NHA Top Prospects

52. [50] Dustin Boyd (C) - Portland Firebirds
Age: 20; Height: 6�-0�; Weight: 192 lbs

Boyd works hard and plays an all-around game typical of what many NHA organizations look for in their prospects. He has the ability to step up with some offense when his team needs it most; Boyd is a pure offensive talent with a wide array of moves, though he has lacked the ability to harness his skills properly thus far in his career. He must add more strength in order to better compete against the big scoring forwards in the NHA. Dustin also isn't a natural playmaker, which may play a part in limiting his production at the NHA level.

Currently playing with: Palmetto RAMBLERS (NHAFL)

22. [21] Patrik Berglund (C) - Trenton Titans
Age: 18; Height: 6�-4�; Weight: 187 lbs

Berglund is an offensive dynamo, excelling at most of the offensive aspects of the game. Patrik has great reach, afforded by his height, which enables him to protect the puck very well. He also has a definite scoring touch and possesses excellent vision, enabling him to consistently find open teammates for his passes. Berglund's skating is good but not great, although this is continuing to improve over time.

Currently playing with: VIK Vasteras HK (Swedish Allsvenskan)

Enroth is not a big netminder but he has quick reflexes and good technique; a good glove hand and quick, agile movements are his main strengths. He has also demonstrated a consistency to his game which is uncommon among many young goaltenders.

Franson is a hulking defenceman whose play has greatly improved in over the last couple of years. He is a good skater and has offensive skill; he can do everything well but doesn't excel in any one area.

Matt Greene has the combination of size and good foot speed that most teams covet in a potential top six rearguard. He is an extremely defensive and aggressive defenseman with a reputation for taking the body that keeps opposing forwards on their toes. Green's hard-hitting, intense style will eventually make him a fan-favourite in Houston.

Lashoff is a smooth-skating defenseman with a strong outlet pass who plays solidly in his own end. He has the size and the strength to handle bigger forward and is more than capable of dishing out a hit. Matt has a very solid pasing game and see's the ice well, especially on the power play. Lashoff will likely develop into a well-rounded Top 4 defenseman who sees time of special teams.

42. [40] Martin Hanzal (C) - Florida Panthers
Age: 19; Height: 6�-5�; Weight: 208 lbs

Hanzal moved to North America to continue his development with the WHL after a down year by his standards playing for the senior Ceske Budejovice team in the Czech Republic, due primarily to being used in a defensive role. Hanzal is everything you could ask for in a center, as he has a very large frame at 6'-5" and 205 lbs, which he uses very efficiently, he is a good skater and strong at both ends of the ice. He will likely become a consistent goal scorer in the NHA because of his great hands and puck-handling skills, while still being able to setup teammates with his underrated playmaking abilities. Hanzal will be a scoring line center in the NHA very soon.

Currently playing with: Red Deer REBELS (WHL)

21. [19] Patrick O�Sullivan (LW) - Ottawa Vampyres
Age: 21; Height: 5�-11�; Weight: 190 lbs

One of the more interesting prospect draftees from the inaugural dispersal draft, O'Sullivan has the potential to be an explosive offensive force in the NHA. Patrick had a solid minor pro debut with the Denver Desperados, displaying his prowess as a playmaker and exhibiting a fiesty side that was an unexpectedly pleasant surprise for management. A trade to the Ottawa organization provided O'Sullivan with several other talented linemates, which has certainly aided in his development. If his minor league prowess translates to the NHA, he should thrive in the Ottawa organization for years to come. This season, with the recent graduations of several talented Fledglings to the parent club, O'Sullivan is going to be the go-to guy in London and management expects him to seize this opportunity to take the next step.

Currently playing with: London FLEDGLINGS (NHAFL)

48. [51] Matt Carle (D) - Ottawa Vampyres
Age: 22; Height: 6�-0�; Weight: 205 lbs

Carle is a solid defensive prospect for the Vampyres and will probably anchor their power play in a few years� time. Matt is a very smooth skater and has above-average passing ability. He is strong in all aspects of the game and can be counted on in the defensive zone, though he is primarily an offensive threat. The only real knock against Carle is his size, which he will need to address if he has any hopes of enduring the rigors of the full NHA schedule.

Currently playing with: London FLEDGLINGS (NHAFL)

30. [28] Devin Setoguchi (RW) - Prince George Norsemen
Age: 19; Height: 6�-0�; Weight: 200 lbs

Setoguchi has blazing speed and a goal-scorers' instincts. He is already polished in the defensive zone and as a result, can be used in all game situations. He has the potential to become a good power forward type of player but the biggest concern with Seto will be his size, and the subsequent impact this may have on injury frequency. Setoguchi needs to work on his passing skills in order to maximize his scoring potential for the NHA level.

Currently playing with: Prince George COUGARS (WHL)

26. [27] Marc-Edouard Vlasic (D) - Prince George Norsemen
Age: 19; Height: 6�-1�; Weight: 195 lbs

Vlasic is a steady defenseman, rarely making mistakes in the defensive zone. He plays with a maturity well-beyond his years and experience and he is capable of playing in any game situation. While he will bring a very composed defensive presence to the back end, Vlasic's offensive potential is much more limited and he will likely never be a large point-producer. He still needs to fill out in order to see his be able to play in the NHA.

Currently playing with: Kelowna VIKINGS (NHAFL)

31. [29] Brent Burns (D) - Toronto Gladiators
Age: 21; Height: 6�-4�; Weight: 200 lbs

Burns has tremendous size and skating ability combined with above-average foot speed and agility for a player of his size. Brent is very versatile, being able to play as either a defenseman or right winger. Despite his size, he is not a real physical presence, which was one of the main reasons for his conversion from the blue line. Burns shows flashes of creativity and finishing skill but his offensive ability is still very raw. He is a very responsible defensive player, utilizing his training as a rearguard to maximum effect. Burns is a responsible two-way player with an excellent work ethic.

Currently playing with: Windsor CENTURIONS (NHAFL)

49. [56] Wojtek Wolski (LW) - Yellowknife Ice Dragons
Age: 20; Height: 6�-3�; Weight: 200 lbs

Wolski has excellent scoring instincts and tremendous puck-handling skills. Wojtek possesses plenty of size, enabling him to handle the physical play of the pro game. He can both carry the puck and pass very well, utilizes his reach and large frame to protect the puck and possesses a good shot. Wolski will need to speed up his release and get better at finishing the chances that he creates with his size and skill; to make the next step, he will need to improve his overall offensive consistency.

Currently playing with: Kamploops HEAT WAVES (NHAFL)

10. [n/c] Peter Mueller (C) - Avangard Omsk
Age: 18; Height: 6�-2�; Weight: 205 lbs

Mueller is a top centerman in the making; he has a large frame and deceptive speed for his size, plus his skating seems to be almost effortless. He has potential gamebreaking ability as either a scorer or a setup man, is comfortable running the point on the powerplay and has a wide shot selection to choose from. Peter doesn�t shy away from contact, but he could certainly use his size much more effectively. He has the potential to be a franchise player for the Avangard.

Currently playing with: Everett SILVERTIPS (WHL)

54. [60] James Sheppard (C) - Mississauga Devils
Age: 18; Height: 6�-2�; Weight: 210 lbs

Sheppard has excellent size and reach for the center position. He plays well in all three zones and is quite polished. He leads by example, but the jury is still out on whether or not he will be good enough to be a first liner at the NHA level.

Currently playing with: Cape Breton SCREAMING EAGLES (QMJHL)

McBain is another offensive defenseman with good puck-handling skills and solid hockey sense. He has the ability to quarterback the powerplay and possesses quick, strong hands. Jamie is an agile skater but doesn't possess a strong stride or great speed.

Mitera is a superb combination of size, strength, toughness and skating ability. Skates extremely well for his size, with smooth, yet powerful strides. He can deliver some bone-crushing checks and doesn�t shy away from the physical contact, taking advantage of his size and strength in playing his position. He possesses great puck skills and a hard, cannon-like shot.

Petry is a mobile defender who contributes at both ends of the ice. His skating is top notch and he uses it to gain strong positioning on his opponents. He is not against laying out a big hit. Jeff can battle in front of the net with the best and can get dirty at the boards if needed. He has a howitzer from the point and uses it often. Petry has the ability to produce offensively and contribute defensively.

Summers is an effortless skater with an above-average skillset. He reads and reacts very well to developing plays and projects to become a top flight stay-at-home blueliner, though he may surprise some with his underrated pucks skills. Summers has also spent time as a forward in the past and brings those skills to the table too.

Tlusty is an offensive centerman with a goal-scorers' touch who creates a lot of plays with his strong skating and a hardworking mentality. Tlusty is not a player who will avoid scrums or the physical aspects of the game. Jiri has a great shot selection and is very accurate, often shooting from anywhere on the ice. As his positioning and defensive zone coverage improves, Tlusty should find himself playing as a top 6 forward in the NHA.

An undersized defenseman with great skating ability, the former junior star has great offensive instincts and loves to quarterback the powerplay. Has great vision and makes slick passes. Defensive game needs work for the pro level but that should come around with more experience. Though small in stature, he doesn't back away from physical play.

Kindl has all the tools needed to be a professional: good size, skates well and can handle the puck. The rougher North American game has been an adjustment, but he can take or give a hit and will drop the gloves (with a decent left hook). His positioning away from the puck does lapse at times. Offensively, Kindl needs time to show what he can do.

Goligoski is an offensively-gifted rearguard who can rush the puck, quarterback the powerplay or man the point in the offensive zone. He possesses a very smooth skating stride and good puck skills. Alex can be a bit negligent of his own zone and will need to improve his defensive zone coverage and his play along the boards.

1. [5] Jonathan Toews (D) - Toronto Gladiators
Age: 18; Height: 6�-1�; Weight: 203 lbs

Toews has tremendous hockey sense and outstanding offensive creativity. He is very responsible in his own end and projects to be one of the most complete players to come along in a while. While he is a decent skater, Toews could still use another gear. He needs a little more bulk, so as to become the total package.

Currently playing with: North Dakota FIGHTING SIOUX (NCAA)

2. [6] Anze Kopitar (C) - Yellowknife Ice Dragons
Age: 19; Height: 6�-4�; Weight: 220 lbs

Kopitar has great size and is a solid skater, and though he lacks top-notch foot-speed, he is agile with superb natural skills, making him a dominant offensive player. Anze sees the ice very well and is a tremendous playmaker who can control the tempo of the game; he also has very soft hands, is a dangerous player in one-on-one situations, and adept at creating space for himself and his teammates. He is very poised with the puck and possesses a great wrist shot that is hard and accurate. He also has the ability to run the power play with ease. Kopitar uses his size well and is a strong player but he has to continue to work on his defensive zone coverage.

Currently playing with: Kamloops HEAT WAVES (NHAFL)

3. [12] Mike Green (D) - Toronto Gladiators
Age: 20; Height: 6�-1�; Weight: 192 lbs

Green is a tremendous skater and he utilizes his solid frame effectively. He projects as a high-end offensive defenseman down the road, but could be used in all situations. Green is still somewhat raw and prone to lapses in the defensive zone and he needs to take more shots in order to become a top-quality offensive defenseman at the NHA level. However, his upside is so high that he will be a lock to make the parent club in Toronto sooner rather than later.

Currently playing with: Windsor CENTURIONS (NHAFL)

4. [7] Nicklas Backstrom (C) - Sioux City Chiefs
Age: 18; Height: 6�-0�; Weight: 183 lbs

Backstrom has always been compared to fellow swede Peter Forsberg because of his excellent hockey sense and playmaking ability; and while Niklas may never be the gamebreaker Forsberg has been over his career, at this point he projects to be a top centerman in the NHA, while contributing on the power play and penalty kill units. Backstom has a solid skillset, combining soft hands, slick stickhandling, playmaking abilities and great puck control. Although his shot needs improvement, he will likely be able to make the NHA and contribute in the very near future.

Currently playing with: Brynas IF (Swedish Elitserien)

5. [16] Steve Mason (G) - Montreal Barracudas
Age: 18; Height: 6�-3�; Weight: 186 lbs

Mason is a big goaltender with exceptional spped for his size. He is backed by strong positional skills and has the proven ability to make key saves when necessary; he also has a strong work ethic and terrific puckhandling abilities. Though perhaps underrated by most scouts, it seems clear that Steve will have a good future in the NHA, where elite goaltenders are few and far between. Mason has all the tools to become a future starting netminder in the NHA.

Currently playing with: London KNIGHTS (OHL)

6. [8] Erik Johnson (D) - Yellowknife Ice Dragons
Age: 18; Height: 6�-4�; Weight: 222 lbs

Johnson has a great shot from the point. He skates extremely well for a big man and has a mean streak that can rattle opposing forwards; he owns all-around upside. Johnson is still working on his positional skills, as he tends to leave the zone too early on occasion. He must learn to cut down on bad penalties and improve his defensive play to excel at the highest level, but there is no question that he has the natural talent to succeed in the NHA.

Currently playing with: Minnesota GOLDEN GOPHERS (NCAA)

7. [11] Paul Stastny (C) - Portland Firebirds
Age: 20; Height: 6�-0�; Weight: 205 lbs

Paul, like his father Peter, owns tremendous two-way skills and playmaking acumen. He is mature beyond his years and plays bigger than his 6'-0" frame. He projects to become a dependable center and will definitely see plenty of time on the top powerplay unit. The downside of having his bloodline will be the constant comparisons with his all-star father, which would prove difficult for any player to live up to. Stastny is also not a natural goal-scorer, preferring to set up the play in most situations.

Currently playing with: Palmetto RAMBLERS (NHAFL)

8. [9] Carey Price (G) - Toronto Gladiators
Age: 19; Height: 6�-3�; Weight: 212 lbs

Continuing the Gladiators' domination of the Top 10 on this list is goaltender Carey Price. Price has tremendous agility and reflexes, attributes which serve as the foundation for his game; not only is he able to read and react quickly, but he is also able to steer rebounds into the corners with relative ease. Playing a classic butterfly style, Carey is excellent at taking away the lower portion of the net, and relies on his quick hands to cover the upper areas. Price undoubtedly has the tools to become a future star in the NHA, the only question is when, as he is behind All-Star Mikka Kipprusoff on the organization's depth charts.

Currently playing with: Tri-City AMERICANS (WHL)

9. [26] Mikko Koivu (C) - Saskatoon Wildcats
Age: 23; Height: 6�-3�; Weight: 207 lbs

Koivu has great size for the center position and plays a sound two-way game; his offensive abilities tend to fly under the radar, allowing him to surprise opponents at times. Mikko also displays excellent leadership qualities for a young player. He isn't a natural goal-scorer, he doesn't possess the soft hands around the net that his brother Saku does, or the same level of determination and competitiveness.

Currently playing with: Waterloo DUCKS (NHAFL)

11. [14] David Krejci (C) - Dallas Bulldogs
Age: 20; Height: 6�-0�; Weight: 178 lbs

One of the most upwardly mobile players on this season's list, Krejci is beginning to tap his potential. He won't ever be a huge physical presence on the ice, but shows that he isn't afraid of taking the hit in order to make a play; he drives hard to the net and is willing to dig for the pucks in the corners. David has an elite skillset: soft hands, good shooting skills (including a highly accurate wrist shot); smooth puckhandling and playmaking vision; excellent hockey sense; and he is even adequate in the faceoff circle. Defensively, Krejci's game is about average; basically, he won't hurt the team, but he also won't win any backchecking awards. Despite this, he owns a tremendous work ethic and has excelled at each level he's played. A hard-working, playmaking center, he has the potential to play a top six role in the NHA.

Currently playing with: Irving PUPS (NHAFL)

12. [49] Claude Giroux (RW) - Ottawa Vampyres
Age: 18; Height: 5�-11�; Weight: 180 lbs

Giroux has electric moves, outstanding offensive creativity and plenty of finishing skills; he is at his best with the puck on his stick. Giroux needs to get physically stronger to prove he can withstand the rigours of the pro game; he must also adjust to the speed of the NHA.

Currently playing with: Gatineau OLYMPIQUES (QMJHL)

13. [17] Marc Staal (D) - Summerside Storm
Age: 19; Height: 6�-4�; Weight: 205 lbs

Staal has the size and reach to be an imposing defenseman at any level. He has been very successful at shutting down opposing forwards at the minor level, and has the skill, smarts, and great work ethic to become a top blueliner in the professional ranks; eventually, Marc is expected to become a top-pairing defenseman in the NHA. Although highly-touted for his defensive skills, Staal also has the potential to contribute to the Storms' offense in a significant way. He has begun to use his heavy shot more consistently and to try to lead the rush where he can.

Currently playing with: Sudbury WOLVES (OHL)

14. [22] Tuukka Rask (G) - Ottawa Vampyres
Age: 19; Height: 6�-3�; Weight: 169 lbs

Considered one of the top goaltending prospects in the world, Rask has a big frame (6'3" and 181 lbs) which he uses to cover a large portion of the net. A butterfly goalie with great reflexes and explosive lateral movement, he has the fundamentals to become a great starting goaltender in the NHA. Rask has a very competitive nature, a strong work ethic, and has demonstrated in various international tournaments that he can be a gamebreaker, shutting the door when his team needs him to. However, like most young goaltenders, Rask still needs to work on his technique and conditioning before he can make an impact in the pros. At this stage, and assuming his club is patient with his development, all indications are that the reward will be a top #1 goaltender.

Currently playing with: Ilves TAMPERE (Finnish SM-liiga)

15. [54] Cory Schneider (G) - Yellowknife Ice Dragons
Age: 20; Height: 6�-2�; Weight: 195 lbs

Schneider is a fundamentally sound goaltender with superb quickness and agility. He plays with a tremendous amount of focus and confidence and gives his team a chance to win on most nights; he has demonstrated the ability to 'step up' for big games and he isn�t one to get rattled easily either. The book on Schneider says "take away his eyes" because if he sees it, more often than not he�s going to stop it. Cory is excellent positionally; he does an outstanding job of taking away the lower portion of the net, moves extremely well laterally and covers a lot of the top half of the net as well with his 6'-2" frame. He possesses a quick glove hand and has little trouble playing the puck. It isn�t often that Schneider will give up rebounds, and he is very proficient at steering away loose pucks.

Currently playing with: Boston College EAGLES (NCAA)

16. [18] Bobby Ryan (RW) - Prince George Norsemen
Age: 19; Height: 6�-1�; Weight: 213 lbs

Ryan has the size that has NHA scouts drooling and he has a good pair of hands to go along with his frame. Ryan will never win any fastest skater contests and he certainly needs to work on his play away from the puck, but there is no denying that he has an impressive skill set. He is a very good passer, with good on-ice vision, and it is very difficult to knock him off the puck along the boards; with his good balance and size, he can shield the puck very effectively. He is versatile in the offensive zone; he is able to move around looking for openings, or he can play along the boards with the best of them, or he can set up shop at the top of the crease and create headaches for defensemen and opposing goaltenders.

Currently playing with: Owen Sound ATTACK (OHL)

17. [41] Phil Kessel (RW) - Portland Firebirds
Age: 18; Height: 6�-0�; Weight: 193 lbs

Kessel has an electric skating ability and boasts a howitzer of a shot. He is also a skillful dangler when the puck is on his stick, making highlight reel plays, though he certainly needs to improve on his play without the puck. Phil is very versatile in that he has the ability to line up at all three forward positions but he may not have enough face-off acumen, defensive ability and size to line up at center in the NHA.

Currently playing with: Palmetto RAMBLERS (NHAFL)

18. [25] Kyle Okposo (RW) - Summerside Storm
Age: 18; Height: 6�-0�; Weight: 195 lbs

Okposo is a strong player who uses his body and his stickhandling to win battles in the corners and along the boards; rarely does Okposo lose a one-on-one battle along the boards. Okposo�s stickhandling and his offensive awareness also help him win a lot of open-ice battles, and his ability maintain possession of the puck is second-to-none. From a pure skills standpoint, Kyle has deceptive speed, but his skating still needs more polish. His stick skills are high-end, and not only is his stickhandling excellent, he also has an excellent shot, whichever shot he uses. Most of Okposo�s goals are scored by crashing the net with the puck and fighting through checks.

Currently playing with: Minnesota GOLDEN GOPHERS (NCAA)

19. [42] Derick Brassard (C) - Dallas Bulldogs
Age: 19; Height: 6�-1�; Weight: 180 lbs

Brassard excels at both ends of the ice and is a determined athlete. He possesses the greatest on-ice vision of his entire draft class; he is a dynamite playmaker, always aware of his surroundings, and able to dispense lightning-quick, accurate passes. Derick will also drive to the net and has a great wrist shot. He isn't a fast skater, but he is agile. He is not a very physical force and his face-offs need some more work.

Currently playing with: Drummondville VOLTIGEURS (QMJHL)

28. [20] Jack Johnson (D) - Summerside Storm
Age: 19; Height: 6�-1�; Weight: 201 lbs

At 6'-1" and 206 lbs, Johnson projects to be a top-pairing blueliner. Jack is a product of the US National Team Development Program, he has consistently been a top defenseman at every level, and lead all defenseman in scoring during his 2 years with the USNTDP. Johnson is a fluid skater, coupled with above-average stickhandling, offensive instincts and a strong shot; he will likely make an impact on the powerplay. He is a sturdy defenseman who reads the attack very well in his own zone, and is often in great position due to his very tight and functional game. His game is already at the point where he could probably make an impact with the Storm, but a year or two more of development would probably make him even better when he does debut.

Currently playing with: Wilmot WOLF PACK (NHA)

20. [24] T.J. Oshie (C) - Minnesota Muskies
Age: 19; Height: 5�-10�; Weight: 170 lbs

Oshie displays proficiency in most offensive aspects of the game. He has excellent puck skills, is dangerous one-on-one, and is a worthy skater. Oshie is a good playmaker with a penchant for sniping goals himself. When he eventually decides to sign a pro contract, he has the makings of a top line player.

Currently playing with: North Dakota FIGHTING SIOUX (NCAA)

24. [55] Kristopher Letang (D) - Yellowknife Ice Dragons
Age: 19; Height: 6�-0�; Weight: 201 lbs

Drafted as an offensive defenseman, Letang has all the tools to be an effective power play quarterback, and eventually play in a top 4 role for his team. Kris possesses tremendous speed and offensive instincts, and with a lethal shot selection, he can score from almost anywhere in the offensive zone. Letang has an average-sized frame, some might even call him small for a rearguard at 6'-0" and 190 lbs, but despite this he can be a force along the boards and is still very responsible in his own end. He will likely see time in the NHA in the near future due to his superb offensive game, and when his defensive game adjusts to the size and speed of the players at the pro level, Letang will quickly become a fan favourite in Yellowknife.

Currently playing with: Kamloops HEAT WAVES (NHAFL)

25. [37] Drew Stafford (RW) - Houston Rockhounds
Age: 20; Height: 6�-2�; Weight: 200 lbs

Stafford has all the necessary tools to one day become a star in the NHA; good size, strength and a natural hockey sense combine to make him a formidable threat on the ice. He is not afraid to grind it out when necessary and, when given the opprtunity, has proven himself as a capable finisher at every level. Drew is on the fast track to a stellar career in the Rockhounds' system and appears have seized the opportunity to crack the pro lineup during the pre-season when a trade cleared roster space for him to audition. Stafford is a player to watch, as he may very well become a franchise cornerstone in Houston for years to come.

Currently playing with: Houston ROCKHOUNDS (NHA)

41. [23] Ondrej Pavelec (G) - Dallas Bulldogs
Age: 19; Height: 6�-2�; Weight: 200 lbs

Pavelec has good size, allowing him to cover a large area of the net. He plays a butterfly style, possessing decent skating skills, adequate lateral movement and strong athleticism/flexibility; he is also calm and has solid focus. Pavelec shows above-average anticipation, and challenges shooters well. He sets up calmly in traffic, handling rebounds and angles well. Ondrej needs to keep his conditioning in check and maintain consistency; he allows a significant number of goals through the five-hole and needs to position better when making saves. He could still improve his glove hand, especially as he often seems to have trouble with high shots; his stickhandling ability is also rather average and some of his moves lead to risky plays.

Currently playing with: Cape Breton SCREAMING EAGLES (QMJHL)

23. [43] Bryan Little (C) - Calgary Hitmen
Age: 18; Height: 5�-11�; Weight: 200 lbs

Little is a top playmaker who can dish the puck with the best of them. He owns a good, hard shot and sound defensive instincts; he is also a tireless worker. Little lacks ideal NHA size and strength and could still stand to improve on his skating but this should be corrected with time.

Currently playing with: Barrie COLTS (OHL)

43. [32] Jonathan Bernier (G) - Chicago Purple Aces
Age: 18; Height: 5�-11�; Weight: 177 lbs

Bernier plays with a poise and confidence that bely his age. He is a hybrid stand-up and butterfly goaltender with great reflexes, moving quickly from post-to-post with tremendous puck-handling skills around the net. He is capable of stealing a game all on his own, and is very strong mentally, able to shake-off bad goals and get right back into the game. He is occasionally prone to get agitated when facing intense traffic around his crease, but generally manages to keep a level head. Jonathan shows no flaws in his game, and boasts great consistency; he should be a starting NHA netminder in the future.

Currently playing with: Lewiston MAINEiacs (WHL)

32. [38] Andrew Ladd (LW) - Ottawa Vampyres
Age: 20; Height: 6�-2�; Weight: 201 lbs

Ladd has all the crucial skills that hockey scouts look for in a high first round selection: he provides strong play at both ends of the ice; his playmaking skills are very good; and he makes a solid commitment to defense. Andrew�s strongest suit is his high-energy game, coupled with his physical presence and playmaking ability. The way Ladd reads the ice is second to none amongst his North American counterparts, and his passing ability rivals anyone in his draft class. If he continues to mature, then he will certainly have an impact in Ottawa.

Currently playing with: London FLEDGLINGS (NHAFL)

29. [47] Milan Lucic (LW) - Prince George NORSEMEN
Age: 18; Height: 6�-4�; Weight: 220 lbs

Lucic plays an aggressive game, using his size and reach to great advantage. Milan has a tireless work ethic and is the type of player who will help set the tone of a game from the start. He is also a strong leader both on and off the ice. Lucic is not just a tough competitor, but has also demonstrated considerable offensive ability and he has a powerful shot. He will need to continue working on his speed and skating before he begins his pro career, but when he eventually arrives he will quickly endear himself to the Prince George fans.

Currently playing with: Vancouver GIANTS (WHL)

40. [45] Blake Wheeler (RW) - Avangard Omsk
Age: 20; Height: 6�-5�; Weight: 214 lbs

Wheeler is another power forward with a great future ahead of him. He is a skilled two-way forward who can hit, shoot, pass and skate really well for his size. Blake has a great attitude for the game and has very few areas of his game that require improvement; his greatest attribute is his ability to make moves at top speed. Wheeler is a powerful weapon who, if managed and cultivated properly, will become a dangerous player in the near future.

Currently playing with: Minnesota GOLDEN GOPHERS (NCAA)

44. [58] Matt Niskanen (D) - Ottawa Vampyres
Age: 19; Height: 6�-0�; Weight: 194 lbs

Niskanen is a player who is blessed with great hands and tremendous offensive abilities. He has great poise and patience with the puck and can also be quite creative with it. Niskanen is an agile skater, combining a silky-smooth stride with good burst speed and he transitions remarkably well. He moves with the puck very well and can make some beautiful tape-to-tape passes. Matt has a very good shot with a quick release and has no trouble getting pucks to the net. Niskanen is also a very smart player with good hockey sense. One area where he has noticeably matured has been in his sense of knowing when to join the play; Niskanen has made great progress in his positional play, paying greater attention to his defensive responsibilities.

Currently playing with: Minnesota-Duluth BULLDOGS (NCAA)

45. [59] Cam Barker (D) - Toronto Gladiators
Age: 20; Height: 6�-3�; Weight: 222 lbs

Barker is a big, powerful blue liner who is deceptively strong on his skates; at times he looks as though he is coasting when in fact his stride just makes it look that effortless. Physical and alert in his own end, Cam is even better offensively; he can quarterback a power play and has terrific passing abilities. Barker is a true offensive rearguard, never afraid to jump up into the play or even lead the rush himself.

Currently playing with: Windsor CENTURIONS (NHAFL)

46. [36] Zbynek Michalek (D) - Mississauga Devils
Age: 23; Height: 6�-1�; Weight: 200 lbs

Zbynek is the very underrated, older brother of Milan Michalek, though being a defenseman his development will take longer than his younger brother, who plays wing. He has good hockey sense and is steady in his own zone, making the safe play first; his offensive potential is limited but he does make a good first pass. Michalek is not overly physical but can hold his own in down-low battles.

Currently playing with: Mississauga DEVILS (NHA)

47. [35] Loui Eriksson (LW) - Dallas Bulldogs
Age: 21; Height: 6�-1�; Weight: 183 lbs

This talented Swede is no stranger to professional hockey, having made an impact as a 16-year old playing for the Frolunda U20 squad. Despite his experience, Eriksson has always struggled with maintaining offensive consistency, though even during his cold streaks Loui is an effective player due to his good defensive awareness and solid physical game. He has above-average skating ability to go along with sharp offensive instincts, which has turned him into a pretty good playmaker. If Loui develops his shot over the next few years, then he has the potential to be a great all-around Top 6 forward.

Currently playing with: Irving PUPS (NHAFL)

36. [48] Alexander Edler (D) - Vancouver Canucks
Age: 20; Height: 6�-3�; Weight: 194 lbs

Edler is an offensively-gifted defender who displays good skating ability for his frame and is able to make that all-important first pass out of the defensive zone that coaches love to see. It is only a matter of whether Edler�s defensive game can catch up to the level of the rest of his skills because if that is the case, then he could become a top four defensemen with the Canucks, playing quality minutes plus being given time on the power-play.

Currently playing with: Milwaukee ADMIRALS (NHAFL)

35. [39] Keith Yandle (D) - Avangard Omsk
Age: 20; Height: 6�-2�; Weight: 195 lbs

Yandle has the build of a future Top 4 defender, though he could use some time to develop his skills in his own zone. Conversely, Keith is a dominant offensive rearguard with a tremendous breakout pass. He has good size, a strong physical presence, accurate passing ability, and can be counted on to make the most of his ice time. Yandle shows great maturity for his young age and displays the confidence that will help translate his game into a successful NHA career.

Currently playing with: DYNAMO Moscow (NHAFL)

39. [57] Tom Gilbert (D) - Houston Rockhounds
Age: 23; Height: 6�-3�; Weight: 210 lbs

Gilbert has a big frame and has been a solid two-way defenseman at every stage of his career. He possesses great offensive awareness and plays a steady defensive game; Tom isn't afraid to join in on the rush but can at times make a bad pinch. Gilbert has demonstrated that he is more than capable of quarterbacking a power play. His passing is strong and he can unleash a bullet fromthe point. As he matures, he should develop into a solid Top 4 rearguard able to play in every situation.

Currently playing with: Edmonton ROUGHNECKS (NHAFL)

50. [NR] David Bolland (C) - Minnesota Muskies
Age: 20; Height: 6�-0�; Weight: 176 lbs

Bolland is a fast skater with a lot of tenacity to his game. He likes to hit and has no problem charging the net, even considering his relatively small stature. He has a good hard shot but there is little flash to his game, and the most effective part of his game is his defensive positioning. He will likely become a grinding two-way forward when he makes it to the NHA.

Currently playing with: Halifax MOOSEHEADS (NHAFL)

51. [HM] Michael Frolik (C) - Portland Firebirds
Age: 18; Height: 6�-1�; Weight: 185 lbs

Frolik is a speedy pivot with exceptional playmaking ability and a good mind for the game; he has been dubbed "Baby Jagr", as he displays the same type of on-ice instincts, playmaking ability and overall razzle-dazzle as the superstar. He has a solid shot but tends to look for the pass first. He needs to improve in the defensive zone and gain some mass to be better suited for the pro game.

Currently playing with: Rimouski OCEANIC (QMJHL)

53. [HM] Andrew Cogliano (C) - Portland Firebirds
Age: 19; Height: 5�-10�; Weight: 178 lbs

Cogliano possesses exceptional speed and never quits on a play; he gives his all on every play, every shift. Also has a great shot. Is somewhat undersized. He can play in all situations: powerplay, penalty kill and even strength. Is also versatile enough that he can move over to play on the wing.

Currently playing with: Michigan WOLVERINES (NCAA)

56. [HM] Artem Anisimov (C) - Avangard Omsk
Age: 18; Height: 6�-3�; Weight: 187 lbs

Anisimov has the size and skills to become a dominating power center; his skating is decent for his size, he is strong on his skates, he has soft hands and good on-ice vision. Artem could potentially take a scoring line pivot position with the Avangard after some seasoning in the minors.

Currently playing with: LOKOMOTIV Yaroslavl (RSL)

57. [HM] Shawn Matthias (C) - Houston Rockhounds
Age: 18; Height: 6�-3�; Weight: 211 lbs

Matthias is a big, strong, hard-working two-way forward with great hockey sense and an offensive upside; he is also good on face-offs. His offensive game needs some refinement and he needs to adjust to the speed of the NHA game but after a suitable apprenticeship in the minors, he should have a long and successful career in the NHA.

Currently playing with: Belleville BULLS (OHL)

58. [HM] Andrej Sekera (D) - Chicago Purple Aces
Age: 18; Height: 6�-0�; Weight: 201 lbs

Sekera is a mobile rearguard with an excellent first pass. He is a strong skater and relies on positioning to protect his own zone; his game is finesse. Andrej is not physical at all and tends to get manhandled by opposing forwards; he could use some more bulk on his frame.

Currently playing with: Indianapolis ICE (NHAFL)

60. [HM] T.J. Hensick (C) - Houston Rockhounds
Age: 20; Height: 5�-10�; Weight: 185 lbs

Hensick is a gifted offensive player, who combines flair/creativity with blazing speed. He is very confident, with excellent hockey sense, and his speed and quickness make him an extremely difficult player to defend against. He is very good on faceoffs, has a quick release and dominates with the puck. Tends to avoid the physical side of the game and needs to be more invested defensively.

Currently playing with: Michigan WOLVERINES (NCAA)

27. [NR] Pekka Rinne (G) - Minnesota Muskies
Age: 23; Height: 6�-5�; Weight: 207 lbs

Standing 6'-5" and weighing 207lbs, Pekka is a big goaltender who shouldn't need to rely on his natural agility to make saves, but that's not to suggest that he isn't an athletic prospect. Rinne has a sort of chaotic style that forces him to use his agility when he is out of position; some observers have related the style to that of the Dominator, Dominic Hasek. One negative to his game is that he has a tendency to let in the odd soft goal, though he has earned a reputation for making the tough saves more often than not.

Currently playing with: Halifax MOOSEHEADS (NHAFL)

33. [NR] Jonas Hiller (G) - Calgary Hitmen
Age: 24; Height: 6�-2�; Weight: 196 lbs

Jonas is a model of consistency and will almost certainly be a starting goaltender in the NHA some day. He has a very strong butterfly style and quick lateral movement. Jonas has also proven that he has what it takes to win the big games. He will need to work on his endurance before he gets to the big league and the scouting report on Hiller is to go top shelf, as he tends to go down quick.

Currently playing with: HC Davos (Swiss)

34. [NR] Simeon Varlamov (G) - Avangard Omsk
Age: 18; Height: 6�-1�; Weight: 200 lbs

Simeon is a two-style goaltender who has proven he can play both the stand-up and butterfly game. He often interchanges the styles on the fly in a game, depending on what the situation calls for, and he has proven that he has the agility to make it work. He has the distinction of being one of a few Russian-born goaltenders with a shot at an NHA starting job in the future. A weakness, aside from maturity (which will come with time) is the need to work on his puck moving skills.

Currently playing with: LOKOMOTIV Yaroslavl (RSL)

37. [NR] David Booth (LW) - Summerside Storm
Age: 21; Height: 6�-3�; Weight: 194 lbs

Booth is a spark plug who can battle it out along the boards with the best of them, and he often comes out on top. He also has a head for getting into the tough spots where he can cash in on so-called 'garbage' goals. He works really hard and is effective in his own zone so the future is bright for this young prospect. David will have to focus on becoming a more talented point-producer, but he has all the makings of a solid power forward.

Currently playing with: Wilmot WOLF PACK (NHAFL)

38. [NR] James Neal (C) - Toronto Gladiators
Age: 19; Height: 6�-2�; Weight: 185 lbs

Neal is developing in the mold of a two-way forward who still has time to fill out his tall frame. He is already strong on the puck and has shown that he knows how to use his body to protect it well; he's also not afraid to drop the gloves or lay out a big game-changing hit. Neal appears to have the tools to become a very effective sniper if he can harness his very quick shot. Overall the sky is the limit when it comes to his potential...it's just a matter of how hard he is willing to work for it. He will need to improve on his skating ability.

Currently playing with: Plymouth WHALERS (OHL)

55. [NR] Chris Stewart (RW) - Toronto Gladiators
Age: 18; Height: 6�-2�; Weight: 228 lbs

Stewart projects as a classic power forward; a good skater who is strong on the puck and not afraid of getting rough. He has size, good hands and a great work ethic and can play in any situation. He will need to watch his conditioning in the coming years and change to a healthier diet regimen in order to maintain his optimal size.

Currently playing with: Kingston FRONTENACS (OHL)

57. [NR] Chris Butler (D) - Hartford Whalers
Age: 19; Height: 6�-1�; Weight: 199 lbs

Butler is an offensive defenseman who is not a liability in his own zone. He makes a good first pass and can play well in traffic. Butler has leadership potential and is a good locker room presence as well.

Currently playing with: Denver PIONEERS (NCAA)

Northeast Division	Western Division
Mississauga Devils	Avangard Omsk
Montreal Barracudas	Calgary Hitmen
Ottawa Vampyres	Edmonton Road Runners
Quebec Remparts	Prince George Norsemen
Summerside Storm	Saskatoon Wildcats
Sydney Ice Breakers	Vancouver Canucks
Toronto Gladiators	Yellowknife Ice Dragons

Atlantic Division	Central Division
Baltimore Bandits	Chicago Purple Aces
Detroit Phantoms	Dallas Bulldogs
Florida Panthers	Houston Rockhounds
Hartford Whalers	Las Vegas Outlaws
Manhattan Warriors	Minnesota Muskies
North Carolina Eagles	Portland Firebirds
Trenton Titans	Sioux City Chiefs