Tag Archives: Alex Newhook

Armchair GM, Edmonton Oilers, NHL, NHL Entry Draft, Prospects

BLH Guest Post: A 2019 NHL Mock Draft (Picks 16-31) By Terrance Grise

I was so impressed with Terrance Grise’s previous 2019 NHL mock draft that I asked him if he wouldn’t mind mocking up the rest of the first round. Luckily for me, he said yes and now you get to enjoy the fruits of his labor too!

If you haven’t read his previous article, check that out here and don’t forget to give Terrance a follow on Twitter here.

On to Mr. Grise’s 2019 NHL Mock Draft (picks 16-31)!

16.) Arthur Kaliyev – (COL Avalanche)

Colorado has put together a formidable defense, so assuming they don’t move this pick before Friday I’m expecting them to focus on forwards and goaltending. Adding Turcotte and Kaliyev would be a great way to stock their shelves for the future. Notching 102 points this past season with Hamilton Bulldogs, Kaliyev more than doubled his point totals from his first year in the OHL. What’s even more impressive is that he split that total evenly between goals and assists. Showing that he can set up teammates, as well as get the job done himself. Despite putting up that many points, Kaliyev has struggled in the draft rankings. A couple of sites even have him falling into the 2nd round. Given that he is a big winger that has proven he can use the tools he has in an elite way, this is right around the area that I would expect him to be taken.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TwnkMElynFo

17.) Moritz Seider – (VGK Golden Knights)

After having their first real big playoff controversy, earning their stripes as true NHL hockey fans, the Vegas faithful are going to be looking for a boost going into the 2019-2020 season. Seider definitely will not be ready to suit up in the Knights gear next season, but he should give fans something to look forward to. Everyone in this league knows how valuable right shot, top pairing defensemen are, and Moritz Seider brings the goods. His point totals don’t jump out at you managing just 6 points in 29 games. What stands out is how much his coaches use and trust him. By all accounts, he has tremendous hockey sense, so if he proves to have a scoring touch as well he could prove to be the second best defenseman from this class.

18.) Alex Newhook – (DAL Stars)

Leading the Victoria Grizzlies of the BCHL, as both the team captain and scoring leader, Alex Newhook is a prime example of how deep this draft is in forwards. He led the league with 102 points, outscoring the next best forward by 18 points. He also had 35 more points than his closest teammate. Impressive, but also part of the reason I couldn’t justify ranking him ahead of Kaliyev who put up the same totals in the OHL. His footwork is very impressive and allows him to maintain possessions while fighting past defenders. He’s a guy that wants to carry the puck into the zone and does so effectively.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XQWvYZRv-OQ

19.) Victor Soderstrom – ( OTT Senators)

Soderstrom was very impressive in the SHL as an 18-year-old. This should make Sens fans happy that Pierre Dorion was able to recover a first round pick in this draft. His skating and first pass are exactly the kind of qualities scouts and GMs are looking for given the current way the game is being played. At a young age, he is already risk-averse and rarely makes the wrong play. For these reasons, he is one of the guys I could see leaping into the top 15 if teams are looking to add to their defensive depth.

20.) Cam York – (WPG Jets)

Thankfully my contact with the Jets filled me in on the Trouba trade details so I didn’t look like a moron predicting who the Rangers would take with this pick. Too bad when you consider all the possible play on words that could have been if the Rangers did, in fact, draft him. All joking aside, York is a great two-way defender who quarterbacked the USNDP team this past season, providing all their forwards with the pillar they required to maximize their effectiveness at both ends. However, he is a guy that is going to need a solid 3-4 seasons to ripen before you can expect to see him throw on an NHL sweater.

21.) Matthew Robertson – (PIT Penguins)

Calen Addison is probably the best prospect in the Penguins system, but I can’t shake this feeling that Jim Rutherford is hoping that a defenseman will fall to them on Friday. One thing that is unique to Robertson’s game compared to his peers is his poker face. Oil Kings fans probably know what I’m talking about. Robertson rarely looks in the direction that he passes, this makes him a nightmare for defenders cause he rarely misses a pass. He also is very effective at maintaining the offensive zone and moving across the blueline to open up seams. Also, given the physical tools he has, he may already be ahead of Addison developmentally.

22.) Vladislav Kolyachonok – (LA Kings)

Given that they already have Gabriel Vilardi in their system and will almost certainly draft a forward with the 5th overall pick, it is very likely that the Kings will look for a defenseman with this pick. Kolyachonok has shown that he is equally effective at both ends and shows up to work night in and night out. A great add for any team, but even more so for one with an aging blueline.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Sqpm3DqQ2Tg

23.) Ryan Suzuki – (NYI Islanders)

Taking both Noah Dobson and Oliver Wahlstrom early in the first round last year the New York Islanders did very well for themselves in 2018. Ryan Suzuki could be a very nice compliment to their growing pool of young talent. With very quick hands and well-developed edges, Suzuki managed to produce pretty effectively on a weak Colts team. He also has a very underrated backhand, using it to surprise goaltenders and defenders alike. He does have a tendency to avoid confrontations.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ybldFog5TkY

24.) Thomas Harley – (NSH Predators)

You sometimes think that Thomas Harley is scared of having the puck on his stick with how quickly he gets passes and shots off. In reality, he is just a quick thinker and likes to rush his opponents with the hopes that they will make a mistake before he does. This is a strategy that has worked for the young man from Syracuse. Another strength he has is cross seam passing, plays that can be risky, but usually payoff if they are executed correctly. With how successful the Predators have been in recent years, I think they would consider this pick a big offseason victory.

25.) Connor McMichael – (WSH Capitals)

“Creativity” is a word that comes to mind when you watch Connor McMichael with the puck. He doesn’t need a lot of space to make things happen either, and when players possess the instincts that he does, opportunities occur early and often. Coaches will like that they won’t have to press on him to shoot the pill as often as he can. He is a guy that will make a very comfortable living by getting pucks on net and jamming home rebounds.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TK9lgwo9j0k

26.) Brett Leason – (CGY Flames)

If anyone is going to take a chance on an overager who has commanded the attention of scouts, it would probably be a team whose window to win is open, and will require as much depth as they can possibly acquire, right away. Calgary fits this description, and Leason checks off a lot of boxes that a team like Calgary is looking to fill. A big right winger who’s not afraid to throw his weight around, while also having decent offensive ability. Sounds like a player that would fit into the Flames current model. Probably doesn’t hurt that he is a local product either.

27.) Tobias Bjornfot – (TB Lightning)

If Tampa Bay learnt anything from their embarrassing first-round exit, it’s that there is still room in the game for players that have an edge to their game. This is an aspect that Bjornfot has in his kit and doesn’t mind using. He is also very mobile and has the ability to walk the blueline to open up gaps. He also managed to put up 22 points in just 39 games in Sweden’s J20 SuperElit league. An accomplishment that hasn’t gone unnoticed.

28.) Yegor Afanasyev – (CAR Hurricanes)

This draft is full of big forwards who can shoot and Afanasyev is no exception this trend. He’s also a guy who is going to require a bit more development time, as he lacks experience in “pro-style” environments. But Carolina is a team with a relatively young group of forwards, and this pick has the potential to pay dividends in the future.

29.) Samuel Poulin – (ANH Ducks)

With an aging core group of forwards, Anaheim needs to get young quickly. Poulin is yet another larger winger with good hands and lethal release. Like Suzuki, he is a guy that has obviously put in the time working on his backhand. He played on both wings with the Sherbrooke Phoenix over the last year on his way to putting up 76 points. If you recognize the name it’s because his father, Patrick Poulin, is a former NHLer.

30.) Bobby Brink – (BOS Bruins)

Similar in stature to Cole Caufield, Brink has incredible vision and anticipation. He likes to pick his spots ahead of time and arrives at the right moment to capitalize. He has an exceptional one-timer and on-ice work ethic that enables him to be effective even with his smaller frame. Having already committed to the University of Denver, expect to hear his name in consideration for the Hobey Baker award in the not too distant future. Boston has a habit of drafting local area guys that they’ve seen a lot of and this is a trend that I fully expect to continue here.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LiY7d7vMgTA

31.) Alex Vlasic – (BUF Sabres)

Buffalo is one of three teams with two picks in the first round of this draft. With their second pick, I think they will look to add some defensive depth. Standing at 6’6”, Vlasic adds a lot of that. Very well composed under pressure, he uses his frame to avoid making the wrong play. Smothering the puck into the boards if necessary, he knows he can win the battle the majority of times. High percentage plays is the name of the game that this kid plays, and he plays with a quiet smoothness that casual fans probably won’t recognize, but diehards will appreciate in the key moments of games.

Suffice it to say, I am pretty excited for Friday. I’m really hoping we see some moves made and some picks moved. If there ever was a draft for it, this would be the one. Level heads always seem to prevail when Bettman takes the mic, unfortunately.

As an Oilers fan, there are a few guys I’d love to see throw on the copper and blue, so here they are in order of who is least likely to be available at 8th to most: Bowen Byram, Kirby Dach, Matthew Boldy.

Comments and feedback are always appreciated! Thanks for reading! Follow me on Twitter here.

What a hilarious phrase! Click the pic to get yours today!
New Team, New Shirt! Buy a 16-bit Karlsson (Sharks) today!
The Vegas Golden Misfits are going to the Stanley Cup Final in 2018!!! Love ’em or hate ’em it’s an amazing story and this is one punk rocker’s way of giving tribute! Click the pic above and get yours today!
Edmonton Oilers, NHL, NHL Entry Draft, Prospects

@TPEHockey’s 2019 Mid-Season NHL Draft Rankings

1) Jack Hughes C (USNTDP, USHL) – 179cm, 73kg

It was unfortunate that due to injury Hughes missed much of the World Juniors. Although in his few games we saw his unparalleled skating ability and skill. He registered an assist in each of his games and played a crucial role in the Americans silver medal run.

From what I saw, Hughes was the best player on the ice every time he went out. He had an especially good game against Russia where, when given ice time, he was clearly the best player on either team. It was really too bad the USA staff favorited their veterans over their better young stars.

2) Kaapo Kakko RW (TPS Turku, Liiga) – 186cm, 82kg

The gold medal-winning Kaapo Kakko played an enormous role in Finland’s gold medal run. He scored the game winner in the finals and was clearly a top 2-3 player for Finland. In my opinion, only Aleksi Heponiemi played better for Finland.

Kakko has gotten a lot of attention as a possible #1 pick after this performance, but personally, I still see Hughes as better. Nonetheless, Kakko still shows the top talent and hockey IQ in the class outside of Hughes. Nobody is even close to challenging Kakko for the 2nd spot.

3) Dylan Cozens C (Lethbridge Hurricanes, WHL) – 191cm, 80kg

Outside of Hughes and Kakko, Cozens is clearly the most NHL ready player in the class. He has the size and speed to hold his own in the NHL right now. The top 3 players are the only players could survive the NHL game right now. His straight line speed is the best of the 6ft plus players in the draft class. He’s also got an NHL ready shot and elite playmaking abilities. If a team wants an immediate solution at the 3rd or possibly 2nd line center spot, and a future number one center then Cozens is the guy.

4) Trevor Zegras C (USNTDP, USHL) – 180cm, 72kg

Nobody is trending up like Zegras has been. During Turcotte’s now ended absence, Zegras showed he is every bit as good as anyone in the draft class. He’s outproduced Hughes in the USHL and sees the ice as good as Hughes does. To continue the Hughes comparisons Zegras plays exactly like him. He usually plays center but due to some new found chemistry and Turcotte’s return, he’s being tested out on Hughes’ wing. Zegras is the 2nd out of 3 possibly elite centers out of the NTDP.

5) Alex Turcotte C (USNTDP, USHL) – 180cm, 88kg

The 3rd NTDP center in the top 5 is Alex Turcotte. The draft’s second-best skater is finally back from his injury that has cost him his entire season up until a few weeks ago. It hasn’t taken him long at all to get back up to pace as he’s already had a 3 point game against a collegiate opponent. With the rise of Zegras in his absence, there will be a coming battle between the two as to who the 2nd best center out of the NTDP will be.

Elias Pettersson’s nickname is “Alien”. Here’s a shirt to celebrate it! Click the image to buy one!

6) Kirby Dach C (Saskatoon Blades, WHL) – 192cm, 84kg

Saying Kirby Dach hasn’t had a good month is an understatement. In December, Dach scored only 4 points in 10 games with 3 of those points being in the last game of the month. He went on a 7 game point drought and had 1 point in his 1st 9 games. None the less, Dach is still one of the best players in the class. He has exceptional playmaking skill, underused shooting ability, and two-way prowess.

7) Peyton Krebs C/LW (Kootenay Ice, WHL) – 180cm, 78kg

Krebs continues to tear up the WHL without any support from his Kootenay Ice teammates. Krebs is the only major offensive driver on his team and still manages to be at over 1.2 points per game. None of his teammates are even close to one point per game with the highest being 0.79. Krebs has begun to be one of the more underrated players in the class. He’s showing he’s every bit as good as his fellow WHL stars in Cozens and Dach.

8) Alex Newhook C (Victoria Grizzlies, BCHL) – 180cm, 83kg

It’s really too bad that Newhook is stuck playing in the BCHL. He clearly exceeds the talent level in that league and is totally dominant. Newhook looked less than dominant at the recent World Junior A Challenge when the best players in non-CHL junior leagues compete for their countries. He was outplayed by players like Bobby Brink and Vasili Podkolzin, who will be found further down this list. Due to the lack of exposure in the BCHL, it’s going to be important for him to have a good showing at the U18 World Juniors.

9) Bowen Byram D (Vancouver Giants, WHL) – 183cm, 81kg

Vancouver’s star defender has rounded out another impressive month for the Giants. Byram has been a consistent threat from the blue line all season. He’s shown abilities in every aspect of the game including defense which many young flashy defensemen tend to lack. He’s up there as the best transitional defensemen in the class and impresses offensively. Expect Byram to plant himself in a top 10 spot as he continues to dominate the WHL from the blue line.

10) Ryan Suzuki C (Barrie Colts, OHL) – 183cm, 78kg

Ryan Suzuki has had a drop off in his stats as of late, but statistics don’t reflect the prowess of Suzuki. He is clearly the best passer in the draft, in my eyes. He makes impossible passes that you’d think he wouldn’t be able to see. He has unrivaled vision of the ice. He seems similar to your player in NHL 19 that can see the entire ice and make crazy passes because you have a bird’s eye view of the game.

A new season means a new design! Click the image above to get the new Pulju shirt!

11) Cole Caufield RW/C (USNTDP, USHL) – 168cm, 70kg

Nobody in this class has the nose for the net that Caufield does. In the NTDP college cross over game, Caufield has 12 goals in 16 games. These goal counts from a draft eligible player is unheard of. Teams have learned from the success of Alex DeBrincat and getting Caufield anywhere past the 15th pick would be an absolute steal.

12) Bobby Brink RW (Sioux City, USHL) – 178cm, 75kg

Despite an injury, Brink has moved up my list. He’s been out for a while, but the more I watch him the more I like him. He does everything right, and it’s a shame he won’t be able to go to the U18 World Juniors since he isn’t on the NTDP. Playing in the USHL he doesn’t get the exposure other prospects do. It will be interesting to see where he ends up going come draft day.

13) Ville Heinola D (Lukko, Liiga) – 180cm, 80kg

Heinola is my sleeper pick to be the best defensemen out of this draft. Bowen Byram still remains well ahead of him but Heinola has surprised us before. He played as a top pairing defenseman for the gold medal-winning Finnish team alongside Henri Jokiharju. He thrived in that role not only showing offensive acumen, but very good defense too. While he hasn’t gotten a lot of attention up until now I think that will change after his WJC performance.

14) Vasili Podkolzin RW (SKA St. Petersburg, MHL) – 181cm, 75kg

Podkolzin is another draft-eligible player that attended the World Juniors. He seemed a bit out of his league but was able to hold his own and be a productive player. One of my criticisms of his play at that tournament was that often he would lose the puck in his feet and have his head down. Multiple times the tougher competition would realize that and he’d get lit up. This is less of a big criticism and more of a sign of a bigger problem. Podkolzin has the skill, strength, power, and versatility to be a great NHLer, but it’s the little things he seems to get wrong.

15) Arthur Kaliyev LW (Hamilton Bulldogs, OHL) – 188cm, 86kg

In terms of statistics, Kaliyev is one of the top performers. He’s got 33 goals in 42 games as a 17-year-old in the OHL and is on pace for over 100 points. With that, there is still some controversy around him. Many scouting services still have him ranked in the late first round due to some consistency, skating, and a few other small problems. For me, I see some of the same problems with Kaliyev but his sheer production is starting to override any doubts.

16) Anttoni Honka D (KeuPa, Mestis) – 179cm, 77kg

Nobody has fallen this season like Honka. At the World Juniors Summer Showcase Honka looked like the top 5 player we thought he could be last season. He had the trust of the Finnish staff and looked to be an important part of the World Junior team. But at the World Juniors Honka played the 7th defensemen spot and the Finnish coaching staff clearly had no confidence in him. It’s frustrating to see such a great player fall off as he has.

17) Connor McMichael C (London Knights, OHL) – 183cm, 77kg

With high expectations of players like Alex Formenton and Liam Foudy, they have both been outplayed by Connor McMichael. He’s been London’s best forward throughout every game. He’s got great vision for the ice and blazing speed. McMichael also plays a great 200ft game. It looks like London is going to have a player selected in the first round again.

18) Jakob Pelletier C/W (Moncton Wildcats, QMJHL) – 175cm, 72kg

Jakob Pelletier is another player ripping up the CHL. He’s been a key part of the Moncton Wildcats offense. He’s been one of the more underrated and underexposed players in the draft.

19) Mikko Kokkonen D (Jukurit, Liiga) – 180cm, 86kg

Kokkonen has been an offensive dynamo for Jukurit in the Liiga. To put things in perspective, Miro Heiskanen finished his draft year with 10 points in 37 Liiga games. Kokkonen, on the other hand, already has 13 points in 36 games. It was criminal that Kokkonen was not named to the Finnish World Junior team.

20) Matthew Boldy C/W (USNTDP, USHL) – 183cm, 79kg

Boldy is going to be a favorite for many NHL teams. As big, fast, skilled power forward Boldy can contribute with goals, assists, and physical play. I’d consider Boldy to be one of the “safer” picks in the first round with a very high floor.

Rasmus Dahlin might turn out to be the best 16-bit defenseman of all time! Grab his likeness today! Click the pic above!

21) Raphaël Lavoie C/W (Halifax Mooseheads, QMJHL) – 193cm, 87kg

The only 2019 eligible player named to the Canadian World Juniors selection camp was Lavoie. It was really unfortunate for Lavoie that he didn’t make the team because he hasn’t lived up to last season’s expectations and he hoped to prove himself at the World Juniors. Hopefully being cut will motivate him to get back on track.

22) Philip Broberg D (AIK, Allsvenskan) – 190cm, 90kg

The large and powerful skating defender out of AIK in the Allsvenskan finally got his first goal of the season recently. Broberg has been steadily adjusting to the pro game since his rough start to the regular season. While I think Broberg has been massively overhyped he’s still a solid option for a team looking for an offensive defenseman.

23) Moritz Seider D (Alder Mannheim, DEL) – 192cm, 83kg

Seider has been quite the force in the German league after returning from a more than dominant performance in the second-ranked division of the World Juniors. He served as captain and earned Germany a promotion to the main division of the World Juniors. The defenseman was astoundingly good by all accounts. He scored at more than a point per game and ended the tournament only one point behind 2018 first rounder Dominik Bokk (STL) for the lead in points.

Remember that Seider is doing this all from the blue line, and is more of a two-way defender than an all offense guy.

24) Cam York D (USNTDP, USHL) – 180cm, 75kg

The best of the NTDP blueliners hasn’t had the great season we’d hoped for, but he remains an integral part of the NTDP. He’s the best American puck-moving defensemen and has two-way abilities.

25) Spencer Knight G (USNTDP, USHL) – 191cm, 90kg

Knight remains as the top goaltender in the draft. He was the third goalie for the Americans at the World Juniors but didn’t get into any games. He’s a big, aggressive goalie that has been able to handle collegiate competition with the NTDP. Watch for him to be a player that jumps up on draft day to a team in need of goaltending.

26) Nathan Légaré F (Baie-Comeau Drakkar, QMJHL) – 182cm, 89kg

Légaré has been a big offensive producer all season. He’s on pace to be just short of 100 points by the end of the season. He has benefited a lot from being on a very high scoring Baie-Comeau team.

27) Alex Vlasic D (USNTDP, USHL) – 196cm, 86kg

Standing on the blueline at 6’6” (197cm) Alex Vlasic immediately stands out. Being a such a vertically gifted defensemen Vlasic is an easy candidate to be overrated. Although I don’t think this is the case. Vlasic is more than just imposing. He can shoot, move the puck, and defend exceptionally well.

28) Nils Höglander LW (Rögle BK, SHL) – 174cm, 84kg

The first Swedish forward off the board comes pretty late. After a tough start to the season, Höglander has shown he can contribute for Rögle in the SHL. He’s been able to score and play physically at the pro level. Watch for Höglander to be one of the more NHL ready players in the class, and he could surprise people by making the NHL a little earlier than you’d think from a late 1st pick.

29) Dustin Wolf G (Everett Silvertips, WHL) – 183cm, 73kg

The anchor in the CHL’s 4th ranked team’s net has been Dustin Wolf all season long. Before the acquisition of a reliable back up, Wolf played nearly every game. Wolf is top 5 in WHL GAA, save percentage, wins, and shutouts at 17. Dustin Wolf has also increased his assists total this season to 4. This gives him 8 career WHL assists in 60 games.

30) Nick Robertson C/LW (Peterborough Petes, OHL) – 175cm, 76kg

The brother of top performing American World Junior player Jason Robertson has a similar outlook as his brother. Injuries derailed his season early, but he’s recovered and become the Peterborough Petes best player. He’s one of the more underrated players in the class.

31) Pavel Dorofeyev W (Stalnye Lisy/Metallurg Magnitogorsk, MHL/KHL) – 184cm, 74kg

The hard-working winger and Nizhny Tagil, Russia product has been a player worth watching all season. He’s split time between the KHL and MHL but has shown his best in the MHL. Dorofeyev is phenomenal on special teams and a great forechecker.

Follow Max on Twitter @TPEHockey

F*ck Tkachuk! Click the link and grab one of these beauties!
The Vegas Golden Misfits are going to the Stanley Cup Final in 2018!!! Love ’em or hate ’em it’s an amazing story and this is one punk rocker’s way of giving tribute! Click the pic above and get yours today!
Click the pic and grab a 16-bit McDavid tee!
Beer League Hero, Edmonton Oilers, NHL, NHL Entry Draft, Prospects

Oilers Poking Around Three Dmen + TPE Hockey’s September Top-31 for the 2019 NHL Entry Draft

Today Josh Morrissey signed a two-year bridge deal worth $3.15M per year to basically set the marker for Darnell Nurse and the Edmonton Oilers.

I can’t see Nurse is going to get much more than that. The Oilers have been holding strong at $3M and Morrissey’s deal might bring that up a bit but it certainly shouldn’t bring it anywhere near the $4M valuation that Anton Thun has of his client.

Then there’s this from our friend Bruce McCurdy replying to an excellent idea from Supernova:

Like I said yesterday on Twitter, I wouldn’t be surprised if Darnell Nurse was on the plane to Germany but he didn’t play because he missed all of or the majority of training camp because hi agent only sees short-term dollar signs.

Plan B

Chiarelli was asked if there was a “Plan B” the other day and he said yes. I imagine that plan includes sending out feelers on such defenders as Tyson Barrie, Justin Faulk, and the newly-minted free agent Jake Dotchin.

Jake Dotchin is a new one and I haven’t heard what really happened with him and the Lightning but he must’ve really stepped in it in order to get thrown on unconditional waivers. To be clear, as far as I know, his contract hasn’t been terminated yet. Dotchin has cleared unconditional waivers though so the next step is cutting Dotchin loose.

Hockey teams are usually pretty lenient and don’t want anything to do with NHLPA filing grievances on their players’ behalf. It’s a weird situation but regardless, I asked one of my sources what the deal was there and I was told that he’s a young guy and the Oilers like him.

Personally, I don’t see him as much better than Matt Benning and if we’re being truthful, wouldn’t it be more prudent to aim a bit higher than Jake Dotchin?

Max from TPE Hockey is back with his 2019 NHL draft prospect rankings for the month of September.

This time we threw in a little stat called “Age-Adjusted NHLe” and since most of the seasons haven’t started for these players, we’re using last year’s point totals to find our age-adjusted NHLe.

You can read about that here.

Draft eligible prospects don’t all play in the same league, and aren’t all the same age, so it doesn’t make sense to judge their statistics as if they do.

League/Age Adjusted Points Per Game can help us put all the prospects on even ground. To do this, we simply multiply the PPG of a player by two numbers: an age multiplier and a league multiplier. These multipliers adjust the PPGs of players to show how they would produce if they were all the same age, playing in the same league. In this case, that league is the OHL, the top Canadian junior league, and that age is exactly 17.

The numbers will look a bit odd, especially for the high-end players like Jack Hughes and Kaapo Kakko. I asked my friend Sam Happi (The Puck Authority and @DraftLook) about this and he said that the league translation factor, which is meant to represent the average player, doesn’t really do players like Hughes justice since they are so far above average. I’d also add to that that the competition from league to league can really vary. The SM-Liiga where Anttoni Honka and Kaapo Kakko play full-time is much more competitive than the USHL where Hughes plays most of his games or the BCHL where Alex Newhook plays.

So just keep that in mind when you’re looking at that. I do remember asking Rob Vollman about the USNTDP translation factor in Auston Matthews’ draft year and was told that since nobody makes the jump from that program to the NHL, there was no need to do up a factor for it… I imagine most people are using the USHL’s translation factor for the time being but I bet that’ll change in the future.

If you’d like a list of the translation factors for each league, click this link.

You can check out a little video before that and/or his previous summer rankings here.

1)  Jack Hughes C (USNTDP, USHL) – 179cm, 73kg (Age-Adjusted NHLe: 18pts)
The undisputed #1 pick will revolutionize whatever franchise drafts him. Jack Hughes is the brother of last year’s 7th overall pick, Quinn Hughes. Just like Quinn, Jack is an elite skater and reads the game better than anybody. Jack will spend this season with the USNTDP in the USHL. Hughes will rip up that league as last year he was the best player in the USHL at only 16.

2)  Kaapo Kakko RW (TPS Turku, Liiga) – 186cm, 82kg (Age-Adjusted NHLe: 11pts)
Kakko is everything you want in a winger. He’s a big guy but sacrifices nothing because of it. He’s quick on his feet and just as quick thinking. Kakko is ultra-skilled and has all the offensive talent to become an elite NHL winger. Whenever he’s on the ice everybody knows it, he stands out instantly.

3)  Anttoni Honka D (JYP Jyväskylä, Liiga) – 179cm, 77kg (Age-Adjusted NHLe: 17pts)
Brother of Julias Honka, Anttoni is already a star in the Finish pro league at 17. Honka spent last year in the pros on JYP playing 20 games with them. At the start of this season, Honka became a top pairing defenseman for JYP. He played in the Champions Hockey League and stood out every game.

4)  Alex Turcotte C (USNTDP, USHL) – 180cm, 88kg (Age-Adjusted NHLe: 10pts)
The two-way center out of the USNTDP played in the shadow of Jack Hughes, but that doesn’t diminish his game. Turcotte is a high-intensity player that combines speed, size, and skill with great defensive capabilities.

5)  Alex Newhook C (Victoria Grizzlies, BCHL) – 180cm, 83kg (Age-Adjusted NHLe: 8pts)
Newhook is all about speed. He can zip into the offensive zone and great opportunities for his team. Newhook is mainly a playmaker, but he does have goal scoring ability. He’s also good in the defensive zone and competes very hard.

6)  Dylan Cozens C (Lethbridge Hurricanes, WHL) – 191cm, 80kg (Age-Adjusted NHLe: 12pts)
The 2018 WHL Rookie of the Year is an all-around offensive player. Cozens is a big bodied center who is also very fast. He is mainly a goal scorer but does have playmaking abilities. Cozens has a sick release and super accurate shot.

7)  Kirby Dach C (Saskatoon Blades, WHL) – 192cm, 84kg (Age-Adjusted NHLe: 11pts)
Dach was a standout at the Hlinka tournament where he was the best draft eligible Canadian. He is a pure playmaker who can drive offense for any team he’s on. He uses his vision of the ice to open spaces for teammates and create scoring chances.

8)  Raphaël Lavoie C/W (Halifax Mooseheads, QMJHL) – 193cm, 87kg (Age-Adjusted NHLe: 10pts)
Lavoie is the first player hailing from the QMJHL. He’s a big guy who is super dangerous around the net. That combined with his shot allowed him to score 30 goals as a rookie in the QMJHL. Lavoie went to the U18 World Juniors last season and scored 5 goals in 5 games. He also was taken on the U20 Summer Showcase roster for Canada.

9)  Bowen Byram D (Vancouver Giants, WHL) – 183cm, 81kg (Age-Adjusted NHLe: 6pts)
The Vancouver Giants pick is a player that can control every part of the game. His skating, passing, and vision allow him to dictate what happens when he’s on the ice. Byram is also great on the rush he uses his speed, lateral movement, and hands to work around defenders.

10) Peyton Krebs C/LW (Kootenay Ice, WHL) – 180cm, 78kg (Age-Adjusted NHLe: 11pts)
The 2016 WHL 1st overall pick is a small playmaker coming out of Kootenay. Krebs is a lot like Johnny Gaudreau. Krebs is an elusive player who can easily avoid physical play. He also has good hands, speed, and a wicked wrister.

11) Vasili Podkolzin RW (Vityaz Podolsk U17, Russia U17) – 181cm, 75kg (Age-Adjusted NHLe: 5pts)
Podkolzin exploded at the Hlinka Gretzky Cup. He led the tournament in points and goals playing with Russia. He showed his unbelievable highlight reel skill and clutch play. Podkolzin is super strong, and at top speed, he can’t be stopped.

12) Cole Caufield RW/C (USNTDP, USHL) – 168cm, 70kg (Age-Adjusted NHLe: 13pts)
The 168cm (5’6”) goal scorer is one of the most fun players to watch. Caufield was a goal a game with the U17 and U18 USNTDP teams. Caufield is electric but is written off because of his size. Even with his size, Caufield finished 2nd in points at the U17s only behind Jack Hughes.

13) Jakob Pelletier C/W (Moncton Wildcats, QMJHL) – 175cm, 72kg (Age-Adjusted NHLe: 12pts)
Pelletier was statistically the best player coming out of the QMJHL. He is an all-around offensive player who can make plays and score. He also has all the skating abilities to make for a great NHLer.

14) Cam York D (USNTDP, USHL) – 180cm, 75kg (Age-Adjusted NHLe: 5pts)
York is the star defensemen for the USNTDP. He played a lot with the U18 team and went to the U18 World Juniors. Even as a 16-year-old at the tournament he was the best defensemen for the Americans.

15) Ryan Suzuki C (Barrie Colts, OHL) – 183cm, 78kg (Age-Adjusted NHLe: 10pts)
The 1st overall pick of the 2017 OHL Draft is one of the smartest players and best passers in this draft. He makes plays that no one sees coming, it’s almost as if he has eyes in the back of his head. Like his older brother Nick who was recently dealt to Montreal, he has a solid wrist shot that can pick a corner from the dot.

16) Mikko Kokkonen D (Jukurit, Liiga) – 180cm, 86kg (Age-Adjusted NHLe: 4pts)
Kokkonen has had a great start to his first season in the Finish pro league. He’s gotten two nice assists in his first two games. Kokkonen has been leaned on a lot by Team Finland in international competition. If Kokkonen can continue to produce in the Liiga he will fight for a top 10 spot.

17) Simon Holmström RW (HV71 J20, SuperElit) – 181cm, 78kg (Age-Adjusted NHLe: 11pts)
We could be talking about Holmström tearing up the SHL right now. Unfortunately, he is currently out with an injury. He was brilliant in the U20 Swedish league as a 16-year-old but didn’t get to play internationally because of injury. He is the strongest candidate to rise as he gets more exposure.

18) Philip Broberg D (AIK J20, SuperElit) – 190cm, 90kg (Age-Adjusted NHLe: 6pts)
Philip Broberg was the breakout player of the Hlinka tournament. He showed his amazing speed and skill on the rush. At that tournament, Broberg looked easily like a top 5 pick. Although, there are concerns with Broberg’s game. He had trouble producing in league play and international play before the tournament. Broberg needs to prove he can do what he did in the Hlinka on a regular basis.

https://twitter.com/NHLDraft2019/status/1039949613845958656

19) Trevor Zegras C (USNTDP, USHL) – 180cm, 72kg (Age-Adjusted NHLe: 9pts)
Zegras is a dangerous player with the puck. He has stellar stickhandling, high caliber speed, and is very smart. He loves to rush the puck but sometimes turns it over in the neutral zone when doing this. His shot is also something to watch out for from the slot.

20) Tobias Björnfot D (Djurgårdens IF J20, SuperElit) – 183cm, 85kg (Age-Adjusted NHLe: 5pts)
Björnfot has struggled a lot in international competition, but thrived in league play. This season he is starting in the U20 Swedish league and looks to try and crack the SHL roster for Djurgårdens. Björnfot is defiantly a player to keep an eye on this year.

21) Nils Höglander LW (Rögle BK, SHL) – 174cm, 84kg (Age-Adjusted NHLe: 5pts)
While splitting time between the Swedish 2nd pro league and Swedish U20 league Höglander was on a point per game pace in the U20s before being moved up to the 2nd league. He is a primarily small and skilled player with a physical edge to his game, much like former superstar Theo Fleury.

https://twitter.com/coreypronman/status/953655644766253057

22) Maxim Cajkovic W (Saint John Sea Dogs) – 180cm, 85kg (Age-Adjusted NHLe: 7pts)
The 1st overall pick is this year’s CHL Import Draft was put on the map after leading the U18 World Juniors in points per game and was second to Jack Hughes in points. Cajkovic is an offensive-minded player with all the tools to be a big-time producer in the QMJHL this year.

23) Marshall Warren D (USNTDP, USHL) – 180cm, 73kg (Age-Adjusted NHLe: 5pts)
Marshall Warren is a perfect all around defensemen coming out of the USNTDP. Warren is one of the best athletes in the draft too. His skating allows him to play a two-way game as he uses it to defend and great space in the offensive zone.

24) Arthur Kaliyev LW (Hamilton Bulldogs, OHL) – 188cm, 86kg (Age-Adjusted NHLe: 10pts)
The U17 leader the OHL in goals and points is the top American outside of the USNTDP. Kaliyev is an aggressive power forward who was an important part of the OHL champion Hamilton Bulldogs.

25) Pavel Dorofeyev W (Stalnye Lisy Magnitogorsk, MHL) – 184cm, 74kg (Age-Adjusted NHLe: 11pts)
Dorofeyev is a dangerous goal scorer out of Russia. His shot is his best attribute, but he is also very skilled. He was able to play on the Russian U18 team last year which is very impressive because the Russian program is known to heavily favoring older players. Dorofeyev scored 4 points in that tournament.

26) Blake Murray C (Sudbury Wolves, OHL) – 188cm, 81kg (Age-Adjusted NHLe: 11pts)
Playing on a very weak Sudbury team Blake Murray managed to produce well for an U17 player in the OHL. Without much support on his wings Murray scored the 2nd most goals of U17 OHLers.

27) Dustin Wolf G (Everett Silvertips, WHL) – 183cm, 68kg 
Last year’s WHL break out goaltender has continued his great play into the WHL pre-season. Currently he is 3-0 with a .927 Sv%. Last year Wolf got some good time as the starting goaltender and managed to win the CHL Goaltender of the Week. The hit on Wolf is his size at only 183cm (6’0”). Wolf standout quality is his puckhandling. Last year at 16 he got 4 assists in 20 games. In my mind he is the best puckhandling goalie in junior hockey. For more info check out my full article on on Wolf and this year’s goaltending crop.

28) Matthew Boldy C/W (USNTDP, USHL) – 183cm, 79kg (Age-Adjusted NHLe: 1pts)
The American power forward is a monster in front of the net. Boldy also has very good playmaking abilities and offensive IQ. Boldy was unfortunately snubbed from being able to play with the U18 team at the USNTDP.

29) Albin Grewe C/RW (Djurgårdens IF J20, SuperElit) – 182cm, 80kg (Age-Adjusted NHLe: 7pts)
Grewe left a lot to be desired after last season with Djurgårdens J20 and international play. Despite this he broke out at the Hlinka and then has been great in the Swedish U20 league and is currently at a point per game pace.

https://twitter.com/NHLProspectsYT/status/1041496759195893760

30) Alex Vlasic D (USNTDP, USHL) – 196cm, 86kg (Age-Adjusted NHLe: 4pts)
Vlasic is an enormous shut down defensemen who plays a lot like Zdeno Chara. He uses his long stick to block passing lanes and has a booming shot. The cousin of the Shark’s shutdown defender Marc-Édouard Vlasic plays a lot like Marc-Édouard too.

31) Moritz Seider D (Alder Mannheim, DEL) – 192cm, 83kg (Age-Adjusted NHLe: 1pt)
The German monster playing the German pro league is one of the most interesting prospects in this draft. So interesting that I wrote an entire article on him.

https://twitter.com/NHLProspectsYT/status/1041500814676844545

Rasmus Dahlin might turn out to be the best 16-bit defenseman of all time! Grab his likeness today! Click the pic above!
A new season means a new design! Click the image above to get the new Pulju shirt!
New Team, New Shirt! Buy a 16-bit Karlsson (Sharks) today!
Beer League Hero, Edmonton Oilers, NHL, NHL Entry Draft, Prospects

Oilers’ Puljujarvi to Star in Finnish Children’s TV Show + NEW 2019 NHL Draft Rankings

Click the pic above to check out our merch!

I am sure that some of you who are reading this have seen some pics floating around Twitter of the Oilers’ Jesse Puljujarvi playing hockey with children back in Finland. Well, it turns out that he’s playing a big part in a Finnish children’s TV show called “Pikku Kiekko” which I’m told translates to “Little Puck”.

After asking my Finnish sources what this TV show as all about, I was sent some links to help out.

This show is documenting a hockey club they have in Oulu called The Kiimingin Kiekko-Pojat (KKP) Special Hockey team. Now the reason that this club is so special is that it is a team made up players who are physically and mentally challenged.

KKP Special Hockey is the first team of its kind in all of Finland. It was founded around 2015.

“We started a year ago with a clear goal in our minds. We wanted to offer children with special needs an opportunity to play ice hockey and make friends through the hobby”, says the team leader Jaana Lauri. (Source)

If you’re not exactly sure what “Special Hockey” is, you’re not alone. I have never read or seen anything about it until I decided to write this post. This is what Wikipedia has to tell us about it:

Special Hockey is a version of ice hockey adapted for athletes with a developmental disability or cognitive disorder. It differs from ice sledge hockey, which was developed instead for athletes with a physical disability. 

Special hockey is sometimes known as adaptive hockey, and emphasizes fun, teamwork, social interaction, and providing an environment adapted to the ability of the participant. It provides an opportunity to be accepted and part of a team, that otherwise would not exist. Special hockey programs are open to males and females of all ages, not just children. 

Special hockey uses standard ice hockey equipment, has modified ice hockey rules such as no offside, icing, or penalties, and is a non-contact sport without scores and standings. (Source)

That sounds like a helluva lot of fun!

I’m very proud that such a young man like Jesse Puljujarvi would lend his time and his heart to such a wonderful cause. It shows great maturity and character for a person of his age to align himself with a Special Hockey team in Finland.

The Edmonton Oilers are a very lucky club to have such a caring individual in their organization. Not that he’s the only one, that’s not what I’m saying but if I hear Dan Tencer wonder aloud how much time Pulju spends alone and question Jesse’s work ethic, I’m going to puke.

Tell ya what, let’s throw Dan Tencer into rural Finland to scout hockey and see how he fares. I can almost assure you that he’d be spending a lot more time alone that Pulju does… Difference being, the Finns would treat him a helluva lot better than Tencer does when Jesse Puljujarvi isn’t around.

Anyways… Rant over. I wanted to get that off my chest.

I also want to throw up the BLH top-31 draft prospects for the 2019 draft!

I met a young fella online who loves prospects and I asked him to come aboard the BLH train to educate my readers about the young prospects coming up. This gentleman’s name is Max and he runs the Twitter account @TPEHockey. Give him a follow and without further adieu, his rankings!

1) Jack Hughes C (USNTDP, USHL) – 179cm, 73kg – 27GP – 21G – 33A – 54TP

There is no doubt that Jack Hughes will become a dynamic franchise-changing center. His skating ability and pure skill are unmatched, and that combined with his knowledge for the game allowed him to tear apart the USHL at just 16. His point totals with the USNTDP outside of the USHL ranks only behind Auston Matthews with 116 points in 60 games compared to 117 in 60 from Matthews.

2) Kaapo Kakko RW (TPS Turku U20, Jr. A SM-Liiga) – 186cm, 82kg – 38GP – 25G – 30A – 55TP

Kakko spent last season tearing down the Finnish U20 League. His 55 points in 38 games gives him the 3rd best point per game total of a 16-year-old only behind Mikael Granlund and Jesse Puljujärvi. Kakko is known for his skill, hockey sense, and mobility.

3) Alex Newhook C (Victoria Grizzlies, BCHL) – 180cm, 83kg – 45GP – 22G – 44A – 66TP

Newhook is a Boston College commit that will play for Victoria in the BCHL. Despite the perceived weakness of that league, Newhook impressed scouts. His explosive speed and quick shot allows him to create opportunities whenever the puck is on his stick.

4) Alex Turcotte C (USNTDP, USHL) – 180cm, 88kg – 31GP – 8G – 24A – 32TP

Playing with high speed in every zone Turcotte is a high level two-way center. He spent much of last season in the shadow of Jack Hughes playing mostly with the U17 team, but got some time playing with the U18s. Turcotte has been a prodigy since he was a 10 year old when he scored 13 points in 6 games at the Brick Invitational in Edmonton.

5) Dylan Cozens C (Lethbridge Hurricanes, WHL) – 191cm, 80kg – 57GP – 22G – 31A – 53TP

The native of Whitehorse, Yukon was the WHL Rookie of the Year despite a tough rookie class including Kirby Dach and Peyton Krebs. Cozens is an all-around center who can do nearly anything. He combines the speed and skill that has thrived in today’s game with size and physicality.

6) Kirby Dach C (Saskatoon Blades, WHL) – 192cm, 84kg – 52GP – 7G – 39A – 46TP

Dach is another star forward coming out of the Western League, and not the last one. He showed his worth early at the Hlinka Gretzky Cup in which Dach was an essential playmaker for Team Canada. He drove offense in all situations for Canada, and was essential in their gold medal run. Dach’s focus is always on offense, and is always a fun player to watch.

7) Anttoni Honka D (JYP Jyväskylä, Liiga) – 179cm, 77kg – 20GP – 2G – 7A – 9TP

Honka spends much of last year in the Finnish U20 league but got 20 games with the big club in the Finnish pro league. The brother of Dallas prospect Julias Honka also played in last year’s World Junior U18 tournament and in the U20 Summer Showcase. Honka shined in both tournaments and established his position as the top defensive prospect for this draft.

8) Bowen Byram D (Vancouver Giants, WHL) – 183cm, 81kg – 60GP – 6G – 21A – 27TP

The Swiss Army Knife defensemen plays in all situations for Vancouver in the WHL and for Canada. Byram controls the game and projects as a power play quarterback and top 2 defensemen. He showed his immense skill and passing ability in the Hlinka Gretzky Cup, and memorably made an amazing pass to Dylan Cozens who tied the semifinal game against the USA in a controversial goal that maybe shouldn’t have counted.

9) Raphaël Lavoie C/W (Halifax Mooseheads, QMJHL) – 193cm, 87kg – 68GP – 30G – 33A – 63TP

Lavoie is another top prospect coming out of the Halifax Mooseheads organization. He is a big bodied forward who is a force in front of the net. Lavoie made the U20 Summer Showcase team, and out performed many 19-year-olds. He also played in the World Junior U18 last season scoring 5 goals in 5 games.

10) Peyton Krebs C/LW (Kootenay Ice, WHL) – 180cm, 78kg – 67GP – 17G – 37A – 54GP

The 2016 WHL 1st overall pick always has the puck following him. He is a passionate player with a deadly wrist shot that can pick a corner from anywhere in the offensive zone.

11) Vasili Podkolzin RW (Vityaz Podolsk U17, Russia U17) – 181cm, 75kg – 21GP – 13G – 17A – 30TP

Podkolzin had a solid season playing in Russia’s U17 league, but exploded at the Hlinka Gretzky Cup. He was captain of the Russian team and led the tournament in points and goals. He displayed his complete game, blistering speed, and highlight reel skill.

12) Philip Broberg D (AIK J20, SuperElit) – 190cm, 90kg – 23GP – 6G – 7A – 13TP

One of the most intriguing prospects is Philip Broberg. He had a mediocre season in the Swedish U20 league and didn’t look like a first rounder. He played 22 games with the Swedish U17 team where he only put up 3 assists. This was before going to the Hlinka Gretzky Cup and exploding. Broberg was hands down the most effective defensemen at the tournament and displayed his puck carrying skills and speed. Although Broberg seemed to lack lateral agility that often comes with elite puck carriers. We’ll just have to wait to see what Broberg really is.

13) Cole Caufield RW/C (USNTDP, USHL) – 168cm, 70kg – 32GP – 23G – 10A – 33TP

Caufield is another very interesting prospect as he clocks in at only 168cm (5’6”). Despite his tiny frame, he is an electrifying goal scorer that lit up the U17 World Hockey Championship and U18 World Juniors last season. Caufield is an ultra skilled forward with some of the most natural talent in the draft class.

14) Jakob Pelletier C/W (Moncton Wildcats, QMJHL) – 175cm, 72kg – 60GP – 23G – 38A – 61TP

Pelletier is primarily a playmaker with solid goal scoring ability. He is known for his shiftiness and puck carrying ability. Pelletier would have led 2001 born QMJHL players in goals, assists, and points if it wasn’t for 2020 prospect Alexis Lafreniére.

15) Cam York D (USNTDP, USHL) – 180cm, 75kg – 33GP – 3G – 11A -14TP

Another US Development Program product slides into the top 15 and this time a defenseman. York spent a lot of time with the U18s in the USNTDP, and was a driving offensive force in the U18 World Juniors. Even being a year younger than much of the competition he was the USA’s number 1 defensemen at the U18s.

16) Ryan Suzuki C (Barrie Colts, OHL) – 183cm, 78kg – 64GP – 14G – 30A – 44TP

Suzuki was the 1st overall pick of the 2017 OHL Draft. He is one of the smartest players and best passers in this draft. Those two aspects combined lead to some amazing plays that make him look like a magician. He also has quite the wrist shot that he likes to use from the left dot.

17) Mikko Kokkonen D (Imatran Ketterä, Mestis) – 180cm, 86kg – 29GP – 0G – 9A – 9TP

Kokkonen spent last year mainly playing in the Finnish version of the AHL, Mestis. He was a key player for Finland in the Hlinka Gretzky Cup and last year’s World Junior U18 tournament.

18) Tobias Björnfot D (Djurgårdens IF J20, SuperElit) – 183cm, 85kg – 42GP – 6G – 16A – 22TP

Even though he often struggled in international competition Björnfot has performed well in Sweden’s U20 league. He has solid 2 way ability and is a good passer.

19) Trevor Zegras C (USNTDP, USHL) – 180cm, 72kg – 31GP – 11G – 21A – 32TP

Zegras was in a tough spot in the USNTDP playing not only behind Jack Hughes but Alex Turcotte too. Despite that he performed very well for the U17 team and put up very impressive point totals.

20) Simon Holmström RW (HV71 J20, SuperElit) – 181cm, 78kg – 20GP – 11G – 19A – 30TP

Holmström thrived playing in the U20 league in Sweden and even got a shot at playing in the SHL. That being said Holmström has struggled with injuries and hasn’t played in many international tournaments. He is the strongest candidate to rise as he gets more exposure.

21) Nils Höglander LW (AIK, Allsvenskan) – 174cm, 84kg – 34GP – 3G – 4A – 7TP

While splitting time between the Swedish 2nd pro league and Swedish U20 league Höglander was on a point per game pace in the U20s before being moved up to the 2nd league. Although Höglander struggled to make an impact in international play.

22) Maxim Cajkovic W (Malmö Redhawks J20) – 180cm, 85 kg – 28GP – 10G – 11A – 21TP

Cajokvic spent last season playing in the SuperElit league but broke out at the U18 World Juniors where he led the tournament in points per game. He will play next year in Saint John as he was the first pick in this year’s CHL Import Draft.

23) Arthur Kaliyev LW (Hamilton Bulldogs, OHL) – 188cm, 86kg – 68GP – 31G – 17A – 48TP

The Bulldogs rookie goal scorer surprised by making the Hamilton roster, and went on to lead U17 players in the OHL in goals and points. Although Kaliyev disappointed in the Hlinka Gretzky Cup as he was outplayed by his linemate Nick Robertson who is an early 2nd rounder.

24) Blake Murray C (Sudbury Wolves, OHL) – 188cm, 81kg – 57GP – 21G – 23A – 44TP

Murray is a comparable player to Kaliyev who specializes is goal scoring. He came up 2nd in U17 OHL goals and points behind Kaliyev.

25) Marshall Warren D (USNTDP, USHL) – 180cm, 73kg – 34GP – 5G – 13A – 18TP

The two-way defender is known as a premier athlete who battled hard and plays with passion. He has a great shot in the offensive zone and is shut down in the defensive zone. Warren is also a great skater with speed going backwards and a lot of mobility.

26) Dustin Wolf G (Everett Silvertips, WHL) – 183cm, 68kg – 20GP – .928Sv%

Wolf is the best goalie in this draft. Last season he was the backup to CHL superstar goaltender Carter Hart, but got a lot of good games when Hart was out for the U20 World Juniors. In that stretch Wolf won CHL Goalie of the week, and maintained the high save percentage he had while playing easier competition as the backup. Wolf is a smaller goalie at only 183cm (6’0”) and if he was a bit taller he’d certainly be more talked about. He is also a great puck handler, in only 20 games Wolf recorded 4 assists leading him to having a higher point per game than about 10 players on his team.

27) Matthew Boldy C/W (USNTDP, USHL) – 183cm, 79kg – 34GP – 12G – 23A – 35TP

A skilled offensive player with good skating ability. Boldy was on fire in the USHL except didn’t get a shot at playing with the U18s, and didn’t get to play at the U18 World Juniors either.

28) Albin Grewe C/RW (Djurgårdens IF J20, SuperElit) – 182cm, 80kg – 36GP – 10G – 17A – 27TP

Grewe left a lot to be desired after his regular season and international play. Although in the Hlinka Gretzky Cup he showed off his skill set and speed before being pulled out after an injury.

29) Samuel Poulin LW (Sherbrooke Phoenix, QMJHL) – 185cm, 94kg – 55GP – 16G – 29A – 45TP

The 2nd overall pick in the 2017 QMJHL Draft was taken only behind Alexis Lafreniére and made an immediate impact for Sherbrooke. He’s another high talent forward coming out of the Q along with Pelletier and Lavoie.

30) Nolan Foote LW (Kelowna Rockets, WHL) – 191cm, 85kg – 50GP – 13G – 27A – 40TP

The son of star NHL defensemen Adam Foote and brother of 2017 Tampa Bay 1st rounder Callan Foote. Unlike his family Foote plays the wing but has the same big frame and physical ability as the rest of his family.

31) Alex Vlasic D (USNTDP, USHL) – 196cm, 86kg – 34GP – 4G – 9A – 13TP

Vlasic is a towering stay at home defender who is shut down in his own zone. He is great positionally and a smart player. His remarkable height and ability to use his stick to defend makes Chara an easy comparable.

Grab a Grinning Finn tee by clicking on the pic!!
Rasmus Dahlin might turn out to be the best 16-bit defenseman of all time! Grab his likeness today! Click the pic above!