Hockey poolies remember Andrew Cassels as a nifty playmaking center over his 15-year NHL career - and will see similar traits in son Cole Cassels.
Having recently turned in a strong performance at the inaugural All-American Prospects Game, Cole is showing signs of blossoming in his second OHL season.
Here is a recent game report on Cassels as well as scouting notes on Bradley Latour, also eligible for the 2013 NHL Draft.
Cole Cassels (C, 2013), Oshawa - clever two-way pivot who displays good vision .. thinks ahead - anticipates plays before they happen .. particularly effective distributing the puck from the neutral zone .. executes accurate and crisp passes - both forehand and backhand - and requires minimal time and space - can make it look effortless .. propelled by a looping skating style and moderate first-step quickness .. could add power to his stride - straight-ahead speed is average at best, however these areas should improve with physical maturity and added leg strength .. defensive instincts are sound which earns him time on the penalty-killing unit .. shows no fear blocking shots or sacrificing his body .. can excel neutralizing opponents along the boards with solid hits and checks, yet isn't overly large or powerful at six-foot and 180 pounds .. must guard against letdowns however as he can become static in his own end at times .. must continue to refine his faceoff technique - clearly falls behind on draws .. needs to be encouraged to be more selfish about exploiting shooting opportunities as he too often tends to operate in 'pass-first' mode .. should benefit from a more sheltered role playing behind Boone Jenner and Scott Laughton - and not having to face top-line opponents every night.
Bradley Latour (RW, 2013), Oshawa - rookie winger was a fourth-round pick in the OHL Priority Selection and joins the Gens after finishing second in scoring with the Stayner Siskins of the GMOJHL (37-27-18-45, 81 PIM) .. appears to be a smart utility type forward capable of playing a checking role but also sporting a decent finishing touch .. exhibits his hockey sense both with and without the puck - in spite of seeing only limited ice time .. moves the puck confidently, heads-up through the neutral zone, displaying a good feel for how offensive plays will develop .. undersized at 5-foot-10 but has a thick and stocky frame at 180 pounds .. engages rather in intelligent puck pursuits, trying to anticipate where the puck will end up .. did a solid job of forcing turnovers in the neutral zone, a product of sound positioning and good defensive instincts .. among the youngest eligibles born just three days shy of being in the 2014 draft.