YOUNGSTOWN — Three Youngstown Phantoms have been recognized by NHL Central Scouting on their 2019-20 Preliminary List. Ben Schoen, Trevor Kuntar, and Phantoms goaltender Colin Purcell are three of 86 USHL players included on the list.

NHL Central Scouting is a department within the league that ranks prospects for the NHL Entry Draft on how well they believe the players will translate to the professional game.

Schoen, a forward from Maumee, Ohio, is back for his second year with the Phantoms after a 28-point season last year.

“He has exceptional vision and IQ for the game which makes him a catalyst in all areas,” Phantoms coach Brad Patterson said. “Ben can play at any speed and makes everyone around him better.”

Forward Kuntar returns for his third year in Youngstown before going off to Harvard University next season.

“A power forward with the ability to score in a multitude of ways,” Patterson said. “Will be a leader through his play and overall experience.”

Purcell, from Shaker Heights, was an affiliate goalie last year, spending his time with the Cleveland Barons of the Tier 1 Elite Hockey League.

“Purcell has shown the ability to excel at this level dating back to last season,” Patterson said. “He is a competitive, athletic goaltender that gets better every day. He has obviously had a great start to the year, and we look forward to seeing him progress.”