Hurricanes reel in Julien Gauthier with 21st pick
The Carolina Hurricanes selected forward Julien Gauthier with the 21st overall pick in the 2016 NHL Draft on Friday.
Julien Gauthier
Position: Right Wing
Height: 6-4
Weight: 225 pounds
Age: 18
Club: Val-d'Or Foreurs
Nationality: Canadian
| GP | G | A | P | ES GPG | ES PPG | ES GF% |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 54 | 41 | 16 | 57 | 0.537 | 0.778 | 66.3 |
(Even-strength stats courtesy: prospect-stats.com)
It's hard to fathom Gauthier's tumble to 12th among North American skaters in NHL Central Scouting's final rankings.
Gauthier's a hulking offensive force with plus speed and proven finishing ability, being one of the top per-game scorers in Major Junior. He's capable of producing highlight-reel goals with his speed and skill, and at the same time can dominate below the goal line and create opportunities with his massive frame alone.
His 16 assists is obviously a curious total for a top-end attacking prospect, especially considering his balanced output in his previous QMJHL season. He requires fine-tuning across the board, but most importantly with his defensive positioning.
He was the only draft-eligible forward to make Canada's roster for the World Junior Championship. However, he struggled to assert himself at the tournament, finishing with two assists in five games.
After continuing to solidify the club's defense core with Jake Bean with their first pick at No. 13, the team gets some much-needed size in Gauthier. The club also fills a void on the right side.