Griff21: Looking ahead, who are the blues likely to draft ? Mock drafts/ prospect rankings have us taking any of a handful of players from O’Reilly, Holland and others. Never seen any of the guys play & only have scouting reports & stats. Do you have any insights or favorites you would like to see?

Jeff Gordon: At that point in the NHL Draft, anything is possible. I have no opinion/favorite for that pick. It is too deep into the first round to get too excited about.

Griff21: We all know of EJ's injury. Brewer had surgery, Jackman & Mckee are likely needing some repair. While each is different situation( EJ almost ready ready to return) its looking a little rough that 2/3 of our Dmen are either having procedures done or are coming off injury to start next year.

Jeff Gordon: We don't know if Brewer will play again, so that is big. McKee is a depth guy at best for next year, so his health isn't that big of a concern. Johnson is the key to 2009-10.

Jim: Jeff,

Long time reader, first time poster. I do not get all the comments on players that have not had a chance to show what they can do. People are all over the later picks, but here is a note from Yahoo Sports on some of their favorite picks overall during the draft:

Round Seven
Three Picks I Love

211. St. Louis — Chris Obonnaya, RB, Texas If you like "bring your lunch pail to work" stories, you'll love everything about Chris Obonnaya. Despite good size, good speed and good skills, the Texas running back had carried the ball only 66 times in three seasons as a Longhorn. Finally given the chance to start in '08, Obonnaya burst onto the scene, rushing for 373 yards in spot duty and catching 46 balls out of the backfield. He worked on special teams, too. Obonnaya is one of those players willing and able to do anything a team could possibly need. He'll be a welcome addition to the rebuilding Rams.

Jim

Jeff Gordon: Mizzou fans can appreciate that kid's potential. I like the fact he is a combo back with good hands. He could be, at worst, a Brian Leonard-type player -- but picked at a more appropriate draft slot.

Jim: Jeff,

I realized it was actually Fox Sports on the 7th round pick info. I do think that we need to see what happens over the summer and give everyone a chance.

Thanks

Jim

Jeff Gordon: Like his mentor Bobby Beathard, Devaney went for interesting athletes with his later picks. He went for players with tools. Those guys are on the outside looking in anyway, so why not shoot for upside?

davispastry@verizon.net: jason smith had his picture in the sunday post and my wife pointed out to me he had braces on both knees,any worries about this? thanks

Jeff Gordon: He is healthy. No concerns there.