DRAFT PROSPECTS HOCKEY

Tag: Prospect Report

  • Michael’s Monthly: September

    Michael’s Monthly: September

    Welcome to Michael’s Monthly—a monthly report that goes over all the prospects and games I’ll cover in a given month.

    Sudbury at Kingston (Pre-Season)

    First game of the year was a neutral site pre-season game in Newmarket, ON. Here are the players I felt had an impact.

    Genc Ula, D (Sudbury Wolves):

    Ula had a rough start to his game, taking two bad penalties in the 2nd period and instigating Pobezal for the duration of the game. Fortunately, his antics eventually resulted in a power play for Sudbury. The power play ended with a shorthanded goal before Ula scored a rocket from the point, finishing the game with 1 goal and 1 assist. He is a violent defender with a strong slap shot and a temper that often lands him in the penalty box. His play style reminds me of Radko Gudas.

    Kingston Harris, C (Sudbury Wolves):

    Before this game my knowledge of Harris was limited, but his skill tonight really put him on my radar. He is a fast skater and hits everything that moves. From the moment the puck dropped Harris was dialed in. He ended up scoring Sudbury’s first goal on the power play. He even had a bit of penalty-kill time, which was Sudbury’s bread and butter as they killed off all five of Kingston’s power plays. He currently reminds me of Seth Jarvis, but only time will tell if he has similar potential.

    Aleks Kulemin, C (Kingston Frontenacs):

    Despite not getting on the score sheet much at the Hlinka-Gretzky Cup, Kulemin impressed me with his 200-foot game. After getting to watch him in person, he has some good offensive skills, scoring on a breakaway quickly into the game. He reminds me a lot of his father, Nikolai Kulemin, who I grew up watching.

    Matthew Henderson, D (Kingston Frontenacs):

    Henderson got to work right, away putting up 2 assists on Kingston’s first two goals of the game. His speed, good breakout passes, and ability to step up to stop the rush are all factors that contributed to why he was my player of the game. It is clear why Frontenacs fans are excited to see him play this year.

    Windsor at London (Home Opener)

    Attending London’s home opener was incredible. Especially knowing that it is one of the OHL’s most historic franchises. The home opener was a mad house. There was not a single empty seat and the fans were as loud as ever. This game was a slow boil, but by the end of the third, the tea pot was screaming. London had a failed challenge on Windsor’s controversial and late tying goal, resulting in Windsor receiving almost a full power play for overtime. In the end the Knights found a way to make everyone go home happy after a wonderful night of hockey. Let’s go over the standouts.

    Cooper McAslan, D (London Knights):

    McAslan had a bumpy start to the game and looked nervous in the 1st period. As the time passed you could see his confidence grow with every shift. A big block on the penalty kill, a good pivot out of danger, and a great stick lift to stop a high danger shot. In the 3rd his offense came to life. A good rush up the ice, and a shot on goal. He made some mistakes reaching for pucks off the rush, but he improved thus far. In overtime he made a huge block that could have gone in and scored the game winner off a tip from Barch. If he can learn to settle his nerves and be more patient he could be a 1st round talent in this year’s NHL Draft. So far he reminds me of Brian Campbell.

    Kane Barch, F (London Knights):

    Barch immediately caught my eye with his defensive reads and offensive skill set. He was already where he needed to be both offensively and defensively. Always succeeding at the little things; Slot passes, puck battle wins, holding the puck when no lane was available, hitting his teammate full speed with a crisp pass. He was on his game, and was rewarded with assisting on the OT winner. Number 10 in London has caught my eye, and I’m sure others will begin to watch him very closely.

    Ty Bergeron, C (Windsor Spitfires):

    Despite being held off the score sheet, Bergeron had a nice game. He made several good offensive plays including driving the net, good forecheck, and a nice reverse hit to keep the cycle going. I was impressed by him at Hlinka and I believe he will adapt to the OHL very quickly. However, for right now I have him sitting in the late 2nd round.

    Luca Santala, C (Kitchener Rangers):

    I’m glad I was able to see Luca live in London before he was traded. He had a solid game making good moves to enter the zone, and good passes to teammates. Everything except a point. I’m not too worried as he’s already on the score sheet with Kitchener. His play reminds me of James Neal.

    Sarnia at Peterborough (Novotný’s Return)

    Man did the Petes come to play in this one. Led by their returning superstar, Adam Novotný, who put up 2 goals and 2 assists for 4 points. Although Sarnia scored first, the Petes quickly took over the game. Sarnia only scored again during the power play.

    Matthew Perreault, D (Peterborough Petes):

    Even though he did not end up on the score sheet, he impressed me with a +3 and 5 shots on goal. He quarterbacked the power play well and was a key part in getting the puck out of the defensive zone and into the offensive zone. A late birthday for this year’s draft, Perreault still has lots of room to grow, but I’m excited to see him develop. Overall, I really enjoyed his performance.

    Easton Walos, F (Sarnia Sting):

    Easton was one of the four Sarnia players that I had my eye on, and he did not disappoint. He continued his hot start to the season by getting two power play goals. However, he will need to show off more than just his powerful shot if he wants to climb the draft ladder.

    Adrian Sgro, D (Sarnia Sting):

    Sgro isn’t eligible for this year’s draft but it is no surprise why he was taken #4 at the OHL draft this summer. He moves well, has an active stick and doesn’t shy away from being physical. He made two terrible mistakes, but he was still impressive. Adrian Sgro might be a name to remember when the U18s come later around later in the season.

    Brantford at Oshawa (Battle for the East)

    The top two teams in the East Division competed on Sunday. Unsurprisingly, it was an excellent game of hockey. Oshawa has had a hot start going 3-1, and Brantford one of few remaining undefeated teams (4-0). The game however, really opened up in the 2nd period and Brantford scored 4 straight goals. Oshawa tried to fight back but couldn’t make up for it, losing 5-3.

    Kaden McGregor, C (Brantford Bulldogs) :

    The former OHL 1st overall pick has shined so far with Brantford this season. Back to back goals in this game, one on the power play and one 5-on-5. Playing 2nd line with Němec gives him a speedy option on his wing, helping him get off to a hot start with 6 points in 5 games. I would like him to support the defense a bit more but there is no denying his skill and IQ. A late 1st or early 2nd rounder for me personally at the moment. You can read more about him in Stuart’s weekly three stars article here.

    Adam Němec, LW (Brantford Bulldogs):

    Němec really caught my eye at Hlinka. His speed and shot are a deadly combo. He has struggled to score in the OHL but with 4 assists in 5 games he is still putting up points. Once he gets one I am sure the goals will start flooding in, but for now he is still doing his part both 5-on-5 and on the power play. He will need to do more to cement himself as a projected 1st rounder.

    David Buchman, D (Brantford Bulldogs):

    Buchman had a very solid game, I can see why he is playing first pair minutes for Brantford. He has good speed, good hockey IQ and strong playmaking abilities. While he only had 1 assists on the power play, he leads all Draft Eligible defenseman in the OHL with 6 points in 5 games. He also did a good job taking the puck away and tying up players in front. Just like McGregor, a late 1st or early 2nd rounder for me right now.

    Tyler Hinde, LW (Oshawa Generals):

    Due to Hinde receiving a fighting major and an instigating misconduct, he was out for majority of the game. I may not have seen much of him but sticking up for your teammate is a great first impression. Excited to see more of him this year.

    Sam Roberts, D (Oshawa Generals):

    The youngest Roberts brother did not disappoint. He shot out of a cannon right out the gate with a nice shot and a good hit. He did take a delay of game penalty which resulted in the games first goal, however, he got an assist after some hard work in the offensive zone later on in the 2nd period. If Sam can find the scoresheet more he might be hearing his name come draft day in June.

    Outside the OHL

    Players outside the OHL that have caught my eye this month.

    Max Calce, C (Alder Mannheim, DEL):

    Calce is by far the largest jump in my rankings. He’s had an incredibly hot start. With good skating, IQ and tenacity, Calce doesn’t quit when he steps on the ice. He steals pucks on the forecheck and creates scoring chances out of thin air. His early highlight pack speaks for itself as does his production. He has entered my top 10 but will need to be consistent to get in the top 5 by June.

    Sergei Skvortsov, LW (Torpedo Nizhny Novgorod, KHL):

    Skvortsov has been the talk of the town thanks to his elite skating. Many others have him in the top 3 of their rankings. It’s hard to disagree after watching him in the KHL. There is some concern with his defensive play but with limited viewings, it’s hard to say exactly where he is this early in the season. That being said, he reminds me of a young Leon Draisaitl.

    Paul Sintschnig, F (Halifax Mooseheads, QMJHL):

    Sintschnig has had my eye for a while now, going all the way back to last year. I’m glad to report he has adjusted to the QMJHL very well. He continues to develop his game of getting the puck and passing it to teammates in the slot or just driving the net with it himself.

    Michal Hartl, LW (HC Kometa Brno, Czechia):

    I really like Hartl at Hlinka and I’m pleased to say he has been doing well to start the year. He forechecks well and wins puck battles with his use of an active stick. He is a good skater and competes well. I would like for him to hit more on the forecheck but a good start none the less.

    Andrei Pustovoy, RW (Lokomotiv Yaroslavl, KHL):

    Pustovoy has been making quite the noise in the KHL thanks to his high IQ and compete level, he’s making quite the noise in the KHL. Despite being pointless in 9 games, he is doing all the little things very well. If he can find a way to start scoring, he might be an underrated candidate for the top 10. He reminds of Andrew Ladd.

  • 2027 NHL Draft Prospect Report – Prabh Bhathal (C)

    Prabh Bhathal

    #14 Brandon Wheat Kings. Left shot centre. 6.02 / 214

    DOB: May 14, 2009

    Prabh Bhathal is an offensive forward with a pro-sized frame who is most effective around the net and in high-traffic areas. He contributes in all situations, seeing regular time on both the power play and penalty kill. Bhathal uses his size well, establishing strong net-front positioning and taking away sightlines for goaltenders. He consistently creates offense by battling in tight and capitalizing on loose pucks around the crease, showing a willingness to play in difficult areas of the ice.

    His faceoff ability is another strength, as he has proven to be a dependable option in the circle and can help his team start with possession in key situations. Combined with his special-teams usage and physical presence, he brings versatility and value to a lineup.

    At this stage of the season, I view Bhathal as an early second-round prospect. His size, net-front effectiveness, and ability to contribute in all situations project well to the next level. Long term, he projects as a 3/4 NHL centre, and provide value on both special-teams units.

  • 2027 NHL Draft Prospect Report – Jaxon Jacobson (C)

    Jaxon Jacobson

    #9 Brandon Wheat Kings. Left shot centre. 5.11 / 190

    DOB: December 11, 2008 

    Jaxon Jacobson is an offensive forward who contributes in all situations, seeing time on both the power play and penalty kill. He displays good puck-handling ability and uses strong body positioning to protect possession and prevent opponents from separating him from the puck. His growth in the faceoff circle has been noticeable, as he has developed into a more reliable option on draws.

    On this viewing, Jacobson appeared somewhat flat compared to expectations. His backchecking effort was inconsistent, and he will need to keep his feet moving more consistently to improve his pace and overall effectiveness. Increased quickness and urgency away from the puck would help elevate his impact at both ends of the ice.

    Despite an underwhelming performance on this particular night, Jacobson remains a prospect with offensive upside and versatility. Based on this viewing and his body of work to date, I currently rank him 16th among eligible prospects. His long-term NHL projection is as a dependable 3/4 centre role while contributing on special teams.

  • 2027 NHL Draft Prospect Report – Kayden Stroeder (C)

    Kayden Stroeder

    #10 Edmonton Oil Kings, Left shot centre. 6.00 / 165

    DOB: March 1, 2009

    Kayden Stroeder is a reliable two-way centre who impacts the game in all three zones. He plays with a high compete level and consistently works hard every shift. Stroeder is strong on his skates, allowing him to maintain possession through contact and win battles along the boards. He skates well with quick feet and above-average speed, enabling him to pressure opponents, close on pucks, and support the attack. He is trusted in all situations, contributing on both the power play and penalty kill, where he does an effective job of plugging passing and shooting lanes. His awareness and work ethic make him a dependable presence in defensive situations while still providing offensive upside. 

    To take the next step, improving his faceoff effectiveness will be important, particularly if he projects as a full-time NHL centre. Overall, Stroeder projects as a late first-round selection, currently around the 25th overall range. Depending on his development and organizational fit, he has the potential to become a first- or second-line NHL centre who can be utilized in all situations.

  • 2027 NHL Draft Prospect Report – Max Calce (C)

    Max Calce #9
    C – June 11, 2009 – Mannheim, Germany – 5’11” / 181lbs – Left Handed – Adler Mannheim (DEL)


    Max Calce is an extremely well-rounded two-way center whose maturity, Hockey IQ and overall reliability provide him with an exceptionally high floor. At just 17 years old, he has already shown that he can hold his own as a regular player in the DEL, including against established professional competition. Calce skates well, protects the puck effectively and consistently makes intelligent decisions with possession. His passing is arguably his standout offensive attribute, with the vision and awareness to identify difficult lanes and create scoring opportunities for teammates. He also demonstrates strong offensive instincts away from the puck, recognizing developing plays and finding advantageous positions around the net. Defensively, Calce is responsible and positionally sound, with a good stick and the physical maturity to compete against grown men despite his age.

    The challenge with projecting Calce is that his game currently lacks an obvious elite trait that would suggest significant star-level upside. His skating, IQ, passing and defensive play are all strong, but none consistently separates him from other high-level prospects, while his faceoff performance remains an area for improvement. He was relatively quiet against Munich, although the quality of the opposition and their ability to limit top players provides important context. Conversely, his goal against Nuremberg showed that he possesses the speed, puck handling and intelligence to identify and exploit mistakes from experienced professional defenders. Calce’s combination of two-way intelligence, passing ability, skating and physical maturity gives him a very high floor, particularly given his ability to already function in the DEL at 17. His ultimate ceiling is less certain, however, as he will need one or more of his existing tools to develop into a genuine high-end strength if he is going to progress beyond a complementary NHL role.

  • 2027 NHL Draft Prospect Report – Douglas Johnsson (RD)

    Douglas Johnsson #7
    D – July 1 2009 – Lulea, Sweden – 5’10” / 170lbs – Right Handed – Skelleftea AIK U20 (U20 Nationell)


    Douglas Johnsson is a highly mobile offensive defenseman whose skating, puck movement and offensive instincts give him legitimate upside at higher levels. His skating is his standout physical tool, with strong speed and change-of-direction ability allowing him to escape pressure, join the rush and create space for himself offensively. He has shown the ability to make crisp breakout passes and contribute on the power play, while his shooting and ability to manipulate defenders with changes of direction and feints provide another offensive dimension. Johnsson also displays solid Hockey IQ in offensive situations and has shown flashes of competitiveness around his own net, including the willingness and strength to battle larger opponents. His ability to cut off shooting lanes has also emerged as a positive defensive trait.

    The major concern with Johnsson is his defensive game, particularly his ability to defend the rush and consistently handle pressure in his own zone. Across multiple viewings, he was caught flat-footed or beaten cleanly off the rush, while questionable puck decisions and failed breakouts occasionally created dangerous chances against. His smaller frame also makes it easier for opponents to move him around in his own end, and he does not yet consistently drive defensive play at the level expected of a top-pairing defenseman. The offensive upside is clear, but the defensive deficiencies create a significant limitation on his projection. Overall, Johnsson projects as a mobile, offensive-minded defenseman whose skating and puck-moving ability could translate to an NHL role, but his path to that level will depend heavily on improving his rush defense, defensive positioning and ability to execute reliable exits under pressure.

  • 2027 NHL Draft Prospect Report – Petr Tomek (C/RW)

    C/RW – October 23, 2008 – Trebic, Czechia – 5’10”/ 165lbs – Left Handed – HC Energie Karlovy Vary (Czech Extraliga)

    Petr Tomek is an undersized but highly dynamic forward whose skating, Hockey IQ and passing ability give him a legitimate high-end offensive foundation. His elite speed, edge work and stop-start ability allow him to generate separation and attack defenders with pace, while his quick release and strong shooting mechanics make him a dangerous scoring option off both his forehand and one-timer. Despite his 5’10”, 165-pound frame, Tomek consistently competes in the dirty areas, protects the puck extremely well and is willing to battle against significantly larger opponents. His strongest attribute is his Hockey IQ, as he consistently identifies passing lanes, anticipates developing plays and makes decisions that benefit his teammates. He also displays impressive leadership and communication, directing older teammates at Karlovy Vary in a manner that reflects the maturity he showed as captain of Czechia’s U18 team. His active stick and willingness to compete defensively further suggest he can contribute away from the puck.

    Tomek’s primary concern is his physical profile, as his 165-pound frame creates questions about how effectively his game will translate against the size and physicality of the NHL. While he possesses good upper-body strength and is difficult to knock off the puck, he is not naturally a physical or aggressive player and relies more on skill, intelligence and speed than imposing himself physically. His ability to consistently withstand NHL-level contact will therefore be an important developmental factor. At the same time, his performances against both Slovakia and the United States at the U18 World Juniors, followed by strong showings against Czech Extraliga competition, indicate that his tools can remain effective as the level of competition increases. Overall, Tomek’s combination of elite skating, rapid release, playmaking ability, Hockey IQ and leadership gives him legitimate NHL upside. If he can add significant strength and mass without sacrificing his skating, he projects as a top-six offensive winger at the NHL level.

  • 2027 NHL Draft Prospect Report – Tomas Selic (RW)

    Tomas Selic #24
    RW – May 8 2009 – Bratislava, Slovakia – 6’3” / 197lbs – Left Handed- HC Kometa Brno (Czech Extraliga)

    Tomas Selic is a large, intelligent offensive winger who uses his 6’3” frame effectively and possesses strong offensive instincts. His Hockey IQ is the most notable aspect of his game, consistently finding gaps in defensive coverage, fading into open space and making quick decisions with the puck. He has shown good vision and passing ability, particularly on the power play, and has a strong understanding of where to position himself to create scoring opportunities. Selic also has a good shot and can contribute around the net, while his willingness to use his body has been evident in several viewings. His change of direction was particularly impressive against Switzerland, where he demonstrated the ability to turn quickly and make plays despite some concerns with his overall skating. He has also shown value on both the power play and penalty kill.

    The primary concerns with Selic are his skating, defensive consistency and physical engagement. His stride can become choppy and lacks the power and efficiency expected from a player of his size, while his skating appeared particularly problematic when he stepped into the Czech Extraliga against professional competition. Defensively, he can lose positioning or fail to remain engaged in his own end, and his overall defensive awareness needs significant improvement at 5v5. His shot is effective but relies heavily on his lower body and is less developed when he needs to release quickly off his back foot. Selic’s performance was noticeably stronger against players closer to his age, where his Hockey IQ and offensive tools allowed him to influence the game consistently, while the professional game exposed a substantial gap in pace and confidence. Overall, his offensive intelligence, size, passing and ability to find space give him NHL upside, with a potential bottom-six power-forward projection if he can improve his skating and become a more reliable defensive player.

  • 2027 NHL Draft Spotlight of the Week: Dima Zhilkin 

    Saginaw Spirit forward and 2027 NHL Draft-eligible Dima Zhilkin had high expectations coming into the 2026-27 season after recording 36 goals and 75 points in 59 games during his D-1 season in the OHL. That stat line tied him for second in points by a D-1 player over the past decade with former Saginaw Spirit Michael Misa.

    Zhilkin did nothing to temper those expectations during the opening weekend of the OHL season, recording three goals, two assists and five points in two games.

    Friday, Sept. 18 at Soo Greyhounds

    Zhilkin’s first goal of the night came on the power play off a pass from fellow highly touted 2027 NHL Draft-eligible prospect Levi Harper. After receiving the puck near the faceoff dot, Zhilkin walked in and fired a wrist shot far side, beating the goaltender.

    His second came after new teammate Braidy Wassilyn, who came over from the London Knights, drove hard to the net and sent a pass Zhilkin’s way. Despite having a defender hanging off his back, Zhilkin was able to redirect the puck into the net to tie the game late in the third period.

    Saturday, Sept. 19 vs. Flint Firebirds

    Early in the first period, Zhilkin drew a penalty, giving Saginaw a two-man advantage. On the ensuing power play, Zhilkin unleashed a powerful one-timer from the high slot that gave the opposing goaltender all kinds of trouble, allowing Maple Leafs prospect Brody Pepoy to score on the rebound and tie the game 1-1.

    Later in the first period, Zhilkin took advantage of an errant Flint pass that gave him a one-on-one opportunity from the top of the circle. He quickly settled the puck and ripped a shot five-hole before the defender could close the gap, giving Saginaw the lead.

    Zhilkin’s second assist and third point of the night came on the power play. This time, instead of firing another one-timer after receiving a pass in the slot, he recognized that the Flint defenders were anticipating the shot and sent a perfect one-touch pass to Braidy Wassilyn for the goal.

    While Zhilkin’s five-point opening weekend was impressive, it was not perfect. Saginaw lost both games, with Zhilkin on the ice for a number of goals against, including the overtime winner in the opening game against Soo. That is something to watch as the season progresses, particularly as he takes on a larger role with the Spirit.

    Zhilkin also recorded 19 shot attempts through two games, which looks impressive on the surface, but the quality of those attempts was inconsistent. At even strength in particular, he often settled for shots from low-danger areas rather than working his way into more threatening positions. On the power play, however, Zhilkin was able to set up on the left wall or rotate up high with the defenceman to find open space, putting himself in position to unleash his dangerous one-timer and generate higher-quality scoring chances.

    Overall, this was a great way for Zhilkin to start the season. He should put up some impressive offensive numbers this year and, if he continues producing at this level, hear his name called very early in the 2027 NHL Draft.

  • 2027 NHL Draft Prospect Report – Brock England (C)

    #16 Seattle Thunderbirds, left-shot centre. 5.10 / 160

    DOB: August 22, 2009

    England is an offensive-minded centre with the skill set and hockey sense to project as a future first-line NHL forward. He combines good speed and agility with strong offensive instincts, consistently finding open ice and getting pucks to the net quickly. A natural shooter, he creates scoring chances with his release while also displaying good playmaking ability, making him a threat as both a scorer and facilitator.

    He contributes effectively on the power play and shows a willingness to compete in all three zones. Defensively, England does a good job disrupting passing and shooting lanes, recovering pucks, and making efficient exits from the defensive zone. He adds value through his physical play, willingness to block shots, and ability to win key faceoffs, helping his team gain possession in important situations.

    England’s combination of offensive upside, two-way awareness, and competitive nature makes him a highly intriguing prospect. He impacts the game in a variety of ways and has shown the traits NHL organizations look for in a top-line centre. At this stage, he projects as a potential top-10 selection in the 2027 NHL Draft, with legitimate first-line NHL centre upside.