Star Studded Take Over 3

20) LW Carter Ashton : Acquired from Tampa Bay 05/07/2012

Breakdown: Yet another son of a former NHLer, Carter Ashton is a far better prospect than his father Brent could have ever dreamed to be. A bang-em-up winger, Ashton uses his large body to create space in the offensive zone. Armed with a deadly wrist shot which is aided by a quick release, Ashton can also find the back of the net, but failed to register a point in his 15 game NHL audition. Like most young wingers his size, Ashton needs to work on that extra gear that will allow him to power through pro defenders, but is making good strides on that.

Future Impact: Upside suggests a top six role, but could one day settle as an above average third liner.

Best Career Season: 2010-2011 WHL - 62GP-33G-38A-71PTS-106PIM- +6

19) C Brendan Gaunce : Acquired via Draft 13th Overall in 2012

Breakdown: Although not the son of a former NHLer like others on this list, Gaunce still has NHL bloodlines with his brother Cameron as a top defence prospect in the Colorado Avalanche organization. Brendan is another large body on this list, but what separates him above the others is his leadership abilities and maturity beyond his years. Showing he can put up offensive numbers as well as keep the puck out of his own zone, Gaunce will need to turn some of his weight in to muscle weight to continue that production in the pro's. A long reach, quick handles, combined with surprisingly apt foot speed for a player his size, Gaunce is a valuable asset at both ends of the rink. 

Future Impact: A line 2-3 NHL forward.

Best Career Season: 2011-2012 OHL - Belleville Bulls - 68GP-28G-40A-68PTS-68PIM- +5

18) C / W Josh Bailey : Acquired from Phoenix 10/21/2012

Breakdown: Perhaps rused to the NHL too quickly, Bailey is now finding his groove. A midseason shift to wing sent the all-around player on an offensive tear and looks to be his permanent spot. Can be caught flat-footed at times, Bailey can make up for it with his above average hockey IQ, making quick plays in tight. Is very defensively conscious but is now finding his offensive groove as well and must continue that pace in order to justify his 9th overall selection in 2008.

Future Impact: Is now showing the signs as a top six forward, but now as a winger.

Best Career Season: 2009-2010 NHL - New York Islanders - 73GP-16G-19A-35PTS-18PIM- +5

17) RW Ty Rattie - Acquired from Columbus 01/26/2012

Breakdown: Rattie has dominated the WHL, in the top standings of almost every offensive statistic. Granted the Portland Winterhawks are an extremely strong team, however without Rattie (which will happen soon) many agree the team would not be the same. Small by pro standards, Rattie remains strong on his feet and couples that with incredible quickness. Can get a shot off in a flash while at top speed, which fools many goaltenders. Rattie will likely need to be tested at the AHL level before his NHL offensive prowess can be accurately prospected. He may be small but strong by WHL standards (which is still tough), but it is an entirely different stratosphere being small and average strength in the NHL. 

Future Impact: If Rattie's frame can survive the rigours of the NHL, he could be a top line forward

Best Career Season: 2011-2012 WHL - Portland Winterhawks - 69GP-57G-64A-121PTS-54PIM- +23

16) D Jamie Oleksiak : Acquired via Draft 14th Overall in 2011

Breakdown: Oleksiak is a huge, rangy defence who can dish out a huge hit, and make a great breakout pass. Many coaches try to get Oleksiak to shoot more often, increasing his arsenal, but still Oleksiak tries to take the safer approach and passes or dumps it in the corner to be on the safer side. Many believe with more experience and maturity, Oleksiak will know when to pick his offensive chances and utilize them appropriately. Most overly large defensemen take a little extra time to develop, but much like Tyler Myers, one wouldn't be surprised to see him Oleksiak in the NHL sooner rather than later.

Future Impact: Top Four Defender 

Best Career Season: 2011-2012 OHL - Niagra Ice Dogs - 57GP-12G-19A-31PTS-47PIM- +26

Thanks again for reading! Half way there... 

- Lone Star Post