Thursday, July 19, 2012

Hockey Prospectus on Brock Nelson and Danny Kristo

University of North Dakota Fighting Sioux athl...
Corey Pronman a writer that has a NHL prospects page did a review on Former Fighting Sioux forward Brock Nelson and current Fighting Sioux forward Danny Kristo. Here is what Pronman had to say about Brock Nelson.
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3. Brock Nelson, Center
2010-11 Ranking: Unranked
Date of birth: 10/15/1991
Age: 20
Height: 6'4''
Weight: 192
Shoots: Left
Statistics: 42 GP, 28 G, 47 P (Univ. of North Dakota-WCHA)
Acquired: First round, 30th overall in 2010 by New York Islanders

The Good: According to many scouts, Nelson was one of the best players in college hockey this year after taking big steps forward in his development. He really grew into his frame and projects as a legit high-end physical player due to his size, strength level, and willingness to use his body. He's a smart defensive player who showed very advanced awareness in his own end. Nelson's best offensive trait is his hockey sense, as he has good vision and overall offensive instincts to combine with solid puck skills. He looks like a do-it-all forward who can play center or wing, log tough minutes, and still score at the top level.

The Bad: His skating has improved, at times flashing pro-average but more improvement in that area could help. Nelson has no glaring hole, but he also lacks any true wow-caliber tool.

Projection: He could be a good second-line center who can also check top players.

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Here is what Pronman had to say about Danny Kristo – based on what he has said here I do believe that it’s a pretty accurate assessment.
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4. Danny Kristo, Right Wing
2010-11 Ranking: 7th
Date of birth: 06/18/1990
Age: 22
Height: 5'11''
Weight: 188
Shoots: Right
Statistics: 42 GP, 19 G, 45 P (University of North Dakota-WCHA)
Acquired: Second round, 56th overall in 2008 by Montreal

The Good: Kristo rebounded from a disappointing sophomore year with a much stronger junior season, looking much more reminiscent of the player scouts saw during his U-20 years. Kristo arguably is a high-end skater, although I didn't always see that level this season, with a great stride and an effortless ability to hit a dangerous top gear. He's also a good puck-handler who on occasion shows plus ability, but this year the extra element I saw from Kristo was making a lot of above-average if not high-end passes. He's also a gritty player who works hard in the physical areas and can be effective as a penalty killer.

The Bad: Kristo's body is his major issue, as it hasn't developed as one would hope and he needs a boat load of strength to excel as a pro. He also forces bad plays still but not as much as prior years.

Projection: He could be a decent second-line winger.

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