Let's Talk Draft

Sure, I know, I know-- we may not have a Draft in June like usual. But who cares, why not have some fun with it?? With the fun, fantastic access to the Central Scouting Rankings-- I think we'll have a little fun with it.

So, we all know that both Sidney Crosby and Gilbert Brule are going to be going high in the Draft, whenever that may be. Both have almost identical playing styles with Crosby getting more press because he's tearing up the scoreboard. Brule gets lost in the fold because he's an all around player not worried about having flash and dash.

Those two aside, who's left out there?? Well, I've decided I'll put together my top guys with a little note beside them. Why not, huh?? So strap in, here we go....

Goalies:

1. Carey Price, Tri City Americans (WHL)-- Here's a relatively unknown goalie coming into this season. However, with a little help from Olaf Kolzig, Price has been able to show the WHL and the rest of the scouts what he can bring to the table. A moderately sized goalie, he can play bigger than his 6'2.5 frame.

2. Ben Bishop, Texas Tornados (USHL)-- You want a large, agile goalie-- here's the kid you should be looking for. At 6'5, 205; Bishop plays up to his size and can play like he's a little smaller. With 28 wins this season as I type this, he's looking at a successful future and could be the darkhorse of the Draft.

3. Alexandre Vincent, Chicoutimi Sagueneens (QMJHL)-- The main reason Chicoutimi is doing so well is because of this man. Another one of the tall goalie stock, he can play with the best of them and come out big when needed.


Defensemen:

1. Jakub Vojta, Sparta (CZE Jr.)-- Vojta is going to be a great two-way defenseman when he comes over to the NHL. The fact of the matter is that he's going to be bringing in the new breed of d-man coming in. He can score when he needs to and he can stay back and play stay-at-home style when he needs to. You get a double weapon when you pick Vojta.

2. Bobby Ryan, Owen Sound Attack (OHL)-- Ryan is going through his breakout season this season. So far, Ryan has put up 29 goals and 44 assist. This offensive defenseman can start a rush, jump up in the play, and QB a powerplay when needed. A lead-by-example player will definitely turn heads in the NHL.

3. Jack Johnson, US NTDP (NAHL)-- Climbing up through the rankings undetected, Johnson brings everything you would want in a defenseman. His work ethic is second to none and he can make a play at the drop of the hat. Although he's commited to the University of Michigan, you can bet any team would be willing to way on someone like Johnson.


Forwards:

1. Devin Setoguchi, Saskatoon Blades (WHL)-- Lost in the crowd on a team with Wacey Rabbit, Ryan Keller, and Mike Green; Setoguchi is a player who is the leader of the team. He may not be a flashy player, he may not put up the big numbers, but this first line wing is consistant. He'll be a great pick-up and a great depth move for whoever picks him up.

2. Anze Kopitar, Sodertalje (SWE Jr.)-- This Slovenian center is probably the third best outside of Crosby and Brule. Last season, in 30 Junior games, he put up 60 points, and when he went up to the "senior club", Casino Kranjska Gora, he put up 15 goals in 21 games. He left Slovenia to go to Sodertalje where his stock continues to rise. He is an elusive player and can make the most of a little space.

3. Benoit Pouliot, Sudbury Wolves (OHL)-- Some see Pouliot as this season's Andrew Ladd. He's was a late bloomer on the Major Junior circuit being picked in the 11th Round in 2002, Pouliot has put up 67 points this season, leading the Wolves throughout this season. The big question mark is if he can continue to put up these numbers in the long run.

So that's what I have to say, if you think differently, we have the comments on-- reply with what you think.

This has been ScottyWazz. Take care of yourself and someone else. PEACE!!