Category archive: Chicago Blackhawks
Previously this week I've broken down the top NHL prospects skating for the USA and Canada at the upcoming World Junior Championship. The European clubs also feature a plethora of top prospects, including many notables eligible for the 2013 entry draft.
The following are my breakdowns on some of the top prospects for each of the European teams based on my own observations as well as conversations with NHL scouts and front office personnel. I've omitted some, such as a Nail Yakupov, who have been frequently discussed in this blog.
Team Czech Republic
Radek Faksa, C, Dallas Stars (Kitchener-OHL): Faksa played for the Czechs last season but is likely more of a key cog this time around. He's a player with good speed, above-average physical value, an impressive puck possession element to his game and plays quality defense. He won't wow you but has a lot of elements to bring to the table.
Tomas Hertl, C, San Jose Sharks (Slavia Praha-Czech Extraliga): Hertl has been one of the most productive Junior aged players in the Czech pro league in the last decade. He's a skilled, aware offensive forward who plays with grit as well. Hertl's issue has been his below-average skating.
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Grant Sonier
Grant Sonier has scouted for six NHL organizations over the past 13 years, most recently for the Atlanta Thrashers during the 2010-11 season. He is a special contributor to ESPN Insider.
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Victoria Matiash
Victoria Matiash has served as a Fantasy Hockey columnist for ESPN.com since 2007, and contributor to NHL Rumor Central since 2010. She lives in Toronto.
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