With the NHL 2008 entry draft 6 months away in Ottawa people are already trying to figure out who the top prospects will be. Here’s a short list of my top 15 picks.

No. 1: Drew Doughty; D, Guelph Storm
As a defenseman Doughty possesses all of the tools you would want in a franchise blueliner. He’s a great skater with tremendous offensive skills and has the ability to shut down the other team’s top players. He also has tremendous leadership qualities that will make him a huge hit in whatever city gets him in June.

No. 2: Steven Stamkos; C, Sarnia Sting
As the guy who’s receiving the most buzz he deserves it. He is an offensive machine that could produce goals at an NHL level almost immediately. His vision, ability to distribute the puck and finish opportunities is unparalleled in this draft and is on par with last year’s top pick, Patrick Kane.

No. 3: Alex Pietrangelo; D, Niagara IceDogs
Pietrangelo has a lot of the skills Doughty has, but adds a frame that will top out at 6-foot-4 and 220 pounds. His game isn’t refined quite yet but I wouldn’t be surprised by the end of the season to be the first overall selection because he continues to get better every night at both ends of the ice.

No. 4: Nikita Filatov; RW, CSKA Moscow
Filatov shows a vast array of skills. Although he isn’t the biggest kid in the world he combines lightning quickness with tremendous vision and a creativity that has been lacking in the Russians for a while. He certainly has the skills and tools to become a star in the NHL.

No. 5: Zac Bogosian; D, Peterborough
Bogosian’s development has been astounding. His physical play and ability to punish opponents is remarkable and he still contributes on the offensive end. I’m sure his long and decorated NHL career will make him and his team very happy.

My next 10 picks:
No. 6: Colten Teubert; D, Regina Pats
No. 7: Kyle Beach; LW, Everett Silvertips
No. 8: Kiril Petrov; LW; Ak Bars Kazan
No. 9: Colin Wilson; C, Boston University
No. 10: Michael Del Zotto; D, Oshawa Generals
No. 11: Tyler Cuma; D, Ottawa 67’s
No. 12: Cody Hodgson; C, Brampton Battalion
No. 13: Luke Schenn; D, Kelowna Rockets
No. 14: Michael Bodker; RW, Kitchener Rangers
No. 15: Yann Sauve; D, Saint John Seadogs