The Flyers have drafted a defenseman in the first round of the NHL Draft in each of the last three drafts. To this point, with the Flyers looking to add size and scoring to the forward group, our prospect profile series has focused on the forwards in the draft.
But for the next couple of days, we'll take a look at two of defensemen in the draft that could peak the Flyers interest at 18th overall.
Today, we look at defenseman Dante Fabbro.
The Flyers have greatly bolstered the defensive core of the franchise's future with the addition of Shayne Gostisbehere, Travis Sanheim and Ivan Provorov, all projected as Top-4 defensemen. Dante Fabbro could easily join the fold in the same way.
The 17-year-old defenseman, who will turn 18 just four days before the Draft, scored 14 goals and added 53 assists for 67 points in 45 games with Penticton of the British Columbia Hockey League, the most among defenseman, and was also named a first-team All-Star.
There is question about Fabbro's size, 6'0" and 189 pounds, and whether that can translate into physical play, but his hockey smarts and confidence with the puck make him a sure-fire first-round pick.
A smooth skater with great puck-moving skills, Fabbro possesses a strong offensive game while being among the best two-way defensemen in the draft. He's a balanced defenseman who can play a lot of minutes and take on the responsibility of being the focal point of a defensive group. As a mobile defenseman, he has the ability to jump into the play seamlessly and while his size makes him less physical than other defensemen, he can position himself well to remain effective in the defensive zone.
When Fabbro has the puck, it's all about his vision. He is an excellent passer and protects the puck well, keeping control of the puck and control of the situation on the ice with composure beyond his years.
"Exhibits the type of poise and composure with the puck that one would expect from a 10-year veteran," writes ISS Director of Scouting Dennis MacInnis in the 2016 ISS NHL Draft Guide.
"Plays with poise and good awareness," writes ISS scout Brent Parker, "seems to always be in the right place defensively to get a stick on the puck. Makes a good first pass and is smart about when to join in the rush. Good skater who has a good hockey IQ."
"Showed patience and composure with the puck in all situations," writers ISS scout Marc Berry. "Very good skater with excellent mobility. Not a physical presence but defends by winning races and using his stick effectively. He's a great player and an even better person."
You can watch some of Fabbro's highlights below.
Kevin Durso is managing editor for Flyerdelphia. Follow him on Twitter @Kevin_Durso.
