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Edit: Drafted 86th Overall by the Montreal Canadiens.
Passed over in the last two NHL Drafts, Sven Andrighetto came into the 2011-12 season with something to prove and a chip on his shoulder. The Swiss Native certainly did that, and the chances of him going undrafted a third team seem to be unlikely, from where I sit. With 31 goals and 98 points, Andrighetto led the Rouyn-Norenda Huskies to an 8th overall finish in the QMJHL. With 30 points in 14 playoff games he was absolutely dominant, and helped the Huskies all the way to the QMJHL semi final where they fell to the eventual Memorial Cup Champion Halifax Mooseheads. Still a win over Drumondville and then a major upset over the Quebec Remparts with Andrighetto leading the way earned him some serious draft hype.
Andrighetto also has plenty of international experience playing for the Swiss at various international tournaments over the years, including the last two World Junior Championships. At the lastest World Juniors, he put up 5 goals and 8 points in just 6 games.
Right Wing
Born Mar 21 1993 — Zurich, Switzerland
Height 5.09 — Weight 188 — Shoots Left
Andrighetto’s biggest issue is his dimunitive size. At just 5’09” he has scared off teams in the last two drafts. However at 188 lbs, he is well built and strong on his skates, making him difficult to knock off the puck. Andrighetto is a very good skater with excellent top end speed, and very quick acceleration. He has good agility and edgework, making him shifty in the offensive zone and difficult to contain.
Andrighetto plays the point on the Huskies powerplay and he has an excellent slapshot, especially on one timers. It is hard and extremely accurate. He also has a very good wrist shot and an excellent release. Not just a one trick pony though, Andrighetto is as good a playmaker as he is a sniper, with very good vision and passing skills. Despite his size Andrighetto tries to play a gritty game and get involved in the corners, and he’s more successful than many would expect. Still the size is limiting in this aspect.
Andrighetto’s defensive game has improved, but remains a work in progress. He has trouble containing bigger opponents who can muscle through him at times. He needs better positioning as well, as he can sometimes simply lose his man. This is the biggest weakness in his game.
Andrighetto’s game can be compared to Mike Cammalleri. He plays a similar style. The potential may not be that high though. He could be an effective 2nd liner if he reaches his potential. Due to Andrighetto’s age, he can start immediately in the AHL next year and that might appeal to some NHL teams.
Check back later tomorrow for ranks 76-90.
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