Matt Mistele – The Next Ones: NHL 2014 Draft Prospect Profile

Matt Mistele THW Close-Up:

Date of birth: 10/17/1995

Place of birth: Whitby, ON, CAN

Ht: 6’2″     Wt: 190 lbs

Shoots: Left

Position: LW

NHL Draft Eligibility: 2014

Twitter: @mmistele22

THW The Next Ones Rankings (January 2014): 77

Other Rankings:

THW War Room Rankings (April): 56

Future Considerations: not ranked

Craig Button: not ranked

CS Final Rankings for North American skaters: 88

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Matt Mistele is not a standout star in any respect, but there is parts of his game that make him a great player for the Plymouth Whalers of the Ontario Hockey League. First off, he’s big. Standing 6’2″, he a hulking winger that uses his body well to protect the puck. He’s also a player that slows the game down and plays better at a reduced pace. He had a great year last season, which is why he was high on many draft rankings heading into this year. However, his play slipped a bit and wasn’t nearly as offensive as projected. Still, he’s smart in the offensive zone with a great release and showed he has offensive potential.

Mistele could stand to learn the defensive side of the game a bit more. It shouldn’t take that much time to learn as he is already a great positional player as it stands right now. He’s not a smooth skater either, but like everything else, that comes with time. For his size, he should be more of a hassle to deal with, but isn’t as aggressive against opposition. He has a few years to develop, so there shouldn’t be much of a rush to bring him up to the NHL.

Where Will He End Up In June:

Mistele will probably be available in the middle rounds of the draft – either 3rd, 4th, or 5th round.

Scout’s Honor:

“Mistele is an opportunistic forward with excellent positioning in all zones. He doesn’t play with high energy but lets the game come to him. He has decent offensive skills and a solid shot but isn’t overly flashy. He can play chippy but could be more physical. (August 2013)”

Aaron Vickers – Future Considerations

“A sniper pure and simple. Skates realy well and balanced, gains separation, and always gets open and ready to fire his array of terrific shots. Displays a great feel in the offensive zone and his hands help provide even more room for him. Very coachable and mature, he needs more strength and time to develop as an all-around two-way player. Has room to fill out, and hopefully gain a bit more edge. “

Bill Placzek – Draftsite.com

Statistics:

Bio/Interview(s)/Links:

Interview with MI Hockey

ETA:

2-3 years

Risk/Reward Analysis:

Risk: 2/5   Reward: 3/5

NHL Potential:

2nd or 3rd line 40-50 point scoring winger

Strengths:

Puck control

Protecting the puck with his body

Offensive instincts

Positionally sound

Quick release

Slows the pace of the game with the puck on his stick

Flaws/Aspects He Needs To Work On:

Work more on his defensive play

Being more aggressive on the puck and against players

Growing into his body

Skating

Fantasy Hockey Potential:

Offensive: 6/10    Defensive: 3/10

NHL Player Comparison:

– NHL comparison: Chris Higgins

Video(s):

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THW’s The Next Ones prospect profile template design architect: Chris Ralph