Moose Jaw Warriors
Looking at Moose Jaw’s draft class, they really took players who brought offense and skill to their future line up. It seems as though after their first two picks they went high risk high reward type of guys who are incredibly raw. They did take a goalie in Jackson Berry in the 6th round and did not select a single American born player. DraftGeek is very interested to see how this class shapes up and how effective these players will be, just looking at it I see 2-3 who will play and 4-5 guys who could play with proper development but also could really take off after next season.
1st Round Pick
Daemon Hunt (15th Overall) – This was one of the better picks Moose Jaw made in my opinion. Hunt is a well-rounded two-way defender who brings a wide range of tools to Moose Jaw. He’s a physical defender who can also man the power play. For a guy of his stature, he moves exceptionally well and his transitional game has improved. Hunt really took time off the ice this past season to fill out and you could see it at the end of the season. Watch for Hunt to be the face of this class for Moose Jaw as someone who could be a #1 defender.
Notable Picks
Peyton McKenzie (59th Overall) – This was a pick I really liked, McKenzie really played a catalyst role offensively for OHA Edmonton and doesn’t lack skill. He may be under-sized but plays a dynamic offensive game. I see his moulding into a Conor Sheary type of player who’s lets his offensive instincts and skill take over, can also score around the net and outside with his deadly release.
Jackson Berry (124th Overall) – A real wild card in our opinion leading up to the draft, Berry is mobile goalie who really competes and brings character to the line-up. Determined off the ice and someone who is incredibly raw for a goaltender. Berry has a bunch to work on but we see him definitely developing off the ice with those things. High potential, low risk in my opinion.
Calder Anderson (134th Overall) – Moose Jaw selceted a few guys from Manitoba and Calder Anderson is one of the better ones. A smart offensive skilled player who is deadly off the rush. Shows good responsibility in his own zone and has a well rounded game. Anderson should bring depth to Moose Jaw and is someone who will embrace the role immediately.
Conclusion
Overall it’s a draft class that you will need to look back at in a few years to really get a good understanding of how effective it was. Lots of raw players drafted with good skill. I do believe that a few of these players will pan out and bring depth but watch to see in a few years if this is the class that brings in a high NHL pick with someone who was selected in the later rounds.
