International Scouting Services presents their top 10 2005 NHL Draft Prospects for the month of April, 2005:
Sidney Crosby, Center
Team: Rimouski ( QMJHL), Height: 5-11, Weight: 180
Benoit Pouliot, Left Wing
Team: Sudbury ( OHL), Height: 6-3, Weight: 183
Jack Johnson, Defense
Team: NTDP Under-18 ( USA), Height: 6-1, Weight: 197
Gilbert Brule, Center
Team: Vancouver ( WHL), Height: 5-10, Weight: 187
Bobby Ryan, Right Wing
Team: Owen Sound ( OHL), Height: 6-1, Weight: 213
Anze Kopitar, Center
Team: Sodertalje ( SWE), Height: 6-2, Weight: 200
Marc Staal, Defense
Team: Sudbury ( OHL), Height: 6-3, Weight: 197
Ryan O’Marra, Center
Team: Erie ( OHL), Height: 6-2, Weight: 182
Alex Bourret, Center
Team: Lewiston ( QMJHL), Height 5-9.5, Weight: 209
Marek Zagrapan, Center
Team: Chicoutimi ( QMJHL), Height: 6-1, Weight: 195
Benoit Pouliut - Sudbury Wolves
Pouliot continues his rise in our rankings by continuing to improve and displaying abilities that should make him a superstar in the NHL. His effortless skating, offensive instincts, size and creativity all remind us of Vincent Lecavalier. The playoffs will be an interesting test for Pouliot, as he will be mauled throughout the post-season. It is our strong opinion that he will make the adjustment quickly and efficiently. The sky is the limit for this talented young star.
Bobby Ryan - Owen Sound Attack
Ryan continues to impress all those who see him by simply dominating games and imposing his will. All of this in the competitive OHL and only recently celebrating his 18th birthday makes his performance even more impressive. The baby-faced man-child has improved his skating to the point where it is serviceable, and it will only improve with greater leg strength. But the real genius with Ryan is his ability to handle the puck and create instant offence. These assets will allow him to score a boatload of goals in the NHL.