Daniil Skvortsov (D, L, 6’4″, 198, Guelph Storm, 01/13/2007)
Daniil Skvortsov is a big-bodied defenseman with above-average mobility and excellent puck anticipation who brings a steady, detail-oriented presence to the back end. While his physical tools stand out immediately—particularly his length and size—his style of play is defined more by positioning, scanning, and agility than by physical intimidation. He projects as a reliable, defense-first option with some understated puck-moving ability. With continued physical development and more assertiveness in his game, Skvortsov could emerge as a long-term value selection.
Why Daniil Skvortsov Should Be an NHL Draft Pick
1) Elite Mobility for Size
Skvortsov’s edgework and movement efficiency are rare for a defenseman of his frame. His feet are smooth and deliberate, allowing him to manage space laterally and control gaps well in transition. He’s highly effective retrieving pucks and resetting play due to his strong balance and fluid pivots. His ability to recover and stay in plays is a significant strength—especially as the game speeds up.
2) Defensive Processing & Anticipation
He averages 8 takeaways/game and 1.37 blocked shots/game, a sign of his strong reads, spatial awareness in the D-zone and a commitment to winning. He consistently stays in shooting lanes, closes space with his length, and doesn’t chase. His elite 60% puck battle win rate and 13 battles/game indicate a committed, competitive defender who wins more than he loses—despite lacking a mean streak.
3) Mature, Calculated Puck Management
Skvortsov isn’t a high-volume shooter (2.3 shots/game) but is highly selective with an incredible 21% Grade A scoring chance conversion—showing an opportunistic sense of timing and opportunity from the blue line. His 85% pass completion rate is underwhelming, and his decisions under pressure show poise. He’s not flashy but limits mistakes and keeps play moving in the right direction.
4) Willingness to Sacrifice and Battle
Despite a physical game that lacks pop, he doesn’t shy from contact. He leads with his stick, blocks shots, and positions himself intelligently. His 1.37 blocked shots/game, 4.3 loose puck recoveries, and elite 1.75 loose puck recoveries/game after shots are all indicators that he reads the play early and is willing to pay the price to win.
Why Daniil Skvortsov Should Not Be an NHL Draft Pick
1) Needs to Add Physical Edge to Match Frame
At 6’4″, 200 lbs, Skvortsov should be able to punish players in the corners and eliminate time and space with authority. He doesn’t. His 0.3 hits/game and 0.98 hits received/game reflect a concerning lack of physical engagement for a defenseman of his size. NHL decision-makers will want to see a much greater degree of assertiveness and bite in battles.
2) Offense Is Limited by Creativity
Skvortsov averages 0.38 pre-shot passes/game, a below-average mark for someone logging nearly 19 minutes/night. While his shooting percentage is high, he doesn’t create much from the blue line or drive fast paced offensive transition. He’s more of a puck mover than a puck carrier. His limited deception and occasional hesitancy when under pressure could restrict his upside as a true two-way defender at the National League level.
3) Power Play & Offensive Ceiling May Be Capped
With only 0:49 PPT/game, Skvortsov isn’t relied on for top power-play duties despite playing on a Guelph team that gave him consistent minutes. He looks to facilitate rather than orchestrate in the offensive zone. His lack of dynamic puck play and playmaking vision may result in a narrower projection (third-pair PK/shutdown D role vs. special teams contributor).
Projection & Outlook
Player Projection: Middle-pairing NHL defenseman with penalty kill utility and transitional upside
Development Path: 2 more years in the OHL to develop offensive confidence and a mean streak, followed by AHL seasoning to add man-strength, confidence, and assertiveness
Draft Recommendation: End of 3rd early 4th Round
Skvortsov is an attractive value bet for teams prioritizing long-term physical development and structure over flash. His mobility at his size is rare, and his puck retrievals, processing, and calm game under pressure give him a solid foundation to build on. If he becomes more physically assertive and expands his vision in the offensive zone even modestly, there’s real NHL potential. In the right development system, he could outplay his draft position in 3–4 years.
Photo credit: Dan Hickling/Hickling Images