Defenz Mann - Scouting Report

[Mike 708]

Defenz Mann - D
6'3"
220 LBs.
Age: 19
France

 

Entering the Season 71 VHLM Dispersal Draft, there were zero expectations for Defenz Mann.  Mann, a young defenseman, is hoping to crack a VHL roster one day.  The VHLM Draft came and went, but it wasn't until round three with overall pick 24 that Mann was selected.  That didn't stop him from having an incredible season.  A quick recap of his minor season includes leading the league in plus/minus, fifth in assists, fifth in points for a defenseman, and a Founder Cup victory.

 

Pros:

Offensive Talent - Mann showed everyone this season that his most significant strength is his offensive ability.  Even though he plays defense, he is more of a playmaking center on the ice.  Also, Mann knows what to do with the puck when and has the tools to follow through.  He can pass, shoot, and handle the puck with ease.

 

Hockey IQ - Mann doesn't possess the physical hockey ability; he has a tremendous mental understanding of the game.  Leading the entire league in plus-minus (rating) is no easy feat.  The talent level in the VHLM is at the highest it has ever been.  Mann was able to have a +113 in a seventy-two game season.  That shows tremendous ability both as an offensive defenseman but also in his zone on defense.

 

Core Strength - Mann has a great shot that comes off his stick with ferocity and accuracy.  His skating ability rivals that of more agile/nimbler forwards. He has the right size and balance that makes it difficult to both take him down and the puck away.  Mann's unique set of size, agility, and strength make him an intimidating opponent for many.

 

Cons:

 

Physicality - Despite having the physical tools and size to be a bruising defender, Mann rarely uses them.  Last season he recorded only 133 hits far below his counterparts.  Scouts are certain that this core deficiency in his game will not change even with further coaching.  This lack of physicality is also visible in shot blocks.  For a defenseman in the minors, he recorded only 97 this season a far cry from his peers.

Potential - While Mann did have a top 5 VHLM performance, that doesn't mean it will translate to the VHL.  Many players in all professional sports have unbelievable college or minor league performances.  That only translates to a professional level for a handful of the lucky and dedicated.

 

Summary:

 

Mann doesn't have the raw ability to become a top-shelf number one defender.  His offensive ability has shown flashes to graduate to the pros.  If he continues to work hard with the right coaching could be a suitable second-line prospect.  Mann will also likely be a power-play asset in the future.