Post by BruinsGM on Aug 4, 2023 9:11:24 GMT -5
As another NsHL Entry Draft closes, the Boston Bruins were quite active leading up to the draft, adding seven picks in the month leading up to the Entry Draft in an effort to restock the prospect cupboards. Come draft weekend, there was equal activity at the Draft Table as there was at the Beer Fridge for GM Cawker, and it is remarkable that the selections below were able to be made despite GM Cawker's commitment to also beating GM Jack Dagnese at bubble hockey in a best of five-series in Monaca, PA. Rumour has it the rematch is scheduled for next year, and Jack has already purchased a bubble hockey ice surface in an attempt to win next year, who two-a-days well underway.
In total, the Bruins added 2 C, 3 LW, 1 RW, 4 D and 1 G and it clear that the organization was looking to add some offensive firepower in their top-90 picks, and then shifted to their backend in the latter portion of the draft – with a mix of North American and European Players.
Below is a summary of each draft pick made by GM Cawker at the 2023 NSHL Entry Draft:
14th Overall – Oliver Moore (C)
The Bruins made a blockbuster deal on draft day, trading Thomas Chabot to the New Jersey Devils in exchange for two prospects and three draft picks – one of which was the 14th overall pick, which they used to select Oliver Moore, who was ranked 6th by the NHL Central Scouting North America, and rated as the top skater from the USNTDP.
Moore is described as “a speedy, smart, and creative two-way center with significant upside. His greatest asset is undoubtedly his exceptional skating ability, which many consider the best in the draft class. This skill allows him to dictate the tempo of the game and drive play in a way that few others can. His offensive capabilities are impressive, boasting a strong shot with a quick release and notable playmaking abilities. Moore is adept at weaving through the neutral zone, using his speed and hands to exploit holes in opposing defenses and constantly probing for ways to penetrate the interior of the ice with the puck. Defensively, Moore is sound and demonstrates a strong commitment to his own end.”
NHL Draft: 19th Overall (CHI)
Potential: Top-two, two-way centre that can put up 70-plus points.
73rd Overall - Jayden Perron (RW)
With the 73rd overall pick, the Bruins selected Jayden Perron who was ranked 28th by the NHL Central Scouting North America and some draft boards had him as high as a 1st round selection.
Perron is described as “an undersized but talented playmaker, exhibits dynamic off-the-rush gameplay, capable of aggressive attacks or delaying for other options. His high hockey IQ allows him to effectively manipulate defenders and deliver dangerous passes, utilizing his teammates to create space and scoring opportunities. His positioning is noteworthy, providing excellent support in offensive and transitional play. Although he sometimes loses his man defensively, overall he contributes even in penalty kills, reflecting a commitment to a two-way game.
NHL Draft: 94th Overall (CAR)
Potential: Top six-forward, with time as a top playmaker on the powerplay.
93rd Overall – Luca Pinelli (C)
Luca was rated as the best puckhandler in the OHL by some scouting agencies, and some had him rated as a second round draft pick.
Luca is described as “a well-rounded player with the skillset to make an impact in all three zones. He possesses strong offensive abilities, acting as both a facilitator and shooter. He can retrieve loose pucks below the goal line and set up the cycle, or generate quality chances off the rush. Although he may be a better shooter than passer, he is above-average in both aspects, making him a dual threat in the offensive zone. With a highskill game, great vision, and strong hockey IQ, Pinelli displays confidence in driving into open spaces and putting pucks into high-danger areas for his teammates. His skating and strength could use improvement, as he is sometimes outmuscled for the puck.
NHL Draft: 114th Overall (CLB)
Potential: Quality, pesky, middle-six winger.
97th Overall - Aram Minnetian (D)
Aram was rated by some scouting agencies as a second round draft pick, and is regarded for his two-way play and overall calm demeanour in high pressure situations.
Aram is described as “a defenseman with strong puck-moving abilities and exceptional passing skills, allowing him to open up the game and create opportunities for his team. His calm demeanor and strategic decision-making under pressure set him apart from other players in his age group. He excels at using his own net for protection and delivering quick, long passes that can catch opponents off guard. Minnetian’s skating is above average for his age group, and his ability to process the game at a high level enables him to play faster than he appears on the ice.
NHL Draft: 125th Overall (DAL)
Potential: Two-way, second-pairing defenseman.
106th Overall – Jesse Nurmi (LW)
Jesse was rated as a top 90-pick by the majority of scouting agencies, and is described as “a versatile offensive forward with a knack for beating opponents with his shot or playmaking abilities. His speed and confidence on the ice allow him to execute quick passes and create scoring opportunities for his teammates, showcasing his creativity and offensive vision. Nurmi’s playmaking often stems from situations he creates using his speed to gain space and time for himself, and he has a keen sense of where the puck is going next, allowing for efficient and effective plays.
NHL Draft: 113rd Overall (NYI)
Potential: Middle-six winger, who chips in on powerplay.
117th Overall – Matthew Mania (D)
Matthew was a consensus top-90 pick that is viewed as an offensive defenseman with create edgework. He is described as “a player who’s mobility and propensity to initiate from his rear position make him a proficient transition player. Whether leading the rush or filling an open lane, Mania demonstrates effectiveness in the rush attack. His playmaking ability, combined with his vision, edgework, and puck control, allows him to create separation while on offense and generate high-quality opportunities for teammates.
NHL Draft: 150th Overall (LAK)
Potential: Top-four, powerplay contributing defenseman.
142nd Overall – Olof Glifford (G)
Olof is already 6’-4” and 198 lbs. and flew under the radar a bit as he missed a chunk of last season due to a hip injury, which likely contributed to his slide. He has good movement and edgework around the crease and overall plays a very efficient game. Roberto Luongo, who oversees Florida’s Goaltending Excellence Department, said there were several reasons they snatched Glifford up when they did:
“One of the things is talent, first and foremost, but he's got a good frame, and he's a guy that we think that, even though he's 18 and he still has a long way to go in his development, we identify the talent and we look at the upside,” Luongo said. “I think he's just at the early stages of his upside and there's a lot of untapped potential there. That's a guy that we're excited about, that we can work with over the next few years, and hopefully see him in the NHL.”
NHL Draft: 159th Overall (FLA)
Projection: Project, but if it all comes together, could hit big.
149th Overall – Chase Cheslock (D)
Chase is described as “an adaptable player who effectively transitioned from the high school ranks in Minnesota to the USHL. He demonstrates a focus on defense, often prioritizing it over offensive contributions, with active stick work that disrupts passing attempts and consistent movement when defending the puck carrier or chasing loose pucks. His commendable gap control when defending against the rush balances aggression with passivity. However, there are instances of questionable decisions and turnovers with the puck. As Cheslock gains confidence, he is expected to become a more effective puck mover and offensive threat.
NHL Draft: 154th Overall (NJD)
Projection: Middle to lower pairing defenseman.
170th Overall – Cole Brown (LW)
Cole Brown had a solid season with the Hamilton Bulldogs in the Ontario Hockey League (OHL), totaling 17 goals and 42 points in 60 games. Per Elite Prospects, he has a lethal shot and is a transition ace, both of which fit what the Devils are looking for from their forwards - especially on the wing in the NHL.
Brown has good size at 6-foot-3, 170 pounds and still has plenty of room to add to his frame. The knock on him appears to be his skating, but being a late-round draft pick who needs a couple of years in the OHL, he should have plenty of time to improve that before becoming a pro. Still, there’s enough upside in his shooting and transition game to take a flyer on him with a sixth-round pick.
NHL Draft: 164th Overall (NJD)
Potential: Project, TBD
210th Overall - Stepan Zvyagin (LW)
Stepan was a point-per-game forward in Russia’s junior league this season playing on the Minsk club and got 15 KHL games as well.
A more seasoned prospect at 19 years old, Zvagin is a long-term play as he’s got a couple years left on his contract with Dinamo Minsk of the KHL. He split time between Dinamo and their MHL team, where he accumulated 14 goals and 33 points in 37 games at the lower level. He had one goal in 15 KHL games last season.
NHL Draft: 198th Overall (FLA)
Potential: Project, TBD
213rd Overall - Kalle Kangas (D)
Kangas is a tall defenseman with solid physicality who can make a fair number of stops. He shows flashes of good vision and puck movement but has little offensive skill, and that playmaking is inconsistent at best. His skating is also quite heavy. He’s a project that may be worth the risk.
NHL Draft: 223rd Overall (PIT)
Potential: Project, TBD
In total, the Bruins added 2 C, 3 LW, 1 RW, 4 D and 1 G and it clear that the organization was looking to add some offensive firepower in their top-90 picks, and then shifted to their backend in the latter portion of the draft – with a mix of North American and European Players.
Below is a summary of each draft pick made by GM Cawker at the 2023 NSHL Entry Draft:
14th Overall – Oliver Moore (C)
The Bruins made a blockbuster deal on draft day, trading Thomas Chabot to the New Jersey Devils in exchange for two prospects and three draft picks – one of which was the 14th overall pick, which they used to select Oliver Moore, who was ranked 6th by the NHL Central Scouting North America, and rated as the top skater from the USNTDP.
Moore is described as “a speedy, smart, and creative two-way center with significant upside. His greatest asset is undoubtedly his exceptional skating ability, which many consider the best in the draft class. This skill allows him to dictate the tempo of the game and drive play in a way that few others can. His offensive capabilities are impressive, boasting a strong shot with a quick release and notable playmaking abilities. Moore is adept at weaving through the neutral zone, using his speed and hands to exploit holes in opposing defenses and constantly probing for ways to penetrate the interior of the ice with the puck. Defensively, Moore is sound and demonstrates a strong commitment to his own end.”
NHL Draft: 19th Overall (CHI)
Potential: Top-two, two-way centre that can put up 70-plus points.
73rd Overall - Jayden Perron (RW)
With the 73rd overall pick, the Bruins selected Jayden Perron who was ranked 28th by the NHL Central Scouting North America and some draft boards had him as high as a 1st round selection.
Perron is described as “an undersized but talented playmaker, exhibits dynamic off-the-rush gameplay, capable of aggressive attacks or delaying for other options. His high hockey IQ allows him to effectively manipulate defenders and deliver dangerous passes, utilizing his teammates to create space and scoring opportunities. His positioning is noteworthy, providing excellent support in offensive and transitional play. Although he sometimes loses his man defensively, overall he contributes even in penalty kills, reflecting a commitment to a two-way game.
NHL Draft: 94th Overall (CAR)
Potential: Top six-forward, with time as a top playmaker on the powerplay.
93rd Overall – Luca Pinelli (C)
Luca was rated as the best puckhandler in the OHL by some scouting agencies, and some had him rated as a second round draft pick.
Luca is described as “a well-rounded player with the skillset to make an impact in all three zones. He possesses strong offensive abilities, acting as both a facilitator and shooter. He can retrieve loose pucks below the goal line and set up the cycle, or generate quality chances off the rush. Although he may be a better shooter than passer, he is above-average in both aspects, making him a dual threat in the offensive zone. With a highskill game, great vision, and strong hockey IQ, Pinelli displays confidence in driving into open spaces and putting pucks into high-danger areas for his teammates. His skating and strength could use improvement, as he is sometimes outmuscled for the puck.
NHL Draft: 114th Overall (CLB)
Potential: Quality, pesky, middle-six winger.
97th Overall - Aram Minnetian (D)
Aram was rated by some scouting agencies as a second round draft pick, and is regarded for his two-way play and overall calm demeanour in high pressure situations.
Aram is described as “a defenseman with strong puck-moving abilities and exceptional passing skills, allowing him to open up the game and create opportunities for his team. His calm demeanor and strategic decision-making under pressure set him apart from other players in his age group. He excels at using his own net for protection and delivering quick, long passes that can catch opponents off guard. Minnetian’s skating is above average for his age group, and his ability to process the game at a high level enables him to play faster than he appears on the ice.
NHL Draft: 125th Overall (DAL)
Potential: Two-way, second-pairing defenseman.
106th Overall – Jesse Nurmi (LW)
Jesse was rated as a top 90-pick by the majority of scouting agencies, and is described as “a versatile offensive forward with a knack for beating opponents with his shot or playmaking abilities. His speed and confidence on the ice allow him to execute quick passes and create scoring opportunities for his teammates, showcasing his creativity and offensive vision. Nurmi’s playmaking often stems from situations he creates using his speed to gain space and time for himself, and he has a keen sense of where the puck is going next, allowing for efficient and effective plays.
NHL Draft: 113rd Overall (NYI)
Potential: Middle-six winger, who chips in on powerplay.
117th Overall – Matthew Mania (D)
Matthew was a consensus top-90 pick that is viewed as an offensive defenseman with create edgework. He is described as “a player who’s mobility and propensity to initiate from his rear position make him a proficient transition player. Whether leading the rush or filling an open lane, Mania demonstrates effectiveness in the rush attack. His playmaking ability, combined with his vision, edgework, and puck control, allows him to create separation while on offense and generate high-quality opportunities for teammates.
NHL Draft: 150th Overall (LAK)
Potential: Top-four, powerplay contributing defenseman.
142nd Overall – Olof Glifford (G)
Olof is already 6’-4” and 198 lbs. and flew under the radar a bit as he missed a chunk of last season due to a hip injury, which likely contributed to his slide. He has good movement and edgework around the crease and overall plays a very efficient game. Roberto Luongo, who oversees Florida’s Goaltending Excellence Department, said there were several reasons they snatched Glifford up when they did:
“One of the things is talent, first and foremost, but he's got a good frame, and he's a guy that we think that, even though he's 18 and he still has a long way to go in his development, we identify the talent and we look at the upside,” Luongo said. “I think he's just at the early stages of his upside and there's a lot of untapped potential there. That's a guy that we're excited about, that we can work with over the next few years, and hopefully see him in the NHL.”
NHL Draft: 159th Overall (FLA)
Projection: Project, but if it all comes together, could hit big.
149th Overall – Chase Cheslock (D)
Chase is described as “an adaptable player who effectively transitioned from the high school ranks in Minnesota to the USHL. He demonstrates a focus on defense, often prioritizing it over offensive contributions, with active stick work that disrupts passing attempts and consistent movement when defending the puck carrier or chasing loose pucks. His commendable gap control when defending against the rush balances aggression with passivity. However, there are instances of questionable decisions and turnovers with the puck. As Cheslock gains confidence, he is expected to become a more effective puck mover and offensive threat.
NHL Draft: 154th Overall (NJD)
Projection: Middle to lower pairing defenseman.
170th Overall – Cole Brown (LW)
Cole Brown had a solid season with the Hamilton Bulldogs in the Ontario Hockey League (OHL), totaling 17 goals and 42 points in 60 games. Per Elite Prospects, he has a lethal shot and is a transition ace, both of which fit what the Devils are looking for from their forwards - especially on the wing in the NHL.
Brown has good size at 6-foot-3, 170 pounds and still has plenty of room to add to his frame. The knock on him appears to be his skating, but being a late-round draft pick who needs a couple of years in the OHL, he should have plenty of time to improve that before becoming a pro. Still, there’s enough upside in his shooting and transition game to take a flyer on him with a sixth-round pick.
NHL Draft: 164th Overall (NJD)
Potential: Project, TBD
210th Overall - Stepan Zvyagin (LW)
Stepan was a point-per-game forward in Russia’s junior league this season playing on the Minsk club and got 15 KHL games as well.
A more seasoned prospect at 19 years old, Zvagin is a long-term play as he’s got a couple years left on his contract with Dinamo Minsk of the KHL. He split time between Dinamo and their MHL team, where he accumulated 14 goals and 33 points in 37 games at the lower level. He had one goal in 15 KHL games last season.
NHL Draft: 198th Overall (FLA)
Potential: Project, TBD
213rd Overall - Kalle Kangas (D)
Kangas is a tall defenseman with solid physicality who can make a fair number of stops. He shows flashes of good vision and puck movement but has little offensive skill, and that playmaking is inconsistent at best. His skating is also quite heavy. He’s a project that may be worth the risk.
NHL Draft: 223rd Overall (PIT)
Potential: Project, TBD