OHL’ s #1 selection in 2025, this young colt has all the makings of an NHL power wing, and had 8 points in his first 3 games in 2024-25. Has a raw skill set, but the wheels are in place. Has a physical side. The GM and scouting staff that calls Ethan Belchelz name into the microphone are basing the selection on the fact this 6-foot-5, 227 pound wing has the promise to continue improving his nimble body and quick release as more dominant weapons in his toolbox to go witht his edgy in-your-face style. He is very strong on the puck and his release is pretty quick. Strong on the wall and gets to wherever he desires, you are drafting potential, so, no matter if you think his point per game pace in the OHL is a mirage, he demands attention and his combative style has dominated any and junior all players who he challenges. He’s got a head for playing his position strong. This hockey man-child’s selection depends upon where team’s see his value in their future plans. He doesn’t has feet and edging to deke out defenders in his carries, or high end attributes outside the fact that he handles himself admirably when defender who attempt to side track his positional intentions. He’s an in-close scorer with power to hold position and ferret loose pucks. Every team covets big man disruptors for Spring hockey matches, and it basically becomes to he being the next best player available on your list. He needs more development to his over-all game and still have time for more growth in his game, and body even at his current 76 plus inches. He can surprise with his quick heavy shot, and with the heavy shots he administers in wall battles. Needs more pace and urgency to lots of his shifts, but his length helps his stick-handling to mask his skating deficits. After you call his name, he better get to a point where he is assertive offensively and not waiting for things to happen around him to getbhis looks.
—Bill Placzek—
Bill Placzek
