Prospect Info: [2024] 1st rd selection - #31 OA - RD, Ben Danford - Oshawa Generals, OHL (6′2″/191lb) --Signed to ELC

[dangomon]

I question how good his puck skills actually are? I admittedly don't watch him much but his statline screams he will not produce as a professional player the same as Webber.

I think the staff saw a big right shot dman who can skate and their eyes glazed over. They are just hoping and praying he puts other parts of the game together rather than drafting him for ability.

I guess my whole point was to stop questioning "will he produce" because you're still focusing on goals and assists. I don't need a young, defensively-sound, 4-5-6 dman to put up assists if they can make smart breakouts and move the puck out of their zone efficiently.

In all honesty I'm saying this as someone who isn't entirely sold on Danford, but I think comparing him to guys like Webber is harsh because it's purely "this guy is good defensively but doesn't put up points" without considering the other aspects of being an effective dman.

 

[Stephen]

Even if he is a Schenn type, a top 4 for us that's good. We needed that 2nd rounder for TD, so the trade hasn't played out yet.

He’s also a late first rounder so you’re kind of in less bluechip territory. If he can develop quietly into a role under the tutelage of a Tanev or McCabe, great. We certainly missed on some of that boom potential in Cowan or the 2nd round upside of a Knies pick but it’s steady.

Although I’m also not super enthusiastic on how his OHL season has gone.

 

[darrylsittler27]

He’s also a late first rounder so you’re kind of in less bluechip territory. If he can develop quietly into a role under the tutelage of a Tanev or McCabe, great. We certainly missed on some of that boom potential in Cowan or the 2nd round upside of a Knies pick but it’s steady.

Although I’m also not super enthusiastic on how his OHL season has gone.

I figure he's a late bloomer. We have bad luck rushing dmen.