Sam Steel is another talented center coming out of the WHL, which seems to be a breeding ground for skilled occupants of the center ice slot. Posting 124 points in 133 career regular season WHL games, Steel brings the entire package of skating, passing and scoring ability. Watching him on film, Derick Brassard comes to mind. He is not overly flashy, but is certainly quietly effective.
Position: C
Current Team: Regina Pats, WHL
Date of Birth: February 3, 1998
Place of Birth: Ardrossan, Alberta Canada
Height: 5′ 11″
Weight: 178 lbs
Shoots: Left
Steel is ranked #30 in the NHL Central Scouting Rankings for North American skaters, so is most likely a 2nd round selection come June. He has a lot of mental maturity for the game in terms of being positionally sound and having good ice vision. He will need to add bulk to his frame to be consistently competitive at the NHL level, particularly in the corners and face-off circle.
A Good Fit in Columbus?
Steel would be an interesting consideration should the Blue Jackets elect to retain their #34 overall pick this season, which seems likely. Much will depend upon other deals that may be in the works, but Steel would be a nice addition at the center slot. A couple of seasons in the AHL to fill out his frame and acclimatize to the pro game, and this could prove to be a very nice value pick.
Steel in Action