Gianfranco Del Rocco Scouting Report

[Victor 10,971]

Gianfranco Del Rocco Scouting Report

 

Gianfranco Del Rocco's only full regular season has come to an end and as the playoffs start it is an opportune time to reflect on how things went and what can be improved ahead of the next step into the VHLE. Having hit the threshold for training hours before the regular season started, Del Rocco wasn't able to improve during the season but that means that upon graduation from the VHLM he will have a chance to make some significant progress in the areas of his game in which he is lacking. That is, if the lessons from the S92 VHLM performance are learned...

 

What went well

 

• Generally well-rounded game

  With 31 goals and 33 assists in S92 and 38 goals and 40 assists across his whole 1-and-a-bit season VHLM stint, Del Rocco has delivered on his promise of being a well-rounded game. Decision making has largely been strong, knowing when to shoot and when to pass, which is a good foundation for future success.

 

• Taking one for the team

  Slightly more surprisingly, Del Rocco has also immediately taken to a more physical game in the VHLM, laying down 141 hits in S92 and putting his body on the line with 47 blocked shots. This is a side of his game we didn't see prior to the VHLM but is an encouraging sign in that he is not being complacent and is willing to adapt to the more demanding professional leagues than what he was used to in Italy.

 

• Positive locker room presence

  Based partially on name recognition, Del Rocco was named San Diego captain immediately upon arrival. Whilst not the loudest leader, preferring to let his on-ice contributions do the talking, it has been a pleasant experience without any controversies, a good confidence boost after moving to North America. There was also a healthy relationship with S93 draft rival and teammate Jean-Pierre Devote which bodes well for a sensible mindset throughout Del Rocco's VHL career.

 

What can be improved

 

• Consistency

  Throughout the season, Del Rocco has been incredible streaky, 1-2 good games followed by largely anonymous performances, which averaged out to around a point-per-game pace for the season. A good introspective look should be taken to understand how much of that will be solved by more training and how much is an attitude problem and needs some serious work.

 

• Shooting efficiency

  A 9.7% shooting percentage for the season is not a bad return but as an offensive-minded winger, we expect Del Rocco to deliver more efficiency on that end and convert more chances. This can be improved by prioritising higher quality shots and working on power and accuracy of the shots he does take. 50 goals should be the aim in the VHLE.

 

• Bigger role on his team

  The letter on his jersey added both pressure and credibility but Del Rocco was only sixth in team scoring in San Diego in S92. For a highly-rated prospect like Gianfranco we would expect a bigger role in his team's offense and whilst the Marlins were blessed with lots of quality forwards this season, Del Rocco has to step up going forward to make sure he doesn't just become one of the depth players.

[Noodle Enjoyer 201]

I enjoyed this article it was well written and does a good job of telling us what went well and what needs to be worked on for your future. I for one am excited to see where Del Rocco ends up next year and the future. Looking forward to more great articles like this. 10/10