LATEST | Canucks' prospect under the spotlight: The scouts found a gem in the third round?

PUBLICATION

Felip Gosselin
July 31, 2023 (8:47 PM)

SHARE THIS STORY

The Canucks needed to come up big in this year's draft, and so far, so good. Tom Willander's already shown great things, not only as a Hockey Player but also as a human being. One prospect that's been flying under the radar a little: Hunter Brustewicz.

The draft staff made a steal when he fell all the way down to the 3rd Round, and now he's showing them why. Viewed as an early 2nd Round Selection, Brustewicz had to wait all the way to the 75th rank to hear the Canucks call him up the stage.

6'00'' and 190 pounds, the American-born collected 6 goals and 51 assists in 68 OHL Games this year. His performances were recognized, and the prospect was given a chance to crack his nation's team ahead of the 2024 World Junior Championship. The summer showcase is currently underway, and the defenseman has been putting on display different parts of his game, as noted by the Daily Faceoff analyst Steve Ellis:

�'5 Hunter Brzustewicz, D (Vancouver Canucks): While it wasn't an overly difficult afternoon for the American defenders, Brzustewicz's game was simple, yet effective. He did a good job of forcing attackers to the perimeter and pinched in a few times without taking himself out of position. He'll have stiff competition to make the team, but he's been good in both games.''

Mainly known as an offensive Defenseman, see the simplicity and his defensive game standout is quite promising for the young man. He is still expected to return to Kitchener in the OHL, where he spent the last year. Note that as of late 2004, Brustewicz will be eligible to play in the AHL as soon as next year.