Quote:
Originally Posted by Savvy27
I'm sure that there are other people who watched him play a bunch in the WHL who could describe him more accurately, but I think he plays a bit like Dan Hamhuis (though with less offence).
-He's a good skater who makes smart, conservative decisions both with and without the puck.
-He's good down low and on the penalty kill when he has to keep track of where opponents are on the ice.
-He's a willing shot blocker and seems to have good timing at it.
-He makes accurate breakout passes to open players and rarely forces plays.
I don't think you're going to see too many spectacular hits or goals from him, but you'll get effort and good decisions from a capable defender.
I'm thrilled that they signed him. I think he can be a top 4 D in the NHL.
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That is an excellent discription of him - very positionally sound, and always looks for the safe, smart, and simple play. Much like Regehr in that sense, but he is not physical like Regehr.
I would add that he is a smart, but conservative player. Moving up to the next level is something that happens slowly for him because he needs time to get comfortable at the new level.
Expect at least one, probably two full years in the A, but I think he will be an excellent NHLer one day - probably a 2nd pairing guy, but maybe the defensive side of a top pairing (i.e. the #2) as his upside.
I have felt for a long time that he would turn out to be a very solid pick for the Flames. I watched him a lot last year and have always liked the way he plays.