Video: 2012 USA Hockey NJEC – Sean Kuraly, USA Photo: San Jose Sharks prospect Sean Kuraly turned in a strong showing at the 2012 USA Hockey National Junior Evaluation Camp (courtesy of Bruce Bennett/Getty Images)
The USHL is considered by most to be the top junior development league in the United States. In recent years, the league has been producing what seems to be an ever growing crop of NHL draftees, some of whom have flown somewhat under the radar even after being drafted. Minnesota high school 2012 draft review Photo: While not a homegrown product, Pittsburgh Penguins draft choice Ted Blueger of Shattuck St. Mary's was the top Minnesota high school pick at the 2012 NHL Draft (courtesy of Aaron Bell/CHL Images) While high end talent wasn’t there this season in the NHL Draft from the Minnesota high school ranks, there was certainly a quality of depth to be found. With that in mind, here is a look at the picks coming out of the State of Hockey. Ferlin takes unlikely path in quest to reach NHL Photo: Cornell University forward Brian Ferlin turned in a solid freshman season despite missing time due to injuries (courtesy of Rich Barnes/Icon SMI)
It wasn't too long ago that Boston Bruins prospect and Cornell University player Brian Ferlin had doubts about his future in the game of hockey, but after making the roster of the Indiana Ice of the United States Hockey League (USHL) he had a chance to grow. College commitments of NCAA players chosen at the 2012 NHL Draft
 Photo: Prep school scoring star and Tampa Bay Lightning second pick Brian Hart has committed to Harvard University (courtesy of Ken McKenna/HF) Below is the list of all NCAA-bound players that were chosen in the 2012 NHL Draft whose commitments (verbal or otherwise) to college programs have been verified. Unless otherwise noted, all players listed are expected to be with their respective programs this fall. Although every effort has been made to ensure accuracy, this listing may not be completely up to date. Bevy of NCAA prospects chosen at 2012 NHL Draft Photo: Calgary Flames top pick Mark Jankowski is a recruit of the Providence College Friars (courtesy of Ken McKenna/HF)
This year’s NHL Draft saw 66 current and future collegians selected. There were also two uncommitted players selected that could potentially be college-bound in the future, bringing the total to 68. That represents roughly 32 percent of all players selected. |
