Daniil Chayka, D
Chayka had a difficult 2020-21 season. With the OHL season canceled, he played in three different Russian leagues, accumulating just two goals and seven points in 26 games. With the Guelph Storm the previous year, Chayka finished with 11 goals and 23 assists, leading all defensemen in points.
He already has great size at 6’3″, 185 lbs, with room to fill out his frame. Chayka’s biggest assets are his massive shot from the point and long reach, making it nearly impossible for the opposition to beat him in the defensive zone.
"In the defensive zone, his play is quite similar to University of Michigan defenseman Owen Power. His defensive strategy is to play a more relaxed game until the puck crosses the perimeter. At that point, Chayka plays a bit tighter along the half-wall to eliminate lanes for the attacker to shift towards center ice. – Smaht Scouting"
Jack Bar, D
Jack Bar could have been a first-round pick had he played the whole season with the Chicago Steel. He spent the fall playing in the BCHL before Chicago acquired his rights in January 2021. The 18-year-old D man tallied five goals and ten assists in 34 games.
He’s an opportunistic blueliner who takes care of his own end but isn’t afraid to jump into the rush or crash the net. Bar stands at 6’2″, 194 lbs, and loves the physical side of the game. He fits everything the Kings are looking for at the back end.
And shameful plug, but check out my interview with his former Prep School coach.