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2008 NHL Draft Preview: May 24, 2008 -- The U.S. National Team Development Program (NTDP) is known for putting out NHL prospects on an annual basis. This year is no different, as several draft-eligible players will likely hear their name called in June. Below is a list of those players I have scouted and where they might end up on draft day.
1. Danny Kristo (5-11, 175) – RW Kristo is a silky-smooth skater who can utilize his agility and stick-handling skills to elude opponents on a regular basis. He has a nose for offense but his questionable two-way play could be a downfall. Draft Spot – Late first round is possible but second round is more likely 2. Robbie Czarnik (6-0, 180) – C/RW Czarnik is a workhorse who is versatile in the sense that he can play both a finesse and physical style of game. His solid two-way play and willingness to get dirty in the corners and along the boards make him a valuable contributor on special teams. Draft spot – Third round 3. David Warsofsky (5-10, 170) – D Despite being a defenseman, Warsofsky was second on the team in scoring last season with 40 points. Warsofsky’s small frame is a concern but he is reliable in his own end and also possesses the offensive skill set to be successful at the next level. Draft spot – Third round 4. Vinny Saponari (6-0, 180) – RW Saponari lacks breakaway speed but he is an absolute magician with the puck and also displays astute vision on the ice. Additionally, he is a diligent worker below the hash marks and can contribute on special teams. Draft spot – Fourth round 5. Sean Lorenz (6-1, 205) – D Lorenz is a trusty, stay-at-home defenseman who possesses an NHL-type build and quality decision-making skills. Lorenz’s offensive abilities are limited but his physical, shutdown style of play holds significant value on defense. Draft spot – Fifth round 6. Justin Florek (6-4, 200) – LW Florek is a towering winger whose greatest asset is his size, as he can utilize his long reach to shield the puck or break up plays. Though Florek needs to add lower body strength and improve his mobility, he is a work-in-progress so he has significant upside. Draft spot – Fifth round Looking Ahead to 2009… Jordan Schroeder (5-8, 165) – C Schroeder is not eligible for this year’s draft because of his late birth date (9/20/90). However, he is a top ten prospect in 2009, as his exceptional all-around game will be highly sought after. Schroeder is the epitome of a guy who can do it all. He possesses quality instincts and anticipates plays very well. Schroeder’s hockey smarts – coupled with his natural skating and puck-handling abilities – make him a dangerous playmaker, particularly on the counterattack. Schroeder plays bigger than his size, can kill penalties and always seems to be around the puck.
2008 Western Hockey Network
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