27. LC Boone Jenner – Oshawa (OHL)

DOB: Jun. 15/93 | Shoots: L | Height: 6.03 | Weight: 197lbs
Midterm Rank: 46 | League Rank: 9th OHL | Country Rank: 14th Canada

After being drafted 4th Overall to the Oshawa Generals in the 2009 OHL Priority Selection, big things were expected out of Boone Jenner. The Dorchester, Ont. native was heavily relied on to provide an offensive punch to a forward corp that also includes draft eligible Niklas Jensen and Lucas Lessio. After a rookie campaign that saw Jenner pot 19 goals and 49 points, he had his hands full leading into the 2010-11 season. With a larger role and a deeper supporting cast, Jenner did not disappoint. He played a solid two-way game finishing +32 better than the previous season, while finishing with 25 goals and 66 points in 63 games this season.

It is hard to say what actually makes Jenner such a great player; he really is a just a complete package. Standing at 6.03, 197 pounds; Jenner is incredibly strong on the puck and is not afraid to go to the high traffic areas on the ice. In combination with his stature, the development in his ability to read the ice really makes him a threat with or without the puck in the offensive zone. He will never be the player you expect to shoot out the lights, having a 50 goal season, but he is a dependable two-way forward that can play all in all situations, which could make him a great fit on 2nd or 3rd line in the NHL. Jenner will benefit from having a deep forward group next season, and his production should increase as a result.

Jenner has a lot of work to do yet in order to convince critics he is capable of a top 6 role at the next level. Despite showing improvement in his sophomore season, there is still a need to enhance his skating ability in order to better his two-way game for the quicker pace of the NHL. The other glaring issue within Jenner’s game has nothing to do with his on-ice ability, but an intangible. His maturity on the ice is a cause for concern as a missed call, a call against, or an inopportune bounce, can set Jenner off his game. For someone who is considered a go-to player, this could make a huge difference in a key game. Although this trait should dissolve with experience and age, it is something that would be better dropped sooner than later.

Like with any prospect, there is always room for improvement; things they need to work on in order to make it to the next level. Boone Jenner has the size, strength and overall ability to make an impact in the NHL. He needs to be mentally there, which will come along with his experience and development. Jenner will be a hot commodity for General Managers picking in the latter half of the first round and he could be a great feature in a lot of NHL teams’ future top 6.

Pros: Board battles, strong on the puck, two-way presence, Competitiveness

Cons:  Overall skating ability, mentally maturing/preparing for the next level

Skillset Comparison: Poor-man’s Mike Richards with a bigger frame

Tags: 2011 nhl draft prospects, Boone Jenner, Scouting Report

About the Author: Mike Kloepfer

I am currently a fourth year Laurentian University student, working on a Sports Administration degree (BComm). I’ve been a fan of hockey my entire life, and in high school I started to realize that it might be a viable career option. In particular, I am an avid fan of the OHL and have been fortunate enough to work a pair of internships with OHL teams. Last season I did some marketing work with the Sudbury Wolves, and this season I’m continuing to broaden my knowledge with the Guelph Storm. My long term goals are to work on the business side of a hockey club, but I would also love to do some scouting work as well if I secure a job with an OHL team. Email: [email protected]