USA Select 17: Graham Crackers

In our continuing look at Team Teal we begin our review of their forwards highlighted by Michigan's Derek Graham who is eligible for the 2006 NHL Entry Draft. We also have notes on Andrew Vega of Washington, Daniel Nelson of Illinois and Paul Weisgarber of North Dakota.

Andrew Vega (2006), F

Had 14 points (6-8-14) in 52 games for the Spokane Braves last season .. gets in quickly on the forecheck .. could it possibly be nerves that is throwing his timing off a bit as proven by his passes that go in player's skates, missed attempts at taking the body and even fanning on the odd shot .. doesn't take the body with much authority .. his game started to round in to form later proving that he can use his 5'11"-165lbs. frame to good use as he he showed collecting two hard hits on a forecheck during the same shift .. wore #8 .. USA Select 17 totals (6, 1-3-4-2).

Daniel Nelson (2006), F

Chipped in with 57 points (22-35-57) in 71 games for the Chicago Chill .. can look a tad lost in his own zone at times .. seemed to be played at left wing most of the tourney .. blessed with a hard wrist shot .. not hesitant to shoot even when passing might be the better play, however his vision is generally pretty good .. displays solid puck pursuit, especially while on the PK .. wore #9 .. USA Select 17 totals (6, 1-1-2-2).

Paul Weisgarber (2006), F

Racked up 35 points (14-21-35) in 18 games for Fargo South High School .. hard worker and displays solid defensive awareness .. not a heavy hitter (unless near the wall) when he is taking his opponent out, although he does finish his checks .. must build up his strength overall as well as simply getting stronger on his skates .. wore #10 .. USA Select 17 totals (6, 1-1-2-0).

Derek Graham (2006), F

Scored 42 points (15-27-42) in 47 games for Northwood School .. at 5'9"-150lbs., he needs to get bigger and stronger in order to compete physically .. doesn't look overly interested in taking a hit to make a play .. can be a bit of a spectator in his own zone and without the puck .. rarely finishes his checks with any oomph behind them .. can pick the corners with time and space .. mediocre prospect at this stage of his development .. wore #11 .. USA Select 17 totals (6, 1-4-5-0).