Center/Right Wing
US Men’s Junior National Team (Committed to Harvard University)
Size: 6’1” (185 cm) and 205 lbs (93 kg)
Yes, he’s the kid from that Boston Bruins shootout in 2009 that went viral. Somehow, that’s the least notable thing he’s done in his career but it’s the only one that got everyone’s attention. He’s got great size that allows him to dominate games with his physical play and incredible hockey sense. He has a natural nose for the game and being where he needs to be in the offensive zone. Let’s not even get started on his dangerous shot with high end talent. His playmaking is a plus, but I don’t think it’s his most defining trait. He’s definitely more of a scorer than a passer. Skates well, but he’s not going to blow you away with top speed. That said, his edges and positioning tend to make up for that. He plays all minutes and makes for an impressive penalty killer. He’s really spent time improving his all around game, but he’s always going to contribute more offensively.
Oliver (or as he will be known from day 1 in any NHL locker room, Wall-E) probably fits best as an elite, 1st line right winger in the future, but he can definitely play down the middle too. No matter how you spin it he’s a top 6 forward, but I’d be impressed to find a team that doesn’t give him a chance on the top line. I do feel Harvard will do wonders for his development and rounding out what he brings to the ice, even if it’s not the most well known hockey hotbed. I’d think he goes to either the AHL or NHL after one season in Harvard, but it would probably be best for a two year period in college before making the jump straight to the NHL.
I do feel it should be mentioned, I think he’s going to end up in Montreal. He fits their style, he’s the exact high end player they need, and I’m pretty sure if he was from Quebec, Marc Bergevin would cut off his own hand to take him. Even if Montreal has a top 3 pick, I’d see them more likely to trade down and pick Wall-E or Joe Veleno than taking someone else. He has been sneaking up draft projections though, could be a top 5 pick depending on who gets the draw or as low as, well, wherever Montreal ends up selecting. Put money on this, Montreal isn’t passing on him and any team that wants him is going to have to trade in front of the Canadians to get that selection.
Likely draft position: 5-10
Best fits in the NHL: Montreal, Edmonton, New York Rangers, Chicago, Arizona
Player comparison(s): Blake Wheeler, Jerome Iginla, Marian Hossa, Jamie Benn
The Motor City Sports 
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