2009 Rookie Diary Lineup


Evander Kane, Atlanta Thrashers, C
The 18-year-old was the No. 4 in the 2009 draft following a season in which he placed fourth in Western Hockey League scoring with 96 points. Named after Evander Holyfield, Kane won a gold medal with Team Canada in the 2009 World Junior Championships. His mix of skill, character and grit have drawn comparisons to Jarome Iginla. Kane certainly doesn't shy away from the rough parts of the game with a willingness to battle in the corners.

James van Riemsdyk, Philadelphia Flyers, LW
A smooth skater with a combination of strength and skill, the 20-year-old New Jersey native was the second-overall pick in 2007. Van Riemsdyk was part of the U.S. National Team Development program and represented Team USA the past three years at the World Junior Championships. The left wing also starred for two seasons at the University of New Hampshire. The 6-foot-3 van Riemsdyk also adds a physical element to his arsenal.


Alex Pietrangelo, St. Louis Blues, D
The 19-year-old was the fourth pick in the 2008 draft. A gold medalist with Team Canada at the World Junior Championships, Pietrangelo made his NHL debut Oct. 10, 2008 against Nashville and played eight games (one assist) before returning to junior. The 6-foot-4 defenseman is smooth with the puck and is expected to anchor the St. Louis blue line with Erik Johnson for years to come.




Colin Wilson, Nashville Predators, C
The seventh selection in 2008 was a runner-up for the Hobey Baker Trophy (best player in college hockey) and an integral part of NCAA national champion Boston University during the 2008-09 season. Wilson was part of the US National Development Team and represented Team USA two World Junior Championships and was the youngest player (19) chosen for last year's World Championships. The Connecticut native is the son of former NHLer Carey Wilson.