Talent Analysis

Knight is a fan favorite among the Bruins faithful. This hard charging winger is fearless and attacks the goal better than any player in junior hockey. There’s some vintage Eric Cole in there in terms of the way he likes to come down his off-wing, get a step on the defense and then use his speed and power to bull his way to the net taking out anything and everything that gets in his way. To bolster that part of his game, he’s made incredible strides in terms of strength and speed and is one of the hardest working prospects in all of hockey. He has a howitzer of a wrist shot that he gets off quickly and accurately, but he lacks some creativity in his stickhandling and in one-on-one situations, preferring the bull-rush approach. Works best with a talented set-up man, but has made significant gains as a distributor, in part because he had to learn to play and produce without just such a partner. Works the walls and the front of the net well, using his low center of gravity and powerful frame to its fullest. Is a determined and energetic player in all three zones. A coach’s dream because he’s adaptable and willing to do whatever is asked of him, whatever it takes to win. A true leader.


Future

At approximately 205 pounds and with his simple, straight-line approach, Knight could potentially play in the NHL right now. But being able to play and being ready to contribute are two very different things and Knight may be better served by continuing to develop his offensive game in junior, and on the world stage for Team USA at the World Junior championships. Regardless of whether he makes the team this year or the year after, Knight has a very low bust factor and a bright future as a Ryan Callahan-type.