Four Sea Dogs Make Top 50 List

One current and three former members of the Saint John Sea Dogs were featured in the Fall edition of Hockey’s Future's Top 50 list of NHL prospects.

Not surprisingly, Jonathan Huberdeau is the top ranked Sea Dog coming in at No. 4.

“Huberdeau can be electrifying with his creativity, shifty moves, and quick skating speed,” writes Hockey’s Future. “The game-breaking forward possesses great hands and playmaking skills, which are complemented by his high hockey IQ and offensive vision. His defensive abilities, solid two-way play, and excellent work ethic are too often overshadowed by his offensive talents.”

Nail Yakupov, Vladimir Tarasenko, and Dougie Hamilton all sit above Huberdeau in the rankings.

Charlie Coyle, who is currently playing with the American Hockey League’s Houston Aeros, came in at No. 25.

“Coyle has the size, speed, and puck possession skills to dominate down low in the offensive zone while setting up teammates or playing in the high traffic areas,” says HF.

Nathan Beaulieu, currently playing with the AHL’s Hamilton Bulldogs, was ranked 27^th.

“A puck-moving defenseman, Beaulieu has excellent skating ability which allows him to activate quickly in transition to the offensive attack,” explains HF. “He has quick hands, good vision of the ice, and the patience to wait for the right opening to develop in front of him.”

Pittsburgh Penguins prospect and current Wilkes-Barre/Scranton Penguins defenseman Simon Despres came in at No. 31.

Photo: Marc Henwood/Station Nation