January 12, 2007
Van Riemsdyk Leads CSS Rankings
CHN Staff Report
TORONTO — James Van Riemsdyk, a New Hampshire recruit, is the top-ranked U.S. born player in the NHL's Central Scouting Service mid-season Rankings.
The NHL Draft will be held June 23 at Columbus' Nationwide Arena.
Van Riemsdyk, a 6-foot-3, 200-pound left wing, is currently playing in the U.S. National Program. He was a member of the World Junior team that recently won the bronze medal in Sweden.
Fellow American, Patrick Kane, who plays in the Ontario Hockey League, is ranked No. 4 among North American skaters. Kyle Turris, who is headed to Wisconsin next season and currently plays in the British Columbia Jr. A league, is ranked No. 5.
Because of a recent rule change re-allowing 18-year NCAA or NCAA-bound players to be drafted, there are less college players at the top of the rankings than recent years.
Boston University recruit, defenseman Kevin Shattenkirk, is ranked No. 13.
The highest-ranked current NCAA player is Dartmouth forward T.J. Galiardi at No. 33.
You have to go to Cornell's Brendan Nash at No. 105 to find another one.
Brad Phillips, a Notre Dame recruit who is in the National Program, is the highest-ranked NCAA-bound goaltender at No. 4. Bradley Eidsness, who is headed to North Dakota in 2008, is ranked No. 7.
The only current NCAA player on the 30-player goaltender list is Nebraska-Omaha's Jeremie Dupont at No. 16.
Check the CSS site for the complete lists.
