There second time to the podium, having picked hulking Sean Couturier with their first pick, the rebuild in the nation's capital continues. It's no secret that the Senators have built an impressive stable of blueline prospects with Erik Karlsson headlining the group; youngsters David Rundblad and Jared Cowen could be ready to step into roles next season, as well.
Having been to the Stanley Cup Finals against Ottawa, Bryan Murray has learned that he'll need a good blend of size for the post season.
"With the twenty-first pick in the 2011 NHL Draft, Ottawa is proud to select, from the U.S. National Development Team - Tyler Biggs."
Another in a long line of fallers over the past year, Biggs was once considered a sure-fire top ten selection, in hopes that a budding power forward would come out of his development. At 6'2, 210 lbs, Biggs has a mature body and could get even a bit bigger over the next couple years of development at Miami University, where he has committed to play following his time in the USHL.
Biggs is mobile for such a big man. He has a long powerful stride. While he doesn't show much explosiveness in his first few strides, once he gets up to speed, he's quite the skater and can really move down the wing.
To go with his size, Biggs is aggressive. He's the first guy to throw around his body with a bit of
gusto, and take pleasure in doing so. At times, it can hurt his team, penalty-wise, as we say int he Under 18's, but many teams love that mean streak he shows.
Offensively, Biggs has soft hands and a powerful shot. The only questions come around his vision and creativity on the ice, and the ability to make his own chances. He's more of a crash and bang, drive to the net forward, and some believe he may be more of a third line player than the top six forward you're hoping for.
Paired with a strong center, Biggs net drive could be utilized well in a top six role, in my opinion. There's no denying the lack of hockey sense, but with so many teams looking for that net presence, especially on the power play, the son of former minor leaguer, Don Biggs, is a pick that teams will look at, and rightfully should.
Taken Previously...
1. Ryan Nugent-Hopkins
2. Gabriel Landeskog
3. Jonathan Huberdeau
4. Dougie Hamilton
5. Adam Larsson
6. Sean Couturier
7. Ryan Strome
8. Ryan Murphy
9. Duncan Siemens
10. Mark McNeill
11. Nathan Beaulieu
12. Jamie Oleksiak
13. Mika Zibanejad
14. Joel Armia
15. Mark Scheifele
16. Matt Puempel
17. Brandon Saad
18. Sven Bartschi
19. Joe Morrow
20. Zack Phillips
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