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Draft Preview '89
The Hockey News has been providing the most comprehensive coverage of the world of hockey since 1947. In each issue, you'll find news, features and opinions about the NHL and leagues across North America and the world.
BOSTON BRUINS
KEY DECISION-MAKER: Bart Bradley, director of player evaluation, says his “bark is the loudest” at the Bruins’ draft table. Bradley takes the ratings provided by regional scouts, then serves as a cross-checker. STAFF: Harry Sinden, general manager; Bob Tindall, co-ordinator of minor-league player personnel/scouting; Marcel Pelletier, NHL scout; Jean Ratelie, special assignment scout; Jim Morrison, Ontario scout; Andre Lachapelle, Quebec scout; Joe Lyons, New England scout; Don Saatzer, Minnesota scout; Lars Waldner, Europe scout. BEST DRAFT PICKS: Raymond Bourque, eighth overall in 1979, was picked after fellow defensemen Rob Ramage, Craig Hartsburg and Keith Brown but has outdistanced all three, earning two Norris Trophies and nine all-star berths. Randy Burridge, 157th overall in 1985, was generally considered too small for the NHL. But the 5-foot-9, 180-pounder has emerged as one of Boston’s top…
CHICAGO BLACKHAWKS
KEY DECISION-MAKER: Scouting director Jack Davison, who doubles as assistant general manager, calls most of the shots, subject to the approval of general manager Bob Pulford. STAFF: Jan Spieczny, U.S. scout; Jim Pappin, U.S. college and high school scout; Jim Walker and Kerry Davison, western Canada scouts; Mike Dumas. Quebec scout; Don Smith and Dave Lucas, Ontario scouts. BEST DRAFT PICKS: Steve Larmer, 120th overall in 1980, has scored 40 or more goals four times, including the last two seasons. The right winger has never missed a game in his seven seasons (560 straight games) and is one of the most reliable and underrated two-way players in the NHL. Denis Savard, third overall in 1980, has had five 100-point seasons. This year an ankle injury and troubles with coach Mike Keenan contributed to…
HARTFORD WHALERS
KEY DECISION-MAKER: General manager Emile Francis has the final say after the scouts take a majority-rules vote to rank players. STAFF: Bob Crocker, assistant general manager/AHL, college and high school scout; Steve Brklacich, director of player personnel/Ontario and Europe scout; Jack Evans, major junior scout; Leo Boivin, Quebec scout; Dave McNab, college, junior and Europe scout; Bruce Hamilton and Doug McCauley, western Canada scout. BEST DRAFT PICKS: Kevin Dineen, 56th overall in 1982, was part of a bountiful 1982 draft, when coach Larry Pleau and Dineen's father. Bill, ran the scouting staff. Dineen, a right winger, has developed into one of the NHL’s top impact players. Ulf Samuelsson, 67th overall in 1982, was another smart pick by the elder Dineen. Samuelsson has developed into a strong and agitating defensive force for the Whalers,…
BUFFALO SABRES
KEY DECISION-MAKER: General manager Gerry Meehan takes a hands-on approach to the Sabres’ draft. Since taking over for the fired Scott Bowman just over two seasons ago, Meehan has set the tone and direction for chief scout Rudy Migay. but allows Migay a broad latitude in terms of final evaluations and recommendations. STAFF: Craig Ramsay, director of professional evaluation and development; Don Luce, director of amateur evaluation and development; Joe Crozier, coordinator of minor-league professional development; Don Barrie and Jack Bowman, southern Ontario scouts; Larry Carriere, Quebec and Northern Ontario scout; Dennis Mclvor, western Canada and U.S. scout; Paul Merritt, New England scout; Mike Racicot, Quebec scout; Frank Zywiec, Minnesota and midwest scout. THE SABRES GO FOR THE BEST PLAYER AVAILABLE. BEST DRAFT PICKS: Pierre Turgeon, first overall in 1987, represents the future…
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