Montreal Canadiens: Top 10 prospects entering the 2018 season

9. Will Bitten, RW [20] (3-70, 2016)

Stats (Hamilton Bulldogs, OHL): 62 gp, 20 g, 44 a, 64 p, 3 PPG (23 A), 2 SHG, 161 SOG, 50.9 FO% (21 pgp, 4 g, 7 a, 11 p, 4 PPA, 1 SHG, 39 SOG, .52 pts/g).

Will Bitten proved that he was ready for the AHL this season in the OHL, putting up more than point-per-game pace, though in an unimpressive way. He was tied for 42nd in scoring, 25th in assists, and 42nd in points per game. Bitten isn’t a terrific goal scorer, but he can make plays. 44 assists across 62 games prove that. Bitten also has the advantage of being a great skater and someone who possess good work ethic, which is what sets him apart.

It’s his defensive game where he excels, and he uses that defensive game while shorthanded and at even strength to keep the puck out of the net.

It’s hard to tell what Bitten can be, although his ceiling is definitely playing in the NHL. Perhaps a middle-six role would be a good fit for Bitten, but he needs to continue to grow his offensive game.

It’s his defensive game where he excels, and he uses that defensive game while shorthanded and at even strength to keep the puck out of the net. He could be an excellent bottom-six player for that reason, perhaps resembling the game of Tomas Nosek.

Bitten needs to prove to be capable of at least a fourth-line role in the AHL before he becomes a fixture on the Montreal Canadiens, however. He’ll get his first crack at the professional game this season, and should get to work continuing to develop his game in both zones.