NHL Prospect Profile: Adam Ginning

Statistics

Scout Quotes

Ginning is more known for his defensive game than his offensive one. He has excellent size, and uses it to his advantage. If a forward comes down his side of the ice with his head down, he can through a big body check. He reads the play well and uses a long, active stick to cut down on passing lanes. Ginning is not afraid to get his body in front of a shot either. He is especially effective on the penalty kill, with strong positioning.

Ginning has the potential to be a defensive defenceman in the top four, however he must continue to improve his skating. He will likely never be a big offensive contributor, but can still keep the puck moving. He will need some time to add muscle to his growing frame as well. Expect Ginning to spend at least another season or two in Sweden before coming to North America. – Last Word on Hockey

AJ’s Thoughts

Ginning is kind of a blah prospect in a class full of defensemen who bring a ton of dynamic ability to the position. He’s a true throwback to defenders who are big, physical, struggle to skate, and don’t offer a whole lot of offense. If that sounds appealing to you, chances are you loved watching the New Jersey Devils back in their trap-loving heyday. Ginning’s game just doesn’t jump out to me as one that fits the modern game. He doesn’t process the game well enough to make up for his mediocre offensive arsenal, which is only going to be more exposed as he rises through the ranks.

I just don’t see a future NHL player here unless he makes significant improvements to both his skating and his puck skills. If he had above-average ability in either of those aspects, it would be one thing to try and sell but I’m not seeing the second-round prospect he’s rated as in so many places.

Avalanche Fit

I’m just not really interested in Ginning in Colorado unless he gets to at least the fourth round. There’s so much work to be done on his game and despite his ability to make a decent first pass, this is a guy who was a top prospect in a different era. The Avalanche have invested heavily in trying to keep up with the changing game and selecting Ginning in the top 100 would be a step backward.

Rankings

#73 Future Considerations
#42 McKeen’s Hockey