Calgary Flames 2012 Draft Picks

First Round (from Buffalo): Mark Jankowski C Stanstead College 57 GP 53 G 40 A.

Calgary hasn't had a number one centre since 1995. Why not wait a couple more years? Here's what Craig Button says:

Mark is a late bloomer but certainly a testament to the adage; it doesn't matter where you start but where you finish. He was not on any scouting radar at the outset of this season but when he did appear, he became a bright, blinking light. He is an excellent skater with a long, efficient stride combined with agility, quickness and balance that allows him to impose himself on the game. He can beat defenders 1-1 and is capable of opening up ice for himself and breaking down opponents for his team's gain. His puck skills are very good, with his playmaking and passing taking the lead but his shot should not be underestimated. His sense and vision is excellent and he's capable of making plays that open up terrific offensive chances. He is unselfish to a fault but when the game is in the balance, he takes charge. He competes and works in all areas of the game and as he continues to physically mature, he has the potential to be that big, skilled center that NHL teams covet.

Second Round (from Buffalo): Patrick Sieloff D U.S. Under 18 24 GP 0 G 2 A.

I don't like this pick at all considering Ludvig Bystrom, Dalton Thrower (66 GP 18 G 36 A and just as big), and Damon Severson (56 GP 7 G 30 A also just as big) were still available. Here's what Craig Button has to say about him:

Patrick is a competitor who plays with one intention; to help the team win. Often you hear about a player's size but to talk of Patrick's size as a limiting factor would be to underestimate him and his impact on the game. He is a very good skater with quickness, agility and balance and uses it in all situations to his advantage. Defensively, he doesn't get beat 1-1 because of the skating and his positioning is excellent and then you add a determined spirit to stop opponents and nothing is easy versus him. He will engage physically and will deliver big body checks that can leave a lasting impact. He battles opponents for every inch of ice and simply refuses to give in to the greatest challenges and he has that rough sandpaper grit in his game. He has very good sense and he moves the puck quickly and effectively. He won't be an offensive force but he'll ensure a team gets out of the defensive zone and the puck gets to those players who can deliver on the offensive side. He is an all in player who will never leave a team short with his effort and determination.

Third Round: Jon Gillies G Indiana Ice 53 GP 2.77 GAA .915 SV %

This pick confuses me considering the only position we have an abundance of prospects is goalie.

Fourth Round: Brett Kulak D Vancouver Giants 79 GP 9 G 15 A

Fifth Round Ryan Culkin D Quebec Remparts 60 GP 6 G 19 A

Notes: Got this pick in the Cammalleri trade

Fifth Round: Traded on July 14, 2011 to the New Jersey Devils in exchange for Pierre-Luc Letourneau-Leblond

Sixth Round: Coda Gordon LW Swift Current Broncos 66 GP 30 G 23

The only late round player I'm excited about. Local kid, and looks looks like he could turn into a late round steal.

Seventh Round: Matthew Deblouw C Muskegon Lumberjacks 58 GP 11 G 23 A