Interview with Anthony Mantha

Anthony Mantha brings all the physical traits a scout can ask for: size, smooth, coordinated skating and strength. You could group Mantha in with a few other names like Alexsander Barkov and Seth Jones whose freakish athleticism would see them suceed in almost any sport. Athleticism is not all Mantha brings to the table however - an innate ability to read the play from the perimeter, soft hands and an elite shot have helped Mantha cement his status as a 1st round talent early in his draft year.

Some things Mantha needs to work on are his compete level without the puck, which is an issue on the backcheck and his physicality. When a player with a big strong frame like Mantha doesn't use his size on the boards consistently it raises a red flag.

However, Mantha has been one of the dark horses leading the scoring race this year in the QMJHL, very few followers could have predicted his name at #5 in QMJHL scoring (tied for goal scoring lead) 25 games in. Mantha has gone from a disappointing 3 goal scorer through his first half of last season to scoring goals at a frantic pace, with 64 points (35-29) in his last 36 games played, split between the end of last year and the start of this year.

I spoke to Anthony after Sundays game in Halifax, and here is what he had to say.

Whats your biggest focus heading into your draft year?

I'm aiming for 90-100 points and I'd love to be invited to the U-20 camp in December.

What are your strengths and one thing you need to work on?

My biggest strengths are my vision and my shot. I'm definitely trying to work on my competitiveness, like battling harder on a consistent basis.

What do you think of playing on a smaller market team like Val d'Or?

It doesn't change much. Talent is spread all across the league, but it takes off a little off-ice pressure.

Whats something an average fan wouldn't know about you off the ice?

I'm a big fan of golf, I do it alot in the off-season.

Best of luck in your draft year Anthony!

Mr. Steady - Matt Murphy

When you watch the Val d'Or Foreurs, a team with several marquee names, Matt Murphy isn't likely jump out at you as a fan.

The Foreurs 5th overall selection in the 2011 QMJHL draft plays a quiet, steady game that can be relied upon in any situation. Coach Mario Durocher does just that, giving Murphy 2nd power play and 1st penalty kill minutes. Murphys style of play may not leave fans in awe, but NHL scouts appreciate his poise and puck-movement. One part of the game Murphy is trying to improve is his offense, something he didn't show as often as he would like last year as a 16 year old, with 3 goals and 13 assists for 16 points in 61 games. Through 24 games this season, Murphy has already reached last years point totals with a goal and 15 assists and is a +5 compared to last seasons -15.

Murphy shares duties on the Foreurs back end with more experienced defensemen Artyom Sergeev, Jérémie Fraser, Julien Leduc and Guillaume Gélinas and has had to earn the 2nd pairing minutes he receives. My personal take on Murphy when watching him he does all the little things a defenseman needs to do right to keep him on a coaches good side: taking a hit to dish the puck out of trouble, making quick reads on the breakout and being a step ahead defensively to interrupt the opposing teams possession. He has a fluid stride that can keep up with the fastest forwards the QMJHL has to offer, and isn't afraid to get physical on the boards.

I had the chance to speak to Matt Murphy after Sunday Afternoons 4-3 loss to the Mooseheads, and here is what he had to say.

RE: What is your biggest personal focus to start this year, where you're eligible to be drafted?

MM: I'm really trying focus on not paying to much attention to it all, I'm just trying to keep things simple.

Describe yourself as a player to someone who has never seen you play.

I keep things simple, I'm a two-way defenseman but I focus more on defense. Offence is definitely something I'm trying to bring more of this year. I've got good vision with the puck and my skating is a strength. I think I play a steady all-around game.

How do feel about playing for a smaller market team like Val d'Or? Do you think that it brings any advantages to you personally?

It's good. It keeps you more focused off the ice because sometimes it's easy to get distracted in bigger cities.

TSR wishes you the best of luck in your draft year Matt!

Jonathan Drouin

Jonathan Drouin walks into this year in an enviable position - one of several elite threats on a star studded CHL contender. His Halifax Mooseheads roster possesses names such as Nathan Mackinnon, Zach Fucale, Martin Frk, Konrad Abeltshauser and Brent Andrews, all of whom have been drafted or are high on NHL draft radars. With such a star studded roster, it is not difficult to overlook the talented Jonathan Drouin. Drouin is an outstanding player in his own right, and will get the spotlight he deserves this season as NHL scouts will schedule plenty of trips to Halifax this winter.

The Scouting Report's #12 Preliminary prospect was the subject of big attention early last season when, after being selected 2nd overall by the Mooseheads, Drouin chose to stay in Lac St.-Louis and did not report to the Mooseheads training camp. Drouin dominated the Midget AAA league with 53 points in 22 games until Christmas, when GM Cam Russell and Drouins camp finally agreed the time was right to come to the QMJHL. When he arrived, he instantly made his presence felt as a playmaker, putting up 7 goals and 22 assists in 33 games for the Mooseheads, but when the playoffs rolled around - Drouins as advertised competitive nature shined through as he put up 9 goals and 17 assists in 17 games in Halifax's playoff run. Drouin scored the series winning goal in overtime to complete the Mooseheads comeback against Quebec, and had some highlight reel goals such as this one in game 6 of the Quebec series:

 

 

Scouting Report - Drouin is a good skater with deceptive agility that allows him to avoid punishment from bigger opponents. He has elite hands and supreme vision and his creativity makes his linemates better. Although undersized, Drouin competes hard and shows a willingness to finish checks. A lack of an explosive 'next gear' is the main concern for Drouin at the next level, but this year he’ll have an opportunity to address that.

I had the pleasure to sit down with the Mooseheads winger and last weeks CHL player of the week after yesterdays game against Acadie Bathurst, and we discussed several topics related to his draft year.

So Jonathan, after an exciting playoffs, you ended up having a fairly short summer - Walk us fans through your off-season.

JD - Well I took two weeks off to recuperate after the playoff run, then went to Toronto for 6 weeks with Anthony Duclair to train. I trained with some teammates in Montreal for a while, then I went to train in Minnesota for 2 weeks. I had a great great time at Ivan Hlinka, wearing the sweater and winning gold was a great experience for me I won't forget it anytime soon.

What are expectations like in the locker room for the Mooseheads early this year?

JD - We have a great team, but we're taking it one game and one team at a time, we can't win the Memorial Cup overnight so we plan to stay focused on the present.

What are your expectations headed into this year for you - and what are you looking to improve upon leading up into the NHL draft?

JD - To be honest I have no expectations, it's 100 percent about the team and helping us win through whatever is needed of me, and that's what I'm focused on from here until the draft.

Last question - Tell us something that no one knows about Jonathan Drouin outside of the rink.

JD - Well, I actually like to cook.

I guess we can assume Drouin dishes out sauce both on and off the ice.

Mooseheads Weekend Recap 9/28-29

The Halifax Mooseheads escaped this weekend with an even split, going 1-1 over their Saturday and Friday match-ups. This was a favourable outcome when you assess how they played and who they played against.

On Friday, the Mooseheads had their home opener against Gatineau and the Metro Centre had a wild atmosphere. Almost 9,500 people packed in to see the Mooseheads coming off an 8-1 victory in P.E.I, and most expected the Mooseheads to cruise through the 0-2-0 Gatineau Olympiques. The Mooseheads likely believed the same hype, because from the very start they appeared unfocused and hesitant. That statement excludes Mackinnon, Drouin and Lewis, who played well and provided a necessary heartbeat until the game got out of reach.
The first period was fairly even, with the Olympiques getting some chances and playing physical and the Mooseheads throwing some huge hits and Mackinnon and Drouin creating some great opportunities. In the 2nd, things started to unravel for them. Tomas Hyka scored for Olympiques, and Mackinnon and Drouin hooked up for a beautiful 2 on 1 goal making 1-1. The Olympiques then scored 4 unanswered goals with Tomas Hykas second goal, Martin Reway (2) and Dominic Poulin. At the end of the period, Co-Captain Stefan Fournier got in a fight with Mikael Beauregard and Nathan Mackinnon got in a fight with Olympiques pest Adam Chapman, who beat him handily. Being the second fight in the same altercation, Mackinnon and Chapman were kicked out and the Mooseheads came into the third showing the knew they had lost this game. They appeared a step behind and if not for back-up Chris Clarke filling in well, the final score could have been a lot worse than 6-1.

 

2. GAT Tomas Hyka, (1) (Mikael Langlois), 3:47
2. HAL Nathan MacKinnon, (4) (Konrad Abeltshauser, Jonathan Drouin), 4:19
2. GAT Martin Reway, (1) (Gabriel Bourret), 9:55 (PP)
2. GAT Tomas Hyka, (2) (Mickaël Beauregard, Emile Poirier), 11:52
2. GAT Dominic Poulin, (1) (Yannick Dubé), 13:20 (PP)
2. GAT Martin Reway, (2) (Taylor Burke), 15:58
3. GAT Dominic Poulin, (2) (Martin Reway, Samuel Courtemanche), 8:37



On a better note, the Mooseheads came into Saturdays game against Cape Breton looking a lot more focused and making the right play more often, as opposed to going for big hits or dekes. Luca Ciampini opened the scoring, the first sign of life from the Mooseheads depth scorers. Brent Andrews then deflected a Trey Lewis point shot and had the Metro Centre fired up, until two opportunistic goals by the Screaming Eagles silenced the crowd before the end of the 1st with goals by Alex Lavoie and Bronson Beaton.

The game was solid back and forth hockey, with the Mooseheads separating themselves and getting a ton of chances in the last five minutes. Overtime was a similar story, but the game ended up in a shootout. Here are the only two goals. (Video: Halifax Mooseheads official youtube)

 

1. HAL Luca Ciampini, (1) (Martin Frk, Matthew Boudreau), 5:00
1. HAL Brent Andrews, (2) (Trey Lewis), 16:12
1. CAP Michael Clarke, (2) (William Carrier, Alexandre Lavoie), 18:09
1. CAP Bronson Beaton, (1) (Justin Haché), 19:57

All in all, this weekend was likely a lesson for the young Mooseheads squad, that no matter how many things are going well for them, they need to stay focused on a team game and they will succeed. It was only when the Mooseheads depth players started creating chances when the ice opened up a little for Mackinnon and Drouin.

Quick Scouting Hits for draft eligibles:

- Martin Reway had two goals and an assist against the Mooseheads, but I'm not certain he'll be drafted. He's an excellent skater and tremendously skilled, but did not even engage in a battle let alone win one. He literally would allow the Mooseheads defensemen to walk out of the corner with the puck untouched. Without a dramatic adjustment from Benoit Groulx, I could not see an NHL scout interested in that.

- Emile Porier looked alright against Halifax, no outstanding trait about him just a solid player with good hands. Could see a team taking him in a later round.

- 16 year olds (2014 eligibles) Kameron Keilly, Clarke Bishop and Alexandre Carrier did not look out place. All stood out as slight, nice skating two-way players. Carrier left in the late 1st with an injury so I did not get a great read on him.

- William Carrier was dominant for the Screaming Eagles, winning most of his battles and creating space with his solid frame. He also showed a great prowess for passing and shooting at full speed, he did not look far off of Mackinnon and Drouin in terms of talent.

- Bronson Beaton blended in with the rest of the Screaming Eagles two-way forwards, scored a goal and showed better skating than last season. He could be on a few teams draft radar.

- Mackinnon and Drouin looked themselves, but Drouin is a lot more poised and prone to controlling the pace of play this season. It seems teams are not as afraid of Mackinnon and are simply backchecking harder on him to defend his lethal speed. The gap offensively between Jon and Nathan has closed, without a doubt.

(Stats via the QMJHL)

Gatineau at Halifax - Season Opener Preview

Can the Moose make it 3 straight wins to start the season?

Tale of the Tape

Halifax vs. Gatineau

Mooseheads won both match-ups last year - 5-3 in Halifax and 6-2 in Gatineau

Injuries - GAT: Robert Steeves (starting goalie) & Mathieu Boily HFX: Steve Gillard

Leading Scorers - HFX: Jonathan Drouin 2-2-5-7 GAT: Rock Regimbald 1-1-0-1



Halifax Mooseheads fans are buzzing over the Mooseheads (2-0-0) season opener this Friday night against Gatineau (0-2-0), and they have plenty of reason to do so. Coming off an exciting overtime win against Cape Breton and 8-1 schlacking of the P.E.I Islanders Rocket, optimism is abundant in Moose Country. Offensive wizards Nathan Mackinnon and Jonathan Drouin have exceeded expectations to start the season, with Drouin putting up 2 goals and 5 assists for CHL player of the week honours while Mackinnon had 3 goals and 2 assists over the weekend. The Mooseheads have been so dominant in their first two games, they outshot their opponents 91-39. On the injury front, the Mooseheads are healthy with the exception of Steve Gillard, who could be out this weekend with an undisclosed injury. Gillard did not practice this week per Matthew Huest of Metro News.
 

Gatineau, though off to a slow start, still must be respected in this match-up. Coming off losses to Baie-Comeau and Chicoutimi where they put up only one goal in two games, the Olympiques will be hungry for their first win coming into a season of high expectations in Gatineau. In this off-season, the Olympiques acquired a lot of talent (Yannick Dubé, Martin Reway, Taylor Burke & Robert Steeves) and appeared ready to contend. Watch for Gatineau to come out flying to show the QMJHL they are ready to match up against the best.



Up and Down - Where Q teams are trending this year

In a Junior level filled with turnover, here is an unbiased take at where QMJHL franchises appear to be trending this year.

Acadie Bathurst Titan walk into this season trending UP after a strong off-season where they bolstered their depth up front and made themselves known as contenders heading into this season. They boast average goaltending and defence but these are both things the Halifax Mooseheads overcame last season with a powerful offence. The Titan have Zach O'Brien, Brandon Hynes, Christophe Lalancette, Patrik Zdrahal, Adam Zboril and Matthew Bissonette in their top 6 along with strong depth forwards Raphael Lafontaine, Adam Stevens and Alec Jon Banville.

The Baie-Comeau Drakkar are trending UP this season, mostly based on the ideal of player progression. The Drakkar iced a young, competitive team last season and with 2 new Euros and a young scoring core of Félix Girard, Raphael Bussières and Frédéric Gamelin alongside veterans Carl Gélinas and Jean-Philippe Caron. Their back-end is a good mix of veterans and young talents such as 2012 1st rounders Alexis Vanier and Loik Leveille. Phillipe Cadorette is in the lower echelon of goaltenders in the Q this year, but remains a solid starting option.

The Blainsville-Boisbriand Armada are trending UP this year as well, walking into this season steadily ranked with premier teams such as Halifax and Quebec as contenders. The Armada acquired Devils' first round pick Stefan Matteau in the off-season, and his agitator presence will make them even tougher to play against this year. Blainsville possesses likely the best two-way depth in the league, and likely the best defensive squad as well. Xavier Ouellet and Samuel Carrier could both be argued as the best defenseman in the league this year and could be on the same powerplay unit this year. The Armada also have Etienne Marcoux tending the crease this year, who should build on last years excellent season.

The Cape Breton Screaming Eagles walk into this season trending to be the SAME as last year. While Denis Kindl, Jonathan Brunelle and Sebastian Payette graduated, David Hoznik, Justin Haché and Jonathan Oligny replace them. Young talents like William Carrier, Bronson Beaton and Kyle Farrell are expected to progress, there is no outstanding trait to this young team that leads me to believe they will build on last year.

The Chicoutimi Saguenéens lost significant talent and are trending DOWN this year. The Sags loaded up last season acquiring J.P. Pageau, Mathieu Gagnon and Christian Ouellet from Gatineau in an attempt to win the Presidents cup. They fell short in the 3rd round, losing 4-1 to Saint John. What is left is decent offence, suspect defense and solid goaltending. They will be down a few spots from their 8th place finish last season.

The Drumondville Voltigeurs head into this season trending SAME as last season. The Voltigeurs did not go out and acquire talent this off-season, and will have to overachieve to avoid being a bottom feeder. This is fully in reach considering how well coached Mario Duhamel keeps his team, but it is difficult to imagine a team headlined by Olivier Archembault, Marc-Olivier and Nikolas Brouillard will make noise in the QMJHL this year.

In Gatineau, the Olymipiques are trending UP without a doubt. After a middling season in 2011-2012, the Olympiques had an action packed off-season acquiring scoring winger Yannick Dubé from Victoriaville, and Acadie-Bathurst starter Robert Steeves. They proceeded to take the talented scorer Martin Reway in the Euro draft and had 1st round picks Alex Carrier and Kameron Keilly make the roster out of camp. The Olympiques are young and have improved at every position. Robert Steeves went down until at least Christmas with an injury which hurts the club. When you factor in the fact that Benoit Groulx always has a disciplined, two-way team on the ice, the injury becomes less of a factor than expected.

The Halifax Mooseheads have big expectations heading UP to this season, mostly based on the fact that their young core that includes Nathan Mackinnon, Jonathan Drouin, Martin Frk and Zach Fucale has another year of progression under their belt. Add in veterans such as Konrad Abeltshauser, Stefan Fournier, Darcy Ashley and Brent Andrews and you have a unique contender. The Mooseheads have no glaring holes heading into this season, though another premier forward or defenseman would certainly help separate the Mooseheads from other teams at the top of the pack.

The Moncton Wildats are trending UP after an electrifying off-season where they finished a trade with Shawinigan, sending back picks for top 4 defenseman Jonathan Racine and starting goaltender Alex Dubeau. They also acquired arguably the best Euro tandem in the league in St. Louis Blues draft pick Dmitri Jaskin and #1 Euro pick Ivan Barbashev. Moncton now has weapons up front, even more abundant depth on defence and a quality starting goaltender to replace Roman Will. They are my dark horse to go deep in the playoffs because of their excellent depth.

In P.E.I., the Rocket (amongst a well-needed name change) are trending the UP this season, acquiring some solid players in the off-season in the off-season in Alex Micallef and waiver pick-ups Erik Robichaud and Charles Johnson. They used the #2 overall pick to select Alexis Pépin who should make his presence felt immediately on a PEI team starved for offence. The Rocket are by no means contenders, with progression of young players like Yan Pavel Laplante, Ryan Graves and Matthew Bursey another last place finish doesn't seem likely on the Island.

The Quebec Remparts appear to be headed into this season the SAME as last year. It will be difficult ot imagine the Remparts improving much on a borderline dominant season like 2011-2012, but after losing Louis Domingue, Gabriel Desjardins and Mikael Tam this off-season I feel like the Remparts only offset their losses by bringing in Nikita Kucherov and having their young core progress. The Remparts will still fill the net with ease, but the goaltending and defence are suspect enough that the QMJHL is not any more afraid of this years Remparts than the year than last year.

The Rimouski Oceanic head into this season the SAME as well. The Oceanic replaced some of the veteran losses they sustained this off-season by adding to a pool a 1995s that is as deep as any in the league. They turned heads by getting Anthony Deluca, Maxime Gravel and Frédérik Gauthier to report, players who all had NCAA commitments and are capable of making significant impacts this year. Two new Euros Vladimir Bryuvikin and Jan Kostalek should fill the void of Petr Straka and Jakub Culek. It is impressive that even after losing Jerome Gauther-Leduc, Alex Belzile and Alex Mallet they will likely finish in and around the 6th seed again this year. Cheers to GM Phillipe Boucher for such a stand-up job.

The Rouyn-Noranda Huskies are trending UP after a solid off-season where they acquired some good veteran talent in Gabriel Desjardins and Andrew O'Brien. The Huskies have solid Euros returning that will drive there offense once again, Denis Kamaev and Sven Andrighetto and with some more depth could turn heads by improving on last years 15th place finish by a good margin. The pressure will be on 2011 defensive rookie of the year Robin Gusse to find consistency to enable the Huskies to do so.

The Saint Johns Sea Dogs are undoubtedly trending DOWN heading into this season, losing 6 of their top 9 scorers from last season. The Sea Dogs will have a transition year on their hands this year, after 3 years of dynasty-like dominance. With two less talented new Euros and a rookie-laden roster, the Sea Dogs will fight with the bottom feeders to keep out of the Bottom 5 this year. Jonathan Huberdeau will return until the end of the NHL lockout, which is a nice boost for the young players and franchise but Huberdeau is no superman.

The Shawinigan Cataractes appear to be walking into one of the biggest DOWNwards turnarounds the CHL has seen in a long time. After winning the Memorial Cup last season, the Cataractes will bring back only 9 players, all of whom played depth roles on last years squad. The Cataractes will be a living example of how quick fates can turn after genuinely 'going for it', which turned out well worth it in the end. On the bright side, they will ice a lot of youth this year and will bring in Slovak standout Patrik Koys next year, so the future looks fairly bright the franchise that seems to almost be the consensus pick for last in the league this year.

The Sherbrooke Phoenix are not really capable of being judged, but I will say that I expect the group to take time to bond and that Sherbrooke will finish in and around 15th.

The Val d'Or Foreurs are trending UP headed into this season, after this up and coming team took a big step forward acquiring Memorial Cup hero Anton Zlobin, and Bathurst defenceman Jérémie Fraser. This bolstered the Foreurs already solid roster. With solid goaltending, a strong mobile defence group and some marquee forwards up front such as Zlobin, Anothony Mantha and Cedrick Henley.

Last but not least, the Victoriaville Tigres are trending DOWN based on the talent they traded away this off-season and lack of depth. The Tigres, clearly not happy with what happened in last years playoffs traded away Stefan Fournier, Brandon Hynes, David Hoznik and Yannick Dubé in a span of two days. That leaves them with leaving them with a few impact forwards such as Phillip Danault, Phillippe Halley and Phillippe Maillet. Behind them are a few solid top 9 forwards, but nothing to write home about. The young defense corps is below average with Stars draft pick Troy Vance leading the way. One of their strong points should be Chicago draft pick Brandon Whitney in net, who is big atheletic and ready to step into the upper echelon of QMJHL goalies.

There you have it, my take on the turbulent trends that you see every off season in Junior, and the excting parity that comes with it!

Game Report - Mooseheads vs. Screaming Eagles 09/09/2012

There was a heated Maritime division match-up in Halifax today, and the puck hasn't even dropped for the regular season yet.

The Mooseheads (4-2-0) played the Screaming Eagles (1-2-1) in pre-season action today and the Screaming Eagles prevailed 5-3 over an undisciplined Mooseheads squad. William Carrier (2), Charles Guevremont, Kyle Farrell and Michael Clarke scored for Cape Breton and Matthew Boudreau, Jonathan Drouin and Steve Gillard responded for the Mooseheads.

The game was fast paced, and momentum switched sides often until the middle of the third, where William Carrier scored the go-ahead goal, quickly followed by Martin Frk taking a retaliatory interference run and then slashing Jonathan Oligny in the face, leading to a 7 minute Screaming Eagles powerplay. Phillipe Trudeau was outstanding in nets, making key save after key save protecting the Screaming Eagles lead.

Mooseheads tidbits:

Jonathan Drouin was a standout, putting his skillset on display throughout the game and causing more havoc for the Screaming Eagles than Nathan Mackinnon, who was solid but not as spectacular as usual for the Mooseheads in his first game of the year.

New addition Randy Gazzola did not look much smaller than Sawyer Hannay, donning the same #77 Hannay wore last year. Gazzola played well for the Mooseheads and was fed good minutes, showing offensive prowess and hockey sense while also playing well in his own. Gazzola was the only positive player today for the Mooseheads. However, backwards skating and footspeed may be a concern against faster players.

Brian Lovell and Mackenzie Weegar also looked good, with Weegar showing off his hands and skating on several rushes while Lovell played a more conservative style then expected.

Liam Alcade stood out with his physicality and skating, making the crowd take notice every time he stepped on the ice with his high energy style of play.

Screaming Eagles tidbits:

This June's 1st pick for the Eagles Clark Bishop looked good for the Eagles, Bishop is an excellent skater that brings intensity every shift. He used his speed to create space for linemates well today, and looks like he will be a fan favorite this year in Sydney.

William Carrier impressed today, putting up two goals and being a consistent threat for Cape Breton. Carrier already has pro-calibre size and plays a mature two-way game to go along with a great shot and hands. Carrier could hear his name called in the first 15 picks next June if he keeps progressing.

Zach Moody, Cole Murphy and Kyle Farrell all also looked good up front for the Screaming Eagles.

Stay tuned for the next game report, following Fridays game against Saint John!

Mooseheads Make Cuts, Finalize Roster

(Free agent addition Max Lindsay is an example of the free agent talent added this off-season)

The Halifax Mooseheads announced their final cuts today, finishing the roster shaping that has been ongoing since August 16th.

The Mooseheads cut overage forward Brad Cuzner and 19 year old defenseman Josh Desmond today, leaving only 13 forwards, 8 defensemen and 3 goalies. Here is a look at who remains for the Mooseheads, in the form of projected lines:

Drouin-Mackinnon-Fournier

Ciampini-Boudreau-Frk

Ashley-Andrews-Ryan

Falkenham-Lindsay-Beauchemin

Alcade

 

Abeltshauser-Lewis

Gillard-Lewis

Hardie-Weegar

Lovell-Gazzola

 

Fucale

Terenzio

Clarke

 

Up front, there were a couple surprises, including free agents Dominic Beauchemin and Max Lindsay making the team. Beauchemin impressed offensively and was a favourite of coach Dominic Ducharme throughout training camp. Lindsay was invited to camp as a free agent and brang a strong physical presence and even chipped in a few goals as a grinder to solidify his spot. Liam Alcade seemed to be likely to make the team, and beat out energy players Jonathan Lacroix-Courville and Brandon Pye for the 13th forward spot. The Mooseheads top 3 lines were already secure, but to see it in finalized form, with no injuries to date is a pleasure to see as a Mooseheads season ticket holder!

 

On defense, the main surprise was Ontario free agent Randy Gazzola beating out veteran Josh Desmond for the 8th defenseman spot. Gazzola is 6'3 defenseman who can move the puck and play sound positional defense. He put up 41 points in 41 games in the competitive OJHL last year, and big men that can put up points as well do not simply grow on trees. Mackenzie Weegar and Brian Lovell top off the new faces on the Mooseheads blueline, two more players who played in Ontario last season who are sure to be steady puck movers for the Mooseheads bottom pairing.

 

The goaltending situation appeared to be well in place heading into this season, with last years starter Zach Fucale and 2010-11 starter Anthony Terenzio both ready to go. However, former Gatineau Olympiques back-up and Halifax native Chris Clarke has impressed at Mooseheads camp, allowing only three goals throughout 6 periods of work in the pre-season. Ducharme has openly praised him this pre-season, but it is difficult to envision the Mooseheads cutting Terenzio after how hard he fought to come back from his concussion woes last year.

 

All in all, it is clear GM Cam Russell and Coach Dominic Ducharme were going for more grit in the bottom 6 forward corps and better puck moving on the backend when picking this team, and I am excited to see the results of all the free talent the Mooseheads have received this off-season.





Mooseheads Depth Shows In Pre-Season

The Mooseheads walked into training camp with a strong core that leaves very few spots up for grabs on their team. Going into training camp, it appeared that there would be at least one player make the team that isn't quite a QMJHL caliber player. The original training camp roster can be found here:

Mooseheads adjust training camp roster

However, since training camp started there have been a few players that have stepped up to the plate and shown they are ready to contribute for the Moose. The root of all the pre-season rumblings in Halifax has been Dominic Beauchemin, a 19 year old forward who lit the Quebec Midget AAA league on fire last year, who has impressed almost every source that saw him this pre-season. Head Coach Dominique Ducharme even singled him out as an "impressive" player after the first two pre-season games. He had to be returned by August 20th to meet a Quebec schooling deadline, so it appears he has made the Mooseheads roster.

There is lots more training heads being turned by players coming from Ontario, where free agents Max Lindsay, Randy Gazzola and Mackenzie Weegar and draft picks Brian Lovell and Liam Alcade have all made their presences felt in training camp. Alcade and Lindsay are both late-blooming physical forwards who are well-suited for energy line roles. Weegar, Gazzola and Lovell are all offensive defensemen who posted great numbers last year and are impressing in camp. They are the favourites for the two open spots on the Mooseheads back-end. The other standout for the Mooseheads was Jonathan Lacroix-Courville, the highest draft pick from this year to report to camp, and he has played with a lot of energy, doing all the things you would like to see out of a QMJHL fourth liner.

The Mooseheads training camp roster has gone down from 49 to 33 since the start of training camp, Benji Gaudet, Nicolas Iodice and Thomas Flynn were all no shows. Brett McNeil, Willie Macdonald, John Mullaly, Kyle Kavanugh and Max Daigle all left to keep NCAA eligibility, and then the Moose cut Luke Warner, Mike Molloy, Alex Scully, Anthony Cardinal, Craig MacLaughlan, Nick Parker, Phillip Fife and goaltender Marc-Olivier Daigle. Yesterday Mitchell Henneberry and Brennan Bailey were cut as well.

The up-to-date roser can be found here: Two more cuts leaves Mooseheads’ roster at 33

The spots that remain genuinely up for grabs are the final two defense slots, which I feel will be filled by Josh Desmond and Brian Lovell, and for the 2 forward spots remaining I feel Max Lindsay and Jonathan Lacroix-Courville will win those spots. In nets, it is set that Zach Fucale and Anthony Terenzio will be the Mooseheads goalies, with Chris Clarke likely being the call-up.

Keep posted for pre-season game reports, most likely following the September 9th game against Cape Breton.

NCAA and CHL Eligibilty - A game that costs both leagues



There has been an epidemic recently that has hit both the NCAA and the CHL, and it has plagued both leagues and caused plenty of drama for speculators to debate, and it lies in the NCAA eligibility game.

High level prospects love to play it, and list is always growing. The rule for the NCAA is that you cannot sign a 'pro' contract (CHL is considered pro because of weekly stipends) or be at a pro team camp for more than 48 hours or you lose your ability to play in the NCAA. Therefore, at 16 while being wooed by the top colleges to play for them in the future, there are some players that claim they will forego the CHL and keep their NCAA eligibility before their CHL leagues draft. Then, by random chance, end up on a powerhouse team like Portland, London, Quebec or whatever team they felt was the 'best fit'. This has become much more prevalent lately with the following players using the NCAA 'route' to change draft status in the last few CHL drafts, to name a few:

Josh Ho-Sang
Jonathan Drouin
Nathan Mackinnon
Tyler Seguin
Max Domi
Adam Erne
Anthony Deluca
Anthony Duclair

It is seeming to be a case of the best get to choose where they play, and the bark of threatening to play NCAA rarely meets the bite of actually commiting and playing college. Every summer, and even mid-season now you also see players abandoning NCAA commitments and teams to play CHL hockey. It seems the only player in recent memory to genuinely commit to the NCAA despite heavy CHL attention is Michael Matheson. This commitment game is hurting both the NCAA and CHL.

I dream of a situation where all leagues are accessible to all under 20 players in need of development. A player like Ryan Strome or Jonathan Huberdeau who has nothing more to prove in the CHL could play a more pro style game developing strength for Boston University or Wisconsin. Bringing more offensive talent to the NCAA, a player like Tyler Pitlick or Zemgus Girgensons may not have to abandon ship to develop offensive skills in the CHL. The weekly stipend could be ignored by the NCAA as a 'food related cost' and suddenly both leagues can split the elite talent, which would mostly follow a 3 years of strong CHL play followed by a year or two of NCAA development. It would benefit the NHL because prospect would have better options and competition and give NHL development personnel the ability to further customize a players development path. All in all, an NCAA-CHL 'agreement' (which would have to take place if current restrictions were lifted) would enhance the talent in both leagues, helping all but the egos of the league heads who want 16 year olds to make a life changing choice.

In short, rather then these heavily restricted leagues where its one or the other, free the markets and allow players 'capitalize' on their newfound options and opportunities.

QMJHL Pre-Season Report - August 17th

Samuel Carrier headlines QMJHL pre-season trade action (Copyright Getty Images)

With training camps starting this week, there has been a flurry of trade action as coaches/ general managers start to identify players that fit their identities, and ship away those who do not. There have already been cuts made as well, which I will list below:

Drumondville cuts: Alexandre Veronneau, Alexandre Biloudeau, Xavier LaBonte, Gabriel Labbe, Jonathan Rizzo, Joe Fleschier, Sacha Harnois, Kevin Bernilon, Gabriel Dubois, Olivier Roquebrune, Dylan Montcalm, Andrew McCann and Toliver Bergeron

Gatineau cuts: Karl Leveille, Nicolas Lachance, Joey Palumbo, Francois Plamondon, Steven Brooker, Felix-Antoine Jacques and Robby Klein

Rouyn-Noranda cuts: Joey Deveny, Jeremy Therrien, Alexandre Dulude, Benjamin Lavoie and Anthony Beauchamp

Victoriaville cuts: Julien Giroux, Marc Terriault, Etienne Lavoie, Jean-Dominic Samson, Jesse Turin, Jason Caron, Christopher Daoud and Dallas Lahache

The first name to catch your eye is well, the first name. Alexandre Verroneau looked very promising as a 16 year old rookie, putting up great numbers in a handful of games, but has not looked like a QMJHL caliber goalie ever since. This appears to be the end of his major junior career.
On the trade front, there have been 6 trades in the last two days and here they are:

-Sherbrooke trades Phillipe Archambault to Chicoutimi for a 5th in 2013

Fairly minor deal, Chicoutimi adds some veteran experience and grit to the bottom 6

-Baie-Comeau trades Samuel Carrier to Blainville-Boisbriand for a 1st in 2014

This will be one of the biggest trades of the year, with the Armada adding another top 5 defenseman
in this league to their roster, letting the QMJHL know they are ready to contend this year!

-Blainville-Boisbriand trades Vincent Richer to Sherbrooke for a 5th in 2014

The Armada clear room for overager Carrier to play, while Sherbrooke acquires a solid veteran option on the back end.

-Sherbrooke trades Mitchell Shewfelt to Cape Breton for a 10th in 2013

The Screaming Eagles add a defenseman after holes left by Jacob Arsenault and Louis-Phillipe Page not reporting to camp.

-Rouyn-Noranda trades Jason Houde to Quebec for a 8th in 2013

Quebec picks up some much needed depth up front adding 19 year old Houde, who will be a depth scorer.

-Sherbrooke trades Marc-Anothony Therrien to Victoriaville for a 14th in 2013

Victoriaville adds an undrafted Therrien who can likely only crack the Victo line up due to depth issues

Canada Russia Challenge 2012 - QMJHL review

The Canada Russia Challenge, on the 40th anniversary of the 1972 Summit Series, did not disappoint as it went down to the wire, with points where both teams looked like the dominant hockey country. The final result, though somewhat controversial reflected the more consistent team through the series in the Canadians. The QMJHL participants played an important role for both sides, and here is my review of them.

Canadians:
Jonathan Huberdeau wore the 'C' for the last two games of the series, and those happened to be his two strongest games. Huberdeau had his offensive skills on display throughout his 3 games, turning nothing into something in the offensive zone with regularity. Huberdeau showed great puck protection skills and was very nimble on his skates, while looking improved in the defensive zone. He also produced when it mattered for Canada, putting up a goal and two assists in game 4 leading Canada to the series win. This will likely be Huberdeau's last chance to play for Canada until he makes the World Championship squad, as it appears he has nothing more to prove in the CHL and will likely stick with Florida this year.
Series grade: A

Charles Hudon was Team Canadas best surprise at the Challenge this year, constantly creating offence on the rush and in the offensive zone. He improved his skating over last season, and his hockey IQ at times took over and gave Canada momentum. Hudon also showed a physical side, taking runs and delivering hits a 5'9 165lb. player has no business delivering. Hudon was another important producer for Canada, putting up 3 points and assisting Ryan Stromes series winning goal in overtime. In this series, Hudon proved he had more game than his draft slot of 122nd indicated.

Series grade: A-

Xavier Ouellet was a steady defenseman for Canada and was paired with the offensively minded Dougie Hamilton where he played the quiet reliable game that was asked of him by coach Steve Spott, who called him an absolute steal in the 2nd round by the Red Wings.

Series grade: B-

Phillip Danult played a defensive role for Canada, and filled the role very well. He played almost every important penalty kill and matched up on line against Zlobin-Grigorenko-Yakupov regularly. He gave the Russians no space with his lines aggressive backcheck and looked like he could play 3rd line in the NHL right now, though he will likely spend another year in Victoriaville to develop his offensive skills.

Series grade: A-

Maxime Lagacé started only one game for Canada, and it was one to forget for him, where he let in 6 goals on 26 shots. He did not seem composed throughout the game and did himself no favours on the path to earning a spot in the 2013 World Juniors in Russia.

Game grade: D

Russians:

Mikhail Grigorenko was expected to be Russias star alongside #1 overall pick Nail Yakupov and had a very mediocre series. Yakupov and Grigorenko failed to feed off of each other the way many expected them to because both are puck possession playmakers, and it did not help to be matched-up by Canadas checking line and Scott Harrington with his partner. Grigorenko showed improved defensive awareness and positioning in his own zone but struggled in the face-off circle losing key draws throughout the series. Grigorenko showed his elite vision off at different points of the series but also had several teeth-grinding turnovers that easily could have been avoided, while showing little to no compete level on the boards. All in all, with Darcy Regier on hand to watch the last two games, Grigorenko did not show he was NHL ready.

Series grade: C

Anton Zlobin showed a good finishing touch this series, finishing 2 opportunities given to him by his linemates Yakupov and Grigorenko. Zlobin naturally looked very pedestrian alongside his linemates, but competed well on the boards and was not afraid to get his nose dirty in front. Zlobin is a good skater and showed the most willingness the forecheck and charge the net on his line.

Series grade: B+

Artyom Sergeyev was likely Russias most steady and reliable defenseman throughout the series, showing offensive awareness and doing a good job quarterbacking the Russian powerplay while remaining a rock in his own zone. He showed a good compete level in the corners and in general was not easy to play against for the Canadians. Him and Zlobin will make a great Euro combination in Val d'Or this year.

Series grade: B

10 Most Valuable QMJHL Players - 2012-2013 Season

Mackinnon Prepares for a pressure packed season for a contender this year

There are many marquee talents in the QMJHL this year, and it seems to be an up year as a whole for the Quebec league, and things will get very competitive at the top with teams like Gatineau, Moncton and Blandsville-Boisbriand turning themselvese into contenders this off-season. Following up our standings preview, here is a look at the 10 players who will be the most valuable to their team next year. (under the assumption Huberdeau and Grigorenko are not returning)

#1 - Nathan Mackinnon, Halifax Mooseheads - Centre

Mackinnon is the backbone of a Mooseheads offence that is likely the strongest in the league. The pressure is on for Mackinnon this year, as he is the #1 ranked player the for 2013 NHL draft and has a full year of foolish Crosby comparisons ahead. Mackinnon is likely to be the leading scorer for the current QMJHL favourite Mooseheads and is an electrifying enough talent that there is not a defensive paring in this league strong enough to contain him. With other talent like Drouin, Frk and Abeltshauser also on the team the fact remains that there is no more valuable player in the QMJHL than him.

#2 - Ben Duffy, PEI Rocket - Centre

Duffy leads a PEI rocket team that was awful last year, into this season as one of the only bright spots the franchise have. The Rockets' all time leading scorer is a marquee talent who can create offence for his linemates and did so very well last year, putting up 82 points in 68 games on a weak Rockets team with a -115 goal differencial last year. The former 5th overall pick is ready to dominate the league offenseively, but it may not be for much on a Rockets team that has no players who had more than 50 points returning. The value of Duffy to the Rockets is huge, because if they choose to trade him they will receive a huge boost to their rebuilding efforts. The Rockets could also choose to keep him and try to contend, which is why there is no more pivotal player to a franchise than Ben Duffy.

#3 - Xavier Ouellet, Blainsville-Boisbriand Armada - Defenceman

Ouellet is primed for a big season this year, having been a dominant QMJHL defenceman the last three seasons now. The Red Wings second rounder has a big season coming up, wearing the "C" for the Blainsville-Boisbriand Armada who will be a contender this year. After a good off-season, last years West division-winning Armada will be a strong defensive team again this year, which means that Ouellet will have to lead one of the most defence-oriented teams in the league. Whether they contend or not will be largely in the hands of how arguably the best defenceman in the Q leads, and that is what makes him so valuable to the Armada.

#4 - Alex/ Allain Saulnier, Moncton Wildcats - Forward
I could not really differentiate these two, so I have them slotted as one player. Alex and Allain were almost the only creators of offence for a weak Wildcats team that lacked it heavily last year. That has changed this off-season, adding marquee talent through the import draft and through 'finishing' the Brandon Gormley trade with Shawinigan, trading back their picks for impact players. The twins are overagers this year, which means they should progress from last year, where they were amongst the most dangerous players in the league. If the Saulniers and the new additions can provide the offence to a strong defence in Moncton, watch for the Wildcats to be a powerhouse next year.

#5 - Martin Lefevbre - Quebec Remparts, Defenceman

With so many offensive weapons in Quebec this year, and a quality starter in Francois Brassard the Remparts only question mark lies on defence, where they are young and inexperienced. The Remparts so have Lefevbre though, who a a top-5 defenceman in the entire league heading into this season. He is likely to wear the 'C' for the Remparts and mentor young defencemen Duncan McIntyre and Ryan Culkin, while still being expected to quarterback the powerplay and play tough PK minutes. Lefevbre may not have a huge impact on how the Remparts do in the regular season, but if the post-season rolls around and Remparts have any troubles offensively, Lefevbre will be extremely important.

#6 - Zach O'Brien, Acadie-Bathhurst Titan - Centre

Zach O'Brien will be the leagues premier goal scorer this year, building upon last season where he led the league in goals with 50 in 68 games. O'Briens line of Bissonette-O'Brien-Trudeau carried the Titan last year to a season over .500, an impressive leap over last seasons expectations. The Titan acquired Brandon Hynes this off-season and their young defence corps will be one year older, so if O'Brien can continue to fill the net for the Titan, watch for them to be a surprise contender this year.

#7 - Anton Zlobin, Val d'Or Foreurs - Left Wing

Zlobin had an awesome year for Shawinigan last year, putting up 76 points in 66 games on an offensively deep team. Zlobin was Shawinigans go-to guy up front and scored the Memorial Cup winning goal. This off-season he was traded to Val d'Or for picks, and will be expected to help the Foreurs compete this season. The Foreurs were not really close to competing last season, so it will be interesting to see how much farther Zlobin can push them.

#8 - Etienne Marcoux, Blainsville-Boisbriand Armada - Goaltender

Marcoux has this season with a strong team in front of him to solidify himself as one of, if not the best goalie in the league heading into his draft year. Last season, Marcoux was a top tier goalie posting a .912 SV% and 2.71 GAA while going 28-9-3. The Armada will be contending this year and cannot afford to have Marcoux underperform. If he can bring his 'A' game consistently, the Armada will give teams like Halifax and Quebec a run for their money this year.

#9 - Tomas Hyka, Gatineau Olympiques - Left Wing

Hyka was an outstanding Euro selection by the Olympiques, turning heads last year as a QMJHL rookie. He was one of their only offensive catalysts and looked a step ahead of most defenders. After some serious reloading this off-season, the Olympiques are ready to compete again with Hyka leading the offensive charge. Hyka will help fellow Euro Martin Reway adjust to North American hockey and will be expected to build on his 1.28 PPG last year.

#10 - Zach Fucale, Halifax Mooseheads - Goaltender
Zach Fucale was the biggest overachiever in the QMJHL last year. As a 16 year old goalie, he made the Mooseheads as the back-up and suceeded an injured Anothony Terenzio, going on to break the QMJHL record for wins by a 16 year old with 32. Fucale is known for his rebound control and incredible speed and poise for a young goaltender. He was also co-MVP of the Mooseheads last year and will need to keep up his excellent play to ensure the Mooseheads are able to contend this year.

Honorable Mentions -

Phillipe Danault - Danault will either carry and lead a weak Tigres roster or be traded at the deadline, jump starting their rebuild.

Charles Hudon - Hudon will be the Sags best player this season, and will be expected to dominate the QMJHL offensively

Anthony Duclair - Duclair appears to be the Remparts foremost offensive player heading into a season where they need to score in bunches.

William Carrier - The Screaming Eagles offence will rely heavily on draft-eligible Carrier to produce.

Game Report - Canada-Russia Challenge Game #1

Game Report
August 9th, 2012
Home Team: Russia
Away Team: Canada

Game breakdown:
An offensively exciting 3-2 win by Canada over the Russians, who looked out of sync and failed to create any quantity of chances against a Canadian team that did a good job backchecking. There were points where the game got really physical and scraps after the whistle were a pleasant surprise so early in the series. Both goalies played well, and there were some excellent chances from both sides where the goalies came up big.

Prospects Breakdown:

Charles Hudon #10, Canada - Hudon did it all in this game, except finish a chance. Put on a line with Philip Danult and Boone Jenner, there was lots of space for Hudon to create offence, and he did just that. He had great scoring chances in each period and even showed a physical side including a huge hit on a Russian defender at middle ice. Hudon even looked like he improved his skating over the summer, showing a better 'next gear' that led to a breakaway.

Nikolai Prokhorkin #7, Russia - Prokhorkin was a standout for Russia because of his ability on the forecheck and his great physical presence, something Russia seemed to lack. He was scrappy in the corners, including creating space for Slepyshev for Russias first goal and looked like he would fit nicely in a Canadian jersey, and skated great for a big man. Looks like the L.A. Kings found themselves a gem.

Mikhail Grigorenko #25, Russia - Grigorenko looked like the enigma that he was cooked up to be at the draft today, making some passes that caught you off guard and showed his elite vision, followed by other passes that led to a turnover and left you shaking your head. His skating did not seem much improved over last season, and he did not look very involved in the corners where he lost a lot of battles. This game gave me the impression that Grigorenko will be back in Quebec this season.

Morgan Reilly #5 D - Canada - In my first viewing of Reilly, his skating caught my eye big time. He can flat out fly around the ice at will and is so poised with the puck on his stick. He gets around the ice like a true professional and even made several strong defensive plays, including an all-heart shot block to stifle a Russian 2 on 1. Reilly looked like Canadas best defender, competing for that title with Dougie Hamilton.

Anton Slepyshev #11 F, Russia - Slepyshev was Russias best player not named Yakupov in this game, scoring Russias first goal with a beautiful finish and engaging himself all game both offensively and defensively. Worked very well with Nikolai Prokhorkin which made their lines dangerous throughout the game. Slepyshev gets around the ice well and seems like an all-around Russian player, something not often seen in U-20 tournaments.

Honorable Mentions -

Vladimir Tkachev filled his energy role very well for Russia, causing trouble on the forecheck for Russia.

Lucas Lessio played an aggressive game driving the net and being physical, an element I didn't really expect from him.

Nail Yakupov played as advertised as a #1 overall pick, showing off his incredible skating and hands and scoring a nice one-timer goal on Russias second goal.

QMJHL 2012 Ivan Hlinka Preview

The QMJHL sent 9 players to the U-18 Ivan Hlinka Memorial team tryout, which out of 40 players does not seem like the 'Q' is filling their share, but of the 9 players sent over there should be a lot of noise from the QMJHL invites.
Nathan Mackinnon headlines the group as the best player at the camp, only competing at the U-18 level due to Hockey Canada technicalities that stipulate only U-18 tournament graduates may skip the Ivan Hlinka for the Canada Russia Summit Series. He is likely to dominate this tournament and will be Canadas go-to guy offensively. Has supposedly looked good but not outstanding in camp on a line with Jonathan Drouin and Nick Ritchie.

Jonathan Drouin is a another QMJHL standout, expected to play wing on Canadas top line with Mackinnon. They have chemistry from playing together with the Mooseheads, and have shown it at camp. Drouin has improved his skating from last year and been a star playmaker so far in camp.

Zach Fucale is currently pencilled in as the starter for Canada, based on his experience last year compared to Jarry, Comrie and Martin. He pitched a shutout in the first scrimmage and has looked even more technically sound and poised than last year.

Anthony Duclair has been listed as a standout by many scouts via twitter, and to be honest I am not surprised due to his ability to use teammates on the rush so well, and playing against defencemen his age will be huge to help him use his speed to create offence. Duclair is likely to be a key part of Canadas 2nd line.

Nikolas Brouillard has supposedly looked like himself so far in the camp. The small, smart offensive defenceman has shown his two-way smarts in the scrimmages, but will be hard pressed to make the team with so many other options available for Canada.

Samuel Morin will be given every opportunity to make this team. The 6'5 defender looks more fluid through the first scimmage and could be invaluable to a Canadian team that tends to ice an enormous defender or two in the tournament.

Jerémy Gregoire has not blown up twitter to be sure, but is playing his efficient two-way game is not much to write about for scouts. Gregoire is a heart and character player who captained U-17 team Quebec last year. He will have a good chance at the 13th forward spot because of these attributes.

Matt Murphy is another two-way character player who has a good chance at earning the 7th defenceman spot. He plays, and has shown, a quiet and smart game in both ends. He has a grat hockey IQ and could be a steadying presence on the back end for Canada.
*Update, was hurt at camp and did not play todays scrimmage

Yan Pavel Laplante is another heart and soul type player, similar to Gregoire, but lags behind him the talent department. The expectations of him making the team are very low.

Tommy Veilleux is an undersized, gritty winger who hits at a frantic pace. He put up 71 PIM last year with Victoriavile and was showing the same jam at camp, supposedly being one of the biggest physical presences in camp. His chances of making the team are low, but if the coaches are looking for physical presence as the 13th forward, Veilleux would definitely fill that role well.

With Mackinnon, Fucale, Drouin and Duclair all expected to be key players, and depth roles expected to be filled by Gregoire, Morin and Murphy Canadas U-18 team will be helped enormously by the QMJHL at this years Ivan Hlinka.

Projected roster based off what I've heard -
** Updated roster, with my wrong guesses crossed out,  willing to admit biggest goof on Laplante

Drouin-Mackinnon-Baptiste

Duclair-Lazar-Ritchie

Laplante Harper-Horvat-Domi

Petan-Kujawinski-Klimchuk

Gregoire

Nurse-Bowey

Theodore-Ekblad Doytzel

Morrissey-Subban

Morin Bigras

Fucale

Comrie

2013 NHL Draft - Top 10 QMJHL Prospects

The 2013 NHL draft already possesses some interesting storylines, including Nathan Mackinnon and Seth Jones fighting for the #1 ranking and the QMJHL emerging as a dominant producer of prospects for this draft.

This year could be a very strong one for the Q in terms of 1st round NHL picks, with 6 players already steadily ranked in the top 30 players for the draft in Mackinnon, Drouin, Erne, Duclair, Fucale and Sorensen.

Here is my personal top 10 prospects for the 2013 NHL draft:


#1 - Nathan Mackinnon - C - Halifax Mooseheads - Viewings - 9 live, 4 video

Nathan Mackinnon is the consensus #1 player out of the QMJHL heading into the 2013 draft, and is quite often ranked 1st overall on scouting websites. Mackinnon has long been known by scouts, but was finally given a chance to play with the best juniors in the world this year. Mackinnon responded very well, putting up 78 points in 59 games with the Halifax Mooseheads, being the Mooseheads go to guy offensively. Mackinnon has world-class skating ability, with an excellent first few steps and a powerful stride. He looks and plays bigger than his 5'11, 180 pound listing and has a very underrated physical game, similar to Alex Ovechkin. Though his defensive game is still being refined, Mackinnon shows a high compete level in both ends and has the rare ability to absolutely take over games, evidenced by his performances against Quebec in December and his home opener in September against Acadie-Bathurst. The aspects of his game that need developing are his ability to slow down the play and make a proper read with the puck and to avoid turnovers caused by him overhandling the puck. Expect Nathan to be picked 1st overall next June barring a regressing season or heavy pressure from his friend Seth Jones.

#2 - Jonathan Drouin - LW - Halifax Mooseheads - Viewings - 5 live, 4 video

Jonathan Drouin certainly had a interesting season in 2011-2012, starting his campaign in Lac St. Louis in an effort to keep his NCAA eligibility. Drouin then joined the Mooseheads around Christmas putting up a respectable 29 points in 33 games then having a monster playoffs putting up 26 points in 17 games and showing a physical edge that seemed to be missing in the regular season. Drouin is a pass first player, who sees and thinks the game very well. He has average skating, but is very slippery and agile with the puck. Drouin looks small on the ice for being the same listed height as Mackinnon but has upped his weight to 190 over the summer training with Gary Roberts. Expect him to step into the spotlight with Mackinnon in their draft year.

#3 - Nick Sorensen - RW - Quebec Remparts - Viewings - 2 live, 2 video

Nick Sorensen is absolutely the wildcard of this group, playing only 9 games last season before a season-ending knee injury. Sorensen showed a lot of promise in that small sample size, but his ruptured ACL and LCL left scouts wondering what could have been. There remains many question marks with Sorensen, whose status is somewhat up in the air with the other 2 outstanding Euros likely to end up in Quebec in him, Nikita Kucherov and Mikhail Grigorenko. If Grigorenko returns, one must be dealt within the week, and considering Kucherov and Grigorenkos chemistry it would appear he could be the odd man out. However, Sorensen is likely to have a great season in the Q this year regardless of where he plays. He has a good stride, is quite agile and plays a smart two-way game positionally. Sorensen is a natural finisher with a knack in front of the net, and seems like the type of player that will only rise with a full seasons worth of exposure to scouts.

#4 - Adam Erne - LW - Quebec Remparts - Viewings - 2 live, 2 video

Sorensens close friend and linemate Adam Erne comes in at #4. Erne is the prototypical powerforward that scouts dream of, bringing size at 6'1 210, physicality and a smart two-way game. He also drives the net and can post very solid numbers, putting up 55 points in 64 games for the Remparts. Erne will have to show some more offensive flair this season to stay ahead of names like Fucale and Duclair.

#5 - Zach Fucale - G - Halifax Mooseheads - Viewings - 9 live, 4 video

Zach Fucale was one of the biggest overachievers in the QMJHL last year, not expected to make the Mooseheads let alone start and break the QMJHL record for most wins by a 16 year old. Fucale filled in early in the season when Anthony Terenzio went down with a concussion and ended up having to start the rest of the season. Fucale was steady in nets all year showing strong rebound control and incredible poise for a goaltender his age. Fucale started 58 games last season, going 32-18-6 with a 3.16 GAA and a .892 SV%. The stats don't quite tell the story with Fucale though, as he is the type of goalie who makes game-changing saves at the perfect time, similar to Martin Brodeur. Fucale's rookie season will be a tough act to follow, so keep your eyes out for a sluggish start from the 17 year old.

#6 - Anthony Duclair - LW - Quebec Remparts - Viewings - 2 live, 2 video

Anthony Duclair is an electrifying player, plain and simple. Duclair possesses world class speed for his age and can stickhandle at full speed with exceptional poise. He has a solid shot with a quick release and when paired with the right linemates can make breath-taking give and go plays. The downside in his games lies mostly in his decision-making, which has been questioned by scouts. While playing at such a quick pace, Duclair is quite turnover-prone and doesn't show the ability to slow things down and read the play offensively. Coming off a season where he posted 31 goals and 35 assists for 66 points in 63 games, Duclair will be expected to address his weaknesses and show a better hockey IQ or you could see him sliding in the rankings.

#7 - William Carrier - LW - Cape Breton Screaming Eagles - Viewings - 3 live, 1 video

William Carrier is the type of player that already plays a pro-style game. He is prone to making the right play and has excellent vision in the offensive zone. Carrier already possesses a big frame at 6' 205lbs. and put up 70 points in 66 games last year. He has a powerful stride and is aggressive in the corners. The only things scouts question with Carrier is his agility and his offensive upside, which should have been improved with his extra development year on players above him. These things are certainly fixable and I could see him as high as #3 in my rankings by seasons end.

#8 - Anthony Mantha - LW - Val d'Or Foreurs - Viewings - 1 live, 0 video

Anothony Mantha is a big, strong athletic power forward at 6'3 195 lbs. who already possesses a pro frame and NHL level skating. These types of prospects certainly don't grow on trees, so Mantha will certainly be coveted early at the draft. Mantha put up 51 points last year for the Foreurs and won Bronze with Team Canada at the Ivan Hlinka. After that tournament, Mantha got to play all situations and is likely to play even more this year on a stronger Foreurs squad. He is likely to play top line minutes with Zlobin, so watch for a boom or bust season from Mantha.

#9 - Matt Murphy - D - Val d'Or Foreurs - 1 live, 0 video

Matt Murphy is a responsible two-way defenseman who picks his spots offensively. He shows a great understanding of the game and uses his high hockey IQ to play in all situations. Murphy is a good skater who can back-skate with even the fastest forwards on the rush and delivers the occasional open ice hit. Murphys quiet but efficient game will likely endear him to scouts at the Ivan Hlinka where he has a good chance of making the national U-18 team this week at tryouts.

#10 - Nikolas Brouillard - D - Drummondville Voltigeurs - Viewings - 0

Brouillard is a dynamic offensive defenseman, who is light on his feet and always ready to join the rush offensively. Brouillard turned heads this year when he made the Voltigeurs as a 4th round pick and developed into their clear powerplay quarterback throughout the year. He posted excellent numbers as a rookie, putting up 25 points in 61 games as a diminuitive 5'10 150lb defenseman. Brouillard has all the skills necessary to become a top 60 pick in next years draft, but being so small he will have to really put on a show to fufill that potential.


Honorable Mentions

Jeremy Gregoire - F, Chicoutimi - Excellent two-way centre who plays like Chris Drury, skating concerns are big enough to keep him out of my top 10. - Viewings - 2 video

Martin Reway - F, Gatineau - 17 year old Czech Republic native posted great numbers in home league and has great skating and puck skills, could rocket up my rankings with strong showings to start the season. - Viewings - 0
Samuel Morin - D, Rimouski - 6'5 defensive defenseman skates very well for his age and size, uses his reach well but possesses little offensive upside. - Viewings - 1 live, 1 video

Projected Standings 2012-2013 - Pre-Season

1- Quebec Remparts
2- Halifax Mooseheads
3- Blainsville-Boisbriand Armada
4- Gatineau Olympiques
5- Moncton Wildcats
6- Rimouski Océanic
7- Acadie-Bathurst Titan
8- Baie-Comeau Drakkar
9- Val d'Or Foreurs
10- Cape Breton Screaming Eagles
11- Chicoutimi Saguenéens
12- Rouyn-Noranda Huksies
13- Sherbrooke Phoenix
14- Victoriaville Tigres
15- PEI Rocket
16- Saint John Sea Dogs
17- Drummondville Voltigeurs
18- Shawinigan Cataractes

1-




The Remparts had an excellent season last year with their youth, and Partick Roy will most certainly ensure they build on it this year. Expect Mikhail Grigorenko to be back in Quebec City, and Sorensen to be traded for some immediate help when he does. Grigorenko has excellent chemistry with Nikita Kucherov, which will be a dynamic duo that is near impossible to stop at the junior level. After these two, the Remparts still boast names such as Brandon Shea, Adam Erne, Logan Shaw and Anthony Duclair up front. The Remparts defence will also be solid with several returnees, including NHL draft pick Ryan Culkin, Martin Lefebvre and Marc-Antoine Carrier returning, followed by François Brassard in nets. Expect the Remparts to make additions at the dealine as well, leading to their regular season domination.

Offense 9/10
Defence 7/10
Goaltending 9/10
Depth 8/10

2-


The Mooseheads are another young team coming off an overachieving season, and are coming into this year actually expected to contend. With all of their young stars returning, the Mooseheads will have no troubles scoring with the likes of Martin Frk, Nathan Mackinnon and Jonathan Drouin in their top 6. The defence was given a huge boost with the news Konrad Abeltshauser will be returning this year as an overager rather then playing in the AHL, and Zach Fucale will be in nets looking to build upon last years stellar season. The Mooseheads are my current favourite to win the QMJHL title, but there expect a few tough stretches this season where the losses of locker room leaders Cam Critchlow and Travis Randall become apparent.

Offence 10/10
Defence 8/10
Goaltending 9/10
Depth 9/10

3-



The Armada surprised the QMJHL last year by winning the West division as a transferred team with very little talent left over from the former Montréal Juniors franchise. They used strong two-way play and depth to win their games, and over this off-season acquired more talent in NHL 1st rounder Stefan Matteau Jr, Jonathan Lavoie and Steve Lebel. They boast arguably the best forward depth in the Q and a strong defence corps led by Xavier Ouellette. Étienne Marcoux will tend the crease for the Armada, one of the best goalies in the QMJHL who will certainly steal some games for them this year.

Offence 8/10
Defence 9/10
Goaltending 9/10
Depth 10/10

4-



The Olympiques were very busy this off-season, leading to renewed sense of excitement for Piques fans. They acquired Yannick Dubé, winner of last years scoring title and two-way forward Taylor Burke. They then drafted a marquee talent at the import draft in Slovakian Martin Reway, who will likely receive premier minutes for the Olympiques. The Olympiques defence on paper is somewhat suspect, but will not cause them too much trouble with the amount of two-way forwards they possess and the energy the Olympiques play with. With the acquisition of Robert Steeves from Acadie-Bathurst the goaltending situation will be stable enough to label Gatineau a true contender this year.

Offence 9/10
Defence 8/10
Goaltending 7/10
Depth 9/10

5-



The Wildcats had a huge off-season this year, improving in almost every aspect via trades and the import draft. They acquired two excellent Euros in Dmitri Jaskin and Ivan Barbashev, and also got point-per-game winger Yannick Veilleux in a trade with Gatineau. The Wildcats are well-stocked with high end talent on forward and have excellent depth on defence. The Wildcats also received new starter Alex Dubeau in their deal with the Cataractes which is a huge upgrade on back-up Brandon Thibeau.

Offence 9/10
Defence 8/10
Goalie 8/10
Depth 8/10

6-



The Océanic have without a doubt lost some talent from last years QMJHL finals squad, but they also boast a lot of young talent, who all benefited from the long playoffs run last year. Frédérik Gauthier, Anothony DeLuca, Samuel Morin, Simon Boudreau, Maxime Gravel and Phillipe Desrosiers should all be prominently featured as 95s this year. They will be returning several solid veterans such as Peter Trainor and Scott Oke, along with two solid new Euros. This is my 'riser' team this year that should turn some heads, despite a lot of youth being leaned on.

Offence 8/10
Defence 7/10
Goaltending 6/10
Depth 7/10

7-



The Titan are all-in this year, headlined by their best players all being overagers this year in Zach O'Brien, Matthew Bissonette and Brandon Hynes. The Titan also have 2 new skilled Euros in Adam Zboril and Patrik Zdrahal, and added depth at forward by acquiring Raphael Lafontaine from Gatineau. The Titan also boast a solid young defense core that is expected to improve upon last years suspect defence. The Titan have an Achilles heel at the goaltender position however, heading in with an 18 year old backup goalie in Jake Brennan and a 16 year old back up in Mason MacDonald. Neither have proven much at QMJHL level so whether the Titan are capable of contending or not will on these two young goalies.

Offence 9/10
Defence 7/10
Goaltending 6/10
Depth 8/10

8-



The Drakkar turned some heads last year when, expected to be a cellar dweller they turned heads after an up and down season when they swept #4 seed and contender Victoriaville. The Drakkar come back this year one step further in their rebuilding process looking for youth to step up and bring some results. The Drakkar will rely on depth since their foremost offensive player is Raphael Bussieres, but have enough scoring depth to fare well in what looks like the QMJHLs weakest division. They have a good defence core headed by Samuel Carrier and a excellent young goalie in Phillipe Cadorette.

Offence 7/10
Defence 7/10
Goaltending 7/10
Depth 8/10

9-



The Foreurs head into this season in somewhat of an awkward stage. Their move to acquire premier Euro Anton Zlobin would tell you they are trying to compete, but looking at the Foreurs roster I don't see the talent that justifies trading futures for him. To be sure, the Foureurs will be better this year than last. The Foreurs forwards boast some decent scoring depth, but will not necessarily be expected to fill the nets. The defence corps is the true strength on this team, headlined by standout Russian Atrem Sergeev, and followed by solid defencemen Julien Leduc, Matt Murphy and Gabriel Beaupre. They will be the backbone of this team moving forward, and will hopefully help out Francois Tremblay fill out his potential as an elite QMJHL goaltender.

Offence 7/10
Defence 8/10
Goalie 7/10
Depth 7/10

10-



The Screaming Eagles head into this year amidst a rebuilding stage. They will be icing a lot of youth, but the Screaming boast some very solid two-way talents such as Bronson Beaton, William Carrier, Clark Bishop and Jutin Hache. The identity of this team will likely be defence based on the fact they lack offensive flair on the forward front. The defence core is strong for the Screaming Eagles, with a top 4 of Justin Hache, Loic Leduc, Stephen Woodworth and Jimmy Oligny headlining their top 4. The goaltending situation in Sydney has certainly improved this year, after the acquisition of David Hoznik from Victoriaville.

Offence 6/10
Defence 8/10
Goaltending 9/10
Depth 7/10

11-



The Sags had a solid playoff run last year, and traded away some important future pieces to do so, that being said, the youth is Chicoutimi is still in great shape. Charles Hudon, Guillaume Asselin, Lukas Sedlak and Jeremy Gregoire all return to a forward group that lost some talent this off-season. The Sags defence remains in good shape and is ready to be led by Matieu Gagnon, and must stand on their head to protect Phillipe Desrosiers, who as a 17 year old rookie will be expected to start.

Offence 7/10
Defence 7/10
Goaltending 6/10
Depth 7/10

12-



The Huskies are an intriuing young team with some interesting pieces up front. Denis Kamaev, Gabriel Desjardins and Sven Andrighetto headline a thin forward group. Dillon Fournier and Mathieu Brisebois headline the Huskies defence which should be above average if Justin Vanier-Guenette and Alexandre Leclerc break out as expected. Goalies Robin Gusse and Alexandre Bélanger were shaky last year with a weak squad in front of them, but Belanger in particular is expected to be better going into his draft year.

Offence 7/10
Defence 7/10
Goaltending 6/10
Depth 6/10

13-



The newly founded Sherbrooke Phoenix have added flexibility as an expansion franchise, with 5 overager spots. With this flexibility, the Phoenix went out and built themselves a deep, two-way team. Headlining the team will be overagers Maximillien Le Sieur and Jacob Gervais-Chouinard. These two players will be their clear cut best players at the forward and goaltender position. The big question mark in Sherbrooke lies in their inexperienced young defence and whether they can keep the team competing in games.

Offence 7/10
Defence 5/10
Goaltending 8/10
Depth 7/10

14-



The Tigres had an extremely disappointing playoffs list year after a strong season, many picked them to make it to at least the QMJHL semis, and were swept first round by the #13 seed. That was the Tigres contending year and it was a missed opportunity. This year the Tigres have very little scoring or depth left from last season, dealing away Yanick Dubé, last years leading Q scorer along with standouts Brandon Hynes and Stefan Fournier. What is left is a few strong players in Philip Danult, Philippe Halley and Phillipe Maillet along with defencemen Troy Vance and Petr Sidlik and goalie Brandon Whitney. Outside these players there are very few bright spots on this roster.

Offence 7/10
Defence 6/10
Goaltending 7/10
Depth 5/10

15-



The Rocket go into this season with things looking better in their rebuild. The forward group is looking stronger and again is led by Ben Duffy, who against the grain of speculation was not dealt this off-season. The defence also looks better with veterans Owen Werthner, Alex Micallef and Tomas Pavelka and young defencemen Ryan Graves and Mark Trickett a year more ready to compete. Maxime Lagacé should be solid in nets for with a better team in front of him this year.

16-



The Sea Dogs had an excellent run the last 3 years, placing 1st in each of the last three seasons. Their core lied in Stanislav Galiev, Tomas Jurco, Jonathan Huberdeau, Zach Phillips and Nathan Bealieu. This core all graduated or is going pro this year, leaving the Sea Dogs in rough shape heading into next year. Some notable holdovers are Ryan Tesink, Steven MacAulay, Kevin Gagné and Oliver Cooper. The Sea Dogs first line of Cooper-MacAulay-Tesink is a 2nd line for most teams, and their top 2 defencemen Kevin Gagné and Pierre Durepos fit the same bill. In nets they are fine shape with Sebastian Auger, backed up by American standout Drew Michals.

Offence - 6/10
Defence 6/10
Goaltending 7/10
Depth 5/10

17-



The Voltigeurs had a good year in 2011-2012, finishing 3rd in their division. Though they haven't sustained heavy losses this off-season, they have the weakest roster on paper in the QMJHL. The standouts on Drumondville are the Brouillard brothers, Marc-Antoine and Niklas and former #1 QMJHL entry draft pick Olivier Archambault. Guillaume Gauthier and Phillipe Venne have potential to break out this year as well, as they will get heavy minutes on such a thin forward corps. The defence will be thin as well, headlined by Nikolas Brouillard and overager Napessis André. Domenic Graham and Alexandre Verroneau will stabilize this team in net, which could be a tall task with the Voltigeurs division getting much tougher this off-season.

Offence 5/10
Defence 6/10
Goaltending 7/10
Depth 6/10

18-



It's not often you see a team who won a Memorial cup 2 months ago projected to be last in the league. However, when you ice a team with so many '92 borns, you must expect a difficult season ahead. Peter Sakaris, Dillon Donnelly and Loik Poudrier are the Cataractes only above average players, the rest of their roster will consist of draft picks and two-way energy forwards. Shawinigan and Saint John remain decisive proof of how quick a contender can turn into a cellar dweller in junior hockey.

Offence 5/10
Defence 6/10
Goaltending 6/10
Depth 5/10