Charlie Pelnick

(D): DOB: 05/15/95. 6’4, 190 lbs. Shoots left. A smooth operating defenseman that takes care of business in front of his own net. Not the reckless, feared rear-guard he once was with the Carolina Jr. Canes, but do not be fooled- he is still tough and possesses a controlled, nasty edge that is put to use when sticking up for his teammates and making the opposition pay for real estate deep in his zone.

An extremely athletic and raw prospect. A massive specimen with a wide skating base and a long reach. Mobile with solid defensive footwork and a decent first step. His stride will lengthen and develop more power in time. Keen positioning and closes his gaps well. Works an active and effective defensive stick. Owns a strong drive with the puck due to his strength and ability to use his reach and body to protect the puck. Needs to develop his in-tight skills with the puck. Was too confident in his own zone, especially in close quarters, and at times became a liability with his mismanagement of the puck. Has the vision to send the puck up ice and needs to look for that out quicker and keep his play with the puck more simple and clean.

Showed some offensive jump – was assertive with his pinches and showed confidence in joining the play. Patrols the line with a bit of a swagger. Does a good job keeping the play alive and getting pucks deep. Relies more on his wrist shot at this point and needs to enhance his slap shot.

Huge physical upside and is NHL Draft eligible in 2013 where he projects to be a daunting, shut down defenseman. Has already accepted a full ride to the University of North Dakota. Was drafted last spring by the Plymouth Whalers of the OHL, 7th round, 133rd  overall. The Fargo Force of the USHL also drafted him last spring, 1st round, 10th overall.