JAMIE DRYSDALE

2024-01-12

Scout: James Iacovone

Skating:

Dynamic skater, legs always moving, outstanding on his edges both inside and out. Has ability to walk blue-line which will be beneficial on power-play.

Passing/Handling:

Drysdale's exceptional skating enables him to open up passing lanes and space for teammates to receive passes. He sees plays before they happen.

Shooting:

His shot is average but once again Drysdale's skating ability allows him to open lanes and he has the ability to get his shot to goal.

IQ (Vision, Anticipation, Panic/Poise):

Read play extremely well in all situations. Smart pinches, pulls defensive players out of position before executing next plan of attack. Sees the ice in ways most players cant.

Forechecking:

Jumps into rushes frequently, often appearing as a fourth forward. Smaller player but will not shy from physicality when needed. Smaller in stature but still gets in deep.

Defense:

Defensive positioning is very good, can afford to take more offensive chances because of his skating and IQ. There may be times when he gets caught up ice but has the ability to get back in a hurry. As mentioned he is smaller in size. Will want to see more of him around goal.

Best Asset:

Absolutely without a doubt his skating ability. A true pleasure to watch.

Biggest Concern:

Size

Top Tier/Role Potential:

Level 1 with potentially Elite BASH Top pair RHD. Most likely a very good number 2, border line number 1 defenseman.

Justification for Top Tier Assessment:

Can see scoring 40-50pts consistently in the NHL. Scored 32 points and 10+ power-play points in his rookie season. Can easily become a 35-45 assists a year player with 5-10 goals sprinkled in. I'm not sure blocking shots and checking are a huge part of his game right now and will like to see how that develops under Brad Shaw and John Tortorella.

50th Percentile Tier/Role:

Justification for 50th Percentile Tier Assessment:

Level 1 with potentially Elite BASH Top pair RHD. Most likely a very good number 2, border line number 1 defenseman. Can see scoring 40-50pts consistently in the NHL. Scored 32 points and 10+ power-play points in his rookie season. Can easily become a 35-45 assists a year player with 5-10 goals sprinkled in. I'm not sure blocking shots and checking are a huge part of his game right now and will like to see how that develops under Brad Shaw and John Tortorella.

Stylistic Comparable:

Do not have a comp available yet but will have one hopefully next time I watch him.

Scouts Final Thoughts and Additional Stats/Info:

Potential to be a top 5-10 offensive defenseman in the NHL.

Games Scouted:

January 10th Montreal Canadiens @ Philadelphia Flyers