Anze Miklavz - Scouting Report

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ANZE MIKLAVZ - RW - MEXICO CITY KINGS

 

S77 Stats

 

Overview

Despite the abysmal showing from the Mexico City Kings, leading scorer Anze Miklavz is having a very strong start to his season. The Slovenian winger currently leads the S78 class in goals scored through the quarter mark of the year, which comes with a bit of luck from an inflated 14.63 SHT%. Due to the lack of skilled centers on the Kings this season, Anze has seen some reps in the middle and posting up average percentages in the faceoff dot. Although not known for physicality, Miklavz also leads Mexico City with 38 hits, which says more about the team’s lack of toughness than the player’s commitment to a chippy game.

 

While Miklavz is carrying strong offensive numbers, his defensive game could certainly use some work. He currently holds an ugly -38 so far this season, and while the Kings goaltending is amongst the lowest in the league, the rest of the team only averages to a -20. Miklavz does see a lot of minutes and in some cases have played half the games. With a lack of depth and goaltending on the roster, it would be expected to see players with tough minutes sit in the minus. This does not void the fact that Miklavz is a liability in his own zone.

 

In terms of underlying numbers Miklavz is looking promising so far, with strong possession metrics that sit at 54% CF. His 58% xGF at even strength is amongst the top in the draft class and teams with highly touted analytic departments will be keeping an eye on him.

 

“The best winger in the draft”

 

Pros

A skilled, offensive threat with a strong forecheck that makes any opposing turnover twice as costly. With a lightning quick release and ability to change the angle last minute, there’s no doubt that Miklavz has the best shot in his draft class. Miklavz has a great hockey IQ and is known to see plays long before they happen, putting himself in perfect goal scoring position. A great personality in the room, as he has been able to keep a positive atmosphere in the locker room during Mexico’s 20+ game slump and awful season. Miklavz is a smooth, agile skater that allows him to clog the neutral zone when defending rushes.

 

Cons

Unfortunately, the high hockey IQ only exists on 2/3^rd of the rink. Miklavz is a liability in his own zone and lacks potential awareness when opposing offenses apply pressure. Despite leading the team in hits, Miklavz is not known for his physical play and is easily out-muscled in puck battles. Miklavz will need to gain a lot more strength before making the jump to the VHL.  

 

Scout Quotes

“He’s the best winger in the draft, no doubt. Give him an off-season in the weight room and it wouldn’t surprise me to win ROTY” – F.B – Virtual Prospects

 

“As talented as a player gets, but needs defensive improvement. A very popular guy in the locker room. Someone you want on your team” N.A – Central Scouting

 

“Too much potential to pass up on in the first round. I’m worried he may end up having all the tools but no tool kit. Only one way to find out, however.” F.K – Simon T Scouting

 

“Sometimes looks nervous. Palms gets sweaty, arms look heavy, week in the knees which can lead to him losing himself out there” M.M – Shade45 Prospects