Scouting Report: Aaron Ekblad, Barrie (OHL)

Central Scouting Rank: 2nd

Bio

2013-14 Stats

Overview

The first defenseman ever granted "exceptional player" status in the OHL - allowing him to compete a year earlier than his eligible age - Ekblad recorded 40 goals and 76 assists in 116 career games with the Barrie Colts. 

The 18-year-old was named the OHL's top defenseman in 2013-14, and he won top honors in four different categories in the annual Coaches Poll: best shot, hardest shot, best offensive defenseman and best defensive defenseman.

Widely regarded as the best defenseman, if not the best player, in the 2014 NHL Draft, Ekblad has the ability to control the game at both ends of the ice. A strong skater with soft hands for his size, he's just as capable of firing a rocket past the opposition goalie as he is clearing the front of his own net and thwarting an offensive attack.

With no glaring weaknesses in his game, Ekblad appears to be a lock to be selected in the top three, and potentially first overall. As such, look for Ekblad to sport a Panthers, Sabres or Oilers jersey on Draft day.

Here's how Ekblad describes his game, courtesy NHL.com.

Pro Comparison

Shea Weber, Duncan Keith, Brent Seabrook

Scouts are saying

NHL Central Scouting director Dan Marr:

"He's smart and an excellent all-round skater for his size [6-3.5, 216],"  Marr added. "He handles and distributes the puck well in all zones, passes with authority and possesses an accurate shot from the point."

Corey Pronman, ESPN:

[Ekblad] skates well with good power in his stride and excellent pivots; he has really developed the offensive side of his game, with above-average puck skills and great coordination for a big man; he sees the ice well, can be creative along the point and join the attack on top of having a high-end shot from deep. Ekblad doesn't have any outstanding skills in particular, and he can still make an odd mistake, but the total package of what he brings to the table is unique, especially considering he's a blueliner. He's a potential star defenseman and may have another level to his game if developed properly.

Craig Button, TSN:

When you build a team, you need a solid foundation. Aaron is a pillar defenceman who can play 25 minutes or more and do so in all important situations. His on-ice maturity is exceptional.

Highlights