesota Wild

We still don’t understand how Heidt fell as far as he did in the 2023 draft, however he is proving NHL scouts wrong thus far after a remarkable year with Prince George.

Ville Koivunen (165 to 71) – Pittsburgh Penguins

The main piece of the Jake Guentzel to Carolina deal, Koivunen emerged as one of the top players in Liiga this year.

Ethan Del Mastro (169 to 73) – Chicago Blackhawks

There was little doubt that Del Mastro’s strong defensive ability would translate to the AHL level well, but he continues to improve offensively and that has altered his projection.

Theo Lindstein (185 to 91) – St. Louis Blues

Lindstein’s strong year for Brynas has helped to elevate his upside as a two-way defender. We may have ranked him too low in our 2023 Draft Rankings.

Carson Rehkopf (201 to 69) – Seattle Kraken

Consistency off the puck and a lack of engagement held Rehkopf back last year. This year marked improvement in those areas helped him emerge as a top offensive talent in the OHL.

Easton Cowan (204 to 67) – Toronto Maple Leafs

One of the surprises of the 2023 draft, Cowan set a new OHL record with a 42-game point streak. More than just a high energy guy now, he can be a difference maker offensively.

Seamus Casey (214 to 63) – New Jersey Devils

Casey continues to improve in the NCAA. He may not have elite size, but he has everything else, and it has the Devils excited about his future.

Jacob Fowler (222 to 52) – Montreal Canadiens

Fowler compiled a list of accolades as a freshman this year at Boston College, emerging as one of the top goaltending prospects in the game.

Fraser Minten (226 to 84) – Toronto Maple Leafs

After starting the year with the Leafs, Minten returned to the WHL and ended up captaining Canada at the World Juniors.

Jackson Blake (277 to 117) – Carolina Hurricanes

A finalist for the Hobey Baker this year, Blake became an NCAA star for North Dakota, and he now turns pro.

Erik Portillo (Unranked to 118) – Los Angeles Kings

Acquired by the Kings, Portillo turned pro after three years at Michigan and he was one of the best goaltenders in the AHL as a first-year pro.

Rodwin Dionicio (Unranked to 139) – Anaheim Ducks

Dionicio still plays a high risk, high reward game from the back end, but his offensive upside has become too large to ignore.

Fallers

EDM - Xavier Bourgault

Xavier Bourgault (from 48 to 113) – Edmonton Oilers

After a mediocre first professional year last season, Bourgault was even more disappointing as a sophomore with Bakersfield. The Oilers just haven’t been developing prospects well in recent years.

Eduard Sale (72 to 140) – Seattle Kraken

Sale’s first year in North America did not go according to plan as he struggled to be a consistent impact player in the OHL.

Jack Rathbone (96 to not ranked) – Pittsburgh Penguins

Perhaps we ranked Rathbone too aggressively this summer, but not only did he fail to earn a spot on Vancouver, but he’s now an NHL after thought after entering Pittsburgh’s organization via trade.

Jacob Perreault (127 to not ranked) – Montreal Canadiens

Perreault’s off puck play and skating just haven’t improved to the point where he can be a consistent pro and it caused the Ducks to move on from him, trading him to Montreal.

Jan Jenik (156 to not ranked) - Utah

Once a highly ranked prospect, Jenik continues to fall. He just hasn’t been able to take that next step and even passed through waivers this year unclaimed.

RNK	PLAYER	NHL	POS	AGE	HT/WT	TM	GP	G(W)	A(L)	PTS(GAA)	PIM(SPCT)
1	Will Smith	SJ	C	19	6-0/175	Boston College (HE)	41	25	46	71	14
2	Matvei Michkov	Phi	RW	19	5-10/170	SKA St. Petersburg-HK Sochi (KHL)	48	19	22	41	26
3	Brandt Clarke	LA	D	21	6-2/185	Los Angeles (NHL)	16	2	4	6	10
4	Cutter Gauthier	Ana	LW	20	6-2/190	Boston College (HE)	41	38	27	65	18
5	Logan Stankoven	Dal	C	21	5-8/170	Dallas (NHL)	24	6	8	14	4
6	Ryan Leonard	Wsh	RW	19	5-11/190	Boston College (HE)	41	31	29	60	38
7	Alexander Nikishin	Car	D	22	6-3/195	SKA St. Petersburg (KHL)	67	17	39	56	39
8	Yaroslav Askarov	Nsh	G	21	6-3/175	Milwaukee (AHL)	44	30	13	2.39	0.911
9	Jesper Wallstedt	Min	G	21	6-3/215	Iowa (AHL)	45	22	19	2.70	0.910
10	Matthew Savoie	Buf	C	20	5-9/179	Wen-MJ (WHL)	34	30	41	71	10
11	Simon Edvinsson	Det	D	21	6-6/215	Detroit (NHL)	16	1	1	2	4
12	Jonathan Lekkerimaki	Van	RW	19	5-11/170	Orebro (SHL)	46	19	12	31	10
13	Dustin Wolf	Cgy	G	23	6-0/166	Calgary (AHL)	36	20	12	2.45	0.922
14	Devon Levi	Buf	G	21	6-0/192	Rochester (AHL)	26	16	6	2.42	0.927
15	Olen Zellweger	Ana	D	20	5-9/180	Anaheim (NHL)	26	2	7	9	4
16	Dmitri Simashev	Ari	D	19	6-4/198	Lokomotiv Yaroslavl (KHL)	63	4	6	10	18
17	David Reinbacher	Mtl	D	19	6-2/185	Kloten (Sui-NL)	35	1	10	11	18
18	Conor Geekie	Ari	C	19	6-3/193	Wen-SC (WHL)	55	43	56	99	66
19	Gabe Perreault	NYR	RW	18	5-11/165	Boston College (HE)	36	19	41	60	29
20	Daniil But	Ari	LW	19	6-5/203	Lokomotiv Yaroslavl (KHL)	55	10	11	21	10
21	Shane Wright	Sea	C	20	6-0/200	Coachella Valley (AHL)	59	22	25	47	18
22	Jiri Kulich	Buf	C	20	6-1/186	Rochester (AHL)	57	27	18	45	26
23	Mavrik Bourque	Dal	C	22	5-10/190	Texas (AHL)	71	26	51	77	32
24	Nate Danielson	Det	C	19	6-2/185	Bdn-Por (WHL)	54	24	43	67	42
25	Danila Yurov	Min	RW	19	6-1/175	Metallurg Magnitogorsk (KHL)	62	21	28	49	35
26	Brennan Othmann	NYR	LW	21	6-0/175	Hartford (AHL)	67	21	28	49	65
27	Lane Hutson	Mtl	D	20	5-10/160	Boston University (HE)	38	15	34	49	24
28	Tom Willander	Van	D	19	6-1/180	Boston University (HE)	38	4	21	25	12
29	Marco Kasper	Det	C	20	6-1/185	Grand Rapids (AHL)	71	14	21	35	30
30	Dalibor Dvorsky	StL	C	18	6-1/200	Sudbury (OHL)	52	45	43	88	17

2024 NHL PROSPECTS REPORT: TOP 200 NHL PROSPECTS

McKeen's Hockey — Sat, 25 May 2024 17:02:31 +0000

At McKeen’s Hockey we do a ranked affiliated prospect list twice a season. Our first is following the end of the regular season for most prospects but does not include the playoffs. It is a ranking of the top 200, plus the top 15 by team, prior to the NHL Draft. Once the NHL Draft is complete, we begin the process of updating the organizational ranking to a top 20, and then rank the top 300. That is completed in August, once the dust has settled on free agency, and any trades that are made in the meantime. We include that ranking in our McKeen’s NHL Yearbook, published in late August, Early September.

Check back in with us in the fall to see how things change following the draft.

Subscribers can link to the listing here

RNK	PLAYER	NHL	POS	AGE	HT/WT	TM	GP	G(W)	A(L)	PTS(GAA)	PIM(SPCT)
1	Will Smith	SJ	C	19	6-0/175	Boston College (HE)	41	25	46	71	14
2	Matvei Michkov	Phi	RW	19	5-10/170	SKA St. Petersburg-HK Sochi (KHL)	48	19	22	41	26
3	Brandt Clarke	LA	D	21	6-2/185	Los Angeles (NHL)	16	2	4	6	10
4	Cutter Gauthier	Ana	LW	20	6-2/190	Boston College (HE)	41	38	27	65	18
5	Logan Stankoven	Dal	C	21	5-8/170	Dallas (NHL)	24	6	8	14	4
6	Ryan Leonard	Wsh	RW	19	5-11/190	Boston College (HE)	41	31	29	60	38
7	Alexander Nikishin	Car	D	22	6-3/195	SKA St. Petersburg (KHL)	67	17	39	56	39
8	Yaroslav Askarov	Nsh	G	21	6-3/175	Milwaukee (AHL)	44	30	13	2.39	0.911
9	Jesper Wallstedt	Min	G	21	6-3/215	Iowa (AHL)	45	22	19	2.70	0.910
10	Matthew Savoie	Buf	C	20	5-9/179	Wen-MJ (WHL)	34	30	41	71	10
11	Simon Edvinsson	Det	D	21	6-6/215	Detroit (NHL)	16	1	1	2	4
12	Jonathan Lekkerimaki	Van	RW	19	5-11/170	Orebro (SHL)	46	19	12	31	10
13	Dustin Wolf	Cgy	G	23	6-0/166	Calgary (AHL)	36	20	12	2.45	0.922
14	Devon Levi	Buf	G	21	6-0/192	Rochester (AHL)	26	16	6	2.42	0.927
15	Olen Zellweger	Ana	D	20	5-9/180	Anaheim (NHL)	26	2	7	9	4
16	Dmitri Simashev	Ari	D	19	6-4/198	Lokomotiv Yaroslavl (KHL)	63	4	6	10	18
17	David Reinbacher	Mtl	D	19	6-2/185	Kloten (Sui-NL)	35	1	10	11	18
18	Conor Geekie	Ari	C	19	6-3/193	Wen-SC (WHL)	55	43	56	99	66
19	Gabe Perreault	NYR	RW	18	5-11/165	Boston College (HE)	36	19	41	60	29
20	Daniil But	Ari	LW	19	6-5/203	Lokomotiv Yaroslavl (KHL)	55	10	11	21	10
21	Shane Wright	Sea	C	20	6-0/200	Coachella Valley (AHL)	59	22	25	47	18
22	Jiri Kulich	Buf	C	20	6-1/186	Rochester (AHL)	57	27	18	45	26
23	Mavrik Bourque	Dal	C	22	5-10/190	Texas (AHL)	71	26	51	77	32
24	Nate Danielson	Det	C	19	6-2/185	Bdn-Por (WHL)	54	24	43	67	42
25	Danila Yurov	Min	RW	19	6-1/175	Metallurg Magnitogorsk (KHL)	62	21	28	49	35
26	Brennan Othmann	NYR	LW	21	6-0/175	Hartford (AHL)	67	21	28	49	65
27	Lane Hutson	Mtl	D	20	5-10/160	Boston University (HE)	38	15	34	49	24
28	Tom Willander	Van	D	19	6-1/180	Boston University (HE)	38	4	21	25	12
29	Marco Kasper	Det	C	20	6-1/185	Grand Rapids (AHL)	71	14	21	35	30
30	Dalibor Dvorsky	StL	C	18	6-1/200	Sudbury (OHL)	52	45	43	88	17
31	Brad Lambert	Wpg	C	20	6-0/180	Manitoba (AHL)	64	21	34	55	38
32	Ivan Miroshnichenko	Wsh	LW	20	6-1/185	Washington (NHL)	21	2	4	6	6
33	Axel Sandin Pellikka	Det	D	19	5-11/180	Skelleftea (SHL)	39	10	8	18	17
34	Bradly Nadeau	Car	LW	18	5-10/165	Maine (HE)	37	19	27	46	12
35	Joshua Roy	Mtl	RW	20	6-0/190	Montreal (NHL)	23	4	5	9	0
36	Denton Mateychuk	CBJ	D	19	5-11/190	Moose Jaw (WHL)	52	17	58	75	31
37	Brayden Yager	Pit	C	19	5-11/165	Moose Jaw (WHL)	57	35	60	95	20
38	Calum Ritchie	Col	C	19	6-2/185	Oshawa (OHL)	50	28	52	80	20
39	Joakim Kemell	Nsh	RW	20	5-10/185	Milwaukee (AHL)	67	16	25	41	23
40	Colby Barlow	Wpg	LW	19	6-0/195	Owen Sound (OHL)	50	40	18	58	27
41	Jimmy Snuggerud	StL	RW	19	6-1/185	Minnesota (B1G)	39	21	13	34	42
42	Matthew Coronato	Cgy	RW	21	5-10/183	Calgary (NHL)	34	3	6	9	4
43	Frank Nazar	Chi	C	20	5-10/180	Michigan (B1G)	41	17	24	41	18
44	Riley Heidt	Min	C	19	5-10/180	Prince George (WHL)	66	37	80	117	42
45	Logan Mailloux	Mtl	D	21	6-3/215	Laval (AHL)	72	14	33	47	91
46	Sebastian Cossa	Det	G	21	6-6/229	Grand Rapids (AHL)	40	22	9	2.41	0.913
47	Jagger Firkus	Sea	RW	20	5-10/155	Moose Jaw (WHL)	63	61	65	126	30
48	Mikhail Gulyayev	Col	D	19	5-11/170	Avangard Omsk (KHL)	64	4	8	12	8
49	Scott Morrow	Car	D	21	6-2/195	Massachusetts (HE)	37	6	24	30	25
50	Matthew Wood	Nsh	RW	19	6-3/195	Connecticut (HE)	35	16	12	28	43
51	Quentin Musty	SJ	LW	18	6-2/200	Sudbury (OHL)	53	43	59	102	72
52	Jacob Fowler	Mtl	G	19	6-1/215	Boston College (HE)	39	32	6	2.14	0.926
53	Fabian Lysell	Bos	RW	21	5-11/181	Providence (AHL)	56	15	35	50	37
54	Shakir Mukhamadullin	SJ	D	22	6-3/180	San Jose (AHL)	55	7	27	34	24
55	Josh Doan	Ari	RW	22	6-1/183	Arizona (NHL)	11	5	4	9	0
56	Thomas Bordeleau	SJ	C	22	5-9/180	San Jose (NHL)	27	6	5	11	18
57	Lian Bichsel	Dal	D	19	6-6/233	Rogle (SHL)	29	2	2	4	28
58	Nikolai Kovalenko	Col	RW	24	5-10/180	Torpedo Nizhny Novgorod (KHL)	42	11	24	35	30
59	Aatu Raty	Van	C	21	6-2/185	Abbotsford (AHL)	72	18	34	52	18
60	Oliver Moore	Chi	C	19	5-11/185	Minnesota (B1G)	39	9	24	33	8
61	Samuel Honzek	Cgy	LW	19	6-4/186	Vancouver (WHL)	33	10	21	31	18
62	Jakob Pelletier	Cgy	LW	23	5-9/170	Calgary (NHL)	13	1	2	3	2
63	Seamus Casey	NJ	D	20	5-9/165	Michigan (B1G)	40	7	38	45	14
64	Tristan Luneau	Ana	D	20	6-1/195	Anaheim (NHL)	7	1	2	3	4
65	Chaz Lucius	Wpg	C	20	6-1/185	Manitoba (AHL)	17	2	11	13	6
66	Gavin Brindley	CBJ	C	19	5-9/165	Michigan (B1G)	40	25	28	53	28
67	Easton Cowan	Tor	RW	18	5-10/170	London (OHL)	54	34	62	96	64
68	Zachary L'Heureux	Nsh	LW	20	5-11/195	Milwaukee (AHL)	66	19	29	48	197
69	Carson Rehkopf	Sea	LW	19	6-1/195	Kitchener (OHL)	60	52	43	95	45
70	Filip Bystedt	SJ	C	20	6-4/205	Linkopings (SHL)	47	8	9	17	2
71	Ville Koivunen	Pit	LW	20	6-0/175	Karpat (Fin-Liiga)	59	22	34	56	26
72	Noah Ostlund	Buf	C	20	5-11/163	Vaxjo Lakers (SHL)	38	12	11	23	4
73	Ethan Del Mastro	Chi	D	21	6-4/210	Rockford (AHL)	69	7	30	37	54
74	Lukas Cormier	VGK	D	22	5-10/180	Henderson (AHL)	58	4	16	20	33
75	Liam Ohgren	Min	LW	20	6-1/200	Farjestads (SHL)	26	12	7	19	12
76	Marat Khusnutdinov	Min	C	21	5-11/175	Minnesota (NHL)	16	1	3	4	6
77	Mackie Samoskevich	Fla	RW	21	5-11/190	Charlotte (AHL)	62	22	32	54	24
78	Stanislav Svozil	CBJ	D	21	6-1/180	Cleveland (AHL)	57	5	18	23	24
79	Zachary Bolduc	StL	LW	21	6-1/175	St. Louis (NHL)	25	5	4	9	6
80	Rutger McGroarty	Wpg	LW	20	6-1/200	Michigan (B1G)	36	16	36	52	6
81	Jani Nyman	Sea	RW	19	6-3/215	Ilves (Fin-Liiga)	48	26	17	43	2
82	Andrew Cristall	Wsh	LW	19	5-9/165	Kelowna (WHL)	62	40	71	111	46
83	Oliver Bonk	Phi	D	19	6-2/175	London (OHL)	60	24	43	67	32
84	Fraser Minten	Tor	C	19	6-1/185	Kam-Sas (WHL)	43	22	26	48	25
85	Tanner Molendyk	Nsh	D	19	5-11/185	Saskatoon (WHL)	50	10	46	56	18
86	David Goyette	Sea	C	20	5-10/175	Sudbury (OHL)	68	40	77	117	29
87	David Edstrom	SJ	C	19	6-3/185	Frolunda (SHL)	44	7	12	19	8
88	Anton Wahlberg	Buf	C	18	6-3/194	Malmo (SHL)	43	5	5	10	4
89	Emil Andrae	Phi	D	22	5-9/185	Lehigh Valley (AHL)	61	5	27	32	66
90	Trey Augustine	Det	G	19	6-1/185	Michigan State (B1G)	35	23	9	2.96	0.915
91	Theo Lindstein	StL	D	19	6-0/180	Brynas (HockeyAllsvenskan)	49	4	11	15	4
92	Mads Sogaard	Ott	G	23	6-7/195	Belleville (AHL)	32	18	9	2.45	0.916
93	Isak Rosen	Buf	RW	21	6-0/175	Rochester (AHL)	67	20	30	50	12
94	Maveric Lamoureux	Ari	D	20	6-7/214	Drummondville (QMJHL)	39	9	24	33	53
95	Drew Commesso	Chi	G	21	6-2/180	Rockford (AHL)	38	18	16	2.65	0.906
96	Ville Heinola	Wpg	D	23	6-0/180	Manitoba (AHL)	41	10	17	27	24
97	Carter Mazur	Det	LW	22	6-0/170	Grand Rapids (AHL)	60	17	20	37	48
98	Otto Stenberg	StL	C	18	5-11/180	Frolunda (SHL)	31	3	3	6	8
99	Egor Afanasyev	Nsh	LW	23	6-3/205	Milwaukee (AHL)	56	27	27	54	60
100	Nikita Chibrikov	Wpg	RW	21	5-10/170	Manitoba (AHL)	70	17	30	47	53
101	Zach Dean	StL	C	21	6-0/175	Springfield (AHL)	49	9	5	14	24
102	William Dufour	NYI	RW	22	6-2/195	Bridgeport (AHL)	55	15	10	25	35
103	Sam Rinzel	Chi	D	19	6-4/180	Minnesota (B1G)	39	2	26	28	20
104	Joel Blomqvist	Pit	G	22	6-2/185	Wilkes-Barre (AHL)	45	25	12	2.16	0.921
105	Arseni Gritsyuk	NJ	RW	23	5-10/170	SKA St. Petersburg (KHL)	50	19	19	38	8
106	Corson Ceulemans	CBJ	D	20	6-2/200	Cleveland (AHL)	47	3	9	12	12
107	Michael Hrabal	Ari	G	19	6-6/209	Massachusetts (HE)	30	16	12	2.59	0.912
108	Brendan Brisson	VGK	C	22	5-11/180	Vegas (NHL)	15	2	6	8	2
109	Owen Pickering	Pit	D	20	6-4/180	Swift Current (WHL)	59	7	39	46	35
110	Owen Beck	Mtl	C	20	5-11/185	Pbo-Sag (OHL)	57	34	47	81	18
111	William Wallinder	Det	D	21	6-4/190	Grand Rapids (AHL)	65	3	12	15	10
112	Xavier Bourgault	Edm	C	21	6-0/170	Bakersfield (AHL)	55	8	12	20	24
113	Jordan Dumais	CBJ	RW	20	5-8/165	Halifax (QMJHL)	21	16	31	47	6
114	Aleksi Heimosalmi	Car	D	20	5-11/170	Assat (Fin-Liiga)	47	2	14	16	12
115	Brandon Bussi	Bos	G	25	6-4/218	Providence (AHL)	41	23	10	2.67	0.913
116	Jackson Blake	Car	RW	20	5-10/160	North Dakota (NCHC)	40	22	38	60	26
117	Erik Portillo	LA	G	23	6-6/210	Ontario (AHL)	39	24	11	2.50	0.918
118	Sean Farrell	Mtl	C	22	5-8/175	Laval (AHL)	47	9	19	28	10
119	Kasper Halttunen	SJ	RW	18	6-3/205	London (OHL)	57	32	29	61	61
120	Topi Niemela	Tor	D	22	5-11/165	Toronto (AHL)	68	8	31	39	43
121	Ethan Gauthier	TB	RW	19	5-11/175	Drummondville (QMJHL)	64	36	35	71	42
122	Daniil Miromanov	Cgy	D	26	6-4/200	VGK-Cgy (NHL)	24	3	4	7	8
123	Ruslan Iskhakov	NYI	C	23	5-8/155	Bridgeport (AHL)	69	18	32	50	30
124	Shai Buium	Det	D	21	6-3/210	Denver (NCHC)	43	7	29	36	14
125	Jakub Dobes	Mtl	G	22	6-3/200	Laval (AHL)	51	24	18	2.93	0.906
126	Oliver Kapanen	Mtl	C	20	6-0/170	KalPa (Fin-Liiga)	51	14	20	34	32
127	Danny Nelson	NYI	C	18	6-3/200	Notre Dame (B1G)	30	9	14	23	32
128	Lenni Hameenaho	NJ	RW	19	6-0/175	Assat (Fin-Liiga)	46	14	17	31	10
129	Nick Lardis	Chi	LW	18	5-11/165	Brantford (OHL)	37	29	21	50	12
130	Ty Nelson	Sea	D	20	5-10/195	North Bay (OHL)	54	16	36	52	50
131	Isaac Howard	TB	LW	20	5-10/185	Michigan State (B1G)	36	8	28	36	10
132	Fyodor Svechkov	Nsh	C	21	6-0/185	Milwaukee (AHL)	57	16	23	39	18
133	Jeremie Poirier	Cgy	D	21	6-1/196	Calgary (AHL)	23	3	10	13	22
134	Reid Schaefer	Nsh	LW	20	6-3/215	Milwaukee (AHL)	63	7	14	21	39
135	Zack Ostapchuk	Ott	C	20	6-3/205	Belleville (AHL)	69	17	11	28	47
136	Nathan Gaucher	Ana	C	20	6-3/207	San Diego (AHL)	72	10	15	25	68
137	Rodwin Dionicio	Ana	D	20	6-2/207	Wsr-Sag (OHL)	60	25	48	73	108
138	Eduard Sale	Sea	LW	19	6-1/170	Bar-Kit (OHL)	49	15	23	38	8
139	Danil Gushchin	SJ	RW	22	5-8/165	San Jose (AHL)	56	20	34	54	24
140	Sean Behrens	Col	D	21	5-10/175	Denver (NCHC)	44	4	27	31	53
141	Christian Kyrou	Dal	D	20	5-10/170	Texas (AHL)	57	8	15	23	22
142	Niklas Kokko	Sea	G	20	6-3/185	Pelicans (Fin-Liiga)	13	9	0	1.49	0.926
143	Vasily Ponomarev	Pit	C	22	5-10/180	Tuc-Chi-WBS (AHL)	45	9	21	30	16
144	Ryan Winterton	Sea	RW	20	6-2/190	Coachella Valley (AHL)	58	22	13	35	23
145	Dmitri Buchelnikov	Det	LW	20	5-10/165	Admiral Vladivostok (KHL)	55	13	16	29	8
146	Oscar Fisker Molgaard	Sea	C	19	6-0/165	HV 71 (SHL)	50	9	12	21	6
147	Aku Raty	Ari	RW	22	6-1/190	Tucson (AHL)	55	15	29	44	22
148	Matyas Sapovaliv	VGK	C	20	6-3/180	Saginaw (OHL)	54	19	43	62	22
149	Georgii Merkulov	Bos	C	23	5-11/175	Providence (AHL)	67	30	35	65	20
150	Topias Vilen	NJ	D	21	6-1/195	Utica (AHL)	54	2	27	29	16
151	Ryan Chesley	Wsh	D	20	6-0/200	Minnesota (B1G)	39	2	6	8	19
152	Jayden Perron	Car	RW	19	5-9/165	North Dakota (NCHC)	39	11	7	18	8
153	Tristen Robins	SJ	C	22	5-10/175	San Jose (AHL)	42	7	11	18	12
154	Calle Odelius	NYI	D	19	6-0/190	Djurgardens (HockeyAllsvenskan)	10	0	4	4	2
155	Vincent Iorio	Wsh	D	21	6-2/190	Hershey (AHL)	60	4	10	14	30
156	Raphael Lavoie	Edm	RW	23	6-4/215	Bakersfield (AHL)	66	28	22	50	64
157	Ronnie Attard	Phi	D	25	6-3/210	Lehigh Valley (AHL)	48	10	17	27	37
158	Niko Huuhtanen	TB	RW	20	6-2/205	Jukurit (Fin-Liiga)	52	19	27	46	46
159	Carson Bjarnason	Phi	G	18	6-3/185	Brandon (WHL)	46	24	17	3.01	0.907
160	Lukas Dragicevic	Sea	D	19	6-1/190	Tri-City (WHL)	66	14	36	50	52
161	Leevi Merilainen	Ott	G	21	6-2/160	Belleville (AHL)	24	10	9	2.87	0.906
162	Tyler Kleven	Ott	D	22	6-4/200	Belleville (AHL)	53	5	16	21	51
163	Hunter Brzustewicz	Cgy	D	19	5-11/185	Kitchener (OHL)	67	13	79	92	24
164	Ryan Greene	Chi	C	20	6-1/180	Boston University (HE)	40	12	24	36	6
165	Damian Clara	Ana	G	19	6-6/214	Brynas (HockeyAllsvenskan)	34	25	8	2.23	0.913
166	Carson Lambos	Min	D	21	6-1/200	Iowa (AHL)	69	4	10	14	64
167	Denver Barkey	Phi	C	19	5-8/160	London (OHL)	64	35	67	102	28
168	Gage Goncalves	TB	C	23	6-1/170	Syracuse (AHL)	69	13	45	58	43
169	Arshdeep Bains	Van	LW	23	6-0/185	Abbotsford (AHL)	59	16	39	55	28
170	Bogdan Konyushkov	Mtl	D	21	5-11/175	Torpedo Nizhny Novgorod (KHL)	65	6	22	28	18
171	Alexei Kolosov	Phi	G	22	6-1/185	Dinamo Minsk (KHL)	47	22	21	2.39	0.907
172	Samuel Fagemo	LA	RW	24	6-0/195	Ontario (AHL)	50	43	19	62	26
173	Filip Mesar	Mtl	C	20	5-9/175	Kitchener (OHL)	45	19	33	52	12
174	Matthew Robertson	NYR	D	23	6-3/200	Hartford (AHL)	68	4	17	21	49
175	Adam Engstrom	Mtl	D	20	6-2/185	Rogle (SHL)	51	4	18	22	4
176	Michael Buchinger	StL	D	20	5-11/185	Guelph (OHL)	52	10	37	47	37
177	Semyon Chistyakov	Nsh	D	22	5-11/180	Avangard Omsk (KHL)	59	4	20	24	16
178	John Farinacci	Bos	C	23	5-11/197	Providence (AHL)	71	12	26	38	16
179	Angus Crookshank	Ott	LW	24	5-10/180	Belleville (AHL)	50	24	22	46	60
180	Yegor Sidorov	Ana	RW	19	6-0/180	Saskatoon (WHL)	66	50	38	88	66
181	Samu Tuomaala	Phi	RW	21	5-10/175	Lehigh Valley (AHL)	69	15	28	43	12
182	Logan Morrison	Sea	C	21	6-0/180	Coachella Valley (AHL)	64	16	25	41	4
183	Jean-Luc Foudy	Col	C	21	5-11/175	Colorado (AHL)	26	4	10	14	18
184	Adam Gajan	Chi	G	19	6-3/167	Green Bay (USHL)	43	23	12	3.35	0.893
185	Nolan Allan	Chi	D	21	6-2/195	Rockford (AHL)	60	5	12	17	47
186	Oskar Olausson	Col	RW	21	6-1/180	Colorado (AHL)	39	11	9	20	24
187	Samuel Poulin	Pit	C	23	6-1/205	Wilkes-Barre (AHL)	41	16	15	31	35
188	Brett Berard	NYR	LW	21	5-9/165	Hartford (AHL)	71	25	23	48	62
189	Colton Dach	Chi	C	21	6-4/205	Rockford (AHL)	48	11	15	26	39
190	Jack Thompson	SJ	D	22	6-0/180	Syr-SJ (AHL)	62	6	35	41	16
191	Riley Kidney	Mtl	C	21	5-11/170	Laval (AHL)	65	7	13	20	41
192	Roby Jarventie	Ott	RW	21	6-3/195	Belleville (AHL)	22	9	11	20	22
193	Carey Terrance	Ana	C	18	6-1/175	Erie (OHL)	56	29	23	52	25
194	Luca Del Bel Belluz	CBJ	C	20	6-1/185	Cleveland (AHL)	58	9	22	31	12
195	Luca Pinelli	CBJ	C	19	5-9/165	Ottawa (OHL)	68	48	34	82	44
196	Francesco Pinelli	LA	C	21	6-1/185	Ontario (AHL)	67	13	7	20	24
197	Elias Salomonsson	Wpg	D	19	6-1/185	Skelleftea (SHL)	31	2	9	11	58
198	Sam Colangelo	Ana	RW	21	6-2/205	Western Michigan (NCHC)	38	24	19	43	23
199	Sasha Pastujov	Ana	RW	20	6-0/185	San Diego (AHL)	46	10	13	23	14
200	Andrew Gibson	Det	D	19	6-3/195	Saul St. Marie (OHL)	68	12	32	44	58

MCKEEN’S 2023-24 NHL YEARBOOK – DALLAS STARS – Top 20 Prospect Profiles – Organizational Rank #21

Brock Otten, Derek Neumeier, Chapin Landvogt and Josh Bell — Fri, 29 Sep 2023 14:35:15 +0000

SAINT PAUL, MN - OCTOBER 08: Dallas Stars Center Logan Stankoven (57) looks on during the NHL game between the Dallas Stars and Minnesota Wild, on October 8th, 2022, at Xcel Energy Center in Saint Paul, MN. (Photo by Bailey Hillesheim/Icon Sportswire)

Top 20 Dallas Stars Prospects Rankings

1. Logan Stankoven - C

Stankoven has the endurance of the Energizer Bunny and the tenacity of Taz the Tasmanian Devil. He has arguably the best motor in all of junior hockey, and he is relentlessly competitive shift over shift and game over game. The Kamloops Blazers are a big draw locally, and their star centre has always been worth the price of admission because he is wildly entertaining to watch, not just when he's scoring (which he does a lot), but also because of the heroic effort he always puts forth. The Blazers hosted the Memorial Cup last year, and Stankoven led the tournament in points. He has a mantle full of gold medals and other awards, adding to that significantly in the past two seasons. He is a textbook example that a player his size can be a truly elite prospect.

2. Lian Bichsel - C

Bichel is an uproariously entertaining player to watch, partially because there are so few top prospects out there like him. He's a huge, hulking teen who plays with an old-school edge and seems to highly enjoy throwing his body around. His hits can be absolutely bone-rattling and easily knock opponents off their feet. Don't mistake him for some mindless goon, though: he's whip smart and knows how to be physically dominant without getting into penalty trouble. He's also a powerful skater with long strides. Combine that skating with his frame and strength and good luck trying to slow him down when he gets a head of steam going with the puck on his stick. He left a serious mark playing for the Swiss at the World Juniors, giving fans a great taste of how impactful he will be on the smaller North American ice.

3. Thomas Harley - D

The plan with Harley was always to take the slow and steady route with his development, and even though he looked more than NHL-ready in 34 games with Dallas in 2021-22, the Stars elected not to change course, putting back him in the AHL for most of last season. The results have been very noticeable. While his point totals aren't eye-popping, he has made impressive progression in his overall game, becoming a much more consistent and reliable player. He was jogging with the Texas Stars, got himself warmed up, and when he got called up to Dallas late in the year, he began sprinting. With his reach, mobility, puck skill, and poise he is incredibly well-equipped for how the game is played these days. It's very easy to get excited about just how good Harley could be when he reaches the prime years of his career.

4. Mavrik Bourque - C

Bourque found his footing as an AHL rookie almost immediately, and while his scoring totals so far are more modest than gaudy, the points will definitely come soon, and in bunches! He's a heady, hardworking centre who watches, learns, and improves with an almost machine-like consistency. He's quiet and subtle in ways that lure opponents into a false sense of security, but when he gets the puck on his stick, Bourque is an assassin. There are few prospects in the entire sport who can work a power play from the half wall like he can. He is an expert passer, with an underrated shot to back it up. Bourque will make the NHL sooner rather than later in a support role, and it won't take him long to work his way up to his natural place in the top six.

5. Christian Kyrou – D

Kyrou’s post draft year ended up being a really good one in the OHL as he emerged as one of the top defensemen in Ontario. Nearly every facet of his game progressed in a positive way, giving encouragement to both Stars management and Stars fans that he can develop into a quality puck mover at the NHL level. Without question, Kyrou’s tremendous point shot and his slick four-way mobility remain his two best assets, and his likely calling card to an NHL career. However, his explosiveness, defensive engagement, and decision making all showed great improvement, giving him a better outlook. Splitting the year between Erie and Sarnia, Kyrou really increased his physical intensity level in the defensive end, making him a more assertive two-way player and one who required less sheltering at the junior level. Of course, the pro level will offer an even greater challenge in this regard for Kyrou. Patience will likely be required as he continues to improve his defensive zone effectiveness. However, if afforded the opportunity to quarterback the powerplay, his offensive production could carry over immediately. In a best case scenario, Kyrou could develop into a top unit powerplay quarterback and a reliable top four defender at even strength

6. Tristan Bertucci - D

Much like John Marino in New Jersey, Bertucci has a real chance to develop into a dependable two-way defender thanks to his length, smarts, and mobility. He had 37 points in his final 38 games with Flint, emerging as a dominant two-way leader for the Firebirds. The key will be building upon that this season to become a more consistent defensive leader at the OHL level. A competent powerplay quarterback, Bertucci has high end four-way mobility, and he does a really good job of getting pucks on net to help generate second chance opportunities. As a defender, he has a clear understanding of how to defend in the modern style. He is aggressive in stepping up early on attackers, using his quickness to stay with puck carriers and his length to disrupt them. There is a need to add strength to improve his assertiveness in high traffic situations and to be more consistent in 50/50 battles. There is also a need to refine his approach as his over-aggressiveness can take him out of position at both ends of the ice. After a few seasons in the OHL, the Stars could definitely have another potential top four defender on their hands if his development goes according to plan.

7. Matej Blumel - LW

Blumel was originally drafted by the Edmonton Oilers in 2019, but went unsigned, becoming a free agent two years later, after which he was scooped up by Dallas in the summer of 2022. In this situation, one team's loss is another's gain, as the Czech winger became an immediate fit within the Stars organization. He started his first season in the AHL at a torrid scoring pace and was quickly and deservedly called up to the big club, where he scored his first NHL goal during a six-game tryout. He was back down on the farm for the remainder of the season after that, but maintained his status as one of the top forwards on the team. His shot is undoubtedly his best asset, dangerous as both a wrister and one-timer, but he also does a pretty good job with his puck protection and cycling, and isn't a liability when he has to defend.

8. Riley Damiani - C

This has been an incredibly trying season for Damiani. Not only has his development hit a wall, but it’s also like he has taken a step backwards compared to his first two professional seasons. His counting stats were down, and he has just not been influencing the play like he had beforehand. Making matters even more confusing, the Texas Stars were one of the best teams in the AHL and were rolling all four forward lines, with incredible results. Plus-minus is a flawed stat, but on a team full of pluses, his big minus stuck out disconcertingly. At his best, Damiani is a top notch puck handler and play driver, making high-end passes, using his anticipation and awareness to stay ahead of the flow, and displaying tenacity in battles. However, that version of Damiani hasn't been seen a lot lately, and his absence has become quite concerning.

9. Ayrton Martino - LW

Martino just gets better year over year, and it only took him until his second season in the NCAA to emerge as the best forward on Clarkson, just like he was previously with both St. Michael's in the OJHL and Omaha in the USHL. He is a dynamic, offense-generating winger, who uses his explosive acceleration to burst through spaces, hits an excellent top gear that can easily gain separation from opposing defenders to lead to breakaways or odd-man rushes, and has little trouble corralling, deking, or passing the puck in full flight. He is also a legitimate driver on the power play, showing how well he can also play at lower speeds. Martino is going back to college for at least one more season, and it won't be a surprise if the Stars push hard to get him signed and turned pro next spring.

10. Francesco Arcuri - C

Arcuri definitively cemented himself as one of the best goal-scorers currently in the OHL, and that prowess made him a trade target for Kitchener in their championship aspirations last season. He wasted little time acclimating to his new surroundings and continuing his net-filling ways, eventually helping the Rangers upset the Windsor Spitfires (and former teammate Shane Wright) in the opening round of the playoffs. Arcuri is a big-bodied winger who can also make plays fairly well but has limitations with his quickness and skating. Interestingly, that is a very similar profile to Jason Robertson, another former member of the OHL's Kingston Frontenacs who was also drafted by the Stars. While it would be unfair to compare Arcuri too closely to one of the NHL's newest superstars, just how much can his game also grow if his development is handled the exact same way by the team?

11. Antonio Stranges - LW

It wasn’t the easiest transition to pro hockey for Stranges, which may have been expected given his unique style of play and reliance on the 10 to 2, mohawk stride. However, he finished strong and that provides optimism heading into this year that he can be more consistent.

12. Aram Minnetian - D

We certainly didn’t expect Minnetian to fall to the fourth round at this year’s draft. However, the smooth skating defender needs to develop a clear identity on the ice and improve his decision making. Dallas should get a better indication of the finished product after a few years at Boston College.

13. Brad Gardiner - C

Gardiner is a versatile forward who was a recent third round selection by Dallas out of Ottawa in the OHL. He can play multiple positions and fill multiple roles. His offensive upside remains a question mark but he is set for a big ice time increase this season with the 67’s.

14. Artyom Grushnikov - D

While there was some hope that his offensive game would develop in the OHL, it is very clear now that what you see is what you get with Grushnikov. He’s a defensive workhorse, but his offensive game is fairly limited. He will turn pro this year with Texas.

15. Matthew Seminoff - RW

Seminoff earned a contract from Dallas thanks to a terrific season for Kamloops last year. An intelligent and tenacious off puck player, he could project as a Michael Bunting type down the line.

16. Chase Wheatcroft - C

Talk about a breakout season. Wheatcroft scored more points and goals last year than he did in all of his other WHL seasons combined. OA signings out of the CHL can be difficult to project, but Wheatcroft is a very intriguing prospect thanks to his high-level skills, quick release, and an ability to navigate traffic well.

17. Kyle McDonald - RW

Another OA free agent signing out of the CHL, McDonald is a big power forward with a terrific shot. He has clear scoring potential if he can continue to improve his skating. He had a tremendous playoffs with North Bay last year.

18. Matthew Murray - G

Last year, we all got our wish as the “other Matt Murray” got some games in with Dallas, providing those that cover the league with an abundance of double Matt Murray jokes. In all seriousness, Murray, a former UMass standout, continues to improve and could push for a backup role soon.

19. Gavin White - D

The last two seasons in the OHL have been very kind to White as he captured back-to-back OHL Championships with Hamilton and Peterborough. There are still some concerns over his ability to defend at the pro level, but the skating is high level.

20. George Fegaras

Drafted out of tier two in Ontario, Fegaras was always going to be a long-term project. After playing last year in the USHL, the Stars should get a better indication of what they have as Fegaras jumps to NCAA Cornell this season. Lots of good attributes, but are any truly above average?

MCKEEN’S 2023 NHL PROSPECT REPORT – #18 Dallas Stars

Derek Neuemeier — Wed, 17 May 2023 11:40:09 +0000

The Stanley Cup finalists of 2020 have successfully built a new young core, through some outstanding drafting, around some of the key pieces from that championship run that are still with the team. A rare accomplishment, that did not require a teardown. The 2017 Draft was a key turning point that saw them land Miro Heiskanen (3^rd), Jason Robertson (39^th) and Jake Oettinger (26^th). All three are among the best at their positions in the NHL and just entering their prime. They form the new core along with 26-year-old Roope Hintz, emerging as a star this season, followed by an electric playoff. They have also graduated two excellent young players in Wyatt Johnston who scored 24 goals as an NHL rookie, centering the third line and playing on the second power play unit. Thomas Harley (2019 - 18^th overall) on defense has emerged during the playoffs, playing over 15 minutes a night and chipping in on offense.

The fact that Harley is currently our fourth ranked Dallas prospect speaks to the high-end talent on the horizon. In our top 200 ranking, Dallas has Logan Stankoven at #22, Mavrik Bourque #26, Lian Bischel #53 and Harley #72. The depth drops off to a certain degree at that point, but the scouting department has a knack for hitting it out of the park with late first, and second round picks. GM Jim Nill has not been particularly active in the trade market in recent years, perhaps as a result. He did move this year’s first round pick for Nils Lundkvist in a package at the start of the season, however. It is the model to win within a salary cap era, if you can keep introducing impactful talent on entry level contracts combined with character veterans.

Logan Stankoven

Stankoven has the endurance of the Energizer Bunny and the tenacity of Taz the Tasmanian Devil. He has arguably the best motor in all of junior hockey, and he is relentlessly competitive shift over shift and game over game. The Kamloops Blazers are a big draw locally, and their star center is always worth the price of admission because he is wildly entertaining to watch, not just when he's scoring (which he does a lot), but also because of the heroic effort he always puts forth. The Blazers are hosting the Memorial Cup this year, and it's hard to imagine another prospect who is more well-equipped to handle that spotlight than Stankoven, who already has a mantle full of gold medals and other awards. He is a textbook example that a player his size can be a truly elite prospect.

2. Mavrik Bourque

Bourque found his footing as an AHL rookie almost immediately, and while his scoring totals so far are more modest than gaudy, the points are definitely going to come soon in bunches. He's a heady, hardworking center who watches and learns and improves with an almost machine-like consistency. He's quiet and subtle in ways that lure opponents into a false sense of security, but when he gets the puck on his stick, he is an assassin. There are few prospects in the entire sport who can work a powerplay from the half wall like he can. He is an expert passer, with an underrated shot to back it up. Bourque will make the NHL sooner rather than later in a support role, and it won't take him long to work his way up to his natural place in the top six.

3. Lian Bichsel

Bichel is an uproariously entertaining player to watch, because there are so few top prospects out there like him. He's a huge, hulking teen who plays with an old-school edge and seems to highly enjoy throwing his body around. His hits can be absolutely bone-rattling and easily knock opponents off their feet. Don't mistake him for some mindless goon, though: he's whip smart and knows how to be physically dominant without getting into penalty trouble. He's also a powerful skater with long strides. Combine that skating with his frame and strength and good luck trying to slow him down when he gets a head of steam going with the puck on his stick. He left a serious mark playing for the Swiss at the World Juniors, giving fans a great taste of how impactful he will be on the smaller North American ice.

4. Thomas Harley

The plan with Harley was always to go the slow and steady route with his development, and even though he looked more than NHL-ready in 34 games with Dallas last season the Stars elected not to change course, putting him in the AHL for most of this season. The results have been readily noticeable. While his point totals aren't eye-popping, he has made impressive progression in his overall game, becoming a much more consistent and reliable player. He was jogging with the Texas Stars, got himself warmed up, and when he got called up to Dallas late in the year he began sprinting. With his reach, mobility, puck skill and poise he is incredibly well-equipped for how the game is played these days, it's very easy to get excited about just how good Harley might be when he reaches the prime years of his career.

5. Christian Kyrou

Kyrou's progress over the past few seasons has been rapid, and there is good reason to believe that it will continue. His skating isn't at the same level as his older brother Jordan, who is one of the best skaters in the entire NHL, but you'd be hard pressed to find a better influence for the younger Christian to closely learn tips and tricks from. He loves having the puck on his stick and is shifty and elusive at creating space for himself, especially coming off the offensive blueline, aggressively circling the outside of the zone or deking through bodies in the interior as he scans for defensive openings to exploit. Isn't shy at all about firing pucks himself, which is great because he knows how to get into dangerous shooting areas and has a high-end shot for a defender. Projects very well as a powerplay quarterback and is trending upwards as a transporter.

6. Matej Blumel

Blumel was originally drafted by the Edmonton Oilers in 2019, but ended up becoming a free agent two years later and was then scooped up by Dallas in the summer of 2022. In this situation one team's loss is another's gain, as the Czech winger became an immediate fit within the Stars organization. He started his first season in the AHL at a torrid scoring pace and was quickly and deservedly called up to the big club, where he scored his first NHL during a six-game tryout. He's been back down on the farm ever since but has maintained his status as one of the top forwards on the team. His shot is incomparably his best asset, dangerous as both a wrister and one-timer, but he also does a pretty good job with his puck protection and cycling and isn't a liability when he has to defend.

7. Riley Damiani

This has been an incredibly trying season for Damiani. Not only has his development hit a wall, but it’s also almost like he has taken a step backwards compared to his first two professional seasons. His counting stats are down, and he's just not influencing the play like he did before. Making matters even more confusing, the Texas Stars are one of the best teams in the AHL and have been rolling all four forward lines, with incredible results. Plus-minus is a flawed stat, but on a team full of pluses his big minus sticks out disconcertingly. At his best he is top notch puck handler and play driver, makes high-end passes, uses his anticipation and awareness to stay ahead of the flow, and is tenacious in battles. However, that version of Damiani hasn't been seen a lot lately, and his absence has become quite concerning.

8. Ayrton Martino

Martino just gets better year over year, and it only took him until his second season in the NCAA to emerge as the best forward on Clarkson, just like he was previously with both St. Michael's in the OJHL and Omaha in the USHL. He is a dynamic offense-generating winger, who uses his explosive acceleration to burst through spaces, hits an excellent top gear that can easily gain separation from opposing defenders to lead to breakaways or odd-man rushes, and has little trouble corralling, deking or passing the puck in full flight. He is also a legitimate driver on the powerplay, showing how well he can also play at lower speeds. Martino is going back to college for at least one more season, and it won't be a surprise if the Stars push hard to get him signed and turned pro next spring.

9. Francesco Arcuri

Arcuri definitively cemented himself as one of the best goal-scorers currently in the OHL, and that prowess made him a trade target for Kitchener in their championship aspirations. He wasted little time acclimating to his new surroundings and continuing his net-filling ways, and recently helped the Rangers upset the Windsor Spitfires (and former teammate Shane Wright) in the opening round of the playoffs. He is a big-bodied winger who can also make plays fairly well but has limitations with his quickness and skating. Interestingly, that is a very similar profile to Jason Robertson, another former member of the OHL's Kingston Frontenacs who was also drafted by the Stars. While it would be unfair to compare Arcuri too closely to one of the NHL's newest superstars, just how much can his game also grow if his development is handled the exact same way by the team?

10. Antonio Stranges

The Texas Stars have been ludicrously deep at forward all season, so it speaks volumes that Stranges played well enough to force his way up from the ECHL and into the lineup, albeit on an inconsistent basis. Amazingly, he kept finding ways to generate offense and produce points despite the lack of steady playing time and scrambled linemates. As unique and unconventional as his mohawk skating style is, it's undeniable that it works. He's just so elusive, unpredictable and naturally quick that it makes him hard to contain or anticipate. As much attention as his skating derives, he is also an underrated handler, playmaker and shooter. Texas is set to lose a number of forwards to free agency this summer, and there is simply no way that Stranges doesn't get a full-time roster spot and a bigger slice of the pie next season.

MCKEENS 2023 NHL PROSPECT REPORT – Risers and fallers over the 22-23 season

Brock Otten — Thu, 11 May 2023 23:14:11 +0000

The last time we ranked the NHL’s top prospects was late in the summer when we published our annual Yearbook. A lot can change in a year and as such there were several significant movers and shakers in our latest rankings for this prospect guide. Here are fifteen of the biggest risers and five of the largest fallers.

You can find our most recent ranking here.

Risers

MINNEAPOLIS, MN - JANUARY 27: Minnesota Gophers forward Jimmy Snuggerud (81) celebrates a goal during the college hockey game between the Michigan State Spartans and the Minnesota Gophers on January 27th, 2022, at 3M Arena at Mariucci in Minneapolis, MN. (Photo by Bailey Hillesheim/Icon Sportswire)

Jimmy Snuggerud (94 to 19) - St. Louis Blues

When Snuggerud was the 23rd overall pick at last year’s draft, many were fans of his game, but there were certainly concerns that his success as part of the NTDP could be attributed to the stars he was playing with. However, early returns on this selection by St. Louis are fantastic as Snuggerud was one of the top performing freshmen in the NCAA this year with Minnesota and starred for Team USA at the WJC’s, where he helped them capture a bronze medal. Snuggerud continues to improve his skating and play with the puck, and it has improved his odds of being a long time top six player in the NHL.

Marco Kasper (79 to 24) - Detroit Red Wings

In our draft guide last year, we ranked Kasper 24th over concerns regarding his offensive upside, but the 8th overall pick has progressed nicely in his second SHL season, improving his offensive production, in addition to dominating physically at times. While there is a chance that Kasper ends up as more of a middle six type, he has deservedly moved up our list because of his unique blend of power and skill.

Alexander Nikishin (130 to 27) - Carolina Hurricanes

It has been quite a development year for Nikishin as the 21-year-old defender has emerged as one of the top defenders in the KHL. He led the KHL in scoring among defensemen with 55 points. Not only was that the highest point total by a U22 defender in the history of the league, but it was also the highest point total of any player period, breaking Kirill Kaprizov’s mark from a few years ago. The bad news? Nikishin’s contract with SKA runs until 2025.

BOSTON, MA - MARCH 18: Boston University Terriers defenseman Lane Hutson (20) carries the puck during the Hockey East Championship game between the Boston University Terriers and the Merrimack College Warriors on March 18, 2023, at TD Garden in Boston, Massachusetts. (Photo by Fred Kfoury III/Icon Sportswire)

Lane Hutson (158 to 38) - Montreal Canadiens

Calling a player a “steal” immediately after the conclusion of the draft can be a dangerous proposition. Players often fall for a reason. In the case of Lane Hutson, everyone in the scouting community believed that the Canadiens had obtained great value from selecting him late in the second round. As a freshman for Boston University, Hutson had a historically good year, finishing with 48 points, beating Adam Fox’s total of 40 (along with top prospect Luke Hughes) to be the highest scoring U20 defender in the NCAA this millennium. Sure, he’s still undersized. Sure, there are aspects of his game that worry us slightly. But you have to respect just how impressive this past year was.

Joshus Roy (178 to 44) - Montreal Canadiens

It has been a steady rise for Roy since being drafted in the fifth round by Montreal two years ago. The former highly touted minor hockey player had a disastrous draft year that caused his fall, but his development has been terrific since. He has improved his skating and his off-puck play, allowing him to dominate the QMJHL. However, it was electrifying performance for Canada at this year’s WJC’s that really sold us of his potential.

William Wallinder (225 to 52) - Detroit Red Wings

A strong skating, two-way defender with size, Wallinder has progressed well in Sweden with Rögle, the same team that helped nurture Moritz Seider into the star that he is today. Now he appears ready to take that next step and will play in North America next year, perhaps even with the Red Wings if his training camp performance is strong enough.

Lian Bichsel (163 to 53) - Dallas Stars

While Bichsel’s offensive production failed to improve significantly in the SHL this year, his defensive game and confidence to impose himself physically definitely has. While his true NHL upside remains a slight mystery, he is starting to look the part of a future shutdown defender…at the very least.

Filip Bystedt (239 to 69) - San Jose Sharks

Bystedt was a bit of a surprise first round pick last year, but it appears that San Jose knew exactly what they were doing. Bystedt was a breakout star this year, emerging as one of the highest scoring U20 players in the SHL, in addition to performing extremely well at the WJC’s for Sweden. The big man skates extremely well and his coordination and skill are really catching up, giving him a unique upside.

Nikolai Kovalenko (285 to 76) - Colorado Avalanche

The son of former NHL’er Andrei Kovalenko, Nikolai emerged as an offensive star in the KHL this year as a 23-year-old and now looks like a potential impact player for the Avalanche. His KHL contract expires at the end of next year, so he may be close to crossing the pond. Kovalenko would be a breath of fresh air for an Avalanche team that is facing a bit of a cap crunch.

Connor Zary (266 to 79) - Calgary Flames

Last year, Zary was one of our biggest fallers after a poor showing in the AHL as a rookie, where the increased pace appeared to overwhelm him. Kudos to Zary for making the necessary adjustments because he has been much better as a sophomore and is knocking on the door of a permanent spot on the Flames. Thanks to increased pace and strength, Zary looks like a near lock to be a middle six option for years to come.

Nikita Alexandrov (222 to 81) - St. Louis Blues

The Blues have been very patient with Alexandrov, a former QMJHL standout and WJC star. This year, that patience has paid off as his improved play in the AHL has led to his first NHL action, where he did not look out of place. Alexandrov should claim a permanent spot in the NHL next year and he looks like the versatile, middle six forward we expected he could become a few years ago.

Zach Ostapchuk (218 to 91) - Ottawa Senators

The big forward and former high second round pick’s development took an extremely positive step forward this year. He set new career highs in the WHL (splitting time between Vancouver and Winnipeg) and he played a crucial checking line role for Canada at the WJC’s, capturing consecutive gold medals. Ostapchuk has everything NHL management wants from their third liners these days. He’s big. He’s physical. He has positional versatility. He’s strong in all three zones. He skates well. His skill and finishing ability are developing well. Look for him to make a run at the Senators’ roster as early as next year.

William Dufour (192 to 95) - New York Islanders

Was Dufour’s breakout last year, when he was named the QMJHL’s most valuable player, a result of a prospect truly turning a corner, or was it the result of a large, power forward, dominating younger players physically? That was the million-dollar question coming into this year. Well, the early results in the AHL suggest the former. Dufour has been one of Bridgeport’s best players this year and he has even earned a cup of coffee with New York because of it.

Reid Schaefer (267 to 98) - Nashville Predators

Now a member of the Predators after the Mattias Ekholm trade, Schaefer has progressed well with Seattle this year in the WHL, and he looks ready to start his pro journey in the AHL next season. His true offensive upside still remains a bit of a question mark, but he was the key component of that Edmonton/Nashville blockbuster for a reason. Nashville values his power forward potential.

Carter Mazur (Unranked to 99) - Detroit Red Wings

After winning a National Championship with Denver last year as a freshman, Mazur returned for his sophomore year this year and improved his goal scoring totals, pacing the Pioneers with 22 goals. Mazur is a prototypical third line winger who should be able to become an excellent role player for the Wings over the next decade, however his offensive skills are better than many give him credit for. Mazur recently signed his ELC, has turned pro, and should move quickly up the ladder in Detroit’s system.

Fallers

SAINT PAUL, MN - APRIL 29: Colorado Avalanche Left Wing Ben Meyers (59) lines up for a faceoff during the NHL game between the Colorado Avalanche and the Minnesota Wild on April 29th, 2022, at Xcel Energy Center in Saint Paul, MN. (Photo by Bailey Hillesheim/Icon Sportswire)

Prokhor Poltapov (75 to 175) - Buffalo Sabres

Poltapov finally emerged as a KHL regular this season, even scoring five goals, which is not terrible for a U20 player. However, the power winger’s offensive potential is starting to look lower than many believed it would be. Playing in a deep Buffalo system, he may soon become an afterthought in Russia.

Grigori Denisenko (105 to 158) - Florida Panthers

Playing in his third North American season, Denisenko has still not become an NHL regular with Florida. In fact, his performance playing in the AHL continues to disappoint too. Denisenko is nearing waivers eligibility and that will put Florida in a difficult position, especially given his lackluster play. Will we find him in a different NHL uniform soon, ala Vitali Kravtsov?

Cayden Primeau (126 to Unranked) - Montreal Canadiens

Primeau has proved to be quite the enigma as a pro, something that has frustrated both Canadiens’ fans and management. The former Mike Richter winner has shown flashes of being one of the top goaltending prospects on the planet, however consistency has remained a major issue, even in his fourth pro year. He may still become a quality NHL goaltender, but other more promising prospects at the position have unquestionably passed him by.

Justin Sourdif (138 to Unranked) - Florida Panthers

A standout in the WHL last year, Sourdif has struggled to be a consistent offensive point producer in his first pro season. It’s way, way too early to give up on him as an NHL prospect and he is still valued within the Florida organization, but other prospects have leap frogged him at this point.

Ben Meyers (146 to Unranked) - Colorado Avalanche

The former Hobey Baker candidate and World Championship standout was a high profile signing by the Avs out of the University of Minnesota. Many expected him to make the immediate jump to the NHL this year, including us. However, Meyers has struggled in the NHL this year and as a 24-year-old, this may point to a limited ceiling, if/when he does crack the Colorado roster full time.

2023 IIHF WORLD JUNIOR CHAMPIONSHIP – TEAM PREVIEW – SWITZERLAND

Chapin Landvogt — Sat, 24 Dec 2022 16:33:13 +0000

Attilio Biasca of Switzerland celebrate with teammates after scoring 3-1 during the 2022 IIHF World Junior Championship group stage game between Sweden and Switzerland on August 10, 2022 in Edmonton.
Photo: Joel Marklund / BILDBYRÅN /

Team Switzerland - Group B Preview

There have been times this past decade when a Timo Meier or Nico Hischier were putting up gaudy numbers in the CHL and playing big roles for a competitive WJC squad. A player of this caliber won’t be found on Switzerland’s roster this holiday season, but we’ll let it be known that there have been few Swiss U20 rosters ever to feature this many players currently honing their craft in one of the CHL circuits.

It starts with goaltender Alessio Beglieri (Mississauga) in the OHL where he’s joined by defensemen Rodwin Dionicio (Niagara) and Brian Zanetti (Peterborough). That’s literally only a light note when you see that defenseman Max Streule (Blainville-Boisbriand) and Vincent Despont (Saint John) as well as forwards Attilio Biasca (Halifax), Lorenzo Canonica (Shawinigan), Louis Robin (Val-d’Or), Miles Müller and Jonas Taibel (both Moncton) are all underway in the QMJHL. Sure, there’s no-one here from the WHL, but forward Liekit Reichle spent last season there. In short, only Canada will be fielding a squad with this many CHL players (although the Czechs could make things close).

On top of this, coach Marco Bayer is expected to have Lian Bichsel joining the team directly from the SHL while goaltender Kevin Pasche flies in from Omaha of the USHL. The rest of the team consists of homemade products entirely from the German-speaking portion of the nation who are predominantly busy putting up shiny numbers in the nation’s U20 circuit, a few also getting some good minutes in the second tier SL. One WJC returnee is 5’7” defenseman Dario Sidler, who is the only nominee taking a regular shift in the Swiss NL. What this all means is that as interesting as the options are for Bayer, he’s got quite a jigsaw puzzle to handle coming in while navigating through the preliminary round in Group B that could go all types of ways in the standings.

He won’t have as much time as he likes as the Swiss will be opening the WJC with an early December 26th tilt against a group favorite in Finland. The match-up against the USA will be in Game 3, which will be the 3rd game in 4 days for Switzerland. In between, they’ll face off against Latvia and then wrap things up with Slovakia. Upsets can always be part of the fun (and often are at least once per WJC), but it’s the latter two opponents mentioned who Switzerland will be focusing on and it’s likely going to be the gameday form that is decisive. With Austria and Germany being the two opponents best suited for the Swiss, there won’t be a single “gimme” in the preliminary round. But should a relegation round take place with Switzerland, they’ll be very ready for all takers after this preliminary round.

Of course, all those names on paper should have this team squarely in the quarterfinals. But at whose cost?

10 to Watch

Alessio Beglieri - G

There’s reason to believe that the aforementioned Pasche could be the starter as he’s not only returning from Edmonton, but also played three of four contests there. Still, he lost all of them. Beglieri has fared well enough in the upper scale OHL with a 10-6-2 record and was the starter for the U18 squad last spring in Germany. His 1-2 record was accompanied by some rather unimpressive numbers, but it shouldn’t be surprising if he gets the nod when the money is on the line.

Lian Bichsel - D

Few teams in this event will be able to boast a player such as Bichsel. Alone his size and wingspan will allow him to gobble up a number of oncoming opponents with regularity. He’s a full-fledged SHL player and although there’s little offense of note at that level, he’ll be assuming all sorts of important minutes in all situations. What he doesn’t have is WJC experience, but it will mean little with respect to his role on this team, which is filled with returnees boasting prior experience. A quarterfinal appearance should mean that Bichsel is making an impact every night. He’ll really get to test his metal against Finland and the USA.

Rodwin Dionicio - D

Not the most solid skater around, but plenty athletic and agile, and loves to be involved. Very active on the blueline, Dionicio regularly looks for open ice hits and jumps into the play with aplomb. On some occasions, he’ll even flash some nifty mitts. He’s a vet for this tournament and the program will be looking for him to be a difference-maker, like with a number of the blueliners on board for the ride.

Dario Sidler - D

He’s a bit of a mighty mite at 5’ 7”, but he’s getting things done career-wise and may end up on a pairing with Bichsler. The lone regular in the Swiss NL on this roster, Sidler has been known for years as a strong-skating two-way player who constantly thumps his critics by continually playing capably at any and every level despite his less than impressive size. A 20-point player in the SL last season and returning WJC vet, Sidler may very well end up captaining this team. He’s a righty shot to boot.

Brian Zanetti - D

At 6’3”, 195 pounds, Zanetti is in the midst of his second OHL season and whereas the offense hasn’t really been there, he’s gone from -12 last season to +8 this season. He’s also coming in as a vet of the summer WJC, where he had two assists and a -3 rating. He’ll get loads of minutes, likely on one of the top two pairings. Time to be an impact player if this team wants to remain out of sniffing distance of relegation.

Attilio Biasca - C/LW

Switzerland’s top scorer with four goals and six points at the summer WJC, Biasca has been understood as a skilled player for years now but is only just now seeing that reflected in his QMJHL production - in year three with Halifax. With 27 points in 28 games, he’s a key component of the Moosehead attack and will be expected to continue being just that for Switzerland on the top line. There’s certainly potential for more than a point per game here, which will be sound in light of the very even-keeled competition in round robin play.

Lorenzo Canonica - C

In his third season of play with Shawinigan of the QMJHL, Canonica’s junior career has somewhat mirrored that of Biasca. Both are undrafted and both are coming in as key WJC vets for the Swiss offense, albeit Canonica last played in the 2021 WJC. In addition, his production has been a bit stronger than Biasca’s until this year, albeit he’s pretty much on pace to duplicate last season’s pace. This tournament will present a good opportunity to not only be an impact player for his nation, but also enhance his push for a contract with an NHL organization, if not a selection as an overager in next summer’s draft.

Jonas Taibel - C

Another returnee, the dual citizen Taibel (SUI & AUT) is playing for the Moncton Wildcats of the QMJHL and is one of two players on this roster for whom this tournament will have some major personal importance. He’s essentially playing for his home country in his hometown. In the summer, he was a key player for the Swiss with two goals, three points, and an even rating. What he’s generally not though is a big scorer. He had just 21 points in 57 games last season and is only on pace for 26 in the same sum of games this season. Alas, there’s a key role waiting for him here and the coaching staff is hoping his emotional ties will have the host country fans on the side of the Swiss every single night, kind of like the surrogate sons in a group not featuring Canada.

Joel Henry - C

He’s been around forever for Hockey Swiss and keeps on chugging in his 5’9” body. He’s currently in his third year of SL play for Küsnacht and the numbers aren’t quite what they were a year ago, but he’s the type of heart ‘n soul player the coaching staff will look to build on, especially with so many of his teammates currently playing their hockey elsewhere in the world. On a team that seems to have a lot of individual talents and a few more question marks, Henry is going to have to be a key glue ingredient if this team is going to experience success.

Miles Müller - C

Like the aforementioned Taibel, Müller is playing his club hockey for the Moncton Wildcats. Like Taibel, he’s a dual citizen (SUI & CAN). Much like an extrapolated Taibel, this will truly be a home-away-from-home tournament for him. And again, like Taibel, he’s on pace for 26 points in 56 games. Unlike Taibel, he’s just 17 and already taking part in his 3rd season of QMJHL play. In fact, he’s a guy the program is very excited about moving forward. This will be the first of what could be three WJC appearances and he’s already docked for a top 9 role on a squad with many options. Keep an eye on him, because the emotional ties to both his nation and host could generate the sympathy in the stands that could play a decent role in backing the Confoederatio Helvetica into the playoffs.

Sleeper:

Louis Robin - RW

Currently on his third QMJHL team in two seasons, Robin is one of the older members of this squad and although he wasn’t part of the summer festivities, he has been part of the program for five years now. After 29 points last season, he’s got 14 in 16 games this season. Only checking in at 5’9”, there’s potential here for him being one of those sneaky guys who pops up several times in the course of the week when the money is on the line. And that’s something this Swiss club is going to need in what should be four fairly tight preliminary round games.