Quinn Beauchesne (D, R, 6’0″, 185, Guelph Storm, 03/01/2007)
Quinn Beauchesne is a highly mobile, two-way defenseman who plays with poise, pace, and intelligence. His skating is a clear separator—fluid, agile, and explosive in transitions. Offensively, he shows flashes of creativity, deception, and pace-driving play from the back end. Defensively, he engages in the rush and transitions well, though his decision-making and retrieval timing under pressure require need continued development. He has operated in a top-four, all-situations role for Guelph and has performed well against top competition. While he lacks elite size for a shutdown role, Beauchesne compensates with intelligence, anticipation, and high-level puck-moving instincts.
Why He Should Be an NHL Draft Pick:
- High-End Skating Foundation
Beauchesne’s feet are elite for his age. His edgework, lateral agility, and ability to activate quickly into offensive or defensive transitions give him NHL-caliber potential. He walks the blue line fluidly, closes space defensively, and recovers when beat due to his stride efficiency. His retrieval-to-breakout transitions are a real strength. - Puck Moving Intelligence and Creativity
He completes 87% of his passes, including 0.74 per game that directly create Grade “A” scoring opportunities—a top-end mark for OHL defensemen in this year’s draft class. He shows vision through layers, can bait forecheckers with shoulder fakes or edge work, and passes crisply with touch or pace depending on the situation. His decisions with the puck in the offensive zone show maturity and intent. - Competitiveness and Grit Under Pressure
Despite not being overly physical, Beauchesne draws 0.46 penalties per game—a very strong number that reflects his willingness to play through contact and hold pucks under pressure. His 2.1 loose puck recoveries after shots and 7 takeaways per game back up that his anticipation, stick positioning, and compete level are major assets. He wins 54% of his 50/50 puck battles. - Strong International Showing at the Hlinka-Gretzky Cup
Beauchesne was trusted in a top-four role with penalty killing responsibilities for Team Canada. He flashed mobility, intelligence, and adaptability against high-end international competition. He made multiple standout plays in transition, puck movement under pressure, and defensive reads from the weak side. While he struggled at times with positioning and risk-reward decisions, he bounced back strongly and proved he can handle pace.
Why He Might Not Be an NHL Draft Pick:
- Turnover Rate and Puck Management Under Pressure
Beauchesne averages 5.3 giveaways per game, a concerning number—especially when he’s not always clearing the zone under pressure. He sometimes holds the puck too long or tries to make plays through traffic instead of executing the simple, high-percentage outlet. In multiple viewings, this risk has led to extended defensive zone time or odd-man rushes the other way. - Needs to Win More Physical Battles Consistently
At 6’0”, 185 lbs, Beauchesne is not undersized—but his 1.05 hits received per game is high for a player with his feet. Against heavier or more physically mature forecheckers, he can be outmuscled on retrievals. The issue isn’t compete level—it’s owning his ice and physical strength. - Shot Selection and Offensive Refinement
While Beauchesne attempts 3.5 shots per game, only 1.79 hit the net, and 0.81 are blocked—a high rate that must come down. His shot selection from the point needs tightening, and he should be more deceptive at the line to create shooting lanes rather than forcing pucks into shin pads. His 12% scoring rate on Grade “A” chances is good for a defenseman but reinforces his need to get pucks on net more frequently.
Projection:
Beauchesne projects as a middle-pairing puck-moving defenseman with second-unit power play potential and the skating ability to play in a pace-driven NHL system. His NHL floor will depend on how much he simplifies his game under pressure, builds strength, and tightens his decision-making. The tools are there for a transition-focused defenseman who plays a meaningful role every night if developed properly.
Draft Recommendation:
Target mid 3rd–end of 4th
If he slides due to turnovers or perceived physical limitations, Beauchesne would be excellent value in the middle rounds. His skating base, puck-moving instincts, and international pedigree make him a smart developmental target for teams with strong player development infrastructures. With patience, he could become a versatile, puck-moving contributor at the NHL level.
Photo credit: Dan Hickling/Hickling Images