Was one of my favourite sleepers for the draft. I think we at McKeen's had him higher than anyone. I'll echo what some others in this thread have said. Steep development curve from those that I've chatted with about him. Just keeps getting better. Not a power forward though.
Here was our write up about him:
McKeen's 2022 NHL Draft Guide - From start to finish this year, you would be hard pressed to find a player who improved more in the USHL this season. Richard, a former Florida Alliance player (and teammate of Seamus Casey and Gavin Brindley), started the year struggling to produce in the USHL. He had trouble playing through contact. He looked slow. Plays were dying on his stick. But, with each passing month his game improved and by season’s end, he had become the primary offensive catalyst for Muskegon. The proof is in the production as Richard had 45 points in the final 40 games.
The physical capabilities are not strong at the current moment. There is room for Richard to improve his skating, both in terms of power and grace. There is room for him to be stronger on the puck and a more complete player. But in terms of pure offensive skill and sense, Richard has to be considered one of the best available from the USHL. He manipulates space so well with his quick hands, and despite not being the fleetest of foot, he manages to prolong possession and avoid checks, often drawing in double teams to help slow him down. This is especially true below the goal line, where Richard seems to be in his office. Heading to the University of Connecticut, Richard has tons of time (especially with an August birthday) to improve his skating and conditioning. In fact, it has already improved from the start of the year. What Richard does possess already is innate offensive capabilities. He is a true diamond in the rough with the upside to be one of the best offensive players from this USHL draft class.
