Danielson, Mantei & Bjarnason Among Wheat Kings on NHL Central Scoutings Final Rankings

April 18, 2023 - Western Hockey League (WHL)
Brandon Wheat Kings News Release

NHL Central Scouting on Tuesday revealed its final list of the top North American skaters and goalies, and the top International skaters and goalies with Wheat Kings Nate Danielson, Quinn Mantei and Carson Bjarnason making the list. Central Scouting conducted its final meetings with a five-day in-person session in Toronto earlier this month following a two-day video conference to discuss and finalize the regional lists.

The 2023 draft will be held at Bridgestone Arena in Nashville, with the first round June 28 and Rounds 2-7 on June 29. The NHL Draft Lottery to determine the first 16 picks in the draft will be May 8 at 6pm Central time.

Center Nate Danielson (6-1, 185) of Brandon (WHL) made one of the most significant jumps in the final ranking, to No. 7 from No. 13 on the midterm list.

"In the second half of the season I thought he really started to play and use all his assets, his size, his smarts, his speed, his shot," Central Scouting's John Williams said. "I think it reflects in how well he did over the second half and got rewarded with a little bump in the rankings. From a coaching perspective, you can throw him anywhere in the lineup. I really like him on wing because he uses his speed more playing the wing, but he can play center, can kill penalties and can run a power play."

Danielson led Brandon in goals (33), assists (45), points (78) and power-play goals (13) in 68 games. The Wheat Kings did not qualify for the WHL playoffs.

Carson Bjarnason of Brandon (WHL) is No. 1 on Central Scouting's final ranking of North American goalies.

Bjarnason (6-3, 186), who was No. 1 in the midterm ranking in January, was 21-19-6 with a 3.08 goals-against average, .900 save percentage and three shutouts in 47 games.

"He's very focused and determined with very good quickness, especially in reactions, recovery and lateral play," Central Scouting's Al Jensen said. "He's got good overall net coverage and has good pro potential."

Blue Liner Quinn Mantei also moved up from #153 to #138 among North American skaters after a stellar second half. The Weyburn, SK native stood out leading the Wheat Kings on the back end. Mantei was also a mid season recipient of Alternate captaincy after the WHL trade deadline.

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