Here is the first place I’m going to implement my size qualification. I was trying to choose between Michal Teply and Oleg Zaitsev. Both are scouted about the same, but Teply comes in at a resounding 6-foot-3, 187 pounds. Plus, I think by this time Colorado will be jonesing for a European player.
Teply is ranked #14 among European skaters by Central Scouting, and he’s the top-ranked Czech player. He’s ranked as high as #46 and as low as #85.
Placzek describes Teply as a big winger with soft hands. Bill also states that Michal is gaining more confidence, especially in his vision, and that his skating has improved.
The Hockey Writers say this about Michal Teply:
"“He’s a big, goal-scoring winger with raw talent that is worth the gamble from an NHL team. If a team is willing to be patient with him, he could end up being a steal in the draft.”"
You know what? The Colorado Avalanche are playing with house money on this pick — it’s the last gift from the Matt Duchene trade. Why not take a little gamble in the hopes you get a big return?