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Jeff Skinner Profile


Jeff Skinner
Ht/Wt: 5' 10"/195 lbs
Position: C
Team: Kitchener (OHL)



Jeff Skinner's Player Profile

Jeff Skinner would have found it tough to out do his 51-point rookie campaign last season with the Kitchener Rangers of the Ontario Hockey League where he notched a team leading 27-goals. Although Skinner emerged as a top goal scorer on his respective team last season, this season he emerged as a top goal scorer, not only league-wide, but nation wide. His outbreak in points forced NHL scouts to look at what he can do, and has now materialized in to a legitimate first round prospect.

Although it would appear that Skinner would be a gem if selected with the 18th pick in the draft, there are some concerns about him that would have some General Managers hesitant about selecting the Markham, Ontario native in the first round. Standing at only 5’10” 182 pounds, his skill is not stunted in the junior ranks, but when he makes the leap to the next level, playing against stronger, faster, and more talented defensemen, will he be able to make the adjustment is the question. The debate once again arises about the quickness of players and whether other attributes are able to offset this short coming. It is no different with Skinner. His skating ability, and first step acceleration will need to come a long way if he is to succeed in the NHL.

This is not to say that Skinner does not deserve to be considered as a first round talent. His offensive ability is uncanny and is a very dominant player in the offensive zone. With a wicked wrist shot, and quick release Skinner is able to deceive opposing goaltenders, and make them pay for leaving even an inch open. His determination and competiveness level are two attributes that really offset his size disadvantage. He never appears to back away from physical play and is willing to compete for every inch of ice. Playing with a team that was not supposed to make a large post-season run, Skinner brought his play to another level, finishing the playoffs with 33-points only behind Taylor Hall. 20 of his 33-points were in the goal column, tying Adam Henrique for the OHL playoff goal scoring race.

This speaks for his character and the fact that he does not crack under pressure. If his playoff performance isn’t enough, scoring his 50th goal of the season against the Owen Sound attack with only 11-seconds left in the 3rd, to clinch a 5-4 win in regulation is what can be expected. Skinner has a knack for scoring timely goals, and it is a great quality to have.

Every prospect has their flaws, no prospect is perfect. Skinner is a player who could excel at the next level and make the General Manager who selects him look like a genius. Size and strength are his major flaws, but overall, his offensive ability is gaudy, and is worth all the rave at 18th on TSR’s Final NHL Draft Rankings.
Pros: Offensive IQ, quick release, timely goals (clutch)
Cons: Size, strength, defensive game
Skillset Comparison: Derek Roy
Submitted by: Mike Kloepfer of TheScoutingReport.org

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Jeff Skinner Video Clips



Jeff Skinner Feature - Dec 2009


Jeff Skinner goal vr Saginaw 2010 playoffs





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