This thick six foot two way centre is an opportunistic and productive scorer whose high motor defensive involvement and good anticipation all around may catapult him into the late first and definitely will be off the board before the second round ends.He is excellent in the face off dot. His skills and tool box come off as very average, but reads the ice very well and shows good anticipation, and really plays a simple game, which includes strong board play and cycle work. He carries almost 200 pounds on his frame already, which helps him succeed at it. He is high tempo whether he is without the puck or carrying it. He usually isn’t the main carrier in transition, so his handlng and get up need work. Adapts well offensive and know were to get to. He gets in the lane for deflections, battles on the boards, makes plays off the wall, and then rushes back defensively. He scores when he has positioned advantageously and battles for the point shot defections. At times, he rushes things and reacts to fast instead of letting things develop. When the feet are going, he gets to the open inside space, and creates turnovers with physicality Committed to the University of Michigan, he’ll be given the opportunity to get that motor running, in the quest to refine his details and advance his abilities in defensive engagement, and improve his already high offensive playmaking. He isn’t of more than average skill level, but possesses high hockey sense. That and his compete level are what raises his floor to a possible future NHL player.
–Bill Płaczek–
