Adam Fox
ON-ICE VALUE
First-Pairing Defenseman
STRENGTHS
Playmaking: Fox may be the single most effective passer among NHL blueliners. He’s incredibly accurate, understands how to create lanes and seems to have a sixth sense when it comes to finding teammates in scoring areas. He’s equally proficient at stretch passes and slot setups. In short, he allows the Rangers to dictate the action.
Poise: For a young player, he’s calm and patient with the puck on his stick. He doesn’t rush his decisions on the breakout or the attack. He’ll hold on for an extra tick in order to suck defenders in and capitalize on the space they vacate. More importantly, he does this while minimizing risk.
IQ: His greatest asset is his hockey sense. He simply knows where to be in all three zones. He pinches at the right time, he undercuts stretch passes with his anticipation and he takes aggressive angles because he’s aware of the most dangerous passing lanes in his end. His cool demeanor and active stick help as well.
WEAKNESSES
Skating: Though Fox is a serviceable skater, he lacks the difference-making speed to single-handedly drive his team’s offense. With just a touch more pace, he would be the undisputed best defenseman in the league. As it stands, he complements decent wheels with his guile and superb puck skills.
Size: Being in the right place at the right time isn’t always enough. Fox’s 5’11”, 181-pound frame does hinder his effectiveness at times, as bigger forwards are difficult for him to contain in front of the net. Puck battles aren’t necessarily a walk in the park either.
