As I mentioned in my Carter Bear draft target article, the Columbus Blue Jackets are fortunate enough to have two first round picks. They have their own at number 14 and own the Minnesota Wild's first rounder from the David Jiricek trade earlier this season, which falls at number 20.
They’re not just lucky to have two picks in the opening round—they also fall within six spots of each other. That means the scouting department can focus on players in the same talent range, which should benefit the organization in the long run.
Today, we’re taking a look at another option for the 20th overall pick. As mentioned, I covered Bear yesterday, so now let’s turn our attention to Malcolm Spence, who played for the Erie Otters in the OHL and has committed to the University of Michigan for next season.
Scouting Report
Team: Erie Otters (OHL) / University of Michigan (NCAA)
2024–25 Stats: 32 G, 41 A, 73 P, 57 PIM
DOB: Sep. 22, 2006
Position: LW
Shoots: Left
Height: 6-foot-2
Weight: 201 lbs
There may not be a harder working forward in the OHL than Spence. He has a pit bull mentality but also mixed with a high amount of skill. He is described as a two-way forward that excels on both sides of the puck. He has the potential to score 30+ goals in a season, while also being the team's best defensive forward. His hard-working style of play typically makes him a pain to deal with. He can throw his weight around, battle for pucks, drive the net but also stick handle in a phone booth to get around the defender. What makes him even more effective is his ability to read plays quickly, adjust on the fly, and make smart decisions under pressure.
In this draft, there is a lot of skill and gritty style players. But there aren't a ton of players who have a mix of both and that is what Spence brings. His speed and size allows him to play more physical than most other wingers in the draft. Spence also has a clutch gene, he always tends to come up in big moments and when his team needs it, he rises to the occasion. On the surface, there aren't many areas of his game that needs improvement. Which should make him an even better player when he turns pro, especially with him playing in the NCCA next season.
What the Scouts Are Saying:
When Spence is at his best with his motor at full throttle, he can take over games, connecting with teammates in the offensive zone, roaming the high slot, getting open at the right moment to unleash his one-timer, and relaying his passes to the slot after eluding defenders on the wall. — Elite Prospects, 2025
"Spence has the ability to be a difference maker. When he’s on his game he brings a combination of skill and will to the equation. He’s put together physically and already plays at NHL pace" — Jason Bukala, Sportsnet
"Spence is a competitive, fast, detailed, hardworking player who can get out in transition or attack off the wall. He plays the game with intention, sticks with plays and has decent-though-not-dynamic skill." — Scott Wheeler, The Athletic
"Even on a bottom 6, in the future, he’ll need a puck-carrying center to play with to be effective. He’s a decent passer and fine in his own zone even if the effort comes and goes, but players like him in the OHL rarely evolve into players with top 6 NHL production." — Smaht Scouting
"Spence is one of the most projectable players in the class. He brings a physical edge to the game and a north-south offensive game. When he gets in on the forecheck, Spence knows how to disrupt defenders and turn pucks over deep in the zone." — Tony Ferrari, The Hockey News
No player in this class gets as involved as Spence does. He’s a stout but strong winger with the skating, heft, and keen positional awareness to force his way into any play. He makes strong plays in-tight, has a laser shot when he’s left too open, and plays a great physical game for his size. He racks up incredible scoring on the back of hard work and dirty plays. It’s commendable. To boot, I’ve always felt like Spence has a hidden offensive gear that could really make him pop. Spence hasn’t developed into any one style, to a bit of a fault. But he’s a tireless worker, with above-average skills nearly across the board. — Gabe Foley, Recruit Scouting
The Blue Jackets' style of play fits Spence very well. If you look at their roster, they have a good mix of physicality and skill, and under head coach Dean Evason, that identity is only going to be pushed further. Spence fits that mold to a tee. He’s the type of player who can play in all situations, whether it’s shutting down top lines or being trusted late in a game to protect a lead. He’s defensively responsible, brings an edge, and can contribute offensively. His motor never stops and that work ethic will resonate in Columbus. He could very well be the near perfect draft pick for Columbus at number 20.
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Photo credit: GREG WOHLFORD/ERIE TIMES-NEWS / USA TODAY NETWORK