By Paul Krotz/OHL

Just one day away from the 2012 NHL Entry Draft had many of the OHL’s top prospects in good spirits including six players that participated in one final media availability session on a river boat cruise in Pittsburgh on Thursday afternoon.

 “I’m definitely really excited,” said Ottawa 67’s defenceman Cody Ceci who is ranked sixth overall by NHL Central Scouting.  “It’s a really nice city and I’m really enjoying my time here.  Tomorrow should just be another day but at the same time I’m going to be really excited and try not to be too nervous.”

A mix of nervous excitement was also evident for Kitchener Rangers forward Radek Faksa ranked one spot behind Ceci at number seven.

“I feel great because it’s my dream and I am here now and can be drafted tomorrow,” Faksa said.  “So I’m a little bit nervous but I’m also pretty excited.”

Even despite the all of the draft tips from older brother P.K, it’s hard for top ranked goaltender Malcolm Subban of the Belleville Bulls to wait much longer to hear his name called to the stage.

“I’ll be more excited tomorrow,” a smiling Subban said.  “It’s going to be the longest 24 hours right now, just trying to get my mind off it and when it comes it comes.”

The NHL Entry Draft brings the season full circle and shows the growth and maturity of players that have endured a year’s worth of interviews and scrutiny.   

“Time flies,” said the former first overall OHL pick Alex Galchenyuk.  “I remember my press conference with Sarnia, I was 16-years-old and didn’t really know what to say and now I’m here, it’s been a great road.”

Galchenyuk has had the fortunate opportunity to spend his draft season with teammate and good friend Nail Yakupov who many expect will be the first name called out by the Edmonton Oilers on Friday.

 “I feel great,” Yakupov said.  “We’ve had fun here with the guys.”

Yakupov has had more than just Galchenyuk for company these last few days as many of the top prospects have enjoyed the camaraderie while touring around Pittsburgh.

“It’s nice to meet the players here and see what kind of guys they are and talk to them about the draft,” said Knights defenceman Olli Maatta.  “I’m just really excited for tomorrow and looking forward to it.”

Look for these top six OHL prospects and more to turn their nervous anticipation and excitement into NHL Draft day joy on Friday night June 22.