Friday, March 05, 2010

Prospect Watch: Blake Kessel

 

Height: 6' 1"
Weight: 210
Shoots: Right
Born: Apr 13, 1989  (Age 20)
Birthplace: Madison, WI, United States
Drafted: NYI / 2007 NHL Entry Draft
Round: 6th (166th overall) 
This has been a breakout season for Kessel. After a steady, but unspectacular freshman campaign last year, Kessel is starting to show the offensive flair that made him the highest scoring defenseman in the USHL two seasons ago. The 6’2, 205 lb blueliner has already doubled his offensive production from last year, and has emerged as an integral part of a young New Hampshire team. He currently has six goals and 22 assists through 24 games, making him the second highest scoring defenseman in the nation. Kessel's strong performance up to this point has helped the Wildcats take first place in their conference, and recently earned him the honor of being named a semi-finalist for the Walter Brown Award, given to the best American-born college hockey player from New England.
Paul's thoughts: Blake Kessel is a a late-bloomer, but turned into a solid Division I prospect while playing in the United States Hockey League. Blake has good size, while holding his own from the physical standpoint. He's also emerging as a very good puck-moving defenseman. I believe Kessel may need some seasoning in Bridgeport, but should be up in the NHL within the next two-three years.


Stats for 2010
2008-09 U. of New Hampshire NCAA 37 6 7 13





2009-10 U. of New Hampshire NCAA 31 7 25 32




















































































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