Best offensive defenceman
You don't often see a 17-year-old freshman blueliner running an NCAA power play, but Zach Werenski has special offensive tools. "He has an innate ability to get shots through, particuarly wrist shots," said one scout. "Add in his puck skills and great passing...he'll be a first unit power play guy at every level."
Provorov came within four points of leading all WHL defencemen in scoring as a rookie thanks to his smarts and cannon shot. Witnessing Dunn's four-goal playoff performance in Ottawa convinced many scouts, myself included, that his offensive upside is legitimate, and Hanifin, like Werenski, put up solid offensive numbers in his freshman season.
1. Zach Werenski
2. Ivan Provorov
3. Vince Dunn
4. Noah Hanifin
5. Travis Dermott
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