If you’re a die-hard NHL fan eager to learn about the next wave of NHL talent, Neutral Zone’s rankings of current prospects are a must-read. What sets these evaluations apart? They come from Ian Moran, a 13-year NHL veteran who spent a total of 15 seasons playing professional hockey across North America and Europe. With international experience representing the U.S. in World Junior Championships and a World Championship, Moran’s insights come from a truly global perspective. Now Director of NHL Scouting for Neutral Zone, Moran leverages his unique, firsthand knowledge to provide in-depth, unbiased evaluations you won’t find anywhere else. Get the expert analysis that offers a clear view of the future, straight from someone who’s lived the game at the highest level.
1. Artyom Levshunov (D, R, 6’2″, 208, Michigan State, 10/28/2005, Michigan State)
Strengths:
- Exceptional skating ability and speed, allowing him to transition effectively between defense and offense.
- Strong puck-handling skills, facilitating breakouts and supporting offensive plays.
- High hockey IQ, which helps him read the game and anticipate plays effectively.
Areas for Improvement:
- Needs to enhance physical play to compete against stronger opponents.
- Must work on consistency in defensive zone coverage to reduce scoring opportunities against.
2. Sam Rinzel (D, R, 6’5″, 181, Waterloo Black Hawks, 06/25/2004, Minnesota)
Strengths:
- Impressive shot from the blue line, contributing to offensive plays and creating power play opportunities.
- Strong positional play, using his size effectively to control opponents in defensive situations.
- Good vision and awareness, facilitating quick decision-making.
Areas for Improvement:
- Should improve his defensive positioning when pressured to minimize gaps.
- Needs to work on decision-making under pressure to maintain composure in high-stakes situations.
3. Sacha Boisvert (C, L, 6’2″, 179, Muskegon Lumberjacks, 03/17/2006, North Dakota)
Strengths:
- Creative playmaker with the ability to generate scoring chances for teammates.
- Excellent puck distribution skills, showcasing vision and precision in passing.
- Good work ethic and competitive spirit, which translates into a strong presence on the ice.
Areas for Improvement:
- Needs to develop a more consistent shot to become a dual threat offensively.
- Should focus on defensive responsibilities to become a more complete player.
4. Frank Nazar (RW, R, 5’10”, 174, NTDP U18, 01/14/2004, Michigan)
Strengths:
- Elite offensive talent with remarkable stickhandling and scoring ability.
- Strong skating, which allows him to evade defenders and create space.
- High energy and relentless work ethic, often driving plays forward.
Areas for Improvement:
- Needs to refine defensive game, particularly in backchecking and positioning.
- Should work on strength and physicality to better handle aggressive defenders.
5. Marek Vanacker (LW, L, 6’1″, 175, Brantford Bulldogs, 04/12/2006)
Strengths:
- Strong two-way player who excels in both offensive and defensive scenarios.
- Good anticipation skills, allowing him to intercept passes and initiate counterattacks.
- Strong leadership qualities, often seen directing teammates on the ice.
Areas for Improvement:
- Needs to enhance shot accuracy to increase goal-scoring potential.
- Should focus on reducing unnecessary penalties to maintain ice time and team momentum.
6. Ethan Del Mastro (D, L, 6’4″, 210, Brampton Steelheads, 01/15/2003)
Strengths:
- Solid defensive presence with a strong ability to read plays and anticipate opponents’ actions.
- Excellent physicality, using body positioning to control the puck and defend effectively.
- Good skating ability, facilitating smooth transitions and exits from the defensive zone.
Areas for Improvement:
- Needs to improve offensive instincts to contribute more significantly in the attack.
- Should focus on puck movement to facilitate quicker breakouts.
7. Ryan Greene (C, R, 6’2″, 174, Green Bay Gamblers, 10/21/2003, Boston University)
Strengths:
- Versatile forward with the ability to play multiple positions effectively.
- Strong work ethic and commitment to team play, contributing to both ends of the ice.
- Good vision, enabling him to find open teammates and create scoring opportunities.
Areas for Improvement:
- Needs to work on shot power and accuracy to become a consistent scoring threat.
- Should improve physical play to better compete in tighter situations.
8. Drew Commesso (G, L, 6’2″, 185, NTDP U18, 07/19/2002, Boston University)
Strengths:
- Impressive goaltending skills with quick reflexes and strong positioning.
- Good puck handling, allowing him to play the puck effectively and assist in breakouts.
- Strong mental toughness, displaying poise under pressure during critical moments.
Areas for Improvement:
- Needs to refine rebound control to minimize second-chance opportunities for opponents.
- Should work on his lateral movement to improve coverage across the crease.
9. Adam Gajan (G, L, 6’3″, 187, Green Bay Gamblers, 05/06/2004, Minnesota Duluth)
Strengths:
- Strong shot-stopping ability with excellent lateral movement and agility.
- Solid decision-making skills, effectively managing puck play and positioning.
- Good size, allowing him to cover the net well and make saves under pressure.
Areas for Improvement:
- Needs to work on consistency in his performance to build trust from the coaching staff.
- Should focus on improving communication with defensemen to enhance team defense.
10. Oliver Moore (F, L, 5’11”, 188, NTDP U18, 01/22/2005, Minnesota)
Strengths:
- Fast skater with a high level of agility, enabling him to evade defenders and create plays.
- Strong offensive instincts, consistently finding himself in scoring positions.
- Good puck control, allowing him to maintain possession under pressure.
Areas for Improvement:
- Needs to develop a more rounded defensive game to support the team in all situations.
- Should work on shot selection to maximize scoring chances during games.
Photo Credit: Dan Hickling/Hickling Images