Ben is a hockey nut and a recent university graduate. Like most post-uni grads he's unemployed and wants to make himself feel better by writing about something he loves. As always feel free to comment on his work if you agree or disagree - just be nice.
15. Calgary Flames –
Nick Merkley (Kelowna Rockets – WHL)
After an unexpected run that took the Flames to the second round before losing to one of the best team's this year, the Flames will be rewarded with a Top 15 pick. Merkley’s year has been full of ups and downs while he’s been on one of the best WHL teams that featured Leon Draisaitl and the winger finished the season with 20 goals and 70 apples for 90 points. Merkley had a solid playoff run
finishing 3rd in playoff scoring with 27 points as his Kelowna Rockets won the WHL Championship and made it all the way to the Memorial Cup Final before losing to the Oshawa Generals.
Projection: Merkley projects out as a playmaking 2nd line C option that could allow Sam Bennett to adjust to the wing in the Flames system.