Sean Day – McKeen's Hockey

McKeen’s 2020-21 Hockey Yearbook: Tampa Bay Lightning Top 20 Prospects

Rachel Howard — Mon, 21 Dec 2020 22:06:07 +0000

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

Cole Koepke, LW (183^rd overall, 2018. Previous ranking: 1)

Passed over in his first two runs through the NHL draft, Koepke overcame an injury-ravaged season to finish fifth in USHL scoring, with 28 goals in 60 games in his third year of eligibility. Couple that scoring touch with good wheels and a sixth-round pick was reasonable. The winger played a defensive-minded game with speed and showed a nice shot as a college freshman, failing to move the needle on his prospect status. However, after a near point-per-game sophomore campaign, he impressed. Koepke is still defensively responsible. He still has multiple gears to his skating stride, with fantastic acceleration. The shot is still strong. But now, he is also demonstrating very nice puck skills of the type that allow him to run the offensive game. He is expected to return to UMD for his junior campaign and I would expect Tampa Bay to make a big push to get him under contract next spring. The late bloomer might not be more than a third liner, but he looks like a good one, and not too far off into the future either. He could be playing regularly in the NHL by the 2022-23 season. - RW

Samuel Walker, C (200^th overall, 2017. Previous ranking: 2)

Drafted out of Minnesota powerhouse Edina in 2017, Walker took the rare step of going back to school in 2018, earning numerous accolades. He then exploded onto the scene with the Minnesota Golden Gophers, winning the Big 10 Rookie of the Year. He improved a touch as a sophomore, both in terms of his production (26 points to 30, playing 37 games both seasons) as well as in the assessment of his still developing skill set. Despite his size, Walker attacks the offensive zone through the middle, with speed that demands respect. He sees the ice tremendously well, is patient with the puck and has very skilled hands, capable of changing angles at the last instant and executing tricky passes. In addition to his speed, he has great edge work and knows how to create room for himself and time for his teammates to get open. He projects as a playmaker center who can play in a bottom six role as well for a team unconcerned with size. He has put on muscle since being drafted, but still looks slight. He will never be even average size, but he could be big enough to succeed in his style of play. - RW

Hugo Alnefelt, G (71^st overall, 2019. Previous ranking: 3)

In his first post-draft season, Alnefelt earned a spot in the SHL and performed well at the WJC. On the downside, he spent more time on the bench than on the ice. He is a calm goalie with the vision and positioning to make spectacular improvised saves. He can quickly react to a surprising bounce or to recover from being out of position. His tracking ability is good, and he plays square to the puck. His edge plays can be impressive, which he demonstrated with some memorable saves in the WJC. His glove hand is good, albeit unspectacular. He works with the glove upwards, covering the hole between the leg and arm in his basic position. He has impressive composure and has stepped up in big situations. His athleticism is good if not elite. He plays deep in the crease which reduces his need for movement. Alnefelt will need to mature physically and add strength to improve his endurance. His upper body strength has increased but he still falls down a bit when tired. He is a long-term project but has all of the desired tools for an NHL outcome, if not necessarily that of a top tier starter. - JH

Alexander Volkov, RW (48^th overall, 2017. Previous ranking: 4)

Despite the strong forward group already in place in Tampa, Volkov looks like the right choice to fill the next opening, when it arrives. He has managed to adapt well by reaching a more mature focus with his game and working to create more time and space for himself when carrying the puck. He has learned to be more patient and has the confidence to play further up in the lineup with the improvement of his overall two-way play and his playmaking. Last season, he was given time on the powerplay as his game showed improvements and he proved himself to be an asset with the puck, making plays that would not look out of place at the next level. His hands and the ability to carry the puck with strong with intent remain the key driving factors for his individual play. While a bottom six role is most likely, it is still unsure as to where Volkov will fit in long-term in the NHL, however he should receive a look, however look to see him back up in the lineup this coming season regardless. - SC

Dmitri Semykin, D (90^th overall, 2018. Previous ranking: 5)

For the team that leveraged Russian talent more than most during the Steve Yzerman regime, Semykin was the final Russian reward of that era. At the time his name was called out at the end of the third round, it was a bit of a surprise. He was a bulky defender who had only spent one season in the top junior league in Russia, had almost no international experience, did not add much offensively and spent a ton of time in the penalty box. We may have been the only public outfit to list him at all as a draft possibility, but even we only saw him as a late seventh rounder. Two years later, and Semykin is still very tough to play against, with a great physical game, but he has learned to do a much better job of staying disciplined. He likes to play the puck and will not limit himself to the blueline for doing so. His lack of international exposure may make his transition to North American hockey a bit slower, but if he can overcome his average skating and remain hard to play against, he could still develop into a solid #4. - RW

Cal Foote, D (14^th overall, 2017. Previous ranking: 6)

Foote may have seen one of the largest drops out of the prospects on this list, going from number one last season to number six after completing his second season in the AHL with the Syracuse Crunch. This past season Foote looked a little too comfortable in the minors and seemed to lose focus at times where his play was inconsistent. Yes, Syracuse sat at the bottom of the standings and climbed a little bit towards the end of the season, but Foote’s occasional sloppy play cannot be excused. This coming season Tampa Bay will be looking to suit him up, but it is hard to tell if he is ready to play at that speed or if he will simply be dead weight. Despite being slow on the puck, Foote has many things to offer Tampa Bay with his first-round play making abilities and his high hockey IQ. He will simply need to come back after the break as though he has something to prove, the ice is thin for Foote to make it and he will have to keep mistakes to a minimum in order to crack Tampa’s lineup as a bottom four defender. - SC

Alex Barre-Boulet, C (Undrafted Free Agent, signed Mar. 1, 2018. Previous ranking: 7)

Every organization has a dark horse prospect that comes as a pleasant surprise, which applies to Tampa Bay and Alex Barre-Boulet. Barre-Boulet has made more progress throughout his second season in the AHL finishing with nearly a point per game and leading Syracuse in scoring yet his small size may be his only limiting factor when it comes to earning a callup. He is by far the quickest and most dynamic skater in Tampa Bay’s AHL system and he has proven himself to be an asset rather than a burden. The race will be tight to see if a small, quick, well positioned forward who is diverse enough to play in many different roles will be given the chance he deserves this season with the Lightning. Barre-Boulet’s redeeming factor is his work ethic and his ability to kill penalties. That, combined with his skill and quick play will be what gets him a spot in Tampa’s bottom six. – SC

Eamon Powell, D (116^th overall, 2020. Previous ranking: NA)

Powell is not just fast; he is effortlessly fast. He gets blueline to blueline in a flash and has agility and edges to help him get through the defense as well. Furthermore, he churns at the same high rate when he needs to return to the defensive end. The skating may be his best tool, but the rest of his offensive toolkit is also notable. He has very soft hands and is masterful at activating from the blueline, either by stickhandling through layers of the defense into a high danger scoring chance, or by creating a seam for a pass. He doesn’t play the puck with much flash, but he is sure-handed and can handle it at top speed. The right-hander is also a threat to shoot. Powell has a strong wrist shot with a quick release that can score from the point. He is small and slight and does not play a very physical game, but he doesn’t shy away from the corners and is trustworthy in defensively critical shifts, including the penalty kill. He positions himself well and frequently uses his stick to break up plays. He is raw but has exciting upside. – RW

Jack Finley, C (57^th overall, 2020. Previous ranking: NA)

The son of longtime NHL defender Jeff Finley, Jack is a behemoth playmaking center who also happened to be one of the youngest players eligible in the recent draft. Perhaps due to his NHL pedigree, he thinks the game at a high level. He is strong on his skates and willing to play a pro-style game in the hard areas of the ice, excelling as a distributor from below the hash marks. He drives the play from along the wall and is difficult to separate from the puck. He is also strong off the puck, excelling in all three zones with his reach and anticipation. His skating is still quite raw, lacking power and grace, but he is still able to control play and create with pace because of his poise with the puck. Ultimately, the allure here is a big man who thinks the game well, but who is still growing into his body. He is not a natural goal scorer, however, there really is no limit on his upside as those areas could improve considerably once he bulks up and grows into his frame. Players with his physical attributes just don’t grow on trees these days. – BO

Taylor Raddysh, RW (58^th overall, 2016. Previous ranking: 8)

For a team with many young forwards of moderate talent, the Syracuse Crunch have a tight race to reach the next level among their offensive prospects. Taylor Raddysh is known for his offensive play and his shot, however his tendency to relax and become lazy in his own end has made this past season rather poor in comparison to previous seasons. Raddysh is typically a strong player on the puck and a strong skater but with his ice time cut from last season his play with the puck has become shaky and costly in certain situations. He still managed to score more than create showing that he is still an high level shooter and often well positioned in the offensive end, however those plays do not come often enough. With better lines and more ice time next season he can bounce back and reclaim his reputation from major junior. The future is not sealed yet for Raddysh who would make a good third line winger and there is still hope that this season he will earn his first call up with Tampa Bay. - SC

Gabriel Fortier, C/RW (59^th overall, 2018. Previous ranking: 9)

Fortier saw a move to the contending Moncton Wildcats from the reeling Baie-Comeau Drakkar where he had to take a support role instead of a leading one, and he thrived. Always a favorite of fans and coaches, he was a captain with the Drakkar and never takes a shift off. He is always revving at max cylinders no matter the score or circumstance. At various times in his junior career, he has shown abilities to play as a sniper, a playmaker and an energy forward, and has succeeded at each. The best word to describe him is relentless; he has a dogged determination for the pursuit of the puck. Fortier’s feet are always moving, which keeps him in position, but it makes him look faster than he actually is. His skating is what ultimately could hold him back as an NHLer. Regardless, he has the skills and smarts to play useful NHL shifts up and down the lineup. – MS

Sean Day, D (UFA: Jul. 17, 2020. Originally: 81^st overall, 2016 [NY Rangers]. Previous ranking: UR [NY Rangers])

Day’s history in the game is fascinating. Famously granted “exceptional status” to join the OHL one year early, his junior career featured one stumble after another, and by the time his draft year came around, it was no surprise that he lasted until the third round before hearing his name called. Since turning pro, he has occasionally flashed the talent that earned him the heavy distinction at age 15. Despite a beefy, broad-shouldered frame, Day is an impressive skater, with impressive pace and balance. He has a strong shot when he lines it up. He also is a smart puck mover and can demonstrate a keen understand of the game. The downside is the same as it ever was. His inconsistency is maddening, making it very difficult for coaches to trust him. After two years in the Rangers’ system – split evenly between the AHL and ECHL – he saw his career petering out and asked for a release to try his luck in another system. The hope here is that new voices giving him instruction will unlock the potential that is still lurking within. Day is only 22, but time is running out. - RW

Maxim Cajkovic, RW (89^th overall, 2019. Previous ranking: 10)

Cajkovic has had trouble with injuries and consistency throughout his North American career, but it is clear that he is a very good offensive player when he is on full tilt. Contrary to most European players, Cajkovic is a North-South winger who loves to get dirty and bang bodies in pursuit of the puck. He possesses a very strong shot and loves to score goals, and he has the skating that will get him there. The coach that can unlock his defensive potential will be crucial in his development, as he has shown the effort defensively, but it has not led to positive results. Traded to a contending Val-d’Or team should help Cajkovic further hone his skills in a more sheltered environment. Cajkovic will need to improve his play away from the puck but has a ceiling of a middle-six goal-scorer. - MS

Ross Colton, LW (118^th overall, 2016. Previous ranking: 11)

After finishing second in points for the AHL Syracuse Crunch this past season, Colton has made a lot of progress since coming over from NCAA Vermont. With Syracuse, he fits in well as a top forward, earning both power play and penalty killing opportunities giving him the proper chances and experience to bring with him to the next level. Colton will have to work hard and keep up his high intensity and strong effort. Despite Tampa Bay having just moved Mitchell Stephens up the ranks, Colton has a similar playing style so he will have to work harder to prove his worth and will have to stay better focused when emotions run high. Colton will need to maintain consistency throughout next season to earn a call up. That being said he is known to play well under pressure and is adaptable. Colton fits in well as a third line grinder for Tampa Bay capable of killing penalties more so than being reliable on the powerplay. - SC

Alex Green, D (121^st overall, 2018. Previous ranking: 12)

Alex Green is a defensive defenseman. The Chicago native was drafted in the fourth round and spent two seasons in the USHL before attending Cornell, where he was drafted after his freshman season, in his third year of eligibility. As a freshman he fared better than expected offensively, adding 10 points, which contributed to his draft stock. He finished his junior season netting a career high in points, while also being named the ECAC’s best defensive defenseman, a reminder of his strengths. He doesn’t have the quickest release on his shot, but he puts a lot of power behind it when he takes one. Green needs to pump his legs a bit but he skates well for his 6-2” size. There is power on his passes and he can dish it off quickly. Green won’t necessarily be able to catch up to the speediest players, but he can backcheck well. He projects as a lower-pairing defender if he continues to develop as a senior and later, as a professional. - JS

Gage Goncalves, C (62^nd overall, 2020. Previous ranking: NA)

One of the most improved players in the WHL last season, Goncalves’ production jumped from one goal to 33. Finishing the season as the second leading scorer for Everett, the talented two-way center put himself on the map for NHL scouts in his second year of draft eligibility. With a high IQ and a high skill level, he controls the pace of play leading the charge across the blueline, showing poise and patience as a facilitator. He also excels on the powerplay, where he is great at finding scoring lanes and getting himself in shooting position, even though he shows more talent as a playmaker than as a sniper. His 14 powerplay goals were fifth in the WHL. As he continues to upgrade his skating – currently a weakness in his game - and improve his strength on the puck, look for his production to keep improving as he receives more and more high-level experience. Because of his age, Goncalves will be eligible to turn pro after the conclusion of this upcoming season. – BO

Jack Thompson, D (93^rd overall, 2020. Previous ranking: NA)

Thompson combines good size, mobility, puck skill, and a booming point shot from the right hand side, to have a large impact on the game offensively, and giving him higher upside than many other middle round defensive draft picks. In particular, he shows great potential as a powerplay quarterback with how well he searches out scoring lanes. His strong point shot was already mentioned, but his ability to distribute the puck is just as impressive. On the other hand, his game lacks consistency and his decision making are questionable. As a defensive player, he needs to play with greater intensity – even if playing a physically heavy game is not in the cards - in order to become less of a liability. These facets of his game can be improved, and there is hope that as he matures, his game will settle down. Even if his potential upside is high, patience will be critical as Thompson works through the holes in his game. – BO

Dominik Masin, D (35^th overall, 2014. Previous ranking: 14)

At 24 and ending prospect eligibility Masin has one more season to prove that he deserves a chance with Tampa Bay. With the continuing drafting of defensemen and the Lightning attempting to strengthen their blueline talent, Masin’s name has been moved quite far down the list. This past season was better than previous ones for Masin, with an improved turnover rate and few mistakes or giveaways. His control has improved as has his maturity with the puck in order to be counted on to play the power play and quarterback the play at even strength. He will have to remain disciplined and not let his developmental frustration show on the ice or impede further development. Masin still has the potential to be a bottom four defenseman in the NHL but at this late stage in the game the question has to be asked if Tampa Bay is still the right fit for him or whether a change of scenery will be more beneficial. - SC

Boris Katchouk, LW (44^th overall, 2016. Previous ranking: 15)

For second rounder Katchouk finding much success in the AHL has been harder to come by compared to his major junior career. That being said, with fifteen fewer games played and ten more points than last season, last year was a success for Katchouk who is managing to adjust. He does need to get stronger on the puck and win more of his puck battles. Although he works hard, at times he is just in the wrong position, whether it be body positioning or location on the ice, and in order to play at the next level he will have to win more battles and see the play better. Katchouk has the skill with his skating and stickhandling as well as the adaptability to manage at the next level; it is just his technical and positional game that needs work. With more ice time this year the competition between friend and longtime teammate Taylor Raddysh to earn the first call up will have him working harder than ever. Katchouk is not a terribly flashy player but he gets the job done at a potential third line NHL level. – SC

Declan McDonnell, RW (217^th overall, 2020. Previous ranking: NA)

2020’s Mr. Irrelevant, McDonnell was noticeable for the Kitchener Rangers early in his daft year, even if he wasn't hitting the score sheet consistently. His speed, tenacity, and work as a puck hound were both evident and impressive. As the first year OHL’er became more comfortable, his production really started to come as well. In his final 23 games, he had 13 goals and 23 points. While not huge (5-10”), he is extremely versatile and sure to be a coach’s favorite moving forward. He can kill penalties. He forechecks and backchecks hard, playing with the requisite grit that will ensure he can contribute to his team even if he isn’t scoring. His ability to acclimate quickly to the OHL one season after playing in the OJHL is indicative of his ability to mentally process the game. Even though his offensive game is simple and basic, he excels North-South as an attacker and has enough skill to execute down low. McDonnell shows potential to be a bottom six forward in the NHL. - BO

New York Rangers 2019-20 Prospect Review: Top 20

Sat, 14 Sep 2019 12:37:58 +0000

Around 18 months ago, New York Rangers President Glen Sather, along with team GM Jeff Gorton sent a much publicized letter to season-ticket holders to announce that they would be rebuilding. Unqualified rebuilding. Of course, they didn’t use the term “rebuild” in their letter. Instead, they noted that “As we approach the trade deadline later this month and into the summer, we will be focused on adding young, competitive players that combine speed, skill and character. This may mean we lose some familiar faces, guys we all care about and respect. While this is part of the game, it’s never easy. Our promise to you is that our plans will be guided by our singular commitment: ensuring we are building the foundation for our next Stanley Cup contender.”

It didn’t take a literature professor to read between the lines. Some teams, while aiming for the stars, find themselves in the gutters for years. I won’t name names. Other teams somehow always find a way to stay in the hunt. I won’t name names here either, but the Rangers were one such team for a prolonged stretch. Playing well in the regular season, signing expensive free agents, trading picks – including more than a few first round picks – to keep their run going. Before that letter, the Rangers had made the playoffs for seven straight seasons, making the Stanley Cup finals once and bowing out in the Eastern Conference Finals twice.

Outside of the King, Henrik Lundqvist, the Rangers traded pretty much all veterans for whom they received a halfway decent offer, loaded up on first round picks and as soon as last season, they had a system that we had dubbed the best in the league. As I write there words, we have yet to analyze all of the systems for a ranking, but the Rangers have only made their system stronger. In addition to wining the second pick in the draft through the lottery, which they used to select a future star in big winger Kaapo Kakko, five other members of their top twenty were only added to the system this season, bumping a number of otherwise talented players off.

But more importantly, the rebuild is over. The Rangers are ready to compete again. There was no way it was every going to be an Edmonton style decade long crawl. Instead, after two years in the lottery classes, the Rangers spent a second first rounder (acquired from a previous sell off, to acquire the rights to RFA defender Jacob Trouba, who they shortly thereafter signed to a large seven year deal. And then on July 1, while the opening bells of the free agency period were still ringing, they inked the top available talent in forward Artemi Panarin to a big seven year deal of his own. Between those two additions, Kakko and the likely additions of offensive defenseman Adam Fox, whose rights they traded for before coaxing away from a fourth season at Harvard, and Russian winger Vitali Kravtsov, who also signed his ELC, the Rangers will be much stronger in 2019-20 then they were in either of the last two seasons. I don’t think they are ready to compete for a berth in the Final Four again, but they are better than either of the previous two seasons. The Rangers are back on the rise.

-Ryan Wagman

VANCOUVER, BC - JUNE 21: Kaapo Kakko poses for a photo onstage after being selected second overall by the New York Rangers during the first round of the 2019 NHL Draft at Rogers Arena on June 21, 2019 in Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada. (Photo by Derek Cain/Icon Sportswire)

1 Kappo Kakko, RW (2^nd overall, 2019. Last Year: IE) The second overall pick of the 2019 NHL Draft is ready to cross the pond for the next challenge of his career in the NHL. Not only does Kakko have plenty of skill and high hockey IQ, he has also demonstrated the willingness to battle without the puck and regain possession for his team. He works hard on both sides of the puck and understands the little details, making him already a complete winger at a such young age. When protecting the puck he is often a lot for defenders to handle, but once he bulks up and gets stronger in his lower body, the task of limiting his time and space will become even more difficult. He has the complete offensive toolbox and the physical attributes to play in the NHL next season. He has the potential to be a star and a first line player for the Rangers for years to come. - MB

2 K’Andre Miller, D (22^nd overall, 2018. Last Year: 3) From a young, hyper-athletic forward to a still young, hyperathletic blueliner, K’Andre Miller is near the end of his metamorphosis. Based purely on skill, he should be ready to move on to the professional ranks, but after losing the end of his freshman year due to a leg injury, Miller has decided to spend one more year on campus. With the Rangers now climbing out of their rebuild, it probably is better for his development to not be in the spotlight just yet, but to come up after the new core as more firmly established themselves on Broadway. For much of his freshman season, Miller was the top draw with the Badgers, combining fantastic skating with top shelf hockey IQ and easy to ignore physicality. His offensive game is still raw, but he does things few other blueliners would consider. Going back to school also all but guarantees that Miller will get another chance to impress at the WJC as those six games were his least impressive of the year. His upside is still that of a first pairing defender, but he isn’t quite there yet. - RW

3 Vitali Kravtsov, RW (9^th overall, 2018. Last Year: 4) After two years of solid growth in the KHL, Kravtsov is crossing the ocean. The Russian forward showed great technique and good poise, but also a lack of consistency. Considering his age though, it’s normal to have some droughts while playing in a men’s league. Kravtsov is highly ranked for good reason, with an excellent shot, smooth hands, and a great view of the ice. His hockey IQ is well developed and it shows mostly in his great ability to sniff the net and try to get into the best position for a dangerous shot. Kravtsov is also a good passer, but he’ll bring a shoot-first mentality to the Rangers. His 6-4” frame definitely needs some bulking but considering his height, chances are good for the Chelyabinsk native to become more imposing and dangerous with some proper conditioning practices. All in all, a dangerous player with first-line potential who can potentially benefit from Panarin’s creativity and passes in the future after an initial unavoidable adaptation period. - ASR

4 Adam Fox, D (66^th overall, 2016 [Calgary]. Last Year: 5 [Carolina]) Adam Fox is that prototypical, fast skating, offensive, smart defenseman with the USA Hockey background, including gold medals, a background that we are seeing with increasing frequency. His time in Harvard under the tutelage of Ted Donato really helped his mental game while offering him the time to build up his body. After three seasons with Harvard, he was had nothing left to prove. He was a Hobey Baker Finalist in 2018-19 as well as an East First-Team All-American in two consecutive seasons as well as the ECAC Player of the Year. He finished his collegiate career with 21 goals and 116 points (+45) in 97 games. His 48 points in 2018-19 were a school record. He has to work on his strength and pushback that he will need to survive at the NHL level. The player you see today will start his first pro season on the New York Rangers, probably on the third pairing. He could settle in as a second pairing defenseman for a very long time. - RC

5 Igor Shestyorkin, G (118^th overall, 2014. Last Year: 5) The 23-year old goalie has accumulated enough experience in the KHL and on the international stage and is more ready than your average rookie netminder. Shestyorkin is an agile goaltender, a bit on the small side for today’s trends, but won’t going to suffer from it. The main concern on him is that he has never played the equivalent of a full NHL season, no matter how good his numbers have been. He needs more experience in dealing with the load tied with being a starting goalkeeper in pro hockey. The Rangers are in a situation where they have three good goalies, and it will be interesting to see where Shestyorkin fits. There are no doubts that he’s good enough to play in the NHL, but at this point he’s probably only the third goalie there after Lundqvist and Georgiyev. One season in the AHL could do good to him, but will he accept that? – ASR

6 Nils Lundkvist, D (28^th overall, 2018. Last Year: 8) After a fast progression in his draft year, the progression slowed down last season. Lundkvist struggled to get top four minutes for Lulea last season and was only 7th in icetime on the team. He is a smart puck-moving defenseman, but his offensive edge from the blue line isn’t elite. I can still see him becoming a second pair NHL defenseman with time as his hockey sense still looks very good. He reads the play well and makes veteran decisions even though he was a teenager in a men’s league. He needs to become stronger without the puck and play a bit more aggressive at times. Hopefully he can seize a bigger role this upcoming season and become at least the second choice on the power play behind veteran Erik Gustafsson and be an anchor for the Swedish WJC team. - JH

7 Matthew Robertson, D (49^th overall, 2019. Last Year: IE) Robertson is a very steady defender who seems a lock to be a number four defender in the NHL one day. He moves the puck well from his own zone and through the neutral zone while playing a low risk game. He is a very good skater for his size and he really excels controlling his gaps and managing play out of his own zone. He reads the play and makes the correct choice between stick and body check, rarely being caught out, and is rarely overmatched. His offensive game is solid at the WHL level but might not translate as effectively to the pro game. He has the potential to be a first unit penalty killer who supports play but does not lead it. - VG

8 Libor Hajek, D (37^th overall, 2016 [Tampa Bay]. Last Year: 7) A smooth skating defenseman, Hajek had a relatively slow start with the Hartford Wolfpack of the AHL picking up only 5 points through 58 games. However unlike his AHL performance, Hajek had a strong showing with the Rangers when he spent 5 games up with them, even scoring his first NHL goal. Although strong in his own end, he plays an aggressive game in the neutral zone, creating turnovers and firing quick passes to start the ball rolling or walking in from the point for a shot on net. There is no doubt that Hajek is NHL ready, but what’s debatable is exactly what pairing he will play on. Due to his skillset, his adaptability is an asset and the chance to learn from older, more experienced defencemen is key to his development. Expect to see him bounce around for a bit before potentially joining the Rangers’ third pairing. - SC

9 Karl Henriksson, C (58^th overall, 2019. Last Year: IE) There was some debate last season about whether Henriksson carried his own game or if his success had come from playing with Lucas Raymond (and Alexander Holtz internationally) since he doesn’t have the same superstar look when he plays. Looking closer at his contributions you could see a hard-working 200 ft game but also that he has a fast stick and a fast thinking hockey brain. He makes good decisions and he works hard and has the skills to make stuff happen with the tools that he has. You could say that the superstar talents he played with benefited from playing with him as well. The main concern I am left with is that he is an undersized forward with only average skating ability. It is still early as he hasn’t played senior hockey yet, but a future middle six center isn’t a bad projection at this point. - JH

10 Joey Keane, D (88^th overall, 2018. Last Year: 17) An elite skater, Keane is built for the modern NHL age. With his mobility, he is incredibly difficult to pin deep in his own zone, because he takes such good routes to dump ins and is able to transition to offense in a flash. Keane also thinks the game very well in his own end and projects as a Bret Hedican type of defender in the NHL. His OHL season may not have gone according to plan and the same could be said about his development. A move to London saw him take on a lesser role and some bad habits, especially with the puck in transition, crept into his game. As he moves to the pro level, he will need to keep the game simple, using his mobility to aid in his learning curve. Even after a disappointing season, Keane should be considered a quality blueline prospect who could find himself a part of the Rangers within a few years. - Bo

11 Vinni Lettieri, C/RW (Undrafted free agent, signed Mar. 27, 2017. Last Year: 11) For a player who often flies under the radar on the ice but shines on the scoresheet, his time up with the New York Rangers last season was perhaps not what was expected from a 40+ point guy in the AHL. Often overlooked due to his stature, Lettieri’s speed and tenacity make up for any doubts his size may have caused. If given the chance, he could carry a role on the top penalty kill unit with his speed and overall forechecking knowledge. The difficult thing about his case is the fact that his overall game and puck movement is not yet NHL ready although his speed may prove ready, the other elements of his game could use a brush up. Expect Lettieri to stay down with Hartford for the first part of the season as part of the Wolfpack’s top six. Should he see NHL ice time again he would be a healthy fit as part of a strong bottom six. - SC

12 Sean Day, D (81^st overall, 2016. Last Year: 18) For a player who has a good natural skill set, Day has had some difficulty finding ways to showcase his puck handling ability and patience on the ice. Day has yet to find himself with a Rangers call up and was instead sent down to the ECHL Mariners last season for a 19 game stint. However, being sent down to the ECHL level may have been just the right way to push Day harder and have him ensure a starting spot back up with the Hartford Wolfpack where he will hopefully have a better season and a better start next season, expecting to bounce from second to third pairing. Day needs to find better ways of getting to the net and getting shots off from the point to up his offensive production should he want to earn his first call up to the NHL in the upcoming season. The talent is there, but it still needs to coalesce.- SC

13 Ryan Lindgren, D (49^th overall, 2016 [Boston]. Last Year: 12) To say that Lindgren is a gritty defenseman is an understatement and for a smaller defenseman he is everything a team could ask for defensively as he is a tremendous shot blocker with goalie protection as his first priority. Since coming from NCAA Minnesota he has had a tough time adjusting to the pace of the play at the professional level. Not to say that he is slow but simply a stride behind the competition. Lindgren has the smarts and the grit to handle himself with the Rangers as he has already played 5 games with them but he will be better suited to start with the AHL’s Wolfpack for another season until he builds up his confidence offensively and learns to play with more discipline. Lindgren has a high ceiling and a good work ethic and hopefully he will have a more permanent spot as a second or third pairing blueliner this coming season. - SC

14 Morgan Barron, C (174^th overall, 2017. Last Year: Not ranked) Barron is a 6-2”, 209 pivot who drives to the net with speed and force. He is a good skater who has a surprisingly good stick and puck control. Always a threat to score with wraparounds or shots from the middle, his puck possession is really good. He had 15 goals and 34 points in 39 games with improved consistency from the season before. He will be back with “Big Red” and should have a big role with them in 2019-20. The Rangers have a developing player here who could be a future 3C for the boys in blue. He looked bigger and stronger at prospect camp earlier this summer, and I expect him to have a bigger impact this year, as he is just starting to hit his stride as a player. - RC

15 Zac Jones, D (68^th overall, 2019. Last Year: IE) A lightly regarded coming into his draft year, Jones turned a ton of heads in his USHL debut with Tri-City, as one of the top skaters on the best team in the league. More an offensive play driver who will always need some back up in his own end, he usually makes up for his deficiencies by his stellar puck playing ability. Undersized, Jones gets to a fine top speed in a hurry, and demonstrates great vision and instincts when carrying the puck. He doesn’t make many egregious errors in his own end, but he is more effective with a strong defender at his side. Heading to UMass (Amherst) next season, he will have the chance to take on a key role from the hop as a freshman, with top defensemen Cale Makar and Mario Ferraro both moving on to the pros early. He could reach a second pairing, PP role his best, but is a long ways from that level. - RW

16 Olof Lindbom, G (39^th overall, 2018. Last Year: 16) There seems to be no end to Lindbom’s bad luck with injuries. He played only eight regular season games and one playoff game last season. The year before he was also sidelined due to injury but seemed to step up when he played, especially internationally. His hockey sense in combination with good technique and size are his main strengths in net. His ability to adapt and overcome his struggles are also impressive at this point. Next season, he will be getting a chance to play in Allsvenskan. He still has a long way to go and first and foremost he will need to put up a full strong and healthy season before being ready to be the starter in a bigger league. - JH

17 Tarmo Reunanen, D (98^th overall, 2016. Last Year: Not Ranked) Reunanen suffered a severe injury in his draft year which was a significant setback in his young career. However, last season he really started to show glimpses of his immense offensive potential. An agile skater with quick feet and good wheels, Reunanen is very active with the puck, especially in the offensive zone where he can be an asset for his team in possession. He has impressive passing skills, moving the puck with excellent precision and timing. He sees the ice well and he can be creative when he has the puck on his stick. He still needs to improve his defensive reliability and gain situational toughness in order to take the next step in becoming an NHL defenseman. He could be a solid third pairing blueliner, one who can help his team in offensive transitions and on the power play. - MB

18 Yegor Rykov, D (132^nd overall, 2016 [New Jersey]. Last Year: 19) A solid two-way defenseman with an NHL body, Rykov has played in two WJCs and more than 200 pro hockey games, but he is not ready yet to play in the NHL even though he has all the tools to succeed. When he was playing for SKA, his time on ice was limited – he was also younger and playing for a stacked team. However, a trade to HC Sochi did wonders for him as he started playing on the top pair for former New York Ranger Sergei Zubov and was generally one of the best U21 defensemen in the KHL last year. Rykov showed talent and progressed at both ends of the ice. He has very good vision at both ends of the ice. He is also a good skater and his competitiveness makes him a player that coaches like to have. In spite of passing a bit under the radar last year, he is a very capable prospect with a high ceiling. - ASR

19 Leevi Aaltonen, RW (130^th overall, 2019. Last Year: IE) The fast and explosive Aaltonen’s speed and acceleration have always stood out even against international competition. The winger has nifty hands, quality passing skills and he makes plays in the offensive zone He has an accurate wrist shot and can find the back of the net on the power play. As far as the physical game is concerned, he still has a ways to go. His board play could be much stronger and he lacks the willingness to battle hard on a consistent basis. He also tends to be invisible for overly long periods, thus his overall impact in the U20 league has often been more muted than his talent level would suggest. If Aaltonen makes it to the NHL, it will be in an offensive role where he would need to find ways to produce. - MB

20 Ville Meskanen, RW/LW (Undrafted free agent, signed May 3, 2018. Last Year: 20) Meskanen has the potential to surprise. After coming over from Ilves of the Liiga, he spent his first season in North America with the Hartford Wolfpack and fared well with the adjustment. He proved his adaptability as he started the year off slowly but soon ended up on the second line with a spot on both special teams. Meskanen is a good team player and good in the attacking zone, should he improve his two way play and minimize neutral zone turnovers he could earn his first call up. He has the skill to earn a few games in the NHL and the potential to eventually find a more permanent roster spot should he work on becoming a more complete player. Meskanen may seem like a long shot now but his work ethic may see him develop faster in the AHL than other players ranked ahead of him. Expect to see him as a top six forward with Hartford this year. - SC

New York Rangers Prospect System Overview

Brock Otten — Sat, 15 Sep 2018 17:53:06 +0000

Rebuild. A word associated with evil for most hockey fans. Several years of pain in order to achieve long term gain. The patience of fans will be tested as the team accumulates unproven, young talent; talent that requires research to create expectations for.

But, it is an inevitable event in the cap era and the New York Rangers have done things correctly so far. This was a prospect pool badly in need of fresh blood and it has been invigorated with a breadth of new talent. Nearly half the players on this list were acquired in some way connected to trades.

It all started in 2017 with the Derek Stepan deal to Arizona that netted them the 7th overall selection; an asset they used on Lias Andersson. Andersson is now one of the team´s top prospects and a building block down the middle. The team also acquired additional first round picks in 2018 that helped them secure K´Andre Miller and Nils Lundkvist, two building blocks on the blueline. And while the team only has one first round pick set for 2019, it should be a very early one. The team will also have some talent to deal off at some point this year. Kevin Hayes and Mats Zuccarello are pending UFAs who will most certainly be dealt if the team struggles. Veterans like Chris Kreider, Kevin Shattenkirk, Marc Staal and perhaps even Henrik Lundqvist, could also be hot commodities on the trade market.

However, draft picks are not the only assets that the Rangers have received. The likes of Brett Howden, Libor Hajek, Ryan Lindgren, and Yegor Rykov were all brought in last year via trade and have added terrific depth to the farm system. All four appear in McKeen’s Rangers Top 20 prospects list. And as mentioned, veterans will continue to be shipped out for prospects this year and beyond which will further New York’s rebuild attempt and make them stronger for the future.

Rebuilding is not just about acquiring assets through trading and the draft. The scouting team takes on a massive responsibility for finding “free” assets; undrafted free agents. The NHL teams who rebuild properly utilize this better than anyone. And thus far, the New York Rangers have done an absolutely fantastic job of bringing in talent through free agency. In fact, five players in New York’s current top 20 were brought into the organization as free agent signings. This includes two players (Pionk and Georgiyev) who should already be major contributors this coming NHL season and three players (Lettieri, Lindqvist, and Meskanen) who could be quality NHL forwards down the road; or even role players this year. This is an avenue that New York will need to continue to explore over the next few years.

Lastly, any rebuilding franchise has one desire and that is to end up picking inside the top 3 (or even 5) of the NHL Entry Draft. The Rangers have not done this since 1999, when they unfortunately selected Pavel Brendl 4th overall. It was a great run, but New York needs to be bad this year so that they can accelerate their rebuild by acquiring a premium talent; a franchise player that can be the face of the franchise moving forward. Look at the best teams in the NHL today and almost all were built around a top 5 selection. This could not be more true for New York considering that the team went from 2013-2016 without even having a first round pick at the draft.

While the next year or two may represent a dark period for the fan base, it is necessary for the growth of the Rangers’ franchise. General Manager Jeff Gorton and Director of Scouting Kevin Maxwell have their hands full, but they have done a terrific job so far at getting this once storied team back in the right direction. Expect this team’s prospect list to continue to grow and remain near the top of the organizational rankings.

Filip Chytil

1 Filip Chytil, C (21^st overall, 2017. Last Year: 3^rd) It was a busy year for the Rangers top prospect in his first year in North America. Chytil saw action in the AHL, NHL, at the U20s and at the World Championships for the Czech Republic. As a 19 year old, his production in the AHL has to be considered elite, right up there with the seasons of Kevin Fiala, William Nylander, and Jesse Puljujarvi in recent years. The talented two-way center has the potential to be a mainstay in New York’s top 6 for years to come. His size, skill, and skating ability makes him a perfect fit for today’s NHL. His arrival will come as early as this season too, as he may earn the shot to be the team’s 2nd line center behind Mika Zibanejad.

2 Lias Andersson, C (7^th overall, 2017. Last Year:1^st) Like Chytil, Andersson was another Rangers’ top prospect who made his NHL debut last year. While Andersson may not possess the elite athleticism that Chytil does, he is a safe bet to carve out a long NHL career because of his hockey IQ and understanding of the game in all three zones. The 5-11”, 200lbs center captained the Swedish entry at the World Juniors, earning a silver medal (and famously launching it into the stands). But that competitive nature is what will endear him to the New York fan base, likely as early as this year as he will have every opportunity to assume the team’s 3rd or 4th line center role.

3 K'Andre Miller, D (22^nd overall, 2018. Last Year: IE) A product of the U.S. Development Program, Miller was one of three first rounders taken by the Rangers in 2018. The Wisconsin commit is lauded for his athletic ability, including his powerful skating ability despite being 6-4” and 200lbs. At the very least, he projects as a modern day shutdown defender who can use his size and mobility to dominate the defensive end. That all said, scouts have suggested that his game possesses offensive upside despite his skill set being somewhat raw. He will likely spend a few years at the College level before turning pro, but should make a solid pro with a not insignificant chance at being a true impact blueliner down the road.

Vitali Kravtsov

4 Vitali Kravtsov, LW, (9^th overall, 2018. Last Year: IE) Kravtsov, the 9th overall selection in 2018, was one of the draft’s biggest risers late into May and June. This was thanks in part to a terrific playoff performance in the KHL with Traktor, where he had 6 goals and 5 assists in 16 games. Statistically speaking, that was the best performance of an U19 player in KHL posteason history. At 6-4”, with speed and skill on the wing, Kravtsov projects as a future top six goal scoring forward. His ability to drive the wing, or set up shop at the dot could make him a lethal powerplay option in the future. Perhaps a future winger for Filip Chytil, too.

5 Igor Shestyorkin, G (118^th overall, 2014. Last Year: 2^nd) Without a doubt, Shestyorkin has emerged as one of the top goaltending prospects on the planet. The soon to be 23 year old has starred in the KHL the past two seasons, earning an All Star nod and finishing in the top five for save percentage both years for SKA St. Petersburg. Scouts rave about Shestyorkin’s athleticism and game stealing ability. His game is built for today’s NHL thanks to his solid size and agility. At this point, it is just a waiting game as the Rangers wait for his KHL contract to expire at the end of this upcoming season. Assuming that New York can convince him to cross the ocean, they may very well have found their heir apparent to King Henrik.

6 Brett Howden, C (Trade: Feb. 26, 2018 [Tampa Bay]. Last Year: 3^rd [Tampa Bay]) One of the main pieces coming back in the J.T. Miller/Ryan McDonagh trade, Howden had established himself as one of the top forwards in the WHL the past two seasons. A former first rounder by Tampa Bay, Howden starred as captain of the Moose Jaw Warriors and was a standout for Team Canada at the 2018 World Junior Championships. A hard-nosed center, there is not much that he can’t do on the ice. He can thrive in any situation and is the type of player you want on the ice to help preserve a lead or gain one. He will be turning pro this season and will look to earn top six ice time in Hartford with an eye on earning a spot on the Rangers in the second half if they continue to sell off assets at this year’s trade deadline.

7 Libor Hajek, D (Trade: Feb. 26, 2018 [Tampa Bay]. Last Year: 10^th [Tampa Bay]) Another part of the Miller/McDonagh trade, Hajek is also graduating out of the WHL after spending nearly three years in Saskatoon (minus a move to Regina to close out last season). The hard-nosed Czech defender has good size at 6-2, 200lbs, but is also mobile and like K’Andre Miller above, projects to at least be a quality player in his own end. His offensive game really took a nice step forward this past season and that was certainly on display at the World Junior Championships in Buffalo. It does remain to be seen as to how much that part of his game will translate to the pro level. We will find out this coming season as he turns pro in Hartford.

8 Nils Lundkvist, D (28th overall, 2018. Last Year: IE) The third of three first round draft picks by taken by the Rangers in 2018, Lundkvist is most definitely the furthest away from making an impact on Broadway. The 5-11” defender is best described as raw. His mobility is an asset, but it is not yet known what the high end potential is. Scouts seem to be split as to whether he possesses the vision and skill level to be an impact offensive defender, although the early signs for those elements are certainly positive. As part of the Lulea program, he will remain overseas for at least another year to hone his skills on the big ice. Patience will be required here.

9 Neal Pionk, D (UDFA: May 1, 2017. Last Year: 10^th) What a nice surprise Pionk has turned out to be for the Rangers. A free agent signing out of the University of Minnesota-Duluth last offseason, he had a tremendous first professional season in 2017-18. Not only did he excel in limited action in the NHL, but he was also an integral part of a U.S. team at the World Championships that ended up winning bronze. With added bulk to his average frame, Pionk should be able to take greater advantage of his vision and puck moving ability. His mobility is a plus and he could be a top four defender for the Rangers as early as this upcoming season.

Ty Ronning

10 Ty Ronning, RW (201st Overall, 2016. Last Year: 20^th) No matter how you slice it, 61 goals is an impressive feat. That’s how many Ronning scored in the WHL last year with Vancouver. His lack of size may be an issue at the pro level. Furthermore, skeptics will point to the fact that he played last year as an overager. But scoring 60 goals in the WHL is no easy feat. He is only the 5th player since the turn of the century to accomplish that feat. Consistency has been a bit of an issue over his WHL career and he is going to have to prove that he can overcome his size deficit. But Ronning has the speed and tenacity that his father (Cliff) possessed and has to be considered a future option as a top six winger for the Rangers.

11 Vinni Lettieri, RW (UDFA: Mar. 27, 2017. Last Year: not ranked) Grandson of the legendary Lou Nanne, Lettieri was an offseason signing by the Rangers last year after completing his senior season at the University of Minnesota under Don Lucia. He ended up having a terrific rookie year in the AHL with Hartford, leading the team in goal scoring with 23. This, despite a 19 game cup of coffee with the Rangers. The right shot winger has goal scoring potential and the fact that he shoots from the right side will likely make him a more attractive option moving forward. It is expected that he continue to shuttle back and forth between Hartford and New York again, perhaps earning a full time role later in the 2018-19 season.

12 Ryan Lindgren, D (Trade: Feb. 25, 2018 [Boston]. Last Year: 14^th [Boston]) A component of the deal that saw Rick Nash head to Boston, Lindgren joins the pro ranks after two years at the University of Minnesota (where he was a teammate of Vinni Lettieri). The former Boston 2^nd rounder may not possess the size of a typical stay at home, shutdown defender (he is listed at 6-0”, 200lbs), but the skill set is there. His offensive potential may be limited, but his skating ability and physicality will make him a very valuable blueliner at some point. He figures to be a fixture on the Rangers’ penalty kill and fans will likely adore him for his penchant for the big hit. He will be a fixture in Hartford this year with a chance of being a full time NHL’er within a few years.

13 Alexandar Georgiyev, G (UDFA: July 17, 2017. Last Year: not ranked) At the time, little was made of the Georgiyev signing by the Rangers last offseason. He was coming off his first full season in Liiga (Finland) for TPS and not much was known about him or his potential as a future NHL netminder. But he ended up becoming a great find as the 22 year old emerged as Hartford’s starter and even got into 10 NHL games where he excelled with solid athleitcism and composure allowing his lack of size not to be exposed. While long term, Shestyorkin looks like the goalie of the future, short term, Georgiyev will get first crack at becoming a permanent NHL netminder as he backs-up Henrik Lundqvist this coming season.

14 Michael Lindqvist, RW (UDFA, May 2, 2018. Last Year: IE) After a breakout season in the SHL with Farjestad, the Rangers inked the 5-11” winger to an NHL deal. He was one of only five full time players to average over a point per game in the SHL last year and his 20 goals in 33 games gave him, by far, the best goals per game average in the league. While it is always a mystery as to how a soon to be 24 year old’s game will translate after moving from a European league, his signing has to be considered a success for New York because there is very little risk involved with him being on a one year contract. Best case scenario, his goal scoring ability and hockey sense translate well and he becomes a fixture. Worst case scenario, his game does not translate and he is off the books this offseason, returning to Sweden. At this point in time, he looks to be a serious candidate for a bottom six wing spot on the Rangers this year, perhaps battling Lettieri and Meskanen as a fellow right handed shots.

Nico Gross

15 Nico Gross, D (101^st Overall, 2018. Last Year: IE) Gross, another 2018 organizational addition, is a mobile puck mover from Switzerland. He is coming off his first year with the Oshawa Generals, where he experienced some ups and downs. His skating ability is a major plus and is the first thing you notice about him. He can really push the pace of attack. You also have to admire his physicality in the defensive end. He plays with a chip on his shoulder. His decision making leaves a lot to be desired though. And you have to question his lack of offensive production (14 points) given his skill set. But the upside is there for him to develop into a quality two-way defender if he can settle his game down and perhaps further acclimatize to the North American game.

16 Olof Lindbom, G (39^th Overall, 2018. Last Year: IE) A product of the Djurgardens program, Lindbom was a surprise as the first goalie off the board in 2018 near the top of the second round. He was not a standout in the SuperElit (U20) league this past year, but he was sensational for Sweden on the international stage. This included backstopping the Tre Kronor to a bronze medal at the U18’s, where he was named top goaltender at the event. Lindbom is lauded for his strong positional play and his calm demeanor in the net. Athletically, there is room for improvement, and will be a focus moving forward. But with pro ready goaltenders like Shestyorkin and Georgiyev already ahead of him in the system, the Rangers can afford to be patient with him.

17 Joey Keane, D (88^th Overall, 2018. Last Year: IE) 2016-17 was a disastrous year for Keane and the Barrie Colts. The first year blueliner was a -28 and really lacked the confidence to be a contributor for a last place team. Fast forward a year and the story could not have been more different. He emerged as a #1 on one of the better teams in the OHL’s Eastern Conference and ended the year as a finalist for the Max Kaminsky Award as the league’s top defender. His +45 was a league best. This led to Keane being a third round selection as a re-entry candidate. He is a potential impact player at both ends who excels defensively (he was also named as one of the top defensive defenders in the OHL coaches poll this year), and as a puck mover. His skating ability is high end and bodes well for his future NHL prospects.

18 Sean Day, D (81st Overall, 2016. Last Year: 5^th) It is obvious what the Rangers prioritize on the back-end; skating. Yet another defensive prospect who can really wheel, Day’s skating ability has long been talked about as a strength. This is especially impressive when you combine it with his wide frame at 6-2”, 225lbs. While the former exceptional status grantee (given early acceptance into the OHL draft as a major bantam aged player) failed to make the impact many expected he would in the OHL, that does not mean that he is not an NHL prospect. His decision making at both ends can still leave some to be desired, but the physical gifts are still present. After a very solid year with Kingston that saw him set a career high in points, Day is finally ready to take that next step as a professional.

19 Yegor Rykov, D (Trade: Feb. 23, 2018 [New Jersey]. Last Year: 12^th [New Jersey]) Rykov was the prospect that the Rangers received from New Jersey in the Michael Grabner deal (along with a 2nd round pick that New York packaged to move up to select K’Andre Miller). The Russian defender is a product of the SKA St. Petersburg system and he has played the majority of the last two years in the KHL. He will spend a third year there in 2018-19 with an eye on coming to North America the following year. At 6-2, 200lbs, he has good size and projects as a potential two-way defender who can be a solid #4-6 blueliner and eat up valuable defensive minutes while helping to push the puck in the right direction.

20 Ville Meskanen, RW (UDFA: May 3, 2018. Last Year: IE) Like Lindqvist, Meskanen was a free agent signing out of Europe this offseason and presents very little risk for the organization on a two year deal. He is coming off a breakthrough offensive season with Ilves of the SM-Liiga where his 24 goals were 3rd in the league. At 6-1”, he also has a bit more size than Lindqvist while possessing that same coveted right handed shot. Between Lettieri, Lindqvist, and Meskanen, one would have to assume that the Rangers end up with at least one quality and consistent goal scorer who can play a top nine role in the near future, and all as free talent pickups, no less. The three are also gearing up to battle for a roster spot on the bottom line this year.

OHL Playoff Preview: Greyhounds pacing the pack

Brock Otten — Thu, 22 Mar 2018 20:51:07 +0000

The 2018 Ontario Hockey League playoffs kick off this week after the regular season wrapped up this past weekend. Heading into the playoffs, the Sault Ste. Marie Greyhounds are the clear favorites to come out of the OHL and represent the league at the Memorial Cup in Regina. They have spent the vast majority of the season as the top ranked team in the CHL, one of only two teams to chart the entire season (along with Blainville-Boisbriand of the QMJHL). But competition is always fierce and there are no sure bets in the OHL. Let us now take a look at each first round match-up.

Eastern Conference

#1 - Hamilton Bulldogs vs. #8 - Ottawa 67’s

Season Series: Hamilton leads 5-0

Will Bitten of the Hamilton Bulldogs. Photo by Aaron Bell/OHL Images

Analysis: The Conference Champion Bulldogs face off against the 67’s after the Steelheads won on the final Sunday, securing the number 7 seed. Hamilton has been the cream of the crop of the Eastern Conference for the vast majority of the season. They have been extremely active in trades this year to give them the best chance of coming out of the East. The Bulldogs added Robert Thomas (St. Louis), Riley Stillman (Florida), Nic Caamano (Dallas), Ryan Moore, and Nic Mattinen (Toronto) to an already stacked lineup, giving Ottawa an extremely daunting challenge in round one. This team rolls three powerhouse offensive lines with Matthew Strome (Philadelphia), Will Bitten (Montreal), Mackenzie Entwistle (Arizona), Marian Studenic (New Jersey), and Brandon Saigeon being other top options. Forward Arthur Kaliyev (2019) is another name to watch. He is the first 16 year old to score 30 goals in the OHL since Alex Galchenyuk and he is a potential lottery pick next year as a power winger. In net, the Bulldogs boast one of the OHL’s most improved players this year in Kaden Fulcher (Detroit).

Kevin Bahl of the Ottawa 67's. Photo by Terry Wilson / OHL Images.

Ottawa, on the other hand, is a very young team. In a few years’ time, they could be Memorial Cup contenders. They could have five players drafted in the first three rounds this year (Kody Clark, Mitchell Hoelscher, Merrick Rippon, Kevin Bahl, and Carter Robertson). Offensively, they are paced by Sasha Chmelevski (San Jose), Travis Barron (Colorado), Austen Keating (2018) and Tye Felhaber. Chmelevski was a much hyped prospect who fell hard at last year’s draft (all the way to the 6th), but he has returned much stronger this season. His play away from the puck has greatly improved and it has taken his game to another level. But for all their talent offensively, the 67’s have had a very difficult time keeping the puck out of their own net this year. Overager Olivier Tremblay has not provided the stability that the team had hoped for when they brought him in early this year.

This one has all the makings of a quick series. This Ottawa team, as talented as they are young, is not yet ready for this type of challenge. The Bulldogs are one of the deepest teams in the OHL and their offensive firepower is likely to overwhelm an inexperienced defense and inconsistent netminder. One particular thing worth watching is the 67’s struggling penalty kill going up against one of the league’s best powerplay units from Hamilton. This has to be troubling for Ottawa because they also happen to be one of the league’s most undisciplined teams. And while Ottawa does have some great young offensive talent, the Bulldogs have one of the oldest defensive units in the league and are likely to limit the offensive chances of the 67’s. I look for Robert Thomas to have a big series here (and a big playoff performance overall). His points per game has taken a big dip since joining the Bulldogs, but I think he explodes this postseason.

Prediction: This Hamilton team is just too experienced and too talented for the 67’s. They have the advantage in nearly every area and should dominate. If Ottawa was getting better goaltending, I would say that they might be able to steal a game or two, but I do not even see that happening. Hamilton in 4.

#2 - Barrie Colts vs. #7 - Mississauga Steelheads

Season Series: Mississauga leads 4-2

Michael McLeod of the Mississauga Steelheads. Photo by Terry Wilson / OHL Images.

Analysis: If I was a betting man, I would bet that this is the match-up that Barrie wanted to avoid in the opening round. In fact, it was probably the match-up every team wanted to avoid in the first round. Mississauga has underachieved all season long, but they have shown some signs of finally coming to life the last month or so. Offensive talent is not to be questioned. Their first two lines include names like Michael McLeod (New Jersey), Ryan McLeod (2018), Owen Tippett (Florida), Trent Fox, Albert Michnac (2018), and Mathieu Foget. This group of six matches up well against any top six in the Eastern Conference and it helps to explain why the Steelheads are the third highest scoring team in the Conference. And this excludes their leading scorer, defenseman Nic Hague (Vegas), who was the first OHL defender to score 30+ since Allan Rourke. But keeping the puck out has been a challenge at times. Swedish import and defensive stalwart Jacob Moverare (Los Angeles) has been injured and that has really challenged their younger defensive players to play more minutes than they are ready for. Furthermore, young netminder Jacob Ingham (2018) has had an awful sophomore season that has seen him essentially lose the starting job to Emanuel Vella.

Andrei Svechnikov of the Barrie Colts. Photo by Terry Wilson / OHL Images.

This is potentially trouble because Barrie is the highest scoring team in the Conference and the 3rd highest scoring in the OHL. Their first line of Andrei Svechnikov (2018), Aaron Luchuk (Ottawa), and Dmitry Sokolov (Minnesota) has been absolutely shredding teams of late. The supporting offensive cast includes guys like Ryan Suzuki (2019), Jason Willms (2018), and Zach Magwood who work extremely hard in all three zones and bring energy that exhausts the opposition so that the first line can go to work. The Colts do not have any stars on the blueline, but they are a tight knit unit who work well with Barrie’s forwards to play a terrific team defense. In net, overager Leo Lazerev starts and while he does not necessarily win any games outright for the Colts, he is a mostly reliable presence. It should be noted that he has yet to win an OHL playoff series in his career and probably goes into this match-up with just as many question marks as Mississauga’s tenders.

There is no question that this is not your average #2 versus #7 seed match-up. This is especially true when you consider the fact that Mississauga largely dominated the season series, winning all three games in the new year by a combined score of 18-10. For whatever reason, the speed of Mississauga’s forwards gives the defense of Barrie a tough time and Lazerev has an .840 save percentage against the Fish this season. This is complicated even more by the fact that Andrei Svechnikov has been suspended for the first four games of the series for a head check. But I admit, I have a tough time picking Mississauga to win this series. I do not trust their defense to be able to handle Barrie’s depth up front. And if these games go to an offensive shootout like they did in the regular season, I think Barrie ends up coming out on top this time. Mississauga’s Mathieu Foget has also been suspended for the first four games of the series and his loss might actually be felt more because of Mississauga’s lack of depth. His acquisition really triggered the turnaround for the team. Barrie also needs to stay out of the box. In the regular season, they gave Mississauga almost double the amount of powerplays that they received and it cost them dearly with the Steelheads clicking at over 30% with the man advantage. If they can stay out of the box, and Lazerev can make a few saves, I still like Barrie to come out on top.

Prediction: The result of this series would not surprise me either way, even with the difference in seeding. But depth is critical in the playoffs and Barrie has the advantage there. I am excited to see how the Svechnikov/Luchuk/Sokolov unit handles the pressure of the playoffs. Svechnikov, in particular, can really cement himself as the #2 prospect available in the draft with a strong postseason performance once he returns from suspension (as long as Barrie does not get swept). Barrie in 7.

#3 - Kingston Frontenacs vs. #6 - North Bay Battalion

Season Series: Kingston leads 3-1

Gabriel Vilardi of the Kingston Frontenacs. Photo by Terry Wilson / OHL Images.

Analysis: This is an intriguing match-up because of how differently these two teams approached the OHL season. Kingston brought in Gabe Vilardi (Los Angeles), Max Jones (Anaheim), Cliff Pu (Buffalo), Sean Day (New York Rangers), and Mitchell Byrne at the deadline to bolster an already solid line-up and make them contenders to come out of the East. While they failed to secure a division banner, the results post deadline have been mostly extremely positive. A healthy and re-invigorated Vilardi has provided the biggest boost, as his 1.87 points per game in Kingston is second to only Jordan Kyrou (St. Louis) in the OHL. His strength, on and off the puck, makes him a dominant force in all three zones and the type of player who works to tire and grind out opposing defenses.

Justin Brazeau of the North Bay Battalion. Photo by Terry Wilson /OHL Images,

The North Bay Battalion were sellers at the deadline this year, shipping out veterans Cam Dineen (Arizona), and Brett McKenzie (Vancouver). Those moves only worked to light a fire under the Battalion roster and the team actually improved their record in the New Year thanks to the play of new acquisitions Matthew Struthers (2018), and Jake Henderson, as well as veterans Justin Brazeau (2018), and Adam Thilander (2018). Brazeau, in particular, is a player to watch. The 6-5” winger finished just inside the Top 20 of league scoring and was named as the East’s most underrated player in the recent coaches poll that was released.

If we are measuring up these two teams, we need to give the edge to Kingston in nearly every area. The Fronts lead the season series 3-1, winning the three most recent games (February on). The biggest advantage Kingston has is in net with Jeremy Helvig (Carolina) manning the crease. The overager and veteran netminder has 19 OHL playoff games under his belt and is unquestionably one of the league’s top netminders. Meanwhile, the Battalion will rely on either Christian Propp (2018) or Julian Sime, who have a combined zero OHL playoff appearances. Kingston also has a heavy advantage on special teams, with their powerplay and penalty killing units operating at a higher level. With Robertson and Vilardi operating down low on the powerplay, North Bay is going to need to stay out of the box to have any chance in this series. One wild card to keep an eye on is the health of Max Jones. Jones has been out since the end of January after undergoing surgery on a broken finger. It is likely he returns at some point in these playoffs and he can be a major x-factor.

Prediction: Ultimately, Kingston’s experience and leadership should carry them to a relatively easy victory in this match-up. Gabe Vilardi and Sean Day won a Memorial Cup together last year. Mitchell Byrne won an OHL Championship last year. And Cliff Pu and Max Jones won an OHL Title and Memorial Cup in 2016. Kingston in 5.

#4 - Niagara IceDogs vs. #5 - Oshawa Generals

Season Series: Tied at 1 game apiece

Akil Thomas of the Niagara IceDogs. Photo by Terry Wilson / OHL Images.

Analysis: Two teams that do not see a ton of each other match-up in round one. Niagara and Oshawa also happen to be two of the hotter teams in the OHL heading into the playoffs. The IceDogs are a team that rely on speed and energy to play an up tempo and offensively oriented style of game. They get after it on the forecheck and have a powerplay that has been much improved since the acquisition of overager Sam Miletic (Pittsburgh) from London. On top of Miletic, Niagara has a trio of offensive weapons that they rely on in Kirill Maksimov (Edmonton), Akil Thomas (2018), and Ben Jones (Vegas).

Jack Studnicka of the Oshawa Generals. Photo by Terry Wilson / OHL Images.

Oshawa, on the other hand, prefers to slow things down and grind it out in the offensive end. Their fearless leader is Jack Studnicka (Boston), an excellent two-way center who makes an impact in so many different ways. A pair of first time draft eligible forwards support Studnicka; Serron Noel (2018), and Allan McShane (2018). Defenseman Matt Brassard (Vancouver) is also critical to their offensive success. He was one of the highest scoring defenders in the league in the second half and finished the year 7th in defensive scoring.

If we are truly comparing these two teams, it is difficult to determine who has a clear advantage. In goal, the nod should be given to Oshawa and their starter Kyle Keyser (Boston). Keyser has been a stable presence in net this year, definitely more so than Stephen Dhillon who has struggled for Niagara this year, or the inexperienced Colton Incze. Up front, I give the slight edge to Niagara because of their explosiveness and depth. On defense, the two teams boast slightly inexperienced units who are mobile, but can be mistake prone. Ultimately, I see two things possibly tipping the favor in Niagara’s direction. The first is special teams play. As mentioned, Niagara’s powerplay has been performing at a high level lately and Oshawa has one of the league’s worst penalty killing units. The second is home ice advantage, which Niagara owns after finishing the regular season on a 7 game winning streak.

Prediction: With home ice advantage, better special teams play, and a slightly more explosive offense, I like Niagara to win this series. Their goaltending concerns me slightly, but between Dhillon or Incze, they should be able to make enough big saves to at least get the IceDogs into the second round. But this one will be close. Niagara in 7.

Western Conference

#1 - Sault Ste. Marie Greyhounds vs. #8 - Saginaw Spirit

Season Series: SSM leads 7-1

Sault Ste. Marie Greyhounds of the Ontario Hockey League. Photo by Terry Wilson

Analysis: The juggernaut Greyhounds kick off their Memorial Cup push against the Saginaw Spirit, whose five game losing streak to end the season forced them down the standings and into this first round match-up. Sault Ste. Marie has nine NHL draft picks on their roster and two more potential first rounders for 2018. Up front, Boris Katchouk (Tampa Bay), Taylor Raddysh (Tampa Bay), Jack Kopacka (Anaheim), Tim Gettinger (New York Rangers), Barrett Hayton (2018), and the underrated Hayden Verbeek pace the attack. But the real star is OHL 2nd leading scorer Morgan Frost (Philadelphia), one of the breakout stars of this season. On the backend, the Hounds are equally strong, led by Conor Timmins (Colorado), and Rasmus Sandin (2018). Neither seem to make a mistake with the puck and both are just as good in their own end as they are offensively. In net, Matthew Villalta (Los Angeles) has been a steady presence who makes the saves when he needs to.

Evan Cormier of the Saginaw Spirit. Photo by Terry Wilson / OHL Images.

Saginaw’s strength actually starts in net where overager Evan Cormier (New Jersey) keeps the Spirit in a lot of games that they do not deserve to be in. This is important because the Spirit struggle to score goals. They were only one of three teams in the OHL to not score 200 goals on the season and the other two finished dead last in their conferences (Flint and Sudbury). Furthermore, their powerplay was a league worst 14.7%. There is definitely some offensive talent on this team, but the team’s best days are ahead of them as guys like Blade Jenkins (2018), Nicholas Porco (2019), Ryan Stepien (2020), Aidan Prueter (2020), and Damien Giroux (2018) gain experience. In fact, the team’s only NHL drafted forward, Brady Gilmour (Detroit) finished 9th in team scoring.

In all honesty, this series should not be close and is not likely to be close. The Spirit have a talented young roster, but they are not currently an equal to the Greyhounds. Sault Ste. Marie has the advantage in nearly every area except maybe goaltending. Even then, Evan Cormier can only do so much. Heck, we might see the Greyhounds score more shorthanded goals than the Spirit score powerplay goals in the series.

Prediction: I want to say that Evan Cormier can do enough to steal a game for the Spirit in this series, but I cannot even see the Spirit winning a game. The Greyhounds are just too strong. SSM in 4.

#2 - Kitchener Rangers vs. #7 - Guelph Storm

Season Series: Kitchener leads 5-3

Logan Brown of the Kitchener Rangers. Photo by Aaron Bell/OHL Images

Analysis: This is an interesting first round match-up between two teams that did not end the regular season the way they wanted to. Kitchener, a strong team all season, struggled down the stretch, although managed to hang on to their Division crown. Meanwhile, the Guelph Storm were one of the league’s worst teams in the last few months that saw them lose their grip on the #6 spot in the West. Kitchener loaded up at the deadline by bringing in Logan Brown (Ottawa), Givani Smith (Detroit), Mario Culina, and Austin McEneny. I think it would be fair to say that Kitchener is still waiting to see the best out of three of those four, with Culina playing well so far as a starter. It has been the guys around all season like Adam Mascherin (Florida), Kole Sherwood (Columbus), Joseph Gareffa, Logan Stanley (Winnipeg), and Riley Damiani (2018) that have been driving the team’s success. Moving into the playoffs, it will be about whether the newer faces can finally find chemistry or not. The health of defensive stalwart Connor Hall (Pittsburgh) could also impact the series.

Ryan Merkley of the Guelph Storm. Photo by Aaron Bell/OHL Images

Guelph, as mentioned, has also struggled down the stretch, especially when it comes to preventing goals. Goaltender Anthony Popovich (2018) appeared to tire of late after seeing a huge jump in workload this season. The defensive group, led by Ryan Merkley (2018), and Dmitri Samorukov (Edmonton) also struggled, to the point where Merkley was a healthy scratch at times down the stretch. The Storm do have a hard working forward group who is capable of icing multiple scoring lines. The offensive leaders are unquestionably Isaac Ratcliffe (Philadelphia) and Cam Hillis (2018), who along with Alexei Toropchenko (St. Louis) form a quality first line.

Looking at this series a little more under the microscope, it is probably closer than people are making it out to be. The special teams match-up pretty well. Neither team has a dominant goaltender that one would qualify as a game-changer (no offense meant to Culina or Popovich). Both teams struggled down the stretch with team chemistry issues. The tipping point for me is experience. The Rangers have the clear advantage there, especially on the defensive end. Guys like Logan Stanley and Austin McEneny, who won a Memorial Cup together with Windsor last year, should really help to stabilize things, even without Connor Hall. I also look for longtime Rangers like Mascherin or Connor Bunnaman (Philadelphia) to really step up offensively to get this team over the first round hump.

Prediction: As mentioned, I feel like Kitchener’s experience advantage will help them come out on top in this series. I also feel that they have a much better team defense approach that likely plays out better for success in the playoffs. Guelph has talent, but they play a very high risk game that, without a ton of playoff experience, could be their undoing. It will be close, but Kitchener in 6.

#3 - Sarnia Sting vs. #6 - Windsor Spitfires

Season Series: Sarnia leads 5-1

Michael DiPietro of the Windsor Spitfires. Photo by Terry Wilson / OHL Images.

Analysis: No offense meant to the rest of the Windsor Spitfires, but this match-up is about two things. The Sarnia offense (2nd best in the OHL) versus the goaltending of Michael DiPietro (Vancouver). The dynamic DiPietro is one of the few goaltenders in the OHL who is capable of stealing a series victory for his team. The Spitfires rebuilt, dealing off the majority of their veterans held over from their Memorial Cup victory last year, but decided to hang on to their star netminder for this reason. They battle hard in the offensive end behind the likes of Curtis Douglas (2018), Cole Purboo (2018), Cody Morgan (2019), Luke Boka, and Matthew MacDougall (2018). And they play smart in their own end thanks to Connor Corcoran (2018), Nathan Staios (2019), Grayson Ladd (2019), and Zach Shankar. But this team has zero NHL drafted players outside of DiPietro and are incredibly inexperienced.

Jordan Kyrou of the Sarnia Sting. Photo by Aaron Bell/OHL Images

The Sting, conversely, were one of the biggest buyers throughout this OHL season, bringing in talented veterans like Cam Dineen (Arizona), Jonathan Ang (Florida), and Michael Pezzetta (Montreal). The lifeblood of the team is Jordan Kyrou (St. Louis), the league’s leader in points per game this year and possibly the best offensive player in the OHL. He is currently zero for three in first round appearances and is likely to do everything in his power to finally reach the second round (and beyond). You could likely argue that overager Justin Fazio is the team’s second most important player in the series, especially considering that he has to match-up against DiPietro. The margin for error is slim.

One of Sarnia’s biggest strengths is on the powerplay where Kyrou, Adam Ruzicka (Calgary), and Drake Rymsha (Los Angeles) have a combined 34 powerplay goals this year. Problem is, Windsor takes among the least amount of penalties in the OHL so as long as Windsor can continue to stay out of the box, Sarnia is going to need to beat DiPietro 5 on 5. The question I have is, how will Windsor manage to score goals, at least enough goals to win this 7 game series? It will not be with the man advantage either (likely) as the Sting have the league’s top penalty killing unit. I am slightly worried about Sarnia’s inexperienced defense though, but that concern is more directed towards round two or three (if the Sting advance that far). Sarnia will need big guys like Ruzicka, Pezzetta, Jordan Ernst, and Hugo Leufvenius (2018) to crowd DiPietro’s space as much as possible and really make him uncomfortable. Shoot, shoot, and shoot some more. Windsor fans can tell you, sometimes the best way to beat Michael DiPietro is through sheer luck and bad bounces.

Prediction: As much as I want to predict a Windsor victory, I do not see it in the cards. DiPietro will steal a few games and he will make Sarnia sweat. But the offensive firepower of Sarnia, combined with the inexperience of Windsor’s defense is likely to give the Sting too many scoring chances for the Spitfires’ star netminder to handle. Sarnia in 6.

#4 - Owen Sound Attack vs. #5 - London Knights

Season Series: London leads 4-2

Evan Bouchard of the London Knights. Photo by Terry Wilson/OHL Images.

Analysis: As is usually the case, the 4/5 matchup in the Western Conference looks to be the closest match-up of the first round, and subsequently the most difficult to prognosticate. London traded off the vast majority of their big guns to retool to fight another day. Instead, the team played inspired hockey down the stretch led by a host of younger players eager to make their mark. When talking about London, we have to start with defenseman Evan Bouchard (2018), the lifeblood of the Knights. His 87 points are the highest by a blueliner since Ryan Ellis hit the 100 point mark in 2011. The speedy Alex Formenton (Ottawa) is also playing the best hockey of his OHL career thus far with 12 goals in 14 games to close out the regular season. And you cannot talk about London without mentioning how good the “kid” line of Liam Foudy (2018), Billy Moskal (2018), and Nathan Dunkley (2018) has been since the trade deadline. This trio was challenged to step up their games with increased ice time and they all responded accordingly.

Owen Sound Attack of the Ontario Hockey League. Photo by Terry Wilson / OHL Images.

Owen Sound, on the other hand, was expected to be one of the top teams in the OHL this year but struggled to keep their star players healthy all year and subsequently struggled to perform consistently. That is, until the last few months when they have been, arguably, the OHL’s best. This team is scary good when healthy and they are now finally healthy. They roll three outstanding scoring lines, including a top unit of Jonah Gadjovich (Vancouver), Kevin Hancock (2018), and Nick Suzuki (Vegas) that has been one of the OHL’s best over the last two seasons. They also have one of the OHL’s top offensive blueliners in Sean Durzi (2018), who if he did not get injured, likely could have challenged Bouchard for the defenceman scoring title. It is in net where Owen Sound has struggled this season as Olivier Lafreniere and Mack Guzda (2019) have battled to find consistency. No question, Owen Sound has to have their offense rolling to win because they are not going to win many 2-1 games.

So who has the advantage going into this match-up? Experience wise, the nod has to be given to Owen Sound...and by a wide margin. The Attack are returning the vast majority of a roster that lost in the Conference finals last season. The Knights are an extremely well coached team, but they are relying on a lot of rookies and sophomores in key roles and that can often prove to be a recipe for disaster in the postseason. The deciding factor in this series probably comes down to the goaltending. So long as Owen Sound can get at least adequate goaltending from one of Lafreniere or Guzda, they should win this series. But if their goaltending struggles and team is forced to constantly play catch-up, the series tips in London’s favor, a team with nothing to lose.

Prediction: I have to give the nod to Owen Sound here because now that they are fully healthy, they look like a tough team to stop. This is especially true for a team as inexperienced as London; even if they are extremely talented. The Attack can get the saves they need to win this one, even if London pushes them and makes them sweat. Owen Sound in 6

OHL Finals Prediction

When the field is finally narrowed down to two teams who battle it out for OHL supremacy, I expect those two teams to be the Kingston Frontenacs and the Sault Ste. Marie Greyhounds.

From the East I like Kingston for a couple reasons. The first is experience. As I already alluded to, they have a lot of players on that roster who have already won a Memorial Cup or OHL Championship (or both). That type of leadership goes a long way in the playoffs. The second is special teams play. The great Scotty Bowman always said combined special teams play was a great indicator of postseason success. Well the Fronts have the best powerplay in the league and the second best penalty kill. The third is goaltending. Jeremy Helvig is a veteran netminder who is about as consistent as they come. I have a ton of confidence in his ability to make saves when he needs to.

From the West, I like the Soo Greyhounds as they have looked about as dominant as anyone in the OHL has over the last few years. Their 116 points is the most since Barrie put up 116 in 2010. This team has it all. Special teams success. Good goaltending. Speed. Physicality. But most of all...depth. Drew Bannister’s players rarely seem to take a shift off and they rarely make mistakes with the puck. That composure at both ends of the ice makes them the favorite.

For the OHL Title, I am taking the Soo Greyhounds to win their first J. Ross Robertson Cup since they won back to back championships in the early 90ś.

State of the CHL: The Ontario Hockey League

Brock Otten — Thu, 25 Jan 2018 16:07:48 +0000

Frontrunners Load Up at the Trade Deadline

Showdown in the East Division

This year’s OHL trade deadline was exceptionally busy with over 40 players and 70 draft picks moved. OHL fans have become accustomed to the proverbial arms race with many teams in the Western Conference loading up at the deadline each year. So it was remarkably refreshing to see two Eastern Conference teams step up and be among the league’s top buyers. And it just so happens that both of these teams, Hamilton and Kingston, play in the East Division.

Kaden Fulcher of the Hamilton Bulldogs. Photo by Aaron Bell/OHL Images

Hamilton has been the cream of the crop in the Eastern Conference for the majority of this season. Thanks to some great goaltending from Detroit prospect Kaden Fulcher, a deep defensive unit, and balanced scoring, the Bulldogs have held the lead atop the Conference for several weeks and have held a place in the CHL Top 10 for seven weeks running.

It was also the Bulldogs who struck early on, capitalizing on a hot start, by bringing in forwards Nic Caamano (Dallas) and Ryan Moore from Flint in a blockbuster deal. These two helped Hamilton increase their division lead over Kingston to double digits as we approached the deadline. But it didn’t stop Hamilton from continuing to build by adding defenders Riley Stillman (Florida) and Nic Mattinen (Toronto), in addition to London’s Robert Thomas (St. Louis). The Thomas add, in particular, is huge. The gold medalist from the most recent World Junior Hockey Championships is a dynamic offensive player who also happens to be terrific in all three zones and can play in all situations. He gives the Bulldogs one of the top centerman in the entire OHL.

However, do not tell the Frontenacs that the division is locked up already. With overager and Hurricanes prospect Jeremy Helvig in his last OHL season, Kingston decided to go all in and make a run for an OHL Championship. They owe it to their dedicated fan base, having lost in the Conference Semi-finals the last two years. In fact, Kingston has never made a trip to the OHL Finals and hope to re-write that part of history this year.

Gabriel Vilardi of the Kingston Frontenacs. Photo by Terry Wilson / OHL Images.

Kingston brought in star forwards Gabe Vilardi (Los Angeles), Max Jones (Anaheim), and Cliff Pu (Buffalo) to insulate offensive dynamo Jason Robertson (Dallas). They also added former exceptional status grantee Sean Day (NY Ramgers) to an already large, and menacing blueline. The addition of Vilardi was a risky one, considering he had yet to play this year due to back surgery. But the early results have been fantastic as the Kings’ first rounder is showing little rust and has 14 points in 9 games.

As this article is being written, Hamilton’s lead over Kingston in the division remains double digits with just over 20 games left to play. The two teams will meet only one more time this regular season, on Friday, February 23rd in Kingston. Even if the division may be a tall order for the Frontenacs, they look poised to overcome Barrie or Niagara (who are battling for the Central Division) to take that coveted 3rd spot in the Conference heading into the playoffs. That would mean, pending no upsets, we could see a Hamilton/Kingston Eastern Conference final and that would be one heck of a series.

Catching Up to SSM in the West

Meanwhile, the Western Conference also saw a few teams loading up, in this case to try and catch the Soo Greyhounds atop the standings. While the regular season crown may be a far-fetched goal, Sarnia and Kitchener each brought in a host of talented players in order to push Sault Ste. Marie come playoff time.

Jordan Kyrou of the Sarnia Sting. Photo by Aaron Bell/OHL Images

Sarnia has been one of the league’s most surprising teams this season. Thanks to superstar Jordan Kyrou (St. Louis), who was leading the league in scoring before leading Canada in scoring at the World Junior Championships, and OA goaltender Justin Fazio, the Sting have been pushing the Greyhounds all season long. It was becoming apparent (especially with Kyrou and Adam Ruzicka [Calgary] away at the WJC’s) that their depth just was not at the same level as the Soo’s. So before their hot start fizzled away, the team went out and brought in Jonathan Ang (Florida), Michael Pezzetta (Montreal), and Cam Dineen (Arizona). This gives them two terrific scoring lines, and the puck moving defender and PP Quarterback that they sorely lacked.

Kitchener, on the other hand, has had a firm grasp on the Midwest Division all season, thanks to the disappointing starts of London and Owen Sound and the rebuild of the Erie Otters. This was despite not having a ton of confidence in their goaltending. It has been the worst kept secret in the league that the Rangers were out to improve their goaltending at this year’s deadline. Fans were shocked when it was not Michael Dipietro (Vancouver), Dylan Wells (Edmonton), or another star netminder brought in, but overager Mario Culina, who had actually spent time with Ryerson University (of USports) earlier this year after he failed to catch on with an OHL team this offseason. Yet the early results have silenced critics and arm-chair scouts. Culina remains perfect with the Rangers and even sported a shutout streak of over 150 minutes recently.

The Rangers also brought in hulking center Logan Brown (Ottawa), veteran defender Austin McEneny, and power forward Givani Smith (Detroit) to ensure that they hold off all on-comers in the division.

The question is, even with the moves Kitchener and Sarnia have made to shore up any weaknesses, are they in the same league (metaphorically of course) as the Greyhounds?

Greyhounds The Team to Beat

That, of course, brings us to the Greyhounds, the top ranked team in the entire CHL, and owners of a 23 game win streak earlier this season. You would be hard pressed to find a single person who believes that any other team in the OHL is the frontrunner for this year’s OHL Championship, even with the bevy of deals made by other competitors.

Rasmus Sandin of the Sault Ste. Marie Greyhounds. Photo by Terry Wilson / OHL Images.

The Greyhounds boast the league’s current leading scorer in Morgan Frost (Philadelphia). They have the league’s second leading goal scorer in Boris Katchouk (Tampa Bay). They have two of the highest scoring defenders in the league (points per game) in Conor Timmins (Colorado) and Rasmus Sandin (2018). They have the current goals against average leader in Matthew Villalta (Los Angeles) manning the pipes. They have the league’s second best powerplay at over 25%. They also have a remarkable 17 shorthanded goals so far (the Saginaw Spirit have 25 powerplay goals this year as a comparison). Get the drift yet? This is one heck of a dominant team.

Yet, the Hounds were not content to stand pat at this year’s trade deadline. They acquired veterans Taylor Raddysh (Tampa Bay) and Jordan Sambrook (Detroit) from the Erie Otters, who have a combined 89 games of playoff experience. This includes winning an OHL Championship last season. Raddysh showcased terrific chemistry with Boris Katchouk at this year’s World Juniors and will make an already stacked powerplay that much stronger.

The OHL playoffs will begin the week of March 19th and it will be then, and only then, when we will find out if a team can usurp the Greyhounds; if all those moves and all the young assets jettisoned out were worth it. But one thing is certain, the favorite to represent the OHL in Regina at this year’s Memorial Cup is still Sault Ste. Marie.

Don’t Sleep on

Steelheads look to Repeat on Last Year’s miracle second half

Last year, the Mississauga Steelheads were the near unanimous selection to take the OHL’s Eastern Conference in preseason polls. Yet at midseason, they found themselves near the bottom of the Conference. Miraculously, they exploded in the second half, played up to their capability, took the Central Division, and ultimately the Eastern Conference title come playoff time.

Michael McLeod of the Mississauga Steelheads. Photo by Aaron Bell/OHL Images

This year, the Steelheads were picked by many to repeat as Eastern Conference champs and Division winners. Yet again, they had a disappointing start to the year and find themselves near the bottom of their division. Many expected them to sell off a few key assets (like Michael McLeod [New Jersey] or Nic Hague [Vegas]) and rebuild. Instead they stayed the course, made a few minor acquisitions (like Mathieu Foget, Reagan O’Grady, and Cole Carter), and are suddenly blazing up the standings again. Since the Foget deal, the Steelheads are 6-2, with victories against Sault Ste. Marie (ending the latter’s 23 game win streak), Kitchener, Kingston, and division leaders Barrie.

Do they have another remarkable comeback in them? I would say that it is unlikely. Last year, the Central Division was atrocious with Mississauga as the only team above .500. This year, the Barrie Colts and Niagara IceDogs are playing excellent hockey and made some key acquisitions themselves. The better question is, do any of these Eastern Conference contenders want to see the Steelheads in the opening round(s) of the playoff? A very likely scenario could be a first round match-up between Kingston and Mississauga, or a second round match-up with Hamilton. And if the Steelheads continue to close out the regular season on a high note, we may not even be able to consider them as underdogs.

Owen Sound Attack Better than standings show

Another team that has underwhelmed this year is the Owen Sound Attack. They were able to return, fully intact, one of the league’s most dangerous lines from last year; Nick Suzuki (Vegas)-Jonah Gadjovich (Vancouver)-Kevin Hancock. And even though they were losing their captain, Santino Centorame, and their starting goaltender, Michael McNiven (Montreal), the expectation was that they had the depth to counteract those losses.

But it’s been a frustrating year for the Attack and its fans. Injuries have been an issue, especially with Hancock and Gadjovich both missing significant time. And finding a replacement for McNiven has been near impossible. They picked up Zach Bowman from Sudbury this offseason, but he left the team at midseason for personal reasons. Then they recently acquired Olivier Lafreniere from Ottawa, but he has since injured his groin and is out long term. So the reigns have been given to 17 year old rookie Mack Guzda.

However, the Attack are finally healthy again with Hancock returning to the lineup recently. They went out and got Brett McKenzie (Vancouver) from North Bay to improve their second line. Import (and Flyers pick) Maksim Sushko is playing terrific hockey since returning from the World Juniors. And Aidan Dudas (2018) and Sean Durzi are in the middle breakout seasons as stars in the OHL. The team looks to be turning a corner and certainly has the talent and experience to do damage in the playoffs, even if they draw one of the big three (Sault Ste. Marie, Kitchener, or Sarnia) in the first round. Like Mississauga, this is a potentially dangerous team come playoff time; and one capable of pulling off an upset.

Re-Tooling to Fight Another Day

London and Windsor start the cycle

Having already discussed many of the contenders loading up at this year’s deadline, one had to ask, “where are all these players coming from?” The answer this year is rare, as perennial contenders the London Knights and Windsor Spitfires sold off assets. The Knights traded Robert Thomas, Max Jones, Cliff Pu, and Sam Miletic (Pittsburgh), while the Spitfires traded Logan Brown, Gabe Vilardi, Sean Day, and Austin McEneny. While it has not been uncommon for these two to sell off assets, it has been rare for it to occur in the same year. We have to go back to the 2001-02 season (16 years ago) to see neither London nor Windsor with home ice advantage in the opening round of the playoffs. With the Knights and Spitfires currently sitting 4th and 6th (respectively) right now, that is an entirely possible outcome.

Even then, this is not a normal sell-off. We’re looking at two firmly established playoff teams with a chance of finishing in the top four of the Conference, selling off assets. The question is...why? And the answer is the reason why London and Windsor have remained such competitive forces in the OHL over the last 15 years (they combine for five of the last six OHL Memorial Cup victories). Spitfires GM Warren Rychel gave an interview recently where he was asked about the concept of re-tooling. His response was that it made no sense to be in limbo. You either need to be competitive for first, and if you won’t be, then you might as well finish lower in the standings and get assets that can help you finish first again in the near future. This is the credo that the Knights and Spitfires have lived by and it is the reason why they have been able to win so many championships in recent years.

Curtis Douglas of the Windsor Spitfires. Photo by Terry Wilson / OHL Images.

This year is a perfect example. London and Windsor trade off their best veteran players and pick up three outstanding young players (each), in addition to a boatload of high end draft picks. These young players (like Nathan Dunkley [2018] or Curtis Douglas [2018]) are already good players and they slide into the line-up and contribute. Both London and Windsor now have three recent first round picks (among the top 2001 born players in the province) in their lineups, allowing them to grow together and improve under the tutelage of excellent coaching staffs. With a boatload of draft picks, they also are not afraid to take a chance on the top American players available in hopes that they eventually commit to the Ontario Hockey League. And you better believe that with high selections at this year’s Import Draft, both of these franchises will be selecting high end talents.

That is what separates the Knights and Spitfires from many of the other franchises in the OHL. They hate mediocrity. They aspire for a Championship. And if they do not feel that they can achieve that, they cut and run and bring in as many future assets as they can, even if it means an early playoff exit. It also might mean trading off players who still have potential service time, like Robert Thomas or Gabe Vilardi. If these two return to the OHL next year, they will be among the better players in the league. However, it is also possible that they make their respective NHL rosters and then London and Windsor would have received nothing for them (like the Guelph Storm, who are still feeling the effects of not getting anything for Robby Fabbri a few years ago after he left early for St. Louis).

Other OHL teams become obsessed with merely making the playoffs in hopes that anything can happen. But the way teams load up (call it the NBA super team effect), it’s a pipe dream for most. Would you not rather bring in three quality young players and maybe lose in the first round, than keep your veterans, get swept in the second round and then lose them for nothing when they graduate?

The Race for Quinton Byfield

Erie, Sudbury, & Flint battle for the highly touted youngster

As many teams hunt for a conference crown, division title, and playoff spot, an equally important battle is occurring at the bottom of the OHL standings; the race for the Jack Ferguson recipient. And this year, the crown jewel appears to be quite a special player. His name is Quinton Byfield and he’s a 6-3”, 200lbs center who seems destined to become the league’s next true superstar. Many consider him to be one of the better talents to come out of the province in recent years.

The race for Byfield is occurring between three teams, all of whom have different storylines. Those three teams are the Erie Otters, Sudbury Wolves, and Flint Firebirds.

Erie is rebuilding after four straight years of excellence on the backs of the likes of Connor McDavid, Dylan Strome, and Alex DeBrincat. This includes an OHL Championship last year. A player like Byfield would accelerate the rebuild nicely and spoil the Otters’ fanbase yet again with another potential generational talent.

Sudbury, on the other hand, is stuck in what seems to be a perennial rebuild. They’ve drafted first, second, and seventh the last three years and once again find themselves at the bottom. With new ownership, and new management in place, things are finally starting to look up for this once storied franchise. A dominant power center like Byfield would be just what the doctor ordered to get this team back near the top of the standings, perhaps even as early as next year.

Lastly, Flint is still looking to escape the shadow of the controversy that dominated their inaugural season. 2016/17 saw them take a significant step forward but this year has been a step in the wrong direction and suddenly the team is rebuilding again (after trading away top talent like Nic Caamano, Ryan Moore, and Nic Mattinen). But this is a very talented young team that is bound to explode either next year or the year after. Forgive me if you have heard this before, but Quinton Byfield is the star this franchise needs in order to climb out of mediocrity.

A Broken System

OHL Teams Will Soon Trade for the Unborn

As previously mentioned, over 70 draft picks changed hands this trade deadline. Due to crazy circumstances, over half of those picks are from beyond the year 2020. This includes the movement of draft picks from the year 2026, 2027, and 2028. Yes, that is correct. A 5 year old was traded this January.

For those that find this absurd, you would be correct. In the Western Hockey League and Quebec Major Junior Hockey League, teams cannot move draft picks that far in advance. And unlike the OHL, teams are also permitted to move their first round draft picks. Let us examine some major moves in all three leagues this trade deadline to compare the effect this has. Kale Clague moved for two quality young players, two first round picks, and a 2nd round pick. Drake Batherson went for three solid young players and a first round pick. Robert Thomas went for a top young player, four 2nd rounders and two 3rd rounders. Because of the high prices and inability to move first rounders, teams like Hamilton and Kingston are almost completely devoid of 2nd round picks for the foreseeable future. Hamilton has two 2nd rounders this year, but then does not own one until 2026 after that. Kingston does not have a 2nd round pick until 2026.

The prices being paid for these players who are essentially rentals, has also spiraled out of control. Let us examine some past deadline deals in the OHL for perspective.

In 2012, the London Knights and Niagara IceDogs battled for an OHL Championship. The Knights brought in rugged two-way star Austin Watson from Peterborough at the deadline at the cost of a moderate young player, two 2nd round picks, and a 4th. Meanwhile, Niagara brought in power forward Brett Ritchie at the cost of three 2nd round picks.

In 2000, perhaps the largest trade in OHL history up until that point occurred and that was the trade of Jason Spezza from Mississauga to Windsor. In return, Mississauga got four players (none could be considered among Windsor’s top young players, save maybe Ryan Courtney), a 2nd round pick and a 6th round pick.

Needless to say, things are changing and these trades are getting out of hand. We’re seeing upwards of six quality draft picks in addition to a team’s top young player changing hands in exchange for one player.

Just what the OHL can do to rectify this remains to be seen, if they wish to rectify it. Would allowing teams the option of trading first rounders lower the cost? What about putting a restriction on how far in advance draft picks can be moved? Regardless, it no longer makes sense for the OHL to differ from the WHL and QMJHL in accordance with transaction limitations. This broken system needs to be fixed. How soon before we get a draft pick trading hands where said future draft pick is not even born yet?

New York Rangers – System Overview

Ryan Wagman — Fri, 15 Sep 2017 20:28:28 +0000

The New York Rangers are among the small handful of teams that has not found itself in the position of selling off assets in either the near or medium past. They are an organization that is always hunting out the opposite approach, finding ways to leverage the few interesting prospects they have on hand, or their upcoming draft picks, to improve their chances today, this season.

As mentioned in the previous paragraph, the Rangers make a habit out of trading draft picks. Until they picked in the first round this year (twice!), they had not made a first round selection since drafting Brady Skjei 28th overall in 2012. In the four drafts between Skjei and the 2017 draft that saw the Rangers add both Lias Andersson and Filip Chytil on day one, not only did they not have any first rounders, but they only even had two second rounders, only one of whom was drafted before pick #59. It goes without saying that not selecting until 50 or more of the best available prospects are already off the board is not an effective way to replenish the talent in a system.

With the 2017 season not living up to the standards of previous playoff runs, even though they upset the Atlantic Division winning Montreal Canadiens as a Wild Card entry, the Rangers went heavily into the one route available to all teams regardless of daft position: undrafted free agents. Now, most undrafted free agents went undrafted for a reason and very few will have the NHL impact expect of a first, or even a second rounder, but some were available for the taking due to simply blooming later than many of their peers. The majority of players are drafted in their age 18 season, and truthfully, the majority of players who achieve tangible success in the NHL were already clearly on that path by age 18.

There are exceptions to those rules, and by minimizing their presence on draft day, the Rangers’ strategy for player procurement by necessity must be to identify and sign those exceptions. They picked up a strong one last year in Jimmy Vesey, who actually had been drafted when he was first eligible, by took advantage of his status as a college graduate to declare free agency and avoid signing with Nashville (who drafted him) or Buffalo (who subsequently traded for his rights). The other two players signed as free agents last year, Malte Stromwall and John Gilmour, have not had the same measure of success.

This year, the Rangers tripled down on that strategy, both before and after the draft. Between March 23 and July 17, they gave out Entry Level Contracts to seven undrafted free agents, including one from the CHL, two out of Europe and four collegians. They will not all pan out, and in fact, only two are counted among the top 20 prospects in the system discussed below, but all are at least further down the road towards being a factor in the Rangers’ future plans and they help to fill gaps in the system at its upper levels. We may not be projecting a long or illustrious NHL career for Vince Pedrie, for example, a defenseman signed out of Penn State after two strong seasons with the Nittany Lions, but he has good skill on the puck, and the Rangers should not fear bringing him up for a few weeks in case of injury along the blueline. The same could be said for Vinnie Lettieri, a center with good hands and offensive IQ signed out of Minnesota, or Chris Nell (Bowling Green State) or Alexandar Georgiyev (TPS), both ready to add goaltending depth to the system after Brandon Halverson as the other goalies whose rights are owned by the Rangers will still be in college or Europe in 2017-18.

GRAND FORKS, NORTH DAKOTA - APRIL 15: Sweden's Elias Pettersson #21 2016 IIHF Ice Hockey U18 World Championship. (Photo by Matt Zambonin/HHOF-IIHF Images)

1 Lias Andersson – Although we felt that Andersson was an overdraft, going seventh overall in June, that does not mean that we do not value his skills or NHL projections. A powerful skater with a very good shot, he has already shown the ability to score at the highest levels in Sweden (19 points in 42 games for HV71) and on the international stage (three goals at the last WJC). He has an NHL-sized frame, and projects as a solid second line center. Higher ceilings were available, but few who are as close to ready.

2 Igor Shesterkin – Shesterkin is on the short list for best goaltending prospects in hockey. His save percentages for his primary team over the last four years (his draft year on forward) are: .947, .943, .954, and .937, respectively. That last figure represented his first prolonged exposure to the KHL, and was good for fourth among regular KHK netminders. He is a fantastic athlete and displays above average play reading ability and a high compete level. His KHL contract has two more years to run.

Filip Chytil (Photo by Andrea Cardin/HHOF-IIHF Images)

3 Filip Chytil – The Rangers second first round pick this year, Chytil is a lean, but electric forward prospect drafted out of the Czech men’s league. His skating, shot, puck skills and hockey IQ all grade as above-average. Further, as one of the youngest players who was eligible for this year’s draft (only ten days from the cutoff), he has more room for growth and development than most. He may be playing this season in the OHL with North Bay.

4 Gabriel Fontaine – Only one year removed from being selected in the sixth round, Gabriel Fontaine is not a great offensive threat, but still manages to turn heads. One of the better faceoff takers in the QMJHL last year, he is a great two-way prospect who can chip in offense from the middle six and anchor a strong penalty killing unit. Has enough puck skill and skating ability to foresee increased offense as a pro.

Sean Day of the Mississauga Steelheads was selected by the New York Rangers at the 2016 NHL Draft in Buffalo, NY on Saturday June 25, 2016. Photo by Aaron Bell/CHL Images

5 Sean Day – One of the very few players ever granted “exceptional player” status by the CHL, Day was the first of that sub-group to not be eventually taken first overall in the NHL draft. Instead, he lasted until pick 81. Problems of focus both on and off the ice led to mixed reviews from scouts, some of whom would not put him on their draft boards at any slot. The Rangers were wise not to pay heed to the detractors. Day is a fantastic skater, with plenty of puck handling skills. He’s not done improving, either.

6 Ryan Graves – Although slow of foot, Graves has learned to play in a style that minimizes that handicap and allows his other plus skills to shine through. He will never lead the rush, but acts as a pivotal trailer, finding a soft spot in coverage to receive a pass near the blueline and tee up a thunderous slapshot. He needs to be paired with a swifter defense partner, but he is positionally sound when not faced with high end speed and uses his large frame well to detract opponents.

7 Cristoval Nieves – Nieves’ rookie pro season was marred by injuries that limited him to 40 AHL games (plus one in the NHL), so he was only able to show flashes of the all-around skills set that has kept the Rangers intrigued throughout his four year run at Michigan after he was drafted in the second round in 2012. He is a very high IQ player, who also brings above average skater and puck skills to the game. Expect more offense, and more time in the NHL, this year.

8 Ryan Gropp – The Rangers top pick from 2015, Gropp is unlike most of the forwards above him on this list in that he has always scored goals at an impressive clip, but the other parts of his game tend to leave something to be desired. He reserves his fight for the offensive zone. Although large, he is not a physical player per se, but shows some fight for pucks in the right situation. This season he will begin to answer the question of how much of his production is due to playing with an elite center in Mathew Barzal.

9 Brandon Halverson – The second of four goalies on this list, Halverson is the only one of the bunch who has a chance to play on Broadway this year, in case of injury to Lundqvist or Pavelec. Unfortunately, he followed up a solid junior career with a very rough rookie AHL season, where he played second (out of tune) fiddle to Magnus Hellberg. He has solid puck tracking ability and moves well in the crease, but needs to quiet his game, both in terms of controlling movements, and limiting rebounds.

10 Neal Pionk – Although undersized, Pionk made big waves this year as a sophomore at NCAA finalist Minnesota-Duluth, making him a highly coveted NCAA free agent. He has a strong first few steps, getting to a nice top speed quickly. He is an offensive-minded blueliner who likes to pinch, can sell a deke and has a strong slapshot. He was physical enough for the NCAA game, but there will be an adjustment period in the pros. The highest profile among the seven undrafted free agents inked by the Rangers this year.

11 Tarmo Reunanen – A mobile skater with above average stickhandling skills, Reunanen, a 2016 fourth rounder, spent his first full season playing among adults last year. His point totals do not impress, but his skill set suggests very strongly that the undersized Finnish blueliner has strong sleeper potential. Expect him to spend more time in Finland’s top level this year and watch for him being more assertive on both sides of the puck.

12 Adam Huska – After posting the best numbers among all netminders in the USHL in 2015-16, Huska had a very strong freshman season for UConn this year. His limbs all move very well and he demonstrates consistently strong reactions. He has very good body control and seals his posts very well. He is a much better goaltender than his rough showing for Slovakia at the WJC might have you believe.

13 Alexei Bereglazov – A tall wide-bodied defender signed out of Mettalurg Magnitogorsk this spring, Bereglazov is the most physically mature of the seven undrafted free agents signed by the Rangers this year. He is a defensive-minded defenseman with great reach and some puck moving ability. He makes strong reads and uses his plus size to good effect. Although used to playing on the international stage for Team Russia, this will be his first prolonged North American experience.

14 Tyler Wall – Drafted out of the Leamington system in the GOJHL, Wall was immediately a work-horse stopper for Mass-Lowell, backstopping them as a true freshman to the Hockey East title. Wall grades well in his athleticism, compete level and his ability to read the play. As promising as his first season of play against top competition was, he is still a few years away from the pros.

15 Adam Tambellini - At this stage of the Rangers system, it is fair to say that the prospects listed here are no longer front of mind. For Tambellini, his downfall has been a failure to develop/grow in his second full AHL season with Hartford. He still flashes a good shot and solid puck skills, as well as decent vision in the offensive zone, but his production has stagnated and his off-puck play has been disappointing.

16 Sergey Zborovskiy – A solid two-way defender at the WHL level with Regina, Zborivskiy has an above average point shot and plays a strong game in his own end, but his collection of tools are somewhat limited, suggesting a ceiling as a potential third pairing blueliner, despite not having any significant weaknesses. He needs to add muscle, but has an NHL-sized frame and is mobile enough for his size.

17 Tim Gettinger – A massive winger with a gift for the goals, Gettinger’s advocates see a promising two-way forward who provides honest effort with every shift and has some skill at getting the puck into scoring position. His critics see limited skating ability and questionable offensive vision. Nobody questions his size or his ability to put the puck in the net. Has another year of OHL eligibility remaining.

18 Robin Kovacs – Without question, Kovacs’ first AHL season was a letdown. For a forward known for his offensive abilities before crossing the pond from Sweden, to play a full season and produce only two goals and 12 points can only disappoint heavily. He is still someone to watch as he was extremely young for the level, only turning 20 one month into the season, and very slight. His puck skills suggest he can and should do better with added bulk and experience.

19 Patrik Virta – Drafted in the seventh round this year as a 21 year old with two roughly full season of experience in Liiga, Virta is the draft equivalent of an undrafted free agent in that he is more mature and thus closer to his eventual output than many “normal” draft picks. Virta’s production spiked upwards with TPS this year (from 4 points to 26) and he is known for owning a plus shot.

20 Ty Ronning – Undersized and feisty like his father, longtime NHLer Cliff Ronning, Ty has plus offensive instincts and a strong shot that both suggest that the Rangers will get great value from their 2016 seventh round pick. By great value, I mean he is more likely to produce in the NHL than many seventh rounders, but his size and average skating may yet prevent him from maximizing his potential.

For a team that has put so little stick in recent years in the draft, the Rangers still have a solid system in terms of depth due to the signing of previously overlooked free agents as well as spending later round picks on overaged players whose projections are clearer than 18 year olds, or who have been passed over by other teams for various other black marks. There is a bit of Moneyball to their approach, and they should see more value from their prospect pool than would be expected by simply looking at the average value of players taken where this group was, but it still must be pointed out that outside of four or five players, most of those listed above are bottom half of the lineup players. When the time comes to replace the core of the lineup, this team will still have to rely on trades and NHL free agent signings as the help will largely not come from within.

NHL Draft Review and Grades: New York Rangers

Grant McCagg — Thu, 30 Jun 2016 15:24:26 +0000

Sean Day of the Mississauga Steelheads was selected by the New York Rangers at the 2016 NHL Draft in Buffalo, NY on Saturday June 25, 2016. Photo by Aaron Bell/CHL Images

The Rangers paid the price for trying unsuccessfully to win right now by having to sit silent at the draft table until the 81^st pick…perhaps it was because of that reason that they took a huge gamble in selecting a “boom or bust” prospect in Sean Day. Considered the best skater in the draft by many despite being 20-plus pounds overweight, Day’s stock fell because he’s never lived up to the expectations bestowed upon a player granted exceptional status. Day has loads of work to do on his off-ice training, maturity and consistency…and while there are doubts about whether he’ll ever figure out the sacrifices required to excel in the NHL, he has the skills to be an elite player if everything somehow falls into place.

RND	PICK	RNK	PLAYER	POS	CTY	HT/WT	TEAM
3	81	51	Sean Day	D	CAN	6-2/225	Mississauga (OHL)
4	98	NR	Tarmo Reunanen	D	FIN	6-0/180	TPS Turku (Fin)
5	141	68	Tim Gettinger	LW	USA	6-5/200	Sault Ste Marie (OHL)
6	171	95	Gabriel Fontaine	C	CAN	6-1/185	Rouyn Noranda (QMJHL)
6	174	NR	Tyler Wall	G	CAN	6-3/200	Leamington (GOJHL)
7	201	139	Ty Ronning	RW	CAN	5-9/165	Vancouver (WHL)

Tim Gettinger of the Sault Ste. Marie Greyhounds. Photo by Aaron Bell/OHL Images

Tim Gettinger was in a similar situation entering the draft…once considered a candidate to go top 20…the big, skilled winger on many nights didn’t seem to show much interest in competing. Tarmo Reunanen, who played only 11 games for TPS U20 due to injury, has been lauded for his puck moving abilities.

Gabriel Fontaine of the Rouyn-Noranda Huskies was selected by the New York Rangers at the 2016 NHL Draft in Buffalo, NY on Saturday June 25, 2016. Photo by Aaron Bell/CHL Images

Gabriel Fontaine come to the forefront during Rouyn-Noranda’s playoff run…checking other team’s top center with smart, speed and competitiveness while chipping in offensively...he may end up being their top all-around prospect from this draft. Ty Ronning scored 31 goals in the WHL and stood out at the Top Prospects Game...the speedy son of Cliff also inherited his diminutiveness, and that hurt him on draft day.

Grade – D+: The success of this draft will pretty much hinge on whether Day and Gettinger can come close to reaching their potential. The late selections of Ronning and Fontaine kept the mark from being a D or worse.

2016 NHL Draft Guide: Best Skater

Grant McCagg — Fri, 24 Jun 2016 18:02:02 +0000

Sean Day of the Mississauga Steelheads. Photo by Aaron Bell/OHL Images

BEST SKATER

When you combine speed, agility and strength it's hard to argue that Sean Day isn't the draft's best skater despite weighing 230 pounds when he should probably weigh at least 10 less.

"He is such a natural skater," marvelled one top scout. "He can make an end-to-end rush without seemingly having to even try. A powerful stride, flawless agility, he's smooth and quick... he glides. It never seems like an effort for him."

SEAN DAY
MICHAEL MCLEOD
CLAYTON KELLER
AUSTON MATTHEWS
JESSE PULJUJARVI

CHL Top Prospects Game report: Dubois, Laberge lead standouts

Andy Levangie — Wed, 10 Feb 2016 13:02:02 +0000

The best draft-eligible players from the Canadian Hockey League descended on Vancouver last month to take part in the annual CHL/NHL Top Prospects Game - as well as specialized on and off-ice testing.

Based out west, this was my first opportunity in some cases to view players from the OHL and QMJHL in a live setting.

Here are a few observations on some of my standouts in the game:

TEAM ORR

Jake Bean (Calgary-WHL) - Excellent skater - tested well in the on-ice aspect. Makes intelligent plays out of his own zone, uses shifty movements to start rushes and keep his lanes open for accurate outlet passes. Strong offensive instincts, he reads the defenders position and reacts accordingly to create breakouts. Carries the puck with confidence. Works the offensive point with quick edge work and a heads-up approach, gets his shot off quickly and consistently hits the net. Stock has been rising; steps up when in the spotlight.

William Bitten (Flint-OHL) - A very good skater who tested well in the on-ice workouts, compact with good multi-directional movements and explosion out of turns. Small but scrappy, drives to the difficult areas with the ability to create and score. Seems to have a nose for the net and enjoys attacking the crease to create havoc - has that 'buzz-saw' mentality.

Pierre-Luc Dubois (Cape Breton-QMJHL) - Showed speed and powerful skating in on-ice workouts but also had to re-do a drill multiple times because he kept losing the puck. Excellent work off the wall to create space and make impressive plays, creates from below the goal line. Shoots and bullies his way to scoring chances with power, but can make skilled plays with soft hands; a real power forward. My MVP from this game and one of few players to bring a real wow factor. Going top 5 in the draft may be a possibility.

Luke Green (Saint John-QMJHL) - A high-end skater with a tight compact stride, especially in reverse. Displays solid gap control and looked like a competent defender in a rather erratic game. Holds a good defensive position, doesn’t chase or play out of his position. Uses stops and starts effectively, reads an attacking offence with good instincts, constantly moves his feet and remains active both in offense and on defense. Effective puckcarrier in transition works it out of zone with his skating and on-ice awareness. The only right-shooting rearguard in this game, a position coveted by NHL teams.

Brett Howden (Moose Jaw-WHL) - The top pivot on Team Orr was the glue that kept a powerful line with Nylander and Tkachuk together. Lacks the same elite level skill of his linemates, but does many things well - showed some good intelligence and the ability to click with skilled players. Plays a powerful game and seems to thrive in traffic. Smooth-skating mechanics are there, but improvements in his footwork and explosiveness would go a long way to transitioning to the NHL. An underrated prospect.

Pascal Laberge (Victoriaville-QMJHL) - Snagged MVP honors and showed some great chemistry reuniting with Pierre-Luc Dubois, as they were linemates at the U17's. Produced arguably the finest individual move of the night that graced the highlight reels as he walked around Sean Day for a goal. Shows good puck control and the ability to make quick clean plays at high speed and feed off of other highly-skilled players.

Mikail Sergachev (Windsor-OHL) - Difficult to notice in this game unless you keyed in on him, which was a good thing in this case. Plays a cool and calm game, consistently unfazed by pressure in his own end. Intelligent breakouts are a strong suit and help push this play. Big body with a very useful stick and long reach. His hockey sense and pro body should aid translation to NHL. Paired with fellow Windsor teammate Logan Stanley and their chemistry was evident being one of the less-erratic pairings. Not exciting, but very useful play.

Matthew Tkachuk (London-OHL) - Big and powerful with an impressive physical stature, plays with a 'bull-in-a-china-shop' mentality. Controls the puck well in traffic and along the boards. Possesses some good moves to take pucks to the net and assert his physical dominance on smaller defenders. A big asset to the cycle game and to hold offensive zone-time.

TEAM CHERRY

Logan Brown (Windsor-OHL) - The massive pivot plays a big game and has a tendency to skate through opposing players as opposed to around them; showed a steady physical aspect in this game. Exhibits more skill in offense than expected. Nothing overly fancy when handling the puck, makes intelligent plays to use his open space and create with less dazzle and more smarts. Despite his long stick, looks comfortable in close quarters while stickhandling. Fends off checkers with good footwork and power moves to create scoring chances or set up teammates. An intriguing combination of size and skill.

Sean Day (Mississauga-OHL) - The tools are evident and were on display in both game and on-ice testing. His stride has a smooth flow that comes along very rarely, especially in a 6-2, 225-pound prospect. Overall had a solid game in spite of being by Laberge on that goal. Uses skating effectively to hold his position when forwards are bearing down, made a couple impressive stick plays to take pucks off attackers. Works the offensive line to create space, his skating and reach help him move around high forwards and get a shot off. A polarizing prospect - loaded with potential which could one day blossom.

Samuel Girard (Shawinigan-QMJHL) - Pint-size defenseman is an absolute blazer on his skates with very compact footwork, tested in the top group among defenders. Offense flows naturally - the top scorer in the CHL among draft-eligible defenders for a powerhouse Shawinigan team. Shows keen instincts for his on-ice positioning and awareness of surroundings, especially when moving in reverse. Avoids contact with a consistent heads-up skating stride. Rushes the puck in an elusive manner with quick lateral cuts and outlet passes. Size will deter some clubs, but there is too much to like to pass up entirely.

Jordan Kyrou (Sarnia-OHL) - One of the lesser-known prospects in this game as he was another late replacement add-on. Kyrou helped himself out by going tops overall in the on ice testing. His agility and quick reaction time were on display throughout the game. Carries the puck with the same quick authority as he darts around and can exploit holes in defenses. An asset in transit as he slips by checks along the wall and makes opponents miss. Plays smart and exhibits some flashes of skill in his top gear.

Ty Ronning (Vancouver-WHL) - The son of former NHLer Cliff Ronning was a late addition to the game when Tyler Benson withdrew due to injury. With nothing to lose, he looked relaxed on the ice. Showed off his hard, accurate shot when he opened the scoring by crashing the net and twisting the defenseman out of position. Another player who is small is stature but big on effort. Skates with a noticeably wide stride which doesn’t appear to slow him down, creates stability but could hinder edgework. Motor is always running and he’s always attacking the puck.

Youngblood: 2014 World U17 Hockey Challenge – Top 50 Performers

Brendan Ross — Tue, 11 Nov 2014 15:47:59 +0000

Photo by Kelsey Vermeersch/ CKSN.ca

For the past week, Sarnia and the surrounding community of Lambton Shores played host to the World Under-17 Hockey Challenge, an international tournament featuring the world’s top hockey talents from the 1998 age group. With an eye on the 2016 NHL Draft, USA sent a roster full of potential first round talent looking to defend its gold medal from the year prior. Through round robin play, USA dominated the competition sweeping their way to the gold medal game scoring a tournament high 29 goals and allowing just 11 goals, also a tournament best.

Entering the gold medal game versus Russia, USA had won twelve consecutive games at the Under-17 tournament but on Saturday, November 8^th, Russia’s stingy defensive efforts and impressive shot-blocking game stifled the American attack lifting them to gold.

The following is a fluid ranking of the best performances from the 2014 World Under-17 Hockey Challenge, many of whom are top prospects for the 2016 and 2017 NHL Entry Drafts.

Disclaimer – This is NOT a ranking for the upcoming NHL draft classes but rather a ranking of performances from the 2014 World U17 Hockey Challenge.

50. Mikhail Sergachev (Russia) – The Russian defense core was good by committee but if there was one standout it would have to be Mikhail Sergachykov. He is a big defender who played tough minutes en route to Russia’s gold medal. With advanced mobility and effective puck moving skills, Sergachev was instrumental to getting the puck into the hands of their talented forwards. 2016 NHL Draft Eligible

49. Michael McLeod (Canada Red/Mississauga Steelheads) – An elite level skater with blazing outside speed, McLeod uses his feet and lengthy wing span to operate well in the possession game. He can be a little hesitant in his decision making and passes up prime scoring opportunities for a pass but this kid has the total package to become a special talent – he just has to put it all together. He only posted one assist despite receiving prime offensive minutes but he was a big part of their quick offensive attack. 2016 NHL Draft Eligible

48. Urho Vaakanainen (Finland) – One of two standout underage 1999-born players on Finland, Vaakanainen’s number 28 was easy to spot because this smooth skating defender has the total package – size, strength, hockey IQ and an ability to make impact in all three zones. He’s been deemed a comparable prospect as Sabres pick Rasmus Ristolainen was at the same age and teams certainly have him circled as a potential top pick for the 2017 draft.

47. Maxim Bain (Russia) – Talk about a player elevating his play as the games became more important and Russia’s Maxim Bain should be the focus of that conversation. The small quick-footed forward was a thorn in opposing defensemen’s side as he tenaciously hounded pucks on the forecheck. With great hand-eye coordination and a will to win any loose-puck battle, Bain forced turnover after turnover. Fortunately, he also plays the game with some noteworthy skill, showing the poise and puck handling ability to create his own offensive chances. Four of Bain’s six points came in the final three games and included the opening goal in the gold medal game. 2016 NHL Draft Eligible

46. Brett Howden (Canada White/Moose Jaw Warriors) – Pro scouts have to be excited about Howden’s 6-foot-2 power game after showing a real knack for playing around the net. This big bodied winger flashed good physicality and strong skating skills, and despite battling some quiet moments, appears to own some serious pro upside. Howden potted two goals and three points while acting as an alternate captain for Canada White. 2016 NHL Draft Eligible

45. Adam Mascherin (Canada Red/Kitchener Rangers) – Packed with one of the best shots in the tournament, Mascherin impressed out of the gate but as the tournament unfolded, he couldn’t maintain his offensive presence as often. Mascherin should be applauded for his two-way commitment, especially in the first two games, as he pushed the offensive attack with linemate Michael McLeod and demonstrated good backpressure on the defensive end. This budding sniper snapped home two goals and three points. 2016 NHL Draft Eligible

44. Nicolas Hague (Canada White/Kitchener Dutchmen/Mississauga Steelheads prospect) – Hague was just one of four Canadians playing outside of the Canadian Hockey League (Dante Fabbro, Tyson Jost, Michael O’Leary). The 6-foot-5 defender has experienced one of the sharpest development curves over the past calendar year and he showed many people why he has a bright future in hockey with an overall strong showing. Earning more minutes after 1^st overall OHL pick Jakob Chychrun was ruled out of action, Hague stepped up and took advantage of his new opportunity. Not the fleetest of foot or prettiest of skater, Hague stifled opposing offenses and even showed a simple, yet effective, ability to kick start the breakout. 2016 NHL Draft Eligible

43. Janne Kuokkanen (Finland) – Kuokkanen was one of the engines that drove the Finns offensive attack and his two goals and five points speaks to his efficient motor. Playing at a quick pace, Kuokkanen is an intelligent forward who recognizes soft spots and exploits them. Under pressure or on the attack, Keokkanen excels in one-on-one situations often relying on his quick puck skills to evade trouble or create offense. 2016 NHL Draft Eligible

42. Sam Steel (Canada Black/Regina Pats) – There were certainly highs and lows to Sam Steel’s play throughout the week, the good outweighed the bad for me. Blessed with high-end skating ability, Steel pushed the pace for Canada Black, keeping defenders on their heels. Unfortunately, Steel, who played on a line with Tyler Benson, didn’t receive a lot of support and didn’t develop much chemistry and as a result, his threatening speed wasn’t utilized very well. 2016 NHL Draft Eligible

41. Mikhail Mesheryakov (Russia) – There wasn’t a more puck-hungry player on Team Russia than Mikhail Mesheryakov, as this buzzsaw forward was on a constant hunt for loose pucks. Mesheryakov impressed with his ability to slip into scoring areas uncontested and In possession, he was difficult to contain as he eluded with sharp cuts to change direction. Mesheryakov put up one goal and three points in U17 play and appears to be a good option for teams searching for possession players. 2016 NHL Draft Eligible

40. Jesper Bratt (Sweden) – Jesper Bratt was the sparkplug that ignited the Swedes’ offensive attack. Skating at an underwhelming 5-foot-8 , Bratt lacks ideal size but he makes up for it in his enthusiastic offensive attacks. Blessed with good foot speed and elusive agility, Bratt slashes in and out of traffic seeking out scoring opportunities. He displayed good one-on-one puck skills and times his entries into scoring areas extremely well. Bratt’s one goal and four points trailed only Nylander in team scoring. 2016 NHL Draft Eligible

39. Tyson Jost (Canada White/Penticton Vees, BCHL/Everett Silvertips prospect) – His game is based around speed and Tyson Jost wreaks havoc on opposing defenders when he’s trying (and usually succeeding) to bust out-wide on them. He is an all-around player who can be utilized in every situation and he was especially efficient in his own zone. 2016 NHL Draft Eligible

38. Otto Somppi (Finland) – Somppi was a consistent attacker from the start of the tournament to the end of it, earning quality offensive minutes along the way. Intuitive in his attacks, Somppi uses his teammates well in quick give-and-gos to open up space. He was a standout in cycles and the Finns possession game, using a long reach and nifty in-tight fakes to find open linemates. As effective as he was offensively, Somppi appeared to play a committed defensive game as well. With three goals and six points, Somppi was Finland’s scoring leader. 2016 NHL Draft Eligible

37. Luke Green (Canada White/Saint John SeaDogs) – He wasn’t the most consistent defender but it was clear that Luke Green possesses some intriguing upside. Green was among the most mobile defenseman and his willingness to jump into the play and act as a fourth forward was threatening. He also shakes the offensive defenseman stereotype since he showed that he can be a reliable defender inside his own blueline as well. Green joined Black’s Jake Bean and Red’s Sean Day as Canada’s highest scoring defensemen with four points. 2016 NHL Draft Eligible

36. Jake Kryski (Canada Red/Kamloops Blazers) – The near point-per-game WHL forward, Jake Kryski, was among Canada Red’s most active forwards scoring one goal and five points (in five games). A buzz-saw of a forward, Kryski always seemed to be in the heat of the action showing that he was very effective playing in traffic. With great hand-eye coordination, Kryski stripped opponents of possession on several instances and then quickly turned it into a prime scoring chance. With a good work ethic and some opportunistic positioning, Kryski was among Red’s most dangerous forwards. 2016 NHL Draft Eligible

35. Jacob Cederholm (Sweden) – Brother to Vancouver Canucks prospect Anton Cederholm, Jacob followed in his brothers footsteps by failing to record a point. However, offensive production aside, Jacob was an instrumental part of Sweden’s transition game and was used as a pillar of defense in their shutdown game. Cederholm owns admirable size and his strength, physicality and long reach are all advantageous skills in his defensive game. With a powerful long stride, Cederholm is an impressive skater and was exceptional at lugging the puck up the ice to gain the offensive zone. 2016 NHL Draft Eligible

34. Markus Niemeläinen (Finland) – Niemalainen boasts great size and strength but with his mobility and booming shot, the future looks bright for this budding 2016 NHL Draft prospect. He doesn’t make many errors and his ability to make opposing attackers work for ice is a testament to his defensive capacity. 2016 NHL Draft Eligible

33. Logan Brown (Canada Red/Windsor Spitfires) – Logan Brown had a strong showing playing to his strengths and abilities. He set up on the top powerplay unit as the primary shooter, adding one goal and two powerplay assists. Brown made good use of his size in board play and was impossible to stop as he drove the net for rebounds. The Spitfires forward recorded two goals and four points. 2016 NHL Draft Eligible

32. Jordan Kyrou (Canada White/Sarnia Sting) – After being the only player not to be invited or participate in the Summer Orientation camp, Jordan Kyrou was selected to play for Team White and made Hockey Canada look smart for his inclusion after being the team’s most dangerous offensive forward. Blessed with silky hands, creativity and the confidence to create scoring opportunities, Jordan Kyrou had his hometown Sarnia Sting supporters on the edge of their seats. Occasionally, Kyrou tried to do too much individually but with his self-assurance, he was truly an asset. Kyrou registered four assists in five games. 2016 NHL Draft Eligible

31. Linus Weissbach (Sweden) – Game after game, Linus Weissbach continued to ramp up his play with each passing shift. Weissbach is a good skater with nifty jukes and jives and his outside speed is troublesome for even the top defenders to contain. Bratt was one of four Swedish skaters who recorded four points in the tournament. 2016 NHL Draft Eligible

30. Vladislav Sukhachyov (Russia) – Sukhachyov received action in four of Russia’s six games including the 6-1 semifinal win over Finland to book their ticket to the gold medal but, for whatever reason, he didn’t receive the nod in the Gold Medal game versus USA. Sukhachyov isn’t a big but he was very good in every showing posting the tournament’s third best GAA (1.70) and save percentage (.931). Quick with his reflexes and natural athleticism allows Sukhachyov to cover the net from post-to-post, teasing opponents with shot openings before quickly closing them off. 2016 NHL Draft Eligible

29. Vitali Abramov (Russia) – Russia’s Mr. Steady-Eddy, Vitali Abramov came to play in all six games posting points in all but one game (vs. FIN) totalling three goals and nine points. Sharing the team scoring lead with Dmitri Sokolov, Abramov was among Russia’s most lethal offensive options. He showed good patience in possession, outwaiting checkers for open lanes, and used his agility and top-end speed to keep defenders guessing. 2016 NHL Draft Eligible

28. Kristian Vesalainen (Finland) – Born in ’99 makes the 6-foot-2 Kristian Vesalainen a 2017 draft prospect but this underager showed no lag in development finishing the tournament with a team-high three goals and five points (T-2^nd in team scoring). Vesalainen is a patient and quick puck handler who thrived in the dirty areas. His ability to stick handle in tight and execute difficult feeds was very impressive. He appears to be an opportunistic scorer with a knack for slipping away from coverage into scoring areas. 2017 NHL Draft Eligible

27. Sean Day (Canada Red/Mississauga Steelheads) – Day had a decent showing but failed to get his Red squad into the medal round despite being considered one of Canada’s top teams. Day’s exceptional mobility has been well documented over the past few years and it continued; however, it was surrounded by some poorly executed passing and several instances of bad decision making. There’s another level to Day’s game but we did not see it this past week. Despite his sporadic performance, Day logged a ton of minutes for Red and finished the week with a strong four points, including one powerplay goal. 2016 NHL Draft Eligible

26. William Bitten (Canada Red/Ottawa 67’s) – One area that William Bitten will never fall short on is his work ethic and tenacity. The hard working 67s forward steps on the ice each shift with a balls-to-the-walls approach and when his skill level is factored in, few can match his ability to impact the game. Not overly big or strong (yet), Bitten plays every shift as if it were the last shift of a championship game. He possesses good speed and isn’t afraid to attack one-on-one or slash right into traffic. He was a sparkplug for Canada Red and he was rewarded with two goals and five points to lead his team in scoring – and rightfully so. 2016 NHL Draft Eligible

25. Kailer Yamamoto (USA/Spokane Chiefs) – As one of the two late additions Kailer Yamamoto took some time to adjust to his new teammates (all of whom play together in the USNTDP). Once his feet were wet, Yamamoto formed great chemistry with sniper Max Jones and racked up three goals and seven points in as many games. A creative passer and quick in transition, Yamamoto pushed the pace for USA’s second line and showed why he’s excelling with his hometown Spokane Chiefs (12-2-6-8) as a rookie. 2017 NHL Draft prospect.

24. Jake Bean (Canada Black/Calgary Hitmen) – The only undrafted major junior player of the 66 Canadian players who competed in the U17s, Calgary Hitmen defenseman Jake Bean was among the feel-good stories of the tournament. Bean is an enthusiastic defender who has the raw potential to develop into a very good player. The Calgary Hitmen blueliner led the entire Canada Black team in scoring with one goal and four points (five games) and was named Player of the Game versus USA when he scored the lone goal (shorthanded) on a beautiful individual effort. 2016 NHL Draft Eligible

23. Samuel Girard (Canada Black/Shawinigan Cataractes) – Here’s a fun defender to watch – Samuel Girard possesses the elusiveness, skating skills and puck handling abilities to excel in an offensive role rolling off checks at the offensive blueline to keep plays alive. He plays a high-risk game at times and could certainly round out his defensive game but his rare skillset will be coveted. Girard finished with on goal and three points in tournament play. 2016 NHL Draft Eligible

22. Adam Fox (USA/Harvard University commit/Kitchener Rangers) – Coming off a year with the Long Island Gulls where he scored 51 points in only 22 games, Adam Fox adopted an offensive role on the USA blueline often earning top powerplay minutes alongside Luke Martin or Chad Krys. Surprisingly, Fox only earned a pair of assists in the tournament but his offensive abilities certainly created countless other prime scoring chances that went unfinished. Undersized at 5-foot-10, Fox uses elite edgework and sharp attacking skills to push the pace up ice. He operates as a crafty quarterback and flashes some high-end puck handling abilities. Fox was often the defenseman who kick-started the transition game and remains an intriguing offensive defenseman option for the 2016 draft. 2016 NHL Draft Eligible

21. Joey Anderson (USA/University of Minnesota-Duluth commit/Brandon Wheat Kings prospect) – The third member of the Pastujov-Keller-Anderson line, Joey Anderson was a player who continued to elevate his play with each passing game. He was a major factor in USA’s win over Canada Red with two assists to clinch top spot in Group B and then added three goals in the quarter and semi-final games. Anderson is a hard-working two-way forward with keen hockey sense, making him an asset in all three zones. He was the perfect complement to his highly skilled linemates. 2016 NHL Draft Eligible

20. William Fällström (Sweden) – A leader on and off the ice, Captain William Fällström led all Swedes in goal scoring with four tallies. Fällström combines his smart hockey sense with his all-around offensive skill set well and the outcome is a very dangerous attacker. He is a shifty pivot with a goal scorers’ touch but his two-way game is well developed also. Fällström is the type of player coaches can lean on in big-game situations. 2016 NHL Draft Eligible

19. Kale Clague (Canada Black/Brandon Wheat Kings) – Canada Black’s captain, Kale Clague, is among the top defensive prospects for the 2016 draft and his play at the U17s confirmed that this smart two-way threat is among Canada’s best 98-born defenseman. Smooth and effortless in stride, Clague makes calculated risks offensively but honours his defensive commitments first and foremost. He was a fixture on Black’s powerplay displaying good reads, passing ability and occasionally used his high-end one-timer. 2016 NHL Draft Eligible

18. Michael Campoli (USA/Blainville-Boisbriand Armada prospect) – Born in Quebec, Canada, defenseman Michael Campoli was one of two Americans with Canadian citizenship (Griffin Luce being the other). The American coaching staff used Campoli in a defensive shutdown role but this extremely mobile defender intrigued with his outstanding patience under pressure, bull-like defensive commitments and overall demeanour on the blueline. There’s some massive upside with Campoli as he owns the size, mobility and puck handling ability to develop on his offensive game. Consider him a top defensive prospect in my books for the 2016 draft. 2016 NHL Draft Eligible

17. Adam Thilander (Sweden) – Excellent in stride, Thilander thrives in possession and his ability to use his imagination in setting up teammates proved to be high-end in this tournament. Thilander uses clever feints and fakes to evade checkers and then showed a tendency to strike quickly with an absolutely booming point shot. Smart in transition and a pitbull in defensive battles, Thilander should be considered a top prospect for the 2017 NHL Draft (another late birthday). 2017 NHL Draft Eligible

16. Patrick Khodorenko (USA/Everett Silvertips prospect) – Khodorenko has always been one of the most skilled forwards in his peer group and while he may have took a back-seat to the Keller-Jones show at the U17s, he was definitely among the Americans’ best forwards. The Silvertips 2^nd round draftee hasn’t made a decision on his future (WHL or collegiate) but wherever he chooses to play, he will be fine. Khodorenko is a creative pivot with strong playmaking abilities and had he earned more top powerplay minutes, he could’ve pushed for the team scoring lead. The Californian finished with one goal and six points finishing tied for 8^thin U17 scoring. 2017 NHL Draft Eligible

15. Tarmo Reunanen (Finland) – From the past week of action, Tarmo Reumanen was Finland’s best defenseman. He’s not the most technical skater but he is elusive, surprisingly quick (specifically in acceleration) and can quarterback a powerplay with ease. Booming with confidence, Reunanen is capable of unleashing a howitzer or executing a difficult pass under pressure but it’s his vision that is his best asset and allows him to be the team's prime distributor. 2016 NHL Draft Eligible

14. Ryan Lindgren (USA/University of Minnesota commit/Brandon Wheat Kings prospect) – Coming out of the illustrious Shattuck St. Mary’s program where he racked up 24 goals and 88 points in 55 games during his Bantam year, Ryan Lindgren has always owned the offensive pedigree and he flashed it during competition at the U17s. Wearing the ‘C’ for the Americans, Lindgren showed to be an exceptional skater and puck possession defender. Under pressure, Lindgren would casually cut away from pressure then send a precise seam-pass to a streaking teammate. He didn't risk his defensive responsibilities for offensive rushes but occasionally, Lindgren displayed his upside as a puck-rushing defender when he made end-to-end rushes, virtually going untouched. 2016 NHL Draft Eligible

13. Nikita Popugaev (Russia) – Skating at over 6-foot-4 and 205-pounds, Nikita Popugaev could have been Russia’s best pro prospect. Despite his size and youthfulness, Popugaev’s fluid and powerful skater is all that more remarkable. The 15-year-old is a late birthday which makes him a 2017 draft prospect and he has to be considered a top prospect for his age group. With slick hands and slippery outside-inside cuts at top speed, Popugaev is a beast to contain. Unlike most physically mature big men, he knows how to utilize his size and power game to his advantage. This high potential forward had three goals in tournament play. 2017 NHL Draft Eligible

12. Nick Pastujov (USA/University of Michigan commit/Saginaw Spirit prospect) – A dynamic forward with make-you-miss puck skills, Pastujov clicked on a line with Keller and Joey Anderson eventually finishing with three goals and eight points (5^th). Pastujov is especially creative and dangerous around the scoring areas as he uses quick strikes or unexpected passes to hit teammates for easy tap-in goals. Patient under pressure and effective playing in high traffic areas, Pastujov’s puck handling and quick shot are on display as he releases from pressure along the boards and steps into the slot to strike. 2016 NHL Draft Eligible

11. Jake Oettinger (USA/Portland Winterhawks) – Based on this tournament alone, 2017 NHL Draft goaltender Jake Oettinger has to be among the top goaltenders ranked in his draft class. Playing with a pro-sized frame (6-3, 196), Oettinger is an exceptional blocking style goaltender to owns his crease with an intimidating presence. His opponents’ attacks were sporadic but he remained poised between the pipes flashing a high-level of concentration, rebound control and an fathomable demeanour. It’s been a while since I’ve seen a goaltender play such a fundamentally solid game from the tournament’s start to finish. Oettinger finished with a sparkling 1.34 GAA to lead all goaltenders and his .934 save percentage trailed only Sweden’s Filip Gustavsson. 2017 NHL Draft Eligible

10. David Quenneville (Canada White/Medicine Hat Tigers) – Joining Chad Krys, Victor Mete and Samuel Girard as one of the tournament’s most exciting offensive defensemen, David Quenneville was a treat to watch in possession. In a similar mold as former junior superstar Ryan Ellis, Quenneville possesses outstanding hockey instincts and a natural puck handling ability. Like Ellis, Quenneville can unleash a powerful point shot and is a regular on the powerplay, operating as the team’s powerplay. At 5-foot-8, Quenneville lacks ideal height but this enthusiastic defender can lay out bone-crushing body checks with the biggest of players. His statline for the U17s reads one goal and three points. 2016 NHL Draft Eligible

9. Victor Mete (Canada Red/London Knights) – London Knights defenseman Victor Mete turned in one of the best showings from any player. Well aware of Mete’s offensive abilities that are featured around elite skating, intelligent playmaking and a veteran-like ability to run the powerplay, Mete was most impressive in his defensive zone. The young defender was a shot-blocking machine and he was very good holding down his blueline, making sure he wasn’t conceding easy entries. Of course, he was a fixture on Canada Red’s powerplay and played a vital role to their transition game too. 2016 NHL Draft Eligible

8. Dante Fabbro (Canada Red/Penticton Vees, BCHL/Seattle Thunderbirds prospect) – After watching the undersized Dante Fabbro in action, I can only imagine the damage this intelligent defenseman does in the BCHL. He’s at the top of his peer group in the way that he sees and thinks the game, allowing him the extra time to plan his next decision. He’s a precise passer and is unfazed under pressure. Strong in every direction, in possession and without the puck, Fabbro moves about the ice at will and his advanced hockey mind allows him to change his plan of attack at the last second. In terms of offensive upside, few possess his potential. Fabbro had a pair of goals and three points at the U17s. 2016 NHL Draft Eligible

7. Nolan Patrick (Canada Red/Brandon Wheat Kings) – His late 1998 birthday means Nolan Patrick won’t be eligible for the NHL draft until 2017 and that’ll be a long wait for some scouts who are very excited about adding this responsible two-way forward. As Captain of Canada Red, Patrick was used in every situation including top penalty kill and powerplay units. There may not have been a smarter and more trust-worthy forward competing in the U17 as Nolan Patrick. He already owns a projectable frame, good mitts (although not overly flashy), two-way awareness and a long powerful skating stride. He is a beast in board battles and is suited as a future possession guy. Patrick plays a similar style as Winnipeg Jets Mark Scheifele and finished with five assists through five games. 2017 NHL Draft Eligible

6. Dmitri Sokolov (Russia) – Dmitri Sokolov had a coming out party at the U17s introducing himself to the North American hockey world. The big power forward has a wicked shot but also showed us some silky playmaking abilities as well, finding teammates with creative no-look passes. Not the greatest skater and he appeared a bit heavy but Sokolov uses high-end puck skills to escape pressure and his physical strength was dominant against his peers. Sokolov is a dynamic power winger who showed this past week that he owns first round pedigree. 2016 NHL Draft Eligible

5. Chad Krys (USA/Moncton Wildcats prospect) – The smooth skating elusive Chad Krys finished the tournament with a defense leading seven points (all assists) and showed why he’s considered a top prospect for 2016. Elite mobility and a knack for spinning off of pressure, Krys defines a puck-rushing defenseman. With an ability to turn up ice quickly in transition, Krys is able to weave through traffic using clever puck skills, shrewd on-ice vision and high-end skating techniques. To add, Krys’ intelligence makes him an astute defensive presence as well. 2016 NHL Draft Eligible

Sweden's Filip Gustavsson was the U17's top goaltender (Photo: Brendan Ross)

4. Filip Gustavsson (Sweden) – The U17’s top goaltender by a fair margin, 6-foot-2 Swede Filip Gustavsson was impenetrable from start to finish stopping 131 of the 139 shots thrown at him, more than 41 saves than the next best goaltender. With great size, Gustavsson provided few holes for the opposition to shoot at. He flashed quick reflexes and displayed fluid lateral coverage as a butterfly goaltender. He was the sole reason that Sweden advanced to the semi-finals after a 35-save shutout performance against Canada White. Filip Gustavsson held a shutout streak of over 179 minutes until he finally surrendered a goal in the USA game. Outstanding performance. 2016 NHL Draft Eligible

3. Alexander Nylander (Sweden) – Famous family name aside, it’s hard not to be impressed immediately by the skill set of Alexander Nylander, son of NHLer Michael Nylander and brother to Maple Leafs’ top prospect William Nylander. To some degree, I was more impressed with the younger Nylander son than the NHL draftee based on his overall compete level and attention to defense. Alexander was Sweden’s most dynamic offensive player showcasing all-world creativity and confident one-on-one dangles. Like his brother, Alexander is a slippery playmaker who masks his intentions extremely well and his knack for slipping a pass to an unchecked linemate at unexpected times is a rare and treasured skill set. He packs a great shot and can operate at top speed. Nylander paced all Swedes in scoring with two goals and seven points. 2016 NHL Draft Eligible

2. Clayton Keller (USA/Windsor Spitfires prospect) – The tournament’s leading scorer with six goals and 13 points in a half-dozen games is very big (5-9, 165) but Clayton Keller certainly showed that he plays a big-time game. The Boston University commit is an exciting player to watch with his elite puck skills, veteran-like patience and off-the-charts creativity. Each time he hit the ice, Keller was an offensive catalyst with his ability to make defenders miss. He was on his own level in this tournament with his ability to create something out of nothing. 2016 NHL Draft Eligible

1. Max Jones (USA/London Knights prospect) – The London Knights had many of their brass in attendance to check out the progress of their 2014 1^st round pick Max Jones. The Knights current offensive leader, Max Domi, will definitely be playing his last year of junior hockey this season but London is hoping to exchange one dangerous player named Max for another in 2015-16. Playing a throwback style of hockey in the mold of a power forward that is featured around impressive size, strength and aggressiveness, Max Jones is the whole package and he will have NHL scouts drooling when the 2016 draft comes due. His ability to play a high-paced north-south game and his elite shooting arsenal are unmatched among his competitors. Jones led the 2014 U17’s in goal scoring with seven tallies, including a tournament leading four powerplay markers, and placed second in overall points (11). Consider Max Jones one of the leading candidates to be selected first overall come 2016. 2016 NHL Draft Eligible

Honourable Mentions

The following players performed well in tournament action and should be considered prospects to watch for future NHL drafts…

Reagan O’Grady (Canada Black), Nolan Volcan (Canada Black), Beck Malenstyn (Canada Black), Zach Poirier (Canada Black), Mason Shaw (Canada Red), Evan Fitzpatrick (Canada Red), Tanner Kaspick (Canada White), Travis Barron (Canada White), Josh Anderson (Canada White), Samuel Harvey (Canada White), Markus Nurmi (Finland), Pete Niemi (Finland), Emil Oksanen (Finland), Leevi Laakso (Finland), German Rubtkov (Russia), Nikita O. Popugayev (Russia), Mikhail Shabanov (Russia), Jakub Lacka (Slovakia), Adam Ruzicka (Slovakia), Lias Andersson (Sweden), Linus Lindstrom (Sweden), Tim Wahlgren (Sweden), Luke Martin (USA), Joseph Woll (USA)

Feel free to comment below or spark up conversation on Twitter (@RossyYoungblood)

Sean Day – McKeen's Hockey

McKeen’s 2020-21 Hockey Yearbook: Tampa Bay Lightning Top 20 Prospects

Cole Koepke, LW (183rd overall, 2018. Previous ranking: 1)

Samuel Walker, C (200th overall, 2017. Previous ranking: 2)

Hugo Alnefelt, G (71st overall, 2019. Previous ranking: 3)

Alexander Volkov, RW (48th overall, 2017. Previous ranking: 4)

Dmitri Semykin, D (90th overall, 2018. Previous ranking: 5)

Cal Foote, D (14th overall, 2017. Previous ranking: 6)

Alex Barre-Boulet, C (Undrafted Free Agent, signed Mar. 1, 2018. Previous ranking: 7)

Eamon Powell, D (116th overall, 2020. Previous ranking: NA)

Jack Finley, C (57th overall, 2020. Previous ranking: NA)

Taylor Raddysh, RW (58th overall, 2016. Previous ranking: 8)

Gabriel Fortier, C/RW (59th overall, 2018. Previous ranking: 9)

Sean Day, D (UFA: Jul. 17, 2020. Originally: 81st overall, 2016 [NY Rangers]. Previous ranking: UR [NY Rangers])

Maxim Cajkovic, RW (89th overall, 2019. Previous ranking: 10)

Ross Colton, LW (118th overall, 2016. Previous ranking: 11)

Alex Green, D (121st overall, 2018. Previous ranking: 12)

Gage Goncalves, C (62nd overall, 2020. Previous ranking: NA)

Jack Thompson, D (93rd overall, 2020. Previous ranking: NA)

Dominik Masin, D (35th overall, 2014. Previous ranking: 14)

Boris Katchouk, LW (44th overall, 2016. Previous ranking: 15)

Declan McDonnell, RW (217th overall, 2020. Previous ranking: NA)

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Greyhounds The Team to Beat

Don’t Sleep on

Steelheads look to Repeat on Last Year’s miracle second half

Owen Sound Attack Better than standings show

Re-Tooling to Fight Another Day

London and Windsor start the cycle

The Race for Quinton Byfield

Erie, Sudbury, & Flint battle for the highly touted youngster

A Broken System

OHL Teams Will Soon Trade for the Unborn

New York Rangers – System Overview

NHL Draft Review and Grades: New York Rangers

2016 NHL Draft Guide: Best Skater

CHL Top Prospects Game report: Dubois, Laberge lead standouts

Youngblood: 2014 World U17 Hockey Challenge – Top 50 Performers

Cole Koepke, LW (183^rd overall, 2018. Previous ranking: 1)

Samuel Walker, C (200^th overall, 2017. Previous ranking: 2)

Hugo Alnefelt, G (71^st overall, 2019. Previous ranking: 3)

Alexander Volkov, RW (48^th overall, 2017. Previous ranking: 4)

Dmitri Semykin, D (90^th overall, 2018. Previous ranking: 5)

Cal Foote, D (14^th overall, 2017. Previous ranking: 6)

Eamon Powell, D (116^th overall, 2020. Previous ranking: NA)

Jack Finley, C (57^th overall, 2020. Previous ranking: NA)

Taylor Raddysh, RW (58^th overall, 2016. Previous ranking: 8)

Gabriel Fortier, C/RW (59^th overall, 2018. Previous ranking: 9)

Sean Day, D (UFA: Jul. 17, 2020. Originally: 81^st overall, 2016 [NY Rangers]. Previous ranking: UR [NY Rangers])

Maxim Cajkovic, RW (89^th overall, 2019. Previous ranking: 10)

Ross Colton, LW (118^th overall, 2016. Previous ranking: 11)

Alex Green, D (121^st overall, 2018. Previous ranking: 12)

Gage Goncalves, C (62^nd overall, 2020. Previous ranking: NA)

Jack Thompson, D (93^rd overall, 2020. Previous ranking: NA)

Dominik Masin, D (35^th overall, 2014. Previous ranking: 14)

Boris Katchouk, LW (44^th overall, 2016. Previous ranking: 15)

Declan McDonnell, RW (217^th overall, 2020. Previous ranking: NA)