
A deep dive into 2024 NHL Draft prospect and Prince George Cougars' forward Terik Parascak.
The WHL is set to play a significant role in this year's 2024 NHL Draft. 57 players were included on NHL Central Scouting's final rankings, with a handful expected to be drafted in the first round. Today's draft profile is of Prince George Cougars' forward Terik Parascak, who enters the draft as the 15th-ranked North American Skater.
Known by many as the "Super Rookie," Parascak had a year to remember. Parascak set a new franchise record for points by a rookie with 105 and was voted to the CHL All-Rookie Team. He then added 14 points in 12 playoff games as he helped the Cougars to the Western Conference Final for the first time since 2007.
What sticks out in Parascak's game is his shot. He can connect on one-timers as good as anyone in the WHL and can beat goaltenders from anywhere on the ice. Ultimately, he is a problem for defenders when the puck is on his stick, as evidenced by his 43 goals this season.
Another area that sticks out with Parascak is his hockey IQ. In the offensive zone, he understands how to find empty space and continually adjusts his position so that teammates can find him in a scoring position. Parasack's ability to get into open ice also allows him to show off his playmaking as the Prince George forward can draw defenders in before finishing open teammates with tape-to-tape passes.
The biggest question when it comes to Parascak is if he can drive a line by himself. He isn't a player who is going to drive play but rather an intelligent forward who understands where he needs to be to capitalize on opportunities. Next season will be massive for Parascak as he has the chance to show that skating is not an issue as he looks to build off a historic rookie campaign.
When it comes to the draft, Parascak is projected to be drafted either late in the first round or early in the second. If Parascak can continue to develop his overall game, he has the chance to be a middle-six forward at the NHL level who can also contribute to the power play. Ultimately, he is a special talent and one that could carve out a decent career as a pro.
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