QMJHL Report: Victoriaville Tigres

The Victoriaville Tigres have set the table for the team to have a very impressive 2011-2012 season and, with the return of several veterans, a few good trades and some solid European scouting, they're a team that can contend for the Presidents Cup. McKeen's looks at three prospects eligible for the 2012 NHL Entry Draft.

Petr Sidlik (2012), D, Victoriaville

With the fifth overall pick in 2011 CHL Import draft, the Tigres selected Czech Petr Sidlik .. at 5-foot-11 and 179 pounds, Sidlik may be the teams most reliable defenseman at this point of the season .. a fluid and very mobile skater .. uses a very effective wristshot from the point that has a lot of movement to it .. solid passer, he's quick to spot open teammates .. protects the puck well .. very smart player, he always seems to make the best decision even when pressured .. he's used in all situations by the coaching staff and has excelled playing a lot of minutes .. does not initiate contact but does not avoid it either .. very aware of his defensive responsibilities .. has the ability to quickly process where opponents are in the defensive zone and able to react accordingly .. has the tools to supply more offence but will not sacrifice defence to do so .. adaptation to the North American game has gone smoothly.

Carl-Antoine Delisle (2012), C, Victoriaville

An 8th round draft pick in 2010, the of 5-foot-10, 164-pound centre is a hard-nosed player who isn't intimidated by anyone .. will drop the gloves if need be even if he is at a disadvantage size-wise .. average skater who doesn't have great speed .. has the ability to anticpate opponents' intentions allowing him be effective on the forecheck .. has decent hands and can score the odd goal, but his role with Victoriaville does not allow him to display too much of his offensive skills .. one aspect of his game that needs to improve is his play in the faceoff circle .. currently, he doesn't win enough faceoffs to be able to really play a shutdown role .. will also need to get bigger or he runs the risk of running out of gas as the season progresses.

Philippe Halley (2012), LW, Victoriaville

Joined Victoriaville during the off-season from Gatineau to complete the Phillipe-Michael Devos trade .. very quick skater who's constantly moving his feet .. very shifty, he can make things difficutlt for opposing defensemen who are trying to contain him .. very dangerous near the opposing net, as he always seems open .. doesn't always bury his scoring chances, as he tends to to rush his shots a little .. he does possess quick hands and handles the puck reasonably well .. not a great passer, so he needs to be matched up with a solid puck distributor to be able to fully use his skills.. sees time on the PK due to his quickness and willingness to block shots .. already has two shorthanded goals this season .. not overly physical, but very solid work ethic.