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:
16. Dylan Olsen
One-Timer: Olsens’ stock is rising with his recent great performance at the WJC-U18s, where he was Canada’s best defenseman. Whereas fellow prospect Simon Despres floundered under the international spotlight, “Oly” seized the moment! Subsequently, where Despres draft position fell, Olsen should definitely go higher than projected mid-season. Given he played in the AJHL this year, he is somewhat of unknown commodity, but is described as having a complete game. He has good size and is equally adept at playing in the offensive or defensive zones. He also possesses a good level of toughness and has that “umph!” to his game. Add to those components a bullet-like shot! He could be a real 1st round sleeper, although scouts are not hitting the snooze button when it comes to this young gun any longer. He is likely off to the NCAA next season with Minnesota-Duluth. Medicine Hat of the WHL holds his CHL rights, should he choose that route instead. Interestingly, I have “Oly” slated to go 16th, the same slot as last year’s top AJHL, Joe “JoeCo” Colborne {click for in depth interview}, went to the Bruins last season.
NHL Player(s) Comparison: Dion Phaneuf, Shea Weber
Bio/Profile/Interview Links:
http://www.westerncollegehockeyblog.com/2009/6/11/855958/nhl-draft-prospect-dylan-olsen
http://www.inlouwetrust.com/2009/6/17/912954/devils-at-the-2009-nhl-draft-a
Scouting Combine Performance:
TSN staff observed: “6’2, 205-pound Dylan Olsen, ranked 27th, did not show particularly well on the bench press, but it should be noted that, in general, kids from U.S. high schools and other programs (ie not Major Junior hockey) tend not to do as well on these exercises.”
International Tournaments: Olsen registered 4 points in 6 games at the WJC-U18s and emerged as Canada’s best blueliner, and possibly best player, in the tournament.
ETA = 3 years
Risk-Reward Analysis: Risk = 3/5 Reward = 4.5/5
NHL Potential: 2-way blueliner
Fantasy Hockey Potential: Offensive = 8/10 Defensive = 8.5/10
Other Rankings:
- ISS: 34
- CSB: 27-NA
- TSN: n/a
- THN: 41
- Video Links: n/a
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