Morgan Rielly Statistics & Scouting Report

Morgan Rielly Scouting Report by Ian Dudgeon

A smooth skating, highly intelligent mobile defenseman with a top end skillset and highly effective in both zones. One of his most dynamic attributes is his acceleration, able to get the puck out of dangerous situations using quick feet, and in 2 steps can beat most opponents up the boards. Rielly is able to use his speed to chase down and overtake opponents, pushing them to the outside. Displays excellent poise with the puck and calmness under pressure. Can slow down and control the pace of the game with his puck handling and possession ability. Joins the rush, will make effective high percentage passes and continue to drive to the net. Will need to be careful with decision making in this area when he moves to pro leagues. Quick stick able to retrieve pucks from opponents in 1 on 1 situations. Won’t manhandle physically but has the size and strength to duel one-on-one with opponents along the boards and in front.

Projection:
A solid two-way defender with potential for more if the offensive game flourishes at the NHL level.

Notes:

  • Drafted 2nd overall in 2009 WHL Bantam draft.
  • Gold medal at 2011 Ivan Hlinka (U-18) tournament

Morgan Rielly 2012 Combine Result Highlights:

  • Placed in top 10 in eight different categories
  • 1st in right hand grip strength and 3rd in left hand grip strength
  • 4th in 150lbs bench press max reps (13), 4th in bench press lb/lb body weight (9.8), 9th in pull strength (291 lbs).

Notable quotes:
“Rielly has better hands than many forwards in the 2012 class”
– McKeen’s 2012 Draft guide

“I’ve seen Rielly do things on the ice that nobody else was doing. I saw him make those little passes to guys who weren’t expecting the puck to get there. He’s the type of player who can lead the rush and he’ll be the first guy back. I think his creativity makes him one of the top players in the league. He’s like a chess player; he’s thinking one or two moves ahead. He sees stuff coming that a lot of players don’t see.”
– NHL Central Scouting’s Blair MacDonald