By Daniel Chan -
The draft, hands down, is the best time of the hockey season. Maybe I'm just saying that because the Wild haven't been seen post-season action since 2008, but that is besides the point.
So, on June 22nd-23rd, we will all sit down in front of the television/computer and watch the draft. But if you are wondering, "who's who", then you haven't been reading HW because thats my job.
So without further ado:
Introducing our 2012 NHL #16 Draft Prospect - Slater Koekkoek
Accomplishments & Awards:
Prospect Jersey (What Would They Look Like In a Wild Jersey?)
Summarized Scouting Report
Strengths:
Weaknesses:
HW Projection:
Video Evidence:
Where Does He Fit In The Wild?
Koekkoek is a big gamble and the Wild just don't need that right now.
Conclusion
You may see alot of conflicting things in the above summarize scouting reports above, and there is really only one explanation why: Slater Koekkoek is an extremely raw prospect.
He has all the tools that would make him a very interesting prospect. He has size, mobility, character, and ability to log tons of ice time.
However, each tool he has needs polishing and refining. Although 6-2, he is only 184lbs and will need alot more muscle to dominate physically. Offensively, he makes good outlet passes, has a good shot, and likes the join the rush but at the same time isn't a dynamic player who can control the offense. Defensively, he uses his size effectively but at times does too much.
But if with the proper coach and proper development, Koekkoek can bring it all together and become a fine player. He is really a sorta of a hockey playdo (remember those things?). A team will get a prospect with tons of tools and enough versatility for the team to decide how they want Koekkoek to become.
In addition of being raw, he came into the season hoping to prove he was more than just potential. However, he suffered a season ending injured, and that stopped any chance for Koekkoek to prove he was more than just a raw prospect. This has had him drop in many drafts.
He will definitely be a fun one to watch on draft day and the following 2-4 seasons.
If you want to see my earlier piece on Koekkoek, here's the link
Special thanks to HFBoards, Future Considerations, The Hockey Writers, TSN, OHLProspeccts and The Scouting Report
Think you could write a story like this? Hockey Wilderness wants you to develop your voice, find an audience, and we'll pay you to do it. Just fill out this form.
Recommended Comments
There are no comments to display.
Join the conversation
You can post now and register later. If you have an account, sign in now to post with your account.
Note: Your post will require moderator approval before it will be visible.