Frantisek Netusil (C, R, 5’10”, 187, Minnesota Wilderness, 05/14/2007, Western Michigan)
Case for Netusil as an NHL Draft Pick
- High-End Offensive Instincts and Playmaking Ability
Netusil possesses high-end puck skills and offensive vision, making him a dynamic playmaker in the offensive zone.
His ability to place passes into tight windows and control the puck under pressure sets him apart from many of his peers.
Strong hands and stickhandling allow him to navigate through traffic and create scoring opportunities for himself and his teammates.
22 goals and 37 points in 37 NAHL games showcase his ability to produce offensively at the junior level. - Skating and Tempo Control
Smooth, polished skater with the ability to change pace and dictate play.
Quick first step allows him to create separation, and while he’s not a true burner, he is effective at finding open ice.
Can play both a high-tempo, transition-heavy game or slow things down and pick apart defensive structures. - Strong Competitiveness and Puck Anticipation
Engages in 12 puck battles per game and wins 49% of them, which is respectable for a player who is still gaining strength and power.
1.8 loose puck recoveries per game highlight his strong anticipation skills and ability to read the play.
106 PIMs – a willingness to battle and play with an edge, which is a promising sign for his transition to higher levels. - Faceoff Numbers
Although a small sample size his 64% faceoff win percentage in the USHL indicates that he has the potential to be trusted in key situations as a centerman at higher levels.
His ability to win draws adds versatility to his role, as he can play both center and wing effectively.
Case Against Netusil as an NHL Draft Pick
- Inconsistent Engagement
Has stretches where he dominates the game, but also periods where he does not drive the play.
Improving shift-to-shift consistency will ensure he is a factor every time he is on the ice.
Only 0.6 shots on goal per game in his USHL games. - Defensive Commitment and Puck Management
3.6 giveaways per game – is he forcing plays that aren’t there?
His -8 rating in the NAHL – still be developing his two-way play and defensive zone responsibilities. - Not a Dominant Skater or Still Developing Deception
While his skating is smooth and effective, he is still developing his explosive top gear.
Scoring on just 14% of his grade “A” chances – he is still developing his deception, shot selection, and release mechanics to convert more frequently.
Final Verdict: Draftable or Not?
Potential Late-Round Draft Pick (6th or 7th Round) or Priority NCAA/UFA Target
Why Draft Him?
Elite offensive skill set and playmaking ability.
Versatile forward who can play center or wing and wins faceoffs at a high rate.
High hockey IQ, soft hands, and strong puck anticipation skills.
Competes hard and plays with an edge, as seen in his PIMs and willingness to battle in the dirty areas.
Why Not Draft Him?
Still has too many off-shifts where he is not engaged.
Needs to round out his defensive game and become more of a 200-foot player to justify an NHL draft selection.
Lack of elite explosiveness could limit his offensive upside in the National League.
Projection:
Best-Case NHL Upside: Middle-six playmaking winger or two-way center with power-play potential.
Most Likely Path: Develops in NCAA, signs as a UFA, and earns an AHL contract before attempting to crack an NHL lineup.
Draft Range: Late-round (6th/7th) NHL Draft selection or undrafted but a priority NCAA/UFA signing.
Conclusion:
Netusil has the skillset of a playmaking forward with offensive upside, but his inconsistencies and lack of an elite top gear raise questions about his NHL viability. If he commits to improving his defensive play, puck management, and consistency, he has the potential to carve out a role as a skilled depth forward at the NHL level. However, at this stage, he is more likely to go undrafted and develop through the NCAA route before getting a shot at the NHL via free agency.
Photo credit: Dan Hickling/Hickling Images
