A prototypical two-way defenseman who can take control of the puck at both ends of the ice. The smooth skating Koekkoek was off to a great start before be- ing sidelined by an injury for the rest of the season. He was Peterborough’s clear No. 1 defenseman before the injury, logging upwards of 30 minutes a night and running the power play and penalty kill as well. His very strong mobility and agility allow him to skate his way out of the zone without too much trouble. He is strong position-wise and angles players off the ice. He has good lateral movement and first step acceleration as well as the ability to skate the puck out of danger and generate offense on the rush. He has strong vision with the puck and makes very strong, accurate and crisp outlet passes. He displayed strong aggression and physicality down low and along the boards. He is a defenseman who can play any role given to him and excel. He has al- ways been known as a puck-moving defenseman with strong vision, but he has really stepped up his game at his own end, playing the gaps well and having an active stick in passing lanes. His progression over the past few years has been impressive. (May 2012)