The Pittsburgh Penguins may be interested in drafting Nate Danielson to improve their lowly prospect pool.

When the Pittsburgh Penguins make their first round selection, they will have a bevy of talented prospects at their disposal. With a desperate need to acquire younger talent, the 2023 NHL Draft is an excellent chance to kickstart that process. Inside the Penguins takes a look next at highly rated prospect Nate Danielson out of the Western Hockey League. 

Every Highlight from Nate Danielson this season in the WHL (2023 NHL Draft top prospect)

Essentials:

2022-23: Brandon Wheat Kings (WHL)

Position: Center

Height and Weight: 6’1, 184 pounds

NHL Central Scouting: 13th (amongst North American skaters)

Elite Prospects: 25th

Shoots: Right

Position: C

2022-23 Stats: 63 GP, 32 G, 44 A, 76 P

Player Breakdown:

The definition of a playmaker, Danielson is an intriguing prospect made in the mold of a prototypical NHL player. There is no obvious flaw to his game that cannot be improved. He is a creative, pass-first player that seems to elevate those around him. Playing on a below .500 team in the WHL, Danielson was the shining star of the Wheat Kings this past season, leading his team in all offensive categories and playing in every special teams and important situation. 

He projects to be a high-end second line center, with potential to be a first line player eventually. Danielson has silky hands. He rarely has trouble corralling a difficult pass from a teammate, and has the quick reflexes to make a play out of nothing. He also uses his frame well, using his body to shield the puck from defenders and outmuscling the opposition to get into position. 

What Needs to Improve:

One of the potential issues with Danielson is his unwillingness to shoot the puck. He clearly prefers to pass, but he possesses an underrated shot. This past season, he averaged just four shots per game. While it’s extremely impressive that he managed to score 32 goals on so few shots, he’ll need to rely more on his scoring touch to round out his game at the next level. If he doesn't do so, his top-end potential will slowly descend into a bottom six center who shows flashes of something more. 

NHL Player Comparison: Travis Zajac

NHL ETA: 2025-26

The trickiest part about the 2023 draft class is projecting their NHL readiness, and Danielson is no exception to that. He’s physically ready, at nearly 200 pounds and over six feet tall, so organizations may rush him to the NHL level. What makes it so difficult to assess is that Danielson can probably get to the league with his current skill set, but is that enough? He projects to be a high end second line center, but with more focus on his shooting, he could expand his game even further.

If a team wants immediate help, he could be a player that gets to the league very quickly. However, the better path could be to let him play another season in juniors, and then give him a season or two in the AHL to really adjust to the professional game. 

Make sure you bookmark Inside the Penguins for the latest news, exclusive interviews, breakdowns and so much more!

Free Agent Forwards That Would Improve the Penguins Speed

Kyle Dubas Won't Make Penguins GM Hire Anytime Soon

Carter Hart Is a Solid Goalie Option for the Penguins

Penguins' Todd Reirden up for Flames Head Coaching Job

Penguins' Tristan Jarry Looking for 5-6 Years in New Contract

• undefined
• undefined