The day finally came, and the NHL Draft's first round is now complete. The Utah Mammoth, despite rumors, held onto the 4th overall draft choice and selected Moncton Wildcats center, Caleb Desnoyers. A player who was ranked from 4 to 6, Desnoyers has grown in the eyes of many scouts at the combine and the draft.
This is a tremendous pickup for Utah as they now have a clear option at center for the top two lines in Logan Cooley and Desnoyers. Desnoyers is the type of player who can fit with any organization, coaching style, and game situation.
When you see a guy like Desnoyers play, you can see that he has outstanding hockey sense, and that allows him to make the right pass in any zone, while being in the right spots within his blue line. The awareness of the puck is one of the best characteristics in this year's draft.
Skating has never been an issue, but it could use some improvement in the coming years. A capable skater, the addition of NHL coaching will allow him to grow into his body and learn the best techniques to skate.
At 6'2, Desnoyers has the frame to be a strong NHL body. With time, his weight and strength will improve, and Desnoyers can add some power to his game. As someone who can contribute in any situation, the added size will allow him to play shut-down minutes as a second-line center.
Although his shot is not elite, his one-timers are on point and dangerous on the man advantage. Because of his quick hands, the defenders show respect and open up passing lanes for him.
It is not expected for Desnoyers to be ready for the NHL this season, but I wouldn't put it past him to come out and have a strong summer and impress in training camp this September. This is a pick that should set Utah up with two top-tier centers in Logan Cooley and Desnoyers.
Bill Armstrong took advantage of winning the draft lottery and set this organization up for the near and long term with the selection of Desnoyers. Stay tuned for Saturday as the Mammoth have 5 more picks.