Liam Greentree is a big, smooth, playmaking winger and could be exactly what the Vegas Golden Knights are looking for in the 2024 NHL Draft.
Liam Greentree is a big, smooth, playmaking winger and could be exactly what the Vegas Golden Knights are looking for in the 2024 NHL Draft.
Born on Jan. 1, 2006, in Oshawa Ontario, the 6'2, 198 lbs left-handed winger has been putting up big-time numbers in the OHL for the past two seasons.
Greentree scored 36 goals and 90 points in 64 games this season as the captain of the Windsor Spitfires. He finished first on his team in goals and points and had 24 more points than the next closest player. He capped off his season by winning a Gold medal with Team Canada at the u-18s. He scored two goals and four points in seven games en route to victory.
In his first year in the OHL, he finished on the First All-Rookie Team and led all rookies in goals. He also capped off that season with a Gold medal at the Hlinka Gretzky Cup.
Greentree has all the physical tools an organization would want in a first-round pick. He might lack a bit of the straight-line speed some other players in the draft way but very few players possess the shot he has. Not only is his shot heavy but his release is lightning fast and accurate.
His shot becomes an even bigger threat due to his outstanding playmaking skills. His ability to gain the offensive zone, stop up and make creative plays is a huge reason for his success. Even with his big frame, Greeentree is smooth on his edges and is able to maneuver himself into high-danger scoring areas.
Despite being one of the bigger players in the NHL Draft, the 18-year-old isn't known for being a physical force but it is something that can be added to his game over time. He's one of the hardest-working players in the draft and is already a great leader. The Spitfires were the second-worst team in the OHL which forced Greentree to play in every scenario. He was a penalty killer, the main threat on the power play, a primary playmaker at 5v5 but also their main goal scoring threat.
Greentree is one of the most projectable players in the draft. His ability to protect the puck along the boards and drive offence will at the very least make him an effective middle six player.
Make sure you bookmark THN's Vegas Golden Knights site for the latest news, exclusive interviews, breakdowns, and so much more.