Florian Schenk (C, L, 6’3″, 200, Saint John Sea Dogs, 04/25/2007)
Florian Schenk is a physically mature, two-way center with a power-forward frame, leadership pedigree, and a competitive edge. He spent time in three environments this season—SC Bern’s U20 squad, a stint with Saint John in the QMJHL, and as captain of Switzerland’s U18 team. While his offensive production in North America was limited, Schenk plays with structure and intent, showing flashes of pro-style detail in the defensive zone and a willingness to battle in the hard areas. His game is built around size, strength, and a north-south identity that could translate to a bottom-six NHL role with development.
Statistical Profile (2024–25)
SC Bern U20-Elit (Switzerland): 15 GP | 6 G | 12 A | 18 PTS | 43 PIM
Saint John (QMJHL): 24 GP | 2 G | 2 A | 4 PTS | 8 PIM | -8
U18 World Championship: 5 GP | 4 G | 1 A | 5 PTS | 14 PIM
Single-Game Averages (Combined Sample):
TOI: 15:48 | PPT: 1:38 | SHT: 0:54
FO%: 48% on 16 draws per game
Hits Given: 1.12 | Hits Taken: 0.53
Shots: 2.8 | SOG: 1.69 | SC: 1.16 | SC%: 14%
Puck Battles: 11 | Win %: 47%
Pass Completion: 78% | Giveaways: 4.8 | Takeaways: 4.2
Blocked Shots: 0.71
Reasons to Draft
Pro Frame and Physical Readiness
At 6’4″, 207 lbs, Schenk already carries the physical profile of an NHL center. He uses his frame effectively to absorb contact, protect pucks, and engage physically—averaging over a hit per game while rarely getting knocked off balance. His presence in puck battles and willingness to go to hard areas were apparent across all three leagues, particularly at the U18s, where he scored four goals and led by example as Switzerland’s captain.
North-South, Straight-Line Efficiency
Schenk plays a pro-style game in structure: short routes, stops and starts, and predictable positioning. He supports below the puck and can shoulder penalty kill minutes. His 14% scoring chance conversion is above average — when he gets into scoring areas, he can finish. With more offensive development and pace, there is bottom-six potential as a responsible center or wing.
Leadership, Toughness, and Compete Level
Named captain of his national U18 team, Schenk brings maturity and intangibles. He’s not shy physically and competes hard on the wall. His 43 PIMs in 15 U20 games point to a player who plays on the edge, which—while needing discipline—can be shaped into an assertive, team-first identity.
Reasons Not to Draft
Limited Offensive Impact in North America
Schenk recorded just 4 points in 24 QMJHL games and was a -8. He struggled to generate offense consistently despite power play time (1:38/game) and favorable usage. His offensive tools—while serviceable—lack dynamic qualities; he doesn’t separate with pace or beat defenders with creativity, which limits his top-six ceiling.
Pace of Play and Execution Under Pressure
With a 78% pass completion rate and 4.8 giveaways per game, Schenk’s execution with the puck is a concern. Under QMJHL pace, his decision-making looked rushed at times. His game doesn’t have a lot of deception, and when forechecked hard, he too often defaults to low-percentage plays or puts pucks into contested areas.
Faceoff and Puck Battle Inefficiencies
Despite his size and taking 16 draws per game, Schenk won only 48% of faceoffs and 47% of his puck battles—concerning metrics for a player projected in a defensive or support role. Improving leverage, hand strength, and technique will be critical in order for him to take advantage of his frame.
Projection & Recommendation
Projection: Bottom-six, matchup center or checking-line winger with penalty-killing upside
Development Path: Return to CHL for 2025–26, followed by two years in an NCAA environment before focused development in the AHL.
Draft Range: 7th Round / Watchlist
Verdict:
Schenk is a physically mature, hard-working center with leadership credentials and a willingness to play through contact. While he lacks top-end offensive upside and will need time to improve his pace and puck decisions, his frame, competitive traits, and detail-oriented habits give him value as a late-round developmental project. If his faceoff and puck battle metrics improve in his draft+1 season, he could carve out a future as a depth center at the pro level.
Photo credit: Dan Hickling/Hickling Images