Olivier Groulx (C, L, 6’2″, 192, Saint John Sea Dogs, 07/25/2007)
Olivier Groulx is a physically mature, two-way center who led an offensively challenged Saint John team in goals (17), points (41), and faceoffs taken. At 6’2″, 195 lbs, Groulx brings pro size and a leadership presence (assistant captain) but is a player who we feel numbers were limited by team context and lack of offensive support. Despite a -30 rating, he consistently played in all situations and logged heavy minutes, including over two minutes per game on both the power play and penalty kill. His game is built around positional awareness, compete level, and subtle puck touches rather than dynamic skating or flash.
Statistical Profile (2024–25)
Games Played: 64
Goals: 17 , Assists: 24 , Points: 41
Plus/Minus: -30 | PIMs: 24
TOI/Game: 18:30 , PPT: 2:30 , SHT: 2:09
Scoring Chances/Game: 1.9 | SC%: 10%
Shots on Goal/Game: 2.3 | Attempts: 3.2
Puck Battles/Game: 14 | Win %: 55%
Pass Accuracy: 86% | Pre-shot Passes/Game: 0.62
Faceoffs/Game: 17 | Win %: 48%
Hits Given/Received: 0.29 / 0.49
Takeaways/Game: 4.6 | Giveaways: 5.0
Blocked Shots/Game: 0.68
Reasons to Draft
Pro Size, Reliable Usage, and All-Situations Deployment
Groulx fits the physical profile of an NHL middle-six center. He was trusted in all three zones and led Saint John in average ice time for forwards, while also serving as a key penalty killer and power-play presence. His consistent minutes and workload reflect a coachable, dependable presence on a rebuilding team.
Effective in Puck Battles and Responsible Positioning
With a 55% puck battle win rate and 86% pass completion, Groulx consistently shows up in the hard areas and supports play with intelligent routes. He isn’t flashy, but he plays inside the dots and keeps pucks moving in the right direction. His 4.6 takeaways per game rank high and demonstrate anticipation and defensive commitment.
Leadership and Consistency on a Struggling Team
Despite being surrounded by an inexperienced roster (team worst -42 rating), Groulx remained competitive, produced team-leading offensive numbers, and wore a letter. His -30 rating is context-dependent, as he also logged the most difficult defensive minutes of any Sea Dogs forward. The drafting organization can find value in how he responded under pressure and in a leadership role.
Reasons Not to Draft
Limited Offensive Creativity or Separation Tools
Groulx lacks explosiveness and high-end offensive instincts. His 1.9 scoring chances per game and 10% conversion rate — he gets to the right areas but currently lacks the release quickness or hands to consistently finish or create dynamic chances at pace. He is more of a “touch and support” player than a driver.
Faceoff Execution and Low Physical Impact
For a player with size and center duties, his 48% faceoff win rate is something to watch and develop. His low hit totals (0.29 per game) also reflect a player who doesn’t consistently impose himself physically despite the frame, raising questions about how much edge he plays with.
Turnover Volume and Low Power Play Efficiency
Groulx averaged 5.0 giveaways per game with only 0.62 pre-shot passes, indicating that much of his puck usage is low-risk or ineffective when pressured. As a top power-play option, he didn’t generate enough to offset this.
Projection & Recommendation
Projection: Organizational depth center with leadership traits and middle-six upside if skating and puck pace improve while adding an element of physicality and nastiness.
Development Track: Two more QMJHL seasons, two season in an NCAA environment followed by an AHL match-up role in the future.
Draft Range: Late 5th to 6th Round
Verdict: Groulx is a physically mature, steady center who played hard minutes on an underwhelming team. While he lacks flash and high-end tools, he checks enough boxes in terms of compete, intelligence, and responsibility to warrant consideration as a depth center prospect. His development curve will depend on improved faceoff skill, offensive confidence, and pace. A low-risk, character-driven pick for teams seeking organizational stability down the middle.
Photo credit: Dan Hickling/Hickling Images