LD Jakub Zboril (2015, 13th, BOS)

[Hale The Villain]

The issue I had with selecting Zboril over Chabot was upside. It was clear watching the two players that Chabot had more potential, as he's a better skater, is more poised with the puck and has a higher skill level. I don't have any issue with selecting safe players that are good bets to be solid NHL players, but to me Zboril wasn't any safer of a prospect than Chabot. Chabot has a ton of speed, skill and poise to fall back on - it's hard to see him busting in any capacity because of these skills, whereas Zboril does a lot of things well, but does he do them well enough to be a top 4 defenseman one day? Because if you're selecting a D with limited upside with a top 15 pick in a draft stacked with talent, you better be damn sure that he's a top 4 defenseman in the making.

The Bruins' scouting staff completely botched the 1st round. Zboril, DeBrusk, Senyshyn all should have been picked 20-30, and they passed on Connor, White, Chabot and Barzal, guys who probably could be considered top 10 quality picks in a normal quality draft. It's not the end of the world through, as the Bruins absolutely killed the rest of their selections in the draft. Could see Carlo becoming a good 2nd pairing shutdown D, JFK looks like a great 3rd line C in the making and Lauzon looks like a steal in the late 2nd. Could see Gabrielle and Vladar becoming NHLers as well. Even with a dreadful 1st round the Bruins could realistically produce 7 NHLers from this draft. Future is still bright in Boston, but if they selected properly in the 1st they would have been a powerhouse in the making.

 

[Dr.Sens(e)]

The issue I had with selecting Zboril over Chabot was upside. It was clear watching the two players that Chabot had more potential, as he's a better skater, is more poised with the puck and has a higher skill level. I don't have any issue with selecting safe players that are good bets to be solid NHL players, but to me Zboril wasn't any safer of a prospect than Chabot. Chabot has a ton of speed, skill and poise to fall back on - it's hard to see him busting in any capacity because of these skills, whereas Zboril does a lot of things well, but does he do them well enough to be a top 4 defenseman one day? Because if you're selecting a D with limited upside with a top 15 pick in a draft stacked with talent, you better be damn sure that he's a top 4 defenseman in the making.

The Bruins' scouting staff completely botched the 1st round. Zboril, DeBrusk, Senyshyn all should have been picked 20-30, and they passed on Connor, White, Chabot and Barzal, guys who probably could be considered top 10 quality picks in a normal quality draft. It's not the end of the world through, as the Bruins absolutely killed the rest of their selections in the draft. Could see Carlo becoming a good 2nd pairing shutdown D, JFK looks like a great 3rd line C in the making and Lauzon looks like a steal in the late 2nd. Could see Gabrielle and Vladar becoming NHLers as well. Even with a dreadful 1st round the Bruins could realistically produce 7 NHLers from this draft. Future is still bright in Boston, but if they selected properly in the 1st they would have been a powerhouse in the making.

Can't really agree with the certainty you claim to have. Zboril actually put up more offence than Chabot last year, so I don't think upside was clear to anyone. Some local fans like Chabot better. Many liked Zboril. For all his skills, Chabot was not the sum of his parts last year like he was this year. Saying upside was "clear" was simply not the case, as evidenced by the numerous scouting reports and rankings, mostly done by the most respected in the industry (for whatever that is worth in such an inexact profession, I'll grant you.). But when MacKenzie's sources are all putting a pretty big gap in rankings between the two (14th v 26th), I think you're kind of defining 'arm chair evaluator' acting like it should have been obvious to everyone.

It's like saying the Sens killed at the draft by trading their 1st rounder many years ago for Rundblad. The deal looked out of this world when Rundblad was the MVP of the SEL. Not so much, later. Especially when you see whom got drafted with that pick. History has a habit of taking absolute positions - or even those of 'near certainty' - and making them look naïve.

As to the reaches of DeBrusk and Senyshyn, the jury is still out, but I can't argue that they took a big risk in bypassing so many more skilled players. But the Sens did the same with White by their own admission, so it's not like character shouldn't count, as White looks like a solid pick. I mean how many times have we seen this be true in terms of very talented players that fail. And both Connor and Barzal come with some red flags - with many other teams passing on them too - so I think it's too early to lament this draft for the Bruins quite yet.

 

[Dellstrom]

The issue I had with selecting Zboril over Chabot was upside. It was clear watching the two players that Chabot had more potential, as he's a better skater, is more poised with the puck and has a higher skill level. I don't have any issue with selecting safe players that are good bets to be solid NHL players, but to me Zboril wasn't any safer of a prospect than Chabot. Chabot has a ton of speed, skill and poise to fall back on - it's hard to see him busting in any capacity because of these skills, whereas Zboril does a lot of things well, but does he do them well enough to be a top 4 defenseman one day? Because if you're selecting a D with limited upside with a top 15 pick in a draft stacked with talent, you better be damn sure that he's a top 4 defenseman in the making.

The Bruins' scouting staff completely botched the 1st round. Zboril, DeBrusk, Senyshyn all should have been picked 20-30, and they passed on Connor, White, Chabot and Barzal, guys who probably could be considered top 10 quality picks in a normal quality draft. It's not the end of the world through, as the Bruins absolutely killed the rest of their selections in the draft. Could see Carlo becoming a good 2nd pairing shutdown D, JFK looks like a great 3rd line C in the making and Lauzon looks like a steal in the late 2nd. Could see Gabrielle and Vladar becoming NHLers as well. Even with a dreadful 1st round the Bruins could realistically produce 7 NHLers from this draft. Future is still bright in Boston, but if they selected properly in the 1st they would have been a powerhouse in the making.

I have no problem with Zboril and Senyshyn. A little iffy on Debrusk.

Zboril has struggled, sure, but he's still a good prospect. Would have liked to see them go "safe" with Zboril and Connor/Barzal, then take a reach on Senyshyn. But oh well, time will tell.

 

[Babula]

The Bruins' scouting staff completely botched the 1st round. Zboril, DeBrusk, Senyshyn all should have been picked 20-30, and they passed on Connor, White, Chabot and Barzal, guys who probably could be considered top 10 quality picks in a normal quality draft.

Forgive me, but it looks as empty talk. Look at Pastrnak draft position a year before... Nobody can predict growth of all players at age of 18.

 

[FLYguy3911]

As far as Zboril's production this year I'll go back to something I wrote at the end of last season:

More than half of Zboril's points came on the PP (and 10 goals).

Chabot scored 29% of his points on the PP (3 goals).

Last year Zboril went 10+7 on the PP for 17 of his 33 points (51%) which was one of the higher percentages among draft eligible defensemen. This year he is 1+3 on the PP for 4 of his 10 points (40%).

For comparison Chabot went 3 + 9 on the powerplay for 12 of his 41 points (29%) last year which was one of the lower percentages among draft eligible defensemen last year. This year he's at 3 + 6 on the PP for 9 of his 27 points (33%).

I haven't watched a ton of Saint John this year but from the little I have seen it looked like Chabot was the only D on the top unit and the 2nd unit was some combo of Murphy, Green, and Zboril.

 

[MardyBum]

Can't really agree with the certainty you claim to have. Zboril actually put up more offence than Chabot last year, so I don't think upside was clear to anyone. Some local fans like Chabot better. Many liked Zboril. For all his skills, Chabot was not the sum of his parts last year like he was this year. Saying upside was "clear" was simply not the case, as evidenced by the numerous scouting reports and rankings, mostly done by the most respected in the industry (for whatever that is worth in such an inexact profession, I'll grant you.). But when MacKenzie's sources are all putting a pretty big gap in rankings between the two (14th v 26th), I think you're kind of defining 'arm chair evaluator' acting like it should have been obvious to everyone.

It's like saying the Sens killed at the draft by trading their 1st rounder many years ago for Rundblad. The deal looked out of this world when Rundblad was the MVP of the SEL. Not so much, later. Especially when you see whom got drafted with that pick. History has a habit of taking absolute positions - or even those of 'near certainty' - and making them look naïve.

As to the reaches of DeBrusk and Senyshyn, the jury is still out, but I can't argue that they took a big risk in bypassing so many more skilled players. But the Sens did the same with White by their own admission, so it's not like character shouldn't count, as White looks like a solid pick. I mean how many times have we seen this be true in terms of very talented players that fail. And both Connor and Barzal come with some red flags - with many other teams passing on them too - so I think it's too early to lament this draft for the Bruins quite yet.

What's Connor's red flag, besides the USHL not being respected as a quality league?

 

[Son of Donegal]

I can't speak to the specifics of Zboril's situation in Cape Breton or his relationship to the coaches...but based on what I have seen, my gut tells me the Bruins have a talented skater, passer and shooter with well-above average physicality who either is bummed out about being in Cape Breton or needs a quick kick in the ass...perhaps both.

My gut tells me haven't seen Zboril's upside yet. So those saying Chabot has the higher upside based on two successful seasons...let's check back in 4 years. If Zboril decides he wants to play to his true potential, watch out.

 

[BondraTime]

I can't speak to the specifics of Zboril's situation in Cape Breton or his relationship to the coaches...but based on what I have seen, my gut tells me the Bruins have a talented skater, passer and shooter with well-above average physicality who either is bummed out about being in Cape Breton or needs a quick kick in the ass...perhaps both.

My gut tells me haven't seen Zboril's upside yet. So those saying Chabot has the higher upside based on two successful seasons...let's check back in 4 years. If Zboril decides he wants to play to his true potential, watch out.

He really does hate Cape Breton, so much so he will only visit the place 4 times all season.

 

[Dr.Sens(e)]

What's Connor's red flag, besides the USHL not being respected as a quality league?

A lot of talk about a big attitude related to Team USA. One of the reasons he was left off the WJC squad, because obviously he would have been easily one of the top skilled forwards on that team. Was news to me when I read it over the holidays as well, but supposedly there is some history there.

 

[Sting]

I can't speak to the specifics of Zboril's situation in Cape Breton or his relationship to the coaches...but based on what I have seen, my gut tells me the Bruins have a talented skater, passer and shooter with well-above average physicality who either is bummed out about being in Cape Breton or needs a quick kick in the ass...perhaps both.

My gut tells me haven't seen Zboril's upside yet. So those saying Chabot has the higher upside based on two successful seasons...let's check back in 4 years. If Zboril decides he wants to play to his true potential, watch out.

To be fair, your last sentence has probably been stated a billion times by fans over the years over their respective players who haven't panned out because of work ethic.

I think most agreed Chabot has a higher upside based on physical tools that Zboril just doesn't have (a 6'3" fast skating frame).

 

[SanDogBrewin]

The Bruins' scouting staff completely botched the 1st round. Zboril, DeBrusk, Senyshyn all should have been picked 20-30, and they passed on Connor, White, Chabot and Barzal, guys who probably could be considered top 10 quality picks in a normal quality draft. It's not the end of the world through, as the Bruins absolutely killed the rest of their selections in the draft. Could see Carlo becoming a good 2nd pairing shutdown D, JFK looks like a great 3rd line C in the making and Lauzon looks like a steal in the late 2nd. Could see Gabrielle and Vladar becoming NHLers as well. Even with a dreadful 1st round the Bruins could realistically produce 7 NHLers from this draft. Future is still bright in Boston, but if they selected properly in the 1st they would have been a powerhouse in the making.

Won't know how properly the Bruins picked until the prospects start playing in the AHL and NHL. So no it is not the end of the world. Defensemen picks are a craps shoot gamble.

 

[Son of Donegal]

To be fair, your last sentence has probably been stated a billion times by fans over the years over their respective players who haven't panned out because of work ethic.

I think most agreed Chabot has a higher upside based on physical tools that Zboril just doesn't have (a 6'3" fast skating frame).

Well, most did not agree...as Zboril was the higher rated prospect by the majority of experts leading up to the draft. Also...have you see Zboril play? Perhaps he isn't as fast as Chabot, but he is a smooth skater and he plays a much more physical style. Chabot will probably put up more points, Zboril will do a much better job clearing he crease and getting the puck out of danger...both are good at possession.

 

[joey16]

Zboril really did have character issues when he was younger but I thought that was fully behind him now.. I really wonder what is going on with him..

 

[MardyBum]

A lot of talk about a big attitude related to Team USA. One of the reasons he was left off the WJC squad, because obviously he would have been easily one of the top skilled forwards on that team. Was news to me when I read it over the holidays as well, but supposedly there is some history there.

From what I remember, he wanted to join to NTDP, but they wouldn't take him.

So from my view have all the attitude you want, clearly it's working for him lol.

 

[Dr.Sens(e)]

From what I remember, he wanted to join to NTDP, but they wouldn't take him.

So from my view have all the attitude you want, clearly it's working for him lol.

Maybe it's B.S. as it hasn't exactly been widely reported (although it can be found on these boards if you want to hunt for it). And he's certainly doing great in the college ranks to be sure. But in terms of making the WJC to play alongside the best of his peers, that had to be disappointing and was a surprise to many that he wasn't seen as one of the 12 best forwards for that team. And he wasn't excluded because of a lack of skill.

 

[covfefe]

I can't speak to the specifics of Zboril's situation in Cape Breton or his relationship to the coaches...but based on what I have seen, my gut tells me the Bruins have a talented skater, passer and shooter with well-above average physicality who either is bummed out about being in Cape Breton or needs a quick kick in the ass...perhaps both.

My gut tells me haven't seen Zboril's upside yet. So those saying Chabot has the higher upside based on two successful seasons...let's check back in 4 years. If Zboril decides he wants to play to his true potential, watch out.

Zboril plays for Saint John which is not really anywhere near Cape Breton, ~600km away.


To be honest, when you speak in absolutes like you have here, but you don't even know what team the player you are talking about plays for, your credibility comes into question.

I get rooting for your team's prospects, and I certainly do the same; but this is a bit much..you literally mention Cape Breton multiple times here..

 

[nbwingsfan]

The issue I had with selecting Zboril over Chabot was upside. It was clear watching the two players that Chabot had more potential, as he's a better skater, is more poised with the puck and has a higher skill level. I don't have any issue with selecting safe players that are good bets to be solid NHL players, but to me Zboril wasn't any safer of a prospect than Chabot. Chabot has a ton of speed, skill and poise to fall back on - it's hard to see him busting in any capacity because of these skills, whereas Zboril does a lot of things well, but does he do them well enough to be a top 4 defenseman one day? Because if you're selecting a D with limited upside with a top 15 pick in a draft stacked with talent, you better be damn sure that he's a top 4 defenseman in the making.

The Bruins' scouting staff completely botched the 1st round. Zboril, DeBrusk, Senyshyn all should have been picked 20-30, and they passed on Connor, White, Chabot and Barzal, guys who probably could be considered top 10 quality picks in a normal quality draft. It's not the end of the world through, as the Bruins absolutely killed the rest of their selections in the draft. Could see Carlo becoming a good 2nd pairing shutdown D, JFK looks like a great 3rd line C in the making and Lauzon looks like a steal in the late 2nd. Could see Gabrielle and Vladar becoming NHLers as well. Even with a dreadful 1st round the Bruins could realistically produce 7 NHLers from this draft. Future is still bright in Boston, but if they selected properly in the 1st they would have been a powerhouse in the making.

OR all of Barzal, Chabot and Connor could bust while Zboril, Senyshen and DeBrusk end up great NHL players. People like you need to stop talking in absolutes like its a guarantee that the draft ends up the way you think it will.

 

[Son of Donegal]

Zboril plays for Saint John which is not really anywhere near Cape Breton, ~600km away.


To be honest, when you speak in absolutes like you have here, but you don't even know what team the player you are talking about plays for, your credibility comes into question.

I get rooting for your team's prospects, and I certainly do the same; but this is a bit much..you literally mention Cape Breton multiple times here..

Easy pal. It was an honest mistake re: Cape Breton. I am at a work conference and haven't slept more than a few hours in 3 days. the fact is Zboril was the higher ranked prospect by ISS and most legitimate scouting resources leading up to the draft. Show me otherwise and I will eat my hat. Back to work, for this guy.

 

[Son of Donegal]

Zboril plays for Saint John which is not really anywhere near Cape Breton, ~600km away.


To be honest, when you speak in absolutes like you have here, but you don't even know what team the player you are talking about plays for, your credibility comes into question.

I get rooting for your team's prospects, and I certainly do the same; but this is a bit much..you literally mention Cape Breton multiple times here..

Jeesh. Tough crowd.

 

[Babula]

If Zboril decides he wants to play to his true potential, watch out.

this. Hopefully. We need thus kind of enthusiasm from kid. al dente pasta

 

[SnuggaRUDE]

I was convinced Boston was about to draft both Zboril and Chabot

 

[Burrowsaurus]

"If zboril decides to play to his true potential, watch out". Can't that be said about literally every 1st 2nd 3 Round pick. They're all talented kids.

Sens fans are still waiting for Cowen to "decide" to play to his true potential. You guys better all watch out when he does

 

[bearcountry17]

"If zboril decides to play to his true potential, watch out". Can't that be said about literally every 1st 2nd 3 Round pick. They're all talented kids.

Sens fans are still waiting for Cowen to "decide" to play to his true potential. You guys better all watch out when he does

I'm sure in 7 years we will have a better idea of what kind of player Zboril is

 

[MMC]

How's his year?

 

[SanDogBrewin]

How's his year?

18 points, 6 goals, in 20 games. Playing in the WJC for the Czechs.