With their second third round pick (78th overall) in the 2016 NHL Draft, the Nashville Predators have selected defenseman Frederic Allard.
Here’s what the experts have said about him leading up to the draft.
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Frederic Allard
defenseman
Chicoutimi Saguenéens (QMJHL)
18, 6’1”, 180 lbs.
RANKINGS
McKeen’s: #84
ISS: #158
The Hockey News: #55
HockeyProspect.com: #53
Future Considerations: #49
Central Scouting: #32 (North American skaters)
Craig Button, TSN Director of Scouting: #75
Dan Friedman of Dump & Chase: #47
The Hockey News
“Allard just might be your guy is you’re looking for a player who has on-ice personality an can contribute points. A defenseman who puts up impressive stats, Allard has a tenacity and rambunctiousness to his game that overshadows his skill level… One scout said allard has been overlooked this year, in part because he’s a late 1997 birthday and because he plays in a place that isn’t a scouting fraternity favorite… Like many young defensemen with an offensive bent, Allard must shore up his play in own end. But if eagerness to learn is any indication, that won’t be an obstacle.”
EliteProspects.com
“A tenacious two-way defenceman that has a distinct willingness to do whatever it takes to keep his team up. Battles hard for puck possession and has a very good active stick. Not consistent enough to be relied upon in all situations, especially under high pressure, but is definitely getting there and his game is rounding out well at an accelerated pace. Possesses a hard, accurate shot and is creative with his passes. As such, his primary function as an offensive defenceman is to be played on the forecheck and in situations where pressure is sustained.”
Dan Friedman
“Allard plays with a lot of energy and can also put up points. His blue collar style is appealing to many scouts, though he needs to get better without the puck and refine his defensive game. A project to be sure, but one that might just be a worthwhile investment for an NHL organization.”
