Druss Deathwalker Scouting Report

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Prospect Report: Druss Deathwalker, RW

 

VHLM Career

 

Druss Deathwalker skating for the Mississauga Hounds

 

Druss Deathwalker’s VHLM career was short just like his temper. To get his skates sharp before the S76 Dispersal Draft, he quickly signed with the Saskatoon Wild to join their brief six-game playoff run. While he didn’t get on the scoreboard, he scared enough people that led the rebuilding Mississauga Hounds to draft him 15th overall. He enjoyed a fantastic S76 with the Hounds, becoming a leader on and off the ice for a team looking for an identity. He was second on the team in scoring with 78 points, was one of the top special teams players on the team, and set a franchise record for hits in a season with 335 which was also 2nd in the league. Deathwalker would not partake in playoff hockey again though as the team’s poor stretch run shattered any postseason hopes.

 

He was selected 11th overall in the S77 Entry Draft by the Malmo Nighthawks.

 

Strengths

 

Physicality: Standing at 6’ 7” without skates, Deathwalker is unstoppable when he flys down the ice. He’s impossible to move in front of the net which makes him invaluable on the power play. His strength is legendary. He doesn’t just knock players off the puck, he removes their need for skates as they fly through the air.

 

Intimidation: Due to his stature, disregard for the opposition and a fierce bearded scowl, he strikes fear into the hearts of the other teams. One must always be on the lookout when Druss is on the ice.

 

Endurance: Deathwalker is not only built like a highland bull, he has the stamina of one as well. He’s able to play 5-on-5, on the power play and penalty kill and never seems to be out of breath. He conserves his energy well for a man his size despite his penchant for big hits.

 

Weaknesses

 

Passing: His puck handling ability and hockey smarts are decent for a power forward and he’ll win more puck battles then he loses, but getting the puck to his teammates with accurate passes is a problem.  

 

Skating: As would seem obvious for a giant on skates, he’s not as fleet of foot as smaller players. It’s not for a lack of athletic ability but more his top speed, agility, and edge work are not up to par. This may lead to more penalties in the VHL as he deals with much superior skaters.

 

Discipline: Deathwalker’s “fear factor” is well documented and that reputation comes from a recklessness that likens him to a highland bull in a china shop. As noted above, due to his slower footspeed, he can get caught and use his stick to compensate, resulting in penalties. He can also get focused too much on hitting causing him to be out of position. His crash-the-net style has led to numerous goalie interference calls.

 

Imagine this in your china shop

 

 

Overall, once his skills are honed and his skating improves, Druss Deathwalker will be as dangerous a power forward as the league has seen. It might take him a few seasons to reach that peak though.

 

Edited April 19, 2021 by animal74