2019 NHL Draft Profile: Jack Hughes has tools to be franchise center
Jack Hughes is rightfully the crown jewel of the 2019 NHL Draft. He has the potential to be a franchise center.
The 2019 NHL Draft is approaching quickly. As always, there’s a player everyone is expecting to be picked with the first overall pick. This year, it’s center Jack Hughes, who has the undeniable potential to be a franchise center.
His draft year has been as great, if not better, than expected. Hughes has cemented his number one pick status with an impressive WJC U20 performance despite being one of the youngest players there. Also, he’s in the midst of arguably the most productive season in USNTDP history.
Prospect Profile:
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Height: 5’10” (179 cm)
Weight: 168 pounds (76 kg)
Teams: USNTDP Juniors, USA National U18 Team (captain)
Country: United States
Position: Center
Handedness: Left-handed
Date of birth: December 23, 1999
Consensus Prospect Ranking*: 1
All profile info is courtesy of Elite Prospects.
*You can check the consensus prospect ranking right here.
Strengths
He has elite speed and his vision and creativity are both top notch. Hughes is someone who is dangerous whenever he has the puck. He hasn’t been playing with the same quality of linemates as he did last year, as his two most common linemates both wound up being first-round picks in the 2018 NHL Draft. However, Hughes is still flirting two points per game with the United States Under-18 Team.
Hughes is most dangerous as a playmaker. He makes his linemates much better, as he proved last season. Hughes is one of the fastest skaters in the 2019 NHL Draft as well. His instincts are very impressive for someone his age. Hughes is used to playing above his age, which should lead to a relatively smooth transition to the NHL.
He also has that “it” factor. Hughes is very dynamic. You notice him whenever he’s on the ice. Every time Hughes touches the puck, you feel like he can do something special. He’s having a heck of a draft season, but his dynamic style of play tells you there’s even more inside of him that hasn’t been brought out yet. There’s so much untapped potential.
Weaknesses
His offensive game has one flaw – he’s not much of a goal scorer. Hughes has the potential to be one in the future and he has all the tools to be one. However, that potential has yet to show in his stats. Hughes needs to gain more confidence in his shot because he has an extremely good one.
Also, he’s a bit unimpressive on the defensive side. Then again, most 17 year olds are. Hughes has shown improvement there over the past year, so that’s definitely a good sign. I wouldn’t worry much about his defensive game with his offense.
What They’re Saying
"Hughes has a tremendous first step which sets him apart; at times you don’t notice him cause he is small but when he gets the puck – watch out. – Dennis MacInnis, ISS Hockey"
Highlights
Next. Greatest Player To Wear Each Jersey Number. dark
Overall Outlook
Hughes has been as good as advertised, which isn’t easy when you’re as hyped as he has been. He hasn’t done anything to warrant losing his spot as the consensus number one pick. Despite some impressive competition from Kappo Kakko, Hughes remains the most dynamic prospect in the 2019 NHL Draft and has the highest ceiling.
For all of your 2019 NHL Draft needs, check out our NHL Draft page.