Prospect Pursuit: Pat Koudys - Like Father, Like Son

{courtesy of flickr.com}

     Like father, like son.  The phrase goes back a long way and has been taken to heart by many men.  But Pat Koudys (pronounced cow-DICE) wants to up the ante a bit and do what his father was never able to…play in the NHL.  A 12^th round pick by the New York Islanders in the 80’s, Jim Koudys just couldn’t crack the NHL, but his son seems to have a very different future ahead of him.
     At the ripe age of 18, Koudys hasn’t even filled out his 6’4”, 210-pound frame.  What he has done, however, is powered Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute Engineers back into contention for the NCAA championship.  After having been aching for an opportunity on college hockey’s biggest stage for 6 years, RPI finally clinched a berth in the NCAA tournament, in large part to the mammoth blue liner.

     RPI has had some infamous names lace up for them over the years.  Most noticeable of these are Adam Oates, Joe Juneau, Brian Pothier, and a highly talked about Leafs prospect, Jerry D’Amigo.  Pat Koudys is the next in a long line of future NHL players, but let’s not rush these things.  He has to be drafted first, of course, and mock drafts have him pegged anywhere as high as 2^nd round pick to a possible 5^th, or even 6^th rounder (absolutely ludicrous, in my opinion).

           

Prospect Pursuit: When did you start playing hockey?

Pat Koudys: I first started playing hockey when I was around five or six, but I have been on skates since I have been around two or three.

PP: Who was your biggest influence?

PK: My dad, for me, has, for sure, been my biggest influence for both on and off the ice.  He has helped me so much to become the player that I am today and he was drafted and played pro hockey, so his experience had helped a lot, too.

PP: Who was your favorite team/player(s) growing up and why?

PK:  What I was a kid my favourite team was the Toronto Maple Leafs.

PP: In a few short sentences describe yourself as a player.

PK: I see myself as a two-way defenceman, someone that you can rely on and will get the job done.  I need to work on my lateral skating a little, but I feel I have good vision and a very good hockey sense.  My first pass and defensive game is very good.

PP: Who do you compare yourself to and why?

PK: I like to compare myself to Kevin Bieksa, because he is a solid two-way defenseman that is very reliable.  Also he lives in Smithville, where I live.  He went to the same high school as I did, played for the Burlington Cougars and played college hockey.

PP: Did you consider going to the CHL?

PK: I had thoughts about where I wanted to play, whether it was college or CHL, but for me it was a no brainer to play NCAA.

PP: Why did you choose RPI?

PK: I chose RPI because it was close to home, great coaches, great, program, one of the top engineering schools in North America, there were spots for me to play, and when I went to visit, there was just an X-factor that I loved.

PP: It isn’t every day that you get to play against your brother in the NCAA.  How did it feel when you looked at the schedule and saw RPI was playing Bentley?  What was it like actually playing against your brother in what ended up being a 3-0 win for RPI?

PK: Dan is my cousin and when I saw that we were playing Bentley I was really excited.  Dan and I had trained together all summer so it was great that we had helped each other to get better than we were able to play against each other.  It was great.  I was just happy that we were able to win that game because it helped us get into the NCAA tournament.

PP: Do you pay attention at all to the mock drafts and where you might be picked in the draft?  Why or why not?

PK: Yes, I have looked at some mock drafts, but I try not to get all consumed with it.  It is obviously exciting to see where people think you fit in, but in the end, nothing matters until draft day.  Then after that, anything goes.

PP: What do you need to do to take your game to the next level?

PK: I need to work on my lateral skating and just continue to improve my game.  It’s small things now.

PP:  What will you be doing in your free time this summer?

PK: Just enjoy the family and enjoy the cottage a little.  It’s hard because I am training a lot but it’s nice to be with the family.

PP:  If you get picked, will you be reporting for rookie camp?

PK: I hope I get picked and if I do, I will be going to camp, but I have every intention of going back to school.

PP: What are your thoughts going into next season with RPI if you don’t make it to the NHL?

PK: Well I don’t feel that I am ready to make the step to the NHL yet so I am looking forward to next year with RPI.  We have a great team and will have another great season.

PP: What does RPI have to do to get back into contention for the Frozen Four?

PK: We need to have another good season and carry over our confidence from this year.

PP: Who are some of the players you have played with/against who you think will do very well in the NHL?

PK: Two guys I played with before RPI and played against this year are Josh Jooris and Greg Carey.  They are both highly skilled players that I feel have NHL potential.  Jooris has NHL vision and great passes, and Carey has an NHL shot and hands.  Also our goalie this year, Allen York, I feel has a great shot to make it into the NHL.

PP: What are the benefits of playing NCAA hockey?

PK: The NCAA gives a person more time to develop as a player to make the NHL.  It also gives someone the ability to get their education while they are playing hockey.  That is one reason why I chose the NCAA.

PP: What is the moment you remember most of your career so far?

PK: Making it to the NCAA tournament was a great memory this year, but the Bentley game against Dan was something I really remember.

PP: What was the biggest change moving from the CCHL to NCAA?

PK: Bigger, faster, and stronger are the difference between every level.

PP:  Besides hockey, what are some of your other hobbies?

PK: I love being outside, whether it is fishing, camping, skiing, golf, or just being outside.
PP: How close do you think you are to the NHL?

PK: It’s hard to say.  I have never been to an NHL camp so I don’t have a comparison, but I feel that I am two to four years away from stepping into the NHL


     Let me first apologize about the brother/cousin confusion between Pat and Dan.  I hear they get that all the time so let’s not dwell on the mistake.  Anywho, Koudys possesses an excellent array of skills for a great two-way defenseman.  Separating players from the puck doesn’t take to much effort on his part and his tall figure provides and extra long reach for effective poke checking (that’s what she sai…oh never mind).  His strong build allowed him to bench 150 pounds, 12 times at the combine, good for 2^nd best among prospects.  Stats don’t mean everything either, and while he may have only put up 3 points in his 31 games at RPI this season, he showed flashes of offensive potential even as a freshman.  Capable of controlling the play from the point, Koudys has got some scouts and GM’s talking about him.  Bieksa would make a pretty good comparison, but Koudys excels in discipline, an area where the current Canucks defenseman lacks.  One of the very few critiques may be his skating.  Although he has a good enough top speed going down the ice, his side-to-side movement needs a little tweaking.

     Koudys has all the makings of being a very good defenseman in the NHL.  He may not be as highly regarded as Dougie Hamilton or Duncan Siemens, but his smarts and hockey sense outweigh his lack of production.  And who are we kidding?  Freshman don’t usually get the greatest of opportunities their first year of the NCAA.  Pat Koudys might just be the biggest steal in the draft this year.  Only time will tell, but he may just fall far enough that any NHL team will pick him and make out like bandits.  

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Prospect Profile: Sahir Gill - Don't Wake A Sleeping Terrier

{courtesy of vipersdiehardfan.blogspot.com}

Much of the talk surrounding BU has been about Charlie Coyle, a 2009 1^st round draft pick, and two highly rated prospects, Adam Clendening and Matt Nieto, and for good reason.  Those players are very talented in their own way, making them appealing as high picks in the draft, but freshman, Sahir Gill, whose draft year was 2010, deserves just as much credit for Boston University’s success this season.  Look at his age, and it’s obvious that Gill is a freshman.  But watch him play on the ice and it becomes apparent that he has the skill, poise, and determination of senior.

Coming into the season was a bit of a transition.  Many starters had moved on to play at the higher level in the AHL and NHL, most noticeably Kevin Shattenkirk, Nick Bonino, and Colby Cohen.  Add in the off-ice shenanigans that sent the Saponari brothers packing and BU looked like it was in a world of hurt for the 2010-11 season.  With their scouting staff, BU brought in Charlie Coyle, Adam Clendening, Matt Nieto, Sahir Gill, Patrick MacGregor, Yasin Cisse, and Garrett Noonan to pick up and improve where BU left off the previous year.

Immediately, Gill burst onto the scene notching an assist in his first game and then scoring 4 points in his next one.  In the first 16 games, Sahir put up 16 points, pretty impressive for a freshman if I do say so myself.  He hit a bit of a dry patch in the middle of the season before piling up another 9 points in the final 13 games.  He was 6^th on the team in points, with 25, ahead of highly-touted Matt Nieto.  Boston University being my favorite NCAA team, it was a no-brainer for me to schedule an interview with Gill.

Prospect Pursuit: When and why did you get started playing hockey?

Sahir Gill: I started playing hockey when I was 4, started skating at about 2.  My older brother played so I used to walk around with his hockey stick and hit things so my mom decided to put me on skates.

PP: Who was your favorite team/players growing up and for what reasons?

SG: My favorite team is Calgary.  I always loved the tough style of play the Flames played with and the skill they incorporated as well.  My favorite player was Peter Forsberg, I loved the way he could dominate a game and his skills were one of a kind.

PP: What did you learn from playing with the Chicago Steel of the USHL and the Vernon vipers of the BCHL?

SG: I wasn’t in Chicago for very long, but my time in Vernon was pretty special.  I was apart of two national championship teams, we won back to back, so it’s something I’ll never forget.  I grew up as a player in Vernon and learned some key things, especially defensive play there.  Also, the friendships I made in Vernon will last me a long time.

PP: Did you consider going the CHL route?

SG: I considered the CHL route a little bit, it’s a pretty big deal in Canada, but ultimately I wasn’t willing to rule out school when I was 16 so I decided to wait a year and play in the BCHL.  That’s when I was approached by a few schools that changed my mind about going to the CHL.

PP: Why did you choose Boston University?

SG: I chose Boston University because when I was a midget, I came to visit the school with my midget program.  We did a swing of BU, BC, and Harvard and I was also impressed with BU.  We watched a game at Agganis Arena and that kind of solid it for me, so when Coach Parker and Bavis were interested in me, it was kind of a no brainer.

PP: In a few short sentences, describe yourself as a player.

SG: I think I’m an offensive player, probably more of a playmaker than a goal scorer.  I think I can make my teammates and linemates better with my vision and I think my competitiveness is something that I take pride in.

PP: Do you pay any attention to the mock drafts and where they rank you?
SG: I don’t really like to pay attention to the mock drafts, just because there is so much speculation around it.  I just try and focus on going out and playing my best and trying to help us win and try and let everything else take care of itself.
PP: Has Charlie Coyle, a current NHL draftee and BU player, given you any tips or words of advice for when draft day comes around?
SG: Charlie and I haven’t really talked about that.  I know Charlie’s stories of the draft and his process so, any questions kind of get answered right there.
PP: What are the benefits from playing NCAA hockey?
SG: I think the education aspect is pretty unique.  You don’t really understand how much school consumes your timetable till you get to school in September.  But as for hockey, I think the off ice training and attention to detail is pretty good.  Also each game means so much more because we don’t play as many as the CHL, so it teaches you to come prepared each and every night.
PP: Who do you compare your game to in the NHL?

SG: I compare my game to Claude Giroux from the Flyers.  He’s my favorite active player and I try to model my game to his.
PP: What are your thoughts of fellow teammates and draft hopefuls, Adam Clendening and Matt Nieto?
SG: I think Adam and Matt both have bright futures in hockey.  It’s been cool playing with them this year and they’re both special players.  They’re both great guys, too, which is nice.

PP: What is it like playing for a likely Hall of Famer in Jack Parker?
SG: It’s fun.  He’s a very energetic guy.  He’s very intense, too, and ther’s a lot to learn from him.  He’s been around the game for so long, so I look forward to the next 3 years at BU.
PP: What do you have to do in order to take your game to the next level to play in the NHL?
SG: I think being committed to the off-ice training is going to be big for me.  Also I’d like to work on my skating and quickness as well as my shooting.  There’s always a lot to work on so the next 3 years at BU should be fun.

PP: What do you consider the best moment in your playing career so far?
SG: Best moment so far is definitely the two national championships in Vernon.  Both were different and unbelievable and it’s something no one can take away from me and the other guys who won them.  It’s definitely something I will remember for the rest of my life.
PP: Are there any players that you have played with/against who you think will make the NHL and produce very well?  If you can, name some and give a reason why.
SG: I’ve played with a lot of good players, but some that come to mind are probably Charlie, Adam, Matt and Garrett Noonan.  They all work very hard and are all super skilled.  It’s been a lot of fun this year.  Also I think the Jones twins over at Quinnipiac as well.  We were linemates for two years in Vernon and they’re special players.  Super skilled and super competitive.
PP: What does BU have to do different this season to get back into contention for the Frozen Four?
SG: I think we have to have more attention to detail.  A lot of times this year, we were in close games and I think with another year under everyone’s belt, we will have the experience to close out games and have better 60-minute efforts.  We’re returning a lot of guys and the next looks to be exciting for BU hockey!

Gill’s name hasn’t been thrown around often enough, and when it has, the consensus seems to be a late round pick.  With Gill’s playmaking ability, hard-nosed effort, and strong play in-and-around the net, one team will be very lucky to have the British Columbia native in their prospect pool.  Silky smooth hands and passing capability, one can see the resemblance of a Forsberg or a Giroux.  The likelihood of reaching that high of a potential will be very hard to overcome, but it isn’t out of the realm of possibility considering Gill’s work ethic and tireless play.  The Terriers had a few surprising breakout players this season, but Sahir played well enough to get his name thrown out as a possible draft pick in Minnesota.  After all is said and done in St. Paul in two weeks, 29 GM’s will wonder why they didn’t pick Gill in 2010 when they had the chance.

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Ian Jenkins - The Game That Brought Out The Best

To some, hockey is just an event.  For others, it has become a religion.  For casual and crazed fans, alike, hockey has been woven into the fabric of North America and has become a staple throughout Canada and the Northern US.  From 1917, when the NHL first began, kids have always dreamed of lacing up the skates, throwing their teams crest over their pads, and hitting the ice in front of thousands of fans cheering them on.  There isn’t anything like it.  Millions of people have dreamed of playing in the NHL but only a select few put in the hard work and dedication it takes to make that dream a reality.

Ian Jenkins, a 15 goalie of Ypilsanti, Michigan, has had that dream since he was a little kid growing up in the upper Midwest.  Michigan has spit out a ton of popular NHL talent over the years.  Some famous Michiganders are Mike Modano, Pat Lafontaine, Derian Hatcher, Tim Thomas, and Ryan Miller.  Ian Jenkins wanted to be mentioned in the same breath as the last two.

A goalie by trade, Ian has played for the powerhouse Honeybaked ice hockey team as well as Belletire in his home state.  In 2010-11, Jenkins powered Honeybaked with a 15-2-0 record in 17 appearances while posting a 1.80 goals-against-average.  Pretty damn good for a 15 year old, if I do say so myself.  Two weeks ago, Jenkins was the second round pick of the London Knights in the OHL draft.  Things could only go up for Ian.  But things are never as they seem and in a split second that dream quickly faded.

No precise details have been made available about the incident in which Ian Jenkins hit his head against the ground, but he is now in critical condition at the University Hospital at the University of Michigan.  Here is the link to the story:

http://www.torontosun.com/2011/05/20/knights-pick-jenkins-in-critical-condition

Also, word is that his family took Ian off life support sometime yesterday.  The outlook is not very good, but Ian has been a fighter through and through.  I spoke to a few players who have played with/against Ian Jenkins and these are some of things they had to say about the talent that Ian brought on and off the ice, as a player and a person.

“I remember playing against him in the Silverstick Tournament. He shut us out and seemed unstoppable.  He would of been great in the OHL and was one of the top goalies coming from the US.  He would have had a great career if the accident never happened.” – Jimmy Lodge, drafted by Saginaw Spirit

“I didn’t know him much but I got to talk to him a few times, and he was a real outgoing nice guy. He was a great goalie, one of the best ive ever played against. And the whole hockey world is with him, hoping for a miracle.” – Anthony DeAngelo, drafted by Sarnia Sting

"We played him at Sliverstick, and he was phenomenal.  He shut us out and led Honeybaked to win the tournament.  He was a great goalie, and definately had a bright future if it wasn't for the accident. I didn't know him that well, but talked to him a couple times when I played in the states. He was probably one of the top, if not the top goalie in North America." - Alex Sifton, Vaughan Kings

“I played against Ian during the summer.  He was an amazing goalie, an all-around solid goaltender that had a chance to take it to the next level.  I believe he was a top 3 goalie in all of Canada and the USA for all 95’s.  It’s tragic what happened and my heart and prayers go out to his family.” – Thomas Welsh, drafted by Sarnia Sting

“I have played against Ian for nearly my entire hockey career, going back to the Toronto Marlies-Detroit Honeybaked rivalry when we were 11 years old.  Ian would always be the deciding factor of those games. The best goalie hands down that I have ever played against and, more importantly, the nicest guy I have ever met. There wasn’t one person that knows Ian that could say a single bad thing about him.  He was going to the NHL, for sure. I had the pleasure to not only play against him, but play with him at camps in the summer down in Detroit or in spring hockey. Everyone should be praying for the family of the nicest kid around and the best goalie I have ever played against.” – Max Domi, drafted by Kingston

“Ian and I have been friends since an early age, and it was always a joy to play against him. He was an awesome friend and I think our friendship grew stronger every time we played against each other. It was an honor to know and play against Ian. He was a great person and I will never forget the great experiences I have had with him.” – Adam Erne, committed to BU

See, for Ian Jenkins, hockey wasn’t just a game.  It was a need.  It wasn’t a “take it or leave it”.  It was a “gotta have it”.  Hockey was a game that Jenkins dominated and people took notice.  Jenkins was able to steal games by himself, able to play at a top tier level every night, able to frustrate opponents and make them think that nothing could beat him.  But as good as he was on the ice, he was an even better person off of it.  He knew no matter how good he was, he was still never bigger than the game.  The same game that brought about great friendships with teammates, with opponents, and with family and friends.  Ian went through the ups and downs with all of the teams he played for, but as a hockey community, this is the newest low for us. 

Everyone hates to see a talent go down like that, with that much promise, poise, and compassion, but he’s down and not out and needs our help more than we need his.  Ian is fighting for every inch as he has since he strapped on goalie pads for the first time.  Hockey brings the best out in people and it brought the best in Ian Jenkins, but with the news of his situation, Ian is returning the favor by bringing out the best in us.  With the odds stacked against him, messages and well-wishes have been pouring over the internet in hopes that Ian will come back from this as if nothing happened in the first place. 

Not only was Ian Jenkins the best goalie, but he was also the best person.

Update: Ian Jenkins lost his battle early this morning. Rest in peace, Ian.

Morris Dalla Costa of the London Free Press reported this morning (May 23, 2011):

Ian Jenkins, a 15-year-old-hockey prospect who has been fighting for his life since sustaining a head injury Wednesday, died at University Hospital in Michigan. 

"We want to let everyone know that as he always did, Ian battled right up to the final buzzer but he lost at 7:54 this morning," read a statement issued by his father Joel. "He will be missed. We thank everyone for everything they have done over the past few days." 

In a statement issued Saturday Joel thanked everyone for the support the family has received. 

"When there is a resolution we will share it. In case the worst happens, we have already made arrangements for Ian to live on -- and save lives through organ donation," he said in the statement.

Bill Dark, Knights goaltending coach who worked with Jenkins said it was a 'sad, sad, day for everyone."

"We have to think of Joel, Debbie an their other three children," Dark said. "I was talking to them (Saturday) night and Joel said in an ironic twist of fate, the accident happened on the 19th day, the fifth month and the 11th year when added up to Ian's number 35."

 

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2011 Mock NHL Entry Draft

Minnesota.  The home of hockey in the United States of America and home of this year’s NHL Entry Draft.  On this day, the lives of 210 players may be changed for the better.  The 2010 draft came and went and hockey fans were pleased to see first round talents such as Taylor Hall, Jeff Skinner, and Cam Fowler make an impact in the NHL.  This year, there is a new crop of first rounders just waiting to burst onto the scene and make the same impact for their team.

This is my first mock draft of the season because I like to wait until most of the picks have already been decided.  I realize the playoffs are not over yet and the first thing you may notice that I have the Tampa Bay Lightning winning the Stanley Cup (let a man dream).  So without further a due, I present to you my 2011 Mock NHL Entry Draft.

1.     Edmonton Oilers – Adam Larsson

Height/Weight: 6’3”/220 lbs

Position: Defense

Team: Skelleftea AIK (Elitserien)
Age: 18
2010-11 Stats: 37GP, 1 G, 8 A, 9 PTS, 41 PIM 

As much of a privilege it is to acquire the 1^st overall pick, the Edmonton Oilers find themselves in a very difficult spot.  The two keys pieces the Oilers are missing are a number 1 center and a number 1 defenseman.  I have always been under the mindset that you build from the net out.  A franchise defenseman is worth more to an organization then a number 1 (on MOST occasions).  So the Oilers should end up taking best defenseman in the draft.  With comparisons to Lidstrom, this big powerful Swede can take over a game by himself from the back end.  A very silky smooth-skating defenseman with bomb from the point, Larsson will be a #1 d-man for the foreseeable future.  After watching him at the World Juniors this year, he possesses all the skill that GM’s drool over.  For me, as talented as Nugent-Hopkins is, it is a no-brainer for the Oilers to take Larsson with the first overall pick.

2.     Colorado Avalanche – Ryan Nugent-Hopkins

Height/Weight: 6’0”/157 lbs

Position: C

Team: Red Deer Rebels (WHL)
Age: 18
2010-11 Stats: 69 GP, 31 G, 75 A, 106 PTS, 51 PIM

Screw team needs.  Nugent-Hopkins is clearly the best player available if Larsson goes first overall.  Most fans know of Colorado’s center depth as it is with Duchene and Stastny, but that doesn’t validate not taking RNH at number 2.  With impeccable on-ice vision, playmaking ability, and hockey IQ, RNH’s skill set has been compared to the likes of Gretzky.  Nugent-Hopkins delivers night in and night out with his accurate shot, commendable defensive play, and overall effectiveness.

3.     Florida Panthers – Gabriel Landeskog

Height/Weight: 6’0”/201 lbs

Position: Left wing/Right wing

Team: Kitchener Rangers (OHL)
Age: 18
2010-11 Stats: 53 GP, 36 G, 30 A, 66 Pts, 61 PIM

The only thing Swedish about him is his name.  Landeskog came over to play for the Kitchener Rangers and has programmed himself to be the best all-around forward in the draft.  He has adapted to the North American game with ease.  He is as good offensively as he is defensively, lays out big hits, drives hard to the net, explosive shot, and if you get the chance to talk to him, he has even lost his Swedish accent.  Florida is happy to take a winger at this position.  A center like Couturier or Huberdeau would’ve done just fine here but Weiss and Dadonov look pretty good as their number 1 and number 2 centers.  Also take into consideration that they picked Nick Bjugstad in last years first round, as well as a later pick, Zach Hyman, who is really coming into his own.  Landeskog fits the bill of any GM because he brings it all every game.  Mike Richards, a former Kitchener Ranger, is an easy comparison for Landeskog, but I liken him more to a Brendan Morrow.  Florida fans will be in for a treat when Landeskog breaks into the NHL.

4.     New Jersey Devils – Sean Couturier

Height/Weight: 6’3”/192 lbs

Position: Center/Left wing

Team: Drummondville Voltigeurs (QMJHL)
Age: 18
2010-11 Stats: 58 GP, 36 G, 60 A, 96 PTS, 36 PIM

Couturier posted the highest point-per-game of any player in the CHL this year.  I’ve seen many mock drafts and rankings that have shown Couturier drop out of the top 5, which has left me in awe.  Couturier could have gone at number 3 overall, but the Devils are blessed to have him fall to him at 4^th overall.  He really impressed me at the World Juniors.  A big center whose defensive game shouldn’t be counted out, Couturier is a perfect blend of size and skill, precisely what the Devils are looking for in this draft.  Sure their defensive core could still use some work, but I feel the Devils have a good enough scouting staff that they could find someone in the 3^rd round (or the conditional 2nd) with the Dallas Stars pick that they acquired in the Langenbrunner trade.

5.     New York Islanders – Ryan Murphy

Height/Weight: 5’10”/165 lbs

Position: Defense

Team: Kitchener Rangers (OHL)
Age: 18
2010-11 Stats: 63 GP, 26 G, 53 A, 79 PTS, 36 PIM

I still think that Ryan Murphy is the second best defenseman in this year’s draft.  His offensive game is second to none, and his defensive game is vastly underrated.  Murphy is going to be the Cam Fowler of the draft.  Not so much that he will drop, but more so that he will be an offensive weapon on any team and will make an immediate impact starting from his first game in the NHL.  He led the Kitchener Rangers defensemen in points and will be looked at to lead the rush up ice and quarterback the power play.  Islanders need a player like him.  They have built a great top 6 of young talent with Tavares, Moulson, Okposo, Bailey, Nino, and Grabner.  It also looks like Kirill Kabanov has turned the right corner and has resurrected his image after the trade to Lewiston from Moncton and Kirill Petrov may be headed across the river.  Defense is the final piece that the Islanders need in order to make themselves a contender for a playoff spot.  It might take a while, but Murphy might be that final puzzle piece that the Islanders need.

6.     Ottawa Senators – Jonathan Huberdeau

Height/Weight: 6’1”/159 lbs

Position: Center

Team: Saint John Sea Dogs (QMJHL)
Age: 17
2010-11 Stats: 67 GP, 43 G, 62 A, 105 PTS, 88 PIM

Huberdeau may be my favorite top prospect in this year’s draft.  We all know how much Ottawa wants Landeskog in this draft, but Huberdeau is definitely the more dangerous prospect.  The kid has hands that can dangle his way out of a telephone booth; he can play center or wing, and has the uncanny ability to pass in tight quarters.  Much like Murphy might be the Fowler of this year’s draft, I feel Huberdeau is similar to Skinner.  He may not be ready for the NHL like Skinner was in his draft year, but give him some more time in juniors and his flashy play will show up on the score sheet in the NHL sooner than later.  He was on the most offensive line in juniors with Zack Phillips centering he and Stanislav Galiev.  Ottawa may not land Landeskog, but Huberdeau is no slouch either.

7.     Atlanta Thrashers/Winnipeg Jets – Ryan Strome

Height/Weight: 5’11”/170 lbs

Position: Center

Team: Niagara IceDogs (OHL)

Age: 17
2010-11 Stats: 65 GP, 33 G, 73 A, 106 PTS, 82 PIM

Atlanta is in a world of hurt at the moment.  With the whole Winnipeg scenario, their blowup in the second half of the season, and being unsure if their top defensive player, Zach Bogosian, will stay with the team or be traded, Ryan Strome looks like the only bright spot in Atlanta’s near future.  Strome came on big in the beginning of the season and never looked back.  Quick hands gave way to 33 goals and 73 assists in 65 games for the Niagara IceDogs.  He isn’t the biggest kid on the ice, but he sure plays like he’s meant to be out there on the top line every night.  He controls the play extremely well and his passing is spot on.  But while his points are impressive to look at, there are still some skeptics who believe Strome’s game may not translate at the NHL level.  With the great work ethic that Strome has already, this will probably fuel him more to prove the naysayers incorrect.

8.     Columbus Blue Jackets – Dougie Hamilton

Height/Weight: 6’3”/181 lbs

Position: Defense

Team: Niagara IceDogs

Age: 17
2010-11 Stats: 67 GP, 12G, 46 A, 58 PTS, 77 PIM

Is this the year Columbus finally gets their top defensive prospect?  I think so.  Dougie Hamilton is the perfect mix of size and skill.  Think of it him as a blend of the best offensive qualities that Ryan Murphy has tied in to the best defensive qualities that Duncan Siemens has.  Columbus needs a kid like this on the blue line.  Taking over the power play in Niagara, Hamilton scored 58 points in 67 games.  But he isn’t all skill; he’s also a bruiser of a defenseman.  I’m sure there are some OHL players who regret crossing paths with Hamilton this season.  He isn’t afraid to take the body in order to make a play and certainly isn’t afraid to mix it up with some of the best players.  His 77 penalty minutes attest to that.  Columbus can leave the first round with their heads held high knowing that Hamilton will be a cornerstone of their blue line for years to come.

9.     Boston Bruins (via Toronto) – Nathan Beaulieu

Height/Weight: 6’0”/165 lbs

Position: Defense

Team: Saint John Sea Dogs (QMJHL)
Age: 18
2010-11 Stats: 65 GP, 12 G, 33 A, 45 PTS, 52 PIM

Boston has had defensive problems of its own and finds themselves in a lucky spot to pick a highly skilled defender in Nathan Beaulieu.  Nathan becomes the second Sea Dog to get selected in the top 10 and it is mainly due to the juggernaut of a season the team had.  Perhaps a tad bit uneasy with the puck, Beaulieu will have time next season to work on any kinks to his game.  He did put up respectable numbers for a defender but won’t be looked at as “go-to” guy in Boston.  A quick skater, Beaulieu reads the play well and is a versatile defensemen in all three zones.  Boston can personally thank Phil Kessel for this pick.

10. Minnesota Wild – Joel Armia

Height/Weight: 6’3”/187 lbs

Position: Right wing

Team: Assat (SM-liiga)

Age: 17
2010-11 Stats: 48 GP, 18 G, 11 A, 29 PTS, 24 PIM

Don’t dog me for this pick hockey fans.  I know the consensus pick here is Mika Zibanejad, but I think Joel Armia is a better fit in Minnesota.  With their 2010 first rounder, Mikael Granlund, showing up big at this year’s World Championships, Minnesota could use a winger to play alongside the playmaking Granlund.  Armia is just what Wild fans have been looking for.  A big, skillful winger with finishing (no pun intended) capabilities, Armia and Granlund could turn out to be a deadly combo for Minnesota.  I got to watch him at the World Junior Championships, and let me be the first to say, Armia has got a nasty shot to match his stick handling.  A super quick release benefits him in fooling goalies and he, along with Pulkkinen and Ortio were the standouts on Team Finland during the tournament.

11. Colorado Avalanche (via St. Louis) – Duncan Siemens

Height/Weight: 6’3”/194 lbs

Position: Defense

Team: Saskatoon Blades (WHL)
Age: 17
2010-11 Stats:  72 GP, 5 G, 38 A, 43 PTS, 121 PIM

Well, if they weren’t going to pick a defender with the 2^nd overall pick, then you figured they would do it at 11^th overall.  Duncan Siemens is all grit, no BS.  A big body capable of shutting down players, blocking shots, and clearing the opposition away from the net, Colorado picks him to back up the more offensive talents that they have on defense.  You know, guys like Erik Johnson or Stefan Elliot or Tyson Barrie.  His offensive game may be a tad bit underrated, but I doubt you see Siemens put up a point on the score sheet every game.  He is the stay-at-home type but also has a big shot from the point.  Avs fans, be happy Siemens fell to you at 11.

12. Carolina Hurricanes – Mika Zibanejad

Height/Weight: 6’0”/ 176 lbs

Position: Center/Right wing

Team: Djurgarden (Elitserien)

Age: 18
2010-11 Stats: 26 GP, 4 G, 5 A, 9 PTS, 2 PIM

A player who has been shooting up the ratings lists from the start of the season, Mika Zibanejad is one of the best two-way forwards in the draft.  Snubbed from the Swedish junior team, Zibanejad came back to Djurgarden with a vengeance and showed he wasn’t to be messed around with.  Mika is a big body that likes to go into the dirty areas to make plays.  Big hits are common for a player of his stature and he is very difficult to knock off the puck.  For a physical player, Zibanejad has very soft hands and great skating ability.  When watching Zibanejad, you might think you are seeing the next coming of Mikko Koivu…with an edge.

13. Calgary Flames – Mark Scheifele

Height/Weight: 6’3”/174 lbs

Position: Forward

Team: Barrie Colts (OHL)

Age: 18
2010-11 Stats: 66 GP, 22 G, 53 A, 75 PTS, 35 PIM

Talk about rising to the occasion, Mark Scheifele really shined at the past U18 tournament.  A standout on his Jr. B team, Scheifele saw his rights get traded to the Barrie Colts before the season had even began.  But Mark didn’t falter.  Playing solid on both sides of the puck, Scheifele put up 75 points in 66 games.  If he wants to find any success at all, he will need to put on more muscle.  Calgary is aching for their next big star and their offensive depth could use some work.  Their prospect centers leave much to be desired and Scheifele might be one of those surprise picks of the draft that ends up producing consistently at the NHL level.

14. Dallas Stars – Jamie Oleksiak

Height/Weight: 6’7”/240 lbs

Position: Defense

Team: Northeastern University (NCAA)

Age: 18
2010-11 Stats: 38 GP, 4 G, 9 A, 13 PTS, 57 PIM

Jamie Oleksiak has the one thing you can’t teach…SIZE!  And he has plenty of it to go around.  Needless to say, he has quite the reach for a defenseman, and moves surprisingly quick for a man of his size.  His smooth skating is an asset and he uses every pound of his 240-pound build to knock players off the puck.  Dallas took a flyer on hot goalie prospect, Jack Campbell, even while Cam Fowler and Brandon Gormley were still on the board.  Now Dallas can fix their main weakness with this mammoth of a pick.

15. New York Rangers – Matt Puempel

Height/Weight: 6’0”/190 lbs

Position: Left Wing

Team: Peterborough Petes (OHL)

Age: 18
2010-11 Stats: 55 GP, 34 G, 35 A, 69 PTS, 49 PIM

Puempel has fallen out of favor with a lot of people because of the injury he sustained.  Puempel just might be the best goal scorer to come out of this draft.  He has put up two consecutive 30+-goal seasons in the OHL despite the nagging injury.  A workhorse, blessed with a knack of finding the back of the net, Puempel has great speed and playmaking ability as well.  The Rangers further assure their solid prospect pool with yet another gem.  I find Puempel’s game very similar to Phil Kessel and with his injury, he may be like a Brett Connolly in this draft (aka: a top 5 pick had it not been for the injury)

16. Buffalo Sabres – Mark McNeill

Height/Weight: 6’0”/185 lbs

Position: Center

Team: Prince Albert Raiders (WHL)

Age: 18
2010-11 Stats: 70 GP, 32 G, 49 A, 81 PTS, 53 PIM

The Sabres, much like the Canadiens don’t have much talent up the middle, regarding prospects (or even players, for that matter).  Most of the standouts in the Sabres system are defensemen like Drew Schiestel, T.J Brennan, Mark Pysyk and Brayden McNabb.  Only God knows whether or not Tim Connolly will ever be taken off the IR for a consistent amount of time so while Roy and Gerbe man the forefront for the time being, Mark McNeill could develop into a talented point producer down the middle.

17. Montreal Canadiens – Nicklas Jensen

Height/Weight: 6’3/187

Position: Right Wing/Left wing

Team: Oshawa General (OHL)

Age: 18
2010-11 Stats: 61 GP, 29 G, 29 A, 58 PTS, 42 PIM

Well, Habs fans…you have been looking for size and here it is.  Jensen is a very agile and speedy winger with great hockey poise and IQ.  His numbers were relatively good, but they don’t show every facet of Jensen’s game.  The Dane is a playmaker at heart and finding the open man is his specialty.  Canadiens fans would hope that he would be a little tougher and mix it up a bit, but that is just not his game.  Jensen certainly needs to fill out his size a bit more, but even given his slight build, it is still a tough task to knock him off the puck.  He isn’t a slouch in his own end and has a very quick release.  While Kristo had a solid season, as did Leblanc and Palushaj, they are all 6 foot and under.  Count your blessings Habs fans; your newest prospect will tower over your current forwards.

18. Chicago Blackhawks – Sven Bartschi

Height/Weight: 5’10”/174 lbs

Position: Left wing

Team: Portland Winterhawks (WHL)

Age: 18
2010-11 Stats: 66 GP, 34 G, 51 A, 85 PTS, 74 PIM

Sven ain’t nothing like Swiss cheese.  On the contrary, Bartschi certainly isn’t afraid of going to the rough areas to put the puck in the net, even for his size.  A gifted winger, with a nose for the net and nifty hands give the Blackhawks the talent they have been looking for.  Seeing guys like Kruger make it to the big club, Chicago could use a skillful winger for Kruger to dish to.  One of the top point getters in the Dub, Bartschi doesn’t mind getting a little chippy either.  Look no further than the 74 penalty minutes he put up this season.  The Blackhawks add a very nice piece and should be thankful that Bartschi didn’t get snagged earlier.

19. Edmonton Oilers (via Los Angeles) – Zack Phillips

Height/Weight: 6’0”/180 lbs

Position: Center

Team: Saint John Sea Dogs (QMJHL)

Age: 18
2010-11 Stats: 67 GP, 38 G, 57 A, 95 PTS, 16 PIM

Jonathan Huberdeau didn’t go from a 35-point season to a 105-point season in one year on skill, alone.  Zack Phillips was a main reason for the spike in points.  The gritty yet gifted center holds tremendous vision on the ice and can score just as easily as assist.  Yet another prospect who needs to bulk up a bit, Zack Phillips has a ton of potential.  With Larsson getting taken 1^st overall by Edmonton, they find their number 1 center in the first round as well.  A line of Hall-Phillips-Eberle could end up being EXTREMELY dangerous.

20. Phoenix Coyotes – Brandon Saad

Height/Weight: 6’2”/197 lbs

Position: Left wing

Team: Saginaw Spirit (OHL)

Age: 18
2010-11 Stats: 59 GP, 27 G, 28 A, 55 PTS, 47 PIM

Brandon Saad’s name has been thrown around all over the draft board, either as a top 10 pick, or possibly floating out of favor in the first round.  With a solid defense that Phoenix has been able to muster, they now begin to look for forwards with game-breaking potential.  As a big man, Saad plays a big game and is very fast on his skates.  Not necessarily the prototypical power forward, Saad does have 30-30 potential written all over him.  At just under a point per game clip in the OHL, expect Saad to come back to Saginaw to prove he was worth the 1^st round selection by the Coyotes.

21. Ottawa Senators (via Nashville) – Alexander Khokhlachev

Height/Weight: 5’11”/174 lbs

Position: Center

Team: Windsor Spitfires (OHL)
Age: 17
2010-11 Stats: 67 GP, 34 G, 42 A, 76 PTS, 28 PIM

This little blurb was taken from my other blog on fromrussiawithglove.com/dueling-russians:

Khokhlachev’s simple style of game, high hockey sense, and fantastic passing abilities make Khokhlachev a desirable target in this year’s draft.  His deceptive quality is his finishing abilities.  It often gets overlooked with how well he can set players up, but his wrister is blistering.  His skating is flawless, and he is able to break down plays so well to create offensive chances.  Alexander lacks the physical presence and will need to tack on some mass in order to exceed at the next level.  But the Sens can leave the first round with their heads held high with Huberdeau and Khokhlachev at their respective picks.

22. Anaheim Ducks – Rocco Grimaldi

Height/Weight: 5’6”/161 lbs

Position: Forward

Team: USNTDP (USHL)

Age: 18
2010-11 Stats: 23 GP, 12 G, 13 A, 25 PTS, 18 PIM

The most intriguing draft prospect to date, in my opinion, Grimaldi is worth the praise he has received.  Also taken from a blog I did a few weeks back on Hockeyspy:

You'd think, watching him play, that Grimaldi was at least 6'2", so it does seem a little shocking that a player of his capabilities is only an inch taller than Nathan Gerbe.  His height gives him an advantage on skates with explosive acceleration and short, quick strides that makes it easy to beat defenders.  His shots are deceptively quick, as well as accurate.  Give him time to windup for a slapshot and he will make any goalie pay.  With his height limitations, Grimaldi's stick work is key because a taller defender means a longer reach.  Grimaldi's hockey smarts have been able to kick in to make moves before the opposing player knows what hit him.  Take into account his low center of gravity, and you have a complete player who is very difficult to knock off the puck.  I compared him to a play like Theoren Fleury, but ask Grimaldi whom he compares him to and he would say that he doesn’t compare to anyone.  He just knows how to play HIS style of game.

23. Pittsburgh Penguins – Tyler Biggs

Height/Weight: 6’2”/207 lbs

Position: Forward

Team: USNTDP (USHL)

Age: 18
2010-11 Stats: 20 GP, 7 G, 4 A, 11 PTS, 41 PIM

Much like the Habs needed size, the Penguins need wingers.  Tyler Biggs brings with him everything Eric Tangradi does without the terrible nickname (ie. Big Dog).  A big body in front of the net, Biggs has deceptive skills that make him a target in every draft.  Biggs has garnered a lot of interest in the past couple weeks and has been talked about as a possible top 10 pick.  So for the Penguins to snag a player of Biggs’ quality, position, and stature, is a match made in heaven.  A teammate of Grimaldi’s, Tyler’s biggest problem may be consistency.  He can play a big game, but he may not play that big game every single shift.  To make it to the NHL, you need to give it all every single shift, which I am sure Tyler Biggs will figure out sooner or later.

24. Detroit Red Wings – David Musil

Height/Weight: 6’3”/205 lbs

Position: Defense

Team: Vancouver Giants (WHL)

Age: 18
2010-11 Stats: 62 GP, 6 G, 19 A, 25 PTS, 83 PIM

Now Detroit has been known for their gems in the later rounds such as Datsyuk and Zetterberg, but with the first round pick they go for as close to a sure thing as you can.  David Musil was a potential top 3 pick in the beginning of the season when the ISS rankings came out.  A safe pick in this year’s draft, Musil is everything you want in a shutdown defenseman…size, strength, tenacity, and skill.  Tallying an impressive rookie season, Musil played a more defensive role in his sophomore year in the WHL.  He was hoping to suit up for the Czech Republic at the World Junior Championships, but an injury held him back.  With Niklas Lidstrom’s future with the Wings likely to wrap up within the next couple years, and with Jonathan Ericsson’s contract situation moving him out of Detroit, the Red Wings are happy to bring down a defenseman who might be a part of the blueline’s foundation for a long while.

25. Toronto Maple Leafs (via Philadelphia) – Ty Rattie

Height/Weight: 6’0”/165 lbs

Position: Right wing

Team: Portland Winterhawks (WHL)

Age: 18
2010-11 Stats: 67 GP, 28 G, 51 A, 79 PTS, 55 PIM

The second Winterhawk selected in the first round, Ty Rattie has matured tremendously from his rookie season in the Dub.  He made his game more simplistic, which translated to consistency and better numbers (79 points, to be exact).  He still has some room to grow, but his overall game is what makes him an attractive piece to the Toronto Maple Leafs.  Toronto acquired this pick with Philadelphia, along with a 3^rd round pick for Kris Versteeg.  In my personal opinion, Rattie will be much better at the professional level than Kris Versteeg, so the 3^rd round pick is just an added bonus.

26. Washington Capitals – Tomas Jurco

Height/Weight: 6’1”/183 lbs

Position: Right wing

Team: Saint John Sea Dogs (QMJHL)

Age: 18
2010-11 Stats: 60 GP, 31 G, 25 A, 56 PTS, 17 PIM

Boom or bust.  The description of Tomas Jurco’s potential is based on one of those two words.  Jurco’s stick skills alone would make him first overall.  Don’t believe me?  Just go on Youtube and check out some Jurco vids and tell me you aren’t impressed.  I saw him at the World Junior Championships and he’s got crazy moves up his sleeves.  Washington has a liking for flashy players and Jurco is no exception.  He will either be a talented scorer in the NHL or a regular AHL player.  It doesn’t seem like there is much in between those two options for Jurco.  But one thing is for certain, if he does reach his potential, he will be a treat to watch.

27. Toronto Maple Leafs (via Boston) – Joe Morrow

Height/Weight: 6’0”/196 lbs

Position: Defense

Team: Portland Winterhawks (WHL)

Age: 18
2010-11 Stats: 60 GP, 9 G, 40 A, 49 PTS, 67 PIM

The last of the Winterhawks to be selected in the first round and 2^nd in a row for the Toronto Maple Leafs, Joe Morrow really came onto the scene this year as a puck-moving defenseman.  Talk to many Leafs fans and they will be the first to say that Joe Morrow is just what the doctor ordered.  Leading all defensemen on his team with 49 points, Morrow is a quick but smart defenseman who can lead the rush up ice.  Morrow’s most underrated skill is his first pass out of the zone.  Whether it is a quick chip up to the forward or a stretch pass for a breakaway, Morrow knows how to create chances where there seemingly was none.  Toronto snags the offensive defenseman they have been desperately looking for.

28. San Jose Sharks – Dmitrij Jaskin

Height/Weight: 6’3”/200 lbs

Position: Right wing

Team: HC Slavia Praha (Czech)

Age: 18
2010-11 Stats: 33 GP, 3 G, 7 A, 10 A, 16 PIM

San Jose has their depth down the middle so it’s time now to secure some spots on the wings.  Jaskin is playing in a mens league in the Czech Republic but he fits in just fine.  Standing 6’3”, Jaskin holds a unique blend of skill and defense that the Sharks could use.  For his size, he really enjoys throwing hits and finishing checks, but his offense gives him that appeal of a first round pick.  Able to deke with ease, shoot hard and accurate with a quick release, and tough to knock off the puck, Jaskin is one of a few Europeans with the power forward stigma.  His only drawback, according to most scouts, is his skating. 

29. Vancouver Canucks – Oscar Klefbom

Height/Weight: 6’3”/201 lbs

Position: Defense

Team: Farjestad (Elitserien)

Age: 17
2010-11 Stats: 23 GP, 1 G, 1 A, 2 PTS, 2 PIM

With the Canucks defense just about set in stone, with the exception of a possible departure to the free agent market by Christian Ehrhoff, Vancouver should probably start looking for a new defenseman.  While Klefbom does have a high offensive upside if he ever were to reach it, it still won’t eclipse that of Ehrhoff’s.  However, Klefbom is a nice pick to have because of his defensive presence as well.  Klefbom may not be used strictly for offense or strictly for defense.  In fact, he will be used however the Canucks please, so don’t picture him as a bust just because he doesn’t put up points or because his defensive game doesn’t pan out.  He will still be a capable player in the NHL no matter how Vancouver uses him. 

30. Tampa Bay Lightning – Shane Prince

Height/Weight: 5’9”/161 lbs

Position: Left wing

Team: Ottawa 67’s (OHL)

Age: 18
2010-11 Stats: 59 GP, 25 G, 63 A, 88 PTS, 18 PIM

And so finishes my mock draft with the player who was just able to squeak into the first round.  Size has always been a question in the NHL.  Can a player be able to contribute in a game where the players are bigger than he is?  Will his stock drop because of his size?  If we have learned anything since the lockout, it’s that some of the smallest guys have contributed the most to their respective teams (Kane, Briere, St. Louis).  Shane Prince could be in that crop of talent.  Prince hasn’t been talked about too much likely because of his size, but that doesn’t mean he doesn’t warrant a first round pick.  In his 3^rd season in the OHL, Prince went from 30 points to 88 in the span of a season for the Ottawa 67’s.  His small size gives him a lead when it comes to explosiveness on his skates.  His defensive game is almost nonexistent, but that can be worked on.  If he breaks out in the NHL, he has a good shot at being a top point scorer on the top two lines in Tampa.

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