Talent Analysis

Immense, mobile defenseman who excels in all three zones. Born of Olympic bloodlines, Dougie Hamilton’s athleticism shows in his skating, where he has the speed to recover and catch players if he gets beat on a pinch, the mobility to turn and retrieve dump-ins before opposing forecheckers, and the shiftiness to carry the puck and beat defenders one-on-one. As of this writing Hamilton is 6’5” but he’s grown an inch and a half over the course of the season so he may in fact top out in the 6’6” range.

In terms of game play, Hamiton is a strong defender, he has an active stick that he uses to break up players trying to beat him one-on-one and to disrupt passing plays. Reads the play well. Jumps up and joins the rush whenever the opportunity presents and, as a converted winger, is also comfortable carrying the puck and leading the rush. His ability to break up offensive forays combined with his ability to join the attack make him a potent transition threat. He sees the ice well, particularly on the breakout and can recognize both short and long-distance passing options, though he could use some work on his touch when going for distance. In the offensive zone he walks the line well, rotates with forwards, and looks comfortable pursuing the play down low. Has a big point shot and a heavy one-timer that he’s eager to use at the top of the umbrella on the power play. Is highly intelligent both on and off the ice. Also has a burgeoning physical game and shows a penchant for big open ice hits.


Future

The sky’s the limit for Hamilton. He has all the tools to become a number one defenseman in the NHL. Comparisons have ranged from Brent Burns to Rob Blake, the former being the comp Peter Chiarelli has used. But patience is needed in terms of his immediate future. He’s grown so much, so fast that he’s rail thin, and needs at least another year to fill out his massive frame.