I've been watching Walton with the Wolves the last few seasons and he's a lot of fun to watch (especially this season) - I can provide maybe a bit of insight.
Very unique combination of size and skill. He's taken a large step forward from last season as he's playing consistent 1st line minutes compared to 3rd line last season. He's been very consistently putting up points on the season and there have been very few games this year I've come away thinking he played "bad." Consistency was an issue for him last season.
Strengths:
- Size/reach
- Hands (very good! Capable of high light reel goals)
- Shot
- Smarts (not elite, but "good." Sometimes has tunnel vision)
- Skating (he's an average skater, but considering his size I'd consider it a strength)
- Discipline (hardly ever in the box)
Weaknesses:
- Defensive play (there is some effort but its very nonchalant)
- Doesn't use his body to outmuscle other players or drive the net for the most part
- Plays around the perimeter too much
- No mean streak (not in his personality)
I think he's a great value pick in the 6th round because he's a very boom or bust type of prospect. He was being rated 2nd/3rd round at mid-season last year and played in the CHL prospects game but then he had a very slow 2nd half of the season - fatigue maybe could have played a factor, but overall he just didn't have any pep in his game, was inconsistent, and coasted for the rest of the season for the most part. I don't expect that this will happen this time.
A common critique amongst Wolves fans is that if he could just be more assertive and even get a little bit mean and use his body more he would be scary good. He has a very high ceiling IMO. Time will tell if he gets there or not. Great kid, he'll probably have a letter on his jersey next season.
Scored a nice one last night!
