Craig's List: Players to watch at the CHL/NHL Top Prospects Game

For the first time since 2020, the puck is set to drop at the CHL/NHL Top Prospects Game.

Forty players eligible for the 2022 NHL Entry Draft from across the Ontario Hockey League, Quebec Major Junior Hockey League and Western Hockey League will suit up in Kitchener, Ont., split between Team Red and Team White.

The captain for Team Red is Kingston Frontenacs centre Shane Wright. Team White will be led by Moose Jaw Warriors defenceman Denton Mateychuk.

Watch the CHL/NHL Top Prospects Game on Wednesday, March 23 at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT on TSN5 and streaming on TSN.ca, the TSN App and TSN Direct.

While some scouts have voiced concerns about Wright’s performance this season, TSN Director of Scouting Craig Button firmly has the Burlington, Ont., product as No. 1 on his 2022 NHL Draft list. 

“Stories about his demise were greatly exaggerated,” said Button. “He’s the best player.”

Wright has 25 goals and 77 points in 52 games this season and 42 points in his past 25 games.

Joining Wright on Team Red is Winnipeg Ice centre Matthew Savoie, who is seventh in WHL scoring with 28 goals and 76 points in 56 games and is No. 12 on Button’s list.

“I think he’s really rounded out his game, said Button. “I think by becoming more of a playmaker, he’s become an even better goal scorer. One has helped the other. He’s an offensive forward. My question is, will he be better as a centre or as a wing? I like him on the wing because I like him to get the puck on the move.”

Team Red also boasts Luca Del Bel Belluz of the Mississauga Steelheads. Button compares Del Bel Belluz to a current member of the Tampa Bay Lightning who has won two Stanley Cups. 

“I think Luca Del Bel Belluz is just a really well-rounded two-way player,” said Button. “He’s