Take one good look at Jared McIsaac and see a complete-package defenceman who promises to be a strong player at the NHL level for years to come.
He’s got the size, the speed and the offence to do special things, and developing in a strong Halifax Mooseheads program can only help reach his full potential.
Here’s a glimpse of what he can do.
Team: Halifax (QMJHL)
Position: D
Shoots: Left
Age: 18
From: Truro, N.S.
Height: 6-foot-1
Weight: 194 pounds
HIGH EXPECTATIONS, HIGH OUTPUT
McIsaac had to show he had the goods right from the start after being selected second overall by the Mooseheads in the QMJHL’s 2016 Draft.
He did not disappoint, winning Defensive Rookie of the Year honours and making the All-Rookie Team in 2017 after scoring 32 points in 59 games.
McIsaac followed that up with nine goals and 47 points in 65 games this season.
ELITE PUCK-MOVER
If there’s one thing McIsaac has become known for, it’s his ability to move the puck—both up the ice and around the offensive zone.
“McIsaac is a good puck mover and sees many options on zone exits,” said Troy Dumville of NHL Central Scouting. “He’s good at distributing the puck on the power play, and he plays top-pairing minutes.”
McIsaac told Joe Yerdon of NHL.com that he models his game after Los Angeles Kings star Drew Doughty.
SOLID ON D, TOO
McIsaac’s offensive numbers stand out for obvious reasons, but he can play just as well in his own end.
“McIsaac’s strong skating ability helps him to be an excellent two-way defender,” says Ben Kerr at lastwordonhockey.com. “He is very difficult to beat one-on-one.
“McIsaac can also play a physical game in the corners and in front of the net. However, in order to continue to play this type of game at the next level, McIsaac must get stronger. He is also a smart player, with a strong positional game and good anticipation. McIsaac cuts down passing lanes with an active stick. When a turnover is created, he transitions quickly to offence.”
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