DiDomenico continues to impress overall with his play at the World Juniors, and his 2 goals and 4 assists are a nice total to contribute, but he hasn’t done much in the past game or so to wow me. I think he’s at least 2 years away from much of a contribution at the NHL level.

Stefanovich and Hayes are both high risk high reward picks. Stefanovich has more potential, but he needs to improve his consistency. He played recently at the second tier world U-20′s for Belarus also, and didn’t do much to shock the world on that stage. His 4 goals and 2 assists resulting in 6 points and a +5 rating had him working as probably the 5th or 6th most important contributor on the Belarussian team. He’s still a work in progress.

Hayes hasn’t done a whole lot yet to warrant too much optimism, but if he improves consistently over the next 2 years, he’ll be worth the selection eventually.

Champagne still has to work on his footspeed if he ever has visions of making the NHL. His size is an asset, but his offensive game could use some polish.

Flaake was selected in the CHL import draft prior to this past season, and the Leafs decided to leave him in Germany. He’s playing against men, and he’s seeing first line minutes at regular strength and on the PP. He’s playing alongside ex-Leafs Todd Warriner and Mike Johnson, so I don’t think the Leafs are too worried about his development in the DEL. The Junior leagues might help them keep him close to home, but I’m not sure that’s what Flaake wants to do… he’s a few years away at best either way.

Rau can score, but his foot speed is questionable, and he’ll likely spend some time in the AHL before he gets a chance to crack an NHL lineup… even with the thin up front Leafs.

I’m looking forward to how everything pans out, but the Leafs still need an upgrade in their skill level on the back end and in net as far as prospects go.

Mikhail with another 2 goals tonight and Joel with a 3 assist game.

I also like the nice mix of size and skill. I thought Dale Mitchell and Didomenico had a great camp for us this year. We’ll see what happens, but they should be pushing for roles soon and maybe even next year!!

I love these posts, please keep them coming!!

Good work guys.