QMJHL Central Scouting director Patrick Charbonneau breaks down the top prospects for Saturday’s draft.
1. D Michael Matheson Consensus No. 1 prospect says he’s going NCAA … Compares in style to Scott Niedermayer … Skating is his No. 1 asset.
2. LW Luca Ciampini Sniper who compares in style to Dany Heatley … Every time there’s a rebound, it ends up on his stick … Always in the right place to score goals.
3. D Dominic Poulin Offensive-minded power-play quarterback with a booming slap shot … Similar in style to Shea Weber … Needs to step up his defensive game.
4. D Jeremie Fraser Dominated midget AAA with impressive size and strength … Solid two-way player … Not as much upside as Matheson or Poulin.
5. F Stefan Matteau Son of former NHL checker Stephane Matteau … Complete player … May not play in Q — reportedly committed to U.S. under-17 program.
6. C/LW Taylor Burke Halifax native is something of a power forward … Goes into traffic to score goals … Protects the puck well … Hits.
7. C/LW Liam O’Brien Halifax native gives his all every shift … … Can be used in any situation.
8. D Dillon Fournier Mobile stay-at-homer … Excellent first passer who leads the breakout … Untapped offensive upside.
9. G Francois Tremblay Quick legs and lateral moves … Great reflexes … Needs to avoid playing too deep in his net.
10. F Brent Turnbull True power forward … Boasts an intimidating shot … Finishes all of his checks.
11. F Frederick Gamelin Excellent skating ability and vision … Playmaker and scorer but good defensively … Size a concern but determination compensates.
12. D Justin Hache Best Maritime defenceman available … Mobile … Game geared toward the offensive end.
13. F Charles Hudon Scores spectacular goals … Ultra-quick hands with a great wrist shot and good skating ability … A potential Q sniper.
