Cole Hutson Scouting Reports

Started the U18 Worlds playing to his identity in game vs Slovakia.
Opened the scoring in the first period when he slipped off a check and fired home a snap shot short side.
Undersize / transitional 'D' / PP QB
His ability to make plays in small areas stands out versus his peer group.
Adequate defensively. Active.
There are times he could manage the puck / take a shade less risk trying to make something out of nothing via outlets / defensive zone exits ... but his creativity and overall impact wins out
On the rise

2-way / Transitional 'D'
Power-play quarterback.
Undersize by NHL standards but plenty competitive on and off the puck defensively.
Outstanding hockey sense. Recognizes how plays are developing ahead of time and reacts accordingly.
Elusive. Has the ability to spin off checks and make seam plays in the offensive zone.
Heading to Boston University fall of 2024.

Took his game to another level at the Five Nations tournament (February) in Plymouth.
Scored 2G-6A in 4GP.
Playing to his strengths / ID
Elusive. Makes plays spinning off checks or finding subtle passing lanes to distribute on the offensive zone.
PP QB - leans distributor but he has the ability to beat his check high in the zone and find lanes to the net / direct pucks on goal.
Average plus defensively but always competes.

Undersize 'Transitional D' / Power-Play QB
Elite vision. Makes plays in open ice / off the rush / arriving as late option on zone entries / escapes small areas. Hard to defend when making plays in the offensive zone.
Leans distributor more than shooter.
Gives up size and weight but brings plenty of compete defensively. Battles to win pucks. Active stick. Has the IQ and commitment to be used in a variety of roles if required.

Dynamic - undersize 'D'
Transitional defender who can QB the first PP unit
Elite vision and playmaking ability
Escapes pressure - can skate pucks out of trouble and lead the rush
Very similar to his brother (Lane Hutson)
Priority player for 2024