8. Brandon Crawley - Defense - London Knights Crawley has long been a favourite of NHL Central Scouting, and in his final year of draft eligibility, he's finally made a fan and believer of me. He's one of the most physically intense defenders and players in the OHL who has also really improved his composure and abilities at both ends of the ice. His +53 was among the league's best and was the best among Knights' defenders by 17 points. He's just a very difficult player to line up against. But his play with the puck really took a step forward this year. He did a much better job of handling the forecheck and his first pass has really come a long way, as has his confidence in carrying the puck out of trouble, utilizing his solid skating ability. Can't help but get Dan Girardi flashbacks when I watch Crawley play and he's obviously worked out in the NHL after being a late bloomer Hard not to like this in the 4th round.
