Tuesday, June 18, 2002
Updated: June 20, 5:40 PM ET
2002 NHL entry draft prospects: Skaters
SportsTicker
The following are capsule summaries of the top prospective forwards and defensemen for the 2002 NHL entry draft at Air Canada Centre in Toronto, June 22-23. Players are listed in alphabetical order with posistion, height, weight, date of birth, 2001-02 team and statsitics:
Sergei Anshakov
LW 6-2 183 1/13/84 CSKA (Russia)
39 GP, 17 G, 12 A, 29 PTS, 10 PIM
Jumped from 32nd at midseason to eighth in final ranking of European players by NHL Central Scouting. Confident offensively with above-average stickhandling ability, he won a silver medal with Russia at the 2002 World Under-18 Championships. Takes advantage of his size and works well along the boards and in the corners. Also difficult to clear out from in front of the net.
Anton Babchuk
D 6-4 194 5/6/84 Elektrostal (Russia)
40 GP, 7 G, 8 A, 15 PTS, 90 PIM
Dropped five spots to seventh among European players as ranked by NHL Central Scouting. Aggressive defenseman is not afraid to use his size. Possesses a solid shot from the point and is used in all game situations. Was sixth among defensemen in scoring at the World Under-18 Championship. Highly skilled player skates well and has a temperament that belies a fiery competitiveness.
Keith Ballard
D 5-11 196 11/26/82 Minnesota (WCHA)
34 GP, 6 G, 12 A, 18 PTS, 28 PIM
Ranked 19th among North American prospects at midseason and the end of the season by NHL Central Scouting. As a freshman, helped Minnesota capture the NCAA championship and represented the United States at the World Junior Championship, picking up a goal and an assist in seven games. Spent the 2000-01 season with Omaha of the U.S. Hockey League and led all defenseman in scoring with 22 goals and 29 assists in 56 games. Adroit skater who likes to join the rush, he has a quick wrist shot and a
heavy slap shot. Gritty player dispenses solid checks and is willing to sacrifice himself to make a play. Good shot blocker who sees plenty of ice time on special teams.
Michael Banika
D 6-3 200 6/12/84 Budejovice (Czech)
29 GP, 4 G, 13 A, 17 PTS, 77 PIM
Jumped 19 spots from midseason and was fifth-ranked European prospect, according to NHL Central Scouting. Was fifth among defenseman in scoring at the World Under-18 Championship, helping the Czech Republic to the bronze medal. Recruited for the top Czech junior league as a 15-year-old. Was a junior teammate of Buffalo Sabres prospect Jiri Novotny. Strong skater who does his best work in his own zone. Uses impressive size to his advantage. Strong in one-on-one situations as well as in tight spaces and in front of the net.
Sean Bergenheim
W 5-11 194 2/8/84 Jokerit (Finland)
28 GP, 2 G, 2 A, 4 PTS, 4 PIM
Slipped eight spots from midseason to finish as NHL Central Scouting's 15th-ranked European prospect. Started the season with Vantaa, a junior team, before joining Jokerit and winning the Finnish Elite League championship. Also captured a bronze medal at the World Junior Championships, where he had one assist in seven games. Led Finland in scoring at the World Under-18 Championship with eight goals and four assists in eight games. Is a junior teammate of top goaltending prospect Kari Lehtonen. Excellent skater with an above-average shot, he is dangerous around the net. Sees time on both the power-play and penalty-killing units. Scouts like his attitude and competitive streak.
Pierre-Marc Bouchard
C 5-9 155 4/27/84 Chicoutimi (QMJHL)
69 GP, 46 G, 94 A, 140 PTS, 54 PIM
Quebec junior league scoring champion rose 10 spots to 10th among North American prospects as ranked by NHL Central Scouting. Had two hat tricks and recorded a 22-game points streak from October 29-January 2. Represented Canada at the World Under-18 Championship and led the team in scoring with four goals and eight assists in eight games. Named Canadian Hockey League Player of the Year, outpolling NHL prospects Dan Hamhuis of the Nashville Predators and Brad Boyes of the Toronto Maple Leafs. Intelligent player and adept playmaker, he is considered a scoring threat every team he is on the ice. Sees time on both the power-play and penalty-killing units. Lacks
size but refuses to back down against a physical opponent.
Jay Bouwmeester
D 6-3 206 9/27/83 Medicine Hat (WHL)
61 GP, 12 G, 49 A, 61 PTS, 42 PIM
Consensus selection to go first overall, he was NHL Central Scouting's top-ranked North American prospect at both midseason and the end of the season. Described by former NHLer Brent Sutter as "a jewel," he was named an All-Star at the World Junior Championship after helping Canada capture the silver medal. Had a goal and an assist at the Top Prospects Game, where he was named his team's best player. Had points streaks of six and eight games and was third in scoring among WHL defensemen. In 2000, joined Wayne Gretzky, Eric Lindros and Jason Spezza as the only 16-year-olds to play for Canada at the World Junior Championships. Was a member of the CHL's All-Rookie Team in 1999-2000, a unit that included Columbus Blue Jackets defenseman Rostislav Klesla and New York Rangers goaltender Dan Blackburn. One of the fastest skaters in major
junior hockey, he has quick acceleration and possesses the ability to control the flow of the game. Confident puckhandler and solid decision-maker on the ice. Already has the size to make it in the NHL, although he does not play an overtly physical style. Logs a lot of ice time and boasts a lethal one-timer. His junior coach, Bob Loucks, called him "a man among boys," adding, "He's one of those players who comes down the road once in a lifetime for most people. ... He's not going to be just another NHL player. He'll be exceptional because he wants to be as good as he can be."
Tim Brent
C 6-0 175 3/10/84 St. Michael's (OHL)
61 GP, 19 G, 40 A, 59 PTS, 52 PIM
Rose eight spots to 28th among North American prospects, according to NHL Central Scouting. Selected for the Top Prospects Game but did not play due to injury. Was fourth on his junior team in scoring after compiling a seven-game points streak from November 11-29. Also recorded a five-point game with a goal and four assists on September 30. Taken second overall in the 2000 Ontario junoir league draft. Above-average playmaker, scouts note his keen hockey sense and anticipation. Has a quick, accurate shot and excels on faceoffs. While he does his best work in the offensive zone, he recognizes his defensive responsibilities.
Gregory Campbell
C/LW 6-0 191 12/17/83 Plymouth (OHL)
65 GP, 17 G, 36 A, 53 PTS, 105 PIM
Son of former NHL defenseman and current NHL executive vice president Colin Campbell. Climbed four spots from midseason and was NHL Central Scouting's 21st-ranked North American prospects. Described by his junior coach as a "physical fitness nut," he plays well at both ends of the ice. Ranked fifth on his team in scoring, increasing his production by 39 points from his first junior season. Scored a goal at the Top Prospects Game. A good shot-blocker who is willing to sacrifice himself to make the play. Intelligent player with good passing skills who plays hard on every shift.
Erik Christensen
C 6-1 178 12/17/83 Kamloops (WHL)
70 GP, 22 G, 36 A, 58 PTS, 68 PIM
Stock plummeted during the season as he fell from 21st to 46th among North American prospects. Logged a lot of time on the power play and is described as a finesse player. Possesses breakaway speed and strong puck-handling skills, which make him effective in one-on-one situations. Was his junior team's most valuable player in the 2001 playoffs.
Ben Eager
LW 6-2 210 1/22/84 Oshawa (OHL)
63 GP, 14 G, 23 A, 37 PTS, 255 PIM
Statistics tell only part of the story for this big winger. While he was third in the Ontario junior league in penalty minutes, he also recorded the fastest times in the 60-foot and
150-foot dashes in the skills competition at the Top Prospects Game. His time in the 150-foot event was the fastest ever. Slipped from 10th to 15th among North American prospects as ranked by NHL Central Scouting. In addition to his prodigious skating, his size makes him difficult to knock off the puck. He also excels in the corners and along the boards and delivers punishing checks. Played for Canada at the World Under-18 Championship.
Steve Eminger
D 6-1 196 10/31/83 Kitchener (OHL)
64 GP, 19 G, 39 A, 58 PTS, 93 PIM
Ranked sixth among North American prospects and third among defensemen by NHL Central Scouting. Was fifth among defensemen in scoring in the Ontario junior league, where he was runner-up for best skater in the Western Conference. Recorded the fastest time in the puck control relay at the skills competition at the Top Prospects game. Superior offensive-minded defenseman who quarterbacks the power play and sees extensive time in penalty-killing situations. Strong skater with good lateral movement, he can control the flow of the game. Played for Canada at the Four Nations tournament and was invited to training camp for the National Junior team.
Lee Falardeau
C 6-4 203 7/22/83 Michigan State (CCHA)
29 GP, 4 G, 9 A, 13 PTS, 22 PIM
Ranked 31st among North American prospects by NHL Central Scouting, up six spots from midseason. Was ranked 151st last year but chose not to opt in to the NHL draft. Scored just four goals as a freshman at Michigan State but was invited to training camp for the U.S. National Junior team. Deceptively fast for a power forward, he has breakaway speed and above average acceleration. Described by scouts as an aggressive player and tenacious forechecker. Solid faceoff man is often used for key draws and logs a lot of time on the penalty-killing unit. Uses his outstanding reach to create scoring chances
around the net.
Matt Foy
RW 6-2 190 5/18/83 Merrimack (HE)
29 GP, 4 G, 9 A, 13 PTS, 22 PIM
Jumped from 57th at midseason to 34th among North American prospects, according to NHL Central Scouting. Was sixth on his team in scoring as a freshman, posting a six-game points streak from December 15-January 14. Ontario native spent the 2000-01 season with Wexford, a Junior A team. Strong skater with good balance and quick acceleration. Possesses a heavy shot and solid stickhandling and passing skills. Scouts believe he has the potential to be a power forward. Aggressive in the corners
and in front of the net. Described by one scout as "abrasive."
Jeff Genovy
C 6-3 191 12/4/82 Des Moines (USHL)
52 GP, 23 G, 23 A, 46 PTS, 86 PIM
Soared 55 spots to 38th in NHL Central Scouting's ranking of North American prospects. In his first season in the U.S. Hockey League, compiled one of the longest goal-scoring streaks with nine goals in seven games. Was second on his team in scoring and played in the USHL Top Prospects/All-Star Game. Expected to attend Clarkson University next season. His father, Alan, played minor league hockey in the Detroit Red Wings' system. Good skater with above average stickhandling and passing skills. Intelligent player who anticipates the action and covers for out-of-position teammates. Has a solid physical presence and is used often on special teams. Good on faceoffs.
Rob Globke
C/RW 6-2 200 10/24/82 Notre Dame (CCHA)
29 GP, 11 G, 11 A, 22 PTS, 73 PIM
Slid six spots to 14th among NHL Central Scouting's top North American prospects. Went from 17 goals as a freshman at Notre Dame to 11 as a sophomore but was the youngest member of the U.S. team at the World Junior Championship. Decided not to opt in to last year's NHL draft after he was ranked 21st at midseason. Needed only three years to graduate from Michigan's Southfield Christian High School. Powerful skater boasts natural scoring instincts. Has a quick, accurate shot and is particularly effective on the power play. Also excels in one-on-one situations and can use his size to control the play. His college coach, former NHLer Dave Poulin, said Globke has improved his play away from the puck. "With Rob, you get an excellent combination of speed and skill," Poulin added.
Denis Grebeshkov
D 6-0 189 10/11/83 Yaroslavl (Russia)
26 GP, 1 G, 2 A, 3 PTS, 11 PIM
Fourth-ranked European prospect, according to NHL Central Scouting. Completed his second season in the Russian senior league, helping his team win the championship. Represented Russia at the World Junior Championship and was seventh among defensemen in scoring with a goal and two assists in seven games. Stay-at-home defenseman displays a basic understanding of the game but usually opts for the safe play. Solid hitter will not avoid the physical side of the game. Scouts describe him as "steady."
Denis Grot
D 6-1 180 1/6/84 Elektrostal (Russia)
33 GP, 1 G, 1 A, 2 PTS, 42 PIM
Rose 10 spots to 11th among NHL Central Scouting's top European prospects. Although he is a member of the Yaroslavl organization, he spent most of last season with Elektrostal and is expected to play for Lokomotiv Yaroslavl in the Russian senior league in 2002-03. Smooth skater plays with an aggressive edge. Enjoys the physical aspect of the game and is strong in the corners and in front of his own net. Does his best work in his own zone. Possesses good hockey sense and sees the ice well.
Adam Henrich
LW 6-4 230 1/19/84 Brampton (OHL)
66 GP, 33 G, 30 A, 63 PTS, 92 PIM
Fell 11 spots from midseason to 23rd among North American
prospects, although his production increased by 700 percent in
his second year of major junior hockey. Participated in the Top
Prospects Game and shared the title in the hardest shot
competition at 96.0 miles per hour. Recorded a pair of hat
tricks and led his junior team in goals and points. Older
brother, Michael, was selected 13th overall by Edmonton in the
1998 draft. Smooth skater and puckhandler with strong passing
skills. Likes to take advantage of his size and is effective in
front of the net on deflections and rebounds. Scouts describe
him as a "natural goal-scorer with a hard shot and a quick
release." Does not always come to play a physical game. "He
has all the tools to be a player," said Brent Loney, his junior
team assistant coach.
Christopher Higgins
C 5-11 192 6/2/83 Yale (ECAC)
25 GP, 13 G, 16 A, 29 PTS, 32 PIM
Jumped eight spots to ninth among North American prospects after
leading the U.S. team in scoring at the World Junior
Championships with four goals and two assists in seven games.
Led Yale in all major offensive categories as a freshman. Named
ECAC Rookie of the Year and was the only freshman selected to
the New England Hockey Writers' Association All-Star team. Like
2001 first-round pick Mike Komisarek, is a native of Long
Island, New York. Spent three years at hockey power Avon Old
Farms High School. Decided not to opt in to last year's NHL
draft as the 118th-ranked prospect. Smooth skater with
impressive acceleration, he has been described by scouts as an
intelligent player and creative playmaker. Confident and
patient player who excels in pressure situations. While he is
not the biggest player, he can deliver a big check and is
willing to sacrifice to make a play.
Jiri Hudler
C 5-9 176 1/4/84 Vsetin (Czech)
46 GP, 15 G, 31 A, 46 PTS, 54 PIM
Third-ranked European prospect completed his second season in
the Czech senior league, where he averaged a point a game.
Scouts say he plays at an exceptionally high skill level and can
make the pinpoint pass. But some teams may shy away from him
because of his lack of size. He also suffered a serious neck
injury during the 2000-01 season. But he has been a prospect
since the age of 13 and almost always has played among older
players. One scout described him as "an offensive threat every
time he is on the ice." Was sixth on the Czech team in scoring
at the World Junior Championships. Was a teammate of prospect
Petr Taticek at the Under-17 Challenge in 2000.
Matt Jones
D 6-0 214 8/8/83 North Dakota (WCHA)
35 GP, 2 G, 5 A, 7 PTS, 20 PIM
Rose 10 spots to 25th among NHL Central Scouting's North
American prospects. Stay-at-home defenseman completed his
freshman season at North Dakota after spent 2000-01 with Green
Bay of the U.S. Hockey League. Decided to play college hockey
after he was selected 288th overall by Toronto-St. Michael's
in the 2000 Ontario Hockey League draft. Was ranked 66th by
Central Scouting last season but did not opt in to the NHL
draft. Powerful skater has shown flashes of offensive ability
but can dominate in the defensive zone. Plays a physical brand
of hockey and can punish opponents in the corners and in front
of his own net.
Alexei Kaigorodov
C 6-1 183 7/29/83 Magnitogorsk (Russia)
44 GP, 4 G, 12 A, 16 PTS, 24 PIM
Made a remarkable surge from midseason, rising 41 spots to
finish as the ninth-ranked European prospect. Was ranked 62nd
last year but decided to skip the NHL draft. Completed his
first season in the Russian senior league. Speedy skater with
impressive agility and good lateral movement. Works well in
traffic and also is strong in 1-on-1 situations. Will not shy
away from physical aspect of the game.
Petr Kanko
RW 5-9 195 2/7/84 Kitchener (OHL)
61 GP, 28 G, 32 A, 60 PTS, 54 PIM
Czech native made the jump to major junior hockey this past
season after he was selected second overall in the 2001 junior
import draft. The 26th-ranked North American prospect
participated in the Top Prospects Game. Had a four-goal game
on January 25 and had a six-game points streak from February
24-March 9. Led the Czech team in scoring at the 2001 World
Under-18 Championship. Solid skater has great quickness and
breakaway speed. Possesses strong offensive instincts and a
quick, accurate shot. His assistant coach in juniors, Steve
Spott, likened him to a North American player in terms of grit
and toughness. Sees time on the power-play and penalty-killing
units and tied for the team lead with four shorthanded goals.
Jakub Klepis
C 6-0 200 6/5/84 Portland (WHL)
70 GP, 14 G, 50 A, 64 PTS, 111 PIM
Czech native made the jump to major junior hockey and finished
the season ranked 16th among North American prospects. Appeared
in the Top Prospects Game and won the accuracy shooting event in
his junior team's skills competition. Had points streaks of
nine and five games during the season and was fourth among
Western Hockey League rookies in scoring. Fluid skater is an
unselfish playmaker with strong stickhandling skills. Possesses
an above-average wrist shot and a hard slap shot. While he has
been described as a finesse player, he has shown signs of a mean
streak. Portland coach Mike Williams described him as "very
coachable and unselfish." Faceoff specialist often was assigned
to special teams.
Kirill Koltsov
D 5-11 183 2/1/83 Avangard Omsk (Russia)
70 GP, 14 G, 50 A, 64 PTS, 111 PIM
Ranked sixth among European prospects, same spot he occupied
last year when he decided to opt out of the NHL draft.
Completed his second season in the Russian senior league, where
he was teammates with 2001 first-round picks Alexander Svitov
and Stanislav Chistov. Was Rookie of the Year in the senior
league in 2000-01, then led all defensemen in scoring at the
2001 World Under-18 Championships. Stayed in Europe after he
was taken with the 40th pick in the 2000 Canadian junior import
draft. Excellent skater had strong puckhandling and playmaking
skills. Offensive-minded defenseman will not shy away from
physical play. Needs to improve his discipline and positional
play.
Jakub Koreis
C 6-3 205 6/26/84 Plzen (Czech)
20 GP, 12 G, 13 A, 25 PTS, 36 PIM
Tenth-ranked European prospect split the 2001-02 season between
Plzen's junior and senior teams in the Czech league. Wears
uniform No. 18 to honor his father, who starred for Plzen in the
Czech Elite League. Won a bronze medal at the 2002 World
Under-18 Championship. Played in the top Czech midget league in
1999-00 at the age of 14. Boasts impressive speed and good
stickhandling and passing skills. Creative playmaker can
control the flow int he offensive zone. Uses size to his
advantage in the corners and along the boards. Tenacious
forechecker who throws his body around as part of an aggressive
style. Mature for his age, he is used in all situations.
Brian Lee
D 6-2 187 7/5/84 Erie (OHL)
66 GP, 5 G, 14 A, 19 PTS, 115 PIM
Jumped 20 spots to 30th among North American prospects after
helping Erie win the Ontario Hockey League championship and earn
a spot in the Memorial Cup tournament. Greatly improved his
offensive production from his first junior season to his second.
Strong skater plays well positionally in the defensive zone. Is
able to remain cool under pressure and displays solid
decision-making. Good puckhandler with a hard point shot, he
has the potential to develop his offensive game. Excels in
aggressive, physical situations. Like to throw hip checks and
is strong in the corners and in front of his own net.
Joakim Lindstrom
W 6-0 187 12/5/83 MoDo (Sweden)
42 GP, 4 G, 3 A, 7 PTS, 20 PIM
Ranked 13th among European prospects by NHL Central Scouting, up
nine spots from midseason. Split the 2001-02 season between
MoDo's junior and Elite League teams. Was 19th among rookies in
scoring in the Elite League. Finished second on the Swedish
team in scoring at the 2001 World Under-18 Championship with two
goals and five assists in six games. Excellent skater has
natural scoring instincts and is described by scouts as an
"offensive threat every shift." Good competitor prefers a
finesse game. Solid stickhandler boasts a quick wrist shot.
Joffrey Lupul
C/RW 6-1 194 9/23/83 Medicine Hat (WHL)
72 GP, 56 G, 51 A, 107 PTS, 95 PIM
Ranked fourth among North American prospects by NHL Central
Scouting, he scored twice and was named his team's player at the
Top Prospects Game. Had a pair of four-goal games during the
season and compiled a 12-game points streak from December
1-January 1. Led the Western Hockey League in goals and was
second in scoring. Success at the junior level came after he
was bypassed in the WHL bantam draft. Deceptive skater, he can
accelerate quickly. Excellent stickhandler works well in tight
situations. Scouts like his hockey sense and vision and
describe him as an unselfish playmaker. A natural goal-scorer,
he possesses an accurate wrist shot and can play all three
forward positions. He led the WHL with eight shorthanded goals
and tied for fifth with 19 on the power play. "Joffrey
possesses great skill, fast hands and can score in a great
variety of ways -- wrist shot, snap, slap shot, backhand or
deke," junior coach Bob Loucks said.
Lance Monych
RW 6-1 199 6/25/84 Brandon (WHL)
71 GP, 18 G, 30 A, 48 PTS, 96 PIM
Fell 11 spots from midseason to 27th among NHL Central
Scouting's North American prospects. Scored a goal at the Top
Prospects Game. Was fourth on his junior team in scoring and
helped it reach the WHL Eastern Conference championship. Played
three games of major junior hockey in 1999-2000 as a
15-year-old. Agile skater has good stickhandling skills, which
help him play well in heavy traffic. Anticipates the play well
and possesses creative play-making ability. An aggressive
forechecker and rugged competitor, he is used on both the
power-play and penalty-killing units. Can play all three
forward positions.
Rick Nash
LW 6-3 188 6/16/84 London (OHL)
54 GP, 32 G, 40 A, 72 PTS, 88 PIM
Second-ranked North American prospect proved dangerous on the
power play, amassing more than half his point on the man
advantage. Participated in the Top Prospects Game and won a
silver medal with Canada at the World Junior Championships. Was
an alternate captain on his junior team and amassed a 12-game
points streak from November 22-January 18. Was a finalist as
the player "most dangerous in the goal area" in the Western
Conference in a poll of Ontario Hockey League coaches. Was
second on his team in scoring and third in goals despite playing
just 54 games. Had a hat trick in the gold medal game of the
2001 Six Nations tournament. "I've never seen a player step in
at such a young age and be able to dominate a game the way he
is," said Stan Butler, coach of the Canadian National Junior
team. Good skater combines speed, power and lateral movement.
Despite lacking bulk, is strong along the boards and in the
corners. Excellent stickhandler and playmaker, he possesses
solid stamina and is on the ice in most key situations. "When
a 16-year-old is as dominant as he was last year, you know he's
the real thing," said Sherry Bassin, general manager of the
rival Erie Otters.
Eric Nystrom
RW 6-1 195 2/14/83 Michigan (CCHA)
32 GP, 15 G, 9 A, 24 PTS, 32 PIM
Son of New York Islanders Stanley Cup hero Bobby Nystrom, he is
NHL Central Scouting's 13th-ranked North American prospect.
"He is always giving me grief about how I am a better skater and
have better hands than he had, but I'm not as tough as he was,"
he said of his famous father. Became just the second Michigan
freshman to record a four-point game, joining Edmonton Oilers
star Mike Comrie. Was second among CCHA rookies in goals and
helped the Wolverines reach the NCAA Frozen Four. Was ranked
32nd by Central Scouting last year but decided not to opt in to
the draft. Powerful yet smooth skater is hard to knock off his
skates. Boasts a good scoring touch but knows his defensive
responsibilities and plays a solid two-way game. Was used on
the power play and in penalty-killing situations. Like his
father, plays aggressively along the boards and in the corners.
Will sacrifice himself in front of the net to make a play.
Dan Paille
LW 6-0 200 4/15/84 Guelph (OHL)
62 GP, 27 G, 30 A, 57 PTS, 54 PIM
Moved up three spots to 12th among North American prospects,
according to NHL Central Scouting. Was runner-up as best body
checker in the Western Conference in a poll of OHL coaches.
Participated in the Top Prospects Game and had points streaks of
four and five games in his second season of major junior hockey.
Junior coach Jeff Jackson likened him to Boston Bruins prospect
Andy Hilbert. "He's one of those guys you want on the ice in
crucial situations," Jackson said. "He's extremely strong on
his skates and I just love his intensity." Smooth skater has a
good head for the game and natural offensive instincts. Also
aware of his defensive responsibilities, making him a solid
two-way player. Tenacious forechecker plays a physical game.
Joni Pitkanen
D 6-3 202 9/19/83 Karpat (Finland)
49 GP, 4 G, 15 A, 19 PTS, 65 PIM
Top-ranked European prospect, his position did not change from
midseason. Completed his second season in the Finnish Elite
League and won a bronze medal at the World Junior Championships,
where he ranked third among defensemen in scoring with a goal
and three assists in seven games. Strong skater with good
acceleration, he is an intelligent player who anticipates the
flow of the game. Good puck-carrier and passer also is reliable
in his own zone. While primarily a finesse player, he can be
extremely physical in the corners and in front of his own net.
Aaron Rome
D 6-1 203 9/27/83 Swift Current (WHL)
70 GP, 7 G, 24 A, 31 PTS, 168 PIM
Ranked 24th among North American prospects, he completed his
third season of major junior hockey and participated in the Top
Prospects Game. Was traded at midseason as part of a
five-player swap involving Montreal Canadiens prospect Duncan
Milroy. Strong skater and adroit passer will join the rush in
key situations. Logged a lot of time on the power play and also
was used in penalty-killing situations. Possesses a hard shot
from the point and also can make a good outlet pass. Not
tremendously physical but will make his presence felt in the
neutral zone. "He is a good playmaker, he skates well, he's
very responsible with the puck and can be an offensive
defenseman," junior coach Bob McEwen said.
Alexander Semin
LW 6-0 174 3/3/84 Chelyabinsk (Russia)
46 GP, 13 G, 8 A, 21 PTS, 52 PIM
Moved up seven spots and finished the season as the
second-ranked European prospect. Won a silver medal with Russia
at the 2001 World Under-18 Championship, where he was second in
the tournament in scoring with eight goals and seven assists in
eight games. Also was second with an impressive plus-13 rating.
Named best forward at the 2002 Five Nations Cup. Swift skater
with impressive acceleration also works well in traffic. Scouts
think he has a "high overall skill level" and label him as "a
dynamic offensive talent with a good combination of speed and
scoring ability." Plays well at both ends of the rink and has a
solid understanding of the game. Not particularly big but is
strong in front of the net and will deliver the occasional big
check.
Brett Skinner
D 6-1 170 6/28/83 Des Moines (USHL)
44 GP, 9 G, 38 A, 47 PTS, 25 PIM
Manitoba native spent last season in the U.S. Hockey League,
where he ranked second among defensemen in scoring despite
missing 15 games with a broken ankle. Rose seven spots to 22nd
among North American prospects as ranked by NHL Central
Scouting. Named Top Defenseman in the USHL. Is expected to
attend the University of Denver next season. Effortless skater
with impressive acceleration and balance. Described by scouts
as an "exceptional passer" and intelligent player. Very
effective on the power play and occasionally was used as a
forward. Effective stickchecker due to a long reach.
Considered a finesse player, he needs to add a physical
component to his game.
Jim Slater
C 6-0 190 12/9/82 Michigan State (CCHA)
32 GP, 9 G, 18 A, 27 PTS, 48 PIM
Fell four spots to 11th among North American prospects,
according to NHL Central Scouting. Was fourth among CCHA
rookies in scoring as a Michigan State freshman. Made his
college debut in the "Cold War" outdoor game against Michigan
before a record crowd of 74,554. Had an assist and scored the
tying goal in that contest. Was fifth on the United States team
in scoring at the World Junior Championships with a goal and
four assists. Son of Bill Slater, a defensive lineman with the
Minnesota Vikings and New England Patriots. Bypassed the NHL
draft last year as the 76th-ranked prospect. Outstanding skater
with tremendous acceleration and breakaway speed. Hard to knock
off the puck and possesses a powerful, accurate shot. Has a
knack of scoring big goals. Effective two-way player who likes
to dispense punishing checks. Described by scouts as
"abrasive," he is extremely aggressive around the opponent's net
and thrives in a physical setting.
Matt Stajan
C 6-1 178 12/19/83 Belleville (OHL)
68 GP, 33 G, 52 A, 85 PTS, 50 PIM
Moved up five spots to 18th among North American prospects,
according to NHL Central Scouting. Was sixth in the Ontario
junior league with a plus-36 rating. Recorded a league
season-high 12-game assists streak, totaling 18 from January
5-February 9. Named most underrated player in the Eastern
Conference in a poll of OHL coaches and was a finalist for top
defensive forward honors. Was a midget teammate of fellow
prospect Matt Foy. Fluid skater possesses deceptive outside
speed. Creative playmaker with good hockey sense. Solid
forechecker likes to drive to the net. Used often in key
faceoff situations. Tireless worker who will sacrifice himself
to make a play.
Alexander Steen
C 5-11 183 3/1/84 Frolunda (Sweden)
26 GP, 0 G, 3 A, 3 PTS, 14 PIM
Son of former NHLer Thomas Steen is the 12th-ranked European
prospect. Captained Sweden at the World Under-18 Championship
and led the team in scoring with two goals and six assists in
eight games. Split the season between Frolunda's junior and
Elite League teams, ranking seventh in scoring in the junior
league. Smooth skater with good quickness. Talented all-around
player with strong stickhandling and passing skills. Described
by scouts as a creative playmaker with a good shot. Like his
father, he is effective in penalty-killing situations and is
primarily a finesse player. Refuses to be intimidated in a
physical game and displays natural leadership abilities.
Barry Tallackson
RW 6-4 196 4/14/83 Minnesota (WCHA)
37 GP, 12 G, 6 A, 18 PTS, 36 PIM
Moved up 10 spots to 17th among North American prospects. North
Dakota native helped Minnesota capture the NCAA Championship as
a freshman, finishing third among WCHA rookies in goals and
ninth in scoring. Bypassed last year's NHL draft after he was
ranked 35th by Central Scouting. Attended evaluation camp last
August for the U.S. National Junior team. Strong skater with
good speed and agility for a player his size. Has a quick, hard
wrist shot and possesses good scoring instincts. Tough player
who is particularly effective in the corners and in front of the
net. Was used on the power play and in penalty-killing
situations but needs to work on his consistency.
Petr Taticek
C 6-2 188 9/22/83 Sault Ste. Marie (OHL)
60 GP, 21 G, 42 A, 63 PTS, 32 PIM
Czech native completed his first season of major junior hockey and moved up two spots to seventh among North American prospects. Scored the winning goal on a penalty shot at the Top Prospects Game. Finished fourth among rookies in scoring in the Ontario junior league. After spending the 2000-01 season with Kladno of the Czech junior league, he was the eighth overall pick in the Canadian junior import draft. His father, Petr, played professionally in Germany and currently coaches Kladno. Strong skater with deceptive speed. A savvy playmaker, he uses his reach to excel in heavy traffic. Scouts like his decision-making ability around the net. Used for most key faceoffs and on the point on the power play. An excellent finesse player who has not trouble adapting to a physical game. "It took him 25 minutes in his first practice to fit in," said junior coach Craig Hartsburg, a former NHL defenseman and coach. "Right away, we could all tell that he had the skills and the hockey sense to be a strong player."
Scottie Upshall
RW 5-11 176 10/7/83 Kamloops (WHL)
61 GP, 32 G, 51 A, 83 PTS, 139 PIM
Fifth-ranked North American prospect, he won a silver medal with Canada at the World Junior Championships. Registered an assist in the Top Prospects Game and recorded points streaks of 11 and nine games during his second season of major junior hockey. Was 10th in the Western Hockey League in assists and second on his team in scoring. Led all WHL rookies in goals and scoring in 2000-01 after he was not selected in the league's bantam draft. Good skater with quick acceleration is not easy to knock off the
puck. Highly skilled player who displays solid decision-making ability. Scouts like the way he uses his teammates. Strong stickhandler who can score in many different ways. Coaches and opponents like his grit. "He has a fierceness in his game that elevates him among the best in his age group in all of junior hockey," said Mike Moore, the general manager of his junior team. Tenacious forechecker is used in all game situations.
Martin Vagner
D 6-1 214 3/16/84 Hull (QMJHL)
64 GP, 6 G, 28 A, 34 PTS, 81 PIM
Moved up six spots to finish the season as NHL Central Scouting's eighth-ranked prospect. Czech native was the third overall pick in the Canadian junior import draft. Participated in the Top Prospects Game and was second among rookie defensemen in scoring in the Quebec junior league. Came to North America after spending the 2000-01 season with HC Pardubice in the Czech junior league. Agile skater is hard to knock off the puck. He sees the ice well and has excellent anticipation. Confident
puck-carrier can lead the offensive attack. Boasts an accurate wrist shot and makes good use of his defense partner. Plays sound positionally in the defensive zone and delivers punishing checks. Already fluent in English, he was a junior teammate of Edmonton Oilers prospect Ales Hemsky.
Ryan Whitney
D 6-3 202 2/19/83 Boston U. (HE)
31 GP, 4 G, 15 A, 19 PTS, 44 PIM
Moved up one spot to become the third-ranked North American prospect after his freshman season at Boston University. Boston native played for the United States at the World Junior Championships and led American defensemen in scoring with a goal and two assists in seven games. Was second on his college team with a plus-16 rating. Named to the Hockey East All-Rookie squad. Was ranked sixth by NHL Central Scouting last year but decided to bypass the draft. Attended Thayer Academy before joining the U.S. National Team development program. Strong, smooth skater who is confident with the puck and has shown he can lead the rush. Possesses a low, hard point
shot. Anticipates the play well and can control the tempo. Uses his long reach to be an effective stickchecker and uses his size to play strong along the boards and in front of his own net. "He has great size, is an excellent puckhandler. He is also a great passer, which makes him a good offensive defenseman," college coach Jack Parker said. "He has also gotten stronger since he's been here and he has been playing much better defensively. It is easy to see why he is a top prospect."
