Seven British Columbia Hockey League players have been named to NHL Central Scouting's initial Watch List for the 2009 Entry Draft. The list is the first published by Central Scouting that identifies potential prospects for National Hockey League scouts.

Nanaimo Clippers forward Zac Ashdown, Penticton Vees forward Curtis McKenzie and Prince George Spruce Kings defencemen Wes McLeod have been ranked as B-rated prospects likely to be third to fifth round draft selections.

Merritt Centennials defencemen Jake Baker and Curtis Gedig, Surrey Eagles forward Spencer Bennett, Vernon Vipers forward Corey Kane and Cowichan Valley Capitals defenceman Matt Ridley have been identified as C-level prospects who are likely to be late-round draft selections.

Of the eight players on the Watch List, seven are natives of British Columbia. The lone import -- Vernon's Kane -- is from Irvine, California.

Curtis McKenzie is the current top scorer amongst the group. He leads the Vees with eight goals and 11 assists in 16 games. Kane has 14 points to show for 19 early-season games while Bennett and McLeod are even with 11 points.

Central Scouting is slated to update its list and rank the top 210 North American skaters in mid-January.