Nick Ritchie, a projected top-10 pick at the upcoming 2014 NHL entry draft, could be the first piece in the Carolina Hurricanes' physical revival.
After years of failing to succeed—or even qualify for the playoffs—with a finesse-focused lineup, the 'Canes and new general manger Ron Francis can use the upcoming offseason to add size, strength and physicality back into the Hurricanes' DNA.
The use of the seventh overall pick on 18-year-old forward Nick Ritchie would be a decisive first step.
Ritchie may be the most physically intimidating prospect in this year's draft. He's tall at 6'2", but far from lanky at 226 pounds.
He's a Tuomo Ruutu-esque, hit-everything-in-sight player, yet he's also willing to take that assertiveness to the crease, where he shows Jiri Tlusty-like opportunism.
Chris Edwards of NHL Central Scouting breaks down his game:
He's a big, physical, tough guy. When he's playing and using his size and strength he's tough to knock off the puck. He goes to the net hard and has that power-forward mentality that's tough f ...
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Article written by Mark Jones
2014 NHL Draft: Nick Ritchie Is Ideal 1st-Round Pick for Carolina Hurricanes
June 15th, 2014 by Mark Jones Leave a reply »
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