What’s not to like about this future Ohio State Buckeye defender. Jardine has all of the intangibles that you need from a top pairing defenseman. The Kodiaks season eventually culminated with a south division title. Sam Jardine played a pivotal role in this series, which was no different from the rest of the year. The 6’0, 185 pound native of Lacombe Alberta really seemed to shine playing top minutes and all situational play for the Kodiaks.

He seems to have good patience with the puck and his head stays up constantly looking for a stretch pass up the ice for a good transition. He makes quick plays that out of his own end, but also has the ability to jump up into the rush very well. Offensively, he has a good shot and has some solid hands to step around opposing defensemen.

Defensively, his game improved a lot throughout the season. You could see as the season progressed, he would give good support for his defensive partner. He also worked well down low with his support and clearing out the front of the net.

At the start of the season, he would try to match the speed of some forwards that got him burned a couple of times. He would also pick out that he got wandering a bit in his own zone, which made him prone to being out of position. Having good anticipation allowed him to step up at the right time and keep the play alive or force turnovers or poor decisions for the other team. His play 1 on 1 was impressive and he was sound on his feet.

Jardine committed to Ohio State University of the CCHA last September and promises to be a solid defender for the program down the road. Ranked 205th in NHL Central Scouting’s midterm rankings, Jardine’s solid season will have him on the NHL draft radar in June.

Tags: 2011 nhl draft prospects, nhl draft prospects, Sam Jardine

About the Author: Andrew Choquette