[SportsJunky]

Last year Calgary was ranked #12. That surprises me.


Calgary’s system is led by its three most recent first-round picks in Matthew Coronato, Jakob Pelletier and Connor Zary, who all look like potential good NHL players. The lingering effects of 2017 and 2018 where the Flames moved a lot of picks still is apparent in their system, but they are steadily building up the young depth in the pipeline.

1. Matthew Coronato, RW, Chicago-USHL

Nov. 14, 2002 | 5-foot-10 | 183 pounds

Drafted: No. 13 in 2021

Tier: Projected middle of the lineup player

Skating: Above-average
Puck Skills: Average
Hockey Sense: Average
Compete: Above-average
Shot: Above-average

Coronato was one of the best players in the USHL and among the leaders in most offensive categories. Coronato is an undersized forward with a lot of skill who can make plays with pace. He’s a strong skater, not elite for a small guy, but good enough to be an NHL player. He’s able to create controlled entries with his speed and skill, and make tough plays to his teammates on the move. Coronato is also able to play the half-wall on the power play and find seams as well as finish from distance. He killed penalties for Chicago and works hard enough to advance levels and win battles despite his size. Coronato projects as a versatile second-line NHL winger.

https://theathletic.com/2794625/2021...thew-coronato/