Prospect Ranking Update: Howard Still #1

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Prospect Rankings

1. G Jimmy Howard, Grand Rapids (AHL). It hasn't happened overnight --- Howard was taken in the same draft as Pittsburgh Penguins starter Marc-Andre Fleury --- but he finally appears poised to put it all together.

2. D Jakub Kindl, Grand Rapids (AHL). He's the highest Red Wings draft pick in 15 years, and the organization loves his size and skill. But he's still raw and likely needs at least two AHL seasons before he's ready for NHL duty.

3. F Justin Abdelkader, Michigan State (NCAA). He's developing a reputation as a big-game player and looks like a lock to anchor Detroit's third line for years to come. He's a big, physical puck-chaser who skates extremely well.

4. F Cory Emmerton, Kingston (OHL). Emmerton is a perfect fit for the Red Wings' puck-possession style, a fact that can't be overlooked. His outstanding hockey mind makes him dangerous offensively. He also takes care of his own zone.

5. D Brendan Smith, Wisconsin (NCAA). Fluid and mobile, Smith looks like a future power-play quarterback. If he develops as the Red Wings hope, he could come along at just the right time, with Nicklas Lidstrom aging.

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