Of our defensive prospects the one I’d be most inclined to move is Fox, and it has nothing to do with his college status. I look at the potential in each player and just see Fox as the one with the least potential to be a big contributor. I rank the young defensive prospects in order, Andresson, Valimaki, Kylington, then Fox.
I think Andersson has the most upside in all aspects. He plays a solid defensive game and is excellent in making things happen on the offensive side of the puck. Of the four prospects he has the best shot and consistently gets it through. His skating is not his biggest strength, but his positioning makes up for it. He is ready right now.
Valimaki is probably the most complete of the four. He’s got above average skills in all areas and is just solid on both sides of the puck. His shot is good and he can get it on net. His skating is good and should be a strength for him. I see him knocking on the door in training camp and making the team the following year.
Kylington has such an intriguing skill set. His skating is his greatest strength and what could get him to the NHL. The system would have to change to use this strength, which is why I am questioning if he can make the next level, with the Flames.
Fox is last in the mix, not because he is a bad prospect, just the one with the longest shot to make the NHL. Fox is undersized and is not a great skater. His defensive game is okay, but his offense is what gets people excited. My only question is does that game translate to the next level? Fox is smart, but he uses time and space to make to his plays, something that you don’t get a ton of in the NHL. He also doesn’t have a great shot, being similar to Brodie in that regard. That’s a lot working against him. Yes, he is a good prospect, but he has a long way to go. If someone is willing to assume the risk and pay you a good return, I’d be inclined to move Fox for the immediate return.
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