The Vancouver Canucks' took an intriguing swing on a skilled but flawed winger with their first pick of the draft, taking a player with the ability to rack up points but limited skating.
With their second pick, they went with speed.
The Canucks selected centre Riley Patterson with the 125th overall pick in the fourth round. He put up 29 goals and 62 points in 68 games with the Barrie Colts in the OHL. It was his rookie year in the OHL after lighting up the OJHL in the previous season with eyes toward playing in the NCAA before changing his development track.
It's a high-upside bet by the Canucks, as Patterson has high-end tools but is still a work in progress.
"Dynamic speed, a quick release, and flashes of NHL-calibre hockey sense make him one of the draft’s most exciting mid-round bets," reads his profile from Elite Prospects.
It's clear what the 6'0" Patterson brings to the table. He can flat-out fly and has a knack for getting to the middle of the ice for scoring chances, which he can finish adroitly with his one-timer or deceptive snap shot. He's also adept at setting up at the top of the crease to bang in rebounds.
"Best in transition, Patterson uses blazing crossovers and smooth puckhandling to attack the inside and catch the defence off-guard," says Elite Prospects. "Sometimes, he dangles through opponents before ripping a quick-release wrister."
Patterson's playmaking and defensive game improved over the course of the season, helping him become a more well-rounded player, but there's still a raw element to his game.
"Where Patterson can sometimes struggle is within his play selection," said EP Rinkside's Lauren Kelly. "He doesn’t always see the best option, and can sometimes force his passes."
At times, Patterson can be more of a passenger, allowing his linemates to do the yeoman's work each shift rather than driving play himself. He'll need to develop his ability to win puck battles and problem-solve as the games get faster and more physical.
"He’s a fast-moving, hard-shooting winger who could bring some defensive value, but will have to learn to manipulate defenders, find more inside opportunities, and improve his off-puck offensive zone movement," said Elite Prospects' Mitchell Brown in one scouting report.
All told, it's another intriguing bet on upside for the Canucks' scouting staff. With no picks in the first and second round, the Canucks seem intent on betting on players with a high ceiling that they could reach with the right development.
