Noah Reinhart (RW, R, 6’1″, 202, Val d’Or Foreurs, 05/09/2005)
Comments: Noah is an NHL average sized forward for Val- D’or who showcases a fairly strong skating ability with good balance on his blades. His skating stride is effective, allowing him to maintain speed and control while carrying the puck. However, he lacks separation speed during offensive attacks, and improving his first three steps and stop-and-start quickness would enhance his ability to create space and evade defenders. While he displays average puck skills, he manages the puck effectively, demonstrating smart puck management with clean exits from the defensive zone and effective chip-and-chase dumps into the offensive zone. Although he handles the puck fairly well, there is room for growth in his individual puck skills to become more dynamic in one-on-one situations. He enjoys carrying the puck in from his opposite wing, using a drive deep and delaying or cutting to the middle to create scoring opportunities. While he does not drive his team’s offense, he contributes without being a primary driver, often making early dishes at the blue line and heading to the net to create distractions and open space for his teammates. On his team’s power play he is used as a low weak-side forward, he has no hesitation in going to the net to battle for pucks, with his willingness to engage in scrums around the net being a valuable asset. Defensively, he plays a very solid two-way game, contributing effectively both offensively and defensively. He is utilized on the penalty kill, demonstrating a good stick and effective positioning to disrupt opposing plays. His strength in puck battles allows him to win key battles along the boards and in the crease, although he could continue to focus on adding more stop/start in his pressure efforts to enhance his effectiveness in shutting down opposing players. Overall, this player exemplifies a strong two-way forward who plays a responsible 200-foot game. He contributes to both offensive and defensive plays, making him a valuable asset to the team. While he may not be the primary offensive driver, his ability to make smart plays, engage physically, and support his teammates in all areas of the ice makes him a reliable and effective player. Continued development in his quickness and puck skills will further elevate his game and impact on the ice. With further refinement in his quickness and puck-handling skills, this player has the potential to be a solid contributor at higher levels, possibly evolving into a reliable middle-six forward who can contribute to both special teams and even-strength situations. His work ethic and understanding of the game bode well for his future development.
Photo Credit: Dan Hickling/Hickling Images