The National Hockey League Central Scouting released their Players to Watch list earlier today, and a Lloydminster Bobcats defenceman found his name on the list.
Lloydminster’s own, Daniel Hilsendager has caught the eyes of NHL scouts, and has been given a ‘C’ rating seven games into the 2017-18 season.
A ‘C’ rating means Hilsendager is currently viewed as a 4th/5th/6th round candidate for the upcoming 2018 NHL Entry Draft.
The Western Michigan commit is now in his second season with the Bobcats, under the direction of Head Coach and GM Travis Clayton.
“As a coaching staff and organization, we are thrilled that scouts are noticing what we see every day with Daniel,” said Clayton. “Whether it’s on the ice or off the ice, Daniel is putting in the necessary effort to make himself the best hockey player he can be, and help our team as much as he possibly can.”
In his AJHL rookie season last year with the Bobcats, Hilsendager posted 6 goals and 15 assists.
A couple other local products also made the list from NHLCS.
Ty Smith and Chase Wouters, both of Lloydminster, were rated as an ‘A’ (1st round candidate) and ‘C’ prospects respectively.
“Having the chance to coach both Ty and Chase, I can say they are both exceptional hockey players,” Clayton said. “Both of them showcased their talent in Lloydminster at the Midget ‘AAA’ level and are now proving how good they are at the WHL level. It’s great to see both of them performing as well as they are.”
Next up for the Bobcats will be a trip to Spruce Grove on Wednesday to battle Sean Comrie (rated a ‘C’ by NHLCS) and the Saints.