Tommy Pasanen (4 Star Amateur Rating, NHL Grade — C) Defense
Tommy is a big right shot defenseman who, although does not get a lot of penalty minutes, has some bite to his game. In the defensive zone he is quick to contain the cycle and is not afraid to give an opposing forward an extra shot to the ribs for good measure. This may seem unnecessary, but we feel the subtle cross checks work in his favor as the game progresses. Opposing forwards look over their shoulder a little bit more quickly when he is on the ice and they seem to be a little more willing to make that foolish “hope pass” into the slot which more often than not results in a turn over. In transition, Tommy moves the puck quickly and does not over complicate things. He has the skill set to try fancy plays, but the brains to know better. He consistently makes quality tape to tape passes that allow his forwards to maintain top speeds and continue the attack where he has the foot speed to join the rush as the late attacker. In the offensive zone he is patient at the blue line and will activate for a high cycle, but does not force plays by crashing the net or back door. His uses his size and reach while defending line rushes and does not give up the lines easily. Opposing forwards are pinched off early and are often times forced to make poor dump ins. Tommy has a fluid stride and retrieves pucks with his head up. He also works to be an outlet for his partner during breakouts. At 6’4″ 220lbs Tommy has the size to be a very effective professional defenseman and we feel that NHL organizations will be watching him closely as the second half of the season kicks off.