A total of 44 draft-eligible WHL players descended upon Langley, B.C. on February 18 to compete in the first annual Western Hockey League Prospects Game. Unfortunately, projected first-round picks Ryan Lin (13th-ranked North American skater per NHL Central Scouting) and Mathis Preston (24th-ranked North American skater) could not compete in the showcase due to injury (although both competed at the CHL USA Prospects Challenge earlier this season). However, there were still many high-end players at this event.
This Prospects Game was divided into Team East and Team West. The skill on both of these teams was evident from the start, and resulted in a 5-4 Team East overtime victory. To further demonstrate how evenly matched these clubs were, Team West captain Carson Carels (3rd-ranked North American skater) tallied three assists and was named the Player of the Game in a losing cause.
True to his offensive prowess, Team East d-man Daxon Rudolph (6th-ranked North American skater) scored just 14 seconds into the extra session for the victory (Rudolph also managed an assist). However, his game-winner did not come until after Team West rallied from a 3-0 deficit on two goals by forward Tyus Sparks (63rd-ranked North American skater) and one apiece from forwards Brody Gillespie (138th-ranked North American skater) and JP Hurlbert (10th-ranked North American skater).
The players standing out to me from this group are a pair of d-men in Giorgos Pantelas (58th-ranked North American skater) of the Brandon Wheat Kings, and Rudolph of the Prince Albert Raiders. Pantelas is defense-first style of player who never gets rattled with the puck, and possesses the size and strength (6’2″ 214 LBS.) necessary to engage opponents physically. Although he is a projected second/third round pick, I believe he is very underrated, especially with his ability to contribute offensively.
Rudolph is the more offensive-minded of the two, although he is very responsible in his own zone as well. With his two-way abilities already intact and always improving, Rudolph is a player to be relied upon in all situations. Also, his pass-first mentality and excellent vision lend themselves nicely to the role of power-play quarterback at the NHL level.