Norris cracks first TSN player rankings list for 2017 NHL Draft; Chmelevski one to watch

By Michael Caples –

Last year, it was Alex DeBrincat and Max Jones jostling for position.

Before that, it was Zach Werenski and Kyle Connor.

Who will be carrying the torch as Michigan’s representatives on draft boards this year?

As of right now, it’s Josh Norris.

The Oxford native and forward for USA Hockey’s National Team Development Program Under-18 Team forward checks in at No. 23 on the draft board of Craig Button, TSN’s director of scouting.

Norris, a product of the Oakland Jr. Grizzlies organization, is committed to the University of Michigan for the 2017-18 season.

Last season – his first with the NTDP – Norris recorded 14 goals and 13 assists for 27 points in 44 games, primarily against USHL competition.

Norris is the son of Dwayne Norris, who played for Michigan State before embarking on a 15-year professional career.

Norris is one of two NTDP forwards to appear on Button’s list of the top 31 draft-eligible prospects; Grant Mismash (Edina, Minn.) checks in at No. 16.

Button also included a list of 10 more ‘players to watch’ for the upcoming season, and on that list, you’ll find another Michigan name in Sasha Chmelevski. The Northville native – a product of Belle Tire and Honeybaked – currently skates for the Ottawa 67’s of the Ontario Hockey League. He has represented Team USA at the Ivan Hlinka tournament.

Fellow NTDP forward Scott Reedy also appears on the 10 to watch list. He’s a Shattuck St. Mary’s alum, as well as a Prior Lake, Minn., native.