Highlighting some of the top prospects the state. Photo by David Romuald
Malachi McKinnon (Forest Lake High School) The 2007 DOB has had instant success playing high school hockey as he’s racked up 22 points in 14 games for the Rangers. The crafty forward has showed off some good hands and skates with a nice wide base. McKinnon’s strength on his skates makes him difficult to knock off the puck, despite playing against players much older.
Max Candon (West St. Paul Bantam AA) Love the mixture of skill that he has displayed during recent viewings. Reads the play extremely well and does a good job playing his angles on opponents. Can jump into the play and join the rush but has the smarts to play reliable defense. Has demonstrated that he can place his shots and makes clean outlet passes. He’s one to watch on the St. Thomas Academy blueline next season.
Harper Searles (Centennial High School) I enjoy watching Searles in the offensive zone, evading opponents and setting up scoring opportunities. I also like seeing that he wears a letter as an underclassman, very rare to see.
Caden Zasada (Cottage Grove Peewee AA) There is a lot to like about Zasada as he’s a 2009 DOB that possesses good size, skates well, and has a cannon of a shot. Plays defense on the PP and really shows confidence handling the puck and letting his rocket go. It will be fun to watch as Zasada continues to progress.
Jaxon Sibell (Cambridge High School) Jaxon has been getting a lot of hype as he has won his first 11 high school games,….. as a freshman! The hype is well deserved as he moves extremely well in the net and his pad work is superb. His legs are quick, and he keeps the five-hole covered, he’s very tough to beat low.
Eric Pohlkamp (Cedar Rapids RoughRiders) Congrats to the Brainerd native on his commitment to Bemidji State! The 3/4/2004 DOB defenseman is eligible for the 2022 NHL Draft.