1. Luca Sbisa- Sbisa was selected 19th in the 2008 draft. Sbisa is a very good all around player. He does a bit of everything, he can skate, pass, shoot, hit, fight and defend. He’s a player that really broke out in the 2008 WHL playoffs. He’s also blessed with good size at 6’2 190, so obviously he has room to grow into his frame and become a solid 200+ pounder.
He was so impressive at Flyers camp last year, he made the team and played in 39 games. He was later sent back to Lethbridge as the Flyers had a glut of D as well as cap issues so removing his cap number helped. He went on to play over 30 minutes a game back in junior helping his team advance in the playoffs.
Sbisa is expected to make the Ducks right out of camp, many expect him to be paired with Scott Niedermayer, on one hand that’s going to help him learn a lot about what it takes to become a great player. On the other, that means Carlyle is throwing him into the fire against top offensive players. Can he help contain players like Joe Thornton, Pavel Datsyuk and so on? If he can it could accelerate his development, if he can’t….it could stunt his growth. So It’s a bit risky, no doubt but I’ve heard rave reviews about his character.
Sbisa has number 1 type upside with his all around talent and if he can start to excel in a few areas, he could be one of those franchise type D every team craves.
Friday, September 25, 2009
Wednesday, September 23, 2009
No.2 Jake Gardiner
Gardiner was drafted as a project he’s a recently converted defensemen who hit a growth spurt over the last year, he went from 6’0 to 6’2 and 187 pounds. If he has another growth spurt we could be talking about a beast of a player. He improved significantly through the course of his freshman season in Wisconsin.
Flat out, he is one of the best skaters I have ever seen and I’ve seen plenty of Scott Niedermayer and Paul Coffey. Ilya Kovalchuk is the only player that I can think of that hits that top gear so fast, he literally gets to it in about 2-3 strides and because he played so much forward he has puck skills a lot of D lack, when you combine these three assets……Size, speed, puck skills you have yourself a player that could be a big time impact player. His defensive abilities have gotten better and I saw some instances where he showed some bite to his game. He had 3 goals and 18 assists for 21 points last year, with Jamie McBain moving on Gardiner is expected to anchor the UW power play, he could have a major increase in production this year.
He could be ready to turn pro after next season but remember he’s in a great program for defensemen so the Ducks could keep him there longer, but I think they really want to get him into a pro camp and see how he stacks up, he should make the US WJC U20 team this year, he drew rave reviews from the recent camp.
Gardiner is a boom or bust type of player but he could always possibly be switched back to forward, but I doubt it, he seems to be making big improvements on D he could really compliment Luca Sbisa, Ryan Whitney and James Wisniewski in the future.
Flat out, he is one of the best skaters I have ever seen and I’ve seen plenty of Scott Niedermayer and Paul Coffey. Ilya Kovalchuk is the only player that I can think of that hits that top gear so fast, he literally gets to it in about 2-3 strides and because he played so much forward he has puck skills a lot of D lack, when you combine these three assets……Size, speed, puck skills you have yourself a player that could be a big time impact player. His defensive abilities have gotten better and I saw some instances where he showed some bite to his game. He had 3 goals and 18 assists for 21 points last year, with Jamie McBain moving on Gardiner is expected to anchor the UW power play, he could have a major increase in production this year.
He could be ready to turn pro after next season but remember he’s in a great program for defensemen so the Ducks could keep him there longer, but I think they really want to get him into a pro camp and see how he stacks up, he should make the US WJC U20 team this year, he drew rave reviews from the recent camp.
Gardiner is a boom or bust type of player but he could always possibly be switched back to forward, but I doubt it, he seems to be making big improvements on D he could really compliment Luca Sbisa, Ryan Whitney and James Wisniewski in the future.
Sunday, September 20, 2009
No. 3 Peter Holland
1. Peter Holland, I wrote a long report about Peter Holland after the draft, I think he has big time upside that a lot of people don’t see due to the system he plays in. He’s a big kid that can skate, is defensively responsible and has an excellent wrist shot, with good playmaking abilities.
People out there will question his drive and character but let’s make one thing clear, Character has been a big deal to the ducks the last several years, if he impressed them in his interviews, well that’s good enough for me. Ryan Getzlaf and Bobby Ryan both had their drive and character questioned, and now they are the anchors of the teams offensive future along with Corey Perry.
Holland just has a ton of talent, that’s why the ducks took him where they did he could be the guy that compliments Ryan Getzlaf as the teams number 2 center in the distant future. Holland will finish out his junior career this season, but I look forward to how he performs in his first pro camp this fall. Being on the ice with the talent the ducks have could really motivate this guy to steal a roster spot next year, though the ducks are known for being patient with their players.
People out there will question his drive and character but let’s make one thing clear, Character has been a big deal to the ducks the last several years, if he impressed them in his interviews, well that’s good enough for me. Ryan Getzlaf and Bobby Ryan both had their drive and character questioned, and now they are the anchors of the teams offensive future along with Corey Perry.
Holland just has a ton of talent, that’s why the ducks took him where they did he could be the guy that compliments Ryan Getzlaf as the teams number 2 center in the distant future. Holland will finish out his junior career this season, but I look forward to how he performs in his first pro camp this fall. Being on the ice with the talent the ducks have could really motivate this guy to steal a roster spot next year, though the ducks are known for being patient with their players.
Friday, September 18, 2009
No. 4 Nick Bonino
4. Nick Bonino-
This may surprise many of you that he’s rated this high but flatout he’s a stud, here’s a quote from Max Gieses blog which was talking about Patrick White but referenced Bonino
“I also can't believe the Sharks traded that Bonino kid, the kid's a stud!"
Now if you remember after the trade deadline when the ducks got him Bob Murray was really speaking highly of this guy.
So what does Bonino go and do? Help lead BC to a national championship. He’s a thick body at 6’1 190, he will play one more year in BU then likely turn pro, remember how I just said Holland could be the teams no.2 center? Well Bob Murray was projecting Bonino for that type of role after the trade.
He has to improve his skating, but he can shoot the puck and he can pass it and is not afraid of the dirty areas one bit. The Sharks will regret this trade I have almost no doubt, the reason Bonino gets no talk at all……his draft position, if he was a first or second rounder instead of a 6th round pick, more people would be on the bandwagon.
I could see him in the NHL after spending a half a year, to a year in the AHL. The ducks have some big time forwards coming to surround their 3 franchise forwards, Bonino is one of them.
I would compare him to Joe Pavelski of the Sharks, not the best skater but very good at a lot of things.
This may surprise many of you that he’s rated this high but flatout he’s a stud, here’s a quote from Max Gieses blog which was talking about Patrick White but referenced Bonino
“I also can't believe the Sharks traded that Bonino kid, the kid's a stud!"
Now if you remember after the trade deadline when the ducks got him Bob Murray was really speaking highly of this guy.
So what does Bonino go and do? Help lead BC to a national championship. He’s a thick body at 6’1 190, he will play one more year in BU then likely turn pro, remember how I just said Holland could be the teams no.2 center? Well Bob Murray was projecting Bonino for that type of role after the trade.
He has to improve his skating, but he can shoot the puck and he can pass it and is not afraid of the dirty areas one bit. The Sharks will regret this trade I have almost no doubt, the reason Bonino gets no talk at all……his draft position, if he was a first or second rounder instead of a 6th round pick, more people would be on the bandwagon.
I could see him in the NHL after spending a half a year, to a year in the AHL. The ducks have some big time forwards coming to surround their 3 franchise forwards, Bonino is one of them.
I would compare him to Joe Pavelski of the Sharks, not the best skater but very good at a lot of things.
Wednesday, September 16, 2009
No.5 Mark Mitera
5. Mark Mitera- Mitera was selected 18th in the 2006 draft. He’s a big strong defensive defensemen who plays with nastiness to his game. At 6’3 and 215 pounds he has a pro body, when you combine that size with his skating, defensive intelligence and toughness you have a guy who should be a top 4 shutdown type D.
He’s an excellent penalty Killer and makes that all important first pass. Last season he tore his ACL early in the season but returned in time to play a couple of games at the end of the season as well as play for the Ducks former AHL affiliate, Iowa Chops.
No doubt the knee injury is going to set him back in terms of his NHL debut. He will likely start the year in the minors but do not be surprised one bit if he leapfrogs Festerling, Mikkelson, and Salcido on the depth chart and earns the first callup. Mitera has the pedigree to back it up. Mitera will be attending his first pro training camp which is going to be big in evaluating where he’s at. He’s always been highly underrated by the “prospect media” but from what I’ve seen he should be a very effective pro.
I would compare him as a player that could turn out between a Sean O’Donnell and a Robyn Regehr type player
He’s an excellent penalty Killer and makes that all important first pass. Last season he tore his ACL early in the season but returned in time to play a couple of games at the end of the season as well as play for the Ducks former AHL affiliate, Iowa Chops.
No doubt the knee injury is going to set him back in terms of his NHL debut. He will likely start the year in the minors but do not be surprised one bit if he leapfrogs Festerling, Mikkelson, and Salcido on the depth chart and earns the first callup. Mitera has the pedigree to back it up. Mitera will be attending his first pro training camp which is going to be big in evaluating where he’s at. He’s always been highly underrated by the “prospect media” but from what I’ve seen he should be a very effective pro.
I would compare him as a player that could turn out between a Sean O’Donnell and a Robyn Regehr type player
no.6 Kyle Palmieri
6. Kyle Palmieri-
Palmieri was selected 26th in the 2009 draft. This guy was one of the top testing players at the draft combine. He’s not the tallest guy but he’s very thick weighing in at 190 pounds despite only being 5’10.
First let’s address the so called “character” concerns…..he had girls up in his room and broke a team rule. This is a teenage boy, who really has a problem with that? Not me, so he was eventually kicked off the team and dropped in the draft.
Palmieri is a very skilled offensive player you’ll notice his wrist shot right away when you watch him. He can skate, he gets under your skin, and goes to the dirty areas. HF did a very lazy thoughtless write up on him which tells me they hardly watched him play characterizing him as “a player who doesn’t have high upside”
Well he was one of the best players at team USA’s U20 camp last month and is now virtually a lock to make the team. He will likely be in their top 6 and heavily counted on for offense.
He will be attending Notre Dame this fall, I’d expect him to spend about two years there before turning pro. He reminds me of former Duck, Chris Kunitz, not quite as fast but a better shot and a bit more skill.
Palmieri was selected 26th in the 2009 draft. This guy was one of the top testing players at the draft combine. He’s not the tallest guy but he’s very thick weighing in at 190 pounds despite only being 5’10.
First let’s address the so called “character” concerns…..he had girls up in his room and broke a team rule. This is a teenage boy, who really has a problem with that? Not me, so he was eventually kicked off the team and dropped in the draft.
Palmieri is a very skilled offensive player you’ll notice his wrist shot right away when you watch him. He can skate, he gets under your skin, and goes to the dirty areas. HF did a very lazy thoughtless write up on him which tells me they hardly watched him play characterizing him as “a player who doesn’t have high upside”
Well he was one of the best players at team USA’s U20 camp last month and is now virtually a lock to make the team. He will likely be in their top 6 and heavily counted on for offense.
He will be attending Notre Dame this fall, I’d expect him to spend about two years there before turning pro. He reminds me of former Duck, Chris Kunitz, not quite as fast but a better shot and a bit more skill.
no.7 Matt Beleskey
7. Matt Beleskey-
Beleskey was selected by the Ducks in the 4th round and 116th overall in the 2006 draft.
Beleskey is another really thick guy with a pro body at 6 feet and 205-210 pounds. He’s a gritty tenacious player with a good wrist shot and finishing ability around the net. He really improved a ton throughout his junior career, and had a really solid rookie year in the AHL scoring 11 goals and 35 points in 58 games, prorated that’s almost a 20 goal/50 point year.
Beleskey is considered a character player with great leadership qualities, he will do whatever it takes to win. He blocks shots, he hits, hes responsible defensively, kills penalties and goes to the dirty areas, this is what will make him a solid pro in the near future.
He has a real shot of making the team out of camp, but if he doesn’t should be one of the first minor league call ups. I would love to see him play with Mike Brown and Ryan Carter which would make a tenacious 4th line.
He could possibly be a 2nd liner down the line but I think he’s going to be a great 3rd line type guy that helps teams win in the playoffs he must improve his skating but I think he’s a guy that could be like Rene Bourque, Chris Clark or a player along those lines.
Beleskey was selected by the Ducks in the 4th round and 116th overall in the 2006 draft.
Beleskey is another really thick guy with a pro body at 6 feet and 205-210 pounds. He’s a gritty tenacious player with a good wrist shot and finishing ability around the net. He really improved a ton throughout his junior career, and had a really solid rookie year in the AHL scoring 11 goals and 35 points in 58 games, prorated that’s almost a 20 goal/50 point year.
Beleskey is considered a character player with great leadership qualities, he will do whatever it takes to win. He blocks shots, he hits, hes responsible defensively, kills penalties and goes to the dirty areas, this is what will make him a solid pro in the near future.
He has a real shot of making the team out of camp, but if he doesn’t should be one of the first minor league call ups. I would love to see him play with Mike Brown and Ryan Carter which would make a tenacious 4th line.
He could possibly be a 2nd liner down the line but I think he’s going to be a great 3rd line type guy that helps teams win in the playoffs he must improve his skating but I think he’s a guy that could be like Rene Bourque, Chris Clark or a player along those lines.
Monday, September 14, 2009
No.8 Nicolas Deschamps
8. Nicolas Deschamps-
Deschamps was taken in the 2nd round of the 2008 draft. Deschamps is one of those guys that can contribute everywhere. He doesn’t really stand out in a single area but that’s ok, this is the type of player that will excel on a line with two offensive players, he’ll chip in offense, win the face offs, kill the penalties, you know do all the little things. At the same time he does have a solid skill level that will show itself more as he improves his skating.
I also like his size, at 6’2 185 he’s yet another guy in the system with a projectable, pro frame, he may not end up as a power forward but he will be a guy that can use that size and reach to create offense.
He had a slow start in the Quebec Major Junior Hockey League last season, but like the prior year, really came on late and ended up once again near a PPG. I am expecting Deschamps to have a huge year this season and possibly challenge for a spot on the Canadian u20 team.
It would not surprise me if he saw NHL action within 2 years as he continues to fill out, now his upside? Well who knows likely 2nd to 3rd line type. But one of those excellent 3rd liners that teams send out to score goals as well as remain defensively responsible.
He drew many comparisons to Patrice Bergeron in his draft year and stylistically you see some of it but Bergeron has been a 70 point player in the pros and I don’t see that type of offense in him. I can see him as a smaller version of Steve Rucchin or Michael Handzus, just a solid all around player who can get you 20 goals and be a coaches favorite that will do the things necessary to win.
Deschamps was taken in the 2nd round of the 2008 draft. Deschamps is one of those guys that can contribute everywhere. He doesn’t really stand out in a single area but that’s ok, this is the type of player that will excel on a line with two offensive players, he’ll chip in offense, win the face offs, kill the penalties, you know do all the little things. At the same time he does have a solid skill level that will show itself more as he improves his skating.
I also like his size, at 6’2 185 he’s yet another guy in the system with a projectable, pro frame, he may not end up as a power forward but he will be a guy that can use that size and reach to create offense.
He had a slow start in the Quebec Major Junior Hockey League last season, but like the prior year, really came on late and ended up once again near a PPG. I am expecting Deschamps to have a huge year this season and possibly challenge for a spot on the Canadian u20 team.
It would not surprise me if he saw NHL action within 2 years as he continues to fill out, now his upside? Well who knows likely 2nd to 3rd line type. But one of those excellent 3rd liners that teams send out to score goals as well as remain defensively responsible.
He drew many comparisons to Patrice Bergeron in his draft year and stylistically you see some of it but Bergeron has been a 70 point player in the pros and I don’t see that type of offense in him. I can see him as a smaller version of Steve Rucchin or Michael Handzus, just a solid all around player who can get you 20 goals and be a coaches favorite that will do the things necessary to win.
Sunday, September 13, 2009
No.9 Sami Vatanen
9. Sami Vatanen-
he’s a 4th round pick from the 2009 draft, A lot of you are going to think I’m crazy but Vatanen is already justifying my mancrush. He’s a small d man at 5’8 165 but he has all the tools in the world to be an impact offensive defensemen.
In 9 pre-season games in the FEL he had 6 goals and 4 assists. That goal scoring number is insane now will he keep it up once regular season play starts? Unlikely European leagues are known to ride older players but Vatanen has a good chance of getting 1st unit PP minutes.
And vs his age bracket in U20 games he has 5 goals and 6 assists, so again what stands out is the goal scoring. He’s an excellent puck mover who competes hard, a lot of people are going to knock his size but give me a team of players with talent that compete, he was considered the TOP conditioned player at the NHL draft combine.
Kyle Woodlief made an interesting comparison to Nicklas Kronwall who played a similar game at his age, if Vatanen can add a couple of inches and about 20 pounds over the next few years he could end up being one of the steals of the 2009 draft.
To me he could be anywhere from MA Bergeron, a similar small D and Kimmo Timmonen but we need to be patient with him I think it could be rewarded in time.
he’s a 4th round pick from the 2009 draft, A lot of you are going to think I’m crazy but Vatanen is already justifying my mancrush. He’s a small d man at 5’8 165 but he has all the tools in the world to be an impact offensive defensemen.
In 9 pre-season games in the FEL he had 6 goals and 4 assists. That goal scoring number is insane now will he keep it up once regular season play starts? Unlikely European leagues are known to ride older players but Vatanen has a good chance of getting 1st unit PP minutes.
And vs his age bracket in U20 games he has 5 goals and 6 assists, so again what stands out is the goal scoring. He’s an excellent puck mover who competes hard, a lot of people are going to knock his size but give me a team of players with talent that compete, he was considered the TOP conditioned player at the NHL draft combine.
Kyle Woodlief made an interesting comparison to Nicklas Kronwall who played a similar game at his age, if Vatanen can add a couple of inches and about 20 pounds over the next few years he could end up being one of the steals of the 2009 draft.
To me he could be anywhere from MA Bergeron, a similar small D and Kimmo Timmonen but we need to be patient with him I think it could be rewarded in time.
Saturday, September 12, 2009
No. 10 Matt Clark
10. Matt Clark-
selected in the 2nd round of the 2009 draft Clark is a big stay at home defensemen. At 6’3 and 215 pounds this is a big kid who could fill out into a 6’5 225-230 type which means he could be a big nasty physical presence in front of the net and on the walls. He had an excellent rookie year for the Brampton Battalion with 3 goals and 20 assists.
He reminds me a lot of current Ducks prospect Mark Mitera so the Ducks could possibly have a nasty shutdown pair in the future if they both reach their potential. Make no mistake about it, the strength of the ducks system is the group of defensemen, which was once weak and is now one of the best in the league, and Clark could be a big part of the teams future.
I’d say he’s about 3 years away from seeing NHL time but he has a pro body so it’s possible he could see action sooner.
selected in the 2nd round of the 2009 draft Clark is a big stay at home defensemen. At 6’3 and 215 pounds this is a big kid who could fill out into a 6’5 225-230 type which means he could be a big nasty physical presence in front of the net and on the walls. He had an excellent rookie year for the Brampton Battalion with 3 goals and 20 assists.
He reminds me a lot of current Ducks prospect Mark Mitera so the Ducks could possibly have a nasty shutdown pair in the future if they both reach their potential. Make no mistake about it, the strength of the ducks system is the group of defensemen, which was once weak and is now one of the best in the league, and Clark could be a big part of the teams future.
I’d say he’s about 3 years away from seeing NHL time but he has a pro body so it’s possible he could see action sooner.
Friday, September 11, 2009
no. 11 Josh Brittain
11. Josh Brittain
Brittain was another 3rd round 2008 pick and he is a big tough power forward who really lives up to the term.
At 6’5 210 pounds Brittain is a physical beast, he’s a crease crasher who will hit you in the mouth, take your lunch money and run your goalie for a dirty goal. With him do not look at overall point production. He is not a playmaker, what he is, is a big dude with soft hands and a willingness to get to the dirty areas of the ice to wreak havoc. Of his 52 points last year 32 were goals which is an improvement from the previous year. Next you will notice the PIMS, his draft year he had 100, last year only 65. As he improves he will fight less, but make no mistake HE CAN AND WILL drop the gloves.
He’s actually a pretty decent skater for his size but still needs to improve, he’s not the best puck handler but that’s not his job or role really. But he can protect the puck with his body and control the boards. He’s good on the forecheck and will lay some devastating hits.
With his size do not be surprised to see him playing in the NHL soon, he’s a guy that at the very least will be an effective 3rd/4th liner, and if he pans out and reaches his potential a Lucic type PF who the team always has to account for on the ice.
Brittain was another 3rd round 2008 pick and he is a big tough power forward who really lives up to the term.
At 6’5 210 pounds Brittain is a physical beast, he’s a crease crasher who will hit you in the mouth, take your lunch money and run your goalie for a dirty goal. With him do not look at overall point production. He is not a playmaker, what he is, is a big dude with soft hands and a willingness to get to the dirty areas of the ice to wreak havoc. Of his 52 points last year 32 were goals which is an improvement from the previous year. Next you will notice the PIMS, his draft year he had 100, last year only 65. As he improves he will fight less, but make no mistake HE CAN AND WILL drop the gloves.
He’s actually a pretty decent skater for his size but still needs to improve, he’s not the best puck handler but that’s not his job or role really. But he can protect the puck with his body and control the boards. He’s good on the forecheck and will lay some devastating hits.
With his size do not be surprised to see him playing in the NHL soon, he’s a guy that at the very least will be an effective 3rd/4th liner, and if he pans out and reaches his potential a Lucic type PF who the team always has to account for on the ice.
No. 12 Justin Schultz
10. Justin Schultz-
2008 3rd round pick, yes another defensemen. Schultz is a smooth skating offensive defensemen and has the size at 6’2 but a very skinny 165, still his frame has plenty of room to add weight, get this guy to about 190 and we’re talking about a pretty decent sized player here.
Schultz is a product of the BCHL where he has lit that league up the last two years, he will now move onto Wisconsin where they are considering him a big time recruit. He’s expected to be slotted in on their 3rd d pair to start the year. This is a program known for developing defensemen, they already have atleast 4 future NHL’ers in their lineup and Schultz very well could be as well. He has to improve his defensive ability, which he should at UW again this is another boom or bust type of guy in the Ducks system he's a fantastic skater and knows how to play with the puck and make good decisions. Spending a few years at UW could really help him develop into a good pro, he could be like a Kris Letang if he fills out just solid all around offensive ability
He’s a project though I’d say hes atleast 4 years away from playing any NHL games. and could possibly be a 2nd pairing offensive defensemen if he is developed right
2008 3rd round pick, yes another defensemen. Schultz is a smooth skating offensive defensemen and has the size at 6’2 but a very skinny 165, still his frame has plenty of room to add weight, get this guy to about 190 and we’re talking about a pretty decent sized player here.
Schultz is a product of the BCHL where he has lit that league up the last two years, he will now move onto Wisconsin where they are considering him a big time recruit. He’s expected to be slotted in on their 3rd d pair to start the year. This is a program known for developing defensemen, they already have atleast 4 future NHL’ers in their lineup and Schultz very well could be as well. He has to improve his defensive ability, which he should at UW again this is another boom or bust type of guy in the Ducks system he's a fantastic skater and knows how to play with the puck and make good decisions. Spending a few years at UW could really help him develop into a good pro, he could be like a Kris Letang if he fills out just solid all around offensive ability
He’s a project though I’d say hes atleast 4 years away from playing any NHL games. and could possibly be a 2nd pairing offensive defensemen if he is developed right
no. 13 Logan MacMillan
13.Logan MacMillan
MacMillan was the ducks 1st pick, 19th overall in 2007 and to be blunt his junior career has not been nearly what was expected.
He’s been extremely injury prone the last two seasons, when he plays at times hes very effective but can’t be consistent due to all the missed time.
But what I’ve heard about him from those that do like him, is that he plays a “pro” style game. In that he’s a physical player who is a good penalty killer and not afraid to get his nose dirty. The pro game is very much about willingness to battle, whereas in junior a lot of the time you can get by with skill.
So we’ll see, this is a big year for Logan at 6’2 210 he’s yet another guy with a projectable NHL frame, it’s his first season of pro hockey and the Ducks will be watching him very closely, is this our future 3rd line shutdown center? The Ducks Ryan Kesler? Or will injuries derail his career and make some of us say as we have many times, what If Pacioretty/Blum/Backlund/Perron? Only time will tell and let’s be fair he’s only 2 years removed from being drafted and has plenty of time to pan out.
MacMillan was the ducks 1st pick, 19th overall in 2007 and to be blunt his junior career has not been nearly what was expected.
He’s been extremely injury prone the last two seasons, when he plays at times hes very effective but can’t be consistent due to all the missed time.
But what I’ve heard about him from those that do like him, is that he plays a “pro” style game. In that he’s a physical player who is a good penalty killer and not afraid to get his nose dirty. The pro game is very much about willingness to battle, whereas in junior a lot of the time you can get by with skill.
So we’ll see, this is a big year for Logan at 6’2 210 he’s yet another guy with a projectable NHL frame, it’s his first season of pro hockey and the Ducks will be watching him very closely, is this our future 3rd line shutdown center? The Ducks Ryan Kesler? Or will injuries derail his career and make some of us say as we have many times, what If Pacioretty/Blum/Backlund/Perron? Only time will tell and let’s be fair he’s only 2 years removed from being drafted and has plenty of time to pan out.
Thursday, September 10, 2009
No.14 Justin Pogge
14. Justin Pogge
This is the third goaltender on the list so far
Pogge was selected in the 3rd round of the 2004 draft, Pogge has excellent jr credentials, namely backstopping Canada to a gold medal at the 2005 U20’s. He’s a big athletic goaltender who covers a lot of the net at 6’3 205 pounds. His biggest problem is inconsistency and the ridiculous expectations placed upon him by Leafs Nation.
Pogge if he plays well this year could force the ducks to move JS Giguere or Jonas Hiller. With Hiller due for a contract extension at the very LEAST Pogge is likely the 2010 backup goaltender because one of the current 1a/1b combo will be gone, so finally Pogge sees a light at the end of the tunnel and there is less pressure on him so this could be the Ducks goalie of the future.
This is the third goaltender on the list so far
Pogge was selected in the 3rd round of the 2004 draft, Pogge has excellent jr credentials, namely backstopping Canada to a gold medal at the 2005 U20’s. He’s a big athletic goaltender who covers a lot of the net at 6’3 205 pounds. His biggest problem is inconsistency and the ridiculous expectations placed upon him by Leafs Nation.
Pogge if he plays well this year could force the ducks to move JS Giguere or Jonas Hiller. With Hiller due for a contract extension at the very LEAST Pogge is likely the 2010 backup goaltender because one of the current 1a/1b combo will be gone, so finally Pogge sees a light at the end of the tunnel and there is less pressure on him so this could be the Ducks goalie of the future.
No.15 Brenden Mikkelson
1.Brenden Mikkelson,
Yes another defensemen.
Mikkelson was picked 31st in the 2005 draft, Mikkelson last year got his first taste of NHL hockey and struggled at times. He can skate that’s what you notice, and he’s rangy but does he have the puck skills to make it? Is the question we all ask because he’s not particularly strong to be a significant presence defensively.
He will challenge for a spot in camp, but the late signing of Eminger makes it highly unlikely, he should be the first injury call-up and we will find out how much he’s developed and if he’s stronger or not.
Mikkelson still has a chance to be a solid pro but I don’t think he has a long term future with the Ducks unless he takes a big step forward. Long term I have him behind 6 other defensemen but this is his chance to show he belongs, other wise he will be passed by Mitera and Gardiner, as soon as next year on the teams depth chart.
A 4-7 D is what I see here.
Yes another defensemen.
Mikkelson was picked 31st in the 2005 draft, Mikkelson last year got his first taste of NHL hockey and struggled at times. He can skate that’s what you notice, and he’s rangy but does he have the puck skills to make it? Is the question we all ask because he’s not particularly strong to be a significant presence defensively.
He will challenge for a spot in camp, but the late signing of Eminger makes it highly unlikely, he should be the first injury call-up and we will find out how much he’s developed and if he’s stronger or not.
Mikkelson still has a chance to be a solid pro but I don’t think he has a long term future with the Ducks unless he takes a big step forward. Long term I have him behind 6 other defensemen but this is his chance to show he belongs, other wise he will be passed by Mitera and Gardiner, as soon as next year on the teams depth chart.
A 4-7 D is what I see here.
Wednesday, September 9, 2009
no. 16 Brett Festerling
16.Brett Festerling,
Festerling was an undrafted player signed by the Ducks out of the WHL.
Festerling is not the biggest or fastest guy but he’s smart he does not go beyond his limitations but he competes hard and is regarded for his character. He like Mikkelson has a shot to make the team and this is a big year for him as well, he needs to show that he can be a fixture on the teams 3rd pairing down the line. He’s the 2nd injury callup most likely, he needs a strong training camp if he wants to unseat Sheldon Brookbank as the 7th D but I look forward to seeing if he’s improved since last year.
The issue again like Mikkelson is the depth chart, he has a limited window to prove his worth to the Ducks and with the additional depth the pro squad has now it’s just going to be extremely difficult for him to get much of a chance.
I project him as a 5-7 D.
Festerling was an undrafted player signed by the Ducks out of the WHL.
Festerling is not the biggest or fastest guy but he’s smart he does not go beyond his limitations but he competes hard and is regarded for his character. He like Mikkelson has a shot to make the team and this is a big year for him as well, he needs to show that he can be a fixture on the teams 3rd pairing down the line. He’s the 2nd injury callup most likely, he needs a strong training camp if he wants to unseat Sheldon Brookbank as the 7th D but I look forward to seeing if he’s improved since last year.
The issue again like Mikkelson is the depth chart, he has a limited window to prove his worth to the Ducks and with the additional depth the pro squad has now it’s just going to be extremely difficult for him to get much of a chance.
I project him as a 5-7 D.
no. 17 Igor Bobkov
17.Igor Bobkov
Bobkov is a big athletic goaltender out of Russia selected in the 2009 draft.
He’s a project and is likely 4+ years away but will be team Russias starter at the upcoming u-20’s, he seems pretty mature and DOES want to play in the NHL. He just seems like another Bryzgalov, potentially to me, a guy who will fly under the radar for several years, then BAM get his shot and prove his worth.
He must improve his technique and glove hand but the package of talent is interesting and like I said we’re several years from seeing him come over to North America.
Bobkov is a big athletic goaltender out of Russia selected in the 2009 draft.
He’s a project and is likely 4+ years away but will be team Russias starter at the upcoming u-20’s, he seems pretty mature and DOES want to play in the NHL. He just seems like another Bryzgalov, potentially to me, a guy who will fly under the radar for several years, then BAM get his shot and prove his worth.
He must improve his technique and glove hand but the package of talent is interesting and like I said we’re several years from seeing him come over to North America.
Tuesday, September 8, 2009
No.18 Brandon MacMillan
18. Brandon MacMillan
MacMillan was a 2008 3rd round pick who can play forward and defense.
He’s a fantastic skater, as a forward he’s considered a very good defensively responsible forechecker.
On defense he’s considered a puck mover who can skate the puck out of the zone.
So this kid has a chance due to his versatility, he’s a high character player who competes hard, kills penalties, blocks shots, goes to dirty areas despite only being 5’11, he is short but pretty thick at 190 pounds. He moved back to defense late in the year in Vancouver because his team needed him there and did play very well so that could possibly be this guys long term position, but again with the Ducks depth on D perhaps his way to the league will be as a forward.
That said he’s 3-4 years away from any type of NHL experience.
MacMillan was a 2008 3rd round pick who can play forward and defense.
He’s a fantastic skater, as a forward he’s considered a very good defensively responsible forechecker.
On defense he’s considered a puck mover who can skate the puck out of the zone.
So this kid has a chance due to his versatility, he’s a high character player who competes hard, kills penalties, blocks shots, goes to dirty areas despite only being 5’11, he is short but pretty thick at 190 pounds. He moved back to defense late in the year in Vancouver because his team needed him there and did play very well so that could possibly be this guys long term position, but again with the Ducks depth on D perhaps his way to the league will be as a forward.
That said he’s 3-4 years away from any type of NHL experience.
No. 19 Mattias Modig
19. Mattias Modig
Selected in the 4th round of the 2007 draft, Modig is not the biggest goalie at 6’1 and under 170 pounds but hes considered pretty technically sound. He had a really solid year in the SEL putting up a 2.16 GAA and a .926 save percentage certainly very solid numbers.
But his weight is an issue he needs to gain about 20-30 pounds to withstand the rigors of NHL hockey, I think he has a future but mainly as a backup but he could conceivably make it quicker due to his multiple years of pro hockey already under his belt
Selected in the 4th round of the 2007 draft, Modig is not the biggest goalie at 6’1 and under 170 pounds but hes considered pretty technically sound. He had a really solid year in the SEL putting up a 2.16 GAA and a .926 save percentage certainly very solid numbers.
But his weight is an issue he needs to gain about 20-30 pounds to withstand the rigors of NHL hockey, I think he has a future but mainly as a backup but he could conceivably make it quicker due to his multiple years of pro hockey already under his belt
Here we go, the FIRST ADU Top prospects list!
We will start from 1-20. My guidelines are fairly simple.
Is the player a full time NHL'er? thus my cutoff is a full season, of 82 professional games. So Bobby Ryan is obviously no longer considered a prospect and is now a fulltime NHL'er.
Let's start with number 20.
20.Matt McCue
McCue was signed by the ducks as an undrafted free agent in 2008. He’s a big physical stay at home defensemen who will mainly play the body and clear the crease, not much of a puck handler which limits his upside but at 6’5 220 he’s a big boy who could be yet another nasty Dman on the Ducks blueline in the future.
I could see him being what Sean O’Donnell was for the Ducks, a steady tough in your face guy who will stick up for teammates and not try anything risky and out of a 5-7 D that’s all you really ask of them.
He must improve his skating and is several years away, but players with this size are always interesting to watch in terms of pro hockey.
Is the player a full time NHL'er? thus my cutoff is a full season, of 82 professional games. So Bobby Ryan is obviously no longer considered a prospect and is now a fulltime NHL'er.
Let's start with number 20.
20.Matt McCue
McCue was signed by the ducks as an undrafted free agent in 2008. He’s a big physical stay at home defensemen who will mainly play the body and clear the crease, not much of a puck handler which limits his upside but at 6’5 220 he’s a big boy who could be yet another nasty Dman on the Ducks blueline in the future.
I could see him being what Sean O’Donnell was for the Ducks, a steady tough in your face guy who will stick up for teammates and not try anything risky and out of a 5-7 D that’s all you really ask of them.
He must improve his skating and is several years away, but players with this size are always interesting to watch in terms of pro hockey.
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