Charles LeClaire-US PRESSWIRE
We continue on with the Edmonton Oilers Top 20 Prospects for 2012 as we roll through numbers 6 through 10.
6. Martin Gernat D – 5th rounder from 2011 turned out to be a hidden gem. 6’5″ defender with mobility and offensive flair. Needs to work on the defensive game somewhat but he has a reach advantage on most players. As of now is dealing with a shoulder injury that could potentially keep him out for the season. He is back in his native Slokvakia, so updates have been a little slow in determining the severity of his injury. Ceiling – Middle pairing Offensive Dman.
7. Martin Marincin D – Didn’t have a breakout WHL season last season. Put up modest point totals for Prince George/Regina. Better off now trying him in the AHL now. Sink or swim time for Marincin to see if he can handle the rigors of the pro schedule and game. Had a 6 game audition with OKC last season. Still needs to bulk up. Heavy shot is his calling card. Looking for a regular spot with the Barons in the upcoming season. Ceiling – Middle pairing two-way Dman.
8. Teemu Hartikainen LW – Hartikainen has been an AHL/NHL tweener the last couple of seasons. Will likely get the same treatment this upcoming season. Works hard, but his skating is average for the NHL level. Can play gritty and score a little. Needs to find a niche at the NHL level. With many of the NHL regulars heading to play with the Oklahoma City Barons, this could hurt his development. Ceiling – 2nd line grinding winger.
9. Tobias Rieder RW – Rieder has adapted very well at any level he’s played at. Has a variety of tools at his disposal but shooting is his best talent. Can play a variety of roles but has excelled in a scoring role with his Kitchener team in the OHL. Will need to repeat this season he had last season to be considered a bluechip prospect. It’s important for Rieder to play a more all around game as the big club’s scoring spots are tied up for the foreseeable future. Ceiling – 2nd line scoring winger.
10. Olivier Roy G – Its a big year for Roy. If he ends up in OKC to end the year, thats good, if he ends up in Stockton to end the year, thats bad. Roy needs to establish himself fairly quickly as the Oilers now have a dearth of goaltenders to run through if anyone falls off the tracks. With Tyler Bunz getting sent to Stockton, Roy will get his chance to backup Yann Danis in OKC to start the season. Ceiling – Potential starting goaltender.
