Malcolm Spence (LW, L, 6’1″, 195, Erie Otters, 09/22/2006)
Malcolm Spence is a dynamic left-winger with the potential to be a top-five selection in the 2025 NHL Draft. His blend of size, speed, hockey IQ, and competitive edge makes him a highly coveted prospect. Throughout the past season and at international events like the Hlinka Gretzky Cup, Spence demonstrated a well-rounded game that translates to the next level.
Strengths:
- Skating and Mobility: Spence is an above-average skater for his size. His straight-line speed is impressive, allowing him to create separation on the rush and recover defensively. While he has good speed, further refinement of his stride and lateral agility could elevate his game to an elite level. He’s particularly effective in transition, using his skating to carry the puck through the neutral zone and into dangerous areas.
- Two-Way Play: What sets Spence apart from many of his peers is his commitment to playing a strong two-way game. He excelled as a penalty killer during the 2023 Hlinka Gretzky Cup, using his speed and defensive instincts to generate shorthanded scoring chances. His ability to read the play and strip opponents of the puck is a hallmark of his game. Spence is willing to engage physically, win battles along the boards, and block shots, showcasing his defensive reliability. His projected role at the NHL level could be as a defensive-forward who can contribute offensively.
- Offensive Prowess: Offensively, Spence has a shoot-first mentality, with a high shot volume and accuracy. His release is quick and deceptive, which allows him to score in tight spaces and under pressure. He’s particularly dangerous off the cycle, using his strong frame and quick hands to generate scoring chances. His puck anticipation allows him to maintain offensive zone pressure, and his ability to find open space makes him a constant threat.
- Physicality and Competitiveness: Standing at 6’01” and 195 pounds, Spence is already physically imposing, and with consistent off-ice development, he is expected to add more strength to his frame. He’s a player who doesn’t shy away from physical confrontations, winning 58% of his puck battles at the Hlinka tournament and 50% of his battles during the 2023/24 OHL season. His willingness to take and give hits, battle in the corners, and engage physically makes him a tough player to play against.
- Mental Toughness and Clutch Ability: Spence’s ability to perform in high-pressure situations is noteworthy. His “Golden Goal” for Team Canada at the 2023 Hlinka Gretzky Cup is a prime example of his composure and ability to deliver in crucial moments. This mental toughness, combined with his skill set, gives him the potential to thrive in the high-stakes environment of professional hockey.
Areas for Improvement:
- Lateral Agility and Puck Movement: While Spence excels in north-south play, NHL scouts will be looking for him to improve his lateral mobility and puck distribution. His ability to make plays off the rush is strong, but adding more lateral creativity will make him a more dynamic threat in the offensive zone and on zone entries.
- Shot Selection and Confidence: Although Spence is a high-volume shooter, there were moments when he second-guessed his decisions early in the season. As he embarks on his draft season, scouts will want to see him consistently assert himself as a top offensive option, making quicker and more decisive plays with the puck.
- Physical Development: At 195 pounds, Spence is already a well-built athlete, but scouts will be monitoring his physical development. If he can add another 10-15 pounds of muscle while maintaining his speed and agility, he will be even more effective in physical confrontations and puck battles.
Summary of Weaknesses: Spence’s primary areas for improvement are shot accuracy, playmaking vision, and physical strength. He also needs to work on maintaining consistent offensive confidence and balancing his aggressive defensive play with discipline. Addressing these weaknesses will be crucial for him to fully unlock his potential as a top NHL prospect.
Conclusion:
Malcolm Spence is a well-rounded, skilled power winger with the potential to be a top-five pick in the 2025 NHL Draft. His combination of size, skating ability, two-way play, and offensive skill makes him a versatile player who can impact the game in all situations. While there are areas for improvement, particularly in his lateral agility and decision-making under pressure, Spence’s upside is significant. With continued development and increased explosiveness, he has the potential to become a top-line forward at the NHL level who can contribute both offensively and defensively.
Photo Credit: Dan Hickling/Hickling Images