DRAFT PROSPECTS HOCKEY

Tag: Brock Cripps

  • 2027 NHL Draft Prospect Report – Brock Cripps

    Brock Cripps

    #12 Prince Albert Raiders. Right-shot defenseman. 5.11 / 166

    DOB: July 23, 2009

    Player Type: Offensive Defenseman

    Report: Cripps is an offensively driven defenseman whose game is built around puck movement, creativity, and offensive instincts. He displays excellent poise under pressure, consistently keeping his head up and identifying passing lanes. His puck movement is quick, deceptive, and efficient, allowing him to create opportunities in transition and the offensive zone. He possesses a strong shot, soft hands, and the confidence to carry the puck through traffic and attack the net. Cripps is effective on both special teams units, serving as a power-play quarterback while also contributing on the penalty kill. His agility, edgework, anticipation, active stick, and ability to hold the offensive blue line help maintain possession and generate scoring chances.

    I would like to see him use his shot more. Defensively, there is room for growth with respect to plugging lanes and shot blocking. I would like to see him use the physical side of his game more consistently and simplify decisions when necessary. 

    Projection: This early in the season, I have him at 12th overall in the 2027 NHL Draft. Long term, I see him as a second- or third-pairing defenseman with offensive upside.

  • Brock Cripps (D) – 2027 NHL Draft Prospect Report

    Cripps showcased the puck skills and hockey sense that make him such a dynamic offensive defenceman.

    He scored shorthanded after making a slight move, waiting for the defender to overcommit and slide right past him before beating the Swedish goaltender on the far side from the top of the circle.

    Later in the game, he repeatedly kept cycles going by keeping the puck in the offensive zone while under heavy pressure with little room to work at the blue line.

    This was highlighted by one shift where he did it three separate times before cutting through the Swedish defence with a stutter step to create another scoring chance.

    At even strength, Cripps and defensive partner Boston Tait controlled play from the offensive blue line. Their combination of passing ability and hockey IQ allowed them to toy with the Swedish forwards, moving the puck seamlessly back and forth while maintaining possession and giving the Canadian forwards time to get into scoring position.