The Hockey News released the annual Junior Hockey Preview this week. The publication ranks teams in the Ontario Hockey League, Western Hockey League, and Quebec Major Junior Hockey League.Neil Hodge of the Moncton Times & Transcript is the QMJHL reporter for The Hockey News ranks Saint John fourth in the Atlantic division and ninth overall.
What Saint John fans may find more interesting is farther down the list at number 16. Hodge has the Montreal Junior ranked in that position, calling Fredericton goalie Jake Allen "prime trade bait." Although no rumors have begun about the all-star goalie coming home to play for the Sea Dogs, expect them to begin shortly. The Sea Dogs have an unproven goalie and an inconsistent goalie between the pipes this season, and with a young defense core, a solid net minder is needed even more.
Allen was drafted by the St. Louis Blues 34th overall in the 2008 NHL entry draft after a sensational under 18 tournament, helping Canada win a gold medal. He is expected to be a strong contender for the National Junior team position this winter.
The Hockey News QMJHL Pre-Season Predictions:
1. Quebec
2. Moncton
3. Shawinigan
4. Val-d'Or
5. Rouyn Noranda
6. Drummondvile
7. Cape Breton
8. PEI
9. Saint John
10. Gatineau
11. Chicoutimi
12. Victoriaville
13. Acadie-Bathurst
14. Baie-Comeau
15. Rimouski
16. Montreal
17. Halifax
18. Lewiston
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