NHL Scouting Combine slated in May

Once NHL Central Scouting finalizes the rankings for the top draft-eligible North American prospects, the scouting staff will continue to make preparations for the NHL Scouting Combine in Toronto from May 27 through June 1.

While there is no confirmation to the number of North American and European invites at the Combine just yet, the 2012 Combine had the top 104 players from North American and Europe. Head goalie scout Al Jensen has traditionally had the top eight goalies attend.

The fitness testing portion of the Combine will be held May 31 and June 1 at the Toronto International Centre.

The scouts have ranked the top 75 skaters so far on Saturday, and are into Round 3 projections. It's a slow and arduous process but that's done purposely so that no one is missed and players are ranked in their proper slots. That being said, the scouts have always considered a potential No. 1 pick just as important as pick No. 101.

Follow Mike Morreale on Twitter at: @mikemorrealeNHL