Canucks draft Brock Boeser 23rd overall at NHL Draft 2015

The Vancouver Canucks have selected forward Brock Boeser from Waterloo of the USHL with the 23rd overall pick in the 2015 NHL Entry Draft.

Brock captained the U.S to a bronze medal at the Ivan Hlinka Memorial tournament where he posted 8 points (6-2-8). He is committed to attend the University of North Dakota next year.

Brock Boeser meets with the media after being selected by the @VanCanucks in the first round of the #NHLDraft2015. pic.twitter.com/HyMdA1kPxq

— North Dakota MHockey (@UNDmhockey) June 27, 2015

Position: RW

Team: Waterloo (USHL)

Size: 6’0″, 191 lbs

2014-15 Stats: 55 GP – 34 G, 31 A, 65 Pts

CSS Draft Ranking: 27th amongst NA skaters

Generally ranked lower then 23rd in most rankings, the Minnesota native is an offensive winger with a natural scoring ability. Even though the Canucks need to add a high end defensive prospect, Boeser provides a skill-set that the Canucks obviously covet. Boeser needs to work on his defensive game but he has elite offensive ability to compliment their forward prospects. [youtube id=”dJ4XtC01Cu8″]

Scouting reports:

NHL Central Scouting’s David Gregory:

“A strong skating forward who is very effective at getting to open space. He possesses a hard, accurate shot and has the ability to create opportunities off the rush.”

TSN’s Craig Button raves about Boeser’s offensive game:

Brock is a multiple force offensive player. He can score in multiple ways and gets himself into prime scoring positions. Creates opportunities off the cycle and from below the goal line. Nice touch around net but can score from 30 feet. Sets his hands exceptionally well to score with an excellent release and makes it difficult for goalies to get a read on his shot. Determined, driven player.

Elite Prospects compares Brock Boeser to Blackhawks forward Patrick Sharp:

Some scouts are seeing quite a bit of Patrick Sharp in Mr. Boeser. He skates well and has a complete set of goal-scorer’s tools. Doesn’t give up his own end, and transitions to offense in such a quick and concrete way that he can catch the opposition off-guard.