Written prior to his draft:
One of the better forwards from the SCTA, Andrew Vermeulen is basically a lock to be one of the higher round picks in the 2022 OHL draft. Formerly playing for Southern Tier, Vermeulen decided to take his talents to the Niagara North Stars, where he was producing at well over a point per game pace in both the regular season and especially the playoffs and OHL cup. Vermeulen has an amazing offensive ability, with solid hands and strong edges, allowing him to cut then go wide, and while he is not the most explosive forward, he’s effective. Vermeulen also is capable of using his large frame quite well, using it to muscle guys off the puck, or displaying extremely high puck protection skills. Vermeulen is not someone who will shy away from danger either, putting his body on the line to block a shot, or sticking up for one of his teammates. Vermeulen has been working the most on his skating, which could use some improvement, which, if corrected, would amplify the young forwards offensive capabilities even further. Vermeulen is seen as a leader amongst his teammates, and displays amazing poise, alongside a patient yet feisty attitude on the ice. With Vermeulen being one of the most highly touted SCTA forwards for the coming draft, it would not be surprising to see him in the league sooner rather than later, where he could use his size and skill as a middle to top 6 winger as a sort of complimentary piece who can provide additional support to his teammates in all zones of the ice.
Also before his draft.......
Playing part in one of the most lethal duos in the SCTA, Andrew Vermeulen is a player that has every coach on high alert when he steps onto the ice. Vermeulen is a player who is known well for his stick work, where he displays very good hands, as well as an exceptional ability to protect the puck. Vermeulen serves as one of the leadership members on Southern Tier, and is known to lead by example, but also just for being a good leader overall in the dressing room and on the ice. Vermeulen is working hard on his speed, which he can utilize to help with creating space for both himself and his teammates. During the 2019/20 season, Vermeulen was able to put up an impressive 27 goals and 22 assists for a grand total of 49 points over the span of 32 games, a definite indication of his dominance over the league. At the OHL level, Vermeulen could end up going in the higher rounds, where he could find himself developing into a steady two way forward and scoring threat as well. The future is bright for Vermeulen moving forward, and right now he is only getting started.