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Jack Johnson, D Freshman – (6’1, 206 lbs)

1st round, third overall in 2005

Johnson has made a suitably large splash as a freshman with the Michigan Wolverines this season. The best defenseman in the 2005 draft crop, Johnson is currently tied for 21^st in overall league scoring, he’s fourth in power play points, and he’s second in points for both defensemen and freshmen.

His physical play has also been very evident statistically as he has 143 penalty minutes, almost 18 percent of the Wolverines entire penalty minute total, a whopping 4.33 per game.

Johnson played for the U.S. World Junior team in December and January and had one goal and five assists in seven games, but he was also the most penalized player in the tournament with 45 minutes. That total was aided by an incident at the end of the game versus Canada when he picked up 25 of those minutes in one play after he took a shot at Canada’s Steve Downie following an empty net goal for Canada.

Johnson is an intimidating blue line presence and his rough edge is just a part of a strong game that includes his ability to contribute offensively.

Michigan is third in the CCHA, and as soon as the team wraps up its season, Johnson can, and likely will be, signed and moved into the NHL.

Casey Borer, D Junior (6’2, 197 lbs)

3rd round, 69th overall in 2004

Borer is captain of the Huskies and is one of the team’s top two defensemen. A defensive-minded blueliner, Borer has continued to develop well and exudes confidence on the ice with his expanded leadership role. He’s the type of player to lead by example.

Although he can play physical, he isn’t “in your face” like Johnson, but rather he does all parts of his job well and is the type of player whose work might go unnoticed by the casual fan.

Nate Hagemo, D Sophomore (5’11, 189 lbs)

2nd round, 58^th overall in 2005

Hagemo played the first three games of the season before a shoulder/neck injury held him out of the lineup for the Golden Gophers and he hasn’t appeared since. Hagemo is a hard working defenseman who had two goals and eight assists last season. Although he brings a fair bit to the table, his injury troubles and their effect on his development is becoming an increasing concern.

Tyson Strachan, D Junior (6’3, 205 lbs)

5th round, 174^th overall in 2003

Strachan is another ‘Canes NCAA prospect with some injury troubles. Strachan broke his wrist on Jan. 13 and missed games because of it, and last season he missed time due to a knee injury.

Prior to joining the Buckeyes, Strachan displayed some offensive talent in the BCHL with the Vernon Vipers, but he has yet to show he can contribute much offense at the NCAA level. As a defensive defenseman, however, Strachan is hard checker who uses his large frame well, working hard and playing smart.

The Buckeyes will be opening the playoffs this weekend against Ferris State without Strachan, but he’s expected to return to the lineup soon.

Tim Kunes, D Freshman (6’1, 170 lbs)

5th round, 145th overall in 2005

Kunes is in his first year with the Boston College Eagles and the two-way defenseman has only a goal and three assists in 27 games thus far. He’s part of a very young blue line at BC – four of the six are freshmen. Last season Kunes had 40 points in 50 games for New England of the Eastern Junior Hockey League. With his freshman experience in place the ‘Canes will be hoping that Kunes can grow into a bigger role with the Eagles next season.

D.J. Powers contributed to this article. Copyright 2006 Hockey’s Future. Do not reprint or otherwise duplicate without permission of the editorial staff.