Profile: Simon Despres

Eric Politowski | Penguin Prospects

Aug 12, 11:17 PM | Hype this story!

Biography
Position: Defense
Shoots: Left
Height: 6’4
Weight: 205 lbs
Birthday: 7/27/1991
Hometown: Laval, QC, Canada
Draft: 1st round (30th overall), 2009 (Pittsburgh)
Acquired: Draft
Player Type: Balanced D
NHL Comparable: Jack Johnson
 
Career Projection
The Pittsburgh Penguins got quite the steal when Despres dropped to them at the 30th pick of the first round in the 2009 NHL Entry Draft.  The defenseman has improved many facets of his game each year in the QMJHL, but what stands out as most impressive is his improvement in the the offensive zone, more than doubling his first year’s totals (14 points) in his second season (32 points).  While he is known as somewhat of a project, Despres looks to one day become a solid top-four defenseman in the NHL. With a well-balanced game, he doesn’t rely on just one skill to get by, which makes him a one of the Penguins’ top prospects.
 
Strengths
Although very raw, maintains a strong skating stride…big, strong, stereotypical defenseman…makes a great first pass exiting the defensive zone…supports the rush offensively…outstanding breakout capabilities…can clear players out of the crease…shut down pokecheck…above average passing…ability to log a lot of minutes…good vision…poised player.
 
Weaknesses
Still has an untapped offensive game…improve his goal scoring totals…needs to work on finishing his checks…will need to learn how to play against bigger, stronger opponents… could improve his physicality a bit
 
Achievements/Awards
• 2007 QMJHL All-Rookie Team

• 2008 CHL Top Prospects Game

• 2008- Won Gold medal in Ivan Hlinka Memorial Tournament
• 2009 CHL Top Prospects Game
• 2009 Team Canada Assistant Captain in U-18 World Championships
• Voted QMJHL Best Overall D-Man, Player with Best NHL Potential (2009)

Comments

  1. bag o' pucks

    Aug 12, 11:31 PM

    Good stuff. This kid’s going to be a solid player.

  2. Dabich

    Aug 13, 08:25 AM

    I’m with Bags, good stuff. It’s great to see this organization bringing in top talent to keep the Pens a contender for years.

  3. Moq

    Aug 13, 11:22 AM

    At first I felt a little ‘meh’ about the Despres selection but the positive reviews from prospect camp, and the skillset he offers to the current pool of prospects, has changed my mind in a more positive direction. Given his young age there’s a lot of potential to be intrigued about.

  4. Teach

    Aug 26, 06:53 PM

    He is a great person and a fine young man. One of the finest kids I have ever taught. He is a learner.

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