NHL Draft Prospect Profile: Kameron Kielly

Get to Know Kameron Kielly

Date of Birth: 12-13-96
Place of Birth: Sherwood, PE, CAN
Ht: 6’1” Wt: 183 lbs
Shoots: Right
Position: Center
Team: Charlottetown Islanders (QMJHL)

Kameron Kielly was picked up by the Gatineau Olympiques’ (18th overall) in the 2012 QMJHL draft, and despite playing in 60 games, the Canadian center only managed to put up 6 points (2g, 4a).

That summer, he returned to his Midget roots and joined the Charlottetown Islanders, where he put in a much better showing straight off the bat. Part of his improved success can be traced back to moving him from wing to center. His style of play was well-suited for the role, and he thrived with 10 goals and 31 points in 66 games. He followed up that season with an alternate captain’s honor and 49 points (16 g, 33a) in 67 games after dedicating the off-season to improving his shot and adding strength.
Statistics

What Scouts See

Future Considerations:

A strong role type player who is good at many things but not flashy offensively or very physical. Kielly is a good skater, but his feet could be quicker. Puck skills are just OK; not the best hands but he can pull a nice deke once in a while to gain the zone. He protects the puck well with his body and reach. His passes are both accurate and skilled; he can make great saucer and touch passes. He’s got a quick wrist shot and an accurate slapshot, but should add some velocity on them with added strength. He’s not a sniper, but instead, a smart two-way player who can do a bit of everything. Not always physical but will rub guys out and work for pucks along the wall. Plays with an edge sometimes, but not consistently enough for the role you would want him to fill at the next level. Strong on the cycle, and can get under the opponent’s skin from time to time. Defensively, he has great positioning; he has a good stick to cut passing lanes, take away shooting lanes and blocks shots. A staple on the PK for Charlottetown as he has a knack for clogging up the zone. Displays very strong support for teammates in all situations and is effective on face-offs. His defensive reads are solid, and he knows his role as a center. Another one of those guys who has limited offensive upside.

What BSN Avalanche sees

Kielly is a two-way player who leaves everything out on the ice with every shift. He has the poise and vision to play in all situations, and he’s been a go-to guy for the Islanders this season. As his statistics suggest, Kielly is a set up man. His above-average vision helps him to find his linemates, sending passes straight to the tape. He’s reliable and has strong defensive instincts, able to play against top offensive talent. He’s also willing to drop the gloves, quick to defend his teammates against slights from the opposition. While his first stride is impressive, Kielly’s overall speed leaves something to be desired. In the same vein, his passes might be on target, but his shot, while accurate, isn’t the strongest. He’s built more for a grinding role and is more of the lunch pail ilk than the guy who carries his team to victories.

Highlights

NHL Potential

Kielly can expect to have a professional hockey career, and it wouldn’t be surprising to see him land an NHL job on the third line, though he’s more likely to be a fourth liner or first call up. He has strong worth ethic and a commitment to improving his play. He’s willing to fulfill whatever role is asked of him. He will never be a game-changer, but he can certainly do well as part of the supporting cast on an NHL team. It’s likely that he’ll spend time in the AHL, paying his dues, before he gets an NHL shot. He is much like David van der Gulik in that he’ll be a top performer and leader at the AHL level and a reliable call up to the NHL. On a shallow NHL team, though, he could become a regular similar to what we see in Cody McLeod.

Expected Draft Position

Kielly is a bit older than his draft mates as he just missed the cut off for last year’s draft. Teams that need depth might pick him up in the third round, but it’s more likely that he’ll fall to the fourth round. Still, he has characteristics that make him an attractive selection for depth on a team: reliability, character, and a complete game.

How Prospect Fits in Avalanche Organization

The Avalanche are filled to the brim with guys like Kielly. He would be a redundant addition, so do not expect to hear the Avs call his name come June.