The NHL Scouting Combine is in full swing this weekend in Toronto, but the top-ranked prospect's inability to do the same has stolen the headlines.
Kingston Frontenacs forward Sam Bennett - Central Scouting's top-ranked skater - was unable to complete a single pull-up during his athletic showcase, per the Canadian Press.
Likely more embarrassing than detrimental, the 17-year-old was discouraged, yet well-coached following his workout.
"I was definitely disappointed with myself," Bennett said. "I was wanting to do the best I can in every test. But, I guess, ultimately games aren't won or lost if you can do a pull-up in the gym.
"I think (what sets me apart) really just a combination of my hockey sense along with my compete level ... I think I compete as hard, if not harder, than anyone else."
Unlike the 40-yard dash in football or the vertical leap in basketball, the pull-up is hardly a determinant of whether hockey players have the capacity to contribute at the next level, but his debility is fairly alarming.
That said, NHL prospects are teenagers far from reaching their physical peak, and their strength remains functional, rather than comparative.
Or at least that's what he'll be telling his Frontenac teammates.
