5. Brendan Smith, D – The 19-year old scored twice and added ten assists as a true freshman for the Michigan Wolverines in 2007-08, and much more is expected of the youngster in his second season of college hockey.
Smith is loaded with offensive talent. A silky-smooth, effortless skater, the Toronto native has good vision and soft hands, all the tools required for a top-end offensive defense-man.
Like most young players, the 2007 first rounder (27th overall) needs to improve his defensive game and add more muscle to his 6'2” frame. He also must become a little more selective when it comes to joining the offensive rush.
The Red Wings' brain trust regard Smith as a future top four blue-liner with offensive upside, but don't expect any big league contributions from him for at least three years. Someone to keep an eye on, but don't waste a pick this season.
Next in our continuing series, we'll look at the top fantasy prospects of another team famous for developing young players, the Edmonton Oilers.
Don't forget to check out the previous articles in the series:
Anaheim Ducks: Fantasy Prospect Report
Atlanta Thrashers: Fantasy Prospect Report
Boston Bruins: Fantasy Prospect Report
Buffalo Sabres: Fantasy Prospect Report
Calgary Flames: Fantasy Prospect Report
Carolina Hurricanes: Fantasy Prospect Report
Chicago Black Hawks: Fantasy Prospect Report
Colorado Avalanche: Fantasy Prospect Report
Columbus Blue Jackets: Fantasy Prospect Report














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