[Sandman]

Draft Thoughts (American Edition, Vol. 13):

RHC Teddy Mutryn (6'1",207lbs)
Chicago Steel (USHL): 27gp/ 11g/ 7a/ 18pts, -5, 52 PIM

Teddy Mutryn deserves more attention, and he would no doubt have more fanfare if he wasn't toiling for the Chicago Steel, who are 14th out of 16 teams in the USHL, and are 5th-worst in goals-for. In December's World Junior-A Challenge, Mutryn performed well, and posted 4 assists in 5 games while showcasing his pace-pushing heavy game. He did much of the same in the summer at the Hlinka-Gretzky Cup, with 3 points in 5 games for a Team USA that left some of their best players at home. Mutryn is a highly-intelligent, well-rounded power-forward with solid IQ who often seems to be a step or two ahead of the play with his keen anticipation in all 3 zones. He's seen as a complete player who makes things happen all over the ice and versatile in the way he can play all 3 forward positions. His prime weapon is his finishing ability, which includes a hard, heavy shot with an even better release, and soft hands for beating goalies in-tight. He's always a threat to score, as he can get his shot off with very little time or space to work with, or under heavy checking pressure. He will set up shop in front of the net in order to set up the screen, and fish for tips and rebounds.

Though his goal-scoring stands out, Mutryn often flashes a solid playmaking dimension and can connect with teammates through traffic, but is also proficient at sniffing out soft spots in coverage to exploit, and can delay to draw defenders in to open space to pass into. He is an above-average skater with a long, powerful stride and a peppy short-area burst who is strong on the puck and displays good protection skills that make it very difficult to strip him of the puck. Mutryn employs a very physical style, and is uncommonly strong; he rarely gets outmuscled and plays hard on the boards, grinding opponents down and playing an agitator role. Down low and around the net, he's like a shark circling, and executes retrievals in both ends of the rink by force- he's dangerous and highly disruptive on the forecheck, and wins pucks on the backcheck before starting the breakout. In his own end, he's very reliable, supports teammates in battle, blocks shots willingly, and aids his D down low. He plays a high-pressure game, removing time and space from puck-carriers all over the zone from the points to below the goal-line, and causes turnovers in all 3 zones with a well-timed stick. He's highly aware defensively, and plays a detailed game when it comes to snuffing out his opponents attack. In all situations, he plays with passion, intensity, and a relentless motor.

There's a lot to like in this package, and a very translatable game. Mutryn hasn't proven himself to be a high-level points-producer yet, but he has tons of potential and excellent tools. There's also a high NHL floor. I really like this kid, and I think scouts do as well, so I would guess that he's selected in the latter half of the second round, to the early third round of this summer's draft. He has committed to Boston College for 2026-27.