Aden Bruich (3.75 Star Amateur Rating, NHL Grade — Free Agent) Forward
Why should we keep an eye on Aden Bruich?
(1) Brian – He knows what he is and does not pretend to be something else. That means he plays straight ahead direct hockey. It might be pretty or sexy, but it can grind on opponents over a long season or a seven game playoff series.
(2) Vision & Poise – Aden makes the right decisions at the lines and does not turn the puck over in the grey areas. While cycling he has the frame to hold onto the puck for hours and attack the net with a purpose.
(3) Feet – Aden needs to improve his feet. His stride is powerful and his mechanics are sound, but his first step needs work and obviously his overall game would improve as well.
(4) Compete & Effort – Maximum effort player who does not get outworked. He battles for ice, works hard through the middle while backchecking and will block shots.
(5) Contact or Physicality – He finishes his checks with authority and will take a hit to make a play. At 6’3″ 217lbs Aden has a frame that can withstand the pounding of not only a long junior season, but also a professional as well.
(6) Release – He has a quick release and can fire it while his feet are in motion, but where we’ve noticed big asset is ability to have a quick stick in front the net battling for rebounds and second opportunities.
(7) One Timer Ability – We feel Aden will need to expand his comfort zone, but he does have a rocket in space.
(8) Body Language – As we noted in earlier viewings, Aden is professional and plays straight ahead.
(9) Special Teams Potential – This will all depend on Aden developing his quickness, because he has the frame, quick stick and willingness to take a pounding to be a net front presence.
(10) Intangibles – See Number 4… Aden will not be out worked. To us this is very important when evaluating Aden long term. If he has that same attitude while training and can have the same discipline with his diet and nutrition Aden’s quickness will improve. On the ice he has the mindset to play professional hockey and he if is willing to train his ass off heading into his second junior season and during his time at Clarkson University then we feel certainly feel Aden is a player to keep an eye on.
Comments from the NAHL Showcase, 10/26/19 – Aiden used his big frame and strength to make some powerful hits. He also took some big hits and bounced right back. Took a huge hit (borderline dirty) one shift and had a tough time to the bench. Came back next shift and made a huge check in space in the middle of the ice. No retaliation but straight back to his job. Dipped and drove the net and should survive the wear and tear of the NAHL season. Must develop his quickness because his feet are a bit heavy, but projects as a power forward who will go get pucks and never get outworked. Skating speed is average but his balance is excellent. High compete player. College: Clarkson