The Pick is In…

With the 14th pick in the 2023 NHL Draft, the Pittsburgh Penguins select... from the Moose Jaw Warriors, Brayden Yager. The 11th ranked North American skater by NHL Central Scouting, Yager is listed at 5'11, 170, and is a right shot center.

Yager is a polarizing pick. Prior to the 2022-23 season, he was touted as a high 1st rounder- even as high as a top 7 pick. He scored 34 goals in 63 games in his first full season with the Warriors. In his second season, he doubled his assist total (from 25 to 50), but scored six less goals (28) in 67 games. At 14, he's high-risk, high-reward.

Strengths

Yager is a solid prospect, whose best ability is his shot. He's a true sniper, with great accuracy, and a quick release. He plays a good two-way game, and is sound defensively. His skating is average- his edgework is good, and although he isn't necessarily explosive, he's very fast. Entering the offensive zone with the puck is one of his strengths, and his speed leads to great scoring chances.

Areas to Improve Upon

Now for the areas that need improvement. When he doesn't have the puck, Yager's offensive awareness isn't the best. He has quick hands, and his stick-handling is decent, but working on those areas will only improve his scoring touch.

Yager's playmaking ability was under scrutiny before the 2022-23 season. He can't drive an offense on his own, but he has strong offensive awareness that allows him to set up plays. His compete level isn't the most consistent, but it shouldn't be a huge cause for concern.

NHL Player Comparisons: Tyler Seguin, Andre Burakovsky, Adrian Kempe, Travis Konecny

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