December 3, 2012

Since it can sometimes be difficult to keep up on all the prospects in hockey, which is probably why you’re here, I’m going to devote my next few Ramblings to updating you on some prospects.

Alex Galchenyuk (#4 on Dobber’s latest Top 215 Prospects list) – Galchenyuk started somewhat slow, as did the entire Sarnia offense, but is now on pace to surpass last season’s gaudy numbers. Currently through 27 games, Galchenyuk is third in OHL scoring with 48 points (19 goals) and appears to be a lock for the U.S. WJC team. He is an elite offensive talent who may force his way onto the Canadiens’ roster.

Ryan Strome (#7) – Strome is absolutely lighting up the OHL with 59 points, ten more than the second-leading scorer.  He seems to have grown as a player and a leader in this, his fourth OHL season. Strome is ready for the challenge of the NHL, but I suspect his impact may not be immediate.

Chris Kreider (#9) – Kreider has a solid ten points in 18 AHL games, maybe a little disappointing after his run in last spring’s NHL playoffs but his 39 penalty minutes will make Kreider owners in leagues that count penalty minutes smile. Kreider should be good for 60 points and 100+ PIM once he hits his NHL stride.

Gustav Nyquist (#10) – Nyquist has earned a place in the Detroit lineup, and will be there to stay once he’s there. The shifty Swede has 17 points in 19 games for Grand Rapids, but is a solid two-way player who provides more than scoring. He may be in the Wings’ bottom six initially, but will put up points when he inevitably lands on a scoring line. He must be owned in a keeper league.

Charlie Coyle (#15) – Coyle is doing quite well for a 20-year-old playing in his first AHL season, scoring seven goals in his first 20 games. He is a big body with good hands with a ton of upside and has the Sharks excited to see him in the NHL.

Tyler Toffoli (#17) – The Kings prospect who had twice top 50 goals in a season in the OHL already has 11 goals in his first 20 professional games.  The Kings can afford to take their time with him, but if he keeps scoring at this pace they will have to find a place for him in Los Angeles.

Joe Colborne (#22) – The Bruins 1^st round pick in 2008, Colborne hasn’t produced as expected. Now in his third AHL season, Colborne has just two goals and five assists in 18 games and has been a healthy scratch. He is still only 22 and is an intriguing package of size and skill, so hope is far from lost.

Nick Bjugstad (#28) – Bjugstad is now a junior at the University of Minnesota and growing into a leader on the ice for the Gophers.  The 6’5 center has 13 points in 15 games, including eight goals, and is the go-to Gopher. Bjugstad is expected to turn pro at the conclusion of the college season and is consider by most a can’t-miss prospect.

Jimmy Hayes (#130) – Chicago is experimenting with Hayes at center and so far he’s adapting well., with 15 points in 21 games for the Rockford ice Hogs. The former Boston College star may grab a spot in the Chicago before the Hawks prospect scene gets even more crowded.

As always, feel free to leave feedback and questions here or @RichDillon17. Thanks for reading.