NHL draft picks to watch that might exercise their rights to become free agents:
C/RW John Hayden 6'3'' 223lbs shoots R 21y/o senior
http://www.eliteprospects.com/player.php?player=151828
3rd round pick by Chicago in 2013 74th OA.
Scouting reports on Hayden from 2013
Quote:
Red Line Report: "Big bull likes the physical aspect of the game. Hits hard along the walls and drives through his checks. Dominates down low in the offensive corners, winning the 1-on-1 puck battles and making power moves to the crease. Has soft hands for such a horse, and uses his [size] effectively to gain and hold position around the slot, keeping defenders off his back. Also uses big body and long reach to protect the puck when cycling. But he is playing a bit too heavy and it's affecting his skating, which was never his strong suit. Lacks both first step burst and a top-end gear. Feet are very heavy and he does not stop/start quickly. He is tough to move off the puck and uses twists/spins in tight areas to gain separation. Provides good puck support and has good hockey sense in all three zones. Understands defensive zone positioning and sells out his body to clear zone along the boards."
Hockey Prospectus: "Hayden is a power forward who drew attention this year due to the solid amount of offensive skill he displayed, along with his power elements. He already has the body of an NHLer, as he is 6'2" and 210 pounds, and he uses his frame well. He is a tough player who will drive the net, shoulder off checks, and grind it out for pucks in board battles. His offensive touch with the puck is intriguing. Hayden will not blow anyone away with a flashy move or highlight reel pass, but he can flash above-average potential, and he has some creativity to his game. He is not selfish, as he can make plays. His power elements, combined with the fact that he can make a man miss, make him a desirable prospect. His skating is roughly average; while he is not lumbering, he is not a player will blow past a defenseman. One scout thinks that he is average skater, and another thinks he needs some work in that area. He will be attending Yale University in the fall."
TheScoutingReport.org: "Stocky Yale commit brings an intriguing combination of size and skill. Excellent cycle based forward who keeps his feet moving and is difficult for the opposition to contain due to his large stature. At his best below the hashmarks, Hayden is willing to stand in front of the net and sacrifice his body in a physically punishing scoring area. Skating needs to improve for him to make an impact at the pro level. We see Hayden having a real chance one day as his competitiveness should allow him to play a number of different roles."
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D Will Butcher 5'10'' 185lbs shoots L 22y/o
http://www.eliteprospects.com/player.php?player=97590
5th round pick by Colorado Avalanche in 2013 123rd OA
Offensive d-man that was part of the 2013 gold medal WJC team that had Gaudreau and Gillies.