2005 Entry Draft

[Habs_fan_in_LA]

seventeen said:

badcompany said:

How about a mock? Anybody else got any stones? ;D

1) Pittsburgh : Sydney Crosby, C. Well, I’ll get at least one right.

2) Anaheim : Jack Johnson, D.

3) Carolina : Benoit Pouliot, C.
4) Minnesota : Marc Staal, D.

5) Montreal : Bobby Ryan, RW.
6) Columbus : Anze Kopitar, C.

7) Chicago : Gilbert Brule, C.

The stones? Yes. The time?...no.

I shall take umbrage (there's another word I love...sounds kind of like a crazy Brolly fight) with your rankings in the top 7. I think Crosby, Johnson and Kopitar will go 1,2,3, though who knows if Johnson will go before Kopitar or after. I also don't think Ryan will go as high as you suspect. The knock against KK (King Kong) is his skating. Not having seen him myself, I can't judge whether he simply looks awkward (like Jason Ward), or is truly lead footed (like Jason Ward). If he can't go from A to B toute de suite, he falls like the proverbial Swiss parachute. (I'm making that up as I've never seen a Swiss parachute to confirm whether it really has holes in it).
Brule, on the other hand, may do very well in the new NHL. I've seen his highlights many times. He's not as aggressive as I've read. As a 16 year old, the knock against him was his size, so he decided to get chippy and retaliated every time someone tried anything on him. So I don't think his aggression is natural, but his efforts to improve himself and discourage cheap shots is admirable and worth respecting. He does indeed have great hands (and you know how much Savard likes hands) and decent speed. His strength needs work, as is true of many draftees. I don't think Marc Staal will go that high, though as you say, Minny's kind of dippee sometimes.

The Stones? Time is on your side!

When Komisarek runs into Brule, it's "Creme Brule!" You can teach toughness, but you can't teach size.

[The Habsome One]

habsfaninla said:

When Komisarek runs into Brule, it's "Creme Brule!" You can teach toughness, but you can't teach size.

We like Koivu. We like Peca. And we will like Brule.

Last year Brule injured his shoulder.
Such small and feisty players are super-injury prone.

They say the CH has been starving for an elite superstar for far too long.

Enter the Amazing Anze!

[Carv]

*** Jack Skille ***

I've been locked in on Brule since we got #5 last Friday but this guy souns like a definite possibility.

I have seen his name mentioned a couple of times but thought like most that he was in the next group of players below Brule, Pouliot, Ryan, Kopitar and Johnson. Well, I read the transcript from a chat today with Kyle Woodlief from the Red Line Report and he feels strongly that Skille ranks as highly as these other players. Woodlief was the scout who believed that Kostitsyn was possibly the best overall talent in his draft year. Anyway, he is about 6'1 200 pounds, plays the wing and is compared to Bill Guerin or Ryan Smith. Skates well, plays physically and he has size. The kid looks good. If our scouts were on the same page as Woodlief when we picked Kostitsyn then maybe ... I don't see a downside to this pick.

Here is a link to the Red Line Report on him at Sportsnet:
www.sportsnet.ca/hockey/columnist.jsp?content=20050708_104413_5812

Here is a link to the chat with Kyle Woodlief from today:
transcripts.usatoday.com/Chats/transcript.aspx?c=139

Here is a link to his bio from TSN:
www.tsn.ca/nhl/draft/feature.asp?fid=7329

[M. Beaux-Eaux]

carv said:

*** Jack Skille ***

I've been locked in on Brule since we got #5 last Friday but this guy souns like a definite possibility.

I have seen his name mentioned a couple of times but thought like most that he was in the next group of players below Brule, Pouliot, Ryan, Kopitar and Johnson. Well, I read the transcript from a chat today with Kyle Woodlief from the Red Line Report and he feels strongly that Skille ranks as highly as these other players. Woodlief was the scout who believed that Kostitsyn was possibly the best overall talent in his draft year. Anyway, he is about 6'1 200 pounds, plays the wing and is compared to Bill Guerin or Ryan Smith. Skates well, plays physically and he has size. The kid looks good. If our scouts were on the same page as Woodlief when we picked Kostitsyn then maybe ... I don't see a downside to this pick.

Here is a link to the Red Line Report on him at Sportsnet:
www.sportsnet.ca/hockey/columnist.jsp?content=20050708_104413_5812

Here is a link to the chat with Kyle Woodlief from today:
transcripts.usatoday.com/Chats/transcript.aspx?c=139

Here is a link to his bio from TSN:
www.tsn.ca/nhl/draft/feature.asp?fid=7329

I don't know Jack Skille, so thanks for the info. I would put him ahead of Ryan on my short list. As Woodlief mentions a few times, if the NHL is serious about opening up the game, skating ability will be a premium asset.

Of course, I just couldn't help but notice the comments on Kopitar.

Marc - Montreal, Quebec, Canada: Imagine that you are part of the Montreal Canadiens brass. You have the choice between Brule and Kopitar with the #5, who do you pick ?

Kyle Woodlief: At Red Line we have Brule ranked slightly ahead of Kopitar, but I think for Montreal, there may be an influence from the size factor. If they do indeed keep Saku Koivu, which I believe they will, would they be a bit gun-shy about selecting a player who is the same size as Koivu and had some real shoulder problems this year? Like Koivu, Brule is a smaller guy who plays a very robust style, so will his body be able to last over the long haul with the pounding he puts it through? So if the choice comes down to Brule or Kopitar, that may potentially be a deciding factor that comes into play.

Quebec, Canada: Good afternoon Kyle, How safe are the five or six prospects in this draft? Many times I have heard that guys like Kopitar, Ryan and Pouliot are pretty risky picks. Is there any truth to that?

Kyle Woodlief: Everyone has an element of risk -- even Sidney Crosby. But I think Brule, Pouliot, Skille, Kopitar, and Ryan all have a good chance to become solid 10-year players in the NHL. Brule has the size issue, Ryan the skating issue. But they bring so much to the table in other areas that they should overcome it. Kopitar hasn't really played a physical North American-style game -- ever. But he's big and strong, and not real shy about contact, so again, it shouldn't be a huge transition.

Vancouver, BC: Are there any good comparisons for Anze Kopitar out there? I've heard a number of different names; Jason Allison, Dany Heatley, Tomas Vanek. Are any of them accurate?

Kyle Woodlief: Dany Heatley is the player we compared him to in Red Line, though Tomas Vanek is also a good comparison.

[TheCaper]

mrbozo said:

Marc - Montreal, Quebec, Canada: Imagine that you are part of the Montreal Canadiens brass. You have the choice between Brule and Kopitar with the #5, who do you pick ?

Marc sneaks in a cameo appearance on HabRus.

[M. Beaux-Eaux]

thecaper said:

mrbozo said:

Marc - Montreal, Quebec, Canada: Imagine that you are part of the Montreal Canadiens brass. You have the choice between Brule and Kopitar with the #5, who do you pick ?

Marc sneaks in a cameo appearance on HabRus.

Forensic investigation determines that the use of the question mark in the French grammatical style in English text rules him out as our man.

[BadCompany]

seventeen said:

badcompany said:

How about a mock? Anybody else got any stones? ;D

1) Pittsburgh : Sydney Crosby, C. Well, I’ll get at least one right.

2) Anaheim : Jack Johnson, D.

3) Carolina : Benoit Pouliot, C.
4) Minnesota : Marc Staal, D.

5) Montreal : Bobby Ryan, RW.
6) Columbus : Anze Kopitar, C.

7) Chicago : Gilbert Brule, C.

The stones? Yes. The time?...no.

I shall take umbrage (there's another word I love...sounds kind of like a crazy Brolly fight) with your rankings in the top 7. I think Crosby, Johnson and Kopitar will go 1,2,3, though who knows if Johnson will go before Kopitar or after. I also don't think Ryan will go as high as you suspect. The knock against KK (King Kong) is his skating. Not having seen him myself, I can't judge whether he simply looks awkward (like Jason Ward), or is truly lead footed (like Jason Ward). If he can't go from A to B toute de suite, he falls like the proverbial Swiss parachute. (I'm making that up as I've never seen a Swiss parachute to confirm whether it really has holes in it).
Brule, on the other hand, may do very well in the new NHL. I've seen his highlights many times. He's not as aggressive as I've read. As a 16 year old, the knock against him was his size, so he decided to get chippy and retaliated every time someone tried anything on him. So I don't think his aggression is natural, but his efforts to improve himself and discourage cheap shots is admirable and worth respecting. He does indeed have great hands (and you know how much Savard likes hands) and decent speed. His strength needs work, as is true of many draftees. I don't think Marc Staal will go that high, though as you say, Minny's kind of dippee sometimes.

Umbrage?? Umbrage?? You sir, have offended me! Pistols at dawn, choose your second!

I think if Kopitar doesn't go at #2, he'll fall to at least #5. The Canes pick at #3, and they just don't like Europeans. I looked it up once, and since moving to Carolina, they've picked 7 Europeans, total. Out of like, 65 picks. For comparisons sake, Montreal has picked 20, not counting quasi-Europeans, like Joseph Balej, and Alexander Buturlin, who were already playing in NA when selected (I counted quickly, so I could be off a little). Of those 7 Europeans taken, only 1 was taken higher than the fourth round (Igor Knyazev), and he hasn't exactly inspired them to redouble their European efforts. They could of course still pick him, but looking at trends, the odds would be against it. We're not talking a Kovalchouk or Ovechkin here, who were head and shoulders above anybody else. We're talking Kopitar, and there is debate as to whether he is better than Johnson, Pouliot, Brule or Ryan.

So if Kopitar doesn't go at #2, and the Canes stick with tradition and pass on the Euro as well, that would leave it up to Minnesota at #4. But as mentioned above, they already have a bunch of good, to very good center prospects, on the cusp of breaking into the NHL (conceivably all 4 could do so next year). Not too mention they are a big market team with about 20 million in cap room. I think the Wild would also pass on Kopitar, though in all honesty its a bit of a stretch to think they'll take Staal over Ryan. But I didn't want to just parrot everybody else's mock draft.

As for Brule, I like him. I really do. Just he doesn't seem like the right fit. How long has Montreal been looking for that elusive power forward? 30 years now? Or that big, dominating center? When was Beliveau's last game? Brule seems to be more of a Saku Koivu, Tomas Plekanec kind of player, and lets face it, the Habs have a lot of those. Just about every top prospect Montreal has fits that mold - Perezhoghin, Plekanec, Higgins, Grabovski. Even Kostitsyin, while bigger, isn't really a true power forward. Bob Gainey has stated on numerous occassions he feels the Habs need to get bigger up front, and he seems to be working toward that goal - Kovalev, Bonk, Chipchura. Is Brule really that much better than guys like Kopitar and Ryan, that the Habs will turn their back on possibly closing a 30 year old hole?

[The Habsome One]

An amusing read over at the HFBoards ( www.hfboards.com/showthread.php?t=154891 )


BigAl:
Where's the hype/talk on Brule? I can't believe he has fallen down on so many mock draft lists, as well as scouts lists. I think Brule will easily be the 2nd best player out of this draft, and that we will all agree with that in as little as 4 years. If Anaheim doesn't take Brule I think it is a big mistake on their part, although Johnson looks very good, and they may feel defense is the most pressing need. However, TSN reported today that Brian Burke is listening to offers on the pick. I think someone is going to move up and take Brule. I'm not a Habs fan, but I think Brule would be a good fit in Montreal. Where ever he goes.....the team will have a future superstar in Brule.

Van:
Gilbert, is that you?

Either that, or you're quite the dedicated season ticket holder.

Brule has fallen on pretty much every ranking list and mock draft because other than the Prospects Game, he didn't exactly have a good season. From what I saw of him, he buckled under the pressure of being "the man" in the WHL. He took quite a few stupid retaliatory and unsportsmanlike penalties at bad times, which showed his questionable attitude. Sometimes he acted as if opponents didn't have the right to even rub him off the puck.

If anybody does manage to swing a deal with Burke, it'll be to pick Johnson.

IncognitoDuck:

Originally Posted by Van
Gilbert, is that you?

It's him. I just know it.

If anybody does manage to swing a deal with Burke, it'll be to pick Johnson.

Agreed. I just hope there isn't any deal though. Anaheim really needs a player like Johnson more than anything. I hope Burke doesn't pass up on this future franchise d-man. No offense Gilbert. I'm sure you will make another team very happy someday.

[NWTHabsFan]

Okay, so I take up the challenge and throw my stones on the table with my mock draft.

Flame away...hehe.

1. Pittsburgh: Sidney Crosby – No brainer.

2. Anaheim: Jack Johnson - Okay, so BB is shopping this pick around, in true BB style. Assuming the offers will not be good enough, then he sticks with this pick and scoops up the best Dman in the draft. With Getzlaf and Perry up front, and Smid their top rearguard prospect, JJ would be an amazing complement to their farm.

3. Carolina: Benoit Pouliot – Staal, Ladd and Pouliot would make a solid core of big forwards for years to come in Carolina.

4. Minnesota: Bobby Ryan – Now that the top ranked Minnesotan has been chosen, I can see them going for the big kid with soft hands. He would complement some of Minny’s smaller, skilled guys nicely.

5. Montreal: Anze Kopitar – Best all round player at this position, and this also adds a big frame with gifted offensive skills, which is a mix of Gainey and Savard and their drafting styles. Top scorer in the Swedish junior league and played on his country’s mens team at the Worlds at just 17 (and scored a goal!!).

6. Columbus: Gilbert Brule – Quite happy to get the final member of the Top Six club. Brule would look good complementing Nash and Zherdev up front.

7. Chicago: Marc Staal – Chitown helps bolster its future blueline with Staal.

8. Atlanta: Jack Skille - With Heatley and Kovalchuk leading the way up front, this would add a power forward to the mix of big, skilled forwards already on the team. Some good young D prospects are ready to make the leap, so this also fits a team need.

9. Ottawa: Carey Price – With Hascek going to retire soon, Emery ready to make the move up, the Sens need an heir apparent to their heir apparent between the pipes.

10. Vancouver: Ryan O’Marra – He won me over with his play at the U18’s and I am sure many GM’s feel the same way. A potential next generation Bertuzzi in the making? Who knows, but a good fit for Vancouver.

11. Los Angeles: Luc Bourdon – LA has a decent prospect group, but adding a good, safe, NHL sized Dman at this point is too good to let pass.

12. San Jose: Alex Bourret – A physical forward with reckless abandon, a nice fit in SJ, as they often draft this mould.

13. Buffalo: Ryan Parent – Buffalo is in need of another good, safe D prospect, and Parent fits the bill very nicely at this spot.

14. Washington: Martin Hanzal – They are not scared of picking top end European prospects, and here is another one for their taking to play alongside AO and friends.

15. NY Islanders: Nicolas Bergfors – They like to draft Scandinavians and here is the best of the bunch at this spot. A lot like Nokkaleinen last year.

16. NY Rangers: Guillaume Latendresse – With so many picks last year they have gone off the map a bit with some of their picks. Here is a potential power forward that may not have everyone sold, but he sure sounds like a Sather-like pick to me.

17. Phoenix: Brian Lee – Picking a US high school kid with their top pick last year floored the draft world. This year they will play a bit more conservative and add another Minnesota high school kid heading to the NCAA after his WJC debut. He is another Mr. Hockey recipient, just like Blake Wheeler.

18. Nashville: Kenndal McArdle – A Tootoo with more finishing skills, and a chip off the old Upshall mould. A good fit on how they are building this young team.

19. Detroit: Matt Lashoff - Detroit’s top D prospect, Kronwall, should be graduating from the AHL this year, so there is room for another one in the system down the road. Some folks, like Red Line, are really keen on this guy.

20. Philadelphia: Devin Setoguchi – Tenacity and hard work have Bobby Clarke written all over this guy.

21. Toronto: Tuuka Rask – Toronto is making no secret of its hope to move up to the top ten to grab top ranked NA goalie Carey Price. If they stick with their pick, the #1 Euro goalie is the best alternative pick that also meets their needs.

22. Boston: Ryan Stoa - A big Bruin in the making. Off to the NCAA next year like a few other top Bruin picks. They like the US development system and the NCAA.

23. New Jersey: Brendan Mikkelson – The art of drafting clearly has a home in New Jersey, as they continue to pick late and still find gems. Mikkelson really looked good in the U18 and his stock is moving. NJ looks for another steal with this pick.

24. St Louis: Jakub Kindl – A project but one who has seen his stock go up and down a bit over the last year. Already in the CHL and would add some depth to the Blues’ D prospect list.

25. Edmonton: Radek Smolenak – Edmonton hasn’t shied away from picking Europeans playing in the CHL before, and here is a good, big forward with some scoring zip. Considering some of Edmonton’s smaller, skilled guys, this is a good balance pick.

26. Calgary: Dan Bertram – Had a much better U18 tourney than his NCAA season, but he is fast and Calgary has developed a young, fast skating team. Did I mention he is also from Calgary?

27. Colorado: Andrew Cogliano – One of the fastest guys in the draft, and Colorado likes drafting fast, skilled guys. He is quite small, but if you believe the league will finally allow for a more wide open game, then this is a good pick for a team that likes speed. With almost non-existent prospect depth, he would be much valued in their system.

28. Dallas: Jakub Vojta – A good offensive Dman, which the Stars could use in their system that is not overly deep to start with.

29. Florida: Chris Durand – With prospect depth the envy of many teams, here is a decent sized, hard working, two way guy who would fit in with Horton, Stewart and some of the other players of a Mike Keenan mould.

30. Tampa Bay: Ondrej Pavelec – Tampa could desperately use a goalie prospect, and here is the best of the rest.

[M. Beaux-Eaux]

nwthabsfan said:

Okay, so I take up the challenge and throw my stones on the table with my mock draft.

That's gotta hurt.

[The Habsome One]

Source: www.sportsnet.ca/hockey/article.jsp?content=20050727_103313_588

Who's number 2?
By Alan Adams, Sportsnet.ca

There's no suspense when it comes to the first pick at the NHL draft this weekend in Ottawa.

Mario Lemieux already has a room set aside at his mansion in Pittsburgh for Sidney Crosby.

But who's No. 2; No. 3 ... . and on and on and on.

Like all drafts, the field is wide open.

"We're picking third and I'm looking at 10 players," says Sheldon Ferguson, the head scout for the Carolina Hurricanes. "Do you have any suggestions?

Yes. He's called Anze Kopitar, the teenager from Slovenia who played in Sweden last season and won the Swedish junior league scoring title. Kopitar tested his wares against NHL stars at the world hockey championship in the spring and more than held his own against the likes of Mike Modano, Rick Nash and Jaromir Jagr.

"We need help everywhere," said Ferguson, who will have to wait for the process of selecting the second overall pick to finish before he can stroll to the podium at the Corel Centre.

As it stands now, the Anaheim Mighty Ducks are second in the pecking order and new GM Brian Burke is actively shopping the second overall pick around the league. Burke would gladly move down in the draft if he could add a player to his roster that could make an immediate impact and it's a question of which teams want to move up and what they have to offer.

The field for No. 2 includes Jack Johnson, a defenceman who played for the U.S. National Development team, power forward Benoit Pouliot of the Sudbury Wolves of the OHL, flashy forward Gilbert Brule of the Vancouver Giants of the WHL and Bobby Ryan, a product of the OHL's Owen Sound Attack.

If Burke doesn't like the offers and keeps his pick, look for him to take Johnson. The Ducks have plenty of young, skilled forwards in the wings and there isn't a team in the league who wouldn't want a rugged defenceman like Johnson.

The buzz in the scouting world is that the bloodhounds like the overall depth of the talent pool and there's every chance that a player taken in the second round will play just as soon as someone picked in the first.

"I really like the depth of this draft," says Barry Trapp, the main bloodhound for the Toronto Maple Leafs. "There are players in all rounds. This is a lot better draft than people want to give it credit for."

"You'll get a guy in the second round who will play," says David Conte, the head scout for the New Jersey Devils.

That being the case, the Stanley Cup champion Tampa Bay Lightning and other teams who have late picks in the first round are in a prime position to a) add a couple of top prospects to their organization, or b) make a move to move up in the draft order.

The way the draft works this year is a little different in that the order reverses after the first round. Tampa Bay has the 30th and 31st pick. Florida goes 29 and 32.

"We're third and then 58th," said Ferguson. "But I bet I get a player at 58 who is in my top 30 overall."

That's not the only change to the draft.

The annual cattle call is being pared down from nine rounds to seven and there is a change regarding Europeans.

It used to be when a team drafted a European, they retained his rights in perpetuity as long as he remained in Europe. That way a team could draft a player at 18 and bring him over when he was 23 or 24.

Teams who draft Europeans on Saturday have a two-year window to sign them or lose their rights, and that will have an impact in the later rounds. The feeling is North Americans will dominate the later rounds in a large way.

"I think Europeans will depreciate in the later rounds," said Conte.

"Obviously, that's going to change my thinking a lot," Penguins head scout Greg Malone, referring to foreign draftees who will hit the open market if unsigned after two years, told the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette. "That should change everybody's thinking. You used to take a kid and let him sit in Europe three or four years."

"There's no doubt about it," added Don Waddell, the executive vice president and general manager of the Atlanta Thrashers, a club tapping that foreign pipeline with Ilya Kovalchuk, and Kari Lehtonen, to name a few. "Before ... you draft them at 18 and bring them over at 23 or 24, when they're more ready to step into the NHL. Now that'll change. You're going to take them quicker ... [hope to] see a more developed prospect. We'll have to learn how to work with the new system."

But when it comes to the European pool, suffice it to say it's shallow. There are no prospects like Alexander Ovechkin and Evgeni Malkin, who went 1-2 last year to Washington and Pittsburgh respectively.

"This might be the first year you do not see any Russians drafted in the first round and that would be the first time I can remember (that no Russians went in the first round). But you never know," says St. Louis head scout Jarmo Kekalainen. "There could be some decent Russians in the draft and you will hear (Russian) names called out and that would surprise you. That is about the only place left in the world where you could hear a name at the draft that you've never heard of and he becomes an NHL player."

Kopitar is the top European prospect. He is a fun-loving teenager who has loads of talent and after watching him play at the world tournament against established NHL players, Columbus GM Doug MacLean had dreams of having Kopitar alongside Rick Nash and Nikolia Zherdev.

"Great trio," MacLean said at the time.

As for position, the draft offers up more than a fair share of defencemen this time out compared to other years. There could be as many as 10 taken in the first round.

The U.S. U-18 program is producing players and three Americans will go in the top 20, and American centre Phil Kessel is entrenched at No. 1 for the 2006 lottery.

And look for Danny Syvret of the London Knights to finally get drafted after being twice passed over.

Like all drafts, teams will make surprise picks and everyone will be looking for that diamond in the rough in the late rounds. The Detroit Red Wings have shown a great knack for finding a gem for Europe in the later rounds, for example.

"It's not a bad draft," says Jim Nill, the head scout for the Red Wings. "Everybody talks about Crosby but there are a lot of other players."

The Wings pick 19th overall and that's the highest they've picked since 1991.

Meanwhile the last word goes to Conte.

"Every player endures a personal problem or physical problem at some point in their career that makes them take a giant step forward, be it an injury or a death in the family, or a divorce, or a girlfriend dumping him. Players take time to develop. We forget these kids are kids, they are teenagers and there's a big learning curve in front of them."

[Deleted]

mrbozo said:

nwthabsfan said:

Okay, so I take up the challenge and throw my stones on the table with my mock draft.

That's gotta hurt.

Sounds highly suggestive, too.

[NWTHabsFan]

mattdhf said:

mrbozo said:

That's gotta hurt.

Sounds highly suggestive, too.

I am a curler!!

[Habs_fan_in_LA]

nwthabsfan said:

Okay, so I take up the challenge and throw my stones on the table with my mock draft.

Flame away...hehe.

1. Pittsburgh: Sidney Crosby – No brainer.

2. Anaheim: Jack Johnson - Okay, so BB is shopping this pick around, in true BB style. Assuming the offers will not be good enough, then he sticks with this pick and scoops up the best Dman in the draft. With Getzlaf and Perry up front, and Smid their top rearguard prospect, JJ would be an amazing complement to their farm.

3. Carolina: Benoit Pouliot – Staal, Ladd and Pouliot would make a solid core of big forwards for years to come in Carolina.

4. Minnesota: Bobby Ryan – Now that the top ranked Minnesotan has been chosen, I can see them going for the big kid with soft hands. He would complement some of Minny’s smaller, skilled guys nicely.

5. Montreal: Anze Kopitar – Best all round player at this position, and this also adds a big frame with gifted offensive skills, which is a mix of Gainey and Savard and their drafting styles. Top scorer in the Swedish junior league and played on his country’s mens team at the Worlds at just 17 (and scored a goal!!).

6. Columbus: Gilbert Brule – Quite happy to get the final member of the Top Six club. Brule would look good complementing Nash and Zherdev up front.

7. Chicago: Marc Staal – Chitown helps bolster its future blueline with Staal.

8. Atlanta: Jack Skille - With Heatley and Kovalchuk leading the way up front, this would add a power forward to the mix of big, skilled forwards already on the team. Some good young D prospects are ready to make the leap, so this also fits a team need.

9. Ottawa: Carey Price – With Hascek going to retire soon, Emery ready to make the move up, the Sens need an heir apparent to their heir apparent between the pipes.

10. Vancouver: Ryan O’Marra – He won me over with his play at the U18’s and I am sure many GM’s feel the same way. A potential next generation Bertuzzi in the making? Who knows, but a good fit for Vancouver.

11. Los Angeles: Luc Bourdon – LA has a decent prospect group, but adding a good, safe, NHL sized Dman at this point is too good to let pass.

12. San Jose: Alex Bourret – A physical forward with reckless abandon, a nice fit in SJ, as they often draft this mould.

13. Buffalo: Ryan Parent – Buffalo is in need of another good, safe D prospect, and Parent fits the bill very nicely at this spot.

14. Washington: Martin Hanzal – They are not scared of picking top end European prospects, and here is another one for their taking to play alongside AO and friends.

15. NY Islanders: Nicolas Bergfors – They like to draft Scandinavians and here is the best of the bunch at this spot. A lot like Nokkaleinen last year.

16. NY Rangers: Guillaume Latendresse – With so many picks last year they have gone off the map a bit with some of their picks. Here is a potential power forward that may not have everyone sold, but he sure sounds like a Sather-like pick to me.

17. Phoenix: Brian Lee – Picking a US high school kid with their top pick last year floored the draft world. This year they will play a bit more conservative and add another Minnesota high school kid heading to the NCAA after his WJC debut. He is another Mr. Hockey recipient, just like Blake Wheeler.

18. Nashville: Kenndal McArdle – A Tootoo with more finishing skills, and a chip off the old Upshall mould. A good fit on how they are building this young team.

19. Detroit: Matt Lashoff - Detroit’s top D prospect, Kronwall, should be graduating from the AHL this year, so there is room for another one in the system down the road. Some folks, like Red Line, are really keen on this guy.

20. Philadelphia: Devin Setoguchi – Tenacity and hard work have Bobby Clarke written all over this guy.

21. Toronto: Tuuka Rask – Toronto is making no secret of its hope to move up to the top ten to grab top ranked NA goalie Carey Price. If they stick with their pick, the #1 Euro goalie is the best alternative pick that also meets their needs.

22. Boston: Ryan Stoa - A big Bruin in the making. Off to the NCAA next year like a few other top Bruin picks. They like the US development system and the NCAA.

23. New Jersey: Brendan Mikkelson – The art of drafting clearly has a home in New Jersey, as they continue to pick late and still find gems. Mikkelson really looked good in the U18 and his stock is moving. NJ looks for another steal with this pick.

24. St Louis: Jakub Kindl – A project but one who has seen his stock go up and down a bit over the last year. Already in the CHL and would add some depth to the Blues’ D prospect list.

25. Edmonton: Radek Smolenak – Edmonton hasn’t shied away from picking Europeans playing in the CHL before, and here is a good, big forward with some scoring zip. Considering some of Edmonton’s smaller, skilled guys, this is a good balance pick.

26. Calgary: Dan Bertram – Had a much better U18 tourney than his NCAA season, but he is fast and Calgary has developed a young, fast skating team. Did I mention he is also from Calgary?

27. Colorado: Andrew Cogliano – One of the fastest guys in the draft, and Colorado likes drafting fast, skilled guys. He is quite small, but if you believe the league will finally allow for a more wide open game, then this is a good pick for a team that likes speed. With almost non-existent prospect depth, he would be much valued in their system.

28. Dallas: Jakub Vojta – A good offensive Dman, which the Stars could use in their system that is not overly deep to start with.

29. Florida: Chris Durand – With prospect depth the envy of many teams, here is a decent sized, hard working, two way guy who would fit in with Horton, Stewart and some of the other players of a Mike Keenan mould.

30. Tampa Bay: Ondrej Pavelec – Tampa could desperately use a goalie prospect, and here is the best of the rest.

As Cheech says, time to get stoned.
You have Bourret dropping and Johnson up high. No criticism except that it's obvious that opinions beyond #1 are all over the board. One guy stands above the rest and #2 could be anyone of five players. Three years from now it could be anyone of ten guys. Moving to #2 from #5 is not that big an advantage. I like Kopitar, but I can't promise that Skille, Johnson, Bourret, Brule, Ryan or Pouiliot won't be the best in three years. I like your projection because it has rationale and we get Kopitar, the guy who appears to have the highest potential for SUPERstardom as opposed to possible star, certain to play. This is our infrequent kick at the #5 can.

[M. Beaux-Eaux]

nwthabsfan said:

mattdhf said:

Sounds highly suggestive, too.

I am a curler!!

A man with a broom!

*

To quote Bob Dylan from Rainy Day Women #12 & 35:

Well, they'll stone you when you're trying to be so good
They'll stone you just like they said they would
They'll stone you when you're trying to go home
Then they'll stone you when you're there all alone
But I would not feel so all alone
Everybody must get stoned

*

Stones to everyone! –from the Estonian

[M. Beaux-Eaux]

Draft predictions courtesy Mr Bugg at HF:

Round 1

1. Pittsburgh- Sidney Crosby

The obvious choice.

2. Anaheim- Benoit Pouliot

While Johnson is still on the board, Burke loves Pouliot. The Ducks have enough prospect and young defensemen that they can take a future first-line left wing, something the organization doesn't have.

3. Carolina- Jack Johnson

The obvious choice. Any pick would make Carolina's farm better, and Johnson is a damn good one.

4. Minnesota- Bobby Ryan

The Wild have no top-line center in sight. Ryan is their best hope.

5. Montreal- Gilbert Brule

A gritty first-line winger is something the Habs could sure use. Again, an obvious choice.

6. Columbus- Anze Kopitar

Nash and Zherdev need a center. The Jackets have shown they are not afraid to take Euros quite high, and Kopitar is the best out there.

7. Chicago- Tuuka Rask

Price and Rask are interchangeable at this pick; I give Rask the edge because he seems more ready, but it could be either. What is apparent is that despite having a great crop of skater prospects, no solid goalie is in the pipeline.

8. Atlanta- Ryan O'Marra

Another duh pick. Heatley and Kovy need a center, and O'Marra could become the best after Crosby in this draft class.

9. Ottawa- Alex Bourret

The Sens need grit up front, and no one is better than Bourret in that department. Gary Roberts could tutor Bourret if he sticks around long enough.

10. Vancouver- Marc Staal

The Canucks are equally good at every position. Staal is BPA, though, so I'm not afraid to slate Vancouver as his home.

11. LA- Marek Zagrapan

The Kings need a first-line center. Zagrapan's a risk, but could turn out in spades.

12. San Jose- Niklas Bergfors

The Sharks could pick anyone here, but Bergfors a stud. The wing, center and defense positions are solid, and the Sharks have no problems finding goalies. Bulking up the wing with a solid sniper is an easy choice.

13. Buffalo- Jack Skille

Thomas Vanek will need a playmaker, and Skille fits the bill. The Sabres have a terrible farm, especially down the middle. Another easy pick.

14. Washington- Ryan Parent

Duh. The Caps have little to speak of on defense. Parent is the clear #3, and according to some, the #2.

15. NYI- Martin Hanzal

The Isles love to reach, especially on Euros. Hanzal could replace Yashin in 3 years as top-line center.

16. NYR- Kenndal McArdle

BPA. The Rangers are wealthy enough that they can take anyone, and McArdle is a fine choice.

17. Phoenix- Carey Price

Easy pick. Boucher will never net this team a Cup, and neither will a struggling Leneveu. Price is the future between the pipes.

18. Nashville- Guillame Latendresse

Much like the pick of Alexander Radulov, but on the opposite side. Latendresse would fit in well on a maturing Preds top-six.

19. Detroit- Devin Setoguchi

The qulaity of pure snipers falls off after the first round, and Setoguchi is one of the best. It'll be a lucky thing if the Leafs are able to begin the draft by adding such a heralded pure scorer as Setoguchi.
Dan Bertram

20. Philadelphia- Matt Lashoff

With the departure and aging of several key Flyers blueliners, the team needs to retool. Lashoff will make a great partner for Pitkanen in the future, allowing him to pinch more.

21. Toronto- Dan Bertram

The Leafs are another team hurting at forward. While he's a bit on the small size, Bertram is a winger that would go a long way to filling the holes left by vets.

22. Boston- Luc Bourdon

With a good crop of forwards and a stellar crop of goalies, the Bs could use help on defense. Bourdon is BPA, and his great physical game will be an asset in protecting the future core of Bergeron and company.

23. New Jersey- Ondrej Pavelec

The Devils desperately need a goalie. Any other pick would be senseless. Pavelec is a solid keeper, and is just the kind high risk/high reward pick the Devils always seem to win on.

24. St. Louis- Michael Blunden

While the pipeline is full of holes, there is no greater need than for pro-ready forwards. While Blunden may never pan out as a second-line winger, he's got the size and tools to make it as a 3rd line energy guy. A safe pick for a team lacking grit.

25. Edmonton- Brendan Mikkelson

Lowe and company are in love with the blueliner from St. Albert. While the team could use scorers on either wing, picking at 25 means they'll still be in a position to grab a good one without hurting themselves taking this steady physical blueliner. He's the perfect top-four defender for the Oilers system, and may eventually become a #2 man.

26. Calgary- Richard Lelkes

The Flames are hurting for offense, especially on the wings. Lelkes is a project, but a very nice one. He's a safer bet than most think, and could easily bolster Calgary's second scoring unit- a major hole going into the future.

27. Colorado- Andrew Cogliano

The Avs have what has to be the worst farm in the NHL. Cogliano could turn out like Schremp in that while he has all-world talent, something (here, his size) causes him to fall drastically. A highly risky pick, the Avs need to make these to remain a contender.

28. Dallas- Brian Lee

Another team with a horrid farm. Ideally, the Stars would like to replace Modano. However, at least one of the top-line center projects available still will be at 32nd overall. Lee is a stay-at-homer that the team could sure use for protecting the vast array of two-way European forwards the team is counting on for years to come.

29. Florida- Scott Jackson

They have offense, they have defense, they have a goalie. Grit is a definite need, especially on a blueline featuring Jay Bouwmeester, Mike Van Ryn and Lukas Karjicek. Jackson fits like a glove into Florida's plans, and is a solid pick at 29.

30. Tampa- Jeff Frazee

Unless Gerald Coleman or Jonathan Boutin are taken over by the ghosts of
Terry Sawchuk and Jacques Plante, the Lightning need help in net. The problem is made even worse by Nikolai Khabibulan's upcoming status as a UFA. American keeper Jeff Frazee, an early favourite to start for Team USA at the next WJC, has big upside. He's one of the last solid goalies left at this pick, and the Lightning won't pass him up.

[M. Beaux-Eaux]

Round 2

31. Anaheim- Slava Trukhno

Every position except for wing looks good. There aren't many sure-fire second liners at that position present in the organization, with Corey Perry having the best bet. Enter Trukhno, a highly skiled wing that is due to break out in a big way. His offensive abilities are tremendous, and being 6'1 doesn't hurt either. He'd be a great final piece on a second line of Getzlaf and Perry.

32. Florida- Ryan Stoa

The common theme among Panthers prospects is size. The team loves to add big forwards, and Stoa certainly is one. With the unexpected move of bluechip prospect Nathan Horton to wing, adding a big center should be on Florida's to-do list, and they'll get one in Stoa.

33. Dallas- Paul Stastny

Time to add that center. Paul Stastny is the son of former NHL star and HHOFer Peter Stastny. Like father like son, Paul is an excellent skater with great vision. While most have him down as a second-line pivot, he has the talent and bloodlines to be even better than that. Stastny put up 38 points in 34 games as an NCAA rookie for the University of Denver, and that's only the beginning.

34. Colorado- Jakub Kindl

A potential steal at 34th overall, Kindl had what many described as the best offensive talent behind Johnson. However, a poor year in the CHL did not bode well for him, and as a result his stock has plummeted. Johnny Boychuk is the best Colorado scoring blueliner. In case you didn't know it, that's a bad thing. If Kindl turns out, he'll be a feared PP quarterback. However, before he can do that, he must rectify the issues that caused him to score only 14 points in 62 games for the Kitchener Rangers.

35. San Jose- Chris Durand

Nabbing Durand at 35 would be quite a feat, but the Sharks could prove lucky enough. Durand is a safe selection, but he has stellar upside, and that's all the Sharks need to hear. It's hoped Durand can continue developing the offensive ability that has many calling him a sure-fire #2 center in the NHL, something the Sharks lack outside of prospect Marcel Goc. Durand provides offense and toughness as proven by his 52 points and 76 PIM in 66 games for the WHL's Seattle Thunderbirds.

36. Edmonton- Evan Brophey

The Oilers love their big forwards, having selected several in the later rounds. The best example is that of Brad Winchester, a massive winger who came touted as an emerging power forward. Evan Brophey is exactly that, an OHL center who began using his 6'2 body to bang his way to 62 points in 53 games. The Oilers will hope to honour their namesake by hitting black gold twice with big forwards, and Brophey is a good choice- all the better if he decides to move to left wing, as the Oilers need help there.

37. St. Louis- Alexandre Vincent

While a second risky pick, Alexandre Vincent is someone the Blues won't regret taking, especially when Reinhard Davis is one of the team's best young keepers. The last of the highly-touted goalies, Vincent is a superbly athletic keeper with a great glove. He also boasts a 6'4, 195 pound frame and the ability to use it. Vincent is a great choice and another possible steal for the Blues. He'll be looking to improve upon a 3.01 GAA and 0.904 save percentage showing for Chicoutimi this past year.

38. New Jersey- Mikko Lehtonen

Left wing is a concern for the Devils, as they have no clear prospects capable of playing on the second line at that position. Enter Mikko Lehtonen, a darkhorse to be a massive steal. He hasn't shown much offense since playing Junior last year, but he has the entire toolbox. A 6'2, 200 pound frame, great skating and soft hands are what Lehtonen brings. However, it's his heart and defensive play that stick out the most. At the moment, he's a good pick if a team needs a second-line defensive forward like a poor man's Jere Lethinen. But it would not surprise those who've seen him play to see him become even better. The Devils seemingly put a premium on big European wingers who show untapped offensive ability, and Lehtonen is a perfect fit. His 15 points in 37 games for Blues Jr. may be only the tip of the iceberg.

39. Boston- Radek Smolenak

After Patrice Bergeron, Sergei Samsonov and Joe Thornton, the Bruins are terribly weak at forward. Brad Boyes and Andy Hilbert are their best prospects in this regard, but both are centers. Adding more wingers is a necessity. A lack of heart on the ice and a seeming unwillingness to get involved in traffic are why 6'3 OHLer Radek Smolenak has fallen so far despite a 32 goal, 60 point performance as a CHL rookie. The Bruins may be more than willing to look past that if they wish to key on their lack of wingers.

40. NYR- TJ Hensick

The Rangers follow the trend of teams hurting on the wings, a common theme heading into the '05 draft. While a center, Hensick's speed (orlackthereof) may end any hope of him playing that position past the NCAA. Nevertheless, he's a natural sniper, capable of finding the smallest holes in coverage. He used this to advantage at both the World Junior Championships in Grand Forks and for the U of Michigan, where he scored 48 points in 33 games. A scorer is just what the Rangers need for the second line, making it a no-brainer pick.

41. NYR- Justin Abdelkader

Time to add some size to the left side. Justin Abdelkader already has a pro frame, clocking in at 6'1 and 200 pounds. His 52 points in 60 games for Cedar Rapids of the USHL shows he has offensive talent, and 86 PIM shows he knows how to use his size. Abdelkader is a project, but is one the Rangers can affords to wait on.

42. Detroit- Joe Barnes

Looking to add more size to their pipeline, the Wings won't be able to resist a 6'3 center who notched 62 points and 73 PIM in 72 games. Joe Barnes is expected to become a second-line pivot at the NHL level, and expected to do so quicker than most. This is welcome news to a team lacking solid prospects with good size.

43. Chicago- Sergei Shirokov

The Hawks haven't had any luck with highly-touted European wingers. Now it's time to try the opposite. Sergei Shirokov is a 5'10 Russian forward who became noticed after he posted 8 points in 6 games at the WJCs. While the team has plenty of second-liners in the pipeline, they need a linemate for Ruutu and Daze.

44. Colorado- Juraj Mikus

Another flyer, Mikus is a highly skilled Slovakian forward who managed to survive the influx of talent to the Extraliga during the lockout. In his time with HK 36 Skalica, Mikus put up 12 points in 46 games. He's only lately made a charge up the list of scouts, but we may soon be hearing more from him.

45. NYR- Joe Finley

While the Rangers have a healthy amount of solid defensemen on the farm, none are very big or physical. This is a major need, especially in the Eastern Conference. The Rangers should look no farther than mammoth blueliner Joe Finley of the USHL. Clocking in at 6'7, 233 pounds, it's a safe bet to say that Finley will always have a job at the pro level. He's a project, but only when it comes to developing his offensive game. However, on the physical side, Finley is almost ready for primetime, having amassed 181 PIM in 55 games for Sioux Falls.

46. NYI- Patrick Davis

The Isles have had little success snapping wingers out of Europe, and now it's time to focus at home. Forward Patrick Davis is a tad older than most of his draft class, but with that comes experience and exposure his peers don't have. He used to his advantage, scoring 50 points in 59 games for Kitchener. The Isles need to load up on big, strong North American wingers able to play pro, and Davis is that.

47. Washington- Teemu Laakso

As the Caps load up on stay-at-home blueliners, so to do they need to grab some offensive ones. Laakso is identical to Kindl in that both were highly-touted blueliners that fell off as the year went on due to lack of production. However, Laakso had a tough field of competition in the Finnish Elite League this year, and still managed to hold a roster spot for HIFK Helsinki over 15 games. Laakso has major upside as a possible #2 defenseman capable of quarterbacking the powerplay.

48. Buffalo- Dustin Kohn

The Sabres have keyed on defensemen in the mold of Alexei Zhitnik the past few drafts: European powerplay specialists capable of making a splash. With Dmitri Kalinin and others enjoying sucess, it's time to add some physical blueliners. Dustin Kohn has been described as a poor man's Dion Phaneuf. A huge hitter, many teammates have commented that they've never seen anyone quite as mean. Kohn, who picked up 43 points to go along with 61 PIM, would be a welcome addition to a squad that is slowly taking on a blue-collar look.

49. San Jose- Tom Fritsche

Lacking bluechip top-six prospects, the Sharks have lately gone shopping for gritty CHL forwards like Steve Bernier. While safe and solid picks, they don't have much upside. Enter Tom Fritsche, a CCHA all-rookie team selection after a stellar 45 point sopohmore campaign in the NCAA. A true playmaker, Fritsche takes after his brother in that both are ugly skaters but smart players. Fritsche is a bit of a reach, but could provide the Sharks with solid secondary scoring.

50. LA- Matt Niskanen

The Kings have a propensity for finding first-day defensemen that are both smart and physical. USHS blueliner Matt Niskanen, a 6'0 193 pounder playing for Virginia HS, fits that perfectly. While considered a sleeper, Niskanen was perhaps the deadliest high school defenseman in the country, scoring 65 points in the regular season and leading his team to the state tournament. Niskanen would add another offensive weapon to a growing arsenal.

51. Vancouver- Chris Lawrence

Power forwards are a hard thing to project, and that's why the Canucks keep taking them. Jason King, MA Bernier and Ryan Kesler were all chosen partly due to size in excess of 6 feet. Chris Lawrence is bigger than all of them, already measuring 6'4. While he doesn't have the home-run upside the Canucks would like to see, he's a player that won't last past 60 thanks in part to a 40 assist, 51-point campaign for Saul-Ste.-Marie.

52. Washington- Daniel Ryder

Sandwiched between Flames prospect Jamie Tardif and Oilers prospect Liam Reddox, Petes center Daniel Ryder exploded with 82 points in 68 games. However, many have ignored him due to his linemates. Ryder's offensive abilities are undeniable, however, and even his slightly undersized frame may not be enough to hold him back. The Capitals lack potential second-line centerman as Jared Aulin and Jakub Klepis look more like 3rd liners. Ryder's a great choice at 51 and could be known as a steal very shortly.

53. Atlanta- JP Levasseur

Described by scouts as having a pro's mindset in a junior player's body, this QMJHL goalie is a project. The mental game and basic skillset is there. If his physical abilities were as far developed as his mind, JP Levasseur wouldn't be available past the first 15 picks. However, he still needs to grow into it. As he matures and develops over the next 3 years, Lavasseur is a good bet to put it all together and become a starter in the NHL. At least, the Thrashers hope so. Levasseur will drop even further due to a rough rookie year as starter for Rouyn Noranda in which he averaged 3.83 goals against per game.

54. Chicago- Petr Kalus

Big offense, big risk Part 2. For all the rumblings about lacking defense and heart, Kalus was a physical force at every level he played at in 04/05. In the Czech U20 league, the 6'0 center managed 31 points- including 20 goals- and added 161 PIM in 39 games. The Hawks like big forwards who make noise, and Kalus is just that.

55. Columbus- Tyler Plante

Pascal Leclaire and, well, nobody highlight the depth the Jackets have between the pipes. It'd be just their luck to see the CSB's 3rd-ranked North American goaltender still available at 55. Plante took over starting duties for the Brandon Wheat Kings in '05 after playing only 2 games the previous, a difficult situation for any 17 year-old keeper. Plante persevered, putting up a stellar 2.58 GAA to go along with 34 wins. Plante has a great glove hand and good athleticism, able to steal games on his own. While a couple years away from pro yet, the Jackets will have to sit on and their hands and make due with free agent backups until Plante is ready. However, it'll be an investment worth making.

56. Montreal- Vyateslav Buravchikov

Offense is the name of Buravchikov's game, even in Russian. The 6'1 defenseman stood out with both the WJC-U18 squad and his team in the Vysshaya Liga, adding 4 points and 10 PIM in 22 RPL games. While considered a risk due to alleged attitude issues, Buravchikov is a blueliner that could spell victory for the Habs.

57. Minnesota- Morten Madsen

Roman Voloshenko, Kyle Wanvig and Stephane Veilleux are a solid group of young wingers, but none of them possess major upside. Enter Morten Madsen. A 6'2 Danish forward transplanted into the Swedish hockey system, Madsen had a sensational 2005 campaign, starring in no less than 2 leagues and 2 tournaments. He's an offense-first winger with great playmaking skills, netting 14 assists in his 21-point total. Such a forward would be a nice addition to a line of Voloshenko and O'Sullivan.

58. Carolina- Vitaly Anikeyenko

The Carolina scouting staff may feel like this pick has the impact of throwing a glass of water on a forest fire, but every little bit helps. Anikeyenko is an absolute steal this late in the second round, beginning the year on most mock draft lists as a border-line 1st rounder. Anikeyenko put up 14 points and 62 PIM in 58 games for Yaroslavl Jr. His upside as a powerplay quarterback that moonlights as his team's #2 defenseman would be a major boost to the Canes' system.

59. Anaheim- Vladimir Mihalik

A 6'7, 222 pound blueliner who scored 16 points and 44 PIM in 23 elite league games? The Ducks- and any team- could use one of those. Slovak defender Vladimir Mihalik did just that, finally finding his game after a rough rookie year with Presov Jr. He improved so immensely in the off-season that he moved up to the senior Presov team this past year. Mihalik's an easy choice to go within the top 60.

60. Pittsburgh- Adam McQuaid

Most Pens fans will be too busy partying to notice the next two picks, and rightly so. However, there is a plethora of talent available at 60 and 61. The need for mean, physical defensemen in the organization is a big one. Most of the team's prospect blueliners are heralded more for their offense than anything else. Thus, grabbing a physical defender is a must. Adam McQuaid's 98 PIM in 66 games for Sudbury are just the tip of ice berg. Standing 6'4, McQuaid is one of those guys you want to have on your team lest you face his wrath. He's an easy pick here.

[M. Beaux-Eaux]

Round 3

61. Pittsburgh- Mathieu Roy

If there's one thing the organization lacks, it's second-line scorers. A trio of Malone, Crosby and Malkin will have no impact if the team can't support them with more offense. CHL forwards with a soft touch and a gritty game are something the Pens covet, and they'd get one in Mathieu Roy. The QMJHL sophomore led the Titans in scoring with 58 points, racking up 85 PIM along the way. Roy is dinged for his skating and possible inability to translate his game to the next level, but he'll always have a home somewhere in minor-pro due to his heart and desire. Roy would join a long list of blue-collar CHL grads the Pens hit home runs on in the 3rd round and later.

62. Anaheim- Denis Istomin

The Ducks have a thing for Russian forwards in any round. Istomin is perhaps the best one out there, and that, some say, is not a good thing. His 6'2 frame and slick hands allow him to finish or make plays with ease. However, he's been slagged for heart, attitude, conditioning and defensive play. This is a given with Russian prospects, and it's a given the Ducks have been willing to ignore in the past. Istomin is a solid choice with the upside of a second-line center, scoring 18 points in 51 games for Chejabinsk Tractor.

63. Carolina- Steve Downie

A forward who popped home 70+ points and 50+ assists in his draft year while garnering 170+ PIM? Who cares if he's 5'10? Steve Downie is much like Liam Reddox was in his draft year: a smallish forward who busted out unexpectantly while enjoying a late-year growth spurt. Reddox was pegged in the 5'9-5'10 range, but growth during the season had him up to 5'11 by the end of the year. Downie looks larger than 5'10, and Canes scouts will cross their fingers hoping it isn't their imagination.

64. Minnesota- Jesse Korhonen


While the Wild have a plethora of offensive talent from the blueline in AJ Thelen and Brent Burns, the Wild lack bluecollars at this position. 6'3 Finnish defender Risto Korhonen compiled a whopping 73 PIM in 36 games for Karpat's junior affiliate. Wild fans can also look forward to some offense: despite all that time in the box, Korhonen still managed 17 points.

65. Montreal- Tom Gorowsky

Adding size up front is an issue that the Habs need to address. While not overly large at 6'1, Gorowsky used it to rack up 53 points and 88 PIM in 54 games for the USHL's Sioux Falls Stampede. He's another safe-but-unspectacular selection that most see as a checking forward, but Gorowsky has the ability to max out as a second-liner.

66. Columbus- Jonathan Sigalet

Another potential steal so late, Sigalet is an offensive defenseman drawing comparisons to Jordan Leopold. The Jackets need to add more offensive support for Rostislav Klesla, and Sigalet does just that. In 33 games with Bowling Green, the 6'1 blueliner notched 15 points, identical to his total in 2003-04 despite playing 4 fewer games.

67. Chicago- Mattias Ritola

For their fourth consecutive pick out of Europe, the Hawks would do well to take Swedish forward Mattias Ritola. A point-per-game player for Leksands U-20 squad, Ritola also impressed at the World U-18s with 4 points in 7 games. He's a vastly underrated finesse forward that may one day make a fine second-line winger.

68. Carolina- James Neal

Second-line wingers are a hot commodity in this draft, with even project wingers garnering attention. James Neal is one such forward. Being both a left wing and a 6'3 power forward help make him very valuable despite topping out at 44 points this past year with the Plymouth Whalers. Neal could one day line up with Horton, forming a deadly duo of power and prowess.

69. Ottawa- Tomas Kudelka

A couple major needs outside of power forwards exists: goalies and offensive defensemen. While adding a goalie would be nice, Czech blueliner Tomas Kudelka is too good to pass up this late. Ranked 14th by CSB among Euro skaters, Kudelka is an offensive wizard who also plays steady defense. 17 points and a +10 rating in 38 games in the Czech U20 league prove that his 4 point performance in 7 games at the World-U18s was not a fluke. However, the Sens should also be excited about his 39 PIMs that go along with his 6'2 frame. Kudelka is willing to use his size to dish out major hits, and that's always a plus for the Ottawa scouting staff.

70. Philadelphia- Vladimir Karpov

6'2 scoring wingers are a definite need in the Philly system. While the Flyers have a few larger forwards, they don't have a lot of wingers with massive upside. Karpov is one such player, an offense-first player who scored 21 points in 24 games with Dynamo-2 of the RPL. He's a defensive risk like most Russians, but one the Stars need to take to add youth and offense to their pipeline.

71. LA- Anton Krysanov

While the Kings have a number of project power forwards, only Brian Boyle packs significant height at 6'7. Krysanov is close at 6'5, but is more of a project than Boyle ever was. Krysanov managed to impress Lada Togliatti enough to earn a 15-game stint in the super-competitive RSL, scoring one goal and adding one penalty. Most of the hype around Krysanov has simply been talk to this point, as he possesses a wide array of tools but the inability to use them. The Kings have enough depth that they can take a flyer on Krysanov and wait for him to pan out.

72. San Jose- Christoph Gawlik

The Sharks will have had a close eye on this diminutive winger for several years, as many of their scouts are in Germany. While 5'8, Gawlik is a great skater and a great scorer. Last season saw the forward put up an incredible 62 points in 29 games for his U18 club. That performance carried over to juniors in 2005, where Gawlik posted 10 points in 10 games and earned a call-up to the DEL. He's small, but he has loads of offensive talent. The Sharks aren't afraid of reaching to grab highly skilled Germans, and Gawlik is it.

73. Buffalo- Marek Bartanus

The Sabres have shown an affinity for drafting European wingers that show lots of offensive promise despite many issues. Thomas Vanek, Milan Bartovic and Branislav Fabry are recent examples. Bartanus is a left wing, something the Sabres don't have much of. Added together, the Slovak winger who scored 14-14-28, +35 and 99 PIM in 34 U20 league games is as good a choice as any for the Sabres to pick. Being 6'2 and a burgeoning power forward doesn't hurt either.

74. Dallas- Roman Cervenka

Adding another center is a requirement for the Stars, and the meaner the better. Cervenka demonstrated that facet of his game for Havlickuv Brod the 1.liga relegation round when he potted 5 points to go along with 28 PIMs in 7 games. Cervenka's mix of tenacity and offense is a definite need in the Stars pipeline.

75. NYI- Anton Skorykh

Mike Milbury's tendancy to draft big European forwards makes projecting the choice of Skorykh easy. A 6'4 winger that is a tad undersized at 187 pounds, he is nevertheless both a good scorer and good disturber, supporting both descriptions with a 32 point, 54 PIM output for Togliatti-2 of the RPL. The PEI Rocket selected Skorykh out of Russia's 3rd league during the CHL import draft, and believe they've found a gem. Knowing Milbury, they may well be right.

76. NYR- Cody Franson

The Rangers could always use more smart blueliners. Cody Franson, a defender for the Vancouver Giants who made a name for himself as a solid stay-at-homer, is exactly what the doctor ordered. Along with 13 points in his first full WHL campaign, Franson added 44 PIM. He's a slick puck mover with a mean streak.

77. Carolina- Danny Syvret

Immediate help is a priority for the Hurricanes, and after moving David Tanabe, the team has very few offensive weapons on the blueline that have a realistic chance of reaching their potential. While an overager, the Canes know what they're getting with Danny Syvret- a powerplay specialist capable of stepping in right away. It's another easy choice for the team and another drop in the bucket. The London Knights defender was a major part of the team's potent attack, registering 69 points in 62 games. Syvret was recognized with the oHL and CHL Defenseman of the Year honors at the conclusion of the season.

78. Nashville- Ilya Zubov

Ever heard of center Oliver Setzinger? You now know the problem with the Predator's prospect pool. Zubov, an undersized Russian pivot, showed his size and alleged defensive problems were not enough to stop him from being one of the best players in his age group at the World U-18 tournament. He tallied 8 points in 6 games to be among the leaders on the powerful Russian team, 5 of those points being assists. The Preds shouldn't mind drafting this 5'9 forward- After all, Steve Sullivan has worked out quite nicely for them.

79. Detroit- Vladimir Sobotka

This is a pick I've been expecting for several months. Sobotka is your typical Wings later-rounds draft choice: a small European forward with loads of offensive talent. Sobotka was the leading scorer in Czech junior with 33 points in 27 games before joining HC Slavia Praha's parent club for the remainder of the year. His opposition in the junior ranks were probably very glad; Sobotka managed a whopping 93 PIM. He possesses top-flight speed, hands and offensive instincts and a willigness to get involved. At 5'10 and 171, Sobotka needs to bulk up. However, the Wings should have no problem choosing him when they've done so with similar forwards in the past.

80. Edmonton- Jakub Vojta

Jakub Vojta has a low chance of falling to 80, but there have been as many questions as there have been assists and goals for this silky-smooth blueliner. He's a tremendous skater and a tremendous player, but his habit of going invisible every other game is what holds him out of the top 60. Still, the Oilers don't seem to mind these kinds of players, and have shown patience with them in the past. Vojta was consistent enough to score 9 points in 38 games for Sparta's junior affiliate.

81. Toronto- Kristopher Letang

The Leafs are a team that likes taking smallish defenders with tremendous offense but little else. That's why Kristopher Letang will look like such a gem- he's much more complete and well-rounded than past Leafs picks for defensemen. The blueliner notched 32 points in 70 games for Val-d'Or in the QMJHL, also showing some grit with 79 PIM.

82. Boston- Tomas Pospisil

Adding some more pop up front is essential for the Bs. 6'0 174 pound Czech winger Tomas Pospisil broke out with HC Trinec this past year. His 37 points and 44 PIM in 38 games were overshadowed by a poor showing at the World U-18s. However, Pospisil has all the tools needed to be a second-line forward, something the Bs badly need.

83. New Jersey- Kris Russell

The Devils are about to be in bad shape on the blueline. With Scott Niedermayer, Scott Stevens and Brian Rafalski all potential departures, New Jersey needs to reload. Kris Russell is a steal at 82, a 5'9 defender who potted 61 points for Medicine Hat. He's a lot like Rafalski in that aspect, and offense is something the Devils could badly use on their new blueline.

84. St. Louis- JP Paquet

Looking to add even more grit, the Blues would be wise to snap up Shawinigan blueliner JP Paquet. 6'2 and 203, the Quebec native used it to his advantage enroute to 96 PIM. Outside of Barrett Jackman, the Blues have little toughness to speak of when it comes to defensemen.

85. Edmonton- Sebastian Karlsson

The Oilers like taking slick-skating Swedish forwards, and Karlsson is that. His numbers weren't stellar- 29 points in 28 games to go along with 61 PIM and a +26 rating in the Swedish J20 league- but he could be a home run pick. With 2 3rd rounders, the Oilers can afford to gamble.

86. Calgary- Andrew Kozek

Kozek is your typical Sutter pick: a blue-collar forward who domiantes physically and offensively. Kozek comes from familiar territory for the Flames, as he starred for the South Surrey Eagles of the BCHL. He tallied a whopping 91 points and 81 PIM for his club, leading them in goals and assists by a wide margin. Kozek is everything the Flames look for in forwards.

87. Colorado- Chad Rau

Adding another forward, this time a center, the Avalanche would be smart to pick up USHL forward Chad Rau. The Minnesota native led his team with 71 points, 36 more than the next player. He's a project center with the upside of playing on the second line.

88. Philadelphia- Lukas Vantuch

The Flyers need help on the wing, with only Stefan Ruzicka looking like a sure thing. Lukas Vantuch is just what the team needs: a scoring winger with grit. Vantuch popped in 36 points and 58 PIM in 45 games for HC Liberec's Czech U20 squad. He's a project like most wingers this late, but he's worth it.

89. Florida- Ben Bishop

Even though the Panthers have the greatest young goalie of them all in Luongo, the team needs a solid backup. Look no farther than NAHL standout Ben Bishop, a towering 6'6 goalie with a great glove hand and great lateral movement. It's thought that the poor level of play in the NAHL may have inflated his numbers (1.93 GAA, 0.920 SV%) but big goalies with a great toolbox are hard to find at any level.

90. Philadelphia- Dan Collins

While ranked extremely high by Central Scouting, Collins falls because he isn't spectacular at any one thing. The Flyers need help up front, and this 6'1 right wing looks like he could be a power forward after scoring 46 points and 60 PIM for the Plymouth Whalers.
r the course of the season.

[M. Beaux-Eaux]

Round 4

91. Tampa- Sasha Pokulok

The past few drafts have seen the Lightning concentrate on defensive defenseman. Mike Egener, Andy Rogers and Matt Smaby are all such players. However, adding some scoring from the back end is crucial. Sasha Pokulok is an NCAA sophmore on the verge of exploding next season. As a rookie for Cornell, Pokulok put up 10 points and 33 PIM in 26 games. When he takes over Cornell's top powerplay unit next fall, don't be surprised to hear comparisons to Jordan Leopold or other NCAA offensive defensemen from years past.

92. Florida- Robby Dee

Looking to bolster their crop of wingers, the Panthers will need to do their homework to find a solid one. Breck High Schooler Robby Dee scored 87 points in 28 games, an above-average total for the USHS. He already has a mature physical package at 6'2 185 pounds, and is an effortless, fast, explosive skater.

93. Carolina- Keith Yandle

The Canes open yet another round in which they have 3 picks by nabbing USHS defender Keith Yandle. His 54 points in 34 games was among the best in the nation for defensemen, and many nights saw Yandle carry his team on his back. He's the total package of strength and scoring on defense.

94. Minnesota- Jeff May

To protect a relatively weak core of forwards, Minnesota will need a Wild-spirited defender. Jeff May, a Prince Albert defender whose stock has exploded as of late, is a physical, rough-and-tumble blueliner who banged his way to 66 PIM and 22 points for Prince Albert of the WHL. His heart and willingness to sacrifice himself for his team are assets the Wild could use in spades.

95. Calgary- Niklas Hjalmarsson

Adding some offensive punch from the blueline is a neccessity for the Flames. Hjalmarsson has been described by many as the next Niklas Lidstrom- a smooth-skating defenseman able to score and protect with aplomb. He could turn out to be the greatest pick outside the first round. In 31 games for HV 71's junior squad, Hjalmarsson tallied 15 points, a +3 rating 87 PIM. He also played in the Swedish U18 league, the Elitserien and the U18-WJC, where he first debuted to many North American fans. His first impression was flawless as he tallied 5 points in 7 games. Flames fans should hope this Swede is on Sutter's shortlist.

96. Edmonton- David Kuchejda

Kuchejda is another typical late pick for the Oilers out of Europe: smallish, fast skaters with punch. The 5'11 forward tallied 40 points in 42 games for Budejovice's junior squad, adding 142 PIM. Largely ignored thanks to playing on the same line as Martin Hanzal, Kuchejda is a solid pick.

97. Ottawa- Lukas Klimek

A raw talent who oozes offense, Czech-born winger Lukas Klimek potted 37 points and 94 PIM in 42 games for Ostrava of Czech junior. He's a heart-and-soul forward that is bound to break out in a big way next year. The Sens can use as much potential elite offensive talent as possible, and Klimek could very well be one.

98. New Jersey- Daniel Ashberg

Swedish forward Daniel Ashberg plays much smaller than his 6'1, 180 pound body. Nevertheless, he still is a coveted sniper. Ashberg potted 29 goals in
33 games for the Frolunda junior team. He's an offense-first forward in the mold of a Patrik Elias.

99. Boston- Perttu Lindgren

Again adding forwards, the Bruins might not be able to pass up this Finnish center. Lindgren led Finland's U20 league in scoring with 41 points in 38 games. His major difficulty is physical play- he'll often shy away from contact and traffic. However, his offensive abilities are strong enough that the Bruins will be very happy with this pick.

100. Toronto- Tomas Svoboda

The Leafs could use anyone at this, only their 3rd pick of the draft. Svoboda's a solid choice, a Czech left wing with a nose for the net. He's a reputed softie despite 130 PIM and lax defensively, but Svoboda gets it done in the other team's zone, evidenced by 33 points in 42 games for Slavia Jr.

101. Philadelphia- Michael Sauer

Another player ranked extremely high by Central Scouting, Sauer's an odd defender. He does everything well, but unspectacularly. In 32 games as a WHL rookie, Sauer totaled 13 points 10 PIM. He's a good package that the Flyers will hope develops into a steady top-four defender.

102. Washington- Anton Belov

One of the major surprises out of the Russian Elite League this past year was defender Anton Belov. This 6'3, 194 pounder managed to stick 31 games in the RSL for CSKA despite the massive influx of talent to the league during the lockout. Largely unknown, Belov is a physical, highly mature defender who should leap into lists of steals in less than two years. Belov also owns a big slapper and a tenacious attitude, two assets the Caps could use in a defender.

103. Nashville- Jonathan Quick

Goaltenders who have 1.14 GAAs are rare, even in high school hockey. Quick, a keeper for Avon Old Farms, also had a 0.953 save percentage over 27 games. The Preds can afford to take a project goalie because Brian Finley looks ready to back up Tomas Vokoun.

104. Phoenix- Phillipe Paquet

The Coyotes should look to replicating their success with Keith Ballard and Matthew Spiller by adding a third huge body on the blueline. High schooler Phillipe Paquet stands 6'3 and 200 pounds, in the range of defenders the Coyotes like. He's a solid choice to one day stand on Phoenix's blueline. The Salisbury defender scored 5 points and added 10 PIM in 26 contests.

105. NYR- Nathan Davis

A rookie with Miami U of the CCHA, forward Nathan Davis posted an impressive 23 points and 30 PIM in 36 games. Davis is a pure scorer that relies on a deadly wrister. He'd be a welcome addition to a farm system lacking snipers.

106. Chicago- Raymond Macias

The Hawks need to continue adding defenders, and Macias is one of the best in the draft. The Kamloops blueliner registered 47 points in 69 games. His defensive game is inconsistent, however, and questions as to whether his offense can translate to the pro level exist. Still, he's a potential steal at 106th overall.

107. Washington- Juho Mielonen

6'2 defenders who play a calm, controlled game in both zones are always a good thing to have on board. The Caps may add some more flavour to their collection of young blueliners by drafting Finnish product Juho Mielonen. Never recklessly physical, Mielonen uses his physical tools as conservatively and as smartly as he does his others. The Ilves Jr. blueliner, who scored 11 points in 37 Finnish junior league games while with Ilves, is a good bet to play a top-4 role in the NHL.

108. Minnesota- Ryan Wilson

A mean but talented player, the Wild may reach for 131st-overall ranked St. Michael's Majors blueliner Ryan Wilson. He'd be a good fit in the organization, having the decision to learn either the offensive game or stay-at-home one. However, big hitting and big PIM counts will always be a part of Wilson's game. The 6'1 defender racked up 149 PIM, but still managed 37 points.

109. San Jose- Taylor Chorney

The Sharks are exceptional at finding players in both high school and the USHL, especially defensemen. Taylor Chorney could follow a long list of these picks. A slick skater and offensively gifted defender, Chorney is a complete defender. The Shattuck blueliner was impressive in the regular season, scoring 34 points and racking up 52 PIM in 50 games played.

110. Chicago- Blair Jones

Another forward, Jones is the kind of bluecollar two-way center the Hawks love to draft. He broke out in 2004-05 with 50 points in 68 games, amassing 78 PIM to go with that. He's a gritty character forward that will easily earn a fan following in Chicago.

111. Vancouver- Mattias Hellstrom

The Canucks could go looking to Modo once again for a future star. Center Mattias Hellstrom showed flashes of brilliance for Modo's junior club, racking up 29 points in 31 games. He's a hard worker who is a tremendous decision-maker on the ice.

112. Ottawa- Jakub Drabek

The Senators lack power forwards on the farm, with only Antoine Vermette looking to make a serious impact. Drafting Jakub Drabek, a 6'1 winger from Slovakia, would be a definite improvement. While he only recorded 8 points in Junior, Drabek has been eased into a defensive role with Trinec. This may be unfortunate as Drabek is a great competitor down low much like a Niklas Sundstrom. The Sens may be wise to snap up Drabek so that he can moved to North America where he can be the free wheeling power forward he is able to be.

113. Atlanta- Kirill Starkov

Despite having such a talented core of players in Kovalchuk, Heatley and Stefan, the Thrashers lack offense in the pipeline. Adding some snipers is a definite priority. Kirill Starkov, a 30-point scorer in Swedish junior with Frolunda, is all about scoring goals- so much so that he doesn't backcheck or play as physical as he could. This has caused him to drop. However, as long as Starkov is on his game, it doesn't matter too much. He's a pure scorer the Thrashers could use.

114. Chicago- Matt Pelech

The Hawks could use more defensive defensemen to balance their crop of offensive ones. Pelech, a 6'4 220 pound monster, racked up 74 PIM in 31 games for the Sarnia Sting. He and Seabrook could make a fearsome second pairing for the future.

115. Phoenix- Lukas Handlovsky

The Coyotes could use help on the wing, and Handlovsky can provide it. Very much a finesse scorer, Handlovsky still managed 76 PIM in 42 games to go along with his 36 points in Slovak junior. He's a right wing with a reputation for shying away from physical play, and reminds some of an Ivan Novolseltov.

116. Montreal- Chad Denny

Physical stay-at-homers are a rarity in the Montreal system, and so is size. That's why 6'3 Nova Scotian native Chad Denny is an easy choice. A mean defender, Denny racked up 98 PIM in 53 games along with 26 points for Lewiston. His attitude and physical package will allow him to move up the pro ranks very soon.

117. Minnesota- Pier-Olivier Pelletier

Pelletier's rookie QMJHL campaign showed much promise behind the low numbers associated with playing on a bad team like Drummondville. The 40-game starter faired decently, putting up a respectable 3.01 GAA and 0.894 SV%. The Wild could use a replacement with Josh Harding ready to go pro, and Pelletier could be his heir apparent.

118. Carolina- Mario Bliznak

With their last of three picks in the 4th round, the Canes will look to Europe for a home run in the form of Mario Bliznak. While having a reputation as an imaginative playmaker in Slovak juniors, the young center scored 22 goals in 36 games for Dubnica. He's an interesting pick that could become a second line center in the big show.

119. Colorado- Alexander Ribbenstrand

Though they have plenty of defenders, the Avs don't have any bluechip offensive ones. Swedish blueliner Alexander Ribbenstrand does everything very, very well. He's the total package, boasting effortless skating and soft hands. He's a later pick because of a lack of muscle questions about how his offense will translate to the North American game. However, 13 points in 29 games while picking up 89 PIM at the same time is a tremendous accomplishment in any league.

120. Pittsburgh- Cal O'Reilly

Continuing with the theme of secondary scoring, the Pens would be smart to draft this late-1986 center from the OHL's Windsor Spitfires. He's a typical Penguin pick- a gritty CHLer that can score big. And he can score. O'Reilly notched 74 points in 68 games for Windsor, a major improvement over a 21-point output the year before.

[M. Beaux-Eaux]

Round 5

121. Pittsburgh- Nicholas Drazenovic

Nicholas Drazenovic is a tall, lanky center from the Prince George Cougars that specializes in playmaking. In fact, 38 of Drazenovic's 56 points for Prince George were assists. While a risk due to a major lack of muscle, he's a pick that the Pens will feel good about making as he has the potential to one day star at the NHL level.

122. Anaheim- Jordan Lavallee

Another big forward, Lavallee is a project with a great toolbox of grit, speed, and hands. He's a safe prospect that could make his way through pro quickly, and that's an asset for a team whose system has lots of wait-and-see prospects. Lavallee notched 66 points and 108 PIM with the Remparts, but could easily produce much more.

123. Carolina- Reto Berra

Having insurance for your goalie prospects is a smart choice. Swiss keeper Reto Berra is a big man with big skills. He'll fall into the 5th round because GMs are iffy about Switzerland's development system, especially considering Berra had a GAA of 4.01 in 11 games. However, at 6'3 and with a great glove, Berra is worth the risk.

124. Minnesota- Sergei Sentyurin

Sentyurin is a raw goal scorer playing in the Russian 3rd league. A slick stickhandler and sniper, he's held back by below-average skating. The Wild would be willing to wait for young winger to learn, as this 22-point scorer for Dynamo's affiliate in the RPL could be a home run.

125. Montreal- Nicholas Blanchard

Stocking up on size and power, the Habs might like underwhelming center Nicholas Blanchard. Stuck behind the offensive powerhouses of Stanislav Lascek, David Desharnais and Maxime Boisclair, Blanchard didn't see much ice-time. However, the 6'3 forward dominated some nights, picking up a decent 39 points in 61 games. If any of the above forwards decides to try minor-pro, Blanchard will benefit greatly. At the moment, the Habs might benefit from selecting him before he has a chance to break out.

126. Columbus- Gennady Churilov

The Jackets have a couple needs: a finesse forward and a center. Luckily for them, QMJHL forward Gennady Churilov combines both. A speedster with great offensive instincts, this young Russian is a bit of a flyer due to inconsistency. However, this past season with the Remparts was his first in North America, and he still managed 37 points in 69 games. It couldn't hurt to draft him, especially when Arsi Piispanen is your team's second-best prospect center.

127. Chicago- Oskars Bartulis

Defners who can play either a stay-at-home style or a heavy-hitting one are valuable assets even if your organization has many defenders. Oskars Bartulis is a 6'1 defender capable of doing just that. A smart player with puck smarts, he has yet to fully tap his offensive potential, scoring only 24 points in 62 games for Moncton. At 127th overall, though, he's a major bargain.

128. Atlanta- Fredrik Sontag

Adding some offensive punch from the blueline is a must for the Thrashers. 6'1, 183 pounds Sodertalje Jr. defender Fredrik Sontag could help in that department. The talented Swede popped home 13 points in 34 games, a low output for someone of his talent. He's an effortless skater with a great first pass and a solid wrister. Sontag will have every chance to make the NHL with the Thrashers.

129. Ottawa- Vladimir Kovac

Looking to bolster a weak group of young goalies, the Sens will look for keepers in the later rounds- something they have great success doing. Mystery Slovakian Vladimir Kovac put up a stellar 1.83 GAA and 0.922 save percentage for Trencin's junior squad over 31 games. Knowing the Sens luck with later-round goalies, Kovac will come along quite fine.

130. Vancouver- Marc-Andre Gragnani

A poor man's version of Marc Staal is what the Canucks would get in MA Gragnani. He's a bit less physical and a bit less capable of running the powerplay, but he's a great addition to a fairly weak group of prospects on the blueline. Gragnani may yet turn out to be something special, netting 39 points and 48 PIM in 68 games for PEI.

131. LA- Patrik Zackrisson

Adding more centers is always a good thing, especially highly-skilled finesse ones. Swedish pivot Patrik Zackrisson is exactly that. A speedy energy forward with soft hands, Zackrisson put up 25 points in 32 games while playing mostly a defensive role. Forwards like him are rare in the Kings organization, making him hard to pass up.

132. San Jose- Nathan Hagemo

While the Sharks are solid on D, NCAA freshman Nate Hagemo is the type of player they love to stock up on. A superbly mobile blueliner, Hagemo owns the tools and ability to keep the game out of his end while contributing a bit to the attack, managing 9 points in 25 games for the U of Minnesota. He's a safe pick.

133. Buffalo- Marc-Edouard Vlasic

The Sabres could add another mobile blueliner with good defensive instincts, and Quebec defender ME Vlasic is exactly that. Standing 6'1 and 190 pounds, Vlasic would add another presence to the Sabres back end. He's responsible in both zones, playing a simple yet solid game. That style of play allowed him to be almost even in PIM and points, putting up 33 and 30 respectively.

134. Washington- Alexander Sundstrom

Sundstrom has fallen off considerably since the beginning of the year thanks to his season being wiped out by knee injuries. Before that, a few scouts had him as an early favorite to sneak into the first round. Sundstrom's a dynamic winger capable of taking over games with his offensive prowess, much like his father, former NHLer Patrik Sundstrom. He's a boom or bust based on injury, but if he recovers, Sundstrom is a major steal. In the 9 games he was able to play for Bjorkloven in 2005, Sundstrom had no points or penalties.

135. NYI- Jeremy Duchesne

The Islanders could do to add a young goalie to the pipeline if they don't want to rely on older free agents like Garth Snow to back up Dipietro. Duchesne starred for the QMJHL's Halifax Mooseheads, netting a 2.35 GAA and 0.918 save percentage. He's an agile keeper with a decent glove, and a low risk with such a late pick.

136. NYR- Christian Hanson

Adding more pro-ready prospects is a trend that continues with the pick of blue-collar Christian Hanson. The Tri-City forward totaled 52 points in 60 USHL games. Much like his father, the infamous Dave Hanson, Christian is able to get under the skin of his opponents, though not through the Hanson brothers way. Christian is a slick checking forward that can chip in offensively, utilizing above-average footwork and shooting to beat goalies.

137. Phoenix- Ryan Mior

After Neveau and any earlier selections of goalies, the Coyotes may still want to bulk up at this position, especially if they take the aforementioned players. Enter QMJHL goalie Ryan Mior, the starting keeper for the PEI Rocket. Mior had a poor season statistically, allowing an average 3.71 goals per game and stopping only 0.885% of the shots that came his way. However, as with most statistics, they don't tell the whole story without a context. The Rocket were the 3rd worst team in the entire league, allowing an astronomic 244 goals a game. It didn't help that on nights that Mior wasn't shelled, the Rocket weren't able to capitalize offensively- they scored the fewest goals in the Q. However, Mior's talent, comprised of a fast and accurate glove, great lateral movement and great anticipation, is undeniable. Mior's a great choice

138. Nashville- Mark Fraser

A 6'4, 195 pound defender with a mean streak is something the Preds could use in spades, and they get at least one in Mark Fraser. He's average in every skill, doing everything well and nothing great. For a team who has so many offensive-minded blueliners, the 96 PIM, 8 point scorer for Kitchener is a welcome bit of variety to Nashville's prospect pool.

139. Detroit- Mike Gauthier

Adding some stay-at-home defensemen that are big hitters is something the Wings need to consider doing. Mike Gauthier, a 6'3 blueliner for Prince Albert, racked up an impressive 93 PIM in 40 games. He's a good investment if the Wings want to protect their younger, finesse forwards.

140. Philadelphia- Dalyn Flett

Along with their crop of stay-at-homers and offensive defensemen, the Flyers will need pure hitters. Flatt is exactly that, a vicious defender that put up 237 PIM in 72 games. He's safe choice to make it pro, but he won't bring much more upside than a borderline number four guy. However, his leadership and game-changing physical play are rare assets.

141. Toronto- Francois Bolduc

Following the trend of drafting big, mean defensemen, the Leafs also need to protect a fragile core of Ian White, Brendan Bell, Carl Coliacavo and Karl Pilar. 6'5, 224 pound Rimouski blueliner Francois Bolduc will provide just that, just as he did for the Oceanic. The towering defender had 70 PIM and 9 points in 65 games.

142. Boston- Tom Pyatt

Much like his brother Taylor, Tom is a sluggish skater with tremendous playmaking skills. The Hawks can use all the bodies they can get at forward, and Pyatt adds one more highly-skilled one. If he's half the player his brother is, the Bs will have done good. Pyatt assisted on 30 goals and scored 18 for the Saginaw Spirit.

143. New Jersey- Johan Harju

The Devils love big European wingers, and 6'3, 200 pound Swede Johan Harju definitely is one such player. Harju posted 31 points in 33 games for the Lulea junior squad, using his big frame, reach and skating together like any other power forward.

144. St. Louis- Siarhei Kastsitsyn

The younger brother of Montreal pick Andrei Kostsitsyn, similar questions that surrounded Andrei about heart and skill plague Siaheri. It didn't help he had a poor year offensively, scoring only 13 points in 30 games for Gomel of the BEL. Kastsitsyn is the type of gamble teams lacking offensive punch drool over, and the Blues are one such squad.

145. Edmonton- Johan Andersson

The Oilers may choose to go back to Sweden with their fifth round choice. There, they'll find a 5'11 sniper by the name of Johan Andersson. He's another typical Oiler; smaller, at 178 pounds, but with great wheels, puck skills and shooting. The Swedish winger potted 32 points in 34 games for Sodertalje Jr. to go along with 12 PIM. He also collected 2 points in 7 games at the World U-18s.

146. Calgary- Derek Yeomans

Another overager pick in net, the Ducks can afford to take a massive gamble on 5'11 Kelowna Rocket keeper Derek Yeomans. The smallest player for the Rockets became the most important as Yeomans carried the team through 53 regular season games enroute to 33 wins and a 1.83 GAA. He rose to a new level of dominance in the post-season, putting up a 1.90 GAA and 13 more wins. Highly athletic with a wicked glove, Yeomans could be a huge steal.

147. Colorado- Mathieu Aubin

Looking to add another forward, this time a gritty North American, the Avs may opt to choose Lewiston center Mathieu Aubin. The talented forward only saw action in 49 games, but collected 45 points in that span. It's safe to say that had he played further, he would not be available this late. He reminds some of a Dan Hinote-type forward.

148. Dallas- Andrew Thomas

To go along with their group of offensive defensemen, the Stars may wish to add some pure muscle to the lineup. 6'2 University of Denver freshman Andrew Thomas compiled 68 PIM in 34 NCAA games, making a name for himself as a big hitter. He's a bargain at the bottom of the 5th round.

149. Florida- Sergei Lesnukhin

The Panthers may look like geniuses if they can grab Russian sniper Sergei Lesnukhin this late. Lesnukhin has all the tools, foremost being his excellent skating. However, he shies away from traffic and has only an average shot. He's a project, but a promising one after netting 20 points in 40 games for Yaroslavl's RPL team.

150. Tampa- Andrew Andricopoulos

One of the few players in the 2005 draft that entered the season with high expectations but little results, Andrew Andricopoulos entered his sophomore year with the QMJHL's Quebec Remparts looking to bust out offensively. It never happened and he managed only 15 points in 60 games. Scouts soon forgot his name. This may have been in haste, as Andricopoulos still oozes the offensive acumen he did before the year began. The Jackets would be lucky to see him still on the board in the final round, and would not waste the opportunity to add him.

[M. Beaux-Eaux]

Round 6

151. Tampa- Zach MacVoy

Looking to add some more bodies up front, the Lightning could choose USNTDP right winger Zach MacVoy. An 83 PIM, 22-point campaign over 41 games is just the tip of the iceberg for the 6'2,215 forward. MacVoy does all the little things right, and can bang and grind with the best of them. He's got potential to become a second-liner, but noted third line sparkplug seems more realistic.

152. Florida- Erick Tremblay

Any Rimouski player not named Crosby, Pouliot or Roussin was vastly overshadowed the past two seasons, but defender Erick Tremblay's nasty style of play caused some to sit up and take notice. A big guy at 6'3, 200 lbs, Tremblay only has a very basic skillset outside of his physical play, racking up 87 PIM in 62 games. The Panthers have ample time to wait for the other aspects of his game to mature.

153. Dallas- Cody Bass

Adding a forward that can make it to the pros is a definite need for the Stars, and the bigger, the better. While many have Bass as being an early-to-mid second rounder, a wealth of talent ahead of him and a lowly output of 28 points in 66 games for the Ice Dogs will cause him to drop substantially. 103 penalty minutes and a reputation as a banger will be enough for a team so lacking in pivots to risk a pick on him.

154. Colorado- Patrick McNeill

McNeill can be described as a nicheless defender. While he has an above-average skillset, he has been unable to find his role in Major Junior. Despite that, the 6'0 blueliner tallied 33 points in 66 games. The Avs may have found a solid #5 man in McNeill.

155. Chicago- Matt D'Agnosti

An OHL rookie in 2004-05, Guelph forward Matt D'Agnosti provided the team with unexpected offense in the form of 46 points in 59 contests. He's another nicheless player, still looking for his role in the OHL and beyond. He lacks muscle at only 170 pounds, but the tools are there for him to become any type of player he wants to be. The Hawks could expect him to develop into a bang-and-crash second liner, or a pure checking specialist.

156. Colorado- Wacey Rabbit

A risk pick due to size, the Avs really don't have many other options if they want a solid second-liner in the 6th round. Rabbit demonstrated great scoring ability in 70 games with Saskatoon, leading the team most nights enroute to a 67-point season. He's underrated due to his 5'9 frame, but could turn out very nicely.

157. St. Louis- Derek Joslin

The Blues might want another offensive blueliner to back up such noted scorers as Dennis Wideman, and they might have found one in Ottawa 69ers blueliner Derek Joslin. An OHL rookie in 2004-05, the 6'2, 191 pound defender adjusted well enough to score 30 points and 44 PIM in 68 games. Look for a major breakout season to come.

158. New Jersey- Maxime Joyal

We all know what happened when the Devils saw a QMJHL goalie they liked. Now the Devils have a chance to grab a second steal in keeper Maxime Joyal. The late 86er was impressive with a 2.61 GAA and 0.921 save percentage in 55 games for Quebec. He has great speed and athleticism, allowing him to steal games at will. Sound like anyone else on the Devils?

159. Boston- Tom Mannino

A talented though unspectacular center hailing from the OHL's Saginaw Spirit, Tom Mannino compiled 50 points in his first full Major Junior campaign- quite the improvement from 4 the year earlier. A clean, dynamic forward, Mannino has good hands and creativity. He's an interesting prospect that could develop very nicely for the Bs.

160. Toronto- Wayne Savage

The Leafs are another club about to see their best goalie prospect graduate from the AHL. OHLer Wayne Savage looks like a good bet to at least make the pros as a backup, owning big-game mentality and solid but unspectacular skills between the pipes. A 2.85 GAA isn't a stellar number, but his 0.916 save percentage is encouraging. This St. Michael's Majors goalie may make a major impact for the Leafs.

161. Philadelphia- Lukas Endal

A tenacious player one-on-one and a pure scorer is something the Flyers could use. Thank goodness mystery relative unknown pivot Lukas Endal may be left on the board. This 6'0 center in the Slavia system tallied 40 points in 45 Czech Junior games, 23 of them goals. He's an underrated sniper that could prove deadly for the Flyers in the future, using his soft hands and solid shot to pick corners at will on their second line.

162. Detroit- Alexander Kucheryavenko

Kucheryavenko is another typical Wings pick from Russia. A slick, inventive pivot that makes his linemates better, this Spartak forward makes things happen offensively. He's a great prospect, and one the Wings would be hard-pressed to pass on.

163. Nashville- Kyle Kucharski

A 6'3 center who scored 51 points in 25 games left in the 6th round? Only out of high school hockey will you find such gems. The Phillips-Andover pivot scored 22 goals and 29 assists, muscling his way past opponents and using his quick shot to beat goalies. However, Kucharski has been called soft due to a surprisingly low 12 PIM count in those 25 contests.

164. Columbus- Ondrej Otcenas

The Jackets could always use more offense and power up front, and they'll get it from one of Slovak junior's biggest surprises of 2005. Known only as a speedster with not much game before this year, the 6'2 winger broke out for 37 points and 97 PIM in 49 games. He's a great competitor and has learned to get involved in the thick as well as the thin. Otcenas is a great choice in the 5th round.

165. NYR- Richard Clune

Toughness and the ability to play at the pro level are two major problems for the Rangers' farm. While not your typical power forward's size at 5'11, Richard Clune combines power with a decent touch around the net. Clune's a project, but he'll move up the ranks quickly after a 34-point, 103 PIM season for the Sarnia Sting.

166. NYI- Deveraux Heshmatpour

Finally the big man goes. If Dev Heshmatpour was even a skater of Tom Pyatt's calibre, he'd be a first-day pick for sure. Measuring 6'7, 233 pounds, he's an absolute monster from the backend. While his size and physical play are incredible, they can only cover up for his lack of speed so long. He's a massive project in more ways than one, but could turn out like Eric Cairns. Heshmatpour is on the right track, posting 164 PIM in 51 games to go along with 10 points.

167. Washington- Igor Antosik

A rough and tumble right winger, Igor Antosik is the kind of gritty power forward project the Caps don't have enough of, scoring 13 points and chalking up 46 PIM in 40 games. He's sluggish, but has good hockey sense and great stickhandling. He's an outside shot to ever come over, let alone play pro, but the Caps may risk it in the hopes they land a borderline 2nd line winger with a nose for the net.

168. Buffalo- Jason Bailey

A gritty right winger from the USNTDP, Jason Bailey is a burgeoning power forward that may one day make a difference on Buffalo's second line. He's projected more as a third-line energy guy after an 11-point, 141 PIM campaign, but if he learns to harness his 6'0 205 frame, Bailey could be another Chris Higgins.

169. San Jose- Michael Gergen

Another elite scoring high schooler, winger Michael Gerger totaled an impressive 117 points and 110 PIM in 69 games. He's small at 5'11, but built like a tank with 185 pounds of muscle. His overall skillset is questionable due to the level of play in high school, but he did perform well for the elite Shattuck prep school. The Sharks may come out on top on this high return/low risk pick.

170. LA- Zach Jones

Tough, reckless defensemen are a good thing to have when protecting a core of offensive ones. USNTDP blueliner Zach Jones is one such player, adding 74 PIM in 41 games for the national squad. He's built like a truck at 191 pounds and 5'11, and drives over others line one. He's a good choice late.

171. Vancouver- Chris Butler

Vancouver could use additional physicality on the blueline, and USHLer Chris Butler is a good bet to one day provide it at the NHL level. While lacking muscle at 178 pounds, Butler still managed 90 PIM in 60 games for Sioux City. He's a bit of a project, but could unexpectantly provide some offense to go with his grit.

172. Ottawa- Andrei Grankin

Adding another project Russian forward, something the Sens seem to have great luck doing, is a good option in the 6th round. 6'1 winger Andrei Grankin starred for Krylja-2 of the RPL, but was unable to meet expectations as he only scored 15 points in 35 games. Grankin is a good skater with a good shot, but his desire is seriously in doubt. The Sens still might not pass on a speedy winger with good hands, though.

173. Atlanta- Stanislav Lascek

Adding an overager forward has to be a serious consideration for the Thrashers as they have little help available. QMJHL sniper Stanislav Lascek is a slow skater who plays a questionable perimeter game, but he might be a saviour for a team in need of skilled forwards. His 90 points in 53 games included a whopping 72 assists, and he was an early competitor along with teammate Maxime Bosclaire for the Q's scoring title. Crosby pulled away as expected, but Lascek was trailed him by little for much of the season's beginning.

174. Chicago- Brodie Dupont

Another Sutter pick, Calgary Hitmen center Brodie Dupont is slowly becoming an effective grinder and checker. A 111 PIM, 25 point output was low for a player of Dupont's talent, but it was only his first year in major junior. The Hawks covet gritty forwards, and Dupont certianly is one.

175. Columbus- Fredrik Pettersson

Looking for more help up front, the Jackets may be willing to sacrifice size for skill in Swedish forward Fedrik Pettersson. Standing 5'10 and 183 pounds, Pettersson is a fast skater with a soft touch around the net. He displayed his dynamic offensive abilities in Swedish juniors with Frolunda, where he netted 17 points in 24 games, and with the Swedish U18 team.

176. Montreal- Chris Vande Velde

Another big forward for the Habs system, Chris Vande Velde is a boom or bust prospect out of Moorhead High School. The pivot scored 67 points in 30 games, employing his efficient skating technique and offensive creativity well in his first year playing off of the wing. Vande Velde stands 6'2, and uses it well in traffic. However, he's not overly physical, instead playing a simple checking game when need be.

177. Buffalo- Tom Wandell

Injury problems have caused Tom Wandell, a superbly crisp playmaker and offensive machine, to spiral off scouts' radars. A 6'1, 183 forward, Wandell tallied 3 points in 5 games for Sodertalje Jr. before going down with serious injury. It kept him out the rest of the year, including all tournaments. He's a risk as it's entirely sure he has recovered, but he's as good as any to risk a pick on.

178. Carolina- Mayson Raymond

This is the time of the draft when the AJHL starts seeing players slowly but surely find NHL homes. The first one to go may very well be Camrose winger Mason Raymond, a dynamic forward with great offensive potential. His 6'0, 165 frame is lanky but is a solid foundation for future growth. Raymond has a long road ahead if he wants to go from being an 82 point scorer in the AJHL to a cup of coffee player in the NHL, but the Avs will have patience. Andrei Grankin

179. Anaheim- Kevin Lalande

Having lots of goalies is never a bad thing, and with Brent Krahn look like he may be leaving the AHL for good, the Ducks need to restock. Lalande is a solid keeper for the OHL's Beleville Bulls, allowing only 2.64 goals per game in 2005. He's a bit of a wait yet, but Lalande will go a long way to giving the Ducks another option in net.

180. Pittsburgh- Andrei Zubarev

The Pens could use another offensive defenseman, and they get one in Zubarev. Captain of his team in the Russian 3rd league, Zubarev owns a big point shot and big hitting ability. CSB calls him inconsistent and passive at times, but that's a given with many Russian prospects. Zubarev showed enough heart on the ice to garner 32 PIM and 6 points in 28 RPL games for UFA-2.

[M. Beaux-Eaux]

Round 7

181. Pittsburgh- Johan Dahlberg

For their final pick of the draft, the Pens would do well to select Swedish forward Johan Dahlberg. A physical presence, Dahlberg scores most of points through muscling past defenders. His average skating and offensive talent hold him back, but he could prove a useful tool in the Penguins pipeline. Dahlberg netted 78 PIM and 15 points for Modo Jr. over 33 games.

182. Anaheim- Paul Kurceba

Red Deer Rebel defender Paul Kurceba is a highly physical 6'1 baddy that the Avs can build their stay-at-home defensemen around. A potential number 3/4 d-man, Kurceba's game is dishing out pain. He totaled 106 PIM and 18 points in 66 league games, both substantial improvements from the previous year. Kurceba's a lightweight for his style of game, weighing it at only 178 pounds.

183. Carolina- Francis Charland

A veritable QMJHL this past year, 6'2 winger Francis Charland produced well when he was on the ice. He's had problems doing that the past two years, hampered by a serious shoulder injury. Still, if he can regain his health, Carolina wins big on risking a late pick on this speedy, physical forward who potted 22 points in 43 league games.

184. Minnesota- Colton Yellow Horn

Despite his 5'7 frame, WHL scoring star Colton Yellow Horn boasts tremendous hands and passing instincts. It will be hoped that the new rule changes in the NHL will allow smaller forwards to rule, and Yellow Horn may be one player that benefits. The Wild, in turn, could be the team that benefits from having him. He's a boom/bust puck, but his ability to dangle and leave defenders out to dry is uncanny. If his footspeed improves, he'll have no trouble making it from an 86-point scorer in the WHL to a pro forward.

185. Montreal- Simon Bolduc

Adding a mean forward is a definite need for the Canadiens, and not many were meaner in the QMJHL than heavyweight Simon Bolduc. The 6'5 winger is 60% enforcer, 40% scorer. His 21 points in his rookie year for Acadie-Bathurst show that he can pop in points, but his drafting team won't be expecting much besides a big presence in the bottom six. Look for Bolduc to do just that after a 71 PIM season wit the Titans.

186. Columbus- Erkka Leppanen

Calling Columbo(s), we have a mystery. Finnish defenseman Erkka Leppanen, by all accounts a dangerous offensive-defenseman with smooth skating and soft hands, failed to even make the Finnish U20 league as an 18 year-old. The Jackets may hope it was a fluke and draft the slick blueliner.

187. Chicago- Brock Bradford

If he were a couple inches taller, Brock Bradford would be a 2nd or 3rd rounder. Standing 5'9, this USHL rookie combines soft hands with energy and enthusiasm. Bradford's ascent began last year, when he posted an incredible 85 points in 57 games in the BCHL as a 16 year-old. Playing in a tougher USHL this past season, Bradford nevertheless averaged almost a point per game with 56 in 60. He's a team-first, heart-and-soul energy guy that the Hawks may feel is worth the risk. Just look at Rene Bourque.

188. Chicago- Timothy Kunes

Another product of the EJHL system, project defender Timothy Kunes is an offensive wizard in the other team's zone. Kunes potted a career-high 40 points in 50 games for New England, showing some grit with 51 PIM. While he stands 6'1, he's severely undermuscled at only 170 pounds. He may be too much offense and too little of anything else, but he has the building blocks needed to be an NHL blueliner.

189. Ottawa- Nicholas Tuzzolino

Adding another big defender is important for the Sens. At 6'6 and 225, Tuzzolino is everything you'd expect with a player his size after a 128 PIM season with Sarnia, and that's why he drops. He will probably never eclipse the third pairing, maybe spending time as a fourth defender in his prime. Nevertheless, you can never have too much muscle.

190. Vancouver- T.J. Oshie

With all the work the Canucks have done to add big forwards, they can't forget about the little guys with skill. Warroad HS center T.J. Oshie is exactly that, compiling 99 points in 31 games. His 21 PIM count reflects his desire not to get involved in traffic, and that causes worries when his 5'11, 170 pound frame is added in. However, high schoolers have risen in popularity the last couple years, and the Canucks may see enough offensive punch in Oshie to consider drafting him.

191. LA- Tim Miller

With all the projects the Kings may add at the draft table, it may be good for them to take a safe forward with little upside. USHL forward Tim Miller is as safe a pick as one can get in the 7th round. The 6'0 Omaha left wing scored 38 points along with 128 PIM in 59 games. The Kings can at least count on Miller developing into a enforcer if all else fails.

192. San Jose- Antti Harma

Reaching for goalies, the Sharks always seem to have a hidden flashlight when picking one seemingly out of the dark. Finnish netminder Antti Harma could be one such pick. The 5'11, 176-pound keeper in the Blues system put up an above-average 2.31 GAA and 0.906 save percentage. He could prove to be another great success out of Europe and out of Finland for San Jose.

193. Buffalo- Kristofer Westblom

While they currently have 3 young goalies in the NHL, the Sabres don't have any younger ones. WHL rookie Kristofer Westblom will add some insurance to the pipeline. Westblom seemingly came out of nowhere for the Kelowna Rockets, seeing action in 18 regular season games and putting up an impressive 1.88 GAA and 0.919 save percentage. His hot play resulted in a 12-2-4 record for the team while he was on the ice. The Sabres may have found another gem in Westblom, not that he'll needed any time soon.

194. Washington- Zach Bearson

ANother gritty USHL forward, 6'1 right wing Zach Bearson is a project power forward. By all accounts he has all the tools needed to become one, including deft stickhandling and a knack for driving to the net. Bearson's 36 points and 56 PIM for Waterloo show promise. The Caps can always use gritty wingers, and Bearson may be a fine one.

195. NYI- Jesse Uronen

The Isles love their project Europeans, and they may get to Jokerit forward Jesse Uronen first. The 6'0 right wing was MVP of the Finnish Junior 'A' league, finishing first in goals with 36 and second in points with 56 in 39 games. Scouts dislike Uronen for his inconsistency, lack of muscle and questionable desire. These same questions dogged fellow late round pick Dragan Umicevic, another winger who seems to have turned out just fine. Milbury is a pro at spotting emerging talent, and Uronen definitely may be the best.

196. NYR- Alec Richards

The Rangers are another team with two or more great young keepers that may opt to add insurance. High school keeper Alec Richards is the player they may use to do that. The 6'4 behemoth from the US High Schools West system posted a stellar 1.97 GAA and 0.931 GAA. As always, high school numbers are questioned thanks to the level of play, and Richards is under the hardest speculation of all as he played on the powerhouse Breck HS team. Richards has the frame, talent and desire to make it far, and all he needs is a chance.

197. Phoenix- Colin Greening

The Coyotes have a reputation for grabbing players out of high school and the USHL that are big, strong and have a lot of tools but no box to put them in. Greening is exactly that, a 6'2 191 pound right wing with a quick release and a good head for the game. These attributes allowed the winger to net a decent 46 points in 35 games, but it wasn't as impressive as the 73 point output a year ago. No one is quite sure where his offense went, and as a result, he's become a major project.

198. Nashville- Kyle Bailey

A rough center toiling for Portland of the WHL, 6'2, 182 pound Kyle Bailey has seen his point and penalty minute totals rise the past two years. The potential NHL enforcer stayed out of the box long enough to pick up 33 points, but still grabbed 116 PIM in the process. The Preds don't have many options for big centers this late, but he has untapped offensive potential.

199. Detroit- Ben Chaisson

6'5, 200+ pound enforcer defensemen are something the Wings could use very shortly. A fairly young group of offensive blueliners need some muscle between them, and Shawinigan monster Ben Chaisson may be their guy. Along with his towering height, Chaisson is 210 pounds of muscle. He knows how to use it, throwing himself and opponents around to the tune of 115 PIM in 59 games. He'll be nothing more than an enforcer, only scoring 3 points the entire season, but the Wings have enough of that for now.

200. Philadelphia- Jared Boll

6'2 right wingers who can go to the box for 294 minutes in a season and still pick up 47 points are players the Flyers love to have. USHL right wing Jared Boll accomplished just that, driving to the net without a second thought enroute to 23 goals and 24 assists. He's a poor skater but an average stickhandler with deceptive quickness in tight, there's always his willingness to throw other players aside without a second thought. Ranked well into the 8th round by CSB at Mid-Terms, Boll is a pure enforcer.

201. Toronto- Igor Velichkin

Going back to a country the club has been able to pull much talent from, the Leafs may choose a slick forward out of Russia in the last round. 6'1, 187 pound left wing Igor Velichkin is the best choice left at this stage. A dangerous forward, Velichkin employs above-average on-ice vision along with a tenacious, never-give-up style of play to score his points, such as the 17 in 39 games he managed for Magnitogorsk-2 of the RPL. However, balance problems and a resulting willingness to stay away from traffic have held the highly skilled forward back. An undiscovered medical issue like the near-blindness that afflicted previous Oilers pick Alexei Mihknov may be the source of his problems. The Leafs could do no worse than grabbing him, hoping he comes over to North America so that he can be better evaluated.

202. Boston- Cody Wild

Polishing off the draft with their last selection, the Bruins could use another defender to provide depth in the pipeline. Offensive blueliner Cody Wild had a breakout season for the EJHL's Junior Bruins. He missed the 50-point mark by one point in 54 games, combining his fine skating and offensive skills with his 6'1, 180 pound frame. Wild is primed to continue scoring well into the NCAA, an asset the Bs could use 4 years down the line.

203. New Jersey- Bretton Stamler

Much like the Wings, the Devils need to invest in big-hitting defensemen. Seattle's Bretton Stamler is another of the many in this draft class. He's a project, but the presence of other defensemen in the organization will allow Stamler, who posted 13 points and a 106 PIM in 74 games, to develop slowly.

204. St. Louis- Matt Kassian

To round out their group of physical forwards, the Blues may see WHL heavyweight Matt Kassian as a good investment. A forward with little upside but a great shot to make it to the NHL as an enforcer, Kassian is already a noted fighter and bruiser. He would fit in well somewhere in the rebuilt Blues' new bottom six. The 6'4 enforcer picked up 172 PIM in 69 league games.

205. Edmonton- Joseph Fallon

An overager from the U of Vermont, Joseph Fallon is a 6'3, 190 pound goalie who plays a mean butterfly style. The Oilers have had success with overager NCAA keepers in the past- current starter Ty Conklin- and Fallon looks like he may possess the same potential. Fallon used his big frame and tremendous reflexes to post a 1.97 GAA and 0.922 save percentage, both great numbers even for the ECAC. Fallon will provide the immeadiate depth in the goalie pipeline the Oilers need.

206. Calgary- T.J. Fast

The second highest-rated AJHL player in the draft and a teammate of Mayson Raymond, Camrose Kodiak blueliner T.J. Fast is an aggressive, exciting blueliner from nearby Calgary. 6'1 and 190 pounds, Fast is no slouch. He's remarkably composed and cool for his age, knocking down plays as fast they are set up. He also has underrated offensive abilities, albeit a relatively low 36 point output in 58 games. Fast isn't exactly as quick as his name would suggest, but he has a smooth stride that can be built on for the future.

207. Colorado- Nathan Gerbe

While the smallest player in the draft at 5'6- and that's reaching- Nathan Gerbe is everything you want in a hockey player. A darting skater with the uncanny ability to get under the skin of opponents, the USNTDP center scored 29 points and chalked up 73 PIM in 38 games. He's the kind of agitator that always makes it far in hockey despite size. The Avs could always use a rough-and-tumble forward to mix in with their plethora of offensive talent.

208. Dallas- Daren Machesney

Ranked 3rd among goalie prospects by CSB at Mid-Term report, Machesney will undoubtedly fall thanks to the plethora of talent ahead of him. Being very undersized at 165 pounds doesn't help either. However, Machesney posted decent numbers for the Brampton Battalion, allowing 2.74 goals per game and keeping 0.917 percent of shots out of his net. He's a long-term project, but Stars need tons of help in net, among other places.

209. Anaheim- Jordan Clendenning

Another physical, blue-collar CHL winger, Jordan Clendenning had an off-year for Acadie-Bathurst. While his PIM count rose 20 from the previous year, his point total only did so by 8. Still, the Ducks can't go wrong on this heart-and-soul winger. He plays much bigger than his 5'10 frame, always giving his all. He's a good character forward and potential 3rd line sparkplug.

210. Pittsburgh- Mads Bodker

And the last pick of the draft goes to.... Pittsburgh. Okay, not as exciting as the Draft Lottery. However, Danish defender Mads Bodker could go a long ways to making it an exciting pick. The Rodovre regular was a threat all year long from the blue line. Using his crisp passes, tenacity and ice-cool, Bodker starred in both the Danish pro league and World U18 Championships. Why does he fall so far? Being 5'8 and 161 pounds will do that to any prospect. Bodker also had what could be seen as poor production, netting only 5 points and 10 PIM in 29 games. However, he was often Rodovre's most defensive defenseman many nights over the course of the season.

[BadCompany]

nwthabsfan said:

1. Pittsburgh: Sidney Crosby – No brainer.

2. Anaheim: Jack Johnson - Okay, so BB is shopping this pick around, in true BB style. Assuming the offers will not be good enough, then he sticks with this pick and scoops up the best Dman in the draft. With Getzlaf and Perry up front, and Smid their top rearguard prospect, JJ would be an amazing complement to their farm.

3. Carolina: Benoit Pouliot – Staal, Ladd and Pouliot would make a solid core of big forwards for years to come in Carolina.

We think alike.

nwthabsfan said:

4. Minnesota: Bobby Ryan – Now that the top ranked Minnesotan has been chosen, I can see them going for the big kid with soft hands. He would complement some of Minny’s smaller, skilled guys nicely.

Could happen. Minnesota doesn't have a lot of size up front, anywhere...

nwthabsfan said:

5. Montreal: Anze Kopitar – Best all round player at this position, and this also adds a big frame with gifted offensive skills, which is a mix of Gainey and Savard and their drafting styles. Top scorer in the Swedish junior league and played on his country’s mens team at the Worlds at just 17 (and scored a goal!!).

Should get a lot of "Kostitsyin Best Player In Draft" type press, if it happens.

nwthabsfan said:

6. Columbus: Gilbert Brule – Quite happy to get the final member of the Top Six club. Brule would look good complementing Nash and Zherdev up front.

If Kopitar is still available, they might really want him, and I wonder what they would give us to move up a spot?

nwthabsfan said:

7. Chicago: Marc Staal – Chitown helps bolster its future blueline with Staal.

Not sure... They've used their last 3 first round picks on defensemen (4 of the last 6), so I'm thinking they might look elsewhere.

nwthabsfan said:

8. Atlanta: Jack Skille - With Heatley and Kovalchuk leading the way up front, this would add a power forward to the mix of big, skilled forwards already on the team. Some good young D prospects are ready to make the leap, so this also fits a team need.

While they do need power-forward types, I personally think they need centers more, especially ones that can step in right away.

nwthabsfan said:

9. Ottawa: Carey Price – With Hascek going to retire soon, Emery ready to make the move up, the Sens need an heir apparent to their heir apparent between the pipes.

Wasn't John Muckler quoted as saying he really liked Price? Maybe that's why Gainey tossed his name out the other day, trying to entice Muckler to offer something for the #5.

nwthabsfan said:

11. Los Angeles: Luc Bourdon – LA has a decent prospect group, but adding a good, safe, NHL sized Dman at this point is too good to let pass.

12. San Jose: Alex Bourret – A physical forward with reckless abandon, a nice fit in SJ, as they often draft this mould.

I like both these guys.

nwthabsfan said:

18. Nashville: Kenndal McArdle – A Tootoo with more finishing skills, and a chip off the old Upshall mould. A good fit on how they are building this young team.

Definitely a Nashville type player (though they did break from tradition by taking Radulov last year)

Nicely done! After the draft, lets console ourselves, and tell each other NHL GMs are morons for not picking the way we say they should, okay?

[Doc Holliday]

carv said:

*** Jack Skille ***

I've been locked in on Brule since we got #5 last Friday but this guy souns like a definite possibility.

I have seen his name mentioned a couple of times but thought like most that he was in the next group of players below Brule, Pouliot, Ryan, Kopitar and Johnson. Well, I read the transcript from a chat today with Kyle Woodlief from the Red Line Report and he feels strongly that Skille ranks as highly as these other players. Woodlief was the scout who believed that Kostitsyn was possibly the best overall talent in his draft year. Anyway, he is about 6'1 200 pounds, plays the wing and is compared to Bill Guerin or Ryan Smith. Skates well, plays physically and he has size. The kid looks good. If our scouts were on the same page as Woodlief when we picked Kostitsyn then maybe ... I don't see a downside to this pick.

Here is a link to the Red Line Report on him at Sportsnet:
www.sportsnet.ca/hockey/columnist.jsp?content=20050708_104413_5812

Here is a link to the chat with Kyle Woodlief from today:
transcripts.usatoday.com/Chats/transcript.aspx?c=139

Here is a link to his bio from TSN:
www.tsn.ca/nhl/draft/feature.asp?fid=7329

mmmmmmm! Interesting. I didn't read much about Skille before but he does sound like an intriguing pick. Wonder why he's ranked below a guy like Ryan... Seems like less of a sexy pick than say Brule is, but definitely a better idea than Kopitar IMO.

[M. Beaux-Eaux]

Updated: July 27, 2005, 10:23 PM ET

Top 10 draft prospects

By EJ Hradek
ESPN The Magazine

Back in 1991, when the Quebec Nordiques (remember them?) selected highly touted Eric Lindros with the first pick, a couple of guys named Scott Niedermayer and Peter Forsberg were taken just a few minutes later. By the end of that first round, we heard the names of future stars such as Alex Kovalev, Markus Naslund and Glen Murray. Heck, Zigmund Palffy was still on the board at No. 26.

In 1984, when the Penguins tabbed Mario Lemieux with the top choice, the Flames selected a tough young winger named Gary Roberts with the 12th pick.

One player does not make a draft class. With that in mind, here's a look at our top 10 prospects. We'll even include that Crosby kid for good measure.

1. Sidney Crosby, C/W, Rimouski (QMJHL). Stat line: 66-102-168 (62 games)
What can we say that hasn't already been said about the 5-10, 180-pound hype machine? He doesn't mind playing wing as well as center. During the Memorial Cup tournament, Crosby spent a lot of time on the wing, playing with linemates Dany Roussin and Marc-Antoine Pouliot. This is important because he might end up flanking the Pens' other top prospect, Russian-born center Evgeni Malkin, somewhere down the road. Why is Crosby so good? Said one scout: "He can do special things at top speed. Not very many can do that."

2. Jack Johnson, D, U.S. national program. Stat line: 14-27-41 (42 games)
We're still wondering how this kid was left off Team USA's blue line at the World Junior Championships. Johnson, who plays bigger than his 6-foot, 197-pound stature, helped the Americans to a gold medal at the Under-18 tournament. Several scouts characterized Johnson as an "All-American kid ... a middle linebacker type." One scout compared Johnson to a young Scott Stevens. Johnson seems like a perfect fit for Anaheim GM Brian Burke, who'll have the No. 2 pick. Johnson will attend the University of Michigan in the fall.

3. Benoit Pouliot, LW, Sudbury (OHL). Stat line: 29-38-67 (69 games)
In his first year in the Ontario Hockey League, Pouliot wowed scouts with his skill. The 6-2, 180-pound left wing led all OHL rookies with 67 points. Although nobody doubts his talent, some scouts wonder whether he's always focused. "I'm not sure about his heart," one scout said. "I don't know if he wants to be as good as he could be." That uncertainty could push him a little further down the draft board.

4. Bobby Ryan, RW, Owen Sound (OHL). Stat line: 37-52-89 (62 games)
The 6-foot, 200-pound Ryan has become one of the most sought-after prospects in his draft class. "This is a big, tough kid who is hard to handle," one scout said. Another added: "He has soft hands and good vision. If he can improve his skating, he could become a superstar." If Pouliot's stock falls, Ryan could move up the board.

5. Gilbert Brule, C, Vancouver (WHL). Stat line: 39-48-87 (70 games)
Like Johnson, Brule plays bigger than his frame (5-10, 175 pounds). A super-competitive kid, Brule has been compared to players such as Doug Gilmour and Bryan Trottier. Not bad, eh? Another scout called him a "more skilled version of Michael Peca." There is a fear that he'll get dinged up playing his aggressive style against bigger NHLers. Some chances are worth taking, and this seems to be one of those cases.

6. Anze Kopitar, C, Sodertalje SK (Swedish Jr.) Stat line: 28-21-49 (30 games)
Kopitar is a wild card in the top 10. He comes from Slovenia, which isn't known for producing hockey talent. If he makes it, he'll be the first Slovenian to play in the NHL. He was a dominant player in the Swedish Junior Elite League. At the World Championships, playing against men, he didn't look out of place. Scouts like his size (6-2, 202 pounds), hands and vision. They're less thrilled about his skating but think he'll improve. One scout believes he could be a more-offensive Radek Bonk type. After the top two picks, Kopitar could go anywhere from No. 3 to No. 10.

7. Carey Price, G, Tri-City (WHL). Stat line: 2.34 GAA; .920 save-percentage (63 games)
Most scouts agree that Price is the best goalie in the draft. "All the tools are there," one scout said. Others like his size (6-3, 212 pounds) and fluid movement around the net. He wasn't up to par in Canada's gold-medal-game loss to the U.S. at the World Under-18 tourney. But, according to one scout, he made no excuses. "The kid didn't point any fingers. He simply said he wasn't as sharp as he could have been. You like to see that in a young player." * If Price is still on the board at No. 9, he'd be a good fit in Ottawa.

8. Marc Staal, D, Sudbury, (OHL). Stat line: 6-20-26 (65 games)
He's the younger brother of Hurricanes center Eric Staal. And, like his brother, he's big (6-3, 193 pounds). One veteran scout didn't hide his feelings for Staal. "I love him," he said. "He got better and better each time I saw him. He's a 17-year-old kid playing 40 minutes a game against the other team's top lines. I think he'll be a No. 1 or 2 defenseman in the NHL." Another scout wasn't as sold, saying Staal projects as a No. 4 in the show. But he does think the defensive-minded Staal would be very effective if paired with a more dynamic puck-mover on an NHL back line.

9. Jack Skille, RW, U.S. National Program. Stat line: 24-31-55 (54 games)
Skille was a teammate of Johnson's on Team USA's gold-medal 2005 Under-18 squad. The 6-1, 200-pound power forward has explosive speed. "He's very hard to knock off his skates," added one scout, who compared Skille to Vancouver prospect Ryan Kesler. Another scout sees Skille as a "third-line guy with a chance to be more." He'll attend the University of Wisconsin this fall.

10. Ryan O'Marra, C, Erie (OHL). Stat line: 25-38-63 (64 games)
There were mixed feelings among scouts about 6-1, 182-pound O'Marra. Some scouts see him as a solid, two-way center who works hard and competes. One scout went so far as to say he'd be a good fit in Chicago as a No. 2 center behind top pivot Tuomo Ruutu (the Blackhawks have the seventh pick). Others aren't crazy about his attitude. "The kid thinks he's more talented than he is," one scout said. Despite O'Marra's critics, it would be a surprise if he falls out of the Top 10.

- sports.espn.go.com/nhl/draft2005/columns/story?id=2117899

* I like to see that in Habs' goalies.

[M. Beaux-Eaux]

Taken from another board. Last updated 2:24pm today.

*

The following players were not signed by their NHL Teams (or the signings are not yet official)

BOS: Masi Marjamaki, Frank Rediker, Benoit Mondou, Patrik Valcak
BUF: Jeff Weber, Louis-Philippe Martin, Sergei Voroshnin
CGY: Jamie Tardif, Kevin Harvey
CAR: Aaron Dawson, Matej Trojovsky, Ryan Rorabeck
COL: David Svagrovsky, Darryl Yacboski
CBJ: Mathieu Gravel, Trevor Hendrix
DET: Vladimir Kutny
FLA: Dany Roussin
MIN: Adam Courchaine, Mathieu Melanson, Jean-Michel Bolduc
MTL: Dany Stewart, Mark Flood
NSH: Richard Stehlik
NJ: Joey Tenute
NYI: Cody Blanshan
OTT: Will Colbert
PHI: David Tremblay
PHX: Tyler Redenbach, Ryan Gibbons
SJ: Jonathan Tremblay
STL: Alexandre Bolduc, Jonathen Lehun
TOR: Shaun Landolt
VAN: Matthew Hansen
WSH: Mark Olafson