Rickard Rakell

Rickard Rakell - Plymouth Whalers
6' - 185 lbs

 During the 2009-10 campaign Rakell put up 13 goals and 25 points in 12 games with his AIK J18 team, then netted 12 goals and 16 points in 18 games with AIK J18 (Elit). The 17-year-old also spent some time in the SuperElit with the U20’s this season, where he 3 goals and 4 points in 8 games against the older competition. 

                                                                                                              Rakell boasts a heavy, accurate, pro calibre shot, is a strong skater, good at protecting the puck, has nice hands, and very good hockey smarts. He is a big, strong, winger, that simply has a knack for putting the puck in the net.

                                                                                                                                                           Rakell boasts solid international stats. he recorded 7 goals and 2 assists in 9 games with the U17’s this past season, and helped team Sweden to a bronze medal at the 2010 World Under-17 Hockey Challenge.  He is the complete offensive package, and is also responsible defensively as well, which should have Whaler fans excited about their chances with a young club that is on the rise.

Matt Mahalak

Matt Mahalak _ Plymouth Whalers
6'2" - 185 LBS

Could Mahalak follow Jack Campbell and Vault the U.S. into the status of great goaltender developers like Finland and Quebec? There is nothing to indicate that Mahalak won't be fighting it out with Tyson Teichmann as the number one goalie in the OHL (draft eligible). In fact, everything points to it being a very tight race.

"Matt is the top goaltender of his draft class," He’s played well at every level and we expect that to continue next season in Plymouth. Matt is an extremely gifted student who will already be in college next season at just 17 years old. He received a lot of offers from Division 1 programs, but we're pleased that he decided the OHL could provide him the best level of competition while continuing his education.” said Whalers GM Mike Vellucci in a press release after signing Mahalak.

I'll admit that anything i know of Mahalak is what I've learned from someone else or reading, having not seen him personally. But i look forward to seeing him this season when i can, as everyone tells me "He's the real deal."

I thought I'd share a link to a video i found on him. Enjoy ! http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dWWcocR7qiQ

Garrett Meurs

Garrett Meurs, Plymouth Whalers

Garrett has the skill and offensive potential to be top notch. He has the ability to dominate a game on his own and has shown that ability. He has excellent skating abilities and speed, especially in his first few strides. It doesn’t take him long to reach top speed.




In 62 games for the Whalers he registered 18 goals and 18 assists. With Tyler Seguin probably in the NHL next season, the offence for the Whalers will start and stop with Meurs.