Like we’ve done in the past, we’re profiling top prospects who may hear their names called in the first round of the 2016 NHL Entry Draft.
But this year, something new — we’re featuring special guest analysis from Ryan Kennedy, associate senior writer and prospect expert at The Hockey News.
Riley Tufte (LW)
Height: 6-foot-5 Weight: 205 pounds Shoots: Left
Team: Blaine High School (Minnesota)
Country: U.S.
NHL Central Scouting ranking: No. 17 North American skater
Kennedy says: “It’s impossible not to compare Tufte to Florida’s Nick Bjugstad. Both are towering centers that played for Blaine High School before heading off to college. But there’s also some Blake Wheeler in Tufte, who dominated the Minnesota high school ranks to the tune of three points per game.
“He also played for Fargo in the USHL this season and was challenged quite a bit more. His skating and size had one scout call him the best raw prospect out of Minnesota in a long time, but Tufte will need time to hone his game.
“He’ll do so at the University of Minnesota-Duluth next season and is expected to play top-six minutes right away.”
Click here for all the 2016 NHL Draft profiles.