OHL Priority Selection: Kitchener Rangers

The Kitchener Rangers added several key players that could make an immediate impact in the league as rookies. Their first round selection, Matia Marcantuoni, fell onto their laps at 18th overall and third round pick Jacob Trouba, who is committed to the USNTDP could be a very dominant player should he decide to report in two years. The addition of Evan McEneny was a safe pick that gives them depth on the backend. Mckeen's Director of Scouting, David, Burstyn, profiles these three prospects.

Matia Marcantuoni (2012), W/C, Kitchener

Marcantuoni was originally pegged as a top-three pick, however his play laboured in the second half as he was too inconsistent. There were rumblings that he would explore the school route but in all likelihood he should play in the OHL next season. Marcantuoni's game is based on speed and his ability to execute moves at high rates of speed. He has multiple levels of acceleration and can explode past a defender in an instant. His shot is good but not overly accurate and too often, he would squander a good chance by blowing shots in goalies pads. He has the ability to take over a game but appears content to fade into the scenery. He needs time and space to operate and to manufacture his speed, as players realized this and started to play him much closer, which affected his game drastically. Marcantuoni was the MVP of the Whitby Silver Stick and performed well in his brief two game call-up with the Buzzers scoring two goals. He has the potential to be a high scoring, playmaking centre but he could also be a bust.

Evan McEneny (2012), D, Kitchener

McEneny played on one of the best teams in the SCTA - the Hamilton Jr. Bulldogs. He was their No. 1 defenseman and played in all situations. Known more for his offensive acumen, he was comfortable logging the puck up the ice and has a good shot from the point. Defensively is where he struggles, as he has poor lateral movement and appears to be carrying too much weight. He had a difficult time with his stop and starts and was not able to read the changes in the play. He did not seem to learn from his mistakes, which could also be a reflection on team coaching. McEneny will learn under the watchful eye of coach Spot and should be able to make adjustments in terms of reading the ice, however he will need to work on his overall speed and agility to reach the next level. His poor OHL Cup likely dropped his draft stock but he has the capacity to be an OHL regular.

Jacob Trouba (2012), D, Kitchener

The Rangers took a flier on Trouba who is already committed to the US National team. He would have easily been a top-three pick had he stated he wanted to play in the OHL. His play mirrors that of a young Bogosian, as he can do everything extremely well and has a physical dimension to his game. He hits to hurt and hits often. Players usually do not dump it into his corner nor do they try to challenge him one-on-one. To round out his skill set, his feet are exceptional, as are his puck skills. He is capable of architecting a play or making a brilliant first pass. His also possesses a howitzer of a pointshot and uses it often. Trouba was able to impose his will whenever he wanted this season, luxuries he won't have next year so he will need to be more decisive in his offensive reads and make adjustments. However, he has the potential to become an NHLer in two seasons.