Colin White – The Next Ones: NHL 2015 Draft Prospect Profile - The Hockey Writers -

The USNTDP continues to produce and develop some of the most sought after prospects each draft. Colin White’s name can be added to the list. He isn’t strictly an offensive forward and he isn’t strictly a defensive forward – he’s the perfect blend of both. White has committed to the highly regarded Boston College where he will develop further under Jerry York.

A determined and diligent worker in all three zones, White is that all-around forward that every team wants to have in their lineup. He isn’t the most elegant skater, but he’s patient with the puck and gets the job done in the offensive zone. White will outwait opponents to set up his teammates. He can score goals, too, however he doesn’t have the quickest shot or release and relies more on his stickhandling.

I’ve seen Colin White a handful of times and was most impressed by his willingness to backcheck and get into the play defensively. Along the boards, he’s excellent at winning battles despite having average height. He’s not wide, but doesn’t mind using his body to knock a player off the puck. That being said, he consistently breaks up plays by keeping players to the perimeter and using his stick to pokecheck. It’s his commitment to excel on both sides of the puck that has made Colin White a player that will likely make him a 1st round selection in June.

Where Will He End Up In June:

Colin White is a likely mid-to-late 1st round pick.

Scout’s Honor:

“Strong, well-rounded, two-way center…one of the best skaters for this draft…great speed with an excellent stride and tremendous acceleration…moves quickly and is tough to handle when he hits top speed…has great strength on his skates and is tough to separate from the puck…battles hard for possession…drives the net and is strong in close…can beat a goalie in many ways…has a great shot and also distributes the puck well…a very hard worker with an edge to his game…great on defense with a great defensive stick and strong defensive-zone awareness…always in the right spots on the ice and he is a tremendous worker. (August 2014)”

Future Considerations

“Staying out of the infirmary has been Colin White’s biggest challenge in his draft season (battled mono to start the season) but his all-around package will certainly draw NHL suitors early come draft time. Outside of his quick feet and impressive agility, White is a prospect who relies on his breadth of skills rather than one or two specific high-end skills. A high-character player with blue-collar determination and the hockey sense to excel on both ends of the puck, White has the makings of an impact top-nine playmaking forward. His anticipation and awareness through 200-feet of ice earns him big minutes and it’ll be those skills and his mature game that scouts are enamoured with.”

Brendan Ross – Dobber Sports

“Colin White played a top line role for the US NTDP U17 team at centre and was leading the squad in points before a late season call-up to the Under 18 team where he played in a checking line wing spot. He was incredible at last year’s U17 World Hockey Challenge with 10 goals and 18 points in just six games. He is back with the U18 team this year and is once again the top line centre and captain. White has put up 11 goals and 18 assists for 29 points in 27 games so far. White plays a great puck protection and cycle game, always keeping his feet moving and working down low. He wins the vast majority of his puck battles showing outstanding balance and strength. He has decent speed and generates the power to fight through checks and go to the net. He also has good agility. White is equally adept as a passer or as a shooter, and displays the good hands to stickhandle around defencemen or to finish in close to the crease. He also has shown the ability to play in his own end as well being outstanding in the face-off circle.“

Ben Kerr – Last Word On Sports

Statistics:

Bio/Interview(s)/Links:

Interview with The Hockey News

Interview with The Patriot Ledger

International Tournaments:

Colin White has only played in one single international tournament for the USA. In that tournament he scored 18 points (10G, 8A) in six games capturing the gold medal along the way.

ETA:

2-3 years

Risk/Reward Analysis:

Risk: 1/5 Reward: 4/5

NHL Potential:

Middle-six two-way forward that can play center or wing.

Strengths:

Passing

Defensive responsibility

Quick hands

Vision

Disciplined

Backcheck/Forecheck

Low center of gravity

Flaws/Aspects He Needs To Work On:

Adding muscle

Acceleration

Choppy skating

Shot speed

Fantasy Hockey Potential:

Offensive: 6/10 Defensive: 7/10

NHL Player Comparison:

– NHL comparison: Ryan Callahan

Video(s):

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