NHL.com is providing in-depth prospect analysis for each of its 32 teams from Aug. 8-Sept. 8. Today, the top five prospects for the Carolina Hurricanes, according to NHL.com.
[Hurricanes 32 in 32: Season preview | 3 Questions | Fantasy breakdown]
1. Scott Morrow, D
How acquired: Selected with no. 40 pick in the 2021 NHL Draft
2021-22 season: University of Massachusetts (NCAA): 37 GP, 13-20-33
Morrow (6-foot-2, 195 pounds) projects as an offensive defenseman and a future power-play quarterback. The 19-year-old will return to UMass for his sophomore year to build strength in preparation for turning pro.
“His progression is very, very good,” Hurricanes general manager Don Waddell said. “I’d be shocked if he doesn’t come out after next year. He’s going to get to a point where there’s not much more you can do in college.”
Projected NHL arrival: 2024-25 season
2. Pyotr Kochetkov, G
How acquired: Selected with no. 36 pick in the 2019 NHL Draft
2021-22 season: Torpedo (KHL): 23 GP, 10-10-2, 2.23 GAA, .926 SV%; Chicago (AHL): 15 GP, 13-1-1-1, 2.09 GAA, .921 SV%; Carolina (NHL): 3 GP, 3-0-0, 2.42 GAA, .902 SV%
In addition to the NHL regular season, Kochetkov (6-3, 205) played four Stanley Cup Playoff games and six American Hockey League playoff games to help Chicago win the Calder Cup.
“We just want to get him more and more games,” Hurricanes goaltender development coach Jason Muzzati said. “Obviously, he made a great showing, did a great job, but we want him to keep building his resume with games.”
The 23-year-old is the second-highest goalie ever selected by the Hurricanes behind Cam Ward (No. 25 in 2002).
Projected NHL arrival: 2023-24
Video: BOS@CAR, Gm2: Kochetkov makes 30 saves in relief
3. Jack Drury
How acquired: Selected with no. 42nd pick in the 2018 NHL Draft
2021-22 season: Chicago (AHL): 68 GP, 20-32-52; Carolina (NHL): 2 GP, 2-0-2
Drury (5-11, 174) is a responsible two-way forward who fits the Hurricanes’ style of play. The 22-year-old scored in each of his first two NHL games last season.
“He was the third leading scorer in the playoffs,” Hurricanes director of forward development Sergei Samsonov said. “He just does it right, plays the way [coach Rod Brind’Amour] wants him to play. For sure, he’s got a really good chance to be on our hockey club next year.”
Projected NHL arrival: 2022-23
Video: DET@CAR: Drury scores his first goal in NHL debut
4. Jackson Blake
How acquired: Selected with no. 109 pick in the 2021 NHL Draft
2021-22 season: Chicago (USHL): 61 GP, 27-50-77
Blake (5-10, 152) will attend the University of North Dakota after leading his junior team in scoring last season. The 19-year-old son of forward Jason Blake, who played 12 NHL seasons, is a small, skilled forward.
“He’s literally got to get stronger,” Samsonov said. “In his case, we know he’s got the skill, and we know he’s got the hockey sense and the playmaking abilities.”
Projected NHL arrival: 2025-26
5. Justin Robidas
How acquired: Selected with no. 147 pick in the 2021 NHL Draft
2021-22 season: Val-d’Or (QMJHL): 68 GP, 30-52-82
The 19-year-old forward has plenty of scoring ability and could reach the NHL with work on his defensive game.
Robidas (5-8, 173) developed his hockey sense from his father, retired NHL defenseman Stephane Robidas, who played until Justin was 12.
“He’s a player that’s trending,” Samsonov said. “He had a great season last year. There’s no reason that wouldn’t continue next year.”
Projected NHL arrival: 2025-26
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