Zam Plante – McKeen's Hockey

MCKEEN’S 2024 NHL PROSPECT REPORT – #23 Pittsburgh Penguins – Organization Overview – Top 15 Prospects

Josh Bell — Mon, 03 Jun 2024 11:45:37 +0000

For the first time in the Sidney Crosby era, the Pittsburgh Penguins have failed to make the playoffs in consecutive seasons. Is the Crosby-Malkin-Letang core coming to an end? Crosby (36-years old) is entering the last year of his contract and Malkin (37) has two years left. Letang (37) still has four years left. General manager Kyle Dubas came into his first year at the helm thinking this was a playoff, contending team, making a massive blockbuster deal to acquire Erik Karlsson from the San Jose Sharks, giving up a first-rounder and numerous other pieces. But by the trade deadline, he was a seller, sending star Jake Guentzel to the Carolina Hurricanes for a trio of prospects and a second-round pick.

The Penguins are in a tough spot. With their aging core, do they make another push for the playoffs? Or is it time to tear it down? The prospect cupboard has been starting to refill since Dubas arrived, drafting Brayden Yager 14th overall last year, plus adding Ville Koivunen, Cruz Lucius, and Vasili Ponomarev in the Guentzel deal. There are also draftees Owen Pickering, Joel Blomqvist, Samuel Poulin, and Tristan Broz in the system who all show some promise. The Penguins don’t have a first rounder in 2024 but still have its 2025 and 2026 picks. This offseason should be extremely telling of the direction this club will go. The core is good enough to make a push, but this club is not what it used to be. The main three pieces that have remained through the Cup years are nearing the end, and Dubas and company will have some tough decisions to make - starting this summer.

RNK	PLAYER	POS	AGE	HT/WT	TM	Acquired	GP	G(W)	A(L)	PTS(GAA)	PIM(SPCT)
1	Brayden Yager	C	19	5-11/165	Moose Jaw (WHL)	`23(14th)	57	35	60	95	20
2	Ville Koivunen	LW	20	6-0/175	Karpat (Fin-Liiga)	T(Car-3/24)	59	22	34	56	26
3	Joel Blomqvist	G	22	6-2/185	Wilkes-Barre (AHL)	`20(52nd)	45	25	12	2.16	0.921
4	Owen Pickering	D	20	6-4/180	Swift Current (WHL)	`22(21st)	59	7	39	46	35
5	Vasily Ponomarev	C	22	5-10/180	Tuc-Chi-WBS (AHL)	T(Car-3/24)	45	9	21	30	16
6	Samuel Poulin	C	23	6-1/205	Wilkes-Barre (AHL)	`19(21st)	41	16	15	31	35
7	Tristan Broz	C	21	6-0/180	Denver (NCHC)	`21(58th)	43	16	24	40	13
8	Cruz Lucius	RW	20	6-0/185	Wisconsin (B1G)	T(Car-3/24)	36	13	21	34	10
9	Mikhail Ilyin	LW	19	6-0/180	Severstal Cherepovets (KHL)	`23(142nd)	65	12	17	29	20
10	Filip Hallander	LW	23	6-1/185	Timra (SHL)	T(Tor-7/21)	51	14	22	36	18
11	Sergei Murashov	G	20	6-0/170	Loko Yaroslavl (MHL)	`22(118th)	34	24	4	2.03	0.930
12	Emil Pieniniemi	D	19	6-2/170	Karpat (Fin-Liiga)	`23(91st)	38	2	4	6	10
13	Emil Jarventie	LW	19	5-9/165	KOOVEE (Fin-Mestis)	`23(217th)	41	9	12	21	12
14	Zam Plante	C	19	5-9/160	Fargo (USHL)	`22(150th)	57	26	45	71	4
15	Corey Andonovski	RW	25	6-1/195	Wilkes-Barre (AHL)	FA(3/22)	63	7	23	30	99

1. Brayden Yager, C, Moose Jaw Warriors (WHL)

Brayden Yager continued to terrorize WHL defenses. The dynamic center amassed 95 points in 57 games for the Moose Jaw Warriors, showcasing his elite shooting ability and knack for finding teammates. He's quite strong and compact, which helps him out in various ways, whether that's staying on his feet as he fights through checks or generating a lot of power through his shot. While his offensive production is undeniable, consistency remains a talking point. There were stretches where he dominated, but there were also quieter nights. The bright spots, however, were undeniable. His work on the power play was a highlight, and his burgeoning two-way play suggests a well-rounded future. He'll need to add strength to compete at the NHL level, but the raw tools are undeniably there. Expect him to spend another year in the WHL before turning pro, but his NHL debut could be on the horizon soon.

2. Ville Koivunen, LW, Karpat (Liiga)

Ville Koivunen's 2023-24 campaign was a story of mid-season upheaval. Drafted by Carolina in 2021, he started strong with Liiga's Kärpät, notching 56 points in 59 games. His playmaking ability and offensive instincts were on full display. However, a blockbuster trade in March sent him to the Pittsburgh organization. Questions remain about Koivunen's transition to North America. While his offensive talent is undeniable, his defensive awareness and overall physicality need refinement. The upcoming season will be crucial. Can he adapt to the smaller ice surface and the NHL's quicker pace? The team will likely give him time to develop in the AHL, but a late-season call-up isn't out of the question if he impresses. Koivunen's long-term success hinges on his ability to translate his offensive brilliance to the pro game.

3. Joel Blomqvist, G, Wilkes-Barre/Scranton Penguins (AHL)

Drafted 52nd overall in 2020 by Pittsburgh, Joel Blomqvist's stock soared in 2023-24. He manned the crease for the Wilkes-Barre/Scranton Penguins, putting on a clinic. Blomqvist led all rookie goalies in wins (25) and finished near the top in both save percentage (.921) and goals-against average (2.16). He even earned a call-up to the AHL All-Star Classic. He’s an aggressive netminder who plays far out of the crease to cut down angles and shows capable of moving fluidly in the crease as well. He plays a good technical game although can get a bit lost in high-pressure scrambles. Questions remain about his ability to translate this success to the NHL, but his calm demeanour and athleticism are encouraging signs. His performance has undoubtedly boosted his standing within the organization. He could be pushing for an NHL backup role sooner rather than later.

4. Owen Pickering, D, Swift Current Broncos (WHL)

Owen Pickering's 2023-24 season was a year of refinement. Drafted 21st overall by Pittsburgh in 2022, he started the year battling an undisclosed injury. After a brief stint with the AHL's Wilkes-Barre/Scranton Penguins in 2022-23, he was reassigned to the WHL's Swift Current Broncos and remained there this season. There, he showcased his impressive physical tools (6’ 3”, 179 lbs) and strong skating. He chipped in offensively (46 points in 59 games) but consistency remained a question mark. Flashes of brilliance – heady plays and a booming shot – were overshadowed by stretches of disappearing acts. While Pickering's potential as a future top-four defenseman remains, his development hinges on ironing out his inconsistencies and making smarter decisions with the puck. This upcoming season will be crucial in determining if he can take that next step.

5. Vasily Ponomarev, C, Wilkes-Barre/Scranton Penguins (AHL)

Ponomarev's 2023-24 was a season of AHL development. He bounced between three teams (Chicago Wolves, Tucson Roadrunners, Wilkes-Barre/Scranton Penguins) due to trades and call-ups, amassing 30 points in 45 games. He continues to look comfortable in the AHL this season, showing off two-way skill and all-around offensive ability. He isn’t going to wow or dazzle with his skill, but he’s consistent and seems to do all the little things right. Those are the exact type of players needed to fill out a roster. Skating and puck protection are his strongest assets, but decision-making remains a work in progress. This inconsistency is a cause for concern. He has the tools to be a top-six winger, but can he harness his talent and become a consistent producer? The answer to that question will determine his NHL ceiling.

6. Samuel Poulin, C, Wilkes-Barre/Scranton Penguins (AHL)

Samuel Poulin's 2023-24 campaign with the Pittsburgh Penguins was a rollercoaster. Drafted 21st overall in 2019, the winger played practically all season with the AHL's Wilkes-Barre/Scranton Penguins - outside of a brief three-game trip to the NHL. While flashes of potential emerged, injuries and stretches of disappearing acts plagued him. Inconsistency remains a major question mark. There's undeniable talent – a scorer's touch and strong skating. But decision-making lapses and a lack of focus at times raise concerns. The Penguins gave him a late-season call-up, hoping to reignite his spark. While scoreless in those games, it was a chance to prove his NHL readiness. Poulin's future is a wait-and-see. A dominant AHL season could earn him a permanent NHL spot. However, if inconsistency rears its head again, further development is likely needed. This season was a microcosm of his potential – exciting glimpses overshadowed by stretches of inconsistency.

7. Tristan Broz, C, Wilkes-Barre/Scranton Penguins (AHL)

Tristan Broz is a skilled and intelligent center with a well-rounded game. He excels as a playmaker, using his exceptional vision and anticipation to find open teammates and create scoring chances. His quick hands and accurate shot make him a threat from the slot, and his speed and agility allow him to navigate through traffic with ease. He's also a responsible defender, using his active stick and positioning to disrupt opponents' cycles. The forward has the ability to attack hard, be relied upon as a playmaker, and create space for himself but the problem is that he’s too inconsistent in his effort level. He can disappear in games or show some delays in his processing. With continued development, he has the potential to become a top six forward and a key piece on the Penguins' power play. His upside as a playmaking center with a scoring touch makes him a promising prospect.

8. Cruz Lucius, RW, University of Wisconsin (NCAA)

The brother of Winnipeg Jets first round pick Chaz Lucius, Cruz Lucius is a dynamic and electrifying winger with a rare combination of speed, skill, and competitiveness. He excels at creating scoring chances off the rush, using his quick feet and agility to dance around defenders. His shot is heavy and accurate, and his vision and anticipation allow him to find open teammates and create opportunities. A relentless forechecker, he uses his speed and physicality to harass defenders and force turnovers. There is a need to become more explosive to get the space he needs to operate as a playmaker at the next level. He’s not huge or overly strong either, so when pressured, can fail to secure the puck. With continued development, there is potential to become a top-six forward and a key contributor on the Penguins' top lines. His upside as a high-scoring, physical winger makes him an exciting prospect in the pipeline.

9. Mikhail Ilyin, LW, Severstal Cherepovets (KHL)

Drafted 142nd overall in 2023, Mikhail Ilyin is an intriguing prospect that might just end up being a much-needed steal for the Penguins. After splitting his year between the MHL and KHL in his draft year, he stuck in the KHL in 2023-24, collecting 29 points (12 goals, 17 assists) in 65 games. He’s a less-than-flashy winger who plays a smart, simple game. While not necessarily driving play, he doesn’t slow it down but rather matches the pace that his teammates dictate. He does compete hard, never giving up on a play. He supports his teammates well and isn’t afraid to play a physical game. His skating will need to see some significant improvement if he’s going to be successful at the next level, but he did take strides forward this year in that department. Ilyin looks like he could be a solid bottom six contributor.

10. Filip Hallander, LW, Timra IK (SHL)

Filip Hallander's NHL dream took a detour this season. After surprising everyone by signing a five-year deal with Timrå IK in the SHL, the Penguins prospect carved out a niche role. His 36 points in 51 games weren't remarkable, but his ability to play both center and wing offered versatility. Hallander showcased his trademark skating and decent playmaking, but questions linger about his offensive consistency. Did this stint in Sweden move the needle on his NHL potential? The jury's still out. Now 23, he remains a bit of a tweener – not quite a top-six forward, but with skills that could translate to a bottom-six role. The next chapter in his development will be fascinating to watch. Will he return to North America and chase an NHL opportunity, or continue honing his game in Europe? One thing is certain: Filip Hallander's hockey journey is far from over.

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

NHL PROSPECTS/2024 NHL DRAFT: BELL – 20 Prospect Points – CHL/NCAA agreement, Michkov, Celebrini, Iginla and more

Josh Bell — Wed, 14 Feb 2024 14:37:00 +0000

Welcome to 20 Prospect Points, a bi-weekly column where I dive into the trending news surrounding prospects - drafted and draft-eligible - from around the globe.

This edition dives into the latest news around the potential CHL and NCAA agreement, the latest update from the IIHF regarding Russia and Belarus, the incredible seasons from Matvei Michkov and Macklin Celebrini, and much more.

Scouting/Prospect News

#1 Very briefly, it seemed like the entire North American development model was about to change. News came out that the NCAA was considering a major policy change that would allow CHL players to be eligible for American college hockey. The next step here is to go to a vote of the NCAA’s coaches - where it looks like the idea will be shot down, but nothing is certain as of yet. The coaches will be meeting in May to discuss this, so we’ll need to be patient for a decision here.

#2 We won’t, however, need to wait for an IIHF decision on Russia and Belarus’ eligibility in international events. The IIHF recently released a statement that they will uphold the current ban on Russian and Belarussian teams from participating in international events for the 2024-25 season. This will be reviewed again next year, but the two countries remain on the sidelines for international competition.

Drafted Prospects

#3 Philadelphia Flyers’ top prospect Matvei Michkov continues to impress in the KHL this season, breaking the D+1 record for points in the KHL with 37. Eeli Tolvanen previously held the mark with 36 points. With the Flyers’ recently parting ways with another top prospect in Cutter Gauthier, you can bet they’re excited with how their 2023 draft pick has been progressing.

#4 Another Russian prospect that has captured attention is Shakir Mukhamadullin, who played his first three NHL games with the San Jose Sharks recently. Mukhamadullin is currently having a strong first full season in North America with the AHL’s San Jose Barracuda, earning a spot in the AHL All-Star Game. He played well in his first NHL stint, even picking up his first NHL assist, but the AHL is the right place for him for now to continue developing his game.

#5 There may not be a hotter prospect over the past two weeks than the Seattle Kraken’s David Goyette. The Sudbury Wolves star is currently riding an eight-game point streak where he’s racked up 17 points (five goals, 12 assists). The 61st overall pick in 2022 is now up to 84 points (31 goals, 53 assists) in 50 games, on pace for a staggering 114 points. He currently sits atop the OHL leaderboard in points, tied with 2024 re-entry Anthony Romani. But we’ll get to him.

#6 Another Kraken prospect worth noting is over in Finland, goaltender Niklas Kokko. The netminder recently transferred to the Pelicans from Karpat in the Liiga, and the move has been a positive development. After repping a .906 save percentage (SV%) and a 2-5-0 record with Karpat, he’s already gone 3-0-1 with a .933 SV% thanks to two shutouts with the Pelicans. Expect him to finish the season strong on his new team.

#7 Sticking to a Finnish prospect, Nashville Predators’ Jesse Kiiskinen stood out at the recent U19 Five Nations Tournament. He had 11 points (three goals, eight assists) through four games played, leading the event. This was right after a big game in the U20 SM sarja where he had a five-point night. Outside of that one game, he’s spent his season in the Liiga with the Pelicans.

#8 In the USHL, 2023 NHL Draftee Juraj Pekarcik of the Dubuque Fighting Saints has been commanding attention. The St. Louis Blues’ prospect is currently playing in his first season in North America and has collected 39 points (seven goals, 32 assists) in just 27 games. That includes a recent five-point explosion against the Chicago Steel. As he gets more and more comfortable in North America, look for him to continue to turn heads.

#9 In the last few editions of this column, I always have Yegor Sidorov right on the edge of being included. It’s now time. The Anaheim Ducks prospect has been on fire in the WHL with the Saskatoon Blades, already potting 70 points (42 goals. 28 assists) in 51 games. He’s on pace for 90 points so far. The Blades are in the midst of a very strong year, and Sidorov is a core piece of that group, sitting second on the team in points and second in the league in goals.

#10 Back in the USHL, if there’s a candidate for most improved among drafted prospects, you might need to take a look at Zam Plante. The Pittsburgh Penguins prospect finished last season with 33 points. This season, he’s already up to 50 (19 goals, 31 assists) and is on pace for 79. He’s currently second in the league in points, and eighth in points per game (1.39). He’s committed to the University of Minnesota-Duluth for next season and will be an intriguing freshman to keep tabs on.

#11 It’s been quite the season for Dallas Stars goaltending prospect Maxim Mayorov. Playing with Loko Yaroslavl in the MHL, he’s gone 10-1-1 with an impressive .931 SV% and four shutouts to date. He’s been splitting the crease with Penguins prospect Sergei Murashov who’s been equally as impressive with a record of 19-4-2, a .930 SV%, and an equal four shutouts. This is a goaltending battle that Loko Yaroslavl must be extremely happy about.

Draft-Eligible Prospects

#12 Macklin Celebrini continues to absolutely dominate the NCAA and impress scouts. At this point, you’d be hard-pressed to find anyone who doesn’t have him as their number-one prospect in the 2024 class. If you do, chances are they are looking for some clicks. The future NHL game-changer is currently LEADING the NCAA in goals (23) and sits third in points (42) while being the youngest player in the nation. His 1.62 points per game are third all-time for a U18 player in the NCAA. The hype is real.

#13 At this point, I may be contractually obligated to mention Ivan Demidov in these columns. The Russian star is now up to a 17-game streak in the MHL with SKA-1946 St. Petersburg, where he’s racked up a massive 44 points. That’s an average of 2.6 points per game. Overall, he has 1.96 points per game this season, the most from a U19 player in the MHL ever (minimum five games). It’s even higher than Nikita Kucherov (1.87) - both through 23 games.

#14 From EP Rinkside’s Cam Robinson:(in their) draft-eligible seasons:

Jarome Iginla: 33 goals in 72 WHL games
Tij Iginla: 35 goals in 46 WHL games

That’s worth a mention in this list! The younger Iginla is not going to be able to avoid the comparison to his pops throughout his career, but he’s off to an excellent start by outscoring his dad to this point in his career. He’s up to 63 points this season and shows no signs of slowing down.

#15 Konsta Helenius has been a prospect that public scouts seemed to have soured on, but he’s been extremely impressive and quite consistent in the Liiga this season. He’s up to 31 points (12 goals, 19 assists) in 41 Liiga games so far this season. His point total is already fifth all-time for a U18 player, and his 0.76 points per game are sixth (minimum three games played). He’s on pace for 39 points, which would put him third all-time for a U18 player in the league. That seems good.

#16 A prospect that seems to be the quiet star in the top-10 of this class, no draft-eligible prospect has as many points as Berkly Catton over the past two weeks, with his 11 (seven goals, four assists) in six games. That brings his total to 82 (38 goals, 44 assists) in just 49 games - a 114-point pace. He’s a player that should be stirring some more conversation as a target for your team and likely will down the stretch.

#17 The first of three players from the recent 2024 U18 Five Nations Tournament, American Teddy Stiga kicks it off as the tournament leader in points. While his team fell to Sweden in the final, he stood out throughout the event, with nine points (three goals, six assists) in the event’s four games. Stiga has been a player who has improved throughout the season and looks like a second rounder at this point.

#18 While Stiga led the tournament in points, the star of the event was likely Swedish defender and team captain Leo Sahlin Wallenius. He tied for the team lead in points with seven (one goal, six assists) in four games. His ability to move the puck around in the offensive zone, especially on the power play, was particularly on display in the event, as was his fluid movement.

#19 The final player I’ll mention from the event is Finland’s Joona Saarelainen. A bit of an unknown prospect in this class, Saarelainen loves to don the blue and white. He tied for the tournament lead in goals (six) and has been a regular fixture for the Finns on international ice, already dressing for the Word Under-17 Challenge, the Hlinka Gretzky Cup (twice, once as captain), and numerous other events. He’s very much a player to add to your list if you haven’t seen him already.

#20 Last but not least, we’re going to look at an overager for the 2024 NHL Draft, Anthony Romani. Romani is currently tied with Goyette for the points lead in the OHL, with 84 points (44 goals, 40 assists) for the North Bay Battalion. This includes 11 points (six goals, five assists) in his last four games. In the conversation for overagers to hear their name called in this class, Romani is one to discuss.

MCKEEN’S 2023-24 NHL YEARBOOK – PITTSBURGH PENGUINS – Top 20 Prospect Profiles – Organizational Rank #31

Brock Otten, Derek Neumeier, Chapin Landvogt and Josh Bell — Sun, 08 Oct 2023 14:22:59 +0000

1. Owen Pickering

The Pittsburgh Penguins are notorious for trading away their first-round picks. With just their second first-round selection since 2014, the Pens drafted Pickering 21st overall in 2022. The defender was coming off a strong rookie season in the WHL with the Swift Current Broncos and was an impressive presence with Team Canada at the Under-18s. He returned to the Broncos in 2022-23 as the captain of the team, taking a noticeable step forward in his game. At the end of that recent WHL season, he joined the AHL Wilkes-Barre/Scranton Penguins to finish his year. He’s a very smart, mobile defender. The lightness on his feet and his fluid stride should help carry him to the NHL. He won’t bring a ton of offense but could turn into a reliable two-way defender. It’s still early in his development, but Pickering is on his way to becoming a middle-pairing mainstay.

2. Brayden Yager

Yager is a sturdy two-way pivot and a trustworthy workhorse that a coach can send over the boards and rely on in any situation. He's good on the powerplay, he's good on the penalty kill, he's good at matching up against the opposition’s best players, and he's good in the dying minutes of a game whether you're trying to defend a lead or tie the score up. He's quite strong and compact, which helps him out in various ways, whether that's staying on his feet as he fights through checks or generating a lot of power through his shot. Speaking of his shot, it's a major selling point and is his single best attribute. He can beat goalies clean with his wrister, and he doesn't need to reach high-danger ice to do so. With so many different things working in his favour it's pretty surprising that he doesn't leave more of a consistent impact. Too many games come and go where he just isn't enough of a factor, so learning how to leave more of a stamp on the game is key. At minimum, he is a safe prospect with a very high floor.

3. Samuel Poulin

Another rare first-round pick for the Penguins, they drafted Poulin in 2019, also 21st overall. He already had two strong QMJHL seasons under his belt at that time and returned to the Sherbrooke Phoenix as the captain post-draft continue his strong QMJHL career. He made the move to the AHL in 2021-22 with the WBS-Pens, looking like he was adjusting well in his first season. This year, he struggled out of the gate and took an extended leave of absence for personal reasons, which he later disclosed were related to mental health. Poulin has NHL size and the strength to match, combined with soft hands and good skating ability. It seems as though he’s lost some confidence, which he can hopefully recapture. His ceiling may have dropped slightly since his QMJHL days, and he looks like a bottom nine asset at this point.

4. Valterri Puustinen

A late pick in the 2019 NHL Draft, the Penguins called Puustinen’s name 203rd overall. He was coming off his rookie season in the Liiga, where he remained for two more years, playing for HPK. He made the jump to the AHL in 2021-22, even playing in his first NHL game, and adjusted seamlessly to the North American game. He looked even better last season, as the most productive player on the WBS-Penguins. The Finnish winger is quick and he shines in his playmaking ability although he also has a hard, accurate shot to surprise goaltenders. He’s competitive, always looking to get himself in the mix and make things happen. With how late of a pick he was, you could call Puustinen a success already with how his development has gone. He’s not done yet though and should continue to improve until he makes the NHL as a bottom nine winger.

5. Filip Hallander

It seems like Hallander has been around forever at this point, mainly due to how often his name has come up in news. Drafted 58th overall in 2018 by the Penguins, he was traded to the Toronto Maple Leafs in the 2020 Kasperi Kapanen trade, just to be traded back to the Penguins in 2021 in the Jared McCann deal. Hallander spent the three seasons following the draft in the SHL, playing as a secondary scoring option. In the last two years, he’s moved to North America and Wilkes-Barre/Scranton, where he has appeared to be developing well. He’s a jack-of-all-trades that can be plugged anywhere in the lineup and be impactful. He has a very nice wrist shot and low-key playmaking ability. He could be a bottom six, depth forward that could play up the lineup when needed. He’s currently unsigned and heading back to Sweden in 2023-24, putting his NHL future in question.

6. Joel Blomqvist

Blomqvist heard his name called 52nd overall in the 2020 Draft. He was coming off a strong season in the U20 SM-liiga for Karpat U20 where he was named Best Goaltender in the league. He stayed in Finland for the 2020-21 season, playing mostly in the Mestis, the Finnish tier-two league, before making the successful jump to the Liiga in 2021-22. He spent last season there as well, signing his entry-level deal with the Penguins at the end of the campaign, and heading overseas. He’s an aggressive netminder who plays far out of the crease to cut down angles and shows capable of moving fluidly in the crease as well. He plays a good technical game although can get a bit lost in high-pressure scrambles. He could challenge Lindberg for a future backup role after spending some time in the AHL.

7. Tristan Broz

The Penguins drafted Broz 58th overall in 2021 after two good seasons in the USHL where he was quite productive, especially in the playoffs. In 2021-22, he made the jump to the NCAA with the University of Minnesota but struggled to adjust his game to the harder, faster league. Given how deep the Golden Gophers were, Broz decided to switch to the University of Denver last season where he saw better production but was still a depth option. The forward has the ability to attack hard, is reliable as a playmaker, and can create space for himself although he is unfortunately too inconsistent in his effort level. He can disappear in games or show some delays in his processing. He still has time to work out the kinks, but at this point, he looks more like an AHLer and potential call-up option.

8. Filip Lindberg

Another late draft pick from 2019, it was actually the Minnesota Wild who drafted Lindberg as an overager, 197th overall. The Finnish netminder was coming off a very strong rookie season NCAA University of Massachusetts when he was drafted. He continued that collegiate success for two more seasons, leading the team to an NCAA championship in 2020-21. With the goaltender not signing with the Wild, the Penguins swooped in and signed him to an entry-level deal after the conclusion of that successful season. He immediately joined the AHL squad but has played limited games in his two seasons there. He’s an athletic, mobile goaltender that is very strong with his rebound control. Given that he split time at UMass, there is a question of how he would handle a larger load in net. He’s currently unsigned and heading to the Liiga in 2023-24, so there’s another big question mark for his NHL future. He’s still worth keeping an eye on and could become a very reliable backup.

9. Emil Pieniniemi

Pieniniemi is one of those “jack of all trades” defenders who is solid enough at everything but does not have a true standout quality. For a 6- 2” blueliner, he moves quite well, and his strong mobility is the key to his success as a composed two-way player. He plays a generally mistake free game and is solid in coverage with good defensive zone awareness. However, without high end skill or physicality, what’s the upside? Is this a player with a true NHL projection? It would appear that Pieniniemi will continue his development with OHL Kingston this season, where he will receive immediate top four ice time. It will be a great place to nurture his offensive game. At this point, the most likely scenario sees him become a potential bottom pairing defender who could provide solid depth at some point. However, Pittsburgh will gain more feedback about his upside based on his performance this season.

10. Jonathan Gruden

Gruden’s upside at the NHL level is likely capped, but he has worked hard to make himself a viable bottom six option for the Penguins. He’s coming off his best season yet as a pro and could push for a fourth line spot in 2023-24. The former London Knights standout is the son of former NHL assistant and current Toronto Marlies (AHL) coach John Gruden. Jonathan’s game has always been about the energy he brings away from the puck and his ability to create through hard work and perseverance in the offensive end. He’s a relentless forechecker and he’s finally strong enough to consistently win board battles against men at the pro level. He has also worked hard to improve his skating, allowing him to be more elusive and dangerous in the offensive end. Gruden is not a high skill or highly creative player. He keeps things simple and operates best as a complementary piece on the wing. He isn’t very likely to develop into a top nine option at the NHL level, however his tenacious approach could make him a valuable role player and penalty killer.

11. Emil Jarventie

It was fairly shocking to see Jarventie drop to the seventh round this year; we had him ranked 100th. He can be very dangerous in transition with his speed and skill. Improving his play off the puck is going to be the focus.

12. Sergey Murashov

What do the Pens have in Murashov? That’s probably still a mystery given the unpredictable nature of the MHL, especially for netminders. But his athleticism and play tracking stand out as positives, especially because he’s not the biggest goalie.

13. Taylor Gauthier

The Penguins signed Gauthier as a free agent out of the WHL last year and he ended up splitting the year between the AHL and ECHL, not uncommon for first year netminders. The crease is going to be crowded in Wilkes-Barre this year, but Gauthier has shown that he deserves playing time.

14. Raivis Ansons

A Memorial Cup champion with Saint John two years ago, Ansons’ first pro season did not go according to plan. The Latvian winger really struggled to be an impact player. The Penguins still have high hopes for him, but they may need to be patient.

15. Lukas Svejkovsky

Svejkovsky’s final WHL season was a major success, earning him a contract with Pittsburgh. Like Ansons, his first pro season last year was a disappointment that saw him limited to a depth role. Can Svejkovsky’s skating progress to the point that it needs to?

16. Isaac Belliveau

While there are questions as to whether Belliveau is a good enough athlete to be an NHL defender, there is no denying his positive development with Gatineau the last two seasons. He turns pro this year and his performance will be telling about his ultimate upside and chances.

17. Corey Andonovski

There is a bit of a trend with many of Pittsburgh’s listed forward prospects and Andonovski fits right in. He is an intelligent two-way player, but his offensive skills are limited. He could end up a good fourth line, penalty killing option.

18. Zam Plante

Even if Plante’s post draft year in the USHL was a disappointment, his long-term potential remains intriguing. Attending Minnesota-Duluth this fall, the focus will be on improving his strength and quickness to help him overcome his lack of stature.

19. Chase Yoder

Another forward in the Pens’ system with the skill set to develop into a bottom six player. Yoder skates well and can kill penalties. He’ll probably need a big offensive senior season at Providence College to earn a contract following graduation.

20. Ty Glover

Former Western Michigan forward had a tough first year in Wilkes-Barre, but there's still upside for him to develop into an NHL player. Glover is an intriguing athlete who blends size, speed, and strength away from the puck. However, his play on the puck will need to improve if he wants to be an NHL player, even in a checking line role.

MCKEEN’S 2023 NHL PROSPECT REPORT – #31 – Pittsburgh Penguins

Josh Bell — Thu, 11 May 2023 23:38:32 +0000

Prospect System Ranking – 31^st

A move up from the bottom ranked organization last year more a testament to the Lightning selling harder. After having won back-to-back Stanley cups in 2015-16 and 2016-17, they were eliminated in the second round the following season and have now been eliminated in the first round from 2018-19 to 2021-22, while missing the playoffs entirely this past season. Sidney Crosby and Evgeni Malkin had strong seasons individually at ages 35 and 36 respectively, and remained through the next three seasons together, Malkin with a fourth year. Kris Letang is signed through 2027-28. They represent 25.5% of the salary cap with no move contracts. The Penguins are currently searching for a new GM. Regardless of who that is they likely remain committed to the present, even as their stars approach the twilight of their careers. At least for the coming season, given Crosby appeared as dominant as ever with something in the tank yet to give.

Pittsburgh retains their first-round picks for the upcoming three drafts, as outgoing GM Ron Hextall stubbornly hung on to his 2023 pick, to some criticism. They added solid defender Owen Pickering at last year’s draft, and he represents their top prospect, but likely a couple of seasons away. They will be hoping Samuel Poulin is able to make the transition to the NHL this coming season but is likely a bottom six contributor. Their third ranked prospect, Drew O’Connor is expected to contribute next season in a support role as well. There is not a lot of immediate help on the horizon and the new management will have some decisions to make but do have some assets to deploy for help now.

PITTSBURGH, PA - SEPTEMBER 27: Pittsburgh Penguins right wing Samuel Poulin (22) looks on during the third period in the preseason NHL game between the Pittsburgh Penguins and the Columbus Blue Jackets on September 27, 2021, at PPG Paints Arena in Pittsburgh, PA. (Photo by Jeanine Leech/Icon Sportswire)

Owen Pickering

The Pittsburgh Penguins are notorious for trading away their first-round picks. With just their second first-round selection since 2014, the Pens drafted Owen Pickering 21st overall. The defender was coming off a strong rookie season in the WHL with the Swift Current Broncos and was an impressive presence with Team Canada at the Under-18s. He returned to the Broncos in 2022-23 as the captain of the team, taking a noticeable step forward in his game. With his WHL season done, he recently joined the Wilkes-Barre/Scranton Penguins in the AHL. He’s a very smart, mobile defender. The lightness on his feet and his fluid stride should help carry him to the NHL. He won’t bring a ton of offense but could turn into a reliable two-way defender. It’s still early in his development, but Pickering is on his way to becoming a middle-pairing defender.

2. Samuel Poulin

The only other first-round pick for the Penguins since 2014, they drafted Samuel Poulin in 2019, also 21st overall. He already had two strong QMJHL seasons under his belt at that time and returned to the Sherbrooke Phoenix as the captain post-draft and continued his strong QMJHL career. He made the move to the AHL in 2021-22 with the WBS-Pens, looking like he was adjusting well in his first season. This year, he did struggle out of the gate and took an extended leave of absence for personal reasons which he later disclosed was for mental health reasons. He recently returned to the AHL. Poulin has NHL size and the strength to match, combined with soft hands and good skating ability. It does seem as though he’s lost some confidence, which he can hopefully find again. His ceiling may have dropped slightly since his QMJHL days, looking like a bottom nine asset at this point.

4. Drew O’Connor

One of the older prospects left out there, Drew O’Connor is now set to graduate from this list after spending significant time with the Penguins this season. O’Connor was brought into the Pens’ system as an NCAA free agent in 2020 after his second season at Dartmouth College where he was the Ivy League Player of the Year. Ever since, he’s been on the cusp of sticking in the NHL, bouncing between the Penguins and the WBS-Pens. He plays a power-forward style game that plays a hard game. He’s quick on the forecheck and does everything in his power to ensure his team has the puck. He can chip in offensively but likely won’t be a big producer. He should stick where he is now, as a depth forward that gets plugged into the bottom six. This will be his last appearance on this list as he earns a spot in the big leagues.

5. Valtteri Puustinen

A late pick in the 2019 NHL Draft, the Penguins called Valtteri Puustinen’s name 203rd overall. He was coming off his rookie season in the Liiga, where he stuck for two more years, with HPK. He made the jump to the AHL in 2021-22, even playing in his first NHL game, while seamlessly adjusting to the North American game. He looks even better this season, as the most productive player on the WBS-Penguins. The Finnish forward is a quick winger that shines in his playmaking ability but also has a hard, accurate shot to surprise goaltenders. He’s a competitive player, always looking to get himself in the mix and make things happen. With how late of a pick he was, you could call Puustinen a success already with how his development has gone. He’s not done yet though and should continue to improve until he’s in the NHL as a bottom nine winger.

6. Filip Lindberg

Another late draft pick in the 2019 NHL Draft, it was actually the Minnesota Wild who drafted Filip Lindberg as an overager, 197th overall. The Finnish netminder was coming off a very strong rookie season in the NCAA with the University of Massachusetts when he was drafted. He continued that success in the league for two more seasons, leading the team to an NCAA championship in 2020-21. With the goaltender not signing with the Wild, the Penguins swooped in and signed him to an entry-level deal after that season. He immediately joined the AHL squad but has played limited games in his two seasons there. He’s an athletic, mobile goaltender that is very strong in his rebound control. Given that he split time at UMass, there is a question of how he would handle a larger load in net. Still, he’s worth keeping an eye on and could become a very reliable backup.

7. Filip Hallander

It seems like Filip Hallander has been around forever at this point, mainly due to how often his name has come up in news. Drafted 58th overall in 2018 by the Penguins, he was traded to the Toronto Maple Leafs in 2020 in the Kasperi Kapanen trade, just to be traded back to the Penguins in 2021 in the Jared McCann deal. After being drafted, through both trades, Hallander spent three seasons in the SHL, playing as a secondary scoring option. In the last two years, he’s moved to North America and Wilkes-Barre/Scranton, where he has appeared to be progressing well in his development. He’s a jack-of-all-trades player, that can be plugged anywhere in the lineup and his impact is felt. He has a very nice wrist shot and low-key playmaking ability. He could be a bottom six, depth forward that could play up the lineup when needed.

Joel Blomqvist

Yet another goaltender in the system for the Penguins, Joel Blomqvist heard his name called in the 2020 NHL Draft, 52nd overall. He was coming off of a strong season in the U20 SM-liiga for Karpat U20 where he was named Best Goaltender in the league. He stayed in Finland for the 2020-21 season, playing most of his time in the Mestis, the Finnish tier-two league, before making the successful jump to the Liiga in 2021-22. He spent this season there as well, recently signing his entry-level deal with the Penguins and heading overseas. He’s an aggressive netminder that plays far out to cut down angles and moves fluidly in the crease. He plays a good technical game although can get a bit lost in high-pressure scrambles. He should challenge Lindberg for a future backup role after spending some time in the AHL.

8. Tristan Broz

The Penguins drafted Tristan Broz 58th overall in the 2021 NHL Draft after a good two-season career in the USHL where he was quite productive, especially in the playoffs. In 2021-22, he made the jump to the NCAA and the University of Minnesota but struggled to adjust his game to the harder, faster league. Given how deep the Golden Gophers were, Broz decided to switch to the University of Denver this season where he saw better production but was still a depth defender. The forward has the ability to attack hard, be relied upon as a playmaker, and create space for himself but the problem is that he’s too inconsistent in his effort level. He can disappear in games or show some delays in his processing. He has some time to work out the kinks still, but at this point, he looks more like an AHLer and maybe a call-up option.

9. Jonathan Gruden

It’s been quite the road for Jon Gruden. The left winger was drafted by the Ottawa Senators, 95th overall in 2018, out of the USNTDP where he was a point-per-game player. He then went to the NCAA’s Miami University, where he didn’t see the same productivity but was still a contributing member of the team. He decided to move to OHL the following season, joining the London Knights where he found that production again, granted as an older player in the league. Gruden was sent to the Penguins in the Matt Murray trade, and has stuck in the AHL ever since, showing off his competitiveness in each of his three seasons, and taking noticeable steps forward in his development each year. He could end up as a bottom-line contributor, but more likely as a depth forward in the AHL that earns the occasional call-up.

10. Corey Andonovski

An undrafted prospect, Corey Andonovski came up through the prep school circuit, playing with St. Andrew’s College. He spent one year in the BCHL with the Chilliwack Chiefs before making the jump to the NCAA and Princeton University. He spent all four years there, losing 2020-21 to the pandemic. But his final two seasons were strong enough to earn the attention of the Penguins who signed him as a free agent at the end of the 2021-22 season. He’s spent this season in the AHL as a depth forward, which may end up being his ceiling as he’s already 24 years old. He’s a good skater that has speed and plays a hard game, not afraid to throw his body around. He’s worth keeping an eye on moving forward as he could surprise and earn bottom-line minutes as a call-up at some point.

MCKEEN’S 2022-23 NHL YEARBOOK – PITTSBURGH PENGUINS – Top 20 Prospects

Contributors – Brock Otten, Derek Neumeier, Chapin Landvogt, Arlo Schulz — Sun, 18 Sep 2022 20:21:01 +0000

1 - Owen Pickering D

To describe Pickering's progress and development over the past few years as "stratospheric" would still be something of an understatement. After all, it's not often that you see a prospect get picked as late as the 9th round of the WHL Bantam Draft only to get selected in the 1st round of the NHL Entry Draft three years later. Even more amazing, the 6'5" defender still seems like he's just scratching the surface of what he can accomplish and how good he can ultimately become. Growing up, he honed his mobility and puck control as an undersized blueliner, but he didn't lose those skills as he underwent a massive growth spurt in his mid-teens. While he is still filling into his new body right now, defensemen with his combination of size and mobility are hot commodities, so the Pens are likely thrilled to have landed Pickering at 21st overall in 2022. He moves around the ice effortlessly; he is comfortable having the puck on his stick in full flight and he thinks the game reasonably well in all three zones. While he might not currently be as polished as some other top prospects, his Swift Current team is rebuilding and is already giving him loads of ice time in all situations as their number-one defenseman. That kind of role and workload should be a big boon to his long-term development, getting the reps that will help him gain experience. The Broncos are also primed for big playoff pushes in the upcoming years, which will provide him with valuable learning opportunities. Few prospects have the raw, unrefined potential that Pickering possesses, and that will make him a fascinating player to continue following as his career moves forward. - DN

2 - Samuel Poulin LW

The powerhouse Penguins haven’t drafted in the first round very much in recent years, but Poulin is one of those rare selections (from 2019). His first pro season last year has to be considered a successful one. Upon first glance, his point totals likely won’t excite you, but his 37 points actually placed him second in scoring on a low scoring Wilkes-Barre team. The stocky power winger was able to translate his high energy, pesky game to the pro level rather seamlessly. He is always in attack mode, hungry for the puck on the forecheck and backcheck. Poulin is more than just a run of the mill checker, though. He can attack the offensive zone with pace and create off the rush with soft hands. His strength on the puck is one of his best qualities as he can be difficult to knock off stride and separate from the puck. Poulin also has a goal scorer’s touch, especially in tight. He projects as a versatile middle six winger who can play in any situation for the Penguins in the future, perhaps even working alongside Sidney Crosby at some point in the twilight of his career. However, that is not likely to be next season given the Penguins depth at forward. Poulin will return to Wilkes-Barre for another season, hopefully improving his offensive production further. He should then be ready for a full-time gig in 2023-24, just in time for several middle six contracts to come off the books in Pittsburgh. - BO

3 - Joel Blomqvist G

Pittsburgh’s 2^nd round selection in 2020, Blomqvist has spent two straight seasons seeing fairly limited time in Liiga play while racking up outstanding GAAs and save percentages. After his initial pro season in Finland in 20-21 saw most of his playing time and success coming in second tier Mestis, he saw his role grow with Kärpät this season, ultimately climaxing in the postseason during which he accumulated an astronomic 1.10 GAA and .950 save percentage over seven games, which followed a 1.32 GAA and .940 save percentage in 20 regular season contests. He ended the season with a single game cameo for Pittsburgh’s AHL affiliate. Although not terribly large, he makes the most out of his 6’2 frame. A thinking man’s goaltender, Blomqvist stands out for being calm and controlled in his movements. His technical skills indicate that he’s very well-schooled. His performances have been very consistent thanks to strong composure, puck-tracking abilities, and a fantastically accurate understanding of when to commit himself in making his saves. Blomqvist remains unsigned at this time and is once again scheduled to suit up for Kärpät in Liiga play, with the starter’s job on his plate. AN ELC with the Penguins should come soon, where he will be able to challenge fellow Finn Filip Lindberg for future time in the NHL crease. – CL

4 - Pierre-Olivier Joseph D

The Penguins are going to be facing quite the predicament this training camp when it comes to Joseph. The talented puck mover is no longer exempt from waivers, which means that if he does not make Pittsburgh’s roster, they will have to make him available to other NHL teams. Given his pedigree as a prospect, it seems unlikely that he would pass through waivers unclaimed. A former first round selection of Arizona, he was acquired in the Phil Kessel trade in 2019. Joseph has improved in each of his three pro seasons thus far and the time is now for Pittsburgh to clear a path for him to make the big club and play regularly. His best asset is his mobility. Joseph is an extremely fluid mover whose game is completely built around his ability to cover the ice effortlessly. He is a skilled puck mover who can quarterback the powerplay and lead the attack in transition. Given the age of Pittsburgh’s puck movers, it would be smart for the Penguins to see what they have in Joseph. When drafted, his defensive game and presence was a work in progress, however this has improved to the point where he is no longer a defensive liability. There would likely still be growing pains at the NHL level, however the reward is potentially worth the risk. The new one-way, two-year contract the Penguins gave Joseph this offseason points to him being a part of this team long term, but either way, he should be an NHL player next season finally - BO

5 - Drew O'Connor LW

A free agent signing out of Dartmouth College a few years ago, O’Connor has emerged as one of Pittsburgh’s top young prospects and players. He has split the first two years of his pro career between Pittsburgh and Wilkes-Barre, performing at a near point per game mark in his AHL time. He started off red hot with Pittsburgh to start the season, but then had some problem with injuries and he struggled to re-find that form. O’Connor is a big winger with a big shot who can play a power game. He is strong down low and near the crease and is difficult to separate from the puck. He also skates quite well, especially North/South, allowing him to compete hard for space and clear paths for linemates. At the NHL level, his physical play and two-way game have been fairly inconsistent, but that should improve as he gains confidence at the level. Armed with a one-way contract, O’Connor should start the year with Pittsburgh, barring a poor training camp. Playing time will be hard to come by given the team’s depth, but the Penguins really like what he can offer and there is a chance that he makes some veterans expendable. His NHL potential is not likely extremely high, but in a weak system, he stands out. - BO

6 - Valtteri Puustinen RW

One of the keys to Pittsburgh’s sustained success has been their ability to find gems later in the draft and through the undrafted free agent market. Insert 5’9 Finnish winger Valtteri Puustinen, a seventh-round selection by the Pens in 2019. After two successful Liiga campaigns, he made his North American pro debut last year and it was an extremely successful one. He led Wilkes-Barre in scoring and even caught the eye of the Penguins coaching staff in his lone NHL game following a brief call-up. Puustinen is a highly intelligent offensive player. He has a very clear understanding of how to play without the puck, sliding in and out of coverage and showing great anticipation. He also has a very strong shot that allows him to be dangerous from anywhere on the ice. The combination of these two things makes him the perfect complementary winger on a scoring line. Somewhat undersized, it will be interesting to see how Pittsburgh employs Puustinen in the future. His talents would likely be wasted in a checking line role, so look for them to wait until an opening occurs on a scoring line before they give him a true audition. Look for him to be one of Pittsburgh’s top call-up options this coming season, especially if someone inside their top six goes down. - BO

7 - Filip Hallander LW

Hallander only just completed his first pro season in North America, but he has had a pretty strange career already. A second-round selection by Pittsburgh in 2018, Hallander was traded to the Toronto Maple Leafs in the Kasperi Kapanen deal. A year later, the Penguins reacquired him in the famous Jared McCann deal (in which McCann was then lost to Seattle from Toronto in the expansion draft). At this point, Pens management and scouts are likely pretty certain in what they have in Hallander. His offensive upside is rather limited. He is not exceptionally skilled. His production in the SHL and at the AHL level last year prove that. However, he does have a skill set built for a bottom six role. He skates pretty well. He has positional versatility. He is very responsible defensively and can excel in a penalty killing role. The Penguins will definitely be grooming Hallander to be a bottom six player, perhaps even in a shutdown defensive role. How long it takes him to realize that potential remains to be seen. He will likely play out the entire year in the AHL in hopes of improving his confidence and ability with the puck, so that he is ready for the pace in the NHL. Pittsburgh is likely to be patient with him in hopes that he can develop a little further as an offensive player. - BO

8 - Lukas Svejkovsky C

Svejkovsky had an eventful 2021-22 season. In his overage year, he got dealt midseason from Medicine Hat to Seattle, where he helped the Thunderbirds embark on a somewhat surprising run to the WHL finals and earned himself an entry-level contract with the Penguins in the process. Amazingly, he finished the season as the Tigers points leader despite only playing half a season for them. A 2020 4^th rounder, Svejkovsky is an undersized but creative, shifty forward. With a penchant for producing points at every level, Svejkovsky skates well and is engaged in all three zones. He does well with the puck on his stick, able to create opportunities sometimes out of nothing. His knock will always be lack of size, and the question is whether or not the son of former NHLer Jaroslav will be able to overcome this. He doesn’t possess any elite skills that stand out, and although he’s creative with the puck and responsible without it, there aren’t many NHL regulars of his stature that don’t compensate with high-end skill elsewhere. That being said, he acquitted himself well at the junior level and now is slated to move to the pro ranks in 2022-23 with the Penguins’ AHL affiliate in Wilkes-Barre. He will likely need some time to adjust, and it will be interesting to see how he does playing against much bigger opponents. - AS

9 - Filip Lindberg G

A former NCAA standout and champion with UMass, Lindberg was a free agent signing by Pittsburgh last offseason. His season got off to a great start with Wilkes-Barre before he suffered an ankle injury in November that ended his freshman professional campaign. So, what the Penguins truly have in Lindberg remains to be seen. The 6’1 Finnish netminder is an excellent athlete. His play tracking ability is extremely impressive because of how quick he is post to post. As such, he has a penchant for the highlight reel save, taking away the bottom part of the net with ease. The Penguins goaltending development team will be working hard with him to harness his natural athleticism, improving the finer technical components of his game. In reality, Lindberg is probably the closest thing the Penguins have to a top goaltending prospect at the pro level right now and he will be splitting time with Dustin Tokarski in Wilkes-Barre. Tokarski likely serves as the team’s top call-up and that means Lindberg can focus on staying healthy and improving over a full year of pro. Whether he has the potential to be an NHL starter or not remains to be seen, with more being known after this current season on the farm. - BO

10 - Jonathan Gruden C

Much like Filip Hallander, Gruden is being groomed as a potential checking line player by the Penguins. Since being drafted out of the U.S. NTDP, his development path has not been conventional. He started at the University of Miami but left school early to join the London Knights of the OHL, where he was solid as a point per game player in his lone season. Since then, he has improved over two pro seasons with Wilkes-Barre, establishing himself as a top-notch high energy forward. Like Hallander, Gruden is not the world’s most skilled player, but he makes up for it with extreme tenacity. He competes consistently for pucks and has transformed himself into a fantastic forechecker and someone who wins the majority of his 50/50 puck battles. His ability to outwork defenders and sustain pressure deep in the offensive zone is an admirable trait. Additionally, Gruden is a strong defensive presence who takes a physical approach and proudly makes himself difficult to play against. The key for him will be to continue to improve his skating and speed so that he can be just as effective in that role at the NHL level. Pittsburgh will be looking for him to improve yet again at the AHL level this upcoming season before his waiver eligibility runs out the following year. - BO

11 - Nathan Legare

A big, physical, hardworking winger, Legare is coming off of his first pro season with Wilkes-Barre, where he played more of a depth role. The Pens will be looking for him to use his big shot more often this season.

12 - Zam Plante

We liked Plante’s potential to be an impactful middle six energy player heading into this year’s draft. Improving his athleticism will be a must, but he’ll have several years to do that. He likely spends another year in Chicago (USHL) this year before heading to UMD after that.

13 - Tristan Broz

It was tough for Broz to break into a deep lineup at the University of Denver this past season, but he did play a depth role for the NCAA champions. The power forward loves attacking the net and should see an increase in responsibility and production as a sophomore.

14 - Jordan Frasca

Frasca used a strong overage year as a springboard to earn an ELC from Pittsburgh this season. The big center offers intriguing upside as a two-way stalwart at the pro level, but how his skill set translates (especially in terms of pace) is a mystery.

15 - Taylor Gauthier

Another free agent signing by the Pens, Gauthier has been one of the WHL’s best goaltenders for a few seasons now. However, due to his average size, there has been a reluctance to draft/sign him previously. Pittsburgh took a chance, and he will start his pro career this season.

16 - Isaac Belliveau

The 6’2 defender will return to the QMJHL for his overage season in hopes that he can continue to improve his four-way mobility and confidence with the puck.

17 - Raivis Kristians Ansons

There is a lot to like about this Latvian winger. He was great in a supporting role this season, helping Saint John capture the Memorial Cup. His versatility will impress pro coaches and he should be an immediate top nine player for Wilkes-Barre this season.

18 - Sergei Murashov

An athletic netminder, Murashov was a fourth-round selection by Pittsburgh in 2022. Playing in the Lokomotiv program, he will try to break through into the KHL level this season, at least partially.

19 - Ryan McCleary

The right shot defender showed great progression in Portland this past season, playing heavy minutes for a strong team. Pittsburgh will be looking for continued improvement in his skating ability before potentially signing him at some point this season.

20 - Corey Andonovski

A free agent signing by Pittsburgh out of Princeton, Andonovski will be groomed as a potential defensive specialist and penalty killer. The big winger is intelligent, physical, and an improving skater, qualities that could make him a great fourth liner in the future.

2022 NHL DRAFT REVIEW: EASTERN DIVISION – SCOUT’S FAVOURITES

Brock Otten, Will Scouch, and Sam McGilligan — Thu, 14 Jul 2022 11:46:37 +0000

The 2022 NHL Draft has come and gone. Montreal was a gracious host to not only NHL organizations and selected players, but also to McKeens' very own Brock Otten, Will Scouch, and Sam McGilligan. The three were in Montreal and in the thick of the action last week. To recap the draft, the three have highlighted their favourite selections for both Conferences. Additionally, we have provided a listing of each team's selections, coinciding with where the McKeen's scouting team had them ranked.

Denton Mateychuk - photo by Candice Ward

Brock Otten’s Favourite Selections

-in no particular order

Reid Dyck (BOS, #183)

Dyck isn’t the most consistent netminder out there. Part of that had to do with the youth movement in Swift Current and just how many high danger chances he saw against him. Part of it is because of some technical flaws. However, he has shown an ability to steal games and he was a real standout at the U18’s for Canada. A bit of Matt Murray in his game from his draft year.

Jake Richard (BUF, #170)

A real diamond in the rough. Richard improved a ton in the second half of the USHL season. He was one of the youngest guys available this year and I believe that as he matures physically, his skating can improve a lot. His skill and sense below the goaline is very impressive. Really good player in traffic. Watch out for him in the future.

Denton Mateychuk (CBJ, #12)

Just how much you value Mateychuk depends on how you view his defensive game and I think it has more potential than people give it credit for. Yeah, his play near the crease and near the wall needs to be better and he needs to increase his physical intensity. But I really like how he defends pace and I think his offensive skill set is unique and exciting. By drafting Jiricek AND Mateychuk, Columbus clearly had a plan and I’m here for it.

Lane Hutson (MTL, #62)

Unlike a few of my contemporaries, I wasn’t crazy about Hutson as a first rounder. I do think that there is a lot of risk here. But at the end of the second round? That risk is absolutely, one hundred percent worth it. He may be the most talented offensive defender available this year. How the rest improves remains to be seen, but at this spot, how could you be unhappy with this selection?

Calle Odelius (NYI, #65)

I can kind of understand why Odelius fell a bit. He does a lot of things well, but not a lot at an elite level. The one thing that he does do at a fairly elite level is skate and that is what has me excited about this selection. Between Odelius and Isaiah George, the Islanders took two of the better skating defenders available. That was obviously by plan. I really liked Odelius at the U18’s for Sweden and I think he has a great shot at outproducing this draft slot.

Adam Sykora (NYR, #63)

I figured that Sykora would go higher than this. Strong skater. Good physical tools. His game improved by leaps and bounds over the course of the year playing against men. Sykora looks like a really nice bet to be a strong middle six option and at #63, you can’t do much better than that. It will be interesting to see if he plays in the WHL this coming season.

Zam Plante (PIT, #150)

Love the value here. Plante is someone who consistently caught my attention when I watched him this year. Great energy in the offensive zone. Strong puck skill and boards play. As he matures physically, I think he could actually develop into a pretty good skater too, like his Dad. Plante is exactly the type of player that Pittsburgh has developed well the last decade.

Connor Kurth (TBL, #192)

One of the USHL’s most improved players this year, I was shocked to see Kurth go this low, especially with so many other re-entry USHL guys coming off the board. Needless to say, I love this pick. Kurth will need to continue to improve his skating and conditioning, but he is a terrific complementary offensive player because of his skill, finishing ability, and success playing through traffic. I think he develops into an NHL player for Tampa.

Nic Moldenhauer (TOR, #95)

If not for a couple freak injuries at the beginning of the year, I think Moldenhauer ends up being a top 50, maybe even first round selection. There is lots to like here. Good skater. Good at navigating traffic and finding success playing through the middle of the ice. Plays both ends. Regardless of whether he takes the NCAA route or comes to the OHL, I think Moldenhauer will prove to be a great pick and an eventual NHL player.

Ivan Miroshnichenko (WSH, #20)

Coming into the year, Miroshnichenko looked like a pretty solid bet to be a top ten pick. He has been unbelievable internationally. However, his play against men in the VHL did leave some to be desired and then of course he had that unfortunate cancer diagnosis. Sounds like he is healthy now and I think he has a chance to develop into a real solid top six forward for the Capitals. IMO, he has the potential to be the best goal scorer from this draft class.

TAMPERE, FINLAND - MAY 26: Slovakia's Adam Sykora #10 celebrates after scoring a first period goal against Finland during Quarterfinal Round action at the 2022 IIHF Ice Hockey World Championship at Nokia Arena on May 26, 2022 in Tampere, Finland. (Photo by Andre Ringuette/HHOF-IIHF Images)

Will Scouch’s Favourite Selections

Vladimir Grudinin (CAR, #156)

Part of me was stunned that NHL teams kept passing on Grudinin as long as they did, but I was also not surprised at the same time. It felt weird. Names like Dolzhenkov and Duda went as high as 120 picks higher than Grudinin, while Grudinin was clearly a more dynamic and mobile player playing at higher levels than the other two. Carolina was excited to land this player, I think, he’s massively mobile, just needs to work on making his forward stride more efficient generating separation, but his edges and skill are wonderful. I was a huge fan of this player, and I think Carolina got themselves a very good one.

Adam Sykora (NYR, #63)

Sykora is such a New York Ranger, I tell you what. Hard-working, intense, good skill, great defensive instincts, Sykora is just an admirable player that earns what he gets and has the advantage of youth. I was surprised he wasn’t picked at least in the top 40, and with the Rangers first pick, they got what I think is great value in Adam Sykora.

Jiri Kulich (BUF, #28)

The Sabres did an excellent job on Thursday night, capped off with selecting Jiri Kulich, who is a player I feel will be as good as he is strong at the end of the day. He’s smart, skilled, has a remarkable finishing ability, and is a smart positional player that can be knocked around a bit. The upside may not be as high with the finished product, but I feel Kulich will be a nice piece down the lineup in Buffalo that could be a power play option with the shot he has.

Gleb Trikozov (CAR, #60)

It’s no secret that I’m a fan of Gleb Trikozov. He was in my top 10, and I love that he was the first name Carolina took. The tools are immense, and his issue is often consistency and bringing his intense puck skill game to his play off the puck defensively. An extremely exciting player to watch, Trikozov could be a massive get for Carolina at 60 with his dual threat offense and relative youth in the draft class.

Lane Hutson (MTL, #62)

Who doesn’t love Lane Hutson? Who doesn’t want to see him moving and shaking off defenders at the blueline, deceiving with his skill and opening passing lanes to get pucks into scoring areas? He’s going to need to improve his ability to create separation with his edges and generate speed under pressure, but his fluid footwork and excellent skill level are an excellent foundation to build on. He’s determined and confident, and I just love this guy. Getting him almost in the 3rd round, especially as the 4th player off your list, is just a great swing.

Filip Mesar (MTL, #26)

Mesar was ranked in my top 15. I love how he gets around the ice, and the intelligence he brings to the table off-puck especially. He’s skilled, brings a great motor, and is up near the top of the pile when it comes to mobility and speed in multiple directions. I do also think there could be a psychological factor uniting Mesar with childhood friend Juraj Slafkovsky. He was the first player I profiled this year and I really enjoyed what I saw. If he can improve his finishing skill and shot quality, especially off the rush, he could be an excellent offensive player in multiple positions and roles.

Noah Ostlund (BUF, #16)

I was honestly stunned that Noah Ostlund went just one pick after Jonathan Lekkerimaki and ahead of Liam Ohgren. Ostlund is one of the fastest and most agile players in the draft. He anticipates pressure and uses skill to create space and lanes to connect with linemates, and just needs to develop a quicker first couple steps to get into that space and continue driving play up the ice. He’s a soft playmaker, finding teammates through traffic while also being able to open lanes with skill. He’s small and slight, and may take time, but patience could be greatly rewarded, and I adore the Sabres’ approach to the first round.

Denton Mateychuk (CBJ, #12)

Some love Denton Mateychuk as a top-10 talent, some even higher. Others see him as a fringe first round pick. Personally, I fell somewhere in the middle. He gains a ton in his game from his confidence and freedom, but the talent with his skill level and deception that drives those traits feels like it will need to improve in order to get the job done at higher levels. He’s not the most mobile coverage defender on defensive rushes, but he has a strong sense of timing on puck movement and drove safe, but strong pass completion in huge volumes. I’m frankly just glad we know where he went in the draft and we can stop arguing, to be honest, and I love that Columbus went all in on him. If it works, it’ll be a ton of fun.

Ivan Miroshnichenko (WSH, #20)

I was pleasantly surprised to see Washington hand a pick to Ivan Miroshnichenko. I had him ranked 28th, and had he played a full season as he was before his diagnosis, I could see him being closer to where Washington drafted him. He has an excellent release, and great strength on his frame to fend off pressure in the VHL, but his puck management and vision of the ice was a limiting factor in transition and the skill level agility seemed to be lacking from his game relative to what I remember from previous years. With his cancer in remission, I’m really hopeful Miroshnichenko’s toughest days are behind him, and will be fascinated to see where he ends up.

Alexander Suzdalev (WSH, #70)

This guy is all hands, creativity and agility, but the footwork and ability to escape pressure with his feet really limits his upside and caused a bit of a slide relative to my ranking. He drove excellent efficiency moving pucks up the ice in great volumes at the J20 level in my tracking, but his lack of pace and need for processing time really limited his impact at the HockeyAllsvenskan level. He may not be SHL ready next year, but he may also be too good for the J20 level if his skating and strength improve. The skill level, problem solving, and creativity is high end and in the early 3rd round, you could’ve done significantly worse.

FRISCO, TX USA - MAY 1: Russia's Ivan Miroshnichenko #10 shoots the puck and scores a first period goal against the Czech Republic during preliminary round action at the 2021 IIHF Ice Hockey U18 World Championship at Comerica Center on May 1, 2021 in Frisco, TX USA. (Photo by Chris Tanouye/HHOF-IIHF Images)

Sam McGilligan’s Favourite Selections

1: Ivan Miroshnichenko (WSH, #20)

This was easily my feel-good moment for the draft. Ivan Miroshnichenko had unfortunately caught a lot of negative attention throughout the season due to not meeting pre-season expectations, resulting in him flying down draft boards. Then his illness was revealed, throwing his future in hockey into question. I wasn't sure where Miro was going to end up going in the draft but seeing him go in the first round was a fantastic moment. Add in that Washington is one of the best organizations for high potential players slipping due to medical reasons and this becomes one of, if not my favourite pick in the draft

2: Gleb Trikozov (CAR, #60)

Gleb is one of the most entertaining prospects I've ever watched. There is such a high-level toolkit across the board -- skating, shooting, hands, passing, you name it. There's inconsistency in the processing of the game but even then, sometimes Trikozov is able to come up with complex solutions to problems that just wow me. He's the epitome of the "raw, boom or bust" archetype but I think there's enough smarts there to bet on the boom. The Hurricanes grabbed a first level talent at 60th overall, and it might just be the best value pick of the draft.

3: Noah Östlund (BUF, #16)

Östlund is one of three players I can confidently say are my favourites in the class, so there's a little bias here. Nonetheless, Östlund is as intelligent and dynamic as any forward you can find in the class. I believed he was very likely to be the last of the Djurgårdens' forwards to be taken, so imagine the shock on my face when Buffalo took him above Öhgren. Östlund is a high ceiling, connector-type center that will make the life of everyone around him easier. A primary playdriver with insanely high potential in all three zones, Östlund is one of the few with true star potential in this class. Buffalo deserves a ton of credit for this one whether it works out or not.

4: Calle Odelius (NYI, #65)

Calle Odelius slipping this far shocked me quite a bit. I think Odelius is the easiest of the Swedish defenders to project to the NHL while also carrying a fair bit more upside than others think. Calle's ability to manipulate pressure into creating space for himself is near the top of the class. His actions once entering the space can be hit or miss, but some of the greatest plays I've seen from a defender this year have come from Calle Odelius in open space so there's legitimate upside if his processing can be refined. Even if that doesn't happen, Odelius has strong enough fundamentals to be a complimentary defensive/transitional option.

5: Lane Hutson (MTL, #62)

If Lane Hutson is a few inches taller, he's a slam dunk top 10 guy. If Lane Hutson was just a bit more explosive, he's a slam dunk top 10 guy. If both of these things end up happening, then Hutson has "best player in the class" potential and that's not something I normally say lightly. As a Habs fan myself, I was internally screaming at the idea of picking Hutson and I'm beyond ecstatic he gets to enter the era of the Kent Hughes Canadiens. He fits everything that the team is looking for on the back end -- skill, manipulation, agility and brilliant decision making. The sky's the limit for this short defender.

6: Seamus Casey (NJ, #46)

Considering he has an argument amongst the best handlers in the draft regardless of position, Seamus Casey might just be the most skilled defender one could take this year, period. The problem with Casey is he seems less willing to activate and utilize his hilarious skill with the puck than you'd hope for someone of this talent. His NCAA career needs to be focused on re-integrating this ability with the puck across all facets of his game so that he becomes the ultimate transitional/OZ weapon that he was projected to be early in the year.

7: Vladimir Grudinin (CAR, #156)

This is probably just the best pure value pick there was in the draft. I think Grudinin is pretty clearly a first-round talent, yet he was found in the mid-late rounds of the draft. Vladimir spent the bulk of his season playing professional hockey in Russia across both the VHL and the KHL, never really looking too far out of the way in either league despite being undersized. His world class mobility helped circumvent that issue and allowed him to consistently play at the high pace these leagues demand. Once again, Carolina identifies and scoops up the value wherever it is.

8: Isaac Howard (TB, #31)

Isaac Howard's outfit alone could register him a spot on this list, but I'll defer to his hockey ability instead. This player managed to match pace with Cooley and Nazar, both highly regarded prospects in their own right, yet didn't earn similar draft stock due to some inefficiencies within his game that cast doubt on his ability to process professional hockey. I do think Howard is a level behind what those two considering the packages each currently offer, but I also believe Howard has upside in the same range due to the hilarious manipulative abilities he has. With the right development, Howard can contend with the best players in this draft.

9: Devin Kaplan (PHI, #69)

This was just a brilliant pick for pure value reasons. Kaplan frequently uses a fantastic set of hands and a great sense of space to be one of the smartest complimentary players the draft has to offer in both transition and the offensive zone. His skating doesn't create enough separation for his hands to be a primary creation threat, but there's nothing within his form that indicates this is an issue that can't be overcome. Considering this was the third round, Kaplan was one of the best picks a GM could make in that range.

10: David Jiricek (CBJ, #6)

I'm kind of surprised my pick for the best defender in the 2022 class fell out of the top five. He's everything NHL GM's look for -- skilled, dynamic, large but with lots of room for physical improvements and brutally aggressive. Jiricek's combination of skills make him a bit risky compared to Nemec, but the booming upside is so ridiculously high that I couldn't see the Flyers passing on him. Yet here we are, and the Blue Jackets were fortunate enough to have a true top pairing prospect fall on their laps. Jarmo made the easy, but right decision, and it immediately makes Jiricek one of the best selections in the draft.

2022 NHL DRAFT
Boston Bruins
2022 NHL Draft Selections:

Name	Position	NHL Selection	McKeen's Ranking
Matthew Poitras	C/W	54	73
Cole Spicer	C	117	82
Dans Locmelis	C	119	177
Frederic Brunet	D	132	NR
Reid Dyck	G	183	114
Jackson Edward	D	200	HM

Buffalo Sabres
2022 NHL Draft Selections:

Name	Position	NHL Selection	McKeen's Ranking
Matthew Savoie	C	9	6
Noah Ostlund	C	16	22
Jiri Kulich	C/W	28	15
Topias Leinonen	G	41	98
Viktor Neuchev	W	74	83
Mats Lindgren	D	106	35
Vsevolod Komarov	D	134	221
Jake Richard	W	170	111
Gustav Karlsson	C	187	NR
Joel Ratkovic Berndtsson	W	202	NR
Linus Sjodin	C	211	220

Carolina Hurricanes
2022 NHL Draft Selections:

Name	Position	NHL Selection	McKeen's Ranking
Gleb Trikozov	W	60	26
Alexander Perevalov	W	71	25
Simon Forsmark	D	101	68
Cruz Lucius	W	124	140
Vladimir Grudinin	D	156	32
Jakub Vondras	G	171	NR
Alexander Pelevin	D	205	NR

Columbus Blue Jackets
2022 NHL Draft Selections:

Name	Position	NHL Selection	McKeen's Ranking
David Jiricek	D	6	5
Denton Mateychuk	D	12	17
Luca Del Bel Belluz	C	44	45
Jordan Dumais	W	96	72
Kirill Dolzhenkov	W	109	66
Sergei Ivanov	G	138	HM
James Fisher	W	203	NR

Detroit Red Wings
2022 NHL Draft Selections:

Name	Position	NHL Selection	McKeen's Ranking
Marco Kasper	C	8	24
Dylan James	W	40	63
Dmitri Buchelnikov	W	52	97
Anton Johansson	D	105	NR
Amadeus Lombardi	C	113	202
Maximilian Kilpinen	W	129	NR
Tnias Mathurin	D	137	122
Owen Mehlenbacher	W/C	201	216
Brennan Ali	C	212	103

Florida Panthers
2022 NHL Draft Selections:

Name	Position	NHL Selection	McKeen's Ranking
Marek Alscher	D	93	NR
Ludvig Jansson	D	125	102
Sandis Vilmanis	W	157	105
Josh Davies	W	186	199
Tyler Muszelik	G	189	HM
Liam Arnsby	C/W	214	197
Jack Devine	W	221	143

Montreal Canadiens
2022 NHL Draft Selections:

Name	Position	NHL Selection	McKeen's Ranking
Juraj Slafkovsky	W	1	3
Filip Mesar	W	26	16
Owen Beck	C	33	33
Lane Hutson	D	62	40
Vinzenz Rohrer	W	75	78
Adam Engstrom	D	92	HM
Cedrick Guindon	C/W	127	108
Jared Davidson	C	130	NR
Emmett Croteau	G	162	NR
Petteri Nurmi	D	194	HM
Miguel Tourigny	D	216	NR

New Jersey Devils
2022 NHL Draft Selections:

Name	Position	NHL Selection	McKeen's Ranking
Simon Nemec	D	2	4
Seamus Casey	D	46	39
Tyler Brennan	G	102	142
Daniil Orlov	D	110	131
Charlie Leddy	D	136	128
Petr Hauser	W	141	NR
Josh Filmon	W	166	148
Artem Barabosha	D	198	214

New York Islanders
2022 NHL Draft Selections:

Name	Position	NHL Selection	McKeen's Ranking
Calle Odelius	D	65	30
Quinn Finley	D	78	104
Isaiah George	D	98	61
Matthew Maggio	W	142	173
Daylan Kuefler	W	174	NR

New York Rangers
2022 NHL Draft Selections:

Name	Position	NHL Selection	McKeen's Ranking
Adam Sykora	W	63	48
Bryce Mcconnell-Barker	C/W	97	95
Noah Laba	C	111	NR
Victor Mancini	D	159	NR
Maxim Barbashev	W	161	183
Zak Karpa	C	191	NR

Ottawa Senators
2022 NHL Draft Selections:

Name	Position	NHL Selection	McKeen's Ranking
Filip Nordberg	D	64	NR
Oskar Pettersson	W	72	166
Tomas Hamara	D	87	76
Stephen Halliday	C	104	123
Jorian Donovan	D	136	194
Cameron O'Neill	W	143	191
Kevin Reidler	G	151	NR
Theo Wallberg	D	168	NR
Tyson Dyck	C/W	206	171

Philadelphia Flyers
2022 NHL Draft Selections:

Name	Position	NHL Selection	McKeen's Ranking
Cutter Gauthier	C/W	5	13
Devin Kaplan	W	69	69
Alex Bump	W	133	91
Hunter Mcdonald	D	165	NR
Santeri Sulku	W	197	206
Alexis Gendron	W	220	71

Pittsburgh Penguins
2022 NHL Draft Selections:

Name	Position	NHL Selection	McKeen's Ranking
Owen Pickering	D	21	37
Sergey Murashov	G	118	NR
Zam Plante	C/W	150	96
Nolan Collins	D	167	NR
Luke Devlin	C	181	HM

Tampa Bay Lightning
2022 NHL Draft Selections:

Name	Position	NHL Selection	McKeen's Ranking
Isaac Howard	W	31	23
Lucas Edmonds	W	86	116
Nick Malik	G	160	172
Connor Kurth	W	192	81
Dyllan Gill	D	223	NR
Klavs Veinbergs	W	224	NR

Toronto Maple Leafs
2022 NHL Draft Selections:

Name	Position	NHL Selection	McKeen's Ranking
Fraser Minten	C	38	101
Nicholas Moldenhauer	C/W	95	75
Dennis Hildeby	G	122	NR
Nikita Grebenkin	W	135	HM
Brandon Lisowsky	W	218	53

Washington Capitals
2022 NHL Draft Selections:

Name	Position	NHL Selection	McKeen's Ranking
Ivan Miroshnichenko	W	20	19
Ryan Chesley	D	37	34
Alexander Suzdalev	W	70	119
Ludwig Persson	W	85	88
Jake Karabela	W/C	149	84
Ryan Hofer	W	181	NR
David Gucciardi	D	213	178

2022 NHL DRAFT: TIER 2 LEAGUES (USHS, CJHL, ETC.) TOP PROSPECTS – Part Two – Forwards

Brock Otten — Thu, 24 Mar 2022 19:48:55 +0000

McKeen's Director of Scouting, Brock Otten, provides a close examination of all the top "Tier 2" players available for the draft this year (USHS, CJHL, etc). The second in the series highlights the forwards. You can read Part One here.

Alex Bump. Photo by Dan Hickliing/Hickling Images.

Alex Bump

Wing - Prior Lake High (USHS-MIN)/Omaha (USHL)

6’0, 194lbs

Grades: Skating: 50, Shot: 55, Skills: 55, Smarts: 50, Physicality/Compete: 55

OFP: 53

https://www.mckeenshockey.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/03/alex_bump_-_2nd_period_8_28_-_8_49.mp4

Notes: One of the sharpest rising prospects in the second half thanks to a dominating performance during the Minnesota high school hockey playoffs, Bump is a tenacious goal scoring winger. His ability to protect the puck through contact and drive the net makes him a nearly unstoppable player at the high school level. High school defenders just can’t seem to separate him from the puck, allowing him to navigate the offensive zone at his own free will. Bump also shows great hands and a scorer’s touch in the slot, with the ability to create his own scoring chances through quick cuts or subtle dekes to pull the puck around skates and sticks, creating shooting lanes for himself. He also brings a consistent physical element, to go with a high motor and tenaciousness playing through the middle. The major concern here is a bit of an ugly and inefficient stride that prevents Bump from building speed quickly. His lack of explosiveness was most noticeable at the USHL level. Bump’s confidence on his edges and ability to maintain possession through lateral pushes or pivots is strong and once he builds to full speed; he can be dangerous in transition. However, his first few strides and ability to maintain speed will need to improve to play at the next level. Additionally, Bump can be prone to overhandling the puck, with his decision making and overall vision being a bit of a question mark. The Vermont commit does have the strength and skill to be a solid complementary goal scorer, and given his strong finish to the year, he is certainly a candidate for the Top 100 if a team is convinced that his skating can be improved.

Zam Plante

Center/Wing - Hermantown High (USHS-MIN)/Chicago (USHL)

5’9, 161lbs

Grades: Skating: 55, Shot: 50, Skills: 55, Smarts: 50, Physicality/Compete: 55

OFP: 52.75

https://www.mckeenshockey.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/03/zam_plante_-_1st_period_32_36_-_33_2.mp4

Notes: The son of former NHL’er Derek Plante, Zam has split the season between Chicago and Hermantown, originally starting the year with the Steel before heading back to Minnesota. With Chicago, he mostly filled a depth role on a deep Steel team, providing energy on the wing of a checking line. In Hermantown, he is a dynamic, pace pushing center who has become one of the elite players in high school hockey. Regardless of the role, one thing remains consistent about his game and that is his effort and tenacity away from the puck. Don’t let the low penalty minutes fool you. He’s not the type to make big hits or bully his way to the net, but physicality and competitiveness can be measured in other ways…ways that Plante has in spades. He is a relentless forechecker and a very competent boards player, who has a terrific stick that compensates for his lack of size/strength at the current time. His ability to use stick lifts or his feet to gain inside leverage allows him to keep plays alive and his awareness and determination allows him to force turnovers that can be capitalized on. Plante also has the quickness that you like to see from a smaller player, even if there might be room for further development in his stability and edgework. Additionally, he possesses the kind of creativity that is rare from a competitive, high-energy attacker like Plante. This makes him a dangerous playmaker who can strike quickly following turnovers and elevate the play of those around him. His defensive game is also sound. Ultimately the question remains, what is Plante’s upside? As he adds further quickness and builds up the strength to play through contact more consistently through the middle, Plante does possess the attributes of a middle six forward.

Brennan Ali

Center - Avon Old Farms (USHS-Prep)/Lincoln (USHL)

6’1, 194lbs

Grades: Skating: 55, Shot: 50, Skills: 50, Smarts: 55, Physicality/Compete: 60

OFP: 53.25

https://www.mckeenshockey.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/03/brennan_ali_-_1st_period_7_7_-_7_24.mp4

Notes: Ali is an easy player to like due to his motor and intelligence as a playmaker. He has been a standout from the get-go this draft season, starting with a strong performance at the Hlinka/Gretzky Cup in the summer. He generates power quickly with explosive strides and this allows him to really make an impact in transition and as a forechecker. Ali is also a physical player who relishes the opportunity to play the body, in any zone. Given his skating ability, length, effort, and physicality, he likely has a chance to develop into a high-end defensive player and penalty killer. The question is…just how skilled is Ali? His shot is not currently a consistent weapon for him. He will need to improve the quickness of his release, the power behind it, and his confidence in using his wrister from the slot or outside. Additionally, there are times where his feet are moving too fast for his hands, and he is not able to maintain possession through contact or forced directional changes. There are other times where his playmaking ability really stands out, as he keeps plays alive along the wall, drives time of possession, and is able to spin off checks to set up teammates in the home plate area for high end chances. At this point, Ali does look like more of a bottom six forward at the NHL level, although he will be given every opportunity at the University of Notre Dame to improve his play with the puck and creativity.

Luke Devlin

Center - St Andrew’s College (CISAA)

6’3, 181lbs

Grades: Skating: 50, Shot: 45, Skills: 50, Smarts: 50, Physicality/Compete: 60

OFP: 50

https://www.mckeenshockey.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/03/luke_devlin_-_3rd_period_16_54_-_17_15.mp4

Notes: A big power center playing out of St. Andrew’s College, Devlin, fittingly, is a Cornell recruit. His game is tailored extremely well to play at that program, where he can transform into a high-end two-way center at the college level. Devlin’s most noticeable trait is the physicality he brings. He loves to throw his weight around, especially on the forecheck. This is extremely noticeable at the prep level and was a big part of his game at the Hlinka/Gretzky Cup, where he played a depth role for the U.S. Devlin is also a very capable net front presence, who has the hands to finish in tight or deflect pucks and he exhibits solid protection skills through traffic. For a big man, Devlin’s explosiveness is also quite good, allowing him to close quickly on loose pucks or surprise defenders with a quick burst to the net. His ability to sustain speed or move East/West is where further progression is required. From a skill standpoint, Devlin shows well as a pass first center who can keep plays alive along the wall and distribute well playing through the middle in transition. His ability to make skilled plays at full speed is not terrific and his shot is not NHL caliber at this time. The offensive upside here may be fairly limited. However, there is certainly some potential for him to develop into a net driving, defensively oriented, power center after three or four years in the Ivy conference. For those wondering, Devlin is the son of current Toronto Raptors broadcaster Matt Devlin.

Eli Sebastian

Center - St. Andrew’s College (CISAA)

5’11, 180lbs

Grades: Skating: 55, Shot: 50, Skills: 45, Smarts: 50, Physicality/Compete: 50

OFP: 49.75

https://www.mckeenshockey.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/03/eli_sebastian_-_1st_period_23_34_-_23_46.mp4

Notes: Patience will be key here. Sebastian does have a verbal commitment to Northeastern, however he is also set to play next year with Penticton of the BCHL before making the jump to the NCAA the year after. Sebastian is a fairly competitive two-way center who has quick feet and the mind set to push the pace and attack the net. His positioning and awareness in the defensive zone is a positive, and when combined with a pretty solid compete level, it makes him a strong defensive presence for St. Andrew’s. Sebastian can force turnovers and then use his quick and powerful stride to jet up ice in transition on the counterattack. The hands and creativity do not stand out in a majorly positive way, even at the prep level, as he can struggle to maintain possession through contact or to secure pucks at top speed. This could limit his offensive potential at the next level. As he gets stronger and matures physically, we may get a better indication of his offensive capabilities. Playing out of the BCHL next year, with a great program, should help us gain a better understanding of Sebastian’s pro potential. As such, he may not be a true draft candidate this year, but instead a player scouts opt to follow closely moving forward, to see if his game with the puck can take that next step.

Rieger Lorenz

Wing - Okotoks (AJHL)

6’2, 185lbs

Grades: Skating: 55, Shot: 55, Skills: 50, Smarts: 55, Physicality/Compete: 50

OFP: 53.25

https://www.mckeenshockey.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/03/rieger_lorenz_-_1st_period_24_0_-_24_17.mp4

Notes: Lorenz has had a terrific season with Okotoks of the AJHL, consistently finding himself in the top five of league scoring despite being a U18 player. While his production isn’t quite at the same level of recent high picks Dylan Holloway and Carter Savoie, it does compare favorably to other recent AJHL picks like Alex Young, Quinn Olson, and Brandon Biro (signed and not drafted), who are currently having or had a lot of success at the NCAA level. Without the World Junior A Challenge this year or a CJHL Top Prospect’s Game, scouts are left with only Lorenz’s AJHL play to assess him to this point (although he is a near shoe-in to be a member of Canada’s U18 team once that situation irons itself out). Lorenz’s skill and creativity may be fairly average, all things considered, but he does have an intriguing blend of size, quickness, and playmaking IQ. His straight-line speed is impressive, and he uses it really well to both, push pace without the puck, and apply pressure on the forecheck without it. He’s not an overtly physical player, but his engagement level is fairly solid and his work rate in the offensive end is very impressive. The consistency with which that work rate is applied in the defensive end is more inconsistent, but given his quickness, reach, and awareness, there is a chance that he could develop into a high-end defensive forward once his conditioning improves further. Equal parts playmaker and finisher, Lorenz works the half wall area in impressive fashion, sliding in and out of coverage to find lanes and to hunt down chances. A Denver commit (joining the aforementioned Carter Savoie), Lorenz’s physical tools will be very intriguing to NHL teams this year and it would be shocking to see him still on the board past the 50th pick.

Bowden Singleton

Wing - Okotoks (AJHL)

5’9, 154lbs

Grades: Skating: 55, Shot: 50, Skills: 55, Smarts: 50, Physicality/Compete: 40

OFP: 50.75

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Notes: It is worth noting that at one point early on in the AJHL season, Singleton was leading the AJHL in scoring. However, an ice cold second half has the North Dakota commit under the point per game rate and has led to him being a fairly large disappointment overall in his draft year. Coming into the 2022 draft season, he and Lorenz were viewed fairly similarly, and the expectation was that he could be a high pick. For what it’s worth, only one AJHL forward has ever been drafted into the NHL while averaging under a point per game (Austin Wong in 2018). As an undersized and underperforming player, the odds are against Singleton. Yet, because of his high-end offensive potential, Singleton will draw looks and interest. He is quick and shifty in the offensive zone, possessing the extra gear to create separation in transition. He quarterbacks the powerplay and shows good instincts and puck skill in that role, helping to move the puck. There are times where his shot shows well, with a quick release, and others where he struggles to get himself into scoring position and fumbles attempts/fails to capitalize on good chances. So what’s the disconnect? First and foremost, a lack of strength really hinders him, even at a tier 2 level. He can be easily knocked off stride and is largely limited to being a true complementary piece most of the time, especially once he’s inside the offensive zone. He’s also a fairly one-dimensional player currently and one who will need to increase his overall engagement level when the puck isn’t in the offensive zone. He could probably benefit from a year in the USHL next year before heading to North Dakota to help him bulk up and iron out inconsistencies.

Parker Murray

Wing - Oakville (OJHL)/Wenatchee (BCHL)

6’4, 225lbs

Grades: Skating: 50, Shot: 45, Skills: 50, Smarts: 50, Physicality/Compete: 55

OFP: 49.25

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Notes: Currently without an NCAA commitment, Parker Murray is a big power forward who clearly molds his game after his father Glen. He started the year with Oakville in the OJHL, but when Ontario went through another pandemic related shutdown, he had his rights transferred to Wenatchee in the BCHL. Murray’s scoring has come in bunches this year, both in the OJHL and the BCHL. Consistency has certainly been an issue for him in his first year at a higher level of play, but there are flashes that suggest he could have upside as a big, complementary goal scorer. He actually generates a fair amount of power with big, galloping strides and that makes him a real threat North/South. The agility and stability through pivots/cuts needs work, but he has the potential to be a quality mover given his massive frame. Murray also shows a nice goal scoring touch in tight and consistently finds his way to the net. He plays a physical game down low and generally keeps his feet moving in the offensive zone. However, there are currently some skill limitations. Firstly, the shot is mighty powerful, but his release is lumbering. He gets himself in good scoring position, but he needs to catch pucks cleaner and work to generate velocity without such a prolonged windup. This is a critical next step for him, especially if he wants to be a high-end goal scorer at the next level he plays at. Additionally, Murray struggles at times to receive passes cleanly at full speed or maintain possession through the neutral zone. Being able to blend his powerful stride with better puck control is another required next step. But there is a solid pedigree here and it’s clear that his game is very raw but does not lack upside. It wouldn’t shock me to see an NHL team toss a late round pick his way to secure his rights over what will be a very long development period. It will also be interesting to see what program eventually secures Murray’s rights (although he is also property of Chicago of the USHL and Portland of the WHL).

Cade Littler

Center - Wenatchee (BCHL)

6’3, 200lbs

Grades: Skating: 45, Shot: 50, Skills: 50, Smarts: 55, Physicality/Compete: 55

OFP: 50.75

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Notes: Playing for his father, Bliss Littler, with the Wenatchee Wild, Cade recently committed to Minnesota State University. Watching him, it’s obvious that he is the son of a highly respected coach, as his awareness, positioning, and vision are all major strengths. Littler dominates down low and in the cycle by keeping his feet moving and he has the vision and skill to set up plays by spinning off checks and escaping from the wall. He looks very comfortable working down low on the powerplay, showing a soft touch and a penchant for taking the puck to the net, using his size to shield it well. Littler also seems to anticipate the play well without the puck by working to get open looks from the slot to use his solid wrist shot. There really is a lot to like here about his game and the little ways that he can make an impact in a variety of situations. Unfortunately, the skating is holding him back at this current moment. He has a strong base and his ability to maintain possession through pivots is solid, however he often finds himself trailing the play and he makes little impact in the transition game. He has these long strides, but they generate very little power currently. His explosiveness and top end speed will need to be majorly upgraded in order for him to become a serious NHL prospect. However, he is also young for this draft (July birthdate) and has recently hit a growth spurt. As he fills out and builds strength, it is very possible that he could improve his skating and power. And if he is able to do that, he could actually be quite the find for a team because the size, IQ and, well rounded skill profile, do give him upside as a potential middle six, two-way player.

Tyson Dyck

Wing - Cranbrook (BCHL)

6’0, 170lbs

Grades: Skating: 50, Shot: 55, Skills: 55, Smarts: 50, Physicality/Compete: 45

OFP: 52

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Notes: The highest scoring ‘04 in the BCHL this season, Dyck is a quick strike goal scorer who has steadily improved over the course of the 2021/22 season. Dyck is like a waterbug in the offensive zone, weaving in and out of traffic to help create scoring chances. His hands are high end and he is able to blend skill and East/West movement well, stopping, starting, pivoting, and cutting, all on a dime, while maintaining possession. This makes him a difficult player to pin down. Dyck also shows very well as a potential goal scorer with a heavy wrist shot and a quick release that sees him convert on a lot of his chances from the slot. His awareness and effort in the offensive zone is also high without the puck. He is a tenacious forechecker and a player who never seems to give up on a play in the offensive zone. There is a real command to have the puck on his stick. That said, his game at the other end is quite non-existent, making him a fairly one-dimensional player at this current time. Increasing his overall physical intensity level will be a must moving forward, especially as someone who clearly wants to have the puck on his stick. Do not let the high penalty totals fool you, as the majority of these are undisciplined stick infractions from Dyck trying to reclaim the puck. Additionally, Dyck will need to upgrade his overall linear quickness to help him further gain separation at the next level. In a lot of ways, there are similarities in stride and skating strengths to former BCHL’er Ayrton Martino, with Dyck being more “shifty” than quick. One thing that has me somewhat perplexed is that Dyck has yet to commit to an NCAA program. Where he settles on going will be important for his development as he looks to round out his game. However, Dyck does have some standout qualities as an offensive player and his ceiling is high pending his physical attributes take a step forward.

Grayson Badger

Wing - Dexter Southfield (USHS-Prep)

6’0, 170lbs

Grades: Skating: 60, Shot: 50, Skills: 50, Smarts: 45, Physicality/Compete: 55

OFP: 52.25

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Notes: Sometimes it can be truly difficult to assess the skating ability of prep players, especially those at the upper echelon, because of how poor some of the lower end players are. However, in certain cases, like Scott Morrow last year, or Grayson Badger this year, you can see just how elite their skating qualities are. Watching Badger in the summer U17 Hlinka/Gretzky camp confirmed how quick he is, with the ability to compare him to other elite players. His top speed is extremely impressive, and he changes direction effortlessly, altering his path to help apply pressure or be first to pucks. Another admirable quality of Badger is his tenacity. While not consistently applied in every zone, he will drive the net, engage to help gain possession, and work hard to earn ice. Now comes the difficult part…for all of his physical tools, his skill application is currently described as inconsistent at best. There are times where he turns multiple defenders inside out to get a look in the slot. There are many others where his feet are moving too fast for his hands and maintaining possession becomes difficult for him. One hundred percent, the phrase “his hands need to catch up to his feet,'' applies perfectly here. Additionally, his understanding of spacing and how to play without the puck in the offensive zone needs refinement. There are times where he goes to occupy a lane already occupied in transition, providing little support to puck carriers, or others where he makes blind, forced passes to the slot with no teammate in sight. Is this a lack of experience playing with higher end players or a flaw in his conceptual understanding of the game? Either way, Badger is a player that I would be one hundred percent on board with my team taking a chance on at the draft. He is headed to a great program at Northeastern and his combination of quickness and tenaciousness could, at the very least, make him a capable energy guy after strong coaching and development. However, if the hands do catch up to the feet and his development path continues on a positive trajectory (from my understanding, he has already improved by leaps and bounds over the last two seasons), then an NHL team could have unearthed a diamond in the rough.

Michael Callow

Wing - St. Sebastian’s (USHS-Prep)

6’4, 194lbs

Grades: Skating: 50, Shot: 50, Skills: 50, Smarts: 50, Physicality/Compete: 55

OFP: 50.5

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Notes: A Harvard commit, Callow is a massive power winger who is still growing into his frame and learning how to use his size to his benefit in the offensive end. He moves well North/South for a bigger player, even incorporating linear crossovers well to help him gain inside leverage on defenders in transition. However, his four way agility and stability need to improve in order for him to be a consistent offensive contributor moving forward. This is especially noticeable as he attempts to shake defenders when working the wall. From what I understand, his skating has improved greatly already in the last calendar year, so perhaps there is even further growth potential. Callow’s overall offensive skill set does not truly stand out, with his scoring ability, hands, passing touch, and vision all grading out about average. He does drive the net well and shows potential as a goal scoring power forward with finishing ability in tight. However, the overall offensive upside may be somewhat limited. The physical components of his game do likely have great potential, however. Given his size, reach, and solid linear quickness, Callow shows well as a forechecker and as his conditioning improves further, he could develop into the type of player coaches can employ in an energy role, hoping to clear space and help secure retrievals to establish offensive zone possession. However, the consistency of his physical game is not yet sound. In all likelihood, NHL scouts will definitely be intrigued by his physical tools and potential.

Colin Kessler

Center - Culver Academy (USHS-Prep)

5’11, 170lbs

Grades: Skating: 45, Shot: 55, Skills: 50, Smarts: 55, Physicality/Compete: 50

OFP: 51.25

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Notes: There is a lot to like about this intelligent and versatile pivot. The offensive leader for Culver Military Academy, Kessler excels on and off the puck with a well-rounded skill set. While he is certainly a high-volume shooter, and one who possesses a powerful and quick wrist shot, he also has terrific scanning habits and vision and shows real promise as a playmaker. As his game evolves and he plays with better overall players, it is actually possible that the playmaking side of his game becomes his calling card. Kessler also shows well without the puck, engaged on the forecheck and the backcheck, looking to force turnovers and get his stick in passing lanes. The real downside here is a rather ugly stride. At the prep level, he finds success because of his awareness, and enough strength on the puck to play through contact. However, his wide base and short strides prevent him from really generating power quickly or being agile enough to prolong possession down low at the higher levels. The other real wild card here is that Kessler has yet to commit to an NCAA program. One has to wonder if he intends to play with Omaha in the USHL next year before making a decision on where to go. Another thing to consider, Kessler will need to improve his work on the draw. It’s not often you find such a dominant prep center hovering in that 30/40% rate every night. However, Kessler is the exact kind of pick certain organizations (who value analytics and possession metrics over physical tools) will be highly interested in. It is clear that he possesses a high-end mind for the game and his point per game average this year is among the highest in Culver school history (and they have had some good players come through that program). Get him with the right skating coach and development team and he could be a nice long-term play.

Ben MacDonald

Center - Noble & Greenough (USHS-Prep)

5’11, 165lbs

Grades: Skating: 50, Shot: 55, Skills: 50, Smarts: 50, Physicality/Compete: 45

OFP: 50.5

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Notes: While Noble & Greenough is not one of the most known prep programs in Massachusetts, it has produced NHL talent in recent years such as the Hayes brothers (Kevin & Jimmy) and Miles Wood. That said, finding quality video on MacDonald was pretty difficult, the most difficult of any player I am writing about for this feature. So the majority of this assessment comes from his performance at the U.S. Hlinka/Gretzky camp last summer. MacDonald’s highest marks come in the goal scoring department as a shoot first pivot. His release and scoring instincts stand out, and he has a real nose for the net that should make him successful eventually at the NCAA level (with a commitment to Harvard). At the Prep level, he looks engaged defensively and physically, competing in all three zones. At the Hlinka/Gretzky camp, that was not the case, and the opposite was true. The rest of his profile rounds out as fairly average. He can generate some power to create separation with linear crossovers, but his sustainable speed and overall power need improvement. Additionally, he is not the most dynamic or creative player with the puck, leading me to believe that his future might be on the wing given his goal scoring prowess and ability to work off the puck in the offensive zone. If an NHL team selects MacDonald, it will be on the back of his goal scoring potential and the hope that the rest of his game blossoms slowly as he takes that next step (possibly with Des Moines of the USHL next year before attending Harvard the following season).

Daimon Gardner

Center - Warroad High (USHS-MN)/Omaha (USHL)

6’4, 200lbs

Grades: Skating: 55, Shot: 50, Skills: 50, Smarts: 55, Physicality/Compete: 55

OFP: 52.75

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Notes: Big centers who skate the way that Gardner does, and who can impact the transition game the way that he does, do not grow on trees. Gardner builds up to a very solid top speed and will also incorporate confident edgework into his stride to allow him to alter direction and pace, giving his attacks variance. This speed makes him an excellent forechecker too. There is likely still room for his explosiveness to improve, allowing him to stop and start more efficiently, but for such a big, young man, the skating qualities are impressive. Gardner’s overall sense on the ice in all three zones is also impressive. He uses his length well in the defensive end and fully encapsulates and understands his defensive assignments from the center position. While he’s not an overtly physical player like you might expect him to be given his size advantage at the prep level, he does drive the net, compete hard for loose pucks/retrievals, and use his size well to shield the puck. As he continues to mature, I would expect the physical qualities of his game to end up grading out above average. The real question here is, how much skill and creativity does Gardner possess and what would his upside be as a player at the next level? His ability to blend skill plays with the puck with his skating power, and his ability to finish off plays, is best described as inconsistent. There are flashes of brilliance (even at the USHL level), and there are stretches where he looks better suited to being a support player (especially at the USHL level). However, skill can be improved, and he is going to be a long-term project as he has already deferred his ride to Clarkson until the following year to play with Chilliwack of the BCHL next season. Unquestionably, there is a potential payoff here to the team willing to be patient with his development curve.

Dylan Godbout

Wing - Hill-Murray (USHS-MN)

5’11, 185lbs

Grades: Skating: 50, Shot: 55, Skills: 50, Smarts: 50, Physicality/Compete: 45

OFP: 50.75

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Notes: Godbout is a talented goal scoring forward who has hovered around the goal per game mark for Hill-Murray, while serving as the team’s captain. His release and goal scoring instincts are major positives. He has a very powerful wrist shot that allows him to score from anywhere on the ice. Watching a collection of his goals from the past two seasons, he has popped a lot of water bottles. The rest of his game lags behind a bit. His top speed is decent, and it does allow him to excel in transition at the high school level, but the first few steps lack explosiveness in any direction, and I would be curious to see how that impacts his game as a goal scorer at the higher levels. Hopefully he gets in a few games with Sioux City (USHL) to close out the year to see how he would handle a pace increase. I also find Godbout to be fairly straight forward in his approach. He is not the type to wow you with immense one on one skill or an ability to consistently create for himself. His game is about the practical application of his goal scoring skill set; quick touches down low, dump and chase, working his way into the slot. I think there is also a lot of room for him to develop as a more complete player. Outside the offensive zone, he is not all that noticeable, and he is not a consistent physical presence, even in puck pursuit situations. What Godbout is, potentially, is a high-end complementary goal scorer who may take some time to hit his true potential due to some current skating limitations. He will head to the University of Wisconsin and certainly has a chance to be a big part of that program there.

Cameron O’Neill

Wing - Mount St. Charles Academy (USHS

6’1, 194lbs

Grades: Skating: 55, Shot: 50, Skills: 50, Smarts: 50, Physicality/Compete: 50

OFP: 51.25

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Notes: O’Neill is a pesky, goal scoring winger with a commitment to play at UMass. It is likely, however, that he plays in the USHL next year (Tri-City holds his rights), before joining the Minutemen. A Maryland native, O’Neill plays an up-tempo, high-energy game in the offensive end as he looks to use his size and speed combination to force turnovers, secure pucks, crash the net, and generally be a pain in the arse to play against. He shows a nice finishing touch in the slot and near the crease and has good enough hands to play a scoring line role at the NCAA level (at the very least) at some point. O’Neill can struggle to maintain possession at full speed when he leads the charge, with his application of skill and problem solving being more noticeable when he’s trying to escape traffic along the wall or work his way into the middle. While he is generally extremely energetic in the offensive end, that same tenacity is not evenly or consistently applied in the defensive end. This is an issue for many prep players, however, and given how he likes to play, it is reasonable to suggest that as he matures, improves conditioning, and gains confidence, he could develop into a very solid two-way winger. At the U.S. Hlinka/Gretzky camp he played some center, but largely plays the wing for Mount St. Charles and that would be the fit for him moving forward given his strengths are best suited to off the puck play. With some size, potential to develop into a high-level skater, and traits that could make him a solid complementary goal scorer, it is very conceivable that an NHL team could call O’Neill’s name this July. It would be the second consecutive year that Mount St. Charles would have an NHL draft pick after Owen McLaughlin and Nate Benoit were taken in the seventh round and sixth round, respectively, last year.

A note on the 20-80 scale used above. We look at five attributes (skating, shooting, puck skills, hockey IQ and physicality) for skaters and six for goalies (athleticism/quickness, compete/temperament, vision/play reading, technique/style, rebound control and puck handling). Each individual attribute is graded along the 20-80 scales, which includes half-grades. The idea is that a projection of 50 in a given attribute meant that our observer believed that the player could get to roughly NHL average at that attribute at maturity.

Zam Plante – McKeen's Hockey

MCKEEN’S 2024 NHL PROSPECT REPORT – #23 Pittsburgh Penguins – Organization Overview – Top 15 Prospects

1. Brayden Yager, C, Moose Jaw Warriors (WHL)

2. Ville Koivunen, LW, Karpat (Liiga)

3. Joel Blomqvist, G, Wilkes-Barre/Scranton Penguins (AHL)

4. Owen Pickering, D, Swift Current Broncos (WHL)

5. Vasily Ponomarev, C, Wilkes-Barre/Scranton Penguins (AHL)

6. Samuel Poulin, C, Wilkes-Barre/Scranton Penguins (AHL)

7. Tristan Broz, C, Wilkes-Barre/Scranton Penguins (AHL)

8. Cruz Lucius, RW, University of Wisconsin (NCAA)

9. Mikhail Ilyin, LW, Severstal Cherepovets (KHL)

10. Filip Hallander, LW, Timra IK (SHL)

NHL PROSPECTS/2024 NHL DRAFT: BELL – 20 Prospect Points – CHL/NCAA agreement, Michkov, Celebrini, Iginla and more

Drafted Prospects

Draft-Eligible Prospects

MCKEEN’S 2023-24 NHL YEARBOOK – PITTSBURGH PENGUINS – Top 20 Prospect Profiles – Organizational Rank #31

1. Owen Pickering

2. Brayden Yager

3. Samuel Poulin

4. Valterri Puustinen

5. Filip Hallander

6. Joel Blomqvist

7. Tristan Broz

8. Filip Lindberg

9. Emil Pieniniemi

10. Jonathan Gruden

11. Emil Jarventie

12. Sergey Murashov

13. Taylor Gauthier

14. Raivis Ansons

15. Lukas Svejkovsky

16. Isaac Belliveau

17. Corey Andonovski

18. Zam Plante

19. Chase Yoder

20. Ty Glover

MCKEEN’S 2023 NHL PROSPECT REPORT – #31 – Pittsburgh Penguins

Prospect System Ranking – 31st

2. Samuel Poulin

6. Filip Lindberg

MCKEEN’S 2022-23 NHL YEARBOOK – PITTSBURGH PENGUINS – Top 20 Prospects

2022 NHL DRAFT REVIEW: EASTERN DIVISION – SCOUT’S FAVOURITES

Brock Otten’s Favourite Selections

Reid Dyck (BOS, #183)

Jake Richard (BUF, #170)

Denton Mateychuk (CBJ, #12)

Lane Hutson (MTL, #62)

Calle Odelius (NYI, #65)

Adam Sykora (NYR, #63)

Zam Plante (PIT, #150)

Connor Kurth (TBL, #192)

Nic Moldenhauer (TOR, #95)

Ivan Miroshnichenko (WSH, #20)

Will Scouch’s Favourite Selections

Vladimir Grudinin (CAR, #156)

Adam Sykora (NYR, #63)

Jiri Kulich (BUF, #28)

Gleb Trikozov (CAR, #60)

Lane Hutson (MTL, #62)

Filip Mesar (MTL, #26)

Noah Ostlund (BUF, #16)

Denton Mateychuk (CBJ, #12)

Ivan Miroshnichenko (WSH, #20)

Alexander Suzdalev (WSH, #70)

Sam McGilligan’s Favourite Selections

1: Ivan Miroshnichenko (WSH, #20)

2: Gleb Trikozov (CAR, #60)

3: Noah Östlund (BUF, #16)

4: Calle Odelius (NYI, #65)

5: Lane Hutson (MTL, #62)

6: Seamus Casey (NJ, #46)

7: Vladimir Grudinin (CAR, #156)

8: Isaac Howard (TB, #31)

9: Devin Kaplan (PHI, #69)

10: David Jiricek (CBJ, #6)

2022 NHL DRAFT: TIER 2 LEAGUES (USHS, CJHL, ETC.) TOP PROSPECTS – Part Two – Forwards

Zam Plante

Brennan Ali

Luke Devlin

Eli Sebastian

Prospect System Ranking – 31^st