Merisier-Ortiz is a smooth-skating, puck-moving defensemen who showcases tremendous mobility to escape pressure and move around the offensive zone with confidence. The left-handed defensemen excels at breaking out of the defensive zone with control thanks to smarts, superior skating abilities and an amazing poise in pressure situations. He stays incredibly aware of his surroundings with quick looks over his shoulder, which enables him to beat forecheckers with brisk cuts and jump through any skating lanes that opens up. He can fly in transition with an above-average top speed and weave through lanes with agility. Carrying the puck himself to the other end seems like a practice drill for him, as it is fluid and effortless. Owing to an excellent first pass as well, he can be trusted to lead breakouts quickly with both his feet and outlet feeds. He loves joining his team on quick counterattacks, often betting on being ahead of his man to outnumber the opposition into odd-man rushes. The double overager is at his best in the offensive zone cycle, where his great lateral agility, excellent four-way mobility and fantastic edge work allows him to dance around defenders and evade pressure. He uses the 10-2 skating technique effectively while circling around the corners, which allows him to protect the puck while also looking for options. He uses his terrific agility and slick mitts to work around traffic and strike to the slot with aggressiveness. He’s extremely fluid on the cycle, making pinches at the right time and keeping active positioning away from the puck. He is a smart defender as well, anticipating play correctly and having great positioning. He’s comfortable against anyone in board battles and wins most of them, at least at lower levels. He is a complete defensemen, being able to attack and defend in all situations. Although he’s older than most, his outstanding mobility and well-rounded game should translate to the pro-level.

– FCHockey’s 2021 NHL Draft Guide