The 2011 NHL Entry Draft was the first in seven years that a Minnesota high schooler wasn’t selected among the first 30 picks, however the draft saw 11 selected among the 211 picks in Saint Paul, headlined by Mario Lucia of Wayzata.
This year’s Draft eligible class will be similar to the 2011 Class. There isn’t a really high-end player like a Jake Gardiner or Nick Bjugstad, but there is a good amount of depth where you could see a number of Elite League Alumni going in the middle to late rounds.
1. Hunter Fejes, W – Shattuck St. Mary’s 6’1″ 190 Pounds
Fejes has filled the net in every way possible, without the luxury of playing with skilled guys. Pro size, and his skating is showing signs of being truly dynamic.
2. Teddy Bleuger, C – Shattuck St. Mary’s 6’0″ 175 Pounds
Quick is the way to describe Bleuger; quick feet, quick hands, quick decision making. Picks opponents apart with his passing, especially when he sets up shop below the goal line.
3. Cody Corbett, D – Team Northeast (Stillwater HS) 6’0″ 210 Pounds
Now skating the Edmonton Oil Kings of the WHL, Corbett could dominant games with his size, skating, and shot. That is, if he doesn’t begin to try and do too much. He was the unquestioned leader of his Northeast team.
4. Zach Stepan, C – Shattuck St. Mary’s 6’1″ 175 Pounds
Think Sammy Pahlsson; hard hitting and tremendous in puck pursuit. Just a solid player, a guy teams want centering their shutdown line.
5. Grant Besse, W – Team Northwest (Benilde St. Margarets) 5’10” 170 Pounds
A real terrier; despite his size, he’s a tenacious player. Willing to knock the opponents on their butts if that’s what it takes to get the puck. A wonderful skater with a fantastic shot.
6. Jake Bischoff, D – Team North (Grand Rapids) 6’0″ 178 Pounds
Not the flashiest defenseman in the league, but he’s very mobile and shows wonderful poise and decision-making. Elevated his game during the Tournament Finale.
7. Charlie Sampair, W – Team Northeast (Hill-Murray) 6’0″ 180 Pounds
Best skater in the entire league, amazing on his edges and mind-blowing acceleration. Has very nice hands, but will be even more dangerous when he understands the concept of pace.
8. Will Merchant, W – Team Southeast (Eagan) 6’1″ 170 Pounds
Similar to Sampair, but not as skilled in possession. Very impressive in terms of skating and shooting, a persistent threat off of the rush. Gritty competitor.
9. Eric Schurhamer, D – Team Southeast (St. Thomas Academy) 5’9″ 182 Pounds
The best triggerman in the league; possesses a hard and accurate shot that he keeps low but gets through traffic. Dynamic skater, great core strength, and the work ethic scouts look for.
10. Dylan Steman, W – Team Northeast (Maple Grove) 5’9″ 170 Pounds
A bit of a surprise to some, but this kid did the most with the least in terms of linemates. Wonderful hockey sense, soft hands, and played his best against the toughest competition.
Article courtesy Dan Shrader