Penguins/NHL
Day 2 Prospects Report
The top three performers through the first two days of the Penguins conditioning camp have been Keven Veilleux (2007, 2nd round pick), Eric Tangradi (2007, 2nd round) and Nick Johnson (2004, 3rd round pick)
Johnson, 23, is a late bloomer who was among the most improved players at last years conditioning camp.
After having a strong playoff run in to end first professional season (10 pts in 12 games) for Wilkes Barre/Scranton, Johnson’s game continues to evolve.
At 6-2, 200 lbs, Johnson uses his size very well and has speed to beat defenders wide.
Plays a strong two-way game, has an above average shot and a quick
release which is a must to become a goal scorer at the next level.
If Johnson keeps developing like he is, he should be pushing for a top 9 forward spot by next season and will likely get a look at sometime during this season.
Tangradi, 20, (6-4, 221lbs), is the Penguins top power forward in their system since Kevin Stevens.
He will begin the season in Wilkes Barre but at the max, Tangradi spends a year in Wilkes Barre.
He will be a fixture on the Penguins top two lines by the 2010-2011 season.
Another forward to keep an eye on this season will be Keven Veilleux (6-5, 200 lbs)
Veilleux, 20, will be moving to wing this season and Penguins scouts absolutely love his potential.
Veilleux has had a very strong prospects camp so far.
Has good speed for a player his size, uses his reach well and great composure in around the net.
Will spend a full season in Wilkes Barre and could be a player whose up with the big club at somepoint in the 2010-2011 season.
The forward who will be pushing for a top 9 spot this season will be Luca Caputi.
The team would like for him to begin the season in Wilkes Barre but Caputi will likely have a role on the team by January.
Pittsburgh could have a situation on their hands that the Chicago Blackhawks had this season in 2-3 wingers becoming fixtures on their top 3 lines while being on their first contracts.
Johnson, Veilleux and Caputi all have top 9 potential and Tangradi is a legitimate top 6 forward.
