OHL Priority Selection: Kingston Frontenacs

The Kingston Frontenacs kept it in the family with the pick of Alex Gudbranson, who also plays defence. Nathan Cull, their second round pick was a top scorer for Thunder Bay and they took a stab at Robert Polesselo in the fifth round, a player who is committed to BU, but a first round talent. McKeen's Director of Scouting David Burstyn, profiles these players.

Alex Gudbranson (2012), D, Kingston

A chip off the old block, Alex is not as developed as his older brother was at this stage, but exhibits a solid package of physical toughness and maturing offensive skills. He did not follow up a strong first half with a second one. He started the year as a very dominant force but appeared to lose some confidence much like his teammates did toward the end of the year. The Ottawa Jr. 67's also had a poor OHL Cup showing. Nonetheless, Gudbranson is a capable defender whose size and athleticism will serve him well at the OHL level. He will need to improve on his decision making with the puck, however learning from his older brother who is a projected NHL first round selection will benefit his game.

Nathan Cull (2012), RW, Kingston

Cull had a successful season scoring 63 points in 32 games as a member of the Thunder Bay Kings. He was the team's most successful offensive option, as he has quick hands and is equally adept at passing as he is shooting. Cull needs to pay the price more to score goals. At times, he was far too tentative in traffic and shied away when he saw a hit coming. However, he can manufacture offence and if partnered with the right set of linemates, he may be able to flourish at the OHL level.

Robert Polesello (2012), C, Kingston

Polesello had a commitment to BU to start the season, which prevented him from being selected in the first round. His game mirrors that of a young Justin Azevedo, however he is equipped with more speed. He scored 112 points and was the offensive catalyst for a Toronto Jr. Canadiens team that over achieved in the playoffs pushing the Toronto Young Nats to eight games in the GTHL finals. Sadly, he was kicked out of the final in the first minute of the game and was never able to help his team capture a GTHL Championship. Polesello is dynamic in every sense when he has the puck in his possession. Although undersized (5'6, 150), he rarely gets knocked off the puck and attacks the offensive zone vigorously. He is an absolute magician with the puck, as he can stickhandle in the rain without getting the puck wet. In close, his finishing skills are elite, as he can place a shot past a goalie and also shows patience in making a goalie commit first. Polesello should dominate Tier II for the next couple of seasons, however he may still not rule out the OHL, as the Frontenacs were able to convince Werek to join their club after he had a verbal to BU.