PIETTA Daniel

He is having a good World U18 Championship, he has 11 points in 5 games. Can someone tell me more about him. Does he have a chance to be drafted? Thanks for all your help!

He might have a chance to get drafted. Got a short callup to the DEL last year when he played pretty strong in a cup game against Hamburg. Afterwards he was on the team für 2 or 3 DEL games but only got a hand full of shifts. He has a pretty good body for a 17-year old (little over 200 lbs). Plays a hard nosed game when he can (it actually is not allowed in german juniors). Landed a few good hits in the mentioned Hamburg-game. Good stickhandler and also a good shot. Solid to quality skater. Maybe not as good as Ehrhoff but definately not too far away. He is under two way - contract for next year with the penguins' DEL-Team. It will likely depend on the pre-season if he gets a real shot or plays the season on the farm (Duisburg, 2nd tier).

He can play all the offensive Positions and also played defense last two seasons in the DNL. He was the DNL's 5th best scorer I think, last season. Keep in mind he played on D! He is definately a quality prospect and should at least have the tools to become an over average DEL-Player. If he can do it to the NHL? Tough to judge on. Depends on his willingness to work and learn. I think he has as much talent as Ehrhoff. The point is, Ehrhoffs key to success is only 30-40% talent. The Rest is hard work and a ton of heart.... You have to wait at least this season for Pietta to prove he is willing. That said I think he won't be eligable till 05, so he will still have the year! With the Penguins lowering their budget he has all the chances to be in the DEL for at least 20+ games if you ask me.

Zorin