Whos Hot/Whos Not - October
Czech Mates
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Six - count 'em - six Czech-born players have cracked our October Top 20, led
by Vitkovice phenom Rostislav
Olesz, who moves up to second spot overall this month. Olesz is the
complete package - a universal player with size, grit, skill and speed. He not
only possesses elite puckhandling and passing skills, but is also a physical
and responsible defensive player. A sure-fire NHL star in the making.
Next on the Czech countdown is intriguing goaltender Marek
Schwarz, a gifted stopper with super-human flexibility and reflexes,
and a 'bar-the-door' aura reminiscent of countryman Dominik Hasek. Schwarz is
followed closely by smooth, 6-foot-3 rearguard Ladislav
Smid, whose poise and smart puckmoving talents have drawn raves over
the past few seasons.
Powerful Litvinov winger Lukas
Kaspar moves up to the number 14 spot. Kaspar is an intelligent and
creative goal-scorer with terrific finishing skills, and notched 14 goals in
his first eight junior league games to earn a promotion to the ExtraLeague.
Right behind Kaspar is the superbly-talented Jakub
Sindel. A product of Sparta Praha, Sindel has shown that he can score
goals with the best of them at the junior level, however, must add muscle to
a slender six-foot frame, as his effectiveness dips noticeably against bigger,
stronger defenses.
And finally there's Gatineau import Petr
Pohl, a dynamic offensive force who has earned superlative reviews from
every one of our QMJHL scouts. The fourth-overall pick in the CHL Import Draft,
Pohl is a shifty and creative puckhandler capable of making snap decisions at
top speed, and easily navigates heavy traffic despite being just 5-foot-11 and
185 pounds.
Robbie Schremp - Knight in Shining Armour
Big news out of last week was the trade of budding superstar Robbie
Schremp out of Mississauga to the London Knights. Schremp, who left
the team after accumulating six points in three games, now faces a stacked lineup
in London that includes the talents of the likes of Corey
Perry, Ivan
Khomutov and Vadim
Karaga.
The move should not cause a significant blow to his draft stock. Although the
trade request was befuddling to most, Schremp will be surrounded with skill
on his new team and could eclipse the century mark in points this season.
Despite varying rumours regarding Schremp's decision to leave, it appears that
Robbie may not have been the one to make the call. According to a source close
to the London Knights, neither Schremp's agent Scott Norton nor Robbie's parents
were happy with Robbie playing in Mississauga. Conversely, there was no indication
of any unhappiness on the part of Schremp in Mississauga.
In other words, do not expect Bobby Clarke and the Philadelphia Flyers to trade
up and draft this kid in June.
Schremp and Dave
Bolland will be the Knights' two top hopefuls for the 2004 NHL draft
in June. Bolland, a 17-year old former first-round OHL pick has shown good offensive
abilities so far this season (six goals through October 16), but the Knights'
top-line depth will keep his minutes down. Otherwise, the hard-working physical
player will be a two-way force once he physically matures and currently projects
to go in the first three rounds of the draft.
Wisconsin Stacked
The NHL scouting fraternity will be flocking to Wisconsin in droves this season.
The Badgers' freshman class is the talk of the early collegiate campaign, led
by 2003 first-rounder Ryan
Suter, selected seventh overall by the Nashville Predators in June.
Joining Suter on Wisconsin's revamped blueline will be U.S. National Team Development
Program (NTDP) standout Jeff
Likens, aptly described by European correspondent Rob Neuhauser as 'a
spirited and belligerent defenseman who gives 100 percent every shift'. Likens
is a talented all-around skater, equally adept at playing in either end of the
rink. An excellent passer, he possesses impressive smarts and puck skills, and
makes up for his lack of size by being in the right position and taking the
proper angles.
Badgers' head coach Mike Eaves is more concerned, however, with improving an
offense that scored the second fewest goals in the WCHA last season. According
to NCAA correspondent Rich Dillon, the most impressive newcomer up front so
far has been former Saskatchewan junior star Andrew
Joudrey, an eighth-round gem of the Washington Capitals this summer.
Joudrey is joined by a pair of intriguing NTDP products in Robbie
Earl and Jacob
Dowell, both eligible for next summer's draft. Earl is blessed with
great wheels and a nose for the net, while Dowell is a gritty, hard-working
pivot who offers a solid two-way game as well as top-notch faceoff abilities.
However, the top forward prospect out west is North Dakota freshman center
Stafford, a well-constructed powerhouse who combines skill, speed and
a hard-nosed physical approach. A late `85 birthdate, Stafford will have to
forego his collegiate eligibility to 'opt in' to next summer's NHL draft.
A number of 17-year-olds have matriculated to college this fall and face the
same situation as Stafford. The list includes some prized prospects such as
BCHL sensation Jonathan
Sigalet, a wise and gifted rearguard making his Bowling Green debut.
As well, Notre Dame welcomes former USHL standout Wes
O'Neill, a hulking, highly-skilled blueliner, while Boston College will
get a boost with the arrival of Adam
Pineault, a skilled power forward with size, soft hands and a heavy
shot.
Pineault has made a strong first impression on the Eagles' new 'kid line' along
with Los Angeles first-rounder Brian Boyle and `04 draft-eligible Joe
Rooney, the son of ex-NHLer Steve Rooney. Although just 5-foot-10, the
younger Rooney is a slick and speedy winger, who should see his draft status
steadily climb this season. Rooney was born on September 15th (of 1985), the
cut-off date for the draft, and therefore automatically qualifies next summer.
Another diminutive dynamo who projects as an impact freshman is Michigan Wolverines'
Hensick, the NTDP's top scorer from 2002-03. A late `85, Hensick is
another who must opt into next summer's draft.
Early Standouts
Adam Berti - LW (Oshawa) - Big man is a force when motivated. Has a
strapping body (6-2, 190) and loads of power with playmaking skills to boot.
Despite good straightaway speed, there seems to be a lack of first-step quickness
and urgency to his game, which is a problem. Although he does not consistently
work along the boards, Berti is a force in traffic when he's in the mood. Although
the edge to his game is missing, he really catches one's eye as a big body that
can move and wreak havoc.
Bryan Bickell - LW (Ottawa) - Huge (6-4, 215) winger with the necessary
tools of a potential power forward. Explosive skater with excellent acceleration,
Bickell has a deft scoring touch and great first-step quickness. Was at a goal-a-game
pace early, but has cooled off a bit. What's most impressive is that he is not
playing on Corey Locke's line.
Devan Dubnyk - G (Kamloops) - Made us nervous with a lackluster showing
at the U-18 World Cup. However, he has redeemed himself to start the season,
winning the player-of-the-week honours between September 29th to October 5th.
An excellent positional goalie with a large frame (6-5, 190) who seldom looks
awkward. Very poised and works the angles to perfection. Top netminder in the
draft.
Earl - LW (Wisconsin) - The buzzword here is potential. Earl is a tremendous
skater with smooth puckhandling skills and a good understanding of the offensive
zone, yet, despite finishing second in goal scoring on last year's NTDP squad
(behind Hensick), still doesn't take full advantage of his prodigious wheels
at every chance. Adding strength to his lean 5-foot-11 frame and going to the
net with more conviction, will determine his draft day fate.
Ellis - G (Shawinigan) - A composed goalie who plays square to the shooter.
Leg reflexes are superb and is virtually untouchable down low. Vision is excellent
and does not get intimidated by traffic. Agile goalie projects to go in the
first two rounds of the draft.
Fallon - G (Cedar Rapids) - Another goalie capable of blocking out the
sun. The 6-foot-3 Bemidji, Minnesota native is starting his third USHL season
and has steadily been climbing the charts. Big, quick and agile, Fallon always
takes up good positions against shooters due to his strong sense for the game,
and also displays excellent poise under pressure. He could land a second-round
spot if his improvement continues this term.
Harju - LW (Lulea) - Ultimate wildcard. A big strong winger with scoring
instincts and a finishing touch. The big guy (6-3, 195) has a formidable shooting
array, underscored by a hard, accurate slapshot. Good skater and will bang his
way to a desired destination in traffic and along the boards. Remains very raw
and must work on his handling of the puck, as well as his defensive instincts.
Kris Hogg - LW (Kamloops) - Led the Blazers in pre-season scoring with
seven points, but has cooled down a bit to start the season. Upside is not incredible
(nor is his 5-11, 180 frame), but he has become a coach and fan favorite due
to his work ethic and team play. Has a physical style and good hockey sense
at both ends of the ice. A solid energy guy who is just beginning to make a
name for himself.
Eric Hunter - C (Prince George) - Physical pivot with an offensive dimension.
Our latest entry into the top 30 is a mobile skater with excellent wheels. Has
a laser-fast wrist shot and a quick release. An aggressive forechecker and shifty
stickhandler who uses his frame to create space for himself and his defense.
Always in vigorous pursuit of the puck carrier. Excellent creativity and has
played the right points on the power play. Another pure energy guy and the upside
is significant. Captain material.
Kaleta - RW (Peterborough) - A definitive shift disturber. The nasty,
punishing hitter really gets on people's nerves and throws his body around (despite
his modest 6-0, 195 size). Bulky kid seems to pour it on in the clutch and takes
control of the puck, making swift, controlled feeds. Fights for the puck, vigorously
attacking the net. Conversely, his agility is not a plus as he is somewhat wide
when turning the corners.
Ovechkin - RW (Dynamo) - What's new on the Ovechkin camp? Aside from
playing on the Russian senior national team, Ovechkin is now a first-liner on
Dynamo… To no one's surprise. Has made more strides to his game - plays a more
physical, mature style. More durable, bigger and tougher. Much more involved
offensively with Dynamo, which is understandable considering his increased role.
18-year old is already one of the best in the Superleague.
Persson - RW (Frolunda) - Most likely the best of the Swedish late-born
85's. 6-0, 180-pound winger is a deft playmaker with soft hands. Smooth skater
with good balance, although top speed needs to be better. A creative player
with good vision of the ice. Will be a scoring force in junior this season,
but must bulk up to stick with the senior team, although he is close.
Peters - G (Toronto) - Our only complaint is with his weight - 210 pounds
on a 6-foot-1 frame already - Peters needs to get leaner. Regardless, his play
has been excellent thus far this season as he has carried a sub-par St. Mike's
squad. Hard-working goalie has great second and third efforts, and uses his
size well to take up the net. Agility is good, although he needs to be a tad
smoother laterally. Style is not always pretty, but he gets the job done.
Polak - D (Vitkovice) - 6-1, 190-pound defender did not make the Czech
World Junior Cup squad, thus he is a bit of a mystery man. A tough player who
hits hard and plays well-balanced on his skates. Has a hard, accurate point
shot that he is willing to use. Sees the ice very well and his first pass is
crisp and accurate. The downside for Polak has been consistency - he needs to
show up regularly and show more interest. Regardless, with this much upside,
we're intrigued.
Schwarz - G (Sparta Praha) - Appears to be the consensus #2 goalie for
the draft, behind Devan Dubnyk, at this point. Showed outstanding maturity and
an ability to elevate his play in crucial game situations. Earned top goaltender
honours at the Under-18 World Junior Cup and the following U-20 Four Nations
Tournament. Currently has the backup spot of the senior Sparta Praha squad,
which is a big deal considering his age. Possesses terrific athleticism and
quickness. Very mature and confident. Puckhandling is the only real weakness
at this point.
Shantz - G (Mississauga) - We have already provided two reports on this
kid, but to those that missed it, here's what this guy is all about… Acrobatic
goalie beat out overager Matt Harpwood for the IceDogs #1 job between the pipers.
Butterfly type with superb agility who really shuts the door on shooters down
low. Very cool and calm and handles the puck pretty well. Rising from obscurity.
Siddall - LW (Langley) - Langley Hornets (BCHL) forward is a two-way
threat when on his game. Like in the tale of Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde, we don't
always see the same Matt Siddall, but when he plays with desire and an edge,
we love what we see. Good size (6-2, 210) and can really take guys out with
his frame. Top end speed is impressive, although quickness is so-so. Has a penchant
for taking the occasional undisciplined penalty.
Stephenson - LW (Kingston) - First of all, it's the frame - 6-4, 225
- this is a big kid. Skating is good and shows good hands and swift control
of the puck. Once he learns how to get his size involved to a greater degree,
he'll be a force at both ends of the ice. Not a budding star, but this meat-and-potatoes
player is unheralded.
Tukonen - RW (Espoo) - Not a true riser, but one worthy of praise. After
notching eight goals and 13 points in 8 games in Junior, Tukonen was rewarded
with checking duty in the SM-Liiga. Lacks consistency and focus, but we see
more finish and a greater offensive drive. Protects the puck superbly and befuddles
opposing defenses with a magician's stickhandling touch. Defense is a major
weakness, as he plays a deer-in-the-headlights defensive strategy - or, in other
words, he's a raw talent. Finally proving that his play in Mestis (during the
2001/2002 campaign) was no fluke.
Vorobiev - D (Lada Togliatti) - Maybe Lada's most promising prospect.
All-around prospect is in the Denis Grebeshkov mold. Can carry the puck up the
ice due to good puckhandling skills. First pass out of the zone is quick and
accurate and has a good reach and vision to boot. Defensively responsible due
to good positioning and calm attitude. Very collected and makes smart, responsible
decisions. Nothing flashy, but does everything well.
Yunkov - C (Krylja Sovetov) - Finesse center is fast on his skates and
is mainly a playmaker. Has a sneaky wrist shot, but seldom utilizes it. Prefers
to utilize his teammates most of the time. Very unselfish and terrific vision,
but his unselfishness is to the point of passiveness (offensively). Defensively
he is very responsible and plays well in traffic. Not very strong, bulking up
is a must. Two-way setup man mold - mature and hard working, but will be so
much better if he starts attacking the net.
In a Funk
Bucek - LW (Vitkovice) - A sturdy forward with good size (6-2, 195),
Bucek does not make full use of his frame night in and night out. Skating his
only average and Bucek prefers to stay out of high-traffic areas and does not
use his shot nearly enough to be a scoring threat. Bucek's disappointing start
is a shame as only last season Bucek ruled the juniors as a power forward and
chipped in offensively. We have he can regain his status, but he has to develop
better habits and add intensity to his game.
Demen-Willaume - D (Frolunda) - There is a lot to like about this guy
and he won't drop much, but someone needs to light some fire from under his
rear end. An all-tool defenseman has not been the dominant force people expected
in Juniors. Needs to jump into the play and show more fire at the defensive
end. Likes to stay back and make the safe plays and, while this is not bad,
we'd like him to take charge of the puck.
Moises Gutierrez - RW (Kamloops) - Blessed with a natural talent and
a big body (6-3, 210), Gutierrez has not yet lived up to the billing in what
is expected to be a breakthrough campaign. Despite the obvious talent, his decision-making
has been poor and giveaways are up. He has not played physical for his size
and has shown a lack of creativity in the offensive end. First step quickness
needs a boost. We'll keep our eyes out on his progress - hopefully just growing
pains.
Mailhiot - LW (Drummondville) - Gritty forward is off to a bit of a
slow start. Looks somewhat frustrated with his inabilities to finish with the
puck and positionally he has been sub-par. His stock is still high as we know
that Mailhiot is too determined a player to let his cold streaks continue.
Radulov - RW (Dynamo) - Gifted problem child has a sniper's touch, but
is lazy and plays uninspired hockey. All the tools are there, but he has already
developed a reputation as a headcase. Work ethic is bad and there are attitude
problems - sources say that Radulov is a me-first player, does not work hard
enough and has missed several practices. Regardless, he is a must-see for scouts
- a good skater, Radulov plays an involved gritty style, but gets frustrated
easily and takes unnecessary penalties. Needs to get in better shape.
Macias a First Round Hopeful for 2005
Although not eligible until the 2005 draft, Kamloops Blazers' versatile Ray Macias is drawing raves early on this season. Born on the 18th of September
1986 (thus just out of reach for the 2004 event) Macias is a natural defenseman
who has played forward for much of the season so far. He has terrific speed,
soft hands and good hockey sense. Ray currently tops the Blazers in rookie scoring.
Has the talent and the necessary work ethic to develop into a first round pick
a year and a half from now.
Salmonsson Sidelined
2004 First-round hopeful Johannes
Salmonsson has suffered a serious shoulder injury and his is expected
to be sidelined until late February or early March, reports Swedish correspondent
Jante Abrahamsson. In a recent interview, Salmonsson said that he most likely
will not opt in for the 2004 draft, since the injury will probably hurt his
stock. Salmonsson will have surgery in early November.