Early Look at Potential Sleepers | S67 Draft [2/2]

[Sullvino 289]

Potential Sleepers in the S67 Class

 

 

Today, we’re going to begin a series of draft-related content for the S67 Entry Draft. While I acknowledge we are very early in the process and a lot can happen between now and draft day, it is never too early to take a look at the class in more detail. The theme of this week is going to be an early look into some of the potential sleepers in the class. All players that are ranked below the Top-20 in the S67 Live Rankings as of today were eligible for consideration.  Let’s take a look at the Top-5.

 

Lincoln Tate – D – San Diego Marlins @Lincoln Tate

The first on the list is a 6’5 defenseman from the San Diego Marlins, Lincoln Tate, who has burst onto the scene since signing his VHLM contract with the Marlins. When scouts describe Tate, they all say the same thing: a smooth, two-way right shot defenseman. Watching Tate play is magic, the way he can skate with the puck and distribute around him is extremely impressive.  Tate has played 13 games so far this season and has tallied 4 goals and 18 assists, which puts him at Top-3 in the VHLM for points for defensemen behind only Hulk Hogan and Kevin Low. We have Tate labeled as a sleeper for now, but he is beginning to garner national attention and we would not be surprised if he was a high draft pick when that day comes.

 

Henrik Zoiderberg – LW – Mexico City Kings @HenrikZoiderberg

Swedish winger Henrik Zoiderberg has also been beginning to open eyes around the league. Zoiderberg is a playmaking, slick winger for the Mexico City Kings who also provides his team with sound defensive hockey. When paired with a high-scoring linemate, he can really make magic happen. Scouts have been raving about his two-way game and overall leadership in the locker room since he has joined the VHLM.  Zoiderberg was not eligible for the VHLM Dispersal Draft, but instead signed a one-year deal with Mexico City. In his 19 games played so far he has put up a 3-6-9 stat line. At it’s face, these stats will not “wow” anyone, but when looking at Zoiderberg you have to consider the complete player and room for growth. Both of which positives for the Swede.

 

Derek England – D – Mexico City Kings @PenKnight

The second Mexico City Kings player to make the list is defenseman Derek England. England was drafted 31st overall in this past S66 VHLM Dispersal Draft and ever since then has been very impressive on and off the ice. The Russian-born defenseman checks all the boxes from a mental standpoint. He has a strong team-first mentality and very high hockey IQ. Scouts also have been excited about his offensive potential. Similar to Lincoln Tate, he can move very well with and without the puck. His 2 goals and 12 assists are good for second on his team amongst defenseman, but he is just now hitting his groove in the VHLM. Look for him to continue to skyrocket up draft boards as the season progresses.

 

R.J. Lloris – RW – Las Vegas Aces @RJMW

Undrafted free agent R.J. Lloris comes in at number four on this list. The Canadian-born winger possesses natural goal scoring talent, period. He previously played in the Quebec Major Junior Hockey League before joining the VHLM and shattered team records in his time there. To compliment his goal scoring touch, he also plays the game like a Tasmanian Devil, which can be a real treat to watch. Lloris was signed by the Las Vegas Aces during the season and despite their recent struggles, Lloris has been able to develop his game in a positive way. While still a very raw prospect, we like his trajectory if he continues to work hard on and off the ice.

 

Berocka Sundqvist – LW – Mississauga Hounds @berocka

Rounding out our list is an Australian winger from the Hounds, Berocka Sundqvist. This kid has a very interesting background as he was a youth star in Australian-rules football prior to his hockey career. This background has laid the foundation for the player he is today and hopefully will become in the future. Scouts are intrigued by his skill-mix. He plays a very physical game and at high-pace, but he also has a very good hands as well. The Hounds have been a middle of the pack team to start the season and Sundqvist has found himself playing primarily third line minutes. We think that if he continues to develop and progress, he could start to see some Top-6 and special teams minutes. Berocka could be a mid-round steal.

[Motzaburger 1,590]

I feel ripped. Last week was top 40 now top 10. Ultimate sleeper. 

Edited May 21, 2019 by Motzaburger

[Sullvino 289]

13 minutes ago, Motzaburger said:

I feel ripped. Last week was top 40 now top 10. Ultimate sleeper. 

 

you're too good now 

[PenKnight 23]

Wow! You make me look great! Thanks!!

[Gustav 6,405]

@Sullvino you're absolutely right about Berocka and you may be the first on the site (other than myself, obviously)  to notice he's picked up quite a bit. Keep up the great work!

[Berocka 2,263]

Thanks @Sullvino but I am much happier flying under the radar. 

[fonziGG 1,068]

Review:

 

Great follow up on some sleepers in this draft. I'm excited to see where some of these guys go in the draft at the end of the season.

[ConnorMcdavid 180]

Review:

@Sullvino nice article although I feel I should at minimum have been listed as an honourable mention here.. consistently climbing the rankings, max earning and very active. I may not get drafted the highest but whoever does will be getting a stud

Edited May 30, 2019 by VanCanWin