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Monday, May 08, 2006
2006 EHK Sports Pre-Draft Showcase Review:
Defensemen EHK Sports Enterprises News Exclusive |
■ Parker Metz - Young defenseman at 6'3 215 lbs., from North Dakota has the size scouts like and the grit to go with; received a lot of attention here, as well as last summer at the Select 16 Festival and for the Omaha Energy minor team this season. Looking at a number of options that should enhance his exposure to junior and college teams. Late '89 birthdate.
■ CJ Rankin - Right shot 5'11 200 lb. blueliner played with the grit that coaches like to see out of their responsible blueliners. Brother played with Springfield (NAHL) and was a competitor at the junior level, this one should follow in his footsteps at the next level. '88 birthdate.
■ Blake Edwards - Young blue liner played last season with the Ohio Jr. Blue Jackets' minor team, but had a cup of coffee with the midget majors as well. Look for the 5'9 170 lbs. '90 born to be a top defenseman for coach Ed Gingher and the Jr. Blue Jackets next season and be one of the top Mid-Am defenseman in the District.
■ Scott Capizzi - The late '87 played for the Madison Capitols AAA team and is ready to make the move to juniors. At 5'11 175 lbs., the blue liner should provide a steady two-way performer at his next stop.
■ Jacob Stalbro - From Sweden, Stalbro was one of two quality "import" defenseman on this team. Late '87, 6'1 170 lbs. Junior "A" calibre as a skilled "import" defenseman option.
■ Henric Wahlgren - Also from Sweden, Wahlgren could be an immediate impact defenseman as an "import" player at the junior "A" level. His skating, speed, passing, and decision making is all of quality level. A late '87 at 5'11 165 lbs.
■ Ryan Peterson - Former Chicago Mission AAA defenseman, made the jump to the NAHL and the Roadrunners of Sante Fe at mid-season. '88 born junior defenseman at 6'0 185.
■ George Hotarek A solid rookie season with the San Jose Sharks AAA squad, Hotarek played within himself here, at 58, 170 lbs. Made some mistakes, but recovered nicely.
■ Matt Henry - One of the best defenseman here, without the flash... Played last season for the San Jose Jr. Sharks AAA team and will advance to the junior level. The '88 born d-man makes smart decisions and plays within his stocky 5'9 195 lbs. frame.
■ Alex Charette This imposing 88 blueliner stands at 63, 205 lbs. and had a good weekend, chipping in with a few heavy shots from the blue line. Look for Charette to be a part of a new pre-post team featuring players from Orchard Lake St. Marys next season.
■ Alec Sherman A year after bouncing back from a serious injury, Sherman is making up for lost time. The 64, 220 lbs. 87 defender from Lansing, MI spent last season with the Indy Jr. Ice and should be playing Juniors somewhere this season earning his stripes. Mobile, he plays with an edge that a big man must.
■ Tad Norris - Steady blue liner played last year with the Grand Rapids Owls (CSHL). Should move on and play at the "A" level next season at 6'0 165 lbs. and an '87. Brother plays defense for Canisius College in New York.
■ Loren Barron This LA Jr. Kings product is one that easily slips under the radar. At 61, 175 lbs., Barron will grow nicely into his frame as he is only an 89 birthyear. What is most exciting about his play though is his first pass. He is not an overly physical player, but positions himself well and uses his stick effectively. He should be a sought after commodity next year at this time.
■ Jordan Terpstra The 60, 180 lbs. defender played exceptionally well, using his skating skills and ability to make good decisions with the puck in all areas of the ice. He even showed some offensive flair, making a few nice rushes. As an 87, he could be an excellent depth player for any Junior A club.
■ Mike Schenfeld This player has a ton of potential. Currently enrolled at Lake Forest Academy and playing under Darren Madeley, he made an immediate mark, throwing his weight around consistently and playing a safe, simple game. At 60, 190 lbs. and a 90 DOB the future is bright for this blueliner.
■ Luke Witkowski One of a handful of 90s competing, his size makes him an intriguing prospect. AT 62 and 190 lbs. this Walker Hawks AA product should find a home next season at the AAA. While a lot of his skill set still needs time to develop, the experience should parley well into next season for him.
■ Josh Batch One of a pair of 91 defensemen from the UK. At 62, 185 lbs, Batch still needs some work on his agility, but threw his weight around nicely. With another year under his belt he will grow into a big body to beat one on one.
■ Andy Finn Another 91 from the UK, Finn reeks of pro style in every part of his game. A stocky defender at 59, 170 lbs his wide stance allows him to handle opposing players who are much bigger then he. Strong on his stick he will be a keeper down the line.
■ Brian Herzog This 89 defender played last season as a member of the Wisconsin Mustangs Jr. B club, developing nicely. The 60 205 lbs. D should probably need another year of top four work before making the jump up to Jr. A, but the potential is there.
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