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Leafs 2007 Prospect Report |
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With the destination of Michael Peca up in the air and a few other trade possibilities still being mentioned, the Maple Leafs may not have their roster in plenary form yet, but it's not too soon to start discussing up-and-coming youngsters that will be at the Bud's training camp this fall.
Here is a look at a few prospects who will be closely-examined by Leafs brass when they attend camp:
Jiri Tlusty - A first rounder out of the 2006 draft, expectations are high for the 6 foot, 200 pound centerman out of the Czech Republic. Tlusty showed a great deal of promise when attending training camp last fall, and was given a shot at a position with the Marlies. After 6 games with the AHL club, it was deemed best to give him a season in juniors with the Sault Ste. Marie Greyhounds. Tlusty was off to a powerful first half of the season with the Greyhounds, tallying 34 points in 37 games, but his season was prematurely concluded by an ankle injury. While this hampered his progress and disabled him from attending the World Juniors, he spent a year in North America and learned a lot from former-NHL coach Craig Hartsburg. Tlusty does not shy away from the rough stuff, which in combination with strong skating skills and an aesthetic skill set fit him in mold of a power forward with top six potential.
With very impressive training camp performances this fall, it is not out of the realm of possibility that he earns himself an early spot in the Maple Leafs line-up. From what I’ve heard, however, it would seem likely that Tlusty will play a full season with the Marlies and continue his development, with a strong shot at a spot next year.
Jeremy Williams - After being eligible but not selected in 2002, Williams was considered a long-shot when drafted 7th round in the 2003 entry draft. With a slight build, Williams is comparable to Kyle Wellwood with his strong playmaking skill set. Similar to Wellwood, rule changes following the labour strike favour his style of play, and seem to have given him a fighting chance at being a regular NHL player one day. Williams main flaw was his skating ability, which was exaggerated by his hunched-over style. However, there have been signs of progess in this area. Williams was called up twice last season, and scored on both occasions.
Williams is challenging for a last line spot this training camp, and if unsuccessful, will likely be first in-line when a call-up is needed.
Anton Stralman - This offensive-minded Swedish youngster is considered to have a legitimate shot at a spot on the Leafs blue-line come training camp. Drafted 216th in 2005, Stralman played last season in the Swedish Elite League where he logged plenty of ice-time and collected a solid 21 points. Stralman is smallish in stature, weighing in at 175 pounds at just under 6 feet. Rule changes following the lockout favour his very smooth and brisk skating abilities. Stralman possesses strong offensive prowess, with a powerful shot and good puck-moving skills, which lines him up to be a potential power-play quarterback. While he requires further strength conditioning, he has bright hockey sense and his positioning is strong, which makes him passably reliable on the defensive end.
Stralman is showing signs that suggest he's a gem found by the Maple Leafs scouting staff in the 5th round in 05. From what I've heard, the organization would love to see Stralman take on an early role in the Leafs line-up. I would expect, however, that Stralman will need a year with Marlies, experiencing the North American game, before he can make the step to the big club. He is one to keep your eye open for.
Jay Harrison - Harrison began the 06/07 campaign in the Maple Leafs line-up. However, he suffered an untimely hand injury which sidelined him long enough to lose his roster spot to an excelling Ian White. After returning to the line-up, Harrison did not have a particularly strong season with the Marlies. The physical defenseman recorded a -19 plus/minus rating. Harrison is noted for his hitting ability and his ability to physically dominate opponents in his defensive zone. When going forward, Harrison has a booming slap-shot, but his lacking transition speed is a flaw.
Harrison will compete for the #7 role on the blue-line for Toronto and could very well be on the Leafs roster after training camp. If he does win a 7th man role, he will be under constant pressure to perform when he laces up as other capable Marlies defenseman fight for their opportunity with the big squad, as well as potential competition from prospects like Stralman.
Justin Pogge - Two years ago Leafs nation was given a sample of what this kid can do as he back-stopped Team Canada to a gold medal at the world juniors. His performances showed accelerated growth and a great deal of promise that he would be able to start in the National Hockey League sooner rather than later. In addition, he won Goaltender of the Year in the CHL. Pogge, while not blessed with the greatest of teams, took a hit statistically-wise as he adjusted to the pros last year with the Marlies. While a losing record and poor GAA and SV% stats may concern you, it was a learning curve for Pogge and it is now believed he is on the right track to succeed at a pro-level.
The Leafs scouting staff again showed a great eye for talent as they picked up Pogge in the 3rd round of the 04 draft. Pogge, the Leafs top-listed prospect according to Hockeyfutures.com, is commended for his ability to move so quickly in the crease as a 6 foot 4 goaltender, as well as his competitive edge, composure and fitness. It is expected that Pogge spends another year continuing to round his game with the Marlies, with the tough adjustments of year one behind him.
Other Prospects to Look Out For Further Down the Road
Robbie Earl - Earl struggled in his first year with the Marlies, but with the experience of year one under his belt it is anticipated he will take on a top level farm team job next season. Earl is a fan-favourite type of player, who is known for explosive end to end rushes with puck.
Nikolia Kulemin - This Russian left-winger will return for another year in Europe according to general manager John Ferguson's quote on NHL.com, but he will be at training camp this fall. Many questioned this pick in 2006, with Kulemin a relative unknown having recorded only 12 points the season leading up to the draft. However, the scouting staff was proven sagacious after Kulemin recorded 27 goals in 54 games last season, as well as 10 goals in 15 playoff games. Kulemin is viewed as an intense player with a knack for goal scoring. He drives the net and grinds in the corners. Kulemin is viewed as a two-way player as he is very defensively responsible. He does not possess natural hockey sense, but he's commended for his strong work ethic. Kulemin's game seems as though it would easily transfer to the North American style of play. He is a unique player to keep your eye on.
Dmitri Vorobiev - All aspects of his game are relatively average, with no particular strengths or weaknesses. A sizable defenseman who will likely stay in Russia next year and join the Marlies the year following.
With files from Hockey's Future.com, NHL.com, HockeyDb.com, Tsn.ca
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