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If the Canadiens opt to look at a forward with the 15th pick at the NHL Entry Draft, Alex Newhook may be just the guy. A two-way centre with great speed and vision, Newhook put up 102 points in 53 games with the Victoria Grizzlies of the BCHL and went on to be named league MVP. A player of his talent stands a good chance of being snatched up by the time Pick 15 comes up, but some concerns about the quality of competition he’s faced could make him a great pick for the Habs.

Bio

Centre
Shoots: Left
DOB: January 28, 2001
Height: 5’10
Weight: 190

Rankings

CSB: 13 (North American Skaters)
ISS: 13
McKeens: 18
Hockey Prospectus: 17
Future Considerations: 13
The Hockey News: 15
Recrutes: 16
TSN (Button): 18
The Athletic (Pronman): 11

Statistics

Scouting Report

Newhook is an undersized, two-way centre that plays the game with great energy and pace. He is an excellent skater with good agility and quickness. This, coupled with his strong work ethic in all three zones, make him a handful for the opposition on most nights. Newhook sports a decent shot, with a quick release, however, his vision and ability as a passer make him a superior playmaker. His tenacity and motor make him an effective defender, however, his lack of size and physicality may hold him back from being a true shutdown centre.

Though he wasn’t invited to join Team Canada for the Ivan Hlinka tournament, Newhook put up great numbers during a standout performance at the World U18s, which should alleviate some of the concerns regarding the quality of his competition.

Timeline

Newhook has committed to Boston College for the 2019-20 season and it seems likely that he’s at least a couple, if not three years away from making an impact at the NHL level. While there appear to be some challenges in projecting his ceiling, Newhook seems like a good bet to make the second line and should be an impact forward once he makes the NHL.