CHL Import Draft - 1st Round Review

CHL Import Draft
Part 1 – Ontario Hockey League

Sarnia Sting – Pavel Zacha (LW) – Zacha is one of the top rated prospects for the 2015 NHL draft, as things sit today, he’ll go know later then in the top 10. A good season in the CHL could potential set him up to be a top 5 pick. In 2013-2014 Zacha suited up with Bili Tygri Liberec of the Czech Elite league as a 16 year old. He appeared in 38 games scoring 4 goals & 4 assists for 8 points. Zacha also briefly suited up for the Bili Tygri Liberec U-20 where he scored 6 goals & 11 assists for 17 points in just 10 games. You should also note in those 10 games at the Junior Level Zacha racked up 64 penalty minutes. Zacha has represented his country as an underage player at every international competition for Junior aged players, first in 2011-2012 as a member of the U-16 team & also the U-18 team. This past season Zacha competed at the Ivan Hlinka Memorial Tournament where he had 1 goal & 2 assists for 3 points in 4 games. He also suited up at the U-18’s scoring 3 goals & 2 assists for 5 points in 7 games. The big accomplishment was Zacha suiting up for the Czech World Junior team, despite not registering a point he appeared in all 5 games for the Czechs. Zacha is a 6’2, 201lbs Left Winger with superb offensive ability, but does not shy away from the physical game. He will fit right in, in the OHL. Will he come to the OHL? Now his agent made a stink about Sarnia drafting almost immediately, mentioning that Zacha still was under contract with his Czech League team. That was not secret going into the draft. However teams knew of Zacha’s desire to come and play in the CHL. Zacha will more than likely be playing in the OHL this upcoming season, but it’s not a slam dunk that it will be with the Sarnia Sting.

Kitchener Rangers – Gustaf Franzen (C) – Franzen is another highly touted prospect for the 2015 NHL Draft. While he’s not yet reached the level of Pavel Zacha, Franzen is currently ranked as a top 40 prospect, should be perform well with Kitchener this season, he’ll see his draft stock rise, In my opinion he is already a top 30 pick in a fairly deep draft. Franzen is gifted offensively, but is more of an all around 2-way player who can play in all situations. This past season Franzen suited up and captained HV71’s U-20 squad, where he appeared in 36 games, scoring 8 goals & 10 assists for 18 points. Franzen also suited up for Team Sweden’s U-18 team where he appeared in 7 games scoring 1 goal & 2 assists for 3 points. Franzen also captained the Swedish U-18 team. Franzen has twice appeared on the Swedish U-18 Team Roster that played in the Ivan Hlinka Tournament. In 2012-2013 he appeared in 5 games adding 1 assist. In 2013-2014 Franzen was named an assistant Captain an appeared in 4 games adding 1 assist. Franzen will likely be considered for the Swedish World Junior Team this coming Christmas, which will only boost his draft stock if he performs well. Will he come to the OHL? Franzen was at the Kitchener Memorial Auditorium the day of the import draft, and to my knowledge he signed moments after the pick was in. Whatever the situation was, Franzen is signed and will play in Kitchener next season.

Ottawa 67’s – Artur Tyanulin (RW) – Tyanulin is the top rated Russian skater for the upcoming NHL draft. He absolutely tore up the under 17 tournament last season, where he scored 7 goals & 5 assists for 12 points in just 6 games. He was also just under a point per game player with his Russian Club team Irbis Kazan of the MHL. In 23 games Tyanulin scored 9 goals & added 12 assists for 21 points. Tyanulin is blessed with great puck skills and outstanding speed. He should translate his skills to the OHL, but they are size concerns, considering Tyanulin stands juts 5’9 & weighs in at 165lbs. Tyanulin will undoubtedly see his NHL draft stock rise with a commitment to the OHL, as we all know NHL teams usually stay away from Russian prospects in the Draft, unless they’re playing in the Canadian Hockey League. Will he come to the OHL? Ottawa Management seems to think he will, they have had positive interactions with Tyanulin’s agent. Tyanulin is a top 6 forward, that I feel will likely sign in Ottawa, it’s just a matter of time.

Belleville Bulls – David Pastrnak (RW) – Pastrnak recently was drafted in the first round 25th overall by the Boston Bruins, after an outstanding season with Sodertalje of the Swedish Allsvenskan League. Pastrnak appeared in 36 games with Sodertalje, scoring 8 goals & 16 assists in 24 points. Pastrnak also suited up for the Czech Republic at the U-18 Championships, where he was an assistant captain. During the tournament Pastrnak had 5 assists in 7 games. The Czech’s reached the final in the tournament, but lost to a very deep and talented USA squad. Pastrnak also appeared on the Czech World Junior team in 2013-2014, where he appeared in 5 games, scoring 1 goal & 2assists for 3 points. Pastrnak has represented the Czech Republic at the U-16, U-17, U-18, Ivan Hlinka and World Junior Championships during his junior career. Will he come to the OHL? Little to know chance at all. Pastrnak actually has a decent shot at cracking the Boston Bruins squad, but will in all likelihood will be back with Sodertalje, as he is under contract with them for the 2014-2015 season. There is more of a chance he ends up in the NHL or AHL then in the CHL. I have him reporting to Belleville at less than 5%.

Mississauga Steelheads – William Nylander (C/RW) – Nylander was recently drafted 8th Overall by the Toronto Maple Leafs. Nylander is a unique player, he played for Team Maryland in 2008-09 & The Chicago Mission AAA team in 2010-2011, two squads that OHL teams scout looking for talent. After 2010-2011 Nylander went back home to play, in 2011-2012 Nylander suited up for Sodertalje at the U-16, U-18 & U-20 levels. Combined he appeared in 20 games, scoring 11 goals & 12 assists for 23 points. 2012-2013 saw Nylander play the majority of his season with the U-20 Sodertalje team, where he appeared in 27 games, scoring 15 goals & 28 assists for 43 points. Nylander also suited up for Sweden at the U-17’s in 2012-2013, appearing in 6 games, scoring 2 goals & 8 assists for 10 points. Nylander then suited up for the U-18 Team Sweden squad, appearing in 5 games, scoring 2 goals & 1 assist for 3 points. This season Nylander again split his time amongst 4 teams, Modo’s U-20 team, Modo of the Swedish Elite League, Rogle of the Allsvenskan & Sodertalje of the Allsvenskan. In 22 games with Modo of the Swedish Elite League Nylander scored 1 goal & 6 assists for 7 points. The Swedish Elite League is largely known as the best league outside of the NHL, so for a draft eligible player to have marginal success in limited minutes is a big deal. Nylander was most successful in 2013-2014 with Sodertalje of the Allsvenskan, appearing in 17 games and scoring 11 goals & 8 assists for 19 points. The Under 18 Championships are where Nylander really shined; He had 6 goals & 10 assists for 16 points in just 7 games. In all of Nylander’s appearances with the Swedish U-18 team he racked up 25 points in 14 games. Nylander will be a huge part of this year’s Swedish World Junior Team. Will he come to the OHL? If any other team selected him, I’d probably say Know. So many things would need to happen for Nylander to end up in Mississauga, but there is an outside chance. He’s unlikely to make the Leafs out of training camp, but he’s not under contract with any Swedish team, so he can be sent to the Toronto Marlies of the AHL, which is the most likely situation. However if Nylander struggles at the AHL level or is getting minimal ice time, the Leafs may ask him to report to Mississauga, rather than Sweden, to keep a close eye on his development. He won’t start the season in Mississauga, but at the conclusion of the World Junior Championships, he could be a Steelhead.

Niagara IceDogs – Mikkel Aagaard-Hansen (C/W) – Aagaard-Hansen has spent the past two seasons playing against men in Denmark’s pro league. Despite the Danish Pro league not exactly being a power house, when a 16/17 year old has successful seasons, it’s something to take note of. Aagaard-Hansen is born Oct 18, 1995 so he’s been passed over in the NHL draft, but from a positive point of view he has the experience of two pro seasons under his belt, which makes him a guy that should have an immediate impact at the OHL level... if he reports. In 2012-2013 Aagaard-Hansen suited up for Frederikshavn 2 of the Denmark 2 League, where he appeared in 30 games, scoring 14 goals & 29 assists for 43 points, he also racked up 95 penalty minutes. In 2013-2014 Aagaard-Hansen suited up in Denmark’s top league for Frederikshavn, where he appeared in 38 games, scoring 10 goals and 8 assists for 18 points. Aagaard-Hansen also appeared for his country in the World Junior Championships, where Denmark competed in the Division 1A tournament. Aagaard-Hansen had 8 points in 5 games on 3 goals & 5 assists. The Danes won the Division 1A tournament and will be on the big stage this year when the tournament takes place in Toronto & Montreal. A good showing for Aagaard-Hansen with the IceDogs and his country at the WJC will have NHL teams considering him as a mid to late round pick in the 2015 NHL Draft. Will he come to the OHL? He is under contract with Frederikshavn for the 2014-15 seasons; however that doesn’t seem to be a huge road block. Rumours have him reporting to Niagara, and I would agree with the rumours. He seems very likely to report to the IceDogs at this point. Although it’s not official yet, pencil Aagaard-Hansen in to the IceDogs line up for 2014-15.

Plymouth Whalers – Did Not Select a Player
With the Whalers passing on making a selection in the 2014 CHL Import draft, this would signal that they expect defenseman Yannick Rathgeb & Centre Victor Crus Rydberg to return to the club for the 2014-2015 Season. Crus Rydberg is a NY Islanders prospect, and will almost assuredly be a member of the Swedish World Junior team this Christmas. While Yannick Rathgeb is undrafted, he will also participate in the WJC as a member of the Swiss National Jr Team.

Owen Sound Attack – Petrus Palmu (F) - Palmu comes to the OHL as one of the smallest players, if not the smallest player in the whole CHL Import Draft. Palmu comes in at just 5’4, 141lbs. But with that being said, Palmu has had tremendous success at every level he has competed at, which includes the U-16 & U-17 National Championships where he represented Finland. Palmu is obviously a smaller sized forward, with excellent vision and a tremendous passing ability, his Hockey IQ is one of the best in his entire age group. Despite Palmu’s small frame scouts rave about his tenacity and skill. He is draft eligible in 2015 and has a legit shot at cracking the Finish World Junior Club this Christmas. In 2012-2013 Palmu suited up for the majority of the season with the U-18 Jokerit club of the Sm-Sarja, where he appeared in 27 games, scoring 9 goals & 10 assists for 19 points to go along with 32 penalty minutes. He also appeared on Team Finland’s U-16 Team in 2012-2013 where he appeared in 8 games, scoring 3 goals & 9 assists for 12 points. This past season Palmu again suited up with the U-18 Jokerit club where he appeared in 31 games, scoring 25 goals & 29 assists for 54 points. He also competed with the Finish U-17 throughout the year in various tournaments accumulating 11 goals & 13 assists for 24 points in 15 games. Will he come to the OHL? During an interview with Attack GM Dale DeGray, he absolutely raved about Palmu, Saying the Attack have done their homework on Palmu and they fell he is the perfect with the Club. From the other information I’ve gathered I think it’s safe to assume Palmu will be wearing Attack colours this season.

Peterborough Petes – Dominik Masin (D) – Masin was recently selected by the Tampa Bay Lightning in the 2nd Round, 35th Overall in the 2014 NHL Entry Draft. Masin is a very versatile defenseman with solid leadership qualities, it wouldn’t shock me to see him wearing an “A” if he reports to Peterborough. Masin despite his bigger frame, is not overly physical, but is still very effective in his own zone. He moves the puck tremendously well for a big man, and has the ability to get his shot through from the point. His Hockey IQ & consistency are what set him apart from others within his age group. Masin played his 2012-2013 season with HC Slavia Praha U-20, where he appeared in 25 games, scoring 1 goal & 2 assists for 3 points, along with 16 penalty minutes & a minus 1 rating. He was also a member of the Czech Republic’s National U-17 team in 2012-2013, where he appeared in 21 games, scoring 3 goals & 8 assists for 11 points. This past season he once again suited up for HC Slavia Praha U-20, where he appeared in 39 games, scoring 2 goals & 19 assists for 21 points, to go along with 102 penalty minutes and a plus 6 rating. Masin also Captained the Czech Republic Nation U-18 team this year, where he appeared in 28 games, scoring 1 goal & 9 assists for 10 points. Masin is a lock for the Czech World Junior Team this Christmas, a team that should give Canada and the other power houses a run for their money. Will he come to the OHL? It appears that he will indeed come to the OHL, while nothing is confirmed, rumours have him reporting. And to be honest it makes a lot of sense given Lightning GM Steve Yzerman’s connection to the Petes organization.

Saginaw Spirit – Artem Artemov (F) - Artemov comes to the Spirit from the USHL, unlike most players selected in the CHL Import Draft Artemov already has one year of experience with the North American game. Artemov’s agent is the Great Russian player Igor Larionov, he has had a great impact in bringing numerous Russian born players to the CHL & most notably the OHL. Artemov is a 97 born Forward, standing 5’11, 201lbs. He is eligible for the 2015 NHL draft, where he is currently ranked as one of the top Russian skaters. Artemov spent the 2013-2014 season with the Chicago Steel of the USHL, where he suited up for 56 games, scoring 16 & 17 assists for 33 points, to go a long with 28 penalty minutes and a minus 4 rating. Artemov is well adjusted to the North American style of game; he has no problem using his body to his advantage and has an ability to point produce. Will he come to the OHL? Yes, Artemov has already signed with the Saginaw Spirit and will be in the line up this coming season.

Sudbury Wolves – Pavel Jenys (C/LW) – Jenys was recently selected by the Minnesota Wild in the 7th Round, 199th Overall in the 2014 NHL Entry Draft. Jenys is a very talented forward, who was ranked much higher then he went going into last season. A reason for his drop in the draft is, Jenys battles with inconsistency. You could almost say he was bored with the Czech Junior league and his play ultimately tailed off. He played parts of last season in the Czech Elite league, and despite not point producing while at that level, his overall game was much better. When Jenys is on his game he uses his size to his advantage, winning puck battles in the corners & position battles in front of the net. He’s blessed with a very hard & accurate shot, and despite consistency concerns, when he’s going he shows great heart and is a very hard worker. One small knock on Jenys in addition to his bouts with consistency is he often over handles the puck and his exactly a great playmaker. Scouts feel his puck handling and passing will ultimately be fine, they just worry of his inconsistency. In 2012-2013 Jenys played for the HC Kometa Brno U-20 Team, where he appeared in 29 games scoring 7 goals 8 assists for 15 points. He also suited up for the Czech Republic’s U-17 Team at various tournaments where he appeared in 25 games, scoring 13 goals and 6 assists for 19 points. In 2013-14 Jenys split time between the HC Kometa Brno U-20 team and the HC Kometa Brno Czech Elite League Team. While playing with the U-20 Team, Jenys appeared in 26 games, scoring 13 goals & 6 assists for 19 points. While with the Elite League Club, Jenys appeared in 29 games, scoring just 2 goals. Jenys also suited up for the Czech Republic U-18 Team at various tournaments accumulating 6 goals & 3 assists for 9 points in 22 games. Although is inconsistent play had the Czech National Team leave him off the U-18 Roster that Won Silver at the World U-18 Championships. Will he come to the OHL? Well he is under contract with HC Kometa Brno of the Czech Elite League for the 14-15 Season, so it’s doubtful. However Czech Players usually have a fairly easy time getting out of their contracts to come to North America. I personally believe where Jenys play is in the hands of the Minnesota Wild, and I don’t believe they are too fond of him playing with the Wolves at this time.

Windsor Spitfires – Markus Soberg (LW/RW) – Soberg is a 2013, 6th Round pick, 165th Overall of the Columbus Bluejackets. Soberg is a high energy forward, with great skating ability. He handles the puck extremely well, and is more of a shooter then a playmaker. If they’re any knocks on Soberg’s game at this point, they are, he lacks physicality, he needs to get stronger & his play without the puck needs to improve to take the next step. In 2012-2013 Soberg suited up with Frolunda’s U-20 Super Elite team, where he appeared in 36 games, scoring 10 goals & 16 assists for 26 points. It’s important to note he was also a plus 29. Soberg also suited up for the Norwegian National team on two occasions. The first being at the U-18’s where he appeared in 5 games, scoring 8 goals & 5 assists for 13 points. Soberg’s second occasion suiting up for the Norwegian’s was at the World Junior Championships, in the Division 1A tournament. Soberg appeared in 5 games scoring 1 goal & 5 assists for 6 points, helping Norway win the Division 1A tournament and advance to the Top Stage of the World Junior Championships. In 2013-2014 Soberg played in 45 games with Frolunda’s U-20 Super Elite Team, scoring 21 goals & 17 assists for 38 points. He was also able to get into one Swedish Elite league game with Frolunda, although he did not register a point. Soberg also suited up for Norway at the World Junior Championships, appearing in 5 games tallying 1 assist and 4 penalty minutes. Will he come to the OHL? He has committed to the Windsor Spitfires. It was only a matter of time until this signing happened. It was one of the worst kept secrets out there; Soberg reporting was never in doubt.

Barrie Colts – Rasmus Andersson (D) – Andersson is one of the most highly rated defensemen for the 2015 NHL Draft, overall he is a consensus top 10 pick for next Junes NHL Entry Draft. Andersson is an excellent two way defender, he’s very mobile & see’s the ice very well. He can play in all 3 zones, has elite level hockey IQ and a very heavy shot from the point. In 2012-2013 Andersson suited up against men for Malmo of the Allsvenskan league in Sweden. He appeared in 38 games, scoring 3 goals & 8 assists for 11 points. He also suited up for the Swedish National team on two occasions. The first being at the U-17’s where he appeared in 5 games, scoring 2 goals & 4 assists for 6 points. The second time being a part of the Swedish U-18 team, where he appeared in 10 games, scoring 2 goals & 3 assists for 5 points. In 2013-2014, Andersson again played with Mamlo in the Allsvenskan, appearing in 43 games, scoring 3 goals & 10 assists for 13 points. He again suited up for Team Sweden at the U-18 Championships, appearing in 7 games, scoring 2 goals & 1 assist for 3 points. Andersson also suited up for Team Sweden at the Ivan Hlinka Memorial Tournament, where he appeared in 4 games, tallying 4 assists and 10 penalty minutes. He will once again represent Sweden at the Hlinka Tournament this August. Will he come to the OHL? I find it doubtful at this point as he is under contract with Malmo for the 14-15 season. However they’re rumours of him coming across the pond to play for Barrie. I wouldn’t complete close the door on seeing Andersson in the OHL this season, but I’d have to place the odds at around 35-40%.

North Bay Battalion – Hampus Olsson (RW) – Olsson is an intriguing prospect, he stands 6’5 and weighs 212. However he was passed over in the NHL draft this season, and the main reason was likely his skating ability. Playing on Olympic size ice surface really exposes a prospects skating ability. However with him coming over to North America, the North American game suites him a lot better, he will be able to use his size to crash and bang, and his skating won’t be exposed nearly as much. He’ll likely end up getting drafted as a re-entry in the 2015 NHL draft. Olsson loves to play the physical game, he gets to the dirty areas of the ices and thrives. He’s not a natural goal scorer or talented playmaker, but he has offensive ability and can find the back of the net. He’s a former teammate of North Bay’s other import Alex Henriksson, the two actually played on the same line in Sweden before Henriksson came to the OHL last season. There should be some instant chemistry between the two. In 2012-2013 Olsson played with the Rogle U-20 Team in the Super Elite Junior League, where he appeared in 41 games, scoring 5 goals & 13 assists for 18 points. In 2013-2014 Olsson again suited up with the Rogle U-20 Team, appearing in 37 games, scoring 7 goals & 9 assists for 16 points, to go along with 64 penalty minutes. He was also fortunate enough to get into 13 games with Rogle of the Allsvenskan league, where he appeared in 13 games, scoring 1 goal and adding 6 penalty minutes. Will he come to the OHL? Yes, in fact he’s already signed and extremely anxious and excited to get the season under way.

Kingston Frontenacs – Juho Lammikko (LW) – Lammikko was recently selected by the Florida Panthers in the 3rd round, 65th overall in the 2014 NHL Entry Draft. Lammikko is a hard working, two way forward, with decent skating ability. His hockey IQ is one of his best traits; scouts are really impressed by his overall vision and playmaking ability. Lammikko is not just a playmaker though, he’s a willing shooter and has a very accurate shot. In 2012-2013 Lammikko suited up for Assat U-18 of the Sm-Sarja in Finland, where he appeared in 31 games, scoring 21 goals & 32 assists for 53 points. Lammikko was also a member of Finland’s U-17 Team, where he appeared in 5 games, recording 6 assists & 2 penalty minutes. In 2013-2014 Lammikko split his season between Assat U-20 of the Sm-Liiga & Assat of the Finish Elite League (aka the Liiga). With the U-20 Assat squad Lammikko appeared in 37 games, scoring 17 goals & 25 assists for 42 points, he was also a plus 24 rating. With Assat of the Finish Elite League, Lammikko appeared in 20 games, adding just 1 assist. Lammikko also suited up with Finland’s U-18 Team where he appeared in 5 games, scoring 2 goals & 4 assists for 6 points. Lammikko also was part of the Team Finland’s entry to the Ivan Hlinka Memorial Tournament, where he appeared in 4 games, scoring 3 goals & 3 assists for 6 points. Will he come to the OHL? He has not committed as of yet, to the best of my knowledge he is under contract for one more season with Assat, but given he was recently drafted by the Florida Panthers, Dale Tallon may feel his best chance to develop would be in the OHL. The feeling I get is stronger towards him reporting to Kingston, however there has been no information to support that. I’d say it’s 50/50 on him reporting at this point.

Oshawa Generals – Tobias Lindberg (RW/C) – Tobias is a draft pick of the Ottawa Senators, originally selected in the fourth round, 102nd overall in 2013. Tobias is a 6’3, 198lbs Right Winger who is born in Stockholm, Sweden. Tobias is noted as a tough competitor who uses his size to attack the net, and win puck battles. Lindberg is a strong skater, with some offensive upside, but will likely translate to a checking forward at the pro level. The knock on Lindberg at this point of his career is his Hockey IQ is considered questionable at best. With that being said, Lindberg was considered by Senators as a project with high upside when they selected him. In 2012-2013 Lindberg suited u with Djurgarden U-20 of the Junior Super Elite League in Sweden, scoring 9 goals & 13 assists for 22 points in 43 games. Lindberg also suited up with Team Sweden’s U-18 Team in 2012-13 appearing in 2 games, scoring 2 goals & 1 assist. Lindberg also slipped into 5 games with Djurgarden of the Allsvenskan, where he recorded 1 assist in 5 games. In 2013-2014 Lindberg again suited up with Djurgarden’s U-20 Team, where he recorded 8 goals & 7 assists for 15 points in 38 games. He was a member of Sweden’s U-19 Team appearing in 4 games & recording no points. Again he was able to suit up with Djurgarden of the Allsvenskan, where he appeared in 3 games, recording 0 points. Will he come to the OHL? Nothing confirmed as of yet, but he’s all but guaranteed to come to Oshawa for 2014-2015.

Soo Sault Marie Greyhounds – Gustav Bouramman (D) – Bouramann is a right shot defensemen born in January 1997; he comes to the Greyhounds by way of Stockholm Sweden. Bouramman is known to have very good mobility, possess great instincts & ability with the pick. His play can be likened to that of Erik Karlsson’s of the Ottawa Senators. Now he’s know Erik Karlsson offensively, but his skating and vision and overall play can definitely be likened to Karlsson. Bouramann was recently named to Sweden’s entry to the Ivan Hlinka Memorial tournament in this coming August. In 2013-2014 Bouramann suited up for a number of teams, the first being Lulea U-18 of the Junior Elite League, where he appeared in 11 games, scoring 6 goals & 14 assists for 20 points. The second team Bouramman suited up for was Lulea U-18 of the Junior Allsvenskan (aka Junior Elite = OHL, Junior Allsvenskan Tier 2 Jr. A) Where he appeared in 5 games scoring 2 goals & 3 assists for 5 points. The third team Bouramman suited up for was Lulea U-20 of the Junior Super Elite League, where he appeared in 16 games, scoring 2 goals & 1 assist for 3 points. And finally Bouramman also suited up for Team Sweden at the U-17 Championships, where he appeared in 5 games, tallying 1 assist and 8 penalty minutes. Bouramann was named an Assistant Captain of the Swedish U-17 team. Will he come to the OHL? He has signed on to play in Soo Sault Marie for 2014-2015.

London Knights – Julius Bergman (D) – Bergman was recently selected in the 2nd round, 46th overall by the San Jose Sharks in the 2014 NHL Entry Draft. Bergman is known as a defenseman with impressive physical attributes who makes a great outlet pass. Many scouts acknowledge his skating ability and his vision. Bergman is not overly physical, but he uses his body well to position himself to defend well. He’s effective in all 3 zones. Bergman spent his 2012-2013 season split between Karlskrona of the Allsvenskan and Frolunda’s U-20 Team of the Junior Super Elite. During his time with Karlskrona he appeared in 23 games, recording 0 points and a minus 12 rating. While with Frolunda’s U-20 Team he appeared in 15 games, scoring 1 goal & 5 assists for 6 points and a plus 5 rating. Bergman also represented his country on two occasions in 2012-2013. The first being at the Ivan Hlinka Memorial Tournament, where he appeared in 5 games, recording 1 assist & a plus 2 rating. He also represented Sweden on their U-18 Team, where he again recorded 1 assist in 5 games. In 2013-2014 Bergman suited up with Frolunda U-20 of the Junior Super Elite, where he appeared in 45 games, scoring 13 goals & 21 assists for 34 points. Bergman also suited up for one Swedish Elite League game as a call up for Frolunda. Bergman was a member of Sweden’s U-19 team where he recorded 1 goal & 2 assists in 4 games. Will he come to the OHL? Well if he was selected by anyone else I’d say no chance, considering he’s under contract with Frolunda until the end of the 2015-2016 season. However this is the London Knights where talking about. They usually get their import picks to report. As of know he’s not signed, I’d expect Bergman to make Frolunda’s Swedish Elite League team this season, if he gets limited ice time or is sent to back to the Junior Elite League or loaned to a team in the Allsvenskan he may consider coming to the CHL.

Erie Otters – Anton Karlsson (LW/RW) – Karlsson was recently selected by the Arizona Coyotes in the 3rd Round, 87th Overall in the 2014 NHL Entry Draft. Karlsson is a 6’1, 187lbs strong forward, who is very tough to handle when he gets going at full speed. He is blessed with soft hands, and great vision, to go along with a solid checking ability. Karlsson is the definition of a 200 foot player. He plays the North American style game on Olympic size ice, so his transition to the OHL should be very natural, if he reports. In 2012-2013 Karlsson suited up with Frolunda’s U-18 team for 16 games, scoring 14 goals & 13 assists for 27 points. He also suited up for Frolunda’s U-20 team for 17 games, scoring 4 goals & 4 assists for 8 points. Karlsson represented Team Sweden on three occasions in 2012-2013. He first represented Team Sweden at the Ivan Hlinka Memorial Tournament, where he appeared in 5 games, adding 2 assists & a plus 3 rating. Karlsson also suited up for the Swedish U-17 team where he was named the Captain, and contributed 6 goals & 3 assists for 9 points in 6 games. While representing Sweden’s U-18 Team, he appeared in 5 games, recording 2 goals & 2 assists. He was also named an assistant captain with Sweden’s U-18 Team. In 2013-2014 Karlsson played the majority of the year with Frolunda’s U-20 team, where he appeared in 28 games, scoring 12 goals & 10 assists for 22 points. He also racked up 88 penalty minutes in just 28 games. Karlsson spent 9 games with Mora of the Allsvenskan, where he was a minus 3 and had 2 penalty minutes. He again represented Team Sweden at the Ivan Hlinka Memorial Tournament, this time as the Team Captain. He appeared in 4 games, scoring 1 goal & 4 assists for 5 points. He was also an assistant captain with the U-18 team where he appeared in 7 games, recording 0 points. Karlsson also made the Swedish World Junior Team last year, appearing in 5 games, recording 0 points. He’ll more than likely be a more key ingredient on Team Sweden’s 2014-2015 entry at the World Juniors. Will he come to the OHL? He’s not signed as of now; I believe he is still under contract with Frolunda in Sweden until the end of this upcoming season. Given that Andre Burakovsky came over last year and had a good experience while playing in Erie, it’s not completely out of the question that Karlsson draws on that an seriously considers the OHL. I know the Otters are working tirelessly to sign Karlsson, but as of now he’s not coming.

Guelph Storm – Did Not Select a Player – With Defenseman Phil Baltisberger and Centre Pius Suter returning the Strom do not have an opening for an import and therefore did not select a player in this year’s Entry draft. Both players will be integral parts of the Swiss World Junior Team this Season.


I'll Finish up my Round 2 Work and post it in this thread when completed later tonight or tomorrow afternoon.

Hey Macker......thank you for all the input. Found this link on HF Boards should save you some time as it has a scouting report for both rounds
http://ohlprospects.blogspot.ca/2014...ft-review.html

Just an update on London Import Pick Julius Bergman, Mark Hunter has said he expects Bergman to be in camp when it opens up. The San Jose Sharks feel Playing in the CHL would greatly Benefit Bergmans development.

A potential weak spot for London at the end of the Memorial Cup has seemingly become a strength as the summer has rolled on. If Dakota Mermis returns as an O/A London will actually have to many quality D-Men.

Round 2
Mississauga Steelheads – Lukas Haudum (LW) – Haudum is an Austrian born Winger, stands 5’11 & weighs 161. He’s known as an offensively gifted forward, with some physicality. He needs to get stronger, and play against better competition for scouts to get a more accurate view of his skills. Last season Haudum split time between EHC Linz U-18 & EHC U-20. While suiting up with EHC U-18 of the Austrian U-18 league, Haudum appeared in 27 games, scoring 29 goals & 29 assists for 58 points. While with the EHC Linz U-20 Team Haudum appeared in 15 games scoring 4 goals & 9 assists for 13 points. Haudum was able to appear in one game with the EHC Linz of the Austrian Elite league, he registered 0 points. Haudum was also a member of the Austrian U-18 National Team, which competed in the U-18 Division 1B Tournament. Haudum put up 4 goals & 1 assist for 5 points in 5 games. Will he come to the OHL? There has been no indication that he will or he won’t at this point. It would make sense for him to come and play in the OHL if he wants any shot at being drafted this season, as playing in the Austrian Junior league just won’t cut it for scouts. There are many rumours circulating that he will be headed to Sweden to play for Malmo’s U-18 Team in the Swedish Super Elite Junior League.

Peterborough Petes – Artyom Vladimirov (D) – Vladimirov is a ’97 born Russian defenseman who is known as a highly intelligent, shut down defender, with a powerful and accurate point shot. He is one of the more highly touted Russian defensive prospects in his age group. Evidence of that is Sibir Novosibirsk of the KHL selected Vladimirov in the 1st Round 23rd Overall in the 2014 KHL Draft. Vladimirov suited up for Sibirskie Snaipery Novosibirsk of the MHL (Russia’s top Jr. League) in 2013-2014, where he appeared in 34 games, registering 4 assists and 12 penalty minutes. Vladimirov was also a member of the Russian U-17 Team, where he appeared in 6 games, recording 2 penalty minutes. Will he come to the OHL? Indications from the Peterborough Petes organization are that, they believe there is a good shot that he indeed will come over and play for them. There is a growing concern for Russian prospects that they will be passed over in the draft if they don’t play in North America in their Draft Year. However he is not signed at this point in time, and with Russian prospects you never know what’s going to happen.

Sudbury Wolves – Ivan Kashtanov (LW) – Kashtanov was one of the surprises in the 2014 CHL Import Draft, many people believed he would go much, much higher than he did. But like most Russian Imports, questions were raised on wither he would or would not report. Kashtanov is ranked 25 overall by central scouting for the 2015 NHL Entry draft. He’s known as a kid with great leadership skills, good checking ability, and is very strong and physically mature for his age. He also has the ability to find the net, but his game is more geared as a checking forward at this time. In 2013-2014 Kashtanov suited up for Krasnaya Armiya Moskva of the MHL, where he appeared in 33 games, scoring 8 goals & assists for 16 points. He also captained the Russian U-17 squad, where he appeared in 6 games, scoring 2 goals & adding 2 penalty minutes. Kashtanov was also recently selected in the 1st round, 5th overall by CSKA Moskva of the KHL. Will he come to the OHL? It’s being reported in Sudbury that he will in all likely hood report to the Sudbury Wolves. Kashtanov is a highly touted Russian prospect who knows his best shot at being a 1st round pick in the 2015 NHL Draft is playing his draft year in the North America. Kashtanov is an absolute steal for Sudbury in the 2nd round, 91st overall.

Kingston Frontenacs – Jarkko Parikka (D) – Parikka is a ’97 born Finnish defensemen, who stands 6 foot tall and weighs in at 194. He is a good skater with some offensive skill, although he is a bit undersized as far as defensemen go. He can run a power play, and moves the puck well, but he ultimately has no high end offensive tools. He’s one of those kids who does lots of things good, but nothing overly well. With that being said, he’s currently projected to be a very late round NHL draft pick, but if he comes to the OHL, and has a fairly good season, he could turn some heads. In 2012-2013 Parikka suited up for SalPa U-18 of the Sm-Sarja (which is the equivalent to tier 2 Jr. A in Ontario) where he appeared in 36 games, scoring 6 goals & 11 assists for 17 points. Parikka was also a member of the Finnish U-16 & U-17 teams. While suiting up with the U-16 Team Parikka appeared in 11 games, scoring 3 goals & 1 assist for 4 points. As a member of the U-17 team he appeared in 3 games, registering 6 penalty minutes. In 2013-2014 Parikka came to North American and suited up for the Des Moines Buccaneers of the USHL. He appeared in 51 games, scoring 2 goals & 6 assists for 8 points. He also suited up for Finland at the Ivan Hlinka Memorial Tournament where he appeared in 4 games, registering 4 penalty minutes. Will he come to the OHL? I think he will, I think he came to North America with the intention to play in the best junior league and the OHL is a step up from the USHL. It will certainly help the cause if country mate Juho Lammikko agrees to come to Kingston as well. Expect Parikka to be a Frontenac in 2014-2015.

Oshawa Generals – Sonny Hertzberg (D) – Hertzberg is a Danish born defensemen, who stands 6’2 and weighs 187. He is a left shooting defenseman who is one of the better defenseman to have come out of Denmark. In 2012-2013 Hertzberg suited up in Sweden for Frolunda’s U-20 squad, where he appeared in 14 games, scoring 1 goal. He also was a member of Denmark’s Gold Medal Winning U-18 squad, where he appeared in 5 games, scoring 1 goal & 1 assist for 2 points. Denmark won the Division 1A championship. In 2013-2014 Hertzberg again suited up with Frolunda’s U-20 squad of the Swedish Junior Super Elite league. In 13-14 Hertzberg played a more integral part on the squad, appearing in 42 games, recording 4 goals & 9 assists for 13 points. He also racked up an astonishing plus 35 rating and 63 penalty minutes. Also in 2013-2014 Hertzberg again represented his country, this time at the World Junior Division 1A tournament, where Denmark won gold. Hertzberg appeared in 5 games, scoring 2 goals & 2 assists for 4 points. Denmark will play in the big tournament this year and Hertzberg is expected to be a big part of that squad. Will he come to the OHL? He is likely coming to the OHL, its being reported that he is nearing an agreement with the Oshawa Generals. I firmly believe Hertzberg can be impactful right away in the OHL, and his numbers from the Swedish Super Elite league should translate at the OHL level.

London Knights – Daniil Miromanov (F) – Miromanov is a Russian born forward who played last season with the Toronto Jr. Canadiens of the GTHL. Miromanov is ’97 born and stands 6’2, 170lbs. He’s been an intriguing prospect for some time, and it surprises me he went this late in the draft. It doesn’t surprise me that London took a flyer on him though. Mark Hunter has said his forward core for the 2014-2015 season is really up in the air, given over half of last year’s forward core could be gone this season. Miromanov appeared in 31 regular season games with the Midget AAA Jr. Canadiens, scoring 20 goals & 11 assists for 31 points. He also appeared in 13 playoff games, where he racked up 11 goals & 4 assists for 15 points. Will he come to the OHL? The short answer, Yes. He will be reporting to London. However Hunter has stated if guys like Tierney, Horvat, Domi and so on return, Miromanov is likely headed for one of the London Knights affiliates.

Erie Otters – Igor Vladykovsky (F) – Vladykovsky is a ’95 born forward who stands 6’1, and weighs 190lbs. He is Russian born, despite playing the last two seasons in the USA for Detroit Honeybaked and the Springfield Jr. Blues of the NAHL. In 2012-2013 Vladykovsky appeared in 23 games with Detroit Honeybaked, where he racked up 3 goals & 6 assists for 9 points. During Honeybaked’s playoff run, he appeared in 6 games, scoring 4 goals & 2 assists for 6 points. This past season Vladykovsky suited up for the Springfield Jr. Blues for 31 games, scoring 3 goals & 2 assists for 5 points. Will he come to the OHL? I believe he’d like to, he’s unsigned at this point however. My bigger concern is will even make the Otters out of training camp. He had very underwhelming numbers in a not so strong NAHL. If he does report, he is a 4th liner at best, and if Erie is in the midst of a serious playoff run, he will be moved in favour of a more useful import player.

The Sarnia Sting, Kitchener Rangers, Ottawa 67’s, Belleville Bulls, Niagara IceDogs, Plymouth Whalers, Owen Sound Attack, Saginaw Spirit, Windsor Spitfires, Barrie Colts, North Bay Battalion, Soo Sault Marie Greyhounds & Guelph Storm did not make a selection in the 2nd Round of the Import draft as they have either 1 or in some cases (Guelph & Plymouth) 2 Imports already returning for the 2014-2015 season.