Overtaking Sam Reinhart for top spot in Future Considerations’ ranking for the 2014 NHL Draft a month ago, the 17-year-old Ekblad remains a top the chart in December. The Barrie Colts defenseman has been superb this season in Ontario Hockey League action. The 6-foot-4, 215-pound rearguard has nine goals and 23 points in 26 games this season.
“Ekblad has continued to play his steady game as he leads the Colts,” scouting director Dan Stewart said. “He contributes offensively both at five-on-five and as the point man with the booming shot on the power play all the while improving his play in his own zone over the last month.”
Reinhart remains in second place behind Ekblad.
Prince Albert Raiders center Leon Draisaitl has jumped into top-3 consideration after continually impressing this season. The 6-foot-2, 210-pound Cologne, German native has ripped apart the Western Hockey League, recording 15 goals and 27 points in 42 games.
“Although the top of this draft is considered pretty fluid, Draisaitl has started to really push himself to the forefront and is now considered a real threat to Sam Reinhart as top WHL prospect,” Stewart said. “After a strong month of November, Draisatl has forced us to boost his ranking as a result.”
Swedish pivot William Nylander, who has consistently been ranked in the top-5 all year, sits fourth, one spot ahead Kingston Frontenacs forward Sam Bennett.
