Evaluating Two Underrated WHL Prospects — Liske and Olson’s NHL Upside Examined

Brek Liske, #42 Everett Silvertips – January 9, 2008, right shot defenseman. 6.01 / 190

Strength: Moves the puck well with crisp outlet passes. Maintains a solid gap and uses an active stick effectively. Displays good edge work and battles hard along the boards. Smart and crafty with body positioning, consistently preventing opponents from gaining the advantage.

Opportunity: Needs to add more strength to win battles more decisively and improve his ability to separate players from the puck. Could increase urgency in transition to move play up ice quicker.

Projection: undrafted but reliable two-way defenseman with potential to develop into a steady shutdown presence.

Skating: 5

Shooting: 5

Passing: 5

Puck Handling: 5

Hockey IQ: 5

Physicality: 5

Offensive upside: 5

Defensive upside: 5

Brett Olson, #12 Vancouver Giants – February 24, 2008, right shot right wing. 6.01 / 185

Strength: Smooth skater with average speed. Applies good pressure in the offensive zone and supports the play well.

Opportunity: Needs to improve lower-body strength to stay on his feet and compete more effectively in board battles. Should look to get more puck touches and be more assertive in challenging goaltenders with his shot. Lacks physical engagement.

Projection: Undrafted depth forward with potential to contribute more offensively as confidence and strength develop.