OHL Priority Selection: Oshawa Generals

The Oshawa Generals addressed some scoring needs with the addition of Scott Laughton with the third overall pick. The captain of the Toronto Marlboros oozes character and possesses a scoring punch. Adding the likes of Joshua Brown and Mitch Eden gives them depth on the backend. The Generals had three third round selections and took a flier on Cody Payne, a player who is committed to the USNDTP. McKeen's Director of scouting, David Burstyn, has notes on each of the four players.

Scott Laughton (2012), C, Oshawa

Laughton is the type of player the opposition will hate playing against. He has a competitive desire that is unrivalled by his peers, as he simply hates to lose. Laughton is dangerous when he is within the goal crease, as he is ultra creative and patient to make a play. Whether it be executing a pass or taking a shot he can beat a team in a multitude of ways. He has great puck skills and unbelievable composure with the puck. Laughton has a wiry frame but is sensational and strong in all areas of the ice. He is at his best when he is driving hard to the net and competing for loose pucks, however there were times this year that he simply seemed unmotivated. Laughton has tremendous character and leads by example with his play on the ice. He should have an opportunity to produce immediately if he can jump into a top-six spot and play with the likes of Jenner.

Joshua Brown (2012), D, Oshawa

Brown has a great set of tools to be a very successful player at the OHL. At 6-foot-4 and 170 pounds, he could possibly grow another two inches and will undoubtedly fill out. He does everything you could ask or want from a defensive defenseman including blocking shots, taking away passing lanes, and clearing the crease. Brown matured nicely on the London Jr. Knights backend and developed a reputation as being a reliable option for coach Caldarozzi in all situations. Brown has good mobility and has an active stick. His positioning in the defensive zone and ability to play within his skill level will make him a successful four-year player in the OHL. Brown needs to be tougher and improve his puck skills.

Cody Payne (2012), Oshawa

Payne is a dual citizen and took advantage of an opportunity to play for the U17 National Program. Payne has the appearance of a player, but he does not always assert himself and appears content to fade into the scenery. He is highly developed physically but is far too passive to be considered a power forward. Payne posted respectable numbers averaging slightly over a point a game. Payne excels in the offensive zone where he can take advantage of his shot and use his size to win board battles. He can disappear for long periods at a time and shows very little commitment in the defensive zone. Payne had an average post-season, but once again failed to showcase his power game.

Mitch Eden (2013), D, Oshawa

The captain of his North Central Predators team, Eden is a riverboat gambler who plays the game as a fourth forward. He is a bow legged skater but garners decent speed coming down the wing within a few strides. Eden completely ignores his defensive duties in favour for offence. He prefers to rush the puck as opposed to making a first pass and tends to panic under pressure. Eden will need to change his game at the OHL, as his time and space will be eliminated, however should he gain some confidence in the early stages of his junior career, he could become a very formidable player.