Spence King

Good day VHL Community and Top of the morning to you, especially to the focus of this article - S73 VHL Draft Class. With S72 having surpassed the 50 games played mark and less than 20 games left it's CRUNCH time. Since we’ve last checked in “VSN’s Top 24 Early Standouts” there has for sure been what some may call chaos, I view it as excitement and more unpredictability. This Draft has some very exciting prospects headlined by MJF @frosty the without question top player of the S73 Draft class Marshall James FrostBeard along with superstar defenceman Tyler Walker and a handful of great goalies in Tonn, Gyrfalcon and Camus all slotted to go 1st round. Along with the unforgettable John Merrick showing flashes of Hall of Fame play as well as a blood relative to the legendary Glade family as VHL players and GM, the youngest highly touted defenceman Shawn Glade III.  
With the recent news of the VHL’s 4-Team Expansion announced for this offseason creates even more variables and “chaos” for Current VHL GM’s; Let the fun begin. From first glance, it’s easy to see this is not the deepest draft class and a major drop nearing round 3.  It's important that I clarify and we are making this clear these “Rankings'' are not a Mock Draft, it is who VSN’s Scouting Department believes are the best picks at each spot without any connections to the teams making the selection nor Positional Value (Pure Rankings). These rankings are based and referring to play progress before the playoffs*
 
The VSN Scouting Department with the amazing crew of scouting experience run @Patrik Tallinder The Director of Scouting and Assistant Director @Spence King have spent countless hours watching every VHLM game travelling across North America and not to mention the passing WJC and now playoffs. A major factor the scouts highly value in a player is consistency (being active weekly/levels of participation) extensively tracking weekly opportunities claimed even as far as the differences between total capped and uncapped TPE earned. VSN scouting Staff are always keeping a VERY close eye on each player’s activity trends and participation in the community.
 
 
Let’s get ready to rumble!
 here are VSN’s S73 Draft Mid Season Player Rankings:
 
#1 - Marshall James Frostbeard- 300 TPE
Trending down, Low risk, High potential 
If anyone is shocked to see the MJF trending “down” is the sole reason that @frostbeard is a VHL GM himself and has his player’s rights protected in the draft and he is the clear cut #1 Overall prospect in this draft.
 
#2 - Tyler Walker - 281 TPE- No trend, Low risk, High potential 
Tyler is the ultimate coaches player, he does everything you ask of him and is always in the right place at the right time, no player other than MJF has shown more consistent growth/Activity and development in their game other than Tyler. Whichever team drafts this young man will be getting a future franchise defenceman that will play MANY games in the VHL and very soon. 
 
#3 - Jacob Tonn-  276 TPE 
No trend, Low risk, High potential 
Jacob Tonn has proven to be a steal for the ages, with the hounds able to draft some great players and snag Tonn in the later rounds is truly unbelievable that any GM let this young man go past the 1st round let alone outside the Top 5. Tonn is having a fantastic season in his draft year proving to have the potential to be a future starter and potentially star goaltender in the VHL
 
#4 - Micah Adrienne - 276 TPE
No trend, Low risk, High potential 
Micah is by far one of the best defenders his age in a long time. Micah is easily one of the leagues top 5 Defensive defencemen with way above average defensive IQ, amazing body checker with terrifying hits combined with his smooth skating and puck handling make him a real contender for the #1 overall pick come draft day. Biggest Flaw is his terrible discipline.
 
#5 - Jeffrey Pines- 240TPE
Trending UP, Low  risk, High potential
 Jeffrey was on a tear after the WJC and really proving the league his playmaking abilities are just as strong and he might actually be a stronger playmaker as well as really fine-tuning his work in the defensive end and proving to be one of the most hated players to play against in the league. Jeffrey has a very bright future in the VHL his potential is sky high and he can fit any role his team needs for him. 
 
 
#6 - Grekkark Gyrfalcon - 228 TPE
Trending UP, Low risk, High potential
Grekkark Gyrfalcon is what some scouts are calling “The safest pick”. This due to the fact that Grekkark is affiliated with the EFL and is guaranteed to cap out with 12 TPE with his EFL Job alone.
 
#7 - Jean Pierre Camus - 217 TPE:
Trending UP, Low risk, High potential 
J=ean Pierre Camus is our third goalie in the top ten and he's there for a reason. JPC may not have the wins like the other goalies but the skill is there and it’s evident. Truly an exciting player to watch. Camus with a record of 18-42-4 is still currently the league leader with the highest Save % of any starting goaltender. His lightning-quick hand speed combined with incredible style and  rebound control and jaw-dropping reaction time
 
#8 - @ShawnGlade III- 213 TPE
Trending down, Moderate risk, High potential 
Shawn is right there with Tyler and Micah in terms of potential. The relative of the legendary Shawn Glade gives us some insight into the hockey blood in this player and his dedication and consistency. Shawns defensive IQ always has him in the right position at the right time. Glade III has an amazing first pass out of the zone to go along with his ability to rush the puck with his strong puck handling and skating abilities.
 
 #9 - Groovy Dood- 206 TPE
Trending UP, Low risk, High potential
Groovy Dude AKA @bigAL The AGM of the new VHLM expansion Franchise the Miami Marauders. Groovy has proven to be extremely active and one of the most consistent draft-eligible players continually increasing his draft stock. Mr Dude is arguably the top playmaker in the draft. His defensive abilities are also what really separates him apart from the other players in this class is his obvious effort and dedication consistently week in and day out and will always give you 110% effort.
 
 
#10 - Kosmo Kramerev- 204 TPE
Trending UP, Low risk, High potential 
Kosmo is in the top 10 of the league scoring not only as a rookie but also as a defenceman. Kramerev so far in 64 games is 1 point shy, sitting at 99PTS and going to hit the 100 PTS plateau as a rookie. The difference between Kramerev and the “Big Three” Walker, Adrienne and Glade is that Kosmo is a much more offensive-oriented defensive player while saying that he does not lack in defensive abilities and has amazing defensive skills.
 
#11 - John Merrick- 179 TPE
N/A, Low   risk, High potential 
John Merrick looks to be a very promising and potential first-line centre in the VHL. Merrick, the User @Steve recently retired unexpectedly Guy LeGrande early and was not expected to recreate LeGrnade had 1177 TPE already and still had 2 seasons to go. That says a lot right there about Merricks potential. Merrick is already proving to be a great 2-way centre, He has the size and strength to go along with his great puck handling and skating abilities.
 
 #12 - Wolf Stansson - 190 TPE
Trending UP, Low risk, High potential 
Wolf Stansson was a hot name on Trade Deadline day, and with that being no surprise. Wolf has proven to be the next name on this list of extremely talented 2-way defenders. Wolf plays with an edge to his game and can really bang bodies on the ice and I mean that literally by an “edge” Wolf has learned to master body checking and cutting off the rush with huge hip checks always making clean hits and is never afraid to sacrifice his body. 
 
#13 - Dan Baillie Jr – 194 TPE
Trending UP, Low risk, High potential
Dan Baille Jr “The Junior Rocket” has been trending up and up all season and the ski is truly the limit for this man. His skating is out of this world and without a doubt the most accurate and quickest shot in the draft, Baille Jr goal and assist totals in SSK do not reflect his skill or potential. Baille is going to have a very great and long career in the VHL.
 
#14 -Andre Lebastard- 189 TPE
Trending UP, Moderate risk, High potential 
Probably the best Faceoff man in the draft if not the VHLm.Amazing 200-foot player, Fantastic passing IQ and accuracy, Logs Massive minutes and can shut down and play with the league's top lines, needs to work on his strength 
 
#15 - Patrik Laine - 174 TPE
Trending UP, Moderate risk, High potential 
The hottest thing in Houston right now, Laine is one of if not the most active prospects in the pool and is continually opening more and earning a lot of attention and this spot in the rankings. Laine is the most well-rounded prospect ranked to go in the first round with equally strong skating, puck handling, scoring and defensive IQ but still has a long way to go before being  VHL ready anytime soon.
 
 #16 - Mikeal Keef  - 195 TPE
Trending UP, Low risk, High potential
Mikeal will more than likely be playing in the pros next year, whichever organisation is lucky enough to snag this franchise defenceman will be smiling ear to ear when they call his name to the draft stage. The 6’4 205 lb smooth-skating defenceman excels the most in his own end with his jaw-dropping hits. 
 
#17 - Cal Conway - 179 TPE
Trending UP, Moderate risk,  High  potential
With his eye lightning, fast hand speed and reaction time Cal has shown many flashes of stardom. Just look at his numbers and its easy enough with an outstanding .913% Save percentage and almost under 2 Goals against a game at 2.07 GAA.
 
#18 -The Terrible Trivium- 189 TPE
Trending UP, Low risk, Moderate potential
Trivium is built like a truck and if he can turn that weight into muscle he could very well be one of the VHL’s power forward winger for many years to come. His fantastic positioning when backchecking, a total 200-foot player. His Shot is his best asset registering 297 shots on net in 72 games played. 
 
#19 - Oh Sens - 162 TPE
Trending UP, Moderate risk, High potential 
The Japanese sensation and fan favourite in Miami Oh Sens has a well-rounded skill set with his puck handling and powerful shot make him such an exciting winger. Very strong player physically, look for next season to be a breakout for this young man 
 
#20 - Ajay Krishna - 152 TPE
No trend, Low risk, High potential
Ajay was once considered the clear cut safest goalie available after the big 3 all set to be taken in the 1st round. Krishna skill is definitely there and with his reaction time paired with his size, his potential in the crease is sky-high. Ajay had a very strong start to the season with high activity and looked to be a lock for the 1st round however the second half of the season Krishna’s progression noticeably declined. Krishna still has time to prove himself as a 1st rounder if he can return to his early-season progression.
 
#21 - Dakota Lamb - 173 TPE
Trending UP, Moderate risk, High potential
The most skilled Faceoff man in the draft Dakota Lamb has amazing offensive capabilities with his combined skill set of skating puck handling and offensive IQ. Being the most skilled at  FO points doesn't always win you the most Faceoffs, Dakota has to put on some serious strength to turn those skills into an invaluable asset.
 
22- Calvin Harvey - 156 TPE 
Trending down, Moderate risk, Moderate potential 
Calvin Harvey has had a rough go this season in San Diego much like the rest of his marlin teammates, he was peppered with shots and really had no chance to ever develop confidence on the ice. He has very good reaction time and a nice Style control. 
 
#23 - Matty Socks - 161 TPE
Trending UP, Low/ Moderate risk, Moderate potential 
Matty Socks has been playing phenomenal for the Aces all season. Extremely consistent and without a doubt one of the most skilled defensive defencemen in the draft class as well as the entire league. Along with strong offensive IQ and powerful skating. With some filling out in strength and conditioning as well as passing accuracy socks could be another diamond in the rough
 
#24-Kevin King - 145 TPE
N/A, Moderate risk, High potential 
The player with the most intrigue other than John Merrick. Kevin King has only had a short time to prove himself and even with minimal ice time. However, his skills do all the talking. Scoring and defensive IQ are way above most in the class and especially at this position. King has the best faceoffs skills by far in the draft class. With building strength and continuing to progress at this level don't be surprised if Kevin King is a 1st round pick on draft day.
 
#25 - Han Jae Kuk - 132 TPE
No trend, Low risk,  Moderate  potential 
Han was at one point the hottest name on the trade block with his great early start to the season, but just like the marlins did this season, Han Jae looks to have drowned. He is borderline inactive and potentially falling out of the top 40 if that were the case. Jae Kuk’s has incredible defensive abilities and above-average skating, he has the skill and potential the issue is an effort right now.
 
 
#26 - Alec Volchenkov - 156 TPE
Trending UP, Moderate risk, High potential 
Alec Volchenkov is definitely our most interesting and unique player in this draft class and by unique, i am referring to his playing style. Volchenkov is the definition of a Shut down player. His scoring abilities have much work to be done, however, his Faceoffs and defensive play in his own end are above most forward in the VHLM. Volchenkov has the potential to be a lifelong role player in the pros and I could even see him being a team's 1st line Center one day.
 
 #27 - Jesper Norberg - 142 TPE
N/A, Moderate risk risk, High  potential 
Jesper Norberg has come into Vegas hitting the ground running harder than every pair of dice in town combined. This Swedish winger comes over with a diverse skill set highlighted by his IQ in the offensive zone. His passing, puck handling and skating are showing improvements daily along with an impressive build, very strong on his skates.
 
 #28 - Florent Vericel  - 126 TPE
Trending down, High risk, High potential 
The Quick sharpshooting Canadian forward signed early in the season with the newly expanded VHLM franchise in Miami. Florent proved very quickly that he is a consistent and very strong shooter. His shot combined with his speed is by far his best attribute at his ability to find the shooting lanes. Strength along with Puck handling is in need of improvement.
 #29 - Fat Palloon - 122 TPE
Trending UP, Moderate risk, High/ Moderate potential 
Mr Palloon has been on the scouts’ radars from the minute he stepped on the ice with his incredible defensive positioning and willingness to put his body on the line to block shots and passing lanes. Palloon’s season has been somewhat of a roller coaster in terms of production. As of late F.Paloon has made huge strides in his passing accuracy and skating. If he can maintain this progression as of the last two weeks this could be a steal in the draft. Still has a lot of practice to be done over the offseason.
 
#30- Jeremy Lin - 136 TPE
No trend, Moderate risk, Moderate potential 
The once highly touted prospect Lin has fallen and continues to do so, his activity and progression have hit a hard standstill. With his quick and accurate shot combined with his ability to rush the puck up the ice on his own proves lin has the skill. The question mark is consistency.
 
 #31 - Kirishima Wakaro - 134 TPE
No trend, High risk, Moderate/Low potential 
Kirishima went ghost a couple of weeks this season where is progression really hit a standstill. Wakaro is still quite the question mark for scouts with his activity being monitored very closely. Kirishima has shown moments of stardom from the beginning of the season with his defensive and offensive abilities and positioning along with his skating.  
 
 #32 - Rick Osman - 108 TPE
Trending UP, Moderate risk, High potential
Rick Osman the giant on skates and one of the tallest players in VHLM history Rick a massive 53 banked TPE. His activity has been consistent, never capping out but consistent every week and if Rick can use this offseason to diversify his skill set. Right now his defensive IQ is great but he is really lacking a lot of fundamentals at this level, and must really work on those if he's to ever play in the pros.
 
#33 - Gary Rush- 115 TPE:
Trending UP, Moderate risk, Moderate potential 
Good 2-way forward with equally strong offensive and defensive IQ. Showing consistent growth in Skating and puck handling. Needs improvement in the weight room and work on checking 
 
#34- Rocket - 130 TPE
Trending UP, Moderate risk, Moderate potential 
Rocket is a really solid welfare prospect who takes advantage of uncapped opportunities as well. He usually earns 6-8 capped TPE, and whatever uncapped TPE he can get his hands on as well. There’s a good amount of potential in him as a scoring winger, and hopefully, his steady progression keeps up.
 
#35 - Bobbie Cheechoo - 97 TPE
Trending down, High risk, Moderate potential 
A prospect battling with inactivity at the moment, Bobbie Cheechoo is a pure goal scorer with an exceptional combination of skating and a heavy shot. If he can return to form, there’s definitely some potential here.
 
#36 - S Kuchar- 113 TPE
N/A, Moderate risk, Moderate potential
Late season signing with the Lynx after they shipped out their top two forwards Kuchar picked up the slack with ease, averaging almost 4 shots on net per game and registering a point per game. Kuchar is proving he can score in this league 
 
#37 - Empty - 110 TPE
Trending down, High risk, High potential 
Started off very hot in Halifax scoring over 50% of their goals in his first 10 games played. Incredible offensive abilities and very good defensive IQ, his progression however after the WJC has come to a standstill and Empty has become a real question mark going into the draft.
 
 
#38 -Keno Wolf- 99 TPE
Trending down, High risk, Moderate potential 
After showing a promising first three weeks, Keno Wolf has only earned 2 TPE over the last 2 weeks, which is quite worrying. If he comes back, it would be good for him to work on his puck handling, which seems to be a weakness as of today. Being able to claim 6 TPE welfare, Wolf shouldn’t have too hard of a time getting back to where he was just a couple weeks ago; It’s just about finding the time and motivation to stay consistent.
 
#39 - Peekay Soupcan - 88 TPE
Trending down,  High risk, Low potential 
Peekay has recently gone inactive, a promising youngster started off very strong with consistent activity and production, his scoring and skating are his greatest attributes, if Peekay remains on this trend he will be as quiet as his recent activity.
 
#40 - Victor Grachev- 129 TPE 
Trending UP, Moderate risk, High potential
Very Intriguing prospect Victor is a 1st-time VHL User as well as this being his first experience with any Sim League and he hit the ground running! Grachev has used literally every opportunity to earn the most  TPE possible since joining and the effort he has put in so far is incredible, consistency will be the big factor with him. Phenomenal Defensive D-man, very good 1st pass and puck handling knows his role and plays it well. Still needs to fill out his frame and fine touching his overall skill set.
Dont be surprised if he goes in the 1st round - "Spence King"
 
#41 - Ben Mills- 73 TPE
Trending down,  High risk, Low potential 
Pint-sized Ben Mills started off the season strong playing much more minutes in Mississauga. As the season has progressed it seems as if Mills is going to be a Welfare/Practice player only and if that at best with his inconsistency has him trending down. Good defensive skill and potential, fairly well-rounded skill set, his development seems to have just hit a dead end.
 
#42 - Jiggly Gumballs - 122 TPE
N/A, Moderate risk, High potential 
In only 16 games played and being in VHLM for 2 weeks, Jiggly Gumballs has shown signs of greatness and potential stardom. His defensive abilities and positioning in his own end are impeccable and might be the best shot-blocker I’ve ever seen. Very well rounded skill set and sure to skyrocket up the list if this activity trend continues.
 
 
#43 - Wane Jetski - 87 TPE
N/A, Moderate risk, Moderate potential 
Scouts have only had a short time to view Jetski since recently joining the league. His scoring touch and skating abilities are what stand out the most. Still needs work in the defensive end along with his hand-eye puck skills.
 
 
#44 - Theodore James St Louis  - 90 TPE
Trending UP, Moderate risk, High potential 
In his very short time so far in the VHLM Theodore James St Louis has made a great impression on VHL scouts his very well rounded game and truly game-changing ability when he’s on the ice for his team. Much about TJS is still unknown as to what role he will take on, St Louis has a very diverse skill set and could potentially be the steal of the draft if his activity spikes.
 
 
#45 - Teriyaki Chicken  -  TPE 78
Trending down, Moderate risk, Moderate potential 
Teriyaki is definitely one of the smaller D in the league but he is built like a truck. His biggest assets are his Checking and defensive skills, a very good stay at home defence. Needs to really work on his passing and puck handling
 
#46 -Drew Minott - 120 TPE
Trending UP ,  Moderate risk,High/ Moderate potential 
The sky's the limit for this big lanky Goaltender with a very well rounded skill set, the sample size is small so far, Minott continues to show impress scouts more every game. 
 
#47-Joromir Jogr - 107 TPE
Trending down, Moderate risk,  Moderate potential 
Jogr has gone dark for a while, a very fluid skater and knows how to use his body to create scoring chances, very high hockey IQ and shows flashes of greatness. Really need to work on his passing accuracy
 
#48 -Tim Kameshev - 64 TPE
Trending down, High risk, Low potential
Kameshev is almost strictly a practice player as of recently however has shown moments of great potential, his skating is what separates him from his peers. Needs a lot of improvement and a big increase in fine-tuning his entire skillset.
 
 
 
 
That's a wrap for our Mid Season VHL Draft Coverage if you enjoyed reading this don't forget to check VSN for regular updates!! We've got A LOT of content being put out almost daily! Don't forget to tune into some of our other amazing material such as - Weekly VHL and VHLM articles. A new feature “Deep Rewind” and learn more VHL history. Keep up with the news in the scouting department getting to know all about the VHL’s Future stars and in-depth look with each VHL Franchise’s prospects pool  @VSN
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Good day VHL Community and Top of the morning to you, especially to the focus of this article - S73 VHL Draft Class. With S72 having surpassed the 50 games played mark and less than 20 games left it's CRUNCH time. Since we’ve last checked in “VSN’s Top 24 Early Standouts” there has for sure been what some may call chaos, I view it as excitement and more unpredictability. This Draft has some very exciting prospects headlined by MJF @frosty the without question top player of the S73 Draft class Marshall James FrostBeard along with superstar defenceman Tyler Walker and a handful of great goalies in Tonn, Gyrfalcon and Camus all slotted to go 1st round. Along with the unforgettable John Merrick showing flashes of Hall of Fame play as well as a blood relative to the legendary Glade family as VHL players and GM, the youngest highly touted defenceman Shawn Glade III.  
With the recent news of the VHL’s 4-Team Expansion announced for this offseason creates even more variables and “chaos” for Current VHL GM’s; Let the fun begin. From first glance, it’s easy to see this is not the deepest draft class and a major drop nearing round 3.  It's important that I clarify and we are making this clear these “Rankings'' are not a Mock Draft, it is who VSN’s Scouting Department believes are the best picks at each spot without any connections to the teams making the selection nor Positional Value (Pure Rankings). These rankings are based and referring to play progress before the playoffs*
 
The VSN Scouting Department with the amazing crew of scouting experience run @Patrik Tallinder The Director of Scouting and Assistant Director @Spence King have spent countless hours watching every VHLM game travelling across North America and not to mention the passing WJC and now playoffs. A major factor the scouts highly value in a player is consistency (being active weekly/levels of participation) extensively tracking weekly opportunities claimed even as far as the differences between total capped and uncapped TPE earned. VSN scouting Staff are always keeping a VERY close eye on each player’s activity trends and participation in the community.
 
 
Let’s get ready to rumble!
 here are VSN’s S73 Draft Mid Season Player Rankings:
 
#1 - Marshall James Frostbeard- 300 TPE
Trending down, Low risk, High potential 
If anyone is shocked to see the MJF trending “down” is the sole reason that @frostbeard is a VHL GM himself and has his player’s rights protected in the draft and he is the clear cut #1 Overall prospect in this draft.
 
#2 - Tyler Walker - 281 TPE- No trend, Low risk, High potential 
Tyler is the ultimate coaches player, he does everything you ask of him and is always in the right place at the right time, no player other than MJF has shown more consistent growth/Activity and development in their game other than Tyler. Whichever team drafts this young man will be getting a future franchise defenceman that will play MANY games in the VHL and very soon. 
 
#3 - Jacob Tonn-  276 TPE 
No trend, Low risk, High potential 
Jacob Tonn has proven to be a steal for the ages, with the hounds able to draft some great players and snag Tonn in the later rounds is truly unbelievable that any GM let this young man go past the 1st round let alone outside the Top 5. Tonn is having a fantastic season in his draft year proving to have the potential to be a future starter and potentially star goaltender in the VHL
 
#4 - Micah Adrienne - 276 TPE
No trend, Low risk, High potential 
Micah is by far one of the best defenders his age in a long time. Micah is easily one of the leagues top 5 Defensive defencemen with way above average defensive IQ, amazing body checker with terrifying hits combined with his smooth skating and puck handling make him a real contender for the #1 overall pick come draft day. Biggest Flaw is his terrible discipline.
 
#5 - Jeffrey Pines- 240TPE
Trending UP, Low  risk, High potential
 Jeffrey was on a tear after the WJC and really proving the league his playmaking abilities are just as strong and he might actually be a stronger playmaker as well as really fine-tuning his work in the defensive end and proving to be one of the most hated players to play against in the league. Jeffrey has a very bright future in the VHL his potential is sky high and he can fit any role his team needs for him. 
 
 
#6 - Grekkark Gyrfalcon - 228 TPE
Trending UP, Low risk, High potential
Grekkark Gyrfalcon is what some scouts are calling “The safest pick”. This due to the fact that Grekkark is affiliated with the EFL and is guaranteed to cap out with 12 TPE with his EFL Job alone.
 
#7 - Jean Pierre Camus - 217 TPE:
Trending UP, Low risk, High potential 
J=ean Pierre Camus is our third goalie in the top ten and he's there for a reason. JPC may not have the wins like the other goalies but the skill is there and it’s evident. Truly an exciting player to watch. Camus with a record of 18-42-4 is still currently the league leader with the highest Save % of any starting goaltender. His lightning-quick hand speed combined with incredible style and  rebound control and jaw-dropping reaction time
 
#8 - @ShawnGlade III- 213 TPE
Trending down, Moderate risk, High potential 
Shawn is right there with Tyler and Micah in terms of potential. The relative of the legendary Shawn Glade gives us some insight into the hockey blood in this player and his dedication and consistency. Shawns defensive IQ always has him in the right position at the right time. Glade III has an amazing first pass out of the zone to go along with his ability to rush the puck with his strong puck handling and skating abilities.
 
 #9 - Groovy Dood- 206 TPE
Trending UP, Low risk, High potential
Groovy Dude AKA @bigAL The AGM of the new VHLM expansion Franchise the Miami Marauders. Groovy has proven to be extremely active and one of the most consistent draft-eligible players continually increasing his draft stock. Mr Dude is arguably the top playmaker in the draft. His defensive abilities are also what really separates him apart from the other players in this class is his obvious effort and dedication consistently week in and day out and will always give you 110% effort.
 
 
#10 - Kosmo Kramerev- 204 TPE
Trending UP, Low risk, High potential 
Kosmo is in the top 10 of the league scoring not only as a rookie but also as a defenceman. Kramerev so far in 64 games is 1 point shy, sitting at 99PTS and going to hit the 100 PTS plateau as a rookie. The difference between Kramerev and the “Big Three” Walker, Adrienne and Glade is that Kosmo is a much more offensive-oriented defensive player while saying that he does not lack in defensive abilities and has amazing defensive skills.
 
#11 - John Merrick- 179 TPE
N/A, Low   risk, High potential 
John Merrick looks to be a very promising and potential first-line centre in the VHL. Merrick, the User @Steve recently retired unexpectedly Guy LeGrande early and was not expected to recreate LeGrnade had 1177 TPE already and still had 2 seasons to go. That says a lot right there about Merricks potential. Merrick is already proving to be a great 2-way centre, He has the size and strength to go along with his great puck handling and skating abilities.
 
 #12 - Wolf Stansson - 190 TPE
Trending UP, Low risk, High potential 
Wolf Stansson was a hot name on Trade Deadline day, and with that being no surprise. Wolf has proven to be the next name on this list of extremely talented 2-way defenders. Wolf plays with an edge to his game and can really bang bodies on the ice and I mean that literally by an “edge” Wolf has learned to master body checking and cutting off the rush with huge hip checks always making clean hits and is never afraid to sacrifice his body. 
 
#13 - Dan Baillie Jr – 194 TPE
Trending UP, Low risk, High potential
Dan Baille Jr “The Junior Rocket” has been trending up and up all season and the ski is truly the limit for this man. His skating is out of this world and without a doubt the most accurate and quickest shot in the draft, Baille Jr goal and assist totals in SSK do not reflect his skill or potential. Baille is going to have a very great and long career in the VHL.
 
#14 -Andre Lebastard- 189 TPE
Trending UP, Moderate risk, High potential 
Probably the best Faceoff man in the draft if not the VHLm.Amazing 200-foot player, Fantastic passing IQ and accuracy, Logs Massive minutes and can shut down and play with the league's top lines, needs to work on his strength 
 
#15 - Patrik Laine - 174 TPE
Trending UP, Moderate risk, High potential 
The hottest thing in Houston right now, Laine is one of if not the most active prospects in the pool and is continually opening more and earning a lot of attention and this spot in the rankings. Laine is the most well-rounded prospect ranked to go in the first round with equally strong skating, puck handling, scoring and defensive IQ but still has a long way to go before being  VHL ready anytime soon.
 
 #16 - Mikeal Keef  - 195 TPE
Trending UP, Low risk, High potential
Mikeal will more than likely be playing in the pros next year, whichever organisation is lucky enough to snag this franchise defenceman will be smiling ear to ear when they call his name to the draft stage. The 6’4 205 lb smooth-skating defenceman excels the most in his own end with his jaw-dropping hits. 
 
#17 - Cal Conway - 179 TPE
Trending UP, Moderate risk,  High  potential
With his eye lightning, fast hand speed and reaction time Cal has shown many flashes of stardom. Just look at his numbers and its easy enough with an outstanding .913% Save percentage and almost under 2 Goals against a game at 2.07 GAA.
 
#18 -The Terrible Trivium- 189 TPE
Trending UP, Low risk, Moderate potential
Trivium is built like a truck and if he can turn that weight into muscle he could very well be one of the VHL’s power forward winger for many years to come. His fantastic positioning when backchecking, a total 200-foot player. His Shot is his best asset registering 297 shots on net in 72 games played. 
 
#19 - Oh Sens - 162 TPE
Trending UP, Moderate risk, High potential 
The Japanese sensation and fan favourite in Miami Oh Sens has a well-rounded skill set with his puck handling and powerful shot make him such an exciting winger. Very strong player physically, look for next season to be a breakout for this young man 
 
#20 - Ajay Krishna - 152 TPE
No trend, Low risk, High potential
Ajay was once considered the clear cut safest goalie available after the big 3 all set to be taken in the 1st round. Krishna skill is definitely there and with his reaction time paired with his size, his potential in the crease is sky-high. Ajay had a very strong start to the season with high activity and looked to be a lock for the 1st round however the second half of the season Krishna’s progression noticeably declined. Krishna still has time to prove himself as a 1st rounder if he can return to his early-season progression.
 
#21 - Dakota Lamb - 173 TPE
Trending UP, Moderate risk, High potential
The most skilled Faceoff man in the draft Dakota Lamb has amazing offensive capabilities with his combined skill set of skating puck handling and offensive IQ. Being the most skilled at  FO points doesn't always win you the most Faceoffs, Dakota has to put on some serious strength to turn those skills into an invaluable asset.
 
22- Calvin Harvey - 156 TPE 
Trending down, Moderate risk, Moderate potential 
Calvin Harvey has had a rough go this season in San Diego much like the rest of his marlin teammates, he was peppered with shots and really had no chance to ever develop confidence on the ice. He has very good reaction time and a nice Style control. 
 
#23 - Matty Socks - 161 TPE
Trending UP, Low/ Moderate risk, Moderate potential 
Matty Socks has been playing phenomenal for the Aces all season. Extremely consistent and without a doubt one of the most skilled defensive defencemen in the draft class as well as the entire league. Along with strong offensive IQ and powerful skating. With some filling out in strength and conditioning as well as passing accuracy socks could be another diamond in the rough
 
#24-Kevin King - 145 TPE
N/A, Moderate risk, High potential 
The player with the most intrigue other than John Merrick. Kevin King has only had a short time to prove himself and even with minimal ice time. However, his skills do all the talking. Scoring and defensive IQ are way above most in the class and especially at this position. King has the best faceoffs skills by far in the draft class. With building strength and continuing to progress at this level don't be surprised if Kevin King is a 1st round pick on draft day.
 
#25 - Han Jae Kuk - 132 TPE
No trend, Low risk,  Moderate  potential 
Han was at one point the hottest name on the trade block with his great early start to the season, but just like the marlins did this season, Han Jae looks to have drowned. He is borderline inactive and potentially falling out of the top 40 if that were the case. Jae Kuk’s has incredible defensive abilities and above-average skating, he has the skill and potential the issue is an effort right now.
 
 
#26 - Alec Volchenkov - 156 TPE
Trending UP, Moderate risk, High potential 
Alec Volchenkov is definitely our most interesting and unique player in this draft class and by unique, i am referring to his playing style. Volchenkov is the definition of a Shut down player. His scoring abilities have much work to be done, however, his Faceoffs and defensive play in his own end are above most forward in the VHLM. Volchenkov has the potential to be a lifelong role player in the pros and I could even see him being a team's 1st line Center one day.
 
 #27 - Jesper Norberg - 142 TPE
N/A, Moderate risk risk, High  potential 
Jesper Norberg has come into Vegas hitting the ground running harder than every pair of dice in town combined. This Swedish winger comes over with a diverse skill set highlighted by his IQ in the offensive zone. His passing, puck handling and skating are showing improvements daily along with an impressive build, very strong on his skates.
 
 #28 - Florent Vericel  - 126 TPE
Trending down, High risk, High potential 
The Quick sharpshooting Canadian forward signed early in the season with the newly expanded VHLM franchise in Miami. Florent proved very quickly that he is a consistent and very strong shooter. His shot combined with his speed is by far his best attribute at his ability to find the shooting lanes. Strength along with Puck handling is in need of improvement.
 #29 - Fat Palloon - 122 TPE
Trending UP, Moderate risk, High/ Moderate potential 
Mr Palloon has been on the scouts’ radars from the minute he stepped on the ice with his incredible defensive positioning and willingness to put his body on the line to block shots and passing lanes. Palloon’s season has been somewhat of a roller coaster in terms of production. As of late F.Paloon has made huge strides in his passing accuracy and skating. If he can maintain this progression as of the last two weeks this could be a steal in the draft. Still has a lot of practice to be done over the offseason.
 
#30- Jeremy Lin - 136 TPE
No trend, Moderate risk, Moderate potential 
The once highly touted prospect Lin has fallen and continues to do so, his activity and progression have hit a hard standstill. With his quick and accurate shot combined with his ability to rush the puck up the ice on his own proves lin has the skill. The question mark is consistency.
 
 #31 - Kirishima Wakaro - 134 TPE
No trend, High risk, Moderate/Low potential 
Kirishima went ghost a couple of weeks this season where is progression really hit a standstill. Wakaro is still quite the question mark for scouts with his activity being monitored very closely. Kirishima has shown moments of stardom from the beginning of the season with his defensive and offensive abilities and positioning along with his skating.  
 
 #32 - Rick Osman - 108 TPE
Trending UP, Moderate risk, High potential
Rick Osman the giant on skates and one of the tallest players in VHLM history Rick a massive 53 banked TPE. His activity has been consistent, never capping out but consistent every week and if Rick can use this offseason to diversify his skill set. Right now his defensive IQ is great but he is really lacking a lot of fundamentals at this level, and must really work on those if he's to ever play in the pros.
 
#33 - Gary Rush- 115 TPE:
Trending UP, Moderate risk, Moderate potential 
Good 2-way forward with equally strong offensive and defensive IQ. Showing consistent growth in Skating and puck handling. Needs improvement in the weight room and work on checking 
 
#34- Rocket - 130 TPE
Trending UP, Moderate risk, Moderate potential 
Rocket is a really solid welfare prospect who takes advantage of uncapped opportunities as well. He usually earns 6-8 capped TPE, and whatever uncapped TPE he can get his hands on as well. There’s a good amount of potential in him as a scoring winger, and hopefully, his steady progression keeps up.
 
#35 - Bobbie Cheechoo - 97 TPE
Trending down, High risk, Moderate potential 
A prospect battling with inactivity at the moment, Bobbie Cheechoo is a pure goal scorer with an exceptional combination of skating and a heavy shot. If he can return to form, there’s definitely some potential here.
 
#36 - S Kuchar- 113 TPE
N/A, Moderate risk, Moderate potential
Late season signing with the Lynx after they shipped out their top two forwards Kuchar picked up the slack with ease, averaging almost 4 shots on net per game and registering a point per game. Kuchar is proving he can score in this league 
 
#37 - Empty - 110 TPE
Trending down, High risk, High potential 
Started off very hot in Halifax scoring over 50% of their goals in his first 10 games played. Incredible offensive abilities and very good defensive IQ, his progression however after the WJC has come to a standstill and Empty has become a real question mark going into the draft.
 
 
#38 -Keno Wolf- 99 TPE
Trending down, High risk, Moderate potential 
After showing a promising first three weeks, Keno Wolf has only earned 2 TPE over the last 2 weeks, which is quite worrying. If he comes back, it would be good for him to work on his puck handling, which seems to be a weakness as of today. Being able to claim 6 TPE welfare, Wolf shouldn’t have too hard of a time getting back to where he was just a couple weeks ago; It’s just about finding the time and motivation to stay consistent.
 
#39 - Peekay Soupcan - 88 TPE
Trending down,  High risk, Low potential 
Peekay has recently gone inactive, a promising youngster started off very strong with consistent activity and production, his scoring and skating are his greatest attributes, if Peekay remains on this trend he will be as quiet as his recent activity.
 
#40 - Victor Grachev- 129 TPE 
Trending UP, Moderate risk, High potential
Very Intriguing prospect Victor is a 1st-time VHL User as well as this being his first experience with any Sim League and he hit the ground running! Grachev has used literally every opportunity to earn the most  TPE possible since joining and the effort he has put in so far is incredible, consistency will be the big factor with him. Phenomenal Defensive D-man, very good 1st pass and puck handling knows his role and plays it well. Still needs to fill out his frame and fine touching his overall skill set.
Dont be surprised if he goes in the 1st round - "Spence King"
 
#41 - Ben Mills- 73 TPE
Trending down,  High risk, Low potential 
Pint-sized Ben Mills started off the season strong playing much more minutes in Mississauga. As the season has progressed it seems as if Mills is going to be a Welfare/Practice player only and if that at best with his inconsistency has him trending down. Good defensive skill and potential, fairly well-rounded skill set, his development seems to have just hit a dead end.
 
#42 - Jiggly Gumballs - 122 TPE
N/A, Moderate risk, High potential 
In only 16 games played and being in VHLM for 2 weeks, Jiggly Gumballs has shown signs of greatness and potential stardom. His defensive abilities and positioning in his own end are impeccable and might be the best shot-blocker I’ve ever seen. Very well rounded skill set and sure to skyrocket up the list if this activity trend continues.
 
 
#43 - Wane Jetski - 87 TPE
N/A, Moderate risk, Moderate potential 
Scouts have only had a short time to view Jetski since recently joining the league. His scoring touch and skating abilities are what stand out the most. Still needs work in the defensive end along with his hand-eye puck skills.
 
 
#44 - Theodore James St Louis  - 90 TPE
Trending UP, Moderate risk, High potential 
In his very short time so far in the VHLM Theodore James St Louis has made a great impression on VHL scouts his very well rounded game and truly game-changing ability when he’s on the ice for his team. Much about TJS is still unknown as to what role he will take on, St Louis has a very diverse skill set and could potentially be the steal of the draft if his activity spikes.
 
 
#45 - Teriyaki Chicken  -  TPE 78
Trending down, Moderate risk, Moderate potential 
Teriyaki is definitely one of the smaller D in the league but he is built like a truck. His biggest assets are his Checking and defensive skills, a very good stay at home defence. Needs to really work on his passing and puck handling
 
#46 -Drew Minott - 120 TPE
Trending UP ,  Moderate risk,High/ Moderate potential 
The sky's the limit for this big lanky Goaltender with a very well rounded skill set, the sample size is small so far, Minott continues to show impress scouts more every game. 
 
#47-Joromir Jogr - 107 TPE
Trending down, Moderate risk,  Moderate potential 
Jogr has gone dark for a while, a very fluid skater and knows how to use his body to create scoring chances, very high hockey IQ and shows flashes of greatness. Really need to work on his passing accuracy
 
#48 -Tim Kameshev - 64 TPE
Trending down, High risk, Low potential
Kameshev is almost strictly a practice player as of recently however has shown moments of great potential, his skating is what separates him from his peers. Needs a lot of improvement and a big increase in fine-tuning his entire skillset.
 
 
 
 
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Good day VHL Community and Top of the morning to you, especially to the focus of this article - S73 VHL Draft Class. With S72 having surpassed the 50 games played mark and less than 20 games left it's CRUNCH time. Since we’ve last checked in “VSN’s Top 24 Early Standouts” there has for sure been what some may call chaos, I view it as excitement and more unpredictability. This Draft has some very exciting prospects headlined by MJF @frosty the without question top player of the S73 Draft class Marshall James FrostBeard along with superstar defenceman Tyler Walker and a handful of great goalies in Tonn, Gyrfalcon and Camus all slotted to go 1st round. Along with the unforgettable John Merrick showing flashes of Hall of Fame play as well as a blood relative to the legendary Glade family as VHL players and GM, the youngest highly touted defenceman Shawn Glade III.  
With the recent news of the VHL’s 4-Team Expansion announced for this offseason creates even more variables and “chaos” for Current VHL GM’s; Let the fun begin. From first glance, it’s easy to see this is not the deepest draft class and a major drop nearing round 3.  It's important that I clarify and we are making this clear these “Rankings'' are not a Mock Draft, it is who VSN’s Scouting Department believes are the best picks at each spot without any connections to the teams making the selection nor Positional Value (Pure Rankings). These rankings are based and referring to play progress before the playoffs*
 
The VSN Scouting Department with the amazing crew of scouting experience run @Patrik Tallinder The Director of Scouting and Assistant Director @Spence King have spent countless hours watching every VHLM game travelling across North America and not to mention the passing WJC and now playoffs. A major factor the scouts highly value in a player is consistency (being active weekly/levels of participation) extensively tracking weekly opportunities claimed even as far as the differences between total capped and uncapped TPE earned. VSN scouting Staff are always keeping a VERY close eye on each player’s activity trends and participation in the community.
 
 
Let’s get ready to rumble!
 here are VSN’s S73 Draft Mid Season Player Rankings:
 
#1 - Marshall James Frostbeard- 300 TPE
Trending down, Low risk, High potential 
If anyone is shocked to see the MJF trending “down” is the sole reason that @frostbeard is a VHL GM himself and has his player’s rights protected in the draft and he is the clear cut #1 Overall prospect in this draft.
 
#2 - Tyler Walker - 281 TPE- No trend, Low risk, High potential 
Tyler is the ultimate coaches player, he does everything you ask of him and is always in the right place at the right time, no player other than MJF has shown more consistent growth/Activity and development in their game other than Tyler. Whichever team drafts this young man will be getting a future franchise defenceman that will play MANY games in the VHL and very soon. 
 
#3 - Jacob Tonn-  276 TPE 
No trend, Low risk, High potential 
Jacob Tonn has proven to be a steal for the ages, with the hounds able to draft some great players and snag Tonn in the later rounds is truly unbelievable that any GM let this young man go past the 1st round let alone outside the Top 5. Tonn is having a fantastic season in his draft year proving to have the potential to be a future starter and potentially star goaltender in the VHL
 
#4 - Micah Adrienne - 276 TPE
No trend, Low risk, High potential 
Micah is by far one of the best defenders his age in a long time. Micah is easily one of the leagues top 5 Defensive defencemen with way above average defensive IQ, amazing body checker with terrifying hits combined with his smooth skating and puck handling make him a real contender for the #1 overall pick come draft day. Biggest Flaw is his terrible discipline.
 
#5 - Jeffrey Pines- 240TPE
Trending UP, Low  risk, High potential
 Jeffrey was on a tear after the WJC and really proving the league his playmaking abilities are just as strong and he might actually be a stronger playmaker as well as really fine-tuning his work in the defensive end and proving to be one of the most hated players to play against in the league. Jeffrey has a very bright future in the VHL his potential is sky high and he can fit any role his team needs for him. 
 
 
#6 - Grekkark Gyrfalcon - 228 TPE
Trending UP, Low risk, High potential
Grekkark Gyrfalcon is what some scouts are calling “The safest pick”. This due to the fact that Grekkark is affiliated with the EFL and is guaranteed to cap out with 12 TPE with his EFL Job alone.
 
#7 - Jean Pierre Camus - 217 TPE:
Trending UP, Low risk, High potential 
J=ean Pierre Camus is our third goalie in the top ten and he's there for a reason. JPC may not have the wins like the other goalies but the skill is there and it’s evident. Truly an exciting player to watch. Camus with a record of 18-42-4 is still currently the league leader with the highest Save % of any starting goaltender. His lightning-quick hand speed combined with incredible style and  rebound control and jaw-dropping reaction time
 
#8 - @ShawnGlade III- 213 TPE
Trending down, Moderate risk, High potential 
Shawn is right there with Tyler and Micah in terms of potential. The relative of the legendary Shawn Glade gives us some insight into the hockey blood in this player and his dedication and consistency. Shawns defensive IQ always has him in the right position at the right time. Glade III has an amazing first pass out of the zone to go along with his ability to rush the puck with his strong puck handling and skating abilities.
 
 #9 - Groovy Dood- 206 TPE
Trending UP, Low risk, High potential
Groovy Dude AKA @bigAL The AGM of the new VHLM expansion Franchise the Miami Marauders. Groovy has proven to be extremely active and one of the most consistent draft-eligible players continually increasing his draft stock. Mr Dude is arguably the top playmaker in the draft. His defensive abilities are also what really separates him apart from the other players in this class is his obvious effort and dedication consistently week in and day out and will always give you 110% effort.
 
 
#10 - Kosmo Kramerev- 204 TPE
Trending UP, Low risk, High potential 
Kosmo is in the top 10 of the league scoring not only as a rookie but also as a defenceman. Kramerev so far in 64 games is 1 point shy, sitting at 99PTS and going to hit the 100 PTS plateau as a rookie. The difference between Kramerev and the “Big Three” Walker, Adrienne and Glade is that Kosmo is a much more offensive-oriented defensive player while saying that he does not lack in defensive abilities and has amazing defensive skills.
 
#11 - John Merrick- 179 TPE
N/A, Low   risk, High potential 
John Merrick looks to be a very promising and potential first-line centre in the VHL. Merrick, the User @Steve recently retired unexpectedly Guy LeGrande early and was not expected to recreate LeGrnade had 1177 TPE already and still had 2 seasons to go. That says a lot right there about Merricks potential. Merrick is already proving to be a great 2-way centre, He has the size and strength to go along with his great puck handling and skating abilities.
 
 #12 - Wolf Stansson - 190 TPE
Trending UP, Low risk, High potential 
Wolf Stansson was a hot name on Trade Deadline day, and with that being no surprise. Wolf has proven to be the next name on this list of extremely talented 2-way defenders. Wolf plays with an edge to his game and can really bang bodies on the ice and I mean that literally by an “edge” Wolf has learned to master body checking and cutting off the rush with huge hip checks always making clean hits and is never afraid to sacrifice his body. 
 
#13 - Dan Baillie Jr – 194 TPE
Trending UP, Low risk, High potential
Dan Baille Jr “The Junior Rocket” has been trending up and up all season and the ski is truly the limit for this man. His skating is out of this world and without a doubt the most accurate and quickest shot in the draft, Baille Jr goal and assist totals in SSK do not reflect his skill or potential. Baille is going to have a very great and long career in the VHL.
 
#14 -Andre Lebastard- 189 TPE
Trending UP, Moderate risk, High potential 
Probably the best Faceoff man in the draft if not the VHLm.Amazing 200-foot player, Fantastic passing IQ and accuracy, Logs Massive minutes and can shut down and play with the league's top lines, needs to work on his strength 
 
#15 - Patrik Laine - 174 TPE
Trending UP, Moderate risk, High potential 
The hottest thing in Houston right now, Laine is one of if not the most active prospects in the pool and is continually opening more and earning a lot of attention and this spot in the rankings. Laine is the most well-rounded prospect ranked to go in the first round with equally strong skating, puck handling, scoring and defensive IQ but still has a long way to go before being  VHL ready anytime soon.
 
 #16 - Mikeal Keef  - 195 TPE
Trending UP, Low risk, High potential
Mikeal will more than likely be playing in the pros next year, whichever organisation is lucky enough to snag this franchise defenceman will be smiling ear to ear when they call his name to the draft stage. The 6’4 205 lb smooth-skating defenceman excels the most in his own end with his jaw-dropping hits. 
 
#17 - Cal Conway - 179 TPE
Trending UP, Moderate risk,  High  potential
With his eye lightning, fast hand speed and reaction time Cal has shown many flashes of stardom. Just look at his numbers and its easy enough with an outstanding .913% Save percentage and almost under 2 Goals against a game at 2.07 GAA.
 
#18 -The Terrible Trivium- 189 TPE
Trending UP, Low risk, Moderate potential
Trivium is built like a truck and if he can turn that weight into muscle he could very well be one of the VHL’s power forward winger for many years to come. His fantastic positioning when backchecking, a total 200-foot player. His Shot is his best asset registering 297 shots on net in 72 games played. 
 
#19 - Oh Sens - 162 TPE
Trending UP, Moderate risk, High potential 
The Japanese sensation and fan favourite in Miami Oh Sens has a well-rounded skill set with his puck handling and powerful shot make him such an exciting winger. Very strong player physically, look for next season to be a breakout for this young man 
 
#20 - Ajay Krishna - 152 TPE
No trend, Low risk, High potential
Ajay was once considered the clear cut safest goalie available after the big 3 all set to be taken in the 1st round. Krishna skill is definitely there and with his reaction time paired with his size, his potential in the crease is sky-high. Ajay had a very strong start to the season with high activity and looked to be a lock for the 1st round however the second half of the season Krishna’s progression noticeably declined. Krishna still has time to prove himself as a 1st rounder if he can return to his early-season progression.
 
#21 - Dakota Lamb - 173 TPE
Trending UP, Moderate risk, High potential
The most skilled Faceoff man in the draft Dakota Lamb has amazing offensive capabilities with his combined skill set of skating puck handling and offensive IQ. Being the most skilled at  FO points doesn't always win you the most Faceoffs, Dakota has to put on some serious strength to turn those skills into an invaluable asset.
 
22- Calvin Harvey - 156 TPE 
Trending down, Moderate risk, Moderate potential 
Calvin Harvey has had a rough go this season in San Diego much like the rest of his marlin teammates, he was peppered with shots and really had no chance to ever develop confidence on the ice. He has very good reaction time and a nice Style control. 
 
#23 - Matty Socks - 161 TPE
Trending UP, Low/ Moderate risk, Moderate potential 
Matty Socks has been playing phenomenal for the Aces all season. Extremely consistent and without a doubt one of the most skilled defensive defencemen in the draft class as well as the entire league. Along with strong offensive IQ and powerful skating. With some filling out in strength and conditioning as well as passing accuracy socks could be another diamond in the rough
 
#24-Kevin King - 145 TPE
N/A, Moderate risk, High potential 
The player with the most intrigue other than John Merrick. Kevin King has only had a short time to prove himself and even with minimal ice time. However, his skills do all the talking. Scoring and defensive IQ are way above most in the class and especially at this position. King has the best faceoffs skills by far in the draft class. With building strength and continuing to progress at this level don't be surprised if Kevin King is a 1st round pick on draft day.
 
#25 - Han Jae Kuk - 132 TPE
No trend, Low risk,  Moderate  potential 
Han was at one point the hottest name on the trade block with his great early start to the season, but just like the marlins did this season, Han Jae looks to have drowned. He is borderline inactive and potentially falling out of the top 40 if that were the case. Jae Kuk’s has incredible defensive abilities and above-average skating, he has the skill and potential the issue is an effort right now.
 
 
#26 - Alec Volchenkov - 156 TPE
Trending UP, Moderate risk, High potential 
Alec Volchenkov is definitely our most interesting and unique player in this draft class and by unique, i am referring to his playing style. Volchenkov is the definition of a Shut down player. His scoring abilities have much work to be done, however, his Faceoffs and defensive play in his own end are above most forward in the VHLM. Volchenkov has the potential to be a lifelong role player in the pros and I could even see him being a team's 1st line Center one day.
 
 #27 - Jesper Norberg - 142 TPE
N/A, Moderate risk risk, High  potential 
Jesper Norberg has come into Vegas hitting the ground running harder than every pair of dice in town combined. This Swedish winger comes over with a diverse skill set highlighted by his IQ in the offensive zone. His passing, puck handling and skating are showing improvements daily along with an impressive build, very strong on his skates.
 
 #28 - Florent Vericel  - 126 TPE
Trending down, High risk, High potential 
The Quick sharpshooting Canadian forward signed early in the season with the newly expanded VHLM franchise in Miami. Florent proved very quickly that he is a consistent and very strong shooter. His shot combined with his speed is by far his best attribute at his ability to find the shooting lanes. Strength along with Puck handling is in need of improvement.
 #29 - Fat Palloon - 122 TPE
Trending UP, Moderate risk, High/ Moderate potential 
Mr Palloon has been on the scouts’ radars from the minute he stepped on the ice with his incredible defensive positioning and willingness to put his body on the line to block shots and passing lanes. Palloon’s season has been somewhat of a roller coaster in terms of production. As of late F.Paloon has made huge strides in his passing accuracy and skating. If he can maintain this progression as of the last two weeks this could be a steal in the draft. Still has a lot of practice to be done over the offseason.
 
#30- Jeremy Lin - 136 TPE
No trend, Moderate risk, Moderate potential 
The once highly touted prospect Lin has fallen and continues to do so, his activity and progression have hit a hard standstill. With his quick and accurate shot combined with his ability to rush the puck up the ice on his own proves lin has the skill. The question mark is consistency.
 
 #31 - Kirishima Wakaro - 134 TPE
No trend, High risk, Moderate/Low potential 
Kirishima went ghost a couple of weeks this season where is progression really hit a standstill. Wakaro is still quite the question mark for scouts with his activity being monitored very closely. Kirishima has shown moments of stardom from the beginning of the season with his defensive and offensive abilities and positioning along with his skating.  
 
 #32 - Rick Osman - 108 TPE
Trending UP, Moderate risk, High potential
Rick Osman the giant on skates and one of the tallest players in VHLM history Rick a massive 53 banked TPE. His activity has been consistent, never capping out but consistent every week and if Rick can use this offseason to diversify his skill set. Right now his defensive IQ is great but he is really lacking a lot of fundamentals at this level, and must really work on those if he's to ever play in the pros.
 
#33 - Gary Rush- 115 TPE:
Trending UP, Moderate risk, Moderate potential 
Good 2-way forward with equally strong offensive and defensive IQ. Showing consistent growth in Skating and puck handling. Needs improvement in the weight room and work on checking 
 
#34- Rocket - 130 TPE
Trending UP, Moderate risk, Moderate potential 
Rocket is a really solid welfare prospect who takes advantage of uncapped opportunities as well. He usually earns 6-8 capped TPE, and whatever uncapped TPE he can get his hands on as well. There’s a good amount of potential in him as a scoring winger, and hopefully, his steady progression keeps up.
 
#35 - Bobbie Cheechoo - 97 TPE
Trending down, High risk, Moderate potential 
A prospect battling with inactivity at the moment, Bobbie Cheechoo is a pure goal scorer with an exceptional combination of skating and a heavy shot. If he can return to form, there’s definitely some potential here.
 
#36 - S Kuchar- 113 TPE
N/A, Moderate risk, Moderate potential
Late season signing with the Lynx after they shipped out their top two forwards Kuchar picked up the slack with ease, averaging almost 4 shots on net per game and registering a point per game. Kuchar is proving he can score in this league 
 
#37 - Empty - 110 TPE
Trending down, High risk, High potential 
Started off very hot in Halifax scoring over 50% of their goals in his first 10 games played. Incredible offensive abilities and very good defensive IQ, his progression however after the WJC has come to a standstill and Empty has become a real question mark going into the draft.
 
 
#38 -Keno Wolf- 99 TPE
Trending down, High risk, Moderate potential 
After showing a promising first three weeks, Keno Wolf has only earned 2 TPE over the last 2 weeks, which is quite worrying. If he comes back, it would be good for him to work on his puck handling, which seems to be a weakness as of today. Being able to claim 6 TPE welfare, Wolf shouldn’t have too hard of a time getting back to where he was just a couple weeks ago; It’s just about finding the time and motivation to stay consistent.
 
#39 - Peekay Soupcan - 88 TPE
Trending down,  High risk, Low potential 
Peekay has recently gone inactive, a promising youngster started off very strong with consistent activity and production, his scoring and skating are his greatest attributes, if Peekay remains on this trend he will be as quiet as his recent activity.
 
#40 - Victor Grachev- 129 TPE 
Trending UP, Moderate risk, High potential
Very Intriguing prospect Victor is a 1st-time VHL User as well as this being his first experience with any Sim League and he hit the ground running! Grachev has used literally every opportunity to earn the most  TPE possible since joining and the effort he has put in so far is incredible, consistency will be the big factor with him. Phenomenal Defensive D-man, very good 1st pass and puck handling knows his role and plays it well. Still needs to fill out his frame and fine touching his overall skill set.
Dont be surprised if he goes in the 1st round - "Spence King"
 
#41 - Ben Mills- 73 TPE
Trending down,  High risk, Low potential 
Pint-sized Ben Mills started off the season strong playing much more minutes in Mississauga. As the season has progressed it seems as if Mills is going to be a Welfare/Practice player only and if that at best with his inconsistency has him trending down. Good defensive skill and potential, fairly well-rounded skill set, his development seems to have just hit a dead end.
 
#42 - Jiggly Gumballs - 122 TPE
N/A, Moderate risk, High potential 
In only 16 games played and being in VHLM for 2 weeks, Jiggly Gumballs has shown signs of greatness and potential stardom. His defensive abilities and positioning in his own end are impeccable and might be the best shot-blocker I’ve ever seen. Very well rounded skill set and sure to skyrocket up the list if this activity trend continues.
 
 
#43 - Wane Jetski - 87 TPE
N/A, Moderate risk, Moderate potential 
Scouts have only had a short time to view Jetski since recently joining the league. His scoring touch and skating abilities are what stand out the most. Still needs work in the defensive end along with his hand-eye puck skills.
 
 
#44 - Theodore James St Louis  - 90 TPE
Trending UP, Moderate risk, High potential 
In his very short time so far in the VHLM Theodore James St Louis has made a great impression on VHL scouts his very well rounded game and truly game-changing ability when he’s on the ice for his team. Much about TJS is still unknown as to what role he will take on, St Louis has a very diverse skill set and could potentially be the steal of the draft if his activity spikes.
 
 
#45 - Teriyaki Chicken  -  TPE 78
Trending down, Moderate risk, Moderate potential 
Teriyaki is definitely one of the smaller D in the league but he is built like a truck. His biggest assets are his Checking and defensive skills, a very good stay at home defence. Needs to really work on his passing and puck handling
 
#46 -Drew Minott - 120 TPE
Trending UP ,  Moderate risk,High/ Moderate potential 
The sky's the limit for this big lanky Goaltender with a very well rounded skill set, the sample size is small so far, Minott continues to show impress scouts more every game. 
 
#47-Joromir Jogr - 107 TPE
Trending down, Moderate risk,  Moderate potential 
Jogr has gone dark for a while, a very fluid skater and knows how to use his body to create scoring chances, very high hockey IQ and shows flashes of greatness. Really need to work on his passing accuracy
 
#48 -Tim Kameshev - 64 TPE
Trending down, High risk, Low potential
Kameshev is almost strictly a practice player as of recently however has shown moments of great potential, his skating is what separates him from his peers. Needs a lot of improvement and a big increase in fine-tuning his entire skillset.
 
 
 
 
That's a wrap for our Mid Season VHL Draft Coverage if you enjoyed reading this don't forget to check VSN for regular updates!! We've got A LOT of content being put out almost daily! Don't forget to tune into some of our other amazing material such as - Weekly VHL and VHLM articles. A new feature “Deep Rewind” and learn more VHL history. Keep up with the news in the scouting department getting to know all about the VHL’s Future stars and in-depth look with each VHL Franchise’s prospects pool  @VSN
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Good day VHL Community and Top of the morning to you, especially to the focus of this article - S73 VHL Draft Class. With S72 having surpassed the 50 games played mark and less than 20 games left it's CRUNCH time. Since we’ve last checked in “VSN’s Top 24 Early Standouts” there has for sure been what some may call chaos, I view it as excitement and more unpredictability. This Draft has some very exciting prospects headlined by MJF @frosty the without question top player of the S73 Draft class Marshall James FrostBeard along with superstar defenceman Tyler Walker and a handful of great goalies in Tonn, Gyrfalcon and Camus all slotted to go 1st round. Along with the unforgettable John Merrick showing flashes of Hall of Fame play as well as a blood relative to the legendary Glade family as VHL players and GM, the youngest highly touted defenceman Shawn Glade III.  
With the recent news of the VHL’s 4-Team Expansion announced for this offseason creates even more variables and “chaos” for Current VHL GM’s; Let the fun begin. From first glance, it’s easy to see this is not the deepest draft class and a major drop nearing round 3.  It's important that I clarify and we are making this clear these “Rankings'' are not a Mock Draft, it is who VSN’s Scouting Department believes are the best picks at each spot without any connections to the teams making the selection nor Positional Value (Pure Rankings). These rankings are based and referring to play progress before the playoffs*
 
The VSN Scouting Department with the amazing crew of scouting experience run @Patrik Tallinder The Director of Scouting and Assistant Director @Spence King have spent countless hours watching every VHLM game travelling across North America and not to mention the passing WJC and now playoffs. A major factor the scouts highly value in a player is consistency (being active weekly/levels of participation) extensively tracking weekly opportunities claimed even as far as the differences between total capped and uncapped TPE earned. VSN scouting Staff are always keeping a VERY close eye on each player’s activity trends and participation in the community.
 
 
Let’s get ready to rumble!
 here are VSN’s S73 Draft Mid Season Player Rankings:
 
#1 - Marshall James Frostbeard- 300 TPE
Trending down, Low risk, High potential 
If anyone is shocked to see the MJF trending “down” is the sole reason that @frostbeard is a VHL GM himself and has his player’s rights protected in the draft and he is the clear cut #1 Overall prospect in this draft.
 
#2 - Tyler Walker - 281 TPE- No trend, Low risk, High potential 
Tyler is the ultimate coaches player, he does everything you ask of him and is always in the right place at the right time, no player other than MJF has shown more consistent growth/Activity and development in their game other than Tyler. Whichever team drafts this young man will be getting a future franchise defenceman that will play MANY games in the VHL and very soon. 
 
#3 - Jacob Tonn-  276 TPE 
No trend, Low risk, High potential 
Jacob Tonn has proven to be a steal for the ages, with the hounds able to draft some great players and snag Tonn in the later rounds is truly unbelievable that any GM let this young man go past the 1st round let alone outside the Top 5. Tonn is having a fantastic season in his draft year proving to have the potential to be a future starter and potentially star goaltender in the VHL
 
#4 - Micah Adrienne - 276 TPE
No trend, Low risk, High potential 
Micah is by far one of the best defenders his age in a long time. Micah is easily one of the leagues top 5 Defensive defencemen with way above average defensive IQ, amazing body checker with terrifying hits combined with his smooth skating and puck handling make him a real contender for the #1 overall pick come draft day. Biggest Flaw is his terrible discipline.
 
#5 - Jeffrey Pines- 240TPE
Trending UP, Low  risk, High potential
 Jeffrey was on a tear after the WJC and really proving the league his playmaking abilities are just as strong and he might actually be a stronger playmaker as well as really fine-tuning his work in the defensive end and proving to be one of the most hated players to play against in the league. Jeffrey has a very bright future in the VHL his potential is sky high and he can fit any role his team needs for him. 
 
 
#6 - Grekkark Gyrfalcon - 228 TPE
Trending UP, Low risk, High potential
Grekkark Gyrfalcon is what some scouts are calling “The safest pick”. This due to the fact that Grekkark is affiliated with the EFL and is guaranteed to cap out with 12 TPE with his EFL Job alone.
 
#7 - Jean Pierre Camus - 217 TPE:
Trending UP, Low risk, High potential 
J=ean Pierre Camus is our third goalie in the top ten and he's there for a reason. JPC may not have the wins like the other goalies but the skill is there and it’s evident. Truly an exciting player to watch. Camus with a record of 18-42-4 is still currently the league leader with the highest Save % of any starting goaltender. His lightning-quick hand speed combined with incredible style and  rebound control and jaw-dropping reaction time
 
#8 - @ShawnGlade III- 213 TPE
Trending down, Moderate risk, High potential 
Shawn is right there with Tyler and Micah in terms of potential. The relative of the legendary Shawn Glade gives us some insight into the hockey blood in this player and his dedication and consistency. Shawns defensive IQ always has him in the right position at the right time. Glade III has an amazing first pass out of the zone to go along with his ability to rush the puck with his strong puck handling and skating abilities.
 
 #9 - Groovy Dood- 206 TPE
Trending UP, Low risk, High potential
Groovy Dude AKA @bigAL The AGM of the new VHLM expansion Franchise the Miami Marauders. Groovy has proven to be extremely active and one of the most consistent draft-eligible players continually increasing his draft stock. Mr Dude is arguably the top playmaker in the draft. His defensive abilities are also what really separates him apart from the other players in this class is his obvious effort and dedication consistently week in and day out and will always give you 110% effort.
 
 
#10 - Kosmo Kramerev- 204 TPE
Trending UP, Low risk, High potential 
Kosmo is in the top 10 of the league scoring not only as a rookie but also as a defenceman. Kramerev so far in 64 games is 1 point shy, sitting at 99PTS and going to hit the 100 PTS plateau as a rookie. The difference between Kramerev and the “Big Three” Walker, Adrienne and Glade is that Kosmo is a much more offensive-oriented defensive player while saying that he does not lack in defensive abilities and has amazing defensive skills.
 
#11 - John Merrick- 179 TPE
N/A, Low   risk, High potential 
John Merrick looks to be a very promising and potential first-line centre in the VHL. Merrick, the User @Steve recently retired unexpectedly Guy LeGrande early and was not expected to recreate LeGrnade had 1177 TPE already and still had 2 seasons to go. That says a lot right there about Merricks potential. Merrick is already proving to be a great 2-way centre, He has the size and strength to go along with his great puck handling and skating abilities.
 
 #12 - Wolf Stansson - 190 TPE
Trending UP, Low risk, High potential 
Wolf Stansson was a hot name on Trade Deadline day, and with that being no surprise. Wolf has proven to be the next name on this list of extremely talented 2-way defenders. Wolf plays with an edge to his game and can really bang bodies on the ice and I mean that literally by an “edge” Wolf has learned to master body checking and cutting off the rush with huge hip checks always making clean hits and is never afraid to sacrifice his body. 
 
#13 - Dan Baillie Jr – 194 TPE
Trending UP, Low risk, High potential
Dan Baille Jr “The Junior Rocket” has been trending up and up all season and the ski is truly the limit for this man. His skating is out of this world and without a doubt the most accurate and quickest shot in the draft, Baille Jr goal and assist totals in SSK do not reflect his skill or potential. Baille is going to have a very great and long career in the VHL.
 
#14 -Andre Lebastard- 189 TPE
Trending UP, Moderate risk, High potential 
Probably the best Faceoff man in the draft if not the VHLm.Amazing 200-foot player, Fantastic passing IQ and accuracy, Logs Massive minutes and can shut down and play with the league's top lines, needs to work on his strength 
 
#15 - Patrik Laine - 174 TPE
Trending UP, Moderate risk, High potential 
The hottest thing in Houston right now, Laine is one of if not the most active prospects in the pool and is continually opening more and earning a lot of attention and this spot in the rankings. Laine is the most well-rounded prospect ranked to go in the first round with equally strong skating, puck handling, scoring and defensive IQ but still has a long way to go before being  VHL ready anytime soon.
 
 #16 - Mikeal Keef  - 195 TPE
Trending UP, Low risk, High potential
Mikeal will more than likely be playing in the pros next year, whichever organisation is lucky enough to snag this franchise defenceman will be smiling ear to ear when they call his name to the draft stage. The 6’4 205 lb smooth-skating defenceman excels the most in his own end with his jaw-dropping hits. 
 
#17 - Cal Conway - 179 TPE
Trending UP, Moderate risk,  High  potential
With his eye lightning, fast hand speed and reaction time Cal has shown many flashes of stardom. Just look at his numbers and its easy enough with an outstanding .913% Save percentage and almost under 2 Goals against a game at 2.07 GAA.
 
#18 -The Terrible Trivium- 189 TPE
Trending UP, Low risk, Moderate potential
Trivium is built like a truck and if he can turn that weight into muscle he could very well be one of the VHL’s power forward winger for many years to come. His fantastic positioning when backchecking, a total 200-foot player. His Shot is his best asset registering 297 shots on net in 72 games played. 
 
#19 - Oh Sens - 162 TPE
Trending UP, Moderate risk, High potential 
The Japanese sensation and fan favourite in Miami Oh Sens has a well-rounded skill set with his puck handling and powerful shot make him such an exciting winger. Very strong player physically, look for next season to be a breakout for this young man 
 
#20 - Ajay Krishna - 152 TPE
No trend, Low risk, High potential
Ajay was once considered the clear cut safest goalie available after the big 3 all set to be taken in the 1st round. Krishna skill is definitely there and with his reaction time paired with his size, his potential in the crease is sky-high. Ajay had a very strong start to the season with high activity and looked to be a lock for the 1st round however the second half of the season Krishna’s progression noticeably declined. Krishna still has time to prove himself as a 1st rounder if he can return to his early-season progression.
 
#21 - Dakota Lamb - 173 TPE
Trending UP, Moderate risk, High potential
The most skilled Faceoff man in the draft Dakota Lamb has amazing offensive capabilities with his combined skill set of skating puck handling and offensive IQ. Being the most skilled at  FO points doesn't always win you the most Faceoffs, Dakota has to put on some serious strength to turn those skills into an invaluable asset.
 
22- Calvin Harvey - 156 TPE 
Trending down, Moderate risk, Moderate potential 
Calvin Harvey has had a rough go this season in San Diego much like the rest of his marlin teammates, he was peppered with shots and really had no chance to ever develop confidence on the ice. He has very good reaction time and a nice Style control. 
 
#23 - Matty Socks - 161 TPE
Trending UP, Low/ Moderate risk, Moderate potential 
Matty Socks has been playing phenomenal for the Aces all season. Extremely consistent and without a doubt one of the most skilled defensive defencemen in the draft class as well as the entire league. Along with strong offensive IQ and powerful skating. With some filling out in strength and conditioning as well as passing accuracy socks could be another diamond in the rough
 
#24-Kevin King - 145 TPE
N/A, Moderate risk, High potential 
The player with the most intrigue other than John Merrick. Kevin King has only had a short time to prove himself and even with minimal ice time. However, his skills do all the talking. Scoring and defensive IQ are way above most in the class and especially at this position. King has the best faceoffs skills by far in the draft class. With building strength and continuing to progress at this level don't be surprised if Kevin King is a 1st round pick on draft day.
 
#25 - Han Jae Kuk - 132 TPE
No trend, Low risk,  Moderate  potential 
Han was at one point the hottest name on the trade block with his great early start to the season, but just like the marlins did this season, Han Jae looks to have drowned. He is borderline inactive and potentially falling out of the top 40 if that were the case. Jae Kuk’s has incredible defensive abilities and above-average skating, he has the skill and potential the issue is an effort right now.
 
 
#26 - Alec Volchenkov - 156 TPE
Trending UP, Moderate risk, High potential 
Alec Volchenkov is definitely our most interesting and unique player in this draft class and by unique, i am referring to his playing style. Volchenkov is the definition of a Shut down player. His scoring abilities have much work to be done, however, his Faceoffs and defensive play in his own end are above most forward in the VHLM. Volchenkov has the potential to be a lifelong role player in the pros and I could even see him being a team's 1st line Center one day.
 
 #27 - Jesper Norberg - 142 TPE
N/A, Moderate risk risk, High  potential 
Jesper Norberg has come into Vegas hitting the ground running harder than every pair of dice in town combined. This Swedish winger comes over with a diverse skill set highlighted by his IQ in the offensive zone. His passing, puck handling and skating are showing improvements daily along with an impressive build, very strong on his skates.
 
 #28 - Florent Vericel  - 126 TPE
Trending down, High risk, High potential 
The Quick sharpshooting Canadian forward signed early in the season with the newly expanded VHLM franchise in Miami. Florent proved very quickly that he is a consistent and very strong shooter. His shot combined with his speed is by far his best attribute at his ability to find the shooting lanes. Strength along with Puck handling is in need of improvement.
 #29 - Fat Palloon - 122 TPE
Trending UP, Moderate risk, High/ Moderate potential 
Mr Palloon has been on the scouts’ radars from the minute he stepped on the ice with his incredible defensive positioning and willingness to put his body on the line to block shots and passing lanes. Palloon’s season has been somewhat of a roller coaster in terms of production. As of late F.Paloon has made huge strides in his passing accuracy and skating. If he can maintain this progression as of the last two weeks this could be a steal in the draft. Still has a lot of practice to be done over the offseason.
 
#30- Jeremy Lin - 136 TPE
No trend, Moderate risk, Moderate potential 
The once highly touted prospect Lin has fallen and continues to do so, his activity and progression have hit a hard standstill. With his quick and accurate shot combined with his ability to rush the puck up the ice on his own proves lin has the skill. The question mark is consistency.
 
 #31 - Kirishima Wakaro - 134 TPE
No trend, High risk, Moderate/Low potential 
Kirishima went ghost a couple of weeks this season where is progression really hit a standstill. Wakaro is still quite the question mark for scouts with his activity being monitored very closely. Kirishima has shown moments of stardom from the beginning of the season with his defensive and offensive abilities and positioning along with his skating.  
 
 #32 - Rick Osman - 108 TPE
Trending UP, Moderate risk, High potential
Rick Osman the giant on skates and one of the tallest players in VHLM history Rick a massive 53 banked TPE. His activity has been consistent, never capping out but consistent every week and if Rick can use this offseason to diversify his skill set. Right now his defensive IQ is great but he is really lacking a lot of fundamentals at this level, and must really work on those if he's to ever play in the pros.
 
#33 - Gary Rush- 115 TPE:
Trending UP, Moderate risk, Moderate potential 
Good 2-way forward with equally strong offensive and defensive IQ. Showing consistent growth in Skating and puck handling. Needs improvement in the weight room and work on checking 
 
#34- Rocket - 130 TPE
Trending UP, Moderate risk, Moderate potential 
Rocket is a really solid welfare prospect who takes advantage of uncapped opportunities as well. He usually earns 6-8 capped TPE, and whatever uncapped TPE he can get his hands on as well. There’s a good amount of potential in him as a scoring winger, and hopefully, his steady progression keeps up.
 
#35 - Bobbie Cheechoo - 97 TPE
Trending down, High risk, Moderate potential 
A prospect battling with inactivity at the moment, Bobbie Cheechoo is a pure goal scorer with an exceptional combination of skating and a heavy shot. If he can return to form, there’s definitely some potential here.
 
#36 - S Kuchar- 113 TPE
N/A, Moderate risk, Moderate potential
Late season signing with the Lynx after they shipped out their top two forwards Kuchar picked up the slack with ease, averaging almost 4 shots on net per game and registering a point per game. Kuchar is proving he can score in this league 
 
#37 - Empty - 110 TPE
Trending down, High risk, High potential 
Started off very hot in Halifax scoring over 50% of their goals in his first 10 games played. Incredible offensive abilities and very good defensive IQ, his progression however after the WJC has come to a standstill and Empty has become a real question mark going into the draft.
 
 
#38 -Keno Wolf- 99 TPE
Trending down, High risk, Moderate potential 
After showing a promising first three weeks, Keno Wolf has only earned 2 TPE over the last 2 weeks, which is quite worrying. If he comes back, it would be good for him to work on his puck handling, which seems to be a weakness as of today. Being able to claim 6 TPE welfare, Wolf shouldn’t have too hard of a time getting back to where he was just a couple weeks ago; It’s just about finding the time and motivation to stay consistent.
 
#39 - Peekay Soupcan - 88 TPE
Trending down,  High risk, Low potential 
Peekay has recently gone inactive, a promising youngster started off very strong with consistent activity and production, his scoring and skating are his greatest attributes, if Peekay remains on this trend he will be as quiet as his recent activity.
 
#40 - Victor Grachev- 129 TPE 
Trending UP, Moderate risk, High potential
Very Intriguing prospect Victor is a 1st-time VHL User as well as this being his first experience with any Sim League and he hit the ground running! Grachev has used literally every opportunity to earn the most  TPE possible since joining and the effort he has put in so far is incredible, consistency will be the big factor with him. Phenomenal Defensive D-man, very good 1st pass and puck handling knows his role and plays it well. Still needs to fill out his frame and fine touching his overall skill set.
Dont be surprised if he goes in the 1st round - "Spence King"
 
#41 - Ben Mills- 73 TPE
Trending down,  High risk, Low potential 
Pint-sized Ben Mills started off the season strong playing much more minutes in Mississauga. As the season has progressed it seems as if Mills is going to be a Welfare/Practice player only and if that at best with his inconsistency has him trending down. Good defensive skill and potential, fairly well-rounded skill set, his development seems to have just hit a dead end.
 
#42 - Jiggly Gumballs - 122 TPE
N/A, Moderate risk, High potential 
In only 16 games played and being in VHLM for 2 weeks, Jiggly Gumballs has shown signs of greatness and potential stardom. His defensive abilities and positioning in his own end are impeccable and might be the best shot-blocker I’ve ever seen. Very well rounded skill set and sure to skyrocket up the list if this activity trend continues.
 
 
#43 - Wane Jetski - 87 TPE
N/A, Moderate risk, Moderate potential 
Scouts have only had a short time to view Jetski since recently joining the league. His scoring touch and skating abilities are what stand out the most. Still needs work in the defensive end along with his hand-eye puck skills.
 
 
#44 - Theodore James St Louis  - 90 TPE
Trending UP, Moderate risk, High potential 
In his very short time so far in the VHLM Theodore James St Louis has made a great impression on VHL scouts his very well rounded game and truly game-changing ability when he’s on the ice for his team. Much about TJS is still unknown as to what role he will take on, St Louis has a very diverse skill set and could potentially be the steal of the draft if his activity spikes.
 
 
#45 - Teriyaki Chicken  -  TPE 78
Trending down, Moderate risk, Moderate potential 
Teriyaki is definitely one of the smaller D in the league but he is built like a truck. His biggest assets are his Checking and defensive skills, a very good stay at home defence. Needs to really work on his passing and puck handling
 
#46 -Drew Minott - 120 TPE
Trending UP ,  Moderate risk,High/ Moderate potential 
The sky's the limit for this big lanky Goaltender with a very well rounded skill set, the sample size is small so far, Minott continues to show impress scouts more every game. 
 
#47-Joromir Jogr - 107 TPE
Trending down, Moderate risk,  Moderate potential 
Jogr has gone dark for a while, a very fluid skater and knows how to use his body to create scoring chances, very high hockey IQ and shows flashes of greatness. Really need to work on his passing accuracy
 
#48 -Tim Kameshev - 64 TPE
Trending down, High risk, Low potential
Kameshev is almost strictly a practice player as of recently however has shown moments of great potential, his skating is what separates him from his peers. Needs a lot of improvement and a big increase in fine-tuning his entire skillset.
 
 
 
 
That's a wrap for our Mid Season VHL Draft Coverage if you enjoyed reading this don't forget to check VSN for regular updates!! We've got A LOT of content being put out almost daily! Don't forget to tune into some of our other amazing material such as - Weekly VHL and VHLM articles. A new feature “Deep Rewind” and learn more VHL history. Keep up with the news in the scouting department getting to know all about the VHL’s Future stars and in-depth look with each VHL Franchise’s prospects pool  @VSN
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Good day VHL Community and Top of the morning to you, especially to the focus of this article - S73 VHL Draft Class. With S72 having surpassed the 50 games played mark and less than 20 games left it's CRUNCH time. Since we’ve last checked in “VSN’s Top 24 Early Standouts” there has for sure been what some may call chaos, I view it as excitement and more unpredictability. This Draft has some very exciting prospects headlined by MJF @frosty the without question top player of the S73 Draft class Marshall James FrostBeard along with superstar defenceman Tyler Walker and a handful of great goalies in Tonn, Gyrfalcon and Camus all slotted to go 1st round. Along with the unforgettable John Merrick showing flashes of Hall of Fame play as well as a blood relative to the legendary Glade family as VHL players and GM, the youngest highly touted defenceman Shawn Glade III.  
With the recent news of the VHL’s 4-Team Expansion announced for this offseason creates even more variables and “chaos” for Current VHL GM’s; Let the fun begin. From first glance, it’s easy to see this is not the deepest draft class and a major drop nearing round 3.  It's important that I clarify and we are making this clear these “Rankings'' are not a Mock Draft, it is who VSN’s Scouting Department believes are the best picks at each spot without any connections to the teams making the selection nor Positional Value (Pure Rankings). These rankings are based and referring to play progress before the playoffs*
 
The VSN Scouting Department with the amazing crew of scouting experience run @Patrik Tallinder The Director of Scouting and Assistant Director @Spence King have spent countless hours watching every VHLM game travelling across North America and not to mention the passing WJC and now playoffs. A major factor the scouts highly value in a player is consistency (being active weekly/levels of participation) extensively tracking weekly opportunities claimed even as far as the differences between total capped and uncapped TPE earned. VSN scouting Staff are always keeping a VERY close eye on each player’s activity trends and participation in the community.
 
 
Let’s get ready to rumble!
 here are VSN’s S73 Draft Mid Season Player Rankings:
 
#1 - Marshall James Frostbeard- 300 TPE
Trending down, Low risk, High potential 
If anyone is shocked to see the MJF trending “down” is the sole reason that @frostbeard is a VHL GM himself and has his player’s rights protected in the draft and he is the clear cut #1 Overall prospect in this draft.
 
#2 - Tyler Walker - 281 TPE- No trend, Low risk, High potential 
Tyler is the ultimate coaches player, he does everything you ask of him and is always in the right place at the right time, no player other than MJF has shown more consistent growth/Activity and development in their game other than Tyler. Whichever team drafts this young man will be getting a future franchise defenceman that will play MANY games in the VHL and very soon. 
 
#3 - Jacob Tonn-  276 TPE 
No trend, Low risk, High potential 
Jacob Tonn has proven to be a steal for the ages, with the hounds able to draft some great players and snag Tonn in the later rounds is truly unbelievable that any GM let this young man go past the 1st round let alone outside the Top 5. Tonn is having a fantastic season in his draft year proving to have the potential to be a future starter and potentially star goaltender in the VHL
 
#4 - Micah Adrienne - 276 TPE
No trend, Low risk, High potential 
Micah is by far one of the best defenders his age in a long time. Micah is easily one of the leagues top 5 Defensive defencemen with way above average defensive IQ, amazing body checker with terrifying hits combined with his smooth skating and puck handling make him a real contender for the #1 overall pick come draft day. Biggest Flaw is his terrible discipline.
 
#5 - Jeffrey Pines- 240TPE
Trending UP, Low  risk, High potential
 Jeffrey was on a tear after the WJC and really proving the league his playmaking abilities are just as strong and he might actually be a stronger playmaker as well as really fine-tuning his work in the defensive end and proving to be one of the most hated players to play against in the league. Jeffrey has a very bright future in the VHL his potential is sky high and he can fit any role his team needs for him. 
 
 
#6 - Grekkark Gyrfalcon - 228 TPE
Trending UP, Low risk, High potential
Grekkark Gyrfalcon is what some scouts are calling “The safest pick”. This due to the fact that Grekkark is affiliated with the EFL and is guaranteed to cap out with 12 TPE with his EFL Job alone.
 
#7 - Jean Pierre Camus - 217 TPE:
Trending UP, Low risk, High potential 
J=ean Pierre Camus is our third goalie in the top ten and he's there for a reason. JPC may not have the wins like the other goalies but the skill is there and it’s evident. Truly an exciting player to watch. Camus with a record of 18-42-4 is still currently the league leader with the highest Save % of any starting goaltender. His lightning-quick hand speed combined with incredible style and  rebound control and jaw-dropping reaction time
 
#8 - @ShawnGlade III- 213 TPE
Trending down, Moderate risk, High potential 
Shawn is right there with Tyler and Micah in terms of potential. The relative of the legendary Shawn Glade gives us some insight into the hockey blood in this player and his dedication and consistency. Shawns defensive IQ always has him in the right position at the right time. Glade III has an amazing first pass out of the zone to go along with his ability to rush the puck with his strong puck handling and skating abilities.
 
 #9 - Groovy Dood- 206 TPE
Trending UP, Low risk, High potential
Groovy Dude AKA @bigAL The AGM of the new VHLM expansion Franchise the Miami Marauders. Groovy has proven to be extremely active and one of the most consistent draft-eligible players continually increasing his draft stock. Mr Dude is arguably the top playmaker in the draft. His defensive abilities are also what really separates him apart from the other players in this class is his obvious effort and dedication consistently week in and day out and will always give you 110% effort.
 
 
#10 - Kosmo Kramerev- 204 TPE
Trending UP, Low risk, High potential 
Kosmo is in the top 10 of the league scoring not only as a rookie but also as a defenceman. Kramerev so far in 64 games is 1 point shy, sitting at 99PTS and going to hit the 100 PTS plateau as a rookie. The difference between Kramerev and the “Big Three” Walker, Adrienne and Glade is that Kosmo is a much more offensive-oriented defensive player while saying that he does not lack in defensive abilities and has amazing defensive skills.
 
#11 - John Merrick- 179 TPE
N/A, Low   risk, High potential 
John Merrick looks to be a very promising and potential first-line centre in the VHL. Merrick, the User @Steve recently retired unexpectedly Guy LeGrande early and was not expected to recreate LeGrnade had 1177 TPE already and still had 2 seasons to go. That says a lot right there about Merricks potential. Merrick is already proving to be a great 2-way centre, He has the size and strength to go along with his great puck handling and skating abilities.
 
 #12 - Wolf Stansson - 190 TPE
Trending UP, Low risk, High potential 
Wolf Stansson was a hot name on Trade Deadline day, and with that being no surprise. Wolf has proven to be the next name on this list of extremely talented 2-way defenders. Wolf plays with an edge to his game and can really bang bodies on the ice and I mean that literally by an “edge” Wolf has learned to master body checking and cutting off the rush with huge hip checks always making clean hits and is never afraid to sacrifice his body. 
 
#13 - Dan Baillie Jr – 194 TPE
Trending UP, Low risk, High potential
Dan Baille Jr “The Junior Rocket” has been trending up and up all season and the ski is truly the limit for this man. His skating is out of this world and without a doubt the most accurate and quickest shot in the draft, Baille Jr goal and assist totals in SSK do not reflect his skill or potential. Baille is going to have a very great and long career in the VHL.
 
#14 -Andre Lebastard- 189 TPE
Trending UP, Moderate risk, High potential 
Probably the best Faceoff man in the draft if not the VHLm.Amazing 200-foot player, Fantastic passing IQ and accuracy, Logs Massive minutes and can shut down and play with the league's top lines, needs to work on his strength 
 
#15 - Patrik Laine - 174 TPE
Trending UP, Moderate risk, High potential 
The hottest thing in Houston right now, Laine is one of if not the most active prospects in the pool and is continually opening more and earning a lot of attention and this spot in the rankings. Laine is the most well-rounded prospect ranked to go in the first round with equally strong skating, puck handling, scoring and defensive IQ but still has a long way to go before being  VHL ready anytime soon.
 
 #16 - Mikeal Keef  - 195 TPE
Trending UP, Low risk, High potential
Mikeal will more than likely be playing in the pros next year, whichever organisation is lucky enough to snag this franchise defenceman will be smiling ear to ear when they call his name to the draft stage. The 6’4 205 lb smooth-skating defenceman excels the most in his own end with his jaw-dropping hits. 
 
#17 - Cal Conway - 179 TPE
Trending UP, Moderate risk,  High  potential
With his eye lightning, fast hand speed and reaction time Cal has shown many flashes of stardom. Just look at his numbers and its easy enough with an outstanding .913% Save percentage and almost under 2 Goals against a game at 2.07 GAA.
 
#18 -The Terrible Trivium- 189 TPE
Trending UP, Low risk, Moderate potential
Trivium is built like a truck and if he can turn that weight into muscle he could very well be one of the VHL’s power forward winger for many years to come. His fantastic positioning when backchecking, a total 200-foot player. His Shot is his best asset registering 297 shots on net in 72 games played. 
 
#19 - Oh Sens - 162 TPE
Trending UP, Moderate risk, High potential 
The Japanese sensation and fan favourite in Miami Oh Sens has a well-rounded skill set with his puck handling and powerful shot make him such an exciting winger. Very strong player physically, look for next season to be a breakout for this young man 
 
#20 - Ajay Krishna - 152 TPE
No trend, Low risk, High potential
Ajay was once considered the clear cut safest goalie available after the big 3 all set to be taken in the 1st round. Krishna skill is definitely there and with his reaction time paired with his size, his potential in the crease is sky-high. Ajay had a very strong start to the season with high activity and looked to be a lock for the 1st round however the second half of the season Krishna’s progression noticeably declined. Krishna still has time to prove himself as a 1st rounder if he can return to his early-season progression.
 
#21 - Dakota Lamb - 173 TPE
Trending UP, Moderate risk, High potential
The most skilled Faceoff man in the draft Dakota Lamb has amazing offensive capabilities with his combined skill set of skating puck handling and offensive IQ. Being the most skilled at  FO points doesn't always win you the most Faceoffs, Dakota has to put on some serious strength to turn those skills into an invaluable asset.
 
22- Calvin Harvey - 156 TPE 
Trending down, Moderate risk, Moderate potential 
Calvin Harvey has had a rough go this season in San Diego much like the rest of his marlin teammates, he was peppered with shots and really had no chance to ever develop confidence on the ice. He has very good reaction time and a nice Style control. 
 
#23 - Matty Socks - 161 TPE
Trending UP, Low/ Moderate risk, Moderate potential 
Matty Socks has been playing phenomenal for the Aces all season. Extremely consistent and without a doubt one of the most skilled defensive defencemen in the draft class as well as the entire league. Along with strong offensive IQ and powerful skating. With some filling out in strength and conditioning as well as passing accuracy socks could be another diamond in the rough
 
#24-Kevin King - 145 TPE
N/A, Moderate risk, High potential 
The player with the most intrigue other than John Merrick. Kevin King has only had a short time to prove himself and even with minimal ice time. However, his skills do all the talking. Scoring and defensive IQ are way above most in the class and especially at this position. King has the best faceoffs skills by far in the draft class. With building strength and continuing to progress at this level don't be surprised if Kevin King is a 1st round pick on draft day.
 
#25 - Han Jae Kuk - 132 TPE
No trend, Low risk,  Moderate  potential 
Han was at one point the hottest name on the trade block with his great early start to the season, but just like the marlins did this season, Han Jae looks to have drowned. He is borderline inactive and potentially falling out of the top 40 if that were the case. Jae Kuk’s has incredible defensive abilities and above-average skating, he has the skill and potential the issue is an effort right now.
 
 
#26 - Alec Volchenkov - 156 TPE
Trending UP, Moderate risk, High potential 
Alec Volchenkov is definitely our most interesting and unique player in this draft class and by unique, i am referring to his playing style. Volchenkov is the definition of a Shut down player. His scoring abilities have much work to be done, however, his Faceoffs and defensive play in his own end are above most forward in the VHLM. Volchenkov has the potential to be a lifelong role player in the pros and I could even see him being a team's 1st line Center one day.
 
 #27 - Jesper Norberg - 142 TPE
N/A, Moderate risk risk, High  potential 
Jesper Norberg has come into Vegas hitting the ground running harder than every pair of dice in town combined. This Swedish winger comes over with a diverse skill set highlighted by his IQ in the offensive zone. His passing, puck handling and skating are showing improvements daily along with an impressive build, very strong on his skates.
 
 #28 - Florent Vericel  - 126 TPE
Trending down, High risk, High potential 
The Quick sharpshooting Canadian forward signed early in the season with the newly expanded VHLM franchise in Miami. Florent proved very quickly that he is a consistent and very strong shooter. His shot combined with his speed is by far his best attribute at his ability to find the shooting lanes. Strength along with Puck handling is in need of improvement.
 #29 - Fat Palloon - 122 TPE
Trending UP, Moderate risk, High/ Moderate potential 
Mr Palloon has been on the scouts’ radars from the minute he stepped on the ice with his incredible defensive positioning and willingness to put his body on the line to block shots and passing lanes. Palloon’s season has been somewhat of a roller coaster in terms of production. As of late F.Paloon has made huge strides in his passing accuracy and skating. If he can maintain this progression as of the last two weeks this could be a steal in the draft. Still has a lot of practice to be done over the offseason.
 
#30- Jeremy Lin - 136 TPE
No trend, Moderate risk, Moderate potential 
The once highly touted prospect Lin has fallen and continues to do so, his activity and progression have hit a hard standstill. With his quick and accurate shot combined with his ability to rush the puck up the ice on his own proves lin has the skill. The question mark is consistency.
 
 #31 - Kirishima Wakaro - 134 TPE
No trend, High risk, Moderate/Low potential 
Kirishima went ghost a couple of weeks this season where is progression really hit a standstill. Wakaro is still quite the question mark for scouts with his activity being monitored very closely. Kirishima has shown moments of stardom from the beginning of the season with his defensive and offensive abilities and positioning along with his skating.  
 
 #32 - Rick Osman - 108 TPE
Trending UP, Moderate risk, High potential
Rick Osman the giant on skates and one of the tallest players in VHLM history Rick a massive 53 banked TPE. His activity has been consistent, never capping out but consistent every week and if Rick can use this offseason to diversify his skill set. Right now his defensive IQ is great but he is really lacking a lot of fundamentals at this level, and must really work on those if he's to ever play in the pros.
 
#33 - Gary Rush- 115 TPE:
Trending UP, Moderate risk, Moderate potential 
Good 2-way forward with equally strong offensive and defensive IQ. Showing consistent growth in Skating and puck handling. Needs improvement in the weight room and work on checking 
 
#34- Rocket - 130 TPE
Trending UP, Moderate risk, Moderate potential 
Rocket is a really solid welfare prospect who takes advantage of uncapped opportunities as well. He usually earns 6-8 capped TPE, and whatever uncapped TPE he can get his hands on as well. There’s a good amount of potential in him as a scoring winger, and hopefully, his steady progression keeps up.
 
#35 - Bobbie Cheechoo - 97 TPE
Trending down, High risk, Moderate potential 
A prospect battling with inactivity at the moment, Bobbie Cheechoo is a pure goal scorer with an exceptional combination of skating and a heavy shot. If he can return to form, there’s definitely some potential here.
 
#36 - S Kuchar- 113 TPE
N/A, Moderate risk, Moderate potential
Late season signing with the Lynx after they shipped out their top two forwards Kuchar picked up the slack with ease, averaging almost 4 shots on net per game and registering a point per game. Kuchar is proving he can score in this league 
 
#37 - Empty - 110 TPE
Trending down, High risk, High potential 
Started off very hot in Halifax scoring over 50% of their goals in his first 10 games played. Incredible offensive abilities and very good defensive IQ, his progression however after the WJC has come to a standstill and Empty has become a real question mark going into the draft.
 
 
#38 -Keno Wolf- 99 TPE
Trending down, High risk, Moderate potential 
After showing a promising first three weeks, Keno Wolf has only earned 2 TPE over the last 2 weeks, which is quite worrying. If he comes back, it would be good for him to work on his puck handling, which seems to be a weakness as of today. Being able to claim 6 TPE welfare, Wolf shouldn’t have too hard of a time getting back to where he was just a couple weeks ago; It’s just about finding the time and motivation to stay consistent.
 
#39 - Peekay Soupcan - 88 TPE
Trending down,  High risk, Low potential 
Peekay has recently gone inactive, a promising youngster started off very strong with consistent activity and production, his scoring and skating are his greatest attributes, if Peekay remains on this trend he will be as quiet as his recent activity.
 
#40 - Victor Grachev- 129 TPE 
Trending UP, Moderate risk, High potential
Very Intriguing prospect Victor is a 1st-time VHL User as well as this being his first experience with any Sim League and he hit the ground running! Grachev has used literally every opportunity to earn the most  TPE possible since joining and the effort he has put in so far is incredible, consistency will be the big factor with him. Phenomenal Defensive D-man, very good 1st pass and puck handling knows his role and plays it well. Still needs to fill out his frame and fine touching his overall skill set.
Dont be surprised if he goes in the 1st round - "Spence King"
 
#41 - Ben Mills- 73 TPE
Trending down,  High risk, Low potential 
Pint-sized Ben Mills started off the season strong playing much more minutes in Mississauga. As the season has progressed it seems as if Mills is going to be a Welfare/Practice player only and if that at best with his inconsistency has him trending down. Good defensive skill and potential, fairly well-rounded skill set, his development seems to have just hit a dead end.
 
#42 - Jiggly Gumballs - 122 TPE
N/A, Moderate risk, High potential 
In only 16 games played and being in VHLM for 2 weeks, Jiggly Gumballs has shown signs of greatness and potential stardom. His defensive abilities and positioning in his own end are impeccable and might be the best shot-blocker I’ve ever seen. Very well rounded skill set and sure to skyrocket up the list if this activity trend continues.
 
 
#43 - Wane Jetski - 87 TPE
N/A, Moderate risk, Moderate potential 
Scouts have only had a short time to view Jetski since recently joining the league. His scoring touch and skating abilities are what stand out the most. Still needs work in the defensive end along with his hand-eye puck skills.
 
 
#44 - Theodore James St Louis  - 90 TPE
Trending UP, Moderate risk, High potential 
In his very short time so far in the VHLM Theodore James St Louis has made a great impression on VHL scouts his very well rounded game and truly game-changing ability when he’s on the ice for his team. Much about TJS is still unknown as to what role he will take on, St Louis has a very diverse skill set and could potentially be the steal of the draft if his activity spikes.
 
 
#45 - Teriyaki Chicken  -  TPE 78
Trending down, Moderate risk, Moderate potential 
Teriyaki is definitely one of the smaller D in the league but he is built like a truck. His biggest assets are his Checking and defensive skills, a very good stay at home defence. Needs to really work on his passing and puck handling
 
#46 -Drew Minott - 120 TPE
Trending UP ,  Moderate risk,High/ Moderate potential 
The sky's the limit for this big lanky Goaltender with a very well rounded skill set, the sample size is small so far, Minott continues to show impress scouts more every game. 
 
#47-Joromir Jogr - 107 TPE
Trending down, Moderate risk,  Moderate potential 
Jogr has gone dark for a while, a very fluid skater and knows how to use his body to create scoring chances, very high hockey IQ and shows flashes of greatness. Really need to work on his passing accuracy
 
#48 -Tim Kameshev - 64 TPE
Trending down, High risk, Low potential
Kameshev is almost strictly a practice player as of recently however has shown moments of great potential, his skating is what separates him from his peers. Needs a lot of improvement and a big increase in fine-tuning his entire skillset.
 
 
 
 
That's a wrap for our Mid Season VHL Draft Coverage if you enjoyed reading this don't forget to check VSN for regular updates!! We've got A LOT of content being put out almost daily! Don't forget to tune into some of our other amazing material such as - Weekly VHL and VHLM articles. A new feature “Deep Rewind” and learn more VHL history. Keep up with the news in the scouting department getting to know all about the VHL’s Future stars and in-depth look with each VHL Franchise’s prospects pool  @VSN
| VHLM Weekly | VHL Weekly | Behind The Trophy | 
  @Andre LeBastard @wcats @Mongoose87 @solas @der meister @RStar @Shaka @Dtayl @Hooperorama @Sharkie @dylanjj37 @osens @jman9theman9 @dart @Steve @PatrikLaine @dlamb @fishy @SirRupertBarnes @Mrpenguin30 @IamMOOSE @jpsd @KaleebtheMighty @Dtayl @Snussu @UnkemptCL4PTP @S. Kuchar@JigglyGumballs @G_Rush @DreMin15 @Temppi @aCrypticPancake @Patpou22 @Ben Mills @Hpep @namanert @Nick Kirkpatrick @Sharkstrong @rory @ahockeyguy
@Ninjaboi @FrostBeard @Advantage @Poptart @MexicanCow123
 
 

Good day VHL Community and Top of the morning to you, especially to the focus of this article - S73 VHL Draft Class. With S72 having surpassed the 50 games played mark and less than 20 games left it's CRUNCH time. Since we’ve last checked in “VSN’s Top 24 Early Standouts” there has for sure been what some may call chaos, I view it as excitement and more unpredictability. This Draft has some very exciting prospects headlined by MJF @frosty the without question top player of the S73 Draft class Marshall James FrostBeard along with superstar defenceman Tyler Walker and a handful of great goalies in Tonn, Gyrfalcon and Camus all slotted to go 1st round. Along with the unforgettable John Merrick showing flashes of Hall of Fame play as well as a blood relative to the legendary Glade family as VHL players and GM, the youngest highly touted defenceman Shawn Glade III.  
With the recent news of the VHL’s 4-Team Expansion announced for this offseason creates even more variables and “chaos” for Current VHL GM’s; Let the fun begin. From first glance, it’s easy to see this is not the deepest draft class and a major drop nearing round 3.  It's important that I clarify and we are making this clear these “Rankings'' are not a Mock Draft, it is who VSN’s Scouting Department believes are the best picks at each spot without any connections to the teams making the selection nor Positional Value (Pure Rankings). These rankings are based and referring to play progress before the playoffs*
 
The VSN Scouting Department with the amazing crew of scouting experience run @Patrik Tallinder The Director of Scouting and Assistant Director @Spence King have spent countless hours watching every VHLM game travelling across North America and not to mention the passing WJC and now playoffs. A major factor the scouts highly value in a player is consistency (being active weekly/levels of participation) extensively tracking weekly opportunities claimed even as far as the differences between total capped and uncapped TPE earned. VSN scouting Staff are always keeping a VERY close eye on each player’s activity trends and participation in the community.
 
 
Let’s get ready to rumble!
 here are VSN’s S73 Draft Mid Season Player Rankings:
 
#1 - Marshall James Frostbeard- 300 TPE
Trending down, Low risk, High potential 
If anyone is shocked to see the MJF trending “down” is the sole reason that @frostbeard is a VHL GM himself and has his player’s rights protected in the draft and he is the clear cut #1 Overall prospect in this draft.
 
#2 - Tyler Walker - 281 TPE- No trend, Low risk, High potential 
Tyler is the ultimate coaches player, he does everything you ask of him and is always in the right place at the right time, no player other than MJF has shown more consistent growth/Activity and development in their game other than Tyler. Whichever team drafts this young man will be getting a future franchise defenceman that will play MANY games in the VHL and very soon. 
 
#3 - Jacob Tonn-  276 TPE 
No trend, Low risk, High potential 
Jacob Tonn has proven to be a steal for the ages, with the hounds able to draft some great players and snag Tonn in the later rounds is truly unbelievable that any GM let this young man go past the 1st round let alone outside the Top 5. Tonn is having a fantastic season in his draft year proving to have the potential to be a future starter and potentially star goaltender in the VHL
 
#4 - Micah Adrienne - 276 TPE
No trend, Low risk, High potential 
Micah is by far one of the best defenders his age in a long time. Micah is easily one of the leagues top 5 Defensive defencemen with way above average defensive IQ, amazing body checker with terrifying hits combined with his smooth skating and puck handling make him a real contender for the #1 overall pick come draft day. Biggest Flaw is his terrible discipline.
 
#5 - Jeffrey Pines- 240TPE
Trending UP, Low  risk, High potential
 Jeffrey was on a tear after the WJC and really proving the league his playmaking abilities are just as strong and he might actually be a stronger playmaker as well as really fine-tuning his work in the defensive end and proving to be one of the most hated players to play against in the league. Jeffrey has a very bright future in the VHL his potential is sky high and he can fit any role his team needs for him. 
 
 
#6 - Grekkark Gyrfalcon - 228 TPE
Trending UP, Low risk, High potential
Grekkark Gyrfalcon is what some scouts are calling “The safest pick”. This due to the fact that Grekkark is affiliated with the EFL and is guaranteed to cap out with 12 TPE with his EFL Job alone.
 
#7 - Jean Pierre Camus - 217 TPE:
Trending UP, Low risk, High potential 
J=ean Pierre Camus is our third goalie in the top ten and he's there for a reason. JPC may not have the wins like the other goalies but the skill is there and it’s evident. Truly an exciting player to watch. Camus with a record of 18-42-4 is still currently the league leader with the highest Save % of any starting goaltender. His lightning-quick hand speed combined with incredible style and  rebound control and jaw-dropping reaction time
 
#8 - @ShawnGlade III- 213 TPE
Trending down, Moderate risk, High potential 
Shawn is right there with Tyler and Micah in terms of potential. The relative of the legendary Shawn Glade gives us some insight into the hockey blood in this player and his dedication and consistency. Shawns defensive IQ always has him in the right position at the right time. Glade III has an amazing first pass out of the zone to go along with his ability to rush the puck with his strong puck handling and skating abilities.
 
 #9 - Groovy Dood- 206 TPE
Trending UP, Low risk, High potential
Groovy Dude AKA @bigAL The AGM of the new VHLM expansion Franchise the Miami Marauders. Groovy has proven to be extremely active and one of the most consistent draft-eligible players continually increasing his draft stock. Mr Dude is arguably the top playmaker in the draft. His defensive abilities are also what really separates him apart from the other players in this class is his obvious effort and dedication consistently week in and day out and will always give you 110% effort.
 
 
#10 - Kosmo Kramerev- 204 TPE
Trending UP, Low risk, High potential 
Kosmo is in the top 10 of the league scoring not only as a rookie but also as a defenceman. Kramerev so far in 64 games is 1 point shy, sitting at 99PTS and going to hit the 100 PTS plateau as a rookie. The difference between Kramerev and the “Big Three” Walker, Adrienne and Glade is that Kosmo is a much more offensive-oriented defensive player while saying that he does not lack in defensive abilities and has amazing defensive skills.
 
#11 - John Merrick- 179 TPE
N/A, Low   risk, High potential 
John Merrick looks to be a very promising and potential first-line centre in the VHL. Merrick, the User @Steve recently retired unexpectedly Guy LeGrande early and was not expected to recreate LeGrnade had 1177 TPE already and still had 2 seasons to go. That says a lot right there about Merricks potential. Merrick is already proving to be a great 2-way centre, He has the size and strength to go along with his great puck handling and skating abilities.
 
 #12 - Wolf Stansson - 190 TPE
Trending UP, Low risk, High potential 
Wolf Stansson was a hot name on Trade Deadline day, and with that being no surprise. Wolf has proven to be the next name on this list of extremely talented 2-way defenders. Wolf plays with an edge to his game and can really bang bodies on the ice and I mean that literally by an “edge” Wolf has learned to master body checking and cutting off the rush with huge hip checks always making clean hits and is never afraid to sacrifice his body. 
 
#13 - Dan Baillie Jr – 194 TPE
Trending UP, Low risk, High potential
Dan Baille Jr “The Junior Rocket” has been trending up and up all season and the ski is truly the limit for this man. His skating is out of this world and without a doubt the most accurate and quickest shot in the draft, Baille Jr goal and assist totals in SSK do not reflect his skill or potential. Baille is going to have a very great and long career in the VHL.
 
#14 -Andre Lebastard- 189 TPE
Trending UP, Moderate risk, High potential 
Probably the best Faceoff man in the draft if not the VHLm.Amazing 200-foot player, Fantastic passing IQ and accuracy, Logs Massive minutes and can shut down and play with the league's top lines, needs to work on his strength 
 
#15 - Patrik Laine - 174 TPE
Trending UP, Moderate risk, High potential 
The hottest thing in Houston right now, Laine is one of if not the most active prospects in the pool and is continually opening more and earning a lot of attention and this spot in the rankings. Laine is the most well-rounded prospect ranked to go in the first round with equally strong skating, puck handling, scoring and defensive IQ but still has a long way to go before being  VHL ready anytime soon.
 
 #16 - Mikeal Keef  - 195 TPE
Trending UP, Low risk, High potential
Mikeal will more than likely be playing in the pros next year, whichever organisation is lucky enough to snag this franchise defenceman will be smiling ear to ear when they call his name to the draft stage. The 6’4 205 lb smooth-skating defenceman excels the most in his own end with his jaw-dropping hits. 
 
#17 - Cal Conway - 179 TPE
Trending UP, Moderate risk,  High  potential
With his eye lightning, fast hand speed and reaction time Cal has shown many flashes of stardom. Just look at his numbers and its easy enough with an outstanding .913% Save percentage and almost under 2 Goals against a game at 2.07 GAA.
 
#18 -The Terrible Trivium- 189 TPE
Trending UP, Low risk, Moderate potential
Trivium is built like a truck and if he can turn that weight into muscle he could very well be one of the VHL’s power forward winger for many years to come. His fantastic positioning when backchecking, a total 200-foot player. His Shot is his best asset registering 297 shots on net in 72 games played. 
 
#19 - Oh Sens - 162 TPE
Trending UP, Moderate risk, High potential 
The Japanese sensation and fan favourite in Miami Oh Sens has a well-rounded skill set with his puck handling and powerful shot make him such an exciting winger. Very strong player physically, look for next season to be a breakout for this young man 
 
#20 - Ajay Krishna - 152 TPE
No trend, Low risk, High potential
Ajay was once considered the clear cut safest goalie available after the big 3 all set to be taken in the 1st round. Krishna skill is definitely there and with his reaction time paired with his size, his potential in the crease is sky-high. Ajay had a very strong start to the season with high activity and looked to be a lock for the 1st round however the second half of the season Krishna’s progression noticeably declined. Krishna still has time to prove himself as a 1st rounder if he can return to his early-season progression.
 
#21 - Dakota Lamb - 173 TPE
Trending UP, Moderate risk, High potential
The most skilled Faceoff man in the draft Dakota Lamb has amazing offensive capabilities with his combined skill set of skating puck handling and offensive IQ. Being the most skilled at  FO points doesn't always win you the most Faceoffs, Dakota has to put on some serious strength to turn those skills into an invaluable asset.
 
22- Calvin Harvey - 156 TPE 
Trending down, Moderate risk, Moderate potential 
Calvin Harvey has had a rough go this season in San Diego much like the rest of his marlin teammates, he was peppered with shots and really had no chance to ever develop confidence on the ice. He has very good reaction time and a nice Style control. 
 
#23 - Matty Socks - 161 TPE
Trending UP, Low/ Moderate risk, Moderate potential 
Matty Socks has been playing phenomenal for the Aces all season. Extremely consistent and without a doubt one of the most skilled defensive defencemen in the draft class as well as the entire league. Along with strong offensive IQ and powerful skating. With some filling out in strength and conditioning as well as passing accuracy socks could be another diamond in the rough
 
#24-Kevin King - 145 TPE
N/A, Moderate risk, High potential 
The player with the most intrigue other than John Merrick. Kevin King has only had a short time to prove himself and even with minimal ice time. However, his skills do all the talking. Scoring and defensive IQ are way above most in the class and especially at this position. King has the best faceoffs skills by far in the draft class. With building strength and continuing to progress at this level don't be surprised if Kevin King is a 1st round pick on draft day.
 
#25 - Han Jae Kuk - 132 TPE
No trend, Low risk,  Moderate  potential 
Han was at one point the hottest name on the trade block with his great early start to the season, but just like the marlins did this season, Han Jae looks to have drowned. He is borderline inactive and potentially falling out of the top 40 if that were the case. Jae Kuk’s has incredible defensive abilities and above-average skating, he has the skill and potential the issue is an effort right now.
 
 
#26 - Alec Volchenkov - 156 TPE
Trending UP, Moderate risk, High potential 
Alec Volchenkov is definitely our most interesting and unique player in this draft class and by unique, i am referring to his playing style. Volchenkov is the definition of a Shut down player. His scoring abilities have much work to be done, however, his Faceoffs and defensive play in his own end are above most forward in the VHLM. Volchenkov has the potential to be a lifelong role player in the pros and I could even see him being a team's 1st line Center one day.
 
 #27 - Jesper Norberg - 142 TPE
N/A, Moderate risk risk, High  potential 
Jesper Norberg has come into Vegas hitting the ground running harder than every pair of dice in town combined. This Swedish winger comes over with a diverse skill set highlighted by his IQ in the offensive zone. His passing, puck handling and skating are showing improvements daily along with an impressive build, very strong on his skates.
 
 #28 - Florent Vericel  - 126 TPE
Trending down, High risk, High potential 
The Quick sharpshooting Canadian forward signed early in the season with the newly expanded VHLM franchise in Miami. Florent proved very quickly that he is a consistent and very strong shooter. His shot combined with his speed is by far his best attribute at his ability to find the shooting lanes. Strength along with Puck handling is in need of improvement.
 #29 - Fat Palloon - 122 TPE
Trending UP, Moderate risk, High/ Moderate potential 
Mr Palloon has been on the scouts’ radars from the minute he stepped on the ice with his incredible defensive positioning and willingness to put his body on the line to block shots and passing lanes. Palloon’s season has been somewhat of a roller coaster in terms of production. As of late F.Paloon has made huge strides in his passing accuracy and skating. If he can maintain this progression as of the last two weeks this could be a steal in the draft. Still has a lot of practice to be done over the offseason.
 
#30- Jeremy Lin - 136 TPE
No trend, Moderate risk, Moderate potential 
The once highly touted prospect Lin has fallen and continues to do so, his activity and progression have hit a hard standstill. With his quick and accurate shot combined with his ability to rush the puck up the ice on his own proves lin has the skill. The question mark is consistency.
 
 #31 - Kirishima Wakaro - 134 TPE
No trend, High risk, Moderate/Low potential 
Kirishima went ghost a couple of weeks this season where is progression really hit a standstill. Wakaro is still quite the question mark for scouts with his activity being monitored very closely. Kirishima has shown moments of stardom from the beginning of the season with his defensive and offensive abilities and positioning along with his skating.  
 
 #32 - Rick Osman - 108 TPE
Trending UP, Moderate risk, High potential
Rick Osman the giant on skates and one of the tallest players in VHLM history Rick a massive 53 banked TPE. His activity has been consistent, never capping out but consistent every week and if Rick can use this offseason to diversify his skill set. Right now his defensive IQ is great but he is really lacking a lot of fundamentals at this level, and must really work on those if he's to ever play in the pros.
 
#33 - Gary Rush- 115 TPE:
Trending UP, Moderate risk, Moderate potential 
Good 2-way forward with equally strong offensive and defensive IQ. Showing consistent growth in Skating and puck handling. Needs improvement in the weight room and work on checking 
 
#34- Rocket - 130 TPE
Trending UP, Moderate risk, Moderate potential 
Rocket is a really solid welfare prospect who takes advantage of uncapped opportunities as well. He usually earns 6-8 capped TPE, and whatever uncapped TPE he can get his hands on as well. There’s a good amount of potential in him as a scoring winger, and hopefully, his steady progression keeps up.
 
#35 - Bobbie Cheechoo - 97 TPE
Trending down, High risk, Moderate potential 
A prospect battling with inactivity at the moment, Bobbie Cheechoo is a pure goal scorer with an exceptional combination of skating and a heavy shot. If he can return to form, there’s definitely some potential here.
 
#36 - S Kuchar- 113 TPE
N/A, Moderate risk, Moderate potential
Late season signing with the Lynx after they shipped out their top two forwards Kuchar picked up the slack with ease, averaging almost 4 shots on net per game and registering a point per game. Kuchar is proving he can score in this league 
 
#37 - Empty - 110 TPE
Trending down, High risk, High potential 
Started off very hot in Halifax scoring over 50% of their goals in his first 10 games played. Incredible offensive abilities and very good defensive IQ, his progression however after the WJC has come to a standstill and Empty has become a real question mark going into the draft.
 
 
#38 -Keno Wolf- 99 TPE
Trending down, High risk, Moderate potential 
After showing a promising first three weeks, Keno Wolf has only earned 2 TPE over the last 2 weeks, which is quite worrying. If he comes back, it would be good for him to work on his puck handling, which seems to be a weakness as of today. Being able to claim 6 TPE welfare, Wolf shouldn’t have too hard of a time getting back to where he was just a couple weeks ago; It’s just about finding the time and motivation to stay consistent.
 
#39 - Peekay Soupcan - 88 TPE
Trending down,  High risk, Low potential 
Peekay has recently gone inactive, a promising youngster started off very strong with consistent activity and production, his scoring and skating are his greatest attributes, if Peekay remains on this trend he will be as quiet as his recent activity.
 
#40 - Victor Grachev- 129 TPE 
Trending UP, Moderate risk, High potential
Very Intriguing prospect Victor is a 1st-time VHL User as well as this being his first experience with any Sim League and he hit the ground running! Grachev has used literally every opportunity to earn the most  TPE possible since joining and the effort he has put in so far is incredible, consistency will be the big factor with him. Phenomenal Defensive D-man, very good 1st pass and puck handling knows his role and plays it well. Still needs to fill out his frame and fine touching his overall skill set.
Dont be surprised if he goes in the 1st round - "Spence King"
 
#41 - Ben Mills- 73 TPE
Trending down,  High risk, Low potential 
Pint-sized Ben Mills started off the season strong playing much more minutes in Mississauga. As the season has progressed it seems as if Mills is going to be a Welfare/Practice player only and if that at best with his inconsistency has him trending down. Good defensive skill and potential, fairly well-rounded skill set, his development seems to have just hit a dead end.
 
#42 - Jiggly Gumballs - 122 TPE
N/A, Moderate risk, High potential 
In only 16 games played and being in VHLM for 2 weeks, Jiggly Gumballs has shown signs of greatness and potential stardom. His defensive abilities and positioning in his own end are impeccable and might be the best shot-blocker I’ve ever seen. Very well rounded skill set and sure to skyrocket up the list if this activity trend continues.
 
 
#43 - Wane Jetski - 87 TPE
N/A, Moderate risk, Moderate potential 
Scouts have only had a short time to view Jetski since recently joining the league. His scoring touch and skating abilities are what stand out the most. Still needs work in the defensive end along with his hand-eye puck skills.
 
 
#44 - Theodore James St Louis  - 90 TPE
Trending UP, Moderate risk, High potential 
In his very short time so far in the VHLM Theodore James St Louis has made a great impression on VHL scouts his very well rounded game and truly game-changing ability when he’s on the ice for his team. Much about TJS is still unknown as to what role he will take on, St Louis has a very diverse skill set and could potentially be the steal of the draft if his activity spikes.
 
 
#45 - Teriyaki Chicken  -  TPE 78
Trending down, Moderate risk, Moderate potential 
Teriyaki is definitely one of the smaller D in the league but he is built like a truck. His biggest assets are his Checking and defensive skills, a very good stay at home defence. Needs to really work on his passing and puck handling
 
#46 -Drew Minott - 120 TPE
Trending UP ,  Moderate risk,High/ Moderate potential 
The sky's the limit for this big lanky Goaltender with a very well rounded skill set, the sample size is small so far, Minott continues to show impress scouts more every game. 
 
#47-Joromir Jogr - 107 TPE
Trending down, Moderate risk,  Moderate potential 
Jogr has gone dark for a while, a very fluid skater and knows how to use his body to create scoring chances, very high hockey IQ and shows flashes of greatness. Really need to work on his passing accuracy
 
#48 -Tim Kameshev - 64 TPE
Trending down, High risk, Low potential
Kameshev is almost strictly a practice player as of recently however has shown moments of great potential, his skating is what separates him from his peers. Needs a lot of improvement and a big increase in fine-tuning his entire skillset.
 
 
 
 
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Good day VHL Community and Top of the morning to you, especially to the focus of this article - S73 VHL Draft Class. With S72 having surpassed the 50 games played mark and less than 20 games left it's CRUNCH time. Since we’ve last checked in “VSN’s Top 24 Early Standouts” there has for sure been what some may call chaos, I view it as excitement and more unpredictability. This Draft has some very exciting prospects headlined by MJF @frosty the without question top player of the S73 Draft class Marshall James FrostBeard along with superstar defenceman Tyler Walker and a handful of great goalies in Tonn, Gyrfalcon and Camus all slotted to go 1st round. Along with the unforgettable John Merrick showing flashes of Hall of Fame play as well as a blood relative to the legendary Glade family as VHL players and GM, the youngest highly touted defenceman Shawn Glade III.  
With the recent news of the VHL’s 4-Team Expansion announced for this offseason creates even more variables and “chaos” for Current VHL GM’s; Let the fun begin. From first glance, it’s easy to see this is not the deepest draft class and a major drop nearing round 3.  It's important that I clarify and we are making this clear these “Rankings'' are not a Mock Draft, it is who VSN’s Scouting Department believes are the best picks at each spot without any connections to the teams making the selection nor Positional Value (Pure Rankings). These rankings are based and referring to play progress before the playoffs*
 
The VSN Scouting Department with the amazing crew of scouting experience run @Patrik Tallinder The Director of Scouting and Assistant Director @Spence King have spent countless hours watching every VHLM game travelling across North America and not to mention the passing WJC and now playoffs. A major factor the scouts highly value in a player is consistency (being active weekly/levels of participation) extensively tracking weekly opportunities claimed even as far as the differences between total capped and uncapped TPE earned. VSN scouting Staff are always keeping a VERY close eye on each player’s activity trends and participation in the community.
 
 
Let’s get ready to rumble!
 here are VSN’s S73 Draft Mid Season Player Rankings:
 
#1 - Marshall James Frostbeard- 300 TPE
Trending down, Low risk, High potential 
If anyone is shocked to see the MJF trending “down” is the sole reason that @frostbeard is a VHL GM himself and has his player’s rights protected in the draft and he is the clear cut #1 Overall prospect in this draft.
 
#2 - Tyler Walker - 281 TPE- No trend, Low risk, High potential 
Tyler is the ultimate coaches player, he does everything you ask of him and is always in the right place at the right time, no player other than MJF has shown more consistent growth/Activity and development in their game other than Tyler. Whichever team drafts this young man will be getting a future franchise defenceman that will play MANY games in the VHL and very soon. 
 
#3 - Jacob Tonn-  276 TPE 
No trend, Low risk, High potential 
Jacob Tonn has proven to be a steal for the ages, with the hounds able to draft some great players and snag Tonn in the later rounds is truly unbelievable that any GM let this young man go past the 1st round let alone outside the Top 5. Tonn is having a fantastic season in his draft year proving to have the potential to be a future starter and potentially star goaltender in the VHL
 
#4 - Micah Adrienne - 276 TPE
No trend, Low risk, High potential 
Micah is by far one of the best defenders his age in a long time. Micah is easily one of the leagues top 5 Defensive defencemen with way above average defensive IQ, amazing body checker with terrifying hits combined with his smooth skating and puck handling make him a real contender for the #1 overall pick come draft day. Biggest Flaw is his terrible discipline.
 
#5 - Jeffrey Pines- 240TPE
Trending UP, Low  risk, High potential
 Jeffrey was on a tear after the WJC and really proving the league his playmaking abilities are just as strong and he might actually be a stronger playmaker as well as really fine-tuning his work in the defensive end and proving to be one of the most hated players to play against in the league. Jeffrey has a very bright future in the VHL his potential is sky high and he can fit any role his team needs for him. 
 
 
#6 - Grekkark Gyrfalcon - 228 TPE
Trending UP, Low risk, High potential
Grekkark Gyrfalcon is what some scouts are calling “The safest pick”. This due to the fact that Grekkark is affiliated with the EFL and is guaranteed to cap out with 12 TPE with his EFL Job alone.
 
#7 - Jean Pierre Camus - 217 TPE:
Trending UP, Low risk, High potential 
J=ean Pierre Camus is our third goalie in the top ten and he's there for a reason. JPC may not have the wins like the other goalies but the skill is there and it’s evident. Truly an exciting player to watch. Camus with a record of 18-42-4 is still currently the league leader with the highest Save % of any starting goaltender. His lightning-quick hand speed combined with incredible style and  rebound control and jaw-dropping reaction time
 
#8 - @ShawnGlade III- 213 TPE
Trending down, Moderate risk, High potential 
Shawn is right there with Tyler and Micah in terms of potential. The relative of the legendary Shawn Glade gives us some insight into the hockey blood in this player and his dedication and consistency. Shawns defensive IQ always has him in the right position at the right time. Glade III has an amazing first pass out of the zone to go along with his ability to rush the puck with his strong puck handling and skating abilities.
 
 #9 - Groovy Dood- 206 TPE
Trending UP, Low risk, High potential
Groovy Dude AKA @bigAL The AGM of the new VHLM expansion Franchise the Miami Marauders. Groovy has proven to be extremely active and one of the most consistent draft-eligible players continually increasing his draft stock. Mr Dude is arguably the top playmaker in the draft. His defensive abilities are also what really separates him apart from the other players in this class is his obvious effort and dedication consistently week in and day out and will always give you 110% effort.
 
 
#10 - Kosmo Kramerev- 204 TPE
Trending UP, Low risk, High potential 
Kosmo is in the top 10 of the league scoring not only as a rookie but also as a defenceman. Kramerev so far in 64 games is 1 point shy, sitting at 99PTS and going to hit the 100 PTS plateau as a rookie. The difference between Kramerev and the “Big Three” Walker, Adrienne and Glade is that Kosmo is a much more offensive-oriented defensive player while saying that he does not lack in defensive abilities and has amazing defensive skills.
 
#11 - John Merrick- 179 TPE
N/A, Low   risk, High potential 
John Merrick looks to be a very promising and potential first-line centre in the VHL. Merrick, the User @Steve recently retired unexpectedly Guy LeGrande early and was not expected to recreate LeGrnade had 1177 TPE already and still had 2 seasons to go. That says a lot right there about Merricks potential. Merrick is already proving to be a great 2-way centre, He has the size and strength to go along with his great puck handling and skating abilities.
 
 #12 - Wolf Stansson - 190 TPE
Trending UP, Low risk, High potential 
Wolf Stansson was a hot name on Trade Deadline day, and with that being no surprise. Wolf has proven to be the next name on this list of extremely talented 2-way defenders. Wolf plays with an edge to his game and can really bang bodies on the ice and I mean that literally by an “edge” Wolf has learned to master body checking and cutting off the rush with huge hip checks always making clean hits and is never afraid to sacrifice his body. 
 
#13 - Dan Baillie Jr – 194 TPE
Trending UP, Low risk, High potential
Dan Baille Jr “The Junior Rocket” has been trending up and up all season and the ski is truly the limit for this man. His skating is out of this world and without a doubt the most accurate and quickest shot in the draft, Baille Jr goal and assist totals in SSK do not reflect his skill or potential. Baille is going to have a very great and long career in the VHL.
 
#14 -Andre Lebastard- 189 TPE
Trending UP, Moderate risk, High potential 
Probably the best Faceoff man in the draft if not the VHLm.Amazing 200-foot player, Fantastic passing IQ and accuracy, Logs Massive minutes and can shut down and play with the league's top lines, needs to work on his strength 
 
#15 - Patrik Laine - 174 TPE
Trending UP, Moderate risk, High potential 
The hottest thing in Houston right now, Laine is one of if not the most active prospects in the pool and is continually opening more and earning a lot of attention and this spot in the rankings. Laine is the most well-rounded prospect ranked to go in the first round with equally strong skating, puck handling, scoring and defensive IQ but still has a long way to go before being  VHL ready anytime soon.
 
 #16 - Mikeal Keef  - 195 TPE
Trending UP, Low risk, High potential
Mikeal will more than likely be playing in the pros next year, whichever organisation is lucky enough to snag this franchise defenceman will be smiling ear to ear when they call his name to the draft stage. The 6’4 205 lb smooth-skating defenceman excels the most in his own end with his jaw-dropping hits. 
 
#17 - Cal Conway - 179 TPE
Trending UP, Moderate risk,  High  potential
With his eye lightning, fast hand speed and reaction time Cal has shown many flashes of stardom. Just look at his numbers and its easy enough with an outstanding .913% Save percentage and almost under 2 Goals against a game at 2.07 GAA.
 
#18 -The Terrible Trivium- 189 TPE
Trending UP, Low risk, Moderate potential
Trivium is built like a truck and if he can turn that weight into muscle he could very well be one of the VHL’s power forward winger for many years to come. His fantastic positioning when backchecking, a total 200-foot player. His Shot is his best asset registering 297 shots on net in 72 games played. 
 
#19 - Oh Sens - 162 TPE
Trending UP, Moderate risk, High potential 
The Japanese sensation and fan favourite in Miami Oh Sens has a well-rounded skill set with his puck handling and powerful shot make him such an exciting winger. Very strong player physically, look for next season to be a breakout for this young man 
 
#20 - Ajay Krishna - 152 TPE
No trend, Low risk, High potential
Ajay was once considered the clear cut safest goalie available after the big 3 all set to be taken in the 1st round. Krishna skill is definitely there and with his reaction time paired with his size, his potential in the crease is sky-high. Ajay had a very strong start to the season with high activity and looked to be a lock for the 1st round however the second half of the season Krishna’s progression noticeably declined. Krishna still has time to prove himself as a 1st rounder if he can return to his early-season progression.
 
#21 - Dakota Lamb - 173 TPE
Trending UP, Moderate risk, High potential
The most skilled Faceoff man in the draft Dakota Lamb has amazing offensive capabilities with his combined skill set of skating puck handling and offensive IQ. Being the most skilled at  FO points doesn't always win you the most Faceoffs, Dakota has to put on some serious strength to turn those skills into an invaluable asset.
 
22- Calvin Harvey - 156 TPE 
Trending down, Moderate risk, Moderate potential 
Calvin Harvey has had a rough go this season in San Diego much like the rest of his marlin teammates, he was peppered with shots and really had no chance to ever develop confidence on the ice. He has very good reaction time and a nice Style control. 
 
#23 - Matty Socks - 161 TPE
Trending UP, Low/ Moderate risk, Moderate potential 
Matty Socks has been playing phenomenal for the Aces all season. Extremely consistent and without a doubt one of the most skilled defensive defencemen in the draft class as well as the entire league. Along with strong offensive IQ and powerful skating. With some filling out in strength and conditioning as well as passing accuracy socks could be another diamond in the rough
 
#24-Kevin King - 145 TPE
N/A, Moderate risk, High potential 
The player with the most intrigue other than John Merrick. Kevin King has only had a short time to prove himself and even with minimal ice time. However, his skills do all the talking. Scoring and defensive IQ are way above most in the class and especially at this position. King has the best faceoffs skills by far in the draft class. With building strength and continuing to progress at this level don't be surprised if Kevin King is a 1st round pick on draft day.
 
#25 - Han Jae Kuk - 132 TPE
No trend, Low risk,  Moderate  potential 
Han was at one point the hottest name on the trade block with his great early start to the season, but just like the marlins did this season, Han Jae looks to have drowned. He is borderline inactive and potentially falling out of the top 40 if that were the case. Jae Kuk’s has incredible defensive abilities and above-average skating, he has the skill and potential the issue is an effort right now.
 
 
#26 - Alec Volchenkov - 156 TPE
Trending UP, Moderate risk, High potential 
Alec Volchenkov is definitely our most interesting and unique player in this draft class and by unique, i am referring to his playing style. Volchenkov is the definition of a Shut down player. His scoring abilities have much work to be done, however, his Faceoffs and defensive play in his own end are above most forward in the VHLM. Volchenkov has the potential to be a lifelong role player in the pros and I could even see him being a team's 1st line Center one day.
 
 #27 - Jesper Norberg - 142 TPE
N/A, Moderate risk risk, High  potential 
Jesper Norberg has come into Vegas hitting the ground running harder than every pair of dice in town combined. This Swedish winger comes over with a diverse skill set highlighted by his IQ in the offensive zone. His passing, puck handling and skating are showing improvements daily along with an impressive build, very strong on his skates.
 
 #28 - Florent Vericel  - 126 TPE
Trending down, High risk, High potential 
The Quick sharpshooting Canadian forward signed early in the season with the newly expanded VHLM franchise in Miami. Florent proved very quickly that he is a consistent and very strong shooter. His shot combined with his speed is by far his best attribute at his ability to find the shooting lanes. Strength along with Puck handling is in need of improvement.
 #29 - Fat Palloon - 122 TPE
Trending UP, Moderate risk, High/ Moderate potential 
Mr Palloon has been on the scouts’ radars from the minute he stepped on the ice with his incredible defensive positioning and willingness to put his body on the line to block shots and passing lanes. Palloon’s season has been somewhat of a roller coaster in terms of production. As of late F.Paloon has made huge strides in his passing accuracy and skating. If he can maintain this progression as of the last two weeks this could be a steal in the draft. Still has a lot of practice to be done over the offseason.
 
#30- Jeremy Lin - 136 TPE
No trend, Moderate risk, Moderate potential 
The once highly touted prospect Lin has fallen and continues to do so, his activity and progression have hit a hard standstill. With his quick and accurate shot combined with his ability to rush the puck up the ice on his own proves lin has the skill. The question mark is consistency.
 
 #31 - Kirishima Wakaro - 134 TPE
No trend, High risk, Moderate/Low potential 
Kirishima went ghost a couple of weeks this season where is progression really hit a standstill. Wakaro is still quite the question mark for scouts with his activity being monitored very closely. Kirishima has shown moments of stardom from the beginning of the season with his defensive and offensive abilities and positioning along with his skating.  
 
 #32 - Rick Osman - 108 TPE
Trending UP, Moderate risk, High potential
Rick Osman the giant on skates and one of the tallest players in VHLM history Rick a massive 53 banked TPE. His activity has been consistent, never capping out but consistent every week and if Rick can use this offseason to diversify his skill set. Right now his defensive IQ is great but he is really lacking a lot of fundamentals at this level, and must really work on those if he's to ever play in the pros.
 
#33 - Gary Rush- 115 TPE:
Trending UP, Moderate risk, Moderate potential 
Good 2-way forward with equally strong offensive and defensive IQ. Showing consistent growth in Skating and puck handling. Needs improvement in the weight room and work on checking 
 
#34- Rocket - 130 TPE
Trending UP, Moderate risk, Moderate potential 
Rocket is a really solid welfare prospect who takes advantage of uncapped opportunities as well. He usually earns 6-8 capped TPE, and whatever uncapped TPE he can get his hands on as well. There’s a good amount of potential in him as a scoring winger, and hopefully, his steady progression keeps up.
 
#35 - Bobbie Cheechoo - 97 TPE
Trending down, High risk, Moderate potential 
A prospect battling with inactivity at the moment, Bobbie Cheechoo is a pure goal scorer with an exceptional combination of skating and a heavy shot. If he can return to form, there’s definitely some potential here.
 
#36 - S Kuchar- 113 TPE
N/A, Moderate risk, Moderate potential
Late season signing with the Lynx after they shipped out their top two forwards Kuchar picked up the slack with ease, averaging almost 4 shots on net per game and registering a point per game. Kuchar is proving he can score in this league 
 
#37 - Empty - 110 TPE
Trending down, High risk, High potential 
Started off very hot in Halifax scoring over 50% of their goals in his first 10 games played. Incredible offensive abilities and very good defensive IQ, his progression however after the WJC has come to a standstill and Empty has become a real question mark going into the draft.
 
 
#38 -Keno Wolf- 99 TPE
Trending down, High risk, Moderate potential 
After showing a promising first three weeks, Keno Wolf has only earned 2 TPE over the last 2 weeks, which is quite worrying. If he comes back, it would be good for him to work on his puck handling, which seems to be a weakness as of today. Being able to claim 6 TPE welfare, Wolf shouldn’t have too hard of a time getting back to where he was just a couple weeks ago; It’s just about finding the time and motivation to stay consistent.
 
#39 - Peekay Soupcan - 88 TPE
Trending down,  High risk, Low potential 
Peekay has recently gone inactive, a promising youngster started off very strong with consistent activity and production, his scoring and skating are his greatest attributes, if Peekay remains on this trend he will be as quiet as his recent activity.
 
#40 - Victor Grachev- 129 TPE 
Trending UP, Moderate risk, High potential
Very Intriguing prospect Victor is a 1st-time VHL User as well as this being his first experience with any Sim League and he hit the ground running! Grachev has used literally every opportunity to earn the most  TPE possible since joining and the effort he has put in so far is incredible, consistency will be the big factor with him. Phenomenal Defensive D-man, very good 1st pass and puck handling knows his role and plays it well. Still needs to fill out his frame and fine touching his overall skill set.
Dont be surprised if he goes in the 1st round - "Spence King"
 
#41 - Ben Mills- 73 TPE
Trending down,  High risk, Low potential 
Pint-sized Ben Mills started off the season strong playing much more minutes in Mississauga. As the season has progressed it seems as if Mills is going to be a Welfare/Practice player only and if that at best with his inconsistency has him trending down. Good defensive skill and potential, fairly well-rounded skill set, his development seems to have just hit a dead end.
 
#42 - Jiggly Gumballs - 122 TPE
N/A, Moderate risk, High potential 
In only 16 games played and being in VHLM for 2 weeks, Jiggly Gumballs has shown signs of greatness and potential stardom. His defensive abilities and positioning in his own end are impeccable and might be the best shot-blocker I’ve ever seen. Very well rounded skill set and sure to skyrocket up the list if this activity trend continues.
 
 
#43 - Wane Jetski - 87 TPE
N/A, Moderate risk, Moderate potential 
Scouts have only had a short time to view Jetski since recently joining the league. His scoring touch and skating abilities are what stand out the most. Still needs work in the defensive end along with his hand-eye puck skills.
 
 
#44 - Theodore James St Louis  - 90 TPE
Trending UP, Moderate risk, High potential 
In his very short time so far in the VHLM Theodore James St Louis has made a great impression on VHL scouts his very well rounded game and truly game-changing ability when he’s on the ice for his team. Much about TJS is still unknown as to what role he will take on, St Louis has a very diverse skill set and could potentially be the steal of the draft if his activity spikes.
 
 
#45 - Teriyaki Chicken  -  TPE 78
Trending down, Moderate risk, Moderate potential 
Teriyaki is definitely one of the smaller D in the league but he is built like a truck. His biggest assets are his Checking and defensive skills, a very good stay at home defence. Needs to really work on his passing and puck handling
 
#46 -Drew Minott - 120 TPE
Trending UP ,  Moderate risk,High/ Moderate potential 
The sky's the limit for this big lanky Goaltender with a very well rounded skill set, the sample size is small so far, Minott continues to show impress scouts more every game. 
 
#47-Joromir Jogr - 107 TPE
Trending down, Moderate risk,  Moderate potential 
Jogr has gone dark for a while, a very fluid skater and knows how to use his body to create scoring chances, very high hockey IQ and shows flashes of greatness. Really need to work on his passing accuracy
 
#48 -Tim Kameshev - 64 TPE
Trending down, High risk, Low potential
Kameshev is almost strictly a practice player as of recently however has shown moments of great potential, his skating is what separates him from his peers. Needs a lot of improvement and a big increase in fine-tuning his entire skillset.
 
 
 
 
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Good day VHL Community and Top of the morning to you, especially to the focus of this article - S73 VHL Draft Class. With S72 having surpassed the 50 games played mark and less than 20 games left it's CRUNCH time. Since we’ve last checked in “VSN’s Top 24 Early Standouts” there has for sure been what some may call chaos, I view it as excitement and more unpredictability. This Draft has some very exciting prospects headlined by MJF @frosty the without question top player of the S73 Draft class Marshall James FrostBeard along with superstar defenceman Tyler Walker and a handful of great goalies in Tonn, Gyrfalcon and Camus all slotted to go 1st round. Along with the unforgettable John Merrick showing flashes of Hall of Fame play as well as a blood relative to the legendary Glade family as VHL players and GM, the youngest highly touted defenceman Shawn Glade III.  
With the recent news of the VHL’s 4-Team Expansion announced for this offseason creates even more variables and “chaos” for Current VHL GM’s; Let the fun begin. From first glance, it’s easy to see this is not the deepest draft class and a major drop nearing round 3.  It's important that I clarify and we are making this clear these “Rankings'' are not a Mock Draft, it is who VSN’s Scouting Department believes are the best picks at each spot without any connections to the teams making the selection nor Positional Value (Pure Rankings). These rankings are based and referring to play progress before the playoffs*
 
The VSN Scouting Department with the amazing crew of scouting experience run @Patrik Tallinder The Director of Scouting and Assistant Director @Spence King have spent countless hours watching every VHLM game travelling across North America and not to mention the passing WJC and now playoffs. A major factor the scouts highly value in a player is consistency (being active weekly/levels of participation) extensively tracking weekly opportunities claimed even as far as the differences between total capped and uncapped TPE earned. VSN scouting Staff are always keeping a VERY close eye on each player’s activity trends and participation in the community.
 
 
Let’s get ready to rumble!
 here are VSN’s S73 Draft Mid Season Player Rankings:
 
#1 - Marshall James Frostbeard- 300 TPE
Trending down, Low risk, High potential 
If anyone is shocked to see the MJF trending “down” is the sole reason that @frostbeard is a VHL GM himself and has his player’s rights protected in the draft and he is the clear cut #1 Overall prospect in this draft.
 
#2 - Tyler Walker - 281 TPE- No trend, Low risk, High potential 
Tyler is the ultimate coaches player, he does everything you ask of him and is always in the right place at the right time, no player other than MJF has shown more consistent growth/Activity and development in their game other than Tyler. Whichever team drafts this young man will be getting a future franchise defenceman that will play MANY games in the VHL and very soon. 
 
#3 - Jacob Tonn-  276 TPE 
No trend, Low risk, High potential 
Jacob Tonn has proven to be a steal for the ages, with the hounds able to draft some great players and snag Tonn in the later rounds is truly unbelievable that any GM let this young man go past the 1st round let alone outside the Top 5. Tonn is having a fantastic season in his draft year proving to have the potential to be a future starter and potentially star goaltender in the VHL
 
#4 - Micah Adrienne - 276 TPE
No trend, Low risk, High potential 
Micah is by far one of the best defenders his age in a long time. Micah is easily one of the leagues top 5 Defensive defencemen with way above average defensive IQ, amazing body checker with terrifying hits combined with his smooth skating and puck handling make him a real contender for the #1 overall pick come draft day. Biggest Flaw is his terrible discipline.
 
#5 - Jeffrey Pines- 240TPE
Trending UP, Low  risk, High potential
 Jeffrey was on a tear after the WJC and really proving the league his playmaking abilities are just as strong and he might actually be a stronger playmaker as well as really fine-tuning his work in the defensive end and proving to be one of the most hated players to play against in the league. Jeffrey has a very bright future in the VHL his potential is sky high and he can fit any role his team needs for him. 
 
 
#6 - Grekkark Gyrfalcon - 228 TPE
Trending UP, Low risk, High potential
Grekkark Gyrfalcon is what some scouts are calling “The safest pick”. This due to the fact that Grekkark is affiliated with the EFL and is guaranteed to cap out with 12 TPE with his EFL Job alone.
 
#7 - Jean Pierre Camus - 217 TPE:
Trending UP, Low risk, High potential 
J=ean Pierre Camus is our third goalie in the top ten and he's there for a reason. JPC may not have the wins like the other goalies but the skill is there and it’s evident. Truly an exciting player to watch. Camus with a record of 18-42-4 is still currently the league leader with the highest Save % of any starting goaltender. His lightning-quick hand speed combined with incredible style and  rebound control and jaw-dropping reaction time
 
#8 - @ShawnGlade III- 213 TPE
Trending down, Moderate risk, High potential 
Shawn is right there with Tyler and Micah in terms of potential. The relative of the legendary Shawn Glade gives us some insight into the hockey blood in this player and his dedication and consistency. Shawns defensive IQ always has him in the right position at the right time. Glade III has an amazing first pass out of the zone to go along with his ability to rush the puck with his strong puck handling and skating abilities.
 
 #9 - Groovy Dood- 206 TPE
Trending UP, Low risk, High potential
Groovy Dude AKA @bigAL The AGM of the new VHLM expansion Franchise the Miami Marauders. Groovy has proven to be extremely active and one of the most consistent draft-eligible players continually increasing his draft stock. Mr Dude is arguably the top playmaker in the draft. His defensive abilities are also what really separates him apart from the other players in this class is his obvious effort and dedication consistently week in and day out and will always give you 110% effort.
 
 
#10 - Kosmo Kramerev- 204 TPE
Trending UP, Low risk, High potential 
Kosmo is in the top 10 of the league scoring not only as a rookie but also as a defenceman. Kramerev so far in 64 games is 1 point shy, sitting at 99PTS and going to hit the 100 PTS plateau as a rookie. The difference between Kramerev and the “Big Three” Walker, Adrienne and Glade is that Kosmo is a much more offensive-oriented defensive player while saying that he does not lack in defensive abilities and has amazing defensive skills.
 
#11 - John Merrick- 179 TPE
N/A, Low   risk, High potential 
John Merrick looks to be a very promising and potential first-line centre in the VHL. Merrick, the User @Steve recently retired unexpectedly Guy LeGrande early and was not expected to recreate LeGrnade had 1177 TPE already and still had 2 seasons to go. That says a lot right there about Merricks potential. Merrick is already proving to be a great 2-way centre, He has the size and strength to go along with his great puck handling and skating abilities.
 
 #12 - Wolf Stansson - 190 TPE
Trending UP, Low risk, High potential 
Wolf Stansson was a hot name on Trade Deadline day, and with that being no surprise. Wolf has proven to be the next name on this list of extremely talented 2-way defenders. Wolf plays with an edge to his game and can really bang bodies on the ice and I mean that literally by an “edge” Wolf has learned to master body checking and cutting off the rush with huge hip checks always making clean hits and is never afraid to sacrifice his body. 
 
#13 - Dan Baillie Jr – 194 TPE
Trending UP, Low risk, High potential
Dan Baille Jr “The Junior Rocket” has been trending up and up all season and the ski is truly the limit for this man. His skating is out of this world and without a doubt the most accurate and quickest shot in the draft, Baille Jr goal and assist totals in SSK do not reflect his skill or potential. Baille is going to have a very great and long career in the VHL.
 
#14 -Andre Lebastard- 189 TPE
Trending UP, Moderate risk, High potential 
Probably the best Faceoff man in the draft if not the VHLm.Amazing 200-foot player, Fantastic passing IQ and accuracy, Logs Massive minutes and can shut down and play with the league's top lines, needs to work on his strength 
 
#15 - Patrik Laine - 174 TPE
Trending UP, Moderate risk, High potential 
The hottest thing in Houston right now, Laine is one of if not the most active prospects in the pool and is continually opening more and earning a lot of attention and this spot in the rankings. Laine is the most well-rounded prospect ranked to go in the first round with equally strong skating, puck handling, scoring and defensive IQ but still has a long way to go before being  VHL ready anytime soon.
 
 #16 - Mikeal Keef  - 195 TPE
Trending UP, Low risk, High potential
Mikeal will more than likely be playing in the pros next year, whichever organisation is lucky enough to snag this franchise defenceman will be smiling ear to ear when they call his name to the draft stage. The 6’4 205 lb smooth-skating defenceman excels the most in his own end with his jaw-dropping hits. 
 
#17 - Cal Conway - 179 TPE
Trending UP, Moderate risk,  High  potential
With his eye lightning, fast hand speed and reaction time Cal has shown many flashes of stardom. Just look at his numbers and its easy enough with an outstanding .913% Save percentage and almost under 2 Goals against a game at 2.07 GAA.
 
#18 -The Terrible Trivium- 189 TPE
Trending UP, Low risk, Moderate potential
Trivium is built like a truck and if he can turn that weight into muscle he could very well be one of the VHL’s power forward winger for many years to come. His fantastic positioning when backchecking, a total 200-foot player. His Shot is his best asset registering 297 shots on net in 72 games played. 
 
#19 - Oh Sens - 162 TPE
Trending UP, Moderate risk, High potential 
The Japanese sensation and fan favourite in Miami Oh Sens has a well-rounded skill set with his puck handling and powerful shot make him such an exciting winger. Very strong player physically, look for next season to be a breakout for this young man 
 
#20 - Ajay Krishna - 152 TPE
No trend, Low risk, High potential
Ajay was once considered the clear cut safest goalie available after the big 3 all set to be taken in the 1st round. Krishna skill is definitely there and with his reaction time paired with his size, his potential in the crease is sky-high. Ajay had a very strong start to the season with high activity and looked to be a lock for the 1st round however the second half of the season Krishna’s progression noticeably declined. Krishna still has time to prove himself as a 1st rounder if he can return to his early-season progression.
 
#21 - Dakota Lamb - 173 TPE
Trending UP, Moderate risk, High potential
The most skilled Faceoff man in the draft Dakota Lamb has amazing offensive capabilities with his combined skill set of skating puck handling and offensive IQ. Being the most skilled at  FO points doesn't always win you the most Faceoffs, Dakota has to put on some serious strength to turn those skills into an invaluable asset.
 
22- Calvin Harvey - 156 TPE 
Trending down, Moderate risk, Moderate potential 
Calvin Harvey has had a rough go this season in San Diego much like the rest of his marlin teammates, he was peppered with shots and really had no chance to ever develop confidence on the ice. He has very good reaction time and a nice Style control. 
 
#23 - Matty Socks - 161 TPE
Trending UP, Low/ Moderate risk, Moderate potential 
Matty Socks has been playing phenomenal for the Aces all season. Extremely consistent and without a doubt one of the most skilled defensive defencemen in the draft class as well as the entire league. Along with strong offensive IQ and powerful skating. With some filling out in strength and conditioning as well as passing accuracy socks could be another diamond in the rough
 
#24-Kevin King - 145 TPE
N/A, Moderate risk, High potential 
The player with the most intrigue other than John Merrick. Kevin King has only had a short time to prove himself and even with minimal ice time. However, his skills do all the talking. Scoring and defensive IQ are way above most in the class and especially at this position. King has the best faceoffs skills by far in the draft class. With building strength and continuing to progress at this level don't be surprised if Kevin King is a 1st round pick on draft day.
 
#25 - Han Jae Kuk - 132 TPE
No trend, Low risk,  Moderate  potential 
Han was at one point the hottest name on the trade block with his great early start to the season, but just like the marlins did this season, Han Jae looks to have drowned. He is borderline inactive and potentially falling out of the top 40 if that were the case. Jae Kuk’s has incredible defensive abilities and above-average skating, he has the skill and potential the issue is an effort right now.
 
 
#26 - Alec Volchenkov - 156 TPE
Trending UP, Moderate risk, High potential 
Alec Volchenkov is definitely our most interesting and unique player in this draft class and by unique, i am referring to his playing style. Volchenkov is the definition of a Shut down player. His scoring abilities have much work to be done, however, his Faceoffs and defensive play in his own end are above most forward in the VHLM. Volchenkov has the potential to be a lifelong role player in the pros and I could even see him being a team's 1st line Center one day.
 
 #27 - Jesper Norberg - 142 TPE
N/A, Moderate risk risk, High  potential 
Jesper Norberg has come into Vegas hitting the ground running harder than every pair of dice in town combined. This Swedish winger comes over with a diverse skill set highlighted by his IQ in the offensive zone. His passing, puck handling and skating are showing improvements daily along with an impressive build, very strong on his skates.
 
 #28 - Florent Vericel  - 126 TPE
Trending down, High risk, High potential 
The Quick sharpshooting Canadian forward signed early in the season with the newly expanded VHLM franchise in Miami. Florent proved very quickly that he is a consistent and very strong shooter. His shot combined with his speed is by far his best attribute at his ability to find the shooting lanes. Strength along with Puck handling is in need of improvement.
 #29 - Fat Palloon - 122 TPE
Trending UP, Moderate risk, High/ Moderate potential 
Mr Palloon has been on the scouts’ radars from the minute he stepped on the ice with his incredible defensive positioning and willingness to put his body on the line to block shots and passing lanes. Palloon’s season has been somewhat of a roller coaster in terms of production. As of late F.Paloon has made huge strides in his passing accuracy and skating. If he can maintain this progression as of the last two weeks this could be a steal in the draft. Still has a lot of practice to be done over the offseason.
 
#30- Jeremy Lin - 136 TPE
No trend, Moderate risk, Moderate potential 
The once highly touted prospect Lin has fallen and continues to do so, his activity and progression have hit a hard standstill. With his quick and accurate shot combined with his ability to rush the puck up the ice on his own proves lin has the skill. The question mark is consistency.
 
 #31 - Kirishima Wakaro - 134 TPE
No trend, High risk, Moderate/Low potential 
Kirishima went ghost a couple of weeks this season where is progression really hit a standstill. Wakaro is still quite the question mark for scouts with his activity being monitored very closely. Kirishima has shown moments of stardom from the beginning of the season with his defensive and offensive abilities and positioning along with his skating.  
 
 #32 - Rick Osman - 108 TPE
Trending UP, Moderate risk, High potential
Rick Osman the giant on skates and one of the tallest players in VHLM history Rick a massive 53 banked TPE. His activity has been consistent, never capping out but consistent every week and if Rick can use this offseason to diversify his skill set. Right now his defensive IQ is great but he is really lacking a lot of fundamentals at this level, and must really work on those if he's to ever play in the pros.
 
#33 - Gary Rush- 115 TPE:
Trending UP, Moderate risk, Moderate potential 
Good 2-way forward with equally strong offensive and defensive IQ. Showing consistent growth in Skating and puck handling. Needs improvement in the weight room and work on checking 
 
#34- Rocket - 130 TPE
Trending UP, Moderate risk, Moderate potential 
Rocket is a really solid welfare prospect who takes advantage of uncapped opportunities as well. He usually earns 6-8 capped TPE, and whatever uncapped TPE he can get his hands on as well. There’s a good amount of potential in him as a scoring winger, and hopefully, his steady progression keeps up.
 
#35 - Bobbie Cheechoo - 97 TPE
Trending down, High risk, Moderate potential 
A prospect battling with inactivity at the moment, Bobbie Cheechoo is a pure goal scorer with an exceptional combination of skating and a heavy shot. If he can return to form, there’s definitely some potential here.
 
#36 - S Kuchar- 113 TPE
N/A, Moderate risk, Moderate potential
Late season signing with the Lynx after they shipped out their top two forwards Kuchar picked up the slack with ease, averaging almost 4 shots on net per game and registering a point per game. Kuchar is proving he can score in this league 
 
#37 - Empty - 110 TPE
Trending down, High risk, High potential 
Started off very hot in Halifax scoring over 50% of their goals in his first 10 games played. Incredible offensive abilities and very good defensive IQ, his progression however after the WJC has come to a standstill and Empty has become a real question mark going into the draft.
 
 
#38 -Keno Wolf- 99 TPE
Trending down, High risk, Moderate potential 
After showing a promising first three weeks, Keno Wolf has only earned 2 TPE over the last 2 weeks, which is quite worrying. If he comes back, it would be good for him to work on his puck handling, which seems to be a weakness as of today. Being able to claim 6 TPE welfare, Wolf shouldn’t have too hard of a time getting back to where he was just a couple weeks ago; It’s just about finding the time and motivation to stay consistent.
 
#39 - Peekay Soupcan - 88 TPE
Trending down,  High risk, Low potential 
Peekay has recently gone inactive, a promising youngster started off very strong with consistent activity and production, his scoring and skating are his greatest attributes, if Peekay remains on this trend he will be as quiet as his recent activity.
 
#40 - Victor Grachev- 129 TPE 
Trending UP, Moderate risk, High potential
Very Intriguing prospect Victor is a 1st-time VHL User as well as this being his first experience with any Sim League and he hit the ground running! Grachev has used literally every opportunity to earn the most  TPE possible since joining and the effort he has put in so far is incredible, consistency will be the big factor with him. Phenomenal Defensive D-man, very good 1st pass and puck handling knows his role and plays it well. Still needs to fill out his frame and fine touching his overall skill set.
Dont be surprised if he goes in the 1st round - "Spence King"
 
#41 - Ben Mills- 73 TPE
Trending down,  High risk, Low potential 
Pint-sized Ben Mills started off the season strong playing much more minutes in Mississauga. As the season has progressed it seems as if Mills is going to be a Welfare/Practice player only and if that at best with his inconsistency has him trending down. Good defensive skill and potential, fairly well-rounded skill set, his development seems to have just hit a dead end.
 
#42 - Jiggly Gumballs - 122 TPE
N/A, Moderate risk, High potential 
In only 16 games played and being in VHLM for 2 weeks, Jiggly Gumballs has shown signs of greatness and potential stardom. His defensive abilities and positioning in his own end are impeccable and might be the best shot-blocker I’ve ever seen. Very well rounded skill set and sure to skyrocket up the list if this activity trend continues.
 
 
#43 - Wane Jetski - 87 TPE
N/A, Moderate risk, Moderate potential 
Scouts have only had a short time to view Jetski since recently joining the league. His scoring touch and skating abilities are what stand out the most. Still needs work in the defensive end along with his hand-eye puck skills.
 
 
#44 - Theodore James St Louis  - 90 TPE
Trending UP, Moderate risk, High potential 
In his very short time so far in the VHLM Theodore James St Louis has made a great impression on VHL scouts his very well rounded game and truly game-changing ability when he’s on the ice for his team. Much about TJS is still unknown as to what role he will take on, St Louis has a very diverse skill set and could potentially be the steal of the draft if his activity spikes.
 
 
#45 - Teriyaki Chicken  -  TPE 78
Trending down, Moderate risk, Moderate potential 
Teriyaki is definitely one of the smaller D in the league but he is built like a truck. His biggest assets are his Checking and defensive skills, a very good stay at home defence. Needs to really work on his passing and puck handling
 
#46 -Drew Minott - 120 TPE
Trending UP ,  Moderate risk,High/ Moderate potential 
The sky's the limit for this big lanky Goaltender with a very well rounded skill set, the sample size is small so far, Minott continues to show impress scouts more every game. 
 
#47-Joromir Jogr - 107 TPE
Trending down, Moderate risk,  Moderate potential 
Jogr has gone dark for a while, a very fluid skater and knows how to use his body to create scoring chances, very high hockey IQ and shows flashes of greatness. Really need to work on his passing accuracy
 
#48 -Tim Kameshev - 64 TPE
Trending down, High risk, Low potential
Kameshev is almost strictly a practice player as of recently however has shown moments of great potential, his skating is what separates him from his peers. Needs a lot of improvement and a big increase in fine-tuning his entire skillset.
 
 
 
 
That's a wrap for our Mid Season VHL Draft Coverage if you enjoyed reading this don't forget to check VSN for regular updates!! We've got A LOT of content being put out almost daily! Don't forget to tune into some of our other amazing material such as - Weekly VHL and VHLM articles. A new feature “Deep Rewind” and learn more VHL history. Keep up with the news in the scouting department getting to know all about the VHL’s Future stars and in-depth look with each VHL Franchise’s prospects pool  @VSN
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@Ninjaboi @FrostBeard @Advantage @Poptart @MexicanCow123
 
 

Good day VHL Community and Top of the morning to you, especially to the focus of this article - S73 VHL Draft Class. With S72 having surpassed the 50 games played mark and less than 20 games left it's CRUNCH time. Since we’ve last checked in “VSN’s Top 24 Early Standouts” there has for sure been what some may call chaos, I view it as excitement and more unpredictability. This Draft has some very exciting prospects headlined by MJF @frosty the without question top player of the S73 Draft class Marshall James FrostBeard along with superstar defenceman Tyler Walker and a handful of great goalies in Tonn, Gyrfalcon and Camus all slotted to go 1st round. Along with the unforgettable John Merrick showing flashes of Hall of Fame play as well as a blood relative to the legendary Glade family as VHL players and GM, the youngest highly touted defenceman Shawn Glade III.  
With the recent news of the VHL’s 4-Team Expansion announced for this offseason creates even more variables and “chaos” for Current VHL GM’s; Let the fun begin. From first glance, it’s easy to see this is not the deepest draft class and a major drop nearing round 3.  It's important that I clarify and we are making this clear these “Rankings'' are not a Mock Draft, it is who VSN’s Scouting Department believes are the best picks at each spot without any connections to the teams making the selection nor Positional Value (Pure Rankings). These rankings are based and referring to play progress before the playoffs*
 
The VSN Scouting Department with the amazing crew of scouting experience run @Patrik Tallinder The Director of Scouting and Assistant Director @Spence King have spent countless hours watching every VHLM game travelling across North America and not to mention the passing WJC and now playoffs. A major factor the scouts highly value in a player is consistency (being active weekly/levels of participation) extensively tracking weekly opportunities claimed even as far as the differences between total capped and uncapped TPE earned. VSN scouting Staff are always keeping a VERY close eye on each player’s activity trends and participation in the community.
 
 
Let’s get ready to rumble!
 here are VSN’s S73 Draft Mid Season Player Rankings:
 
#1 - Marshall James Frostbeard- 300 TPE
Trending down, Low risk, High potential 
If anyone is shocked to see the MJF trending “down” is the sole reason that @frostbeard is a VHL GM himself and has his player’s rights protected in the draft and he is the clear cut #1 Overall prospect in this draft.
 
#2 - Tyler Walker - 281 TPE- No trend, Low risk, High potential 
Tyler is the ultimate coaches player, he does everything you ask of him and is always in the right place at the right time, no player other than MJF has shown more consistent growth/Activity and development in their game other than Tyler. Whichever team drafts this young man will be getting a future franchise defenceman that will play MANY games in the VHL and very soon. 
 
#3 - Jacob Tonn-  276 TPE 
No trend, Low risk, High potential 
Jacob Tonn has proven to be a steal for the ages, with the hounds able to draft some great players and snag Tonn in the later rounds is truly unbelievable that any GM let this young man go past the 1st round let alone outside the Top 5. Tonn is having a fantastic season in his draft year proving to have the potential to be a future starter and potentially star goaltender in the VHL
 
#4 - Micah Adrienne - 276 TPE
No trend, Low risk, High potential 
Micah is by far one of the best defenders his age in a long time. Micah is easily one of the leagues top 5 Defensive defencemen with way above average defensive IQ, amazing body checker with terrifying hits combined with his smooth skating and puck handling make him a real contender for the #1 overall pick come draft day. Biggest Flaw is his terrible discipline.
 
#5 - Jeffrey Pines- 240TPE
Trending UP, Low  risk, High potential
 Jeffrey was on a tear after the WJC and really proving the league his playmaking abilities are just as strong and he might actually be a stronger playmaker as well as really fine-tuning his work in the defensive end and proving to be one of the most hated players to play against in the league. Jeffrey has a very bright future in the VHL his potential is sky high and he can fit any role his team needs for him. 
 
 
#6 - Grekkark Gyrfalcon - 228 TPE
Trending UP, Low risk, High potential
Grekkark Gyrfalcon is what some scouts are calling “The safest pick”. This due to the fact that Grekkark is affiliated with the EFL and is guaranteed to cap out with 12 TPE with his EFL Job alone.
 
#7 - Jean Pierre Camus - 217 TPE:
Trending UP, Low risk, High potential 
J=ean Pierre Camus is our third goalie in the top ten and he's there for a reason. JPC may not have the wins like the other goalies but the skill is there and it’s evident. Truly an exciting player to watch. Camus with a record of 18-42-4 is still currently the league leader with the highest Save % of any starting goaltender. His lightning-quick hand speed combined with incredible style and  rebound control and jaw-dropping reaction time
 
#8 - @ShawnGlade III- 213 TPE
Trending down, Moderate risk, High potential 
Shawn is right there with Tyler and Micah in terms of potential. The relative of the legendary Shawn Glade gives us some insight into the hockey blood in this player and his dedication and consistency. Shawns defensive IQ always has him in the right position at the right time. Glade III has an amazing first pass out of the zone to go along with his ability to rush the puck with his strong puck handling and skating abilities.
 
 #9 - Groovy Dood- 206 TPE
Trending UP, Low risk, High potential
Groovy Dude AKA @bigAL The AGM of the new VHLM expansion Franchise the Miami Marauders. Groovy has proven to be extremely active and one of the most consistent draft-eligible players continually increasing his draft stock. Mr Dude is arguably the top playmaker in the draft. His defensive abilities are also what really separates him apart from the other players in this class is his obvious effort and dedication consistently week in and day out and will always give you 110% effort.
 
 
#10 - Kosmo Kramerev- 204 TPE
Trending UP, Low risk, High potential 
Kosmo is in the top 10 of the league scoring not only as a rookie but also as a defenceman. Kramerev so far in 64 games is 1 point shy, sitting at 99PTS and going to hit the 100 PTS plateau as a rookie. The difference between Kramerev and the “Big Three” Walker, Adrienne and Glade is that Kosmo is a much more offensive-oriented defensive player while saying that he does not lack in defensive abilities and has amazing defensive skills.
 
#11 - John Merrick- 179 TPE
N/A, Low   risk, High potential 
John Merrick looks to be a very promising and potential first-line centre in the VHL. Merrick, the User @Steve recently retired unexpectedly Guy LeGrande early and was not expected to recreate LeGrnade had 1177 TPE already and still had 2 seasons to go. That says a lot right there about Merricks potential. Merrick is already proving to be a great 2-way centre, He has the size and strength to go along with his great puck handling and skating abilities.
 
 #12 - Wolf Stansson - 190 TPE
Trending UP, Low risk, High potential 
Wolf Stansson was a hot name on Trade Deadline day, and with that being no surprise. Wolf has proven to be the next name on this list of extremely talented 2-way defenders. Wolf plays with an edge to his game and can really bang bodies on the ice and I mean that literally by an “edge” Wolf has learned to master body checking and cutting off the rush with huge hip checks always making clean hits and is never afraid to sacrifice his body. 
 
#13 - Dan Baillie Jr – 194 TPE
Trending UP, Low risk, High potential
Dan Baille Jr “The Junior Rocket” has been trending up and up all season and the ski is truly the limit for this man. His skating is out of this world and without a doubt the most accurate and quickest shot in the draft, Baille Jr goal and assist totals in SSK do not reflect his skill or potential. Baille is going to have a very great and long career in the VHL.
 
#14 -Andre Lebastard- 189 TPE
Trending UP, Moderate risk, High potential 
Probably the best Faceoff man in the draft if not the VHLm.Amazing 200-foot player, Fantastic passing IQ and accuracy, Logs Massive minutes and can shut down and play with the league's top lines, needs to work on his strength 
 
#15 - Patrik Laine - 174 TPE
Trending UP, Moderate risk, High potential 
The hottest thing in Houston right now, Laine is one of if not the most active prospects in the pool and is continually opening more and earning a lot of attention and this spot in the rankings. Laine is the most well-rounded prospect ranked to go in the first round with equally strong skating, puck handling, scoring and defensive IQ but still has a long way to go before being  VHL ready anytime soon.
 
 #16 - Mikeal Keef  - 195 TPE
Trending UP, Low risk, High potential
Mikeal will more than likely be playing in the pros next year, whichever organisation is lucky enough to snag this franchise defenceman will be smiling ear to ear when they call his name to the draft stage. The 6’4 205 lb smooth-skating defenceman excels the most in his own end with his jaw-dropping hits. 
 
#17 - Cal Conway - 179 TPE
Trending UP, Moderate risk,  High  potential
With his eye lightning, fast hand speed and reaction time Cal has shown many flashes of stardom. Just look at his numbers and its easy enough with an outstanding .913% Save percentage and almost under 2 Goals against a game at 2.07 GAA.
 
#18 -The Terrible Trivium- 189 TPE
Trending UP, Low risk, Moderate potential
Trivium is built like a truck and if he can turn that weight into muscle he could very well be one of the VHL’s power forward winger for many years to come. His fantastic positioning when backchecking, a total 200-foot player. His Shot is his best asset registering 297 shots on net in 72 games played. 
 
#19 - Oh Sens - 162 TPE
Trending UP, Moderate risk, High potential 
The Japanese sensation and fan favourite in Miami Oh Sens has a well-rounded skill set with his puck handling and powerful shot make him such an exciting winger. Very strong player physically, look for next season to be a breakout for this young man 
 
#20 - Ajay Krishna - 152 TPE
No trend, Low risk, High potential
Ajay was once considered the clear cut safest goalie available after the big 3 all set to be taken in the 1st round. Krishna skill is definitely there and with his reaction time paired with his size, his potential in the crease is sky-high. Ajay had a very strong start to the season with high activity and looked to be a lock for the 1st round however the second half of the season Krishna’s progression noticeably declined. Krishna still has time to prove himself as a 1st rounder if he can return to his early-season progression.
 
#21 - Dakota Lamb - 173 TPE
Trending UP, Moderate risk, High potential
The most skilled Faceoff man in the draft Dakota Lamb has amazing offensive capabilities with his combined skill set of skating puck handling and offensive IQ. Being the most skilled at  FO points doesn't always win you the most Faceoffs, Dakota has to put on some serious strength to turn those skills into an invaluable asset.
 
22- Calvin Harvey - 156 TPE 
Trending down, Moderate risk, Moderate potential 
Calvin Harvey has had a rough go this season in San Diego much like the rest of his marlin teammates, he was peppered with shots and really had no chance to ever develop confidence on the ice. He has very good reaction time and a nice Style control. 
 
#23 - Matty Socks - 161 TPE
Trending UP, Low/ Moderate risk, Moderate potential 
Matty Socks has been playing phenomenal for the Aces all season. Extremely consistent and without a doubt one of the most skilled defensive defencemen in the draft class as well as the entire league. Along with strong offensive IQ and powerful skating. With some filling out in strength and conditioning as well as passing accuracy socks could be another diamond in the rough
 
#24-Kevin King - 145 TPE
N/A, Moderate risk, High potential 
The player with the most intrigue other than John Merrick. Kevin King has only had a short time to prove himself and even with minimal ice time. However, his skills do all the talking. Scoring and defensive IQ are way above most in the class and especially at this position. King has the best faceoffs skills by far in the draft class. With building strength and continuing to progress at this level don't be surprised if Kevin King is a 1st round pick on draft day.
 
#25 - Han Jae Kuk - 132 TPE
No trend, Low risk,  Moderate  potential 
Han was at one point the hottest name on the trade block with his great early start to the season, but just like the marlins did this season, Han Jae looks to have drowned. He is borderline inactive and potentially falling out of the top 40 if that were the case. Jae Kuk’s has incredible defensive abilities and above-average skating, he has the skill and potential the issue is an effort right now.
 
 
#26 - Alec Volchenkov - 156 TPE
Trending UP, Moderate risk, High potential 
Alec Volchenkov is definitely our most interesting and unique player in this draft class and by unique, i am referring to his playing style. Volchenkov is the definition of a Shut down player. His scoring abilities have much work to be done, however, his Faceoffs and defensive play in his own end are above most forward in the VHLM. Volchenkov has the potential to be a lifelong role player in the pros and I could even see him being a team's 1st line Center one day.
 
 #27 - Jesper Norberg - 142 TPE
N/A, Moderate risk risk, High  potential 
Jesper Norberg has come into Vegas hitting the ground running harder than every pair of dice in town combined. This Swedish winger comes over with a diverse skill set highlighted by his IQ in the offensive zone. His passing, puck handling and skating are showing improvements daily along with an impressive build, very strong on his skates.
 
 #28 - Florent Vericel  - 126 TPE
Trending down, High risk, High potential 
The Quick sharpshooting Canadian forward signed early in the season with the newly expanded VHLM franchise in Miami. Florent proved very quickly that he is a consistent and very strong shooter. His shot combined with his speed is by far his best attribute at his ability to find the shooting lanes. Strength along with Puck handling is in need of improvement.
 #29 - Fat Palloon - 122 TPE
Trending UP, Moderate risk, High/ Moderate potential 
Mr Palloon has been on the scouts’ radars from the minute he stepped on the ice with his incredible defensive positioning and willingness to put his body on the line to block shots and passing lanes. Palloon’s season has been somewhat of a roller coaster in terms of production. As of late F.Paloon has made huge strides in his passing accuracy and skating. If he can maintain this progression as of the last two weeks this could be a steal in the draft. Still has a lot of practice to be done over the offseason.
 
#30- Jeremy Lin - 136 TPE
No trend, Moderate risk, Moderate potential 
The once highly touted prospect Lin has fallen and continues to do so, his activity and progression have hit a hard standstill. With his quick and accurate shot combined with his ability to rush the puck up the ice on his own proves lin has the skill. The question mark is consistency.
 
 #31 - Kirishima Wakaro - 134 TPE
No trend, High risk, Moderate/Low potential 
Kirishima went ghost a couple of weeks this season where is progression really hit a standstill. Wakaro is still quite the question mark for scouts with his activity being monitored very closely. Kirishima has shown moments of stardom from the beginning of the season with his defensive and offensive abilities and positioning along with his skating.  
 
 #32 - Rick Osman - 108 TPE
Trending UP, Moderate risk, High potential
Rick Osman the giant on skates and one of the tallest players in VHLM history Rick a massive 53 banked TPE. His activity has been consistent, never capping out but consistent every week and if Rick can use this offseason to diversify his skill set. Right now his defensive IQ is great but he is really lacking a lot of fundamentals at this level, and must really work on those if he's to ever play in the pros.
 
#33 - Gary Rush- 115 TPE:
Trending UP, Moderate risk, Moderate potential 
Good 2-way forward with equally strong offensive and defensive IQ. Showing consistent growth in Skating and puck handling. Needs improvement in the weight room and work on checking 
 
#34- Rocket - 130 TPE
Trending UP, Moderate risk, Moderate potential 
Rocket is a really solid welfare prospect who takes advantage of uncapped opportunities as well. He usually earns 6-8 capped TPE, and whatever uncapped TPE he can get his hands on as well. There’s a good amount of potential in him as a scoring winger, and hopefully, his steady progression keeps up.
 
#35 - Bobbie Cheechoo - 97 TPE
Trending down, High risk, Moderate potential 
A prospect battling with inactivity at the moment, Bobbie Cheechoo is a pure goal scorer with an exceptional combination of skating and a heavy shot. If he can return to form, there’s definitely some potential here.
 
#36 - S Kuchar- 113 TPE
N/A, Moderate risk, Moderate potential
Late season signing with the Lynx after they shipped out their top two forwards Kuchar picked up the slack with ease, averaging almost 4 shots on net per game and registering a point per game. Kuchar is proving he can score in this league 
 
#37 - Empty - 110 TPE
Trending down, High risk, High potential 
Started off very hot in Halifax scoring over 50% of their goals in his first 10 games played. Incredible offensive abilities and very good defensive IQ, his progression however after the WJC has come to a standstill and Empty has become a real question mark going into the draft.
 
 
#38 -Keno Wolf- 99 TPE
Trending down, High risk, Moderate potential 
After showing a promising first three weeks, Keno Wolf has only earned 2 TPE over the last 2 weeks, which is quite worrying. If he comes back, it would be good for him to work on his puck handling, which seems to be a weakness as of today. Being able to claim 6 TPE welfare, Wolf shouldn’t have too hard of a time getting back to where he was just a couple weeks ago; It’s just about finding the time and motivation to stay consistent.
 
#39 - Peekay Soupcan - 88 TPE
Trending down,  High risk, Low potential 
Peekay has recently gone inactive, a promising youngster started off very strong with consistent activity and production, his scoring and skating are his greatest attributes, if Peekay remains on this trend he will be as quiet as his recent activity.
 
#40 - Victor Grachev- 129 TPE 
Trending UP, Moderate risk, High potential
Very Intriguing prospect Victor is a 1st-time VHL User as well as this being his first experience with any Sim League and he hit the ground running! Grachev has used literally every opportunity to earn the most  TPE possible since joining and the effort he has put in so far is incredible, consistency will be the big factor with him. Phenomenal Defensive D-man, very good 1st pass and puck handling knows his role and plays it well. Still needs to fill out his frame and fine touching his overall skill set.
Dont be surprised if he goes in the 1st round - "Spence King"
 
#41 - Ben Mills- 73 TPE
Trending down,  High risk, Low potential 
Pint-sized Ben Mills started off the season strong playing much more minutes in Mississauga. As the season has progressed it seems as if Mills is going to be a Welfare/Practice player only and if that at best with his inconsistency has him trending down. Good defensive skill and potential, fairly well-rounded skill set, his development seems to have just hit a dead end.
 
#42 - Jiggly Gumballs - 122 TPE
N/A, Moderate risk, High potential 
In only 16 games played and being in VHLM for 2 weeks, Jiggly Gumballs has shown signs of greatness and potential stardom. His defensive abilities and positioning in his own end are impeccable and might be the best shot-blocker I’ve ever seen. Very well rounded skill set and sure to skyrocket up the list if this activity trend continues.
 
 
#43 - Wane Jetski - 87 TPE
N/A, Moderate risk, Moderate potential 
Scouts have only had a short time to view Jetski since recently joining the league. His scoring touch and skating abilities are what stand out the most. Still needs work in the defensive end along with his hand-eye puck skills.
 
 
#44 - Theodore James St Louis  - 90 TPE
Trending UP, Moderate risk, High potential 
In his very short time so far in the VHLM Theodore James St Louis has made a great impression on VHL scouts his very well rounded game and truly game-changing ability when he’s on the ice for his team. Much about TJS is still unknown as to what role he will take on, St Louis has a very diverse skill set and could potentially be the steal of the draft if his activity spikes.
 
 
#45 - Teriyaki Chicken  -  TPE 78
Trending down, Moderate risk, Moderate potential 
Teriyaki is definitely one of the smaller D in the league but he is built like a truck. His biggest assets are his Checking and defensive skills, a very good stay at home defence. Needs to really work on his passing and puck handling
 
#46 -Drew Minott - 120 TPE
Trending UP ,  Moderate risk,High/ Moderate potential 
The sky's the limit for this big lanky Goaltender with a very well rounded skill set, the sample size is small so far, Minott continues to show impress scouts more every game. 
 
#47-Joromir Jogr - 107 TPE
Trending down, Moderate risk,  Moderate potential 
Jogr has gone dark for a while, a very fluid skater and knows how to use his body to create scoring chances, very high hockey IQ and shows flashes of greatness. Really need to work on his passing accuracy
 
#48 -Tim Kameshev - 64 TPE
Trending down, High risk, Low potential
Kameshev is almost strictly a practice player as of recently however has shown moments of great potential, his skating is what separates him from his peers. Needs a lot of improvement and a big increase in fine-tuning his entire skillset.
 
 
 
 
That's a wrap for our Mid Season VHL Draft Coverage if you enjoyed reading this don't forget to check VSN for regular updates!! We've got A LOT of content being put out almost daily! Don't forget to tune into some of our other amazing material such as - Weekly VHL and VHLM articles. A new feature “Deep Rewind” and learn more VHL history. Keep up with the news in the scouting department getting to know all about the VHL’s Future stars and in-depth look with each VHL Franchise’s prospects pool  @VSN
| VHLM Weekly | VHL Weekly | Behind The Trophy | 
  @Andre LeBastard @wcats @Mongoose87 @solas @der meister @RStar @Shaka @Dtayl @Hooperorama @Sharkie @dylanjj37 @osens @jman9theman9 @dart @Steve @PatrikLaine @dlamb @fishy @SirRupertBarnes @Mrpenguin30 @IamMOOSE @jpsd @KaleebtheMighty @Dtayl @Snussu @UnkemptCL4PTP @S. Kuchar@JigglyGumballs @G_Rush @DreMin15 @Temppi @aCrypticPancake @Patpou22 @Ben Mills @Hpep @namanert @Nick Kirkpatrick @Sharkstrong @rory @ahockeyguy
@Ninjaboi @FrostBeard @Advantage @Poptart @MexicanCow123
 
 

Hello everyone, and welcome to a brand new series on VSN! In Diamonds In The Rough, we take a look at some of the upcoming draft’s underdogs. This season has had no shortage in underdogs, to say the least. We have an abundance of unique storylines to cover with these players, and we’re excited to see where they fall on their draft day. With the expansion teams coming in for this draft and being underdogs themselves, maybe they take a chance on a player like this. Now, let’s see who it is that we’re talking about.
 
- Ajay Krishna -
G | Ranked #20 in midseason rankings
Ajay Krishna has been one of my personal favourites of this draft class for a little while now. Impressively earning every possible capped TPE available to him so far, the goaltender’s progression to this point is something that can be maintained for as long as he chooses. While he hasn’t capitalized on a crazy amount of uncapped TPE opportunities, he did show a flash of promise just a couple of weeks ago when he posted a week of 30 TPE, 18 being uncapped. His TPE earning habits remind me somewhat of a young Jacques Lafontaine in his draft season, and Lafontaine has unquestionably turned out great for the Wranglers. What makes Krishna an underdog is his total TPE. His 146 TPE places him at 23rd in the draft class, so he has a bit of a hill to climb. You may be asking how his TPE would be so low with his impressive productivity, and the answer lies partially in the newly added late joiner TPE. Krishna joined in a time when the adjustment was not automatic, and he needed to claim it manually. He did not do so, and missed out on 12 TPE. Combining this with his lack of uncapped TPE participation so far, it seems that he is a bit behind right now. The good news is that his outstandingly consistent capped TPE earning makes him a very high potential, low-risk pick in the draft. The uncapped TPE will hopefully come as well, and if that is the case, we could be looking at an extremely valuable goalie prospect.
 
 
- Kevin King -
C | Ranked #25 in midseason rankings
A prospect with almost scary potential, Kevin King has unfortunately fallen victim to poor timing. Joining in the very last week of S73 eligibility, he has found himself in a position where he has a ton of catching up to do. That said, he has not wasted as much as a second so far. Kicking off his career with a week of 46 TPE, King made a statement to the VHL right out of the gate. Pairing that with the second week of 14 TPE where he capped out once again, it becomes apparent that he’s a player who could skyrocket in value over the next few weeks. On the ice, the offence hasn’t come yet for the American forward, but he does have a decent build. His only glaring weakness is puck handling, but that can be ironed out pretty quickly with time. I expect the goal totals to increase a lot really soon, and hopefully, that puts him closer on the radar of VHL GMs. With his late entry into the VHLM, it sparks the question of where he would be if he had joined earlier. Would he be pushing for a spot in the top ten, or even the top five? That said, there is a spectacular amount of talent here, and hopefully, he is able to reach his highest potential.
 
- Alec Volchenkov -
C | Ranked #27 in midseason rankings
SirRupertBarnes is a user who is looking for redemption. His last player, Dimitri Volosenkov, was one of the most exciting prospects of the S66 Draft. Following his top-five selection in the draft, Volchenkov would go on to have a fantastic rookie season with 70 points in 72 games. However, that success would be short-lived, as he would post 21 points the next season and go entirely inactive. This time around, his latest player Alec Volchenkov hopes to prove his reliableness. So far, his TPE production shows that he’s off to a great start, with 74 TPE over 4 and a half weeks, including 50 in the last 2.5 weeks. The Russian is a fantastic two-way player who shows much promise as a playmaker as well. He always finds a way to get the puck to teammates in open ice, which is an incredibly useful skill at both ends of the ice. Especially at a time where the majority of forwards prioritize scoring, his ability to thread the needle will likely be coveted by VHL teams to balance their lineups out a bit more. There’s quite a bit of promise in this player, and I don’t think Volchenkov will burn out as Volosenkov did.
 
- John Merrick -
C | Ranked #11 in midseason rankings
It’s hard to call a first round prospect an underdog, but I think it’s very fitting for John Merrick, given the circumstances. Like King, Merrick entered the VHLM in the last week of S73 eligibility and has not had much time to catch up. I think it is fair to consider him an underdog since had he recreated at last season’s deadline, he may have very well been a contender for a top-three selection, possibly even first overall. The reason I say this is because Steve’s last player, Guy LeGrande, was an S67 player who had already amassed 1177 TPE, which still stands as seventh in his draft class, even with over two weeks since he retired. Merrick is a goal-scoring centre with all the right tools to be successful offensively. His faceoffs could use some work, but he’s still extremely early in his development, so it will likely be improved soon. He has had a quality start to his career with the Mexico City Kings, with 16 points in 26 games. With his rapid improvement presumably continuing for the playoffs, expect him to be a real breakout candidate there. This is undoubtedly an elite prospect, and only time will tell how far he can climb up the rankings before draft day.
 
There are definitely other prospects who have fallen under the radar for one reason or another, but these ones are the most notable ones to me. It’s always fun cheering for the underdog, so make sure to keep an eye on these players around draft time. If you’d like to give some recognition to an underdog of the S73 Draft class, feel free to leave a comment on this article. With that said, we’re all done for this season, but make sure to come back next season for the underdogs of the S74 draft class!
 
One way to follow these prospects is to keep up with VSN’s VHLM content! We’ve got weekly updates for it as well as the big league. Keep an eye out for that, as well as an upcoming mock draft! But really, that’s just the tip of the iceberg with VSN content. We’ve got plenty of diverse content that any member would like. Here’s our latest work:
| VHLM Weekly | VHL Weekly | Behind The Trophy |
 
Players mentioned: @Hooperorama @IamMOOSE @SirRupertBarnes @Steve
 

SS Hornet + 23 Valtteri Vaakanainen + 13 Robin Winter + 13 Latrell Mitchell + 18 Gino DiGiannantonio + 7 General Zod + 11 Andrew Su + 25 Randy Marsh + 7 Jungkok + 10 Alex Letang + 16 Spencer Elsby + 8 Timothy Brown + 8 Lucas Brandt + 14 Chris Hylands + 14 Zamboni Driver + 14 Gregg Stallion + 6 DeFenz Mann + 11 Liam Flaten + 10 Joseph Gainer + 10 Remy Moreau + 10 Jer Lefebvre + 8 Riley Knight Gee + 12 Jay Jones + 10 James Rose + 6 Keith Krestanovich + 10 Ziarie Anigbogu + 16 Bobby Wyman + 8 Adam Frence + 2 Nils Friedriksen + 4 John Poremba + 8 Pietro Angellini + 14 John Brewitt + 10 Cole Newhook + 10 Chance Rust + 10 Arthur Dayne + 14 Michael Hall + 6 Bacon + 6 Turner McHugh + 8 Jared Willis + 10 Alek Andreshnikov + 2 Joakim Lund + 6 Rasmus Raindroplov + 2  
@McWolf @Jubo07 @Sonnet @dasboot @pennypenny @Matt_O @Da_Berr @oilmandan @tfong @Spartan@Spence King @a_Ferk @twists @Hylands33 @Tape-to-Tape @SweatyBeaver @Mike @flatl99 @joeg@Da Trifecta @Jer_Lefebvre @KnightRiley @TTtheT @MattyIce @Boragina @ngine4 @Lefty_S @Kachur@Biggreen10 @CrlineDijohn14 @okifenoki @JBrew42 @GrittyIsKing09 @turkey2349 @Infernal @Hops @Bacon@Turner @Jared Willis @PuckPushers @Bouncyelf @iAreRaindrop

Note: This article was written before the first round of simulations occurring on 6/27/20
 
Hello, and welcome to the first edition of a new season of Under 250: The VHLM Report. In these series, we will be taking a look at the trends and topics from the past week in the VHLM. What twists and turns will our minor league hold? Stay tuned to find out!
 
Make sure to check out the other great work from the greater VSN family! Here are a few handy links to check out, from our weekly podcasts to in-depth history articles, scouting reports, and more! 
 
Ringless | VSN Weekly Review | VSN Australia | Talents Behind The Trophies
 
The Review
 
Another regular season has come and gone, and it is time we head into the playoffs! Who will be crowned this season’s Founder’s Cup Champions? Will it be our Prime Minister’s Cup-winning Minnesota Storm? Or will it be a plucky underdog, taking out the big teams on their route to immortality? You’ll have to stay tuned to find out! Without further ado, let’s dive into our regular season review and see just how the end of the season shook out.
 


The aforementioned Minnesota Storm lead the league as they have for a while now, ensuring the number one overall spot heading into the playoffs. They will be matching up in the first round against the Miami Marauders, who make the playoffs as one of the league-wide wildcard spots. The second overall Saskatoon Wild will go up against the next wildcard of the Ottawa Lynx. Following this is the Theusch Division winners of the Philadelphia Reapers, who will be playing the Mississauga Hounds. The final matchup of the first round will be between the Mexico City Kings and the Las Vegas Aces, two teams which finished with just a point between them, the Kings advancing with their additional three overtime losses, despite their wins being one fewer than the Aces. Missing out on the playoffs we have Halifax 21st, the Yukon Rush, the San Diego Marlins, and the Houston Bulls. Good luck next season!
 
Let’s post the ELO chart one final time, and with those statistics in mind, dive into the first round preview!
 

 

First Round Preview
 
Minnesota Storm (1) vs Miami Marauders (8)
 
Certainly, making the playoffs in their inaugural season is cause for celebration in Miami, but is it crazy to think they have a chance in upsetting Cup contenders in Minnesota? In their regular-season matchups, while the Storm were able to score consistently against the Marauders, Miami also caused Minnesota some trouble of their own, conceding the most goals against of any regular-season series. Granted, there were eight games played against each other compared to some 5 or 7 game series, but ultimately it is clear that the Marauders can do some damage to the solid Minnesota defence, as evidenced by them beating the Storm in 3 of 8 matches. Not a majority, but good enough to not write a surprise victory off! 
 
The Storm relies on a host of depth talent, with top goalscorer in the league Ike Bennet providing a real threat in front of the net. While Bennet is the only member in the top 10 players in the league for points, the whole team produces, as evidenced by their league-leading 345 goals scored. This season, VHLM vet Mickey Dickson has stepped up to the plate, reaching a career-high of 95 points, while defensemen Liam Flaten sits at third in the league for defensemen with 111 points. The Marauders rely on a studded blue line themselves, with Kosmo Kramerev and Wolf Stansson at first and third on their roster for points. They are particularly strong at the centre position, with Dakota Lamb and Andre Lebastard reaching third and sixth in the league for points scored by centres. 
 
Saskatoon Wild (2) vs Ottawa Lynx (7)
 
Our next series will pit the Corcoran Division champions Saskatoon Wild against the Ottawa Lynx. The Lynx finished the regular season last in their division, but their division was the strongest of any, with the highest total points between their three teams. The Wild should feel strong going into this matchup, which they are heavily favoured in after winning all six of their regular-season matchups against the Lynx, including one shootout win. The Wild scored more against the Lynx than any team not named Houston or San Diego, and are looking to continue this trend. 
 
The Lynx are not likely to go down without a fight, but a lot will be riding on their rookie goaltender Ajay Krishna to carry the team as their highest TPA player, after their midseason firesale to Philadelphia. Saskatoon, on the other hand, has a host of top talent, including four players at the cap. Their top centre, Lucas Brandt, will be looking to lead the line along with the team’s highest goalscorer Timothy Brown whose 58 goals is tied for fourth in the league. Tyler Walker is tied for the league lead in assists and is vital in moving the puck around for those scoring opportunities. As shown in the ELO charts, the Wild are top contenders along with Minnesota, as they made up the difference, each with essentially the same ELO by the end of the season. 
 
Philadelphia Reapers (3) vs Mississauga Hounds (6)
 
The Philadelphia Reapers were on a bit of a run there to end the season. With 26 games remaining, they moved for Ottawa’s big stars of Adam Syreck, DeFenz Mann, and Big Chungus, as well as Rich Dickbutt McFudderdudder for some very solid depth, to complement their already star-studded roster. The Reapers have an incredible six capped players and are looking very dangerous on both ends. They have four of the top 10 players in the league for points, including Adam Syreck and Bob Helminen leading the pack with the top two slots, and those two are joined by Big Chungus’s 61 goals, good for second in the league. With all that power it seems difficult for the Mississauga Hounds to mount a challenge, but not impossible.
 
The odds are certainly stacked against them, as the Reapers have shown they can consistently beat the Hounds, winning six times while only losing twice, though each team won once in a shootout. One thing in the Hound’s favour is their own ability to score, and while they might not be exactly favoured in a shooting gallery, it might be their best chance. Other than the Minnesota Storm, the Hounds were the team that scored the most on the Reapers, although they did have three more games to do it in compared to the Aces and Kings, for example. Led by right-winger Michael Mac, the Hounds have a competitive roster, with a lot of balanced scoring options. Their goaltender Jacob Tonn will be very important in seeing how far they can go; the capped netminder had a relatively poor regular season compared to his ability, but if he turns it up in the playoffs the Hounds have the opportunity to go far. 
 
Mexico City Kings (4) vs Las Vegas Aces (5)
 
Finally, we come to the closest out of all the first-round matchups, with the Mexico City Kings taking on the Las Vegas Aces. Despite the Kings maintaining a steady ELO lead, they have never really widened the gap since they split apart around their 45th game of the season. This is the only match in which the lower-seeded team might actually be favoured. Despite the Kings coming away with one more point in the regular season, thanks to their extra overtime losses, the Aces were the team that narrowly took the regular-season matchup. The two teams went three regular time wins apiece, but the Aces took two additional matches in the shootout, giving them a 5-3 edge. Additionally, they scored almost identically, with the Aces once more narrowly taking the lead, 22 goals to 20. 
 
The Kings don’t have many statistical leaders on their team but are built to last with all of their players up and down the roster getting on the score sheet. Chris Hylands is their top guy with 107 points, while their goaltender is Zamboni Driver, a strong performer that is looking to improve on his play in last season’s playoffs that saw his team lose in the second round. Their field general of Viktor Alexei Kamenov is integral to their play, leading the team in assists from the blue line along with Chance Rust on the second pair. The Aces have a little bit more star power, with the top assist man in the league, Alex Letang, leading their blue line (he is tied for first with 94 assists). Gregg Stallion and Jeff Blaze, each with 49 goals, are lethal in front of the net, and will be key in this series. Additionally, the Aces have strong depth options, having attracted a number of midseason signings of players from reputable agencies whose skills will help to even the playing field in the playoffs. 
 
 
That’s all for this edition of Under 250: The VHLM Review. Thank you all for reading, and stay tuned next week for the inside scoop on all that’s going on in the league. Until next time!
 
Players Mentioned: @Caboose30, @Brewins15, @flatl99, @Mongoose87, @ahockeyguy, @dlamb, @Andre LeBastard, @Hooperorama, @twists, @a_Ferk, @Advantage, @Spade18, @Mike, @Ferda, @Weretarantula, @Big Bob, @LastOneUp, @MexicanCow123, @Hylands33, @Tape-to-Tape, @BigTittySmitty, @turkey2349, @Spartan, @SweatyBeaver, @NyQuil
 
VSN Writer Mr_Hatter

VHLM FZ is for VHLM players.
VHL FZ is for everyone.

1). I'm not surprised by this. The Reapers are rolling and look like an amazing team out on the ice. We work hard and will continue to put our best efforts out on the ice until we win the cup.
2). Bob Helminen is always vocal in the locker room and pushes us to win. He's very adamant on winning it all this year, and seeing that fire in practice everyday is really motivating.
3). Well, being that I am Victor, I would like to turn this around and thank the organization for giving me the opportunity to join the team when I did. Everyone here has been really great and I have had a lot of fun being a Philadelphia Reaper!
4). Although I do want to improve my draft stock, the more important thing for me is to win the cup this year with the Reapers. That's my main focus.
5). Some of that chili landed in my skates. I had to spend like an hour trying to rinse it out and get rid of the smell. But definitely a highlight in the locker room this year, what an entrance.
6). I felt that the Reapers were going to be my best chance at learning from talented individuals and bettering myself as a player. I still feel that they are and I continue to improve everyday with this organization.

1) Lies the Buffalo Bills are the best team with the best fans.
2)  DMaximus: Reaper's Overlord & GM
3) I haven't spent any time personally talking to Victor but reminds me of myself at the start of sim leagues bright eyed and bushy tailed.
4) I've cleared the 250 TPE a few weeks back so definitely end of VHLM Career.  It has been short and sweet 2 seasons have flown bye.  I'm hoping for another cup win get that repeat.
5) What? lol
6) Best part about the Reaper LR is they don't bother me.  Dmaximus overlord and GM gave me my requested corner locker-room by the exit door.  I'm the last one to arrive to practice each day and the first one to leave.  You won't see me showering in the locker-room.  I get in and get out.
 

The Reapers have clearly gone ALL IN trading for SUPERSTARS over the weekend with a flurry of trades Including THREE players/Teammates from Ottawa in the Top 10 VHLM Scoring Leaders. Philly brought over 2 players from last years VHLM 1st All Team, First of all the current league leader in PTS Adam Syreck and first player in S72 to crack the 100 PTS Plateau. As well as fetching debatably leagues most pure sniper the only player that has as many goals as our Captain Big Bob Helminen The man, The Myth,The Legend ”Big Chungus” Along arguably the best Defenceman in the M, also S71 VHLM 2nd All Team a lock for Defenceman of the year Ballot The Legendary “Defenz Mann”. Lastly But definitely not least "Rich-Dickbutt Mcfudderdudder" a VHLM Vet going into his last season (RDM and Mann are both in the top 10 for Shots Blocked). With all of these new faces in the LR who has made the biggest impression on you and expand on that ?
I'd have to say that Adam Syrek has made the biggest impression on me, mainly because of his great tips for both playmakers and snipers. He's got the best of both worlds!
 
After the Trade Deadline passed Philadelphia has clearly gone made their intentions clear with picking up 4 players from last years playoff Champions for this season their goal is obvious and that’s nothing other than raising the founders cup. Where you surprised by the and the big moves if so , please explain ? and if you were a player in that trade what were your first feelings after hearing the news?
I can't say I'm too surprised. We've got incredible managerial staff, and there were already some superstars on this team, so it would make sense to make a push for the cup. 
 
With the VHLM being so widely spread across North American. Which team do you least look forward to the road trip and what is it you hate the most about the commute/City/Arena?
Defiantly Ottawa. Because they won the cup last year, their fans still "think they're the best", and to be honest, they get pretty violent.
 
AGM Spence King made his First official Trade and First Official Waiver signing as Front office in the VHLM. What are your thoughts on Mr.Kings philosophies and any specific personality traits we should know of?
He seems like a great guy, and seems to know what he's doing in the front office. Can't wait to see how far your career will take you, buddy!
 
We have made it to the 3rd place in the standings, as of late the wins are still coming however we have had 3 Shootouts in the last 10 games. Are you a fan of the Shootout if not why? Who is the best Shootout Specialists on the team in practice?
I'm indifferent with the shootout. While I like to see the filthy dangles, it also gives our opponent a chance to gain an extra point when they inevitably lose.
 
Philadelphia is known for many things most commonly the obvious Philly Cheese Steak (And the Reapers duh) however Philadelphia has produced dozens on Celebrities, Musicians, Comedians and Sports Stars. Which Philadelphia Native do you Admire the most?
I don't really admire anyone. And I don't really know anyone born in Philadelphia, so I don't think I can answer this question properly. 

1) Well seeing as I'm one of these players and I've already been with the Lynx Squad it has to be one of the newer players.  Maybe Adam Syreck.
2)  From a dynasty overall sort of perspective I was hoping Lynx could repeat.  Things didn't look like they were headed that way though so I'm glad I was trading to a team aggressively trying to win.
3)  Miami that heat & humidity plus that town is not my scene.
4)  Don't know that I've really met or talked to him much yet.
5)  I'm a big fan of shootouts in reality but not as much when it is us with the chance to lose.  I'd like to think I'm the best shootout specialist in practice but that's probably not the case.
6)  Kind of a fake here in Benjamin Franklin.  He was born in Boston but spent a lot of his life in philly and more well known for that.

Earlier today, VHLM rookie Kevin Malone was told by his GM that he would be making his first career start, and first with his hometown team, the Philadelphia Reapers. Hailing from Scranton, PA, Philadelphia was the obvious choice for Mr. Malone, as he has always been a huge Philadelphia fan. Kevin has spent a lot of time in the training room, and has decided to allocate his initial tpe to rebound control and different reaction times. 
 
While Kevin understands that as a rookie goaltender he will not get much playing time, he is excited to be a part of one of the VHLM's best teams. He hopes to provide a spark to the team with his world famous chili, that is if he doesn't spill it on the floor on his way to the locker room this time. 
 
I need a few more words so I would like to give my affection to victor because he is the best person ever and I love him

@Ketchup
 
Not necessarily my best work, but this is my Theme Week submission. This one is for Heinz "Ketchup and Mustard" Gunnarsson.

I just got here a couple of days ago, so I don't know everyone yet, but I heard great things about everyone listed. Hoping to get to know everyone a little bit more over the next two weeks.
 
 
I was excited to see all of the moves that the Reapers made, and it was part of the reason I made the decision to sign here. I'm only going to play a minor role, but I'm hoping we can win the Founder's Cup!
 
 
Easy - Mexico City. It's so far away, and it's so HOT there. I can't stand the heat.
 
 
Well, he signed me, so he must know what he's doing! Good luck moving forward Spence!
 
 
The shootout is fine in the regular season. I wish we had 3 on 3 OT like the NHL does, because it makes more games end in OT, but the way we do it is still OK.
 
Vince Papale - a true rag to riches story about a man who tried out for the Eagles and made the team as a special teams player.

It's SHOWTIME !! Season 72 is well underway and it's time to start looking at the biggest early standout players who are eligible for the S73 VHL Draft. This list is stockpiled with some VERY strong talent all the way from 24-1.
 
Analysts at first believed this might be a weaker draft class than S72 however the players are proving that very wrong with over a dozen draft-eligible players averaging over a point a game and some in the top 10 for scoring. This draft will be one for the history books that’s for sure. As we all know though there are lots of hidden gems still hiding in the rough that are just about to shine as well. 
 
 
Now let's get business; Here are the following Top 24 Early Standouts of the S73 VHLM season (This includes only players from when the data had last been updated, which was the week of 5/31. *) The Following rankings are from our amazing VSN Director of Scouting @Patrik Tallinder and myself @Spence King.
 LET’S GET READY TO RUMBLE
24. Florent Vericel; User: @dart (Left Wing) | 5' 11" | 183 lb. | Age: 17 |  | 
Vericel is part of the very deep and strong S73 VHL prospect pool in Miami. This sophomore class is loaded and lots of players are also on this list. Florent has made a recent jump in activity after being very quiet after being drafted to the M, however, he has shown effort putting up back to back 16 TPE weeks. 
 
23. Jeremy Lin; User: @jman9theman9 (Right Wing) | 6' 2" | 200 lb. | Age: 18 | |
Jeremy has not had the start we're all sure he expected however it seems that recently Lin has a major increase in confidence on the ice and is really starting to come into his own. Recently Traded To Mexico, and Shortly after named to Team Asia, a very consistent player the numbers are going to come
 
22. Oh Sens; User @osens (Right Wing) | 5' 10" | 211 lb. | Age: 17 |  | 
The second player on this list that is flooded with prospects from Miami's S72 VHLM draft class. Oh Sens was recently named to Team Asia for the upcoming WJC. Oh sens has made a major increase in production recently with much more activity garnering himself some invaluable TPE proving and proving his growth and effort on the ice as well.

 
21. Rick Osman; User: @dylanjj37 (Defenceman) | 6' 8" | 250 lb. | Age: 18 |  | 
After winning the VHLM’s award for a top defenceman with Alex Armstrong, dylanjj37 has moved on to his second player, Rick Osman. Also a defenceman, Osman is a very peculiar prospect. He has earned 6-8 TPE in every full week so far but has not made use of much of it. With 98 TPE and only 55 TPA, he definitely isn’t playing to his full potential right now. The Halifax defender isn’t a perfect prospect, but a really intriguing one nonetheless, especially if he can sort out his build.
 
20. Bobbie Cheechoo; User: @Sharkie (Right Wing) | 6' 1" | 215 lb. | Age: 18 | |
American winger Bobbie Cheechoo is an offensive powerhouse, with outstanding speed and scoring instincts. He had a very active first three weeks, putting up a total of 42 TPE, but has since seen a drop in activity over the past week. Cheechoo could be a quality prospect with just a little more consistency, and working on his defensive game a bit.
 
19. Ajay Krishna; User: @Hooperorama (Goalie) | 6' 8" | 220 lb. | Age: 16 | |
With the number of high-profile goalie prospects this season, it has become easy for a first-generation goalie such as Ajay Krishna to fall off the radar a little. However, Krishna has been developing steadily and swiftly, earning every possible capped TPE so far in his young career. A tad more engagement in uncapped opportunities could go a long way for the massive goaltender but isn’t necessarily essential to his success. What he’s doing to earn TPE can be replicated each and every week, which is an encouraging sign.
 
18. Han Jae Kuk; User: @Dtayl (Defenceman) | 6' 0" | 175 lb. | Age: 18 | |
Following a trade to the Marlins, Han Jae Kuk has seen his on-ice production go up with increased ice-time. The South Korean prospect is a much more defensive-minded defender but has proven his ability to make solid offensive contributions as well. After a hot start earning 26 TPE in his first week, he has since found a groove of claiming welfare and practice facility each week, most commonly resulting in a total of 8 TPE due to his activity in the SBA. He could become a nice piece for a VHL team down the line if he keeps up his current pace.
 
17.Groovy Dood; User: @bigAL (Left Wing) | 6' 1" | 190 lb. | Age: 25 | |
After bigAL was named Miami’s first-ever assistant general manager, Groovy Dood has rapidly progressed into one of this draft’s top prospects. Between his AGM position and being one of S72’s WJC GMs, he has wasted no time in making a name for himself. Dood is a playmaking left-winger with experience at the center as well. In terms of earning TPE, he has been growing a lot. Lately, he has been capping out pretty often and making the most of the league’s uncapped opportunities too. There is honestly a ton of potential with this player, and only time will tell if he reaches it to the fullest.
 
16. Cal Conway; User: @Shaka (Goalie) | 5' 10" | 180 lb. | Age: 20 |   |
5’10” goaltender Cal Conway has found himself as the backup for the incredibly successful Saskatoon Wild, behind fellow S73 prospect Grekkark Gyrfalcon. He has excelled in that role, putting up the league’s best save percentage among goalies with more than 10 games played. His weekly TPE output has varied quite a bit from week to week but has never fallen below 6 in any given week to date. Like bigAL, he is also one of this season’s WJC GMs. His status as a backup may make Conway easy to overlook, but don’t make that mistake; he is definitely someone to keep an eye on ahead of the draft.
 
15. Mikeal Keef; User: @RStar (Defenceman) | 6' 4" | 205 lb. | Age: 19 |  |
Mikeal Keef of the Minnesota Storm is a fantastic puck-moving defenceman with a skill set that allows him to thrive in any situation on the ice. His stats are consistently nice across the board, displaying no flaws in his game. His TPE production has relied somewhat heavily on uncapped opportunities, which could become a bit of an issue if those dry up. However, that hasn’t happened yet, and as long as he stays active, he will surely find ways to earn those precious training points. I like his potential and think he could be quite the prospect with steady improvement.
 
14. The Terrible Trivium; User: @der meister (Right Wing) | 6' 1" | 197 lb. | Age: 23 | |
Our second straight member of the Storm, The Terrible Trivium is an exceptional possession winger with some quick hands and feet that allow him to keep the play moving forward. He has also shown an offensive flair in his game, with almost a point-per-game average to show for it. Having had a very successful career with Casey Jones, der meister has proven himself to be a strong candidate to make a star forward this time around.
 
13. Jean Pierre Camus; User: @solas (Goalie) | 6' 8" | 250 lb. | Age: 19 | |
Teenage netminder Jean Pierre Camus has had quite the season so far, playing at an elite level for the ninth place Rush. Camus is second to only Woody McPine in save percentage among starters and has done that on a much weaker team. He has been capping out recently, as well as engaging in uncapped opportunities as well. This is a goalie with tremendous upside, and he could end up being a huge steal if the amount of great goalies in this draft causes him to fall at all.
 
12. Kosmo Kramerev; User: @Mongoose87 (Defenceman) | 6' 2" | 165 lb. | Age: 39 | |
Kosmo Kramerev is a Ukrainian defenceman who is fantastic with the puck on his stick. He has an arsenal of weapons in the offensive zone, all stemming from his hard shot and smooth skating. The potential to be an all-situations defender at the VHL level is there, and all it will take is time and consistency. Kramerev earns 10 capped TPE most weeks, along with whatever uncapped TPE is available too. The 39-year-old is already making noise in the VHLM with his 19 goals and 61 points in 42 games, and this is just the beginning of what’s to come.
 
11. Dan Baillie Jr; User: @wcats (Right Wing) | 6' 4" | 225 lb. | Age: 19 | |
S70 Continental Cup champion Dan Baillie had his career come to an end in S71, but now wcats looks to capture that same success and more with Dan Baillie Jr. The new Baillie has jumped to the right-wing, opposite of the man before him. He is about as consistent as they come in earning TPE, always claiming welfare, and often attending press conferences and trivia. Baillie Jr likely won’t be your team’s superstar but is nearly guaranteed to be a really solid part of your forward core.
 
10. Andre Lebastard; User: @Andre LeBastard (Center) | 6' 3" | 202 lb. | Age: 18 | |
The captain of the VHLM’s newest expansion franchise, Andre Lebastard is a playmaking centre who possesses a remarkable vision and a quick stride. He is inches away from a point-per-game average and will reach it by season’s end in all likelihood. Lebastard is on a good path right now, regularly earning 12+ TPE per week, with one recent exception. If he’s still in Miami next season, it will be fun to see him lead a group which contains many names in this list, en route to what they hope will be a deep playoff run.
 
9. Wolf Stansson; User: @ahockeyguy (Defenceman) | 6' 2" | 184 lb. | Age: 17 | |
Coming over from Great Britain the feisty defender Wolf Stansson was selected by the expansion Miami Marauders. Miami is currently is a major rebuild phase but it looks to be working having a strong sophomore group locked up for the S74 season leading the way along with team captain Lebastart, Stansson proves every night he's here to play and you can't watch the game without noticing and saying “who is that“. His activity has been consistent and shows the potential of being a star at the next level maintaining this rate of activity in the community. VHL scouts describe Stansson’s play as a style that all coaches love, his name is the best way to describe it. He truly is a Wolf, you never see him take a shift off and he's the player you love to play with and hate to play against.
 
8. Jeffrey Pines; User: @rory (Left Wing) | 5' 10" | 158 lb. | Age: 18 | |
Finally, we have our next forward on the list, even though it's at eight don't be fooled this draft class has some serious future hall of famers and Pines without a doubt has the potential to be one of those men. If it were not for the once in a generation player like Frostbeard, Pines would be the without a doubt first forward pick and is truly a legitimate contender to be selected #1 overall on draft day. Assistant VHLM GM. Extremely active along with some great graphic skills, Jeffrey Pines has proven early he knows how to score and continues to prove he knows how to put the puck in the net and where to be and when, his hockey IQ is off the charts, Pines has the skill, the IQ and the effort. The sky's the limit and Pines has a very bright future ahead
 
7. Viktor Mjers; User: @InstantRockstar (Defenceman) | 6' 1" | 188 lb. | Age: 17 | |
The Second VHLM GM in this draft and the 3rd of the trio of Superstar Defensemen available in this draft Viktor is continuously showing major improvements in his game from week to week. In a league with very little Russian presents and a very foreign country, Mjers stepped into the league looking like an 8-year vet. Viktor has the potential to be the best offensive defenceman of this draft class, he has shown signs of extreme finesse and poise, very reliable and high energy free-wheeling type of play. His poise and calmness with the puck are amazing. Truly the definition of a 2 way D and a great leader. 
 
6. Grekkark Gyrfalcon; User: @Sharkstrong (Goalie) | 6' 8" | 230 lb. | Age: 27 | |
Whichever team drafts this superstar goaltender won't have any worries about activity as he is strongly affiliated with VHLs Partner the EFL Grekkark  can claim 12 TPE welfare for his position in the EFL, That guarantees he caps out every week.
 
5. Shawn Glade III; User: @ShawnGlade (Defenceman) | 5' 11" | 175 lb. | Age: 18 | |
After a very strong start to the season playing almost impeccable hockey and shining. Recently selected as a rookie to S73 Team Canada WJC where he is proving he fits right in.  Relative to the legendary Shawn Glade could potentially dethrone Micah as the top d in the S73 class as Shawn has the highest ceiling of any play in this draft, currently in the top 10 in D scoring in the VHLM (Glade is proving the apple doesn't fall far from the tree)
 
4. Jacob Tonn; User: @MexicanCow123 (Goalie) | 5' 5" | 140 lb. | Age: 22 | |
 Jacob Tonn was by far the biggest name and most highly touted goalie going into the S72 VHLM draft, but to everyone's surprise, no one was taking goalies and Tonn slipped to Mississauga at 18th OVR !!) -Maybe it was his size that turned teams off? However, they made a mistake letting him slip that far Tonn is and has always remained extremely active in the community (Working as VHLM GM) Tonn Has the Potential to be a Superstar Starting Goalie in the VHL one day 
 
3. Micah Adrienne; User: @Poptart (Defenceman) | 6' 6" | 250 lb. | Age: 16 | |
“Micah is one of the league best defencemen already at age 16, he came onto the scene late last season with The Reapers and was one of the best defencemen on the team immediately. Adrienne will without a doubt be a top 5 pick come a draft day”
 
2. Tyler Walker; User: @Advantage (Defenceman) | 6' 2" | 197 lb. | Age: 18 | |
“The legitimate #1 (consider "@Frostbeard is protected) Player who is most likely to have his name called first on draft day, Nothing short of a generational talent and future franchise defenceman. Walker possesses all the skills needed to be a star defenceman in the VHL and he has shown in his very short time in the VHLM, he's not here for long. Tyler has proven to be one of the best prospects out of the VHLM and will be playing in the VHL before you can blink”
 
1.Marshall James Frostbeard; User @FrostBeard (Left Wing)  | 6' 5" | 240 lb. | Age: 24 | | Marshall James Frostbeard aka MJF, the first thing that comes to mind when you see him play is “WOW” This young man is on pace and on the path to being one of the VHLs all-time greats. @Frostbeard has the protection rights to his own player in the VHL draft meaning MJF will more than likely NOT even be the first overall pick. Marshall has basically entered the league as a top 5 player in the league (Arguably the best in the whole league) and the VHL and VHL scouts have very good reasons why the report is long here are some key points highlighted;  A born goalscorer, always finds the back of the net, his leg strength and stamina allow him to be first on the puck and many times be the first guy back, but can also use his deceptive speed to split the defence carrying the puck
 
Here we are and with that comes the conclusion of our Top 24 Early Standouts. Be on the lookout for our next piece coming out in the near future focusing on the waiver players that have surpassed some of our early standouts as well as checking in with some players from this list and tracking their development.
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1) Well, I'm also a new face, having just recreated and signed with Philly. It might be cliche, but Dmaximus, the GM, has really made the biggest impression on me. I definitely feel like I made the right choice.
 
2) Honestly, I'm surprised hearing it now. I took a brief hiatus from all-things VHL and just wanted to sign with my hometown club. I didn't consider that we were really in such a good spot to compete.
 
3) Between Mexico City and San Diego. I hate the heat.
 
4) Seems like a nice guy. I'll let you know.
 
5) I've liked shootouts. Unpopular opinion, I know, but I think they're fun. I'll let you know once I get a few practices under my belt here.
 
6) Me I'm from here. I respect Kobe Bryant (RIP) a crap ton, considering he went to a high school that my school often played in sports (with a huge age difference, ofc). 

1). Of the recent trades, Defenz Mann. An absolute force on the blue line that, as a young gun, I can model my game after and observe him to get better. It's great to learn from someone with such an incredible work ethic that leads the team as the best D-man.
2). I sure was. After I signed with Philly, hearing the blockbuster trades we made was surprising but incredible. It was one of the reasons I signed as a waiver pickup; I wanted to walk into a team determined to win it all.
3). Regarding distance and climate, Mexico City. It's hot, it's incredibly far away, and I'm very out of my element there in that arena. The fans in Mexico City are ruthless, you definitely know you're on the away team there.
4). From my understanding, I think I was that first official waiver signing. I was very impressed with his professionalism and his drive to pursue players to help this team succeed. I am thrilled I signed with the Reapers and do not regret that choice in any way.
5). I don't mind it, I get the arguments for only overtime and including the shootout. It gives a chance for the goalies and players to duel which can be thrilling for the fans. Out of the games I've been a part of, Adam Syreck has been incredible to watch both in practice and during those two shootouts I was on the bench for.
6). I love Kevin Hart. He can really be hilarious and I enjoy seeing his comedy routines and movies!

FINAL UPDATE: Donations have been submitted to both the ACLU and Spirit North. I want to take this time to once again thank everyone for their generosity, and express how proud we are of the community as a whole.
 
The Community perks (Doubles Week + 5 Uncapped TPE) for hitting our goals of $500 and $2000, respectively, will be claimable until the end of Season 73 Theme Week.