Nikita Alexandrov – McKeen's Hockey

MCKEEN’S 2023-24 NHL YEARBOOK – ST LOUIS BLUES – Team Preview – Player Profiles

Mon, 09 Oct 2023 14:35:05 +0000

REVIEW: A year after posting a dominant 49-22-11 record, St. Louis dipped to 37-38-7 in 2022-23, bringing its run of four straight playoff berths to an end. Although the Blues still had a solid offensive core with Jordan Kyrou, Pavel Buchnevich, Brayden Schenn and Robert Thomas each recording at least 65 points, St. Louis went from finishing third in goals per game in 2021-22 (3.77) to 17th last season (3.17) due to a lack of depth. Seattle had an amazing nine players with at least 20 goals in 2021-22 but just three last year (Thomas finished with 18) due primarily to a swath of forwards regressing. On top of that, they didn’t have Ville Husso anymore after he played a key role in pushing them to the playoffs in 2021-22 with his 25-7-6 record, 2.56 GAA and .919 save percentage in that campaign. With Husso gone, St. Louis deployed Jordan Binnington in 61 games, but he wasn’t up for the task, posting a 3.31 GAA and an .894 save percentage. Backup Thomas Greiss was just as bad, finishing with a 3.58 GAA and an .896 save percentage. With the season lost, St. Louis was a major seller at the deadline, moving Ivan Barbashev, Ryan O’Reilly and Vladimir Tarasenko in a series of trades that arguably marked the end of an era.

What’s Changed? Greiss retired, opening the door for Joel Hofer to slide into the backup role. The Blues also leveraged some of their freed cap space to acquire Kevin Hayes from Philadelphia for just a sixth-round pick and even got the Flyers to retain half his $7,142,857 annual cap hit for the next three seasons. Hayes proved to be a poor signing for Philadelphia, but he might give the Blues back some of their lost offensive depth. Outside of that, St. Louis didn’t make significant additions as it instead starts to shift its focus towards the future.

What would success look like? Although the Blues have seen plenty of turnover since their 2019 Stanley Cup championship, this team isn’t without bounce back potential. The offensive core of Thomas, Brandon Saad, Buchnevich, Jordan Kyrou, Hayes, Schenn and Jakub Vrana is loaded with question marks, but when they’re all clicking at the same time, they make for a dangerous combination.

What could go wrong? Even that wouldn’t solve the goaltending issue though. Binnington was a huge part of the Blues’ 2019 championship, but since then his career has been on a consistent downward slope. At the age of 30, a rebound isn’t impossible, but after setting a new career low in save percentage for the fourth straight year (excluding his one-game stint in 2015-16), it seems improbable.

Top Breakout Candidate: Maybe Hofer will be the solution in St. Louis instead of Binnington? The 23-year-old goaltender did post an encouraging 2.50 GAA and .921 save percentage in 47 AHL contests last season. Granted, Hofer also had a 3.22 GAA and .905 save percentage in six starts with St. Louis in 2022-23, but that’s a small sample size and even then, it was an improvement over Binnington. Given the veteran goaltender’s struggles, Hofer has an opportunity here that he might take advantage of.

Forwards

Jordan Kyrou

Even though he scored a career high in goals, the Blues coaching staff and front office had a lot of criticism for Kyrou’s play this year. In some ways it was more of the same, he is still one of the most lethal players in the league off the rush and he is very tough to stop when he reaches his second gear. He doesn’t need to get a lot of power on his shot to score and offense comes easy for him. The Blues were more concerned with his habits after plays were broken up or when he didn’t have the puck. Perhaps his -38 set off some red flags with the coaching staff. It’s something that isn’t entirely in his control, but his tendency to push for offense and carry the puck through traffic can lead to some headaches for the coaching staff. Firewagon hockey moments are going to happen with talented players, but a majority of Kyrou’s offense came in transition last year. Some players can get by with this, it just becomes tougher when your team loses a couple of Jenga pieces like the Blues did with Perron and eventually O’Reilly at the trade deadline. The Blues might have expected more out of Kyrou, but they can certainly do worse than him if he is just a scoring winger.

Pavel Buchnevich

A mid-round sleeper in fantasy hockey almost every year, Buchnevich picked up where he left off with the Blues last year. He was the one player on the team that is hard to critique because he excelled in just about every area last year. Buchnevich was their only top player who could score without living and dying off rush chances and provided a much needed forechecking element to their top lines. He doesn’t have a huge frame, but he reads exits well and he can get a lot of torque on his shot without much time or space. It’s surprising how accurate he is because he uses a sweeping motion to shoot the puck and creates a launching pad type of effect instead of settling it down or dusting it off. Catches goaltenders off-guard and he was even better as a passer, ranking second behind Thomas in scoring chance setups. He doesn’t need to be the primary puck carrier or distributor to be effective and masters the details of the game when it comes to scoring. The only thing you can criticize him for, is that he could have shot the puck more and injuries limited him to only 63 games. St. Louis’ best all-around player entering this season.

Robert Thomas

Thomas proved that his 2022 season wasn’t a fluke at the very least, remaining one of the league’s premier playmakers. He is someone who can excel in both phases of the game, having the speed to keep up with St. Louis’ powerful rush offense and capable of slowing the game down when the Blues start cycling. He is at his best when he can pull up in the offensive zone and wait for a lane to open up along the wall, almost like he is setting up a power play at five-on-five. That part of his game didn’t change much, it's just hard to make these plays at the same rate as he did the previous season, which is why he went from sixth in the league in 5-on-5 primary assists to 33^rd. Still in the upper echelon of the league, there shouldn’t be any concerns about Thomas’ ability as a playmaker. He is also a very selective shooter, firing the puck at an incredibly low rate and makes up for it by being a strong finisher. Also made progress with helping out the defense on zone exits instead of cherry-picking for entries. Likely the Blues centerpiece going forward and has big shoes to fill with O’Reilly now in Nashville.

Brayden Schenn

You can usually count on Brayden Schenn to hit the 20-goal mark in a full season, and it doesn’t matter how good or bad the rest of his stats are. His deceptive release is always going to make him a viable option on the power play, as he can beat goaltenders on some awkward looking shots, and he is very good at not telegraphing where the puck is going. Even strength play is a different story. Schenn is a deliberate player with the puck, so it can be tougher for his skill to translate here. Most of his goals come off breakaways or a passing play that somebody else started. He was a tough stylistic fit at times because he is a slower player on a team with a lot of speed on the wings and had to play all over the lineup last year. Still showed some decent chemistry with Kyrou at times, creating some quick-strike offense with breaking up plays high in the zone and catching defenses off guard. Also coming off one of his strongest seasons as a playmaker and was third on the Blues in scoring chance setups at 5-on-5. The main concerns with Schenn are his defensive play and the five years left on his contract going forward.

Kevin Hayes

Even with Hayes having a rebound season where he was injury free, it was all but a certainty that he was getting traded. He was healthy scratched in December despite leading the team in points and moved from center to wing in favor of rookie Noah Cates. Despite any progress he was making, it was clear that he wasn’t going to be a long-term fit in Philadelphia, this is even before mentioning his contract which carries a cap hit over $7 million AAV for the next three years. Thus, he was sent to St. Louis with the Flyers retaining half of his cap hit. Few players had a tougher time both on and off the ice than Kevin Hayes over the past couple of years, so it was encouraging to see show signs of the player he was in his prime. The fit with St. Louis is intriguing, because they’re at their best off the rush and Hayes is the type of center who loves to regroup in the neutral zone and attack from there. The Blues have some good speed on the wings to complement him, so it’s really just a matter of whether he can hold his own defensively, which is where some of the friction with the Flyers coaching staff started. The Blues have him for three more years, but at under $4 million AAV he is a nice placeholder to have.

Jakub Vrana

The story around Jakub Vrana is that he could easily be the biggest steal in the league if he gets the playing time. The “if’ part just never happens. Since 2020, only Auston Matthews has scored more goals per 60 minutes, which sounds impressive except that Matthews has played almost 100 more games during that time. Playing only two games with Detroit last year before entering the Player’s Assistance Program, Vrana eventually passed through waivers and spent two stints in the AHL before St. Louis decided to take a chance on him with the only risk being his $5.25 million AAV cap hit. His short stint with the Blues was business as usual for him, he scored 10 goals while playing a third line role and showed flashes of being the game-breaker he was at times in Washington and Detroit. His speed and shot are something a lot of teams dream they could have, so this is a potential coup for St. Louis if they can get regular playing time out of him. Of course, this is exactly what the Red Wings were saying a year ago.

Kasperi Kapanen

Claimed off waivers by St. Louis after three frustrating years in Pittsburgh, the winger made a good first impression in first few games with the Blues, scoring twice in his first three games and tallying 14 points in only 23 games to end the year. Possessing blazing fast speed, a decent shot and puck skills, it’s easy to see why the Blues wanted to take a gamble on him even with one year left on his contract. The Blues seem to be putting a focus on team speed and Kapanen is a guy who can certainly help that. It didn’t work in Pittsburgh, as he ended up being a one-dimensional player who fought to get the puck out of his own zone more than he created off the rush. He could break the game open at times but was usually a drag on any line he was on, and he gave back most of the offense he created. This is something you live with if a player is finishing his chances, but with only seven goals in 43 games, Pittsburgh opted to move on. His shooting slump immediately turned around in St. Louis, so he at least enters next season on a positive note and a fresh start.

Brandon Saad

Now one of the oldest forwards on the team, Saad is in an interesting situation going forward. He is one of the only wingers in the top-nine who brings some level of defensive play, which balances out some of the one-way players the Blues brought in like Kapanen and Vrana. He’s also signed for three more years on a non-cheap contract and is coming off one of the lowest-scoring seasons of his career. Most of that is due to him having only four points on the power play despite getting consistent minutes on the second unit. Saad was a consistent driver of offense and scoring chances for years and this part of his game started to hit a decline last year. The saving grace is he can still finish at a decent rate and the Blues were a positive territorial team with him on the ice. Some of that is a by-product of being attached at the hip to Ryan O’Reilly for most of his minutes, but Saad is a smart player who still has decent wheels to help drive the play north. Saad’s skillset always paired best with a strong, play-driving center (ROR, Kadri, Toews), so he could be thrusted into a different role this year with the Blues having a void there.

Sammy Blais

Sammy Blais’ career with the Rangers might as well be a write-off. His first season was cut short with a knee injury and did not play much beyond the fourth line this past year. He did not score a goal with the Blueshirts over 54 total games. Returning to St. Louis as part of the Tarasenko deal rejuvenated his career. He was playing more and got back to being the skilled agitator that he was during the team’s Cup run. He actually set a career high in goals and points in his 31 games with the Blues, which probably tells you more about how happy he was to be back on a team where he’s comfortable. He might not get the same minutes or linemates he did in the second half of last year as the Blues brought in some reinforcements around the trade deadline, but he is the type of player who can move up and down the lineup if he needs to. The hot streak he had to end the year probably helps his case. That said, Blais has yet to play a full NHL season because he plays like a bowling ball and will miss a lot of games with prolonged wear and tear.

Jake Neighbours

There were reasons to be optimistic about Jake Neighbours’ going into his rookie year. The Blues liked him enough to keep him around for a full nine-game audition the previous season & he fits the mold to be a good complementary piece on almost any line. He has great hands and can play the intense, forechecking game most coaches want from their energy line players. Things didn’t go as well as they hoped. Neighbours scored only 10 points, seven of which came during the month of January and struggled to find his niche at the NHL level. Injuries and demotions soon derailed his season. The NHL game doesn’t come easy to everyone and Neighbours is a good example of that. He was never projected to have a high offensive ceiling, but he never got a chance to show what he could do either, as his offense was limited to breakaways and turnovers. He showed some ability to play the checking game, but never really established himself as an impact player. He and the Blues are hoping next year goes better.

Defense

Justin Faulk

The nice thing about a defenseman like Justin Faulk is he can play whatever role you put him in at an adequate level. He wore a lot of hats in his early days with Carolina and has done the same with the Blues. Focusing on offense and helping the Blues transition game the last, Faulk has set career highs in points. His great wrister helps with that, as it’s common to see him score double-digit goals like he did last year. He has also been playing big minutes in the NHL since he was 19 years old and has gotten better with not making careless plays out of his own zone. Probably gets lost in the shuffle as one of the NHL’s better puck-moving defensemen. Can play the shutdown role and kill penalties but doesn’t defend entries well. He carries a lot of weight around and has a short reach, so he tends to get burned when going for the big hit or when he needs to turn. It’s something the Blues have worked around before, but it’s tougher to hide when the majority of their games are played off the rush. The Blues score a lot of goals when Faulk is on the ice, but they give up a lot as well.

Torey Krug

Nobody is ever going to confuse Torey Krug with a shutdown defenseman, but you can at least bank on his teams to score more goals than they give up. Last year was only the second time in his career where that didn’t happen, as the Blues owned only 45% of the 5-on-5 goals when Krug was on the ice. Every defenseman has a year like this and it’s a little more concerning when it happens after they turn 30, as that is the time most hit a wall. With Krug, it’s a little complicated. He was still a great puck-mover and the Blues best defenseman at producing scoring chances. The main thing that changed for him was he struggled mightily to retrieve pucks and handle forecheck pressure. This could just be age and injuries piling up, but Krug is usually a reliable player here and could not get to loose pucks with the same level of efficiency last year. Some players can work around this, but it is tough to adapt when this part of the game has been so easy for Krug his entire career. He also missed almost 20 games with injuries and saw a reduction in ice-time to the 18–19-minute range, his lowest since his early days in Boston.

Colton Parayko

Now two years removed from back surgery, the Blues don’t have any concerns about the durability of their cornerstone defenseman. The version of Parayko they’ll get for the next seven years, however, is something they might be worried about. In some cases, you can deal with a low-event defenseman who plays the minutes Parayko does, especially on a team as chaotic as last year’s Blues. It becomes more of a problem when that guy makes $6.5 million AAV until the year 2030. Parayko’s size and puck-handling will always make him a useful player. He just isn’t the same guy who could rush the puck out of the zone and be a threat to break the game open anymore. It’s an interesting development because the tougher parts of his game are the one thing that has held up post-surgery, while his offense and the more dynamic aspects have suffered. That and the Blues lacked a real shutdown guy all of last year and Parayko is the one guy who can fill that role by default. Things could be worse. The defensive strengths are still there, and the offense is at times, but the Blues are lacking a dominant top defenseman if this is the new normal for Parayko.

Nick Leddy

Looking at his profile, it might surprise some folks that Leddy has never been a great play-driver or someone who creates a lot of offense in volume. An effortless skater, Leddy is usually one of the top defensemen in the league at leading zone entries, translating this to tangible results has been a problem for most of his career. Part of it is because he isn’t the best at starting exits and needs a partner who can dig the puck out so he can skate it out of the zone after the first forechecker. He was able to put this to use with the Blues last year, as St. Louis scored at a decent clip with him on the ice. His skills as a passer definitely help a little. You might not create many chances with him on the ice, but the ones you get will be good. His issues as a defender, however, can be tougher to work around. He will often give forwards the blue line when they enter the zone and plays more of a shot-blocking role and someone who absorbs damage rather than kills plays. Leddy’s always been an interesting player to watch for this reason. Some defensemen can be best described as “minute eaters” and it’s a fitting description for the long-time Islander.

Goaltending

Jordan Binnington

There might not be another goaltender in the NHL that has the same track record of inconsistency that Jordan Binnington does. While his St. Louis predecessor Jake Allen has struggled throughout his career with up-and-down weeks during each season, Binnington’s rises and falls seem to follow entire seasons as he goes; he’s either an unstoppable force or an easy-to-goad replacement-level netminder with a hot head and a trigger-esque temper that throws his game into a tailspin. That makes it hard to tell just what St. Louis is gambling on this year; he’ll either be the underdog capable of playing to prove his doubters wrong, or he’ll be the former Stanley Cup Champion who insisted he had an unflappable personality but was all too easy to coax into costly mistakes after just a bad goal or two.

From a technical standpoint, Binnington has the ability to play a game that preaches crisp edgework and an almost bored-looking depth management style designed to rattle his opponents and prevent him from overcommitting to bad shots. But over the last two seasons, he’s also shown a side to his game that exaggerates his technique and pushes him out of position, allowing baffling goals that seem to rattle him more than they should. His game doesn’t rely on a smooth rhythm nearly as much as Allen’s does, so it’s a different problem in St. Louis right now – but as yet another year approaches, it’s hard not to wonder just why the Central Division club’s starters seem to be so easy to throw off their games.

Projected starts: 60-65

MCKEEN’S 2023-24 NHL YEARBOOK – ST LOUIS BLUES – Top 20 Prospect Profiles – Organizational Rank #9

Brock Otten, Derek Neumeier, Chapin Landvogt and Josh Bell — Mon, 09 Oct 2023 14:30:57 +0000

Top 20 St. Louis Blues Prospects

1. Jimmy Snuggerud

The Blues landing Snuggerud at 23rd overall is already looking like one of the best value picks of the 2022 draft. The University of Minnesota had one of the best lines in all of college hockey between Logan Cooley, Matthew Knies and Snuggerud, with the latter popping 50 points in 40 games as a freshman. Yes, there was a lot of collaborative heavy lifting going on that led to point sharing, but the less heralded member of the trio was not a passenger. He's a well-rounded, complete winger who might not have one true standout skill, but he's able to touch many different areas of a game. Having NHL bloodlines and the knowledge gained from a couple of years with the USNTDP prior to being drafted have been huge factors in the steep upwards trajectory of Snuggerud's growth, and he has only just gotten started.

2. Dalibor Dvorsky

Blessed with an NHL-ready wrist shot, Dvorsky’s been a hot topic for the scouting community for years. A wonderful generator of offense thanks to strong agility on his feet, creative hands, a nose for the net, and a unique ability to process the game at high speeds, he was on pace to set scoring records for 16-year-olds in Sweden’s top U20 circuit already his D-1 year. After moving along from Vladimir Tarasenko at the trade deadline, St. Louis GM Doug Armstrong couldn’t make it to the podium quickly enough to select Dvorsky 10th overall this summer. Despite a modest, yet full pro season for a struggling club in the Swedish Allsvenskan last regular season, he contributed another 25 points in 13 total U20 league games. Most impressive were his international performances, kicking things off with a Hlinka Gretzky Cup featuring 8 goals and 12 points in just 5 games, continuing as an underager at the WJC (3 points in 5 games), and then putting his nation on his back with an 8-goal, 13-point performance at the U18 Worlds, where his Slovakian underdogs only bowed out to Canada in overtime of the bronze medal game. Possessing the talent to be a future offensive dynamo at the NHL level, Dvorsky is scheduled to take the next step in his development with Oskarshamn of the SHL.

3. Zach Bolduc

Bolduc wasn’t chosen to be a part of Canada's roster at the 2023 World Juniors, but that was more of a reflection of Canada's immense depth than any deficiency with his skillset. However, he helped lead Quebec to QMJHL and Memorial Cup titles last season, which were pretty neat consolation prizes. He is a lethal shooter, as evidenced by his back-to-back 50-goal seasons. Almost all prospects who can consistently score at such a high rate find ways to be top scorers in the NHL. He already has a lot of pro-level shooting abilities, such as disguising his release point, elevating from in tight, and firing cleanly from his top speed. His skating strides are also fluid and mechanically sound, which allow him to create a lot of space for himself to get into dangerous ice. Bolduc hasn't gotten nearly enough fanfare as a first-round pick who is living up to his potential, but that is likely to change in short order.

4. Zach Dean

The Blues have to be pretty excited about the return they got for trading away Ivan Barbashev, because Dean was on an absolute tear after the trade happened, humming along as one of the QMJHL's top playoff scorers with Gatineau. He has always had the tools to be a major offensive contributor, but the Olympiques prefer more structure than the usual freewheeling seen in the league, so he focused more on his two-way game instead. It speaks volumes right now that he can produce points like this without having to cheat or sacrifice his responsibilities. He is a fast, technically sound skater who loves to keep his foot on the gas, but stays calculated with how he applies himself. Dean could crack the NHL as a bottom-six forward soon and then gradually work his way up the lineup over time.

5. Scott Perunovich

Perunovich missed most of his 2022-23 season due to a fractured shoulder that he suffered in the preseason, and it's a real shame because he was primed and ready for a big sophomore year at the professional level, following a terrific rookie campaign that saw him dress in seven playoff games for the Blues. What's most important now is that he's healthy again. The mobile defenseman was back in the AHL last season as he got himself back up to game speed, so while he’s had to wait a little longer still to record his first NHL goal, it seems like only a matter of time. The way he manages games is very impressive, using a combination of brains, feet, and hands to quickly and shrewdly move pucks out of his own end and make sure they get where they need to go to up the ice. St. Louis currently has a logjam on the blueline, but don't be surprised if they make a move to create room for Perunovich.

6. Otto Stenberg

What a year for Stenberg, who St. Louis seemed oh so happy to swoop in on at 25th overall this summer. A strong draft candidate heading into last season after not only showing up at the 2022 U18 Worlds, but getting a fairly regular top nine shift for the gold medal winning Swedes, Stenberg picked his strong-skating game up a notch with 9 points in 5 Hlinka Gretzky Cup games last summer before hitting some bumps in the road with his Frölunda club back home. 26 points in 14 total games for his club’s U18 team were just fine, although his clip of under a one PPG pace at the U20 level and an up-and-down showing in 23 SHL games scratched away at his status as a likely 1st rounder. That all changed at the U18 Worlds when he willed Sweden to a silver medal with 16 points and a +13 rating in 7 games. At his core, Stenberg is a gamer who can spearhead an attack and keeps his opponents on constant alert. He drives the play and creates lanes for prime scoring opportunities, be they for himself or for his teammates, shooting and passing with a strong level of proficiency. A leader and all-areas plugger, a big season with Frölunda would be the logical next step on his path to the NHL.

7. Nikita Alexandrov

Alexandrov would have to pass through waivers to return to the AHL this season, and St. Louis surely knows that some other clubs would happily pounce on that opportunity. Luckily for them they got to see 28 NHL games out of the German-trained Russian in 2022-23, and the results were encouraging. He has a snappy, clean release on his shot, and is an expert at looking off goalies before firing. When handling the puck, he can tuck it close to his body or keep it out at arm's length, depending on what makes more sense. He has ice running through his veins, playing with an unwavering concentration that is borderline unsettling at times. As nice as it is that he never gets too rattled or dejected, that also makes you wonder a bit if he'll ever struggle to raise his intensity in situations that call for it.

8. Joel Hofer

Hofer was given a legitimate tryout late in the season so that St. Louis could get a better look at him against NHL competition, and between his performances there and his rock-solid play all year in the AHL he seems ready to assume the role of Jordan Binnington's backup. Whether that actually happens this fall, or if he has to wait until the following season, is still undetermined. Regardless, the pathway for his career over the next few years is crystal clear. He's huge and unflappably even-keeled and has put in the work asked of him since his draft year to improve his fluidity and refine his technique to acceptable professional levels. His game is still skewed towards the former attributes more than the later, but the overall package is very impressive. Hofer has the potential to become a bonafide NHL starter one day.

9. Theo Lindstein

One of three 2023 St. Louis 1st rounders, two of which were Swedes (and the third of which also played in Sweden), Lindstein’s selection was regarded by many in the industry as a bit of a reach. He nonetheless entered the 2022-23 season as one of the more accomplished 2023 prospects after having made a 12-game SHL debut and winning gold at the U18 Worlds as a 16-year-old the season before, making him look like a probable late first rounder heading into action. The combination of Lindstein’s somewhat bland draft season, average size and weight, and a general lack of offensive punch has us questioning his overall upside, yet his game features excellent lateral movement and solid puck-handling capabilities, while his mobility with and without the puck in all game situations is high in comparison to most rearguards in his age group. Also, getting into 37 SHL games as a 17/18-year-old attests to his maturity, especially considering how he was force-fed 19-27(!) minutes of ice time over the final 3 relegation round contests. No longer in the SHL, Lindstein is now scheduled to play for Brynäs next season in the 2nd tier Hockey Allsvenskan.

10. Michael Buchinger

The 2022-23 season was a major disappointment for a Guelph Storm club that started off the season on wobbly footing and never managed to find their balance, but it all would have gotten so much worse were it not for Buchinger, who was an absolute rock on their back end. No matter how dire things got he remained committed and unflinching, so it's easy to understand why his coaches gave him mountains of ice time. He displays an advanced understanding of all aspects of his defensive positioning and is comfortable being entrusted with key responsibilities. There are still some questions about how well he will be able to transition from the junior level to the professional level. When he was drafted, there were also concerns as to whether he was one of those “jack of all trades” types that would have a difficult time finding a role. The rapid progression he showed this year has altered the perception of his NHL upside. With a strong skating base, improving puck skill, and high hockey IQ, Buchinger could very well develop into a top four defender.

11. Simon Robertsson

At this point, the Blues are patiently waiting for Robertsson to have a breakout offensive season. He has the upside as a skilled scorer, but he just hasn’t been able to put it all together. If it doesn’t happen this year, will it ever?

12. Quinton Burns

Rehabbing from an injury suffered at the U18’s, Burns may not be ready for the start of the OHL season, but the 2023 draft selection is a gamer. He loves to mix it up physically and thinks the game at a high level. St. Louis will be looking for improvement in his puck management this year.

13. Juraj Pekarcik

The big winger had a breakout performance at the U18’s, leading to a high selection by the Blues. He offers up intriguing offensive upside because of his skill level and on puck play. He’s headed to the USHL this year to play for Dubuque, despite being a high pick in the CHL Import Draft.

14. Tyler Tucker

No longer exempt from waivers, the Blues will be faced with a tough decision regarding Tucker this season. It’s obvious that they like the physical defender out of the UHL, but does he truly skate well enough to be a long-term fixture? He should at least be the team’s 7th defender this year.

15. Matt Kessel

A former UMass standout, Kessel’s first pro season in the AHL was a pleasant surprise from an offensive perspective. A big, physical defender, he keeps things simple with the puck, but that efficiency proved very effective. He looks like a future NHL contributor.

16. Aleksanteri Kaskimaki

Kaskimaki’s post draft year wasn’t a great one. His off puck play and overall compete level are still concerns. However, the skill is abundant. Hopefully he can use his strong showing in the Liiga playoffs last season as a springboard to a strong, consistent 2023-24.

17. Tanner Dickinson

Finally cleared for action after recovering from a gruesome broken leg, Dickinson will be looking to get his pro career back on track. If Blues’ development camp was any indication, he hasn’t lost a step despite the injury. One of the best skaters in the system, Dickinson brings great versatility to the ice.

18. Leo Loof

Loof is a dependable and steady presence on the blueline who has signed with St. Louis and will be playing in Springfield this year. He doesn’t have tremendous upside, but his well-rounded game makes him a potential third pairing option down the line.

19. Vadim Zherenko

Zherenko has bounced around in recent years, from the VHL in Russia, to Liiga in Finland, to finally the AHL last year. He was solid in his North American pro debut and has given the Blues some hope that he can develop into an NHL netminder.

20. Marc Andre Gaudet

Gaudet’s play last year split between Chicoutimi and Sherbrooke earned him a contract from the Blues. One of the better defenders in the QMJHL, he is an intelligent two-way defender with a big point shot. What kind of role he ends up playing at the pro level remains to be seen, but he’ll test those waters this coming season.

MCKEEN’S 2023 NHL PROSPECT REPORT – #10 St. Louis Blues

Derek Neumeier — Mon, 22 May 2023 14:59:26 +0000

GM Doug Armstrong has been running the show since 2010 and has won a Stanley Cup, a Conference title, three Division titles and seen 10 playoff appearances. After a 109-point season in 2021-22, this past season went off the rails rapidly, as his team missed the playoffs for only the second time in 12 years. He made the decision to retool by moving veterans Ryan O’Reilly and Noel Accari for a first, second, third, and spare parts, Vladimir Tarasenko was moved to the Rangers for a first and a fourth and bringing Sammy Blais back. They acquired the promising prospect Zach Dean for Ivan Barbashev, perhaps representative of the type of deal Armstrong will be looking for. Dean is versatile, closer to the NHL, and has been fortunately ripping it up since the trade in the Q. Armstrong has indicated he would like to add some younger pieces around 23-year-old Robert Thomas, 25-year-old Jordan Kyrou and 21-year-old Jake Neighbours.

They head into the 2023 NHL Draft with three first rounders. Armstrong has said he will likely use his own pick (10^th overall) and try to package the other two later picks (from Dallas and Toronto) to move up in the draft. If he is able to move other veterans, he will. The defense is locked into a top four of Faulk, Krug, Parayko and Leddy, all north of 30, with $23.5 million worth of cap space tied up for the next three years. Marco Scandella is a UFA at the end of the season. The team showed life after the trade deadline. Their performance in the first half of the season will determine how deep Armstrong goes in his retool. He has some strong vets to support the kids that will be valuable if the playoffs are in reach by the new year. Or they become further chips to play. Stay tuned.

ST. LOUIS, MO - NOVEMBER 22: St. Louis Blues defenseman Scott Perunovich (48) during a NHL game between the Las Vegas Golden Knights and the St. Louis Blues on November 22, 2021, at Enterprise Center, St. Louis, MO. (Photo by Keith Gillett/Icon Sportswire),

Jimmy Snuggerud

The Blues landing Snuggerud at 23rd overall is already looking like one of the best value picks of the 2022 draft. The University of Minnesota had one of the best lines in all of college hockey between Logan Cooley, Matthew Knies and Snuggerud, with the latter popping 50 points in 40 games as a freshman. Yes, there was a lot collaborative heavy lifting going on that led to point sharing, but the less heralded member of the trio was not a passenger. He's a well-rounded, complete winger who might not have one true standout skill, but he's able to touch many different areas of a game. Having NHL bloodlines and the knowledge gained from a couple of years with USA Hockey's National Team Development Program have been huge factors in the steep upwards trajectory of Snuggerud's growth, and he has only just gotten started.

2. Zachary Bolduc

Bolduc didn't get chosen to be a part of Canada's roster at the 2023 World Juniors, but that was more of a reflection of Canada's immense depth than a deficiency with his skill. However, if he can help lead Quebec to a QMJHL title this season that will come close as consolation prize. He is a lethal shooter, as evidenced by his back-to-back 50-goal seasons. Almost all prospects who can consistently score at such a high rate find ways to be top scorers in the NHL. He already has a lot of pro-level shooting abilities, such as disguising his release point, elevating from in tight and firing cleanly from his top speed. His skating strides are also fluid and mechanically sound, which allow him to create a lot of space for himself to get into dangerous ice. Bolduc hasn't gotten nearly enough fanfare as a 1st-round pick who is living up to his potential, but that is likely to change in short order.

3. Scott Perunovich

Perunovich missed most of his 2022-23 season due to a fractured shoulder that was suffered in the preseason, and it's a real shame because he was primed and ready for a big sophomore year at the professional level following a terrific freshman campaign that saw him dress in seven playoff games for the Blues. What's most important now is that he's healthy again. The mobile defenseman is back in the AHL as he gets himself back up to game speed, so he'll have to wait a little longer still to record his first NHL goal, though that seems like only a matter of time. The way he manages games is very impressive, using a combination of brain, feet and hands to quickly and shrewdly moves pucks out of his own end and make sure they get where they need to go to on the ice. St. Louis currently has a logjam on the blueline, but don't be surprised if they make a move to make room for Perunovich.

4. Zach Dean

The Blues have to be pretty excited about the return they got for trading away Ivan Barbashev, because Dean has been on an absolute tear since the trade happened, humming along as one of the QMJHL's top playoff scorers on a Gatineau club that could go all the way. He always had the tools to be a major offensive contributor, but the Olympiques prefer more structure than the usual freewheeling that is seen in the league, so he focused more on his two-way game instead. It speaks volumes right now that he is able to produce points like this without having to cheat or sacrifice his responsibilities. He is a fast, technically sound skater who loves to keep his foot on the gas but stays calculated with how he applies himself. Dean could crack the NHL as a Bottom six forward soon and then work his way up the lineup over time.

5. Nikita Alexandrov

Alexandrov would have to pass through waivers to return to the AHL next season, and St. Louis surely knows that some other clubs would happily pounce on that opportunity. Luckily for them they did get to see 28 NHL games out of the German-trained Russian in 2022-23, and the results were encouraging. He has a snappy, clean release on his shot, and is an expert at looking off goalies before firing. When handling the puck, he can tuck it close to his body or keep it out at arm's length, depending on what makes more sense. He has ice running through his veins, playing with an unwavering concentration that is borderline unsettling at times. As nice at it is that he never gets too rattled or dejected, that also makes you wonder a bit if he'll ever struggle to raise his intensity in situations that call for it.

6. Joel Hofer

Hofer was given a legitimate tryout late in the season so that St. Louis could get a better look at him against NHL competition, and between his performances there and his rock-solid play all year in the AHL he certainly seems ready to assume the role of Jordan Binnington's backup. Whether that actually happens this fall, or waits until the following one, is still undetermined. Regardless, the pathway for his career over the next few years is crystal clear. He's huge and unflappably even keeled and has put in the work asked of him since his draft year to improve his fluidity and refine his technique to acceptable professional levels. His game is still skewed towards the former attributes more than the later, but the overall package is very impressive. Hofer has enough potential to become a bonafide NHL starter one day.

7. Simon Robertsson

The son of long-time player and coach Bert Robertsson, Simon had a built-in advantage growing up that the vast majority of other hockey-playing kids did not. That upbringing manifested in an interesting way, as the Swedish winger doesn't seem to have much innately high-end skill but composes himself with a wise professionalism that is well beyond his years. It's almost comical how much his game screams “my dad was a coach” with how responsible he is and how hard he consistently works. His relentless motor and polished skating stride do lead to the odd goal, though, because he's often in good position to pounce on mistakes and knows to the take the puck directly to the net instead of to the outside. You can go ahead and pencil Robertsson in now as an eventual bottom six winger and penalty killer at the NHL level.

8. Tyler Tucker

The way Tucker plays is such a throwback to an older era of hockey, so it's easy to see why he is a big fan favorite. Even more impressive, he is proving that that style of hockey hasn't gone extinct and can still be effective in the modern NHL. He's tough, he's nasty, and he isn't afraid to show how much he enjoys it. He'll do anything to protect or stand up for his teammates, and while that sort of thing isn't as necessary as it once was, you know his teammates love him for it anyways. He blocks a lot of shots and wins a lot of battles, so he will surely go over the boards for a plethora of penalty kills before his career is done. Owns a pretty good point shot, too. Expect Tucker to be a big part of the retooling in St. Louis.

9. Michael Buchinger

The 2022-23 season was a major disappointment for a Guelph Storm club that started off the season on wobbly footing and never managed to find their balance, but it all would have gotten so much worse were it not for Buchinger, who was an absolute rock on their back end. No matter how dire things got he remained committed and unflinching, so it's easy to understand why his coaches gave him mountains of ice time. He displays an advanced understanding of all aspects of the defense position and is comfortable being entrusted with key responsibilities. There are some questions, though, about how well he will be able to transition from the junior level to the professional level. Mainly, you'd like to see a defender with his limited size and reach be more fleet of foot. He's a number-one defenseman right now but projects much more neatly as a bottom six NHL blueliner.

10. Leo Loof

It's too bad that Lööf isn't a little bigger, because he revels in the physical side of the sport. There is so much natural grit and sandpaper to his game, and he has probably never passed up a chance to get his hands dirty. He's not a dirty player by any means, though, keeping his style of play on the right side of the line between benefit and liability. He seems to have no delusions about his abilities handling the puck or generating offense and is more than content focusing instead on frustrating his opponents however possible. Despite being a born and raised Swede Lööf took his talents to Finland for the past two years, and after two full seasons worth of games and a pair of playoff series victories in their best professional league it's hard to argue that he made the wrong choice.

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.

MCKEEN’S 2022-23 NHL YEARBOOK – ST. LOUIS BLUES – Top 20 Prospects

Contributors – Brock Otten, Chapin Landvogt, Ethan Hetu, Dylan Krill, — Sun, 18 Sep 2022 20:44:46 +0000

1 -Scott Perunovich D

Last year was actually Perunovich’s rookie pro season. The former Hobey Baker winner injured his shoulder after turning pro and missed the entire 2020-21 season. Splitting time between St. Louis and Springfield, he was an immediate stand out. In the AHL, he was one of the league’s best defenders, even as a rookie. With the Blues, even in a limited role, he was impressive. That is why the Blues activated Perunovich from the IR in the middle of the playoffs and put him in the lineup and on the powerplay. Of course, the Blues had to activate him off the injured list in the first place because he missed an extended period of time after wrist surgery. Is he proving to be injury prone as an NHL player? Too early to say, but the undersized defender does need to stay healthy this year to prove that he is durable enough to be a longtime NHL player. What is clear is that Perunovich is talented enough to be a top four, puck moving defender. He skates well. He is highly intelligent. He is competitive. He has the potential to be one of the NHL’s elite powerplay quarterbacks. The only question mark is durability. Looking at St. Louis’ blueline currently, one might wonder how Perunovich can earn playing time. Their depth is strong. Yet, you could also argue that they need to find a way to get him in there every game because he has the talent to be a difference maker. - BO

2 - Zachary Bolduc C

55 goals. That’s how many goals Zachary Bolduc scored for the Quebec Remparts last season, and it is entirely possible that he breaks the 60-mark next season. Bolduc plays a very projectable game as a top 6 player: He’s relentless in transition, can score from anywhere on the ice and dangle with ease through opponents. This playstyle is what made the St. Louis Blues draft him 17^th overall in the 2021 NHL Draft. Playing in his DY-1 season with the Oceanic Rimouski alongside Alexis Lafrenière made a lot of people question if he was really all that great or if he was just a product of the superstar. In his draft +1 year, he proved all the doubters wrong and was a crucial piece for the Rimouski Oceanic. Returning to the QMJHL this season, there is still lots of room for him to improve. He can stand to get quicker. He can continue to improve his off puck play and consistency playing through traffic. He can continue to improve on his decision making with the puck. Thus far, his progression has gone extremely well, and he does appear to be tracking towards being a future top six contributor for the Blues. - EB

3 - Jake Neighbours LW

The Blues were so impressed by Neighbours and his ability to excel in a support role that they gave him a nine-game audition to start the 2021/22 season. While they did ultimately return him to Edmonton, it speaks volumes as to their love for him as a player. The return to Edmonton was great for Neighbours, however, as he captained the Oil Kings to a WHL Championship. Off the puck, Neighbours is at his best. He is relentless on the forecheck and backcheck and has both the speed and strength to force turnovers regularly. He is also an intelligent complementary offensive piece with how he finds soft spots in coverage, works to maintain possession along the wall, and gets himself to the net front. While his finishing ability and hands probably only grade out to being average, perhaps limiting his offensive potential at the NHL level, he does so many other things well that it is very likely he carves out a long career in the NHL as a middle six player who can play in a variety of different situations. There is a strong chance that Neighbours makes St. Louis in a checking line role this season, however, they may also opt to send him to the AHL to allow him to build confidence in his offensive abilities and adjust to the speed of the pro game. Either way, he is likely very close to being a full time St. Louis Blue. - BO

4 - Jimmy Snuggerud RW

While Jimmy Snuggerud might have fallen under the radar a bit by playing frequently on a line with 2022 top-five picks Logan Cooley and Cutter Gauthier, Snuggerud’s rise up draft boards to ultimately being selected 23rd overall by the Blues wasn’t simply due to him riding his linemates’ coattails. No, Snuggerud is a promising, intriguing prospect in his own right. So much of his game is devoted to maximizing whoever he’s playing with. Cooley and Gauthier are both top prospects on their own but playing with Snuggerud undoubtedly gave their games a strong boost. HIs six-foot-one frame is well-filled despite being on the younger side for his draft class and displays his strength regularly on the ice. Snuggerud is an adept protector of the puck, and he approaches board battles tactically, finding the best way to leverage his strength into success in physical engagements. He knows he’s stronger than many other players, but he doesn’t simply rely on that strength to carry his game. He views his strength as simply one of his tools, and that approach is evidenced by his well-rounded offensive approach. He’s just as comfortable setting up teammates from the perimeter as he is heading through the middle of the ice and creating chances from the more difficult areas other wingers would stay away from. Snuggerud’s small-area game is quite developed as well, and he’s just as comfortable finding a play along the boards as he is firing a crisp open-ice pass. The most notable weakness in his game is his skating, and his lack of a separation gear could limit his offensive upside in the NHL. If Snuggerud can keep his skating above water and continue to create space for playmaking through his puck protection, he could be a scoring-line power forward in the NHL. If his offense plateaus due to his lack of foot speed, there’s still a promising NHL future for Snuggerud a role player. - EH

5 - Joel Hofer G

A late bloomer, Hofer just keeps getting better, season after season. In 2020, he was a standout in the WHL with Portland and backstopped Canada to a gold medal at the World Juniors, capturing the tournament’s top goaltender award in the process. Even last season, his second pro year, he showed remarkable growth over the course of the season. He helped Springfield advance deep into the Calder Cup playoffs and was one of the AHL’s best netminders in the closing months. That bodes well for this year, where he will be carrying a ton of confidence and momentum as a player and prospect. The Blues’ goaltender of the future has pushed through a crowded crease (St. Louis has four netminders under the age of 22 under contract) to rise to the top. In a lot of ways Hofer resembles current NHL netminder Matt Murray. With a tall, lanky frame (6’5, 172lbs), he takes away the bottom of the net so well and his positioning and play tracking ability are sound. He will need to continue to improve his agility and quickness to better challenge pro shooters and have more control over his body, but he has the potential to be the heir apparent to Jordan Binnington in St. Louis’ crease. The Blues will send Hofer back to the AHL this coming season in hopes that he can be one of the league’s top netminders. If he plays like he did in last year’s playoffs, he will be. - BO

6 - Nikita Alexandrov C

It is hard not to see Alexandrov developing into an NHL player in some shape or form. He is such a versatile player, with a game that has few weaknesses. He is a competitive two-way player. He is poised with the puck and has good vision down low. He is a strong forechecker. He is a strong skater. One might look at his mediocre AHL production last year and question his NHL upside, however he still finished fifth in team scoring on a very stacked veteran team. He was among Springfield’s best players in the AHL playoffs, helping them go on a deep run. For those reasons, many believe that Alexandrov is actually very close to earning a spot in the Blues’ lineup. He could easily start lower in the lineup and eventually earn his way up. For now, the Blues will send the former QMJHL standout back to Springfield for another season, where they hope that he will take a step forward offensively and be a leader at the AHL level. Even with a ton of fringe veteran depth at the forward position, he could play his way into an injury callup should the need arise. A projected middle six forward, Alexandrov may be among the game’s most underrated prospects. - BO

7- Simon Robertsson RW

The 71^st overall pick in the 2021 NHL draft, Robertsson was viewed higher in the public sphere before falling to the third round into grateful the hands of the St. Louis Blues. Robertsson is best known for his wicked shot, which has a precise release point that is often accurate while packing a punch. When he doesn’t have the puck, Robertsson always seems to be lurking in the high-danger scoring areas waiting for a pass from his teammates. When transitioning the puck, he loves to attack the middle of the ice, using speed and deception to get inside access. He is also a proficient forechecker, often being aggressive in his opportunities to strip the opposition of the puck. Robertsson split the past couple of seasons between the J20 and the SHL. In his draft year, he produced 20 points in 15 J20 games while also adding 2 points over 22 SHL games. This past season he produced similarly, with 14 goals and 23 points in 21 J20 games, while playing a more limited role in the SHL, often between 2-11 minutes per game, in which he scored 5 times in 48 appearances. Blues fans are hoping that he is given a larger scoring role in the SHL this year and is able to prove why many in the public sphere believed he should have been selected higher. - ZS

8 - Michael Buchinger

The 88th selection in the 2022 NHL Draft, Michael Buchinger was one half of one of the best young defense pairings in the OHL last season, playing with 2023 NHL Draft eligible Cam Allen. After missing the 2020-2021 OHL season due to the Covid-19 shutdown, Buchinger, like others, had to make the adaptation quickly to standout in his draft year. During the 2021-2022 season, Buchinger was able to compliment Allen’s play perfectly, having great positioning away from the puck, understanding when to play conservative to allow Allen to be more aggressive and just making smart and simple plays with great execution. One thing that stands out with Buchinger is that he always looks calm and plays with such poise, never looking overwhelmed. Being utilized in all situations, Buchinger was a big asset to the Strom, eating big minutes and playing on both special teams. At the end of the season Buchinger finished with 44 points (5G,39A) in 63 games, which was 17th in points and 12th in assists in the league by a defenseman and also 2nd in points in the league by a rookie defenseman. Buchinger’s best assets are his hockey sense and competitiveness. He seems to make other teammates better when he’s on the ice, doing the dirty work and making the simple plays so efficiently. He’s a great puck mover, especially in transition where he’s able to connect on stretch passes through traffic to move the puck quickly out of the defensive zone. Buchinger is very effective along the boards, using both a strong active stick to apply pressure and his body to use physicality when needed to knock his opponents off the puck. Going into the 2022-2023 season, Buchinger and his teammate Cam Allen will be one of the leagues best defensive pairings in the league. You could expect an increase in points. - DK

9 - Tanner Dickinson C

Dickinson was in the midst of a breakout year with the Soo Greyhounds when it all came crashing down. Sent flying into the boards, the speedy forward suffered a broken femur and missed the rest of the season. In fact, Dickinson is still rehabbing the injury as of this writing, in order to be ready for the start of Blues’ training camp, but that is no guarantee. As alluded to, skating is his strength. He is lightning quick. Dickinson loves to attack the offensive zone with pace, pushing defenders back on their heels. He also uses his speed to apply pressure on both the forecheck and backcheck. His strength on and off the puck, along with his physical involvement were all significantly improved, at least before the injury. How the injury impacts his development moving forward remains to be seen. That said, the Blues should be happy with how he performed in the OHL and with the progression he has already shown. At some point, when healthy, Dickinson will play at the AHL level this year. Tempering expectations will be important as he regains his touch and confidence. However long term, he possesses some intriguing qualities that could make him an NHL player in some capacity. - BO

10 - Aleksanteri Kaskimaki LW

A solidly built 6-foot, 182-pound multi-dimensional forward, Kaskimäki was selected in the third round of this summer’s draft by the St. Louis Blues. Fully expected to continue his development with the HIFK program in Helsinki, where he could split time between the senior and U20 teams, Kaskimäki got his name entrenched in the scouts’ notebooks when he scored 3 goals at the 2021 Hlinka Gretzky Cup, then proceeded to put up 19 goals, 40 points, and a +19 in just 31 games for HIFK’s U20 squad. A brief stint in for the Liiga side was also successful. All this earned the strong-skating lefty shot a spot at the U18 Worlds, where he contributed 4 points over 6 games, helping his nation win the bronze. His late tip-in goal against Canada to push the game to overtime was one of the tournament highlights. Kaskimäki is a hustler who looks to create space for his wrist shot, a preferred weapon that has exceptional velocity. Shifty in tight corners, he makes optimal use of his husky build to protect the puck and bully his way through traffic. Give him space and he can deke. He is also very comfortable moving through traffic and parking himself in the opposition slot. Overall, Kaskimäki is a raw player who St. Louis can be patient with over the next few seasons. A strong fall could very well lead to a spot at the WJC in Moncton. – CL

11 - Leo Loof

A steady stay at home defender, Loof switched from his native Sweden to playing in Finland last season and the results were excellent as he helped Ilves to a third-place finish. He will play in Liiga again this year and continue to improve his confidence with the puck.

12 - Tyler Tucker

The focus for Tucker has always been to improve his feet and that’s exactly what he has been doing. The stocky defender already wore an “A” for Springfield last season in his second year of pro and his throwback, physical style could make him a future third pairing type.

13 - Matt Kessel

Kessel, a steady and physical stay at home defender with a big shot, turned pro at the end of last season and was an impact player for Springfield, helping them advance deep into the AHL playoffs. If he continues to improve his mobility, he could move quickly through the system.

14 - Arseni Koromyslov

A raw two-way defender, Koromyslov had a bit of a disappointing draft year in the MHL and was selected late in the fourth round by St. Louis. He possesses some intriguing skills but will take time to develop.

15 - Alexei Toropchenko

The former Guelph Storm winger closed out last season with the Blues. The big forward can drive the net and control the puck down low, but his offensive game looks limited.

16 - Hugh McGing

The speedy and creative undersized forward was much better in the AHL as a sophomore, but he will need to take another step forward offensively this season in order to stay in St. Louis’ plans.

17 - Dylan Peterson

The Blues knew that Peterson was going to be a project pick when they drafted him in 2020. The big center skates well and has the profile to be a great shutdown pivot, however his puck skill and IQ limits were unknown. He took a big step forward as a sophomore with Boston University and could do so again this season as a junior.

18 - Keean Washkurak

Washkurak proved to be a solid depth piece for Springfield in his first pro season. The high energy forward can kill penalties and excel on the forecheck. His pro potential may be limited.

19 - Colten Ellis

The former third round pick played most of his first pro season in the ECHL thanks to St. Louis’ goaltending depth. He may have to again this season too.

20 - Noah Beck

The older brother of Calgary prospect (and OHL’er) Jack Beck, Noah is a big, right shot defender who is coming off a breakout year at Clarkson. He is quite mobile for his frame (6’4) and is improving in the defensive end. Not to be confused with the TikTok star and former soccer player.

2021-22 TOP 15 PROSPECTS: ST. LOUIS BLUES – RANK: #24 – TIER IV

McKeen's Hockey — Fri, 10 Sep 2021 00:46:21 +0000

St. Louis Blues

#24 St. Louis - Another case of small draft classes killing depth. This system has a huge dropoff after the top seven.

Jake Neighbours

Jake Neighbours

Jake Neighbours is an effort-based player whose work and desire are never questioned in a game. Not huge, Neighbours is still incredibly strong with a good base that allows him to protect the puck with a wide stance. He has a good burst, and his top speed is fine, but he isn’t a natural burner. When he doesn’t have the puck, he is dogged in pursuit of it. On the forecheck he is very effective as the first man. He closes guys off and takes away options, overall creating chaos and forcing turnovers which can be used to create offensive scoring chances.

In the offensive zone he is more than just a worker as he has some deft puck skills and creativity with the puck. He can move away from pressure and create lanes for his passes. He is a dual threat with a good shot and very good passing ability. He is a player that can hold onto the puck in traffic for that extra second to make a play, and he is comfortable moving through traffic with the puck. Neighbours is a player that will have to prove his offensive chops in the AHL before moving up, but he has the potential to be a middle six, all situations winger. First, he will return to the WHL this season and should be among the leading scorers in the league with an elite Edmonton Oil Kings team. - VG

Zachary Bolduc

The Rimouski centre has several redeeming qualities as a player: visibly silky hands, a relatively fluid and fully extended stride in straight lines when he exerts himself, and a penchant for getting a ton of pucks on net (8.7 shot attempts / 4.27 shots on goal per game). But for Bolduc, his in-game implementation doesn’t allow him to truly leverage his strengths as a player. As such, he may be one of the higher risk players selected in 2021.

A high-volume shooter and strong puckhandler, Bolduc’s scoring potential is high. Armed with a powerful wrist shot and a bevy of confidence, Bolduc is a threat to score from anywhere on the ice. Bolduc also has the potential to develop into a high-end NHL skater. He can show flashes of explosiveness and velocity in straight lines when pursuing loose pucks and can hit gaps quickly to capitalize on scoring chances. Something that could really aid Bolduc to become a more consistent player is adding strength to his lanky frame. Offensively, he will make the effort to initiate contact and get inside of opponents – which is an encouraging habit when it comes to his effort level offensively – but seldom does he emerge in a beneficial situation given his current general lack of strength. A first round talent (and selection by the Blues) because of his offensive potential, Bolduc does not come without some risk attached. If all of his skills do blend together eventually and he becomes more consistent, Bolduc could emerge as a top six center for the Blues. - McKeen’s Draft Guide 2021

Klim Kostin

Kostin's 2020/21 season was the hockey remake of The Ugly Duckling story. A good chunk of time has passed since he was drafted by the Blues in the first round and his development at the AHL level did not go as planned. When he arrived on loan to the KHL, he actually struggled as he was looking lost on the ice, failing to impress his coaches. Coach Bob Hartley was patient with him though, as his game improved over the course of the season. Hartley turned him not into a beautiful swan, but rather into a crushing beast: Kostin started to hit everything that moved and if it didn't move, he would just move it himself. With that being said he did more in his KHL stint than serve as a pugilist; he was an effective offensive player who blended power and skill, just as he was supposed to do when drafted.

Heading into the next season Kostin should be ready to finally take on a full-time role with the Blues as he is a NHL-ready power forward now and can contribute on that level. He always had the talent, and he now knows how to utilize it properly. Kostin just needs the opportunity and if the Blues are smart, they will supply him with it. He may have to start on the lower lines and work his way up, but Kostin projects as a middle six power forward who can be an intimidating net front presence on the powerplay. - VF

Scott Perunovich

As last season finally got underway, Perunovich was a taxi squad member. Coming off a Hobey Baker Award, given to a defenseman who led his conference in scoring, and prior to that being a critical member of back-to-back NCAA champions in Minnesota-Duluth, Perunovich was previously an easy choice as St. Louis’ top prospect. He was very much expected to find his way into NHL games soon, as a key piece of their blueline of the future. And then in mid-February, it was announced that he would be undergoing shoulder surgery that would keep him off the ice for the remainder of the season.

So Perunovich did not play last year, bringing a screeching halt to the amazing progress he had made on the ice after going undrafted in his first two years of eligibility, first as an incredibly raw high schooler, and then as a skilled, but inconsistent and very weak off-the-puck defender in the USHL. His game took off in college, and those three years – plus a freshman season interlude with Team USA at the WJC that really cemented the attention of NHL scouts – are what we have to go off now. His fantastic skating should not have been impacted by the shoulder injury, and hopefully his puck skills are also unaffected. Noting that he is expected to be healthy for the start of 2021-22, everything else is wait and see. - RW

Simon Robertsson

The 6’0 winger has a very well-rounded skill set, but also possesses a fair amount of offensive potential because of his shooting ability. Bouncing around between the J20, SHL, HockeyEttan and the Swedish national teams, Robertsson’s production was not always consistent. However, his effort and engagement usually were. That is why it was surprising to see him fall to the third round this past draft.

Robertsson’s shot and scoring ability were among the best in this draft class. He is also a reliable and consistent player without the puck. He excels on the forecheck due to his good top speed and compete level. He shows good awareness and anticipation in the offensive end, especially in the slot area where pucks just seem to find his stick. Obviously, he is not a perfect player; he does have some characteristics that need to improve and those do partially explain his inconsistencies. The first is his decision making with the puck. Additionally, scouts are looking for him to continue to add more dynamics to his stride, especially while in possession of the puck. If Robertsson’s development goes according to plan, he has the chance to be a top six goal scoring winger who can play in a variety of situations for the Blues (including likely becoming a top penalty killing option). However, even if his play with the puck never improves, he does enough things well to suggest that he could make a reliable middle six supporting winger who can line up alongside more skilled players to help finish off plays and provide two-way stability. - McKeen’s Draft Guide 2021

Nikita Alexandrov

Certainly not a sexy prospect, Alexandrov has a terrific chance of developing into an NHL player in the future because of his well-rounded skill set. Previously, he spent three solid years in the QMJHL with Charlottetown and was a top performer at the World Juniors as a 20-year-old. Last season, he started the year with KooKoo in Liiga (Finland), performing well in a middle six role, before finishing with Utica in the AHL.

As mentioned, Alexandrov is a very polished player who should find immediate success at the pro level in North America. He skates well. He protects the puck well. He is competitive in all three zones and excels as a forechecker. He can play any role that is asked of him. While he may not have first line upside, Alexandrov does possess the ability to be a capable middle six forward for the Blues in the near future. A strong first full season in the AHL this season should give management an indication of how close he is to reaching that potential. Given the strength of St. Louis’ farm system currently, there could be an opening for him to move quickly. - BO

Joel Hofer

It was an up-and-down pro debut for Hofer, who made 10 appearances in goal for the Utica Comets, winning four of 10 games with fairly pedestrian numbers but with two shutout performances as well, showcasing a glimpse of the form he displayed in junior and at the WJC backstopping Canada to gold in 2020. Hofer is a calm, patient goalie who stays square to shooters and utilizes his fantastic size well. Although he doesn’t move much in net, his reflexes are excellent and he reads the play well. His focus and mindset bode well for handling a starter’s workload at some point in the future, if he continues to refine his mechanics and gain more experience at the pro level, as he is quite raw still.

The pandemic didn’t help matters, shortening the past two seasons that were critical in his development. Hofer needs playing time and will hopefully get it as he has the inside track to be the Comets starter in 2021-22, though he will have to hold off the likes of Evan Fitzpatrick or even the fast-rising Colten Ellis. An important season looms. He still possesses the best odds of any young goalie in the system to push Jordan Binnington for starts in the St. Louis crease in the future. - AS

Tyler Tucker

All things considered, Tucker’s first pro season with Utica was highly successful. He established himself as a top four defender for the Comets, averaging over 20 minutes of ice time per game. While the offensive production may have been somewhat limited, Tucker anchored Utica’s penalty killing unit and demonstrated that he could be a standout in the defensive zone at the AHL level.

The key to Tucker’s development has always been his ability to improve his conditioning and skating ability. His lack of mobility was the primary reason he initially fell to the seventh round in 2018. However, he has worked very hard to become a better overall skater and the results showed at the AHL level last season. He looks every bit a future NHL defender, at the very least as a high end third pairing/depth option. With his physicality and defensive approach transitioning seamlessly, Tucker will look to increase his confidence and effectiveness with the puck this coming season, perhaps even earning a greater look on the powerplay so he can utilize his booming point shot. While Tucker may not be an NHL player for a few years still, his progression is on the right path. - BO

Keean Washkurak

Washkurak is another OHL player who was forced to find an alternative means to playing this past season due to the pandemic cancellation. Along with a few Ontario players, Washkurak went to Slovakia to play in the second men’s league, performing very admirably. At the conclusion of his Slovak season, he joined Utica for a brief time, but this coming season will serve as his first full year in the AHL.

Washkurak is like a waterbug on the ice; his energy level is infectious. An intense competitor, he excels on the forecheck, in the defensive zone, and on the penalty kill. As an offensive player, Washkurak’s best assets are his ability to push the pace with his speed, and his vision with the puck. While his offensive potential at the NHL level is likely rather limited, he does have the potential to be an NHL player because of his quickness and well-rounded skill set that is tailored to be a checking line player for the Blues in the future. Look for Washkurak to spend a few seasons in the AHL first, building up confidence in his offensive abilities, before he makes the jump. - BO

Dylan Peterson

There are only a few teams in which Peterson would fit as a top 10 prospect, and even with St. Louis, one of the shallower systems in the league, he just barely worked his way on. A third round pick out of the USNTDP as a very big and rangy center with tremendously advanced defensive utility, the Blues would not have been expecting a big scorer here. So, his meagre six point output as a freshman at Boston University should not have been a surprise in the least.

He was still able to flash the attributes that got him drafted in the first place. The size is an asset as mentioned. He will do anything to help his team win, for example excelling as a shot blocker. He didn’t play as traditionally physical a game as a freshman as one might hope, but he is by no means a shy player. The other impressive element of his game that stuck around is his great skating. He has a very fluid, clean stride and he simply eats up the ice at full speed. Those traits made him a trusted penalty killer as a freshman, and they will help him eventually reach his floor as a prospect, that being as a bottom six forward who can keep things very tight playing shut-down hockey. Not exciting, but pretty useful regardless. - RW

Colten Ellis

Ellis, playing as an overager in the QMJHL this past season, posted the best save percentage and the best GAA in the league on a strong Charlottetown team. The former third rounder took the steps forward that St. Louis wanted to see and now heads into his first pro season riding a wave of confidence.

Tanner Dickinson

Due to the cancellation of the 2020/21 OHL season, Dickinson barely played last year, seeing marginal action with Utica in the AHL under an exemption. The speedy playmaker will be a go-to player for the Soo Greyhounds this year, as he looks to make up for lost time and development.

Matt Kessel

An NCAA champion last year with UMass, Kessel emerged as one of Hockey East’s top two-way defenders as a sophomore. The heavy hitting and hard shooting 6’3 defender will return to the Minutemen, wearing an ‘A” this coming season.

Jake Walman

Time is running out for this former NCAA All Star to become more than just organizational depth for the Blues. He did spend the entire year with the Blues but played sporadically. The sixth defender position is clearly up for grabs going into training camp and Walman will look to secure it.

Mathias Laferriere

An impact player in the QMJHL the past three seasons, Laferriere is an intelligent and versatile forward who has a chance to carve out a career as a bottom six forward for the Blues. He will finally turn pro this season and will probably need a few years in the AHL to build up his confidence offensively before making the jump.

McKeen’s 2020-21 Hockey Yearbook: St. Louis Blues Top 20 Prospects

Rachel Howard — Mon, 21 Dec 2020 21:49:03 +0000

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

Scott Perunovich, D (45^th overall, 2018. Previous ranking: 1)

There are late bloomers and there are late exploders. A few weeks after signing with the Blues, shortly after the premature end of his freshman season with Minnesota-Duluth, Perunovich justifiably won the Hobey Baker Award, given to the top men’s ice hockey player in NCAA. He is very small, but his skating has improved since being drafted to now be a real draw for his game. He can generally hold his own in his own end, but the best way I can describe his game is by recapping the sequence that led to a goal against Western Michigan this year. Perunovich got puck at his own blueline, and tried to pass it to center ice, but the puck went off an opponent's skate, bouncing right back to the man in question, who then skated it past center ice and passed to a teammate on the right boards. Immediately after passing, Perunovich kicked into overdrive and charged the net, getting the pass back from the same teammate a few feet from the crease, where he proceeded to chip it over a diving goalie and into the net. Between his high-end skating, hands, creativity and vision, Perunovich could be a star. – RW

Jake Neighbours, LW (26^th overall, 2020. Previous ranking: NA)

More steady than flashy, Neighbours has a stocky frame and more strength than many in this draft class, making him difficult to play against, and especially strong on faceoffs and in puck battles at either end. Even though he is not overly aggressive, he doesn’t shy away from physical play and is a very effective forechecker. The strength of his game is as a playmaker. His passing game is high end as he sees lanes that few others can, with the ability to execute on those options at will. He is equally as comfortable setting up linemates from his backhand as he is from his forehand, allowing him to play on either side of center. Neighbours will quarterback from the top of the slot and either cycle, or penetrate the home plate area, depending on the defensive structure. A high-volume shooter, Neighbours could be even more effective as a playmaker if he was more judicious in his shooting, notwithstanding a quick release that can take advantage of gaps from any angle, forehand or backhand. Regardless, I think the young center will continue to make the adjustments to maximize his ability in this game. – RW

Tyler Tucker, D (200^th overall, 2018. Previous ranking: 2)

By improving his conditioning and becoming a more powerful and fluid four-way skater, Tucker has emerged as a serious contender for a future NHL blueline job. A throwback player, he relishes playing the body. He is very aggressive in trying to deny zone entries by stepping up on would be attackers. His improved skating has allowed him to have better gap control. He also possesses some above average offensive qualities. His booming point shot gives him the potential to quarterback a powerplay. With an improved stride, Tucker was able to make more of a consistent impact frequently jumping up into or leading the rush. Blues fans should be very happy with his progression and emergence as a legitimate NHL prospect. With his physical approach and underrated puck skills, he has the potential to develop into a quality #4-5 defender who can play in all situations. Continued improvement will be needed from his skating, primarily to maintain a stout defensive projection. Patience will be required, and he may need a few years in the AHL to adapt to the speed of the pro game. – BO

Klim Kostin, RW (31^st overall, 2017. Previous ranking: 3)

Sooner or later, the powerful and skillful forward was going to figure it all out; on came the 2019-20 season. Kostin reached new career highs in goals and points in the AHL and scored his first career NHL goal. His physical prowess was on full display at both levels, as the power forward’s superb puck-protection, balance, and ability to maintain skating momentum shifting back and forth on his feet impressed. His heavy wrist shot, and fast, deceptive puck-handling round out his offensive package, although his skating and acceleration can be sluggish. He seemed to unlock the capability of playing that assertive style consistently, which has boosted his confidence and his overall potential. Kostin has finally reminded us of why he was so revered in his draft year. After three full AHL seasons, it would not shock me to see him instantly placed into the top-six role he is well-suited for with St. Louis for next season. - TD

Joel Hofer, G (107^th overall, 2018. Previous ranking: 4)

From a backup goalie who let in too many soft goals in and lose his net too frequently, to a start who kept his mask above water on a weak WHL team, to stealing a spot on Canada’s Gold Medal winning WJC roster – where he ended up the starter, Hofer has taken several big steps in the past few years. He brings a calm and relaxed presence in the crease. The soft goals have mostly evaporated, as has his past tendency to lose positioning and be forced to scramble. What’s left is an incredibly poised netminder, playing within himself and using his immense frame to do the work for him. His movement is controlled, he tracks the puck laterally very well and competes hard. His puck handling is not a strength, but most of the rest is. Hofer is able to park a bad play or a soft goal and move on and now shows NHL starter potential. - VG

Nikita Alexandrov, C (62^nd overall, 2019. Previous ranking: 5)

The first impression of the bulky forward is that he is a force along the boards due to his strong frame and low center-of-gravity. Alexandrov is nearly impossible to knock off the puck when he takes root along the wall, with very strong legs and a very powerful core. He protects the puck well. His acceleration is excellent due to his short and choppy stride, but his top speed is merely good, potentially holding him back at the highest level. His hockey IQ is very strong, and his reads make him strong on the backcheck and as a playmaker. Alexandrov is largely a North-South player, but he has good hands in tight, especially close to the net and along the boards. He can also be a solid net-front player, combining his strong body and quick hands into the ability to find and deflect pucks. What may hold him back is his tendency to keep it simple. Alexandrov needs more confidence in his potential to become a stronger player. At minimum, he can be a strong-willed secondary scorer at the top level but will need to work on his stride. – MS

Dylan Peterson, C (86^th overall, 2020. Previous ranking: NA)

One of the top defensive forwards in the 2020 draft class, Peterson combines an ideal frame, big and strong, with high end athleticism. He is an excellent skater, particularly considering his size. In the mold of 2019 first rounder John Beecher, Peterson was not used in a heavy offensive capacity for the U18s this year, but when he had the chance, he would generally be found parked in front of the opposing goalie. He has the hands to play in tight and chip the odd puck in. He can shoot from the rush as well and has soft hands. He can be counted on to carry the puck through traffic in the neutral zone, and to direct the puck smartly once the puck is in the offensive end. He plays with solid touch and can work from behind the net as well. Low end middle six is his realistic ceiling. He plays without fear while positioning himself to inflict maximal disruption, stuffing shooting and passing lanes. He could stand to be more physically assertive, but he does a nice job of taking space away and being difficult to play against. – RW

Ville Husso, G (94^th overall, 2014. Previous ranking: 6)

The Blues found their goalie of the future in the otherwise unheralded Jordan Binnington, but before that, their most prized netminding pupil was Husso. After a disastrous 2018-19 season, Husso needed a comeback campaign in 2019-20 to return to a high spot in the Blues farm system and his efforts with AHL San Antonio did exactly that. Behind a Rampage team which fielded a fairly weak defense, the Finn rebounded to the tune of a 2.56 GAA and .909 SV%. Husso’s raw athletic skills never faded, but his ability to read plays and confidently position himself to shut down any danger early looked much improved compared to last season. The way he propels himself laterally with his quick foot movement and long legs gives him total coverage of the lower half of the goal, and his rebound control and pre-shot preparation looked better, though his glove hand speed and positioning remain flaws. At 25, he looks like a near finished product and could be a long-term 1B goaltender for the Blues as soon as next season, especially with a frantically compressed schedule that will require the use of several goaltenders. - TD

Niko Mikkola, D (127^th overall, 2015. Previous ranking: 7)

Mikkola’s style of play will eventually be a perfect fit in the heavily structured, physical system of play in St. Louis. The massive 2014 fifth-round pick has been steadily maturing into a solid stay-at-home defenseman and would probably be a lineup fixture on a team with a lesser defensive core. A strong skater for a d-man with a 6-5” frame with the capability of playing heavy, demanding physical minutes against high-end opposing forward lines, Mikkola can end plays below the goal line and excels at defending with his stick and muscular upper body. With a high hockey IQ, he anticipates the moves of his opponents and, with poke checks and decent lateral agility, can effectively keep them from getting center position and testing the goaltender from high-danger areas. Though his offensive skill is sorely limited, he at least can get the puck out of the zone. Someone who plays this kind of style does not need much more polishing, and he quickly earned the trust of the Blues coaches in his five-game NHL stint with some key PK minutes. A role as a stay-at-home depth blueliner is in the near future for the big Finnish lefthander. - TD

Hugh McGing, C (138^th overall, 2018. Previous ranking: 8)

Like Perunovich above, Hugh McGing is an undersized player who was not drafted until his third year of eligibility. In almost all other respects the Western Michigan grad is a very different kind of prospect. While the Bronco’s captains put up good numbers throughout his collegiate career, he projects as more of a heart-and-soul forward who could set up shop in a bottom six and play for years in the NHL, while occasionally moonlighting higher up the lineup as a short-term injury replacement. McGing has quick feet and a plus top speed, but he is just as notable for playing a very gritty game, getting involved in the dirty areas and coming out clean. He has skilled hands and can maneuver the puck from in tight. He is reliable in any type of game situation. Even if he lacks the dynamic skill set you want to see in a top six player, he is fun to watch and there is enough there to expect him to be an injury call up as soon as this season. - RW

Keean Washkurak, C (155^th overall, 2019. Previous ranking: 9)

One thing that is critical for tracking the future success of a prospect is how well they close out their draft plus one season. Washkurak did so extremely well, finishing with 22 points in the final 15 games, helping the Steelheads surge before the season was abruptly ended. While he may not have high end upside at the pro level, he is a fantastic skater and energy player who excels on the forecheck and the penalty kill. Next year, Mississauga should be a contender in the Eastern Conference and Washkurak will be a large part of that success. He has the chance to become a real fan favorite in St. Louis down the line as fans grow to love the tenacity and consistent effort that he plays with. - BO

Colten Ellis, G (93^rd overall, 2019. Previous ranking: 10)

The newest Charlottetown Islander is a quick netminder who dazzles with his athleticism but has the tendency to over-commit to the puck. His quick play, especially his fast feet and post-to-post movement, is enough at the Q level to shine, but will need to be coached out of his game to succeed in the pros. His size, standing 6-1”, is also not ideal. However, he is a battler who does not give up on a play, even though he might lose sight of the puck a time or two. Ellis is a fan-favorite goaltender for the highlight reel save, but those kinds of saves are usually born out of a lapse in positioning or reading the play. Having said that, there is a solid foundation of technical skills to build upon. Ellis has some work to do, but his athleticism and his hard-working nature could prove him to be a diamond in the rough. – MS

Leo Loof, D (88^th overall, 2020. Previous ranking: NA)

A lanky defender who skates well and hits very hard, Loof is one of a set of identical twins in the Farjestad system. Brother Linus is a center, but Leo is the one with a legitimate NHL projection. Twice named the best defenseman of his age-group in the youth levels of Sweden, Leo is also frequently called on by the national team and contributed a pair of assists to the Bronze Medal winning group at last year’s Hlinka Gretzky Cup. You would like to see him improve his decision making and spend less time in the penalty box, but Loof has enough to offer to imagine a future as a #4-6 blueliner in the NHL. In addition to his wheels, he is a smart and proficient puck mover who helps keep the puck heading in the right direction. He also demonstrates admirable hockey IQ, with the look of a defender who could feature in a shutdown role and take on PK time. The main limitation to his game is a weak point shot that will curtail his offensive production and prevent him from receiving too many power play minutes. – RW

Will Cranley, G (163^rd overall, 2020. Previous ranking: NA)

A late bloomer among the 2020 draft class, Cranley hit his stride in the few months before last season was cancelled. His starts were certainly sheltered a bit as Ottawa's back-up, with lots of games against the league’s bottom feeders, and put up a .925 save percentage in his final ten games. A 6-4” netminder who trending in the right direction performance-wise and possesses great athletic tools is always worthy of a draft-day gamble, even for an organization whose strength is in the crease. He sees the ice very well thanks to his size and has some of the technical components of the position well-honed. Cranley is raw and it will take time to iron out some technical issues, with rebound control a particular bugbear. However, he definitely has the make-up of an NHL netminder. First, he will need to seize the starting job with the Ottawa 67s when the OHL resumes play and pick up where he left off last season. – BO

Austin Poganski, RW (110^th overall, 2014. Previous ranking: 11)

The former North Dakota captain earned an NHL debut amid a 30-point AHL season as a two-way winger with speed and size. The Blues threw their San Antonio assistant captain a bone with a one-game, six-minute NHL stint, rewarding him for his reliability and versatility in the minors with a taste of the Stanley Cup champions’ roster. A strong PK guy who can control the defensive zone with his stick-positioning and one-on-one coverage, Poganski’s offensive game is evolving, notably with an improving shot and an added sense of assertiveness to carry the puck. He will never be an elite skater, but his high hockey IQ and maturity allow him to remain on the cusp of an NHL job. The fourth-round pick in 2014 has potential to be a solid, albeit unimpressive bottom-six NHL winger for St. Louis soon, though one more AHL season would help him round his two-way game out. – TD

Mitch Reinke, D (Undrafted Free Agent, signed, Mar. 25, 2018. Previous ranking: 12)

Reinke is admittedly a hard player to evaluate and project, with inconsistencies and struggles mixed in with flashes of offensive brilliance and skill. After an excellent rookie season in the AHL that earned the right-hander league All-Rookie team honors in 2018-19, Reinke fell back down to earth after taking a larger helping of minutes and being assigned defensive roles against opposing top-six units. Although his positioning and initial blueline defense suppressed a good amount of shots against and kept shooters from getting inside angles, his lack of size and strength was exposed at times, and with a greater responsibility on defense, his offensive contributions at even strength and in transition were somewhat subdued. If he can balance out the two sides of the game, he can be a dynamic transition piece at the highest level of the game; his passing and puck-handling skills are high-end and his skating is strong enough to weave through the neutral zone solo. Perhaps the American will need sheltered minutes to be able to put up points in the NHL, but he can be a serviceable, depth offensive defenseman with St. Louis in short term. - TD

Jake Walman, D (82^nd overall, 2014. Previous ranking: 13)

Coming off his best pro season to date, the 2014 third-round selection showed again why he was once considered a top-five prospect in this system. His offensive potential that looked limited at the AHL level just one season ago appears to have blossomed with a career-best 27 points (eight goals, 19 assists) in 57 games. Walman, like Poganski, was given a one-night NHL shot as a reward for his efforts with San Antonio, leading the blueline in goals and plus/minus (+3). A great skater, he plays aggressively with the puck on his stick and has improved his passing through the neutral and offensive zones. Defensively, he chooses to play the body and retrieve the puck after, using his large frame and long reach to dislodge the puck early in transitional defense. He possesses a good shot from the point and loves to use it, especially on the power play. He remains a fringe prospect who has been passed on the depth chart by other young blueliners (Mikkola and Perunovich of note) but has played himself back into an NHL conversation. – TD

Tanner Dickinson, C (119^th overall, 2020. Previous ranking: NA)

Immediately noticeable because of his speed, Dickinson made a solid impression in his OHL debut campaign, having spent the previous season playing AAA hockey in the Detroit area. He is explosive and gains the offensive zone with ease, also excelling as a forechecker. He has never demonstrated a great scoring touch, especially struggling to put up points at even strength, but showed a bit of a knack as a playmaker. His best attribute outside of his wheels is his hockey IQ. Despite having very little high-level junior experience, he had no problem whatsoever keeping up with the pace of the game in the OHL. Another thing that may hold him back is that he is very slight and gets knocked off the puck too easily right now. All newly drafted players need to bulk up and physically mature, but Dickinson needs to more than most. The hope here is that the lack of experience against top competition gives him a greater hidden upside than many other middle to late round picks. – BO

Mathias Laferriere, C (69^th overall, 2018. Previous ranking: 14)

Laferrière started a key development year on the shelf with a dislocated shoulder and missed more than a month with the ailment but came back strong to show the same offensive touch in 2020 from his break-out 2018-19 campaign. His offensive skills tend to skew more towards his strong shot than his playmaking ability, but he can open up ice with the threat of his shot, and he can feed his linemates with a strong pass. He is a jack-of-all-trades forward; as in, good in most areas, master of none. His consistency has improved in the last two years, but is still an issue at times, and he will need to bulk up to be a ready contributor in the pro ranks. Laferrière’s skillset would make him a good middle-six offensive player at the maximum of his potential, but it will take some work for him to get there. – MS

Nolan Stevens, C (125^th overall, 2016. Previous ranking: 15)

2019-20 was a prove-it season in some sense for Nolan Stevens. Previously an exclusively defensive player with little to offer on offense, the Northeastern alum showed he can be a 200-foot center who can wrestle his counterparts off the puck and use his large, 6-3” frame to run a beastly cycle. Improving by 13 points from last season in nine fewer games with roughly the same amount of ice time in the San Antonio top six, the son of former NHL head coach John Stevens is not much of a skater or puck-carrier, but can maintain possession for an extended duration (reminiscent of the Blues’ top skaters), and is a strong, intelligent facilitator from tight spaces. Playing deep in his own zone to assist defensively, Stevens uses his long stick to strip the puck from opponents and his big body to get into shot lanes. A restricted free agent going into next season, Stevens will likely return to the AHL club and hopefully increase his goal-scoring output to somewhere near his 24-goal final season at the NCAA level. - TD

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

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

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

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

PROSPECT CRITERIA

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

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

MCKEENS 2020 NHL PROSPECTS REPORT – TOP 250 PROSPECTS

McKeens Hockey; Article by Ryan Wagman — Tue, 22 Sep 2020 11:50:55 +0000

I write these words less than 24 hours after the Dallas Stars took game one of the Stanley Cup Finals against the heavily favored Tampa Bay Lightning. Unlike most seasons wherein the end of the Stanley Cup marks the beginning of off-season player movement, this year teams have taken an early start to the transactional Ferris wheel as many expect the upcoming offseason (from the awarding of the Cup, through to the draft in the first week of October to the start of the 2020-21 season perhaps as soon as early December, pending COVID trends in North America) to be especially turbulent.

We have seen a few trades of NHL pieces, one deal which impacted this guidebook, as Toronto sent Kasperi Kapanen to Pittsburgh and Swedish winger Filip Hallander was among those coming back to Toronto. Hallander was our selection for the second-best prospect in the Penguins system and now holds that title for the Maple Leafs. That trade knocked the Penguins down a few slots on our organizational rankings and allowed Toronto to go the other way accordingly.

Of course, with the draft roughly 17 days away, and with it a complete re-shuffling of the organizational rankings, this is just a snapshot in time of how every team’s system shakes up. We will re-run this list, incorporating the drafted players, in our pre-season fantasy guide, where we will expand the lists up to 20.

What you are about to dive into is a comprehensive list of all prospect eligible players on all 31 teams. To hold prospect eligibility, a player needs to 25 or younger, as of September 15, 2020. All skaters need to have played less than 60 career games, with no more than 35 of those games coming in a single season (or 25 for this past shortened season). For goalies, the age criteria remain the same, but the games played benchmark drops to 30 career games and 20 in a given season (or 15 last year). Any cutoff that does not hew exactly to the Calder Trophy award criteria is, by nature, arbitrary, but we aim to be inclusive for all players who have not yet cemented NHL jobs and/or have not had a prolonged chance to prove himself capable – or incapable.

We rank 15 per team, as depth is as important as the high end. Our goal is to identify players who could – if they have an advocate for them within the team’s braintrust – play a role in the NHL. These players were identified through our thorough vetting of each prospect across the globe, assigning scores, or grades, to five areas for skaters (skating, shot, puck skills, smarts, physicality) and six for netminders (athleticism/speed/quickness, compete/temperament, vision/play reading, positioning/technique, rebound control, and puck handling). Depending on the position, the grades are run through an algorithm to come up with an overall future projection (OFP).

The OFP, if the scout is being honest, measures the future role we anticipate the prospect being able to hold. A 50 score is the lower threshold to be a regular 4^th line forward, or bottom pairing defender. Grades over 56 are potential top line/pairing skaters. The grades in between, obviously project to the middle of the lineup.

As we are reminded every year, development is not linear. Some players take unexpected sudden leaps forward (see Marino, John), and others stagnate (see Ho-Sang, Josh), and many do exactly what we expect of them when they are given the chance. As much as I trust the analysts in our team, I can also tell you that this exercise is always humbling. There will be at least one player who we rate highly who bombs. There will be at least one player who did not feature on his team’s top 15 who becomes an NHL regular next year. We accept those errors in judgment and promise you, our faithful subscriber, that we will learn from them and refine our work for next year, as we learn just as NHL teams learn.

Until then, please enjoy this snapshot view of the future of the beautiful, frozen game. Putting this together has provided at least some sense of normalcy during this crazy summer.

NHL	RNK	PLAYER	POS	AGE	HT/WT	TM	Acquired
Ana	1	Trevor Zegras	C	19	6-0/170	Boston University (HE)	`19(9th)
Min	2	Kirill Kaprizov	LW	23	5-10/200	CSKA (KHL)	`15(135th)
Col	3	Bowen Byram	D	19	6-0/195	Vancouver (WHL)	`19(4th)
Buf	4	Dylan Cozens	C	19	6-3/185	Lethbridge (WHL)	`19(7th)
Fla	5	Spencer Knight	G	19	6-3/195	Boston College (HE)	`19(13th)
VGK	6	Peyton Krebs	C	19	5-11/180	Winnipeg (WHL)	`19(17th)
Ari	7	Victor Soderstrom	D	19	5-11/180	Brynas (Swe)	`19(11th)
Mtl	8	Cole Caufield	RW	19	5-7/165	Wisconsin (B1G)	`19(15th)
Van	9	Vasili Podkolzin	RW	19	6-1/190	SKA St. Petersburg (KHL)	`19(10th)
Edm	10	Philip Broberg	D	19	6-3/200	Skelleftea AIK (Swe)	`19(8th)
Tor	11	Nick Robertson	LW	19	5-9/160	Peterborough (OHL)	`19(53rd)
Col	12	Alex Newhook	C	19	5-10/195	Boston College (HE)	`19(16th)
Det	13	Moritz Seider	D	19	6-3/185	Grand Rapids (AHL)	`19(6th)
Fla	14	Grigori Denisenko	LW	20	5-11/185	Lokomotiv Yaroslavl (KHL)	`18(15th)
Min	15	Matthew Boldy	LW	19	6-1/190	Boston College (HE)	`19(12th)
NJ	16	Ty Smith	D	20	5-10/180	Spokane (WHL)	`18(17th)
LA	17	Alex Turcotte	C	19	5-11/185	Wisconsin (B1G)	`19(5th)
Nsh	18	Philip Tomasino	C	19	5-11/180	Nia-Osh (OHL)	`19(24th)
Pit	19	Samuel Poulin	LW	19	6-1/205	Sherbrooke (QMJHL)	`19(21st)
Wsh	20	Connor McMichael	C	19	5-11/175	London (OHL)	`19(25th)
LA	21	Gabriel Vilardi	RW	21	6-3/200	Ontario (AHL)	`17(11th)
NYR	22	Igor Shesterkin	G	24	6-1/190	Hartford (AHL)	`14(118th)
Dal	23	Thomas Harley	D	19	6-3/190	Mississauga (OHL)	`19(18th)
Ari	24	Barrett Hayton	C	20	6-1/190	Arizona (NHL)	`18(5th)
NYR	25	Nils Lundkvist	D	20	5-11/180	Lulea (Swe)	`18(28th)
LA	26	Arthur Kaliyev	RW	19	6-2/190	Hamilton (OHL)	`19(33rd)
Cgy	27	Juuso Valimaki	D	21	6-2/205	DNP - Injured	`17(16th)
Det	28	Jared McIsaac	D	20	6-1/195	Hal-Mon (QMJHL)	`18(36th)
NYR	29	Vitali Kravtsov	RW	20	6-3/185	Hartford (AHL)	`18(9th)
Edm	30	Evan Bouchard	D	20	6-2/195	Bakersfield (AHL)	`18(10th)
NYR	31	K'Andre Miller	D	20	6-3/205	Wisconsin (B1G)	`18(22nd)
Edm	32	Raphael Lavoie	RW	19	6-4/195	Hal-Chi (QMJHL)	`19(38th)
NYI	33	Ilya Sorokin	G	25	6-2/180	CSKA (KHL)	`14(78th)
Det	34	Albert Johansson	D	19	5-11/165	Farjestads (Swe)	`19(60th)
Ari	35	Matias Maccelli	LW	19	5-11/170	Ilves Tampere (Fin)	`19(98th)
Van	36	Nils Hoglander	RW	19	5-9/185	Rogle (Swe)	`19(40th)
Ari	37	Jan Jenik	RW	20	6-1/180	Hamilton (OHL)	`18(65th)
Phi	38	Cam York	D	19	5-11/175	Michigan (B1G)	`19(14th)
Phi	39	Morgan Frost	C	21	5-11/180	Lehigh Valley (AHL)	`17(27th)
Ana	40	Lukas Dostal	G	20	6-1/170	Ilves Tampere (Fin)	`18(85th)
LA	41	Tobias Bjornfot	D	19	6-0/200	Ontario (AHL)	`19(22nd)
SJ	42	Ryan Merkley	D	20	5-11/170	London (OHL)	`18(21st)
NYI	43	Kieffer Bellows	LW	22	6-0/200	Bridgeport (AHL)	`16(19th)
NYI	44	Oliver Wahlstrom	RW	20	6-1/205	Bridgeport (AHL)	`18(11th)
LA	45	Rasmus Kupari	C	20	6-1/185	Ontario (AHL)	`18(20th)
CBJ	46	Liam Foudy	C	20	6-0/175	London (OHL)	`18(18th)
LA	47	Tyler Madden	C	20	5-10/155	Northeastern (HE)	T(Van-2/20)
Mtl	48	Alexander Romanov	D	20	5-11/185	CSKA (KHL)	`18(38th)
NYI	49	Bode Wilde	D	20	6-2/195	Bridgeport (AHL)	`18(41st)
Ott	50	Jacob Bernard-Docker	D	20	6-0/180	North Dakota (NCHC)	`18(26th)
Cgy	51	Jakob Pelletier	LW	19	5-9/165	Moncton (QMJHL)	`19(26th)
LA	52	Akil Thomas	C	20	5-11/170	Nia-Pbo (OHL)	`18(51st)
Wpg	53	Dylan Samberg	D	21	6-3/190	Minn-Duluth (NCHC)	`17(43rd)
Chi	54	Ian Mitchell	D	21	5-11/175	Denver (NCHC)	`17(57th)
Ott	55	Josh Norris	C	21	6-1/195	Belleville (AHL)	T(SJ-9/18)
NYR	56	Matthew Robertson	D	19	6-3/200	Edmonton (WHL)	`19(49th)
VGK	57	Pavel Dorofeyev	LW	19	6-1/170	Magnitogorsk (KHL)	`19(79th)
Dal	58	Jake Oettinger	G	21	6-4/210	Texas (AHL)	`17(26th)
Ott	59	Drake Batherson	RW	22	6-1/190	Belleville (AHL)	`17(121st)
LA	60	Samuel Fagemo	RW	20	6-0/195	Frolunda (Swe)	`19(50th)
Col	61	Justus Annunen	G	20	6-4/215	Karpat Oulu (Fin)	`18(64th)
Bos	62	John Beecher	C	19	6-3/210	Michigan (B1G)	`19(30th)
Phi	63	Egor Zamula	D	20	6-4/175	Calgary (WHL)	FA(9/18)
NYR	64	Zac Jones	D	19	5-10/175	Massachusetts (HE)	`19(68th)
CBJ	65	Kirill Marchenko	LW	20	6-3/190	SKA St. Petersburg (KHL)	`18(49th)
VGK	66	Jack Dugan	RW	22	6-2/185	Providence (HE)	`17(142nd)
StL	67	Scott Perunovich	D	22	5-10/175	Minn-Duluth (NCHC)	`18(45th)
Bos	68	Jack Studnicka	C	21	6-1/170	Providence (AHL)	`17(53rd)
Dal	69	Ty Dellandrea	C	20	6-0/185	Flint (OHL)	`18(13th)
Min	70	Calen Addison	D	20	5-10/180	Lethbridge (WHL)	T(Pit-2/20)
NYR	71	Julien Gauthier	RW	22	6-4/225	Charlotte (AHL)	T(Car-2/20)
Van	72	Olli Juolevi	D	22	6-3/200	Utica (AHL)	`16(5th)
NJ	73	Nolan Foote	LW	19	6-3/190	Kelowna (WHL)	T(TB-2/20)
NJ	74	Janne Kuokkanen	LW	22	6-1/190	Cha-Bng (AHL)	T(Car-2/20)
Ott	75	Alex Formenton	LW	21	6-2/165	Belleville (AHL)	`17(47th)
Det	76	Robert Mastrosimone	LW	19	5-10/160	Boston University (HE)	`19(54th)
NYR	77	Morgan Barron	C	21	6-2/200	Cornell (ECAC)	`17(174th)
Mtl	78	Jesse Ylonen	RW	20	6-1/185	Pelicans (Fin)	`18(35th)
Car	79	Dominik Bokk	RW	20	6-1/180	Rogle (Swe)	T(StL-9/19)
Nsh	80	Egor Afanasyev	RW	19	6-3/205	Windsor (OHL)	`19(45th)
Ana	81	Benoit-Olivier Groulx	C	20	6-1/195	Hal-Mon (QMJHL)	`18(54th)
Min	82	Alexander Khovanov	C	20	5-11/195	Moncton (QMJHL)	`18(86th)
Det	83	Joe Veleno	C	20	6-1/195	Grand Rapids (AHL)	`18(30th)
NJ	84	Kevin Bahl	D	20	6-6/230	Ottawa (OHL)	T(Ari-12/19)
Car	85	Ryan Suzuki	C	19	6-0/180	Bar-Sag (OHL)	`19(28th)
Van	86	Jett Woo	D	20	6-0/205	Calgary (WHL)	`18(37th)
Mtl	87	Mattias Norlinder	D	20	5-11/180	MODO (Swe 2)	`19(64th)
Min	88	Adam Beckman	LW	19	6-1/170	Spokane (WHL)	`19(75th)
Bos	89	Jeremy Swayman	G	21	6-1/190	Maine (HE)	`17(111th)
Wpg	90	Kristian Vesalainen	LW	21	6-3/205	Manitoba (AHL)	`17(24th)
Tor	91	Filip Hallander	LW	20	6-1/185	Lulea (Swe)	T(Pit-8/20)
Fla	92	Owen Tippett	RW	21	6-1/200	Springfield (AHL)	`17(10th)
Car	93	Jake Bean	D	22	6-1/175	Charlotte (AHL)	`16(13th)
Ott	94	Shane Pinto	C	19	6-2/190	North Dakota (NCHC)	`19(32nd)
Col	95	Martin Kaut	RW	20	6-1/175	Colorado (AHL)	`18(16th)
Van	96	Jack Rathbone	D	21	5-10/175	Harvard (ECAC)	`17(95th)
Tor	97	Nick Abruzzese	C	21	5-9/160	Harvard (ECAC)	`19(124th)
Bos	98	Urho Vaakanainen	D	21	6-0/185	Providence (AHL)	`17(18th)
Wsh	99	Alexander Alexeyev	D	20	6-3/200	Hershey (AHL)	`18(31st)
NYI	100	Simon Holmstrom	RW	19	6-1/185	Bridgeport (AHL)	`19(23rd)
LA	101	Jaret Anderson-Dolan	C	21	5-11/190	Ontario (AHL)	`17(41st)
Car	102	Joey Keane	D	21	6-0/185	Hfd-Cha (AHL)	T(NYR-2/20)
Wsh	103	Martin Fehervary	D	20	6-1/190	Hershey (AHL)	`18(46th)
StL	104	Tyler Tucker	D	20	6-1/205	Bar-Fnt (OHL)	`18(200th)
SJ	105	Yegor Spiridonov	C	19	6-2/195	Stalnye Lisy Magnitogorsk (MHL)	`19(108th)
NJ	106	Joey Anderson	RW	22	6-0/195	Binghamton (AHL)	`16(73rd)
Col	107	Conor Timmins	D	21	6-1/185	Colorado (AHL)	`17(32nd)
StL	108	Klim Kostin	C	21	6-3/195	San Antonio (AHL)	`17(31st)
Mtl	109	Cayden Primeau	G	21	6-3/180	Laval (AHL)	`17(199th)
SJ	110	Jonathan Dahlen	LW	22	5-11/185	Timra IK (Swe 2)	T(Van-2/19)
NJ	111	Reilly Walsh	D	21	5-11/180	Harvard (ECAC)	`17(81st)
Buf	112	Oskari Laaksonen	D	21	6-2/165	Ilves Tampere (Fin)	`17(89th)
NJ	113	Arseni Gritsyuk	RW	19	5-10/170	Omskie Yastreby (MHL)	`19(129th)
Wsh	114	Aliaksei Protas	C	19	6-5/205	Prince Albert (WHL)	`19(91st)
Cgy	115	Dustin Wolf	G	19	6-0/165	Everett (WHL)	`19(214th)
StL	116	Joel Hofer	G	20	6-3/160	Portland (WHL)	`18(107th)
VGK	117	Ivan Morozov	C	20	6-1/180	SKA St. Petersburg (KHL)	`18(61st)
Mtl	118	Jake Evans	C	24	6-0/185	Laval (AHL)	`14(207th)
Nsh	119	Eeli Tolvanen	RW	21	5-10/175	Milwaukee (AHL)	`17(30th)
Wpg	120	Ville Heinola	D	19	5-11/180	Lukko Rauma (Fin)	`19(20th)
VGK	121	Lucas Elvenes	RW	21	6-0/175	Chicago (AHL)	`17(127th)
TB	122	Cole Koepke	LW	22	6-1/195	Minn-Duluth (NCHC)	`18(183rd)
Ana	123	Isac Lundestrom	C	20	6-0/185	San Diego (AHL)	`18(23rd)
NYR	124	Tarmo Reunanen	D	22	6-0/180	Lukko Rauma (Fin)	`16(98th)
Mtl	125	Jordan Harris	D	20	5-11/180	Northeastern (HE)	`18(71st)
Ana	126	Brayden Tracey	LW	19	6-0/175	MJ-Vic (WHL)	`19(29th)
Phi	127	Tanner Laczynski	C	23	6-1/200	Ohio State (B1G)	`16(169th)
Chi	128	Alec Regula	D	20	6-3/200	London (OHL)	T(Det-10/19)
Buf	129	Mattias Samuelsson	D	20	6-3/215	Western Michigan (NCHC)	`18(32nd)
Car	130	Jamieson Rees	C	19	5-10/175	Sarnia (OHL)	`19(44th)
Edm	131	Olivier Rodrigue	G	20	6-1/165	Moncton (QMJHL)	`18(62nd)
Fla	132	Serron Noel	RW	20	6-5/205	Osh-Kit (OHL)	`18(34th)
Det	133	Antti Tuomisto	D	19	6-4/190	Assat Pori (Fin Jr)	`19(35th)
Dal	134	Jason Robertson	LW	21	6-2/195	Texas (AHL)	`17(39th)
Mtl	135	Joni Ikonen	C	21	5-10/170	DNP - Injured	`17(58th)
Nsh	136	Rem Pitlick	C	23	5-11/200	Milwaukee (AHL)	`16(76th)
Ott	137	Logan Brown	C	22	6-6/220	Belleville (AHL)	`16(11th)
TB	138	Samuel Walker	C	21	5-11/160	Minnesota (B1G)	`17(200th)
Phi	139	Wade Allison	RW	22	6-2/205	Western Michigan (NCHC)	`16(52nd)
Wpg	140	Declan Chisholm	D	20	6-1/190	Peterborough (OHL)	`18(150th)
NJ	141	Tyce Thompson	RW	21	6-1/180	Providence (HE)	`19(96th)
VGK	142	Connor Corcoran	D	20	6-1/185	Windsor (OHL)	`18(154th)
Ana	143	Jackson Lacombe	D	19	6-1/170	Minnesota (B1G)	`19(39th)
NYR	144	Lauri Pajuniemi	RW	21	6-0/185	TPS Turku (Fin)	`18(132nd)
Car	145	Tuukka Tieksola	RW	19	5-10/160	Karpat Oulu (Fin Jr)	`19(121st)
CBJ	146	Andrew Peeke	D	22	6-3/210	Cleveland (AHL)	`16(34th)
Ana	147	Axel Andersson	D	20	6-0/180	Moncton (QMJHL)	T(Bos-2/20)
Car	148	Patrik Puistola	LW	19	6-0/175	Tap-Juk-Koo (Fin)	`19(73rd)
NJ	149	Michael McLeod	C	22	6-2/195	Binghamton (AHL)	`16(12th)
Car	150	Pyotr Kochetkov	G	21	6-1/175	SKA-VIT (KHL)	`19(36th)
NJ	151	Michael Vukojevic	D	19	6-3/210	Kitchener (OHL)	`19(82nd)
NYI	152	Ruslan Iskhakov	C	20	5-8/155	UConn (HE)	`18(43rd)
Wpg	153	Sami Niku	D	23	6-0/175	Manitoba (AHL)	`15(198th)
TB	154	Hugo Alnefelt	G	19	6-3/195	HV 71 (Swe)	`19(71st)
NJ	155	Nikita Okhotyuk	D	19	6-1/195	Ottawa (OHL)	`19(61st)
NYR	156	Hunter Skinner	D	19	6-2/175	London (OHL)	`19(112th)
LA	157	Mikey Anderson	D	21	6-0/195	Ontario (AHL)	`17(103rd)
Col	158	Shane Bowers	C	21	6-2/190	Colorado (AHL)	T(Ott-11/17)
NYI	159	Joshua Ho-Sang	RW	24	6-0/175	Bri-SA (AHL)	`14(28th)
LA	160	Cal Petersen	G	25	6-3/190	Ontario (AHL)	FA(7/17)
Col	161	Sampo Ranta	LW	20	6-2/205	Minnesota (B1G)	`18(78th)
Wpg	162	Mikhail Berdin	G	22	6-2/165	Manitoba (AHL)	`16(157th)
Bos	163	Jeremy Lauzon	D	23	6-3/205	Providence (AHL)	`15(52nd)
Nsh	164	David Farrance	D	21	5-11/190	Boston University (HE)	`17(92nd)
Van	165	Will Lockwood	RW	22	5-11/175	Michigan (B1G)	`16(64th)
NYI	166	Sebastian Aho	D	24	5-10/175	Bridgeport (AHL)	`17(139th)
Wpg	167	Logan Stanley	D	22	6-7/225	Manitoba (AHL)	`16(18th)
Buf	168	Ryan Johnson	D	19	6-0/175	Minnesota (B1G)	`19(31st)
Van	169	Michael DiPietro	G	21	6-0/195	Utica (AHL)	`17(64th)
VGK	170	Kaedan Korczak	D	19	6-3/190	Kelowna (WHL)	`19(41st)
Car	171	Jack Drury	C	20	5-11/180	Harvard (ECAC)	`18(42nd)
StL	172	Nikita Alexandrov	C	19	6-0/180	Charlottetown (QMJHL)	`19(62nd)
Col	173	Nikolai Kovalenko	RW	20	5-10/175	Lokomotiv Yaroslavl (KHL)	`18(171st)
Nsh	174	Juuso Parssinen	C	19	6-2/205	TPS Turku (Fin)	`19(210th)
Chi	175	Pius Suter	C	24	5-11/170	ZSC Lions (NLA)	FA(7/20)
Fla	176	Aleksi Saarela	RW	23	5-11/200	Rfd-Spr (AHL)	T(Chi-10/19)
Bos	177	Trent Frederic	C	22	6-4/215	Providence (AHL)	`16(29th)
CBJ	178	Dmitri Voronkov	LW	20	6-4/190	Ak Bars Kazan (KHL)	`19(114th)
Ott	179	Lassi Thomson	D	19	6-0/190	Ilves Tampere (Fin)	`19(19th)
Car	180	Morgan Geekie	C	22	6-2/180	Charlotte (AHL)	`17(67th)
CBJ	181	Trey Fix-Wolansky	RW	21	5-8/185	Cleveland (AHL)	`18(204th)
Ott	182	Vitaly Abramov	RW	22	5-9/175	Belleville (AHL)	T(CBJ-2/19)
TB	183	Alexander Volkov	LW	23	6-1/190	Syracuse (AHL)	`17(48th)
Tor	184	Mikko Kokkonen	D	19	5-11/200	Jukurit (Fin)	`19(84th)
Ott	185	Kevin Mandolese	G	20	6-4/180	Cape Breton (QMJHL)	`18(157th)
CBJ	186	Daniil Tarasov	G	21	6-5/185	Assat Pori (Fin)	`17(86th)
LA	187	Carl Grundstrom	LW	22	6-0/195	Ontario (AHL)	T(Tor-1/19)
LA	188	Kale Clague	D	22	6-0/180	Ontario (AHL)	`16(51st)
Ott	189	Artyom Zub	D	24	6-2/200	SKA St. Petersburg (KHL)	FA(5/20)
Edm	190	Tyler Benson	LW	22	6-0/200	Bakersfield (AHL)	`16(32nd)
Det	191	Jonatan Berggren	RW	20	5-10/185	Skelleftea AIK (Swe)	`18(33rd)
Tor	192	Yegor Korshkov	RW	24	6-4/215	Toronto (AHL)	`16(31st)
Dal	193	Riley Damiani	C	20	5-9/165	Kitchener (OHL)	`18(137th)
VGK	194	Zach Whitecloud	D	23	6-2/210	Chicago (AHL)	FA(3/18)
Buf	195	Ukko-Pekka Luukkonen	G	21	6-4/195	Cincinnati (ECHL)	`17(54th)
Car	196	David Cotton	LW	23	6-3/205	Boston College (HE)	`15(169th)
Chi	197	Wyatt Kalynuk	D	23	6-1/180	Wisconsin (B1G)	FA(7/20)
Min	198	Hunter Jones	G	19	6-4/195	Peterborough (OHL)	`19(59th)
LA	199	Jordan Spence	D	19	5-10/165	Moncton (QMJHL)	`19(95th)
Cgy	200	Dmitri Zavgorodny	LW	20	5-9/175	Rimouski (QMJHL)	`18(198th)
Col	201	Alex Beaucage	RW	19	6-1/195	Rouyn-Noranda (QMJHL)	`19(78th)
TB	202	Dmitri Semykin	D	20	6-3/200	SKA-1946 St. Petersburg (MHL)	`18(90th)
CBJ	203	Matiss Kivlenieks	G	24	6-2/190	Cleveland (AHL)	FA(5/17)
StL	204	Ville Husso	G	25	6-3/205	San Antonio (AHL)	`14(94th)
Phi	205	Bobby Brink	RW	19	5-10/165	Denver (NCHC)	`19(34th)
NYI	206	Otto Koivula	C	22	6-4/220	Bridgeport (AHL)	`16(120th)
Car	207	Eetu Makiniemi	G	21	6-2/180	KOOVEE (Fin 2)	`17(104th)
NYI	208	Anatoli Golyshev	RW	25	5-8/180	Avtomobilist Yekaterinburg (KHL)	`16(95th)
Chi	209	Evan Barratt	C	21	6-0/190	Penn State (B1G)	`17(90th)
Buf	210	Erik Portillo	G	20	6-6/210	Dubuque (USHL)	`19(67th)
Fla	211	Cole Schwindt	RW	19	6-2/185	Mississauga (OHL)	`19(81st)
Chi	212	Michal Teply	LW	19	6-3/185	Winnipeg (WHL)	`19(105th)
Ott	213	Mads Sogaard	G	19	6-7/195	Medicine Hat (WHL)	`19(37th)
Buf	214	Jonas Johansson	G	24	6-4/205	Rochester (AHL)	`14(61st)
TB	215	Cal Foote	D	21	6-4/215	Syracuse (AHL)	`17(14th)
StL	216	Niko Mikkola	D	24	6-5/200	San Antonio (AHL)	`15(127th)
NYI	217	Robin Salo	D	21	6-1/190	SaiPa (Fin)	`17(46th)
Bos	218	Jakub Zboril	D	23	6-1/200	Providence (AHL)	`15(13th)
Buf	219	Will Borgen	D	23	6-2/200	Rochester (AHL)	`15(92nd)
Pit	220	Pierre-Olivier Joseph	D	21	6-2/170	Wilkes-Barre (AHL)	`17(23rd)
SJ	221	Sasha Chmelevski	C	21	5-11/190	San Jose (AHL)	`17(185th)
Ari	222	Kyle Capobianco	D	23	6-1/180	Tucson (AHL)	`15(63rd)
Det	223	Keith Petruzzelli	G	21	6-5/180	Quinnipiac (ECAC)	`17(88th)
Wsh	224	Garrett Pilon	RW	22	5-11/190	Hershey (AHL)	`16(87th)
NJ	225	Nikola Pasic	RW	19	5-10/185	Karlskoga (Swe 2)	`19(189th)
TB	226	Alex Barre-Boulet	C	23	5-10/165	Syracuse (AHL)	FA(3/18)
Edm	227	Ryan McLeod	C	20	6-2/205	Bakersfield (AHL)	`18(40th)
NYI	228	Samuel Bolduc	D	19	6-3/210	BLB-She (QMJHL)	`19(57th)
Ott	229	Joey Daccord	G	24	6-2/195	Belleville (AHL)	`15(199th)
StL	230	Hugh McGing	C	22	5-9/180	Western Michigan (NCHC)	`18(138th)
Edm	231	Cooper Marody	C	23	6-0/180	Bakersfield (AHL)	T(Phi-3/18)
Tor	232	Jeremy Bracco	RW	23	5-9/180	Toronto (AHL)	`15(61st)
Phi	233	German Rubtsov	C	22	6-2/190	Lehigh Valley (AHL)	`16(22nd)
Wsh	234	Brian Pinho	C	25	6-1/195	Hershey (AHL)	`13(174th)
Col	235	Logan O'Connor	RW	24	6-0/170	Colorado (AHL)	FA(7/18)
Buf	236	Casey Fitzgerald	D	23	5-11/190	Rochester (AHL)	`16(86th)
NJ	237	Daniil Misyul	D	19	6-3/180	Lokomotiv Yaroslavl (KHL)	`19(70th)
Ari	238	John Farinacci	C	19	5-11/185	Harvard (ECAC)	`19(76th)
Edm	239	Aapeli Rasanen	C	22	6-0/195	Boston College (HE)	`16(153rd)
Pit	240	Anthony Angello	RW	24	6-5/205	Wilkes-Barre (AHL)	`14(145th)
Mtl	241	Cam Hillis	C	20	5-10/170	Guelph (OHL)	`18(66th)
Cgy	242	Mathias Emilio Pettersen	RW	20	5-9/170	Denver (NCHC)	`18(167th)
SJ	243	Alexander True	C	23	6-5/205	San Jose (AHL)	FA(7/18)
NYI	244	Reece Newkirk	C	19	5-11/175	Portland (WHL)	`19(147th)
Dal	245	Dawson Barteaux	D	20	6-0/180	RD-Wpg (WHL)	`18(168th)
Bos	246	Jack Ahcan	D	23	5-8/185	St. Cloud State (NCHC)	FA(3/20)
Det	247	Seth Barton	D	21	6-2/175	Mass-Lowell (HE)	`18(81st)
Fla	248	Max Gildon	D	21	6-3/190	New Hampshire (HE)	`17(66th)
Ari	249	Aku Raty	RW	19	6-0/175	Karpat Oulu (Fin)	`19(151st)
Wpg	250	David Gustafsson	C	20	6-1/195	Winnipeg (NHL)	`18(60th)

MCKEEN’S 2020 NHL PROSPECT REPORT – ST LOUIS BLUES – ORGANIZATIONAL RANK: 31

Tue, 08 Sep 2020 11:40:39 +0000

St. Louis Blues

Flags fly forever.

The St. Louis Blues first Stanley Cup Championship last summer was unexpected, but more than welcome. It’s not that the team was not expected to be good. After all, they dealt a package of three players, including a recent first rounder, and two picks, including last year’s first rounder and a future second rounder, to Buffalo for eventual Conn Smythe winner Ryan O’Reilly. So, there was some belief in the team from within.

On the other hand, while expectations may have been – should have been – modest, the NHL brain trust also knew that the core of the roster was veteran heavy and their window to win would not be extensive. Before the current season began, the Blues traded another big piece of their future, former first rounder Dominik Bokk to Carolina for Justin Faulk, a solid veteran two-way blueliner, who also acts as insurance should team captain Alex Pietrangelo walk as a free agent this offseason.

That makes three first rounders, past and future, traded away in a short span of time. The NHL team is not without youth, namely the emerging star Robert Thomas, and next-in-line Jordan Kyrou, who both lost prospect eligibility in the last two seasons.

When you read on to the rest of this section, reviewing the Blues Top 15, there are players here, players who could feasibly play roles in the NHL. But this list also has more than a few players on it who would not appear on any other team’s top 15. There is but one player on this list who looks like a future high end NHLer. There is another maybe two, maybe three players who could find their way to the top half of a given roster in the right situation. And there are three guys who will vie to one day be given the job as backup goalie for the Blues. Everyone else just wants to get a foot over the boards.

More than any other team going into the 2020-21 season, the strength of the St. Louis pipeline will be dependent on their 2020 draft haul. A haul that at present consists of five picks as they have traded away three picks already (2^nd, 6^th, and 7^th rounds) and added an extra pick in the 5^th.

The team has built itself well enough to win a championship, and many of the players who were key to that title were either drafted by the Blues, or acquired in trades that saw the Blues surrender draft picks or players who were recent draft picks. And although most of those prominent picks were high picks, there is no risk of this draft era being looked at like the Edmonton Oilers’ draft classes of 5-10 years ago, where only the top picks made it. After all, a flag flies forever. And a flag will allow people to forgive many sins, not least of which is an empty pipeline.

Even so, the Blues will need to begin looking to the future soon. When the current core ages out of Stanley Cup contention, they don’t want to fall like the current Detroit Red Wings or Los Angeles Kings have fallen. There is a path to remain strong, but they need to act quickly. - RW

GLENDALE, AZ - DECEMBER 28: Minnesota-Duluth Bulldogs defenseman Scott Perunovich (7) takes a shot during the college hockey game between the Minnesota-Duluth Bulldogs and the Minnesota State Mavericks on December 28, 2018 at Gila River Arena in Glendale, Arizona. (Photo by Kevin Abele/Icon Sportswire)

Scott Perunovich, D (45^th overall, 2018. 2019 Rank: 4)

It’s not often that a player passed over twice in the draft emerges as a strong prospect in his third year. It’s not often that a player passed over twice in the draft emerges as one of the better prospects in the game by the time he is 21. There are late bloomers and there are late exploders. Scott Perunovich is in the latter group. He wasn’t drafted out of Hibbing-Chisholm High School in Minnesota. He wasn’t selected out of Cedar Rapids in the USHL. At both stops, he was seen as little more than a waterbug defender who was far better with the puck than without, but not good enough with to be worth the gamble.

Things changed once Perunovich arrived at Minnesota-Duluth. As a freshman, he not only led the Bulldogs in scoring, but he also led them to an NCAA title, with a stop in the middle to help Team USA win a Bronze Medal at the WJC. Everything simply clicked. As a sophomore, he won a second NCAA title, this time as the team’s third leading scorer. When the pandemic halted his junior campaign on the eve of the NCHC playoffs, he was leading the team in scoring once again. A few weeks after signing with the Blues, Perunovich justifiably won the Hobey Baker Award, given to the top men’s ice hockey player in NCAA.

He is still small, but his skating has improved to be a real draw for his game. He can generally hold his own in his own end, but the best way I can describe his game is by recapping the sequence that led to a goal against Western Michigan this year. Perunovich got puck at his own blueline, and tried to pass it to center ice, but the puck went off an opponent's skate, bouncing right back to the man in question, who then skated it past center ice and passed to a teammate on the right boards. Immediately after passing, Perunovich kicked into overdrive and charged the net, getting the pass back from the same teammate a few feet from the crease, where he chipped it over a diving goalie and into the net. Between his high-end skating, hands, creativity and vision, Perunovich could be a star. - RW

Tyler Tucker, D (200^th overall, 2018. 2019 Rank: 6)

Originally a seventh-round selection, Tucker’s projection as an NHL player has always been tied to his ability to improve his skating. Without question, he has done that. By improving his conditioning and becoming a more powerful and fluid four-way skater, Tucker has emerged as a serious contender for an NHL blueline spot in the future.

Very much a throwback player, Tucker relishes in the opportunity to play the body, placing first in his Conference for best body checker in the last two OHL Coaches polls. He is very aggressive in trying to deny zone entries by stepping up on would be attackers. However, his improved skating has allowed him to have better gap control, making him one of the better overall defenders in the league.

Tucker also possesses some above average qualities as an offensive player. His booming point shot has seen him score 31 goals over the last two seasons and he has the potential to quarterback a powerplay because of it. With an improved stride, Tucker was able to make more of a consistent impact as someone who can jump up into or lead the rush.

Blues fans should be very happy with Tucker’s progression and emergence as a legitimate NHL prospect. With his physical approach and underrated puck skills, he has the potential to develop into a quality #4-5 defender who can play in all situations. However, continued improvement will be needed from his skating, especially in order for him to continue to function as a stout player in his own end. As such, patience will be required. He may need a few years in the AHL to adapt to the speed of the pro game. - BO

ST. LOUIS, MO – SEPTEMBER 12: Klim Kostin #37 of the St. Louis Blues poses for his official headshot for the 2019-2020 season on September 12, 2019 at the Enterprise Center in St. Louis, Missouri. (Photo by Scott Rovak/NHLI via Getty Images)

Klim Kostin, RW (31^st overall, 2017. 2019 Rank: 3)

Before his name was called in the 2017 Draft, the most frequent player comparison to Klim Kostin, from a stylistic standpoint, was Evgeni Malkin. That was incredibly high praise for the fellow Russian, and since being drafted 31st overall that summer and joining the Blues’ AHL affiliate in San Antonio, the hockey world has waited for Kostin to finally break out. It’s easy to forget that he was the top-ranked European skater in the final 2017 Central Scouting rankings, ahead of Calder winner Elias Pettersson and All-Star Miro Heiskanen. Sooner or later, the freakishly powerful and skillful forward was going to figure it all out; on came the 2019-20 season. Kostin scored a career high 13 goals and 30 points in the AHL as well as his first NHL goal last campaign, earning top-line minutes with San Antonio and a recall to the defending Stanley Cup champs.

His physical prowess was on full display at both levels, as the power forward’s superb puck-protection, balance, and ability to maintain skating momentum shifting back and forth on his feet impressed. His heavy wrist shot and fast, deceptive puck-handling helps him round out his offensive package, although his skating speed and acceleration can be sluggish. He has always had the build (6-3”, 221 lbs) of an NHLer, but he has seemed to unlock the capability of playing that assertive style consistently, which has boosted his confidence and his overall potential. While he will never be Malkin, or as impactful on his team’s success as Heiskanen or Pettersson, Kostin has reminded us of why he was so revered in his draft year. After three completed AHL seasons, it would not shock me to see him instantly placed into the top-six scorer role he is well-suited for with St. Louis for next season. - TD

Joel Hofer, G (107^th overall, 2018. 2019 Rank: 20)

Joel Hofer has grown on me as I followed his development. Initially the backup goalie for the Swift Current Broncos power house WHL Champions he seemed to let a few too many soft goals in and lose his net too frequently. When the starting job became his, the Broncos’ roster had aged out and what was left was a shell of it had been and yet Hofer managed to keep his save percentage over .900 through 30 games with a team that routinely got out shot 2:1 in games. Portland traded for him and he has provided solid goaltending for one of the WHL’s top teams culminating in stealing the starting crease for Team Canada at the 2020 World Juniors, leading the team to a Gold Medal.

What Hofer brings is a calm and relaxed presence in the crease. Gone seem to be the soft goals (although they still occasionally happen), the lost crease, and the scrabbly play. Now he is one of the more poised goalies in the league playing within himself and using his immense frame to do the work for him. His movement is controlled, he tracks the puck laterally very well and competes hard. His puck handling is not a strength at this point but what he does in the crease certainly is. He is able to park a bad play or a soft goal and move on. He has gone from fringe NHL prospect to a legitimate NHL prospect with starting goalie potential. With the Blues crease sorted for the foreseeable future he is a long-term play, but he is trending in a very positive direction. - VG

ST. LOUIS, MO – SEPTEMBER 12: Nikita Alexandrov #32 of the St. Louis Blues poses for his official headshot for the 2019-2020 season on September 12, 2019 at the Enterprise Center in St. Louis, Missouri. (Photo by Scott Rovak/NHLI via Getty Images)

Nikita Alexandrov, C (62^nd overall, 2019. 2019 Rank: 8)

The German-born Russian forward had another strong season in the Q this year and is ready for the pro game. The first impression of the bulky forward is that he is a force along the boards due to his strong frame and low center-of-gravity. He is nearly impossible to knock off the puck when he takes root along the wall, as he has very strong legs and a very powerful core. He also has honed in on protecting the puck well, and that makes him a strong possession player. Alexandrov’s acceleration is excellent due to his short and choppy stride, but his top speed is merely good; it could be what prevents him from being a top line forward at the highest level where the margin for talent is at its smallest.

His hockey IQ is very strong, and he is strong on the backcheck because of his ability to follow and read the play. His playmaking relies on play-reading, and he has strong passing skills. Alexandrov is more of a North-South player, but he has good hands in tight, especially close to the net and along the boards. He can also be a strong net-front player, pairing his strong body with his ability to find and deflect pucks, and his quick hands. What can hold Alexandrov back is his tendency to keep it simple. He needs more confidence in his abilities to become a stronger player. The team that unlocks him will get a hard-nosed player with a good creative mind. Failing that, he can be a strong-willed secondary scorer at the top level but will need to work on his stride. - MS

Ville Husso, G (94^th overall, 2014. 2019 Rank: 12)

Husso’s raw athletic skills never faded, but his ability to read plays and confidently position himself to shut down any danger early looked much improved compared to last season. The way he propels himself laterally with his quick foot movement and long legs gives him total coverage of the lower half of the goal, and his rebound control and pre-shot preparation looked better, though his glove hand speed and positioning remain flaws. At 25, he looks like a near finished product and could be a long-term 1B goaltender for the Blues as soon as next season, especially with a frantically compressed schedule that will require the use of several goaltenders. - TD

Niko Mikkola, D (127^th overall, 2015. 2019 Rank: UR)

With a high hockey IQ, he anticipates the moves of his opponents and, with poke checks and decent lateral agility, can effectively keep them from getting center position and testing the goaltender from high-danger areas. Though his offensive skill is sorely limited, he at least can get the puck out of the zone. Someone who plays this kind of style does not need much more polishing, and he quickly earned the trust of the Blues coaches in his five-game NHL stint with some key PK minutes. A role as a stay-at-home depth blueliner is in the near future for the big Finnish lefthander. - TD

Hugh McGing, C (138^th overall, 2018. 2019 Rank: 15)

McGing has quick feet and a plus top speed, but he is just as notable for playing a very gritty game, getting involved in the dirty areas and coming out clean. He has skilled hands and can maneuver the puck from in tight. He is reliable in any type of game situation. Even if he lacks the dynamic skill set you want to see in a top six player, he is fun to watch and there is enough there to expect him to be an injury call up as soon as this season. - RW

Keean Washkurak, C (155^th overall, 2019. 2019 Rank: 7)

Next year, Mississauga should be a contender in the Eastern Conference and Washkurak will be a large part of that success. He has the chance to become a real fan favorite in St. Louis down the line as fans grow to love the tenacity and consistent effort that he plays with. - BO

Colten Ellis, G (93^rd overall, 2019. 2019 Rank 13)

Ellis is a fan-favorite goaltender for the highlight reel save, but those kinds of saves are usually born out of a lapse in positioning or reading the play. Having said that, there is a solid foundation of technical skills to build upon. Ellis has some work to do, but his athleticism and his hard-working nature could prove him to be a diamond in the rough. - MS

Austin Poganski, RW (110^th overall, 2014. 2019 Rank: UR)

He will never be an elite skater, but his high hockey IQ and maturity allow him to remain on the cusp of an NHL job. The fourth-round pick in 2014 has potential to be a solid, albeit unimpressive bottom-six NHL winger for St. Louis soon, though one more AHL season would help him round his two-way game out. – TD

Mitch Reinke, D (Undrafted Free Agent, signed, Mar. 25, 2018. 2019 Rank: 9)

Although his positioning and initial blueline defense suppressed a good amount of shots against and kept shooters from getting inside angles, his lack of size and strength was exposed at times, and with a greater responsibility on defense, his offensive contributions at even strength and in transition were somewhat subdued.

If he can balance out the two sides of the game, he can be a dynamic transition piece at the highest level of the game; his passing and puck-handling skills are high-end and his skating is strong enough to weave through the neutral zone solo. Perhaps the American will need sheltered minutes to be able to put up points in the NHL, but he can be a serviceable, depth offensive defenseman with St. Louis in short term. - TD

Jake Walman, D (82^nd overall, 2014. 2019 Rank: 16)

A great skater, he plays aggressively with the puck on his stick and has improved his passing through the neutral and offensive zones. Defensively, he chooses to play the body and retrieve the puck after, using his large frame and long reach to dislodge the puck early in transitional defense. He possesses a good shot from the point and loves to use it, especially on the power play. He remains a fringe prospect who has been passed on the depth chart by other young blueliners (Mikkola and Perunovich of note) but has played himself back into an NHL conversation. - TD

Mathias Laferriere, C (69^th overall, 2018. 2019 Rank: UR)

He is a jack-of-all-trades forward; as in, good in most areas, master of none. His consistency has improved in the last two years, but is still an issue at times, and he will need to bulk up to be a ready contributor in the pro ranks. Laferrière’s skillset would make him a good middle-six offensive player at the maximum of his potential, but it will take some work for him to get there. – MS

Nolan Stevens, C (125^th overall, 2016. 2019 Rank: 17)

Improving by 13 points from last season in nine fewer games with roughly the same amount of ice time in the San Antonio top six, the son of former NHL head coach John Stevens is not much of a skater or puck-carrier, but can maintain possession for an extended duration (reminiscent of the Blues’ top skaters), and is a strong, intelligent facilitator from tight spaces.

Playing deep in his own zone to assist defensively, Stevens uses his long stick to strip the puck from opponents and his big body to get into shot lanes. A restricted free agent going into next season, Stevens will likely return to the AHL club and hopefully increase his goal-scoring output to somewhere near his 24-goal final season at the NCAA level. - TD

Nikita Alexandrov – McKeen's Hockey

MCKEEN’S 2023-24 NHL YEARBOOK – ST LOUIS BLUES – Team Preview – Player Profiles

Forwards

Jordan Kyrou

Pavel Buchnevich

Robert Thomas

Brayden Schenn

Kevin Hayes

Jakub Vrana

Kasperi Kapanen

Brandon Saad

Sammy Blais

Jake Neighbours

Defense

Justin Faulk

Torey Krug

Colton Parayko

Nick Leddy

Goaltending

Jordan Binnington

MCKEEN’S 2023-24 NHL YEARBOOK – ST LOUIS BLUES – Top 20 Prospect Profiles – Organizational Rank #9

1. Jimmy Snuggerud

2. Dalibor Dvorsky

3. Zach Bolduc

4. Zach Dean

5. Scott Perunovich

6. Otto Stenberg

7. Nikita Alexandrov

8. Joel Hofer

9. Theo Lindstein

10. Michael Buchinger

11. Simon Robertsson

12. Quinton Burns

13. Juraj Pekarcik

14. Tyler Tucker

15. Matt Kessel

16. Aleksanteri Kaskimaki

17. Tanner Dickinson

18. Leo Loof

19. Vadim Zherenko

20. Marc Andre Gaudet

MCKEEN’S 2023 NHL PROSPECT REPORT – #10 St. Louis Blues

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

Risers

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

Marco Kasper (79 to 24) - Detroit Red Wings

Alexander Nikishin (130 to 27) - Carolina Hurricanes

Lane Hutson (158 to 38) - Montreal Canadiens

Joshus Roy (178 to 44) - Montreal Canadiens

William Wallinder (225 to 52) - Detroit Red Wings

Lian Bichsel (163 to 53) - Dallas Stars

Filip Bystedt (239 to 69) - San Jose Sharks

Nikolai Kovalenko (285 to 76) - Colorado Avalanche

Connor Zary (266 to 79) - Calgary Flames

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

Zach Ostapchuk (218 to 91) - Ottawa Senators

William Dufour (192 to 95) - New York Islanders

Reid Schaefer (267 to 98) - Nashville Predators

Carter Mazur (Unranked to 99) - Detroit Red Wings

Prokhor Poltapov (75 to 175) - Buffalo Sabres

Grigori Denisenko (105 to 158) - Florida Panthers

Cayden Primeau (126 to Unranked) - Montreal Canadiens

Justin Sourdif (138 to Unranked) - Florida Panthers

Ben Meyers (146 to Unranked) - Colorado Avalanche

MCKEEN’S 2022-23 NHL YEARBOOK – ST. LOUIS BLUES – Top 20 Prospects

2021-22 TOP 15 PROSPECTS: ST. LOUIS BLUES – RANK: #24 – TIER IV

McKeen’s 2020-21 Hockey Yearbook: St. Louis Blues Top 20 Prospects

Scott Perunovich, D (45th overall, 2018. Previous ranking: 1)

Jake Neighbours, LW (26th overall, 2020. Previous ranking: NA)

Tyler Tucker, D (200th overall, 2018. Previous ranking: 2)

Klim Kostin, RW (31st overall, 2017. Previous ranking: 3)

Joel Hofer, G (107th overall, 2018. Previous ranking: 4)

Nikita Alexandrov, C (62nd overall, 2019. Previous ranking: 5)

Dylan Peterson, C (86th overall, 2020. Previous ranking: NA)

Ville Husso, G (94th overall, 2014. Previous ranking: 6)

Niko Mikkola, D (127th overall, 2015. Previous ranking: 7)

Hugh McGing, C (138th overall, 2018. Previous ranking: 8)

Keean Washkurak, C (155th overall, 2019. Previous ranking: 9)

Colten Ellis, G (93rd overall, 2019. Previous ranking: 10)

Leo Loof, D (88th overall, 2020. Previous ranking: NA)

Scott Perunovich, D (45^th overall, 2018. Previous ranking: 1)

Jake Neighbours, LW (26^th overall, 2020. Previous ranking: NA)

Tyler Tucker, D (200^th overall, 2018. Previous ranking: 2)

Klim Kostin, RW (31^st overall, 2017. Previous ranking: 3)

Joel Hofer, G (107^th overall, 2018. Previous ranking: 4)

Nikita Alexandrov, C (62^nd overall, 2019. Previous ranking: 5)

Dylan Peterson, C (86^th overall, 2020. Previous ranking: NA)

Ville Husso, G (94^th overall, 2014. Previous ranking: 6)

Niko Mikkola, D (127^th overall, 2015. Previous ranking: 7)

Hugh McGing, C (138^th overall, 2018. Previous ranking: 8)

Keean Washkurak, C (155^th overall, 2019. Previous ranking: 9)

Colten Ellis, G (93^rd overall, 2019. Previous ranking: 10)

Leo Loof, D (88^th overall, 2020. Previous ranking: NA)

Will Cranley, G (163^rd overall, 2020. Previous ranking: NA)

Austin Poganski, RW (110^th overall, 2014. Previous ranking: 11)

Jake Walman, D (82^nd overall, 2014. Previous ranking: 13)

Tanner Dickinson, C (119^th overall, 2020. Previous ranking: NA)

Mathias Laferriere, C (69^th overall, 2018. Previous ranking: 14)

Nolan Stevens, C (125^th overall, 2016. Previous ranking: 15)

Scott Perunovich, D (45^th overall, 2018. 2019 Rank: 4)

Tyler Tucker, D (200^th overall, 2018. 2019 Rank: 6)

Klim Kostin, RW (31^st overall, 2017. 2019 Rank: 3)

Joel Hofer, G (107^th overall, 2018. 2019 Rank: 20)

Nikita Alexandrov, C (62^nd overall, 2019. 2019 Rank: 8)

Ville Husso, G (94^th overall, 2014. 2019 Rank: 12)

Niko Mikkola, D (127^th overall, 2015. 2019 Rank: UR)

Hugh McGing, C (138^th overall, 2018. 2019 Rank: 15)

Keean Washkurak, C (155^th overall, 2019. 2019 Rank: 7)

Colten Ellis, G (93^rd overall, 2019. 2019 Rank* 13*)

Austin Poganski, RW (110^th overall, 2014. 2019 Rank:* UR*)

Jake Walman, D (82^nd overall, 2014. 2019 Rank: 16)

Mathias Laferriere, C (69^th overall, 2018. 2019 Rank: UR)

Nolan Stevens, C (125^th overall, 2016. 2019 Rank: 17)