Connor Davis (RW, R, 6’1″, 185, Salisbury School, 11/09/2006)
Davis, a 6’1′, 185-pound right-shot winger, is an intriguing prospect for the 2025 NHL Draft. With a strong combination of size, athleticism, and pure speed, Davis has demonstrated that he has the foundation to succeed at the next level and possibly into professional hockey.
Strengths:
- Skating and Speed: Davis plays a strong north-south style, utilizing his speed to drive wide on defenders and create separation. His first step is explosive, allowing him to accelerate quickly and gain the edge on opponents. He uses his athleticism and long stride to cover ground efficiently, making him a threat on the rush. Davis has smooth edges and is able to maintain speed through turns, which helps him be effective both in transition and on the forecheck.
- Puck Handling: Davis has swift hands and is confident powering the play in tight areas. His ability to drive plays, makes him a potential power forward in professional hockey. He is able to maintain control of the puck under pressure and create scoring opportunities for himself and his teammates. His hands stay active and away from his body, allowing him to get off quick shots that can catch goaltenders off guard.
- Offensive Instincts: Davis has a natural ability to generate offense, whether it’s through scoring goals or setting up his teammates. He is a confident shooter with a quick release, particularly dangerous when he gets the puck in open ice. His vision allows him to make smart, direct passes that create opportunities. Davis is particularly effective on the power play, where he positions himself well and can execute plays quickly to exploit defensive weaknesses.
- Physical Play: Davis isn’t the heaviest forechecker, but he is sneaky and effective in using his body and stick positioning to create turnovers and win puck battles. He doesn’t shy away from physical play, driving hard to the net and taking hits to make plays. His ability to bounce off checks and continue to push for scoring opportunities shows his resilience and determination. He competes hard in both ends of the ice and has a solid work ethic that makes him a reliable presence on the ice.
- Versatility: Davis has experience playing both center and wing, though he is more comfortable on the wing, particularly in the defensive zone. His versatility is an asset, allowing coaches to deploy him in different situations depending on the team’s needs. Whether playing as a goal-scoring winger or a playmaking center, Davis can adapt his game to fit various roles within the lineup.
Areas for Improvement:
- Consistency and Offensive Confidence: While Davis has shown flashes of high-end offensive ability, he has been inconsistent at times, particularly in terms of offensive production. NHL scouts will be looking for him to elevate his confidence and consistency in the offensive zone. Finding a way to be a more consistent offensive presence, whether by improving his shooting accuracy, decision-making, or finishing ability, will be key to his development.
- Changing the of Play: There have been moments where Davis has been too predictable when it comes to the pace of play to be a constant offensive threat on the rush, particularly by constantly playing at top speed. Developing his ability to change pace consistently, while maintaining control and making smart decisions, will be critical as he transitions to higher levels of play.
- Defensive Awareness and Positioning: While Davis works hard defensively, he can improve his positioning and awareness in his own zone, particularly when playing as the low forward in the defensive zone. Enhancing his understanding of defensive responsibilities and becoming more reliable in the defensive zone will make him a more complete player. Scouts will be looking for him to refine his defensive game, especially his ability to read plays and make quick, effective decisions without the puck.
- Physical Development: At 185 pounds, Davis has a solid frame, but continuing to add strength and muscle will help him handle the physical demands of professional hockey. Building up his lower body strength will improve his balance and power in battles along the boards and in front of the net, allowing him to be even more effective in those tough areas.
Outlook:
Conor Davis is a big, athletic winger with the potential to be a valuable selection in the 2025 NHL Draft. His combination of size, speed, puck skills, and offensive instincts make him an attractive option for teams looking for a power forward with a scoring touch. If he can improve his consistency, change his pace of play, and continue to develop his physical and defensive game, Davis has the potential to carve out a successful career. Scouts will be watching closely during the 2024-25 season to see how he progresses, particularly in his ability to maintain a high level of play and impact games on a consistent basis.
Photo Credit: Dan Hickling/Hickling Images