Casey Mittelstadt had a combine to forget, but the pride of Eden Prairie Minnesota is still one of the most highly touted prospects in the upcoming NHL Draft.
Mittelstadt, 18, is 6’1″ 201 lbs and is one of the drafts most talented offensive centers. Although he has been criticized for his inability to do a pull up at the combine and for staying in high school for an extra year there is a lot of upside to this kid’s game.
Mittelstadt dominated every level of hockey that he played in, whether it was USHS or USHL action Mittelstadt was able to put up numbers. While playing for Eden Prairie (USHS) Mittelstadt put up 21 goals, 43 assists and 64 points in 25 games played.
Mittelstadt’s high school career is impressive, playing 114 games scoring 93 goals, 146 assists for a total of 239 points. High school may not be the best talent but his numbers are outstanding and he managed to put up massive numbers in his minimal USHL performances.
Embed from Getty ImagesWhile playing for the Green Bay Gamblers (USHL) Mittelstadt put up 13 goals and 17 assists in 24 games played.
There is no questioning Mittelstadt’s offensive talent, and because he is committed to the University of Minnesota it is safe to assume he is going to develop and get better.
Why Should the Sabres draft Mittelstadt?
As stated above there is no denying Mittelstadt’s offensive talent, his numbers speak for themselves and with him going to an elite NCAA program there is a great chance his game will only get better.
Mittelstadt has great size as well, he’s only 18 but is already 6’1″ and 201 pounds and he is going to continue to grow and add more weight. His size and offense make him one of the better talents in the draft.
Can you imagine a player with size and the ability to fill the net playing along side Eichel and Reinhart? That could be one of the best lines in Sabres’ history, up there with the French Connection.
Mittelstadt has a high ceiling, and despite the criticisms against him I think he may be one of the best offensive players from the draft. If the Sabres’ are thinking of adding some scoring with the 8th overall pick I think that Mittelstadt should be first on their lists.
Would you be happy if Mittelstadt is selected by the Sabres? Let us know by sending feedback to @SabresFanatics and follow myself @austin_broad to let me know what you think. Thanks for reading.
stats provided by eliteprospects.com*
