Wednesday, November 20, 2019

Quinnipiac lands game changing commit in Ty Smilanic

Ty Smilanic with the USNTDP

The Quinnipiac Bobcats landed a major commitment on Wednesday with the news from Jeff Cox that the program landed United States National Developmental Program center Ty Smilanic a potential first round pick in 2020. This is a game changer for the Quinnipiac program who have never landed a potential first round draft pick in the Rand Pecknold era.

Smilanic a native of Denver, Colorado was a former Denver Pioneers commit with the two parting ways in September of 2018. The 2002 born Smilanic is a 6'1, 177 pound left shot center shot center who has four points in two USHL games this season. He has not played since October 20th but its unknown if he has an injury.

Central Scouting has him ranked as an A rated player in their most recent rankings on November 11th. In an NHL.com article, the director of NHL Central Scouting Dan Marr had this to say about Smilanic. "He plays the game with speed, quickness, smarts and skills. What sets him apart is he's always on the puck, he's always forcing the play, always making things happen."

Many other publications have him ranked in the top 30, Smilanic should see his name called on the first night of the draft. His WHL rights are held by Regina so he is still a possible flight risk. Should Smilanic be a first round pick, Quinnipiac may only have him for a season or two but in the long run it is worth it as this may open the path to other higher end players.

Links

EliteProspects Player Page
USHL Player Page


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