Posted - 04/22/2009 : 11:38:06 In part one of this two-part series, we looked at five of the 2009 Hobey Baker Award finalists. In this second part we look at the other five.
It was announced on April 10th that defenseman Matt Gilroy took home the award. His outstanding season at Boston University not only secured him the trophy as college hockey’s best player, it also secured him a 2 year, 3.5 million dollar contract with the New York Rangers.
Look for Gilroy to battle for a roster spot at the Rangers camp next September.
Colin Wilson, Boston University Selected by the Nashville Predators, 1st round (7th overall) in 2008 Position: Forward
Wilson is the complete player. At 6-2, 215 lbs he has the size and power to go along with immense skill that should translate into a long, productive NHL career as a top-6 forward. Wilson excels at both ends of the ice, is a very good playmaker, and skates well for a big man. His physical fitness has received rave reviews in hockey circles.
Professor’s Notes: Wilson just signed a 3-year deal with the Predators so he will be turning pro next year. He will compete for a roster spot at camp next year, and our money is on him making the team.
Viktor Stalberg, Vermont Selected by the Toronto Maple Leafs, 6th round (161st overall) in 2006 Position: Forward
Stalberg is another big forward (6-3, 200 lbs) who skates well. He had an excellent season for Vermont, scoring 24 goals (46 points) in 39 games.
Professor’s Notes: Stalberg has played an offensive role during his college career, and should get the same opportunity for a rebuilding Toronto club, perhaps as soon as next season as he recently signed a contract with the Leafs to turn pro and has already joined the Toronto Marlies for the AHL playoffs. It is possible, though, that Stalberg’s long term potential could lie as a checking forward but hey, the Leafs won’t be picky where they get their offense from.
Brad Thiessen, Northeastern Undrafted – Signed as an UFA by the Pittsburgh Penguins Position: Goaltender
Brad Thiessen had an incredible season for Northeastern this year, playing in every minute of every game and faced the most shots of any goaltender in college hockey. He finished with a record of 25-12-4, with a 2.12 GAA and a sparkling .931 SV%.
Professor’s Notes: Thiessen’s signing with the Pittsburgh Penguins puts him in a battle with fellow Hobey Baker nominee Chad Johnson for playing time with the Penguins or their farm club (Wilkes-Barre/Scranton Penguins). It will be interesting to see how this plays out, as ultimately there is only one position available behind Penguins starter Marc-Andre Fleury. Don’t expect to see Thiessen or Johnson to win an NHL roster spot next year, but with Fleury’s penchant for injury, an in-season call-up would not be out of the question.
Kalemba was one of the most protected goaltenders in college hockey this year as Princeton had a rock solid defense. He started all but one game for the Tigers, finishing with a stellar 22-10-1 record.
Professor’s Notes: Kalemba has yet to be signed by a NHL team, and it is debateable as to whether or not he will be. Keep an eye on him as he definitely has top-shelf skill.
David McIntyre, Colgate Selected by the Dallas Stars, 5th round (138th overall) in 2006 Position: Forward
McIntyre turned what was a pretty strange year for him personally into a breakout season at Colgate where he recorded 21 goals (43 points) in 37 games. Drafted by the Dallas Stars in 2006, David was traded twice during the season. The first deal saw his rights go to the Anaheim Ducks in exchange for Brian Sutherby. The second deal saw the Ducks trade his rights to the New Jersey Devils for Sheldon Brookbank.
McIntyre is an excellent skater with good hand, and plays well at both ends of the ice.
Professor’s Notes: Colgate finished the year on the wrong side of the goals for/goals against ledger, giving up 55 more than they scored. Amazingly, McIntyre finished the year +19, which might explain why he is on this list. If/when he makes the NHL, his upside is probably as a 3rd line defensive playmaker.
Ray Irwin writes for www.SchoolYourPool.com, the most complete fantasy hockey advice website on the internet. Featuring player and prospect rankings and interviews, daily starting goalies, buy low/sell high, injury reports, goalie carousel, and lots more...come on over to www.schoolyourpool.com and Get Educated!
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