Brody Pepoy (RW, R, 6’1″, 176, Saginaw Spirit, 05/16/2008, Lindenwood) Brody Pepoy is a 6’1′, 176-pound right-shot forward who brings a projectable frame, forechecking presence, and flashes of offensive skill, but his current production and underlying metrics show a longer development trajectory rather than a clear NHL projection. In 67 OHL games (16-13-29), his output is quite notable, especially given his limited usage (13:52 TOI, minimal PP/PK). He generates a solid 1.6 scoring chances per game with a respectable 12% conversion rate and his overall puck management is low-risk. His strengths remain aligned with prior Neutral Zone evaluations as he has a long reach, can protect pucks effectively, and shows flashes of being able to drive the net and create offense through effort and positioning, while his straight-line speed and forechecking ability allow him to disrupt plays and generate turnovers. He also has a capable shot and can finish when given time and space, but needs to continue working on his release. His skating is still developing true explosiveness,, and his playmaking impact is minimal (0.36 pre-shot passes/game, 79% pass completion). He is not yet consistently driving offense at a high level. While he shows willingness to engage physically (1.0 hits/game), he does not consistently impose himself despite having a frame that could support it with added strength. Overall, Pepoy has intriguing physical tools and a foundation as a two-way, effort-based winger, but without meaningful improvement in pace, puck protection, and consistent assertiveness to get to the net, I do not project him to become an NHL player. But with time in the gym and on the turf I feel he is a longer-term development prospect with bottom-six upside.
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