Rossi’s Tendencies
Before I get started, I just want to say thank you to ProspectShifts for providing me with shift-by-shift videos on many 2020 NHL draft-eligible prospects.
To start with Rossi’s tendencies, let’s look at the offensive zone first. Rossi shows a willingness to pass-first before looking to get the puck on net. Many players in this class have shown that trait from what I have seen.
But one thing that is somewhat unique among other 2020 prospects is his willingness to get to the dirty areas. He constantly parks himself right in front of the opposing goalie, using his body as a screen. It also allows him to finish rebounds or score goals off deflections.
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Rossi plays with tenacity, always looking to finish his checks. He isn’t afraid to line someone up and knock them down or run through them. Rossi also knows when to go for the big hits and when to sit back and play smart. He could be a difference-maker at the next level if he continues to utilize this aspect of his game, as this style instills energy into your team.
However, with the way the game is trending, this aspect could be looked at as a dying style, and scare some teams away. That said, I like the aggressiveness and determination he shows through this style of play.
On special teams, he plays the point and half-wall area on the powerplay. Rossi is good at moving up and down on his passing side, looking for passing or shooting lanes. Meanwhile, on the penalty kill, Rossi plays the top-left of the box formation. He attacks the point effectively and is not afraid of getting in front of shots.
Despite playing fairly well on the PK, Rossi doesn’t seem engaged in the defensive zone at even strength. He is constantly looking up ice and oftentimes loses his man in coverage. You can see him racing towards the offensive zone the second his team gets possession, which, as a center, is a really bad habit.