Dustin Brown
ON-ICE VALUE
Middle-Six Forward
STRENGTHS
Speed: Now entering his late 30s, Brown remains a solid straight-line skater who can keep pace with the modern game. He isn’t quite the same bull in a china shop that he was earlier in his career, but he can comfortably lug the puck up the ice and push defenders off their blue line for controlled zone entries.
Grit: Yes, the devastating collisions have dried up. However, he still mixes it up along the boards and battles diligently in the trenches. His net-front presence is incredibly valuable to a Kings team that otherwise appears content to sit on the perimeter. At 6’0” and a solid 210 pounds, he makes life difficult for the opposition in all three zones.
Finish: Brown has recovered from a dry spell to regain his scoring touch in recent years. He displays good velocity and finish on open looks, and he drives the net hard to obtain high-percentage opportunities. He’s also surprisingly crafty when he’s sent in alone on goaltenders.
WEAKNESSES
Tunnel Vision: He boasts outstanding physical tools, but his toolbox has always been suspect. Brown’s decision-making often lets him down, as he’ll barrel down the ice with one design in mind. If the opposition denies him, he’ll skate himself into a dead end rather than looking to distribute the puck and reset.
Passive: As a disruptive presence, Brown isn’t consistent enough. There are many nights when he simply doesn’t show the motor and engagement level required to leave a mark on the game. He doesn’t have the natural talent to get by without strapping on his work boots.
