Prospect Profile: Kegger

Looking at Maple Leafs prospects has been a bit of a disaster for the past decade or so. Never really finding a player that would bring something special, the Leafs have been severely lacking in the scouting department for as long as I can remember. This has inevitably led to an empty cupboard and subpar, if not horrible winning records throughout the years; Two short years ago that all changed.

Brian Burke was handed the keys to the castle, and given full control of the team. The scouting staff under Burke has made significant progress the last few years. One particular pick that has turned into a gem is a St. Thomas, Ontario Native, Greg McKegg. Greg plays for the Erie Otters of the OHL, and Captained the team into the playoffs this past spring. Many within the Otters organization, including his coach, Robbie Ftorek, believe he is the epitome of what a true captain is.

His regular season numbers have jumped massively in the last few years with the Otters. 

2008 - 2009 (Rookie Season)

8 Goals - 10 Assists

18 Points in 64 Games.

2010 - 2011 (Last Season)

49 Goals - 43 Assists

92 Points in 66 Games.

After the Otters were eliminated frm playoff contention he was given the privilege of being called up to the Marlies to play out the final two games of the AHL season. He scored his first Pro goal in his first game with the Marlies. Although he will most likely return to the Otters next season, McKegg will be on the shortlist to make the AHL if he impresses further at training camp this fall.

Assuming he does return to the OHL, he will be playing alongside a newly acquired teammate, and fellow Leafs prospect Sondre Olden. The Erie Otters picked him 31st overall in the CHL import draft, no doubt because of the chemistry he and Greg showed during last seasons NHL rookie Tournament; Being drafted by the same team, in the same round at the same draft doesn't hurt either. Brian Burke suggested to Olden last season that he should enter the Import Draft so he could work on his North American game in the CHL. Being drafted by the Otters was probably the best thing for him by far. With McKegg's guidance, he can learn how to utilize his 6'4 180 Pound frame on the wing with the captain this upcoming OHL season. This also means they could both be making the Marlies at the same time in the 2012 - 2013 AHL season.