With no collective bargaining agreement in place and no agreement between the NHL and NHLPA in sight, it appears more and more likely that there will be no NHL hockey this year. There will, however, be CHL and NCAA hockey. Today I look at three New Jersey Devils prospects playing in those leagues to keep your eye on this season.
Note: I decided not to choose anyone expected to play in Albany.
LW Reid Boucher, Sarnia (OHL)
Boucher got off to a great start last season registering 34 points in his first 33 games of the season, but his production in the second half tailed off considerably. After his great first half, Boucher only tallied 16 points in his final 34 games of the season and ended up posting just 50 points in 67 games.
Boucher has been exceptional in the preseason lighting the lamp regularly playing on a line with Alex Galchenyuk, and the hope is he continues to do so when the OHL regular season starts next Thursday. Big things are expected from the offensive-minded winger in Sarnia this year.
LW Stefan Matteau, Blainville-Boisbriand (QMJHL)
The Devils 2012 first round pick is making the transition from the USHL to QMJHL this year to play for Blainville-Boisbriand, where his dad happens to be an Assistant Coach.
Power forwards typically tend to have success in the QMJHL as there aren't as many big, physical, talented players in the QMJHL as you would typically find in another Canadian Junior League, such as the WHL or OHL which leads me to believe only good things lie ahead for Matteau. He will play big minutes this year and is expected to help carry the load offensively. It will be interesting to follow along with his progress and see how much of an impact he can make.
D Jonathan Merrill, Michigan (NCAA)
I was expecting big things from Merrill this year, which shouldn't surprise many, as he is one of the best defenseman in college hockey, but now my expectations are even higher than before. With news that Winnipeg Jets 2012 first round pick Jacob Trouba will honor his commitment and join Michigan this year, Merrill has found himself a top defenseman to pair with who is as steady and reliable as they come. With Merrill expected to have Trouba playing alongside him, he will have the freedom to take more chances and rush the puck without worrying about bad things happening at his own end of the ice. This should lead to more chances for Merrill, which will ultimately lead to more points.
This is a big developmental year for Merrill and if he can stay focused on hockey, he will have his best year of college hockey this season.
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