Canucks Draft 2008 Thread - 10th Overall

Well he's big. I mean, people want to draft Tyler Myers because he's big.

In all seriousness though, the Columbus Blue Jackets have seriously been mismanaged. I'm not even too sure about last years draft pick Jakub Voracek (although I will admit that I don't know a whole lot about him). IIRC there have been reports that he's slightly overweight and a little bit lazy. Maybe someone could confirm this?


Most reports are that Voracek has actually really done well this past year and is rated one of the top players not in the NHL.

Most reports are that Voracek has actually really done well this past year and is rated one of the top players not in the NHL.

Voracek is a 9.0B prospect, rated the same as Turris. That was a sick pick.

who cares what ****ing rating he has. He is not comparable to Turris in the slightest.

Voracek is a solid prospect, probably has 70 point upside and will be a good second line winger. Don't see the star upside.

who cares what ****ing rating he has. He is not comparable to Turris in the slightest.

Voracek is a solid prospect, probably has 70 point upside and will be a good second line winger. Don't see the star upside.

woah...where did that come from?

90% of HF's ratings are dated.

As for Voracek, I think he came to the combine out of shape and a bit soft, but was off the charts (good) with his oxygen intake. I've seen him play a bunch and just don't see the explosiveness that other top prospects have.

He is a powerful skater and plays the game well, but him being ranked the same as Turris (arguably the best prospect in hockey) is stoopid.

90% of HF's ratings are dated.

As for Voracek, I think he came to the combine out of shape and a bit soft, but was off the charts (good) with his oxygen intake. I've seen him play a bunch and just don't see the explosiveness that other top prospects have.

He is a powerful skater and plays the game well, but him being ranked the same as Turris (arguably the best prospect in hockey) is stoopid.

Ahhh...just wanted to know what your thoughts were. don't see outburst like that from you too often. :D

yea, in retrospect I didn't mean to come off like that in response to SK's post.

oopsies.

who cares what ****ing rating he has. He is not comparable to Turris in the slightest.

Voracek is a solid prospect, probably has 70 point upside and will be a good second line winger. Don't see the star upside.

http://scienceblogs.com/ethicsandscience/upload/2006/09/sad_puppy.jpg

I found the best website with in-depth scouting reports on every player

http://www.nhlentrydraft2008.com/

http://scienceblogs.com/ethicsandscience/upload/2006/09/sad_puppy.jpg

I love that pic. Poor puppy

Hf ratings are not accurate at all for an incredible amount of reasons.

4.Myers

Strengths: "His height differentiates him from the rest of the draft-eligible defensemen - he towers above all the other players. He is not often burned by the small, quick players and because of the emphasis in today’s NHL on a lack of restraining type of play, I think Tyler has adjusted well to that and is more ready to play in the new NHL than a lot of the other smaller players."


Areas to improve: "Improvements can be made with his continued maturity. I don’t know that he needs to work on anything other than continuing to work on foot speed, continuing to work on coordination. He’s got a rocket shot from the point on the power-play and that is never going to leave him."

Outlook: "Tyler is the tallest player among the top-rated players. As a defenseman, that height translates into a great poke-check and great stick work. At 6’7", he still has a little bit of growing into his body to do. Obviously comparisons are made to Zdeno Chara, who, it has been said, actually as a junior stumbled when he played for St. George. There may be a night when the large feet of Myers get in his way a little bit, but to hear scouts talk, they won’t get in his way for very many more years."

7.Beach

Strengths: "Kyle Beach is one of the top forwards in this year’s draft and is probably the most competitive – from the blue line in there is no one that competes like him. He’s feisty, he’s got a reputation for being physical and agitating a little bit, but he definitely ranks in there as a power forward and is the power forward in this year’s draft. He has good scoring skills and a very accurate shot, and from the blue line in, once he gets the puck, he almost owns it."


Areas to improve: "The team he is playing on is very defensive minded and he has to learn to skate and read transition a little better in his position and needs to learn to focus a little better on the ice to make it to the next level."

8.Boychuck

Strengths: "Zach is a skilled, see the ice type forward. He quarterbacks the power-play and might be the best two-step quickness guy in all of junior hockey. In two steps he is at top speed and he can hit the brakes and delay the play with the best of them as well. Zach is an all-around offensive player who sees the ice well and just a treat to watch."

Outlook: "The question is whether or not his average size is enough to get him through the rough periods and the checking. There are other players in the NHL who have beaten that rap, Patrick Kane and Sam Gagner are two great examples this year, there is no reason why he shouldn’t be a top offensive guy in the NHL."

9.Hodgson

Strengths: "Cody is a treat to watch. He is a very skilled centerman who’s hockey sense has him quarterbacking the power-play from down at the half boards. He knows when to shoot and when to pass – his point total reflects that. He’s also a good face-off guy; he can take face-offs with the best of them and win them at the OHL level. Quite an all-around asset to any team that draft’s him."

Areas to improve: "With a little bit of continued maturity he will add a bit of size and strength to his frame and he won’t lose any of that hockey acumen or any of that ability to see the ice."

Outlook: "In the NHL he is going to be a skilled centerman and he’s going to be on one of your top two lines. If you’re a really good team you are fortunate to have him as your second centerman because he is capable of being your first centerman."



10.Wilson

Colin is a combination of a skilled and power forward. He is very strong, has excellent hands and finds open ice to get the pucks through. He is tough and strong on the puck and has very good hockey sense. When he gets the puck he responds instantly and knows where to put the puck once he gets it. He is very reliable defensively. His style is similar to his father’s in that he isn’t necessarily a fluid skater but he has incredibly quick feet and he can go from point A to point B in an instant."


11.Boedker

Strengths: Mikkel, although he is 5’11”, plays low to the ice and as a result is a real solid player. This Team Denmark product is currently a versatile player for the Kitchener Rangers and I think that is what he is going to be for his NHL team. Right now, he quarterbacks the power-play as a forward from the point for the Rangers and does an effective job.

Areas to improve: I think he has adjusted well to the North American game and needs to continue to drive to the net and use his shot at effective times. There are times when he passes the puck when he should shoot and shoots when he should pass, but that’s the type of second-guessing that comes from me being a scout.

Source: http://www.nhlentrydraft2008.com/

From the first round only Teubert, Zach Dalpe and Cuma listed Vancouver Canucks as their favourite team

All the top 3 goalie prospects list Luongo as their favourite player

10.Wilson

Colin is a combination of a skilled and power forward. He is very strong, has excellent hands and finds open ice to get the pucks through. He is tough and strong on the puck and has very good hockey sense. When he gets the puck he responds instantly and knows where to put the puck once he gets it. He is very reliable defensively. His style is similar to his father’s in that he isn’t necessarily a fluid skater but he has incredibly quick feet and he can go from point A to point B in an instant."


Wilson has no weaknesses? ;)

If Boychuck can be the next Sam Ganger/Patrick Kane.. HELL!! move up the draft and get him Gillis!!!

Fogducker...where did you get that information? I'd like to read up on some of the other players too if you could provide a link. Great read.

I love the Kane/Gagner comparisons for Boychuk. I've seen this kid play and he does look as good as Gagner. I also love the endorsement they gave to Hodgson. I wouldn't complain if we got either of these two kids.

It seems to me like Wilson, Hodgson and Boychuk are the types of players (hockey sense) that Gillis would look to bring in. The draft should be interesting.

Fogducker...where did you get that information? I'd like to read up on some of the other players too if you could provide a link. Great read.

I love the Kane/Gagner comparisons for Boychuk. I've seen this kid play and he does look as good as Gagner. I also love the endorsement they gave to Hodgson. I wouldn't complain if we got either of these two kids.

It seems to me like Wilson, Hodgson and Boychuk are the types of players (hockey sense) that Gillis would look to bring in. The draft should be interesting.

http://www.nhlentrydraft2008.com/

I found the link off the prospects board

It's the best website I've ever seen. I've never seen so much information on each player

^^
Nice find. Luke Schenn's favourite pump up song according to that site is don't stop the music by rihanna lol.

Zac Dalpe has some CRAZY acne. Poor kid :(

Myers is a dumb hockey player. As intriguing as his size/skating is, his defensive zone reads are not very good and he was -16 last year (on a winning team where every other defender was a + player) for a reason. Chases the puck around like a chicken with its head cut off on a lot of shifts. Could very easily be the next Mathieu Biron, who went very highly in the draft for many of the same reasons. Based on the comments of Gillis, I don't think he's the sort of player this organization wants heading forward. He would be right up Delorme's alley, however.

How about trade up to get luke and use our current defensive corp to get the offensive player we need.

Myers is a dumb hockey player. As intriguing as his size/skating is, his defensive zone reads are not very good and he was -16 last year (on a winning team where every other defender was a + player) for a reason. Chases the puck around like a chicken with its head cut off on a lot of shifts. Could very easily be the next Mathieu Biron, who went very highly in the draft for many of the same reasons. Based on the comments of Gillis, I don't think he's the sort of player this organization wants heading forward. He would be right up Delorme's alley, however.

Bang-on. I'm really worried we might select him.

Myers is a dumb hockey player. As intriguing as his size/skating is, his defensive zone reads are not very good and he was -16 last year (on a winning team where every other defender was a + player) for a reason. Chases the puck around like a chicken with its head cut off on a lot of shifts. Could very easily be the next Mathieu Biron, who went very highly in the draft for many of the same reasons. Based on the comments of Gillis, I don't think he's the sort of player this organization wants heading forward. He would be right up Delorme's alley, however.

Myers sounds like a taller version of Bourdon in that he has the physical package but you wonder about everything else. I wasn't impressed by what I saw at the U-18 WJC either. And besides I think some team will take him before the 10th spot anyways...

Myers sounds like a taller version of Bourdon in that he has the physical package but you wonder about everything else. I wasn't impressed by what I saw at the U-18 WJC either. And besides I think some team will take him before the 10th spot anyways...

I wouldn't be against picking him up if we trade Bourdon in the off-season, but I'm just praying one of Hodgeson, Wilson, or Boedker are still around at 10 and we take him.

Myers is a dumb hockey player. As intriguing as his size/skating is, his defensive zone reads are not very good and he was -16 last year (on a winning team where every other defender was a + player) for a reason. Chases the puck around like a chicken with its head cut off on a lot of shifts. Could very easily be the next Mathieu Biron, who went very highly in the draft for many of the same reasons. Based on the comments of Gillis, I don't think he's the sort of player this organization wants heading forward. He would be right up Delorme's alley, however.

If they take Myers over one of the high-end forwards available I would seek out Delorme myself and execute him.

http://www.nhlentrydraft2008.com/

I found the link off the prospects board

It's the best website I've ever seen. I've never seen so much information on each player

Nice thanks...this is a great site. Wow.

http://www.nhlentrydraft2008.com/featuredPlayersDetails.aspx?type=nas&playerID=1016

This is the guy. Favourite team: Vancouver Canucks. Everyone else is lame. Boedker likes the Wild lol.

http://www.nhlentrydraft2008.com/featuredPlayersDetails.aspx?type=nas&playerID=1016

This is the guy. Favourite team: Vancouver Canucks. Everyone else is lame. Boedker likes the Wild lol.

Thank you
I'm not the only one not looking at each players favourite team.

:D

Thank you
I'm not the only one not looking at each players favourite team.

:D

Check out who the favourite player of all North American Goalies is

Check out who the favourite player of all North American Goalies is

a real goalie knows damn well whois the best goalie in the world.

Not like these stupid devils or sharks fans here.

Haha @ Kyle Beach's page

Pump-up song: “Three Days Grace” by Pain

Way to mess that up. Not to mention that it's a terrible song. I don't like Kyle Beach anymore. I don't want some emo loser on the team.

edit: I'm liking Hodgson's and Wilson's profiles, but Wilson likes 8 Mile, and he listens to Maneater to pump himself up.

...And Wilson's favourite activity outside of the rink is "Hanging out with the boys", so he'll fit right in in Vancouver. :sarcasm:

Haha @ Kyle Beach's page

Pump-up song: “Three Days Grace” by Pain

Way to mess that up. Not to mention that it's a terrible song. I don't like Kyle Beach anymore. I don't want some emo loser on the team.

edit: I'm liking Hodgson's and Wilson's profiles, but Wilson likes 8 Mile, and he listens to Maneater to pump himself up.

...And Wilson's favourite activity outside of the rink is "Hanging out with the boys", so he'll fit right in in Vancouver. :sarcasm:

Well if you listen to the song Pain, but ignore the lyrics, the actual music is probably what pumps him up.

I'm just glad that no one said they listen to Raffi as pump up music.

Haha @ Kyle Beach's page

Pump-up song: “Three Days Grace” by Pain

Way to mess that up. Not to mention that it's a terrible song. I don't like Kyle Beach anymore. I don't want some emo loser on the team.

edit: I'm liking Hodgson's and Wilson's profiles, but Wilson likes 8 Mile, and he listens to Maneater to pump himself up.

...And Wilson's favourite activity outside of the rink is "Hanging out with the boys", so he'll fit right in in Vancouver. :sarcasm:

Theyre young hockey players. I didnt see a profile of any interesting person in that whole first round. What I did see was young hockey players who clearly dont have to focus on much else. I'm sure there are hockey players out there whos favourite musician is Tom Waits and favourite author is Kafka but I doubt they can solve our scoring woes. But that would be infinitely cool.

I bet Naslund likes Kafka.

I really want either Boychuk or Colborne

Theyre young hockey players. I didnt see a profile of any interesting person in that whole first round. What I did see was young hockey players who clearly dont have to focus on much else. I'm sure there are hockey players out there whos favourite musician is Tom Waits and favourite author is Kafka but I doubt they can solve our scoring woes. But that would be infinitely cool.

If a hockey player reads Kafka and is ranked in the top 60, take him. I bet he's a genius on ice. I think Hodgson's supposed to be the smartest player. Let's take him.

If a hockey player reads Kafka and is ranked in the top 60, take him. I bet he's a genius on ice. I think Hodgson's supposed to be the smartest player. Let's take him.

What if he turns into a giant cockroach?

Kitchener is playing on Sportsnet right now. I'll keep an eye out for Bodker.

Kitchener is playing on Sportsnet right now. I'll keep an eye out for Bodker.

Ouch, Boedker gets a knee on knee while in full flight.

Boedker looks like one hell of a talent. Fast, shifty and can really shoot the puck. Him playing with a guy like Grabner would be really fun.

Not short in the courage department, either. Coming back from that whack on the knee was impressive.

and had a goal too

http://www.nhlentrydraft2008.com/featuredPlayersDetails.aspx?type=nas&playerID=1016

This is the guy. Favourite team: Vancouver Canucks. Everyone else is lame. Boedker likes the Wild lol.

that is one decent player:D

Boedker looks like one hell of a talent. Fast, shifty and can really shoot the puck. Him playing with a guy like Grabner would be really fun.
maybe if we are to draft him, is it possible to sign his teamate Justin Azevedo to make his transition better? As a 20 years old, he scores 124 points in the regular season and 36 points in the post season.

BOEDKER Mikkel #89 RW L

Listed at 5'11 200lbs. I thought he actually looked taller but 200lbs might be pushing it (he's close though). Seemed very well balanced on his skates but not as strong/determined with the puck on (or off) his stick. Didn't notice him initiating contact very often but he did get into a pushing match in front of the net (didn't seem intimidated). Seemed skilled at avoiding big hits along the boards as he spun away just in time. When at high speed he usually skates his way through traffic but was caught by what looked like a Memorial Cup ending knee on knee.. toughed it out and returned a few shifts later.. the commentors speculated his off and on ice training to build up his frame (especially his legs) might have helped him avoid injury. Quick skater with fairly long strides, seems to be able to get up to top speed fairly quickly... his top speed caused Gatineau a fair amount of difficulty.. has the speed and effort required to recover defensively if he's caught up ice but he didn't strike me as a defensive specialist. Seemed to be able to use his soft hands at high speed as he weaved his way into the offensive zone. Slick puckhandler and accurate passer. Seemed especially skilled at getting off backhand passes. Hard shot with quick release, not as sure about his accuracy but on his goal he was able to put it top corner off a one timer snap shot from the slot(ish) area. Seemed to have a fairly hard slapshot. I didn't seem him passing up many chances to shoot which is something scouts have said is an issue.

Side notes: I thought Tedenby looked quicker and was easily a better all-round skater. Eberle seemed like he had a better shot and hands.

P.S. Did anyone else notice there was a player from Japan playing for Gatineau (Takuma Kawai)? He's an overager who normally plays left wing who was converted to defense because of injuries. Seemed suprisingly physical but he wasn't getting much icetime until there was an injury in the third period. His point shot led to one of the rallying goals (although somewhat indirectly).

maybe if we are to draft him, is it possible to sign his teamate Justin Azevedo to make his transition better? As a 20 years old, he scores 124 points in the regular season and 36 points in the post season.

I could be mistaken but I don't think he plays on a line with Azevedo. From what I saw he played with Nazem Kadri and someone else (but not Azevedo). Not that I'm against signing Azevedo...

Zach Boychuk

I really wouldn't mind if we drafted him. He could be ready to play in Vancouver in maybe 2 years.

He's a good forward that can also put up goals.

BOEDKER Mikkel #89 RW L

Listed at 5'11 200lbs. I thought he actually looked taller but 200lbs might be pushing it (he's close though).




I could be mistaken but I don't think he plays on a line with Azevedo. From what I saw he played with Nazem Kadri and someone else (but not Azevedo). Not that I'm against signing Azevedo...

Ya I watched some of the game too and to me Boedker looked bigger than he is listed as. He looks like a great skater with a very hard shot. I really hope the Canucks draft him. As for Azevedo, is he an undrafted free agent?

Zac Dalpe is sportin' some raw acne action.

1. Boedker - his release is unbelievable
2. Wilson - drury potential but bigger
3. Boychuck - Ganger/Kane potential
4. Colborne - Thornton type player
5. Beach - you have to at least consider him..

1. Boedker - his release is unbelievable
2. Wilson - drury potential but bigger
3. Boychuck - Ganger/Kane potential
4. Colborne - Thornton type player
5. Beach - you have to at least consider him..

Kyle Beach was compared to Ryan Getzlaf

is Justin Azevedo eligible for the draft this year?

Azevedo has been eligible for two years. Nobody likes him.

Boedker looks like one hell of a talent. Fast, shifty and can really shoot the puck. Him playing with a guy like Grabner would be really fun.

But he's European. :sarcasm:

Azevedo has been eligible for two years. Nobody likes him.

Snag him in the 7th round. Could prove to be a steal one day.

maybe its because his size. 5.08 is really really short, even i am taller than him.

maybe its because his size. 5.08 is really really short, even i am taller than him.

Great username.

Snag him in the 7th round. Could prove to be a steal one day.

Might be worth it, but the guy looks like another Corey Locke to me (made for me minors). He's really small and while skilled, isn't fast. Hard to picture him having similar success at the NHL level.

How about Corey Trivino in round 2, watched him at U-18's, he was magnificent

Might be worth it, but the guy looks like another Corey Locke to me (made for me minors). He's really small and while skilled, isn't fast. Hard to picture him having similar success at the NHL level.

True, but I mean, how many 7th rounders even make it to the AHL?

Would Kirill Petrov still be available in the second? He could be an intriguing selection.

Would Kirill Petrov still be available in the second? He could be an intriguing selection.

doubt he comes over, he brings alot to the table. But I just see him being a Kirill Koltsov type.

doubt he comes over, he brings alot to the table. But I just see him being a Kirill Koltsov type.

Why, because they share the same first name? Petrov has shown more character this year than Koltsov has shown his entire pro career.

Why, because they share the same first name? Petrov has shown more character this year than Koltsov has shown his entire pro career.

not in peticular, but I don't think he'll ever come over. He has great offensive talent though and would be a steal if he ever came over.

With Ron Payne scouting the OHL, what do you think the chances are that we go after someone like Jared Staal? I like the kids potential, especially for a 2nd round pick.

Would Kirill Petrov still be available in the second? He could be an intriguing selection.

I don't pick any Russians unless they are top 20 talent personally. The majority are gonna stay in Russia and it'll be a waste of a pick.. I especially wouldn't use a 2nd on them.. maybe a late round steal, which there will be, but I'm even hesitant with that.

Great username.

I came up with that username:yo:

With Ron Payne scouting the OHL, what do you think the chances are that we go after someone like Jared Staal? I like the kids potential, especially for a 2nd round pick.

Worked with Colorado and Paul Stastny (even though he was out of college)...why not draft through proven blood lines?

Worked with Colorado and Paul Stastny (even though he was out of college)...why not draft through proven blood lines?

I'm fine with him in the 2nd.. bet someone takes him before that because of his name though.

Any belief that Beach would be more inclined to focus on his game more being drafted by his hometown team?

FWIW, based on the projected order the only pick I could see being of equal value as a forward (assuming Hodgson Boedker and Wilson are gone) would be Boychuk - whom would also be a good pick

edit- Also, what about the idea of trading down for a pick next year to look at getting Tedenby later in 1 round?

would you draft frolik at tenth if hodgson, boedker, wilson are gone after the ninth pick

Worked with Colorado and Paul Stastny (even though he was out of college)...why not draft through proven blood lines?

Sean Pronger ring a bell? What about Fedor Federov? Drafting through proven blood lines can play somewhat into drafting a player, but if another guy has proven more and has more talent you don't take a guy who has the proven bloodlines. It can help be a tiebraking factor though.

would you draft frolik at tenth if hodgson, boedker, wilson are gone after the ninth pick

What??? Michael Frolik?

would you draft frolik at tenth if hodgson, boedker, wilson are gone after the ninth pick

gotta be kidding me right? michael frolik the same guy from the 06 draft? you know hes re entering the draft because of a reason,

would you draft frolik at tenth if hodgson, boedker, wilson are gone after the ninth pick

No. I'd take Boychuk.

gotta be kidding me right? michael frolik the same guy from the 06 draft? you know hes re entering the draft because of a reason,

I see you haven't done your research AgentNaslund, if that is your real name..


Frolik and the Panthers organization currently are negotiating his entry-level contract. If he were to re-enter the draft it would be purely because of his refusal to sign, not because of his talent which I assure you, is at the very least top-15 in this upcoming draft.


If he is on the table at the tenth pick, he is very much worth considering as he is a RW who is two years ahead (20 yrs old) of much of this years draft class. Good offensive ability, nice shot, isn't a defensive liability.. worth thinking about at the very least. Could very well end up NHL-ready next year.

Worked with Colorado and Paul Stastny (even though he was out of college)...why not draft through proven blood lines?

Well we've already tried Juri Slegr (Bubla's son), we have the rights to Matt Butcher and we have tried Fedor Fedorov. Maybe we should trade for Jeff Tambellini and Tuomo Ruutu and draft Jamie Arniel (nephew of Scott). We've had one Sutter, maybe we could swing a deal for Brandon? With the Sedins we could have the all in the family team.

Boedker please.

Boedker please.

I think he'll be picked before #10. Nonetheless, he'd be the perfect addition for Vancouver IMO.

I think he'll be picked before #10. Nonetheless, he'd be the perfect addition for Vancouver IMO.

Any prospect with offensive skills will be a perfect addition ;).

1st Round - 25th Pick - Patrick White C (Tri-City, USHL)
2nd Round- 33rd Pick - Taylor Ellington D (Everett, WHL)
5th Round - 145th Pick - Charles-Antoine Messier C (Baie Comeau, QMJHL)
5th Round - 146th Pick - Ilja Kablukov LW (CSKA 2, Russia 3)
6th Round - 176th Pick - Taylor Matson C (Des Moines, USHL)
7th Round- 206th Pick - Dan Gendur RW (Everett, WHL)

just to preview

Last 10 First Round Draft Picks:
2007 Patrick White 25th C Tri-City Storm (USHL)
2006 Michael Grabner 14th RW Spokane Chiefs (WHL)
2005 Luc Bourdon 10th D Val D'Or Foreurs (QMJHL)
2004 Cory Schneider 26th G Phillips Andover (USHSE)
2003 Ryan Kesler 23rd C Ohio State University (CCHA)
2001 R.J. Umberger 16th C Ohio State University (CCHA)
2000 Nathan Smith 23rd C Swift Current Broncos (WHL)
1999 Daniel Sedin 2nd L Modo Hockey Ornskoldsvik (SEL)
1999 Henrik Sedin 3rd C Modo Hockey Ornskoldsvik (SEL)
1998 Bryan Allen 4th D Oshawa Generals (OHL)

Any prospect with offensive skills will be a perfect addition ;).

This is probably the most important draft for Vancouver since 1999, IMO.

I think any of Boedker, Colin Wilson or Cody Hodgson would be good additions in Vancouver. I personally like Wilson the best of the three (and that's who I hope my team drafts unless one of the Big 4 D-men fall) but I think Boedker would be a better pick for Vancouver. You guys need a "sexy" pick, IMO, and Boedker is just that.

I am curious to how Gillis drafting will go. It sure as hell can't get any worse

If Wilson is drafted by the Canucks, Ron Delorme would have had the nastiest hangover.

If Wilson is drafted by the Canucks, Ron Delorme would have had the nastiest hangover.

Why? Wilson sounds exactly like a Delorme pick.

I am curious to how Gillis drafting will go. It sure as hell can't get any worse

oh but it can...
i think when you've been cheering for this team for a while you start to expect the worst.

oh but it can...
i think when you've been cheering for this team for a while you start to expect the worst.

i think he means that there is no way under Gillis iron curtain we waste high important assets like a 1st round pick on "safe" picks like Nathan Smith, Luc Bourdon, or even the lights of Taylor Ellington.

he will use our picks on players that have extremely high ceiling of potential, vs a pick that is for sure will become a 3rd liner or a solid stay at home defencemen. none of that safe pick bull crap.

if you look at our draft history, our drafting have been soooo garbage that our ceiling of improvement is really .

i think he means that there is no way under Gillis iron curtain we waste high important assets like a 1st round pick on "safe" picks like Nathan Smith, Luc Bourdon, or even the lights of Taylor Ellington.

he will use our picks on players that have extremely high ceiling of potential, vs a pick that is for sure will become a 3rd liner or a solid stay at home defencemen. none of that safe pick bull crap.

if you look at our draft history, our drafting have been soooo garbage that our ceiling of improvement is really .

Wow, to deem Luc Bourdon or Nathan Smith as safe picks would indicate that you don't know what you are talking about. Both were reaches on draft day (Smith in particular being a reach).

I also havne't liked our drafting but just so you know: Good defensively does not equal safe. Low potential does not equal safe. Bad picks do not equal safe.

I like all three forwards (Boedker, Wilson, Hodgson), but Hodgson is by far my favorite. Basically I think he brings the intangibles of Wilson with the skill of Boedker. He doesn't have Boedker's gamebreaking speed, or Wilson's power game, but I really like his smarts/grit.

Why? Wilson sounds exactly like a Delorme pick.

No...Tyler Myers does. Big, good skater, very little hockey sense. I bet he looks awesome in the pre-game :rolleyes:

I like all three forwards (Boedker, Wilson, Hodgson), but Hodgson is by far my favorite. Basically I think he brings the intangibles of Wilson with the skill of Boedker. He doesn't have Boedker's gamebreaking speed, or Wilson's power game, but I really like his smarts/grit.



No...Tyler Myers does. Big, good skater, very little hockey sense. I bet he looks awesome in the pre-game :rolleyes:

I like all three as well, but (at the risk of making a Pat Quinn mistake) I think we really need size up the centre, so I would rank them Boedker, Wilson, Hodgson.

Worked with Colorado and Paul Stastny (even though he was out of college)...why not draft through proven blood lines?

For every Paul Stastny there's also a Yan Stastny.

Although I do think Staal could be a very good 2nd liner in the NHL.

Wow, to deem Luc Bourdon or Nathan Smith as safe picks would indicate that you don't know what you are talking about. Both were reaches on draft day (Smith in particular being a reach).

I also havne't liked our drafting but just so you know: Good defensively does not equal safe. Low potential does not equal safe. Bad picks do not equal safe.

Nathan Smith was deemed to be a "safe pick" at the time he was drafted.

Bourdon may not have been exactly a "safe pick" but it's not like the Canucks really gambled all that much either. Had the Canucks gambled, we'd have Anze Kopitar in our top 6 right now.

Nathan Smith was deemed to be a "safe pick" at the time he was drafted.

Not remotely - Smith represented a HUGE reach when we picked him over players with similar skill sets who were ranked ahead of him, like Steve Ott and Brian Sutherby.

I'm completely baffled where the "safe pick" talk comes from - it's not remotely true. The Canucks make DUMB picks.

1st Round - 25th Pick - Patrick White C (Tri-City, USHL)
2nd Round- 33rd Pick - Taylor Ellington D (Everett, WHL)
5th Round - 145th Pick - Charles-Antoine Messier C (Baie Comeau, QMJHL)
5th Round - 146th Pick - Ilja Kablukov LW (CSKA 2, Russia 3)
6th Round - 176th Pick - Taylor Matson C (Des Moines, USHL)
7th Round- 206th Pick - Dan Gendur RW (Everett, WHL)

just to preview

Ugh what a trainwreck. This is as bad as 2002.

Not remotely - Smith represented a HUGE reach when we picked him over players with similar skill sets who were ranked ahead of him, like Steve Ott and Brian Sutherby.

I'm completely baffled where the "safe pick" talk comes from - it's not remotely true. The Canucks make DUMB picks.

Well I guess the analysts call it "safe picks" because they won't flat out call it a dumb pick.

Ugh, all the first rounders we've wasted...its quite pathetic really.

Wow, to deem Luc Bourdon or Nathan Smith as safe picks would indicate that you don't know what you are talking about. Both were reaches on draft day (Smith in particular being a reach).

I also havne't liked our drafting but just so you know: Good defensively does not equal safe. Low potential does not equal safe. Bad picks do not equal safe.

It best for you not to start dumb arguments by challenging other posters.

nathan smith was deemed a safe pick by brian burke himself who was told he was a safe pick by ron delorme buddy.

the same with ryan kesler, who was ranked as a safe pick by dave nonis himself and compared him to a trevor linden

luc bourdon was also deemed as a safe pick i forgot by whom. maybe im wrong but because of his skating abilites and his size i assume he was considered a safe pick

im not making this up. its years of the word "safe pick" keeps popping up and im too used too and have low expectations from our crappy scouting department to draft good players.

Hello gang! I'm a long time reader and first time poster, so please take it easy on me....

Although last year's draft provided it's obvious share of surprises, I think we can assume that Stamkos, Filatov, Bogosian, Doughty, Pietrangelo, and Schenn (the Big 6) will all be off the board by Pick 10. Furthermore, Boedker and Wilson seem to be consenous Top 9 picks now as well, so we can scratch them off the list too, unfortunately. Should either of them fall to us, I'd hope we would snatch them up!

That still, however, leaves Hodgson, Boychuk, and Bailey for picks 9 through 11, in the worst case for us. Myers and Sbisa look interesting as well, but I think it is clear that Gillis wants to add assets up front. We have a good core of young Dmen and left wingers, so taking a right wing or centerman seems logical.

Beach in November would have been an unreal find for the Sedins, but the luster seems to have tarnished a bit in his regard. Many posters and agencies are expressing reservations, which we can not afford to ignore.

Colborne, Nemisz, Ennis and Eberle (other names in this thread) can most likely be taken with picks in the 15-25 range, as opposed to at 10.

Although Tedenby may be the sleeper in this draft, IMO, (the top Scandanavian prospect unanimously, it seems, has huge/Boychuk like potential), the fact he plays on the left side makes him less attractive to us. We already have Raymond who plays a similar game to the Swede, as well.

Hodgson, Boychuk and Bailey all have proven themselves beyond doubt this year, and would be welcomed additions to our squad.

Boychuk showed what he is capable of in the playoffs this year, Hodgson was unreal all season, and Bailey may be the most underrated player in the draft - just ask Taylor Hall. If we call any one of those three names in Ottawa, I will be delighted. They are relatively safe picks, yet with great potential, who also fill positional needs for us. What else could we ask for?

That's my two cents, at least.

Hello gang! I'm a long time reader and first time poster, so please take it easy on me....

Although last year's draft provided it's obvious share of surprises, I think we can assume that Stamkos, Filatov, Bogosian, Doughty, Pietrangelo, and Schenn (the Big 6) will all be off the board by Pick 10. Furthermore, Boedker and Wilson seem to be consenous Top 9 picks now as well, so we can scratch them off the list too, unfortunately. Should either of them fall to us, I'd hope we would snatch them up!

That still, however, leaves Hodgson, Boychuk, and Bailey for picks 9 through 11, in the worst case for us. Myers and Sbisa look interesting as well, but I think it is clear that Gillis wants to add assets up front. We have a good core of young Dmen and left wingers, so taking a right wing or centerman seems logical.

Beach in November would have been an unreal find for the Sedins, but the luster seems to have tarnished a bit in his regard. Many posters and agencies are expressing reservations, which we can not afford to ignore.

Colborne, Nemisz, Ennis and Eberle (other names in this thread) can most likely be taken with picks in the 15-25 range, as opposed to at 10.

Although Tedenby may be the sleeper in this draft, IMO, (the top Scandanavian prospect unanimously, it seems, has huge/Boychuk like potential), the fact he plays on the left side makes him less attractive to us. We already have Raymond who plays a similar game to the Swede, as well.

Hodgson, Boychuk and Bailey all have proven themselves beyond doubt this year, and would be welcomed additions to our squad.

Boychuk showed what he is capable of in the playoffs this year, Hodgson was unreal all season, and Bailey may be the most underrated player in the draft - just ask Taylor Hall. If we call any one of those three names in Ottawa, I will be delighted. They are relatively safe picks, yet with great potential, who also fill positional needs for us. What else could we ask for?

That's my two cents, at least.

I agree with you. My picks are either Hodgson or Boychuk. I'd be ecstatic with either one. With Nonis drafting we likely would have gone with Myers, Sbisa or Nemisz at 10...with Gillis I'm really thinking that Boychuk (based on his play for team Canada and his playoffs) or Hodsgon (captain of team canada U17, best player for the team) are highly likely.

Ugh what a trainwreck. This is as bad as 2002.

I think that Kablukov and Gendur have interesting potential for late round picks.

Completely unimpressed with Boychuk. Hope we don't draft him.

I think that Kablukov and Gendur have interesting potential for late round picks.

The thing with Kablukov though, is he's Russian. If he comes over he could be a good 3rd liner...but I don't think that's very likely.

Gendur...well...he dominated the WHL as an overager, which is normal, although for a 7th round pick it's looking quite good. I still dont think he has enough to make the NHL though.

Completely unimpressed with Boychuk. Hope we don't draft him.

Is it his size that concerns you?

Is it his size that concerns you?

Well, a bit. I just don't think his physical game will bring him success in the NHL, and that's a big part of why he's so good now. A bit like Gilbert Brule.

He's still a decent pick, I just think there are better options available at 10th overall.

The thing with Kablukov though, is he's Russian. If he comes over he could be a good 3rd liner...but I don't think that's very likely.

Gendur...well...he dominated the WHL as an overager, which is normal, although for a 7th round pick it's looking quite good. I still dont think he has enough to make the NHL though.

Fair enough. We have been burned by Russians recently and Gendur does still have a lot to prove to his critics.

I am very interested to see Kablukov play, however. He has already tallied 74 games for CSKA, which is pretty impressive for a 20 year old. I would love to see him and Shirokov in Manitoba!

As for Gendur, it did not seem like he was given a chance to produce until being traded to Everett last year. Next year will tell us a lot about his potential.

Fair enough. We have been burned by Russians recently and Gendur does still have a lot to prove to his critics.

I am very interested to see Kablukov play, however. He has already tallied 74 games for CSKA, which is pretty impressive for a 20 year old. I would love to see him and Shirokov in Manitoba!

As for Gendur, it did not seem like he was given a chance to produce until being traded to Everett last year. Next year will tell us a lot about his potential.

Yeah I agree.

It's too bad the front part of that draft was blown..but what else is new.

[QUOTE=Burke's Evil Spirit;14187335]Well, a bit. I just don't think his physical game will bring him success in the NHL, and that's a big part of why he's so good now. A bit like Gilbert Brule.

Well to be honest, if Brule does not pan out (he is still a prospect) I will have to admit to being incorrect about him as well. During the Giants' 2005-06 playoff run I was insisting that he would be a star.

I would still love to see him given a new lease on life in Vancouver again????? On the other hand, maybe I am just a fool....:(

You're right, Boychuk and Brule do have some similarities. But I'm not quite ready to give up on Gilbert yet (this is another discussion, I know). Hence, both of these guys could still be impact players, IMO.

It's too bad the front part of that draft was blown..

Why don't you tell everyone what a flop Patrick White is already, that's usually pretty funny. :)

To confirm our drafting concerns regarding Russian players, I decided to research all of our Russian picks since Bure. With so many awesome Russians in the league, it is amazing we have missed the boat so many times....so to speak.

1991 - Namestnikov - round 6
1993 - Tkachenko - round 11
1994 - Kuznetsov - round 7
1997 - Martynyuk - round 8
1998 - Chubarov - round 2 (yah, we got one! Err... kind of)
2000 - Duma - round 5
2001 - F Federov - round 3
2001 - Gladskikh - round 4
2001 - Mihailov - round 8
2002 - Koltsov - round 2
2002 - Grot (Belarusian playing in Minsk) - round 2
2002 - Krikunov - round 7
2003 - Topol - round 8
2006 - Shirokov - round 6
2007 - Kablukov - round 5

What do you say guys! Should we take Petrov or Grachev with the 10th??

Honestly, it looks like a dictionary exploded in this message. I thought I was a Canuck fan - I have never even heard of the majority of these guys! Yikes.

Hello gang! I'm a long time reader and first time poster, so please take it easy on me....

Although last year's draft provided it's obvious share of surprises, I think we can assume that Stamkos, Filatov, Bogosian, Doughty, Pietrangelo, and Schenn (the Big 6) will all be off the board by Pick 10. Furthermore, Boedker and Wilson seem to be consenous Top 9 picks now as well, so we can scratch them off the list too, unfortunately. Should either of them fall to us, I'd hope we would snatch them up!

That still, however, leaves Hodgson, Boychuk, and Bailey for picks 9 through 11, in the worst case for us. Myers and Sbisa look interesting as well, but I think it is clear that Gillis wants to add assets up front. We have a good core of young Dmen and left wingers, so taking a right wing or centerman seems logical.

Beach in November would have been an unreal find for the Sedins, but the luster seems to have tarnished a bit in his regard. Many posters and agencies are expressing reservations, which we can not afford to ignore.

Colborne, Nemisz, Ennis and Eberle (other names in this thread) can most likely be taken with picks in the 15-25 range, as opposed to at 10.

Although Tedenby may be the sleeper in this draft, IMO, (the top Scandanavian prospect unanimously, it seems, has huge/Boychuk like potential), the fact he plays on the left side makes him less attractive to us. We already have Raymond who plays a similar game to the Swede, as well.

Hodgson, Boychuk and Bailey all have proven themselves beyond doubt this year, and would be welcomed additions to our squad.

Boychuk showed what he is capable of in the playoffs this year, Hodgson was unreal all season, and Bailey may be the most underrated player in the draft - just ask Taylor Hall. If we call any one of those three names in Ottawa, I will be delighted. They are relatively safe picks, yet with great potential, who also fill positional needs for us. What else could we ask for?

That's my two cents, at least.

good analysis, but i have a feeling we won't be picking in the first round at all. i think gillis will (have to) part with it for a forward, either in a trade or a RFA offer.

good analysis, but i have a feeling we won't be picking in the first round at all. i think gillis will (have to) part with it for a forward, either in a trade or a RFA offer.

I can see Gillis trading the 1st, but the 1st this season isn't eligible for an RFA sheet since the earliest an offer sheet can be made is after the draft.

To confirm our drafting concerns regarding Russian players, I decided to research all of our Russian picks since Bure. With so many awesome Russians in the league, it is amazing we have missed the boat so many times....so to speak.

1991 - Namestnikov - round 6
1993 - Tkachenko - round 11
1994 - Kuznetsov - round 7
1997 - Martynyuk - round 8
1998 - Chubarov - round 2 (yah, we got one! Err... kind of)
2000 - Duma - round 5
2001 - F Federov - round 3
2001 - Gladskikh - round 4
2001 - Mihailov - round 8
2002 - Koltsov - round 1
2002 - Grot (Belarusian playing in Minsk) - round 2
2002 - Krikunov - round 7
2003 - Topol - round 8
2006 - Shirokov - round 6
2007 - Kablukov - round 5

What do you say guys! Should we take Petrov or Grachev with the 10th??

Honestly, it looks like a dictionary exploded in this message. I thought I was a Canuck fan - I have never even heard of the majority of these guys! Yikes.

Koltsov was a 2nd round selection, not a 1st.

It best for you not to start dumb arguments by challenging other posters.

nathan smith was deemed a safe pick by brian burke himself who was told he was a safe pick by ron delorme buddy.

the same with ryan kesler, who was ranked as a safe pick by dave nonis himself and compared him to a trevor linden

luc bourdon was also deemed as a safe pick i forgot by whom. maybe im wrong but because of his skating abilites and his size i assume he was considered a safe pick

im not making this up. its years of the word "safe pick" keeps popping up and im too used too and have low expectations from our crappy scouting department to draft good players.

I'm just saying, the notion that the Canucks got screwed by taking "safe picks" is rediculous. Sorry if I hurt your feelings but in Bourdon's draft year safe would have been Marc Staal, Kesler's year would have been Mike Richards, and in Smith's year, safe would have been Steve Ott.

The idea of being a safe pick is based on the fact that a player is almost deffinitly going to be an NHLer, and I am clearly arguing that we do not pick "safe" we simply pick stupid.

This is a hockey board and when I think your opinion is not correct, I will let you know. Thanks for the advice about not "challenging" you, maybe next time you could think about what you are saying before you say it.

I think as long as we pick whoever ISS says we should pick at our position (highest player available) we'll probably do alright as I believe there are about 15 or so very solid prospects in this draft.

good analysis, but i have a feeling we won't be picking in the first round at all. i think gillis will (have to) part with it for a forward, either in a trade or a RFA offer.

I definately don't think we'll be drafting in the 1st round either. With Gillis's comments regarding the unsuccessful drafting history under the current regime I just don't see him giving them one of his prize assets to piss away. He probably thinks the 1st could be put to better use via trade. I can't say I disagree.

After the draft I would expect to see a pretty significant housecleaning.

The thing with Kablukov though, is he's Russian. If he comes over he could be a good 3rd liner...but I don't think that's very likely.


Kablukov's actually come out and said he'll do anything to be in the NHL and will be coming over to NA this year.

I don't understand what you mean by 'he's russian'...yes, yes he is.

Kablukov's actually come out and said he'll do anything to be in the NHL and will be coming over to NA this year.

I don't understand what you mean by 'he's russian'...yes, yes he is.

I ready something after the 2007 draft where he said he wanted to play in the NHl but I havent read anything that says he'll be coming to North America for sure this upcoming season.

I ready something after the 2007 draft where he said he wanted to play in the NHl but I havent read anything that says he'll be coming to North America for sure this upcoming season.

Let me try to dig it up...this may be it.

http://www.canada.com/topics/sports/hockey/canucksprovincestory.html?id=a8628f1f-802d-4e02-b9fb-dccef69918a4&k=28050

Sounds like Mike Gillis doesn't subscribe to the BPA theory about drafting. That's different.

Doesn't he sound a lot like Burke? Monontone voice, emotionless, no sense of humour.

Kablukov's actually come out and said he'll do anything to be in the NHL and will be coming over to NA this year.

I don't understand what you mean by 'he's russian'...yes, yes he is.

Yes, and there are a ton of Russians that don't come over. Due to a lack of a transfer agreement between the NHL and the RSL, him being Russian is quite significant.

Let me try to dig it up...this may be it.

http://www.canada.com/topics/sports/hockey/canucksprovincestory.html?id=a8628f1f-802d-4e02-b9fb-dccef69918a4&k=28050

It doesn't necessarily say that he's coming over next year. His comments were encouraging, but I would like to know what is contract staus is and if he has any more years left on his deal. I don't think another year there would be bad for him. Play one more year in Russia, comer over and play for the Moose for a year, then hopefully he makes the big squad as the fourth line center.

Koltsov was a 2nd round selection, not a 1st.

Thank you for pointing that out. When it came time to write his name my heart started to flutter and I began to sweat. I thought of the first name called out that year, refrained from cursing and panicked.:)

I suppose the fact that he was a second rounder makes the loss of such a talented player a little easier to accept.

Despite our inability to select a current Russian NHL player in the last sixteen years of drafting, I would absolutive LOVE for Filatov to take a Cherepanov-like fall into our arms this time around.

I find it interesting that Kyle Woodlief managed to accurately predict Cherpanov's drop in the draft last year (to much pre-draft critism, as I recall), whereas this year he has kept Filatov at the number two spot in the Red Line Report since February.

Here were his glowing statements from that issue:

"Frankly, we privately never thought anyone aside from Steven Stamkos and Doughty would occupy our top two slots this entire season. But WOW! Filatov just bowled us over with one of the most dynamic performances RLR has ever witnessed in one of these week-long international tournaments we've been attending for 14+ years now. And there's not an ounce of hyperbole in that statement. Filatov was that good.

As one NHL scout said to Red Line during the Five Nations proceedings over in Finland last week, "If there was no name on the back of his jersey, and these games were being played in the CHL, could you tell the difference between Filatov and Stamkos?"

And it didn't take more than two seconds' thought on our part to respond, "No.""

http://www.usatoday.com/sports/hockey/columnist/woodlief/2008-02-22-redline_N.htm

I can't see him being passed on nine times, but if he does I say we take our shot with the next potential Russian Rocket.

I find it interesting that Kyle Woodlief managed to accurately predict Cherpanov's drop in the draft last year (to much pre-draft critism, as I recall), whereas this year he has kept Filatov at the number two spot in the Red Line Report since February.


My guess is that it's a combination of Filatov being more talented than Cherepanov and the fact that Filatov has come out and said he wants to play in the NHL and will do whatever his team asks him. He has stated that he is willing to come over to North America next season and learn this style of game. Could all be fluff on his part, but it's gotta ease over some concerns.

Yes, and there are a ton of Russians that don't come over. Due to a lack of a transfer agreement between the NHL and the RSL, him being Russian is quite significant.

That only comes to play when a players wants to leave for NA mid contract.

Correct me if Im wrong, but that is not the case for Kabulkov at the moment?

Correct me if Im wrong, but that is not the case for Kabulkov at the moment?

Please elaborate. I have not been able to find any information on Kablukov's contractual status.

I really really wish the Canucks would make more of an effort to reach out to these players to try and get them to take a shot at playing in the best league in the world. If they fail they will still be in their prime and can go back to Russia to make great money. Having a Russian strategy would give them an advtnage over the rest of the league where teams have seem to have given up on that market. The number of Russians in the NHL has declined sharply since the lockout. There is a significant body of evidence that team draft (and players gravitiate to those teams) particular nationalities. Vancouver is Sweden and US College, Dallas is Finland, NJ is US college, Toronto and Detroit are Sweden, Minny is Slovakia, NYR are the Czech republic, and currently, Washington is Russia.

I'd like Gillis to pitch Koltsov on a one year deal, Shirokov on a two-year two-way deal, and Kablukov on a two year deal. Shirokov needs to play in NA before he can get a legitimate shot in the NHL. A two year plan looking ahead to him making the Canucks out of the training camp in '09 would seem to be a worthwhile risk for him. For Koltsov, they try him out at camp this year and then he can leave if he does not make the team or they don't like what they see. I still think that guys has the potential to be at worst a Tarnstrom and at best a Timmonen or most likely a Zidlicky with an edge. It's a shame to see him never get a shot in 'the show'.

I really really wish the Canucks would make more of an effort to reach out to these players to try and get them to take a shot at playing in the best league in the world. If they fail they will still be in their prime and can go back to Russia to make great money. Having a Russian strategy would give them an advtnage over the rest of the league where teams have seem to have given up on that market. The number of Russians in the NHL has declined sharply since the lockout. There is a significant body of evidence that team draft (and players gravitiate to those teams) particular nationalities. Vancouver is Sweden and US College, Dallas is Finland, NJ is US college, Toronto and Detroit are Sweden, Minny is Slovakia, NYR are the Czech republic, and currently, Washington is Russia.

I'd like Gillis to pitch Koltsov on a one year deal, Shirokov on a two-year two-way deal, and Kablukov on a two year deal. Shirokov needs to play in NA before he can get a legitimate shot in the NHL. A two year plan looking ahead to him making the Canucks out of the training camp in '09 would seem to be a worthwhile risk for him. For Koltsov, they try him out at camp this year and then he can leave if he does not make the team or they don't like what they see. I still think that guys has the potential to be at worst a Tarnstrom and at best a Timmonen or most likely a Zidlicky with an edge. It's a shame to see him never get a shot in 'the show'.
Tambellini as far as I understand was in Russia recently to court our prospects into signing contracts, was he not?

I agree that if we had a magic way of getting Russians over here it would give us an advantage over other teams. But if we keep taking Russians at high picks, the fact remains that if they can make more money in a more familiar setting playing in more important roles, they'll take that. If they do, then we've essentially wasted a pick. And if we repeatedly do that, we might as well select people who will commit to and play in the NHL.

I'm not 100% sure why this isn't the case for, say, Swedes. If anybody can pull out salary figures, that would bolster this case.

I'm not 100% sure why this isn't the case for, say, Swedes. If anybody can pull out salary figures, that would bolster this case.

I dont have the numbers in front of me, but the salaries are significantly higher in Russia. Then theres also the tax issue--one is barely taxed, and the other has the second highest in the word. Finally, its a much different game adapting to life in North America for Swedes than it is for Russians. Most Swedes are fluent in English by the time they finish up high school. Swedish lifestyle is also closer to a North American one than the Russian one is.

I agree that if we had a magic way of getting Russians over here it would give us an advantage over other teams.

Francesco can get his buddy Gino on the phone. Gino could call up long time pal Pav and give him a mission. Bure goes back to CSKA and smuggles the two Russian prospects out, in the same underground network he used in 1991. Tretiak, the villian, would get his top sniper, Koltsov, to chase the two back to Vancouver. Koltsov would be confronted by the Boss, his henchman Gillis, and his muscle Odjick, and then be given an offer that he could not confuse. Koltsov leads our PP, whilst Kablukov and Shirokov fill out a deadly second line with Mason Raymond on route to the Cup. Tretiak would vow revenge, opening the basis for the sequel in which we plan to draft Kabanov in 2010 and try to sway him from the dark side as well, during the Olympics.

It may not be practical, but it would make one heck of a movie!

If Filatov does fall to us. Draft him, he said he will come over to NA to help out which ever team drafts him.

If Filatov does fall to us. Draft him, he said he will come over to NA to help out which ever team drafts him.

I'm sure he will. I predict that he and Okposo will be linemates as early as next season.

I'm sure he will. I predict that he and Okposo will be linemates as early as next season.

Wouldn't be surprised, Garth Snow is apparently very high on him. I can't see Filatov falling past 5th.

Wouldn't be surprised, Garth Snow is apparently very high on him. I can't see Filatov falling past 5th.

If he does go to NYI that'll be golden for their organization....

Okposo-Filatov-Figren/Joensuu

If he does go to NYI that'll be golden for their organization....

Okposo-Filatov-Figren/Joensuu

Isn't Filatov a winger? But a Filatov/Okposo combination could be real good in a few seasons.

There was someone posting on the prospects boards that his son goes to school with Wang's son, and Wang himself told the poster that the Islanders are taking Filatov.

Obviously, this may or may not be accurate for a number of reasons.

ISS has Filatov listed as a LW. Comeau in the middle, possibly? Or Comrie?

There was someone posting on the prospects boards that his son goes to school with Wang's son, and Wang himself told the poster that the Islanders are taking Filatov.

Obviously, this may or may not be accurate for a number of reasons.

ISS has Filatov listed as a LW. Comeau in the middle, possibly? Or Comrie?

Hahah, my bad I was literally placing the forward stars in a clumped line.

I know Wang is high on Fialtov.

I know Snow is high on Filatov as well as Pietrangelo and Bogosian.

however, if Filly is there at 5, odds are he'll be drafted as an Islander

Okay, I know the chances of us agreeing on this is not good, but let's give it a try. I will edit it everytime I log in based on concensus. If it's not working I will let you know and give up on the dream.

How do we project the top 9 to go?

1. TB - Stamkos
2. LA - Doughty
3. ATL - Bogosian
4. STL - Pietrangelo/Schenn
5. NYI - Filatov
6. CBS - Pietrangelo/Schenn
7. TOR - Boedker/Wilson/Hodgson/Beach
8. PHO - Myers
9. NAS - Boeker/Wilson/Hodgson/Beach

Fingers crossed and we might be able to more accurately discuss who is likely to be left on the board at #10.

I think Phoenix takes the BPA - they have prospects at every position; lots of skilled forwards, some grit, a good young defense. They also have Al Montoya in the system.

As such I think they go with one of the same three forwards you have Toronto and Nashville taking.

I also think it's likely that LA takes Doughty, although that's based a lot on discussions I've seen here - and the Kings have gone off the board before (Thomas Hickey for example).

I think Phoenix takes the BPA - they have prospects at every position; lots of skilled forwards, some grit, a good young defense. They also have Al Montoya in the system.

As such I think they go with one of the same three forwards you have Toronto and Nashville taking.

I also think it's likely that LA takes Doughty, although that's based a lot on discussions I've seen here - and the Kings have gone off the board before (Thomas Hickey for example).

I know Phoenix is high on Myers and Del Zotto, as well as Sbisa and Robak, but probably wouldn't draft them at 8.

If I were the Coyotes GM, i'd take Myers. He's a lower-caliber Chara and looks close to NHL-ready

I think Phoenix takes the BPA - they have prospects at every position; lots of skilled forwards, some grit, a good young defense. They also have Al Montoya in the system.

I also think it's likely that LA takes Doughty, although that's based a lot on discussions I've seen here - and the Kings have gone off the board before (Thomas Hickey for example).

Well I don't think Phoenix will take a center, having Turris, Hanzel, and Mueller down the middle (and Winnik). They might take Boedker, however, although they also have Wheeler, Porter, Lisin, Carcillo, and McLean as prospects there. I really think they go Dman. Ross, Summers, Ballard and Yandle could really use a shutdown guy like Myers in the mix.

I can't see the Lombardi going off the board again. Gagner, Alzner, and Voracek all had better years than Hickey, IMO.

I know Phoenix is high on Myers and Del Zotto, as well as Sbisa and Robak, but probably wouldn't draft them at 8.

If I were the Coyotes GM, i'd take Myers. He's a lower-caliber Chara and looks close to NHL-ready

I have a strong Myers hunch there as well. Athough that rarely means anything.

I can also see Kyle Beach being selected within the top ten based on his skill/potential level. If any of you have read Gare Joyce's Book, then you would get an in-depth look at how Phil Kessel was looked down upon by his teammates, had absolutely horrible team interviews, and scored one of the worst physicality tests at the draft combine. Considering all those factors he was still chosen 4th overall by Boston Bruins and is now progressing well on his projected development curve.

Kyle Beach was once rated the consensus top 3 pick because he has all the elements to become a impact player at the NHL level but as the season wore on and as his injuries accumulated, his rating began to decrease. So based on skill and competitiveness, Kyle Beach should be categorized as top 3 in that department alone, it's only his character that comes into question which can be assessed by teams at the draft combine.

And his concussion history.

Here is a list of 10 players whom I would be more than happy with if the Canucks chose any of them with their first 3 picks in this year's draft.

Mikkel Boedker - LW
Not far from playing in the NHL and has the scoring we need.

Kyle Beach - C
Size, strength and scoring prowess far outweigh his possible personality issues.
Could be the big scoring center we've never had.

Michael Del Zotto - D
Many people rank this guy as a the #2 defencemen in this years draft so I doubt we even get a chance at him. Still he is rated by ISS at #17 and the Hockey News has him at #15...so there might be hope he might fall our way. Would make a wonderful addition to our power play one day.

Tyler Ennis - C
Small center who can score.

Jyri Niemi - D
Offensive defenseman with a wicked slapshot and has size.

Jacob DeSerres - G
Especially if we have thoughts about trading C. Schneider

David Carle - D
Solid d-man prospect going College route

Kruise Reddick - C
Amazing scorer albeit small.

Dale Hunt - RW
Has size, strength and speed. Once a highly touted pick for this year.

Kiril Petrov - LW
IMO he will be picked in first two round by someone. If not, I say grab him in the 3rd for sure.

Cody Hogson will be drafted by Vancouver if hes available.

There's a topic already, put it in there

And his concussion history.

I believe Peter Mueller had two concussions going into the draft and he seems to be 100 percent healthy.

I'd be ok with the Canucks taking a flyer on Beach if Hodgson/Wilson/Boedker are taken by the time they pick. There is fairly substantial risk in taking a player like Beach, but the potential reward is huge. Attitude questions surrounded Ryan Getzlaf going into his draft year too, but he's been able to mature (a bit) and become an effective player in the league. Beach has an added layer of risk with his concussion problems, but if he pans out his skillset would be perfect on the Canucks.

I know being size-queens has gotten a lot of teams into trouble in the past, but I don't think there are any slam dunks after the second tier of players (third if you consider Stamkos in his own tier) in this draft, so I think it's the type of calculated risk that would be acceptable.

I can also see Kyle Beach being selected within the top ten based on his skill/potential level. If any of you have read Gare Joyce's Book, then you would get an in-depth look at how Phil Kessel was looked down upon by his teammates, had absolutely horrible team interviews, and scored one of the worst physicality tests at the draft combine. Considering all those factors he was still chosen 4th overall by Boston Bruins and is now progressing well on his projected development curve.

Kyle Beach was once rated the consensus top 3 pick because he has all the elements to become a impact player at the NHL level but as the season wore on and as his injuries accumulated, his rating began to decrease. So based on skill and competitiveness, Kyle Beach should be categorized as top 3 in that department alone, it's only his character that comes into question which can be assessed by teams at the draft combine.

Any suggestion with what pick in the top 10 he might go?

Any suggestion with what pick in the top 10 he might go?

Its completely unpredictable but if I had make a guess it would be either Toronto(they have shown interest in him), Nashville, or Vancouver.

There's a topic already, put it in there

What about this discussion is not regarding the Canucks Draft 2008?

What about this discussion is not regarding the Canucks Draft 2008?

That post was made in this thread (http://hfboards.com/showthread.php?t=519061).

That post was made in this thread (http://hfboards.com/showthread.php?t=519061).

I see. Thank you for clarifying.

I'd be ok with the Canucks taking a flyer on Beach if Hodgson/Wilson/Boedker are taken by the time they pick.

Same here. My only concern with Beach is his concussion history and whether or not that will affect how he plays in the future(whether or not he becomes tentative physically). I'm not a big fan of Boychuk or Myers really, two guys that should go around where the Canucks' pick.

Did I ever tell you guys about my beef with 10th overall?

There's a trend where 10th overall will most likely be a mediocore player. It's dumb.

1979 - F Tom McCarthy
Sure wasn't terrible, but wasn't anything special either. 399 points in 460 games.
1980 - F Jim Fox
Same as above. 478 points in 578 games.
1981 - D Garth Butcher
Stay at home defenseman, oh wow, what a rare type of player. 206 points in 897, but that doesn't really matter for defensemen.
1982 - RW Rich Sutter
Enforcer. Yeah, a 10th overall enforcer. 315 points in 874 games, 1411 PIM.
1983 - RW Normand Lacombe
Who? 115 points in 319 games.
1984 - D J.J. Daigneault
Journeyman defenseman, scored the winning goal in game 6 of the 87 cup finals for the Flyers which almost led to a 3-1 series lead choking by the Oilers. I guess that's kind of important. 250 points in 899 games.
1985 - C Dan Gratton
Yeah, who? 1 goal in 7 NHL games. Played the rest of his career in minor professional leagues in NA and Europe.
1986 - LW Jocelyn Lemieux
lol. 164 points in 598 games.
1987 - D Jayson More
lol what. 72 points in 406 games.
1988 - RW Teemu Selanne
The only true exception to this trend, of course. Teemu Selanne is my favourite player ever. 1158 points in 1067 games.
1989 - C Bobby Holik
Sure, he was great as a rookie and is defensively responsible. Really not that great offensively. But I guess he's good at demanding lots of money for relatively solid two-way play? 738 points in 1252 games.
1990 - D Drake Berehowsky
lol. 149 points in 549 games.
1991 - RW Martin Lapointe
Leadership, yeah yeah. 381 points in 991 games. 1417 PIM.
1992 - LW Andrei Nazarov
Enforcer. 124 points in 571 games. 1409 PIM.
1993 - G Jocelyn Thibault
Backup goalie, or are there just too many good goalies nowadays?
1994 - D Nolan Baumgartner
Journeyman offensive defenseman...without the offense, apparently. 45 points in 131 games.
1995 - RW Radek Dvorak
Terrible player. 466 points in 895 games.
1996 - D Lance Ward
Sucks. 16 points in 209 games.
1997 - D Brad Ference
Do I need to explain this one? 34 points in 250 games. #7 defenseman.
1998 - C Nikolai Antropov
Plays for the Leafs. Could be better. 245 points in 446 games.
1999 - D Branislav Mezei
Terrible. 24 points in 240 games.
2000 - C Mikhail Yakubov
Can't even produce in the RSL. 12 points in 53 games.
2001 - G Dan Blackburn
Could have been a great goalie, but suffered an unfortunate career ending injury. So uh...yeah.
2002 - LW Eric Nystrom
Sucks. 10 points in 46 NHL games.
2003 - RW Andrei Kostitsyn
Sure, he's showing promise now. Jury's still out on him. 67 points in 112 NHL games.
2004 - D Boris Valabik
Terrible. Can't even play well in the AHL. 42 PIMs in 7 NHL games. No points.
2005 - D Luc Bourdon
We all know about this guy. Slow development, could turn out well, or could just be a Nolan Baumgartner. 2 goals in 36 NHL games.
2006 - LW Michael Frolik
Sucks, and is about to re-enter the draft, so whoever picks him should probably use anything below a 4th round pick.
2007 - D Keaton Ellerby
Holy **** this guy was terrible this year. Just...terrible.
2008 - Whoever the Canucks pick
Will probably be terrible as well.



Time to trade up. And now I go back to studying.

The more I think about it, the more I feel that Zach Boychuk could be at the top of the Canucks' list at #10. The three things Gillis has stated he wants in his players are speed, hockey sense and grit and Boychuk provides all three. His downside is his obvious lack of size, just 5'9" 175lbs. My concern with Boychuk is that his game won't translate to the NHL level where the competition is much bigger and stronger and he'll have a tough transition like Gilbert Brule.

Did I ever tell you guys about my beef with 10th overall?

There's a trend where 10th overall will most likely be a mediocore player. It's dumb.

1979 - F Tom McCarthy
Sure wasn't terrible, but wasn't anything special either. 399 points in 460 games.
1980 - F Jim Fox
Same as above. 478 points in 578 games.
1981 - D Garth Butcher
Stay at home defenseman, oh wow, what a rare type of player. 206 points in 897, but that doesn't really matter for defensemen.
1982 - RW Rich Sutter
Enforcer. Yeah, a 10th overall enforcer. 315 points in 874 games, 1411 PIM.
1983 - RW Normand Lacombe
Who? 115 points in 319 games.
1984 - D J.J. Daigneault
Journeyman defenseman, scored the winning goal in game 6 of the 87 cup finals for the Flyers which almost led to a 3-1 series lead choking by the Oilers. I guess that's kind of important. 250 points in 899 games.
1985 - C Dan Gratton
Yeah, who? 1 goal in 7 NHL games. Played the rest of his career in minor professional leagues in NA and Europe.
1986 - LW Jocelyn Lemieux
lol. 164 points in 598 games.
1987 - D Jayson More
lol what. 72 points in 406 games.
1988 - RW Teemu Selanne
The only true exception to this trend, of course. Teemu Selanne is my favourite player ever. 1158 points in 1067 games.
1989 - C Bobby Holik
Sure, he was great as a rookie and is defensively responsible. Really not that great offensively. But I guess he's good at demanding lots of money for relatively solid two-way play? 738 points in 1252 games.
1990 - D Drake Berehowsky
lol. 149 points in 549 games.
1991 - RW Martin Lapointe
Leadership, yeah yeah. 381 points in 991 games. 1417 PIM.
1992 - LW Andrei Nazarov
Enforcer. 124 points in 571 games. 1409 PIM.
1993 - G Jocelyn Thibault
Backup goalie, or are there just too many good goalies nowadays?
1994 - D Nolan Baumgartner
Journeyman offensive defenseman...without the offense, apparently. 45 points in 131 games.
1995 - RW Radek Dvorak
Terrible player. 466 points in 895 games.
1996 - D Lance Ward
Sucks. 16 points in 209 games.
1997 - D Brad Ference
Do I need to explain this one? 34 points in 250 games. #7 defenseman.
1998 - C Nikolai Antropov
Plays for the Leafs. Could be better. 245 points in 446 games.
1999 - D Branislav Mezei
Terrible. 24 points in 240 games.
2000 - C Mikhail Yakubov
Can't even produce in the RSL. 12 points in 53 games.
2001 - G Dan Blackburn
Could have been a great goalie, but suffered an unfortunate career ending injury. So uh...yeah.
2002 - LW Eric Nystrom
Sucks. 10 points in 46 NHL games.
2003 - RW Andrei Kostitsyn
Sure, he's showing promise now. Jury's still out on him. 67 points in 112 NHL games.
2004 - D Boris Valabik
Terrible. Can't even play well in the AHL. 42 PIMs in 7 NHL games. No points.
2005 - D Luc Bourdon
We all know about this guy. Slow development, could turn out well, or could just be a Nolan Baumgartner. 2 goals in 36 NHL games.
2006 - LW Michael Frolik
Sucks, and is about to re-enter the draft, so whoever picks him should probably use anything below a 4th round pick.
2007 - D Keaton Ellerby
Holy **** this guy was terrible this year. Just...terrible.
2008 - RW Mikkel Boedker
2019 points in 1587 games. Best player since Gretzky.... Canucks had a nice snag here picking up a franchise player who would last 18 seasons and bring 7 cups to Vancouver.



Time to trade up. And now I go back to studying.

Fixed. :)

The more I think about it, the more I feel that Zach Boychuk could be at the top of the Canucks' list at #10. The three things Gillis has stated he wants in his players are speed, hockey sense and grit and Boychuk provides all three. His downside is his obvious lack of size, just 5'9" 175lbs. My concern with Boychuk is that his game won't translate to the NHL level where the competition is much bigger and stronger and he'll have a tough transition like Gilbert Brule.

he never said that, he said he wants his team to have speed, grit, and offence.

the type of player he wants is a "smart" player, a team of players that can play in any situation.

i have a feeling he might want to take a shot at Hogson. A leadership type player in his scouting report it said that hes a "smart" player with good all around skills.

he never said that, he said he wants his team to have speed, grit, and offence.

the type of player he wants is a "smart" player, a team of players that can play in any situation.

i have a feeling he might want to take a shot at Hogson. A leadership type player in his scouting report it said that hes a "smart" player with good all around skills.

Hodgson may not even be available at the 10 spot so in order to get him Gillis is going to have to trade up and IMO it's not worth it to trade up. At this point the player selected in the 10 spot may be as good if not better then the player selected in the 7 spot.

I think it's a pretty safe bet to say that if we go after a forward it'll be either Hodgson, Wilson, Boedker, or Boychuk if we do indeed draft in the 10 spot. Any of those players would be a real fine addition to our organization and unless Gillis feels that one of those guys is a lot better then the other then it's not worth moving up.

There are a few wildcards that could come into play as well. If a team selects Beach or Myer or perhaps both then it'll be interesting to see who we choose but otherwise I wouldn't be suprised if we end up taking the guy that falls to us.

Hodgson may not even be available at the 10 spot so in order to get him Gillis is going to have to trade up and IMO it's not worth it to trade up. At this point the player selected in the 10 spot may be as good if not better then the player selected in the 7 spot.

I think it's a pretty safe bet to say that if we go after a forward it'll be either Hodgson, Wilson, Boedker, or Boychuk if we do indeed draft in the 10 spot. Any of those players would be a real fine addition to our organization and unless Gillis feels that one of those guys is a lot better then the other then it's not worth moving up.

There are a few wildcards that could come into play as well. If a team selects Beach or Myer or perhaps both then it'll be interesting to see who we choose but otherwise I wouldn't be suprised if we end up taking the guy that falls to us.

Excellent post.

I have a strong belief that Phoenix will take a defensemen. They do not need a center and their defense is lacking a future leader.

In that case, scratch the two names off this list that you think will go to Nashville and Toronto, and pick from the others:

Boedker
Hodgson
Wilson
Boychuk
Bailey
Beach

Who, or if we even pick, is beyond me however.

Frolik is re-entering the draft? No ****. Florida must be pissed.

my dream would be Filatov landing at the 10th spot, or being available around 7-9th and the canucks trading up for him.

should my dream be shattered (which it likely will be), would be for the same situation as above, but with Boedker instead of Filatov.

my dream would be Filatov landing at the 10th spot, or being available around 7-9th and the canucks trading up for him.

should my dream be shattered (which it likely will be), would be for the same situation as above, but with Boedker instead of Filatov.

My dream:
1st - Colin Wilson
2nd - Jimmy Hayes
3rd - Justin Florek
4th - Dannick Paquette

that line-up oozes of grit, competitiveness, and size.

my dream would be Filatov landing at the 10th spot, or being available around 7-9th and the canucks trading up for him.

should my dream be shattered (which it likely will be), would be for the same situation as above, but with Boedker instead of Filatov.

Your dream is gauranteed to be shattered. Islanders plan to select him with the 5th overall pick.

My dream:
1st - Colin Wilson
2nd - Jimmy Hayes
3rd - Justin Florek
4th - Dannick Paquette

that line-up oozes of grit, competitiveness, and size.

Well keep dreaming. I agree that Colin Wilson would be a good pick at #10 but what exactly has Jimmy Hayes done this year to even deserve to be a second round selection. He had a god awful year for a guy that was supposed to be a high pick coming into this year. There isnt even a slight chance IMO that Dannick Paquette will fall to the fourth round.

he never said that, he said he wants his team to have speed, grit, and offence.

the type of player he wants is a "smart" player, a team of players that can play in any situation.

So, in other words, "hockey sense". Exactly what I said...

My dream:
1st - Colin Wilson
2nd - Jimmy Hayes
3rd - Justin Florek
4th - Dannick Paquette

that line-up oozes of grit, competitiveness, and size.

After what I've seen this year I'd be pleased with:

(Any of the following)

10th - Mikkel Boedker, Cody Hodgson, Josh Bailey, Zach Boychuk
2nd round - Corey Trivino, Nicolas Deschamps, Maxime Sauve, Mitch Wahl
3rd round - Luke Adam, Colin Long, Josh Brittain, Kristoffer Berglund
4th - no pick
5th round - Michael Frolik :propeller, Michael Pelech, Ilmari Pitkanen, Joel Champagne
6th round - Tomas Voracek, Justin Azevedo, Andrei Loktionov, Jake Youso
7th round - Eddie Lack, Martin Jones

Well keep dreaming. I agree that Colin Wilson would be a good pick at #10 but what exactly has Jimmy Hayes done this year to even deserve to be a second round selection. He had a god awful year for a guy that was supposed to be a high pick coming into this year. There isnt even a slight chance IMO that Dannick Paquette will fall to the fourth round.

swap Paquette with Hayes and its a done deal. Jimmy Hayes has the potential to be a very good solid player in the NHL.

Excellent post.

I have a strong belief that Phoenix will take a defensemen. They do not need a center and their defense is lacking a future leader.

In that case, scratch the two names off this list that you think will go to Nashville and Toronto, and pick from the others:

Boedker
Hodgson
Wilson
Boychuk
Bailey
Beach

Who, or if we even pick, is beyond me however.

i don't see any indication that phoenix won't just take the BPA, and trade from strength. sure they went off the board with wheeler, but that was under the old regime, and so far the new GM, at least with his high picks, had not draft based on position.

Did I ever tell you guys about my beef with 10th overall?

There's a trend where 10th overall will most likely be a mediocore player. It's dumb.

1979 - F Tom McCarthy
Sure wasn't terrible, but wasn't anything special either. 399 points in 460 games.
1980 - F Jim Fox
Same as above. 478 points in 578 games.
1981 - D Garth Butcher
Stay at home defenseman, oh wow, what a rare type of player. 206 points in 897, but that doesn't really matter for defensemen.
1982 - RW Rich Sutter
Enforcer. Yeah, a 10th overall enforcer. 315 points in 874 games, 1411 PIM.
1983 - RW Normand Lacombe
Who? 115 points in 319 games.
1984 - D J.J. Daigneault
Journeyman defenseman, scored the winning goal in game 6 of the 87 cup finals for the Flyers which almost led to a 3-1 series lead choking by the Oilers. I guess that's kind of important. 250 points in 899 games.
1985 - C Dan Gratton
Yeah, who? 1 goal in 7 NHL games. Played the rest of his career in minor professional leagues in NA and Europe.
1986 - LW Jocelyn Lemieux
lol. 164 points in 598 games.
1987 - D Jayson More
lol what. 72 points in 406 games.
1988 - RW Teemu Selanne
The only true exception to this trend, of course. Teemu Selanne is my favourite player ever. 1158 points in 1067 games.
1989 - C Bobby Holik
Sure, he was great as a rookie and is defensively responsible. Really not that great offensively. But I guess he's good at demanding lots of money for relatively solid two-way play? 738 points in 1252 games.
1990 - D Drake Berehowsky
lol. 149 points in 549 games.
1991 - RW Martin Lapointe
Leadership, yeah yeah. 381 points in 991 games. 1417 PIM.
1992 - LW Andrei Nazarov
Enforcer. 124 points in 571 games. 1409 PIM.
1993 - G Jocelyn Thibault
Backup goalie, or are there just too many good goalies nowadays?
1994 - D Nolan Baumgartner
Journeyman offensive defenseman...without the offense, apparently. 45 points in 131 games.
1995 - RW Radek Dvorak
Terrible player. 466 points in 895 games.
1996 - D Lance Ward
Sucks. 16 points in 209 games.
1997 - D Brad Ference
Do I need to explain this one? 34 points in 250 games. #7 defenseman.
1998 - C Nikolai Antropov
Plays for the Leafs. Could be better. 245 points in 446 games.
1999 - D Branislav Mezei
Terrible. 24 points in 240 games.
2000 - C Mikhail Yakubov
Can't even produce in the RSL. 12 points in 53 games.
2001 - G Dan Blackburn
Could have been a great goalie, but suffered an unfortunate career ending injury. So uh...yeah.
2002 - LW Eric Nystrom
Sucks. 10 points in 46 NHL games.
2003 - RW Andrei Kostitsyn
Sure, he's showing promise now. Jury's still out on him. 67 points in 112 NHL games.
2004 - D Boris Valabik
Terrible. Can't even play well in the AHL. 42 PIMs in 7 NHL games. No points.
2005 - D Luc Bourdon
We all know about this guy. Slow development, could turn out well, or could just be a Nolan Baumgartner. 2 goals in 36 NHL games.
2006 - LW Michael Frolik
Sucks, and is about to re-enter the draft, so whoever picks him should probably use anything below a 4th round pick.
2007 - D Keaton Ellerby
Holy **** this guy was terrible this year. Just...terrible.
2008 - Whoever the Canucks pick
Will probably be terrible as well.



Time to trade up. And now I go back to studying.


I disagree with many of your ratings. Dvorak, Butcher and Sutter, McCarthy, Lapointe, Antropov, Fox, Kostisyn are all/were solid picks. Also, I believe that Frolik will be a good NHL'er, with 30 goal/65 point upside.

Worth looking at with our 2nd rounder should he re-enter the draft, at the very least. He wouldn't be around in the later 2nd/3rd/4th/5th and it is very possible some team takes him in the late first since he is 2 years closer to NHL-ready than his draft class.

Holik has 2 stanleycups and 9 20 goal season and was one of the best shut down centers in the league, he was a great pick at 10 overall.

I disagree with many of your ratings. Dvorak, Butcher and Sutter, McCarthy, Lapointe, Antropov, Fox, Kostisyn are all/were solid picks. Also, I believe that Frolik will be a good NHL'er, with 30 goal/65 point upside.

Worth looking at with our 2nd rounder should he re-enter the draft, at the very least. He wouldn't be around in the later 2nd/3rd/4th/5th and it is very possible some team takes him in the late first since he is 2 years closer to NHL-ready than his draft class.

Sure, solid picks, but we all want an elite prospect at 10th overall. Nobody wants to settle for Radek Dvorak. We want Teemu Selanne.

All I'm saying is chances are, we won't get him. 10th overall is cursed, I tell ya.

Bailey could be a good fit. He is smart, skilled, put up 96 points in 67 games. He is defensively stong and has a better all around game than some people give him credit for. He may not be flashy, but he could be an excellent 2nd line Center in the NHL soon.

He isn't getting a lot of talk around here for some reason?

I'm sure they do this with each of the top tier prospects who may be available to them, but none the less, it is interesting to see this note:

DETROIT–If not for a job opportunity that came his father's way, Tyler Myers would probably not be one of Canada's top 18-year-old defencemen, poised to be a top-10 pick in next month's NHL draft.

...

The Leafs have wined and dined him, as have the Vancouver Canucks and New York Islanders.

http://www.thestar.com/Sports/Hockey/article/431366

I'm sure they do this with each of the top tier prospects who may be available to them, but none the less, it is interesting to see this note:



http://www.thestar.com/Sports/Hockey/article/431366

It is a standard procedure that most teams do, I also read today that Lou Lomaraillo(sp?) has been calling Stamkos. I hope Toronto does end up taking him because that leaves us with a position to have one of the highly offensive prospects.

The Leafs have wined and dined him, as have the Vancouver Canucks and New York Islanders.

The Leafs, Canucks and Islanders offer alcohol to minors :amazed: :sarcasm:

If we take Myers, I might assume that one of Edler, Bourdon or Bieska is on the way out of town for a young forward.

If we take Myers, I might assume that one of Edler, Bourdon or Bieska is on the way out of town for a young forward.

that be stupid. Myers is at least 4 years away from playing in the NHL.

that be stupid. Myers is at least 4 years away from playing in the NHL.

Perhaps you misunderstood me. I do not want us to take Myers. Nor do I think that Myers would take the roster place of Bieska or Edler, next season.

What I am suggesting is that "if" we do take Myers, as has been discussed, we would still need to address our needs up front, in terms of young talent.

I can not see us taking Myers and keeping all of the assets we have on D. It would make us very unbalanced. Hence, another move might allow us to improve more immediately up front, whilst not sacrificing our depth on D.

If we take Myers, I might assume that one of Edler, Bourdon or Bieska is on the way out of town for a young forward.

even if we don't take myers, i assume that one of edler, bourdon or bieksa is on the way out of town for a young forward.

I'd be very surprised if Myers is still there at 10. Phoenix or Nashville will draft him if Toronto passes him up.

even if we don't take myers, i assume that one of edler, bourdon or bieksa is on the way out of town for a young forward.

You would hope so...

If the Canucks take Myers, it'll be another wasted high draft pick. Seriously, what do people see in this kid? He's big...that's about it.

Hodgson or Boychuk for me.

If the Canucks take Myers, it'll be another wasted high draft pick. Seriously, what do people see in this kid? He's big...that's about it.

Hodgson or Boychuk for me.

Myers is the next Valabik.

Myers is the next Valabik.

Yeah I could see it

Yeah I could see it

What a wonder it would be if we took Myers 10th overall. Valabik was taken 10th. So was Bret Hedican.

*shudders*

We're so ****ed.

I did a mock draft two rounds, and have the Canucks taking Alex Pietrangelo and Maxime Sauve..

How do those two players sound?

I'd be ecstatic if the Canucks could get Pietrangelo though there is pretty much zero chance of that happening unless they trade up.

I did a mock draft two rounds, and have the Canucks taking Alex Pietrangelo and Maxime Sauve..

How do those two players sound?

There's no way Pietrangelo falls to 10th. I'd be thrilled if he did though.

What a wonder it would be if we took Myers 10th overall. Valabik was taken 10th. So was Bret Hedican.

*shudders*

We're so ****ed.

What the hell are you talking about, Bret Hedican was taken in the 10th round.

This is a Big Draft for Vancouver. I truly believe with Gillis here he wont stand idle and hope things get better like Nonis. Unless baring trade you might not draft this high again for awhile :) That being said I think if American Colin Wilson is availabe you take him. To me The WJC is the bar. You are playing with the best players in the world at your age level. You dont see many Players that do very well in the WJC not translate into an NHL career.
Here is the best Draft site I have come across
http://www.nhlentrydraft2008.com/featuredPlayersDetails.aspx?type=nas&page=profile&playerID=1010

Thank me later

Yeah, we should go out and pick up the rights to Daniel Tkaczuk and Rico Fata.

Looks like Frolik will not be re-entering the draft.

http://www.tsn.ca/nhl/story/?id=239127

Didn't we get Ohlund 10th overall?

Didn't we get Ohlund 10th overall?

No, 13th overall in 1994. Close though.

This is a Big Draft for Vancouver. I truly believe with Gillis here he wont stand idle and hope things get better like Nonis. Unless baring trade you might not draft this high again for awhile :) That being said I think if American Colin Wilson is availabe you take him. To me The WJC is the bar. You are playing with the best players in the world at your age level. You dont see many Players that do very well in the WJC not translate into an NHL career.
Here is the best Draft site I have come across
http://www.nhlentrydraft2008.com/featuredPlayersDetails.aspx?type=nas&page=profile&playerID=1010

Thank me later

Exactly...I have been pushing this for a while now. If Wilson is available and we don't take him, Gillis won't have to worry about getting rid of our scouting staff. I'll do it for him...:rant:

Hey guys I'm trying to arrange the least biased mock draft possible, so we can figure out who is likely to be available at the #10 pick.

I've just assumed that Tampa will pick Steven Stamkos, and am currently polling the Los Angeles Kings forum to see who they think LA will take at number two:

http://hfboards.com/showthread.php?t=520150

Once that poll closes I will open a poll in the Atlanta Thrashers forum (minus Stamkos and the winner of the above poll as options), and so on until we see who each team's fans expect their team to take.

I'll keep you all posted. :)

Thats a great idea roddy.

Well since the news spread about the tragic loss of Luc Bourdon who was the Canucks top defensive prospect, the Canucks may have to pick a guy like Myers at #10 to give the defensive position more depth considering Bourdon was far and away our best defensive prospect.

Well since the news spread about the tragic loss of Luc Bourdon who was the Canucks top defensive prospect, the Canucks may have to pick a guy like Myers at #10 to give the defensive position more depth considering Bourdon was far and away our best defensive prospect.

Wouldn't surprise me if we take Myers. Its hard to talk about this with the loss of Luc, but I can't see Edler, being traded because it only leaves us with Ellington as a legit NHL defense prospect. Our D core needs to be upgraded.

I would rather have Michael Del Zotto than Myers. And not just because he has a cooler name.

Yeah, kind of makes this draft a lot different now.

I would rather have Michael Del Zotto than Myers. And not just because he has a cooler name.

Is there any scouting analysis available on those two? I'm googling around and can't find anything so far.

I think we have enough defensive corp to move forward, we can easily choose the BPA, hopefully its one of Boedker, Wilson.

Ohlund Salo
Mitchell Bieska
Krajieck Edler
Weaver

I think we should try to sign Nolan Bumgantur (sp) to play for the Moose.

What about trading up to get one of Doughty, Bogosian or Schenn.

Either 3 could end up doing fine.

this have nothing to do with Bourdon or not, but I want Vancouver and still want them to pick up a foward. We dont have any blue chip foward prospect. Patrick White is a waste. We have Blue chip goalie Schneider Blue chip Dman Edler but none for fowards, except for Raymond. We need someone of a higher level then Grabner, Raymond, somone that can be a solid foward prospect like Schnedier is a solid goalie prospect.

this have nothing to do with Bourdon or not, but I want Vancouver and still want them to pick up a foward. We dont have any blue chip foward prospect. Patrick White is a waste. We have Blue chip goalie Schneider Blue chip Dman Edler but none for fowards, except for Raymond. We need someone of a higher level then Grabner, Raymond, somone that can be a solid foward prospect like Schnedier is a solid goalie prospect.

I don't think theres anyone available at 10 that will end up being a really really good forward. Its top heavy of really good defensemen. And now we really need to draft a defenseman. So I think trading up is a good option here.

I don't think theres anyone available at 10 that will end up being a really really good forward. Its top heavy of really good defensemen.

Of course there is. Colin Wilson, Cody Hogson, Mikael Boeker, then theres B.C boy Kyle Beach, then theres that 5'9 guy from Sweden that have every hockey ability, (skating, scoring play making defence offence) there is plenty of offensive guys.

What about trading up to get one of Doughty, Bogosian or Schenn.

Either 3 could end up doing fine.

The Kings and Thrashers won't be trading their picks- I'm almost certain of that. They have the pick to get a francishe talent and they need it. To get Schenn we would have to trade up to 5 to make sure we get him, so then what do we give up to get there?

Of course there is. Colin Wilson, Cody Hogson, Mikael Boeker, then theres B.C boy Kyle Beach, then theres that 5'9 guy from Sweden that have every hockey ability, (skating, scoring play making defence offence) there is plenty of offensive guys.

I've heard bad things about Beach. Most of those players will be gone by the time we get to them too. Not only that but if we draft a forward we need a center. Hodgson and Wilson I don't think have the same potential as some of the defensemen.

The Kings and Thrashers won't be trading their picks- I'm almost certain of that. They have the pick to get a francishe talent and they need it. To get Schenn we would have to trade up to 5 to make sure we get him, so then what do we give up to get there?

What would NYI be interested in? St Louis is 4.

Schneider might be of interest to St Louis... I dont see NYI being interested in him at all. He's basically our only good bargaining chip right now.

I've heard bad things about Beach. Most of those players will be gone by the time we get to them too. Not only that but if we draft a forward we need a center. Hodgson and Wilson I don't think have the same potential as some of the defensemen.

actually if those high quality defencemens goes according to plan, then one of the following 3 (boeker wilson hogson) will be available, but of course i would love to land one of those highly touted defencemens, but those are the types that we want but will be gone. i dont want myers if hes not the real deal.

The Kings and Thrashers won't be trading their picks- I'm almost certain of that. They have the pick to get a francishe talent and they need it. To get Schenn we would have to trade up to 5 to make sure we get him, so then what do we give up to get there?

apparently from a l.a fan they may be auctioning out their 2nd overall pick.

Schneider might be of interest to St Louis...

they have marek swarzh. goalie prospect drafted ahead of schneider. rumors had it, dave nonis tried to move up in that draft to pick him.

I could see us doing a trade with LA.

I could see us doing a trade with LA.

Not for 2nd overall; Kings pretty much have on guy in mind that they want, and unless he'd be available at 10th overall, they're not going to move.

Not for 2nd overall; Kings pretty much have on guy in mind that they want, and unless he'd be available at 10th overall, they're not going to move.

Well obviously if they keep the 2nd they'll take Bogosian.

Was thinking the same thing, my list is now:
Hodgson
Boedker
Del Zotto
Myers
Bailey
Wilson

So is Myers a closer consensus now to the unforseeable tragedy of Luc. Or is offense still the key target.

I think now it turns it into BPA instead of looking at centers more than D

I think now it turns it into BPA instead of looking at centers more than D

I think you're right now. We just lost our best or second best prospect depending on how you look on it. Really Bourdon and Schneider were pretty close.

So our defense and offense is pretty shallow now.

take the BPA.

This situation shows that anything can happen, and you can't take depth at a position for granted. Obviously (hopefully) there won't be many more situations even close to this magnitude, but just because there is depth somewhere, doesn't mean it'll last.

A couple interesting articles that have popped up about the combine thus far:

Kyle Beach wants to set the record straight.

The Everett Silvertips centre has never beaten anybody over the head with a baseball bat, nor has he been charged for drunk driving. But the current bad boy of junior hockey readily admits he is anything but an angel when he steps on the ice.

...

For the past four days, NHL teams have been conducting interviews with draft eligible players. On average, a player will meet with about five to 10 teams. Beach has met with all 30, sometimes more than once.

...

The native of Kelowna, B.C., used to describe himself as "Corey Perry between the whistles and Sean Avery after the whistles." Now, he tries to model his game after Jarome Iginla.

"He's physical and can score, but he's also respected," Beach said of the Calgary Flames captain. "I think if I took fewer penalties, I could have put up more points. It's about knowing when not to cross the line."

http://www.nationalpost.com/sports/story.html?id=549785

What Filatov wants to talk about --and what general managers also want to hear --is just how dedicated he is about beginning his NHL career.

Is he willing to play for less money than he could make in Russia? Is he willing to spend a season in the Canadian Hockey League, if necessary, to get acclimated to the North American style of game? And is he willing to make the jump immediately?

According to Filatov, the answer is yes, yes and yes.

"Of course I'd go," he said. "Of course, I understand that I might have to go to junior or the American Hockey League. It's not a problem. It's OK.

"It's like a dream. My whole life I've wanted to play in the NHL. Now I think it's time to go to here."

http://www.faceoff.com/hockey/nhlnews/story.html?id=a524e39f-071e-437a-abef-4ac0fde2466d&add_feed_url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.faceoff.com%2Ftopfea tures.atom

I can't believe the draft is 3 weeks away!! SO EXCITING!

Kyle Beach reminds me a lot of Ryan Getzlaf. IIRC, Getzlaf had some attitude and discipline issues around the time of his draft and he turned out good. My only concern really with Beach is his concussion history.

Myers is definately an option now

Myers is definately an option now

omg i hope not.

omg i hope not.

He IS an option, we pick BPA now without a doubt.

I know this is not the spot--but to me it is a bit ironic the nucks pick 10th---the same number they had with Luc--

Myers would piss the hell out of me.

The Draft is so deep it is almost a can't miss like when you guys picked Kessler in 03. Right after him was Richards, Perry, Boyle, Bergeron. Your in a good spot. You need scoring and you can never have aenough D men so you wont draft for need it will be best player available.

I know this is not the spot--but to me it is a bit ironic the nucks pick 10th---the same number they had with Luc--

I don't know what kind of dictionaries you have but that ain't irony, pal.

And by the way, that was in bad taste whether you meant it to or not.


Anyways...


Still want the Canucks to select Beach. He's skilled, big, strong, mean and he is from BC. If Nonis was still GM I'd have confidence that Vancouver would draft him but now that Gillis has taken over the reins I expect a player like Boychuck or Tedenby. Perhaps Boedker if he falls to #10.

http://tsn.ca/nhl/story/?id=239235&lid=headline&lpos=topStory_main

Read the bit on Colin Wilson.
Of course, bench pressing doesn't translate into hockey skills, but if it's enough to make GM's or execs take notice, then it's something.

The more I read about this kid the more I want us to draft him.

http://tsn.ca/nhl/story/?id=239235&lid=headline&lpos=topStory_main

Read the bit on Colin Wilson.
Of course, bench pressing doesn't translate into hockey skills, but if it's enough to make GM's or execs take notice, then it's something.

The more I read about this kid the more I want us to draft him.

They mention in that article that Scott Mellanby is at the combine checking out the prospects. That's kind of interesting, I thought he was going to be involved more on the pro scouting side of things. Though obviously any improvement to the amateur scouting is a good thing.

They mention in that article that Scott Mellanby is at the combine checking out the prospects. That's kind of interesting, I thought he was going to be involved more on the pro scouting side of things. Though obviously any improvement to the amateur scouting is a good thing.

I'm guessing the Bourdon thing played a role. Gillis/Tambellini probably shifted their attention, as Gillis did mention that they just got off a flight during his conference call yesterday.

The more I read about Wilson the more I like him. He'd be a great addition to this team.

16 and 21 reps of what?

16 and 21 reps of what?

I remember reading 180 pounds somewhere, but I could be wrong.

More and more I'm beginning to think that the trio of Wilson/Hodgson/Boedkker will not be available at 10th overall. I don't really like the guys directly ranked after them (Myers, Bailey, Boychuk), so I think trading down is probably a good move for us. Buffalo is drafting 13th overall (Kotalik?), and Ottawa is at 18th overall (Vermette?)...we could take either of those picks and then go for a guy like Michael Del Zotto, Zac Dalpe, or Greg Nemisz.

Edit - Also, I *don't* think we should trade up. I'd rather have more picks.

More and more I'm beginning to think that the trio of Wilson/Hodgson/Boedkker will not be available at 10th overall. I don't really like the guys directly ranked after them (Myers, Bailey, Boychuk), so I think trading down is probably a good move for us. Buffalo is drafting 13th overall (Kotalik?), and Ottawa is at 18th overall (Vermette?)...we could take either of those picks and then go for a guy like Michael Del Zotto, Zac Dalpe, or Greg Nemisz.

Edit - Also, I *don't* think we should trade up. I'd rather have more picks.

I tend to agree with this. If those three are not available, trade down. I have a feeling someone before the Canucks will take a chance on Myers and one will be left tho.

http://tsn.ca/nhl/story/?id=239235&lid=headline&lpos=topStory_main

Read the bit on Colin Wilson.
Of course, bench pressing doesn't translate into hockey skills, but if it's enough to make GM's or execs take notice, then it's something.

The more I read about this kid the more I want us to draft him.

And - sorry to contribute to the overuse of this term, but - it's pretty much the antithesis of the sort of moneypuck philosophy Gillis seems interested in pursuing.

Impressive workout? Great! Now who produces the most on the ice?

And - sorry to contribute to the overuse of this term, but - it's pretty much the antithesis of the sort of moneypuck philosophy Gillis seems interested in pursuing.

Impressive workout? Great! Now who produces the most on the ice?

Wilson has solid hockey sense (in addition to his other intangibles) and that is definatly something Gillis is looking for. That being said, Gillis is on record as saying he wants to make the team quicker so I guess that's a question of whether or not they think Wilson's skating will be good enough.

More and more I'm beginning to think that the trio of Wilson/Hodgson/Boedkker will not be available at 10th overall. I don't really like the guys directly ranked after them (Myers, Bailey, Boychuk), so I think trading down is probably a good move for us. Buffalo is drafting 13th overall (Kotalik?), and Ottawa is at 18th overall (Vermette?)...we could take either of those picks and then go for a guy like Michael Del Zotto, Zac Dalpe, or Greg Nemisz.

Edit - Also, I *don't* think we should trade up. I'd rather have more picks.



There is a very good chance that none of those 3 will be available, but as long as one team goes off the board a bit (or just Myers) one of them will be available. And every year one team goes off the board for some reason, I'm just praying it isn't us. If none of those 3 are available at 10 then I would be all for trading down as long as the Canucks got something decent out of it.

But for now, I'm praying Colin Wilson is there at 10

More and more I'm beginning to think that the trio of Wilson/Hodgson/Boedkker will not be available at 10th overall. I don't really like the guys directly ranked after them (Myers, Bailey, Boychuk), so I think trading down is probably a good move for us. Buffalo is drafting 13th overall (Kotalik?), and Ottawa is at 18th overall (Vermette?)...we could take either of those picks and then go for a guy like Michael Del Zotto, Zac Dalpe, or Greg Nemisz.

Edit - Also, I *don't* think we should trade up. I'd rather have more picks.

I can't see Ottawa or Buffalo, or any team for that matter, trading a decent/good roster player, to move up less than 10 spots in this draft to the 10th spot when the consensus top 8/9 are all gone. If a player drops I could see it, but then the Canucks will likely just take that player.

I missed the beginning of the conversation, so I don't know the exact context, but Pratt and Taylor were just talking about Kyle Beach and Zach Boychuk being two players that the Canucks are focusing on.

Ray Ferraro suggested that Colin Wilson is the player they should be looking at with the 10th pick.

I remember reading 180 pounds somewhere, but I could be wrong.

TSN said 21 reps of 155 pounds during their segment on the combine.

TSN said 21 reps of 155 pounds during their segment on the combine.

From the video that's what it looked like. 2 plates and 10 lbs extra on each side.

But wow Colin Wilson is ripped.
Ridiculous for an 18 year-old.

Yeah, I stand corrected on that.

Red Line has a summary of their top-10 forwards this week. Doesn't really tell you anything new but it's nice to have a summary of the types of players they see the top-10 potentially becoming.

http://www.usatoday.com/sports/hockey/columnist/woodlief/2008-05-28-draft-forwards_N.htm?loc=interstitialskip

I missed the beginning of the conversation, so I don't know the exact context, but Pratt and Taylor were just talking about Kyle Beach and Zach Boychuk being two players that the Canucks are focusing on.


Are focusing on, or should be focusing on? Because there's a big difference. I remember last year where Pratt was saying that the Canucks were high on Moller. Obvoiusly they weren't, because they passed on him twice.

minus his size, Aaron Ness looked like a very legitimate defenseman, I'd be very happy if we snagged him at #40

Kyle Beach Interview with team1040:

He said he is very excited for the draft combine. He said he put lots of work in and hopes he can impress everyone at the combine. Speaking of which, he is very stressed out as can be expected for a young kid being watched under so many eyes. He has 28 interviews scheduled. On the injury front, he had hernia surgery at the end of the season and played through it throughout the second half of the season along with the concussion injuries. He believes he had an awesome start to the season but the second half was not nearly as good as it could've been w/o the injuries. Hopes the injuries won't continue throughout his future.

In response to being called a wildcard by many because of his style, he responded by stating that he's not afraid of the rough stuff and is willing to do whatever it takes to win. He admits he sometimes he crosses the line but believes his discipline (something he stated he's worked on all season with the coaches) has improved a lot since he was younger. He said with maturity he has become more disciplined, and with more maturity that procedure should continue. He also said a lot of his penalties were hard-working penalties (not totally sold on this) that were smart, defensive penalties.

He weighed in at the combine at 6'3 and 205 pounds, and that's without working in the last 5 weeks because of his injury. Very impressive size.

Kyle also mentioned his favourite player is Jarome Iginla as he does everything on his ice. He likes to model his game after him as well. In response to being asked where he thinks he'll go, he said it's possible that he goes from anywhere from the top 5 to outside the top 10. When asked about the Canucks, he responded by saying that they didn't visit him during the season but after the season he met with Harold Snepts and another member of the organization during a weekend in Kelowna. He also gave great props to Ellington and Gendur and would be glad to play with them in the future. When asked about Rich Harden (???), he mentioned that he is his second cousin.

On an off-topic note, the crying baby in the background was hilarious.

Now, onto my opinion. It appears as if his injuries hindered him in the second half (no ????) and that his best POTENTIAL was seen in the first-half. If he can overcome his injuries, he'll be a great player. They have to make sure though that his belligerence doesn't lead him to a Rick Rypien esque career in which he goes out there and hurts himself with his style of play. IMO, he has the best potential in the draft next to Steven Stamkos. The downside to that is that he also has the most bust potential. I'd definately take serious consideration into drafting the kid if I were the Canucks, along with a lot of other players.

minus his size, Aaron Ness looked like a very legitimate defenseman, I'd be very happy if we snagged him at #40
Yeah, a forward with the ten pick and a d-man with the 40 would be nice. BPA, still.

Yeah, a forward with the ten pick and a d-man with the 40 would be nice. BPA, still.

minus his size, Aaron Ness looked like a very legitimate defenseman, I'd be very happy if we snagged him at #40

There is no way Ness falls down below the early 30s. His size is one thing, but his potential and skating is insanely strong. I would put money that he goes somewhere in the mid twentys, maybe even before that.

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There is no way Ness falls down below the early 30s. His size is one thing, but his potential and skating is insanely strong. I would put money that he goes somewhere in the mid twentys, maybe even before that.

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Holy crap... HE is good...hopefully he falls lol..

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