Colorado Avalanche: An Early Look At First Round Draft Options
D Zach Werenski (University of Michigan, NCAA)
The 17-year-old defenceman from the University of Michigan is one of the younger players in this years draft. However, he does not play like one. Werenski plays a very mature game in both ends of the rink. So far he has recorded nine goals and 25 points in 35 games and is a +9. The 6-foot-1, 214-pound defenceman also knows how to use his body and how to deliver hits. Werenski has only recorded eight penalty minutes so far this season.
Scouting report by Curtis Joe from EliteProspects:
"A smooth-skating, puck-moving defenceman that has a strong understanding of the game. Excels in key situations and is able to execute under pressure. Possesses good vision and awareness on the ice; uses his abilities to put offensive and defensive pressure on the opposition. All-in-all, a very strong all-around defenceman that consistently brings his game every night."
NHL potential: Top-pairing two-way defenceman
NHL comparison: Jack Johnson