Liam Kilfoil (C, L, 5’11”, 180, Halifax Mooseheads, 03/21/2007)
Liam Kilfoil is a competitive, versatile left-shot forward (5’11”, 180 lbs) capable of playing both center and wing, who served as an Assistant Captain for the Halifax Mooseheads in the QMJHL. Despite being slightly undersized by NHL standards, Kilfoil consistently played a major role for Halifax, averaging a significant 21:13 TOI per game, including heavy responsibilities on special teams—3:24 per game on the power play and 2:02 on the penalty kill. He led Halifax offensively with 21 goals and 46 points in 62 games, highlighting his offensive reliability on a struggling team.
Kilfoil’s key statistical strengths include his high rate of takeaways (4.1/game), reflecting strong defensive instincts and puck awareness. He consistently generates scoring chances (1.73/game) and converts them efficiently (16%). However, his defensive record (-24), limited face-off effectiveness (41%), below-average puck battle success (48%), and modest passing accuracy (84%) indicate clear areas that must improve for a chance at success at higher levels.
Why Kilfoil Should Be Drafted
1) Consistent Offensive Production
Kilfoil’s team-leading production—21 goals and 46 points—demonstrates offensive consistency under challenging circumstances. His scoring efficiency (16% of scoring chances) and proactive shot attempts (3.3/game) translate to offensive skill at higher levels.
2) Versatile, High-Minute Player with Leadership Qualities
Kilfoil consistently logged heavy minutes (21:13 TOI/game) across all situations (PP: 3:24, PK: 2:02). His role as a 2007 born Assistant Captain reflects strong leadership and character, projecting well as a responsible NHL forward capable of versatile deployment.
3) Excellent Puck Awareness and Defensive Instincts
His standout takeaway numbers (4.1/game) and solid puck retrieval skills (2/game) underline his excellent hockey sense and ability to read plays defensively. His defensive reliability and anticipation enhance his value beyond pure offense.
4) Effective Special Teams Contributor
Kilfoil’s substantial power play and penalty kill usage show his potential to develop into a versatile special teams asset at the professional level. His skillset and hockey IQ fit comfortably into multiple roles.
Why Kilfoil May Not Be Drafted
1) Defensive Concerns and Weak Face-off Ability
Albeit on a weaker team Kilfoil’s plus / minus rating (-24), combined with a poor face-off percentage (41%) — potential NHL concerns about his defensive zone reliability and effectiveness at center. Substantial improvement is required to become a reliable two-way NHL center.
2) Lack of Strength and Physical Presence
Kilfoil’s below-average puck battle win percentage (48%) and limited physical engagement (0.75 hits/game) raise concerns about his ability to withstand NHL physicality. Adding significant strength and improving physicality are essential developmental steps for National League success.
3) Modest Passing and Offensive Creativity
With a below-average passing accuracy (84%) and low pre-shot pass rate (1.01/game), Kilfoil’s creativity and playmaking are limited, potentially capping his offensive ceiling at higher levels.
4) Defensive-Zone Decision Making
His high rate of puck losses (5.8/game) — ongoing challenges in puck management under pressure, raising concerns about his NHL readiness, particularly in tight-checking or high-tempo environments.
Projection & Recommendation
Projection: Bottom-six NHL forward
Development Track: Additional seasons in the QMJHL, emphasizing strength training, face-off skills, defensive-zone awareness, and puck battle efficiency, followed by multiple NCAA seasons to develop physical engagement, defensive responsibility, and puck management consistency and then time in the AHL to round out 200′ game.
Draft Range: Late 6th–7th Round
Verdict: Kilfoil is a viable late-round pick for teams seeking an offensively capable, versatile depth forward with leadership qualities and special teams potential. While clear areas for improvement exist, particularly defensively and physically, his offensive reliability, hockey sense, and competitive nature provide a realistic pathway toward becoming a versatile NHL contributor.
Photo credit: Dan Hickling/Hickling Images