Mr.53

This is my guide to the Vancouver Canucks come opening night. Of course, come training camp things can change, but as it stands, this is how I see it. Below I will give explanations on why I think this is a solidly built team and why I think we are headed for the playoffs and on our way back to being contenders under Linden and Benning. Also keep in mind the line combos are a mix of what seems to be most likely and what I would like to see. At the end I will explain what I think about the state of the franchise and what I would do going forward. So here we go. My Roster/Depth Chart (As it stands now) Daniel Sedin(A) - Henrik Sedin(C) - Loui Eriksson Anton Rodin - Brandon Sutter - Jannik Hansen Sven Baertschi - Bo Horvat - Jake Virtanen Alex Burrows(A) - Markus Granlund - Derek Dorsett (Emerson Etem, Brendan Gaunce) Alex Edler - Chris Tanev Ben Hutton - Erik Gudbranson Nikita Tryamkin - Philip Larsen (Luca Sbisa) Ryan Miller Jacob Markstrom Top 5 Prospects Brock Boeser - RW: Future Top Six All-Star 2-way, Scoring Forward Olli Juolevi - D: Future Top Pairing All-Star 2-way, Offensive Defensman Thatcher Demko - G: Future Starting All-Star Goalie Jordan Subban - RD: Future 2nd or 3rd Pairing, Offensive PMD Troy Stecher - RD: Future 2nd or 3rd Pairing 2-way PMD ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Lineup descriptions and explanation and analysis. [Line 1] Daniel - Henrik - Eriksson: Our first line that will lead our offense. The Sedins are getting older and need a new linemate that can get the most out of them. That's Loui Eriksson. A lot of people think about him as a 1 dimensional soft scorer like Vrbata, but he's much different. His two way game will complement the Sedins on both ends of the ice and give them an NHL goal scorer to play with. I'm excited for what this first line can bring. If this line can maintain a solid scoring place, which I think they can, the rest of the team will follow suit with our depth. Leadership starts from the front, and this line can get it done. [Line 2] Rodin - Sutter - Hansen: Sutter takes his mantle as 2c for now, with Hansen on the wing. Hansen showed that he can be a late bloomer and has the ability to play in the top 6 last year. the 2nd line seems to be a good fit for him, especially given his defensive two way prowess, with his relentless forechecking and backchecking. Anton Rodin similarly seems as if he would play best in a scoring role, which would be exactly what he's expected to do beside Sutter and Hansen and is needed. That's a fast line that can defend well, and has a scoring still. Rodin is the wildcard but I mean, he's a 25 year old player. We've seen other older 'rookies' come and perform well from Europe when given the right linemates. [ Line 3] Baertschi - Horvat - Virtanen: Horvat takes his mantle as 3c, taking pressure of of him to defend against top lines and perform/develop to the best of his abilities. We saw last year that Horvat and Baertschi had beautiful chemistry, and their main problem was simply that they should be playing third line rather than second. As third liners they would be incredible, rather than on the second line when they were just good. They're developing still, and need some pressure taken off. Virtanen adds a speedy imposing forechecking and backchecking presence that can add scoring off the third line. This line is very diverse and has the potential to be extremely impactful if they click. Those three should start building chemistry now. They could be one of the best third lines in the league if they click. I want to see this line in action the most. [Line 4] Burrows - Granlund - Dorsett: Burrows and Dorsett provide an effective defensive presence of the fourth line. This is a very dependable fourth line that can defend against other teams when used, and not be a liability. This allows us to roll four lines as Willie D wants us too. Granlund is the wildcard on this line, hopefully providing an offensive spark in-between these two. Burrows doesn't think his offensive produciton is finished, if he can pass something on to Granlund and get him going, he will have really done his job for us. (I see Burrows being used more on special teams than on 5 on 5.) Granlund and Burrows are also two guys that can comfortably jump up a line or 2 without feeling out of place when injuries occur. [Depth] (Etem, Gaunce): Two excellent depth players. Depth players tend to play 60+ games every year Both of these players provide muscle, grit, and two way ability, as well as being very versatile. Etem can play left or right wing anywhere from 2nd to fourth line, and Gaunce can play left wing or center anywhere in the bottom 6. They will get minutes and games quickly once injuries start coming in, and then they will get their opportunity to stick. These two will actually be very important for us when injuries occur as they are definitely not liabilities, but rather bring something different. [1st Pairing] Edler - Tanev: Our top pairing duo. They've shown they can handle the responsibilities of being the first pairing and leading the defence, all they needed was a little more help against top competition. And they needed more help on special teams so they could focus on their strengths. Edler ont he PP with some PK time, and Tanev on the PK. But by in large, a good group to lead the team into the season when healthy. The biggest thing for this pairing is staying healthy, and having a solid group behind them who can take pressure off. Well now the pressure is coming off, I think they will flourish. [2nd Pairing] Hutton - Gudbranson: A new revitalized 2nd pairing. Gudbranson is going to do a lot for both Ben Hutton and Chris Tanev. He will provide Hutton with a reliable stay at home, and body bruising presence so he can play more freely and utilize his puck moving ability. Tanev will also in turn have another option who can match up against bigger, stronger forwards like a Lucic in EDM. Hutton will deliver solid crisp passes to up to the forwards to initiate the play and join them on the rush. I'm PUMPED for this pairing. This line together takes massive pressure off the top line being upgrades from what we've had in the past. (Also, Gudbranson helps Jacob Markstrom out a lot being a goalie with little NHL experience. He needs a crease clearing presence he can depend on. Just saying, Gudbranson adds A LOT to this team.) [3rd Pairing] Tryamkin - Larsen: The second part of Benning's revitalized defensive core. Larsen will most likely get that bottom right spot so we can use his abilities on the powerplay. Tryamkin and Sbisa will battle for who gets that last spot to offer Larsen help in the defensive end. I think Tryamkin will beat him out so I put him here. Larsen get's limited minutes going in and powerplay time, and Tryamkin gets limited minutes and PK time. They can be very useful on special teams, as well as an effective third pairing. This is exactly what you want in a third pairing. Two guys that can play and contribute in other ways. You want guys that still bring something to the team no matter where they play. It's good for moral. [Depth] (Sbisa): Sbisa is in this spot not because I think he's bad. I think he get's a lot of flack, but is a good player. Not fantastic at anything, but he's a solid third pairing guy that can play either side. I also think he is the most likely guy to get traded before the season begins, and Benning has stated he wants to upgrade the forward group with one more 2nd line winger. If he does pull the trigger on someone, Sbisa is likely going to be the candidate. [Starting] Miller: Miller will start the season out as the starting goaltender. He is playing with something to prove that he can still go. And I think that with a well balanced and solid defensive core, he can play the way eh did for us when he first got here. [Backup] Markstrom: Markstrom will get his fair share of games. Miller is getting older, and although can still play well, can't do it for as long of stretches as he used too. Markstrom will get a solid number of games and gear up to take the reigns next season. Notes about the Lineup Our middle 6 will bounce off eachother and act more of a 2A and 2B rather than a 2nd and 3rd line. A lot of youth in the lineup led by a few quality veterans. Enough with the tanking comments. We have a lot of youth. Benning has completely revitalized and revamped our defensive core. Granlund and Burrows provide scoring on the fourth line, but also provide the ability to jump up in the lineup and allow Gaunce and Etem to take their place as well. That is a team that can roll 4 lines. Third pairing defensmen have important roles, which is a signifier of a good team. You want everyone on the team to feel like they are important and their contributions are needed so they can play at the best of their abilities. ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Special Teams Powerplay 1 Sedin - Sedin - Eriksson ----Edler-----Larsen---- Sedins work their magic with Eriksson. They will be responsible for most of the offence generated being first liners and PP guys only. But with Eriksson, as a trigger man, and Larsen as a PP QB alongside Edler, they can be effective. Eriksson will be getting primetime treatment to produce offensive numbers. I think in this situation he can score 30 goals. Eriksson is more multidimensional than Vrbata and is more of a fit with the Sedins. This powerplay can be effective. Larsen has the potential to actually be huge for this team if he can show to be a good PP QB. I think Larsen will come to show that he is a quality QB, and might just be our best one. Benning realized the powerplay needed something new and fresh, and he went out and got 2 guys that bring a lot. Larsen helps Edler by being another option and makes space for the Sedins. Powerplay 2 Baertschi - Horvat - Granlund ----Virtanen-----Hutton---- Horvat Beartschi and Granlund should get the start on the second PP. Baertschi and Horvat showed they were effective on the 2nd PP unit last year. Benning and company believe in Granlunds creativity and offensive ability, especially on the powerplay. Well, if he's going to be a fourth liner, at least give him second PP time. It's a very young powerplay group, but it could be dangerous and more importantly, look completely different from the first group to make it difficult for other teams to prepare for. I get bold when I look at the backend. I think Hutton should almost be a lock for the 2nd PP with his puck moving skills. I also think however, Gudbranson, Tryamkin, and Tanev don't bring that much. Tanev would bring the most and add a calming influence, but I think we should be bold. Put someone like Virtanen or Hansen on the point. Both of them have mean clappers. Let them use it off the one timer. Virtanens shot for example, would be deadly if there is a broken play, or a good pass over to him. I'm sure he's working on his accuracy right now. He also has the speed to catch himself and get back on D if anything happens. ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Penalty Kill 1 Horvat - Hansen Tryamkin - Gudbranson Horvat pairs up with Hansen on the PK. The two know eachother, have played with eachother, and have showed to excell on the PK. I feel like they are our two best defensive forwards, and would make a good speedy group. Tryamkiin and Gudbranson would be the best defensive pairing on the PK. Why? It gives Edler and Tanev a second to catch their breath after playing top line minutes. Two big hulking, mean defensmen to block shots, backcheck, muscle people out of corners, and protect the goalie and crease. It's the spot they both excell at, let them excel, and by doing so, take massive pressure off Edler and Tanev giving them a second to rest. Penalty Kill 2 Sutter - Burrows Edler - Tanev Burrows won't be happy that his responsibilities dropped to mainly a 4th line and 2nd PK presence. But he will get his minutes when injuries occur and his versatility allows him to hop into any line. But with a full lineup, he is still most likely our second best pure defensive PK winger presence after Hansen. If Sutter is playing second line, then he would do best to play 2nd PK. Sutter and Burrows could be an effective duo, which will add a lot to making our special teams deep. Edler and Tanev are both manning the top line. Letting them be the 2nd PK presence allows them to again, catch their breath before they head out there so they can defend better, and play harder. This is especially important for Edler who would most likely also be getting PP time. But also another thing to think about is, they will likely get more second team lineups, and less top lineups on the PK which will go to helping them a lot. They could be fantastic if matched up a little easier. Penalty Kill 3 Virtanen - Dorsett Hutton - Larsen Now this is where it get's tricky. Sometimes in games you will simply have a long 3 or 4 minute penalty kill. You can't recycle the same two groups or they will get exhausted and exposed. This group is deployed in those situations. The problem is we don't really have a center for the draw. Jake Virtanen has played center before and wasn't terrible on the draw but he could be an answer, providing speed, tenacity, shot blocking, and grit in situations where we are desperate. Dorsett would be the leading veteran presence on the line to get them through the PK. Hutton and Larsen would be deployed in these situations due to necessity and not often. They are the last ones and would have to hold down the fort. It won't happen that often but when it does, I think they can handle those limited minutes. Notes about Special Teams A lot of guys can potentially play a role in special teams such as Rodin and Burrows. That second team is wide open for whoever earns it. This team has much more specialists than in times of past. Different players find themselves in valuable roles. Doug Jarvis will also be huge in our powerplay getting better next season. That's 3 new additions to the first unit of the Sedins and Edler. That could really turn things around. Pro Tweeners. (AHL/Deph Call up players) Andrey Pedan (LD): 8th in the depth chart right after Sbisa. Sbisa is the most likely candidate to be traded which could make him the 7th man which I think would be perfect for a guy like him. Speed, physicality, grit, and a whatever I have to do mentality. Great qualities for a depth defensman. Alex Biega (RD): Our 9th defensman, who could be 8, provided Sbisa is traded. Plays much bigger than his size which is aways good to see. Can play on the NHL level, but not consistently and for long stretches Perfect guy to lead Uitca and set and example, then hop up for some games. Ronalds Kenins (LW): Showed a couple seasons ago that he can be a valuable 4th line presence. Valuable as in actually game changing when playing a 4th line role with other forecheckers. He only has one style, locomotive mode, and when he strays from that, he becomes much less effective. It's hard to maintain that engine and not get injured, which he consistently has done, but if he can play like that in stretches, he can be useful, say at the end of the season when the team needs just a little more juice and spark to get them going. Mike Zalewski (C/W): Going to spend most of his time in the AHL. But he is very versatile and can play all 3 forward positions. Plays a good 2-way game and is defensively conscious. Good big body gritty guy that can step into a bottom pairing role if called up. Notes about Tweeners We have a good amount of depth call up guys that can get minutes on a limited role. Subban and Stecher could also be players that get call ups in times of injury. Richard Bachman is likely to be the goalie call up when injuries occur. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Our very Impressive prospect list. Top 5 Prospects: A Level Prospects (Potential NHL impact players) Brock Boeser (RW): Our number 1 prospect, due to his incredible freshman NCAA season. Last year, Brock Boeser had 60 points in 42 games with north Dakota, making him the highest scoring freshman in the schools history. That puts him in the same conversation as, and actually ahead of other NHL stars such as Travis Zajac, TJ Oshie, Zach Parise, and even Johnny Toews. All doing so while still putting up a plus minus of +40! He has a very effective 2 way game and excells in most facets. When it comes to offense he's the total package, able to score from anywhere, able to make plays, and evidently, abel to defend. He was the best player on the team, as a freshman, and led them to an NCAA title. Even The other guys on this list like Oshie, Parise, and Toews couldn't even do that. Brock Boeser arguably had the best freshman season in the schools history. He is showing day by day that he has serious top 6 and all star potential, and is following the path of other all star NHLer's before him, in fact he's doing better. Next year he will get to wear the A for North Dakota, which nobody has done since Johnathon Toews. He's on a good path. If history is any guide, he will spend one more year in college, dominate and then make the jump. Next year North Dakota will be losing a lot of seniors and quality players, Boeser will be challenged to still lead that team into battle and show his leadership skills. If he can even maintain the same pace without help, he will have shown great improvement. I think Brock Boeser is going to be a household American name one day, and a serious impactful force on our right side along with Virtanen. Olli Juolevi (D): A beast 2-way defensman with real offensive abilities and instincts. Great playmaking, shooting, and offensive skills, coupled with great stick work, outlet passing, and defensive skills, combined with excellent skating ability and a 6'2 190 pound frame. It's a common problem with prospects, but the one thing Juolevi needs to do to be a star in this league is put on pounds of lean muscle to his large frame. If he can hit 200 pounds or so, I don't think it's far off to see a player similar to the combined style of a Olli Maata, OEL, or even a Roman Josi. His IQ is his best quality, far and a ways outshining all other defensman, and most forwards in the draft allowing him to cerebrally dissect the play even at high speeds. He was one of the best, if not the best defensman at the world juniors, a tournament that is dominated by 18, 19, and guys turning 20. Benning said in all his years, he has never seen a defensman at his age dominate like he did at the world Juniors, largely due to his IQ and smarts. He also won the memorial cup with the London Knights while playing the role of number 1 defensman. Everyone looks to Marner, Dvorak, and Tkatchuk for their super line, but in order to be that effective, you need a defensive beast, and outlet passing machine like Juolevi. Je didn't look out of place at all, but rather made a major impact scoring 21 points in his last 22 games. He can be a all star defensman for the years to come. He is good enough skillwise to make the league as early as next season, but he's going to need to add on pounds. When he arrives, if partnered with a guy like Gudbranson, he could be an absolute beast. Thatcher Demko (G): NHL starting, and possibly All-Star potential. In his junior year at Boston College he crushed all of Cory Scneider's old records, which is a great sign. His size, athleticism and style are almost a carbon copy of Cory Schneider in College, as that is the successful model goaltender BC looks for and Demko may be the best of them. It will take him a while as goalies tend to take a long time to develop and make it to the big dance. But all signs are showing that when he does, he can be a real all star leading between the iron pipes. If you want to win, you have to have a top goaltender, Demko in time looks like he will be just that. Also seems to be a great attitude kid which is huge when you need leadership from the backend. Remember the leadership Loungo brought? we need that again. I would also like to give a lot of credit to Benning for drafting him with our second round pick. Goalies are tough to find, and get in the right spot, and he seemed to snag one as good as any who comes out of the draft. A+ pick if you ask me. No questions asked. Jordan Subban (RD): One of the smallest players in the Canucks system, yet one of the most skills. Subban is always shocking people with how god his skating ability is complemented by his impressive offensive skills. Although undersized, his offensive intelligence, shot, playmaking ability etc, are top notch. He may be small but he is incredibly strong, including in his lower base, which helps him play against bigger players. Still very committed to playing defence and to his own end. Could be the next undersized impact defensman in the NHL. Next year he will likely spend one more year in the AHL to get his game at it's top level. But you can tell, he is just itching to get into the NHL. He has the same passion and fire that his brother PK plays with. I would love to see that in the lineup. Troy Stecher (RD): Signed as a free Agent, Stecher gets to come home and hopefully make his mark in Vancouver. Skilled offensive PMD with strong two-way skills and intensity. Played the role of number 1 defensman for North Dakota and wont the NCAA title with Brock Boeser. He was a top college free agent on the market, some put him at number 1. This year he will get to play a major role in the AHL and look to develop his pro game. I think he has a chance to be like a Ben Hutton and shock everyone with his skills, even if he doesn't make the team. Overall, a slightly undersized, but effective two-way defensman with puck moving and offensive abilities. Linden has spoken about how he has impressed him so far. Ben Hutton shocked last year, but we also had a lack of capable defenders. By some accounts so far, Stecher seems to be impressing the higher ups and raising his stock. I love a good hometown story, but he looks like he can make an impact as well. We could see him in blue and green soon. Notes about top 5 prospects All of them seem to be close to NHL ready, with the exception of Demko, the goaltending. Our top 3 group look like they can be future ALL STARS Subban and Stecher are capable defensmen, who one will probably replace Larsen by next season. (I didn't include guys like Gaunce, Etem, Granlund, and Tryamkin, because I consider their spots almost already guaranteed.) That is a solid group of kids to incorporate. Finally we can see see the collection of talent we have to build a team, with a lot of leadership personality type of guys. Honorable Mentions: B Level Prospects (Possible NHL role players) Guilliame Brisebois (LD): Another year as captain for his team, but has been traded to a better team for next season. Leadership personified, is willing to do anything he has to do to help the team win. Not a big scorer from the blue-line, but a solid 2-way presence with great IQ to be an impact. It's hard to gauge him when looking at stats, but the eye test and coaches will rave about his two-way ability. This year he will be on a better team, and then we will really get to see what he can do. Dmitry Zhukenov (C): The Russian born Center who finally made his debut in North American pro hockey. Played well, although not fantastic. But well. Solid offensive instincts and motor to never give up on any play. He could be a top 9 scorer if he adds muscle to the frame as well as continue to work. Next year he should come in fully adjusted, so we can really see what he can do. William Lockwood (RW): Speedy player who plays bigger than his size. Plays fast and hard. Shows offensive instincts and ability, but excels more in the work ethic type of game. Similar to a style of a Jannik Hansen or so. A few years in college could do great things for him. Great shot though, which will be a big part of if he can make it. Speed, scoring, and grinding off the wing, he can make it. Cole Cassels (C): One miserable season doesn't undue all of Cassels ability that he's shown or take away from his previous accomplishments. Coming off of injury and thrust into the pros, he didn't get a fair shake to adjust properly. This year will be huge, and might be make or break in his development. He still has a chance at becoming a bottom 6 shutdown center. Jakob Stukel (LW): I think Stukel has real stealer pick type of potential. Eye popping elite blazing speed mixed with the skill to handle it at that level. What hands. Seems to be an energy offensive spark and a hometown product. Let's go. Needs to add muscle and defensive game, but can potentially still be a speedy scorer. (CDC stop crying, Benning got a high volume CHL elite speed scorer, from Vancouver!) Tate Olson (LD): Picked in the 7th round, JB knows how to draft people, Olson is turning heads as someone who could beat the odds and become an NHLer someday. Seems to take large strides in his development every year. Already a competitive two-way force who loves to win. Will play whatever role is needed and plays it well. Good overall game but needs more volume. Michael Garteig (G): Quality goaltender and hometown product. One of the top goaltenders in the NCAA last year closely behind Demko. Led his school, Quinnepiac to the championship game.... Where they proceeded to get demolished by Boeser and the North Dakota.... But still, he showed that he has talent in being able to get them there. He could be a quality backup behind Demko for the future. I think that Benning has built an incredible group of young kids. The only thing he needs to solidify this group in my opinion is a impact center prospect in the 2017 draft. There are a lot of choices for us all throughout the first round. Yes, Nolan Patrick would be awesome, but I am not interested in tanking this season at all with the team we have. To name a few quality centers already turning heads, Gabriel Vilrardi, Kailer Yamamoto, Maxime Comtois, Sterio Mathews, Scott Reedy, Casey Mitelstadt or my favourite, hometown boy, 6'5 200+ pounds already, Michael Rasmussen. That's just to name a few. Benning knows how to draft. Keep our first round pick no matter what, and pick the best center you can. In the meantime, I would not be opposed to Benning using picks to upgrade the team in different aspects, namely the one area we need: a second line left winger. But all and all, this team is in great shape. The NHL club is good enough to be a playoff team if you ask me, and our group of young kids is definitely one of the best in the league. Our top 5 prospects all look like they will be capable NHLers so far, and our next group of second tier guys look as if they have legitimate shots at making the league as well. Our top 3 group is also very diverse giving us a future all star goalie in Demko, number 1 defensman in Juolevi, and All star winger in Boeser. Subban and Stecher also seem to be capable PMDs as well. That's a fantastic top 5 to be in the pipes with a playoff worthy team. ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Overall, I give Benning an A with what he has done with this franchise. He's been a great GM so far. Some notable moves on the team he's built, that he's altered from acquisition. Signing Eriksson (He should go a long way in helping the Sedins, and our top 6.) Trading for and Signing Brandon Sutter (He's going to be huge for Horvat and this team playing anywhere from Center, and wing from the 1st line to the 3rd line.) Signing Rodin (Although he was not drafted by him) Trading for Sven Baertschi (Second round pick well spent) Drafting Jake Virtanen (Some still question the decision, but we need his strong forechecking, speed, power game on this team. The offence will come. Mark my words Jake Virtanen will be a top 6 scorer.) Trading for Markus Granlund (Where would Hunter Shinkaruk fit in this lineup? Markus Granlund is a fit for this team because he has two-way ability, and can play center with his versitility. Then can play special teams, or move up in the lineup in case of injury. I believe in Granlund. His actual track record holds up quite well to Shinkaruk's if not better; and Weisbrod who has saw them both play and worked for them on a daily basis, and has shown he along with Benning are pretty good at evaluating talent. I think Granlund will be pretty much just as good as Shinkaruk, but time will tell.) Trading for Derek Dorsett (Expensive trade but as you can see, we need some leadership back there and a fourth line presence who brings leadership every night.) Trading for Emerson Etem (Nicklas Jensen wasn't going to play for us. Emerson Etem provides us with a good player than can play either wing and provide a needed presence. And he has the skill to not just play 4th line, but third, or occasionally second.) Keeping Brendan Gaunce (for two-way ability. Could be a dependable bottom 6 guy.) Signng and Calling Up Ben Hutton (Although he didn't draft him) Trading For Erik Gudbranson (McCann was a steep price. And arguably could have been that impact center we need to finish off our prospect pool. However, getting McCann at 23, and Boeser at 23, tells me one thing. Benning can pick early, or late in the first round and come out with a stud. I have 100% faith he will turn that first round pick next year into an impact center to help Horvat... that's if Granlund isn't that impact center himself... Just saying. But as you can see and probably already know, Erik Gubdranson brings a lot to this lineup now and into the future. I see him one day paired with Olli Juolevi on the top pairing, but one can only dream...) Drafting Nikita Tryamkin (In the 3rd round! What a steal. In his 10 games with us, he looked like a first round talent. Let's see if he can keep it up.) Trading for and Signing Philip Larsen (We needed help on the blue line for our powerplay. He went out and got a guy who can play bottom pairing minutes, and run the powerplay possibly better than any of our other guys. I think Philip Larsen is going to be huge. He rounded out his defensive game in Russia Signing Miller (Been a solid veteran presence for Markstrom as he has gotten into the flow of things. That's good for his development. He will play out 1 more year before Markstrom takes the reigns.) Calling up Markstrom (Or more importantly, sending him down to the AHL to dominate before calling him up. He let him get high focus minutes, develop his game for another year, then brought him up, and it seemed to have worked.) Drafting Boeser (With he 23rd overall. A lot of people, me included said Konecny. Benning stuck to his guns and Boeser looks like a homerun) Drafting Juolevi (With our highest pick in a long time, Benning took the best defensman in the draft. Potential to be a OEL, Roman Jose, Olli Maata, type of player with major impact. We lost out on PLD, but you can see just how valuable top defensmen are in this league.) Drafting Demko (In the second round. Secured a potential all star starter with our 2nd round pick with good timing to match up with the rest of the group.) Signing Stecher (Hometown boy with NHL regular potential.) The rest of his drafting with star players who aren't in our top 5. (Man this guy knows how to draft...)

I am so excited for what he can bring. He's a true wildcard. I think he would play well with guys like Sutter and Hansen and provide a scoring presence. But we'll see. When does season start. Jesus

Jake Virtanen will make the team. There's almost no doubt in my mind. He just simply is not bad enough not to make the team. Willie goes by, if you are good enough and perform good enough, he will reward you with a spot. Jake will be good enough. I know a lot of people say, regardless send him down, but I don't think that is how Willie, Linden and Benning want the organization run for the young guys in the back. You come to camp, and you impress, and you beat out another player, then you get the spot. Period. Seemed evident when we let Corrado go for Hutton, or Vey back to the minors for McCann. But I feel he is going to come back locked and loaded and ready to be a middle 6 force. I'm pumped for some Virtanen

In the last few weeks Benning has acquired a 24 year old high calibre shut-down defensman in Erik Gudbranson, a 22 hometown PMD NCAA champion, and arguable the top college free agent to hit the market along with Drake Cagguilla in Troy Stecher, and a stud potential top pairing defensman in Olli Juolevi, who was basically the consensus pick among scouts and GMs after teh combine for being the best D man in the draft, who was the top dman for London in their historic memoral cup run. People need to stop complaining. A couple months ago, our defence was by far our weakest point. Now we have amanded the NHL team and bolstered their ranks, as well as add 2 awesome prospects. Just like that, our defence went from weak, to not so bad. Juolevi honestly has all the tools to be an impact NHLer, sooner rather than later. He has the skills to be able to step in after another full season, if not on opening day. Excellent skating ability, (Especially important for new age NHL defensmen) Excellent vision, (Great for QBing a PP) Tremendous passing ability, including long cross ice passes that hit their man tape to tape, like Hutton Active stick in the defensive zone, and excellent defensive stickwork. His best asset, his incredible hockey IQ, which helps him in all three zones, the powerplay, gap control, and more Great two-way hockey sense and ability. Poise beyond his years. Some people like the PK Subban type defensman who plays massive energy and emotino. Juolevi, although very passionate, plays a very cold, poised, and calculated game. Thinking on higher levels than most, and demonstrating things like the patience needed to turn it over, the instinct to join the rush, and the ability to seem like the calmest most mature guy out there. His only real knock, and the only real reason is lack of lean muscle. Juolevi already has the frame at 6'2 185 pounds, and all the tools. It's actually very similar to one of his best friends, fellow finns, and former London Knight Olli Maata. Maata gives Juolevi pointers on every little thing he needs, including preparation and what to expect. honestly think Maata, isn't too far off to what Juolevi can become, if not better. Juolevi, if he can add some lean muscle to his 6'2 frame can seriously be a top pairing defensman for us for years to come. Horvat leads the forwards, and Juolevi leads the D. Juolevi, hutton, Tyamkin, and Subban to me are our top 4 and core group of young defensmen. Guys like Stecher and Brisebois are our secondary options. Guys like Gudbranson are still only 24 years old as well, making him only like 1 year older than Hutton. So in actuallity we have 5-7 guys with legitimate NHL potential if you ask me, and 5 guys with top 4 potential or better. I for one think a future paring of Juolevi and Tyramkin or Gudbranson could be spectacular.

1 reason why I love this acquisition. Guys, stop and think about our goaltending situation for the foreseeable future. Next season we will have Miller and Markstrom split the starting job more or less, then next season Markstrom will get his first full starting gig. (Maybe Markstrom will straight up start this season but we will see) And then a couple years down the line, Thatcher Demko is going to take the ranks. Guys, if our defence is as bad as it was this year, not at scoring goals, but at actually playing defence and keeping pucks and defenders away from our net, those guys are going to get straight exposed. We've seen how a veteran goalie like Ryan Miller was just abused over the season due to our lack in D coverage. In our division we have two style of teams. The California teams play big, physical and tough. The Canadian teams play fast, quick, and transition. Gudbranson will go along way to protecting our net and defending against both of those. Plus, another added hitter on our blue line was much needed. Gudbranson was a guy that was talked about as being future captian material, and Willie Mitchell, and I would guess the team, was pissed when he was traded. That's a good sign for us. I can't wait to see what he can do. Him and Tanev give our right side top 4 defense a real good defensive presence while Edler and Hutton will add some offensive presence. Also adding to that, One of Subban or Stecher in a year or so, will step in and fill that void of offensive PMD. We don't need to worry aout acquiring one, when we have two talented prospects ready to burst on the scene. But I for one would like us to sign Philip Larsen, add him to our defence for next year, and give Subban and Stecher 1 year with Utica and then we will evaluate the team, as they will be ready. I want to walk into next season like this, Edler - Tanev Hutton - Gudbranson Tryamkin - Larsen (Sbisa) (the bottom 3 will fight for the 2 starting roster spots.) To me, thats a good roster that can win some games.

Here are some other top NHL stars that played for the University of North Dakota and their respective games played, goals, assists, and points for their Freshman season. Zach Parise (2002-2003): 61 Points in 39 Games (26 Goals, 35 Assists) Travis Zajac (2003-2004): 36 Points in 59 Games (17 Goals, 19 Assists) Jonathan Toews (2006-2007): 46 Points in 34 Games (18 Goals, 28 Assists) Matt Frattin (2007-2008): 15 Points in 43 Games (4 Goals, 11 Assists) TJ Oshie (2005-2006): 45 Points in 44 Games (24 Goals, 21 Assists) Brock Nelson (2010-2011): 21 Points in 42 Games (8 Goals, 13 Assists) Brock Boeser (2015-16): 60 Points in 42 Games (27 Goals, 33 Assists) (With a plus 45 on the season, and a championship to boot...) No if and or buts about it, that is a solid group of names to be a part of. And statistically speaking, he is definately up there with All Stars like Tows, Oshie, and Parise. In fact one could argue he had the most impressive rookie season out of all of them, powering North Dakotas first line to a championship and a plus 45 on the season... Jim Benning, you sir have found a steal at 23...

I want a tryamkin Subban combo... And I want it soon. I think both of them have a legitimate opportunity to surprise at camp. My guess is Subban will be on the roster joining Tryamkin, by the end of next season. And if not, then surely the season after

Oh... ok then... Not exactly a good one even with the explanation but ok. As a man who makes many bad jokes on a daily, if not hourly basis, i'll take it.

Yeah, 100%. Care to let me in? Was that part of the joke too?

Um, I'm not sure about that. Maybe. But I mean Rodin is now 25 I think so I don't think it would affect him either way.

Anton Rodin won the Golden Helmet award, which is the players choice award for MVP, decided by voting. Some players that also won this award who currently play in the NHL are Jakob Silfverberg (2012) and Mats Zuccarello (2010). There may be others but still, those are some pretty good players. I can see Rodin being a Zuccarello type of scorer but time will tell. Even if he's not as good, if he can be around that, that could be really big for us.

Last year our prospect pool has seen massive change. We have had many graduations of top prospects such as Baertschi, McCann, Virtanen, Markstrom, and Hutton joining alongside sophomore Bo Horvat. Benning, despite the beliefs of many at the time, actually drafted some quality players. Our youth movement is in full affect and our prospect pool is ever changing. I have decided to make a top 10 list to start this year, to notice the prospects that are developing well. Below are my rankings, feel free to comment and leave your own. 10. Andrey Pedan (LD): Pedan has everything you need to be a bottom pairing pro defenseman. Great speed, great strength, great grit, and some offensive know-how to pitch in every once in a while. He's got a good shot, decent passing ability, but his big plus is his defense. He's a big guy that will fight anyone as well as play committed defense. The Canucks need speed and physicality, especially from the blue-line. Sbisa is our biggest hitter. Pedan helps that problem. The thing about Pedan is even though he is number 10 on the list, he is 1 of the closest to being NHL ready along with Gaunce and Shinkaruk. I expect him to be in a bottom paring, penalty killing, hitting and fighting, 6-7 d-man role, by next season. 9. Dmitry Zhukenov (C): The kid as been very good this season. He started out a little slow, but then exploded onto the scene. Almost pushing a point per game pace in the CHL is impressive. Especially since this is his first year in North American hockey. Great speed, relentless hustle, and strong overall offensive skills. The kid just manages to somehow make the play even if he's got defenders on him. Very creative player. The questions about his game were focused around if he could adapt the North American game and gain muscle. He seems to be getting the first part. If he can get stronger to compete with grown men on the North American level. Watch out. I estimate 3-4 years before we see him in the NHL, but he has real potential to be dynamite. 8. Guilliame Brisebois (LD/RD): The kid doesn't show much on the statline, and never has. He does however, garner massive praise from every coach and scout that sees him play. Great character and leadership kid, he became the captain of his AHL team at 16. He took it upon himself to play a two-way defensive role, on a terrible team. Brisebois is one of the few strings holding that team together. His attention to his defensive duties are superb, as well as his smooth stride skating. He actually has some offensive prowess; however, he doesn't get to use it often as he is usually playing defense in his own zone. Subban played for a poor team, and took on the role of sole star defenseman. His numbers dipped and didn't look that impressive, but it made him an impressive player. I think a similar thing is happening to Brisebois, and he has the mental ability to take those lessons, adjust his game and work to being an NHLer. I think he is also 3-4 years away. 7. Cole Cassels (C): Nobody can deny it, Cole Cassels has had a dismal season. Not only has he not been effective offensively, and by that he barely even generated shots on net, but he hasn't been that great defensively either. He was however, dealing and recovering from injury issues, adjusting to the pro game, and trying to work on his strength and conditioning at the same time. Not everyone can do all of that easily. Still, he seems to be playing with more confidence and turning things around. Even if the numbers aren't there, he needs to focus on the little parts of the game, which was his specialty in Junior, and bounce back. I give him a solid 2 more years in the AHL, maybe 3. Still, I remain confident that when he does turn it around, we could see a solid two-way versatile bottom 6 forward at the NHL level. Cole may be having a rough season, but he is still Cole Cassels. He lead a team to a memorial cup victory, and was able to hold Connor McDavid and the Erie Otters at bay. He didn't lose all that talent. He just needs to get his head on his shoulders. He's still closer to being an NHL player than to being a bust at this point. 6. Carl Neill (RD): Benning showing he has real scouting acumen. I think Carl Neill is going to be a real sleeper, and surprise a lot of people. I mean the kid shows real ability. he has NHL size already, and a good skillset. He has a strong hard shot that finds the net, as well as the ability to make good passes. He's no Jordan Subban with the electric offensive upside, but he has enough to contribute. Strong on the PP as well. The problems with Neills game were similar to the problems in Virtanen’s game when he would be known for to be overconfident and do too much. He needs to refine his game and hockey IQ to utilize his potential NHL abilities. I think give him 3 years give or take and he could be in the NHL. For him it's a matter of flipping a switch, and it seems like he's trending in the right direction. Neill is actually a year older than his draft class as he was passed over his first year making him turn 20 this season, and likely to start pro next season. Not being selected in his first draft year devastated him and kicked him into a gear where he cut lots of weight, worked on his mobility and elevated his game, He has been recently been named captain this year for the work he has put in. I think not being drafted may have been the thing that flipped the proverbial switch, because he is night and day, a better hockey player. 5. Jordan Subban (RD): Very small, but man can he play. Subban is our top defensive prospect. He has come along way in working on his all around game, and it has paid off. Subban has always had incredible offensive instincts, and could act as a offensive PMD. His puck protection skills for a guy that size are incredible, and he knows how to make passes and gets accurate shots on net. What's really impressive though is his commitment to the 200-foot game. Playing for a not so great team in juniors, forced Subban to learn to drop back and pay attention to detail in his own zone. His ability to play defense helps open up the offense and gives him more confidence. There is little doubt in my mind that Jordan Subban will be a Vancouver Canuck. I would guess he has another year or 2 before we see that happen. But when he shows up to the scene, fans will love him. Jordan is proving to be further along in his development than expected. The positional and role need for a player like Subban is also this teams greatest possible need. The opportunity is staring him in the face and so far he looks like he's stepping up. 4. Brendan Gaunce (LD): He's a High IQ, big bodied, versatile player. Gaunce can be plugged in on the wing or in center and still be effective. His high hockey IQ allows him to read and understand the game very well. He uses his speed and strength to complement his positioning in order to be effective. He understands his defensive responsibilities and is opening up to using his strength in games. Good vision, and passing ability, as well as a quick release on his wrist shot, is what gives him his offensive punch. Brendan Gaunce can do a a good bit of everything, and has significantly addressed the holes in his game during his development. He shows strong commitment to making it as an NHLer and it shows. Overall, he's a smart 2-way player, with real NHL size and no real holes in his game. He could be in the league as early as next year contributing in a bottom 6 grinder role. (I can't wait, as two-way players tend to be my favorite) The thing about Gaunce is his hockey sense and cerebral thinking allow him to be used in any situation and play alongside many different players. It's a skill that doesn't get talked about as much, but being able to hop onto different lines with different types of players and be put in different situations, and still being able to be productive offensively and defensively is a quality skill, and it's one of Gaunce's best qualities. 3. Brock Boeser (RD): Brock Boeser was drafted this year, however, he is immediately showing a lot of promise. I think he is going to show to be a steal one day as he is simply a natural goal scorer. He has the great IQ to know where the puck is going to go, and the ability to get into the open soft areas where he can score. He is very strong on his skates, and shows great north south ability. Not exactly a hitter, but is very strong and can win board battles. Big strong kid, with great lateral movement, he can be a real scorer in this league while providing offensive ability. He shows a lot of ability to I also like how he is taking leadership roles wherever he goes. He possesses a rocket shot that seems to be accurate as well. A natural goal scorer, he helping lead North Dakota to be a top team in the NCAA. Boeser has a strong sound game all around and seems to be ahead of his years, both physically and mentally. He is able to give a consistent, hard nosed, high motor effort every time he steps on the ice and is a constant threat to score. He probably won't make the team next season, but the season after that maybe. If not I expect him to be ready by the start of 2018. 2. Hunter Shinkaruk (LW): Electrifying offensive talent. He has the ability to create offense from anywhere. He has the high IQ, vision, puck skills, and passing ability to be a dynamic player, accompanied by silky smooth hands, great puckskills, and a wicked shot forehand and backhand. He is also a dynamic skater with great speed and balance, which just helps his offensive output. He has legitimate top 6 scorer potential for this team and seems to be a sparkplug wherever he plays. He has shown that he can be a dominant force on the AHL level, despite it only being his second year. He has taken on the role of leading scorer, and excelled under the pressure. When Shinkaruk plays, his teammates get excited and involved. He still needs to add strength, but he could be in the NHL as soon as next year. That's what we need, secondary depth scoring. Between Baertschi and Shinkaruk, depth scoring seems to be coming. Shinkaruk has all the tools to be a electric offensive scoring winger. He was named an AHL all star in his second year and looks poised to make a push for the team next season. This season he has taken on the role of leading star scorer for the comets and has excelled. He's had no clear number 1 center, or linemates, but finds ways to produce offense with whoever he plays with. Shinkaruk has real potential to be a highlight reel player. 1. Thatcher Demko (G): May come as a surprise to most, but Demko is my only untradeable asset. Everyone has a price, but he has legitimate potential not only to be a starter, but an all star in this league. Expectations were pretty high coming out the draft being known as the best goaltending talent. (Thanks Calgary) Yet, Demko has still managed to surpass all expectations and is leading an impressive Boston College team from the backend. Ladies and gentlemen, say hello to the future number 1 goaltender for the Vancouver Canucks. Demko is very athletic and shows sound fundamentals from good coaching at Boston College. He shows the same poise and calmness that Cory Schneider did when he played there as well. Both similar styles, receiving similar coaching from the same top program, I think they are very fair comparisons. We still don't know timeline, as goalies are weird, but I'm confident he will be. And don't be surprised if he's an all star during his prime either. It's good that Demko is so good, because aside from him, we have no real goaltending prospects. Good thing it's a position where only 1 guy plays. If we were to lose Demko, we would be in serious trouble. He's as important to this teams future as anyone. Bo Horvat is going to be our leader up front, but Thatcher Demko is going to be the athletic all-star goalie that any team who wants to win a cup needs. Honorable mentions Ronalds Kenins: I don't know whether to really consider him a prospect anymore. he's more of a depth NHL depth player who gets AHL minutes do to roster sizes. Linden Vey: Again, is he a prospect? Seems more like a 5th center who again, plays AHL minutes due to roster space. It's a tough league and every team has and needs guys who can step up when injuries inevitably happen. Alex Grenier: Big 6'4, 200 pound all around player. But just hasn't shown the last umph needed to make it to the NHL. Again, maybe he can be used if injuries occur. Anton Rodin: The forgotten prospect. Playing over in Sweden, he has become captain of the Brynas IF Gavle, and is currently lighting up the league. He is 25 years old, so not really much of a prospect, but more of a developed European vet. Still, it's possible that he could make the jump to North America, although unlikely. Tate Olson: Jim Benning shows his scouting prowess with this move. Drafted very late, but is proving to be not a bad pick up. I would probably put him at 11 on this list, but still, the top 10 is the top 10. 11 isn't bad for a 7th rounder though. I expect him to be in the top 10 soon once players graduate to the NHL. Nikitia Tryamkin: I will be honest. Haven't really seen much of his play due to him being in russia and such. However, still, looking at his numbers, and scouting reports, he doesn't seem to have progressed all that much. Small strides, but he needs big strides to make it in the NHL. Quick Recap Thatcher Demko - G Hunter Shinkaruk - LW Brock Boeser - RW Brendan Gaunce LW/C Jordan Subban - RD Carl Neill - RD Cole Cassels - C Guillimae Brisebois - LD/RD Dmitry Zhukenov - C Andrey Pedan - LD

Horvat didn't produce when he played his stint in the AHL. He also barely produced the first half of the season. It took him until about January for him to flip the switch and start producing offensively. It also took him 2 specific linemates that he found chemistry with, (Kenins and Hansen) for him to get comfortable and play his game well. People are soon to forget, but people were saying the same thing about Horvat when he didn't storm into the league tearing it up offensively. The kid is 19 and playing in the NHL. It's going to take time for his production numbers to come up. Not everyone bursts onto the scene scoring every other game. The important thing is, does he bring a skill that is much needed for the team, and does he continue to get better. He brings much needed speed and physicality, which this team is in desperate need of. We are really seeing how much slower are forward group is without Sutter and Virtanen, and we are struggling to keep up defensively. Jake is still learning, and I still believe that soon, near the end of the season most likely, his production will increase. It's just imporant for him to get some time in the NHL so he can know what is actually needed of him, and how to adjust his game, as Horvat did, for the NHL level so his offensive numbers increase. With age and experience, comes consistency. That is the ultimate goal that all young players have. How do I make an impact consistently. Most people don't figure that out at 19. Bo is 20, and had a great rookie year last year, and he still struggles with finding that offensive consistency. It takes time, and Virtanen is coming. The thing about Virtanen though, is due to his already developed athleticism and skillset, he possibly has the highest ceiling of all our prospects. You can't teach elite speed, strength, etc like he's got. You can however teach consistency.