Login

Legend · 07-05-2022, 11:43 AM

Season 65 of the SMJHL has wrapped up seeing the Detroit Falcons win the Four Star Cup in a thrilling 7 game series against defending champions, the Newfoundland Berserkers. The Falcons did it in true Detroit fashion, gutting out 3 elimination games in a row to overcome the Berserkers.

Now that the action on the ice has come to a close, fans and media alike start to turn our attention to the next big Junior event, the SMJHL Entry Draft. Anchorage hold the first pick while the Kraken leapfrogged last place Vancouver Whalers for the second pick while said Whalers pick third. The order more or less follows the inverse of the standings until we get to St. Louis, who traded their first round pick to Quebec City in a pick swapping deal at last season’s draft. Along with the Scarecrows, Detroit traded out of the first-round ages ago in a deal that saw Creller put on a Falcons uniform while Lilcoque put on an Outlaws one (Told you it was awhile ago). Like usual, multiple pick swaps in the following rounds as one can be expected.

But enough about the teams, what about the prospects? Who’s entering the draft with high expectations and who could become the year’s dark horse? Each and every year has them, along with a laundry list of busts, and that is why the draft is so exciting!

This list is by no means exhaustive, but a mere collection of prospects sorted in three categories. Those expected to go first, those who could jump or fall, and the wild cards where our next great SMJHL player could emerge from.

The Great Expectations

Some of these next few players are considered to be early selections, either projected to be going in the first round or exciting enough to be considered a steal if they drop into the second. We tried to limit ourselves to the top 15 well known names, but four extra players slipped in due to the size of the draft class we’re seeing. We’ll let you guess who they might be!

For most of these players, the SMJHL is just a waste of time as they’re already looking ahead to a career in the SHL. Some have it all figure out, and some are just playing it by ear. Regardless, get to know these names as you’ll be seeing them a lot during the next decade or more.

Diablo Rose @NONAME
LW – Toronto, Canada – Sniper

Rose is the first name to appear on our list, as he’s been linked with the SMJHL draft for the longest amongst the prospects. This smooth dressing, hair flowing winger will make his SMJHL team very happy if they select him.

With a knack for picking corners, and breaking hearts, Rose can read the game with the best of them. A good foundation of athletic ability will aid in his success while he improves his defensive game. The smarts and IQ are there, but now he needs to put it all together if he wants to win a Four Star Cup with his new team

Hodor @bbjygm
RD - Winterfell, Westeros – Bruising Defenseman

We checked, Winterfell still isn’t a place in the world as far as we’re aware but nobody tell Hodor. We’re scared of what he might do.

No guesses to know what this behemoth of a (young) man can do on the ice. With a solid grasp of the game in his own end, Hodor can be relied upon in war – let alone a SMJHL hockey game. Seriously though, do they make skates strong enough to support his 400lb frame? I wonder what his locker looks like as we’re betting it’s closer to a bomb shelter than a wooden dressing stall.

Adam Prpich @Rich
Goalie - Zagreb, Croatia – Cat Like Goaltender

Croatia isn’t known for All-Star goaltending, but Prpich is changing that narrative. A surefire starter from Day 1 with his new team, Adam is a well-rounded goalie that has good reflexes with every part of his body.

Not the largest goalie on the ice, but far from small, Prpich has a great base to work with as he chases the SHL dream. How far will he go is up to him, but we’re guessing teams are going to lay out the red carpet to get him in the building. A must have pick for any Four Star Cup contender.

Antonio Flusso @Massive Coiler
RD - Bern, Switzerland – Two-Way Defenseman

The first of our Right Defenseman prospects in a very right heavy draft class, Flusso is hoping to make Swiss cheese of his opponents. Good athletics combined with a traditional 6’3” D-Man frame gives teams a good foundation to work with as Flusso fleshes out his offensive and defensive game, in which he is skilled in both.

A great IQ is good news for teams wanting to develop him into a top pairing partnership.

Isaac Forty-One @C9Van
RD - Schaffhausen, Switzerland – Defensive First Defenseman

Next up for RD is Isaac Forty-One, another Swiss product to go along with Flusso. Although that is where the comparisons end as Forty-One is very much a defensive side of the puck first player with limited offensive IQ. However his passing and breakouts make up for that fact as he can get the puck up ice to the skilled players.

A great player on the back end with a great athletic build, Forty-One will be seeing a ton of time on the Penalty Kill in the SMJHL. This is a player that every serious teams needs to look at. Not flashy, but get the job done for the good of the team.

Did we mention his hair though? Guy could be a movie star as well.

Axel Kirby @Otrebor13
RW - Montreal, Canada – Two-Way Winger

The first French Canadian, but not the last, on our list is Axel Kirby and unlike the stereotype - Kirby can play some D. His skill in the offensive zone is evident when scouts have watched him, and he’s responsible enough on the back end to help out his goaltender.

Fairly limited in the speed department, we’ll see how that improves during his SMJHL career. Axel fills a hole for many teams immediately as he can break into the league on the second line already. Watch for Kirby to get a load of ice time this upcoming season.

Bruno Tooyo @Bruins10
LW - Montreal, Canada – All-Around Winger

We told you we’re not done with the French Canadians. Bruno Tooyo is fairly similar to his counterpart in Kirby, although Tooyo is a touch faster. Tooyo can fit almost any hole right from the start with his 200ft game, although we suspect he might make offence a focus in his training this upcoming season.

Once again, another player that isn’t flashy but every team is craving to add to their roster.

Foxy @Samsung virtual assistant
LW - Sundsvall, Sweden – Explosive Winger

Foxy, the Fox(y), from Sweden is a quick and very diminutive winger. Oh how we can’t wait for him to go up against Hodor just to see what happens! His quick stick helps in a defensive pinch meanwhile his offensive ability is why teams are begging to select this Swede.

We’re curious how Foxy will transition to the SMJHL from his coastal home in Sweden, and although we have no concerns it will still be a culture shock for the explosive winger, given his Fox(y) nature.

Meta Knight @spooked
Center – Dream Land – All-Around Centerman

We’re unsure if Meta Knight is the new “Meta” for the SMJHL and if he’s really from Dream Land? His opponents might think he’s from nightmare land the way he’s handled his coemption so far.

Despite his lacking athletic ability, Knight can get it done in both zones and will be a focus for the SMJHL teams in this draft. A slight edge is his offensive game, as can be expected for a Forward. Meta will be seeing the ice plenty this season and can slot into a second line unit from Day 1.

August Von Hecht @CptSquall
Goalie - Frankfurt, Germany – Right Time, Right Place

Von Hecht is one of the most interesting goalie prospects we’ve seen in a while. He always seems to be in the right place, ready to flash the leather with his quick reflexes. His skating is very limited, but does it matter since he’s always in the right place to begin with?

Let alone the vintage look this kid brings to the table, next season will be interesting for the shooters in the SMJHL. Can they figure out a way to beat him? We’re banking on teams giving this kid a shot from the very start of his career.

Nevek Kove @Evok
RD - Quebec City, Canada – Two-Way Defenseman

Another prospect from Quebec and another occupying a RD spot. Nevek Kove has been heavily linked to his hometown team, and we’re banking that they take him. Question is, will they take him in the first round or wait until the second? I think we all know the answer here Shy

Kove can cover every area of the ice, but it all starts from his back end as he’s one of the most responsible two-way defenseman we’ve seen enter the draft. Kove might even be already looking ahead to a potential SHL career given all the hype and accolades that surround the young Frenchman.

One interesting fact is that Kove has a brother, who we’ll cover later in the list. Does these complicate things for a SMJHL GM or will they draft both brothers!

Alexi Piastri @vbottas17
RW - Melbourne , Australia – Offensive Winger

Our first youngster from down under this season, Alexi Piastri is here to score and to look good doing it. He’s all business, all the time.

With smooth hands and a shot that makes others jealous, Piastri will be seeing Power Play time very soon into his SMJHL career. We have a feeling that teams might be trying to trade up to select the Aussi. After all, how could you not when you watch him?

Pawter Meowski @Andy
LW - Oslo, Norway - Offensive Winger

Pawter Meowski may have many people fooled, but he won’t fool us. There is no way this cat looking player is this good, although is he?

With cat like movement, a brain that sees his eyes dart around the ice looking for an open player or open net, and cat like wrists that launch a smooth shot Pawter is almost… part cat? Either way, SMJHL won’t care and let’s be honest it’s not the strangest or worst thing this league has ever seen. Meowski enters the draft looking to have a (yarn) ball.

Jack St. Clair @CrazyMojito
Center - Halifax, Canada – Shutdown Center

Our first prospect hailing from the maritime, Jack St. Clair is the Center you want to put on the ice against the other teams best. Strong, able to keep up, and more importantly the tools to shut the other player down.

On top of this St. Clair has game of his own as a smooth playmaker able to find his wingers almost anywhere on the ice. Other Centers may need a year to adjust to the league, but St. Clair might be on the top line sooner rather than later, especially for a coach wanting to line match best against best.

Expect him to go high, very high.

Rasmus Bergling @JNH
RD - Linköping, Sweden – All-Around Defenseman

Another fine addition to our Right Defenseman crop, Bergling is as Swedish as you expect for someone patrolling the point. Great option on the Powerplay and the ability to move the puck up ice in a hurry. Smooth skater who isn’t the fastest but uses his edges very well.

In his end he can take care of business with a harder hit than you expect for someone 6’2”. With so many highly rated defenseman, specifically on the right side teams will be all over Bergling, and the others.

Look for a domino effect to happen. Once the first one goes, the rest will go quickly.

Dusty Rhodes @BarnabasCollins
LW - Austin, United States – Power Forward

Dusty Rhodes, the next coming of the American Dream, is a bruiser out of Austin. This bruiser can do just enough in the offensive zone that labels him a Power Forward instead of a defensive first winger. Make no mistake, laying the body and dropping the gloves is what Rhodes does the best.

A great addition to a team, expect Rhodes to man handle his opponent’s next season. For those like Foxy, expect them to skirt around the edge hopefully staying just outside the arm reach of Rhodes. Will it be enough? Tune in next season to find out.

Paul Peterson @TheDangaZone
Center – Unknown – Two-Way Center

Paul Peterson seemingly showed up out of nowhere to have a great career so far up until the SMJHL. Seriously, we have no idea where he’s from. What he can do on the ice is more opponent than where he was born, and boy are teams excited. Responsible in both ends of the ice, Peterson can find teammates and read the game like very few others.

We’ll see if he can improve his skating over his junior career, and if so he’ll be in line for a great SHL career, let alone SMJHL.

Brendan Laroux @Shmurph
LD - Sainte-Verge, France – Two-Way Defenseman

Sainte-Verge isn’t known for much. Actually we’re pretty sure it’s known for nothing, since no one knows about it. Brendan Laroux is changing that as this left defender prepares for life in the SMJHL. Not the fastest skater in the world but agile and a great IQ to boot.

Laroux moves the puck well and has a shot that compliments the rest of his offensive abilities. A solid defender in front of his own net, which team will take Laroux? Being the only Left Defenseman on our list stands out and thus makes us think, will he go very early for a team filling a need?

Lachlan Moon @DELIRIVM
Goalie – Australia – All Around Goaltender

The second Aussie on our list, and third goaltender, Lachlan Moon is no push over. With great positioning and body control he is very similar to other top-rated goaltenders in this draft. Just like another one his skating leaves much to be desired but the reflexes and quick snags more than make up for any skating blunders.

Don’t count Moon out one bit, he’s a goalie prospect SHL teams have already started keeping tabs on as well.

The Darkhorses

These next few players will find themselves projected to be going in the late second to late third round. However, don’t be surprised to see a team “reach” and draft them early. You never know what goes on behind the scenes and how the pre-draft interviews go.

With that being said we have no idea how these players might do in the SMJHL, or even beyond. Will the crash and burn even before the SMJHL Draft, or will they silence critics and have great careers, possibly setting themselves up to the daunting task of making the SHL?

Either way, this is why we’re all here. Every one loves an underdog story, and some even like comeback stories *cough* Kim Kardashian *cough*

Theodor Larsson @Zema
Center - Borås, Sweden – Two-Way Center

The first name leading the Darkhorse charge is Theodor Larsson from Borås, Sweden. Although at first glance he doesn’t seem overly special, it’s when you keep watching that you notice it. The lack of mistakes, and pure 200ft game make Larsson a great team player down the center of a lineup. Good athletics, defensive ability, and a strong offensive game scream first round pick in any other draft but in one as deep as this it’s not impossible for Larsson to be a steal if he’s in the second round.

Another Swedish prospect with excellent hair is now along the same lines of inevitabilities as death and taxes.

Petr Sokolov @Southie
Left Wing - Omsk. Omsk Oblast, Russia – Two-Way Winger

Petr Sokolov is the last Russian to try his hand at the SMJHL, and the first one on our list if we’re not mistaken.

A winger that can move up and down the boards at a good pace, and with a devasting body check for the 5’10” frame, Sokolov is far from a one trick pony. Add in his offensive game and a heck of a shot and you have a player that can make some noise at this year’s draft.

We would like to see him pass the puck more from the wings, but I’m sure that could be something that gets ironed out during the training camp in his first year.

D Jobin @Jobin
RD - Thunder Bay, Ontario, Canada – Two-Way Defenseman

One of the strangest looking prospects in this year’s draft, D Jobin comes to us from Thunder Bay, Ontario. A product of the back woods it seems, Jobin can play - and he can look really well doing it. A strong 6’6” frame with quick feet allows him to get anywhere he wants on the ice, regardless of if that’s through or past players. His edges need work, however.

On the defensive side of the puck he can do just enough for a defenseman to be called ”solid”. The offensive zone is where he wants to shine, with super soft hands and a shot that equals his passing ability, look for teams to notice Jobin to immediately improve their blueline.

Carl Ray Jetson @pauadrian
LW - Zurich, Switzerland – Two-Way Winger

I swear I’ve seen this youngster before, but perhaps that’s only been in my dreams. Nevertheless that is where he belongs to a lot of SMJHL GM’s I’m guessing. He truly is a Party for One and he’ll be hoping for those GM’s to Call Me Maybe on draft night.

A smooth and confident skater with the muscles to push people off the puck, this two way winger can get it done at both ends of the ice. A great IQ for the game and where to find the open ice, Jetson will be anything but a dream for the opposing team to deal with during the next few seasons.

We would like for him to improve his shooting range at the next level, and if he does he’ll be having a Good Time.

Rod Cocker @austin623
LD - Belp, Switzerland – Two-Way Defenseman

Yet another Swiss product that has been pumped out for this season’s class, Rod Cocker is coming to the SMJHL and his goatee won’t be standing in the way of anyone.

Great strength and a low center of gravity make this youngster tough to knock over for opposing forwards, although his skating is fairly average currently. He can deliver a crushing hit just as well as a quick stick left to separate the man from the puck in his own end.

On the flip side of the ice, his passing and soft hands make him a contender to man the blueline during Power Plays and with a fairly accurate shot from the blueline as well.
In a draft loaded with Right sided defenseman, does Cocker shoot up the rankings with the lack of lefties available?

Pepega Paquette @ReaperComePepegaAim
LW - Lorraine, Canada – Tough Offensive Winger

Small towner Pepega Paquette embodies everything about his Quebec hometown. A tough youngster that can zip up and down the left wing has the GM’s on the edge of their seats every time they watch him. You never know if he’s going to try to run over someone, or dangle around him.

Make no mistake though, Paquette makes his living in the offensive zone right now, being an excellent goal scorer that isn’t afraid to stand in front of traffic and deflect pucks. Teams might want to see him improve slightly in the defensive zone, but any team taking him in the draft is selecting him for his offensive upside first and foremost.

Shea O’Connall @Legend
RD – Cobh, Ireland – Responsible Puck Mover

This Irish lad really had our writing team split, with several members not even considering him to go in the draft let alone be in the Darkhorse category. Then again, that’s the point of this group is that they can go anywhere and anything can happen.

An average skater that plays defense averagely and doesn’t make any great offensive progress isn’t exactly appealing, or needed, or.. what were we saying? We’re guessing he’s a responsible puck mover, because honestly he doesn’t do much else.

We’ll see where the Irish youngster from Cobh goes, but many of us are projecting that his journey will end in Juniors.

Kyle Murray @Jimmysmo27
RW - Anchorage, United States – Offensive Winger

Tall framed, strong Kyle Murray hails from Anchorage, Alaska and he certainly plays like it. Not afraid to get into the dirty areas to make something happen, this winger can skate or steamroll whoever he comes up against (unless that person is Hodor).

Not much of a defender in the slightest, Murray has his eyes set on super stardom through scoring and making the most of his offensive chances. Finding the open ice he can pick corners at will, along with breaking some ankles to boot.

A team needing an offensive punch this off-season will surely draft him, we have no doubt.

Gooney Toons @negs77
RD - Goonopolis, Austria – Enforcer

Yet another member of this incredibly deep right sided defense core, Gooney Toons is a perfect match for his name, despite the fact that we can’t find Goonopolis on a map.
With a love to fight, a desire to get into the dirty areas, and a mean streak that should start to attend anger management meetings this defender is here to win. With surprisingly good top end speed, his footwork and edges need all the help they can get. I guess that isn’t a problem when you can just knock other people over as well.

Other than that, we’re not sure he’s much of a hockey player – at all. But we’re sure one GM has his eyes on Toons, ready to take him and to develop out something that resembles a defensive game.

If not, maybe he’ll just earn his living beating up the opposing team every night to help his team win. Anything is possible.

Tam Kove @Hordle
RW - Quebec City, Canada – Two-Way Winger

Another Kove from Quebec City in this class, what are the odds? Well given the fact that they are related, the odds are pretty good! We already talked about Nevak and if a GM takes them both, but it really is a moot point with how good Tam Kove is on his own anyways.

A great skating winger that might be a bit soft on the puck is nothing new, but still something that GM’s can get excited about. Kove’s ability to get open and find teammates as well as the back of the net himself if very impressive.

Although a little weaker physical wise, he still finds a way to make it work in his end, becoming a great option for any team to have. On top of that, he’s pretty good in the faceoff circle and might even get a chance to play Center in certain teams system.

At this rate, Quebec might enter their own team into the IIHF tournaments if all these prospects pan out.

Sudden Risers

This next batch of talented youngster were unknown to the SMJHL mere weeks ago, however rumblings and news has started to pick up. Projection for these players is like throwing a dart at a dart board. Sure, you’re trying to pick a place, but anytime you play you’re most likely drunk and have as much chance of hitting a bullseye that you do for hitting your friend in the head.

We’re not in the business of predicting picks correctly, but we will offer advice to these young bucks. Stand out in any way you can. Make a good impression to GM’s, be proactive and don’t take no for an answer.

Last but not least, this is the start and not the end. No matter where these players end up and at what pick, there is only one way to go and that is up towards the SHL!

Cob Corning @stein
LD - The Cornfields, Finland – Shutdown Defenseman

From what we gather, the Cornfields of Finland is not a real place which now begs a question. Has Cob Corning just been living in random corn fields all this time? Someone get this kid a bed, and a roof!

A massive left defender, Corning has hands like butter and a super punishing hit. A true defender in every sense of the word, Corning will be matched up against the SMJHL’s best. Will he be able to prevail?

We’re excited to see if he can add an offensive side to his game to go along with those soft hands

Manny Pizza @MrJoey2928
Center - New York, United States – All Offence, All the Time

Manny Pizza hails from New York, and of course he does with a name like Pizza. This kid only has one gear, and it’s offense and a quick start.

Oddly enough, super slow but his off the line speed is probably the best in the draft. Magic in the faceoff circle will make him an attractive pick for a team looking to develop a few more tools to go along with his great offensive zone game.

Awcrap Ihavethepuck @CJTheM16
Center - Baton Rouge, United States – Offensive Penalty Killer

If someone hasn’t already, please call child service in Baton Rouge. 100% a product of a lost bet, Awcrap Ihavethepuck has an offensive game that teams love – and parents that we all probably hate for giving him such an unfortunate name.

For some that suggests he “panics” when he has the puck, that couldn’t be further from the truth. Although it’s quick easy to knock him over and sometimes he does look like Bambi on ice with his balance.

What do teams think of him? We’ll find out on draft day.

Jacques Hammer @TheHammer43
LW - Montreal, Canada – All-Around Winger

Jacques Hammer is a Hall of Famer in Hockey Name already. Hailing from Montreal this all-around winger is turning the heads of every GM and scout that we’ve talked to. A little raw, but the potential to be something great.

His skating and speed will give him a strong start to his junior career, and with a good idea of what to do in each zone we’re sure teams see the chance to mold him into the player they need to win the Four Star Cup.

Expect him to go soon, especially if he keeps making noise.

Bohdan Jarovsky @JustAnotherHockeyFan
Center - Klatovy, Czechia – Offensive Centerpiece

This Czechia Centerman might be the next offensive centerpiece for his SMJHL Team. Bohdan Jarovsky is a solid skating, quick puck moving middle man that can stretch the ice with his passing. Mainly focused on the offensive side of the game, Jarovsky has a defined skill set that translate well to the Junior level.

Another player that has started to be vocal, we can only encourage that for youngsters leading up to the draft. Do something that separates yourself and that you’re serious about making that step in the SMJHL.

Gray Rosey @BleedBlue52
Goalie – Canada – All-Around Goaltender

Gray Rosey might be looking at a backup spot, unless the right team coming knocking, but this kid can play.

An all-around goaltender that doesn’t have a weakness is hard to come by, and who can argue with his massive frame? This Canadian will get picked but will need to continue to put in the effort to show he’s ready for that starting net with his SMJHL team.

Can he, do it? We think he can.

Gaston LeGrume @ConverseFall1
LW - Quebec, Canada – Power Forward

LeGrume is another French Canadian in a deep draft of them this season. The winger is not your traditional skilled winger, and instead opts to use every inch of his 6’5” frame.
A little on the slow side, but very much on the strong side, LeGrume can bully his way down the ice and to the net where his hands take over. He can shoot, pass, and make the extra move that gets him in close to finish.

Teams are doing their homework on him and we hope he shoots up the draft board.

Johan Nørgaard @djconrad
LD - Aalborg, Denmark – All-Around Defenseman

Our next three players are all left defenseman, and we start with Johan Nørgaard out of Aalborg, Denmark. For those who skipped geography, one of the most northern cities in the country.
Johan can do it all, and will be asked to do it all by his SMJHL team. He needs a bit more polish and an “umph” factor, but he has the potential to have a very solid Junior career. One that may even continue into the SHL.

For now, teams will be excited about the player they can mold with him.

Jon Bell @sambam229
LD - Baltimore, United States – Defensive Defenseman

Next up is Jon Bell from Baltimore. Raw but very exciting as he is a defensive defenseman that can move with great pace and who has very quick feet.

A force in his own zone makes him a safe, but very attractive, pick for any SMJHL team. Will we get to see him develop his offensive game in the Juniors though? It’s too early to tell but we’re very excited.

Neal Newland @Hallsyy
LD - Boston, United States - Responsible Puck Mover

Neal Newland is our last of three straight left defenders, but he’s certainly not the least. Coming to us from Boston, this youngster can zip the puck with speed, and he knows where to go on the ice to find the quiet space.

A slower skater might hold him back for the time being, but we bet he handles that and improves as he progresses in his career.

His great frame and ability to pick out teammates during the breakout have GM’s and scouts smirking. Could this be a late round steal?

Tim Coke @mattiePeepz
RW - Brooklyn, United States – Two-Way Winger

Tim Coke is from Brooklyn, and he can play both ways of the game all day long. There really isn’t a glaring weakness in his game, which is why GMs might be rating him high this upcoming draft.
Where he goes is purely up to him. He has the skill set and tools, now it’s time for development and to put them into action.

Hopefully Tim Coke is the next best thing to come out of Brooklyn, after Captain America of course.

Pope Coswi Jr @Coswi
Center - Sacramento, United States – Two-Way Center

People forget Sacramento exits, heck even people that live there can tell you that. It has produced Pope Coswi Jr who is hoping to prove doubters wrong and produce on the ice as well. A decent skater that focuses a bit more on the offensive side of the game, he does have the ability to play a role in his zone as well.

Although from all the videos we’ve seen, Cowsi Jr cannot win a draw to save his life. Expect this to get sorted out and improved upon once he’s drafted.

Bobby McGinnis @erikvm
LW - Louisville, United States – Hard Hitting Winger

It’s not often someone like Bobby McGinnis comes around. Not quite a Power Forward just yet, he can lay the body and he does fairly often. A good skater with a knack of what to do in each zone is desired amongst SMJHL GM’s.

Add in his skill in the offensive zone and we have a player here. Great hands and a good shot have got him onto the draft board. Just like the others though, what can he do to improve and where will that take him? All the great ones had to start somewhere.

The Rest

Although not much has been heard from these players, we wanted to mention them by name regardless as they have officially declared for the draft as well. Will we see the likes of any of them become late rounders or even undrafted free agents that could take the league by storm? We’ll soon find out.

Andrew Willis, the Winger from Oklahoma City, USA. @Rondel25
Tyler Helman, the Explosive Center from Vienna, Austria @Okaychessplayer48
We hope Velociraptor is just a nickname for Velociraptor Greg. The Center from Stockholm, Sweden. He must have Stockholm syndrome for his parents if not. @Samx
Malachi Booth, the mysterious goaltender from the United States. @MalachiBooth
Tang Tsujimoto, the winger we all want to see grace the SMJHL from Kyoto, Japan. @martinezzzz-m
Louis Perreault a left defender from Terrebonne, Canada. @Wind Savon
Baby Shark, the Center another result of unsupervised parents from New York of course. @imanightrider
Trap Zelenock, the winger from Flint who reminds us to throw on the Tropics to watch tonight. @trappypapi
Liam Noel, another winger coming to us from Ontario. @Oilers97
Max Hoshi, the Chicago born winger that loves to stand in front of the net. @Geckeez
Eliz Troia, the left defender from Pittsburgh. @melowrie
Hendrix Cobberson, winger from St. Louis. @HendrixHeat
Tero-Petteri Päälykäinen, the left defender from Finland who SMJHL equipment managers is praying their team doesn’t take. Seriously can you imagine that name bar? @vekeko
Andrew Rudaa, a winger from the GTA that can move the puck like it’s on a string. @A-ruudz
Nate Dogg, the center from the frozen wasteland of Edmonton (Sorry Blizzard fans). @Nate_l_dogg
John Manganelli, a winger coming to us from the United States capital. @Oogim
Joel Eriksson, the latest defenseman youngster coming out of Sweden. @Mr_Klank
Joel Farfalle, the unknown goaltender that seemingly comes from USA. @Turtle7243
Erick Vasiljevs, a winger who is yet another French-Canadian prospect. @johjeff
Michael Syreskey, a right defender from the Steel City of Pittsburgh. @MichaelSiren
Hans Mulluer, the right playing defenseman from Stockholm, Sweden. @CHildOfTheKing
Joseph Milone Jr, another Center prospect that call New York home. @Jmilone
Emil Lindenberg, the winger from Finland @greatgentoo
Ryanko Witunkey, another unknown from the USA that plays Left Defense. @Porky Platypus

The Wizards

"A wizard is never late, nor is he early. He arrives precisely when he means to." Gandalf the Grey famously said. He was right as these next batch of prospects might have been late, and after our initial publishing time, but they are right on time to partake in the SMJHL Draft. We'll take a closer look at some of them that have stood out!

Tommy Tuffnutts @TugBoat
LD - Erie, United States - Two Way D

Tommy Tuffnutts, a name for the ages, has entered his name into the draft. The first of our "Wizard" category this youngster looks more like a bear than he does a Wizard for sure. With good edges and a surprisingly top end speed his other athletics traits do lag a bit behind.

He makes up for it with great hands, accurate passing and a great IQ GMs like to see when picking prospects. He's no slouch in his own zone, usually in the right place doing what he's suppose to. For such a large frame he does hit softer than one would expect, but perhaps that changes once teams work on his footwork.

Intriguing prospect to keep an eye on.

Daniel Swift @jumpSeat
RW - Armagh, Ireland - Swift Winger

Daniel Swift comes exactly as advertised, the young Irish winger can move! With the ability to skate circles around his opponents this late entry looks like he'll be crossing the sea to start his SMJHL very shortly.

On top of this great speed and footwork, Swift has a heck of a shot and is a threat every time he touches the puck in the offensive zone. His defensive side of the game is a bit limited but should improve with time.

I expect this youngster to be a late riser and possibly the first Irish player taken, ahead of our earlier mentioned prospect from Cobh.

Benjamin Devito @Dallasrouge
LD - London, Great Britain - Defensive Defenseman

Look at that, it's almost like the world is spreading in the British Isles with our second straight Isles player. Benjamin Devito is exactly what you would get if you crossed Benjamin Franklin and Danny Devito.

This firecracker of a left defender is super strong and can drop the gloves with the best of them. Although even though he's strong we don't recommend him taking on 400lb Hodor anytime soon. Don't be fooled by his stature, Devito is a pretty good defender, although he doesn't skate past the red line as he's super ineffective in the offensive zone.

Whoever is taking him come draft time we'll have a heck of a rookie party we're sure.

Terry Leviathan @trella
Center - City, Czechia - Down the Middle Center

We know Terry Leviathan is from a city in Czechia, we still don't know what city that would be as of this time. Regardless this faceoff winning Centerman is a massive late riser and could be taken during the first two rounds of the upcoming draft.

Great strength and strong on his feet, he's hard to win the puck against in the circle. His speed and skating limit him a bit and he's been playing a straight north/south game to make up for it. Curious to see how that translates to the SMJHL.

Another Euro with a tremendous shot, Leviathan certainly might be a mythical creature from the deep with that power. Great tape to tape passes from the middle of the ice is a trait every single team with be looking to add coming Friday.

Sean Davies @Runningman434
LD - Liverpool, Great Britain - Breakout Defender

Looks like word just takes a while to get to this part of the world, with our third late Isle player in this category alone. Sean Davies, the latest SMJHL youngster from Liverpool, UK adds quite a bit of talent to the left sided defender class.

Average, but dependable skating and athletics Davies can get off the line fast - which helps when it's time for a breakout. Speaking of which that is the existent of what he can do with the puck. Move it up and move it forward to the skill players is his limited range.

Davies is a beast in the defensive zone and can shut down the player lining up across from him. This is another player that is making leaps and bounds. Which team will be lucky enough to draft him?

Conclusion

As names appear on our radar, we’ll add them to the list and perhaps even one of the first three categories. The draft is only days away, but in SMJHL dog years it feels like a lifetime for teams, fans, and players alike.

Be sure to tune in this Friday July 8th, at 8:00 PM Eastern time and watch the chaos unfold live!

Code:
6,432 Words

Apologies if some tags don't work or if I missed you

***HabsFanFromOntario*** · 07-05-2022, 12:26 PM

Very solid overview!

*CrazyMojito* · 07-05-2022, 12:30 PM

I dunno how I didnt get Jacques Hammer's name until reading this...

Nice write up!

vbottas17 · 07-05-2022, 01:06 PM

Nice write up!

***Evok*** · 07-05-2022, 02:09 PM

Nevek and Tam are indeed brothers :dreamy:

Legend · 07-05-2022, 02:31 PM

07-05-2022, 02:09 PMEvok Wrote: Nevek and Tam are indeed brothers :dreamy:

Awesome, I'll get around to an edit in that case.

***Anthique*** · 07-06-2022, 10:18 AM

Wow so many players in this draft!

Good bunch of Québécois, j'aime ça Smile

Andy · 07-06-2022, 11:00 AM

Love this! Enjoyed the Cat pun as well

Legend · 07-07-2022, 02:44 PM

Added @greatgentoo @Porky Platypus @TugBoat @jumpSeat @Dallasrouge @trella @Runningman434

trella · 07-07-2022, 02:47 PM

07-07-2022, 02:44 PMLegend Wrote: Added @greatgentoo @Porky Platypus @TugBoat @jumpSeat @Dallasrouge @trella @Runningman434

Thank you!! Awesome stuff loved it

Thanks to @karey and @JSS for the sigs!

Former USA Fed Head, Carolina Kraken Co-GM, Tampa Bay Barracuda GM

Dallasrouge · 07-07-2022, 02:52 PM

07-05-2022, 11:43 AMLegend Wrote: Benjamin Devito @Dallasrouge
LD - London, Great Britain - Defensive Defenseman

Look at that, it's almost like the world is spreading in the British Isles with our second straight Isles player. Benjamin Devito is exactly what you would get if you crossed Benjamin Franklin and Danny Devito.

This firecracker of a left defender is super strong and can drop the gloves with the best of them. Although even though he's strong we don't recommend him taking on 400lb Hodor anytime soon. Don't be fooled by his stature, Devito is a pretty good defender, although he doesn't skate past the red line as he's super ineffective in the offensive zone.

Whoever is taking him come draft time we'll have a heck of a rookie party we're sure.

I'm just here to fight bby. Not to score points. Points are for losers.

Legend · 07-07-2022, 02:54 PM

07-07-2022, 02:52 PMDallasrouge Wrote: I'm just here to fight bby. Not to score points. Points are for losers.

Devito in a nutshell

[Image: Ct0Ro28XYAAF9fw.jpg]

Runningman434 · 07-07-2022, 03:15 PM

07-07-2022, 02:44 PMLegend Wrote: Added @greatgentoo @Porky Platypus @TugBoat @jumpSeat @Dallasrouge @trella @Runningman434

thanks man! This is great stuff!

***spooked*** · 07-07-2022, 05:18 PM

$$$$$

Massive Coiler · 07-07-2022, 06:16 PM

"Great Expectations" Hear that GMs? Better remember that when you're taking out the chequebook.

Great article. Lot more effort than whatever idiot wrote the "who has a funny name" draft class article... (if someone else also did this I'm not talking about you)

Navigation

Extra Menu

About us