From what I'm reading/hearing many people believe that Zach Boychuk is going to slip a little bit on Friday night in Ottawa.
I really do find this hard to believe.
I don't have the exact number but I think the odds are pretty good that Zach Boychuk has played more hockey then other forward available for the 2008 NHL Entry Draft, his production may have slipped a bit this year because he was tired.
Think about it. He played at the Under 18 Championships, the Canada-Russia Challenge, the World Juniors, the Top Prospects game and managed to lead the Lethbridge Hurricanes all the way to the WHL Final.
He picked up his game in the post-season which is exactly what you want to see from a player.
People seem to think his size will hold him back, but it won't. He's built like a tank and can handle any physical play brought his way.
He has incredible one on one moves, a blistering shot, the ability to use his body to hold off defenders, is probably one of the most explosive dynamic players in the draft. I would be shocked if Zach Boychuk is not taken in the top 15.....and if he does slip past 15 the team that finally makes the wise decision and selects him is going to be extremely happy!!
Boychuk is the real deal.
Sunday, June 15, 2008
Friday, June 13, 2008
Big News for 2008 Draft!
Hockey's Future is happy to be bringing you online video coverage of the 2008 NHL Entry Draft. We will not be broadcasting the draft online but we will be providing stories and interviews with players, management, scouts and members of the media.
The highlight of the week could be our 60 minute NHL Draft Preview show which with feature myself, Dustin Nielson, hosting 6 segments, each 10 minutes in length.
I will be joined for the HF Draft Preview Show by Mike Oke from ISS Hockey, Mark Seidel from The Hockey News and North American Central Scouting and Brad Holland who writes for NHL.com
We are working hand in hand with Tangle Media out of Lethbridge, Alberta.
I hope you enjoy all the draft coverage we will br bringing your way, it's something new for Hockey's Future and I hope it leads to more great prospect coverage in the future.
Also a big thanks to our parent company Crave Media, if it wasn't for them, none of this would be possible.
The highlight of the week could be our 60 minute NHL Draft Preview show which with feature myself, Dustin Nielson, hosting 6 segments, each 10 minutes in length.
I will be joined for the HF Draft Preview Show by Mike Oke from ISS Hockey, Mark Seidel from The Hockey News and North American Central Scouting and Brad Holland who writes for NHL.com
We are working hand in hand with Tangle Media out of Lethbridge, Alberta.
I hope you enjoy all the draft coverage we will br bringing your way, it's something new for Hockey's Future and I hope it leads to more great prospect coverage in the future.
Also a big thanks to our parent company Crave Media, if it wasn't for them, none of this would be possible.
Thursday, June 12, 2008
First Goalie Will Go At Pick # ?
Well it's tough to call how high the first goaltender available will be taken this year.
As far as how they are ranked things really do vary from scouting service to scouting service.
The Hockey News, who's rankings are compiled by writer Alan Adams, has Jacob Markstrom sitting 19th and no other goalie slated to go in the first round.
ISS does not have a single goaltender in their top 30, but that may be because they usually have goalies ranked on their own.
McKeen's Hockey has Chet Pickard in the 8 hole and Markstrom sitting 13th.
A goaltender will NOT be selected in the top ten of this year's draft. If you are a goaltender and you're name is called in the top ten you have to be a potential all-star keeper. Fleury, DiPietro, Price and Lehtonen were all super-star prospects on their way up. Pickard, McCollum, Markstrom are not.
If you look as far as need goes common sense wouldn't see the first goaltender selected until 18th by the Ottawa Senators. The Buffalo Sabres may consider taking a flyer on a keeper with their 13th pick but because they have a pick later in the first round I don't see that happening.
The Sens, even though they could use a goalie, may be forced to selected the best player available if a guy like Del Zotto or Bailey were to slip down to 18th.
So right now I'm saying the HIGHEST a goalie will be selected is most likely 18th, however it may be lower, but if anyone is going to pick a goalie in the top 20 it will be the Sens.
As far as how they are ranked things really do vary from scouting service to scouting service.
The Hockey News, who's rankings are compiled by writer Alan Adams, has Jacob Markstrom sitting 19th and no other goalie slated to go in the first round.
ISS does not have a single goaltender in their top 30, but that may be because they usually have goalies ranked on their own.
McKeen's Hockey has Chet Pickard in the 8 hole and Markstrom sitting 13th.
A goaltender will NOT be selected in the top ten of this year's draft. If you are a goaltender and you're name is called in the top ten you have to be a potential all-star keeper. Fleury, DiPietro, Price and Lehtonen were all super-star prospects on their way up. Pickard, McCollum, Markstrom are not.
If you look as far as need goes common sense wouldn't see the first goaltender selected until 18th by the Ottawa Senators. The Buffalo Sabres may consider taking a flyer on a keeper with their 13th pick but because they have a pick later in the first round I don't see that happening.
The Sens, even though they could use a goalie, may be forced to selected the best player available if a guy like Del Zotto or Bailey were to slip down to 18th.
So right now I'm saying the HIGHEST a goalie will be selected is most likely 18th, however it may be lower, but if anyone is going to pick a goalie in the top 20 it will be the Sens.
Tuesday, June 10, 2008
Filatov Will Be 2nd Forward Taken
Enough with any talk I'm seeing that Nikita Filatov will NOT be the 2nd forward taken in the draft.
In the odd Mock Draft I'm seeing Mikkel Boedker pencilled in as the 2nd forward selected and that is just ridiculous.
Nikita Filatov WILL be the 2nd foward selected in this draft....if a trade or two is made I could see him actually going in the Top 3 selections and he's hands down a Top 5 pick, if a team were to select Boedker, Wilson or Hodgson ahead of Filatov they need to give their head a shake.
In the odd Mock Draft I'm seeing Mikkel Boedker pencilled in as the 2nd forward selected and that is just ridiculous.
Nikita Filatov WILL be the 2nd foward selected in this draft....if a trade or two is made I could see him actually going in the Top 3 selections and he's hands down a Top 5 pick, if a team were to select Boedker, Wilson or Hodgson ahead of Filatov they need to give their head a shake.
Friday, June 6, 2008
2008 HF Radio Mock Draft
1. Tampa Bay - Steven Stamkos - Sarnia Sting, Center
This is probably the worst kept secret in the NHL. The Tampa Bay Lighting are ready to add Steven Stamkos to the roster, infact the Stamkos jersey has been ready since the Bolts held on to the top pick at the Draft Lottery. Stamkos will have a very good shot at making the Tampa lineup next year. Likely start on the 3rd line but be getting top six minutes by the midway point of his rookie season. Stamkos appears ready to deal with the pressure's of being selected 1st overall. Having Vinny as a mentor will certainly help because he's been through the same thing
2. Los Angeles - Drew Doughty - Guelph Storm, Defense
This is where the draft will begin to get interesting. There isn't alot seperating Drew Doughty and Zach Bogosian. Both players would compliment the play of Jack Johnson on the blueline in L.A. Both players are pretty close to being NHL ready. I see the Kings going with Doughty based on reports that they have met several times and he was quoted saying things looks pretty good. At the same time I wouldn't be surprised if Bogosian goes 2nd overall, he's a better athlete then Doughty but I believe Doughty has a little better offensive upside. Doughty to the Kings.
3. Atlanta - Zach Bogosian - Peterborough, Defense
The Atlanta Thrashers will be smiling no matter who is left on the board. Zach Bogosian is the type of player that if he doesn't make the Thrashers this upcoming campaign it's almost a sure thing that he will be in the baby blue come the 09-10 season. He is physically ready for the NHL but as we all know it is extremely difficult for a defenseman to step in following his draft year. The Thrashers blueline is not deep by any means so if any 18 year old defenseman was going to step right it in would Bogosian. A great all round blueliner who will be in the Thrashers top 3 within 3 years if not sooner.
4. St. Louis - Alex Pietrangelo - Niagra, Defense
Will the St. Louis Blues make it 3 blueliners in the top 4 picks of the 2008 NHL Entry Draft? The Blues are pretty happy up front with the likes of Perron, Eller, Berglund and Oshie so it seems to make sense that they would look to find a d-man who can get these players the puck. Alex Pietrangelo fits the bill to a tee. He does need a little work on his defensive awareness but he has the size and offensive instincts to one day be on the Blues top pairing with Erik Johnson. Filatov may be intriguing for the Blues but I think they still go with Pietrangelo.
5. Islanders - Nikita Filatov - Moscow CKSA, Left Wing
The New York Islanders will benefit from the 3 teams above them needing a blueliner more then an offensive forward. Nikita Filatov is explosive and is ready to come to North America. Some people feel if he was playing North America this season he would have given Stamkos a run for the top spot. He already speaks english and says he will play in the CHL next season if he doesn't make the NHL squad that selects him. I would bet on him making the Islanders next season but if not he will dominate the CHL, most likely with Sudbury as they are expected to take him 1st overall in the import draft. There is no way the Islanders pass on Filatov.
6. Columbus - Luke Schenn - Kelowna Rockets, Defense
The most pressing need for Columbus is to land a number one center that can play for them next season, however they aren't going to find that with the 6th overall pick so look for a trade to likely happen here. If the BJ's do opt to hold onto the pick then you can look at them to address a lack of blueline depth by adding one of my favourites in the '08 crop Luke Schenn. Will develop into a physical, reliable d-man in the NHL, a very very safe pick. If the pick does get traded look for the club who acquired the pick to use it on a forward.
7. Toronto - Colin Wilson - Boston University, Center
This is a very important selection for the Maple Leafs organization. If they are attempting to land a player that they rebuild things around then I think they will go with size and skill down the middle. Colin Wilson fits the bill. He may not be the popular pick with guys like Boedker and Hodgson still on the board but in the short and long run I think he will make the Leafs happy. He's not that far away from being NHL ready. His body and strength are ready for the show, his skating may need a little bit of work but it's not gonna hamper him at all. Could become the Leafs top line center and possible Captain for 10 years.
8. Pheonix -Mikkel Boedker - Kitchener Rangers, Left Wing
Mikkel Boedker used a great late season run to sky rocket up the scouting charts and make him almost a lock for the top ten. I'm sure the Coyotes would like to land a defenseman but I don't think they can take a guy like Myers with Boedker still available. He could be a nice playmaker for Kyle Turris down the road as Turris is more of a finisher and Boedker could be his set up man. I've also heard that the Coyotes really like Joe Colborne, so if they really like Big Joe don't be surprised if they swap picks with Buffalo, Carolina or Anaheim.
9. Nashville - Cody Hodgson - Brampton Battalion, Center
The Nashville Predators will be looking to add an offensive center in the 9 spot and luckily for them Cody Hodgson will still be available. I think Hodgson's offensive game gets a little over looked because he is such a good two way player. The fact the he buried 40 goals in the OHL seems to never get mentioned. I suspect the Preds would like to have a little more size with maybe a guy like Beach but in the end Hodgson is a safe pick, plus the Preds have a second pick just 6 spots further down in the first round. A great way to start the draft for Nashville.
10. Vancouver - Zach Boychuk - Lethbridge Hurricanes, Left Wing / Center
The Vancouver Canucks will take the most explosive offensive talent available and that is why they will select Hurricanes dynamo Zach Boychuk. Boychuk has a great set of wheels and a hot shot with a quick release. He has the ability to make moves in traffic at top speed. Size, or should I say, height will be an issue with Boychuk but he is built like a tank and won't have a problem adjusting to the physical play of the NHL. By this time next year Boychuk will make Canucks fans forget all about the selection of Pat White in the first round of the 2007 draft in Columbus. I would say Boychuk's offensive upside is on par if not better then Wilson, Boedker and Hodgson.
11. Chicago - Tyler Myers, Kelowna Rockets, Defense
The Chicago Blackhawks are loaded up front with a very nice core shaping up around Pat Kane and Jonathan Toews. I'm pretty sure they will use the 11th overall pick to bolster the backend and Tyler Myers would compliment then likes of Seabrook, Barker and Keith. He's a little bit of a project but the Hawks won't be in a hurry so they won't have to rush him. They've gone to the Western Hockey League for blueliners before with Seabrook, Byfuglien and Barker so it wouldn't be a surprise to see them reach back in the dub pool again this season. You have to think Dale Tallon would be happy landing Myers as some scouts feel that he has an outside shot of going in the top five based solely on his size and mobility.
12. Anaheim - Kyle Beach - Everett, Center
Kyle Beach is a pretty interesting case. He was very good last season and was thought to be a top 5 prospect for the '08 draft. He also started this year pretty good but then suffered a couple of concussions and most recently a groin injury. He's probably the best true power forward prospect to come along in the past 2 or 3 drafts. There clearly are some question marks surrounding him but his upside is probably to good to have him slide any further than the Ducks. I've chatted with Beach twice and both times he appears to be a great kid. Many people are too hard on the guy, he's the type of player you hate to play against but love to have on your team.
13. Buffalo - Joe Colborne - Camrose Kodiaks, Center
Big lanky center Joe Colborne from the Camrose Kodiaks is one of the players that could go higher then expected or fall a little bit. His upside is a top line center. He skates very well for a big man, has a soft set of hands and is more of a playmaker then a scorer but that's just because he doesn't shoot enough. Plays to much on the perimiter and needs to develop a nose for crashing the net. I wouldn't say he shys away from physical play, it's just that he rarely initiates it. All the talk about his parents being rich and how he won't have the drive because of it is garbage. His dad having money won't bring him a Stanley Cup, it's something he'll have to work for. Heading to a great program at the University of Denver.
14. Carolina - Luca Sbisa - Lethbridge Hurricanes, Defense
Luca Sbisa pretty much came out of nowhere this season to become the best defenseman on the Lethbridge Hurricanes. There was not much known about him prior to his rookie season in the Western Hockey League. I remember watching him take to the ice for the first time in Canes training camp and you could tell right then that he had the skills to become an impact player in the WHL. He is very mobile on the backend and became a great threat on the powerplay as the season progressed. He slipped a bit in the 2nd half of the season but really picked his game back up in the playoffs when it matters the most. From the Hurricanes in Lethbridge to the Hurricanes in Carolina, seems like a nice fit.
15. Nashville - John Carlson - Indiana Ice, Defense
The Nashville Predators have been known as a team that develops blueliners within the system and John Carlson would be a great addition. Carlson has opted to head to the Ontario Hockey League next season and will play for the London Knights. It will be interesting to see how he compares to the likes of Doughty, Bogosian, Pietrangelo and Del Zotto. I have a hunch that Carlson will be selected higher then where is ranked on most charts and with the Preds having a pair of picks in the top half of the first round it would make sense to pick up Carlson. The Preds would have to be happy with Carlson and Hodgson.
16. Boston - Michael Del Zotto - Oshawa Generals, Defense
I think the Bruins would like to add some size up front but with Beach and Colborne already gone it would make sense to pick up a puck moving defenseman like Del Zotto. His skating may need a little bit of work but his offensive instincts are right up there with the best of the bunch. The Bruins are really lacking a future quarterback for their powerplay and Del Zotto would certainly fit the bill. He slipped a bit in the rankings throughout the season but I think it had more to do with other players really stepping up while Del Zotto just continued to play his game but didn't do anything to really stand out.
17. Calgary - Jordan Eberle - Regina Pats, Wing
It is not a secret that the Calgary Flames are looking for a goal scorer and it is clear that Jordan Eberle is a pure sniper. This is a very week draft when it comes to finishers. Infact only 8 players in the entire draft scored 40 or more goals in their respective leagues, Eberle is one of them. Darryl Sutter will like that Eberle is a Western League guy and as far as finishing goes there aren't many better options out there then Eberle. Yes it may be a little early to take Eberle at 17 but the bottom line is....you can't teach goal scoring and he has the natural ability to put the puck in the back of the net.
18. Ottawa - Joshua Bailey - Windsor Spitfires, Center
The sexy pick here for the Senators would be to select the first goaltender in the draft and that is a good possibility, however if Josh Bailey is still on the board I think they will have to make an exception and select the talented playmaker out of Windsor. Scouts are projecting Bailey to be more of a checking/two-way player in the NHL but his skill set is clearly there. I could see the Sens breaking him in as a 3rd liner but eventually as he matures and learns the NHL game they will move him up to the 2nd line because his puckhandling and playmaking abilities will eventually catch up to the speed of the NHL. A situation for the Sens where they probably were thinking he wouldn't be available but when he is they will gobble him up.
19. Columbus - Mattias Tedenby - HV71-U20, Left Wing
This pick will most likely depend on what the Blue Jackets decide to do with the 6th overall selection. If they hold onto it and take Luke Schenn then I think a player like Mattias Tedenby will be very tempting in the 19 spot. If they do find a suitor for the 6th overall selection then the Jackets will most likely reach into the pool of defenseman here in the 19 hole. Tedenby if he does end up with the Jackets brings a skill set to the table that could compliment the likes of Voracek, Nash and Brassard. He's a little waterbug on the ice who never takes a shift off what he lacks in size he makes for with speed, quickness and agility. Could very well be taken higher in the 11 to 14 range but the cards didn't fall like that in this mock draft.
20. Rangers - Zac Dalpe - Penticton Vees, Center
The Rangers need to get some bright offensive talent coming down the pipeline beyond Alex Cherepanov. Dalpe will certainly need 2 or 3 years in the NCAA ranks to get his game ready for pro hockey but that will probably be just fine for the Rangers who have some big money tied up in some key players right now, by the time that cash becomes expendable Dalpe will be ready to sign his first deal. He's a center with decent size and really became one of the go to guys for the BCHL Champions out of Penticton. He doesn't have the high upside of of fellow CJHLer Joe Colborne but he does appear to be more of a sure bet.
21. New Jersey Colby Robak - Brandon Wheatkings, Defense
The New Jersey Devils appear to be in the position, as they always are, to select the best player available and according to the players left on the board it looks as though that would be Colby Robak from the Brandon Wheatkings. He games isn't a whole lot different from that of Luca Sbisa except he needs to pick up the physical aspect of his game.Plays a pretty similiar game to that of Luca Sbisa. Robak is expected to develop into an offensive threat. He makes a very good first pass and the Devils could really use a puck rushing defenseman as there doesn't appear to be many in the cupboard right now
22. Edmonton - Greg Nemisz - Windsor, Center
They've got the young, speedy, smallish, talented guys in Gagner, Cogliano and Nilsson so why not add a kid with power forward potential. Nemisz is no stranger to the front of the net as he combines his size and a nice set of hands to finish off plays in front of the net.Nemisz may not be the most flashing guy in the draft but either was Tomas Holstrom, yet he just won another Stanley Cup. You can teach a guy to go to the net, but it's a heck of alot to draft one who already likes to go there on his own. He knows his role and it's a role that would most likely need to be filled a few years down the road in Edmonton, wouldn't hurt to learn from a guy like Dustin Penner.
23. Washington - Anton Gustafsson - Frolunda Jr., Center
I think he is exactly what the Capitals need to add to the likes of Ovechkin, Semin, Backstrom and Green. A big strong two-way center who likes to play a physical game. Will not ever put up huge numbers but has all the tools to develop into a decent second line center. I'm sure some teams later down in the first round have their fingers crossed that Gustafsson will slip down to the them but I'm pretty sure if he is still around when Washington takes to the stage he will become a Capital. A very intriguing prospect, ready to play in the Swedish Elite League and the NHL may not be that far off. Last year they drafted a big blueliner, this time around it's a big center who has the potential to develop into a perfect compliment for Backstrom.
24. Minnesota - Colten Tuebert - Regina Pats, Defense
I guess you can say Tuebert is the one guy who fell a little bit in my mock draft. It just seemed like every time Tuebert came up there was another player or team need that seemed to fit a little bit better then the towering shutdown d-man from the Pats. The Wild have spent the past couple years selecting forwards with size in Sheppard and Gilles. Teubert will never been an offensive threat but he definetly has the size to become a legitimate stay at homer at the NHL level. Could go higher but I don't see him slipping any further then the Minnesota Wild.
25. Montreal - Nicolas Deschamps - Chicoutimi - Center
I see the Habs having a whole wack of options with the 25 pick as the system looks pretty deep throughout, the one area they could use some help would be size down the middle which is why I wouldn't be surprised if they went off the board a little bit and took highschool center Justin Jokinen. I went with my better judgement though and decided that Nicolas Deschamps may be the best way to go for Montreal. He's a top level talent that was one of the best rookies in the QMJHL this season. You have to like his offensive upside and he isn't huge but size definetly is not a problem.
26. Buffalo - Jakub Markstrom - Byrnas Jr. - Goalie
With their 2nd pick of the first round the Sabres could address a weak goaltending pipeline. Jonas Enroth does have some good potential but he is defintely not a surefire number 1 goalie, now I'm not saying Jakub Markstrom is a sure thing either but he has all the tools. A big goaltender who takes up a good portion of the net. At times over the past 12 months he really stole the show for Sweden in international tournaments. The first goalie pick with most likely be either Markstrom or Pickard and maybe Harri Saterri out of Finland with an outside shot. The Sabres really have nothing to lose by selecting one of the top goalies available.
27. Philadelphia - Tyler Cuma - Ottawa 67's, Defense
It's a great year for defensemen and that's great news for the Philly Flyers. They seem to have a nice group of young forwards working there way up through the system and also a good young core with the NHL team. Tyler Cuma is never going to make you drop your jaw but he will also very rarely leave you scratching your head. A pretty safe pick on the backend, in a year that wasn't so deep on the blueline Cuma would be a little bit of a hotter item. Looks like he will be best suited for 2nd pairing duty in the NHL and will need some time to get there but still a pretty solid pick for Philly this late in the opening round of the 2008 draft.
28. Los Angeles - Kirill Petrov - Russia, Forward
After selecting a sure thing in Drew Doughty with the 2nd overall pick and having a couple of extra picks along the way I think the Kings may take a little bit of risk with Kirill Petrov out of Russia. Unlike Nikita Filatov there is no timeline for Petrov's arrival in North America. He has the size and skill level that make scouts drool and is ranked in the Top Ten forwards by a couple of scouting services, if there was a proper transfer agreement place Petrov would not still be around with the 28th pick. A high risk, high reward selection that will have to be made by a team with numerous picks.
29. Atlanta - Jake Gardiner - Minnetoka-HS, Defense
I know the popular pick will be for the Thrashers to use their 2nd pick of the first round on a forward just to balance things out but I think the top end potential of Jake Gardiner has to land him somewhere in the first round. He has size, skating ability and great offensive instincts. Has only been playing defense for 2 to 3 seasons so he's still learning the position. The Thrashers would leave Scotia Bank Place very happy on Friday evening with a pair of blueliners like Zach Bogosian and Jake Gardiner in their back pocket. Gardiner will clearly need more development time then Bogosian but eventually they could form a deadly duo on the backend.
30. Detroit - Aaron Ness - Roseau-HS, Defense
Erik Karlsson may also be a possible name you could slot in here for the Red Wings but I really like the game that Aaron Ness brings to the table. The ONLY downfall to his game is his size, he's short and skinny. He's a heck of a skater who likes to rush the puck and make plays on the go. The Red Wings have witnessed first hand how Brian Rafalski makes an impact depsite being pint-sized. How can Mr. Hockey for the state of Minnesota not be selected in the first round of the draft. If Ness was 3 inches taller and 30 pounds heavier he's right there with the likes of Bogosian, Doughty and Pietrangelo.
This is probably the worst kept secret in the NHL. The Tampa Bay Lighting are ready to add Steven Stamkos to the roster, infact the Stamkos jersey has been ready since the Bolts held on to the top pick at the Draft Lottery. Stamkos will have a very good shot at making the Tampa lineup next year. Likely start on the 3rd line but be getting top six minutes by the midway point of his rookie season. Stamkos appears ready to deal with the pressure's of being selected 1st overall. Having Vinny as a mentor will certainly help because he's been through the same thing
2. Los Angeles - Drew Doughty - Guelph Storm, Defense
This is where the draft will begin to get interesting. There isn't alot seperating Drew Doughty and Zach Bogosian. Both players would compliment the play of Jack Johnson on the blueline in L.A. Both players are pretty close to being NHL ready. I see the Kings going with Doughty based on reports that they have met several times and he was quoted saying things looks pretty good. At the same time I wouldn't be surprised if Bogosian goes 2nd overall, he's a better athlete then Doughty but I believe Doughty has a little better offensive upside. Doughty to the Kings.
3. Atlanta - Zach Bogosian - Peterborough, Defense
The Atlanta Thrashers will be smiling no matter who is left on the board. Zach Bogosian is the type of player that if he doesn't make the Thrashers this upcoming campaign it's almost a sure thing that he will be in the baby blue come the 09-10 season. He is physically ready for the NHL but as we all know it is extremely difficult for a defenseman to step in following his draft year. The Thrashers blueline is not deep by any means so if any 18 year old defenseman was going to step right it in would Bogosian. A great all round blueliner who will be in the Thrashers top 3 within 3 years if not sooner.
4. St. Louis - Alex Pietrangelo - Niagra, Defense
Will the St. Louis Blues make it 3 blueliners in the top 4 picks of the 2008 NHL Entry Draft? The Blues are pretty happy up front with the likes of Perron, Eller, Berglund and Oshie so it seems to make sense that they would look to find a d-man who can get these players the puck. Alex Pietrangelo fits the bill to a tee. He does need a little work on his defensive awareness but he has the size and offensive instincts to one day be on the Blues top pairing with Erik Johnson. Filatov may be intriguing for the Blues but I think they still go with Pietrangelo.
5. Islanders - Nikita Filatov - Moscow CKSA, Left Wing
The New York Islanders will benefit from the 3 teams above them needing a blueliner more then an offensive forward. Nikita Filatov is explosive and is ready to come to North America. Some people feel if he was playing North America this season he would have given Stamkos a run for the top spot. He already speaks english and says he will play in the CHL next season if he doesn't make the NHL squad that selects him. I would bet on him making the Islanders next season but if not he will dominate the CHL, most likely with Sudbury as they are expected to take him 1st overall in the import draft. There is no way the Islanders pass on Filatov.
6. Columbus - Luke Schenn - Kelowna Rockets, Defense
The most pressing need for Columbus is to land a number one center that can play for them next season, however they aren't going to find that with the 6th overall pick so look for a trade to likely happen here. If the BJ's do opt to hold onto the pick then you can look at them to address a lack of blueline depth by adding one of my favourites in the '08 crop Luke Schenn. Will develop into a physical, reliable d-man in the NHL, a very very safe pick. If the pick does get traded look for the club who acquired the pick to use it on a forward.
7. Toronto - Colin Wilson - Boston University, Center
This is a very important selection for the Maple Leafs organization. If they are attempting to land a player that they rebuild things around then I think they will go with size and skill down the middle. Colin Wilson fits the bill. He may not be the popular pick with guys like Boedker and Hodgson still on the board but in the short and long run I think he will make the Leafs happy. He's not that far away from being NHL ready. His body and strength are ready for the show, his skating may need a little bit of work but it's not gonna hamper him at all. Could become the Leafs top line center and possible Captain for 10 years.
8. Pheonix -Mikkel Boedker - Kitchener Rangers, Left Wing
Mikkel Boedker used a great late season run to sky rocket up the scouting charts and make him almost a lock for the top ten. I'm sure the Coyotes would like to land a defenseman but I don't think they can take a guy like Myers with Boedker still available. He could be a nice playmaker for Kyle Turris down the road as Turris is more of a finisher and Boedker could be his set up man. I've also heard that the Coyotes really like Joe Colborne, so if they really like Big Joe don't be surprised if they swap picks with Buffalo, Carolina or Anaheim.
9. Nashville - Cody Hodgson - Brampton Battalion, Center
The Nashville Predators will be looking to add an offensive center in the 9 spot and luckily for them Cody Hodgson will still be available. I think Hodgson's offensive game gets a little over looked because he is such a good two way player. The fact the he buried 40 goals in the OHL seems to never get mentioned. I suspect the Preds would like to have a little more size with maybe a guy like Beach but in the end Hodgson is a safe pick, plus the Preds have a second pick just 6 spots further down in the first round. A great way to start the draft for Nashville.
10. Vancouver - Zach Boychuk - Lethbridge Hurricanes, Left Wing / Center
The Vancouver Canucks will take the most explosive offensive talent available and that is why they will select Hurricanes dynamo Zach Boychuk. Boychuk has a great set of wheels and a hot shot with a quick release. He has the ability to make moves in traffic at top speed. Size, or should I say, height will be an issue with Boychuk but he is built like a tank and won't have a problem adjusting to the physical play of the NHL. By this time next year Boychuk will make Canucks fans forget all about the selection of Pat White in the first round of the 2007 draft in Columbus. I would say Boychuk's offensive upside is on par if not better then Wilson, Boedker and Hodgson.
11. Chicago - Tyler Myers, Kelowna Rockets, Defense
The Chicago Blackhawks are loaded up front with a very nice core shaping up around Pat Kane and Jonathan Toews. I'm pretty sure they will use the 11th overall pick to bolster the backend and Tyler Myers would compliment then likes of Seabrook, Barker and Keith. He's a little bit of a project but the Hawks won't be in a hurry so they won't have to rush him. They've gone to the Western Hockey League for blueliners before with Seabrook, Byfuglien and Barker so it wouldn't be a surprise to see them reach back in the dub pool again this season. You have to think Dale Tallon would be happy landing Myers as some scouts feel that he has an outside shot of going in the top five based solely on his size and mobility.
12. Anaheim - Kyle Beach - Everett, Center
Kyle Beach is a pretty interesting case. He was very good last season and was thought to be a top 5 prospect for the '08 draft. He also started this year pretty good but then suffered a couple of concussions and most recently a groin injury. He's probably the best true power forward prospect to come along in the past 2 or 3 drafts. There clearly are some question marks surrounding him but his upside is probably to good to have him slide any further than the Ducks. I've chatted with Beach twice and both times he appears to be a great kid. Many people are too hard on the guy, he's the type of player you hate to play against but love to have on your team.
13. Buffalo - Joe Colborne - Camrose Kodiaks, Center
Big lanky center Joe Colborne from the Camrose Kodiaks is one of the players that could go higher then expected or fall a little bit. His upside is a top line center. He skates very well for a big man, has a soft set of hands and is more of a playmaker then a scorer but that's just because he doesn't shoot enough. Plays to much on the perimiter and needs to develop a nose for crashing the net. I wouldn't say he shys away from physical play, it's just that he rarely initiates it. All the talk about his parents being rich and how he won't have the drive because of it is garbage. His dad having money won't bring him a Stanley Cup, it's something he'll have to work for. Heading to a great program at the University of Denver.
14. Carolina - Luca Sbisa - Lethbridge Hurricanes, Defense
Luca Sbisa pretty much came out of nowhere this season to become the best defenseman on the Lethbridge Hurricanes. There was not much known about him prior to his rookie season in the Western Hockey League. I remember watching him take to the ice for the first time in Canes training camp and you could tell right then that he had the skills to become an impact player in the WHL. He is very mobile on the backend and became a great threat on the powerplay as the season progressed. He slipped a bit in the 2nd half of the season but really picked his game back up in the playoffs when it matters the most. From the Hurricanes in Lethbridge to the Hurricanes in Carolina, seems like a nice fit.
15. Nashville - John Carlson - Indiana Ice, Defense
The Nashville Predators have been known as a team that develops blueliners within the system and John Carlson would be a great addition. Carlson has opted to head to the Ontario Hockey League next season and will play for the London Knights. It will be interesting to see how he compares to the likes of Doughty, Bogosian, Pietrangelo and Del Zotto. I have a hunch that Carlson will be selected higher then where is ranked on most charts and with the Preds having a pair of picks in the top half of the first round it would make sense to pick up Carlson. The Preds would have to be happy with Carlson and Hodgson.
16. Boston - Michael Del Zotto - Oshawa Generals, Defense
I think the Bruins would like to add some size up front but with Beach and Colborne already gone it would make sense to pick up a puck moving defenseman like Del Zotto. His skating may need a little bit of work but his offensive instincts are right up there with the best of the bunch. The Bruins are really lacking a future quarterback for their powerplay and Del Zotto would certainly fit the bill. He slipped a bit in the rankings throughout the season but I think it had more to do with other players really stepping up while Del Zotto just continued to play his game but didn't do anything to really stand out.
17. Calgary - Jordan Eberle - Regina Pats, Wing
It is not a secret that the Calgary Flames are looking for a goal scorer and it is clear that Jordan Eberle is a pure sniper. This is a very week draft when it comes to finishers. Infact only 8 players in the entire draft scored 40 or more goals in their respective leagues, Eberle is one of them. Darryl Sutter will like that Eberle is a Western League guy and as far as finishing goes there aren't many better options out there then Eberle. Yes it may be a little early to take Eberle at 17 but the bottom line is....you can't teach goal scoring and he has the natural ability to put the puck in the back of the net.
18. Ottawa - Joshua Bailey - Windsor Spitfires, Center
The sexy pick here for the Senators would be to select the first goaltender in the draft and that is a good possibility, however if Josh Bailey is still on the board I think they will have to make an exception and select the talented playmaker out of Windsor. Scouts are projecting Bailey to be more of a checking/two-way player in the NHL but his skill set is clearly there. I could see the Sens breaking him in as a 3rd liner but eventually as he matures and learns the NHL game they will move him up to the 2nd line because his puckhandling and playmaking abilities will eventually catch up to the speed of the NHL. A situation for the Sens where they probably were thinking he wouldn't be available but when he is they will gobble him up.
19. Columbus - Mattias Tedenby - HV71-U20, Left Wing
This pick will most likely depend on what the Blue Jackets decide to do with the 6th overall selection. If they hold onto it and take Luke Schenn then I think a player like Mattias Tedenby will be very tempting in the 19 spot. If they do find a suitor for the 6th overall selection then the Jackets will most likely reach into the pool of defenseman here in the 19 hole. Tedenby if he does end up with the Jackets brings a skill set to the table that could compliment the likes of Voracek, Nash and Brassard. He's a little waterbug on the ice who never takes a shift off what he lacks in size he makes for with speed, quickness and agility. Could very well be taken higher in the 11 to 14 range but the cards didn't fall like that in this mock draft.
20. Rangers - Zac Dalpe - Penticton Vees, Center
The Rangers need to get some bright offensive talent coming down the pipeline beyond Alex Cherepanov. Dalpe will certainly need 2 or 3 years in the NCAA ranks to get his game ready for pro hockey but that will probably be just fine for the Rangers who have some big money tied up in some key players right now, by the time that cash becomes expendable Dalpe will be ready to sign his first deal. He's a center with decent size and really became one of the go to guys for the BCHL Champions out of Penticton. He doesn't have the high upside of of fellow CJHLer Joe Colborne but he does appear to be more of a sure bet.
21. New Jersey Colby Robak - Brandon Wheatkings, Defense
The New Jersey Devils appear to be in the position, as they always are, to select the best player available and according to the players left on the board it looks as though that would be Colby Robak from the Brandon Wheatkings. He games isn't a whole lot different from that of Luca Sbisa except he needs to pick up the physical aspect of his game.Plays a pretty similiar game to that of Luca Sbisa. Robak is expected to develop into an offensive threat. He makes a very good first pass and the Devils could really use a puck rushing defenseman as there doesn't appear to be many in the cupboard right now
22. Edmonton - Greg Nemisz - Windsor, Center
They've got the young, speedy, smallish, talented guys in Gagner, Cogliano and Nilsson so why not add a kid with power forward potential. Nemisz is no stranger to the front of the net as he combines his size and a nice set of hands to finish off plays in front of the net.Nemisz may not be the most flashing guy in the draft but either was Tomas Holstrom, yet he just won another Stanley Cup. You can teach a guy to go to the net, but it's a heck of alot to draft one who already likes to go there on his own. He knows his role and it's a role that would most likely need to be filled a few years down the road in Edmonton, wouldn't hurt to learn from a guy like Dustin Penner.
23. Washington - Anton Gustafsson - Frolunda Jr., Center
I think he is exactly what the Capitals need to add to the likes of Ovechkin, Semin, Backstrom and Green. A big strong two-way center who likes to play a physical game. Will not ever put up huge numbers but has all the tools to develop into a decent second line center. I'm sure some teams later down in the first round have their fingers crossed that Gustafsson will slip down to the them but I'm pretty sure if he is still around when Washington takes to the stage he will become a Capital. A very intriguing prospect, ready to play in the Swedish Elite League and the NHL may not be that far off. Last year they drafted a big blueliner, this time around it's a big center who has the potential to develop into a perfect compliment for Backstrom.
24. Minnesota - Colten Tuebert - Regina Pats, Defense
I guess you can say Tuebert is the one guy who fell a little bit in my mock draft. It just seemed like every time Tuebert came up there was another player or team need that seemed to fit a little bit better then the towering shutdown d-man from the Pats. The Wild have spent the past couple years selecting forwards with size in Sheppard and Gilles. Teubert will never been an offensive threat but he definetly has the size to become a legitimate stay at homer at the NHL level. Could go higher but I don't see him slipping any further then the Minnesota Wild.
25. Montreal - Nicolas Deschamps - Chicoutimi - Center
I see the Habs having a whole wack of options with the 25 pick as the system looks pretty deep throughout, the one area they could use some help would be size down the middle which is why I wouldn't be surprised if they went off the board a little bit and took highschool center Justin Jokinen. I went with my better judgement though and decided that Nicolas Deschamps may be the best way to go for Montreal. He's a top level talent that was one of the best rookies in the QMJHL this season. You have to like his offensive upside and he isn't huge but size definetly is not a problem.
26. Buffalo - Jakub Markstrom - Byrnas Jr. - Goalie
With their 2nd pick of the first round the Sabres could address a weak goaltending pipeline. Jonas Enroth does have some good potential but he is defintely not a surefire number 1 goalie, now I'm not saying Jakub Markstrom is a sure thing either but he has all the tools. A big goaltender who takes up a good portion of the net. At times over the past 12 months he really stole the show for Sweden in international tournaments. The first goalie pick with most likely be either Markstrom or Pickard and maybe Harri Saterri out of Finland with an outside shot. The Sabres really have nothing to lose by selecting one of the top goalies available.
27. Philadelphia - Tyler Cuma - Ottawa 67's, Defense
It's a great year for defensemen and that's great news for the Philly Flyers. They seem to have a nice group of young forwards working there way up through the system and also a good young core with the NHL team. Tyler Cuma is never going to make you drop your jaw but he will also very rarely leave you scratching your head. A pretty safe pick on the backend, in a year that wasn't so deep on the blueline Cuma would be a little bit of a hotter item. Looks like he will be best suited for 2nd pairing duty in the NHL and will need some time to get there but still a pretty solid pick for Philly this late in the opening round of the 2008 draft.
28. Los Angeles - Kirill Petrov - Russia, Forward
After selecting a sure thing in Drew Doughty with the 2nd overall pick and having a couple of extra picks along the way I think the Kings may take a little bit of risk with Kirill Petrov out of Russia. Unlike Nikita Filatov there is no timeline for Petrov's arrival in North America. He has the size and skill level that make scouts drool and is ranked in the Top Ten forwards by a couple of scouting services, if there was a proper transfer agreement place Petrov would not still be around with the 28th pick. A high risk, high reward selection that will have to be made by a team with numerous picks.
29. Atlanta - Jake Gardiner - Minnetoka-HS, Defense
I know the popular pick will be for the Thrashers to use their 2nd pick of the first round on a forward just to balance things out but I think the top end potential of Jake Gardiner has to land him somewhere in the first round. He has size, skating ability and great offensive instincts. Has only been playing defense for 2 to 3 seasons so he's still learning the position. The Thrashers would leave Scotia Bank Place very happy on Friday evening with a pair of blueliners like Zach Bogosian and Jake Gardiner in their back pocket. Gardiner will clearly need more development time then Bogosian but eventually they could form a deadly duo on the backend.
30. Detroit - Aaron Ness - Roseau-HS, Defense
Erik Karlsson may also be a possible name you could slot in here for the Red Wings but I really like the game that Aaron Ness brings to the table. The ONLY downfall to his game is his size, he's short and skinny. He's a heck of a skater who likes to rush the puck and make plays on the go. The Red Wings have witnessed first hand how Brian Rafalski makes an impact depsite being pint-sized. How can Mr. Hockey for the state of Minnesota not be selected in the first round of the draft. If Ness was 3 inches taller and 30 pounds heavier he's right there with the likes of Bogosian, Doughty and Pietrangelo.
Tuesday, June 3, 2008
Filatov...Blues or Islanders?
The consensus top 3 in the draft appear to be Stamkos, Doughty and Bogosian. With Bogosian and Doughty swapping spots depending on who you chat with.
Which means things could really start to get interesting at the 4th spot. The Blues are clearly in need of offense but if you look at their pipeline that offense may be on the way up front.
TJ Oshie, Patrick Berglund and Lars Eller are not that far away from joining teen rookie David Perron in the Blues lineup. As nice as Filatov would look with that group of guys I think the more pressing need is a for a blueline who can get them the puck.
This is why I have a strong feeling that the Blues will be selecting Alex Pietrangelo. Luke Schenn is a great blueliner but he doesn't have near the offensive upside as A.P.
Jeremy Rutherford with the St. Louis Dispatch told me that it is very very likely that the Blues will grab a blueliner and unless Doughty or Bogosian fall then Pietrangelo is most likely their guy.
If Filatov is still on the board at five he won't get by the Islanders. The Islanders could use a dynamic offensive guy to compliment Kyle Okposo and regardless of position Filatov would be the best player available.
Remember the HF Radio Mock Draft will be available later this week.
Which means things could really start to get interesting at the 4th spot. The Blues are clearly in need of offense but if you look at their pipeline that offense may be on the way up front.
TJ Oshie, Patrick Berglund and Lars Eller are not that far away from joining teen rookie David Perron in the Blues lineup. As nice as Filatov would look with that group of guys I think the more pressing need is a for a blueline who can get them the puck.
This is why I have a strong feeling that the Blues will be selecting Alex Pietrangelo. Luke Schenn is a great blueliner but he doesn't have near the offensive upside as A.P.
Jeremy Rutherford with the St. Louis Dispatch told me that it is very very likely that the Blues will grab a blueliner and unless Doughty or Bogosian fall then Pietrangelo is most likely their guy.
If Filatov is still on the board at five he won't get by the Islanders. The Islanders could use a dynamic offensive guy to compliment Kyle Okposo and regardless of position Filatov would be the best player available.
Remember the HF Radio Mock Draft will be available later this week.
Saturday, May 31, 2008
The Highest Boedker Could Go?
There is no doubt that Mikkel Boedker is an extremely talented young forward who will almost certainly become a top ten pick at the NHL Draft in Ottawa.
If you ask me right now...Mikkel Boedker will be there for the taking when the Toronto Maple Leafs take to the stage on the Friday night.
I just don't see someone taking the Danish Sensation in the top 6 unless one thing happens.
The top 3 picks will most likely be Stamkos and then Doughty and Bogosian or Bogisian and Doughty. After that you have the Blues in the four hole, batting cleanup at the draft I guess you could say. I'm pretty certain the Blues will be taking a blueliner so that means either Pietrangelo or Schenn are gone. Which leaves one of those two and Filatov for the Islanders. If you look at the Islanders, they could really use a threat up front, so they take Filatov.
So essentially you have either Pietrangelo or Schenn sitting and waiting for the Blue Jackets. It's a pretty well known fact that the Jackets will either select a defenseman or very likely deal the pick.
If they pick the remain blueliner from the "big four" then that leaves Boedker for the Leafs, however if Columbus to move the pick for a first line pivot then that pick may be slated for Boedker.
So pretty much here's what could happen with Boedker.
A) All 6 teams hang on to their top picks and the Leafs take him at 7.
B) A team trades with Columbus for the 6th pick and picks Boedker.
Ofcourse their is also the possibility that Boedker slips to 8, 9 or 10. But this post was simply just to state what I believe is the "Best Case" scenario for the young, talented Mikkel Boedker.
If you ask me right now...Mikkel Boedker will be there for the taking when the Toronto Maple Leafs take to the stage on the Friday night.
I just don't see someone taking the Danish Sensation in the top 6 unless one thing happens.
The top 3 picks will most likely be Stamkos and then Doughty and Bogosian or Bogisian and Doughty. After that you have the Blues in the four hole, batting cleanup at the draft I guess you could say. I'm pretty certain the Blues will be taking a blueliner so that means either Pietrangelo or Schenn are gone. Which leaves one of those two and Filatov for the Islanders. If you look at the Islanders, they could really use a threat up front, so they take Filatov.
So essentially you have either Pietrangelo or Schenn sitting and waiting for the Blue Jackets. It's a pretty well known fact that the Jackets will either select a defenseman or very likely deal the pick.
If they pick the remain blueliner from the "big four" then that leaves Boedker for the Leafs, however if Columbus to move the pick for a first line pivot then that pick may be slated for Boedker.
So pretty much here's what could happen with Boedker.
A) All 6 teams hang on to their top picks and the Leafs take him at 7.
B) A team trades with Columbus for the 6th pick and picks Boedker.
Ofcourse their is also the possibility that Boedker slips to 8, 9 or 10. But this post was simply just to state what I believe is the "Best Case" scenario for the young, talented Mikkel Boedker.
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