Christopher Ralph is a hockey writer with a focus on prospects and the entry draft, as well as the Leafs’ correspondent here at THW.
“Full Potential” Prospect Profile:
23. Louis Leblanc – Kirkland, PQ – 6’0″ – 178 lbs – USHL – Omaha – C
One-Timer: The fast, offensive centerman was actually considered to be a top 10 prospect coming into this hockey season. He did register a point per game in the relatively low-scoring USHL, and tied for the league lead in plus/minus rating at +33. He was the rookie of the year as well. He has an excellent work ethic, good at both ends of the ice and is quite an evasive stick handler. He is Harvard-bound next season.
NHL Player(s) Comparison: Patrick Marleau
Bio/Interview Links:
http://www.habseyesontheprize.com/2009/6/7/901760/louis-leblanc-a-ideal-centerman
http://www.usatoday.com/sports/hockey/columnist/woodlief/2009-05-22-red-line-report_N.htm
Scouting Combine Performance:
- Sorokin observed: “Was one of the first guys to come in, and looked really disoriented…Didn’t do that well in some of the tests, and overall looked out of place. I know he’s supposed to go in the 1st round, but my bust meter was on high, so I’d stay away.”
- Gare Joyce reported with respect to the VO 2-intake, peak heart-rate and recovery, and Wingate tests: “Very mediocre readings from forward Louis Leblanc, the kid who eschewed the Quebec league this season to play with Omaha in the USHL and commit to Harvard for the fall.” However, he did go on to say Leblanc nailed his interviews.
International Tournaments: Leblanc played for Team Canada at the 2008 Under-18 Ivan Hlinka Memorial tournament scoring three goals (3-2-5), helping Canada win gold.
ETA = 3 years
Risk-Reward Analysis: Risk = 3/5 Reward = 3.5/5
NHL Potential: 2nd line offensive forward
Fantasy Hockey Potential: Offensive = 8.5/10 Defensive = 8/10
- ISS: 12
- CSB: 13-NA
- TSN: 22
- THN: 29
Video Links: