The Colorado Avalanche took defenseman Francesco Dell’elce with the 77th overall pick in the third round of the 2025 NHL Draft.
Dell’elce, 20, is an overager, who spent last season with the University of Massachusetts. In 40 games, Dell’elce scored a respectable seven goals and 24 points in 40 games. Those totals suggest Dell’elce has some offensive upside.
The left-shot D-man is described by Elite Prospects as a “heavy shooter,” “mobile defenseman,” and an “offensive defenseman.” Those adjectives sound great as the Avalanche look to land some help on the blue line.
The Hockey News ranked Dell’elce as the #63 pick with NHL Central Scouting placing him #82 among North American skaters.
Here’s the full scouting report on Dell’elce from Elite Prospects:
"Dell’elce is an offensive-minded left-shot defender with NHL-level mobility and a projectable shot. His vision under pressure is absurd, connecting on long-bomb outlets with forecheckers only feet away. He will even go as far as baiting forecheckers deeper into the defensive zone just to explode past them."
The 20-year-old’s skill set looks solid and could prove useful for the Avalanche. The fact that he’s 20 makes him an intriguing option as he could turn pro sooner rather than later. That’s an important consideration as the Avalanche will be looking to get help on the blue line as soon as possible.
The Avalanche will certainly give Dell’elce a look this upcoming fall. While he might go back to the NCAA for one more season, chances are he could turn pro.
Overall Grade: B-
The Avalanche took a chance on a player that’s been passed over in previous drafts. Dell’elce was eligible last year and didn’t get consideration. This year, the Avalanche are essentially taking a flyer on him.
That situation could motivate him to work hard to earn a lineup spot. The ETA on Dell’elce could be one to two years, depending on his return to the NCAA this fall.