#33 Simon Despres – The Hockey Spy’s 2009 NHL Entry Draft Rankings

Christopher Ralph is a hockey writer with a focus on prospects and the entry draft, as well as the Leafs’ correspondent here at THW.

“Full Potential” Prospect Profile:

Simon Despres: Sea Dog Stock Falling {RicLaf - Flickr}

33. Simon Despres - Laval, PQ -- 6’4″ -- 214 lbs -- QMJHL -- Saint John – D

One-Timer: Depres projects to be a shutdown blueliner at the next level. He can make a good break out pass out of his own zone and can play physical as well. The big d-man keeps things simple, but efficient. He registered 32 points in 66 games. Was once thought he might have a shot at cracking the Top 10, but will likely slip because of recent performance at WJC-U18s (see below).

NHL Player(s) Comparison: M.E. Vlasic (but bigger)

Bio/Interview Links:

http://www.blueshirtbanter.com/2009/6/16/906667/2009-nhl-draft-prospect-preview

http://www.ontheforecheck.com/2009/6/15/910172/2009-nhl-draft-prospect-simon

Scouting Combine Performance:

International Tournaments:

Despres had a poor showing at the recent WJC-U18 tournament displaying some poor decision-making skills on the ice, which is likely the reason why he drops down to late 1^st round or early 2^nd round.

ETA = 3 years

Risk-Reward Analysis: Risk = 3.5/5 Reward = 4/5

NHL Potential: 2^nd or 3^rd pairing defensive defenseman

Fantasy Hockey Potential: Offensive = 5.5/10 Defensive = 8/10

Other Rankings:

ISS: 30
CSB: 8-NA
TSN: 14
THN: 12

Video Links:

Please “Click Here” for “Notes Up Front” and the “Legend” for various topics covered below, as well as a running live updated NHL 2009 Draft rankings.

This document is the intellectual property of Christopher Ralph and cannot be used or duplicated in anyway without expressed written consent. Any use of this document without the expressed written consent of Christopher Ralph will result in public exposure and legal prosecution.