Prospect Info: Ives 2022 Top 100 NHL Draft Rankings (Spring Edition, 2.0)

[StevenToddIves]

Öslund vs Öhgren is a more interesting question to me, we kind of know what Lekkerimäki is (at least comparatively).

Lekkerimaki to me is a similar-type player to Joakim Kemell. They're both elite shooters and goal-scorers, they're both slightly undersized RWs with above-average skills across the board. Kemell is better in terms of his 200-foot game and intangibles, so right now he's my #9 while Lekkerimaki is my #15. I think they both score a lot of goals in the NHL.

Ostlund is completely different in terms of player-type to Ohgren, so it's tough to compare. Ostlund is a center, Ohgren a LW. Ostlund is a finesse player, with high end skating, puckhandling and passing skills. He reminds me in some ways of a young Sebastian Aho, in that some more core strength and physical maturity could unlock a huge development curve. Right now I have him ranked rather conservatively at #49, but he is certainly a kid with the potential to make me look silly for being so wary.

Ohgren is the penultimate "jack of all trades, master of none" LW. While he lacks the elite tools of an Ostlund or Lekkerimaki, he also lacks their weaknesses. Ohgren is 6'2-190, skates very well, is a dual threat who passes and shoots very well, plays two-way hockey with high intangibles. He might be the safest pick in the entire draft, but also the least sexy. If everything clicks, you have a very good second line LW, and if everything does not click, you have a good third-line LW. I have him ranked #25, and obviously I really like him.

I'd like to add that the most overlooked Swedish forward is Joel Jonsson, who I have ranked ahead (#50) of some more heralded Swedish forwards like Suzdalev and Bystedt. Jonsson is often ignored due to the combination of diminutive size (5'9-150) and lack of high-end skating. But he's also a kid with four elite or near-elite tools -- passing, puck-handling, hockey IQ and compete level. He's the kind of player you take in the 6th round who can potentially really pop in a year or two if he fills out physically and his skating explosiveness improves.

Scouting Report: Joel Jonsson - swedishprospects.com

Joel Jonsson is a winger from Brunflo, Sweden who is eligible for the 2022 draft. Jonsson started the season with the U18 squad of his team Mora IK, but has recently been promoted to the…

www.swedishprospects.com

 

[StevenToddIves]

Here's a nice little vid on 6'7 RD Maveric Lamoureux. He's a bruiser, but he also possesses some nifty hands and puck skills which you can see in multiple highlight clips. If the Devils miss out on Jiricek/Nemec in the 1st round, the pressure is really going to be on to draft for RD in the 2nd and 3rd rounds. Lamoureux is one of three very good prospects for this range, along with Sam Rinzel and Noah Warren.

 

[Eggtimer]

Sorry for posting this here but wasn’t sure where else to post it.
Do you guys see any possibility that the Devils consider trying to move up in the draft ?
Id prefer to add an asset along with our pick like Zacha or Smith rather than picks.
I woild like to trade up enough to secure Jiricek or Memec.
Normally I would say the chances of a team trading down with us would be very unlikely . However , we could give the team we swap picks with , the reassurance that we will not be picking a forward / C . (Unless Slafkovsky is there but that very very doubtful ).
I can see a team preferring to take a forward but one of the two D may be BAP at that teams pick. If they could gain an asset plus take a much needed forward like Cooley still….It might be a win-win for that team and us?

 

[StevenToddIves]

Sorry for posting this here but wasn’t sure where else to post it.
Do you guys see any possibility that the Devils consider trying to move up in the draft ?
Id prefer to add an asset along with our pick like Zacha or Smith rather than picks.
I woild like to trade up enough to secure Jiricek or Memec.
Normally I would say the chances of a team trading down with us would be very unlikely . However , we could give the team we swap picks with , the reassurance that we will not be picking a forward / C . (Unless Slafkovsky is there but that very very doubtful ).
I can see a team preferring to take a forward but one of the two D may be BAP at that teams pick. If they could gain an asset plus take a much needed forward like Cooley still….It might be a win-win for that team and us?

Right now, the Devils are in the #5 position, one point "behind" Philadelphia and one point "ahead" of Chicago (Columbus-owned pick). We can say that, barring something really weird, the Devils final lottery position will be 4, 5 or 6.

Mathematically, the highest odds after the lottery are to drop one slot, meaning the Devils most likely draft positions would be 5, 6 or 7.

At #5, the Devils would still have a very good chance for one of Jiricek or Nemec. Shane Wright is pretty much a 95% bet to go #1, and he's not falling past #2. Slafkovsky and Cooley are almost certain to go top 5. This leaves one of Jiricek or Nemec to the Devils at #5.

The problem is, naturally with each slot down the ladder, the chances for getting one of Jiricek/Nemec drops precipitously. Looking at the teams who could potentially be drafting ahead of the Devils, there is great need for RD. Philly and Seattle are desperate here, while Columbus and Montreal would also love to have Jiricek or Nemec at the top of their organizational depth chart at RD. Arizona certainly also has need, but they are even more desperate at C, so it's okay to say with some confidence that their targets are more likely to be Wright or Cooley.

The other problem is that GM Tom Fitzgerald has shown extreme reluctance to trade up or down on draft day. The obvious moves before drafting Mukhamadullin in 2020 or Stillman in 2021 would have involved trade down scenarios and acquiring additional picks, especially with Mukhamadullin since we knew Washington was looking to trade up for Hendrix Lapierre. Similarly, the Devils settled for finger-crosser LW Samu Salminen at #68 last year when trading up a few slots would have given them a shot at Sasha Pastujov, a scorer with first-round caliber offensive ability at the same position.

If the Devils draft #7, I'd say they have virtually no chance at Jiricek or Nemec, and if that turns out to be the case, the Devils should certainly be looking to move up on draft day. The problem is that every buyer needs a seller, and I can't see Columbus or Philadelphia moving down to allow a division-rival to take a potential superstar defender. It would absolutely have to be Seattle, and we have no idea what their draft board looks like.

Obviously, the best case scenario involves the Devils winning the lottery. Were the draft right now, Arizona would draft #3 if the Devils were at #1. NJ could potentially trade down to #3, gain another late 1st round pick in the process (Arizona also owns the Carolina and Colorado 1st round picks), and get their choice of Jiricek or Nemec (likely Jiricek). As reticent as Fitzgerald is to trade on draft day, Shane Wright has far greater worth to other teams than he does to NJ, where his talents would be shy of Jack Hughes and redundant to Nico Hischier at the center position. I feel he would pretty much have to make a move, were this the case.

 

[StevenToddIves]

Here's a video of LD Arseni Koromyslov. Though I do not think he'll be a Devils draft target, I wanted to shine a little light on him, because he's not getting too much attention and he may be -- no exaggeration -- the best LD in the entire class of 2022. He's 6'3-180 with outstanding skates, he's a beast defensively and has some sneaky good offensive upside. I have him ranked higher than anyone I've seen, at #28 overall.

I was recently texting with Steve Kournianos about my top 100 rankings, and his first comment was that he loved my ranking of Koromyslov, so we can only guess Steve will have him ranked as a first-rounder as well, when he releases his next ranking. Steve also is the best in the business -- by far -- at assessing MHL prospects, so we should probably pay close attention to him on these prospects.

 

[My3Sons]

Steve also is the best in the business -- by far -- at assessing MHL prospects, so we should probably pay close attention to him on these prospects.

I'll suggest @Guadana has something to say about that.

 

[StevenToddIves]

I'll suggest @Guadana has something to say about that.

To be honest, the three of us agree quite often on MHL players. We are all higher on Alexander Perevalov than anyone else I've seen, for instance. I'm pretty sure @Guadana is a fan of Koromyslov, as he looks for many of the same traits in defensemen as I do.

Here's my write up of this tremendously underrated player from a few months back:

LD Arseni Koromyslov, SKA-1946 MHL
Koromyslov is a two-way defender who has generated a bit of hype do to a singular first-round ranking, listed at #28 overall by TSN's Craig Button. Though a lot of people like to criticize Button's hot-button rankings, I believe with this particular player, there is something there. Koromyslov has a projectable frame at 6'3-180 and skates extremely well. He shows very good proclivity both offensively and defensively and is a sneaky good prospect for the 2022 draft.

The Moscow native is very smooth defensively in all respects. He excels at defending against the rush, and he's also terrific along the boards and in tight. He's very difficult to beat one-on-one. He used effective physicality rather than assertive physicality, able to separate puck-carrier from puck with smart positioning, good strength and battle and excellent shoulder-checking technique. His positioning and gaps are very good and show the aptitude to become simply excellent. He features an active stick and is terrific at clogging shooting lanes and blocking passing lanes. He's more of a quiet defender than a loud one, but I'd say he's just a subtly outstanding player in this respect.

Offensively, I believe wholeheartedly that Koromyslov has sneaky upside. While quite efficient and smart in his general passing game, he sometimes flashes higher awareness, completing slick, high-danger passes which lead to tremendous scoring opportunities. Koromyslov is much the same in transition -- though he generally prefers the high-percentage play, every so often he'll raise your eyebrows with a sparkling stretch pass which leaves you wondering where exactly it came from and how much more of that might exist beneath the understated surface. Koromyslov generally prefers to start transition with a pass, but also shows the ability to skate the puck out of traffic, which also lends to the belief that he has more offensive skill than his generally careful style of play lets on. This is how I've felt about many of my favorite draft-eligible defensemen over the years, from Andrew Peeke to Drew Helleson to Brock Faber. It makes me feel there may be more offensive upside than the numbers thus far indicate -- numbers which are obscured simply because Koromyslov is a team-first guy who takes care of his own zone before worrying about the offense.

Right now, Arseni Koromyslov is my runaway top defender from the MHL for the 2022 draft. The consensus top D out of his league is Vladimir Grudinin, but I have to say right now I have Koromyslov ahead of him by a country mile. It's not close. Though I realize the Devils are the deepest pool of LD prospect talent in the NHL by light years and Koromyslov is probably not a priority, I felt the need to highlight him as one of the best sleepers in the entire 2022 class. I can say with conviction that a future as an all-situations, mid-pairing NHL defender is a very realistic one for this player. He's going to be a terrific pick for a smart-drafting team, probably in the 2nd or 3rd round.

 

[My3Sons]

To be honest, the three of us agree quite often on MHL players. We are all higher on Alexander Perevalov than anyone else I've seen, for instance. I'm pretty sure @Guadana is a fan of Koromyslov, as he looks for many of the same traits in defensemen as I do.

Here's my write up of this tremendously underrated player from a few months back:

LD Arseni Koromyslov, SKA-1946 MHL
Koromyslov is a two-way defender who has generated a bit of hype do to a singular first-round ranking, listed at #28 overall by TSN's Craig Button. Though a lot of people like to criticize Button's hot-button rankings, I believe with this particular player, there is something there. Koromyslov has a projectable frame at 6'3-180 and skates extremely well. He shows very good proclivity both offensively and defensively and is a sneaky good prospect for the 2022 draft.

The Moscow native is very smooth defensively in all respects. He excels at defending against the rush, and he's also terrific along the boards and in tight. He's very difficult to beat one-on-one. He used effective physicality rather than assertive physicality, able to separate puck-carrier from puck with smart positioning, good strength and battle and excellent shoulder-checking technique. His positioning and gaps are very good and show the aptitude to become simply excellent. He features an active stick and is terrific at clogging shooting lanes and blocking passing lanes. He's more of a quiet defender than a loud one, but I'd say he's just a subtly outstanding player in this respect.

Offensively, I believe wholeheartedly that Koromyslov has sneaky upside. While quite efficient and smart in his general passing game, he sometimes flashes higher awareness, completing slick, high-danger passes which lead to tremendous scoring opportunities. Koromyslov is much the same in transition -- though he generally prefers the high-percentage play, every so often he'll raise your eyebrows with a sparkling stretch pass which leaves you wondering where exactly it came from and how much more of that might exist beneath the understated surface. Koromyslov generally prefers to start transition with a pass, but also shows the ability to skate the puck out of traffic, which also lends to the belief that he has more offensive skill than his generally careful style of play lets on. This is how I've felt about many of my favorite draft-eligible defensemen over the years, from Andrew Peeke to Drew Helleson to Brock Faber. It makes me feel there may be more offensive upside than the numbers thus far indicate -- numbers which are obscured simply because Koromyslov is a team-first guy who takes care of his own zone before worrying about the offense.

Right now, Arseni Koromyslov is my runaway top defender from the MHL for the 2022 draft. The consensus top D out of his league is Vladimir Grudinin, but I have to say right now I have Koromyslov ahead of him by a country mile. It's not close. Though I realize the Devils are the deepest pool of LD prospect talent in the NHL by light years and Koromyslov is probably not a priority, I felt the need to highlight him as one of the best sleepers in the entire 2022 class. I can say with conviction that a future as an all-situations, mid-pairing NHL defender is a very realistic one for this player. He's going to be a terrific pick for a smart-drafting team, probably in the 2nd or 3rd round.

That sounds like an excellent player. If he falls to one of the fourth round picks you have to consider someone with that sort of potential even if you are NJ.

 

[StevenToddIves]

That sounds like an excellent player. If he falls to one of the fourth round picks you have to consider someone with that sort of potential even if you are NJ.

Right now I'm trying to find a consensus ranking for Koromyslov, and it's almost impossible. Button has dropped him to #52, Mckeen's has him at #61 and FC Hockey has him at #88. The individual draft writers mostly have him unranked for now, and the numbers-based guys don't even have him on there radar. So, I'd say we can estimate his consensus ranking in the #90-#120 range, making him essentially a good guess for a 4th round pick.

I can't stress enough that we may be talking about the top LD in the entire 2022 draft. Mintyukov is better offensively but does not compare defensively. Mateychuk is terrific both ways, but has a few warts which he needs to overcome. Korchinski and Pickering have absurd upside, but also considerably more risk. Odelius is perhaps most comparable in his two-way acumen and overall skill package.

But notably, those other 5 guys are going to be gone by the middle of the second round, and Koromyslov is very likely to still be there in the 3rd, maybe even the 4th... and due to the New Russian Factor (NeRF), possibly even later.

If some team takes Koromyslov in the late 2nd round, I say fine even though I have him ranked far higher, simply because the Devils cannot be using an early pick on LD. But if he's still there in the 5th round? It's just epic potential for a memorable and lasting draft-day steal. You just don't find 6'3 D with high-end skating, hockey IQ, defensive play and ability with the puck that late in drafts. I can't think of the last guy who would even compare -- maybe Gavrikov way back in 2015? And Koromyslov has considerably more upside than Gavrikov.

 

[StevenToddIves]

I just finished watching the Hamilton 5-2 victory over Peterborough, and let me tell you, this was the most violent and nasty hockey game I've seen in years. Both teams went after the opposition with a violence and vitriol I cannot remember the likes of.

Without getting into who was to blame and exactly what inspired this violent mess, I'd have to say most of the blame falls upon Peterborough head coach Rob Wilson and incessantly head-hunting defenseman Artem Guryev. Both should be suspended immediately.

What I would like to say about this game which is positive has mostly to do with Logan Morrison, who has been the best forward in the entire OHL thus far these playoffs. I'm not sure what this kid has to do to get on top 100 lists of virtually all the major scouting bureaus and draft analysts, but every time he is without the puck, he is in the right place and every time he is with the puck, a smart play is made to advance the cause of his team.

Down 2-1 with 5 seconds left in the 1st period, Morrison scored on a beauty deflection to knot the score. Up 3-2 in the 2nd after yet another dirty hit by Peterborough, Morrison scored on the PP to give the Bulldogs some breathing room. In the 3rd period -- while most everyone else on the ice was trying to murder each other -- Morrison made a sweet play to find a high-danger scoring area and scored on a wicked and beautiful top cheddar shot to complete the hat trick and give his team a 5-2 victory.

Hamilton is now up 2-0 in the series, and Logan Morrison has 5 goals in the two wins. He's very good defensively, he's an elite passer with an elite hockey IQ, he has a nasty shot and terrific puck skills, he skates extremely well and he's 6'0-180. He scored 100 points during the regular season, and can someone please explain to me how no one ranking the 2022 draft thinks he's worth a pick in the top 100?

Sorry if I'm all full of vinegar. This kid is an exceptional hockey player, and I'd like him to get some due credit.

 

[Tao Jersey Jones]

I just finished watching the Hamilton 5-2 victory over Peterborough, and let me tell you, this was the most violent and nasty hockey game I've seen in years. Both teams went after the opposition with a violence and vitriol I cannot remember the likes of.

Without getting into who was to blame and exactly what inspired this violent mess, I'd have to say most of the blame falls upon Peterborough head coach Rob Wilson and incessantly head-hunting defenseman Artem Guryev. Both should be suspended immediately.

What I would like to say about this game which is positive has mostly to do with Logan Morrison, who has been the best forward in the entire OHL thus far these playoffs. I'm not sure what this kid has to do to get on top 100 lists of virtually all the major scouting bureaus and draft analysts, but every time he is without the puck, he is in the right place and every time he is with the puck, a smart play is made to advance the cause of his team.

Down 2-1 with 5 seconds left in the 1st period, Morrison scored on a beauty deflection to knot the score. Up 3-2 in the 2nd after yet another dirty hit by Peterborough, Morrison scored on the PP to give the Bulldogs some breathing room. In the 3rd period -- while most everyone else on the ice was trying to murder each other -- Morrison made a sweet play to find a high-danger scoring area and scored on a wicked and beautiful top cheddar shot to complete the hat trick and give his team a 5-2 victory.

Hamilton is now up 2-0 in the series, and Logan Morrison has 5 goals in the two wins. He's very good defensively, he's an elite passer with an elite hockey IQ, he has a nasty shot and terrific puck skills, he skates extremely well and he's 6'0-180. He scored 100 points during the regular season, and can someone please explain to me how no one ranking the 2022 draft thinks he's worth a pick in the top 100?

Sorry if I'm all full of vinegar. This kid is an exceptional hockey player, and I'd like him to get some due credit.

I watched this game. Stillman had a nice stick check to prevent a goal and got in on the dirty work when he two handed Grushnikov between the legs from behind.

PENALTIES​

PENALTY
1ST 8:20
#29 Sam Alfano High Sticking MINOR 2:00POWER PLAY

PENALTY
1ST 10:43
#2 Samuel Mayer Hooking MINOR 2:00POWER PLAY

PENALTY
1ST 13:32
#21 Colton Kammerer Tripping MINOR 2:00POWER PLAY

PENALTY
1ST 19:43
#24 Artem Guryev Delay of Game. Served by Nick LardisMINOR 2:00POWER PLAY

PENALTY
1ST 19:43
#24 Artem Guryev Unsportsmanlike Cnd. MINOR 2:00

PENALTY
1ST 19:43
#21 Colton Kammerer Unsportsmanlike Cnd. MINOR 2:00

PENALTY
2ND 9:53
#2 Samuel Mayer Roughing MINOR 2:00

PENALTY
2ND 9:53
#21 Colton Kammerer Roughing MINOR 2:00

PENALTY
2ND 10:50
#8 Arber Xhekaj Slashing MINOR 2:00POWER PLAY

PENALTY
2ND 14:10
#2 Samuel Mayer Roughing MINOR 2:00

PENALTY
2ND 14:10
#25 Emmett Sproule Misc-USC MISCONDUCT

PENALTY
2ND 14:10
#23 Mason McTavish Roughing MINOR 2:00

PENALTY
2ND 14:10
#8 Arber Xhekaj Misc-USC MISCONDUCT

PENALTY
2ND 15:09
#22 Tucker Robertson Unsportsmanlike Cnd. MINOR 2:00

PENALTY
2ND 15:09
#7 Shawn Spearing Cross Checking MINOR 2:00POWER PLAY

PENALTY
2ND 15:09
#44 Nathan Staios Unsportsmanlike Cnd. MINOR 2:00

PENALTY
2ND 17:50
#14 Joe Carroll Holding MINOR 2:00POWER PLAY

PENALTY
2ND 18:54
#19 Jan Mysak Interference MINOR 2:00POWER PLAY

PENALTY
3RD 4:45
#8 Arber Xhekaj Holding MINOR 2:00POWER PLAY

PENALTY
3RD 7:03
#27 Ryan Winterton Unsportsmanlike Cnd. MINOR 2:00POWER PLAY

PENALTY
3RD 9:44
#5 Quinton Pagé Cross Checking. Served by Joe CarrollMINOR 2:00POWER PLAY

PENALTY
3RD 9:44
#5 Quinton Pagé Roughing MINOR 2:00

PENALTY
3RD 9:44
#5 Quinton Pagé Roughing MINOR 2:00

PENALTY
3RD 9:44
#5 Quinton Pagé Misc-USC MISCONDUCT

PENALTY
3RD 9:44
#14 George Diaco Roughing MINOR 2:00

PENALTY
3RD 9:44
#14 George Diaco Misc-USC MISCONDUCT

PENALTY
3RD 9:44
#23 Mason McTavish Slashing MINOR 2:00

PENALTY
3RD 11:04
#13 Avery Hayes Blindsiding MINOR 2:00POWER PLAY

PENALTY
3RD 13:14
#2 Samuel Mayer Misc-Failure to Clear Zone MISCONDUCT

PENALTY
3RD 13:14
#22 Tucker Robertson Instigator MINOR 2:00POWER PLAY

PENALTY
3RD 13:14
#22 Tucker Robertson Misc-Instigating MISCONDUCT

PENALTY
3RD 13:14
#22 Tucker Robertson Fight-Inst. Upon MAJOR 5:00

PENALTY
3RD 13:14
#7 Shawn Spearing Misc-Failure to Clear Zone MISCONDUCT

PENALTY
3RD 13:14
#25 Brenden Anderson Misc-Failure to Clear Zone MISCONDUCT

PENALTY
3RD 13:14
#39 Lawson Sherk Fighting MAJOR 5:00

PENALTY
3RD 15:13
#10 Gavin White Tripping MINOR 2:00POWER PLAY

 

[StevenToddIves]

I watched this game. Stillman had a nice stick check to prevent a goal and got in on the dirty work when he two handed Grushnikov between the legs from behind.

PENALTIES​

PENALTY
1ST 8:20
#29 Sam Alfano High Sticking MINOR 2:00POWER PLAY

PENALTY
1ST 10:43
#2 Samuel Mayer Hooking MINOR 2:00POWER PLAY

PENALTY
1ST 13:32
#21 Colton Kammerer Tripping MINOR 2:00POWER PLAY

PENALTY
1ST 19:43
#24 Artem Guryev Delay of Game. Served by Nick LardisMINOR 2:00POWER PLAY

PENALTY
1ST 19:43
#24 Artem Guryev Unsportsmanlike Cnd. MINOR 2:00

PENALTY
1ST 19:43
#21 Colton Kammerer Unsportsmanlike Cnd. MINOR 2:00

PENALTY
2ND 9:53
#2 Samuel Mayer Roughing MINOR 2:00

PENALTY
2ND 9:53
#21 Colton Kammerer Roughing MINOR 2:00

PENALTY
2ND 10:50
#8 Arber Xhekaj Slashing MINOR 2:00POWER PLAY

PENALTY
2ND 14:10
#2 Samuel Mayer Roughing MINOR 2:00

PENALTY
2ND 14:10
#25 Emmett Sproule Misc-USC MISCONDUCT

PENALTY
2ND 14:10
#23 Mason McTavish Roughing MINOR 2:00

PENALTY
2ND 14:10
#8 Arber Xhekaj Misc-USC MISCONDUCT

PENALTY
2ND 15:09
#22 Tucker Robertson Unsportsmanlike Cnd. MINOR 2:00

PENALTY
2ND 15:09
#7 Shawn Spearing Cross Checking MINOR 2:00POWER PLAY

PENALTY
2ND 15:09
#44 Nathan Staios Unsportsmanlike Cnd. MINOR 2:00

PENALTY
2ND 17:50
#14 Joe Carroll Holding MINOR 2:00POWER PLAY

PENALTY
2ND 18:54
#19 Jan Mysak Interference MINOR 2:00POWER PLAY

PENALTY
3RD 4:45
#8 Arber Xhekaj Holding MINOR 2:00POWER PLAY

PENALTY
3RD 7:03
#27 Ryan Winterton Unsportsmanlike Cnd. MINOR 2:00POWER PLAY

PENALTY
3RD 9:44
#5 Quinton Pagé Cross Checking. Served by Joe CarrollMINOR 2:00POWER PLAY

PENALTY
3RD 9:44
#5 Quinton Pagé Roughing MINOR 2:00

PENALTY
3RD 9:44
#5 Quinton Pagé Roughing MINOR 2:00

PENALTY
3RD 9:44
#5 Quinton Pagé Misc-USC MISCONDUCT

PENALTY
3RD 9:44
#14 George Diaco Roughing MINOR 2:00

PENALTY
3RD 9:44
#14 George Diaco Misc-USC MISCONDUCT

PENALTY
3RD 9:44
#23 Mason McTavish Slashing MINOR 2:00

PENALTY
3RD 11:04
#13 Avery Hayes Blindsiding MINOR 2:00POWER PLAY

PENALTY
3RD 13:14
#2 Samuel Mayer Misc-Failure to Clear Zone MISCONDUCT

PENALTY
3RD 13:14
#22 Tucker Robertson Instigator MINOR 2:00POWER PLAY

PENALTY
3RD 13:14
#22 Tucker Robertson Misc-Instigating MISCONDUCT

PENALTY
3RD 13:14
#22 Tucker Robertson Fight-Inst. Upon MAJOR 5:00

PENALTY
3RD 13:14
#7 Shawn Spearing Misc-Failure to Clear Zone MISCONDUCT

PENALTY
3RD 13:14
#25 Brenden Anderson Misc-Failure to Clear Zone MISCONDUCT

PENALTY
3RD 13:14
#39 Lawson Sherk Fighting MAJOR 5:00

PENALTY
3RD 15:13
#10 Gavin White Tripping MINOR 2:00POWER PLAY

I was not thrilled with Stillman's spear of Grushnikov, nor his overall play, which I felt was inconsequential aside from his physicality.

That being said, I'm glad someone else got to witness how outstanding Logan Morrison has been. He'd be an exceptional pick for the Devils in the 4th round.

 

[Guttersniped]

I just finished watching the Hamilton 5-2 victory over Peterborough, and let me tell you, this was the most violent and nasty hockey game I've seen in years. Both teams went after the opposition with a violence and vitriol I cannot remember the likes of.

Without getting into who was to blame and exactly what inspired this violent mess, I'd have to say most of the blame falls upon Peterborough head coach Rob Wilson and incessantly head-hunting defenseman Artem Guryev. Both should be suspended immediately.

What I would like to say about this game which is positive has mostly to do with Logan Morrison, who has been the best forward in the entire OHL thus far these playoffs. I'm not sure what this kid has to do to get on top 100 lists of virtually all the major scouting bureaus and draft analysts, but every time he is without the puck, he is in the right place and every time he is with the puck, a smart play is made to advance the cause of his team.

Down 2-1 with 5 seconds left in the 1st period, Morrison scored on a beauty deflection to knot the score. Up 3-2 in the 2nd after yet another dirty hit by Peterborough, Morrison scored on the PP to give the Bulldogs some breathing room. In the 3rd period -- while most everyone else on the ice was trying to murder each other -- Morrison made a sweet play to find a high-danger scoring area and scored on a wicked and beautiful top cheddar shot to complete the hat trick and give his team a 5-2 victory.

Hamilton is now up 2-0 in the series, and Logan Morrison has 5 goals in the two wins. He's very good defensively, he's an elite passer with an elite hockey IQ, he has a nasty shot and terrific puck skills, he skates extremely well and he's 6'0-180. He scored 100 points during the regular season, and can someone please explain to me how no one ranking the 2022 draft thinks he's worth a pick in the top 100?

Sorry if I'm all full of vinegar. This kid is an exceptional hockey player, and I'd like him to get some due credit.

Artem Guryev brand is big angry body checks, I take it he had some big borderline ones in this game.

 

[StevenToddIves]

Artem Guryev brand is big angry body checks, I take it he had some big borderline ones in this game.

It's really bad. Two straight games, with two clear-cut attempts to injure. Very irresponsible. It's tough to root for Peterborough in this one, mostly because of Guryev and Head Coach Wilson.

 

[Guadana]

To be honest, the three of us agree quite often on MHL players. We are all higher on Alexander Perevalov than anyone else I've seen, for instance. I'm pretty sure @Guadana is a fan of Koromyslov, as he looks for many of the same traits in defensemen as I do.

Here's my write up of this tremendously underrated player from a few months back:

LD Arseni Koromyslov, SKA-1946 MHL
Koromyslov is a two-way defender who has generated a bit of hype do to a singular first-round ranking, listed at #28 overall by TSN's Craig Button. Though a lot of people like to criticize Button's hot-button rankings, I believe with this particular player, there is something there. Koromyslov has a projectable frame at 6'3-180 and skates extremely well. He shows very good proclivity both offensively and defensively and is a sneaky good prospect for the 2022 draft.

The Moscow native is very smooth defensively in all respects. He excels at defending against the rush, and he's also terrific along the boards and in tight. He's very difficult to beat one-on-one. He used effective physicality rather than assertive physicality, able to separate puck-carrier from puck with smart positioning, good strength and battle and excellent shoulder-checking technique. His positioning and gaps are very good and show the aptitude to become simply excellent. He features an active stick and is terrific at clogging shooting lanes and blocking passing lanes. He's more of a quiet defender than a loud one, but I'd say he's just a subtly outstanding player in this respect.

Offensively, I believe wholeheartedly that Koromyslov has sneaky upside. While quite efficient and smart in his general passing game, he sometimes flashes higher awareness, completing slick, high-danger passes which lead to tremendous scoring opportunities. Koromyslov is much the same in transition -- though he generally prefers the high-percentage play, every so often he'll raise your eyebrows with a sparkling stretch pass which leaves you wondering where exactly it came from and how much more of that might exist beneath the understated surface. Koromyslov generally prefers to start transition with a pass, but also shows the ability to skate the puck out of traffic, which also lends to the belief that he has more offensive skill than his generally careful style of play lets on. This is how I've felt about many of my favorite draft-eligible defensemen over the years, from Andrew Peeke to Drew Helleson to Brock Faber. It makes me feel there may be more offensive upside than the numbers thus far indicate -- numbers which are obscured simply because Koromyslov is a team-first guy who takes care of his own zone before worrying about the offense.

Right now, Arseni Koromyslov is my runaway top defender from the MHL for the 2022 draft. The consensus top D out of his league is Vladimir Grudinin, but I have to say right now I have Koromyslov ahead of him by a country mile. It's not close. Though I realize the Devils are the deepest pool of LD prospect talent in the NHL by light years and Koromyslov is probably not a priority, I felt the need to highlight him as one of the best sleepers in the entire 2022 class. I can say with conviction that a future as an all-situations, mid-pairing NHL defender is a very realistic one for this player. He's going to be a terrific pick for a smart-drafting team, probably in the 2nd or 3rd round.

I'll suggest @Guadana has something to say about that.

He is talented guy. And ofcourse he is underrated because everybody knows why. There were factor even before everything did happened for special losers. How it will work I don`t know. The thing I did understand that americans are very practical guys and I think everybody will find correct wording for transportation players. Rules about contacts is fun because we live in 21st century. Someone will get talented successful players, someone will scare, won't want to get involved etc.

I don`t know what to add about Koromyslov`s game especially. I think his game is on the level with Mukhamadullin`s game at the same age. May be he is even better defensively and not as flashy offensively(questionable). But we must don`t forget that Shakir was KHL player. I have questions about his positioning, but I think good coach easily could teach him. I like his puck battling. Arseniy is good enough to be picked in the third third of the first round, if you want LD. Devils don`t(i hope). Even in the second or even in the third round. Even if Fitz somehow will decide to finally make trade for more early picks or trade back. Devils needs more interior players, physical players, a lot more right defensemen and defensive center. And goalie ofcourse.
The only reason I would draft him, if I could be Devils gm, in the situation, where devils get more 1-3 round picks, draft everything they need(Jiricek\Slaf\Gauthier\Nazar\Chesley, Perevalov, Salomonsson, Warren) and Koromyslov is available still. May be late second round with plenty of picks. He will be realistically available after 4-5 years. And a lot of things in the world and in the Devils organization could change. Devils could try to find cheap and talanted replacement. He could be a great material for the hockey trade. If Devils still want to draft LD(I dont know why) in the second round, I would easlily pick him above Pickering, Korchinski or Mintyukov. I would say Koromyslov is a light Jiricek verson on the left side. If he is is available in the third and Devils did draft a couple of right defensemen, he is no brainer pick.

If Devils will draft Slafkovsky or Gauthier or Nazar, after some years Devils will have Jack, Nico, Dawson, Bratt, Yegor, Holtz, Gritsyuk, Gauthier\Slaf\Nazar and Boqvist\Thompson\Stillman as top-9 players. It`s deadly. And organisation will need to find cheap deals. Drafting talented players is a way to make them.

 

[StevenToddIves]

He is talented guy. And ofcourse he is underrated because everybody knows why. There were factor even before everything did happened for special losers. How it will work I don`t know. The thing I did understand that americans are very practical guys and I think everybody will find correct wording for transportation players. Rules about contacts is fun because we live in 21st century. Someone will get talented successful players, someone will scare, won't want to get involved etc.

I don`t know what to add about Koromyslov`s game especially. I think his game is on the level with Mukhamadullin`s game at the same age. May be he is even better defensively and not as flashy offensively(questionable). But we must don`t forget that Shakir was KHL player. I have questions about his positioning, but I think good coach easily could teach him. I like his puck battling. Arseniy is good enough to be picked in the third third of the first round, if you want LD. Devils don`t(i hope). Even in the second or even in the third round. Even if Fitz somehow will decide to finally make trade for more early picks or trade back. Devils needs more interior players, physical players, a lot more right defensemen and defensive center. And goalie ofcourse.
The only reason I would draft him, if I could be Devils gm, in the situation, where devils get more 1-3 round picks, draft everything they need(Jiricek\Slaf\Gauthier\Nazar\Chesley, Perevalov, Salomonsson, Warren) and Koromyslov is available still. May be late second round with plenty of picks. He will be realistically available after 4-5 years. And a lot of things in the world and in the Devils organization could change. Devils could try to find cheap and talanted replacement. He could be a great material for the hockey trade. If Devils still want to draft LD(I dont know why) in the second round, I would easlily pick him above Pickering, Korchinski or Mintyukov. I would say Koromyslov is a light Jiricek verson on the left side. If he is is available in the third and Devils did draft a couple of right defensemen, he is no brainer pick.

If Devils will draft Slafkovsky or Gauthier or Nazar, after some years Devils will have Jack, Nico, Dawson, Bratt, Yegor, Holtz, Gritsyuk, Gauthier\Slaf\Nazar and Boqvist\Thompson\Stillman as top-9 players. It`s deadly. And organisation will need to find cheap deals. Drafting talented players is a way to make them.

Thanks for your take on Koromyslov!

I have to say that when I talk about a player I like for the draft, it's not necessarily meaning that I want the Devils to pick them. I realize the Devils don't *need* LD, and have other areas of import to focus on -- RD, interior forwards, depth centers and goaltenders.

But as a draft "purist", when I see a player I really like, I feel the need to pump them up as much as possible. Especially if these players have been underrated by the consensus.

There are many reasons why prospects are underrated or overrated. Some of these reasons are just downright silly. MHL players still are routinely bumped down the rankings, every single year, simply because they are MHL players. Is it because draft evaluators are too lazy to watch the MHL? Is it because of an anti-Russian prejudice routinely espoused by such long-time NHL commentators as Don Cherry, Mike Milbury and Pierre McGuire? I don't know if there's any one reason. But there is no way you can convince me that if Koromyslov's last name were "Koromburglund" and he played in the Swedish J20, he would not be universally ranked higher.

Here's a recent prospect ranking: 2022 NHL Draft: Zator's Top 96 April Rankings -- which, on the surface, looks pretty clueless. But after studying it awhile, I realized it's actually a passable list if you bump up everyone playing in Russia 20% and bump down everyone playing in Sweden the same 20%. Because this ranking is actually not bad if you ignore the fact that this year's Russian draft crop is much stronger than this year's Swedish draft crop and he seems to have flip-flopped that fact. There's also a clear mark-down for the obvious crime of "being Czech" -- with Jiricek at 12 and Kulich at 39.

But back to Koromyslov. He's 6'3, he skates well, he's smart, he's competitive, he's skilled, and he's perhaps the best defensive defender in the MHL. Though I don't see him as a Devils target -- seeing as we don't need LD -- I just felt the need to talk him up because, quite simply, he's a heck of a player and he's not getting much love from your average draft-ranker. Every year I look for draft-day steals from the MHL because, quite frankly, it's the easiest place to find them. People don't watch MHL games, and thus they rank their players too low. Though Perevalov and Trikozov are getting *some* (well-deserved) respect this year, other MHLers are not -- Koromyslov, Neuchev, Pelevin, Duda, Dolzhenkov.

And again, it's not just Russians. Someone explain to me how Adam Sykora is so unheralded in the scouting community. I think if he were playing for the Barrie Colts, people would be ranking him routinely in the late 1st/early 2nd. But that's one of the things I suppose we try to do here, which is to give good young players the credit they deserve.

 

[Nico Hischier]

Haven’t really been paying attention to this years draft prospects but what I can guess is that if we could get either one of the 2 top RHD, it would be a success

 

[StevenToddIves]

Haven’t really been paying attention to this years draft prospects but what I can guess is that if we could get either one of the 2 top RHD, it would be a success

Yes, the big hope around Devils-land is probably to get David Jiricek or Simon Nemec.

 

[Guadana]

Thanks for your take on Koromyslov!

I have to say that when I talk about a player I like for the draft, it's not necessarily meaning that I want the Devils to pick them. I realize the Devils don't *need* LD, and have other areas of import to focus on -- RD, interior forwards, depth centers and goaltenders.

But as a draft "purist", when I see a player I really like, I feel the need to pump them up as much as possible. Especially if these players have been underrated by the consensus.

There are many reasons why prospects are underrated or overrated. Some of these reasons are just downright silly. MHL players still are routinely bumped down the rankings, every single year, simply because they are MHL players. Is it because draft evaluators are too lazy to watch the MHL? Is it because of an anti-Russian prejudice routinely espoused by such long-time NHL commentators as Don Cherry, Mike Milbury and Pierre McGuire? I don't know if there's any one reason. But there is no way you can convince me that if Koromyslov's last name were "Koromburglund" and he played in the Swedish J20, he would not be universally ranked higher.

Here's a recent prospect ranking: 2022 NHL Draft: Zator's Top 96 April Rankings -- which, on the surface, looks pretty clueless. But after studying it awhile, I realized it's actually a passable list if you bump up everyone playing in Russia 20% and bump down everyone playing in Sweden the same 20%. Because this ranking is actually not bad if you ignore the fact that this year's Russian draft crop is much stronger than this year's Swedish draft crop and he seems to have flip-flopped that fact. There's also a clear mark-down for the obvious crime of "being Czech" -- with Jiricek at 12 and Kulich at 39.

But back to Koromyslov. He's 6'3, he skates well, he's smart, he's competitive, he's skilled, and he's perhaps the best defensive defender in the MHL. Though I don't see him as a Devils target -- seeing as we don't need LD -- I just felt the need to talk him up because, quite simply, he's a heck of a player and he's not getting much love from your average draft-ranker. Every year I look for draft-day steals from the MHL because, quite frankly, it's the easiest place to find them. People don't watch MHL games, and thus they rank their players too low. Though Perevalov and Trikozov are getting *some* (well-deserved) respect this year, other MHLers are not -- Koromyslov, Neuchev, Pelevin, Duda, Dolzhenkov.

And again, it's not just Russians. Someone explain to me how Adam Sykora is so unheralded in the scouting community. I think if he were playing for the Barrie Colts, people would be ranking him routinely in the late 1st/early 2nd. But that's one of the things I suppose we try to do here, which is to give good young players the credit they deserve.

This is how you gonna build winning team. You are drafting players for their talent and how it is better cooked for his role. Just imagine Tampa did draft Kucherof in the late 2nd and Palat in the 7th round In one draft year. Talent was there. Results too.
btw Perevalov is not to far from Kucherov results. His game is great and fit well in NHL. Koromyslov? Isn’t great producer but still very effective and great defensively. Before the season I was thinking Sykora will be first round prospect and I still think that he is. And Kulich too.
And It is an opportunity for smart gm who have some balls to be successful.

Because I dive into the first and second round, Im more watching from the devils perspective, reason why I don’t talk a lot about Trikozov for example. I’m not telling this is the only way to judge. That’s great you find some time and passion to tell to hfboardians about different players from different countries and championship. It could be me, but My perspective of view. And laziness.

 

[StevenToddIves]

I didn't get to watch the U-18s too much today because I had to work all day, but these are the results:

Switzerland 4 Latvia 3 -- GW goal in the 3rd for Cyril Pont

Sweden 4, Finland 3 -- 2 goals by RD Mattias Havelid, who was apparently awesome all game. Havelid just missed my top 100 ranking, but I'm admittedly partial to more defensive defensemen. Havelid is 5'10, but very skilled with the puck and it should be known that he's a consensus 2nd round pick with a couple rankings late in the 1st.

USA 10, Germany 2 -- Team USA is a machine, and they will be tough to stop. I watched this as much as I could at my bar without being able to pay close attention. Germany tried to goon it up late and it got a bit nasty. To me, the best player was C Rutger McGroarty (my #14) who scored 2 goals and was a massive physical presence.

Czechia 6, Canada 5 (OT) -- the best game of the day featured a huge Czech comeback, with LD Tomas Hamara (my #59) scoring a tying goal in the final minutes and then winning it in OT. He was the tournament player of the day, without any doubt. But I would say the most impressive player in the entire tournament so far has been LW/C Jiri Kulich, who shined in another 2-goal game and has been a one-man wrecking crew all tournament. He's as high on my list as you'll see anywhere at #20, but I expect him to shoot up a lot of lists after how he has played against the best competition imaginable among kids his own age.

 

[StevenToddIves]

I got to watch some WHL playoffs last night, and decided on Seattle vs. Kelowna. Seattle blew Kelowna pretty much out of the water once again, and their two top 2022-eligibles again starred.

LD Kevin Korchinski is probably not on the Devils radar, as he's a likely pick in the #15-#25 range and, even if the Devils had a pick there, they would not opt for a LD. But it's easy to see why he's one of the biggest late risers on 2022 draft boards -- he's 6'3 and can fly, he's a tremendous passer with high end puck skills. Though his overall game is a work in progress, there is certainly the possibility of a high-scoring, two-way defender with a size/.speed combo which makes him a ridiculously tough match-up.

LW Reid Schaefer is one of the most underrated players by draft analysts, but he's higher regarded by scouts. He showed off his nasty release on a laser-beam, one-time goal from the slot on the PP, made several passes which hinted at his higher-than-given-credit-for hockey sense. He's 6'3-215 and hits like a freight train. On one drive to the net, he made a sick move, tucking the puck through his own legs to make a bad-angle attempt into a high danger chance which the opposing net minder was lucky to have hit him in the shoulder.

The most impressive Schaefer play won't hit the highlight reel and actually resulted in a penalty shot against. In the 1st period, tied at zero, Kelowna RW Jake Poole was skating in alone on a breakaway, and Schaefer game flying in from the opposite end of the ice, catching him from the left side and reaching around to try to whack Poole's stick. Schaefer missed the stick and hit Poole's glove, resulting on a penalty shot, which Poole buried.

But, here's why watching the games is more important than looking at numbers. Schaefer showed me several things on this play.

1) Schaefer has been described as a pretty good skater, but I think he's actually quite fast when he gets going. Poole is pretty quick, and I was floored by how quickly Schaefer closed the gap and caught him from behind.

2) Schaefer's defensive play has not been lauded enough -- he's actually quite the two-way player with terrific defensive awareness. The idea to reach around the smaller Poole and go for the stick hand rather than simply hook him down did not work out in the end, but it was a very smart example of quick thinking in a pressure situation.

3) The compete level here was on full display. Schaefer is a team guy, and he hustled his ass off too try to prevent a goal against.

My closest comparable for Reid Schaefer is Tom Wilson, though Wilson is obviously a RW and Schaefer a LW. In Tom Wilson's draft eligible campaign of 2011-12, he was obviously the toughest player in the OHL and offered tremendous speed, shooting, puck skill and athleticism for a tough guy, but he only scored 9 goals and 27 points in 48 games.

Schaefer is obviously the toughest forward in the WHL, and he's not quite as fast or purely athletic as Wilson, but his shot and offensive instincts are notably better. He's scored 32 goals in 66 regular season games and now has 2 goals and 5 points in 3 playoff games. I believe he has 2nd line scoring upside at the NHL level, and he's a guy you can have as the crease-mucker on your 1PP unit. If an opposing team gets too physical with Hughes or Bratt? No problem, just slot Schaefer up to their line and watch the heads roll.

Did I mention his shot is also a bomb? The release is not quite as sick as Sharangovich, but I'd say the shot has similar heaviness and accuracy. Reid Schaefer can score. I'm a bit underwhelmed with how he's been ranked by many, but I feel there is a bit of a backlash against physical players by certain sectors in the draft-writing community. The McKenzie poll currently has him at #79, which makes him a 3rd round pick. I'd say his consensus ranking is currently a bit lower, in the #85-#95 range.

If I'm the Devils, this is a name I circle. He's exactly what NJ needs -- an interior/power forward with the ability to score greasy goals in tight and win battles down low. He'll create space for the Devils pure skill guys, and has the requisite offensive ability to play alongside top talent. It is my strong conviction that Reid Schaefer should be a strong consideration with the Devils 2nd round pick, and if he's there in the 3rd, it's a no-brainer.

 

[My3Sons]

I got to watch some WHL playoffs last night, and decided on Seattle vs. Kelowna. Seattle blew Kelowna pretty much out of the water once again, and their two top 2022-eligibles again starred.

LD Kevin Korchinski is probably not on the Devils radar, as he's a likely pick in the #15-#25 range and, even if the Devils had a pick there, they would not opt for a LD. But it's easy to see why he's one of the biggest late risers on 2022 draft boards -- he's 6'3 and can fly, he's a tremendous passer with high end puck skills. Though his overall game is a work in progress, there is certainly the possibility of a high-scoring, two-way defender with a size/.speed combo which makes him a ridiculously tough match-up.

LW Reid Schaefer is one of the most underrated players by draft analysts, but he's higher regarded by scouts. He showed off his nasty release on a laser-beam, one-time goal from the slot on the PP, made several passes which hinted at his higher-than-given-credit-for hockey sense. He's 6'3-215 and hits like a freight train. On one drive to the net, he made a sick move, tucking the puck through his own legs to make a bad-angle attempt into a high danger chance which the opposing net minder was lucky to have hit him in the shoulder.

The most impressive Schaefer play won't hit the highlight reel and actually resulted in a penalty shot against. In the 1st period, tied at zero, Kelowna RW Jake Poole was skating in alone on a breakaway, and Schaefer game flying in from the opposite end of the ice, catching him from the left side and reaching around to try to whack Poole's stick. Schaefer missed the stick and hit Poole's glove, resulting on a penalty shot, which Poole buried.

But, here's why watching the games is more important than looking at numbers. Schaefer showed me several things on this play.

1) Schaefer has been described as a pretty good skater, but I think he's actually quite fast when he gets going. Poole is pretty quick, and I was floored by how quickly Schaefer closed the gap and caught him from behind.

2) Schaefer's defensive play has not been lauded enough -- he's actually quite the two-way player with terrific defensive awareness. The idea to reach around the smaller Poole and go for the stick hand rather than simply hook him down did not work out in the end, but it was a very smart example of quick thinking in a pressure situation.

3) The compete level here was on full display. Schaefer is a team guy, and he hustled his ass off too try to prevent a goal against.

My closest comparable for Reid Schaefer is Tom Wilson, though Wilson is obviously a RW and Schaefer a LW. In Tom Wilson's draft eligible campaign of 2011-12, he was obviously the toughest player in the OHL and offered tremendous speed, shooting, puck skill and athleticism for a tough guy, but he only scored 9 goals and 27 points in 48 games.

Schaefer is obviously the toughest forward in the WHL, and he's not quite as fast or purely athletic as Wilson, but his shot and offensive instincts are notably better. He's scored 32 goals in 66 regular season games and now has 2 goals and 5 points in 3 playoff games. I believe he has 2nd line scoring upside at the NHL level, and he's a guy you can have as the crease-mucker on your 1PP unit. If an opposing team gets too physical with Hughes or Bratt? No problem, just slot Schaefer up to their line and watch the heads roll.

Did I mention his shot is also a bomb? The release is not quite as sick as Sharangovich, but I'd say the shot has similar heaviness and accuracy. Reid Schaefer can score. I'm a bit underwhelmed with how he's been ranked by many, but I feel there is a bit of a backlash against physical players by certain sectors in the draft-writing community. The McKenzie poll currently has him at #79, which makes him a 3rd round pick. I'd say his consensus ranking is currently a bit lower, in the #85-#95 range.

If I'm the Devils, this is a name I circle. He's exactly what NJ needs -- an interior/power forward with the ability to score greasy goals in tight and win battles down low. He'll create space for the Devils pure skill guys, and has the requisite offensive ability to play alongside top talent. It is my strong conviction that Reid Schaefer should be a strong consideration with the Devils 2nd round pick, and if he's there in the 3rd, it's a no-brainer.

Do you really advocate drafting a guy who gave another player a reach around (your words) during play in a televised game? And then you double down by suggesting he will decapitate players on the other team? Will he put their severed heads up on pikes around the NJ bench as a message to the opponents like some dark ages warlord? What's next, you want NJ to draft a cannibal because he can clear the crease?

 

[Tao Jersey Jones]

The most impressive Schaefer play won't hit the highlight reel and actually resulted in a penalty shot against. In the 1st period, tied at zero, Kelowna RW Jake Poole was skating in alone on a breakaway, and Schaefer game flying in from the opposite end of the ice, catching him from the left side and reaching around to try to whack Poole's stick. Schaefer missed the stick and hit Poole's glove, resulting on a penalty shot, which Poole buried.

But, here's why watching the games is more important than looking at numbers. Schaefer showed me several things on this play.

1) Schaefer has been described as a pretty good skater, but I think he's actually quite fast when he gets going. Poole is pretty quick, and I was floored by how quickly Schaefer closed the gap and caught him from behind.

2) Schaefer's defensive play has not been lauded enough -- he's actually quite the two-way player with terrific defensive awareness. The idea to reach around the smaller Poole and go for the stick hand rather than simply hook him down did not work out in the end, but it was a very smart example of quick thinking in a pressure situation.

3) The compete level here was on full display. Schaefer is a team guy, and he hustled his ass off too try to prevent a goal against.

My closest comparable for Reid Schaefer is Tom Wilson, though Wilson is obviously a RW and Schaefer a LW. In Tom Wilson's draft eligible campaign of 2011-12, he was obviously the toughest player in the OHL and offered tremendous speed, shooting, puck skill and athleticism for a tough guy, but he only scored 9 goals and 27 points in 48 games.

Schaefer is obviously the toughest forward in the WHL, and he's not quite as fast or purely athletic as Wilson, but his shot and offensive instincts are notably better. He's scored 32 goals in 66 regular season games and now has 2 goals and 5 points in 3 playoff games. I believe he has 2nd line scoring upside at the NHL level, and he's a guy you can have as the crease-mucker on your 1PP unit. If an opposing team gets too physical with Hughes or Bratt? No problem, just slot Schaefer up to their line and watch the heads roll.

Did I mention his shot is also a bomb? The release is not quite as sick as Sharangovich, but I'd say the shot has similar heaviness and accuracy. Reid Schaefer can score. I'm a bit underwhelmed with how he's been ranked by many, but I feel there is a bit of a backlash against physical players by certain sectors in the draft-writing community. The McKenzie poll currently has him at #79, which makes him a 3rd round pick. I'd say his consensus ranking is currently a bit lower, in the #85-#95 range.

If I'm the Devils, this is a name I circle. He's exactly what NJ needs -- an interior/power forward with the ability to score greasy goals in tight and win battles down low. He'll create space for the Devils pure skill guys, and has the requisite offensive ability to play alongside top talent. It is my strong conviction that Reid Schaefer should be a strong consideration with the Devils 2nd round pick, and if he's there in the 3rd, it's a no-brainer.

Western Hockey League

whl.ca

~0:52 for the penalty taken by Poole

 

[Guttersniped]

Do you really advocate drafting a guy who gave another player a reach around (your words) during play in a televised game? And then you double down by suggesting he will decapitate players on the other team? Will he put their severed heads up on pikes around the NJ bench as a message to the opponents like some dark ages warlord? What's next, you want NJ to draft a cannibal because he can clear the crease?

 

[StevenToddIves]

Do you really advocate drafting a guy who gave another player a reach around (your words) during play in a televised game? And then you double down by suggesting he will decapitate players on the other team? Will he put their severed heads up on pikes around the NJ bench as a message to the opponents like some dark ages warlord? What's next, you want NJ to draft a cannibal because he can clear the crease?

Yes.