CHL News

Eric Tangradi--More than An Add-on in Today's Anaheim/Pittsburgh Trade

2009-02-26T17:36:00.003-05:00

This afternoon, the rights to Eric Tangradi of the Belleville Bulls were traded from Anaheim to Pittsburgh. I wrote a short article detailing why I think Tangradi may be the most important piece of this trade. You can find it in the Unfiltered section of Puck Prospectus. Take a look at it (at www.puckprospectus.com), and let me know what you think.

The Launch of Puck Prospectus

2009-02-26T10:09:00.009-05:00

Over the past few years, I have been getting more and more interested in using my statistics background to find new ways of looking at the information generated from hockey play. Some of it you have seen a bit of here and some I have not published yet.

So, I was excited when the folks that are responsible for Baseball Prospectus approached me to join a new team that would look at stats and hockey, with me focusing on prospects. I am happy to say that we launched earlier this week and can be found at www.puckprospectus.com. Take a look and as soon as the comments link has been enabled, let us know what you think.

Some of my colleagues at Puck Prospectus, as well as some of those at NHL teams, think that, if we could only predict how players would do in the future based upon past performance, who would need scouts to spend six hours driving out to BFE to sit on a hard bench for three hours just to see the player they drove all this way to view get thrown out of the game in the first 15 minutes. Or benched, or injured early in the game.

But alas, unlike some others, I strongly feel that those sometimes futile scouting trips are a necessity. Its just that they should be used in combination with new types of stats, and better uses of the ones we have, to predict future player performance.

And just as statistics should be combined with subjective material in deciding whether a player fits a team, I believe that the prediction of future performance also has a subjective component. I will be bringing that belief to my work at Puck Prospectus--which should create some interesting discussions with some of the more strictly statistically oriented writers over the coming months.

Just for the next month, I will be focusing on my work for Puck Prospectus and blogging there (which, due to copyright law, I can't duplicate here). I will, however, direct your attention there when there are articles specifically of interest to CHL News readers. And as we get closer to the CHL Drafts, I will return here.

Please continue to give me your feedback, and, remember that it will take a few weeks for us to be fully up and running over there, so, if at first, it does not totally wow you, try again a bit later. I am absolutely positive that Puck Prospectus will do some ground-breaking work to enhance the game we all love.

Helmets and Fighting and the CHL

2009-01-09T05:30:00.000-05:00

While everyone is talking about the trades in the CHL this week (and I will be doing so over the weekend), something else happened in the OHL yesterday that I want to bring to everyone's attention.

No one who is involved with hockey was untouched by the news that Whitby Dunlops player Don Sanderson was fatally injured during a fight in a hockey game last month, and then tragically passed away from his injuries last week. According to reports (I have not seen video of the fight, so can't say from personal observation), Sanderson's helmet popped off during the fight, and when his head hit the ice, it caused a severe brain injury. Despite the wonderful play by the Canadian U20 team in the WJCs and the exciting trades that were expected in junior hockey, the sadness upon hearing of the death of a young player was palpable in the industry.

Sanderson's injuries and subsequent passing raised the often debated topic--should there be fighting in hockey? This discussion is a healthy one, but often when tragedies happen, there are responses to try to remedy things before really thinking them through. Yesterday the OHL proved that to be true.

The league disciplined Brad Mashinter of the Belleville Bulls and James DeLory of the Oshawa Generals for removing their helmets prior to a fight on Wednesday night. (Each player will sit out a game and their teams will pay a symbolic $100 fine.)

According to the league announcement, it had "discussed with all its Member Teams the importance of players not removing their helmets during the course of the game for their health and welfare. We find the actions of the two players most inappropriate, inconsiderate and concerning. Fortunately, neither player was injured."

We all know that this is a very dangerous game to play. We also know that most of the injuries sustained during hockey fights come from hitting of one player's hand against the opponent's helmet. Injuries from a player hitting his head on the ice are rare. Dieing from such an accident is so rare that, I can only remember one other such incident in my not so short lifetime.

For as long as I can remember, if non-professional players are going to fight, its been proper courtesy to take their helmets off first. (Professionals don't do it, only because part of the fight is to get the other player's helmet off his head.) So I was surprised to see the word "inconsiderate" in the OHL's press release.

It's an odd choice of words. It is considered courteous to take one's helmet off before a fight. Plus, the failure of players to take their helmet off will cause great harm to their opponents' hands over time. If the removal of helmets is forbidden, you will wind up with many young fighters whose hands are permanently damaged.

Being an attorney, I understand that there are legal issues here. After Sanderson's death, the OHL might be considered to be on notice that the removal of helmets during fighting could kill a player. This is particularly sticky because fighting is supposed to be against the rules, and the OHL knows it happens but does not ban fighting completely.

And that is the question here. By making this rule change, is the OHL trying to eliminate fighting completely from its games, without saying it outright? The elimination of fighting from hockey is most definitely a legitimate topic for discussion. But this rule is unwise, and ultimately dangerous to the players. The OHL should either ban fighting or let the game continue in the manner it has been played for generations.

Trades, Trades, and More Trades

2009-01-07T19:31:00.000-05:00

Its hard to keep up with the CHL trades made over the last few days. And its hard not to be following the bus from Oshawa to Belleville this afternoon, as the big trade that has yet to be made occupies a lot of attention all over the hockey world.

As of 5:00 this afternoon, John Tavares is still a member of the Oshawa Generals. He is scheduled to play tonight in Belleville against the Bulls, but we will have to wait and see. If a trade is really close, it is possible that Tavares will be held out of the game, but as of now, he's playing. Rumours have London, Windsor, and Brampton as the possible destinations, but my money is on London. Windsor already pulled off a big enough trade today (see below).

Brampton would probably like to get Tavares too, but I am not sure that the team could give up enough and still make it far in the playoffs. Some of the trades made today suggest that Brampton thinks that this is the Battalion's year, but very honestly, if I was Brampton I would have let Windsor and London battle it out, been sellers this year (i.e., trade away Hodgson) and stocked up for next season. It does not look like that is in the Battalion's game plan, but I hope this gamble pays off for them, because it is a big risk.

Okay, I have had my say on this topic. Let's look at what happened today.

QMJHL
There were seven trades thus far in the Q today. With only approximately 15 hours left, there should be a flurry in the morning, but let's look at today's trades in context.

Before tonight's games, three teams (Shawinigan, Drummondville, Moncton) had 67 points to lead the league. The Cataractes have played three more games than the Wildcats, and two more than the Voltigeurs.

Shawinigan was not involved in any trades today. But on Monday, the team traded top prospect Danick Gauthier to St. John for excellent offensive blueliner Alex Grant. This is Shawinigan's year, as next year, many of the team's best players will be professionals, but I just don't think they will go all the way.

Drummondville on the other hand, has been very active the past few days, and is my pick for the Q this year. Today, the Voltigeurs continued to stockpile talent. The prize this day was netminder Marco Cousineau, who is so much better than his mediocre stats. Yesterday it was Chris DiDomenico. This team was already stacked offensively. Now they have put a couple of other pieces together and will be formidable going forward.

Moncton sent prospect Tyler Noseworthy to Victoriaville today, and got prospects Joey Dillon and Mitch Morgan last week, but generally have not done much.

Neither has Quebec, which is right behind the top three teams. With 64 points in 41 games, the Remparts have two games in hand on Shawinigan, and only three points separate the teams. No trades today for Quebec, but on Monday, Quebec traded for defenceman Alexandre Neron, who will be a huge player along the blueline for the the Remparts. It was worth giving away Quebec's first and third round picks for Neron, who is in his second year of NHL Entry Draft eligibility.

Cape Breton is not out of the race to win the President's Cup either. No trades today, but over the last two weeks, the team got a tough guy in Brad Tesink, and good blueliner Michael Ward (but to get Ward, the Screaming Eagles had to give up first round draft pick Sam Finn to Lewiston). In an interesting trade that may work out extremely well for Cape Breton, the team traded Jeremy Gouchie to Montreal in exchange for Taylor MacDougall.

Rimouski is loading up for the Memorial Cup. Today's trades included the Oceanic, who got Maxime Ouimet in exchange for bunch of draft picks and rookie netminder Francois Lacerte. Earlier this week, Rimouski gave up six draft picks, including two first rounders, to get offensive defenceman Marc-Andre Bourdon, diminutive goalie Mathew Dopud and prospect Justin MacNaughton. Potential overager Jason Demers (who is currently playing in the AHL) was also traded to the Oceanic for a late-round pick. Rimouski now has seven players drafted by NHL teams, including Logan MacMillan and Patrice Cormier, and will be a formidable foe in the Memorial Cup, but the long run up to the playoffs, I just don't see the Oceanic moving atop the league.

On the other end, St. John has sold almost all their good players for picks. The Sea Dogs are stocking up picks for a run in two to three years from now. It should be a tough rest of the season for St. John, but the future looks bright. Both Acadie-Bathurst and Baie-Comeau are doing the same thing--building for the future.

Val-d'Or is also at the bottom of the pack, in fact, the Foreurs are in last place in the entire league, and have been very active over the last two weeks. But instead of stockpiling picks, Val-d'Or has been trading for a run next year. We shall see how this works out, but it is an interesting strategy.

OHL

There were fewer trades thus far in the OHL today. In fact, thus far there were only five. Friday at noon is the trade deadline, so you can expect a lot of movement tomorrow as the best teams shore up their ranks.

Today's big trade involved the Windsor Spitfires, who received Ben Shutron, Josh Unice, and Scott Timmins from Kitchener for prospect Brandon Maxwell, overager Jacob Lalonde, and three second and third round draft picks. Not enough actually, in my opinion, but it was what the market would bear.

WHL

No trades thus far today, but yesterday Kyle Beach and Mike Alexander were sent packing from Everett to Lethbridge for the young first round draft pick blueliner Alex Theriau, winger Dan Iwanski, and a first round pick in 2009.

Lethbridge also picked up the 2010 NHL draft eligible Brody Sutter earlier this week from Saskatoon in exchange for a fifth round pick. Sutter has not been very effective this seaosn, but at 6'3", the winger has good potential.

In other trades over the last few days, the Regina Pats obtained overager Matt Robertson in exchange for another overager Michael MacAngus and a 4th round pick in 2009 from the Prince Albert Raiders.

Also Prince Albert got Ryan Kowalski, who has not been very effective this season for the Prince George Cougars, for prospect Robbie Ciolfi.

The WHL's trade deadline is Saturday at 4 pm, so several more exchanges are expected between now and then.

Backlund to Join Kelowna

2009-01-07T06:13:00.002-05:00

All during the World Juniors, there were rumours about Mikael Backlund not returning to his team in Vasteras, Sweden. He was not getting enough ice time or skating with linemates that would move his development along. I think had he been a bust in the WJCs, this would have been less of an imperative for the Calgary Flames, who drafted him in the first round of the 2007 NHL Entry Draft. But he wasn't a bust, in fact, Backlund was Sweden's best forward for the entire tournament.

The Kelowna Rockets had selected Backlund in the second round of the 2007 CHL Import Draft and have been waiting patiently ever since. Well, by the end of the week, their patience will pay off. Backlund, who is an excellent playmaker, with very good skating and finishing skills, will be very exciting to watch for the rest of the season. He should help the Rockets enormously in their playoff run this spring.

Thoughts on Chris DiDomenico and Today's Trade

2009-01-06T16:20:00.002-05:00

I did not know Chris DiDomenico before Christmas. He was a name on a stat sheet--a player I saw from afar in a rink. But I met Chris and his family in Ottawa last week. His family is fun, funny, filled with a love of hockey and in absolute support of their son, grandson, and brother. When you interact with his family, its easy to see how Chris became the person and player that he is--a character kid who can really play at an elite level.

This morning, a/k/a the morning after, DiDomenico was traded from the QMJHL St. John Sea Dogs to the Drummondville Voltigeurs. Drummondville, currently third in the league standings, made this trade because the team was looking to get stronger for the coming playoff run. I am not sure they even know at this point what they have. A player who can score, crash the boards, come out of the corners with the puck, fight and, despite reports otherwise, he can skate. But Chris has an extra intangible--the ability to overcome.

Everyone has always underestimated Chris DiDomenico. No one should anymore. It's hard to believe that this is a guy who was never drafted by a CHL team and then, after an all-star rookie QMJHL season, was only selected by the Toronto Maple Leafs in the sixth round in the 2007 NHL Entry Draft. He was given the opportunity to shine at the Selection Camp last month and DiDomenico did so. He was chosen to play a role--to make space for John Tavares and Angelo Esposito. And game after game, he did exactly what was asked of him.

Now DiDomenico is being asked to play for a new team, and help the Voltigeurs vie for the President's Cup. And maybe even the Memorial Cup after that. I would not bet against this very special player doing just that. Stay tuned. The end to this storybook tale has not been written yet.

Have Aliu's Chances Run Out?

2009-01-04T09:34:00.001-05:00

When Akim Aliu was last a member of the Wolves, he could not wait to be traded and get a new start. I know, I interviewed him at the 2007 NHL Combine, and he was excited to go to a team that would find out that he was nothing like his reputation. Soft spoken, intelligent, and keenly aware of his challenges, Aliu is capable of introspection and knows the powers of persuasion. When those two things are combined with his immense talent, Aliu should have been an OHL star.

But yesterday he was traded again. This time from London, back to Sudbury, the team he could not wait to get away from. Despite his intellectual and emotional intelligence, Aliu just can't keep himself from tanking his hockey career. I am not really sure exactly what his problem is. Impulsiveness, inability to play well with others, family issues, I've heard it all. Probably its all of this, but whatever the problem or problems are, it is a shame.

Here is a player who is immensely talented and well-spoken enough to overcome some of the worst stereotypes in junior hockey. He has had several opportunities to reinvent himself and achieve his goals, as well as to be a role model for others who come from backgrounds that are not usual within the hockey community. Unfortunately, Aliu has not been strong enough to even fight his own demons, no less the hockey establishment that very honestly has not been pleased with him since the Windsor incident. Rightly or wrongly, Aliu had to be just a little better because of who he was, and then because he upset the applecart.

I know how this is--having been a girl in hockey at a young age in the United States a very long time ago. But this is not about me. It's about a guy who wants to play in the NHL. Character has always been a big issue in hockey, and NHL teams are looking for players that reek of this quality. As much talent as Aliu has, it is not worth much when NHL teams think that he does not have his head on straight. I fear that he has run out of chances to avoid the label "head case." Because of this, it's likely that his dreamed-of NHL career will never happen.

What a waste.

CHL Players in the 2009 WJCs

2009-01-02T07:12:00.001-05:00

Ten teams are playing in the 2009 WJCs in Ottawa and over the past week, I have seen all of them play. Not surprisingly, Canada has the most CHL players on its roster; Sweden, which has an extremely strong league back home for juniors to play in, and Kazakhstan, which has weak players, have zero.

Latvia--former St. Mike's Majors defenceman Kriss Grundmanis is playing in the tournament, but has not been very visible. Neither has former Calgary Hitmen winger Edgars Ulescenko.

Slovakia--Erie Otters netminder Jaroslav Janus has been one of the stars of this tournament. Although the Slovak team was one of the last into the playoff round, it is the first time in five years that the team does not risk relegation. Janus is the big reason for that. He was playing very well for the Otters before he left, expect even better play when he returns. Also expect him to be drafted by an NHL team in June. Scouts have been drooling over him for the last few days here in Ottawa.

Finland--As much as Slovakia has been the surprise of the tournament, Finland has been the disappointment. On a team where scoring was never going to be a strong point, it was hoped that the defence would hold, but not so. Red Deer Rebels blueliner Tommi Kivisto has been pretty much invisible and overmatched by stronger European opponents.

Russia--Russia is a strong offensive team, that is hampered by defensive deficiencies. Four CHL import players are on this team, and although none have played exceptionally well for the team, both Evgeni Grachev and Dmitri Kulikov have looked very good at times.

Sweden--No CHL players.

Germany--With six CHL players on its roster, Germany has the most CHLers among non-North American teams. Without a really strong national program, the German players come to North America to develop. Although both German netminders (Timo Pielmeier and Phillip Grubauer) regualrly play in North America, and therefore any adjustment to a smaller surface would be non-existent, neither has been really impressive in the WJCs. The most impressive player among the six CHLers has been Gatineau Olympiques winger Gerrit Fauser. Named player of the game for Germany last Saturday, Fauser has been a very good player almost every night.

Kazakhstan--No CHL players (although Yakov Vorobyov played in Ottawa for five games this season).

Czech Republic--The Czech Republic has twelve of its player currently competing in the CHL, and three more had CHL experience last season. Forwards Jan Kana and Ondrej Roman have been on a tear, both of whom played excellently in the game against the US earlier this week, where the Czech Republic lost an incredibly close game in the final moments. Also worthy of mention is Medicine Hat Tiger defenceman Tomas Kundratek, who is playing well on both sides of the puck.

United States--Most of the US players that have been outstanding thus far in the tournament have been from the collegiate ranks, but worthy of mention is the Spokane Chiefs winger Drayson Bowman. A clutch player, Bowman has a real scoring touch and is a very smart player. This is his last tournament and, as a clutch player, I would not be surprised to see him score some key goals in the coming days. Tom McCollum, the OHL Guelph netminder, has been playing well. However, he has given some goals against in key situations. McCollum should have been better against the Czech Republic early in the week, and he sure let the Canadians come back the other night. If McCollum wants to be a number one goaltender at the next level, he will have to come through on games like he will face today.

Canada--All Canada's best players are from the CHL, including the tournament star, John Tavares, and netminders Chet Pickard and Dustin Tokarski. Each goaltender has player two games, and each brings different qualities to the ice, but both have been pretty much spectacular in net for this WJCs. Cody Hodgson has also been excellent offensively. But no evaluation of the CHL players in the WJCs would be complete without some mention of blueliner PK Subban, who has played much better in his own zone than he was expected to. Always thought of as weak on defence, Subban has played admirably in his own zone and has really been an asset on the PP

Watch for more over the coming days, as I do a final wrap up on Tuesday and then get back to the CHL.

At WJCs For Past Week

2008-12-31T11:04:00.003-05:00

I have been at the WJCs for the last week and unable to keep up with my blog on the CHL teams. I will have an update tomorrow, a tournament day off, on how the CHL players are doing here in Ottawa.

Until then!

Christmas Break--OHL Central Division Review

2008-12-24T09:52:00.001-05:00

The Central Division race is the closest in the OHL, with the Brampton Battalion currently leading the pack by only seven points. This is somewhat deceptive, however, as Brampton has played only 33 games. Two of the division's other teams--the Mississauga St. Mike's Majors and the Niagara Ice Dogs--have played 37, and the other two--the Barrie Colts and Sudbury Wolves--have played 35. So although only 13 points separate the entire division, the gulf is really quite a bit larger, with Brampton quite a bit ahead.

The question will be which two Eastern Conference teams are left out of the playoffs this year. No question that the Kingston Fronts will be one of the two. But who will be the other? In my opinion, its going to be the Ice Dogs. Niagara's point total is deceiving, in that the team has gotten eight of its points in losses--OT and SO. Bottom line, the team has only won 12 of 37 games. Even the lowly Peterborough Petes are better than that, and without Alex Pietrangelo returning from the NHL St Louis Blues, the Ice Dogs would be battling with the Fronts for the cellar position in the conference. And there is a good chance that Pietrangelo could be traded to a contender prior to the deadline. So its my contention that Kingston and Niagara will be left out.

Let's look at the Central Division in depth.

Brampton Battalion--The Battalion have become an outstanding team this season with the addition of Matt Duchene, Evgeny Grachev, and Brandon Foote. When added to top prospect Cody Hodgson, who I have always thought should have gone top five in last summer's NHL Entry Draft, the team is formidable. It took a little time for the lines to come together, and it will be a little out of sorts next week with two key players at the WJCs, but Brampton has two outstanding top lines, and the defense to match. When the excellent play of Foote is added, Brampton just might win the battle for the J Ross Robertson Cup this spring. Yes, they are an underdog to do so, in that either Windsor or London is expected to take home the trophy, but if you have seen the Battalion when everything is clicking, you know that there is enormous talent here. Maybe, just maybe, it is Stan Butler and the Battalion's year.

Excellent Performers--Cody Hodgson, Matt Duchene, Evgeny Grachev, and Ken Peroff
Underperformers--Patrick Killeen
Best Rookie--Evgeny Grachev

Barrie Colts--The Colts will give Brampton a run for their money, particularly with the addition of Taylor Carnevale and Josh Brittain. After a somewhat disappointing performance with Oshawa, Carnevale has 11 points in 10 games with Barrie. The trade has sure done wonders for the center, who is in his NHL Entry Draft year. Expect the scouts to really take notice shortly and for Carnevale to be moving up everyone's lists. Brittain is a legit power forward, who is just beginning to have an impact in Barrie. Unfortunately, part of the problem with the Colts has been the uneven goaltending. Although Michael Hutchinson's overall numbers are good, consistency has not been the Boston Bruins' prospect's strength. Peter Di Salvo, a excellent netminding prospect in his NHL Entry Draft year, has been impressive at times, but he and Hutchinson need to have a very good second half of the season for this team to really challenge Brampton.

Excellent Performers--Alex Hutchings, Michael Sgarbossa, Stefan Della Rovere, Ryan O'Connor
Underperformers--None
Best Rookie--Ryan O'Connor

Mississauga St. Mike's Majors--The St. Mike's Majors have been a struggling team for quite a few years. Often in the cellar of this division, it appears that the team has turned a corner and will shortly be getting a huge shot in the arm with the return of Kaspars Daugavins to the roster. Just reassigned by the Ottawa Senators to Mississauga, Daugavins has struggled getting ice time in Binghamton. This is all to the Majors' benefit, as Daugavins was a prolific scorer for them last season. Without Daugavins, the Majors have been playing excellent hockey this month, winning eight of their last ten games. The team has not scored a lot of goals (which is about to be remedied), so goaltending has crucial, and veteran Chris Carrozzi is having a very good month. This should get interesting down the stretch in this division.

Excellent Performers --Michael Pelech, Blake Parlett, Cameron Gaunce, Chris Carrozzi

Underperformers--Casey Cizikas, Jesse Messier, Tim Billingsley

Best Rookie--Devante Smith-Pelly

Sudbury Wolves--The Wolves, a very young team, have not played particularly well this season, but the worst news for the club came over the last few days, when Patrick Lusnak, an overage offensive powerhouse, decided to return to the Czech Republic. Things look bleaker than they did a week ago for this struggling team. On the good side, Daniel Maggio is on fire since his return. But netminder Andrew Loverock has had some difficulties, and as I have said before, you can't really win at this level without consistent adequate personnel between the pipes. Frankly, at this point, Sudbury's only hope is to have Viktor Tikhonov magically appear on their doorstep. But don't count on it. Sudbury is a team looking to the future, and its fans should be too.

Excellent Performers--Peter Hermenegildo, Eric O'Dell, John McFarland

Underperformers--Frankie Santini, Alain Valiquette

Best Rookie--John McFarland

Niagara Ice Dogs--With two rookies in net, the Ice Dogs knew to start the year that this would not be a very good season. If there is any surprise it is how well John Cullen and Mark Visentin have played. It could be much worse. Another happy expected occurrence was the return of defenceman Alex Pietrangelo, who was expected to spend the season as a member of the St. Louis Blues. But Blues management correctly assessed that the big blueliner would be better off playing another season of junior. Pietrangelo's fine play has affected the nine games in which he appeared--the Ice Dogs have won five of those nine, losing only to Windsor, Belleville, Brampton and a one goal loss to Barrie. This is a team filled with younger players, prospects that may or may not develop. We will have to wait and see how successful the team is over the next few years.

Excellent Performers--Andrew Agazzino, Matt Piva, Mathew Sisca, Alex Pietrangelo
Underperformers--Too many to name
Best Rookie--Marco Insam

Christmas Break--OHL East Division Review

2008-12-21T16:13:00.003-05:00

The Christmas break week starts today in the OHL, and not unexpectedly, the Belleville Bulls are on top in the East Division. The Bulls have 50 points in 37 games, and even if Oshawa, who has played the fewest number of contests, won all four of their next four games, they would not come near Belleville's 50 points. The Kingston Fronts are at the bottom of the division, winning only seven games and garnering a total of 20 points.

Belleville Bulls--After participating in the Memorial Cup last year and coming in third, the Bulls are determined to bring the Cup to Belleville this spring. This is a different team though, with the departures of Geoff Killing, Shawn Matthias, Matt Beleskey, Michael Neal (traded to Sarnia earlier this season), Keaton Turkiewicz, Chris Mifflen, Stephen Blunden (traded to Ottawa earlier this season), and now Tyler Randell (who was just traded to Kitchener last week). Recently added are Nick Palmieri and Brandon Mashinter, who should give an offensive punch, scoring wise and literally. When you look up and down the roster, there are seven NHL-drafted players and seven that are draft-eligible this year, three of whom are considered very good prospects. This is an excellent team, and barring key injuries, particularly in goal, it should take the division, however, I am not sure the firepower is there to win the J Ross Robertson Cup.

Excellent Performers--Bryan Cameron, Eric Tangradi, Matt Tipoff, PK Subban
Underperformers--Nick Pageau
Best Rookie--Stephen Silas

Ottawa 67's--The 67's are a much improved team this season, particularly with the addition of Tony Nigro, Stephen Blunden, and Corey Cowick. Cowick has really performed well and is now on the team's top line with Logan Couture and Tyler Toffoli. The team certainly has some firepower on its top two lines, and has been on a roll lately, but Ottawa's run at the big time is likely to fall short. Defense is an issue, particularly with the several-week loss of Tyler Cuma to a knee injury. Just all in all, the 67's don't have enough to beat the best teams in the league.

Excellent Performers--Corey Cowick, Tyler Toffoli
Underperformers--Martin Paryzek
Best Rookie--Tyler Toffoli

Oshawa Generals--Although a lot of the OHL talk lately has been about who the Gens are going to get in return for a trade of JohnTavares, the team itself has not been talked about much. Currently third in the East Division, Oshawa underwent a big front office and coaching change prior to the season. These changes have resulted in the players being in better condition, but frankly the talent and on-ice performance as a whole are just not there to make a serious run in the post-season. And things will not get any better over the next five games, when Tavares is playing for Canada at the WJCs. Plus the antics of Tyler Taylor in a fight with Ottawa's Ryan Hanes last week were totally despicable. The best thing management could do for this team is to aim for the future and make some changes. One of those would be to get the best value for Tavares in a trade as possible.

Excellent Performers--John Tavares, Michael Del Zotto, Calvin de Haan, Kory Nagy
Underperformers--Conor Stokes (before he was sucker punched by Fenwick), Robert Kousal
Best Rookie--Calvin de Haan

Peterborough Petes--Let's be honest here and say that the Petes are more than overdue for a contending season. With only two good seasons in the last decade, things are pretty bad for this franchise. Winning just does not seem to happen and how long can you rebuild? Some changes really need to be made in Peterborough, but suggestions as to what that might mean are too late for this season and beyond the scope of this review. The review not good. If I am in agreement with anything Brian Burke says (which surprisingly I am more often than not), a team should be built from the goaltending out. Although not necessarily true with a junior team, if you don't have good goaltending you can't win. This is only the beginning of the Petes problems, as it is not only the netminding that has been shaky--the D is also iffy at best. With these two problems, there is no way that this could be a contending team.

Excellent Performers--Zack Kassian, Tony Romano
Underperformers--Derek Holden, Yves Bastien
Best Rookie--Sergei Korostin

Kingston Fronts--A team that is truly in a rebuilding mode, the Fronts are absolutely horrible this season. Twenty points in 36 games puts Kingston at the bottom of the entire league. But hope for the future is there; fans just have to get through this season to see the light in the years to come.

Excellent Performers--Erik Gudbranson, Jaroslav Kruzik, Ethan Werek
Underperformers--Nathan Moon, Kelly Geoffrey, Stephen Francella, Mitch Lebar
Best rookie--Ethan Werek

CHL Top Prospects Roster--Who Made it, And Who Did Not

2008-12-19T21:14:00.002-05:00

The CHL top prospects game rosters were announced yesterday, and as usual several players were left off that one has to scratch their head about. Below is the list of the players selected and then those that were not, but maybe should have been. The lists are arranged by CHL league.

QMJHL:
David Gilbert, Quebec Remparts, C
Philippe Paradis, Shawinigan Cataractes, LW
Charles-Olivier Roussel, Shawinigan Cataractes, D
Olivier Roy, Cape Breton Screaming Eagles, G
Andrej Nestrasil, Victoriaville Tigres, LW
Jordan Caron, Rimouski Oceanic, RW
Michal Hlinka, Chicoutimi Sagueneens, LW
Dmitry Kulikov, Drummondville Voltigeurs, D
Eric Gelinas, Lewiston MAINEiacs, D
Simon Despres, Saint John Seadogs, D

Missing are:
Gabriel Bourque, LW of the Baie-Comeau Drakkar, who as of now has 39 points in 33 games, and has consistently put up the points, while being responsible defensively. On the smaller side, Bourque makes up for it with his smart play in all situations.

Philippe Lefebvre, LW of the Drummondville Voltigeurs, who has good size, is a good two-way player and has improved remarkably since last season.

Jean-Francois Berube, G of the Montreal Juniors, who has not played much, but has quite a bit of potential and professional size.

David Savard, D of Moncton Wildcats, the player in the Q that I am most surprised was left off the list. Good size, very smart, good movement of the puck. Hmmm.

OHL:
Ryan O'Reilly, Erie Otters, C
Peter Holland, Guelph Storm, C
Michael Latta. Guelph Storm, C
Taylor Beck, Guelph Storm, LW
John Tavares, Oshawa Generals, C
Ryan Ellis, Windsor Spitfires, D
Calvin de Haan, Oshawa Generals, D
Scott Stajcer, Owen Sound Attack, G
Matt Duchene, Brampton Battalion, C
Alex Hutchings, Barrie Colts, C
Zack Kassian, Peterborough Petes, RW
Ethan Werek, Kingston Fronts, LW
Nazem Kadri, London Knights, C
Taylor Doherty, Kingston Fronts, D
Edward Pasquale, Saginaw Spirit, G

Missing:
Matt Tipoff, LW of the Belleville Bulls has made significant strides this year. One of the best NHL draft-eligibles in the OHL at this position.

Phil Varone, C of the London Knights. Although there are better centers available this year, Varone should be considered if there is an injury among those already chosen.

Casey Cizikas, C, of the St. Mikes Majors. Character issues, but quite a bit of talent. He had an awful November, but has started this month well.

Brandon Foote, G of the Brampton Battalion, is the OHLer whom I was most surprised has been left out of the game. Foote is 11-1 with 2 shutouts. He is only 5'11'', which may be the reason, as 6'0'' is the magic size lately in the NHL, but Foote should have been chosen.

WHL:
Brayden Schenn, Brandon Wheaties, C
Scott Glennie, Brandon Wheaties, C
Cody Eakin, Swift Current Broncos, C
Tomas Vincour, Edmonton Oil Kings, RW
Levko Koper, Spokane Chiefs, LW
Jared Cowen, Spokane Chiefs, D
Brayden McNabb, Kootenay Ice, D
Nathan Lieuwen, Kootenay Ice, G
Tommi Kovisto, Red Deer Rebels, D
Landon Ferraro, Red Deer Rebels, C
Carter Ashton, Lethbridge Hurricanes, RW
Evander Kane, Vancouver Giants, C
Jimmy Bubnick, Kamloops Blazers, C
Stefan Elliott, Saskatoon Blades, D
Tyson Barrie, Kelowna Rockets, D

Missing:
Byron Froese, C of the Everett Silvertips, is not on the radar but should be. He really is developing quickly and folks should take another look.

Cass Mappin, LW of the Red Deer Rebels, is an interesting omission. He has come into some disfavour of late, but still is a player to watch in this draft.

Adam Hughsman, LW of the Tri-City Americans. Excellent two-way player, with very good passing abilities.

Andrej Kudrna, LW of the Vancouver Giants is my surprise non-pick for the Top Prospects Game. Should have been chosen, very talented, good sized, goal scorer.

CHL First Round Picks That Have Played in the NHL

2008-12-12T15:18:00.000-05:00

Someone sent me an email yesterday asking a very reasonable and seemingly easy question to answer, that got me thinking. The question was, how many first round CHL selections in NHL entry drafts make it to the NHL? Seems easy enough, except that one has to figure out how long it takes from draft time to get to the NHL. Although we all know that several first round picks crack the roster of their drafting team the following Fall, what about the others? Conventional wisdom among NHL folks and scouts is to give the player five years before making a conclusion, but in a non-scientific way, I wanted to look at this.

BTW, very important caveat here, if you want to compare across draft years, to be statistically valid, you would have to control for the different talent level in each pool. But this was an overnight mini-study, and I haven't figured out how to do that anyway. But stay tuned and I will figure it out and bring you more (probably on a more appropriate website too). I will let you know in a few weeks.

I started with the 1998 NHL draft, because I wanted at least five years of data, giving a player five years to make it to the NHL. Easy enough, five and five are ten, however, that's actually six years of past data, so six and five are eleven. It was late at night, so bear with me, and anyway we get an extra year to look at.

Oh, and I arbitrarily chose an appearance in 10 games to mean a player "made it to the NHL". This meant that at least one year of an entry level contract kicked in. I did not want a player to have a cup of coffee and then be returned to junior (although several netminders are included that got a few games here and there, added up to 10, but never will be NHL netminders in a real way. that's the problem with any arbitrary cutoff). A couple of recently drafted guys, Zach Bogosian and Chris Stewart are on the rosters of their NHL clubs and should make the 10 games soon, but they are not included in the "made it" category below. They probably would be if I waited a few weeks.

I am having trouble making graphs of the data, and this is in a somewhat difficult to read format, but the categories are first the Year, next the No. Of CHL First Round Picks who've played in the NHL, then Total No of CHL Players Selected in the First Round, and last and most important the Percentage of CHL First Rounders Who've Made it to the NHL

1998 /19/ 21 /90%

1999/ 11/ 14 /79%

2000 / 9 /11 /82%

2001 / 12/ 14 / 86%

2002 / 11/ 13/ 85%

2003/ 17/ 17/ 100%

That's pretty high percentages in all years. 2003 is known is one of the best ever draft crops, and to be fair, all the guys have made it to the NHL, save Hugh Jessiman, who was an NCAA player at the time he was drafted.

Over the same time period, let's look at those non-CHL players that have made it to the NHL.

Year/ No. Of Non-CHL First Round Picks who've played in the NHL/ Total No. of Non-CHL Players Selected in the First Round/Percentage of Non-CHL First Rounders Who've Made it

1998 / 6/ 6 /100%

1999/ 10/ 14 / 72%

2000 / 16 /19 /84%

2001/ 14/ 16/ 88%

2002 / 13/ 17/ 76%

2003 / 12/ 13/ 92%

Guess what, the percentages are almost the same, with the exception of the 2002 draft year, where those chosen from the CHL have been more successful in getting to the NHL than those that were either NCAA-bound or from Europe.

Now lets look at the more incomplete recent picture, i.e., from 2004-2008.

Year/ No. Of CHL First Round Picks who've played in the NHL/ Total No of CHL Players Selected in the First Round/Percentage of CHL First Rounders Who've Made it

2004/ 9 /12/ 75%

2005 /11/ 17/ 65%

2006/ 6 / 16/ 38%

2007 / 6 /16 /38%

2008/ 6 /20 /30%

As for the non-CHL first round drafted players:

2004 / 10/ 18/ 56%

2005/ 8/ 13/ 62%

2006/ 8 /14 /57%

2007 /1 /14 /7%

2008/ 2 /10 /20%

This is more interesting than I originally thought. One would expect that it might take the Non-CHL players a little longer to make it to the NHL, but that only appears to be the case for about the first two years after a player is drafted. But it is true is that most of the players that are NHL-ready after being drafted are from the CHL. Although Russians Nikita Filatov and Viktor Tikhonov are playing now after being drafted last summer, the others of recent memory have almost all been CHLers.

In any case, it looks like the NHL teams do an excellent job of picking the guys that will be playing in their league five years hence. If you look at the percentages above, it seems until then the numbers rise, after which the percentages level off at a fairly high number. So, the five year mark that is used by the NHL and other scouting personnel appears to be a correct guideline to employ.

Interesting and more complicated question than when it was first contemplated.

As I said, I will be doing more research in this area over the coming months, and I will let you know where you can find it.

OHL Update--Barrie Colts

2008-12-11T05:56:00.001-05:00

This is a first in the series of updates, including who is really hot and not. There is a formula that I use to determine this which is based upon when goals are scored, whether penalties result in opposition goals, the age and experience of the players, trends, and my eyes watching the ice.

These will be 10-game snapshots of the teams and certain players, that will take into consideration that fact that some very good players will be missing to the Canada U20 Selection camp for portions of the time included.

Starting with Barrie, the team has won only four of their last 10 games--and lost games to a couple of pretty poor teams at that. There is no question that recent trades will require a settling in period, but let's face it, this is not a team, as it stands now, that can compete for the OHL Championship. The question is what more can be done? I still think that it is not in the cards for the Colts, but I have been surprised before. This would be a big one though.

Let's get to some of the players. Although other media have singled out Stefan Della Rovere as playing really well of late, I think that while he has certainly improved upon his performance of last year, and he had a good October, Della Rovere has not played extremely well since. True he has 5 points in as many games, however, in three of the five games in which he appeared, Della Rovere was almost entirely invisible. He is of an age, where he needs to lead the team with consistent performances throughout the season.

The player I want to give kudos to is Darren Archibald, the goal-scoring 18-year old rookie, who has been impressive in his OHL debut season. With 10 pts (8 goals, 2 assists) in as many games, the tall and lanky LW has a +5 rating and solid performances in seven of the 10 games. He should be on the NHL scouts radar by now. If Archibald continues to show that he can put the puck in the net, expect to hear his name in a mid to late round of the NHL draft next June.

Another new name that should excite Barrie fans is that of blueliner Ryan O'Connor. The 1992-born defenceman has at times this year needed some adjustment to the pace of the game, however, he has in the last few weeks really steadied himself, so that his defensive game is no longer as much of a liability. He always had offensive skills, so this is a player to watch over the coming months.

Not doing as well is overage defenceman Kyle van de Bospoort. A team needs solid older blueliners, but lately van de Bospoort has been anything but. Netminder Peter DiSalvo is also looking a little overwhelmed this month. The 18-year old NHL draft-eligible goalie has appeared in three of the last ten games. Although he looked good in the win against division rival Sudbury late last month, in his other two appearances, Di Salvo did not look ready to be a number one OHL netminder.

More tomorrow.

Valueable and Not So Valuable Points

2008-12-10T17:19:00.004-05:00

Lately, we have been seeing quite a few "who is hot, and who is not" articles. Most of these base their choices upon point production for skaters and wins and losses for netminders. But when it comes to skaters, not all points are equal--its points when games are on the line that really count. Padding your stats is an old trick and scouts are very aware of it, but fans need to be too. Scoring when the game is already won (or lost), is pretty useless. Plus, points never take into consideration the defensive blueliner, who can toil in anonymity, because points are not his game.

As for goaltenders, none of the stats are truly indicative if you have a defense that's a sieve in front of your netminder.

In the end, you really have to watch with your own eyes to see who is playing well and who isn't, because some things really do not show up on the scoresheet, and some things that do show up are deceptive.

So over the next few days, I want to go over who was really hot and who wasn't over the last month and why. I will break it down by league and it will include (and exclude) some unexpected names.

More ECHL Signings

2008-10-17T12:50:00.002-04:00

I have not had time to keep up this site, but just some more news on who has signed with ECHL teams this week.

Geoff Walker of the PEI Rocket (QMJHL) has signed with the new Ontario Reign (affiliate of the LA Kings).

Riku Helenius of the Seattle Thunderbirds (WHL) signed with the Augusta Lynx (affiliate of the Tampa Bay Lightning).

Tim Kraus of the Regina Pats (WHL) signed with the Ontario Reign (affiliate of the LA Kings).

John Murray of the Kingston Fronts (OHL) signed with the Ontario Reign (affiliate of the LA Kings).

Opening Day ECHL rosters were released yesterday afternoon.

September ECHL Signings of CHL Players

2008-09-30T10:32:00.002-04:00

Four CHL players have signed contracts with ECHL teams this month. In addition, two others have signed AHL contracts and been assigned to ECHL teams.

Elgin Reid (Windsor Spits, OHL) signed an AHL contract with the Wilkes Barre Scranton Penguins and was assigned to the ECHL Wheeling Nailers.

Luke Lynes (Brampton Battalion, OHL) signed an AHL contract with the Springfield Falcons and has been assigned to the Stockton Thunder

Other recent CHL players that signed with ECHL teams this month are:
Judd Blackwater (Spokane Chiefs, WHL) signed with the Fresno Falcons.
Wes Cunningham (Plymouth Whalers, OHL) signed with the Florida Everblades.
Kris Sparre (Mississauga Majors, OHL) signed with the Idaho Steelheads
Geoff Walker (PEI Rocket, QMJHL) signed with the Phoenix Roadrunners.

Complete List of CHL Players Still with NHL Teams

2008-09-28T11:47:00.000-04:00

Rather than finishing the explanation of who was in camps and has been cut, at this point, it would be more efficient to just list who is still with an NHL team. It is surprising how many CHL players are still in NHL camps, but this number will be reduced precipitously over the next few days.

This is in alphabetically reverse order by NHL team:

Washington--John Carlson (London Knights, OHL)

Vancouver--Cody Hodgson (Brampton Battalion, OHL)

Toronto--Chris DiDomenico (Saint John Sea Dogs, QMJHL), Eric Wellwood (Windsor Spitfires, OHL), Luke Schenn (Kelowna Rockets, WHL)

Tampa Bay--Steven Stamkos (Sarnia Sting, OHL)

St. Louis--Alex Pietrangelo (Niagara Ice Dogs, OHL)

San Jose--Logan Couture (Ottawa 67s, OHL)

Pittsburgh--None

Phoenix--Mikkel Boedker (Kitchener Rangers, OHL)

Philadelphia--Luca Sbisa (Lethbridge Hurricanes, WHL)

Ottawa--None

New York Rangers--None

New York Islanders--Kevin Poulin (Victoriaville Tigres, QMJHL), Mark Katic (Sarnia Sting, OHL), Simon Lacroix (Shawinigan Cataractes, QMJHL), Matt Martin (Sarnia Sting, OHL), Max Gratchev (Lewiston MAINEiacs, QMJHL), Justin Dibenedetto (Sarnia Sting, OHL), Josh Bailey (Windsor Spitfires, OHL)

New Jersey Devils--None

Nashville--None

Montreal--PK Subban (Belleville Bulls, OHL), Olivier Fortier (Rimouski Oceanic, QMJHL)

Minnesota--Tyler Cuma (Ottawa 67s, OHL), Colton Gillies (Saskatoon Blades, WHL)

Los Angeles--Thomas Hickey (Seattle Thunderbirds, WHL), Oscar Moller (Chilliwack Bruins, WHL), Drew Doughty (Guelph Storm, OHL), Martin Jones (Calgary Hitmen, WHL)

Florida--None

Edmonton--None

Detroit--None

Dallas--None

Columbus--Devin Didiomete (Sarnia Sting, OHL), Maksim Mayorov (Brandon Wheat Kings, WHL), Nikita Filatov (Sudbury Wolves, OHL), Jakub Voracek (Halifax Mooseheads, QMJHL)

Colorado--None

Chicago--Akim Aliu (London Knights, OHL) and Kyle Beach (Everett Silvertips, WHL)

Carolina--Brandon Sutter (Red Deer Rebels, WHL), Zach Boychuk (Lethbridge Hurricanes, WHL), and Drayson Bowman (Spokane Chiefs, WHL)

Calgary--John Negrin (Kootenay Ice, WHL)

Buffalo--Tyler Myers (Kelowna Rockets, WHL)

Boston--None

Atlanta--Zach Bogosian (Peterborough Petes, OHL)

Anaheim--Logan McMillan (Halifax Mooseheads, QMJHL)

CHL Players in NHL Training Camps--NHL Teams Update

2008-09-27T08:38:00.004-04:00

Calgary and Carolina made more cuts yesterday. However, Calgary has still kept John Negrin (Kootenay Ice, WHL) in camp, and Carolina has retained Brett Bellmore (Plymouth Whalers, OHL), Brandon Sutter (Red Deer Rebels, WHL), Zach Boychuk (Lethbridge Hurricanes, WHL), and Drayson Bowman (Spokane Chiefs, WHL).

As expected, Jamie Benn (Kelowna Rockets, WHL) was returned to juniors by Dallas yesterday. The Stars no longer have any junior players in training camp.

Now lets move on to move NHL teams:

Edmonton--Have returned Phillipe Cornet (Rimouski Oceanic, QMJHL), Milan Kytnar (Saskatoon Blades, WHL), Dalton Prout (Barrie Colts, OHL), and Jordan Eberle (Regina Pata, WHL). Potential overager Andrew Perugini (Sarnia Sting, OHL) was assigned to Springfield of the AHL. Although Perugini is still listed on Sarnia's roster, he did sign an AHL contract earlier this week, and it looks like he is gone permanently. The only CHL player in camp with the Oilers as of yesterday was Alex Plante (Calgary Hitmen, WHL), whose saga with the Hitmen goes on. We shall see how it turns out, but this should all be resolved within the next two weeks. The problem is, of course, that Plante had a terrible season last year. He was injured, but his lack of production is limiting what the Hitmen can get for him. More is going on here than we know, so, while opinions abound, it is not clear where the best place for Plante to play. The NHL team has gotten involved (they have invested a huge amount of money in the player and want him to develop as best he can), so hopefully it will be resolved soon. In any case, Plante will play with the Hitmen tonight.

Florida--Earlier this week the Panthers returned Adam Comrie (Saginaw Spirit, OHL), AJ Jenks (Plymouth Whalers, OHL), Colby Robak (Brandon Wheat Kings, WHL), and Corey Syvret (Guelph Storm, OHL). While there are still potential overagers with the NHL team, it is not likely that they will return to CHL play.

More later.

CHL Players in NHL Training Camps--NHL Teams A-D

2008-09-26T08:23:00.006-04:00

By the time this post is up, there probably will be more changes, but here is the situation as of late last night.

Anaheim--Maxime Macenauer (Rouyn-Noranda, QMJHL) signed an ELC contract Wednesday, however, as a 1989, he will return to junior hockey unless he secures an NHL roster spot. OHL Oshawa Generals' overage defenseman Eric Regan will not be playing junior hockey this year, as he also signed an ELC yesterday and is an 1988. Eric Tangradi (Belleville Bulls, OHL) and Stefan Warg (Seattle Thunderbirds). Sure to return to junior play over the next week are Logan McMillan (Halifax, QMJHL) and Marco Cousineau (Baie-Comeau Drakkar, QMJHL).

Atlanta--Wednesday, the Thrashers sent netminder Chris Carozzi (Mississauga St. Mikes Majors, OHL), winger Danick Paquette (Lewiston MAINEiacs, QMJHL), and blueliner Paul Postma (Calgary Hitmen, WHL) back to their junior teams. Postma already played and is expected to have a big effect on the team's production from the blueline this season. Atlanta still has Angelo Esposito (Montreal Junior, QMJHL) and Zach Bogosian (Peterborough Petes, OHL) with the team. It is doubtful that either will return to their junior teams anytime soon. An NHL team can play these highly touted prospects for nine NHL regular season games before its counts as a year on their ELCs, so it might be another month before either player sees CHL action. Actually, I don't expect either player back in the junior ranks, but Don Waddell could surprise and send either or both back to junior hockey.

Boston--Has already sent back Jamie Arniel (Sarnia Sting, OHL), Michael Hutchinson (Barrie Colts, OHL), Denis Ruel (Lewiston MAINEiacs, QMJHL), and Maxime Sauve (Val-d'Or Foreurs, QMJHL). Not yet returned is overager Jordan Knackstadt (Moose Jaw, WHL) , who is likely to get a professional contract.

Buffalo--sent back Luke Adam and TJ Brennan both of the Montreal Junior (QMJHL). If Angelo Esposito is returned from Atlanta and Adam and Brennan are playing, Montreal will be an entirely different team. Look for much more offense now, as the two Sabres' prospects take the ice for the Junior. Buffalo also sent back Paul Byron (Gatineau Olympiques, QMJHL), Tyler Ennis (Medicine Hat Tigers, WHL), Jacob Lagace (Chicoutimi Sagueneens, QMJHL), Nick Crawford (Saginaw Spirit, OHL), Drew Scheistel (Niagara Ice Dogs), and Jordan Southorn (PEI Rocket). Remaining in training camp is Tyler Myers (Kelowna Rockets, WHL), who is not expected back to Kelowna for the time being.

Calgary--With Keith Aulie (Brandon Wheat Kings, WHL), Lance Bouma (Vancouver Giants, WHL), TJ Brodie (Saginaw Spirit, OHL), Ryley Grantham (Moose Jaw Warriors, WHL) Greg Nemisz (Windsor Spits, OHL) and Mitch Wahl (Spokane Chiefs, WHL) already returned more than a week ago, these players have contributed to their respective junior teams. Remaining in camp is John Negrin (Kootneay Ice, WHL). Negrin could make a big difference for the Ice, and when he returns, expect the close games to go more of Kootenay's way.

Carolina--Made their cuts Wednesday, reassigning five junior players and releasing two others from their ATOs. Reassigned were overager Justin McRae (Spokane Chiefs, WHL), Chris Terry (Plymouth Whalers, OHL), Samuel Morneau (Val-d'Or Foreurs, QMJHL), Mike Murphy (Belleville Bulls, OHL), and Michal Jordan (Plymouth Whalers, OHL). Free agent tryouts Robert Slaney (Cape Breton Screaming Eagle, QMJHL) and Brett Theberge (Peterborough Petes, OHL) were released. Potential overager Brett Bellmore (Plymouth Whalers, OHL) , as well as Brandon Sutter (Red Deer Rebels, WHL), Zach Boychuk (Lethbridge Hurricanes, WHL), and Drayson Bowman (Spokane Chiefs, WHL) all remain in camp.

Chicago--Returned five CHLers to their junior teams. Those include Richard Greenop (Windsor Spits, OHL), Maxime Tanguay (Victoriaville Tigres, QMJHL), Shawn Lalonde (Belleville Bulls, OHL), Teighan Zahn (Saskatoon Blades, WHL), and Josh Unice (Kitchener Rangers, OHL). Still with the team are Akim Aliu (London Knights, OHL) and Kyle Beach (Everett Silvertips, WHL).

Colorado--Concluded its camp on Tuesday and sent the following players back to the CHL: Trevor Cann (Peterborough Petes, OHL), Joel Chouinard (Victoriaville Tigres, QMJHL), Peter Delmas (Lewsiton MAINEiacs, QMJHL), Cameron Gaunce (Mississauga St. Mike's Majors, OHL), Kelsey Tessier (Quebec Remparts, QMJHL).

Columbus--Has made several sets of moves, and sent Matt Calvert (Brandon Wheat Kings, WHL), John Hughes (Brampton Battalion, OHL), Steven Delisle (Gatineau Olympiques, QMJHL), Brandon Mashinter (Kitchener Rangers, OHL), Antoine Roussel (Chicoutimi Sagueneens, QMJHL), Keegan Dansereau (Swift Current Broncos, WHL), Andrew Merrett (Niagara Ice Dogs, OHL), Neal Prokop (Moose Jaw Warriors, WHL), and Brent Regner (Vancouver Giants, WHL) back to their junior teams over the last week. The Blue Jackets still have quite a few CHL players in camp, including potential overager Devin Didiomete (Sarnia Sting, OHL), as well as Pascal Amyot (Saint John Seadogs, QMJHL), Nikita Filatov (Sudbury Wolves, OHL), Maksim Mayorov (Brandon Wheat Kings, WHL), and Jakub Voracek (Halifax Mooseheads, QMJHL). Of those, Voracek will not return, but the Mayorov and Filatov (who is injured) will have substantial impacts on their junior teams, when they get to the CHL.

Dallas--Sent five players back to junior on Wednesday. For one player, Sergei Korostin (London Knights, OHL), CHL play wa snot a sure thing, but it looks like all the kinks with his Russian team has been worked out, and Korostin will appear in his first OHL game tonight against the Windsor Spitfires tonight. It should be an excellent game, and can be watched by Livestream at the OHL site. Another player that was reassigned by the Stars was Guillaume Monast (Quebec Remparts, QMJHL), however, he was signed yesterday to an ELC by the Stars. He is expected to remain with the Remparts for the season. The other returnees are Tyler Beskorowany (Owen Sound, OHL), Luke Gazdic (Erie Otters, OHL), and Colton Sceviour (Lethbridge Hurricanes, WHL). Still in camp is Jamie Benn (Kelowna Rockets, WHL), who is expected to return shortly.

Detroit--Trimmed several junior players from their roster early this week. Included among them are Randy Cameron (Moncton Wildcats, QMJHL), Zach Torquato (Erie Otters, OHL), Stephen Johnston (Belleville Bulls, OHL), Travis Ehrhardt (Portland Winter Hawks, WHL), Thomas McCollum (Guelph Storm, OHL), and Cameron Cepek (Prince George Cougars, WHL). Still in camp is defenceman Brian Lashoff (Barrie Colts, OHL).

Back from Traverse City and NY Rangers Training Camp

2008-09-25T23:01:00.000-04:00

After spending time at the Traverse City Rookie Tournament and then the New York Rangers main training camp, I finally have some time to get back to junior hockey.

Week two of the CHL team rankings are out, and while the list is interesting, it does not account for what will happen when the CHLers currently in NHL camps return. Frankly, one of the teams most affected by this is the Montreal Junior, which while unlikely to get everyone back, should improve enormously. I also think that the London Knights have the potential to be number one overall (particularly since the arrival of Sergei Korostin is imminent), but here is the list as it was published on Wednesday.

1. Windsor Spitfires

2. Cape Breton Screaming Eagles
3. Brandon Wheat Kings

4. Belleville Bulls

5. London Knights

6. Moncton Wildcats

7. Swift Current Broncos

8. Prince George Cougars

9. Spokane Chiefs

10. Drummondville Voltigeurs

Fighting and Brawling in the QMJHL

2008-09-11T07:13:00.008-04:00

Tonight begins the QMJHL season and, although we at CHL News have stayed out of the controversy until now, the issue of fighting/brawling in the Q has arisen again after yesterday's news conference of the league's officers.

Everyone knows about the incident last Spring, where Jon Roy attacked Bobby Nadeau. A court review of that attack is expected later this month. The question is what should the league do about future incidents.

A committee was formed in March to investigate the issue and report to the league its recommendations for ways in which to "take the appropriate measure to eradicate all forms of violence during [the league's] games." Fourteeen members participated, including some of the highest ranking sport officials in the province, and in August a report was issued. Basically, after all the analysis, the bottom line is stated on page 3, "tolerance of violence has no place in Junior Hockey and has never had any." Duh!

The committee goes on to say that "[n]ew rules of conduct and ethics ... as well as disciplinary measures must be spelled out and rigorously applied every time robustness inherent to this sport and deliberate violence can be confused." Okay, when reading this I started to worry what was coming next, and in the next line, there it was. "Examples of such situations are blows to the head, checks from behind, hits with the stick as well as any verbal exchanges during stoppages of play."

For the record, Roy has not been thrown out of the Q under the previously "enforced" rules. Nor would he immediately be under the new recommendations (which the QMJHL says it adopted for this season), where Roy would be given a 10-game suspension. That I believe is a mistake, in that there really should be no place for crossing the ice to attack a goalie that has no interest in fighting in the game. There are some violations that should get you kicked out of the league, and that is one of them. What happens with the authorities is a separate issue. There are some things even a teenager knows is beyond the bounds of what will be accepted even once.

However, mouthing off during stoppages and some checks from behind should not be included in the list of "offenses" that will not be tolerated. Let's be honest and say that, at this level, the goal of hockey is almost entirely to provide the player with the opportunity to play the professional game. Yes, as the league boasts, for some the education provided is important, but ask the players, and almost all will say that education is secondary to getting to play on the stage that provides them the greatest opportunity to fulfill their dream--to play professional hockey. If it wasn't, they would have taken another route to play the game. Let's be more honest and say that is the goal of the teams too. The teams make lots of money off the players on the ice. But NHL development fees for draft picks are not insubstantial. Further, NHL teams develop informal relationships with major junior teams that can be worth lots of money to the junior team if an undrafted player is signed to an NHL contract.

I am getting to my point right now. If, in actuality, the point of major junior hockey for the players and the teams is to prepare a player for professional hockey, and one of the selling points for the CHL is that play closely mirrors what the player will face in the pro ranks, then mouthing off and some checks from behind are part of the game. Additionally, I would submit that instead of increasing violence, mouthing off could avoid it. Yes, sometimes, it can cause a fight, which appears to be okay with the Q, in that it has not banned fighting. Sometimes, mouthing off can just let off steam for some real or perceived on-ice injustice and keep things from escalating.

If players are no longer allowed to mouth off, how can they engage in fisticuffs. How are they supposed to agree on this, because if there is no goading, no "do you want to go," how do you know the other player wants to fight? And if you don't know that, suddenly one player is pummeling another, which can result in a 10-game suspension.

I feel that the Q has taken the wrong approach. After saying fighting is a part of the game, which it is, and I am all for preparing the players to face that in professional hockey and to demonstrate their skills at it, the league then takes out the intro to every fight I have ever seen. As everyone knows, there is a Code to fighting in professional hockey. That's what should taught in the CHL. Break the Code and you should be gone form the league. It's easy, and if players know that if they break the Code, and commit cowardly acts against others, that they are out of the game, this stuff will almost never happen.

Additionally, the league should have one more responsibility, and for this, I have to be circumspect because of Canadian law. So don't ask me who the player is and expect me to answer, as minors are protected in this country. If the league has notice that a player is a problem, and still invites or encourages a player to join that league, then one has to wonder if that league is serious about eliminating violence. For all the counseling that can be given, certain humans are more prone to violence than others, and for the safety of the whole, don't you want to weed these people out ahead of time? Obviously not, when a CHL team recently allowed a young man that lost his head in another venue and attacked someone who died as the result of the attack play hockey in one of its leagues. If you really want to avoid violence in junior hockey, wouldn't you weed out a kid you know has impulse issues out ahead of time, and not invite him in?

That's why, although I applaud the thought of eliminating violence, I scoff at the what is being implemented. If you are serious, make as sure as you can that the players on the ice are of the psychological makeup that they don't have the propensity for violence. If you find out that they do have that propensity, have the guts to get rid of them before they serious injure or kill someone. But don't take mouthing off and every hit from behind away from the game (in fact, some such hits are so minor they don't even get called).

Now, get serious and do the right thing, before one of these eager decent young men gets killed.

News on CHLers at NHL training camps

2008-09-08T09:59:00.001-04:00

Enough of the heavy duty statistical analysis--at least for a couple of days. If you read Friday's entry below, you will see how well the OHL teams did in the 2006 OHL Priority Draft. Early next week, I will do a quick analysis of who is impressing in CHL pre-season games, but for today, I will just be setting forth info on which CHL players have been signed since last week in the ECHL (there were two signed by the Elmira Jackals), who was signed by the NHL teams that just drafted them (Bogosian and Pietrangelo, did anyone not expect this?) and give a list of CHLers that have been announced to be in attendance at NHL training camps (and therefore will at least be temporarily unavailable to their CHL teams). Plus, on Friday afternoon, Ottawa finally announced the roster of their rookies that will be attending the Kitchener rookie tournament, starting on September 13th.

First, Mike Gauthier (WHL Kamloops) and Kevin Desfosses (QMJHL Quebec) were signed by Elmira. Desfosses had previously attended the Ottawa Sens development camp, and will be going to the Kitchener rookie tournament with the Ottawa team, but is expected to play for Elmira to start the season. Frankly, this was a good move for him, as Desfosses should be a good netminder at this level. Given time, he might become more. Its great that the Sens organization sees that, because although Desfosses did not impress in last year's QMJHL playoffs, he does have some potential and will get a real chance to develop with the Jackals. Gauthier is a tough guy, pure and simple. Glad he will get a chance to entertain in the ECHL, but don't expect more than that.

As for the Ottawa rookies going to Kitchener later this week, CHLers include Kevin Desfosses, Ben Wright, Jim O'Brien, Zack Smith, Kaspars Daugevins, and Brett Morrison (who was drafted by Anaheim last year).

As an update on an earlier post on pre-season tournaments, the Boston Bruins rookies will be playing the Islanders at the Rinks practice facility in Shelton, Connecticut on September 18th. I have added it to last week's post, but in case, you tend not to scroll back, I wanted to give those of you in the area that would like to attend a heads up that it is happening (BTW, this arena is almost as cold as the Air Canada Centre in Toronto, so if you go, dress appropriately).

Some of the main training camp rosters were announced for NHL teams late last week, and without repeating myself as to who is being taken to the pre-season tournaments, I wanted to include the new information as to CHL players in camps.

Boston Bruins --The Bruins had no tryouts in their development camp in July. Attending rookie training camp will be the following CHL players:
Jamie Arniel, OHL Sarnia (4th round 2008)
Andrew Bodnarchuk, QMJHL Halifax (5th round 2006)
Yuri Cheremietev, QMJHL Halifax (Tryout)
Scott Fletcher, OHL Niagara (Free Agent)
Zach Hamill, WHL Everett (1st round 2007)
Jordan Knackstedt, WHL Moose Jaw (7th round 2007)
Brad Marchand, QMJHL Halifax (3rd round 2006)
Matt Marquardt, QMJHL Baie-Comeau (Free Agent)
Levi Nelson, WHL Swift Current (6th round 2006)
Denis Reul, QMJHL Lewiston (5th round 2007)
Maxime Sauve, QMJHL Val-d'Or (2nd round 2008)

Carolina Hurricanes--in addition to the three CHL tryouts that I posted last week, the team also will have the following CHL players in attendance:
Mike Murphy, OHL Belleville (6th round 2008)
Michal Jordan, OHL Plymouth (4th round 2008)
Brett Bellemore, OHL Plymouth (6th round 2007)
Brandon Sutter, WHL Red Deer (1st round 2007)
Zach Boychuk, WHL Lethbridge (1st round 2008)
Robert Slaney, QMJHL Cape Breton (AHL signee)
Harrison Reed, OHL Guelph (3rd round 2006)
Stefan Chaput, QMJHL Lewiston (5th round 2006)
Drayson Bowman, WHL Spokane (3rd round 2007)
Chris Terry, OHL Plymouth (5th round 2007)
Samuel Morneau, QMJHL Baie-Comeau/Val-d'Or (7th round 2008)
Justin McCrae, WHL Spokane (4th round 2007)

Colorado Avalanche -- Had no CHL tryouts at the team's July development camp
Jack Combs, OHL Saginaw (Free Agent)
TJ Galiardi, WHL Calgary (2nd round 2007)
Dustin Sylvester, WHL Kootenay (Tryout)
Kelsey Tessier, QMJHL Quebec (4th round 2008)
Joel Chouinard, QMJHL Victoriaville (6th round 2008)
Cameron Gaunce, OHL Mississauga (2nd round 2008)
Kevin Montgomery, OHL London (4th round 2006)
Nigel Williams, OHL Belleville (2nd round 2006)
Trevor Cann, OHL Peterborough(2nd round 2007)
Peter Delmas, QMJHL Lewiston (2nd round 2008)

Edmonton Oilers
Phillipe Cornet, QMJHL Rimouski (5th round 2008)
Jordan Eberle, WHL Regina (1st round 2008)
Milan Kytnar, WHL Saskatoon (5th round 2007)
Garet Hunt, WHL Vancouver (Free Agent)
Kyle Paige, OHL Kingston (Free Agent)
Jordan Bendfield, WHL Medicine Hat (7th round 2008)--Signed to ELC by the Oilers last week
Jesse Dudas, WHL Swift Current (6th round 2006)
Alex Plante, WHL Calgary (1st round 2007)--expect a CHL team change for him shortly
Dalton Prout, OHL Barrie (Tryout)
Kalvin Sagert, WHL Prince George (Free Agent)
Andrew Perguini, OHL Sarnia (Free Agent)
Bryan Pitton, OHL Brampton (Free Agent)

Nashville Predators
Brandon Buck, OHL Guelph (Free Agent)
Nick Spaling, OHL Kitchener (2nd round 2007)
Ian McKenzie, WHL Seattle (Free Agent)
Mark Santorelli, WHL Chilliwack (4th round 2007)
Jon Blum, WHL Vancouver (1st round 2007)
Chet Pickard, WHL Tri-City (1st round 2008)
Jeremy Smith, OHL Plymouth (2nd round 2007)

2006 OHL Priority Draft Update--More Than 2 Years Later--Which Players and Teams Have Done Well

2008-09-05T04:53:00.009-04:00

Earlier this week, I reviewed the 2005 WHL Bantam Draft, to see who had played in the WHL, who had been selected in the 2008 NHL entry draft, and how successful each WHL team had been in making player choices in the first five rounds of the bantam draft.

To make comparisons of the same age group, I used those players drafted in 2006 into both the OHL and the QMJHL. Today, I am reviewing the results of the first five rounds of that 2006 OHL Priority Draft. If the next few paragraphs bore you, I promise you that the conclusion will not. (I will return Monday afternoon, with an update of how the pre-season is going for the players in the three leagues.)

As for the OHL. In total, 100 players were drafted in the first five rounds of the 2006 OHL Priority Draft. Seventy five percent (all but 25) were playing in the OHL at the end of last season. Seventeen of the 25 not playing in the O were chosen in the fourth or fifth round, which means that generally teams had an excellent record of choosing players that would be successful enough to play major junior hockey two seasons after the priority draft.

Some teams had better records than others, but not necessarily what we would expect. Both Ottawa and Windsor selected the most players in the first five rounds of the priority draft (7), but the 67s had three of their seven players not in the CHL, and only one of the seven was drafted by an NHL team last summer. Windsor fared a little better, in that six of the Spits players are in the OHL, and the top two were selected in this past year's NHL draft. All of Guelph's five selections are OHL players, yet only one, Anthony Nigro, was selected by an NHL team, and that was in the sixth round.

Some interesting surprises arose. Both in percentage and in numbers, Brampton and Toronto had the best OHL/NHL draft percentage (each had 50% of their six OHL Priority draftees selected by NHL teams). Barrie also had six, but one of their draftees, Corey Trivino, chose the college route and is not counted. Toronto will probably wind up being the winner here, as the Majors' first round selection, Dylan O'Neill, will not be eligible for the NHL draft until 2009.

Several other teams had a 50% yield for NHL draftees, including Kingston, Peterborough, and Saginaw.

The team that was without question the worst drafter was the Owen Sound Attack. With only three selections, two did not wind up playing CHL hockey. Plymouth also lagged behind, as only three of their five draft picks are playing OHL hockey, and none of their selections have been drafted by NHL teams. To be fair, Verne Cooper is not eligible until next year, but even if he is drafted next spring, the results are pretty discouraging for the Whalers.

Conclusion: The OHL teams did an outstanding job of drafting in 2006, both in terms of selecting players for their own league and for players that would eventually be drafted by NHL teams. Because 11 of the 75 CHL players that were chosen in the 2006 priority draft were not old enough to be NHL draft-eligible in 2008, that left 64 that were of sufficient age to be selected by an NHL team. A total of 26 of those 64 were selected in the 2008 NHL entry draft. THAT IS CLOSE TO A 41% YIELD!!! Everyone knows that this past NHL draft year was a great one for the OHL, so these numbers may be somewhat skewed, but what a fantastic result for the OHL--one that should make the entire league proud.

Barrie
Stephan Della Rovere (first round)—Barrie Colts (Washington, 7th round, in 2008 NHL Entry Draft)
Alex Hutchings (second round)—Barrie Colts (not eligible for 2008 NHL entry draft)
Brian Lashoff (third round)—Barrie Colts (undrafted in 2008 NHL entry draft)
Michael Hutchinson (fourth round)-- Barrie Colts (Boston, 3rd round, 2008 NHL entry draft)
Corey Trivino (fifth round)—Boston University (NYI, 2nd round, 2008 NHL entry draft)

Belleville
Shawn Lalonde (first round)—Belleville Bulls (Chicago, 3rd round, 2008 NHL entry draft)
Matt Tipoff (second round)—Belleville Bulls (not eligible for 2008 NHL entry draft)
Edward Pasquale (third round)—Saginaw Spirit (not eligible for 2008 NHL entry draft)
David Matthers (fifth round)—OPJHL (not eligible for 2008 NHL entry draft)

Brampton
Cody Hodgson (first round)—Brampton Battalion (Vancouver, 1st round, 2008 NHL entry draft)
Michael Lomas (second round)—Owen Sound Attack (undrafted in 2008 NHL entry draft)
Matt Zarbo (third round)—EJHL (undrafted in 2008 NHL entry draft)
Ben Alavie (fourth round)—Brampton Battalion (undrafted in 2008 NHL entry draft)
Patrick Killeen (fifth round)—Brampton Battalion (Pittsburgh, 6th round, 2008 entry draft)
Kyle DeCoste (fifth round)-- Brampton Battalion (Tampa Bay, 5th round, 2008 entry draft)

Erie
Mitch Gaulton (first round)—Erie Otters (NYR, 6th round, 2008 NHL entry draft)
Kelly Geoffrey (third round)—Erie Otters (undrafted in 2008 NHL entry draft)
Brian Shaw (third round)-- Erie Otters (undrafted in 2008 NHL entry draft)
Mitchell Forbes (fifth round)—SIJHL (undrafted in 2008 NHL entry draft)
Matthew Cadieux (fifth round)—OPJHL (undrafted in 2008 NHL entry draft)

Guelph
Anthony Nigro (first round)—Guelph Storm (St. Louis, 6th round, 2008 NHL entry draft)
Patrick Moran (second round)—Guelph Storm (undrafted in 2008 NHL entry draft)
Kyle Steckley (third round)-- Guelph Storm (undrafted in 2008 NHL entry draft)
Cody St. Jacques (fourth round)—Sault Ste. Marie Greyhounds (undrafted in 2008 NHL entry draft)
Travis Gibbons (fifth round)-- Guelph Storm (undrafted in 2008 NHL entry draft)

Kingston
Josh Brittain (first round)—Kingston Fronts (Anaheim, 3rd round, 2008 NHL entry draft)
Nathan Moon (second round)—Kingston Fronts (Pittsburgh, 4th round, 2008 NHL entry draft)
Robert Mignardi (third round)—Kingston Fronts (undrafted in 2008 NHL entry draft)
Matt Hoyle (fifth round)—Harvard University (undrafted in 2008 NHL entry draft)

Kitchener
Nazem Kadri (first round)—London Knights (not eligible for 2008 NHL entry draft)
Mike Mascioli (second round)—Kitchener Rangers (undrafted in 2008 NHL entry draft)
Jamie Commerford (third round)—GOJHL (undrafted in 2008 NHL entry draft)
Philip Varone (fourth round)-- London Knights (not eligible for 2008 NHL entry draft)
Mavric Parks (fifth round)-- Kitchener Rangers (undrafted in 2008 NHL entry draft)

London
Philip McRae (first round)-- London Knights (St. Louis, 2nd round, 2008 NHL entry draft)
Tucker Hunter (second round)-- London Knights (undrafted in 2008 NHL entry draft)
Kale Kerbashian (fourth round)-- London Knights (undrafted in 2008 NHL entry draft)
Kevin Bodker (fourth round)—NAHL (undrafted in 2008 NHL entry draft)
Tyler Vonengelbrechten (fifth round)—OPJHL (undrafted in 2008 NHL entry draft)

Mississauga
Alex Pietrangelo (first round)—Niagara Ice Dogs (St. Louis, 1st round, 2008 NHL entry draft)
Josh Dadic (second round)—OPJHL (undrafted in 2008 NHL entry draft)
Chris Vanlaren (third round)—Sudbury Wolves (undrafted in 2008 NHL entry draft)
Chris Desousa (fourth round)—Niagara Ice Dogs (not eligible for 2008 NHL entry draft)
Barry Sanderson (fourth round)—Niagara Ice Dogs (undrafted in 2008 NHL entry draft)

Oshawa
Michael Del Zotto (first round)—Oshawa Generals (NY Rangers, 1st round, 2008 NHL entry draft)
Dean Howard (second round)—Sudbury Wolves (undrafted in 2008 NHL entry draft)
Anthony Peters (third round)—Kingston Fronts (not eligible for 2008 NHL entry draft)
Marco Franchini (fourth round)—Owen Sound Attack (undrafted in 2008 NHL entry draft)
Chris Leeming (fifth round)—OPJHL (undrafted in 2008 NHL entry draft)

Ottawa
Tyler Cuma (first round)—Ottawa 67s (Minnesota, 1st round, 2008 NHL entry draft)
Cody Lindsay (second round)—Ottawa 67s (undrafted in 2008 NHL entry draft)
Thomas Nesbitt (second round)--Ottawa 67s (undrafted in 2008 NHL entry draft)
Matt Ribeiro (second round)—OPJHL (undrafted in 2008 NHL entry draft)
Jarred Seymour (three round)—OPJHL (undrafted in 2008 NHL entry draft)
Matt MacDougall (fourth round)--Ottawa 67s (undrafted in 2008 NHL entry draft)
Stefan Salituro (fifth round)—NAHL (undrafted in 2008 NHL entry draft)

Owen Sound
Michael D’Orazio (first round)—Owen Sound (undrafted in 2008 NHL entry draft)
Brandon Burlon (second round)—University of Michigan (New Jersey, 2nd round, 2008 NHL entry draft)
Guy Carteciano (fourth round)—OPJHL (undrafted in 2008 NHL entry draft)

Peterborough
Zach Bogosian (first round)—Peterborough Petes (Atlanta, 1st round, 2008 NHL entry draft)
Daniel Ciampini (third round)—OPJHL (not eligible for 2008 NHL entry draft)
Jamie Doornbosch (fourth round)—Peterborough Petes (undrafted in 2008 NHL entry draft)
Jason Missiaen (fifth round)—Peterborough Petes (Montreal, 4th round, 2008 NHL entry draft)

Plymouth
Verne Cooper (first round)—Plymouth Whalers (not eligible for 2008 NHL entry draft)
Thomas Kane (third round)—Windsor Spitfires (undrafted in 2008 NHL entry draft)
Jordan O’Neill (fourth round)—Plymouth Whalers (undrafted in 2008 NHL entry draft)
Steven McDonald (fourth round)—Not in hockey
Chad Rutkowski (fifth round)—Not in hockey

Saginaw
Nick Crawford (first round)—Saginaw Spirit (Buffalo, 6th round, 2008 NHL entry draft)
TJ Brodie (third round)—Saginaw Spirit (Calgary, 4th round, 2008 NHL entry draft)
Andrew Clouthier (fourth round)—Barrie Colts (undrafted in 2008 NHL entry draft)
Ryan Green (fifth round)—GOJHL (undrafted in 2008 NHL entry draft)

Sarnia
Steven Stamkos (first round)—Sarnia Sting (Tampa Bay, 1st round, 2008 NHL entry draft)
Dalton Prout (second round)—Barrie Colts (undrafted in 2008 NHL entry draft)
Peter DiSalvo (second round)—Barrie Colts (not eligible for 2008 NHL entry draft)
Brent Salvo (fourth round)—Sarnia Sting (undrafted in 2008 NHL entry draft)
Chase Clark (fifth round)—WOJB (undrafted in 2008 NHL entry draft)

Sault Ste Marie
James Livingston (first round)—Sault Ste. Marie (St. Louis, 3rd round, 2008 NHL entry draft)
Sean Jones (second round)—Erie Otters (undrafted in 2008 NHL entry draft)
Brett Perlni (third round)—Michigan State U (undrafted in 2008 NHL entry draft)
Chris Dunham (fourth round)—OPJHL (undrafted in 2008 NHL entry draft)
Dylan King (fifth round)—Sault Ste. Marie (undrafted in 2008 NHL entry draft)

Sudbury
Jared Staal (first round)—Sudbury Wolves (Phoenix, 2nd round, 2008 NHL entry draft)
Justin Larsen (second round)—Mississauga St Mike’s Majors (undrafted in 2008 NHL entry draft)
JK Gill (third round)—Sudbury Wolves (undrafted in 2008 NHL entry draft)
Kyle Tarini (fourth round)-- Sudbury Wolves (undrafted in 2008 NHL entry draft)
Al Valiquette (fifth round)—Sudbury Wolves (not eligible for 2008 NHL entry draft)

Toronto
Dylan O’Neill (first round)-- Mississauga St Mike’s Majors (not eligible for 2008 NHL entry draft)
Tim Billingsley (second round)-- Mississauga St Mike’s Majors (Phoenix, 7th round, 2008 NHL entry draft)
Cameron Gaunce (second round)-- Mississauga St Mike’s Majors (Colorado, 2nd round, 2008 NHL entry draft)
Tyler Allen (third round)-- Mississauga St Mike’s Majors (undrafted in 2008 NHL entry draft)
Chris Carrozzi (third round)-- Mississauga St Mike’s Majors (Atlanta, 6th round, 2008 NHL entry draft)
Jeffrey Vanderlught (fourth round)--OPJHL (undrafted in 2008 NHL entry draft)

Windsor
Greg Nemisz (first round)—Windsor Spitfires (Calgary, 1st round, 2008 NHL entry draft)
Adam Henrique (second round)—Windsor Spitfires (NJ, 3rd round, 2008 NHL entry draft)
Thomas Battani (second round)—Kitchener Rangers (undrafted in 2008 NHL entry draft)
Mark Cundari (second round)-- Windsor Spitfires (undrafted in 2008 NHL entry draft)
Eric Wellwood (fourth round)--Windsor Spitfires (undrafted in 2008 NHL entry draft)
Matt Hackett (fifth round)—Plymouth Whalers (undrafted in 2008 NHL entry draft)
Devon Quarrell (fifth round)-- SIJHL (undrafted in 2008 NHL entry draft)

Carolina Announces Three CHL Players to Attend Main Training Camp

2008-09-04T19:36:00.003-04:00

After failing to invite any CHL tryouts to their development camp this past summer, the Carolina Hurricanes have announced that three CHL players will be attending the team's main training camp beginning September 19 (training camp will be held in Raleigh). The invited players are Ryan McGinnis, a defenseman who completed his overage year with Oshawa last spring, blueliner Ben Olson who played for the Seattle T-birds during his overage 2007-08 season, and forward Brett Theberge, a member of the Peterborough Petes who was not drafted in his first year of eligibility.

Theberge will almost certainly return to the Petes after camp, while both McGinnis and Olson are likely to play in the AHL or ECHL this coming season. Both of the defensemen are long-shots to get an NHL entry level contract from the Hurricanes.

Review of CHLers at NHL Prospect Camps. Which Teams are Giving Which Players from Which Leagues a Look?

2008-09-04T07:36:00.006-04:00

The CHLers that were not drafted by the NHL team holding the conditioning camp are listed below, with a little analysis and a suggestion to NHL teams up here first.

It is interesting to note that Detroit and Florida did not conduct prospect camps this summer. Detroit will participate in a rookie tournament in Traverse City and will be taking CHLers Jordan Foreman, Joey Ryan, Bryce Swan, Travis Ehrhardt, Cameron Cepek, Brent Raedeke, and Brian Lashoff. (Ryan had already been in the Rangers prospect camp earlier this summer and did not impress sufficiently to have the Rangers take him to Traverse City). Florida will be attending the Kitchener rookie camp, but the Panthers will not be looking at any CHLers as possible free agents at the camp. Nashville will play two games against the Atlanta Thrashers this month in Nashville, but have not released the roster yet. New Jersey has not announced any plans for its rookies to have either a special camp or games against other rookies.

These development camps give young players (drafted and free agents) a chance to get a look at the organization and see what it expects in an environment of less pressure than the main training camp. It also gives the teams a chance to really focus on the rookies. Finally, it gives undrafted players the chance to catch on with a team when they might have been passed over during the season (for whatever reason).

San Jose held its camp behind closed doors this season and, while I personally don't like being excluded from events like this, I think that it is a good idea. Young players get the chance to work with a team without the scrutiny of the media and the general public. It will be interesting to see whether more teams will implement this for their early summer camp. Because some teams also see the early summer prospect camp as a way to keep fans interested in hockey, it may not be realistic to expect its implementation league-wide, but it is my opinion that more teams should try it.

A couple of other notes about the players chosen for tryouts. Several players attended more than one camp and stuck at the second camp. Adam Perry and Vladimir Nikiforov come to mind.

The next is that certain NHL teams have particular CHL leagues that they prefer choose from to give tryouts. Pittsburgh and Montreal seem to draw mostly from the Q, while St. Louis chose mostly from the OHL and Tampa Bay from the WHL (which might have been at least partially because the Lightning camp was held in British Columbia). It is interesting to note that outside of the two teams that chose almost exclusively QMJHL players for tryouts, very few unsigned players from the Q (a total of nine) were attending camps. The total number of QMJHL players given tryouts (including Ryan who went twice) was 14. This was also the case for the WHL, who sent 14. This was not true for the OHL, which sent 26 (Perry went twice). Whether this is a pattern or not will have to be looked at over several years' time, but, at least for this year, players in the OHL had a greater chance of being selected for tryouts than those of the other two leagues.

Below is the list of players, NHL teams, their CHL teams, and birth years.

Anaheim--held their conditioning camp from June 27-July 3.
No CHL tryouts at the camp (although there were some NCAA tryouts).

Atlanta--Prospect Development Camp held July 8-13.
Spencer Anderson (Tryout)--1988 (OHL) Kitchener Rangers
Patrick Cusack (Tryout)--1989 (QMJHL) Lewiston MAINEiacs
Ryan Daniels (Tryout)--1988 (OHL) Saginaw Spirit

Boston--Development Camp July 8-12.
No CHL tryouts

Buffalo--Development Camp June 25-July 1
No CHL tryouts.

Calgary--Development Camp July 21-July 26
Chris Bruton (Tryout)--1987 (WHL) Spokane Chiefs
Ryan Wilson (Tryout)--1987 (OHL) Sarnia Sting

Carolina--Development Camp held from July 9 thru July 12.
No CHL tryouts

Chicago--Prospect Camp July 8-11
Patrick Asselin (Tryout)--1987 (OHL) Oshawa Generals
Judd Blackwater (Tryout)--1987 (WHL) Spokane Chiefs
Adam Perry (Tryout)--1987 (OHL) Belleville Bulls
Joe Pleckaitis(Tryout)--1989 (OHL) Saginaw Spirit
Kruise Reddick (Tryout)--1990 (WHL) Tri-City Americans
Andrew Wilkins (Tryout)--1988 (OHL) London/Owen Sound
Kyle Stanley (Tryout)--1988 (QMJHL) Acadie-Bathurst Titan
Sebastien Dahm (Tryout)--1987 (OHL) Niagara Ice Dogs

Colorado--Development Camp--July 11-16
No CHL Tryouts

Columbus--Development Camp--July 7-11
Devon Didiomete (Tryout)--1988 (OHL) Sarnia Sting
John Hughes (Tryout)--1988 (OHL) Brampton Battalion
Ryan Mior (Tryout)--1987 (QMJHL) Gatineau Olympiques

Dallas--Development Camp--July 7-11
No CHL tryouts

Detroit--None

Edmonton--Development Camp--June 1-8
Garet Hunt (Tryout)--1987 (WHL) Vancouver Giants

Florida--None

Los Angeles--Development Camp--July 8-18
Michael D'Orazio (Tryout)--1990 (OHL) Owen Sound Attack

Minnesota--Development Camp July 8-14
Justin Hodgman (Tryout)--1988 (OHL) Erie Otters
Cody St. Jacques (Tryout)--1990 (OHL) Guelph/Sault Ste. Marie
Steven Stanford (Tryout)--1990 (WHL) Prince Albert Raiders

Montreal--Development Camp July 7-12
Robert Mayer (Tryout)--1989 (QMJHL) Saint John Sea Dogs
Alexandre Monahan (Tryout)--1988 (QMJHL) Val d'Or Foreurs

Nashville--Development Camp June 26-29
No CHL tryouts

New Jersey--Development Camp July 21-25
Brad Snetsinger (Tryout)--1987 (OHL) Windsor
Michael Swift (Tryout)--1987 (OHL) Niagara

NY Islanders--Prospects Camp July 14-18
Andrew Engelage (Tryout)--1988 (OHL) Windsor Spitfires
Maxime Gratchev (Tryout)--1988 (QMJHL) Rimouski/Lewiston
Vladimir Nikiforov (tryout)--1987 (OHL) Sarnia Sting

NY Rangers--Conditioning Camp June 23-28
Jean-Christophe Blanchard (Tryout)--1987 (QMJHL) Rimouski Oceanic
Chad Greenan (Tryout)--1987 (WHL) Kootenay Ice
Radek Meidl (Tryout)--1988 (WHL) Tri-City Americans
Nick Pageau (Tryout)--1988 (OHL) Belleville Bulls
Andrew Perugini (Tryout)--1988 (OHL) Sarnia Sting
Joey Ryan (Tryout)--1987 (QMJHL) Gatineau Olympiques
Justin Wallingford (Tryout)--1987 (OHL) Kingston Fronts

Ottawa--Development Camp June 23-29
Kevin Desfosses (Tryout)--1987 (QMJHL) Quebec Remparts

Philadelphia--Summer Prospects Camp July 20-26
No CHL Tryouts

Phoenix--Prospect Development Camp June 24-28
Adam Perry (Tryout)--1987 (OHL) Belleville Bulls

Pittsburgh--Prospects Camp September 10-15
Jason Legault (Tryout)--1988 (QMJHL) Val d'Or Foreurs
Corey Cowick (Tryout)--1989 (OHL) Oshawa/Ottawa
Joey Haddad (Tryout)--1988 (QMJHL) Cape Breton Screaming Eagles
Cedrick Lalonde-McNichol (Tryout)--1988 (QMJHL) Shawinigan Cataractes

San Jose--Development Camp July 14-18
Roster not released

St. Louis--Development Camp June 24-27
Vladimir Nikiforov (Tryout)--1987 (OHL) Sarnia Sting
Mark Cundari (Tryout)--1990 (OHL) Windsor Spitfires
Tony Dehart (Tryout)--1990 (OHL) London Knights
Joey Underwood (Tryout)--1990 (OHL) Saginaw Spirit

Tampa Bay--Prospect Camp July 28-August 1
Daryl Boyle (Tryout)--1987 (WHL) Brandon Wheat Kings
Brady Leavold (Tryout)--1987 (WHL) Kelowna Rockets
Taylor Procyshen (Tryout)--1988 (WHL) Tri-City Americans
Tyson Barrie (Tryout)--1991 (WHL) Kelowna Rockets
Anthony Grieco (Tryout)--1988 (OHL) Mississauga St. Mike's Majors
Evan Pighin (Tryout)--1988 (WHL) Chilliwack Bruins
Daine Todd (Tryout)--1987 (WHL) Medicine Hat

Toronto--Prospect Camp July 7-11
Greg Scott (Tryout)--1988 (WHL) Seattle Thunderbirds
Steafano Giliati (Tryout)--1987 (QMJHL) Lewiston MAINEiacs

Vancouver--Prospect Training Camp September 12-16
Scottie Howes (Tryout) --1987 (QMJHL) St. John Sea Dogs
Shawn Morton (Tryout)--1990 (QMJHL) Val d'Or Foreurs
Kyle Neuber (Tryout)--1989 (OHL) Mississauga St. Mike's Majors
Jordan Skellett (Tryout)--1989 (OHL) Erie Otters

Washington--Development Camp July 7-12
No CHL tryouts

CHLers in Pre-Season Tournaments

2008-09-03T06:12:00.005-04:00

After crunching numbers yesterday to come up with an analysis of 2005 WHL Draft picks (see posting from yesterday), I thought that I would take a break and give you an idea of what is going on (besides training camps) for some of the better CHL players over the next three weeks.

Some of the rosters have yet to be announced, but it is significant to note how many rookie tournaments that NHL teams have decided to participate in this year. This is a great opportunity for undrafted players to show their stuff without having to compete against older NHL top players. Good luck to all.

The following is the list of pre-season tournaments involving either CHL teams or CHL players that have been invited by NHL teams to participate in the games (I included 1988s and younger in the latter group, if there is any chance that they may return to the CHL this season).

Everett Pre-season Tournament—was held from August 29-31. Six WHL teams participated, including the Chilliwack Bruins, Everett Silvertips, Portland Winterhawks, Seattle Thunderbirds, Spokane Chiefs, Tri-City Americans.

Edmonton Pre-season Tournament—was held from August 30-September 1. Five WHL teams participated, including the Edmonton Oil Kings, Medicine Hat Tigers, Prince George Cougars, Regina Pats, and the Swift Current Broncos.

Still to come are the following tourneys:

Tri-City Pre-season Tournament—September 4 through 7th. Participating are the US WHL teams, including Everett, Portland, Seattle, Spokane, and Tri-City.

Saskatoon Pre-Season Tournament—September 5 through 7th. Participating are Lethbridge, Medicine Hat, Moose Jaw, Prince Albert, Saskatoon, and Swift Current.

Traverse City Rookie Tournament—September 13th through the 17th. Eight NHL teams (Atlanta, Columbus, Dallas, Detroit, Minnesota, New York Rangers, St. Louis, and Tampa Bay) will bring “rookies” to this tourney. CHLers scheduled to appear:

Atlanta: Ryan Daniels, Chris Carrozzi, Zach Bogosian, Angelo Esposito, Danick Paquette, Paul Postma, Patrick Cusack, Carter Bancks, Matt Lyall, Justin Larson, Robert Mignardi

Columbus: Matt Calvert, Devon Didiomete, John Hughes, Jakub Voracek, Steven Delisle, Brent Regner, and Ryan Mior. Stefan Legein is still listed on the Blue Jackets Traverse City roster, but as of now, he is not expected to attend. Don’t blink though, as this story still has legs.

Dallas: Roster not yet released

Detroit: Tom McCollum, Jordan Foreman, Joey Ryan, Bryce Swan, Travis Ehrhardt, Cameron Cepek, Brent Raedeke, Stephen Johnston, Randy Cameron, Zach Torquato, Brian Lashoff, Logan Pyett

Minnesota: Chris Culligan, Eric Doyle, Marco Scandella, Cody Almond, Thomas Knotek, Carson McMillan, Scott Wasden, Justin Falk, Jordan Mistelbacher, Justin Hodgman, Alexandre Neron, Tyler Cuma

Rangers: Antoine LaFleur, Dale Weise, Tyson Dowzak, Michael Del Zotto, Lyon Messier, David Stich, Matt Miropoulis, Chris Doyle, Nick Pageau.

St. Louis: Jake Allen, Alex Pietrangelo, Mark Cundari, Philip McRae, Anthony Peluso, Ian Schultz, Anthony Nigro, James Livingston, Matt McCue, Brett Sonne, Tony Dehart.

Tampa Bay: Torrie Jung, Dustin Tokarski, Kyle Bortis, Michael Ward, Kruise Reddick, Lucas Bloodoff, Dana Tyrell, James Wright, Mitch Fadden, Kyle De Coste, Brett Parnham, Mark Barberio.

Kitchener Rookie Camp—September 13 through 15th. Four NHL teams (Florida, Ottawa, Pittsburgh, and Toronto) will bring “rookies”, including the following CHLers.

Florida: Brady Calla, AJ Jenks, Michal Repik, Michael Caruso, Adam Comrie, Keaton Ellerby, Colby Robak, Corey Syvret.

Ottawa: Roster not yet announced

Pittsburgh: Patrick Killeen, Jason Legault, Jake Muzzin, Corey Cowick, Joey Haddad, Cedric McNicoll, Nathan Moon, Keven Veilleux, Alex Grant.

Toronto: Josh Day, Dale Mitchell, Luke Schenn, Thomas Stajan, Mikhail Stefanovich, Chris Didomenico, Joel Champagne, Eric Wellwood,

Oil Country Rookie Tournament—September 14-16th, in Edmonton and Camrose. Three NHL teams (Calgary, Edmonton, Vancouver) will participate, along with the University of Alberta.

Calgary: Roster not yet released

Edmonton: Roster not released yet

Vancouver: Morgan Clark, Cody Hodgson, Yann Suave, Taylor Ellington, Prab Rai, Charles-Antoine Messier, Shawn Morton, Kyle Neuber, Jordan Skellet, Tyler Matheson

Anaheim-San Jose Rookie Game—September 16th in Las Vegas.

Anaheim: Josh Brittain, Nicolas Deschamps, Maxime Macenauer, Logan MacMillan, Brandon McMillan, Eric O’Dell, Eric Tangradi, John de Gray, Eric Regan, Marco Cousineau

San Jose: Jonathan Bonneau, Logan Couture, Zach Harnden, Jamie McGinn, Matthew Pistilli, Tyler Shattock, Mathieu Tousignant, Jason Demers, Julien Demers, Samuel Groulx, Adam Leblanc-Bourque, Timo Pielmeier, Tyson Sexsmith

Los Angeles Kings/Phoenix Coyotes Rookie Tournament—September 16 and 17 in Phoenix.

Los Angeles—Martin Jones, Justin Azevedo, Bryan Cameron, Andrew Campbell, Michael D’Orazio, Drew Doughty, Matthew Fillier, Thomas Hickey, Bud Holloway, Dwight King, Oscar Moller, Linden Rowat, Wayne Simmonds, Colton Teubert, Geordie Wudrick,

Phoenix—Kurtis Mucha, Colin Long, Tyler Johnson, Mikkel Boedker, Jared Staal, NicK Ross, Mathieu Brodeur, Tim Billingsley, Michael Stone.

Washington Capitols/Philadelphia Flyers Rookie Game—September 18th in Washington, DC.

Rosters have not been set yet.

Atlanta v Nashville Prospects Game—September 22 and 23, in Nashville. Rosters have not been released yet.

Boston v Islanders--September 18th, at Shelton Rinks in Shelton, Connecticut.
Rosters not released yet.

Analysis of 2005 WHL Bantam Draftees--Did they get drafted by NHL teams?

2008-09-02T08:48:00.010-04:00

Last year, CHL News did a review of where the 2005 WHL Draftees wound up two years after their bantam draft selection. The players have now completed their third season since being drafted. How many are playing for WHL teams? How many were drafted in this past summer's NHL entry draft? CHL News looks at the first five round selections of the 20 WHL teams drafting in the 2005 Bantam Draft.

Of the 99 players drafted in rounds one through five, all but 25 (74%) are currently playing in the WHL. All four of Everett's selections, three of Kelowna's, and five of Red Deer's selections are in the WHL as the 2008-09 pre-season is upon us. On the other end, only one of Lethbridge's five and three of Portland's picks are in the league.

Of those 2005 bantam draft selections that are not now playing in the league, only one was selected by an NHL team in the 2008 NHL entry draft. Fourteen other 2005 WHL bantam draft selections were chosen by NHL teams in 2008, their first year of NHL entry draft eligibility. (Due to the disparity in months of age eligibility between the WHL and NHL, seven additional 2005 bantam draft selections were not eligible for the 2008 NHL entry draft, but will be in 2009.)

While 15 out of 92 WHL draftees is quite low for NHL drafting, it is common knowledge that the crop of draft-eligible players out of the Dub this year was not particularly good. So, before you rush to judgment about the efficacy of bantam drafting in a player's 15th year, more study is needed over a longer period of time (CHL News is on the case and will report the results over the coming months).

Additionally, players have a second year of draft-eligibility, so that, in addition to the seven eligible for the first time in 2009, several of the players overlooked in their first NHL draft year could be picked up by NHL teams in 2009.

What can be concluded is that, if a player is chosen in the first five rounds of the WHL bantam draft (meaning that the WHL scouts think he is worthy of selection and he is open to going the major junior route), it would be wise for the player to play WHL hockey, as he has a much better chance of being drafted by an NHL team out of the Dub than if he goes the college route.

Other obvious patterns have emerged, with the most important being--the top players in their 15th year are most likely to be the ones drafted by NHL teams three years later. Of the 15 players that were recently drafted by an NHL teams, eight were first round WHL bantam round selections in 2005. (Of course, that means that 12 first round bantam draft selections were not picked by NHL teams, but given that the WHL drafts a year earlier than the other two leagues, predictability is that much more uncertain.) What is important to note is that a top 14-15 year old has a very good chance of being a top 18 year old.

Another pattern that emerged in this mini-analysis is that just because a team has a lot of picks, does not mean that that WHL team will have the most NHL-drafted players--far from it. Swift Current drafted the most players in the first five rounds (seven players), while Kelowna selected the fewest (three). None of the Broncos' drafted players have been selected by NHL teams, while two of the three Rockets were. Although that certainly had something to do with the quality of the scouting for the teams, many other factors may affect it (including bad or good luck), so its really hard to conclude anything definitively beyond the fact that Kelowna did a better job drafting than Swift Current in that particular year.

This quick analysis does raise issues about the equality of resources of WHL teams to do the scouting of the players prior to the draft. While most teams can predict who will play in the WHL, some teams have a much better record in predicting who will be successful there than other teams do. One has to wonder why certain teams are so much better at this than others. Finding the answer to this is made all the more important when fees paid by the NHL to the WHL teams developing players are figured into the equation.

Can there be a better way to equalize the scouting resources expended by the teams? One would hope so, or this will be a never-ending cycle, with certain teams the league's perennial losers. The problem goes beyond the teams and their fans though--it affects the players that are being developed. Players need to develop in a winning environment, and one hopes that during at least one year of their major junior career they will get that. It is the idea behind the reverse draft ordering, but for many teams (and players), it just has not been working.

Food for thought this Tuesday morning! Let me know what you think.

The raw data is below.

Brandon
Sanford King (first round)--Brandon Wheaties (undrafted in 2008 NHL entry draft)
Jordan Hale (second round)--Brandon Wheaties (undrafted in 2008 NHL entry draft)
Andrew Hayes (third round)--Brandon Wheaties (undrafted in 2008 NHL entry draft)
Colby Robak (fourth round)--Brandon Wheaties (Florida, 2nd round, 2008 NHL Entry Draft)
Lucas Mikkelson (fifth round)--Not in hockey

Calgary
Brendan Rowinski (first round)--Calgary Hitmen (undrafted in 2008 NHL entry draft)
Ian Schultz (second round)--Calgary Hitmen (St. Louis, 3rd round, 2008 NHL entry draft)
Josh Martin (third round)--Alberta Junior Hockey League (undrafted in 2008 NHL entry draft)
Michael Stone (fourth round)--Calgary Hitmen (Phoenix, 3rd round, 2008 NHL entry draft)
Martin Jones (fourth round)--Calgary Hitmen (undrafted in 2008 NHL entry draft)
Roy Farrer (fifth round)--Saskatchewan Junior Hockey League (undrafted in 2008 NHL entry draft)

Everett
Kyle Beach (first round)--Everett Silvertips (Chicago, 1st round, 2008 NHL entry draft)
Matthew Ius (second round)--Everett Silvertips (undrafted in 2008 NHL entry draft)
Matt Strong (third round)--Chilliwack Bruins (undrafted in 2008 NHL entry draft)
Ty Skauge (fourth round)--Everett Silvertips (undrafted in 2008 NHL entry draft)

Kamloops
Tyler Shattock (first round)--Kamloops Blazers (undrafted in 2008 NHL entry draft)
Jordan Rowley (second round)--Kamloops Blazers (undrafted in 2008 NHL entry draft)
Paul Van de Velde (third round)--Everett Silvertips (undrafted in 2008 NHL entry draft)
Dalyn Flette (third round)--Edmonton Oil Kings (undrafted in 2008 NHL entry draft)
Matthew Johnson (third round)--Not in hockey
Matt Chomyc (fourth round)--Not in hockey
Kurt Torbohm (fifth round)--Kamloops Blazers (undrafted in 2008 NHL entry draft)

Kelowna
Tyler Myers (first round)--Kelowna Rockets (Buffalo, 1st round, 2008 NHL entry draft)
Riley McIntosh (second round)--Kelowna Rockets (undrafted in 2008 NHL entry draft)
Brandon McMillan (third round)--Kelowna Rockets (Anaheim, 3rd round, 2008 NHL entry draft)

Kootenay
Jordan Wilkins (first round)--BCHL (undrafted in 2008 NHL entry draft)
Steele Boomer (second round)--Kootenay Ice (undrafted in 2008 NHL entry draft)
Kevin King (third round)--Kootenay Ice (undrafted in 2008 NHL entry draft)
Riley Gillies (fourth round)--not in hockey
Brent Henke (fifth round)--Edmonton Oil Kings (undrafted in 2008 NHL entry draft)

Lethbridge
Travis Bobbee (first round)--Portland Winterhawks (undrafted in 2008 NHL entry draft)
Bo Montgomery (second round)--University of Regina (undrafted in 2008 NHL entry draft)
Taylor Pillar (third round)--Saskatchewan Junior Hockey League (undrafted in 2008 NHL entry draft)
Steven Murray (fourth round)--Alberta Junior Hockey League (undrafted in 2008 NHL entry draft)
Robbie Gunderson (fifth round)--Alberta Junior Hockey League (undrafted in 2008 NHL entry draft)

Medicine Hat
Jordan Hickmott (first round)--Prince Albert Raiders (undrafted in 2008 NHL entry draft)
Patrick Wiercioch (second round)--University of Denver (Ottawa, 2nd round, 2008 NHL entry draft)
Shane Neigum (fourth round)--Edmonton Oil Kings (undrafted in 2008 NHL entry draft)
Kurtis Decker (fifth round)--Edmonton Oil Kings (undrafted in 2008 NHL entry draft)
Nathan Gelina (fifth round)--Not in hockey

Moose Jaw
Neal Prokop (first round)--Moose Jaw Warriors (undrafted in 2008 NHL entry draft)
Chad Suer (second round)--Moose Jaw Warriors (undrafted in 2008 NHL entry draft)
Jason Grecica (third round)--Portland Winterhawks (undrafted in 2008 NHL entry draft)
Brian Sommers (fourth round)--Moose Jaw Warriors (undrafted in 2008 NHL entry draft)
Darcy Sideroff (fifth round)--Not in Hockey

Portland
Thomas Frazee (first round)--Medicine Hat Tigers (undrafted in 2008 NHL entry draft)
Ty Ariss (second round)--Moose Jaw Warriors (undrafted in 2008 NHL entry draft)
Colin Reddin (third round)--Portland Winterhawks (undrafted in 2008 NHL entry draft)
Devon Marshall (fourth round)--KIJHL (undrafted in 2008 NHL entry draft)
Tayler Jordan (fifth round)--Not in hockey

Prince Albert
Jordan Trach (first round)--Prince Albert Raiders (undrafted in 2008 NHL entry draft)
Blaine Tendler (second round)--Prince Albert Raiders (undrafted in 2008 NHL entry draft)
James Dobrowlski (third round)--Prince Albert Raiders (undrafted in 2008 NHL entry draft)
Tony Oak (fourth round)--Saskatchewan Junior Hockey League (undrafted in 2008 NHL entry draft)

Prince George
Dale Hunt (first round)--Prince George Cougars (undrafted in 2008 NHL entry draft)
Matt Belich (second round)--WHL Tryouts (undrafted in 2008 NHL entry draft)
Trevor Bauer (third round)--Prince George Cougars (undrafted in 2008 NHL entry draft)
Brad Anderson (fourth round)--PIJHL (undrafted in 2008 NHL entry draft)

Red Deer
Cass Mappin (first round)--Red Deer Rebels (not eligible for the 2008 NHL entry draft)
Zack Stebener (second round)--Prince Albert Raiders (undrafted in 2008 NHL entry draft)
Joel Kot (fourth round)--Red Deer Rebels (undrafted in 2008 NHL entry draft)
Colin Archer (fifth round)--Red Deer Rebels (undrafted in 2008 NHL entry draft)
Mike Scarborough (fifth round)--Red Deer Rebels (undrafted in 2008 NHL entry draft)

Regina
Colton Teubert (first round)--Regina Pats (Los Angeles, 1st round, 2008 NHL entry draft)
Brayden Metz (second round)--Chilliwack Bruins (undrafted in 2008 NHL entry draft)
Jeff Bosch (third round)--Regina Pats (undrafted in 2008 NHL entry draft)
Dru Cotterill (fourth round)--Not in hockey
Kyle St. Denis (fifth round)--Kelowna Rockets (undrafted in 2008 NHL entry draft)

Saskatoon
Teigan Zahn (first round)--Saskatoon Blades (Chicago, 5th round, 2008 NHL entry draft)
Travis Toomey (second round)--Saskatoon Blades (undrafted in 2008 NHL entry draft)
Gaelan Patterson (third round)--Saskatoon Blades (undrafted in 2008 NHL entry draft)
Jared Friesen (fifth round)--Not in hockey

Seattle
Cody Hanson (first round)--Regina Pats (undrafted in 2008 NHL entry draft)
Jeremy Boyer (second round)--Seattle Thunderbirds (not eligible for 2008 NHL entry draft)
Jacob De Serres (third round)--Seattle Thunderbirds (Philadelphia, 3rd round, 2008 NHL entry draft)
Jarred Prokopetz (fourth round)--Not in hockey
Sena Acolatse (fourth round)--Seattle Thunderbirds (not eligible for 2008 NHL entry draft)

Spokane
Mitch Wahl (first round)--Spokane Chiefs (Calgary, 2nd round, 2008 NHL entry draft)
Mike Reddington (second round)--Spokane Chiefs (undrafted in 2008 NHL entry draft)
Darcy Kuemper (third round)--Spokane Chiefs (undrafted in 2008 NHL entry draft)
Rylan Schwartz (fourth round)--Colorado College (undrafted in 2008 NHL entry draft)
Andrew Maguire (fifth round)--Spokane Chiefs (undrafted in 2008 NHL entry draft)
Evan Renwick (fifth round)--Alberta Junior Hockey League (undrafted in 2008 NHL entry draft)

Swift Current
Geordie Wudrock (first round)--Swift Current Broncos (Los Angeles, 3rd round, 2008 NHL entry draft)
Ian Curtis (second round)--Prince George Cougars (undrafted in 2008 NHL entry draft)
Phillip Gervais (third round)--Edmonton Oil Kings (undrafted in 2008 NHL entry draft)
Eddie Friesen (third round)--MJHLSwift (undrafted in 2008 NHL entry draft)
Jordan Mistelbacher (fourth round)--Everett Silvertips (undrafted in 2008 NHL entry draft)
Darren Tarasoff (fourth round)--KIJHL (undrafted in 2008 NHL entry draft)
Khris Foucault (fifth round)--Kootenay Ice (not eligible for 2008 NHL entry draft)

Tri-City
Eric Mestery (first round)--Tri-City Americans (Washington, 2nd round, 2008 NHL entry draft)
Tyler Schmidt (second round)--Tri-City Americans (undrafted in 2008 NHL entry draft)
Cody Wutzke (fifth round)--Saskatchewan Junior Hockey League (undrafted in 2008 NHL entry draft)
Kyle Birch (fifth round)--Tri-City Americans (undrafted in 2008 NHL entry draft)

Vancouver
James Wright (first round)--Vancouver Giants (Tampa Bay, 4th round, 2008 NHL entry draft)
Lance Bouma (second round)--Vancouver Giants (Calgary, 3rd round, 2008 NHL entry draft)
Nathan Deck (third round)--Prince Albert Raiders (undrafted in 2008 NHL entry draft)
Mike Piluso (fourth round)--Vancouver Giants (not eligible for 2008 NHL entry draft)
Warren Lees (fifth round)--Not in hockey

Labour Day at CHL News

2008-09-01T19:03:00.007-04:00

With so much to catch up with, training camps are well underway, and some have even ended. I will try to give an update on each team over the next few days. Let's start with the WHL Brandon Wheat Kings.

Brandon--This summer, the team's biggest signing was Aaron Lewadniuk. Expected to follow in his brother's footsteps and play for Bemidji State, Lewadniuk changed his mind at the last minute and signed with the Wheaties. Originally drafted by Portland, in June 2007, after Lewadniuk gave a commitment to Bemidji, the Winter Hawks traded his rights to Brandon. Lewadniuk has already had a big impact, particularly during Sunday's intrasquad game. He recorded one goal and two assists during the game, and had the overtime shootout game winner.

First round 2008 draft selection, Klarc Wilson, gave the Wheaties a commitment in early August, but as was expected, he was "trimmed from the roster" late on Sunday. Also trimmed were five players in their 16th year: defencemen Dallas Ehrhardt (4th round 2007), who played for the Camrose Blazers (AMHL) last season and was somewhat of a surprise as a cut, as well as Kyle Krzyaniak (Yellowhead Midget AAA (MMH); centres Brendan Walker (12th round 2007), who played very well for the Eastman Midget AAA (MMH) last season, and Wheaton King (6th round 2007) who was with Brandon Midget AAA of the same league last season; winger Lee Stykel (9th round 2007) of the Moose Jaw Warriors (SMHL) was also sent home. Other 2008 bantam draft selections trimmed were: Liam Liston, Jordan Fransoo, and Jason Swyripa.

2007 first round selection, Brandon Regier has taken a year off from hockey. Lots of speculation here that he is quitting permanently, but he is only 16 years old, and only time will tell.

The Wheaties have completed their training camp and now have a roster of 31, including five overagers. Brandon's first pre-season game will be played against Regina on Friday, the 5th of September.

This Summer's NHL Signings of CHL Players

2008-08-31T04:45:00.000-04:00

Beyond their required signings of CHL prospects selected in the 2006 entry draft, the NHL teams have been very active this summer signing CHL players. As expected, most of the recent signees were drafted last year; however, six were selected this past June, and two others were signed as free agents. Also not surprisingly, more than half of those signed "early," were first round selections.

The following is a current list of the players signed since June, their CHL teams, and the NHL clubs that have signed them.

Logan McMillan (Halifax) Anaheim Ducks (1st round 2007)
Angelo Esposito (Quebec/Montreal) Atlanta Thrashers (1st round 2007--Pittsburgh)
Drayson Bowman (Spokane) Carolina Hurricanes (3rd round 2007)
Akim Aliu (London) Chicago Blackhawks (2nd round 2007)
Nigel Williams (Saginaw/Belleville) Colorado Avalanche (2nd round 2006)
Jamie Benn (Kelowna) Dallas Stars (5th round 2007)
James Delory (Oshawa) Florida Panthers (free agent, originally drafted by San Jose in 2006)
Drew Doughty (Guelph) Los Angeles Kings (1st round, 2008)
Colten Teubert (Regina) Los Angeles Kings (1st round 2008)
Yannick Weber (Kitchener) Montreal Canadiens (3rd round 2007)
Chet Pickard (Tri-City) Nashville Predators (1st round 2008)
Nick Spaling (Kitchener) Nashville Predators (2nd round 2007)
Matt Halischuk (Kitchener) New Jersey Devils (4th round 2007)
Zack Smith (Swift Current) Ottawa Senators (3rd round 2008)
Kevin Marshall (Lewiston/Quebec) Philadelphia Flyers (2nd round 2007)
Mikkel Boedker (Kitchener) Phoenix Coyotes (1st Round 2008)
Tyson Sexsmith (Vancouver) San Jose Sharks (3rd round 2007)
Timo Pielmier (St. John's/Shawinigan) San Jose Sharks (3rd round 2007)
Steve Stamkos (Sarnia) Tampa Bay Lightning (1st round 2008)
Greg Scott (Seattle) Toronto Maple Leafs (free agent)

AHL/ECHL Signings of CHLers

2008-08-28T10:39:00.008-04:00

It's been a long time. After spending more than 6 months analyzing five years of data--more than 1300 CHL draftees--and finding that successful professional former CHLers had definitive qualities that were apparent even before they were drafted by NHL teams (more about this at a later date), I am back to talk about the CHL.

The easiest way to start is to just present some info regarding this summer's signings, and there have been several by the AHL and ECHL. They are listed below.

Name CHL Team AHL/ECHL Team
James McEwan (Kelowna) Phoenix Roadrunners ECHL
David Rutherford (Spokane) Charlotte Checkers ECHL
Peter-James Corsi (Halifax/Drummondville) Charlotte Checkers ECHL
Bobby Davey (Peterborough) Fresno Falcons ECHL
Andrew Fournier (Plymouth) Florida Everblades ECHL
Francis Pare (Chicoutimi) Grand Rapids Griffins AHL
David Skokan (Rimouski) Hartford Wolf Pack AHL
Scott Howes (St. John) Manitoba Moose AHL
Brady Leavold (Kelowna) Norfolk Admirals AHL
Luke Lynes (Brampton) Springfield Falcons AHL
Toby LaFrance (Victoriaville) Springfield Falcons AHL

CHL News Update

2008-01-02T01:15:00.000-05:00

Happy New Year to all!

CHL News has been neglected for the past few months as I am working on a large study of CHL drafting results over a 5 year period. A large analysis of the characteristics and career results of over 1,000 players, it has been extremely time consuming. Look for some of the results to be published here over the coming weeks, as well as a link to where you can find the entire report.

Once that is completed, CHL News will be back with website upgrades and more current analysis.

WHL Early Team Reviews--Brandon Wheat Kings

2007-10-03T07:08:00.000-04:00

The Wheaties were the runaway winners of last season's Eastern Division. However, it was a different story, when the team was beaten by Calgary in the second round of the playoffs. Seven of Brandon's ten top scorers during the 2006-07 season are gone, and the team will have to rely on quite a few young players during the 2007-08 campaign to repeat as division champs. So far, so good. The Wheaties are 3 of 4 out of the gate.

Eighteen year old centre Nathan Green has gotten off to a great start. The second year player did not get into many games last year, but this season, he will be relied upon to make the plays and put points on the board. Also expected to be a go-to guy among second year players is the Czech import, Daniel Bartek. Bartek had a disappointing 2006-07, but looks much better early this season.

There are three rookies that have caught my eye. First, of course, is Brayden Schenn, Brandon's top draft selection in 2006. After having a great season with the Saskatoon Contacts in the SMHL last season, Schenn was very anxious to start his WHL career. And he really looks like he will be a force in the league, both with his playmaking ability and his gritty play. Off to an even faster start, at least in the offensive production side, is 2006 second round selection, Scott Glennie. I can't say enough about this kid's hands. Both are fun to watch, and should be real assets as this franchise moves into the next few years. Also catching my eye is diminutive winger Matt Calvert, who had a fantastic season with the Midget Wheaties last season (and had been undrafted). Whether Calvert can continue to put up numbers at this level is questionable, but he is exciting to watch.

The big, experienced guns on this team are doing exactly what was expected of them thus far. Forward Andrew Clark has continued where he left off, and recent acquisition, Matt Lowry (who came over from Medicine Hat less than a month ago) has started to chip in. Overage captain Daryl Boyle has really been good, both with his younger teammates and producing offensively. With Theran Yeo recovering from knee surgery earlier this week, the team potentially has four overagers and will have to come to a decision about which one to drop shortly (the WHL only allows 3 on the roster). Captain Boyle will be staying, of course, as will Tyler Ditmer. So the team will have to cut or trade either Yeo or Mark Louis, whose functions as big, tough defencemen are somewhat redundant. My guess is that Louis will stay and Yeo will be gone shortly after he returns, but Louis really needs to show his stuff over the next few games. That is assuming that no trade happens over the next week or so. And that is a big assumption.

Brandon is once again a top team in the East. With the addition of the very talented rookies, the loss of the big offensive producers will be lessened, but not completely. Look for a trade to happen soon to upgrade the offensive capabilities of the team. Something has to give with the overagers and it would be a great time to bring in a top forward. Rumours are already swirling around Brandon about who it is that is going to go.

In the end, much of the weight will fall upon netminder Joe Caligiuri, who has thus far been excellent. The question is, can he be consistent for 50 more games. And can rookie goaltender Andrew Hayes play a reasonably solid 10-15 games backing up? Because without a decent performance from Hayes, the Wheaties will not be the 41 game winner the team was last season.

OHL Early Season Review--Barrie Colts

2007-10-01T19:11:00.000-04:00

Last year, you could not talk about the Barrie Colts for 5 seconds without mentioning the 2 words "Bryan" and "Little". According to many, the hopes of the entire team rested upon him. I will have you know that I got into some fierce arguments with other media folk about Barrie's player personnel last season, as I felt that team had some depth that made the Colts playoff chances interesting. Turns out that Barrie had a decent spectrum of players after all; it just had trouble winning games in regulation. And with Sudbury (the Colts' second round opponent), that was fatal. Four straight games (three losses in OT) and it was summer in the city.

Enter 2007-08. The team's top 5 scorers in last year's playoffs are gone, including Little, who will play professionally this season. Looking at the team roster, there are an awful lot of rookies and unproven players, with very few returning impact players. Thus far, the Colts have lost three of their first 4 games, and only managed to pull out Saturday's game against Brampton in the shootout.

Expected to really help the team offensively are overager Vlad Nikiforov and NY Islanders' prospect, Tomas Marcinko. Marcinko just returned last week from the Islanders' training camp and, once he settles in, it is hoped that the 19-year old will double last year's offensive production.

One of the most interesting of the "younger" set is Dan Michalsky. Off to a fast start, Michalsky, a rookie winger, is 19 years old, and a former MVP of the Ontario Junior A Championship. Another player to watch is centre Shawn Frank, an 18-year old who did not get much of chance to make his mark in his rookie season. And then there is Alex Hutchings, the second year centre that the team is looking to for great things this season. Hutchings is a highly talented playmaker, who has a great scoring touch. Not eligible for the NHL entry draft until 2009, Hutchings is already ranked as a top 20 prospect for that year.

And then there is goaltending. Here, hope springs eternal. To me, Andrew Perugini has the makings of an excellent professional goaltender. The problem has been consistency, consistency in stopping the all-important shot. Although Perugini's save percentage was outstanding last season, it's always the stop of the big goal that counts the most, and he was not as great in that. Perugini made one mistake against Oshawa last week and it cost Barrie the game. But Saturday, he was excellent, stopping Brampton's big guns (and they really have some; stay tuned for that review). If he wants to play the professional game at a high level, those inconsistencies will have to be evened out. Second year "backup" netminder is big Michael Hutchinson. He was very good last season and should get a more prolonged look this, his NHL entry draft, year. We all would like to see more of the 6'3", 185 netminder, and hopefully, Coach Williamson will oblige.

The Colts' fate this season will depend on top-notch goaltending. Whether or not the current tandem can give it to this mostly inexperienced team, is an open question.

QMJHL Early Season Review--Acadie-Bathurst Titan

2007-09-30T10:50:00.000-04:00

The 2007-08 regular season games have begun in the Q, and, in fact, September is pretty much in the books. So, which teams have stormed out of the gate? Which are lagging behind? Who are the surprises? What can we expect over time?

Here is the first early season review. The stats here are through September 29.

Acadie-Bathurst Titan--Although the Titan made the playoffs last season, it was not a particularly strong team that limped into the post-season. It was an overtime win that got BAT beyond the first round, and then the team was resoundingly defeated by Cape Breton in the quarterfinals. So, there is no question that improvements were necessary. Gabriel Carle, Maxime Pomerleau and centre Samuel Morneau (who was supposed to be a big part of the future of the franchise), were traded away in the off-season. In those and other trades, the Titan got back defenceman Carl Chamberland, and forwards Tomas Svoboda, Guillaume Mailloux, Charles-Antoine Messier, and the backup netminder Tommy Legault.

Management was looking for a much better team this season, and thus far, this strategy has worked. Svoboda and Messier have done particularly well, and Acadie-Bathurst has won 4 of its first five games, including victories over Moncton and Lewiston. (The team's only loss came against Cape Breton in OT last Sunday.)

Named a Top 10 team in the CHL rankings this past week, in my opinion, the Titan's fast start is at least somewhat deceptive however. The team has played 4 of the five games thus far at home and will continue to have a very favourable lopsided schedule for the next 6 weeks (fifteen of the team's first 20 games are in Bathurst).

There are 6 rookies on the team, including at least 3 (Daniel Tanel and/or Remi Blanchard, Vincent Couture, and Cam Critchlow) who are expected to figure prominently in how well the team does over the course of the season. Those rookies will have to continue to produce and mature over the course of the season for the team to go far in the playoffs.

At least two and maybe three solid scoring lines up front will help continued production over the months and the defence is adequate. What this team will hinge on is the continuing glowing netminding from the combo of Antoine Tardif and Tommy Legault. Tardif is an excellent prospect in this year's NHL entry draft, and seems to have stepped his game up quite a bit since last season. Legeault, who came over from Rimouski for a 5th round selection this past summer, had a disappointing year in 2006-07, but seems to have righted himself thus far. The two goalies have been alternating between the pipes and both have been spectacular thus far. At some point, one will take the lead (expected to be Tardif), but any real let down by the tandem will cause a problem for the team.

Additionally, the Titan will have to stay healthy. Currently, the team has three important players who are injured (Maxime Renaud, Brad Tesink, Spencer Jezegou). Jezegou (who is out with a shoulder injury) is especially important to the long run of the team up to and through the playoffs.

Thus, my assessment is that this is a very good that has been overachieving thus far. The goaltending will have to remain some of the best in the Q for this team to continue its run. And the team will have to stay healthy and continue to win, even on the road. Stay tuned, and when you get a chance , watch a game. The Titan are pretty exciting right now.

Last Week's Pro Signings

2007-08-29T22:03:00.000-04:00

Still working on the updated site and I want to get up to date on the signings first.

ECHL

Igor Gongalsky, LW, Fresno Falcons (OHL, Oshawa Generals)
Louis-Philippe LaChance D, Bakersfield Condors (QMJHL, Rimouski Oceanic)
Travis Fuller, LW, Cincinnati Cyclones (OHL, Mississauga Ice Dogs)

AHL

Tyler Donati, RW, Binghamton Senators (OHL, Belleville Bulls)

Saturday at CHL News

2007-08-18T21:21:00.000-04:00

I have been working on getting the site ready for the 2007-08 season, so I have fallen behind in the news.

First, the signings over the last 2 weeks.

ECHL Contracts:

Julien Brouillette, D, Columbia Inferno (QMJHL, Chicoutimi Sagueneens)
Nicolas Bachand, RW, Johnstown Chiefs (QMJHL, St. John's Fog Devils)
Jeremy Schenderling, C, Augusta Lynx (WHL, Swift Current Broncos)

AHL Contract:

David Meckler, C, Manchester Monarchs (one-year deal) (OHL, London Knights)

NHL entry-level contracts:

Zach Hamill, C, Boston Bruins (1st round, # 8 overall, 2007) (WHL, Everett Silvertips)
Mike Weber, D, Buffalo Sabres (2nd round, # 57 overall, 2006) (OHL, Barrie Colts)

O'Brien to Join T-Birds

2007-08-13T17:24:00.000-04:00

Jim O'Brien, Ottawa's first round 2007 selection (29th overall) in this summer's entry draft, has signed an entry level contract with the Sens and will be joining the WHL Seattle Thunderbirds this season. O'Brien is expected to get much more playing time in the WHL than he got at the U of Minnesota last season.

Trades and Signings

2007-08-03T23:49:00.000-04:00

There were two trades in the Q announced today, when defenseman Brad Ouskun and winger Francis Guérette-Charland were sent packing in exchange for draft picks. Ouskun was sent to the Rouyn-Noranda Huskies and a 5th round pick in the 2008 QMJHL Entry Draft was given to the Moncton Wildcats in return. The 19-year old had a good, but not outstanding, rookie season with the Wildcats, solid in his own end and able to contribute on the power play. It is hoped that he will play a larger role with the Huskies during the upcoming season.

Guérette-Charland was traded from Victoriaville to the Saint John Sea Dogs for a 6th round pick in the 2009 entry draft. The winger is eligible to be an overager during the 2007-08 season.

As for the professional signings announced today, this afternoon, Columbus inked their 2007 first round pick, Jakub Voracek, to an entry-level contract. Voracek, a Czech winger who played for the Halifax Mooseheads during the 2006-07 season, is expected to fight for a roster spot with the Blue Jackets this fall.

Also this afternoon, the Phoenix RoadRunners signed former Medicine Hat Tigers' winger Chris Stevens to an ECHL contract. Stevens had put up some very good numbers in his overage year and was a big contributor to the Tigers in the playoffs this past spring.

NHL Signing/Another Prospect Development Camp

2007-08-02T20:45:00.000-04:00

The Boston Bruins announced today that the team has signed winger Milan Lucic to an entry-level contract. Lucic was the team's second round selection in 2006, and has spent the last 2 seasons as a member of the WHL Vancouver Giants. If Lucic does not stick with Boston after training camp, he will return to Vancouver to play one more WHL season.

Also announced today were the attendees of the Carolina Hurricanes development camp, which will be held from August 14-19. Six CHLers will be participating, including two free agents. Those players are as follows:

Drayson Bowman, C, Spokane Chiefs (3rd round, # 72 overall, 2007)
Justin McRae, C, Saskatoon Blades (4th round, # 102 overall, 2007)
Chris Terry, LW, Plymouth Whalers (5th round, # 132 overall, 2007)
Brett Bellemore, D, Plymouth Whalers (6th round, # 162 overall, 2007)
Stefano Giliati, LW, Lewiston MAINEiacs (tryout)
Jerome Samson, RW, Val-d'Or Foreurs (free agent)

First QMJHL Transaction of August Trading Period

2007-08-02T20:09:00.000-04:00

The first trade of the month was announced in the Q today when overage defenceman Sebastien Bernier was shipped from Drummondville to Gatineau. Bernier was traded for a seventh round 2008 entry draft selection. This trade has been in the works for some time, but was not announced until this morning. If Bernier joins the Olympiques this Fall, it will be the sixth QMJHL team for which he has played.

Thursday's CHL News

2007-08-02T07:54:00.000-04:00

After a mini-vacation, CHL News is back this morning. Let's catch up on the news before we continue the team previews.

In the OHL, yesterday the Niagara Ice Dogs signed their first round 2007 Priority Draft selection, Andrew Agozzino. The diminutive centre was selected 15th overall after the expected Ice Dogs' pick, Riley Sheehan, announced that he had decided to go the college route (which actually may not be the case after all; lucky Erie). Agozzino is a highly skilled playmaker with great hands. A strong skater, with an excellent shot, if he is able to give a consistent effort on every shift, he will be successful at this next level.

On Tuesday, the Owen Sound Attack named Mark Reeds as head coach of the team. Reeds had been the Director of Hockey Operations and Head Coach of the UHL (now IHL) Kalamazoo Wings. A former UHL Coach of the Year, Reeds is a proven winner and is an excellent addition to the Attack staff.

Back on Monday, it was announced that Sudbury Wolves centre Kevin Baker has been invited to attend the Ottawa Senators rookie camp later this month. There is no truth to the rumour that he quit hockey or that he decided not to return to Sudbury. If he returns for an overage season in the OHL, he is expected to be with the Wolves. Two WHLers have also been invited to NHL camps this coming September. Potential Prince Albert Raiders overagers Jeff May and Mike Gauthier will try-out with the Minnesota Wild and Toronto Maple Leafs, respectively.

In WHL news, Keith Seabrook has decided to forgo the rest of his college eligibility and join the Calgary Hitmen. The defenceman is expected to make a major contribution to the Hitmen blueline, and is a big coup for the team. On the other hand, DU's announcement of Seabrook's decision to leave college is the ugliest I have seen in awhile. Denver sounds angry and childish in their article "Seabrook Leaves DU to Begin Professional Career"[our italics]. Starting with the title and then throughout the article, Denver seems to forget that Seabrook is young and it is within the rules for him to change his mind and leave for the WHL. No matter how much was invested in him, or how DU feels he was lured away, it happens. And Denver should have just moved on and wished him well. Instead the team showed sour grapes. They certainly can't think that doing something like this would help their recruiting in the future.

Last week the Kelowna Rockets announced that, effective immediately, the team's former assistant coach, Ryan Huska, has been promoted to head coach. Huska has served under former head coach Jeff Truitt, who last month was named assistant coach of the AHL Springfield Falcons. Former NHL blueliner Jeff Finley will fill Huska's former job as the Rockets' assistant coach.

On Tuesday, the Lethbridge Hurricanes signed their first round 2007 Bantam Draft selection, Alex Therieau, to an education contract. An offensive defenceman, Therieau has a cannon of a shot, and is an excellent skater. On the same day, 2006 bantam draft selection (3rd round, # 51 overall) Alex Pym signed with the Regina Pats. Also a defenceman, Pym can really move the puck and has very good on-ice vision. A third blueliner, Wayne Werbowski, a sixth round 2006 Tri City Americans bantam draft selection signed an education contract this week. Werbowski is strong in his own end and is a good skater; he is expected to make a big contribution along the blueline for the Americans this season.

As far as professional signings go, on Tuesday, the ECHL Bakersfield Condors signed former Brandon Wheat Kings captain Mark Derlago to a professional contract. The winger completed his overage year with the Wheaties this past May.

And free agent winger Victor Oreskovich was signed to an NHL entry level contract by the Colorado Avalanche earlier this week. The 20-year old former Kitchener Ranger had been drafted in 2004 by Colorado but was never signed.

In the Q, the August trading period officially beginning yesterday, many transactions are expected over the next 3 1/2 weeks.

Finally along the line of signings, yesterday the St John's Fog Devils announced that 2007 CHL Import Draft selection Timo Pielmeier informed the Fog Devils that he would be joining the team for the 2007-08 season.

CHLers Going Pro

2007-07-27T23:58:00.000-04:00

Quebec Remparts 20-year old defenceman Andrew Andricopoulos has signed a contract with the ECHL Texas Wildcatters. Andricopulous is solid in his own zone and can be an offensive threat. With nothing left to prove in the Q, this was a good signing for the undrafted blueliner.

It almost a sure thing that the Washington Caps will be signing former Niagara Ice Dogs winger Oskar Osala to an entry-level contract in the next few weeks. Already signed to play in Finland, Osala would rather become an AHLer this coming season. An ELC is on the way to help him do that.

Kane Signed to Entry-Level Contract

2007-07-25T20:20:00.000-04:00

The Chicago Blackhawks signed Pat Kane to an entry-level NHL contract this morning. Kane was very impressive in the recent prospect development camp, and both the team and Kane both have expressed the hope that the young winger will earn a roster spot with the NHL team this fall.

Professional Signings of CHL Players and Other Musings

2007-07-25T08:08:00.000-04:00

Late last week, the Vancouver Canucks signed Juraj Simek, who spent the 2006-07 season with the Brandon Wheaties. The Swiss national was the Canucks 6th round (#167 overall) selection in the 2006 entry draft (and is one of this site's favourite CHL players). Very determined, with lots of skill and hockey smarts, Simek is expected to join the Manitoba Moose this fall.

And on Monday the Philadelphia Flyers signed former first round selection, Claude Giroux. After seeing Giroux in prospect development camp 2 weeks ago, this was a completely expected development. Giroux was without a doubt one of the top 2 or 3 prospects in camp.

Around the OHL, the Belleville Bulls have announced the team captain and alternates for the upcoming season. Three-year Bulls veteran Matt Beleskey will wear the "C" this coming season. The winger was the Anaheim Ducks' 4th round pick (112th overall) in 2006. Shawn Matthias and Geoff Killing. Matthias is a top prospect, whose rights were recently traded from the Detroit Red Wings to the Florida Panthers. After an excellent post-season during 2006-07, Matthias is expected to really turn it on in his upcoming fourth and final OHL season.
Killing, a defenceman who will be in his fifth season with Belleville in 2007-08, is an overager that the team is hoping to showcase. A big tough defencive blueliner, Killing will be looking to parlay a very good performance this season into a professional contract.

News out of London abounds. After the formal signing of Pat Maroon last week, the Knights have now added an assistant coach to replace Todd Bidner, who left earlier this month. Monday the Knights announced that Pat Curcio, formerly the head coach of the Pickering Panthers (OPJHL), will join the team next month. Pickering had already scooped the Knights in this announcement. Late last week, the Junior A team informed the media that Curcio was going to London and that Mark Joslin would take his place. Joslin is also an OHL scout for the Barrie Colts.

In other London news, Dave Meckler has made it clear to the world that he wants to turn pro and not return to the Knights for what would be his final year. The LA Kings' prospect is hoping to join the Manchester Monarchs for the 2007-08 season.

On Monday the Niagara Ice Dogs formally made Mike McCourt an assistant coach. This will be McCourt's first stint with an OHL team, but he was the assistant head coach of Robert Morris University last year, and he is the former owner of the Brockville Braves of the Central Junior A Hockey League.

In the biggest OHL news however, yesterday the Plymouth Whalers announced that assistant GM and assistant coach Todd Watson resigned. The 11-year veteran in Plymouth was just this morning officially named head coach of the Saginaw Spirit. This is an excellent choice in Saginaw, and after the team's rocky several months (years?), it seems that the team may finally be on the right track.

WHL Management Changes Now and on the Horizon

2007-07-22T09:07:00.000-04:00

With most eyes on the British Open this morning, lets just turn back to junior hockey for a few minutes. The latter half of last week was full of WHL news, particularly changes in coaching and management. Here are a bunch of names and teams, and then a comment on the Kamloops Blazers' ownership situation.

The Edmonton Oil Kings announced that the team had hired Rocky Thompson to be an assistant coach during the team's inaugural 2007-08 season. And while the Oil Kings were hiring their new assistant, the Portland Winter Hawks decided to go forward without seven-year Head Coach Mike Williamson. The team is searching for a replacement. Vancouver Giants assistant coach Sean Crowther has also left for some unspecified greener pastures. No replacement has been announced.

The Swift Current Broncos announced Friday that Tim Kehler, former General Manager and Head Coach of the BCHL Trail Smoke Eaters, will become an assistant coach for the Broncos this coming season. He will join Swift Current this next week.

And then there is the Kamloops Blazers news. The team announced Wednesday that the GM and Head Coach Dean Clark, Asst. GM and Asst Coach Shane Zulyniak, Asst Coach Andrew Milne, and Marketing Director Dave Chyzowski had all re-signed to lead the team during the 2007-08 season.

But the Blazers announced an equally or more important development the same afternoon. The Blazers Sports Society, an entity that will determine whether the team should be sold (the Blazers are held in a limited partnership), revealed that it had received another offer to buy the team. In an ongoing saga, the entity "River City Hockey, Inc." has made a second offer in a year, this time for over $6.1 million.

The entity, allegedly led by "partners" Tom Gaglardi, Shane Doan, Jarome Iginla, Mark Recchi, and Darryl Sydor, seeks to change the operations of the team such that it will operate "under a business model rather than a non-profit model." Hmm. If they are looking to operate under a business model, why have they not first of all told us what type of entity the group is? Calling themselves an "Inc." and then saying that the group has "Partners" is itself deceptive, as legally, a corporation can't have partners.

Then take a look at their website at www.rivercityhockey.ca and see if it does not bother you just a little. Yes, it's a sales pitch, but it goes too far. Even the "Your say" section. According to the site, no one has posted any negative remarks about their possible takeover to them. Hard to believe, given the whole situation. Further, while there are many reasons that a non-profit model can be a preferable to a business model for a junior club, the site tries to indicate otherwise. It clearly says in their vision, "[i]t is a simple fact that for-profit management models outperform not-for-profit volunteer models in business -- and both the Kamloops Blazers, the League and junior hockey demand this level of business performance." Never mind that "the Kamloops Blazers, the League and junior hockey" are three things and not two, so the word "both" does not belong preceding them. It is important to remember that we are talking about junior hockey hockey here. Not just any old business. "Not-for-profit" managements have no other priorities than the club and the players. Yes, the idea is to balance the budget and make sure the money is there to perform your stated goal, but the whole idea of a "not-for-profit" CHL team is to put a good product on the ice and to develop young players, nothing else. The out-and-out idea behind "for-profit" entities is to make money. Not to develop players, not to give the fans a good show, but to make money. And if the team does not make money in the market, the need to make money dictates that the team should be moved to a better market. It's certainly a potential conflict, and one faced by very many of the CHL clubs. Some do a better job of balancing the clubs needs, but loyalty to markets, developing young players and making money can often be mutually exclusive.

The "Blazers Society" has called a meeting on August 7th to address the River City Hockey Group's proposal. Lots of money is on the table; let's hope that the Society can find a way to solve the Blazers' problems that doesn't involve selling the club to a group with a "for-profit" model. I am still hoping so, but the hockey gods are not on my side.

Thursday's CHL News

2007-07-19T20:06:00.000-04:00

So now we know why Cory Clouston left the WHL Kootenay Ice yesterday. After 8 seasons behind the bench in the WHL, he now moves up to the next level. Today the Ottawa Senators named him the head coach of the AHL Binghamton Senators. Congrats and best of luck to a guy who really has earned this chance.

In another CHL to AHL coaching move, Mike Stothers, the Owen Sound Attack head coach has moved on to be the head guy behind the bench for the Grand Rapid Griffins, the AHL affiliate of the Detroit Red Wings. New Attack GM Dale Degray announced that the search is on for a replacement.

Several signings have occurred in the last 24 hours. First, the Dallas Stars signed Ivan Vishnevskiy, the team's first round selection in 2006, to an entry level contract. Vishnevskiy, a defenceman who just completed his second season as a member of the Rouyn-Noranda Huskies, is is expected to return to the Q for the 2007-08 season.

The Phoenix Coyotes signed free agent David Schlemko, the former WHL Medicine Hat Tigers' 20-year old defenceman. The offensive blueliner had an excellent final year of junior eligibility and is expected to begin the 2007-08 season in San Antonio.

Finally, this afternoon, the San Jose Sharks signed Logan Couture, the ninth overall selection in last month's draft. Despite the signing, the centre is expected to return to the Ottawa 67s this Fall.

Wednesday's CHL News

2007-07-18T09:49:00.000-04:00

In the OHL, the biggest announcement yesterday was the re-signing of Sudbury Head Coach Mike Foligno. After all sorts of speculation, it was announced that Foligno signed a "multi-year" agreement. With his youngest son one of the team's newest draftees, I am not at all surprised that this occurred. Foligno would like to coach in the NHL and was hoping that the offers that came his way after the Wolves playoff run last season would include something at that level, but they did not. And given the choice of a lower professional league and coming back to Sudbury to coach another son, he chose the Wolves. For now. We shall see how this plays out over the course of this season and next.

In less earth shattering news, it was announced yesterday that two OHLers will be playing for the University of Carleton next season. Andrew Gibbons, the overage winger who was a member of the Belleville Bulls for the last 2 seasons, and Andy Self, the 20-year old who split the 2006-07 season between Belleville and Sudbury, will both be joining the Carleton hockey team in its inaugural non-exhibition season this Fall.

Pat Maroon also finally inked an educational contract with the London Knights. After talking to Maroon last week, there was no doubt in my mind that this was going to happen. As I previously said, this was the right choice for him and will benefit London, although probably not as much as it will help develop the big winger.

Signings and non-signings have occupied all followers of the Greyhounds in the Soo the past few days. First the non-signing. Jordan Mayer, the Hounds' first round selection in June's Priority Draft has decided not to join the OHL team this season. According to all reports, the Mayer family decided that the Soo was too far from home for the young centre, and have decided that he will play tier 2 hockey for the time being. One has to believe that, despite the team's official announcement, the team is very disappointed that Mayer has changed his mind about becoming an OHLer. But frankly, it is not that surprising. It was expected pre-draft that the Kingston Fronts would select Mayer 9th overall. When the Fronts took Ethan Werek instead, and Guelph was already committed to choosing Peter Holland, that set up either Sarnia or Sault Ste. Marie as possible Mayer draftors. Neither was as good a possibility distance-wise for him. Belleville would have been optimal at that point, but by the time the Bulls got to their selection, Mayer was gone. So the question is, who in the Greyhounds organization failed to do his homework, to really understand what the situation was with the player? Losing a first round pick (even temporarily, although I think the Hounds will have to eventually trade his rights) for these reasons is inexcusable. Unless of course the family did not tell the truth when interviewed by the team. Expect the whole story to come out over time. I am sure the Hounds do not want to reveal it now in the hopes that Mayer will eventually show and all will be forgiven.

As for the Greyhounds signees, third round 2007 selections Michael Fine and Bryce O'Hagan both signed educational contracts over the past week or so. The announcements were timed so that they would mute the non-signing talked about above.

In the WHL, the big news is that long-time Kootenay Ice Head Coach Cory Clouston resigned his position yesterday. This was not requested by the team as Clouston was WHL Coach of the Year for the 2006-07 season and has done an excellent job over the last eight seasons with the WHL team. Expect further annoucements of where Clouston will wind up shortly.

As far as national and provincial teams go, this past week saw two teams and cut-down lists announced. First in the US, the U-18 team that will play in the Czech Republic in August includes four CHLers. Defenceman Tyler Myers of the Kelowna Rockets, Plymouth Whalers winger AJ Jenks, Portland Winter Hawks centre Tristan King, and London Knights centre Phil McRae will all participate.

The U-18 selection camp for the team that will represent Canada in the Czech Republic will be held in Calgary from August 4-9th.

Last week, the Hockey Development Centre of Ontario published its short list of 35 players that are still being considered for U-17 Team Ontario. While none of the players selected have appeared in OHL uniforms yet, first round 2007 OHL Priority draftees include: Andrew Agozzino, Casey Cizikas, Matt Duchene, Taylor Hall, Zach Kassian, Joey Hishon, Peter Holand, Colton Kennedy, Michael Latta, Daniel Maggio, Jordan Mayer, Ryan O'Reilly, Tyler Randall, Justin Shugg, Ethan Werek, and Michael Zador.

Tuesday at CHL News

2007-07-17T15:50:00.000-04:00

No entries since Friday night, but articles have been written, so its back to the CHL.

First in signing news, yesterday, Kitchener Rangers overage centre Peter Tsimikalis signed an AHL contract with the Toronto Marlies. After being an invitee to the Colorado Avalanche training camp last fall, Tsimikalis recorded 56 points (19 G, 37 A) in 37 regular season games during 2006-07, with 14 PIM and a +20 rating.

Dylan Yeo signed an AHL contract today with the Manitoba Moose. The 21-year-old defenceman just completed his overage year with the Calgary Hitmen.

In NHL contract signing news, yesterday the Florida Panthers inked their second round 2007 entry draft prospect, Michal Repik, to an entry-level contract. The Vancouver Giants winger had an excellent sophomore WHL year in 2006-07, with just under a point a game in the regular season and 33 points in 27 games in the playoffs and Memorial Cup.

Another NHL entry-level contract was signed by a 2007 entry draft selection today. Thomas Hickey, who was selected 4th overall by the Los Angeles Kings, was inked this afternoon. The talented offensive defenceman had 50 points in 68 regular season games and will return to the Seattle Thunderbirds this fall.

In prospect camp news, the Minnesota Wild announced today that their prospect development camp will begin on July 24th and run for 7 days. CHL players that have been invited to attend include:

Colton Gillies, C, Saskatoon Blades (1st round, # 16 overall, 2007)
Justin Falk, D, Spokane Chiefs (4th round, #110 overall, 2007)
Cody Almond, C, Kelowna Rockets (5th round, #140 overall, 2007)
Carson McMillan, RW, Calgary Hitmen (7th round, #200 overall, 2007)
James Sheppard, C, Cape Breton Screaming Eagles (1st round, # 9 overall, 2006)
Ondrej Fiala, LW, Everett Silvertips (2nd round, # 40 overall, 2006)
Cal Clutterbuck, RW, Oshawa Generals (3rd round, # 72 overall, 2006)
Matt Kassian, RW, Kamloops Blazers (2nd round, # 57 overall, 2005)
Morten Madsen, LW, Victoriaville Tigres (4th round, # 122 overall, 2005)
Ryan Graham, LW, St. John's Fog Devils (tryout)
Moises Gutierrez, RW, Everett Silvertips (tryout) (drafted by PIT in 2004, unsigned)
Jeff May, D, Prince Albert Raiders (tryout) (drafted by DET in 2005, unsigned)
Maxim Noreau, D, Victoriaville Tigres (tryout)

Notes from the Philadelphia Flyers Development Camp Scrimmage

2007-07-13T19:47:00.000-04:00

Twelve CHL players attended the Flyers development camp this week, working out on and off the ice each day. This morning's scrimmage, three 20-minute periods, was the culmination of the week's activities. Several players were not on the ice this morning, most notably Steve Downie. As I was at the scrimmage taking notes on all the Flyers' prospects (for an article for another media outlet), I did not focus on just CHLers. Therefore, I only have remarks on seven CHL players that participated in today's game.

Claude Giroux (Gatineau Olympiques)-Very skilled with the puck. One of the fastest players on the ice. Highly creative with and without the puck.

Pat Maroon (London Knights)--Maroon made some very impressive plays today. He showed excellent puck control, and on two occasions weaved in and out of traffic with the puck with ease. However, at other times, he seemed not to make the best decisions with and without the puck. Some balance issues exist, which along with his skating will need to be worked on, but overall a good performance.

Mario Kempe (St. John's Fog Devils)--Great work ethic and good decision-making and anticipation on the ice. Excellent puck pursuit. Lost an edge and ran into goal posting the third period, may have injured his leg or knee, but very gritty player; one of the more impressive younger players.

David Laliberte (PEI Rocket)--Very strong on the puck, good protection and decent grit. Excellent effort today.

Garrett Klotz (Saskatoon Blades)--Big and aggressive; good protection of the puck.

Jeremy Duchesne (Halifax Mooseheads)--Looked very good in goal. Comes out to challenge the shooter well. Stays square. Very good anticipation, but does need some work on rebounds.

Dylan Quaile (Rouyn-Noranda Huskies)--Tryout player who did not have his best day. Bad giveaway in own zone led to opposition scoring chance. He also had open shot from the blueline and waited too long to take it. Just a step too slow both in his shots and his skating.

Calgary Flames Development Camp Announced/NHL & AHL Entry Level Contracts

2007-07-13T17:02:00.000-04:00

The Flames announced that their development camp will run from July 16-21, and will take place at the Don Hartman Northeast Sportsplex. All on-ice sessions are open to the public, and will run from approximately 9 am through 3 pm. The CHLers that will be taking part are:

John Negrin, D, Kootenay Ice (3rd round, # 70 overall, 2007)
Keith Aulie, D Brandon Wheat Kings (4th round, # 116 overall, 2007)
Mike Reneaud, C, Windsor Spitfires (5th round , # 143 overall, 2007)
Leland Irving, G, Everett Silvertips (1st round, # 26 overall, 2006)
John Armstrong, C, Peterborough Petes (3rd round, # 87 overall, 2006)
Hugo Carpentier, C, Rouyn-Noranda Huskies (4th round, # 118 overall, 2006)
Juuso Puustinen, RW, Kamloops Blazers (5th round, # 149 overall, 2006)
Devin Didiomete, LW, Sarnia Sting (7th round, # 187 overall, 2006)
Matt Pelech, D, Belleville Bulls (1st round, # 26 overall, 2005)
Gordon Baldwin, D, Medicine Hat Tigers (3rd round, # 69, 2005)
Dan Ryder, C, Plymouth Whalers (3rd round, # 74 overall, 2005)
JD Watt, RW, Vancouver Giants (4th round, #111 overall, 2005)
Kevin Lalande, G, Belleville Bulls (5th round, # 128 overall, 2005)
Matt Keetley, G, Medicine Hat Tigers (5th round, # 158 overall, 2005)
Brett Sutter, C, Red Deer Rebels (6th round, # 179 overall, 2005)
Brad Cole, D, Saskatoon Blades (signed free agent)

In AHL and NHL entry-level contract news, yesterday it was announced that the Phoenix Coyotes signed their first round 2006 selection, Peter Mueller. Selected eighth overall in last year's draft, Mueller had a very offensively productive season with the Everett Silvertips. If Mueller does not make the Coyotes roster out of camp, he will be returning to the WHL, however, he has a good shot, so Everett may have seen the last of their star centre.

Thomas Beauregard, Acadie-Bathurst Titan's undrafted winger will play with the AHL Hamilton Bulldogs this season. A recent invitee to the Montreal Canadiens development camp, Beauregard was immediately thereafter signed to an AHL contract.

Sutter Takes Job With Devils

2007-07-13T15:43:00.001-04:00

As expected, Bent Sutter, who resigned his active management and coaching positions with the WHL Red Deer Rebels yesterday, will take the reins as head coach of the NHL's New Jersey Devils. TSN calls it "one of the NHL's least secure jobs," and that is bing kind. New Jersey is hurting after their free agent losses, so Sutter's start with the Devils will be a baptism by fire (if you will pardon the expression). No word yet as to what will happen to the coaching of the Canadian U-20 team.

Four More NHL Development Camp Roster Lists

2007-07-13T09:00:00.000-04:00

Before I run off to this morning's Philadelphia Flyers' scrimmage, CHL News has recieved the list of CHLers in four NHL prospect development camps currently taking place. The players attending the camps held by the Anaheim Ducks, Colorado Avalanche, Los Angeles Kings, and the Washinigton Caps appear below. Two other teams, the San Jose Sharks and the Vancouver Canucks, held camps over the last week, but full rosters were not released. I am aware that the Sharks' camp included CHL stars Devin Setoguchi, Ty Wishart and Logan Couture.

Two other clubs, the Florida Panthers and the Edmonton Oilers, held development camps prior to last month's NHL draft.

Here is the current list of the 4 teams mentioned above.

Anaheim Ducks
Logan MacMillan, C, Halifax Mooseheads (1st round, # 19 overall, 2007)
Eric Tangradi, LW, Belleville Bulls (2nd round, # 42 overall, 2007)
Maxime Macenauer, C, Rouyn-Noranda Huskies (3rd round, # 63 overall, 2007)
Brett Morrison, C, PEI Rocket (5th round #151 overall, 2007)
Bryce Swan, RW, Halifax Mooseheads (2nd round, # 38 overall, 2006)
Matt Beleskey, LW, Belleville Bulls (4th round, #112 overall, 2006)
John Degray, D, Brampton Battalion (3rd round, # 83 overall, 2006)
Bobby Ryan, LW, Owen Sound Attack (1st round, #2 overall, 2005)
Brendan Mikkelson, D, Vancouver Giants (2nd round, # 31 overall, 2005)
Jason Bailey, RW, Ottawa 67s (3rd round, #63 overall, 2005)
Bobby Bolt, LW, Kingston Fronts (5th round, #127 overall, 2005)
Jean-Philippe Levasseur, G, Rouyn-Noranda Huskies (7th round, #197 overall, 2005)
Matt Auffrey, RW, Kingston Fronts (6th round, #172 overall, 2004)
Brett Festerling, D, Vancouver Giants (free agent signing)

Colorado Avalanche
Camp dates: July 7-13

Chris Stewart, RW, Kingston Fronts (1st round, # 18 overall, 2006)
Nigel Williams, D, Saginaw Spirit (2nd round, # 51 overall, 2006)
Codey Burki, C, Brandon Wheat Kings (2nd round, #59 overall, 2006)
Kevin Montgomery, D, London Knights (4th round, # 110 overall, 2006)
Raymond Macias, D, Kamloops Blazers (4th round, #124 overall, 2005)
Jason Fransoo, D, Everett Silvertips (tryout)

Los Angeles Kings
Camp dates: July 8-14

Thomas Hickey, D, Seattle Thunderbirds (1st round, # 4 overall, 2007)
Linden Rowat, G, Regina Pats (5th round, #127 overall, 2007)
Jonathan Bernier, G, Lewiston MAINEiacs (1st round, # 11 overall, 2006)
Trevor Lewis, C, Owen Sound Attack (1st round, # 17 overall, 2006)
Joe Ryan, D, Quebec Remparts (2nd round, # 48 overall, 2006)
David Meckler, C, London Knights (5th round, #134 overall, 2006)

Washington Capitals
Camp dates: July 11-14

Karl Alzner, D, Calgary Hitmen (1st round, # 5 overall, 2007)
Josh Godfrey, D, Soo Greyhounds (2nd round # 34 overall, 2007)
Brett Leffler, RW, Regina Pats, (5th round, # 125 overall, 2007)
Justn Taylor, C, London Knights (6th round, # 180 overall, 2007)
Michal Neuvirth, G, Plymouth Whalers (2nd round, # 34 overall, 2006)
Francois Bouchard, RW, Baie-Comeau Drakkar (2nd round, # 35 overall, 2006)
Oskar Osala, LW, Niagara Ice Dogs (4th round, # 97 overall, 2006)
Luke Lynes, C, Brampton Battalion (4th round, # 122 overall, 2006)
Maxime Lacroix, LW, Quebec Remparts (5th round, # 127 overall, 2006)
Mathieu Perreault, C, Acadie-Bathurst Titan (6th round, # 177 overall, 2006)
Patrick McNeill, D, Saginaw Spirit (4th round, #118 overall, 2005)

Brent Sutter Steps Down in Red Deer

2007-07-12T17:58:00.000-04:00

This afternoon the Red Deer Rebels held a news conference and as expected announced that Brett Sutter will no longer play an active role in the every day hockey operations of the club. He has resigned his positions as Governor/General Manager/Head Coach effective immediately. Brian Sutter was named head coach, Jesse Wallin (the team's former assistant coach) is associate coach, and Jerry Van Someren was named Governor/Vice President of Business Operations. Randy Peterson will run the Rebels' Hockey Operations and today was named Vice President of that function. Dale McMullin, who has been a member of Red Deer's scouting staff, has been promoted to Senior Scout. The team also named Ralph Schmidt as a new addition to the scouting staff.

As for Brent Sutter, TSN and Rogers have him going to New Jersey to coach the Devils, but no confirmation of that today.

Wednesday's CHL News

2007-07-11T21:37:00.000-04:00

In the OHL, today the Barrie Colts signed winger Kyle Clifford, their second round pick in the 2007 Priority draft. Clifford is an excellent body checker who was one of the top hitters in this year's draft. A fast skater, who is has leadership potential, he should also be able to put up some e cent numbers over the next 2-3 years.

Signed yesterday was Sudbury Wolves defenceman Daniel Maggio. Selected seventh overall in this year's priority draft, Maggio will give the Wolves depleted blueline a great lift. A very good decisionmaker with an excellent shot, Maggio will attempt to fill some of the big shoes of Marc Staal.

The WHL teams made some coaching changes over the last couple of days. In Brandon, the Wheaties added former player Darren Ritchie to assist behind the bench for the 2007-08 season. This past season Ritchie was an assistant coach for the Brandon AAA Wheat Kings. The Prince Albert Raiders also announced a coaching addition. Bruno Campese brought his assistant in Penticton over to Prince Albert to be his assistant with the WHL team. This change will not leave room for Kris Knoblauch, who will be moving on. Also moving on will be Kootenay Ice Assistant Coach Brad Lauer, who resigned yesterday, has been with the WHL team for five seasons.

Prince Albert also announced the signing of 2007 first round Bantam Draft selection, Ryan Aasman. A very well rounded defenceman, Aasman has good vision, excellent speed and great hockey sense. He can quarterback the power play and is very good in his own end. Although only able to play in 5 regular season games during 2007-08, Aasman is a great addition to the Raiders' roster.

In our continuing coverage of NHL Development Camps, last night, the Dallas Stars announced the roster of players expected to attend camp, which will run from July 23-29.
The CHL players that are expected to attend include:

Colton Sceviour, C, Portland Winter Hawks (4th round, # 112 overall, 2007)
Ondrej Roman, C, Spokane Chiefs (5th round, # 137 overall, 2007)
Michael Neal, LW, Belleville Bulls (5th round, #149 overall, 2007)
Luke Gazdic, LW, Erie Otters (6th round, #172 overall, 2007)
Ivan Vishnievskiy, D, Rouyn-Noranda Huskies (1st round, # 27 overall, 2006)
Aaron Snow, LW, Windsor Spitfires (3rd round, #90 overall, 2006)
James Neal, LW, Plymouth Whalers (2nd round, #33 overall, 2005)
Richard Clune, LW, Barrie Colts (3rd round, # 71 overall, 2005)
Aaron Gagnon, C, Seattle Thunderbirds (free agent signee)
Justin Soryal, LW, Peterborough Petes (tryout)
Eric Doyle, D, Swift Current Broncos (tryout)
Keven Dupont, D, Rimouski Oceanic (tryout)
David Stich, D, St. John Sea Dogs (tryout)
John-Christophe Blanchard, G, Victoriaville Tigres (tryout)

Saginaw Spirit Name GM--Redux

2007-07-10T13:33:00.000-04:00

The Saginaw Spirit named their second General Manager in as many weeks today. Apparently former goaltender Don Edwards will actually take the helm this time. Edwards has acted as goaltending coach in the NHL and as GM and head coach of the OHA Oakville Blades. The Blades had announced on April 24, 2007 that Edwards "was no longer associated with the Oakville Blades in any capacity" as of that date. The press release from the OHA team went on to state, "Mr Edwards will be pursuing other opportunities that exist for him in the hockey world." Guess that means the Spirit. There is a story behind this, and frankly, I don't know it yet. But I am sure over the coming days, we will all find out more.

A Steamy Monday at CHL News

2007-07-09T21:00:00.000-04:00

It is a very warm night here at CHL News, and both my brain and fingers have slowed down considerably with the more than 36 degree heat (about 93 for those in Fahrenheit land).

As I spent most of yesterday attending the Phila Flyers prospect development camp, there were no blog entries, but there was news, as Pat Maroon announced to me that on Friday, he decided to forgo a college education and play for the London Knights. While it is certainly Ferris' State's loss, it is without question the best move for the big forward. I will be back in camp on Friday for the scrimmage there, and I will give you a full report by Saturday morning.

Now back to the news (drip, drip, wipe, wipe).

First in NHL Prospects Camps. The Toronto Maple Leafs announced their development camp attendees over the weekend, Very few CHL members are in camp, which began today.

Camp Dates: July 9-14th

Dale Mitchell, RW, Oshawa Generals (3rd round, #74 overall, 2007)
Chris DiDomenico, C, Saint John Sea Dogs (6th round, #164 overall, 2007)
Jiri Tlusty, LW, Soo Greyhounds (1st round, #13 overall, 2006)
James Reimer, G, Red Deer Rebels (4th round, #99 overall, 2006)
Phil Oreskovic, D, Owen Sound Attack (3rd round, #82 overall, 2005)
Brent Aubin, RW, Quebec Remparts (free agent NHL contract)

In today's WHL news, there are two trades to report. The Lethbridge Hurricanes obtained big left winger Chris Inglis from the Tri-City Americans in exchange for defenceman Colin Frederickson. Inglis had 8 points in 56 regular season games for Tri-City last season. Frederickson (a 2005 9th round bantam draft selection) spent most of last season as a member of the Victoria Cougars of the VIJHL (Junior B). In the second trade of the day, Red Deer traded defenceman Pat Kozyra to Spokane for a sixth round pick in the 2008 Bantam Draft. Kozyra, 18 years old, had 5 points in 55 WHL games last season, along with 24 PIM, and a +2 rating.

The Americans also announced the signing of 16-year old centre Brendan Shinnimin today. A little small at 5'7", 150, Shinnimin is expected to compete for a WHL roster spot this fall. This after securing a commitment from winger Dan Mulhausen late last week.

Late last week, the Acadie-Bathurst Titan announced the hiring of a new head coach to replace John Chabot, who left to join Ted Nolan on Long Island. The new head man behind the bench will be Denis Francoeur. Francoeur was with the Shawinigan Cataractes for most of the ten years prior to the end of the 2005-06 season.

More NHL Development Camps Announced

2007-07-06T20:08:00.000-04:00

Two more teams announced development camp rosters today. The Buffalo Sabres (who frankly probably had other things on their minds the past few days) began their camp today (it runs through the 12th).

CHL attendees include only draftees:

TJ Brennan, D, St. John's Fog Devils (2nd round, #31 overall, 2007)
Drew Schiestel, D, Niagara Ice Dogs (2nd round, #59 overall, 2007)
Jean-Simon Allard, C, St. John's Fog Devils (5th round #147 overall, 2007)
Paul Byron, C, Gatineau Olympiques (6th round, #179 overall, 2007)
Mike Weber, D, Barrie Colts (2nd round, #57 overall, 2006)
Felix Schutz, C, Val-d'Or Foreurs (4th round, #117 overall, 2006)
Ben Breault, C, Baie-Comeau Drakkar (7th round, #207, 2006)
Marc-Andre Gragnani, D, PEI Rocket (3rd round, # 87 overall, 2005)

The Los Angeles Kings will hold their camp from Sunday July 8 -Saturday July 14th. No rosters are available yet.

The Montreal Canadiens camp will run from July 10-15. Its CHLers include:

P.K. Subban, D, Belleville Bulls (2nd round, #43 overall, 2007)
Olivier Fortier, C, Rimouski Oceanic (3rd round, #65 overall, 2007)
Yannick Weber, D, Kitchener Rangers (3rd round, # 73 overall, 2007)
Ben Maxwell, C, Kootenay Ice (2nd round, #49 overall, 2006)
Mathieu Carle, D, Rouyn-Noranda Huskies (2nd round, #53 overall, 2006)
Ryan White, C, Calgary Hitmen (3rd round, # 66 overall, 2006)
Ryan Russell, C, Kootenay Ice ( NYR, 7th round, #211 overall,2005; traded 5/31/07)
Loic Lacasse, G, Oshawa Generals (6th round, # 181 overall, 2004)
Thomas Beauregard, RW, Acadie-Bathurst Titan (AHL free agent contract)
Andrew Loverock, G, Niagara Ice Dogs (tryout)

Atlanta Thrashers Prospect Camp Includes Three CHL Tryouts

2007-07-06T19:36:00.000-04:00

The Atlanta Thrashers began their prospect camp today, and several undrafted CHLers are among the invitees. The following list includes those CHL players that were drafted by the Thrashers. The camp runs through July 12.

Spencer Machacek, RW, Vancouver Giants (3rd round, #67 overall, 2007)
Bryan Little, C, Barrie Colts (1st round #12 overall, 2006)
Riley Holzapfel, C, Moose Jaw Warriors (2nd round, #43 overall, 2006)
Artus Kulda, D, Peterborough Petes (7th round, #200 overall, 2006)
Ondrej Pavalec, G, Cape Breton Screamng Eagles (2nd round, # 41 overall, 2005)
Chad Denny, D, Lewiston MAINEiacs (2nd round, #49 overall, 2005)
Tomas Pospisil, RW, Sarnia Sting (5th round, #135 overall, 2005)
Myles Stoesz, RW, Regina Pats (7th round, #207 overall, 2005)
Arron Alphonso, RW, Soo Greyhounds (tryout)
Dan Kelly, D, Kitchener Rangers (tryout)
Andrew Perugini, G, Barrie Colts (tryout)

Friday's OHL News

2007-07-06T15:44:00.000-04:00

In the biggest news of the day, just as quickly as the Saginaw Spirit announced that the team had hired Sheldon Ferguson to be the GM, today he stepped aside "for personal reasons." Eventually the whole story will come out, but for now, the search goes on. The signing of the team's first round selection, Daniel Pachis, pales by comparison to this story.

On Wednesday, the Barrie Colts announced that the team had signed its first pick Mitch Lebar. The Colts management said it had been holding its collective breath, but it seemed like the most reasonable move for Lebar to make. Being able to live at home in Aurora and go to school there was one of the sticking points, so when he got that from Barrie, this was a no-brainer.

Also in the OHL, the Owen Sound Attack made public the hiring of Dale DeGray as the team's new GM on Wednesday. DeGray has scouting, coaching, and a GM background in professional hockey and should be an excellent addition to the team.

The hottest buzz in the OHL is, however, will Pat Maroon join the London Knights. Everything is very hush-hush, but word is out that a decision may come over the weekend.

More NHL Prospect Camp Rosters

2007-07-05T18:09:00.000-04:00

Three teams have made public the rosters of their development camp. What follows is a list of CHL attendees.

The Boston Bruins have announced that their prospect development camp will be held from July 9-14. CHL players who will be attending are:

Zach Hamill, C, Everett Silvertips (1st round, # 8, 2007)
Jordan Knackstedt, RW, Moose Jaw Warriors (7th round, #189, 2007)
Milan Lucic, LW, Vancouver Giants (2nd round, #50, 2006)
Brad Marchand, C, Val d'Or Foreurs (3rd round, #71, 2006)
Andrew Bodnarchuk, D, Halifax Mooseheads (5th round, #128, 2006)
Levi Nelson, C, Swift Current Broncos (6th round, #158, 2006)
Radim Ostrcil, D, Ottawa 67s Import Selection (6th round, #169, 2007)
Wacey Rabbit, C, Vancouver Giants (5th round, #154, 2005)
Adam McQuaid, D, Sudbury Wolves (CLB, 2nd round, #55, 2005; acquired by trade 5/07)
Jared Walker, C, Prince George Cougars (tryout)

The Detroit Red Wings 7-day prospect camp began today. The CHLers in attendance are as follows:

Randy Cameron, RW, Moncton Wildcats (5th round, #148, 2007)
Zach Torquato, C, Erie Otters (6th round, #178, 2007)
Cory Emmerton, LW, Kingston Fronts (2nd round, #41, 2006)
Jan Mursak, LW, Saginaw Spirit (6th round, #182, 2006)
Logen Pyett, D, Regina Pats (7th round, #212, 2006)
Jakub Kindl, D Kitchener Rangers (1st round, #19, 2005)
Darren Helm, C, Medicine Hat Tigers (5th round, #132, 2005)
Pier-Olivier Pelletier, G, Drummondville Voltigeurs (tryout)
Real Cyr, G, Prince Geroge Cougars (tryout)
Andrew Engelage, G, Windsor Spitfires (tryout)

The St. Louis Blues Development Camp will run from July 9-13. CHLers in attendance will include:

David Perron, LW, Lewiston MAINEiacs (1st round, #26, 2007)
Brett Sonne, C, Calgary Hitmen (3rd round, #85, 2007)
Anthony Peluso, D, Erie Otters (6th round, #160, 2007)
Ryan Reaves, RW, Brandon Wheat Kings (5th round, #156, 2005)
Nicholas Drazenovic, C, Prince George Cougars (6th round, #171, 2005)

2007-08 Acadie-Bathurst Titan Season Preview

2007-07-04T20:26:00.000-04:00

The Titan came in fifth in the East Division last year and was defeated in the second round of the playoffs by Cape Breton this past spring. Gone from the team will be Thomas Beauregard, Charles Bergeron, and Zach Ferlotte, as well as head coach John Chabot, who just yesterday accepted a position as an assistant coach for the NHL New York Islanders.

Goaltending--This will be a very important year for netminder Antoine Tardif. He and Brant Miller manned the nets in 2006-07, and both did an adequate job. It was Tardif's rookie season and expectations were that he would have an adjustment period. He is now expected to take over the reins, with the backup probably being the newly traded for Tommy Legault. Miller is expected to come to camp and could battle Legault for the backup spot, but is not likely to win the role. Tardif has 3 more season of eligibility and should get better and better over that period of time, therefore, the other goalies on the camp roster have little chance of anything but a backup role should any make the team. Big netminder Andrew MacRae has the best shot among the camp invitees.

Defence--With Maxime Renaud, Nicolas Sigouin, Marc-Antoine Desnoyers, Carl Chamberland, and Brad Tesink just starting to hit their stride, there is not very much room for other blueliners to make the team. With a good possibility of overager Mathieu LaBrie returning to the blueline, Gabriel Carle, Shane Robar, Jean-Simon Legros and 2007 draft selection Remi Blanchard may be fighting for only 2 positions.

Forwards--The key to Acadie-Bathurst's success up front is the return and continued good play of Mathieu Perreault. Although there have been some rumours that Perreault will be playing in Washington this fall, that is very unlikely, so that the Titan will have their key scoring ingredient for one more year. If Martin Bartos returns (and there have been hints that he will not), he will be a major player on the top forward lines. Young players Tomy Joly, Spencer Jezegou and Samuel Morneau are expected to have have matured sufficiently his year to add a strong backbone to the team. Added to that is potential overager Jordan Clendenning. So there could be a really solid six forwards on this team to start the 2007-08 season. Sufficient third and fourth liners can be added to make this a very good playoff team, but all the stars must align for this to happen.

What is more likely to happen is that a trade will bring at least one very strong older player to the team to give the Titan a more potent offense. This will almost certainly be Perreault's last CHL season, and Acadie-Bathurst will want to take advantage of it. To do so, Tardif must be solid and at least one more forward must be added.

Tuesday's CHL News

2007-07-03T18:50:00.000-04:00

OHL Changes--In the OHL, the Saginaw Spirit have announced that Sheldon Ferguson will be the team's next GM. Ferguson has been the Director of Amateur Scouting for the Carolina Hurricanes, and according to the Spirit, Jim Rutherford's "right-hand man."Ferguson spent 12 years with the Hurricanes, and before that was involved in scouting and coaching in the OHL and WHL, respectively.

Sudbury Wolves assistant coach Bob Jones has moved west to Windsor to become associate coach of the Spits. Not unexpected, given his relationship with the Spits' owner, but it became offical yesterday.

NHL Signings--Also in the news is the signing of 2 CHLers to entry-level contract. The Carolina Hurricanes signed QMJHL Val-d'Or Foreurs winger Jerome Samson to an entry-level contract. Samson went undrafted in his two years of NHL eligibility. Also undrafted, but now signed, is the Cape Breton Screaming Eagle's Jean-Claude Sawyer. Sawyer was invited to participate in the Chicago Blackhawks prospect camp and was signed to an entry-level contract on the first day of the camp.

Philadelphia Flyers Prospect Camp
Camp Dates: July 8-13

CHL Attendees:
Kevin Marshall, Lewiston MAINEiacs (2nd round, 41st overall, 2007)
Garrett Klotz, Saskatoon Blades (3rd round, 66th overall, 2007)
Mario Kempe, St. John's Fog Devils (5th round, 122nd overall, 2007)
Claude Giroux, Gatineau Olympiques (1st round, 22nd overall, 2006)
Michael Dupont, Baie-Comeau Drakkar (6th round, 175th overall, 2006)
Ryan Parent, Guelph Storm (Nashville's 1st round, 18th overall, 2005; obtained by 2/15/07 trade)
Steve Downie, Kitchener Rangers (1st round, 29th overall, 2005)
Oscars Bartulis, Cape Breton Screaming Eagles (3rd round, 91st overall, 2005)
Jeremy Duchesne, Val-d'Or Foreurs (4th round, 119th overall, 2005)
Josh Beaulieu, London Knights (5th round, 152nd overall, 2005)
David Laliberte, PEI Rocket (4th round, 124th overall, 2004; signed as free agent)
Dylan Quaile, Rouyn-Noranda Huskies (tryout)

2007-08 Barrie Colts Season Preview

2007-07-02T19:42:00.000-04:00

The Colts came in first in the OHL Central Division (Eastern Conference) during the 2006-07 regular season, and looked formidable as the playoffs began. However, the team lost to Sudbury in the second round, prematurely ending any Memorial Cup hopes. The team had made several trades to set it up for the playoff run last year, so the 2007-08 season does not look as bright for Barrie. Much of their talent up front is gone, in that the Colts' three top scorers, Bryan Little, Hunter Tremblay and Richard Clune, will not be back. Because the three accounted for 166 points during the 2006-07 regular season, and it will be very hard to replace that amount of scoring from the current roster, at least one trade over the coming months is in order.

Goaltending--The net is the Colts strongest position this coming season. The team has two goaltenders that should have no trouble carrying the load during the 2007-08 season. The bulk of the work is expected to go to OHL veteran Andrew Perugini. Despite a very good performance in 57 games (40-16-0-1, 2.83, .917) during the 2006-07 season, Perugini was overlooked in the 2007 NHL Entry Draft. Certainly his (lack of) size had something to do with this, but a really stellar performance this coming season could erase some of the NHL teams' trepidations about his ability to play well at the next level. Competing for playing time will be the younger (and bigger framed) Michael Hutchinson, who also needs a big workload in this, his NHL draft, year. Hutchinson was not quite ready for the big time this past season, but if he proves himself early on, there may be a logjam in Barrie. It is a nice problem to have and it will be interesting to see how the Colts use it to solve their offensive woes.

Defence--Barrie just picked up Czech blueliner Jaroslav Kruzik in the Import Draft last week. A solid two-way D-man, Kruzik will go along way to helping solidifying the Barrie defence. He can score, but he is also very steady in his own zone. He joins NHL Top 2008 Prospect Brian Lashoff along the blueline. Also solid in his own zone, Lashoff had an excellent rookie season during 2006-07. Pro-sized Chris Purves may join them, along with Kyle Van de Bospoort and possible overager Tyson Aitchenson. The team also hopes that 2007 Priority Draft selection Scott Dawson, who, at 15 years old, is already 6'2", 180, is ready for OHL action this season.

Forwards--Tomas Marcinko could quite possibly be the top forward on the Colts' team this coming season. That is, if the Slovakian import does not make the NY Islanders out of camp this Fall (he was the NHL team's 4th round selection in 2006, is of pro size, and was in the Islanders prospect camp this past week). Potential overagers Kris Sparre and Michael Lombardi are also expected to contribute quite a few points to the team if they are back with the team. Third year player Vladimir Nikiforov should continue to produce too (although there is some question about his return as well). But that is certainly not enough to make the Colts a contender. 2006 Priority Draft selections, and last year's rookies, Stephan Della Rovere and Andrew Hutchings are expected to really step things up this season, and, in fact, they both look to put more points on the board. But the team is really counting on some wild cards, who must produce offensively, if the Colts are to be competitive. It was hoped that Cory McGillis, who came over from Windsor in January, would have continued his offensive production into the post-season, but he did not. The winger will be expected to continue his tough style of play, but big offensive production is questionable. Ryan Bellows, who joined the Colts mid-season from Dartmouth and had an excellent end to his regular season, may come back, break out and contribute more offensively in the coming year. But the team cannot really count on that happening. Can any or all of Thomas Battani, Joe Pleckaitis, and George Lovatsis step up? We shall see, because if none of the five find their scoring touch, it will be a long season for the Colts and their fans.

Monday at CHL News

2007-07-02T19:14:00.001-04:00

With the flurry of NHL free agency signings over the last 30 hours, CHL news and "CHL News" may have been overlooked, but let's get back to it now.

First, the St. Louis Blues have announced that their prospect development camp will take place from July 9-13th. The roster has not been announced yet, but as soon as it is, the list of CHLers will appear here.

As the teams continue to bring their prospects into camp and undrafted major junior players are given tryouts, we will let you know.

Now, for what will be going on in these pages over the next few weeks (i.e., until training camps begin).

First, we will have the news on where the CHLers who have exhausted their eligibility have signed.

Then there will be reviews for all the teams. Since I did not have time to get anywhere near completion of the 2006-07 reviews, those will be included in my team previews. For those teams for which I did season reviews, I will quickly get into the previews (starting tomorrow).

Also by the beginning of the 2007-08 season, CHL News will have a new look (and a companion website, not on blogspot), so we are working on that too over the next 6 weeks. It is our aim to give you better coverage of not only major junior hockey, but also of the CHL draftees that are still playing midget hockey.

As we go through this expansion of coverage, please don't hesitate to send comments and requests for what you would like to see. This is an exciting time and I hope you will be a part of our changes here at CHL News.

Saturday's CHL News, Including NHL Prospect Camp Attendees

2007-06-30T11:30:00.000-04:00

With the NHL and CHL Import Drafts this past week, it has been a busy time for the CHL and its players. First some news, and then I am listing NHL prospect camp attendees. If you know of any I have missed, please let me know, so I can add them.

First in the OHL, the Guelph Storm signed their first round prospect, centre Peter Holland, to an education contract. Holland has a great shot and is a very good skater, with pro size, however, he tends to be inconsistent, which has to be worked on. Expected to make a real contribution to the OHL team this coming season, his signing was expected, but exciting for Storm fans nonetheless.

There have been some coaching announcements in the WHL that I have missed due to my draft(s) coverage. First, the newest CHL team, Edmonton Oil Kings, announced that Steve Plau will be the team's first head coach. Pleau, who has family ties to the St. Louis Blues organization, was an Assistant Coach of the Spokane Chiefs last season.

Also Bruno Campese was hired as the head coach of the Prince Albert Raiders. He previously was Head Coach and Director of Hockey Operations of the Penticton Vees of the BCHL.

In other coaching news, just yesterday the Everett Silvertips named Mark LeRose as an assistant coach for the upcoming season. LeRose has served behind the bench at the University of Wisconsin and at the USHL level in recent years.

And finally, on the coaching/front office front, on Thursday, the Kamloops Blazers announced the hiring of Gord Loiselle as the club’s new Director of Player Personnel. Previously Loiselle held the same position with the Portland Winter Hawks.

In other WHL news, the Chilliwack Bruins signed the team's top 2 picks to education contracts this past week. Both Kevin Sundher and Carter Berg will attend camp later this summer.

Now to the CHL prospects attending development camps. I will try to add new names every couple of days as the teams announce their rosters.

Chicago Blackhawks
Camp dates: July 2-6

Patrick Kane, London Knights (1st round, 1st overall, 2007)
Akim Aliu, London Knights (2nd round, 56th overall, 2007)
Maxime Tanguay, Rimouski Oceanic (3rd round, 69th overall 2007)
Richard Greenop, Windsor Spitfires (6th round, 156th overall 2007)
Ben Shutron, Kingston Fronts (4th round 95th overall 2006)
Evan Brophey, Belleville Bulls (3rd round, 68th overall 2005)
Adam Hobson, Spokane Chiefs (7th round, 203rd overall 2005)
Jean-Claude Sawyer, Cape Breton Screaming Eagles (free agent)
Ryan Baldwin, Windsor Spitfires (tryout)
Rob Drummond, London Knights (tryout)
Pierre-Luc Faubert, Lewiston MAINEiacs (tryout)
Kevin Henderson, Kitchener Rangers (tryout)
Andrew Hotham, Saginaw Spirit (tryout)
Maxime Lincourt, Moncton Wildcats (tryout)
Mathieu Roy, Val-d'Or Foreurs (tryout)
Hunter Tremblay, Barrie Colts (tryout)

Columbus Blue Jackets
Camp Dates: June 25-30

Stefan Legein, Niagara Ice Dogs (2nd round, 37th overall, 2007)
Derick Brassard, Drummondville Voltigeurs (1st round, 6th overall 2006)
Steve Mason, London Knights (3rd round, 69th overall, 2006)
Tom Sestito, Plymouth Whalers (3rd round, 85th overall, 2006)
Ben Wright, Lethbridge Hurricanes (4th round, 113th overall 2006)
Maxime Frechette, Drummondville Voltigeurs (5th round, 142nd overall 2006)
Jesse Dudas, Prince George Cougars (6th round, 159th overall 2006)
Derek Dorsett, Medicine Hat Tigers (7th round, 189th overall 2006)
Matt Marquardt, Moncton Wildcats (7th round, 194th overall 2006)
Kris Russell, Medicine Hat Tigers (3rd rouond, 67th overall, 2005)

Nashville Predators
Camp Dates: June 26-July 2

Jon Blum, Vancouver Giants (1st round, 23rd overall, 2007)
Jeremy Smith, Plymouth Whalers (2nd round, 54th overall, 2007)
Nick Spaling, Kitchener Rangers (2nd round, 58th overall, 2007)
Mark Santorelli, Chilliwack Bruins (4th round, 119th overall, 2007)
Cody Franson, Vancouver Giants (3rd round, 79th overall, 2006)
Tyler Doig, Belleville Bulls (tryout)
Kyle Ross, Regina Pats (tryout)

New York Islanders
Camp Dates: June 27-July 2

Marc Katic, Sarnia Sting (3rd round, 62nd overall, 2007)
Max Gratchev, Rimouski Oceanic (4th round, 106th overall, 2007)
Simon LaCroix, Shawinigan Cataracts (7th round, 196th overall, 2007)
Robin Figren, Calgary Hitmen (3rd round, 70th overall, 2006) INJURED
Tomas Marcinko, Barrie Colts (4th round, 115th overall, 2006)
Andrew McDonald, Moncton Wildcats (6th round, 160th overall, 2006)
Dustin Kohn, Calgary Hitmen (2nd round, 46th overall, 2005)
John Murray, Kitchener Rangers (tryout)
Martin Frechette, Gatineau Olympiques (tryout)
Tyler Haskins, Saginaw Spirit (tryout)

New York Rangers
Camp Dates: June 25-June 29

Antoine LaFleur, PEI Rocket (2nd round, 48th overall, 2007)
Bobby Sanguinetti, Brampton Battalion (1st round, 21st overall, 2006)
Ryan Hillier, Halifax Mooseheads (3rd round, 84th overall, 2006)
Marc Staal, Sudbury Wolves (1st round, 12th overall, 2005)
Mike Sauer, Medicine Hat Tigers (2nd round, 40th overall, 2005)
Brodie Dupont, Calgary Hitmen (3rd round, 66th overall, 2005)
Tom Pyatt, Saginaw Spirit (4th round, 107th overall, 2005)
Michael Busto, Kootenay Ice (free agent)
Adam Leblanc-Bourque, Shawinigan Cataractes (tryout)
Jonathan Carrier, Gatineau Olympiques (tryout)
Justin Dibenedetto, Sarnia Sting (tryout)

Ottawa Senators
Camp Dates: June 28-July 4

Nick Foligno, Sudbury Wolves (1st round, 28th overall, 2006)
Kaspars Daugevins, St. Mike's Majors (3rd round, 91st overall, 2006)
Pierre-Luc Lessard, PEI Rocket (4th round, 121st overall, 2006)
Ryan Daniels, Saginaw Spirit (5th round, 151st overall, 2006)
Cody Bass, Saginaw Spirit (4th round, 95th overall, 2005)
Tomas Kudelka, Lethbridge Hurricanes (5th round, 136th overall, 2005)

Phoenix Coyotes
Camp Dates: July 6-July 14

(tentative list)
Nick Ross, Regina Pats (1st round, 30th overall, 2007)
Brett MacLean, Oshawa Generals (2nd round, 32nd overall, 2007)
Peter Mueller, Everett Silvertips (1st round, 8th overall, 2006)
Martin Latal, PEI Rocket (5th round, 131st overall, 2006)
Jordan Bendfeld, Medicine Hat (5th round, 152nd overall, 2006)
Martin Hanzal, Red Deer Rebels (1st round, 17th overall, 2005)

Pittsburgh Penguins
Camp Dates: June26-July 2

Angelo Esposito, Quebec Remparts (1st round, 20th overall, 2007)
Keven Veilleux, Victoriaville Tigres (2nd round, 41st overall, 2007)
Robert Bortuzzo, Kitchener Rangers (3rd round 78th overall, 2007)
Luca Caputi, Niagara Ice Dogs (4th round, 11th overall, 2007)
Alex Grant, Saint John Sea Dogs (4th round, 118th overall, 2007)
Jake Muzzin, Soo Greyhounds (5th round, 141st overall, 2007)
Dustin Jeffrey, Soo Greyhounds (6th round, 171st overall, 2007)
Kris Letang, Val-D'Or Foreurs (3rd round, 62 overall, 2005)
Jon D'Aversa, Sudbury Wolves (free agent)
Aaron Boogaard, Tri-City Americans (free agent)

2007 CHL Import Draft ; QMJHL Selections

2007-06-29T07:50:00.000-04:00

Twenty of Wednesday's 71 Import Draft selections were picked by teams in the QMJHL. What follows is a list and any scouting information that I have about the selected players:

Acadie-Bathurst--No selection.

Baie-Comeau--Roman Malinik,C (1st round, #24)--small playmaker. played in Czech Jr league. 19 points in 20 games.

Cape Breton--Marek Benda, G (1st round, #30)--quick hands, stays very square to the shooter. NHL Central Scouting says "A butterfly goalie... controls his rebounds well and is quick to cover the puck… is a good skater and moves well in his crease… covers the upper half of the net well with his quick blocker and glove… is very determined and competitive… represented the Czech Republic at the 2007 Under-18 World Championships."

Jan Piskacek, D (1st round, #51)--very good skater, with an excellent first pass. Good defensively, but has begun to use his offense more potently. Played in Czech Jr league.

Chicoutimi--Germain Raimbourg, RW (2nd round, #67)--no information on this player.

Drummondville--No selection.

Gatineau--Lucas Lang, D (1st round, #39)--Played in the Czech Jr league. 16 points in 44 games, 42 PIM, +1 rating.

Gerrit Fauser, LW (1st round, #48)--seven points in 38 games, in German Bund 2. Played in 2007 U-18 WJCs and 2006 World Junior A Championships.

Halifax--Tomas Knotek, C (1st round, #6)--please scroll down for scouting info entered on Wednesday.

Lewiston--Denis Reul, D (1st round,, #15)--please scroll down for scouting info entered on Wednesday.

Moncton--Adam Bezak, LW (1st round, #21)--great skater, hard worker, creates alot of chances with his speed and efforts.

Martin Baca, D (1st round, #27)--played in Slovakian Jr league. Participated in 2007 U-18 WJCs and 2006 World Junior A Championships. Big defencive defenceman, who knows how to take care of his own end.

(1st round, #45) PASS

P.E.I.--Jan Kana, RW (1st round, #33)--played in Czech Junior league. 38 points in 35 games. 135 PIM, +19 rating. Very small gritty player.

Quebec--Mikhail Stephanovich, C (1st round, #54)--pro size, good shot, excellent quick release. Questions about his skating.

Dominik Bohac, D (2nd round, #62)--played in Czech Jr, league, 6 points in 34 games, 50 PIM, +17.

Rimouski--None

Rouyn-Noranda--Milan Pucholt, G (1st round, #18)--please scroll down for scouting info entered on Wednesday.

Saint John--Robert Mayer, G (1st round, #3)--please scroll down for scouting info entered on Wednesday.

Shawinigan--Matej Stritesky, D (1st round, #42)--played in Czech elite league. Has real offensive potential, but knows how to take care of his own end.

St. Johns--Timo Pielmeier, G (1st round, #12)--please scroll down for scouting info entered on Wednesday.

Val-d'Or--Anze Ropret, RW (1st round, #36)--played in U-18 WJC early rounds for Slovenia. Several international tournament experiences.

Victoriaville--Tomas Kubalik, RW (1st round, #9)--please scroll down for scouting info entered on Wednesday.

2007 CHL Import Draft ; OHL Selections

2007-06-28T19:05:00.000-04:00

The following is the list of Import Draft Selections by the OHL teams. The list is sorted by OHL team doing the drafting. Short scouting reports are included when I have received the information.

Barrie--Jaroslav Kuzik, D (1st round, #50) --no scouting report available. Played in Kladno of Czech Jr. League, 27 points in 39 games.

Belleville--None

Brampton--Alexander Eriksson, D (1st round, #14)--please scroll down to see yesterday's scouting report.

Jaroslav Hertl, D (1st round, #20)--please scroll down to see yesterday's scouting report.

Erie-- Jaroslav Janus, G (1st round, #2)--please scroll down to see yesterday's scouting report.

Guelph--Dennis Hollenstein, LW, (1st round, #32)--played in Swiss Junior A. Participated in 2007 U-18 WJC.

Kingston--Andris Dzerins, C (1st round, #26)--Latvian playing in Finnish Junior A. Plays in international tourneys for Latvia.

Kitchener--Mikkel Bodker, LW (1st round, #5)--please scroll down to see yesterday's scouting report.

London--Vladimir Roth, D (1st round, #11)--please scroll down to see yesterday's scouting report.

Heikki Hyvonen, D (1st round, # 58)--played in Finland Junior A league. 6 points in 38 games, 82 PIM, +12.

St. Mike's--Andre Petersson, RW (1st round, #47)--small, very offensively oriented forward. Great hockey sense, with good balance and fine skating. Very good puckhandler. Played in 2007 U-18 WJCs.

Niagara--Dalimir Jancovic, LW (1st round, #44)--no scouting report available. Played in Slovakian Jrs. 14 pts, in 28 games. Played in 2007 WJCs and 2006 World Junior A Championship.

Richard Fiala--Richard Fiala, F (2nd round, #72)--Very large (6'7") 53 points in 35 games in Slovakian Jr League.

Oshawa--Jakub Kovar, G (1st round, #29)--chosen by Philadelphia (4th round, 109th overall) in 2006. Put up very good numbers in the Czech junior league (38 games, 2.07 GAA, .929 save percentage).

Ottawa--Radim Ostrcil, D (1st round, #17)--please scroll down to see yesterday's scouting report.

Martin Paryzek, D (1st round, # 38)--18 points in 40 games, 85 PIM, +17 in Czech junior league.

Owen Sound--Milan Doczy, D (1st round, #23)--large (6'5") blueliner, who played in the Czech Junior League this past season. In 35 games, 7 pts, 24 PIM, even rating.

Ondrej Pekarik, C (1st round, #53)--also played in the Czech Junior League. No other scouting info is available.

Peterborough--No selection

Plymouth--None

Saginaw--No selection

Sarnia--Tomi Karhunen, G (1st round, #35)--very confident; good glove hand; very good lateral movement; good rebound control.

Marek Indra, LW (1st round, # 41)--played in Czech junior league. Gritty player.

Soo Greyhounds--Simon Fischhaber, C (1st round, # 56)--from the German Jr. league. 39 points in 35 games, and 40 PIM. Played in 2007 U-18 WJCs.

Sudbury--Roman Schlagenhauf, C (2nd round, #68)--played in Swiss Junior A last season. 47 points in 38 games. Played in 2007 U-18 WJCs.

Windsor--Michal Jordan, D (1st round, # 8)--please scroll down to see yesterday's scouting report.

WHLers Drafted in 2007 NHL Entry Draft

2007-06-28T10:44:00.000-04:00

Prior to really moving on any further, I need to list the WHLers that were drafted this past weekend. The WHL had the most drafted CHLers. Although this appears to buck the trend (last year, the WHL had the fewest CHL players drafted), the drafting of players out of each league is cyclical and this was known to be a strong WHL year. In general though, the league is getting stronger and stronger and the NHL is recognizing it. Nine first round players came from out West. Two NHL teams, Minnesota and Los Angeles took 4 players from among the WHL talent. Tampa Bay and Carolina took three each.

Among WHL teams, it is not surprising that four players were drafted out of the Vancouver Giants' organization. Stocked in its Memorial Cup hosting year, the Giants had an incredible talent base. Also with four draftees was the Calgary Hitmen. Everett continued to make some development money, after its excellent draft year last June. This year the team had three players selected; so did Saskatoon and Spokane. Only 3 teams had no players drafted--Medicine Hat, Prince Albert, and Tri-City.

Who moved up--Thomas Hickey, Brandon Sutter
Who has to be disappointed with their position--Linden Rowat, Oscar Moller
Not drafted, and should be really disappointed--Andrew Clark, Eric Doyle

Here is the list of second through seventh round WHL players drafted over the weekend.

33 Vancouver, Taylor Ellington, D, Everett

40 Florida, Michal Repik, RW, Vancouver

47 Tampa Bay, Dana Tyrell, C, Prince George

52 Los Angeles, Oscar Moller, C, Chilliwack

66 Philadelphia, Garrett Klotz, LW, Saskatoon

67, Atlanta, Spencer Machacek, RW, Vancouver

70 Calgary, John Negrin, D, Kootenay

72 Carolina, Drayson Bowman, C, Spokane

85 St. Louis, Brett Sonne, C, Calgary

91, San Jose, Tyson Sexsmith, G, Vancouver

102 Carolina, Justin McCrae, C, Saskatoon

107 Tampa Bay, Mitch Fadden, C, Lethbridge

109, Los Angeles, Dwight King, C, Lethbridge

110 Minnesota, Justin Falk, D, Spokane

112 Dallas, Colton Sceviour, C, Portland

116 Calgary, Keith Aulie, D, Brandon

119 Nashville, Mark Santorelli, C, Chilliwack

124 Los Angeles, Linden Rowat, G, Regina

125 Washington, Brett Leffler, RW, Regina

136 Dallas, Ondrej Roman, C, Spokane

140 Minnesota, Cody Almond, C, Kelowna

183 Tampa, Torrie Jung, G, Kelowna

189 Boston, Jordan Knackstedt, RW, Moose Jaw

200 Minnesota, Carson McMillan, RW, Calgary

203 San Jose, Fraser McLaren, LW, Portland

205 Atlanta, Paul Postma, D, Swift Current

206 Vancouver, Dan Gendur, C, Everett

207 New Jersey, Ryan Molle, D, Swift Current

2007 CHL Import Draft (Including Picks 21-72); And Team Trades

2007-06-28T10:00:00.000-04:00

A total of 71 players were selected in yesterday's CHL Import Draft. A record 35 prospects were drafted out of the Czech Republic. And there was one trade as part of the Draft.

Tri-City sent defenseman Juraj Valach to the Vancouver Giants in return for their 55th-overall pick in yesterday's Import Draft. Reports are that Valach requested the trade. Valach becomes the only new import player for the Giants.

There were two other WHL trades that took place yesterday too--Moose Jaw received Terrance Delaronde (who will be an overager this coming season) from the Kamloops Blazers in exchange for a 4th round Bantam Draft selection in 2009. Also the Red Deer Rebels traded forwards Evan Pighin and Alex Poulter to the Prince George Cougars for a conditional draft pick inthe 2008 Bantam Draft.

In the Q, several trades took place yesterday. First, Baie-Comeau Drakkar sent the rights to RW Radek Vlasanek (who played in the Czech Junior League last season) to the Drummondville Voltigeurs for Drummondville's 6th round selection in the 2008 Entry Draft. Drummondville then traded pick #36 in this year's Import Draft to the Val-d'Or Foreurs for a 6th round selection in the 2008 Entry Draft.

The Quebec Remparts acquired the 62nd pick in the Import Draft from the Saint John Sea Dogs for their 10th round pick in the 2008 Entry Draft.

The Rouyn-Noranda Huskies traded the #15 pick in yesterday's Import Draft to the Lewiston MAINEiacs for pick #18 and a 5th round selection in the 2008 Entry Draft. The Huskies also traded pick #27 to the Moncton Wildcats for a 5th round choice in the 2008 Entry Draft.

The Gatineau Olympiques acquired the 48th pick in the 2007 Import Draft (Gerrit Fauser) from Val-d'O for the Foreurs' 6th round selection in the 2008 Entry Draft.

Finaly, in the last pre-impoprt draft trade in the Q, the Cape Breton Screaming Eagles traded pick #111 in yesterday's Import Draft and a 4th round selection in the 2008 Entry Draft to the Quebec Remparts for pick #30 (which wound up to be Marek Benda). Then, the Remparts acquired pick #54 (Mikael Stefanovich) from the MAINEiacs for their 8th round selection in the 2008 Entry Draft.

The OHL has seen several trades since the weekend too. In the non-Import Draft related transactions, on Monday, Windsor and Belleville made a big deal. Belleville sent Aaron Snow, the winger involved in last year's John Hughes trade with Brampton, to Windsor, for winger Keaton Turkiewicz. Neither player really performed as expected last season, and here's hoping that the change of scenery will help both guys. Conditional draft selections were included in this package for both teams.

On Tuesday, Brampton, which recently received a commitment from centre Matt Duchene, traded winger Matt Smyth and a sixth round selection in the 2008 Priority Draft to Sarnia for three draft selections (3rd round in 2009, 5th round in 2010, and 6th round in 2011).

In the three OHL trades that involved Import Draft selections, Owen Sound traded its 10th round 2009 Priority Draft selection for Erie's second round import selection yesterday (which the team did not use).

The Soo Greyhounds received winger Aaron Alphonso, a second round 2007 Import Draft selection (not used) and first round 2008 Import Draft selection for the number 38 selection (Martin Paryzek) yesterday and a third rouond Priority Draft selection in 2008.

In the last OHL trade, Windsor picked up the eighth selection overall yesterday (Michal Jordan) from Saginaw, plus the Spirit's 8th round pick in the 2010 Priority Draft for Windsor's first round Import Draft selection next year and a fourth round pick in the 2009 Priority Draft.

Getting back to the Import Draft, each CHL team is allowed only 2 import players on the team, so even though the team might have had more than that number of selections, only 2 can be roster players (which is why Moncton passed with the 45th draft pick).

I reviewed picks 1-20 yesterday (see below). This morning, I want to start listing the rest of the picks, but this time by CHL team. This will be a complete list (over 3 realeases), including the names of picks 1-20. There will be some scouting info included, where I have it and I did not include it yesterday.

WHL

Brandon--Nikolai Lukyanchikov, D, (1st round, # 49) Russian Super League (9 pts, 38 games, 28 PIM, -7). Played in 2006 World Junior A, 2007 U-18 WJC.

Calgary--Bostjan Golicic, LW (1st round, # 40) Slovenian Junior League (19 games, 32 pts, 51 PIM). Played in 2007 U-18 WJC.
Martin Stepan, RW (2nd round, # 65) Slovakian Junior League (40 game,s 34 pts, 34 PIM, +21). Played in 2006 World Junior A, 2007 U-18 WJC.

Chilliwack--David Hoda, D (1st round, #10) see yesterday's wrap-up for scouting report.

Edmonton--Tomas Vincour, C (1st round, #1), see yesterday's wrap-up for scouting report.

Everett--Vitali Karamnov, C (1st round, # 60), Russian Elite League. Played in 2006 World Junior A, 2007 U-18 WJC.

Kamloops--None

Kelowna--Milan Kytnar, C (1st round, #7), see yesterday's wrap-up for scouting report.
Mikael Backlund, C (1st round, #43), was a shock when I first saw this yesterday, but Kelowna admits that Backlund has not indicated that he is coming to North America next season. But the Rockets were willing to take a chance on Backlund cominig at some point and the team having the rights to him.

Kootenay--Jiri Ryzuk, D (1st round, #57) was taken by the team on the advice of a player agent. No info available except that he is 2008 NHL-draft eligible.

Lethbridge--Juha Metsola G (1st round, #25), Finnish Jr A league. Small. Very good performance in 2007 U-18 WJCs.
Luca Sbisa, D (2nd round, #69), good size and defensive play. Needs to work on his skating.

Medicine Hat--Tomas Vosvrda, G (1st round, #59)--big netminder, played in Czech Jr league.
Michael Ahlen, RW (2nd round, #61) --19 years old; played in 2006 U-18 WJCs.

Moose Jaw--Tomas Karpov, C (1st round, #16)--see yesterday's wrap-up for scouting report.
Martin Filo, C (2nd round, #63)--Tough player, more defensive forward than offensive threat. Needs to work on skating and puck handling. Played in 2007 U-18 WJC and 2006 World Junior A Championships.

Portland--Radim Valchar, LW (1st round, #4)--see yesterday's wrap-up for scouting report.

Prince Albert--Tomas Voracek, D (1st round, #19)--see yesterday's wrap-up for scouting report.
Max Brandl, LW (2nd round, #64)--19 years old; German Elite League, played in 2006 U-18 WJCs.

Prince George--Patrik Magnusson, D (1st round, #28)--19 years old; huge blueliner; tough, willing to stick up for teammates.
Jan Kupec, C (2nd round, #70)--small forward in Czech Junior League.

Red Deer-Tomas Polak, C (1st round, # 31)--Czech junior league, strong defensively.

Regina--Rudolph Cerveny, C (1st round, #37)--from the Czech Junior League. Cerveny particpated in the 2007 U-18 WJCs.
Marco Insam, RW (2nd round, #71)--plays for the Notre Dame Hounds of the Saskatchewan Midget Hockey League. Italian, competed for country in 2007 World Juniors.

Saskatoon--Jyri Neimi, D (1st round, #13)--see yesterday's wrap-up for scouting report.
Robert Brandis, RW (2nd round, #66)--Slovakian junior player.

Seattle--Riku Helenius, G (1st round, #46)--after missing almost the entire 2006-07 season to injury, there is hope that Tampa Bay's 2006 NHL first round seleciton will play in North America this season. Looks like if he does, it will be as a Thunderbird.

Spokane--Stefan Ulmer, D (1st round, #34)--small blueliner who played in Swiss Junior B league. Played in 2007 World Juniors.

Swift Current--Jan Dalecky, C (1st round, #22)--played for Kladno Junior B in the Czech Republic. Small, skilled forward.

Tri-City--Petr Stoklasa, C (1st round, #52)--played in Czech junior league. Great skater, good work ethic, creative. Participated in 2007 U-18 WJCs.
Josef Tichy, D (1st round, #55)--huge defenceman. Can put up the points, even with his size. 157 PIM in 41 games.

Vancouver--None.

2007 CHL Import Draft Picks 11-20

2007-06-27T18:26:00.000-04:00

Continuing to list and give as much scouting info as I have on each player chosen today, numbers 11-20 follow:

London Knights--Vladimir Roth D (1st round, #11)--can be offensive, with very heavy shot. Good puckhandling. Plays in all situations. 2008 NHL-draft eligible.

St. John's Fog Devils--Timo Pielmeier G (1st round, #12)--good vision and lateral movement. Big game player. Selected by San Jose (3rd round, 83rd overall) in 2007 NHL draft.

Saskatoon Blades--Jyri Niemi D (1st round, #13)--no scouting info. Finland Jr league. 2008 NHL-draft eligible.

Brampton Battalion--Alexander Eriksson D (1st round, #14)--Big defencive defenceman. Not selected in 2007 NHL draft, will re-enter next year.

Lewiston MAINEiacs--Dennis Reul D (1st round, #15)--Big blueliner, with excellent passing skills. Needs work on his skating. Selected by Boston (5th round, 130th overall) in 2007 NHL entry draft.

Moose Jaw Warriors--Tomas Karpov C (1st round, #16)--Very good work ethic, good hands, can be used in all situations. Was not selected in 2007 NHL draft, will re-enter next year.

Ottawa 67s--Radim Ostrcil D (1st round, #17)--Smart, with good wheels and on-ice vision. Drafted by Boston (6th round, 169th overall) in 2007 NHL Entry Draft.

Rouyn-Noranda Huskies--Milan Pucholt G (1st round #18)--very small (5'10", 163). no other info available. 2008 NHL-draft eligible.

Prince Albert Raiders--Tomas Voracek D (1st round #19)--no scouting report. 11 points in 38 games in Czech Jr. league. 2008 NHL-draft eligible.

Brampton Battalion--Jaroslav Hertl D (1st round, #20)--big blueliner, who mostly stays-at-home. 2008 NHL-draft eligible.

Analysis of the rest of the draft tomorrow.

2007 CHL Import Draft Picks 1-10

2007-06-27T17:13:00.000-04:00

The CHL import draft is taking place today by telephone and is expected to be completed sometime this evening. Here is a list of the first 10 draftees and some scouting info on as many as I have. The list is arranged by draft position.

Breaking News: Kelowna just selected Mikael Backlund at # 43 and Seattle selected Riku Helenius at # 46.

Edmonton Oil Kings--Tomas Vincour C (1st round, # 1)--can do it all. Great shooter, skater, soft hands and good hockey sense. Is a 2009 NHL-draft eligible player.

Erie Otters--Jaroslav Janus G (1st round, #2)--very good lateral movement, keeps square to the shooter. 2008 NHL-draft eligible

St. John Sea Dogs--Robert Mayer G (1st round, #3)--good size netminder, who makes the big saves, can step into number one role right away. 2008 NHL-draft eligible.

Portland Winter Hawks--Radim Valchar LW (1st round # 4)--no scouting report; is from the Czech Elite league. Was 2007 NHL-draft eligible, not chosen, will re-enter next year.

Kitchener Rangers--Mikkel Bodker LW (1st round, #5)--playmaker and can finish too. Solid in his own end. 2008 NHL-draft eligible.

Halifax Mooseheads--Tomas Knotek C (1st round, # 6)--excellent shooter, good positioning, very offensive player. Needs to bulk up. 2008 NHL-draft eligible.

Kelowna Rockets--Milan Kytnar C (1st round, #7)--great leadership skills, very good two-way player with excellent work ethic. Selected by Edmonton Oilers in the 5th round (127 overall) 2007

Windsor Spitfires--Michal Jordan D (1st round, #8)--good puck handler, high hockey IQ, has some offensive skills. 2008 NHL-draft eligible.

Victoriaville Tigres--Tomas Kubalik RW (1st round # 9)--no scouting report. 38 points in 34 games in Czech junior league. 2008 NHL-draft eligible.

Chilliwack Bruins--David Hoda D (1st round #10) --no scouting report. 22 points in 41 games in Czech Jr league. 2008 NHL-draft eligible.

QMJHL 2007 NHL Draftees

2007-06-27T16:01:00.001-04:00

Of the three CHL leagues, the fewest drafted players came from the Q. Only 25 players were drafted this year from the league. That is exactly the same number that were drafted out of the Q in 2006.

Three NHL clubs each chose 3 players from the QMJHL. Only 13 other teams selected from among the league's talent pool. What that means is that 14 teams did not select anyone from the league. Of the teams that did not select from the Q this year, Atlanta, Edmonton, Florida, Phoenix and San Jose also had no QMJHL draftees in 2006; Colorado and Nashville have not chosen a player from the Q since 2001 and 2004, respectively.

With four NHL draftees each, Rimouski and St. John's had the largest number of players selected from the Q this year. Lewiston had three, and Halifax had two first round selections (Jakub Voracek and Logan MacMillan). There were no players from any of Acadie-Bathurst, Cape Breton, Chicoutimi, Drummondville, or Val-d'Or selected.

Surprise riser in the draft: Antoine LaFleur, who was chosen by the Rangers in the second round.

Have to be disappointed: David Skokan and Michael Ward, both selected in the seventh round.

Not drafted (but really should have been): David Stich, Roman Bashkirov, Adam LeBlanc-Bourque, and Tomas Zohorna.

Draft List (rounds 2-7):
(number overall, NHL Team, Player Name, Position, QMJHL Team)

31 Buffalo, TJ Brennan, D, St. John's

41 Philadelphia, Kevin Marshall, D, Lewiston

48, NY Rangers, Antoine LaFleur, G PEI

51 Pittsburgh, Keven Veilleux, C, Victoriaville

60 Ottawa, Ruslan Bashkirov, LW, Quebec

63, Anaheim, Maxime Macenauer, C, Rouyn-Noranda

65, Montreal, Olivier Fortier, C, Rimouski

69, Chicago, Maxime Tanguay, C, Rimouski

106 NY Islanders, Max Gratchev, LW, Rimouski

118 Pittsburgh, Alex Grant, D, St John

122, Philadelphia, Mario Kempe, RW, St. John's

145 Vancouver, Charles-Antoine Messier, C, Baie-Comeau

147, Buffalo, Jean-Simon Allard, C, St. John's

148 Detroit, Randy Cameron, RW, Moncton

151 Anaheim, Brett Morrison, C, Prince Edward Island

164 Toronto, Chris Didomenico, C, St. John

179 Buffalo, Paul Byron, C, Gatineau

188 Los Angeles, Matt Fillier, F, St. John's

193 NY Rangers, David Skokan, C, Rimouski

196 NY Islanders, Simon Lacroix, D, Shawinigan

197 Tampa Bay, Michael Ward, D, Lewiston

Some NHL Draft Stats; OHLers Chosen in Rounds 2-7

2007-06-26T20:47:00.000-04:00

In total, 35 players from the OHL were selected.

All OHL teams but five (Barrie, Brampton, Kingston, St. Mike's, and Saginaw, had players drafted by NHL clubs this year. Of those five teams, Barrie, Kingston and Saginaw all positioned themselves to be strong playoff teams for the 2006-07 post-season, but neither St. Mike's or Brampton did so. Brampton was expected to have 2 players selected in the later rounds, but it did not come to pass. The Battalion have a real shot of going deep in the playoffs this coming
season, and have a potential first round selection for 2008 in Cody Hodgson.

St. Mike's is in a different position. New city, new arena, and new coaching staff, but problems with players have seemed to plague this franchise for the past few years, and they can't seem to catch a break. I have to admit that I am a Majors' fan (and loved to watch OHL games at the old arena off Bathurst). But I am looking forward to the move to Mississauga if it signals the beginning of a new era for the team. Changes can't come soon enough.

I digress. Back to the NHL draft this past weekend.

The Erie Otters were the OHL team with the most players selected this past weekend--five. Two teams had four, Belleville and Kitchener. The Pittsburgh Penguins chose the largest number of OHLers this past weekend, in selecting four players. Both Chicago and Los Angeles took 3. Last year the most OHL players taken by any one NHL club was 2.

In a year when there were alot of blueliners available to be chosen, 10 defencemen were drafted out of the OHL. Only 2 netminders were drafted, both in the second round.

Best prospects not drafted: John Murray, Jordan Nolan, Branislav Rehus, Justin Levac, Andrew Loverock.

Players unexpectedly moving up: Josh Godfrey, Eric Tangradi

Here are the OHLers that were chosen in rounds 2-7. Congrats to all players listed below.

OHL Draftees

(Number, NHL Team, Player Name, Position, OHL Team)

32 Phoenix Brett MacLean, LW, Oshawa Generals

34 Washington Josh Godfrey, D, Soo Greyhounds

37 Columbus Stefan Legein, RW, Mississauga (Niagara)

42 Anaheim, Eric Trangradi, F, Belleville

43 Montreal, PK Subban, D, Belleville.

49 Colorado, Trevor Cann, G, Peterborough

54 Nashville, Jeremy Smith, G, Plymouth

56 Chicago Akim Aliu, Sudbury (traded to London)

58 Nashville Nick Spaling, C, Kitchener

59 Buffalo Drew Schiestel, D, Mississauga (Niagara)

61 Los Angeles Wayne Simmonds, RW, Owen Sound

62 NY Islanders Marc Katic, D, Sarnia

73 Montreal, Yannick Weber, D, Kitchener

74 Toronto, Dale Mitchell, RW, Oshawa

78 Pittsburgh Robert Bortuzzo, D, Kitchener

79 New Jersey Nick Palmieri, RW, Erie

82 Los Angeles, Bryan Cameron, C, Belleville

111 Pittsburgh, Luca Caputi, LW, Mississauga (Niagara)

117 New Jersey, Matt Halischuk, RW, Kitchener

132 Carolina, Chris Terry, LW, Plymouth

141 Pittsburgh, Jake Muzzin, D, Sault Ste Marie

143 Calgary, Mickey Renaud, C, Windsor

149 Dallas Michael Neal, LW, Belleville

156 Chicago Richard Greenop, RW, Windsor

160 St. Louis Anthony Peluso, D, Erie

162 Carolina Brett Bellmore, D, Plymouth

171 Pittsburgh, Dustin Jeffrey, C, Sault Ste. Marie

172 Dallas, Luke Gazdic, LW, Erie

178 Detroit Zac Torquato, C, Erie

180 Washington Justin Taylor, C, London

181 Florida Cory Syvret, D, Guelph

184 Los Angeles, Josh Kidd, D, Erie

Nine WHL Playes Selected in Round One of 2007 NHL Entry Draft

2007-06-23T09:55:00.000-04:00

Six blueliners and 3 forwards were chosen from the Western Hockey League last evening. Long expected to be a draft in which the WHL shined, there were a couple of surprises in the round for the players of the league.

Here is a list:

4th (LA) Thomas Hickey--Seattle Thunderbirds
5th (Wash) Karl Alzner--Calgary Hitmen
8th (Bos) Zach Hamill--Everett Silvertips
10th (Fla) Keaton Ellerby--Kamloops Blazers
11th (Car) Brandon Sutter--Red Deer Rebels
15th (Edm) Alex Plante--Calgary Hitmen
16th (Minn) Colton Gillies--Saskatoon Blades
23rd (Nash) Jon Blum--Vancouver Giants
30th (Pho) Nick Ross--Regina Pats

First, surprise, surprise, Thomas Hickey, not Karl Alzner, was the first defenceman to get selected in the draft. The Los Angeles Kings selected him 4th overall. Now, I should have been forewarned about this when ISS Director of Scouting , Dennis MacInnis, told me a few weeks ago that Hickey's stock was rising and to check out some films of him (which I did). However, I still saw Alzner as a slightly higher pick. Well, I was wrong. A great puckhandler, who can skate and think the game, it will be interesting to see how Hickey does in training camp and over the next year in Seattle.

With the very next pick (#5), the Washington Caps chose Karl Alzner. The Caps must have been so happy not to have to move up to get him. Alzner is an excellent defenceman, not really offensive, not totally a stay-at-home guy. A very good puck mover, smart, with excellent leadership skills,Alzner, in my mind is the premier blueliner available in this draft, just think about this--6'2", 205, 47 points in 63 regular season games (only 32 PIM and +16).

The next WHLer picked, Zach Hamill, who was selected by Boston (eighth overall) was born once day before Alzner in September 1988. In other words, both are among the oldest players eligible for this year's draft. Hamill is a centre, with excellent puckhandling skills, very creative and very small. Not likely to grow much more though, so what Boston gets here is power play specialist, who knows how to put points on the board. The question here is whether he can be enough of a 2-way player to make it in the NHL.

Keaton Ellerby is big, strong and mean. A great pick for Florida at number ten, after a very interesting trade with Nashville for Tomas Vocoun (for 3 draft picks) earlier in the day. Nashville appears to be having something akin to a "going out of business" sale, and the Panthers have picked up a top netminder in the process. All in all, a very good day for the Panthers, in what all would hope to become a contending franchise. Now if only we could move the franchise to someplace like, hmm, Winnipeg, perhaps? Back to Ellerby. Excellent skater, great puck control, extremely heavy shot. What more could the team ask for?

I don't want to engage in a rant about "bloodlines" today, but one has to think about it when you see that Brandon Sutter was selected by Carolina with the eleventh overall pick. Another Sutter and a very good player, but this may have been an awfully early selection given the current skill set. I have to say that when I met the tall, lanky forward earlier this month at the draft, something about him made me take notice. He has a presence about him that says "I can perform for you." Maybe Carolina saw it too. It's just that I agree with some of the draft projections that had him ranked toward the end of round one.

Alex Plante's name was nice to hear at number 15. Edmonton did a good scouting job here, as Plante is a diamond in the rough. He keeps getting better and better. Unbelievable desire, pro size, and some very good skills. And he loves to hit. Needs some work on puckhandling, but the second Oilers pick this draft that I love.

Colton Gillies was expected to go in the middle of the first round and that is exactly where he was selected. The Minnesota Wild traded up to number 16 to get this hard working, big physical forward with tremendous speed. Not exactly an offensive powerhouse, but will fit in very well in Minnesota, where his hard work and physical play will keep him out of the dog house.

Confession time. I have been watching Jon Blum's on-ice performance since he really impressed me in the run for the 2006 Memorial Cup. For a rookie blueliner, he had composure and creativity that really caught my eye. So I was very anxious to watch his progress this season. His numbers looked very good, but he did not appear as dominating as I would have hoped given that it was his second year and the fact that he played on a great team. After the Combine, I understood a little bit of the problem. He is beyond skinny. Good height and very little development. To say he needs to bulk up would be putting it very mildly. And I think this hurt him. Both on the ice and then, of course, in his draft position. Nashville did select Blum in the 23rd position, but he definitely had the potential to be top 15. I have to admit here that I am still excited about his possibilities, and I think if Blum can put on weight, and get past some huge family challenges (prayers go out to Jon's mom), he will "grow" into a very good NHL defenceman.

With the last pick (#30) of the round, Phoenix chose Nick Ross. A very good defenceman from Regina, I had him going in the middle of the second round, but there were so many guys that could have been in this slot, it was purely a matter of personal choice. Despite assurances from some colleagues of mine that the Coyotes were going to use both of their first round selections for forwards (that was before Phoenix traded down from pick #21), it was clear to me all the time that at least one of those picks was to be a D-man. I had originally thought that there was a possibility for Phoenix to take Alzner at number 3, however, when I saw that the Flyers went for vanRiemsdyk at number 2, I knew that Phoenix would take Kyle Turris at 3. Which in my mind made it even more certain that a blueliner would be selected at the lower pick. And Gretzky and Maloney were obviously not sufficiently interested in any of Blum, Brendan Smith or Nick Petrecki to forgo moving down and getting an extra pick out of it. In Ross, the Coyotes get a highly skilled puckhandler, likes to hit. May have some conditioning and uneven intensity issues. We shall see how this player works out for Gretzky and company.