October Notebook: Fries
Every season, scouts from Future Considerations spend countless hours in rinks across the world in an effort to gather information on the next wave of NHL talent coming down the pipe. Future Considerations’ video scout Keith Fries is no different.
Here is Fries’ notebook from October.
Mason Snell, D, Penticton (BCHL), 6-0, 192, DOB 06-18-2000
A journeyman of sorts, Snell has remained consistent in his play since making the jump from the OJHL. He’s very comfortable along the boards. He also shows good defensive play on the penalty kill, with a nice long-stretch pass to clear the zone. Snell is a reliable defenseman along the blue line, holding pucks in play while his team is in the offensive zone. He displays very good edges and all-around skating.
Simon Holmstrom, RW, HV71 J20, 5-11, 172, DOB 05-24-2001
Holmstrom is positionally sound with exceptional vision to find open teammates for backdoor scoring opportunities. He’s strong on the puck and has power in his wrist shot. He is also fluid skater that can shift to various speeds. Shows good hustle when getting back on defense to win a loose puck battle. Not afraid to jump into the play along the boards, and noticeable on every shift. Future Considerations’ Swedish-based scouts Tommy Enroth and Christoffer Hedlund have both expressed glowing remarks about Holmstrom, in early discussions.
Harrison Blaisdell, F, Chilliwack (BCHL), 5-10, 176, DOB 03-18-2001
Blaisdell is a well-round player with a high compete level. He’s incredibly confident with the puck on his stick, executing a textbook curl-and-drag on multiple occasions. His backhand control is strong, and he’s shown to be a heavy passer, as well. Blaisdell is a sound skater with quick feet and up-tempo speed. Good stop-and-go mobility, as well.