The Vegas Golden Knights selected Trevor Connelly with the 19th pick in the 2024 NHL draft and he is already the most skilled prospect the franchise has.
The Vegas Golden Knights selected Trevor Connelly with the 19th pick in the 2024 NHL draft and he is already the most skilled prospect the franchise has.
Many scouts believe the 18-year-old is one of the most skilled players in the entire draft and if it weren't for some of his previous off-ice issues, he could have found himself inside the top 10.
Those off-ice issues shouldn't be overlooked but he has stated that he has and is working hard to grow.
His agent John Osei-Tutu said, "We hope teams recognize the maturity and growth and dedication he has shown to making a positive impact both on and off the ice."
If what he says is true, the Golden Knights have a talented player.
With the Tri-City Storm of the USHL, Connelly scored 31 goals and 78 points in 52 games. He finished inside the top 10 in goals and second in points across the entire USHL. His excellent play got him an offer to Providence College of the NCAA where he'll play the 2024-25 season. Most recently, Connelly was invited to Team USA's Summer World Junior Showcase.
Currently, the Tustin-born winger is participating in the Golden Knights' development camp where his skill has been on full display. At times he's looked too fast for any of the other players.
His poise with the puck makes him a threat all over the ice. His poise combined with his speed and hands, makes more than a handful to defend.
In his press conference following the draft, Connelly spoke about what he believes are the strengths in his game and how it will eventually translate to the NHL.
"I think that playmaking and goal scoring, I kind of do both. I like to set up my teammates and also when I get the chance to put one in I use my shot, and I think that my shot is one of the things I want to get better at this summer. I think my game translates well and my skating is the biggest thing that will help me translate to the next level."
Connelly is 6'1 but only 161 lbs. Filling out his frame and putting on muscle is the next step in his development. If he can do so, he'll find himself up with the team a lot sooner than many people may expect.
Connelly mentioned that this is a task for him this offseason and during his freshman year of college.
"I think I need to get stronger. That's the main thing for me, I need to put on some weight before I get to the pro level. I think this next year or two at Providence is really going to help me with that."
In both his character and his progression as a player, actions speak louder than words but if Connelly shows his maturity on and off the ice, the Golden Knights may have hit the jackpot.
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