OHL Priority Selection: Brampton Battalion

The Brampton Battalion, like many teams took advantage of a surplus of defensemen electing to grab two with their first two picks. Marcus McIvor and Dylan Blujus give the Battalion two defenders who are over 6-foot-2 and bring offence while keeping the puck out of their net. Matt Lane and Cody Bradley are two undersized players but bring unique skill sets to the table. Mckeen's Director of Scouting David Burstyn, profiles these players.

Marcus McIvor (2012), D, Brampton

McIvor has played two years of minor midget after suiting up for his home centre Whitby as an underager. McIvor is an elite defenseman who is smooth in all directions and handles the puck very well. At times, he did not push the offensive side of his game as much as he should but in his defence, he was never caught out of position either. He did a good job of curbing his penchants for going deep into the offensive zone and accomplishing very little. McIvor has the innate ability to slow down a game to his pace. His calmness in the puck opens up seams and he can connect with an accurate pass. McIvor should be able to step in and be an immediate contributor.

Dylan Blujus (2012), D, Brampton

The pick of Blujus is a projection one, as he will need plenty of time to develop. He is very raw in all areas of his game but has the frame and coordination to be an effective defender once he puts it all together. He needs to add weight to his 6-foot-3 frame and once he does he should be able to dictate the physical side of the play. His puckhandling skills are average but he is a good decision maker and does not panic with the puck. Blujus may be able to develop along the same lines as Brandon Archibald.

Matt Lane (2012), C, Brampton

Lane was the best player on his team in the second half of the season. He has a verbal commitment to the USNTDP but may join the Battalion as his older brother Phil plays for Brampton. Lane is small in stature but has sensational offensive instincts, as his positioning is strong. He always appears to be at the right place at the right time to bang home a rebound. He has good speed to create his own chances but he is a lurk-in-the-weeds-type-of-player who doesn't need a second chance to finish.

Cody Bradley (2012), LW, Brampton

The son of former NHLer Brain Bradley is a highly intelligent and competitive player. He was instrumental in his team (Toronto Jr. Canadiens) to get within a win of the GTHL championship. He played in all situations and was not intimidated when challenged physically. Despite standing only 5-foot-8 and weighing a slight 140 pounds, he did an excellent job of staying in plays, but thinking one and in some cases two steps ahead of the opposition. He has quick hands and makes faster passes. Bradley plays well in tight situations, as he can squeeze away from coverage to make a play. Bradley needs a season in Tier II to adjust to a faster, stronger game to aid in his development.