Denis Lever Rookie Profile [1/2]

[DenisLever 18]

Denis Lever 
RW | 6' 3" | 235 lb. | Age: 19 |  |

 

Denis Lever is a power forward that combines an impressive array of skills with speed and a hard, heavy shot. He's the type of player who lifts people out of their seat. Currently playing with the Fargo Force of the USHL, Lever has decided to enter the VHLM Draft scheduled for July 2, 2019.

 

What makes Lever the complete package is his attention to detail when it comes to the less sexy parts of the game, such as gaining position and picking up his man in the defensive zone.  He likely won't have the same offensive impact as VHL Legend Calgary's Brett Slobodzian had so early in his career, but he's a far more responsible player at age 19 than the Calgary's star was at that age.

 

An anonymous source at VHL Magazine has heard the comparisons to Slobodzian and says Lever has a ways to go to match that skill set.

 

"He (Lever) is talented, but I do not think he is the same level of talent. There is a difference," he says. "I would say Slobodzian was a step higher but this guy here is a talent. He also works and he has a great shot and great size. Then there will be an adjustment to learn the (VHL / VHLM) style. Style-wise he has a tendency to over-handle the puck but that is normal. He is 19 and at times that is a positive because he is showing a lot of confidence."

 

Guy LaFlamme, who runs the North American Hockey Scouting Service, thinks Lever will end up being a different style player from Slobodzian.

 

"Lever is a complete package," LaFlamme said. "He is a superb skater with excellent acceleration and he's creative with the puck. He has an outstanding touch around the net and I'd say he has excellent overall skill level and excellent hockey sense. He has a superb attitude. He's a finesse player, but does not mind playing physical. He can hit and take a hit. And he's a leader on and off the ice and a gentleman in private. He has all the tools needed to become a superstar."

 

Lever was asked at the World Junior tournament about the draft and he said it's a non-issue. "I am not thinking about the draft," he said. When pressed about which teams he likes, he said the Philadelphia Reapers and the Halifax 21st.

 

"I know that Halifax has a great player in Blake Gaudette. He's my favorite player right now, one of the best I have seen lately”.

Lever may not be another Gaudette, but there is little doubt VHLM fans had better get used to seeing his name in the scoring summaries.

 

"If (Lever) is not one of the next superstars, I don't know anything about hockey," says LaFlamme.

 

  

Pros:

• His natural scoring instincts and hard-hitting ability is a scary combination for opponents. Possesses a ton of offensive flair and loves the spotlight.
• Shoots from anywhere, and is lethal with his one-time snipe. His passion for the game is off the charts (and contagious).
• Is as highly skilled as anyone in the VHL / VHLM when on his game. Has the ability to keep the puck on a string and sift through defenders.
• Elevates his game when it matters most. Racks up points at will.
• Has tremendous size and reach for the wing position, as well as good wheels for a big guy.
• Controls the puck effectively in the corners and possesses a good scoring touch. Is at his best when driving through traffic areas.

 

Cons:

• Could stand to simplify his game, and learn how to mix his game up a little, at times.
• Will occasionally deliver a questionable hit that can hurt his team.
• May also get frustrated on occasion by constant tight coverage when teams pay added attention to him.
• Must continue to prove he can physically dominate opponents at the highest level.
• Needs to be able to handle tight checking throughout his VHL / VHLM career. 

 

Edited June 30, 2019 by DenisLever
text edit

[HenrikZoiderberg 469]

Review:

 

Formatting/picture are solid, nice job using an actual draft photo instead of an established NHL'er.

 

Really a fan of the preamble and quotes from scouts, gives good insight into your player and what they're about.

 

On 6/30/2019 at 4:24 PM, DenisLever said:

What makes Lever the complete package is his attention to detail when it comes to the less sexy parts of the game, such as gaining position and picking up his man in the defensive zone.  

 

Only a true hockey fan would write something like this, good little detail.

 

Pros and cons are good, can tell you've thought through this.

 

My only criticism is to add a conclusion in at the bottom. Summarize what the player is expected to do and don't leave things on a negative note (cons).

 

Good job!