Jets select Kyle Connor with 17th overall pick

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The Winnipeg Jets selected Youngstown Phantoms forward Kyle Connor with the 17th pick in the 2015 NHL Draft.

Connor, who will play for the University of Michigan, boasts a strong scoring pedigree and could push for a top-six position when he's ready to contribute. He slipped from a potential top-10 position, offering tremendous value at No. 17.

2014-15 Stats

Overview

Connor entered the draft as both the USHL Player of the Year and Forward of the Year, after ranking first in league scoring with 80 points (34 goals and 46 assists) in 56 games.

Connor, who can play both center and wing, is more than just an offensive producer. He brings a strong defensive game to the table as well, tracking the puck with impressive hockey vision and regularly forcing turnovers.

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What sets him apart is his skating ability and his creativity with the puck, both of which help him put up big numbers.

What the scouts are saying

NHL Central Scouting's Greg Rajanen:

He's a solid two-way player and plays hard in both zones. Nice stride and quickness and good in tight with the puck.

Curtis Joe of Elite Prospects:

A dynamic two-way center with speed and creativity to burn. Consistently displays elite-level skating ability, and an astonishing top speed. Sees the ice very well and is constantly looking to either score or make a play; the confidence he has in his abilities lets him do things with the puck that other players wouldn't even try. Skillful puckhandling skills, paired with a deceptively accurate shot, make him a lethal scoring threat. His will to compete and, ultimately, win fuels his defensive game; he tracks the puck well and creates a lot of turnovers. All-in-all, a highly skilled, proactive center that can dominate in all three zones.

Highlights