2022 NHL Draft Defense Prospects - Analysis + Notes

Simon Nemac - HK Nitra


  • Right-shot d-man

  • Decent size (6’0’’)

  • Will/Can play big minutes

  • Mobile, Puck-Moving d-man

  • Described as a two-way d-mam

  • High offensive thinker (1st power play potential)

  • His defensive game will need some rounding before NHL ready

  • Smart player, good-gap

  • Projection: Top 5 pick



David Jiříček - HC Škoda Plzeň

  • Great size (6’3’’, 190 pounds)

  • Steady d-man (great two-way ability)

  • Right handed

  • Explosive skater, moves the puck well

  • Great shot, plays physical

  • Shut-down, yet offensive d-man

  • Offensive game (decision making) may need some time to translate before NHL ready

  • Not a high risk pick

  • Projection: Top 8 pick



Denton Mateychuk - Moose Jaw Warriors

  • Left handed (5’11”, 188 pounds)

  • Offensive d-man

  • Great offensive instincts, quick to join the rush, solid shot

  • Struggles defensively (not the fastest defending)

  • Makes high-risk breakout passes and risks

  • Unreal creativity and confidence

  • 64 points in 65 WHL games this season

  • Projection: Top 25 pick



Kevin Korchinski - Seattle Thunderbirds

  • LHD (6’2’’, 185 pounds)

  • Smooth skating, offensive

  • Potential to be top-line power play quarterback

  • Massive upsize, some risk

  • Smart, great offensive vision, great puckmover

  • Skating and edgework is not an issue at all

  • Solid defensively, will take some time to adapt to pro

  • Not consistent defensively

  • Projection: Top 15 pick