Kings Draft Possibles, Part 1

By Tony Calfo
The Kings enter the 2001 draft knowing that this may be among the most important drafts in their history.

After making an impressive run and starting to get their system in order, the Kings will have five picks in the first three rounds of the draft. The learning curve is over- the Kings cannot afford to miss with thier top picks. With the slower development of some of their previous picks, look for the Kings to take some solidly built players who can handle both sides of the ice.

The needs would be skilled forward, a defenseman- ideally one with offensive skill, and another goalie for the system. Here are some of the potential players that will be available when the Kings make their first selection.


Chuck Kobasew- RW- Boston College- This is my pick. Their is some concern whether he will be there when the Kings pick, but he is a solid forward. He is built well- 6’1, 195 pounds, and he is part of a championship team as a freshman. He went the month of January with a point in every game. The Kings got a good look at what skilled college players can do- Chris Drury for one. This is the guy I would like to see become a King.


Ales Hemsky- LW- Hull- Very skilled forward with a solid offensive game. Fairly well built, although a little light at 6’1, 180 pounds. Finished the regular season with 36 goals and 64 assists. Will likely be available, but a smallish wing seems to go against what the Kings are looking for.


Colby Armstrong- RW- Red Deer- Big right winger with alot of potential. His name keeps coming up regarding the Kings and he will be there. Big at 6’2 but light at a scrawny 174. Impressive numbers- in 72 games he had 36 goals, 42 assists and 156 PIM’s. He was also a +44. Comes from a winning team and the Kings could fall in love with the idea of Armstrong and Frolov on either side of Aulin or Lehoux.


Other names to watch-

Greg Watson- C- Prince Albert
Mark Popovic- D- St. Micheal’s
Jiri Novotny- C- Czech Republic


Notes-

Former Kings’ prospect Jason Morgan got a scare recently. Three weeks ago he was severely cut from the back of his head to his ear, requiring over 30 stitches. He was lucky enough to avoid a major vein, but the cut was millimeters from his jaw. He has since returned to the AHL playoffs where he is playing for Saint John.