A late bloomer with good skills, feet, and high end stickhandling ability. Six foot playmaking centre with very good offensive instincts and smarts. Has good vision and sees the open teammate quickly and effectively. Has a good anchor and is strong on the puck. Has a frame that can add weight. Has a terrific stick, and despite knocks on his skating stride by others, he provides scoring chances using his speed and agility. The issue is more if you are able to get value by where he is selected. His lack of production in past years is a troubling aspect if you see him as player who is going to trend upward. As an NHLer, he'll be expected to contribute as a regular contributor offensively. Committed to Providence College.
—Bill Placzek—
One of the most notable sleeper picks in this draft due to his decision to play another year of high school hockey. He dominated the USHS circuit scoring 42 goals/ 80 points in 30games and winning the USA boys hockey player of the year. He's committed to Providence College next year.
His highlight-reel skill-set showcases great playmaking ability and an even better finishing touch. He has a deceptive release and tight edges which allow him to fool goaltenders. Perhaps even more important, he possesses excellent drive and is an aggressive forechecker.
In order to be successful at the pro and NHL level, he will have to add bulk to his not-too-undersized 5'11 175lbs frame. This will hopefully help him compete more physically, which may be one of few knocks against him. He could also stand to pass a a bit more often and holds on to the puck a tad too much. But, that's often because he has a play in mind or he’s the lone forward and managed to retrieve the puck. If he begins to show the same relentlessness in the d-zone that he shows on the forecheck, he may one of the bigger steals in this draft. Time will tell if this C/RW is just a high-school wonder, or the real deal at the pro level.
--Ronald Perinpanayagam--
