Dominick Byrtus #20 Lethbridge Hurricanes
Left shot defenseman. 5.10 / 181
DOB: April 21, 2009
Byrtus is a smart, defensive defenseman with the ability to be a mobile defenseman. He competes hard and uses his skating ability and active stick effectively. He moves the puck well and shows good agility, making him shifty with possession and capable of evading pressure. He is comfortable jumping into the play when opportunities present themselves and can contribute offensively while maintaining a defensive-minded approach. His speed and ability to read the game help him stay involved at both ends of the ice.
The primary area for improvement is his decision-making in the defensive zone. He needs to move the puck quicker to initiate the transition game and make decisions with greater urgency under pressure. Improving his puck management and execution will help him become more efficient and consistent in his own end.
Projection: Byrtus projects as a later-round draft selection. His skating, hockey sense, competitiveness, and puck-moving ability give him an intriguing foundation. It will be interesting to monitor his development throughout the season and see if he can climb in the rankings – particularly his ability to improve his defensive-zone decisions and transition play. If he continues to progress, he has the potential to develop into a middle-pairing defenseman at the professional level.