Photo via USA Hockey Twitter account
Seth Jones is projected to be a top pick in this years upcoming NHL Entry Draft, and could end up becoming an NHL star.
In 2009, Jones got drafted 11th overall in the WHL Bantam Draft. Jones was chosen by the Everett Silvertips. Jones’ father wanted him to play basketball, but Jones knew he was meant to play hockey. The next season he was playing for the Dallas Stars U-18 AAA Major Midget team. Jones then joined the U.S National Team Development Program and played two seasons with the USHL and USDP teams.
Scouts took a different look at Jones when he played for United States at the 2012 IIHF World U-18 Championships. He was captain of the team and was dominate on both ends of the ice. He led the U.S to a gold medal and racked up 8 points in 6 games. Jones needed to figure out if he was playing college hockey or WHL hockey. A day after the gold medal game of the 2012 World U-18 Championships, The Portland Winterhawks acquired the rights to talk to Jones from Everett. A few weeks afterwards he signed with the Winterhawks.
Jones can play in all areas. He has a 6’4 frame and weighs 201 pounds. Jones uses his size to his ability and is very fast considering his height. In addition, Jones is a fluid passer and has tremendous skill. He poises a heavy shot and likes to move into the rush. Furthermore, Jones has great hockey sense and IQ.
Jones can play on the power play and penalty skill which is a huge advantage. Jones is such unique player that doesn’t come around often. TSN scout Craig Button even made a huge comparison and said “He’s a unique defense man. I consider him the most unique defense man since Chris Pronger“.
Recently, Jones played for U.S at the World Juniors. He put up 6 points with a 7 plus/minus rating. He earned well deserved credit for his great play and led the United States to a gold medal. He was a part of the United States steady blue line and served as the alternate captain.
Jones currently has 28 points in 31 games with a 27 plus/minus rating. Following this further, Jones is poised to be a top 2 pick in the 2013 draft. Expect him to be a star for the team that drafts him within the next couple of years.
