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Lean Bergmann | C
Ryan Carpenter | C
Cole Cassels | C
Alexander Chmelevski | C
Sasha Chmelevski | C
Mike Hoffman
ON-ICE VALUE
Top-Six Forward
STRENGTHS
Finish: Hoffman is a pure sniper. If you offer him any space—particularly on the rush—he can fire wristers by unscreened goaltenders with ease. He also boasts great velocity and placement on his hellacious one-timers. His average shot location is quite far out, but his deadly release still allows him to convert at a solid clip.
Power Play: His shot is especially valuable on the power play, where he’ll set up shop at the right circle and wait for a chance to rip a one-timer. If that threat is covered, he’ll creep lower for a backdoor look. Even when he’s not the trigger man, the attention he commands opens up the ice for the PP unit.
Skating: Though he isn’t known for skating circles around opponents, Hoffman is quick and difficult to keep pace with in space. Combined with his marksmanship, this speed makes him an absolute menace on the rush. Leave him open at your own peril.
WEAKNESSES
Defense: As a three-zone player, Hoffman’s engagement level fluctuates wildly. He’ll look the part of a complete winger on one shift and then fly the zone looking for a breakaway on the next. He’s also fairly weak on his skates, so he doesn’t win many puck battles and struggles to maintain possession down low.
Perimeter Player: He can score from anywhere, but he would be even more productive if he increased his presence in the slot. As it stands, he prefers to float around the circles and present a target for his teammates. He waits for the play to come to him rather than driving opportunities himself.
