Matthew Gard (LW, L, 6’5″, 195, Red Deer Rebels, 04/07/2007)
Matthew Gard is a long-bodied, power-forward center with a projectable frame, work ethic, and legitimate two-way potential. Gard led Red Deer in both goals (19) and points (36) while also centering top lines, taking defensive-zone face-offs, and logging heavy minutes in all situations. His game is built around length, forechecking pressure, net-front presence, and linear puck-driving habits. He plays a pro-style game at the junior level — physically engaged, effort-based, and structurally responsible — and has enough foundational tools to project as a bottom-six NHL power forward if his skating and offensive reads can continue to evolve.
Why Matthew Gard Should Be an NHL Draft Pick
1) NHL Size with Skating Foundation
At 6’5″, 193 lbs, Gard already fits the physical mold of a power center and skates well for his size. While his separation gear and short-area burst need work, he keeps his feet moving, protects the puck with length, and plays through contact. He is already effective at absorbing checks and continuing play progression — not a common trait among long lanky teenage power forwards.
2) Legitimate Two-Way Center Projection
Gard logged 1:59 of SH TOI per game, took 15 face-offs per game (winning 51%), and displayed quality defensive details: 4.2 takeaways per game, 2.5 loose puck recoveries, and 0.79 blocked shots. He kills plays with an active stick, wins pucks down low, and shows a clear understanding of risk management — angling off puck carriers, covering lanes, and finishing checks.
3) Forechecking, Net-Front, and Interior Habits
Gard brings value in the hard areas of the ice. He averages 1.24 hits per game, battles through contact at net front, and averages 1.66 Grade A chances/game, finishing on 17% of them — an encouraging mark. He drives his legs on entries and cuts hard to the net or sets up screens and deflections. On the PP, he’s a reliable net-front option who works well off low-to-high plays.
4) Compete Level and Hockey Sense
Gard’s motor, physical commitment, and ability to pressure opponents is a consistent trait to his game. He wins 46% of puck battles despite needing more strength — a sign of anticipation and engagement. His game processing is advanced, as shown by his ability to time stick lifts, manage risk in the DZ, and support play transitions with timely passes.
Why Matthew Gard Should Not Be an NHL Draft Pick
1) Skating Needs More Pop
Gard lacks explosive acceleration and separation. It limits his transition threat, ability to beat defenders off the rush, and impacts his effectiveness in backchecking races. While he keeps his legs moving, he does not threaten with pace, and his skating mechanics will need significant refinement to translate at the NHL level.
2) Below Average Playmaking Efficiency
Despite decent vision and feel, Gard completes just 82% of his passes and averages 0.82 pre-shot passes per game. These are middling numbers for a top-line junior center with heavy minutes. His passing can be predictable or mistimed, especially under pressure. He’ll need to develop more deception and improve touch in tight to become a reliable offensive facilitator.
3) Offensive Ceiling Is Limited
Gard may never be a top-six NHL scorer. His 3.1 shot attempts/game and 1.9 shots on net/game are average despite top-line usage and PP time (2:46). He lacks a dynamic release and doesn’t manipulate defenders with hands or lateral attacks. He’s effective off the cycle and net drives, but rarely creates his own shot through skill or pace. He projects more as a net front finisher than a creator.
Projection and Outlook
Player Projection: Floor — bottom-six NHL power forward who can take face-offs with penalty kill and matchup potential. Ceiling — middle-six NHL power center who can take key face-offs with secondary power play, first unit penalty kill and shutdown potential.
Development Path: Needs two years of WHL minutes and being a leader, followed by AHL time to improve puck decisions, skating, and strength
Development Focus Areas
Improve skating explosiveness and edge efficiency
Add mass and functional strength to maintain puck control and absorb contact
Increase deception and touch in short-area passing
Continue developing net-front finishing tools (timing, screens, quick-release mechanics)
Draft Recommendation: Mid–Late 3rd Round (Top 100 Pick)
Gard brings a lot to the table: size, compete, physicality, and sound defensive habits down the middle. While the offensive upside may not project to the top six, his floor is high for a center with his frame, hockey sense, and penalty kill value. With skating development and added offensive polish, he could become a dependable, matchup-based NHL pivot.
Photo credit: Dan Hickling/Hickling Images