PHOTO courtesy icelevel.com

June 23, 2017

With the 2017 NHL Entry Draft beginning tonight and running through tomorrow it is an exciting time for many rising young stars around the globe.  The NHL Central Scouting bureau released its final rankings back in April and two players from the CCHL found themselves in the mix.

Cameron Crotty – Brockville Braves

The #89 ranked prospect spent the past two seasons with the Brockville Braves where he gained a lot of exposure.  The 6-3, 182 lb two-way blueliner from Greely, ON scored 9 goals and totaled 40 points in 109 career regular season and playoff games, and was named the CCHL Top Prospect this past season.  He also represented Team Canada East in the 2016 World Junior “A” Challenge, and suited up in the CJHL Top Prospects Game.

“Some of those experiences were very humbling, playing against some of the best Jr A players around,” Crotty said. “It gave me perspective in terms of where I’m at as a player and where I have to be in order to have success at the next level.”

Crotty has drawn comparisons to NHL defensemen such as Marco Scandella (MIN) and Chris Tanev (VAN).  Like the above-mentioned players, Crotty isn’t going to blow anyone away with his offensive output, but his size, strength, smarts, and skating give him the chance to be dependable at the professional level.

“I’m a two-way guy, obviously not a point-per-game guy,” Crotty said.  “But moving the puck up the ice, chipping in when I can while taking care of the ‘D’ is what I’m strong at.”

Committed to NCAA Boston University this fall, Crotty knows he needs to keep working and not look too far in the future.

“It’s up to me to determine my fate and how much ice I’m going to get,” Crotty said. “I’ve had to do the same thing in juniors, coming into teams with a ‘D’ corps that on paper was filled, but working my way in there and earning ice time. I’m looking to do the same thing at BU and hopefully have some success there.”

What the Scouting World is saying:

“Crotty’s size/skating combo really stands out at this level.  Long stride, smooth, good lateral agility.  Takes care of his own end.  He is poised with the puck, usually makes the smart first pass.” – Grant McCagg (Recruits.ca).

“Mobile defenseman … a factor at both ends of the ice … quick and accurate point shot … dictates pace of play … decisive puck-mover … takes away time and space effectively.” – NHL Central Scouting

“Transitional defenseman with excellent vision.  Using footwork much better to create second and third options on outlets.  Good in one on one physical battles and finishes checks along the wall.” – Benjamin Gallant – International Scouting Services

Bobby Dow – Kemptville 73’s

Coming in listed as the #122 ranked prospect is Kemptville 73’s Right Wing Bobby Dow who also recently finished his second season of CCHL hockey. 

In 133 combined regular season and playoff games, the Ottawa, ON native has tallied 46 goals and totaled 113 points.  With the draft quickly approaching, Dow is just looking forward to the opportunity.   

“It is definitely a surreal feeling with lots of different emotions when I think about the draft,” said Dow.  “I am just trying to keep busy and just looking forward to draft day and being part of the experience.”

With the 73’s this past season, Dow had a breakout year with 24 goals and 59 points in 53 games.  He added another 5 goals and 13 points in 12 playoff games.

“I was lucky enough to be part of an amazing organization with great coaches, great teammates, fantastic fans, and an amazing billet family.  I was given the opportunity to improve my game and have two great seasons with Kemptville that I am very grateful for.”

Set to join NCAA Mercyhurst University in 2018-19, Dow will spend another season in junior developing his game before he continues to climb the hockey ladder.

What the Scouting World is saying:

“Complete 200-foot game, skating is really improving nice powerful well balanced long stride.  Puck protection skills are second to none, with pinpoint passing skills.” – Ron MacLean – International Scouting Services

“Offensive goal scorer with average size and strength.  Strong on the puck with ability to separate and defend positioning.  Will hit and play physical if needed.  Good patience and poise with the puck.” – Gregory Hickman – International Scouting Services

However the Draft plays out, it is pretty evident that both Dow and Crotty have bright futures ahead in the game.  Last season the CCHL saw Forward Brett Murray (BUF), and Goaltender Colton Point (DAL) selected in the 4th and 5th rounds respectively. 

For more information:

Sean Marcellus

Operations Manager

Central Canada Hockey League

snmarcellus@gmail.com