An intelligent defenseman who plays a strong defensive game. For a player of his size he moves well, however could improve his acceleration, but it is not an issue at the major junior level. He is solid positionally, plays strong in his own zone, aggressive down low and along the boards as well as showing good gap control. He is tentative with the puck, struggling with his decision making with the puck, often chooses to simply bank the puck off the glass and not try to do too much. He has an active stick in passing lanes and shows some good anticipation; always seems to be in the right place at the right time. One of the more intelligent players making smart outlet passes and would rather dump it out then make any kind of risky play. Uses his body to win battles for loose pucks, controls the flow of play and keeps things tight. Rarely pinches and has really changed his game from his midget days when he would often rush the puck up ice and get involved offensively. What you see is what you get with McIvor. (May 2012)