A pass-first centremen gifted with blazing speed that forces defenders backward or he gets enough respect of a wider gap on his zone entires. Defenders take many a penalty trying to slow him. Displays tight edging and doesn't slow down while using his above average hands to work his way in or send a teammate a pinpoint pass. Has a strong compete level and his strong acceleration are his strength. Passing the puck at top speed can sometimes cause him to turn it over. Needs to shoot more, and to develop his abilty to win in the face-off circle. Works responsibily in the defensive end but struggles against bigger competition. Sees time on the penalty-kill, where his stick and quick will cause turnovers and short handed chnges. Similar to his brother, this centre-wing has tremendous straight line acceleration to drive the net. The rest of his game is a work in progress. Avoids puck battles in the corners and boards in the offensive zone. At this juncture, he is basically a super fast perimeter player. Strong as a penalty-killer. He is still learning set play passing and has some trouble making accurate passes while in-top flight.
--Bill Placzek--
