Bowen Byram has made it clear that when it comes to defensemen at the 2019 draft nobody compares to him. He’s been top 5 in WHL scoring for defensemen and is second in scoring for his Vancouver Giants at over a point per game. Byram has been nothing less than a dominant force in the WHL, making the Giants a consistently dangerous squad. With a player that can control a game like Byram, it’s clear he won’t be sitting long at the 2019 draft. With many wondering what Byram could be in the NHL, we can look over to Toronto to see a player with a similar style and ceiling to Byram.
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Morgan Rielly has long been a staple of the Leafs blue line. He’s served as their number one defenseman but is more widely considered a high-end number two defensemen if he‘s on any other cup contending blue line. Rielly, in his draft year, put on quite the performance in the WHL, Byram’s current league. With the Moose Jaw Warriors, he was kept to only 18 games due to an ACL tear but scored 18 points. In that short time scouts got a good look at the dynamic Vancouver native. Rielly was selected 5th overall by Toronto as the third defenseman behind Ryan Murray and Griffin Reinhart.
Going into the draft in Vancouver we’d expect to see Byram be taken in a similar range. Some have him slid into the third spot behind Hughes and Kakko, but most have him slotted in around 4-6. Almost all agree Byram is this draft’s top defensemen. While he is in a similar range as Rielly we also expect him to have a similar ceiling. Some see him as a future number one defensemen on a cup contender, but most see him as a very good number two guy. It’s expected he will play a huge role in his team’s success. The other assumption is that he should be NHL ready in only a year or less. Some believe he’s got a shot at stepping into an NHL role immediately. With his size (6’1”) and physical maturity, he wouldn’t have a problem surviving the NHL game. Generally, Byram is a high ceiling and a higher floor player. Byram is not only a safe pick for any team but a pick with big potential. A true low risk, high reward player.
In terms of the on-ice game, Rielly and Byram share many similarities. Each play a high paced offensive game. They love to jump up in the rush or get down low in the offensive zone to open passing or shooting lanes. The two have a high focus on offense and contribute as much as any forward. They are great passers that can thread the needle or play keep away from defenders. Making slot passes is a strength of both and leads to a lot of goals for their respective teams.
Both are great playmakers, but Byram has real special goal scoring abilities. He often takes the puck to the slot or sets up lower in the offensive zone to score. He’s got a great shot which has allowed him to gain the WHL lead for most goals by a defenseman. His goal scoring has also proved to be more than clutch as he holds the record for most WHL OT goals at 6 this season.
The duo also possesses high-end speed, and especially Byram with his explosive stops and start. With both players, it immediately stands out how well each can skate with the puck. I’d consider both elite puck carriers with lateral movement and edges that are rarely combatted by defenders. It’s hard to get a handle on either of them as they dodge checks on the rush. Their skating and edgework also allow each to walk the blue line very well and avoid wingers as they put pressure on them at the line. Escaping pressure is nothing to either of these guys.
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Other shared aspects of the two’s games include top-of-their-class offensive instincts, great puck skills, elusive ability with the puck, and a role as a power play quarterback.
Defensively, I’d say the Byram has the upper hand. He plays a powerful defensive game with physical capabilities and high intensity. He shuts down lanes and his good with his stick. While his focus is on offensive play, he doesn’t get caught lacking on the defensive end.
Overall, Byram is widely seen as the top defensemen up for this year’s draft. He could slide into an NHL role next year. Eventually, he might be a high-end number two defensemen with probable number one upside. Any team drafting Byram should look forward to their own Morgan Rielly with the potential to be more.
Follow Max on Twitter (@TPEHockey) for more prospect news and analysis!
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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.
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.
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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.
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.
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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.
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.
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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.
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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.
Lowetide's sub this week is on fire…
"The other thing I question about just as a casual observer is little stuff like man he seems to spend a lot of time by himself and that's strange to me."
"For me, how good a fit is he ending up being here?"@dantencer on Jesse Puljujarvi
— BLH (Edmonton Oilers Enthusiast} (@BeerLeagueHeroe) August 17, 2018
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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Tonight the inaugural Hlinka Gretzky Cup will begin and I just wanted to give you the heads up on some of the talent that will be gracing the ice in Edmonton and Red Deer for the next 5 days!
What I’m going to do here is just give you a brief overview of the players you should be paying attention to if you end up watching the games on TV or actually going to the games.
We’ll start with the lesser known teams and work our way to the Canadian team because Canada dominates this tourney nearly every year and it usually has the most talent on its roster.
(Sh*t! I just saw Derek Neumeier’s title to his post over at FC Hockey… My bad! Check his post out. It’s very good! Hopefully, some traffic love will appease the blogging gods for using basically the same title…)
First, a little video and if you haven’t, please SUBSCRIBE to our channel!
Rochette has dual citizenship (CAN/SUI) and has spent the last 5 years plying his trade in the Swiss system. This year he was drafted by the Chicoutimi Sagunéens 7th overall in the QMJHL draft.
2019 draft eligible
A dynamic playmaker who has good vision and the ability to make passes in traffic. He is a fluid skater and is skilled with the puck. (link)
Delemont is part of a new breed of defenseman coming to the forefront of hockey. The small offensive defenseman.
2020 draft eligible
Delemont makes up for his lack of size with deft skating abilities and offensive play. He has been productive on the back end at nearly every level he has played at. Confidence and mobility with the puck on the blue line, cerebral decision making. (link)
Drafted 1st overall by the Saint John Sea Dogs in the most recent CHL import draft, it’s been a while since a Slovak has been this hyped but Cajkovic is the most talented player on Team Slovakia by far and will be impossible to miss.
2019 draft eligible
Cajkovic is pure offense from his shot all the way down to his fancy feet that deke and dangle their way towards premium scoring chances. (link)
Slovakia’s top 2020 eligible prospect will lace ’em up for the team and provide some offense from the blueline.
2020 draft eligible
A composed two-way defender who can make quick decision with the puck and move well laterally. His stride is long and efficient, it makes it simple for him to jump up in the rush off a first pass. (link)
Saint John also added this talented Czech in the import draft this year. Oilers prospect Ostap Safin, should he get sent back to junior, is going to have a couple of fine forwards to play with in Prikryl and Cajkovic next season.
2019 draft eligible
Highly skilled centre. Provides leadership and is a scoring threat whenever he is on the ice. Was a standout player on a team that could not seem to get it going during World Under-17 Challenge. High hockey IQ and always seems to be in the right place. Can play the point on the power play. Top prospect for 2018 CHL Import draft with potential to develop into pro prospect. (link)
Martin Hugo Has is a massive defender who’ll be suiting up for Tampere in the SM-Liiga next season. He’ll draw the scouts attention simply due to his size and physicality.
2019 draft eligible
He possesses an absolute cannon for a shot from the blue line, gets pucks through traffic. Thinks the game well in his own zone, doesn’t just throw the puck away but he is proactive with the puck on his stick. (link)
Zaitsev was selected by the Red Deer Rebels in the import draft this year and will be suiting up for them in the upcoming season. So there’s a good reason for Rebels fans to take in Russia’s games.
2019 draft eligible
Wonderful skater with strong agility and edge work that gets him into prime set-up areas with regularity. Zaitsev was a top-six player for most of the year, centering either the first or second line. He has good size and keen vision, but he also lends support well below the circles in his own end. Zaitsev seems more like a playmaker than a shooter, but his ability to think ahead of time and properly rank the best options is what separates him from most 2019-eligible pivots. (link)
Russia’s no.1 dman is slated to be one of the most important pieces to their team at this tournament.
Mobile, two-way defenceman. Excellent skater, escapes hits with his skating agility. Really smooth and effortless skater – smart positional defender who transitions quickly. Hard guy to forecheck and can skate the puck out of trouble. He lacks size and strength. Needs to add a little strength for puck battles, as his compete can only take him so far. Loads of upside to his game. (link)
Podkolzin will most likely be manning Russia’s top line at the tournament.
2019 draft eligible
Podkolzin is one of those noticeable players because he works extremely hard but also finds a way to be involved in most quality chances for his team. He busts his rump every shift, so it’s no coincidence the puck seems to always find him. He also owns a deadly shot. (link)
SPEED! He’ll be one of the faster players at the tournament. So you might actually miss him if you’re not paying attention.
2019 draft eligible
Diminutive yet dangerous goal scorer who hunts for pucks and is willing to pay a high price to grab them. Altonen has speed and a heavy shot that keeps both defenders and goalies honest, so his pump fakes usually leads to a lot of bodies sliding across the deck. His combination of speed and elite stickhandling terrorizes unsure opponents. (link)
Kokkonen is the straw that stirs the drink for this Finland team. Look for him to be a massive factor in the team’s success or lack thereof.
2019 draft eligible
One of best defenceman in this age group. Kokkonen has already seen time in Liiga playing for Jukurit. Jumps into the play, has good offensive instincts. Has a very good shot that he keeps low and accurate. Can be physical when needed to separate the opponent from the puck. (link)
Scored at nearly a point-per-game at last year’s u18’s, he should be an important contributor to Finland’s offense this year as well.
2020 eligible
The most interesting aspect of Lundell’s game is his maturity. His hockey IQ is excellent and his defensive play and positioning are much better than would be expected from the player of his age. Lundell has solid hands but he doesn’t make unnecessary dekes for the sake of being flashy. He focuses on simple yet efficient play instead. (link)
He will challenge Alexis Lafreniere for the scoring title at this tournament and for the 1st overall selection in 2020. I think he’d be a top-10 pick in this year’s draft if he were able to be selected a year early.
2020 draft eligible
A 2020 draft eligible who has been touted as the next great forward coming out of Sweden for many years now. Holtz has been playing above his age since he was a pre-teen and actually spent some time last year playing at Sweden’s top junior level in the SuperElit, where he scored a productive 8 points in 11 games. Holtz has been dominant against his own age group for years now, and he is well known for his instinctive offensive play, fundamental scoring abilities and intelligent well rounded offensive game. (link)
Returns for his second kick at the can in this tourney. Has a motor that never stops and will be an integral part of Sweden’s leadership core.
2019 draft eligible
Described as a dynamic power forward who doesn’t take shifts off. Can create offense on his own with crafty puck handling and explosiveness on the attack. (link)
This year’s high-end smooth skating right-shot 2-way defender out of Sweden is Victor Soderstrom. Will anchor the Swedish defense along with Tobias Bjornfot.
2019 draft eligible
He is a balanced defender who shows terrific skating abilities both with and without the puck. He can play a dependable defensive game, a mobile offensive game, or a hard-nosed physical game depending on the situations he adjusts to. His puck moving side is quite efficient. He has a turn and burn transitional game in which he gets pucks into the offensive zone productively. (link)
From all accounts, Bjornfot is a SOLID two-way defender who’s more talented on the defensive side of the puck than the offensive. Not to say that he’s not offensively gifted as his 22pts in 42 games for Djurgarden suggest there IS offense there but he may find that playing a more shut-down role may benefit him more in this tournament.
2019 draft eligible
There are not many flaws in Bjornfot’s defensive game. He plays physically in the corners and in front of the net, maintains solid gap control, and rarely gets beaten in one-on-one situations. (link)
Ridiculously talented sniper currently cutting up the OHL for Hamilton. A likely candidate to lead the US in scoring this week.
2019 draft eligible
Kaliyev is that goal scoring winger who plays such a composed and controlled style of game. He has confidence with the puck on his stick and instinctive abilities that are a great contributor to his goal scoring success. He is a big kid who has slick puck controlling abilities, a wicked release that can stun a goalie, and the ability to score from anywhere with the puck on his stick. (link)
The only goalie on our list today. Wolf backed up Carter Hart last year in Everett and is expected to take over the starter’s role in 2018/19.
2019 draft eligible
An athletic net minder who suffocates first chance opportunities. He has excellent reflexes with his lower body and despite not being a bigger goalie, he makes up for it with his quickness and awareness.
The next great Canadian scorer is amongst you. 40+ goals as a 16-year-old in the QMJHL is mad and I’m jealous I’m not in Edmonton to watch this talent. Watch, someone will tag him with the old “Generational” this week. He might be the next Mike Bossy, who knows? All I do know is the kid scores at will and he’ll be lighting up junior oppositions for the next two seasons.
2020 draft eligible
Lafreniere is an elite scoring winger who possess one of the most lethal shots from a junior player we have seen in a while. Controls the game when he is on the ice, dictates the play and pace. He has great hands and can flash skill at times, making defenders look silly.(link)
Krebs will be, at worst, a top-ten pick in this year’s draft. He’s drawn some comparisons to Jonathan Toews due to his outstanding two-way play. Was the WHL’s first overall pick in 2016.
2019 draft eligible
Dynamic center with leadership traits, game-changing speed and creativity. Krebs can be a stopper in the defensive zone and a scoring threat in the opposing end. He is the kid you summon to take all the big draws or deliver a game-changing play. (link)
The 2018 WHL Rookie of the Year, Cozens reminds me a bit of Jeff Carter in that the release on his shot is absolutely deadly. He’s got Carter’s size but I don’t think he has his skating unfortunately. Not far off mind you but that shot though… Wow! Should be a top-ten pick next June in Vancouver.
2019 draft eligible
Cozens has a great shot and knows how to finish in a variety of ways, including roofing a backhander from in close. He competes hard in all three zones and creates separation in open ice thanks to his above-average speed. (link)
Scored big at the u17’s last year with 7pts in 5 games. Dach has that Getzlaf size/skill thing going for him. He’s also not the type to shy away from the rough stuff. Could be unstoppable once he gets his weight up to the 215lb range. Not the fastest buggy on the track though.
2019 draft eligible
Dach is a man among boys, which is going to spell a lot of trouble for teams trying to defend against him. Don’t let his size fool you, however: Dach is also incredibly skilled and patient with the puck. Displaying a style of hockey similar to a young Joe Thornton, he uses his large frame and long reach to maintain possession and work a cycle while scanning for opportunities to set up scoring chances for his teammates. (link)
Byram should be a top-5 pick in the 2019 draft. He’s such a good skater and he works his edges so well. He’ll be a top-pairing defender in the NHL someday that also QBs the powerplay. Not only that but there’s an old-school element to his game as well if you know what I mean. Shades of Denis Potvin maybe?
2019 draft eligible
Tough-as-nails defender with deceptive agility and puck handling who is earmarked for a top pairing at the NHL level. Byram is an outstanding puck mover who makes good decisions, but his powerful back skating helps him retreat in time to thwart counterattacks. He stands up at his blue line and rapidly transitions from defense to offense. (link)
Local boy, Matthew Robertson, who plays for the hometown Edmonton Oil Kings, is a smooth-skating two-way defender. Will most likely be tasked with being a shut-down defender on this Team Canada due to his high-end defense and his excellent skating.
2019 draft eligible
Earning minutes on the top penalty kill unit and power play unit as a 16 year old. A fluid skating assertive two-way defender who hs elite footwork and transitional game. He processes the game better than anyone else and makes great reads in transition. Mobile on the blue line and able to create shooting lanes with his footwork. Defends the rush well and rarely ever gets beat wide. (link)
So big thanks to draftgeek.ca, The Sporting News (Kournianos), and Future Considerations because that’s where the majority of the quotes came from. Click some of the links above to get more information.
I hope you enjoy the tournament!
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