Islanders acquire 28th pick from Lightning, select Anthony Beauvillier
Tap here to view theScore's NHL draft tracker, which includes the 2015 draft results, the latest transactions, and rumors.
The New York Islanders moved up in the 2015 NHL Draft once again, acquiring the 28th overall pick from the Tampa Bay Lightning and selecting Shawinigan Cataractes forward Anthony Beauvillier.
In return, the Lightning received the 33rd and 72nd picks.
The Islanders acquired pick Nos. 16 (Mathew Barzal) and 33 earlier in the night in a trade with the Edmonton Oilers for Griffin Reinhart.
2014-15 Stats
| Team | GP | Goals | Assists | Points | PIM |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Shawinigan (WHL) | 67 | 42 | 52 | 94 | 72 |
Overview
The former second overall selection of the Cataractes, Beauvillier was the highest-scoring first-year prospect in the QMJHL last season among those who were draft eligible, and one of the most efficient scorers in the CHL after a disappointing rookie year.
He is undersized, not overly proficient with his puck skills, nor is he the strongest skater, but does everything right on the ice and just has a knack for scoring goals.
Despite his stature, Beauvillier can survive the physical game and works tirelessly in all three zones. His offense is created with a patient approach in the attacking third, and he has top-end vision.
He led the QMJHL in draws won, finishing at nearly 59 percent, but will need to get stronger to play center at the next level in order to utilize that skill.
What the scouts are saying
TSN's Craig Button has ruled Beauvillier out as a potential No.1 center.
Anthony is a player who can play in multiple spots in your forward group, perhaps 11 of the 12, with No. 1 centre excluded. He’s smart, adaptable and reads plays everywhere on the ice in all situations extremely well. He is quick in his head, hands and feet and he competes. Can complement so many different players and that is very valuable.
Highlight