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2012 NHL Draft: Some Lesser Knowns |
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Each year there seems to be a few guys who really slip under the radar that I like to watch from the get go. Usually they're kids rated a bit higher (30-90) who posses some natural skills but have yet to really find much media hype.
So while you may not have heard about them yet here, let's take a quick look at a few.
Cristoval 'Boo' Nieves
Based out of the USHS (American High School Hockey), Nieves really flies under the radar based purely on where he's playing. He's a projectable player at 6'3, who has flashes of speed to his game. While he needs to add some muscle to his frame, he's a tremendous skater with a lot of creativity and a good shot. He also has the ability and drive to go to the net with consistency.
Nicolas Kerdiles
Kerdiles got a good look from scouts last year when he skated on the US Under-18 Team at the World Under-18 Tournament, on a line with future Leaf, Tyler Biggs. He was noticeably one of the best defensively on that squad and got to feature a bit of offense. He's a strong guy who does all the little things right and has a real nose for the net. To use a cliche, he's one of the guys you 'win championships with.'
Miles Koules
The son of former Tampa Bay Lightning Owner, Oren Koules, Miles surprisingly flies under the radar having a well known father. A UND Commit, Koules is strong on his skate and shows incredible flashes of offensive talent. Not only can he set up linemates and make them better, he's shown a real ability to shoot the puck with accuracy and a quick release. He's not afraid to drive the net, either.
Tom Wilson
Straight out of the "Brian Burke Factory of Truculence" as a friend of mine put it, Tom Wilson is what every team wishes they had. When Wilson hits, he hits to hurt and put you straight through the next 20 years of your life. He's 6'4, relishes the physical game, and loves to park his big butt in front of the net. He can battle along the boards like nobody else, and is a good skater for his size.
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