Scouting Notes : Zach Dean Game Report - November 22nd 2020
Channel: NHL Draft Central
Date: 2021-02-11

Here's my scouting notes on Gatineau's attacker, 2021 NHL Draft eligible, Zach Dean. What's YOUR opinion on the Canadian prospect ? I would love to hear it in the comments bellow !
2021 NHL Draft top prospects scouting reports : 
https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLWqUavddiQZaUjyL4q9Z-HpeZDCpfNmyI

Summary : 
Dean is super skilled and creative offensive threat who used his magnificent stick-handling abilities and impressive mobility to dominate 1v1s and plays along the boards. The smooth skating forward showcased the ability to break down skating lanes and dodge pressure elusively thanks to his cutting-edge agility. Dean adds to his skating swiftness some of the silkiest and most slippery mitts in the draft, molding him into a constant threat in rush offense. His favorite move, the backhand toe drag, left defensemens completely fazed and allowed him to attempt bypasses on the outside. There’s still room for improvements in Dean’s skating though, as adjustments as simple as widening his stance on straight-line drives and keeping his feet under him in puck protection would allow him to work with even more speed. As skilled as Dean is, he rarely ever attempted to get to inside positions, keeping a very safe approach and working on the outside. If he did create high-danger scoring chances as a playmaker, I would also like to see him strive to get his own opportunities in the middle ice ; that’s when he’s at his best. Dean is a fierce competitor along the wall, combining his delightful mobility to his quick feet and hands to either protect his puck or challenge a rival. The Canadian forward can turn with the disc with magistral smoothness or stop on a dime to create separation along the boards. He enjoyed getting his body involved and work with intensity in corners, flashing snippets of excellent compete. Although lacking a bit of consistency, Dean was willing to put the defensive effort too, occasionally getting on the backcheck with an active stick or supporting his defensemen down low. There’s one aspect that left a sour taste in my mouth, though, and it was his visually wavering attitude. Dean complained a lot to the officials throughout the game, throwing out is frustration at the wrong place. Not a big deal for one game, but I’ll keep an eye on any developing trend from now on. Overall, Dean is an extremely creative and skilled prospect who possesses all the tools and potential to become an impactful player at the next level. He’ll just need the right environment and support.

Twitter : @AndyLehoux1

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Footage taken from InStats Hockey