Pronman's thoughts.
26. St. Louis Blues: Jake Neighbours, LW, Edmonton-WHL
March 29, 2002 | six-foot | 195 pounds
Neighbours was an important part of Edmonton’s team, scoring more than a point per game and being a leading shot generator in the WHL. He’s a very smart player. He played the flank on Edmonton’s PP1 and showed the ability to make NHL caliber plays in all situations. I debated between a 55 and a 60 for his hands. In practice and in games he shows very quick-twitch puck handling and impressive ability to saucer pucks. His 1-on-1 game is not that impressive, so I leaned to a 55. Neighbours has a bullet of a shot and scored several goals this past season that goalies had little to no chance on. He competes hard. He doesn’t shy from physical engagement and is a solid penalty killer. I could see him become a quality bottom-six forward in the NHL and, if he gains a step, I could see him become more than that.
NHL scout on Neighbours, “He’s a complete hockey player. He’s very smart, he can make plays and score. He competes very hard. He got better for me as the season went on.”
Pronman’s thoughts: Neighbours had a very good season in the WHL and a lot of teams thought he would find his way into the first round. He’s a very intelligent and competitive player who can finish and make plays in the NHL. I wavered between if he was a second- or a third-line forward because of his skating. In the hours leading up to my final list, he was a guy I thought a lot about. I lean to third-liner, but if you wanted to pressure me and say he can play higher, I can buy it.
https://theathletic.com/2089449/2020/10 ... -analysis/