As we inch closer to the 2014 NHL Entry Draft, we continue our top prospect report series with ISS Hockey by looking at Michael Dal Colle. Currently, Dal Colle is with the Oshawa Generals of the Ontario Hockey League (OHL). In the 2013-14 regular season, Dal Colle registered a whopping 95 points (39G – 56A) in just 67 games. During the 2014 Playoffs, Dal Colle tallied 20 points (8G – 12A) in 12 games.
Dal Colle is a big-body forward that is already 6’1″ and 182 lbs. at only the age of 17. He will certainly gain more bulk as he gets older and will most likely add a few inches in height. Playing for a powerful Oshawa squad means that he was surrounded with talent during his development. In his first year with Oshawa, Dal Colle played with the likes of Boone Jenner, Scott Laughton, Tyler Biggs, Lucas Lessio and Cole Cassels; all NHL draft picks.
Below, we take an in-depth look at Michael Dal Colle with Dennis MacInnis, Director of Scouting at ISS Hockey. If you would like more information on the 2014 NHL Entry Draft and the prospects available for it, make sure to visit ISShockey.com. You can also purchase a draft guide to give you even more details about the prospects eligible for the 2014 Draft.
Courtesy Oshawa Generals
The Basics:
Born – June 20, 1996
Birthplace – Richmond Hill, Ontario, Canada
Position – LW/C
Shoots – Left
Height – 6’1″
Weight – 182 lbs.
The Details:
Penalty Box Radio: Briefly describe what makes Dal Colle’s skill-set unique from others in the draft.
Dennis MacInnis: His combination of size, skill, and smarts. There’s not much Dal Colle doesn’t do well, but this kid has great hands and is a sniper in tight around the net. He uses his strength well and can beat people one on one.
PBR: What three teams that did not make the playoffs could benefit most from drafting Dal Colle and why?
DM: Buffalo – Would make a perfect piece and a big cornerstone for the rebuilding Sabres.
Calgary – The Flames need offense and Dal Colle’s size and style fits in with Calgary’s team mold.
Winnipeg – Another club seeking offensive help, and who also can use some size up front.
PBR: What current NHL player would Dal Colle be similar to once he reaches his prime?
DM: Patrick Marleau – San Jose. Marleau had an extremely successful junior career, produced moderate numbers the first half of his career in the NHL, then blossomed into a consistent 30 + goal scorer. I can see a similar development path in Dal Colle.
PBR: What ability does Dal Colle have that would strike fear into opponents?
DM: Goal scoring ability…his shot release is quick and deceptive, making him a dangerous threat to any opposing net minder.
PBR: Can you see Dal Colle playing immediately in the 2014-2015 NHL season? If not, how far away is he?
DM: He has a shot, of course, depending on his future team and their depth. The safe bet is we will see Dal Colle back in junior at Oshawa next season for at least another year of seasoning and added strength work.
Highlights:
Make sure to read our other top prospects reports with ISS Hockey on William Nylander and Sam Bennett. You can also follow ISS Hockey on Twitter @ISShockey for more draft information.
*Header image courtesy of Oshawa Generals and Terry Wilson/OHL Images*
