A small highly energetic forward with loads of offensive creativity and skill. Skating is strong as he is balanced and agile darting around the ice. Is primarily a playmaker but also has a decent shot especially in close. Protects the puck well with his body and a quick stick while buying time for this linemates to get into scoring areas. Despite his small size he is a feisty guy and will be the rst to go into the corners and battle. Has incredible smarts and hockey sense which is an ingredient you can not teach. Has the hands you want in someone running your offensive and the vision needed to optimize his effectiveness. Possesses a bag of moves that allows him to carry the puck and back off defenders. His game though is not all offensive as he is a solid defensive contributor who is willing to block shots or engage on the backcheck.  Size is really the only question that many will be going over at the draft. Will he become another St.Louis or Gomez or will he fade like so many other smallish offensive wizards who just can’t take the physicality of the pro leagues. (May 2010)