I am traveling to Kennewick WA today to take in the matchup between the Regina Pats and Tri City Americans. Although this trip is simply for fun, the hockey fanatic in me can’t help but look for the players that will be featured in NHL lineups in the near future. Here are a couple players I will be keeping an eye out for:
Regina Pats
Tanner Howe: Depending on which scouts you ask, Howe is currently ranked anywhere from 20-50 for draft eligible prospects. Bob McKenzie via Elite Prospects currently ranks Howe 25th on the big board. Howe is a bit undersized at 5’11 and 180 lbs., but by all accounts, has great hands and a solid defensive game. Howe leads the Pats in all offensive categories with 25 goals and 44 assists. Dobber Prospects projects him as a middle six NHL player with future development. I’m not familiar with Howe, but I’m looking forward to watching a potential 1st round pick in action.
Tri City Americans
Lukas Dragicevic: Oh, how I wanted my beloved Colorado Avalanche to draft Dragicevic! Instead, Dragicevic was taken by the Seattle Kraken in the 2nd round in last year’s draft. Dragicevic is having another solid campaign with the Americans with 12 goals and 29 assists for a total and 41 points. Dragicevic is a right-handed defenseman who has good size (6’2”) and sound offensive skill. He is the new breed of NHL defenseman who can help with breakouts from the defensive zone and chip in offensively. Everybody knows he has the offensive upside, but I’ll be keeping my eyes on his play in defensive areas.
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Deagen McMillan: McMillan was eligible at last year’s draft but did not hear his name called. He was however invited to the Toronto Maple Leafs Development Camp. He has had a decent season this year with the Americans with 15 goals and 17 assists in 55 games. He has strong offensive upside and good size at 6’2” and 185 lbs. I wouldn’t be surprised if McMillan hears his name called at this year’s NHL draft as a late round selection. With his tools, I would take that gamble if I was running an NHL club!
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