Benjamin Brunelle (LW, L, 6’4″, 192, Rouyn-Noranda Huskies, 06/07/2005)
2024 NHL Draft Grade: C+
Season stats 2023/24
Games played: 77
Goals: 21
Assists: 21
Points: 42
+/-: 26
Penalty time: 67:00
Penalty time against: 44:00
Average per game
Time on ice: 15:09
Power play time: 00:32
Short-handed time: 01:41
Shots: 3.2
Shots on goal, %: 63%
Faceoffs won, %: 35%
Puck battles: 14
Puck battles won, %: 49%
Accurate passes, %: 84%
Hits: 1
Hits against: 0.6
Brunelle is a 6’4″, 190 pound left shot forward who just finished his second full season playing for Rouyn-Noranda. He possesses strong fluid strides for a player his size, demonstrates good four-way agility and an above average first touch. His quick hands in tight situations will allow him to win more than his fair of 50/50 pucks once he gains the strength to battle.
Two-Way Presence: Brunelle is noted for his solid two-way presence, showcasing a strong work ethic away from the puck. He demonstrates good instincts for the game and the ability to play both wing or center, although he is considered a natural winger at the junior level.
Skating and Agility: While Brunelle’s skating is already strong, further work in the weight room will be necessary for him to transition into playing as a consistent power forward at the professional level. Continued work on his agility, explosiveness and first step will be crucial for his his success in professional hockey.
Power Forward Attributes: At 6’4″ Brunelle has the frame of a prototypical power forward. At the junior level he utilizes his size effectively to protect pucks and create time and space in the offensive zone. He is adept at using his body to win battles along the boards and has a long reach, providing him with leverage in puck battles in all three zones, but he for continued success against men in professional hockey Brunelle will need to be dedicated to his game and spend considerable time in the weight room and on the turf building strength and adding weight.
Potential and Playing Style: It is going to take 3 to 4 years of commitment and dedication but Brunelle has the potential to be a power winger in the National League, combining physicality with skill and intelligence. He is tough to play against yet still has the developing skill set to be effective in professional hockey, showcasing the potential to contribute up and down a roster at the professional level.
Summary: The former 2021 4th round QMJHL selection has a blend of size, skill, and work ethic that makes him a unique prospect for professional hockey. With continued development, particularly in his strength, explosiveness and agility, he has the potential to become a formidable presence on the ice as a power forward capable of making an impact in all areas of the game.
Photo Credit: Dan Hickling/Hickling Images