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Mason Appleton | C
Ryan Donato | C
Morgan Geekie | C
Yanni Gourde | C
Calle Jarnkrok | C
Riley Sheahan | C
Alexander True | C
Jaden Schwartz
ON-ICE VALUE
Top-Six Forward
STRENGTHS
Speed: Schwartz is a quick and determined skater. He works diligently to stay on top of the action and hound puck-carriers, and his wheels and finish allow him to produce well on the rush. He doesn’t seem blazing fast at first blush, but he consistently manages to find space in head-to-head situations.
Hockey Sense: Above all else, he’s a clever three-zone player who puts himself in the right position more often than not. He supports defensemen well at both ends of the ice and understands how to shake free in the offensive zone. If defenders are playing him tight, he’ll embrace the net-front life and dig for greasy chances.
Reliable: Since his smarts and positioning are clear strengths, he can be deployed in any capacity. He has the skill to keep pace on an attacking line, but he’s responsible and hard-working enough to take on defensive assignments. He doesn’t take bad penalties either.
WEAKNESSES
Consistency: Especially on the score sheet, Schwartz is quite streaky. He’ll go from setting the world on fire to being snake-bitten in the blink of an eye. Though this tendency has created some memorable games in the playoffs, it’s also frustrating to know he has more to give on many nights.
Durability: Schwartz has missed time in every single one of his pro seasons. He simply gets banged up a lot, and he’s usually hesitant to fully engage upon his return to action. For a 5’10”, 190-pounder who’s entering his thirties, that is not a promising sign.
