Gardner, 18, was selected 112th overall by the Vancouver Canucks. He posted an impressive 83 points (45-38-83) in his 2021-22 High School campaign and enjoyed quick stints in the USHL (14 games). With such a large frame, he has been able to overpower his opponents thus far, protecting the puck well and producing chances by driving hard to the net. He is strong in puck battles and dominates board play. He compliments this power with a fair offensive toolkit. Gardner will head to Chilliwack, where he is slated to skate with the Chiefs as he graduates to the BCHL level. While considered somewhat of a project, he carries intriguing elements that could translate into a bottom-six power forward down the line. Peripherals, anyone?