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Cody Glass | C
Mark Jankowski | C
Colton Sissons | C
Ryan Johansen
ON-ICE VALUE
Middle-Six Forward
STRENGTHS
Playmaking: Johansen is a superb passer who displays soft touch and top-tier vision. He can whip pucks through seams just as well as he can feather a saucer pass into a scoring area. Few forwards are as patient in possession. Give him time and he will dissect your defense.
Strength: At 6’3” and 218 pounds, Johansen is a tough player to deal with. He has the frame and poise to shield the puck from defenders for an eternity, shoulder-checking and biding his time until the right opening presents itself. And if you piss him off, he can channel his inner power forward and put you right through the boards.
Faceoffs: He developed into a solid faceoff man early in his career and that proficiency hasn’t dipped over the years. Due to this skill, he can be very useful for set plays in the offensive zone or crucial draws in Nashville’s end. You don’t have to worry about playing him in late-game situations.
WEAKNESSES
Inconsistent: From one game to the next, he’ll go from looking like prime Ryan Getzlaf to Tage Thompson. He’s a complete enigma, and coaches don’t seem to have the answers required to get him playing to his potential. At his age, it’s likely too late for him reach his once-lofty ceiling.
Passive: Johansen ranks among the most shot-averse forwards in the NHL. There’s nothing wrong with waiting for a better look, but he will go through stretches where he simply refuses to shoot despite finding himself in a dangerous spot. Not only is he passing up opportunities, but he’s also making it easier for defenses to corral his linemates.
