Asher Barnett (D, L, 6’1″, 199, NTDP U18, 05/16/2007, Michigan)
Asher Barnett is a physically mature, responsible two-way defenseman whose game is rooted in structure and reliability. He’s the kind of player you trust to start in the defensive zone and close out games. With a strong base, high-end battle habits, and elite defensive stick detail, Barnett projects as a dependable bottom-pairing NHL defenseman who can log tough minutes and kill penalties. His offensive upside is limited, but his mobility, decision-making, and transition habits are pro-ready.
Why He Should Be an NHL Draft Pick:
- Defensive Reliability and Elite Detail:
Barnett plays a mistake-free, intelligent brand of hockey. His 59% win rate in 50/50 puck battles and 8 takeaways per game are clear indicators of how well he defends with body positioning, physical leverage, and anticipation. He’s consistently first to pucks, makes calculated reads on retrievals, and defends the rush with poise — tight gaps, strong stick, and lateral mobility to close at the blue line. He’s already showing the mechanics of an NHL PK regular, averaging nearly 3:00 per game short-handed and clearing shooting lines with consistency. - Mobility & Retrieval Efficiency:
Barnett has a strong, powerful stride that allows him to separate on puck retrievals and win races, especially on delayed forechecks or off the weak side. He pivots efficiently, handles pressure well, and escapes with his head up. When there’s no clean breakout available, he defaults to smart chips or indirects — rarely panics or over-complicates. His 86% pass completion rate, paired with 0.31 primary assist-quality passes per game, reinforces his identity as a safe, effective puck mover with limited flash but high functionality. - Physical Maturity & Role Clarity:
He’s already 200 pounds, and plays through contact with confidence. He’s not overly physical, but he finishes when appropriate and absorbs hits while maintaining puck possession. Offensively, he won’t lead a rush or run a power play, but he can keep pucks alive at the blue line and consistently makes high-percentage plays to maintain possession or buy time for forward support. Barnett rarely cheats for offense and doesn’t get caught chasing — which allows coaches to trust him late in periods and on special teams. - Growth vs. USHL Competition:
Against USHL teams — a better benchmark for draft projection — he’s posted a +8 rating in 21 games with minimal power play exposure — his defensive game and decision-making continue to translate at a high pace and physical level. He blocks 1.41 opponent shots per game, which reflects positioning and solid puck anticipation.
Why He Might Not Be an NHL Draft Pick:
- Limited Offensive Ceiling:
Barnett is not an offensive driver. His 5 goals and 14 points in 49 games reflect his role and tools — he can get pucks through but won’t walk the blue line with deception, quarterback a power play, or create multi-layered offensive looks. His 0.59 grade “A” chances per game is respectable for a defensive defender, but his 5.9% conversion rate is below expectation. He lacks a threatening shot and doesn’t manipulate defenders to open lanes. He’s more of a puck mover than a puck possessor. - Underdeveloped Physical Edge for His Frame:
While strong on pucks and durable, Barnett’s 0.69 hits given vs. 0.77 hits received ratio suggests he’s still learning when and how to impose himself physically. At 6’1″, 200 lbs, he’s sturdy, but isn’t yet a player who intimidates or punishes below the dots. - Turnover Margin in Pressure Situations:
Barnett averages 5 giveaways per game, which is not excessive given his high ice time, but still highlights that his puck management under forecheck pressure — especially on D-zone retrievals — can waver. He usually resets and makes the next right play, but there are moments where quicker decisions or better scanning could help him avoid risky outlets up the middle.
Projection:
Barnett projects as a third-pairing NHL defenseman and with penalty-killing potential, with the chance to play above that pairing if his offensive puck movement becomes more dynamic and his physical edge develops further. He’s a coach-trusting player who fits systems, kills plays with structure, and keeps games calm. Ideal as a matchup/defensive partner to a more mobile, offensive-minded D.
Draft Recommendation:
Late 5th – 7th Round
NHL teams looking for dependable defensive depth will appreciate Barnett’s maturity, competitiveness, and poise. While the upside is modest, his floor is high — he’s a player who could quietly carve out a 10-year pro career if put into the right development track.
Photo credit: Dan Hickling/Hickling Images