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.
Kieffer Bellows (LW)
Height: 6-foot Weight: 196 pounds Shoots: Left
Team: U.S. U-18 (USHL)
Country: U.S.
NHL Central Scouting ranking: No. 10 North American skater
Kennedy says: “The best way to neutralize Bellows is to keep him away from the puck, because if he gets it, you’re probably toast.
“Like his ex-NHLer father Brian, Bellows has a wicked fast shot and scouts have compared the two in terms of their offensive wizardry. Kieffer’s challenge from here on out is to diversify his game, because right now goal-scoring is by far his strongest dimension.
“He’ll get a chance to do so next season at Boston University, where he will join an excellent recruiting class that includes NTDP teammates Chad Krys and Clayton Keller. Bellows can also work on his consistency while he’s playing the college game.”
Related: Bellows wins USHL rookie of the year
Click here for all the 2016 NHL Draft profiles.