This pick might get overlooked, but Nobert is a sneaky good selection this late. His 1.18 points per game were 23rd in the QMJHL. Nobert’s scoring rate was not far off from both first-round picks, Carbonneau’s 1.44 (19th) and Zonnon’s 1.3 points per game (22nd), while being nearly one full year younger.

Selected 85th overall, Mateo Nobert is now a member of the Vegas Golden Knights.

His 6-0 frame is packed with skill, creativity, and vision. Nobert is constantly pushing the pace — whether it is in transition or the offensive zone. He seems to be one step ahead of the puck, anticipating the play and creating scoring chances before defense can catch on. If his game translates to the NHL, it will be centred around play-driving and an ability to create space for himself and his teammates.

Nobert’s shot is neither a weakness nor a strength. He has an accurate wrister that he can get off in a hurry, but his overall shot lacks power. That is a common thread in which Nobert’s traits begin to underwhelm. Clocking in at 168lbs, Nobert will need to put on significant muscle to improve his speed, his play through traffic, and puck retrievals along the boards. If the Vegas Golden Knights can steer him the right way, he projects as a middle-six forward in the NHL.