Admirals Crew

With the 2010 NHL Entry Draft just  a few weeks ago, newly minted Predators prospects may find themselves moving up and down the Nashville farm system, some making extended stays in the Milwaukee area.  Any player selected by the Nashville brass faces the very real possibility of donning an Admiral uniform at some point, particularly a younger player not ready for the high speed of the NHL or the grindingly extensive schedule.  Here’s a look at the first few rounds of prospects hoping to eventually become valuable assets to the Predators organization.

Round 1, Pick 18:  Austin Watson, Left Wing, Peterborough (OHL) – Watson is a gritty player on the offensive and defensive end.  His strong hands give him an authoritative shot, but he still has touch on the pass.  Watson plays an aggressive game, finishing checks and unafraid of lying down in front of the puck.  As a middle of the first round selection, it is likely Watson may bypass minor league affiliates jumping straight to the big league roster.

Round 3, Pick 78:  Taylor Aronson, Defenseman, Portland (WHL) – Aronson is relatively raw defensively, still relatively new to the position as compared to other prospects, but the talent and effort is certainly there.   Aronson is a very heady player, quickly reading the puck, discerning the situation and making the right decision.  His lack of experience is often offset by great instincts on the ice.  This pick provides value on both ends of the ice, with Aronson proving offensively and defensively capable, versatile enough to see the ice on the power play, penalty kill and late game situations.  Aronson could use some time down in Milwaukee to polish up some defensive fundamentals, though it remains to be seen where he will play next year.

Round 5, Pick 126: Patrick Cehlin, Right Wing, Sweden – Boasting refined skating skills and a first rate work ethic, the young Swede makes up for a lack of size with a high energy game.  Plucked from the same Swedish club that produced current Predator Patric Hornqvist, the organization hopes for similar upside.

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