Wyatt Cook was a sixth-round Bantam Draft pick by the Vancouver Giants back in 2018. The 6-foot-2, 209-pound forward could bring size and skill to the Giants lineup this coming year. Currently playing with the Cold Lake Ice, Cook is looking to build off a year that saw him score 12 goals in 16 games.
With the 122nd overall pick in the sixth round the Giants are proud to select forward Wyatt Cook from the Sherwood Park Flyers Bantam AAA
— Vancouver Giants (@WHLGiants) May 3, 2018
Play Style:
Wyatt Cook is a power forward who stands up for teammates and is not afraid to throw his weight around. He also is not afraid to stick up for his teammates. Head coah Scott Hood says, “He has an edge to his game”. This is an important trait to have when playing in the WHL. If Cook can fine-tune the rest of his game, he could be an important piece of the Giants this coming season.
Strengths:
Cook has an incredible shot and his goal totals from junior prove that. Cold Lake is a Jr. B team which means Cook is playing in a U-21 league. As a 16-year-old he put up 12 goals which tells you his shot and hockey sense are good enough to play against older opponents. Coach Scott Hood says, “Every time he shoots the puck, he has a chance to score.” Playing in a U-21 league and having success so young could prove useful when making the transition over to the WHL. Cook is tough, has a great shot, and understands how to play offense. These traits should help him compete for a spot on the Giants this coming season.
Weaknesses:
Wyatt Cook has to work on his defensive game. Make the smart play in your own zone rather than only focusing on offense. This comes with time and development. Cook is coming off of a knee injury which is why he only played 16 games last season. He has the tools to be a good WHL player, he just needs to put it all together and fine-tune them.
Cold Lake Ice:
The Cold Lake Ice hockey team has a great history in the North Eastern Alberta Junior B Hockey League. They have won multiple league championships and have even hosted the Keystone Cup in 2016. The team is dedicated to the growth and development of their players on and off the ice. Wyatt Cook is in good hands with the Cold Lake Ice as they work on developing him into a WHL player.
Projection:
Wyatt Cook has the opportunity to make the Giants this season if he continues to develop his defensive game. The Giants need someone with his size and skill to ensure that they compete physically with other teams. Wyatt is 17 so he is a little older than most prospects. The fact he plays in a U-21 league now provides experience in what a WHL environment may look like. Overall, Wyatt Cook is an interesting prospect that Giants fans should pay attention to this coming season.
