NHL Draft: OHL Prospects Review Part 5

In the final instalment of our five-part series, McKeen's reviews the OHL players that were selected in the sixth and seventh rounds at the NHL Entry Draft including: Anthony Peluso, Brett Bellemore, Dustin Jeffrey, Zack Torquato, Justin Taylor, Corey Syvret and Josh Kidd.

Anthony Peluso (StL), D, - 160th Overall

The Blues acquire toughness, as Peluso is one of the best fighters in the OHL. At 6-foot-4 and 230 pounds, he was one of the bigger players available for this year's draft. Peluso had a serious knee injury to start the season and it really affected his overall mobility and speed. Originally drafted in the first round of the OHL draft as a left-winger, he was moved to defence to start his second season. Peluso yielded better results at this position, as he was able to contain players along the boards and instil fear into the opposition. He willingly sticks up for his teammates, a trait that has made him endearing to his team and Erie Otter fans. While it is doubtful that Peluso will see a rise in his offensive totals, he should be able to perform better if his knee is completely rehabilitated.

Brett Bellemore (Car), D, - 162nd Overall

Bellemore might be the only player drafted this year that did not score a goal in two seasons of junior. The former 12th round selection of the Whalers was overlooked last season when he played 46 games and registered a paltry minus-8. This season was completely different, as the landscape of the team changed dramatically allowing Bellemore to lead the OHL with a plus-48 rating. His defensive awareness and ability to keep his game simple were his best assets. Bellemore has very limited puck skills and virtually no offensive imagination however, he is intelligent and plays within his limitations. At 6-foot-4, he has a large wingspan and can keep up with most forwards. Bellemore is a complimentary player who could work his way up to the pro ranks if he makes upgrades to his speed.

Dustin Jeffrey (Pit), C, - 171st Overall

Yet another player who was passed over in last year's draft. The Penguins were attracted to his unique blend of size and scoring ability. Jeffrey worked diligently in the off-season to add muscle to his 6-foot-1 frame and successfully managed to add 25 pounds. The added strength helped him around the goal where he scored 32 goals and registered 92 points. Jeffrey was at his best in the playoffs where his bulldozer-like approach was most effective. He posted 18 points in 13 games. Despite Jeffrey's obvious skating flaws and lack of speed and agility, he put up the points and was a dangerous player down low. If Jeffrey can play with faster, skilled players that can get him the puck than he might have a chance in the pros. His skating will hold him back however, to his credit, he did come prepared to work this season when he could have packed it in after not being drafted last year. Such character and heart can never be overlooked.

Zack Torquato (Det), C, - 178th Overall

Torquato's stock dropped considerably in the draft after posting good numbers in the OHL for the past two seasons. Off-ice issues may have contributed to his dip in the rankings however, his skill set is impressive. Torquato possesses above average vision and hockey sense. His skating is slightly flawed and that may have been a reason he was not a hot commodity on draft day. Torquato dealt with his a share of firsts this season, including being traded and experiencing concussion problems that unfortunately kept him out of the Prospects Game. After some hesitation, Torquato reported to Erie, the team that acquired his rights after shipping Ryan O'Marra to Saginaw and was immediately named assistant captain. The letter should help Torquato mature as a player, something he desperately needs. He formed good chemistry with his new teammates and produced at over a point-per-game with his new team. Torquato should be the foundation of an improving Erie team however, he will need to distinguish himself to break into the pro ranks, as his game is rather ordinary.

Justin Taylor (Wsh), LW, - 180th Overall

The third London Knight to be drafted, Taylor started the season with the Wellington Dukes of the OPJHL, as he was originally planning on attending school and exploring the NCAA route. However, when his rights were traded midseason to the Knights, he immediately reconsidered to play for his hometown team. An original member of the London Jr. Knights minor hockey system, he captained the team that subsequently lost to the Toronto Marlboros in the OHL Cup. Taylor is a highly intelligent and versatile player. Upon his arrival, he was inserted between Patrick Kane and Sam Gagner and saw his point production flourish as a result. Taylor lacks overall strength but has a modest frame from which to work with. Taylor established himself as a clutch performer in the playoffs when he finally adjusted to the speed of the league and his strong play in all three zones allowed him to receive valuable icetime in key situations. The added responsibility helped his overall game and confidence. Taylor should easily eclipse his point production from last year. He passed the first test, which is being drafted however, there are many more hurdles for him to jump before he reaches the pro game.

Corey Syvret (Fla), D, - 181st Overall

In what was supposed to be the perfect story line for Corey Syvret, never came to fruition. Expectations may have been a little too high for the younger Syvret, after his older brother managed to leave a legacy in London, captaining the Knights to their first Memorial Cup victory. He joined the Knights the previous season and when patience from both management and the unforgiving fans ran out, it became too much of a distraction for him. Syvret was eventually traded in his second season to division rival, the Guelph Storm. Syvret was able to concentrate on his game and as a result felt more comfortable and less pressured into making a mistake. He took a few games to be adjusted to coach Dave Barr's system but once he did, he found some offensive jam, a dimension that was virtually non-existent during his time in London. He scored more in a late three-game February stretch than he did in 90-plus games for the Knights. It is amazing what confidence can do for a player, as his puck decisions and reaction time improved tremendously. Considered a long shot to be drafted, he defied the odds much like his brother did before him, now he must continue to build on his success and show more consistency in his game.

Josh Kidd (LA), D, - 184th Overall

The fourth player to be drafted out of Erie, the 6-foot-5 captain provided stability and offensive support on the backend. A late birth date allowed the North Bay native to work on his game and to be adjusted to his coordination. Kidd is not flashy and does not excel in any particular area. He made improvements but still would benefit greatly from a coach that would work individually with him and teach him the mechanics of defensive zone coverage and closing off the gap. For his imposing size, he surprisingly lets players get around him. He shows some confidence with the puck in his forays up ice but all too often he hangs back, as not to expose his limited foot and overall speed should he get caught up ice. He shows a healthy nasty side but if he can prove to the opposition that he will punish them every time they attack his side, he may be able to establish a reputation for himself, thus improving his chances of turning pro.