2. Looking Towards the Future (4 TPE)

The Quebec City Citadelles had a rough go this season, with the youth movement fully underway and committed to. Young rook Jeff Hunziker lead the team in scoring, and more valuable performances from guys like Jaromir Jagrbomb making real contributions to their lowly 20 victories. A surprise standout was 155 IA Steve Fudge, who was the only player to have a positive plus minus as well as contribute 61 points. Next season is preparing to be a better one for this team, not losing many notable players, but still not good enough to make a serious run. Whether or not the future involves moving on from pending graduates like Nathan Cormier or Smurfunkle Dothe for more draft capital to build around the young core, it doesn't look like there will be winning hockey in Quebec City for the next couple of seasons, as there's just not enough this upcoming season and then you lose many top 425 caliber players. The decision to commit to next season seems like an obvious no, but key locker room contributions and the culture of this team are dependent on these older veterans. Culture versus the future seems like the call that must be made here in Quebec City, but there are solid rooks and draft capital for this team to make something special in the not-so-distant future. (223 words)


12. On the Radar (9 TPE)

Jeff Hunziker is an exciting SMJHL hockey player hailing from Schaffhausen, Switzerland. Standing at a meek 5'7", his size is certainly a setback, even though the center possesses exceptional goal-scoring abilities. His defensive skills and commitment certainly leave much to be desired. Despite his defensive shortcomings, his offensive prowess makes him an intriguing prospect for most SHL teams in this draft. His season for the Quebec City Citadelles makes him a prime candidate for the S72 draft with any team seeking offence, but a hiatus mid-season to go on vacation may lower his stock and abilities early in his career.

Jeff showcases impressive speed but lacks crucial agility on the ice. His pure speed and acceleration allow him to create separation from defenders and generate scoring opportunities, but he often is unable to avoid defenders with great skating skills. Also, his small size and stature limits his ability to win battles along the boards and protect the puck effectively.

One of Hunziker's best abilities is his exceptional goal-scoring ability. He possesses a lethal shot with excellent accuracy and a quick release. Whether it's from the slot or the perimeter, he has a knack for finding scoring lanes and capitalizing on opportunities. His scoring touch and offensive instincts make him a threat in the offensive zone.

Jeff demonstrates high hockey IQ and offensive awareness, although he can be a bit selfish with the rock. He has a strong sense of positioning with his high Getting Open stat, often finding open spaces in the offensive zone to receive passes and unleash his shot. He has a good understanding of timing and knows how to create scoring chances for himself and his teammates. His ability to read the play and anticipate opportunities is a key asset to his exceptional offensive game.

Unfortunately, Jeff struggles in the defensive aspects of the game, and doesn't look to eager to improve that. He lacks the physicality and size to effectively engage in board battles and win puck possession. Further more, he doesn't seem too energetic on the offensive end, often losing focus and getting caught puck watching. His positioning and backchecking efforts are inconsistent, leading to defensive lapses. Improving his defensive awareness and commitment will be crucial for his overall development as a player for any SHL team, as even having exceptional defensive linemates only really goes so far.

Due to his smaller stature, the young Swiss center must rely on his speed to navigate around opponents. While he shows determination, he often gets overpowered by larger and more physical opponents. Developing strength and improving his physical presence will be essential for him to compete at higher levels. He shows the willingness to fight for pucks and hits, but it often isn't enough. Whether or not his goal scoring will be enough to carry himself to the SHL as a viable top-6 player is the key behind his draft position on any team's draft board, that is for sure. (493 words)

Milestones (3 TPE)

9 TPE + 4 TPE + 3 TPE = 16 TPE