Michael Buchinger is a mobile, two-way defenseman who possesses great four-way mobility. With the puck on his stick he plays a calm game and reads the ice extremely well, he rarely wastes energy with his movements. He is a calculated player, making smart and efficient decisions with the puck. Defensively he is able to get his stick under his opponents and not allow them to get the sticks on the ice in the high slot. For a slighter player he controls the net-front well, not allowing his assignment to get easy chances in the prime scoring areas. He focuses in on his defensive game before worrying about his offensive impact. He is a quality skater, capable to carrying the puck out of his own zone and creating controlled breakouts for his team. His puck skills are a little lacking, likely limiting the offensive impact he will be able to have at the next level. He’s at his best when he makes those split-second decisions and moves the puck quickly, and isn’t afraid to stretch out his passes to create odd man chances. If he plays within himself he’s a capable two-way player. He runs into issues when he tries to push the envelope and do something outside of his own ability. He will be a limited player at the next level and it’s unsure how his offensive game will translate to a professional level. He will be in the lineup for his defensive prowess and quick decision-making. The biggest thing he needs to do is add strength. It’ll allow him to continue to play a tough defensive game and outmuscle opponents and keep them away from the slot. He’s likely a low ceiling, potential third pairing or seventh defenseman type of player. He will be a later round pick and he needs to work on a lot, but there’s NHL potential.

– FCHockey’s 2022 NHL Draft Guide