Malcolm Spence (LW, L, 6’1″, 205, Erie Otters, 09/22/2006)
Malcolm Spence is a dynamic two-way forward with a rare blend of size, speed, and hockey IQ. His ability to contribute in all three zones, combined with a high level of competitiveness and offensive creativity, makes him a potential top-10 selection for the 2025 NHL Draft. Spence is a standout performer who excels in high-pressure situations, highlighted by his “Golden Goal” for Team Canada at the 2023 Hlinka Gretzky Cup. While his foundation as a power winger is already NHL-ready, further improvement in lateral agility, playmaking consistency, and physical strength will be key to unlocking his full potential.
Strengths:
Skating and Mobility:
Above-average straight-line speed, with explosive acceleration and strong balance.
Uses his speed to drive the net, separate from defenders, and recover defensively.
Demonstrates balanced edgework, allowing him to create space in tight areas and make quick adjustments during transitions.
Two-Way Play:
Highly committed to a 200-foot game, with strong defensive instincts and puck anticipation.
Excels on the penalty kill, frequently generating shorthanded scoring chances by stripping pucks and breaking up plays.
Willing to block shots and engage physically in all zones.
Offensive Skillset:
High-volume shooter with an accurate and deceptive release, making him a constant scoring threat in junior hockey.
Strong puck anticipation helps maintain offensive zone pressure and create opportunities off the cycle.
Effective at using his size and strength to protect the puck and generate scoring chances in high-danger areas.
Physicality and Competitive Edge:
Wins 58% of 50/50 puck battles, using his size and strength to overpower opponents.
Comfortable engaging in physical confrontations, delivering hits, and creating space for himself and teammates.
Demonstrates mental toughness and a clutch factor, thriving in high-pressure situations.
Is willing and able to intimidate.
Special Teams:
Reliable contributor on both the power play and penalty kill, showcasing versatility, dependability and hockey IQ.
Creates Grade “A” scoring opportunities during 5-on-5 play with his ability to find open lanes and involve defensemen in plays.
Areas for Improvement:
Lateral Agility and Creativity:
While strong in north-south play, Spence could improve his lateral mobility and ability to make dynamic plays while cutting laterally off the rush.
Developing more creative zone entries and lateral shifts would elevate his offensive versatility.
Shot Selection and Accuracy:
High-volume shooter but can improve the accuracy and selection of his shots, particularly using a quick stick in tight spaces.
Can still develop consistent confidence as a top offensive option by taking more purposeful, quicker shots.
Physical Development:
At 205 pounds, Spence is well-built, but adding 10-15 pounds of muscle will enhance his effectiveness in physical battles and durability at the NHL level.
Playmaking Consistency:
Completes 84% of passes but sometimes struggles with overcomplicated plays, particularly below the tops of the circles and outside the dot-lanes in the offensive zone.
Simplifying his decision-making in tight spaces will lead to more consistent offensive production for him and his linemates.
Recent Performance Highlights:
2024/25 Season with Erie Otters (OHL):
Averaging 19:34 total ice time, with 2:29 on the power play and 2:12 on the penalty kill per game.
Generates five shots per game, hitting the net 67% of the time and generates possession with 1.76 loose puck recoveries per game.
Strong two-way play has led to contributions in all situations, highlighting his versatility.
2023 Hlinka Gretzky Cup:
Scored the “Golden Goal” in overtime to secure gold for Canada, showcasing his clutch ability.
Dominated on the penalty kill and improved his puck battle success rate to 58% during the tournament.
Projection
Malcolm Spence projects as a top-six NHL winger with the versatility to contribute in all situations. His combination of size, speed, defensive reliability, and offensive skill set makes him a valuable asset to any lineup. With continued development in his lateral agility, decision-making, and strength, he has the potential to be a top-five selection in the 2025 NHL Draft and a future house hold name at the NHL level.
Draft Outlook: Top-10 pick in the 2025 NHL Draft.
Player Comparison: Mark Stone – A skilled, two-way winger with elite hockey IQ, the ability to thrive under pressure, and a strong defensive presence.
Photo Credit: Dan Hickling/Hickling Images