1.) Nic Kerdiles– (Drafted #36th overall 2012 draft ANA)
Kerdiles is a big, point getting center and on this list my number 1 Ducks prospect. Kerdiles is a local kid, from Irvine, California but moved to Ann Arbor for the 2010-2011 season to play for the US National Development Team. Kerdiles played 188 games combined with the National team including tournaments and season games. He compiled 66 goals and 74 assists in that period for a total of 140 points in the 188 games he played.
After his Development Team time was over Kerdiles would go on to play for the University of Wisconsin for the next two seasons. As a Badger, Kerdiles would continue his goal scoring touch. In 60 collegiate games Kerdiles compiled a 26-45-71 stat line. Kerdiles was also instrumental in getting Wisconsin berths to the NCAA tournament in both seasons he played there.
After this past season Kerdiles left his last two years of eligibility to sign his pro contract. He signed a 3-year entry level deal and was immediately added to the Ducks AHL affiliate, Norfolk Admirals. Though his sample size is small, Kerdiles posted 4 points in 6 regular season games and another 4 points in 10 playoff games with the Admirals.
With the Ducks rumored to be in on many big name centers, and the emergence of Nick Bonino and Rickard Rakell I think Kerdiles could be in Norfolk for the season next year. He may get a call-up or two and he will push for a spot but he needs a full season at the AHL level. He isn’t a flashy play but he is smart, physical and has produced points at every level he has played at.
Look for Kerdiles to be a great pick and a solid second or third line center for the Ducks.