OHL: Bass In Sync

McKeen's contributor David Burstyn feels that Cody Bass could be an ideal multi-purpose forward for Canada's 2006 World Junior selects team in succession of the likes of Clarke McArthur and Colin Fraser. Read on for his notes on Bass, Nick Foligno and 2006 draft-eligible centermen Ryan McDonough and Dustin Jeffrey.

Ryan McDonough (2006) C, Sudbury

Shifty, quick feet, good first step .. strong lower body, good centre of gravity and is tough to knock off the puck .. a budding faceoff specialist; amazingly strong reach for his size and age .. excellent release on the wrist shot .. does not shy away from physical aspects .. shuffled on different lines much of this season, though partly due to his versatility as a scorer and checker.

Cody Bass (2005) C, Mississauga

Plays all 200 feet of the ice .. first man on the forecheck and the backcheck .. fluid skater generates impressive speed .. intelligent and knows his way around positionally .. solid faceoff man; wins critical draws .. quick, crisp wrist shot .. bullish and shows a mean streak in traffic situations .. endless energy; competes on every shift.

Nick Foligno (2006) C, Sudbury

Big, strong kid .. above-average skater with acceptable speed and quickness .. vision and decision-making skills are not strong suits; he has to keep his head up out there .. not a natural centre and struggles with faceoffs .. does not show a consistent work ethic; will pursue the puck when it is in close distance but does not show enough fighting spirit on the forecheck .. passing skills lack crispness and accuracy .. frequently took ill-advised penalties; needs to develop a cooler head and avoid retaliation.

Dustin Jeffrey (2006) C, Mississauga

Leading rookie scorer for the 'Dogs .. strong on his skates .. effortless skating stride and generates good speed .. soft hands with a quick shot release .. savvy and patient with the puck; took the time to find the man with an accurate pass .. good two-way upside but needs to work on finishing his checks .. could take over as an offensive force when O'Sullivan departs.