Originally Posted by Blacksox
Eastern conference opening week rosters (POST #1) has been updated to include some of the most recent trades, returns and departures – with still a few more to come.
BLACKSOX RANKINGS (As of Sept 20th, 2018):
Not a lot of separation amoung the top 3, but until proven otherwise the Ice Dogs are the top team by the slimmest of margins.
1. NIAGARA: IceDogs start the season with all hands on deck – and a lot of respect shown to them by the CHL ranking; OHL writers, players and fans. It will be tough to stay there without adding 2 or 3 players. So, first order of business? Brandon Saigeon?
2. OSHAWA: In comparison to the IceDogs, at this moment, Oshawa is a little younger, but they are well-balanced with skilled players at all positions.
3. OTTAWA: The 67s check in at #3, but that could change very quickly! A young team, but a legit contender for an eastern conference title if they decide to completely empty their wallet.
4. PETERBOROUGH: The Pete’s are my sleeper pick to be the early surprise team in the east. They have some very talented players, however, after that haul they got for Will Cuylle, they’ll probably be sellers at the trade deadline (Pete’s have 14 - 00/01).
5. HAMILTON: For now, they have some very high-end talent and will be very competitive, but once they trade Strome, Entwhistle and Saigeon the Bulldogs will saunter on down to the bottom half of the table. Tough to accomplish a rebuild with only one 2nd round pick over the next 8 years.
6. BARRIE: The Colts have a few desirable 99s, a depleted draft cupboard and a team not strong enough to win the east - so it’s obvious where this season is headed. Sellers!
7. SUDBURY: Finally, Sudbury is trending upwards – and once Hamilton, Barrie and Peterborough sell, the Wolves will begin to move up the standings. A tip of the hat to Quinton Byfield for respecting a team and the league. #takenotestranges #rootingforthewolves
8. NORTH BAY: An older OHL team (3 - OAs and 7 - 99s) but not as talented as some of the teams ahead of them yet. At some point in the season, Justin Brazeau will be the best OA available.
9. MISSISSAUGA: A dwindled talent pool and an empty draft cupboard means 2018-2019 is the start of a rebuild. Unfortunately, they don’t have many assets to accomplish that, especially if Ryan McLeod refuses a trade. Good news? The Paramount Fine Foods Centre is a nice arena for family and close friends to watch them play.
10. KINGSTON: They may not be the best team in the east, but they’ll be the most popular. Robertson and Paquette are going to be highly sought after – and their only contribution to Fronts this year? Add to the one 2nd round pick they have over the next 10 years!
***
|
09-20-2018, 11:23 AM
Linear Mode
