The 2009 NHL Entry Draft will be held at the
Bell Centre in Montreal this coming Friday and Saturday. As is tradition,
here is our official mock draft. Will the Habs go for another defenceman
as they have in years past, or will they aim to stock the forward cupboard?
Keep reading to find the answer.
Like last season, we’ve done this by a panel, consisting of 4 people this year.
Joining myself were HW writers Jason Brisebois and Michael Bitton, as well as
saskhab representing our forum contingent.
Other notes: The conference to determine our mock draft was held on
Monday, June 15th. Player bios were written by Brian La Rose and Norman
Szcyrek. To the right of the draft history/how acquired section is a
compilation of ratings from 4 other sources (Central Scouting Bureau,
International Scouting Services, The Hockey News, and The Sports Network).
Below the drafting history, we’ve listed other players that we feel could go in
each spot, unless the selection was unanimous. For readability purposes,
this page is best viewed in Internet Explorer.
Season stats and player position/height/weight are
from the CSB’s final rankings list.
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With the 1st overall pick, the Islanders will select: John Tavares, C, London (OHL), 6’0.25", 195 lbs 56 GP, 58 goals, 46 assists, 104 points, 54 PIMS |
| When you have the top pick in a draft, you’re going to get a franchise player and Tavares is just that. His detractors will argue that his skating and defensive play are sometimes suspect, but there’s no denying his exceptional offensive abilities. He’ll be able to step into the New York lineup immediately and play a top-6 role, and will be a dominating player for years to come. Even the Isles can’t screw this pick up…we think. |
| Recent Top Picks: 2008: Josh Bailey, C (9th overall) 2007: Mark Katic, D (62nd overall) 2006: Kyle Okposo, RW (7th overall) |
CSB: #1 (NA) ISS: #1 THN: #1 TSN: #1 |
| Other players discussed here: None, unanimous selection |
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With the 2nd overall pick, the Lightning will select: Victor Hedman, D, Modo (SWE), 6’6", 220 lbs 43 GP, 7 goals, 14 assists, 21 points, 52 PIMS |
| Without a doubt the top defender in the draft, you’d be hard pressed to find a major hole in his game. His offensive game is developing, but many feel his defensive play is up to NHL standards now, and that’s as a 17-year old. He played on the top pairing with Modo as well as the top PK group, and is clearly NHL ready. Considering the Lightning desperately need help on defence, expect him to be thrust into the spotlight even faster than last year’s top pick was. |
| Recent Top Picks: 2008: Steven Stamkos, C (1st overall) 2007: Dana Tyrell, C (47th overall) 2006: Riku Helenius, G (15th overall) |
CSB: #1 (Euro) ISS: #3 THN: #2 TSN: #2 |
| Other players discussed here: None, unanimous selection |
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With the 3rd overall pick, the Avalanche will select: Matt Duchene, C, Brampton (OHL), 5’11", 200 lbs 57 GP, 31 goals, 48 assists, 79 points, 42 PIMS |
| The final skater of the triumvirate that could go #1 overall, Duchene is more well rounded than his counterpart in Tavares. Scouts love his skating ability, as well as the fact that he was utilized in every situation for the Battalion this season. While not the elite offensive threat that Tavares is, he does all of the little things well and will help the Avs in every facet in the not-too-distant future. One more OHL year may be beneficial, as Duchene played behind highly touted Cody Hodgson; it would allow him to play as a #1 C which will be his expected role with Colorado. |
| Recent Top Picks: 2008: Cameron Gaunce, D (50th overall) 2007: Kevin Shattenkirk, D (14th overall) 2006: Chris Stewart, RW (18th overall) |
CSB: #2 (NA) ISS: #2 THN: #4 TSN: #3 |
| Other players discussed here: None, unanimous selection |
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With the 4th overall pick, the Thrashers will select: Evander Kane, C, Vancouver (WHL), 6’1.25", 176 lbs 61 GP, 48 goals, 48 assists, 96 points, 89 PIMS |
| A hard checking forward already, many are giddy over how good Kane can be when he fills out. He’s strong at all ends of the ice, plays in every situation, and has a real nose for the net as his 48 goals attests to. Consistency is also a strength for him unlike many others at his age, as is his speed. Although the strength of Atlanta’s youth is at C, the team would be best suited to draft the BPA, which Kane is here. |
| Recent Top Picks: 2008: Zach Bogosian, D (3rd overall) 2007: Spencer Machacek, RW (67th overall) 2006: Bryan Little, C (12th overall) |
CSB: #3 (NA) ISS: #5 THN: #5 TSN: #4 |
| Other players discussed here: Schenn |
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With the 5th overall pick, the Kings will select: Magnus Paajarvi-Svensson, LW, Timra (SWE), 6’1", 201 lbs 50 GP, 7 goals, 10 assists, 17 points, 4 PIMS |
| Arguably the quickest forward the draft, this Swede fared well playing a regular shift in the highest level in Swedish hockey as a 17 year old. He uses his speed to generate lots of scoring opportunities, though one knock on his game is that he’s hesitant to drive to the net. Assuming he can overcome that, he has the potential to be one of the top game-breakers in the draft with creativity to burn. The Kings are loaded with defensive projects, "MPS" will help improve their stable of forwards greatly. |
| Recent Top Picks: 2008: Drew Doughty, D (2nd overall) 2007: Thomas Hickey, D (4th overall) 2006: Jonathan Bernier, G (11th overall) |
CSB: #2 (Euro) ISS: #4 THN: #7 TSN: #10 |
| Other players discussed here: Schenn |
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With the 6th overall pick, the Coyotes will select: Jared Cowen, D, Spokane (WHL), 6’5.25", 220 lbs 48 GP, 7 goals, 14 assists, 21 points, 45 PIMS |
| While some teams may be scared off because of his mid-season injury, the Coyotes simply can’t afford to. He brings the full package to the table though his defensive game is his biggest strength. As a result, he will be able to play in every role in the NHL, the same can’t be said for most of the defenders in this draft class. The Coyotes are well stocked up front, Cowen would bring some much needed high-end depth to their defenceman prospect pool. |
| Recent Top Picks: 2008: Mikkel Boedker, RW (8th overall) 2007: Kyle Turris, C (3rd overall) 2006: Peter Mueller, C (8th overall) |
CSB: #9 (NA) ISS: #7 THN: #4 TSN: #7 |
| Other players discussed here: Schenn, Kulikov |
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With the 7th overall pick, the Maple Leafs will select: Brayden Schenn, C, Brandon (WHL), 6’0", 198 lbs 70 GP, 32 goals, 56 assists, 88 points, 82 PIMS |
| Though we have Schenn listed here, it would not surprise any of the panelists to see him selected a few picks earlier…still by Toronto. Ignoring the obvious family ties, there’s several elements in his game that endear him to the scouts – he plays a physical game, is well-rounded on offence and can play in his own end. Considering the holes in Toronto’s lineup, it’s not beyond the realm of possibility that he too gets fast tracked to the NHL like his older brother. |
| Recent Top Picks: 2008: Luke Schenn, D (5th overall) 2007: Dale Mitchell, RW (74th overall) 2006: Jiri Tlusty, LW (13th overall) |
CSB: #4 (NA) ISS: #6 THN: #6 TSN: #5 |
| Other players discussed here: Kadri |
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With the 8th overall pick, the Stars will select: Dmitry Kulikov, D, Drummondville (QMJHL), 6’0.5", 183 lbs 57 GP, 12 goals, 50 assists, 62 points, 46 PIMS |
| Kulikov adapted very well to the Quebec League in his first season, including the language barriers as he learned both English and French. Although you won’t see him winning awards for being the best defender, he does hold his own in the defensive zone, and his offensive game and mobility has scouts drooling. Considering Sergei Zubov is on his last legs in Dallas, it seems fitting for the Stars to select Kulikov as his replacement as their games are somewhat similar. |
| Recent Top Picks: 2008: Tyler Beskorowany, G (59th overall) 2007: Nico Sacchetti, C (50th overall) 2006: Ivan Vishnevskiy, D (27th overall) |
CSB: #11 (NA) ISS: #10 THN: #11 TSN: #9 |
| Other players discussed here: Schroeder |
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With the 9th overall pick, the Senators will select: Jordan Schroeder, C, Minnesota (WCHA), 5’8.25", 175 lbs 32 GP, 13 goals, 32 assists, 45 points, 29 PIMS |
| The biggest weakness in Ottawa’s system is up front, particularly in terms of impact forwards. The WCHA Rookie of the Year, Schroeder is very fleet of foot with a booming shot. His size limits his physical abilities, but he’s not the easiest to separate from the puck either. At times this season he had a tendency to look for the pass rather than the shot, but many feel he has the ‘whole package’, and that his size is the primary reason he’ll still be available when the Sens hit the podium. |
| Recent Top Picks: 2008: Erik Karlsson, D (15th overall) 2007: James O’Brien, C (29th overall) 2006: Nick Foligno, C (25th overall) |
CSB: #5 (NA) ISS: #14 THN: #9 TSN: #15 |
| Other players discussed here: Glennie, Ekman-Larsson, Kadri |
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With the 10th overall pick, the Oilers will select: Oliver Ekman-Larsson, D, Leksand (SWE-2), 6’2", 176 lbs 39 GP, 3 goals, 14 assists, 17 points, 32 PIMS |
| Quickly rising in the rankings throughout the course of the season, Ekman-Larsson is a mobile, offensive minded defenseman that Edmonton currently lacks in their system. Despite his frame, physical play does not play a big role in his game, although many expect that to improve as he fills out over time. His defensive game is also somewhat underrated, as he led all under-18 players with a +44 rating. Though he may not be a top defender, he’ll certainly fit in well in Edmonton’s top-3. |
| Recent Top Picks: 2008: Jordan Eberle, C (22nd overall) 2007: Sam Gagner, C (6th overall) 2006: Jeff Petry, D (45th overall) |
CSB: #4 (Euro) ISS: #9 THN: #13 TSN: #6 |
| Other players discussed here: Glennie, Kadri |
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With the 11th overall pick, the Predators will select: Nazem Kadri, C, London (OHL), 5’11.5", 167 lbs 56 GP, 23 goals, 53 assists, 78 points, 31 PIMS |
| The Predators have done well replenishing their prospect pool over the years, so there aren’t really any glaring holes. But when you consider that several of their top forwards are getting a little long in the tooth, it may be time to pick a replacement. Kadri is a quick skater with above average offensive skills and despite his size, he plays a gritty style. Some say he regressed when dealt to London, but he’ll still be a bonafide top-6 forward down the road. |
| Recent Top Picks: 2008: Colin Wilson, C (7th overall) 2007: Jonathan Blum, D (23rd overall) 2006: Blake Geoffrion, LW (56th overall) |
CSB: #15 (NA) ISS: #8 THN: #8 TSN: #8 |
| Other players discussed here: Glennie |
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With the 12th overall pick, the Wild will select: Scott Glennie, RW, Brandon (WHL), 6’1.25", 177 lbs 55 GP, 28 goals, 42 assists, 70 points, 25 PIMS |
| It’s the dawn of a new era in Minnesota, and what better way to celebrate it than with a player pegged to be a dynamic offensive forward? Glennie certainly isn’t a player you’ll mistake for a Selke candidate, but he has a plethora of offensive weapons in his arsenal as well as being a strong skater. With Marian Gaborik set to leave in less than 2 weeks, Glennie will be a good start in beginning to replace what he brought to the table. |
| Recent Top Picks: 2008: Tyler Cuma, D (23rd overall) 2007: Colton Gillies, C (16th overall) 2006: James Sheppard, C (9th overall) |
CSB: #7 (NA) ISS: #19 THN: #14 TSN: #11 |
| Other players discussed here: Kassian, Josefson |
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With the 13th overall pick, the Sabres will select: Ryan Ellis, D, Windsor (OHL), 5’9.25", 173 lbs 57 GP, 22 goals, 67 assists, 89 points, 57 PIMS |
| When you look below and see d-men taken first the last 3 years, drafting another one seems illogical. But when you consider who these prospects are, it makes some sense. Ellis is never going to be a hard hitter, but his offensive skills are top notch in the OHL. His defensive game is also underrated, but his niche in the NHL will be as that puck moving offensive threat. The Sabres may have lots of D in the system, but none quite like Ellis. |
| Recent Top Picks: 2008: Tyler Myers, D (12th overall) 2007: T.J. Brennan, D (31st overall) 2006: Dennis Persson, D (24th overall) |
CSB: #16 (NA) ISS: #13 THN: #17 TSN: #12 |
| Other players discussed here: Kassian, Josefson, Leblanc |
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With the 14th overall pick, the Panthers will select: Simon Despres, D, Saint John (QMJHL), 6’3.5", 205 lbs 66 GP, 2 goals, 30 assists, 32 points, 74 PIMS |
| While he won’t remind Panther fans of the soon to be former Florida defenceman Jay Bouwmeester, Despres is a strong prospect in his own right. Surprisingly mobile for his size, he also plays a decent physical game and moves the puck well. He likely won’t be a staple on the powerplay in the NHL, but he’ll block shots and do all the little things that a team needs to win. Not a top-pairing blueliner, but he’ll fit in nicely within the Panthers’ top-4 down the road. |
| Recent Top Picks: 2008: Jacob Markstrom, G (31st overall) 2007: Keaton Ellerby, D (10th overall) 2006: Michael Frolik, C (10th overall) |
CSB: #8 (NA) ISS: #30 THN: #12 TSN: #18 |
| Other players discussed here: Josefson, Moore |
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With the 15th overall pick, the Ducks will select: Zack Kassian, RW, Peterborough (OHL), 6’2.75", 210 lbs 61 GP, 24 goals, 39 assists, 63 points, 136 PIMS |
| Easily one of the toughest players in the draft, Kassian was the biggest riser in the final rankings of the CSB ratings. He uses his NHL-ready frame well and showed a knack for scoring some key goals. As is the case with a lot of the draft eligible forwards, skating is a concern, but it shouldn’t stop him from being a core power forward at the NHL level. Although Brian Burke now runs the Leafs, the Ducks’ prospect system is still set up for a player like Kassian to make an impact in the near future. |
| Recent Top Picks: 2008: Jake Gardiner, D (17th overall) 2007: Logan MacMillan, C (19th overall) 2006: Mark Mitera, D (19th overall) |
CSB: #10 (NA) ISS: #20 THN: #16 TSN: #14 |
| Other players discussed here: Moore, Rundblad, Holland |
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With the 16th overall pick, the Blue Jackets will select: John Moore, D, Chicago (USHL), 6’2", 189 lbs 57 GP, 14 goals, 25 assists, 39 points, 50 PIMS |
| The blueline in Columbus lately has resembled a patchwork crew, and there is little in the system moving forward. This is why it’s paramount for them to draft a defender, and Moore fits the "new NHL" perfectly. Mobility is his greatest asset, and he does not hesitate to join the rush. His defensive play isn’t entirely up to par, but steadily improved throughout the season. Moore looks to be a future PP quarterback and will instantly fill a couple of needs for the Blue Jackets. |
| Recent Top Picks: 2008: Nikita Filatov, LW (6th overall) 2007: Jakub Voracek, RW (7th overall) 2006: Derick Brassard, C (6th overall) |
CSB: #6 (NA) ISS: #16 THN: #18 TSN: #13 |
| Other players discussed here: de Haan, Rundblad |
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With the 17th overall pick, the Blues will select: Louis Leblanc, C, Omaha (USHL), 6’0", 178 lbs 60 GP, 28 goals, 31 assists, 59 points, 78 PIMS |
| The Blues have drafted a lot of scoring depth recently, but their system still lacks that legitimate two-way centre. Enter Leblanc, who was nearly a point-per-game player as a rookie in the USHL with a league high +33 en route to rookie of the year. Tenacious and hard working, he’s the type of player every team can use, as that 3rd line centre who can shut down the opponent while lighting the lamp. |
| Recent Top Picks: 2008: Alex Pietrangelo, D (4th overall) 2007: Lars Eller, C (13th overall) 2006: Erik Johnson, D (1st overall) |
CSB: #13 (NA) ISS: #12 THN: #29 TSN: #17 |
| Other players discussed here: Josefson, Ashton, Holland |
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With the 18th overall pick, the Canadiens will select: Peter Holland, C, Guelph (OHL), 6’2", 185 lbs 68 GP, 28 goals, 39 assists, 67 points, 42 PIMS |
| Over the years, the Habs have always lacked a prototypical offensive power forward. Holland has the potential to become such a player, but has a long way to go to get there. His compete level and consistency waver at times, but when he’s focused, he can be a real threat. His skating isn’t the strongest, but he possesses a good hockey sense which helps compensate for this. This pick solves a myriad of needs for the Habs, who need size and strength, as well as depth down the middle. |
| Recent Top Picks: 2008: Danny Kristo, RW (56th overall) 2007: Ryan McDonagh, D (12th overall) 2006: David Fischer, D (20th overall) |
CSB: #19 (NA) ISS: #15 THN: #19 TSN: #24 |
| Other players discussed here: Caron, Ashton |
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With the 19th overall pick, the Rangers will select: Chris Kreider, C, Andover (USHS), 6’2", 201 lbs 26 GP, 33 goals, 23 assists, 56 points, 10 PIMS |
| Having played at a lower level this year, scouts are struggling to determine how good he actually is, particularly in terms of his offensive game. The one thing they all agree on is that he’s easily the best pure skater in the draft. Considering he’s still eligible for another year at the high school level, he’s going to be a long-term project. The Rangers, who have some talented young forwards in the system, can afford to let him develop as a sniper who easily could be a steal at #19. |
| Recent Top Picks: 2008: Michael Del Zotto, D (20th overall) 2007: Alexei Cherepanov, RW (17th overall) 2006: Bob Sanguinetti, D (21st overall) |
CSB: #14 (NA) ISS: #24 THN: #24 TSN: #19 |
| Other players discussed here: Shore, Palmieri |
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With the 20th overall pick, the Flames will select: David Rundblad, D, Skelleftea (SWE), 6’2", 189 lbs 45 GP, 0 goals, 10 assists, 10 points, 8 PIMS |
| Rundblad is one of the few players who seems to fall anywhere between about picks 10 and 40. His proponents love his two-way game and drool over his offensive instincts, but his detractors question his physical play and defensive positioning. A regular in the Swedish Elite League, he will need some more seasoning before being NHL ready. With the Flames getting hit with the injury bug on the back end this year, replenishing that end of the cupboard appears to be in their best interest. |
| Recent Top Picks: 2008: Greg Nemisz, C (25th overall) 2007: Mikael Backlund, C (24th overall) 2006: Leland Irving, G (26th overall) |
CSB: #6 (Euro) ISS: #22 THN: #10 TSN: #21 |
| Other players discussed here: Elliott |
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With the 21st overall pick, the Flyers will select: Jacob Josefson, C, Djurgarden (SWE), 6’0", 187 lbs 50 GP, 5 goals, 11 assists, 16 points, 14 PIMS |
| Josefson is an excellent two way player, who plays a very intelligent game in both zones. He’s very creative, and has playmaking skills to spare. Projected by some to go higher, his stock may fall due to a poor showing at the WJC’s, and the fact he had limited ice time in the Elitserien. The Flyers are deep at the pivot position already, but with the cap crunch about to hit them, Josefson will represent a cheap replacement when one of Philly’s high priced players gets moved out. |
| Recent Top Picks: 2008: Luca Sbisa, D (19th overall) 2007: James van Riemsdyk, LW (2nd overall) 2006: Claude Giroux, RW (22nd overall) |
CSB: #3 (Euro) ISS: #11 THN: #15 TSN: #16 |
| Other players discussed here: Ashton, Morin |
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With the 22nd overall pick, the Canucks will select: Calvin de Haan, D, Oshawa (OHL), 5’11.75", 170 lbs 68 GP, 8 goals, 55 assists, 63 points, 40 PIMS |
| This blueliner’s style is quite similar to Brian Rafalski. de Haan has strong hockey sense, both offensively and defensively, rarely making mistakes in either zone, but is undersized in terms of most NHL defenders. Scouts have raved about his decision making and ability to slow the game down, a pair of critical elements in the modern day NHL. The Canucks can use a good replacement after the Luc Bourdon tragedy, especially with many of their current defencemen getting a little long in the tooth. |
| Recent Top Picks: 2008: Cody Hodgson, C (10th overall) 2007: Patrick White, C (25th overall) 2006: Michael Grabner, RW (14th overall) |
CSB: #25 (NA) ISS: #36 THN: #22 TSN: #23 |
| Other players discussed here: Elliott, Ferraro |
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With the 23rd overall pick, the Devils will select: Landon Ferraro, C, Red Deer (WHL), 5’11.25", 165 lbs 68 GP, 37 goals, 18 assists, 55 points, 99 PIMS |
| Ferraro, the son of former NHL’er Ray Ferraro, is a gifted offensive forward. Despite playing on a young, struggling team, he led his team in scoring, with some spunk and a scoring touch around the net. He is a very good skater, with excellent acceleration, and great patience when holding on to the puck. Aggressive on the forecheck and very willing to throw the body around despite his small stature, he also has an underrated defensive game. Down the road, he may project to be a better winger than a centre. |
| Recent Top Picks: 2008: Mattias Tedenby, LW (24th overall) 2007: Mike Hoeffel, LW (57th overall) 2006: Matt Corrente, D (30th overall) |
CSB: #18 (NA) ISS: #17 THN: #28 TSN: #26 |
| Other players discussed here: Caron, Erixon, Palmieri |
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With the 24th overall pick, the Capitals will select: Carter Ashton, RW, Lethbridge (WHL), 6’2.5", 205 lbs 70 GP, 30 goals, 20 assists, 50 points, 93 PIMS |
| Ashton, the son of former NHL’er Brent Ashton, is a big specimen that uses his size to his advantage through his physical play and aggression. His skating is still a work in progress, as his stride appears too long with little acceleration. His offensive game is average, and combined with his skating, his role in the pros will likely be in a bottom 6 checking position. Fortunately for the Caps, they have plenty of offence, but could require some beefing up past their top 2 lines, where Ashton would fit in quite nicely. |
| Recent Top Picks: 2008: Anton Gustafsson, C (21st overall) 2007: Karl Alzner, D (5th overall) 2006: Nicklas Backstrom, C (4th overall) |
CSB: #12 (NA) ISS: #33 THN: #20 TSN: #20 |
| Other players discussed here: Elliott, Morin |
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With the 25th overall pick, the Bruins will select: Stefan Elliott, D, Saskatoon (WHL), 6’0.5", 180 lbs 71 GP, 16 goals, 39 assists, 55 points, 26 PIMS |
| Elliott represents an emerging two-way defenceman. Blessed with fantastic speed, he also has great passing ability and regularly handles both the top power play and penalty killing tasks. His size is likely the only deterrent to teams in drafting him earlier in the round, although some scouts remain concerned with his defensive zone play. The Bruins would be a good fit for him with their depth on the blueline starting to look a little thin. |
| Recent Top Picks: 2008: Joe Colborne, LW (16th overall) 2007: Zach Hamill, C (8th overall) 2006: Phil Kessel, LW (5th overall) |
CSB: #17 (NA) ISS: #38 THN: #27 TSN: #35 |
| Other players discussed here: Erixon, Leddy |
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With the 26th overall pick, the Islanders will select: Tim Erixon, D, Skelleftea (SWE), 6’2", 190 lbs 45 GP, 2 goals, 5 assists, 7 points, 12 PIMS |
| Erixon is another strong two-way defenceman. His skating is already pro level, as is his decision making with and without the puck. He is a steady, dependable player, albeit with limited flash to his offensive game. His size has helped acquit himself to playing at the pro level in Sweden, where he spent the majority of this season. The Islanders need help in all areas of the team, and would welcome a close to NHL ready blueliner in Erixon to help expedite the rebuilding process. |
| How acquired: From Ottawa (via Tampa Bay via San Jose) with Dean McAmmond in exchange for C Mike Comrie and D Chris Campoli. |
CSB: #5 (Euro) ISS: #55 THN: #32 TSN: #28 |
| Other players discussed here: Klingberg, Budish |
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With the 27th overall pick, the Hurricanes will select: Jeremy Morin, LW, USA U-18 (USDP), 6’0.5", 189 lbs 46 GP, 26 goals, 22 assists, 48 points, 99 PIMS |
| Morin represents an intriguing prospect for the Canes. He has pro-level goal scoring ability now, but his consistency and work ethic have been off and on this season. When he is on, he has shown natural goal scoring hands, and good offensive forechecking. When he’s off, his skating looks average at best with little acceleration, and a high dependency on his teammates to make him better. His style seems similar to Jonathan Cheechoo or Brett Hull, but he is a high risk, high reward given his inconsistency. |
| Recent Top Picks: 2008: Zach Boychuk, C (14th overall) 2007: Brandon Sutter, C (11th overall) 2006: Jamie McBain, D (63rd overall) |
CSB: #33 (NA) ISS: #27 THN: #21 TSN: #31 |
| Other players discussed here: Shore, Olsen |
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With the 28th overall pick, the Blackhawks will select: Jordan Caron, RW, Rimouski (QMJHL), 6’2.25", 202 lbs 56 GP, 36 goals, 31 assists, 67 points, 66 PIMS |
| Caron has a good mix of talent, size and abilities for a centre. He has very good hockey sense, and is a natural leader on his team. He understands the defensive game well, and has good hockey sense and a good shot. His coach uses him in all situations, and he is always a hard worker. The biggest flaw in his game is that he is not a very quick skater. The Blackhawks represent a good organization for Caron, since they can afford to be patient with him. Caron could reach the NHL level relatively early, given his potential to fit in well at the 3rd or 4th line, to start. |
| Recent Top Picks: 2008: Kyle Beach, LW (11th overall) 2007: Patrick Kane, RW (1st overall) 2006: Jonathan Toews, C (3rd overall) |
CSB: #21 (NA) ISS: #25 THN: #33 TSN: #22 |
| Other players discussed here: Palmieri |
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With the 29th overall pick, the Red Wings will select: Ryan O’Reilly, C, Erie (OHL), 6’0", 200 lbs 68 GP, 16 goals, 50 assists, 66 points, 26 PIMS |
| A real character player in the best sense of the word. He has excellent hockey sense and anticipates the play very well while being strong on the draw. His positioning is exceptional in all zones, and he is a good passer and playmaker. He captained Team Canada’s U-18 squad, which shows his leadership ability. His primary drawback is his skating which is average, with little quickness. If that improves, he could become a 2nd line centre in the pros or he could excel at a checking role. With Detroit’s talent level up front, they could use this type of player for 3rd and 4th line duty down the road. |
| Recent Top Picks: 2008: Thomas McCollum, G (30th overall) 2007: Brendan Smith, D (27th overall) 2006: Cory Emmerton, C (41st overall) |
CSB: #39 (NA) ISS: #50 THN: #39 TSN: #27 |
| Other players discussed here: Palmieri, Werek, Klingberg, Olsen |
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With the 30th overall pick, the Penguins will select: Drew Shore, C, USA U-18 (USDP), 6’2.5", 190 lbs 53 GP, 14 goals, 23 assists, 37 points, 38 PIMS |
| A solid two-way centre, with a mix of good size and skill; he uses his size well and battles hard consistently. His passing, shooting and vision are all very good, and he also handles penalty killing tasks well. His skating is not fluid; he is the type of player that must keep his feet moving at the pro level to be effective. A project pick, the Penguins would be best suited to allow him to develop in college for a while before signing him. |
| Recent Top Picks: 2008: Nathan Moon, C (120th overall) 2007: Angelo Esposito, C (20th overall) 2006: Carl Sneep, D (32nd overall) |
CSB: #28 (NA) ISS: #18 THN: #23 TSN: #30 |
| Other players discussed here: Olsen, Klingberg, Panik |