ECHL: Saddling Up In Sin City

The Las Vegas Wranglers currently sit in first place of the ECHL's Pacific division and hold the best record in the National conference. With a guaranteed playoff spot, the Wranglers are hoping to carry their momentum into the postseason. McKeen's correspondent Kevin Hopson looks at two Calgary Flames prospects, Ryan Donally and Aki Seitsonen, who have contributed to the Wranglers' success this season.

Ryan Donally (Cgy), LW, Las Vegas Wranglers

The Flames third round (97th overall) pick in the 2003 draft .. Donally is not the type of player who will dazzle you but he is a guy who will do all of the little things for the team .. this is evident before you even watch him play, as he proudly wears an "A" for the Wranglers .. currently leads the team in penalty minutes (148) .. his blue-collar mentality allows him to work effectively in all three zones and be productive on special teams (both the PP and PK) .. takes advantage of his hefty frame (6-4, 230) by blocking shots, finishing his checks and scuffling along the boards .. backchecks with consistency and can be called upon to win faceoffs .. despite his lack of agility, Donally can be a strong skater when he hits full stride .. in summary, a solid two-way player who brings grit and heart to the game .. has third or fourth-line potential in the NHL. Stats: (44-14-18-32, 148 PIM)

Aki Seitsonen (Cgy), C, Las Vegas Wranglers

The Flames fourth round (118th overall) pick in the 2004 draft .. Seitsonen is a well built (6-3, 205) pivot with playmaking abilities .. he sees the ice well and is capable of delivering a quality pass .. possesses swift feet and can pursue the puck in both ends, which is why he sees regular time on the PK .. can be nifty with the puck, as he owns an active stick .. shows the ability to go 1-on-1 with defenders and plow his way through traffic .. excels in the open ice because of his skating ability and puckhandling skills .. however, for a player of his skill set, he should be more productive in the offensive end .. Seitsonen's inability to put up great numbers is likely capping his climb to the AHL/NHL. Stats: (59-11-17-28, 12 PIM)