Stealing links from HIW...

Hockey in Wisconsin had a few Badger links yesterday that I thought were definately worth showing here, so I've stolen them.

Hockey's Future has posted their Top 10 NCAA Prospects for the upcoming NHL Draft. Surprisingly Jordy Murray is 2nd on the list. I'm not surprised he's on the list, just that he is 2nd. His Central Scouting ranking is way down at 175th, which when you and European players, means he likely won't be drafted. I think Hockey's Future is spot on here though. Jordy is a great two forward who is just coming into his game and has a lot of potential. I think someone will spend a 6th or 7th round pick on the kid; maybe even his dad will in St. Louis. Here is what they said:

2. Jordy Murray, LW
Freshman, University of Wisconsin
Ht./Wt.: 5’9/162
DOB: 1/8/90
CS ranking: 175th

The son of St. Louis Blues head coach Andy Murray, Jordy posted 13 points (eight goals, five assists) and was one of only four Badgers to play in all 40 games this season. He was named to the WCHA Final Five All-Tournament team after posting two goals, including the game winner in the Final Five consolation game versus North Dakota.

Murray is a small, exceedingly quick forward who combines superb hockey sense with high energy and ultra-aggressiveness. He sees the ice remarkably well and knows where the play will end up. One notable attribute about Murray is his smart decisions with the puck, both in offensive and defensive situations. He can play in any type of situation and does a good job in supporting plays. While Murray possesses a very good shot, he could stand to shoot more.

Wisconsin assistant coach Kevin Patrick on Murray: “The biggest strength that Jordy has brought to the table this year is his unbelievable work ethic. Everything that he does builds off of that tenacity and work ethic. That allows him to create things offensively by going to the net and doing a lot of the hard things. Jordy is a great compliment on any line that he plays on. He finishes every check and does all of the little things well to be successful.”

The Youngstown Phantoms are joining the USHL this year as an expansion franchise and recently held there try out camp. Not too long ago, Badger recruit Jefferson Dahl was selected by the franchise in an expansion draft when he was not protected by GB, and fellow recruit Cody Strang was drafted during the recent USHL draft. As expected both have made the team. As Dplaya points out, their coach thinks Jefferson is capable of a 30-30-60 season for the Phantoms (who have a kick ass logo). Only a few players scored 60 points last season in the USHL, and no knock on Jefferson, but I don't see him doing that next season. Unlike the Fargo expansion franchise of last season who went on to the Clark Cup Finals, the Phantoms are starting from scratch; Fargo got Ohio's team when they folded, starting basically even. I think the Phantoms could struggle, maybe Jefferson will prove me wrong, which would be awesome.

2008 and 2009 Mr. Hockey's playing together; why does it have to be so far away?

Lastly, if you are season ticket holder for Men's Hockey you probably have already received your renewal info in the mail. Renewals are due by July 7th, and as promised the ticket price has remained the same, and is still a great value. I wonder what will be on the tickets this year? Last year was players, two years ago it was the top Badgers who played at the KC. Maybe this season will be opposing mascots being beatdown by Bucky.