Three AJHL players have been identified on NHL Central Scouting's preliminary players to watch list, which was released Tuesday. Brooks Bandits defenceman Cale Makar and Spruce Grove Saints defenceman Ian Mitchell were assigned a B ranking, while Saints defenceman Jarrod Gourley was assigned a C rating.
The players to watch list is Central Scouting's compilation of top prospects from all the major development leagues throughout North America and Europe. The list is updated throughout the season as scouts travel to see the players live.
The 29 players on the list with “A” ratings are considered potential first-round picks. Players with “B” ratings are considered possible second- or third-round choices, and those with “C” ratings are potential fourth-, fifth- or sixth-round selections.
The 2017 NHL Entry Draft will be the 55th NHL Entry Draft. The draft will be held on June 23–24, 2017 at the United Center in Chicago, Illinois. In total, 83 players have been drafted directly from the Alberta Junior Hockey League.
