Jagger Firkus

Skating:

Average -- Firkus isn't a "bad" skater, but it isn't a standout skill. He doesn't have breakaway or burn-you-wide speed. He is adept at moving in smaller tighter spaces with the puck though, which points to good footspeed.

Passing/Handling:

Above Average -- Firkus is quick to move the puck once getting it and does so with accuracy. His touch on passes is underrated given that his shot is his most talked about asset.

Shooting:

Elite -- Firkus has a very strong wrist/snap shot, and will score goals at any level. It's not Matthews or Bedard level, but it should be the singular skill that keeps giving him chances to stick.

IQ (Vision, Anticipation, Panic/Poise):

Elite -- This is actually my favorite Firkus trait. His IQ both on and off the puck is great. Part of why he scores so many goals is his ability to float to soft spots in the defense, and it seems like he's always lurking off the puck on the Powerplay. With the puck he seems to always know where teammates are and is able to make quick passes without hesitation.

Forechecking:

Above Average -- Firkus plays with some tenacity, willing to go to the dirty areas to get the puck. He's not big, but plays the body smartly to keep defenders on the boards and get the puck back.

Defense:

Average -- as a winger, he backchecks hard and defends with his stick, but could use a bit more anticipation to unlock his offense.

Best Asset:

IQ/Vision

Biggest Concern:

Straight-line speed. He needs this to hit his potential.

Top Tier/Role Potential:

Point per game 1st line 1st PP winger

Justification for Top Tier Assessment:

If everything clicks for Firkus, he could be a future 35-40 goal scorer with assists to boot. I think he will be somewhat linemate dependent but could end up a nice running mate for Beniers or Wright in a few years.

50th Percentile Tier/Role:

Middle-six 50 point guy, 20-25 goals.

Justification for 50th Percentile Tier Assessment:

His shot is good enough to score in the NHL, and teams like that. I see his worst case as a Daniel Sprong type player -- a good secondary scorer but not a good enough skater to play with the big boys.

Stylistic Comparable:

Viktor Arvidsson or Eeli Tolvanen

Scouts Final Thoughts and Additional Stats/Info:

In my Rehkopf report I'll try to give a take on which one I like more. Stay tuned for later today :)