The Next Ones – Nathan Beaulieu – NHL 2011 Draft Prospect Profile: From Saint John to Minnesota

by

*For all the latest prospect and draft news follow me on Twitter: Brian Huddle

Please “Click Here” for “Notes Up Front” and the “Legend” for various topics covered below in my “Live Updated” NHL 2011 Draft Preview article.

Nathan Beaulieu

Born: Strathroy, Ontario, Canada

DOB: December 5, 1992
Height: 6’3”
Weight: 191 lbs
Position: Defense
Shoots: Left

NHL Draft Eligibility: 2011

One-Timer:

The son of current Sarnia Sting Head Coach, Jacques Beaulieu, Nathan has been on the radar for some time, hoping to see flashes of the high end skills he possesses. Drafted to Saint John while his father was still the coach and General Manager there, Nathan has been in his father’s shadow for quite some time. After a one season stop in London, Jacques was recently hired by Sarnia. The time and space provided away from the shadows of family allowed Beaulieu to blossom this season with the top ranked Sea Dogs. Currently in the midst of a Memorial Cup Run, Nathan has played an integral role on a team largely comprised of top ranked 2011 NHL Draft Eligible players. This exposure has helped them all, who are giving the rest of the CHL a run for their money.

With such a premium set on offensive defenseman, Beaulieu’s stock is sure to stay high come June. His mix of size and high end skill, to go a long with a nasty edge, make him attractive to almost any team in the market for an upgrade on the blueline, especially ones looking to get mobile.

Top Prospects Game: Scored a goal using his wrist shot, to go with a minor penalty.

Statistics:

Scout’s Honor:

“He’ll be an offensive-defenseman … he’s a good skater, good puck-mover,” NHL Central Scouting’s Chris Bordeleau told NHL.com. “He has a good shot and is very poised with the puck. He’s a hard worker and reads the play well. We thought he should have had more points this year than he had, but overall he has the NHL quickness already and that’s what’s really important at this stage.”
– (NHL.com)

Bio/Interview(s)/Link(s):

  • · NHL.Com – Beaulieu’s close attention now paying off
  • · Open Ice Hockey – Beaulieu Excited to Return Home

International Tournaments

  • Played for Team Canada (Atlantic) at the Under 17’s in 08-09

ETA = 2-3 yrs

Risk-Reward Analysis:

Risk = 1.5/5   Reward = 4.0/5

NHL Potential:

Top Pairing Two-Way Defenseman

Strengths:

*See “One Timer” section above.

  • Mobility
  • Acceleration (Skating)
  • Big Point Shot
  • Reliable defensively – gap control, active stick, body work
  • High end vision
  • Strong passer
  • Sticks up for team mates
  • Mean Streak

Flaws/Aspects He Needs To Work On:

  • Strength
  • Simplify Game

Fantasy Hockey Potential: Offensive = 8.0/10   Defensive = 6.5/10

NHL Player(s) Comparison:

– At his best:

  • Mike Green
  • Keith Yandle

Video(s):

Off The Iron (Interesting Notes):

  • Grew up around the London Knights, and got to learn from Corey Perry and Rob Schremp
  • Considers Drew Doughty his favorite NHL’er
  • Washington Capitals fan

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

This document is the intellectual property of Brian Huddle and cannot be used or duplicated in any way without expressed written consent. Any use of this document without the expressed written consent of Brian Huddle will result in public exposure and legal prosecution.

3 thoughts on “The Next Ones – Nathan Beaulieu – NHL 2011 Draft Prospect Profile: From Saint John to Minnesota”

Comments are closed.