The junior forward led Quinnipiac in points this past season, collecting 49 points in 34 games.
When it comes to finding and identifying talent in the draft, NHL teams usually do quite well. On the odd occasion though, talent can sometimes fall through the cracks. Whether it happens to be that the player is a late-bloomer or was simply missed, some difference makers can enter the NHL draft numerous times and never hear their name called.
One of those instances happens to be arguably the most sought-after free agent in this year’s college class: Quinnipiac junior Collin Graf. The native of Lincoln, Mass. has many suitors looking to ink him to an entry-level contract, with one of the reported teams being the Pittsburgh Penguins.
While Graf is one of the best college hockey players in the country, the path he took to get there is a non-conventional one. During his draft year in 2020-21, he spent the season playing for the Boston Jr. Bruins of the NCDC, a Tier II league that often sends players to the NCAA but rarely ones that finish near the top 10 in NCAA scoring.
After playing one year at Union College, Graf transferred to the eventual national champions and flourished, showcasing a great mix of competitiveness and skill that allowed him to be a difference maker for his team. While he had suitors last summer, he chose to return to school and it paid off in a big way, leading him to finish this season 11th in NCAA scoring with 49 points in 34 games.
While the NCAA has some of the best young players on the planet, what about Graf will allow him to translate to the NHL? It all comes down to how he processes the game and is able to create for himself and others.
With the puck on his stick, Graf is a threat to score. He recognizes shooting lanes as they open up and he can beat a goalie from almost anywhere in the offensive zone.
As seen with this goal that tied the game against Minnesota in last year’s Frozen Four Championship, Graf recognizes Close’s five hole is open and with a quick release is able to tie the game for the Bobcats.
Graf is also great at leveraging his strength down low, capable of spinning off checks by using his edge work and can beat opponents in small areas to find teammates in the slot.
His strength allows him to drive the net with the puck through contact and his quick hands allow him to beat goalies with a quick deke even with a defender draped all over him.
While his projection would be one of a bottom-six NHLer, Graf has all the skills necessary to allow him to make an impact at the next level.
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