HW 2011 Prospects: Dougie Hamilton

With each post, you will get to understand what type of player he is, and how he can help the Wild. You'll understand his strengths, flaws and get to understand what type of player he'll develop into.

The HW's Rank - The average rank of several of our favorite available rankings, weighted appropriately.

Summary Scout Notes - A broken down version of comments offered by each service. To read the whole explanations, click on the source site and search.

Now, introducing Niagara IceDogs defenseman Dougie Hamilton:

History And Accomplishments

HW's Take:

Possibly my favorite prospect in this entire draft, I am writing this article knowing he won't be there at our #10 selection.

Hamilton is a big defenseman with good two-way ability. He has very smooth skating and has the ability to come into the offensive zone and unleash a rocket of a shot. He can play physical and can move the puck effectively. What makes him my favorite prospect is his intangibles. I'm a sucker for prospects that display smarts off the ice and Hamilton won the OHL Scholastic Player of the Year (a 94% average). What makes successful NHLers is their dedication and hardwork and seeing an 18-year old kid work hard off the ice as well as playing 67 games (with many on the road) makes me smile.

But he most likely won't be available at #10. If anything, I see him moving up the draft.

HW's Projection

Top pairing defenseman

Summary Scouts Notes

For full explanations, click on the links:

Niagara IceDogs head coach Marty Williamson

B2011DW

A right-shooting defenseman who generates very good power and torque on his shot ... a self-described "sneaky offensive player" ... big, tall frame with long limbs ... very good skater ... exhibiting some real jump and smooth acceleration, top speed, and excellent lateral agility and footwork ... makes a pretty strong, crisp first pass ... aggressive in the offensive zone ... good physical presence ... bright, intelligent kid ... defense is a work in progress ... prone to trying to do too much in his own end ...
Islanders Scout Tim MacLean (via NHL.com)

Video Evidence

Where Does He Fit With The Wild?

He's not a forward but he's a bluechip prospect and thats what the Minnesota Wild needs.

Good Choice At #10?

I think he is an excellent choice at #10. But again, he won't be there. I'm 100% certain about that. And because of that, I'm writing this article and excluding him from my list of top potential Wild picks.

How Does He Look As A Wild?

Comment away!