Alex Johnston Scouting Report

[Alex 3,204]

Name: Alex Johnston

Age: 20

Position: RW

 Nationality:  Canadian

Birthplace: Vancouver, British Columbia

Current Team: Yukon Rush

Height: 6' 3"

Weight: 198 lbs

 

Overview

Alex Johnston, A self described scoring playmaker has only showed 1 aspect of that in his short time in the VHLM scoring 2 goals in his first 2 games. He followed that up with his first career assist in his fourth career game against Mexico City. In the future Johnston hopes that he can add depth scoring and potentially be a solid powerplay option for the Yukon Rush and a future VHL team. Currently Johnston is playing on Yukon's 3rd line and is averaging 11:31 of time on ice per game, and has  2 goals, 3 points, is a +1, 3 shots, 4 hits, and 1 game winning goal through 4 games. One thing that sets Johnston apart from other prospects is how he values team success over individual success as he has firmly set his career goal to win a VHL championship. Currently Johnston has shown determination and a constant drive to improve to help his team succeed. 

 

Strengths

Scoring

Having already shown his scoring touch in his first few games, Johnston has shown his quick release and ability to capitalize off the rush. Although his scoring does need further development as he seems hesitant to shoot the puck having only 3 shots through 4 games.

 

Playmaking

Johnston prides himself on his ability to pass the puck and is a pass first type of player always looking to set up teammates. This mindset has yet to translate into assists as he only has 1 assist on the year. Based on his style of play this should improve as the season goes on.

 

Skating

With Johnston's style of play it is integral that they be able to skate well to avoid hits and get the puck into the offensive zone. Johnston uses his skating ability and hockey IQ to avoid the physical aspect of the game, and to facilitate the offence off of the rush.

 

Weaknesses

Physicality

Johnston lacks development in his physical game and only has 4 hits in his first few games in the VHLM. As prefaced in the skating section Johnston prefers to use his skating and hockey IQ to avoid the physical aspect. Furthermore, Johnston will more likely hover around the faceoff dot in the offensive zone and look for a play, rather than engaging in net front battles. Having a larger frame at 6’3” and 198 lbs this could be an aspect of his game that could be improved in the foreseeable future.

 

Defence

The defensive side of Johnston’s game leaves a lot to be desired. Throughout his career Johnston will likely not be able to kill penalties and can be exploited in the defensive zone. This was recently seen in a recent game against Mississauga where Johnston finished the game a -1. With this being said Johnston has hinted that his main goal in the upcoming off-season will be to improve his defensive game and become a solid 200-foot two-way forward that teams can rely on in the defensive end.