Benoit-Olivier Groulx
Date of birth: February 6, 2000
Place of birth: Rouen, Quebec
Youth team: Halifax Mooseheads (QMJHL)
Height: 6’1”
Weight: 190 pounds
Position: Center
Shoots: Left
Benoit Olivier-Groulx, a former first overall pick in the QMJHL, posted a stellar 28 goals and 27 assists for 55 points this season with the Halifax Mooseheads. Groulx, who holds dual French and Canadian citizenship, has represented Canada in youth tournaments.
Groulx’s weakness is his skating. His speed and first steps can be described as “mediocre at best” and is an area that he will have to work to improve on as he makes his way to the NHL. What Groulx lacks in foot speed, however, he makes up for with ability to finish at the net as well as stickhandle in traffic. He also plays a solid defensive game.
Scouting Report
Groulx has the potential to be an effective second line centre, playing against top lines and providing offence at the NHL level. However, he must improve his skating. If he does not, then the offensive upside becomes more limited and he will top out as a third or fourth liner. It also has an effect on his position. Groulx, a natural centre, has spent most of this season playing wing for Halifax, mainly due to the skating concern. The skill set to do more is there, its a matter of developing the weakest aspect of his game. Groulx’s game resembles Ryan Kesler, but this is a stylistic comparison only, and not one based on skill or ability.