A big defender who can impact the game both offensively and defensively. Gagne is a steady presence on the defensive side of the game, playing physical in the open ice and capable of dominating 50/50 puck battles along the boards. His defensive zone positioning is strong, he’s capable of staying at the net front and clearing out opponents making life easier on his goalies. While he produces some solid offensive numbers, his skating and puck skills will need some improvement if he wants to be an offensive contributor at the next level. He struggles moving from side-to-side making it difficult for him to be a threat while carrying the puck. His lack of lateral movement can also be exploited by quicker and shiftier opponents when defending on the rush but as of right now he can use his reach to help recover if he is beat by an attacker. Committed to the University of New Hampshire, Gagne will have the necessary resources to improve his agility and hopefully take his skating to the next level. He has the size and defensive awareness to develop into a shutdown role but by adding some other elements to his game he can possibly turn into a more well-rounded two-way player and make an impact at the next level.

– FCHockey’s 2021 NHL Draft Guide