Boston Bruins Prospects: McAvoy Leads Deep List of NHL Potentials
By Joseph Ochs
Trent Frederic-Center, Wisconsin Badgers
Like a couple other names on this list, Frederic’s selection 27th Overall in 2016 raised eyebrows (and voices). Many were shocked as Boston reached for Frederic in lieu of more exciting prospects, such as Alex DeBrincat. Projected by most to be a mid-late second round pick, became a late first-round pick. With late first round picks historically being a bit of a crapshoot, it’s clear Boston was looking for something of a known commodity in Frederic, though it may not have been the smartest move.
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Standing 6 foot 2, 205 pounds, the soon-to-be 19-year-old is already physically imposing. He plays a solid two-way game, is great on the face-off dot and on the penalty kill, and projects to be a solid checking line center. Offensively, he uses his size to his advantage, serving as a great net-front presence and excels at possessing the puck while shielding it from defenders.
Frederic has surprised many by recording five goals and 15 points in just 12 games as a college freshman; a much greater offensive output than what’s expected of him at this juncture. Should he maintain this high-level play, he (like Zach Senyshyn before him) will quickly quiet his detractors.