Coyotes draft Clayton Keller 7th overall
The Arizona Coyotes have selected center Clayton Keller with the seventh overall pick in the 2016 NHL Draft on Friday.
Clayton Keller
Position: Center
Height: 5-10
Weight: 178 lbs
Age: 17
Club: U.S. National Development Program (U-18)
Nationality: American
| GP | G | A | P | ES GPG | ES PPG | ES GF% |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 23 | 13 | 24 | 37 | 0.304 | 1.00 | 72.973 |
(Even-strength stats courtesy: prospect-stats.com)
Keller won't turn 18 until July 29, but the young centerman already has the look of an impact player.
Ranked ninth among North American skaters in advance of the draft, Keller has put up big offensive numbers at every level to date, and while some teams may be turned off by his size, his game belies his under 6-foot frame.
From Future Considerations:
A small but highly dynamic playmaker that is not afraid to go to the greasy areas for a scoring chance. He skates well with the ability to rocket down the ice and add a quick lateral burst to get through a hole when required. Has very impressive vision and ability to pick up options all over the ice all while maintaining possession and protecting the puck. Is a 100% effort player who rarely takes a shift off. Also possesses a pin-point shot that he hits his mark with when in a position to score. A very dangerous offensive player who has definite top six NHL potential ...
He may be a couple years away, but the harvest of this pick down the line could be plentiful.