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Canucks: Centres that are potential third round draft targets

By Rick Warman

VANCOUVER, BRITISH COLUMBIA - JUNE 22: A general view of the Vancouver Canucks draft table is seen during Rounds 2-7 of the 2019 NHL Draft at Rogers Arena on June 22, 2019 in Vancouver, Canada. (Photo by Jeff Vinnick/NHLI via Getty Images)
VANCOUVER, BRITISH COLUMBIA - JUNE 22: A general view of the Vancouver Canucks draft table is seen during Rounds 2-7 of the 2019 NHL Draft at Rogers Arena on June 22, 2019 in Vancouver, Canada. (Photo by Jeff Vinnick/NHLI via Getty Images) /
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OSHAWA, ON – FEBRUARY 17: Ty Tullio #71 of the Oshawa Generals skates with the puck during an OHL game against the Owen Sound Attack at the Tribute Communities Centre on February 17, 2020 in Oshawa, Ontario, Canada. (Photo by Chris Tanouye/Getty Images)
OSHAWA, ON – FEBRUARY 17: Ty Tullio #71 of the Oshawa Generals skates with the puck during an OHL game against the Owen Sound Attack at the Tribute Communities Centre on February 17, 2020 in Oshawa, Ontario, Canada. (Photo by Chris Tanouye/Getty Images) /

Ty Tullio

2019-2020 club: Oshawa Generals (OHL)

Position: Centre/Wing

Height: 5’9″ 161 lbs.

Another intriguing prospect that the Canucks may want to consider is versatile forward Ty Tullio. He is a player that I’ve watched several times with my OHL Live subscription, as he played alongside Philip Tomasino, who has been one of my favourite players to view the past couple of seasons. Albeit undersized, Tullio plays an abrasive agitating style, often getting under opponents’ skin. In 62 games last season, he produced 27 goals and 39 assists.

The aspect of his game that stands out is his relentless pursuit of the puck. His explosive first step and non-stop motor make him a constant pest. Tullio displays terrific edge work and agility and a change of pace that allows him to get past defenders.

His creativity and vision, along with excellent stickhandling skills, enable him to dictate the pace of the game. Tullio possesses the ability to find open ice where he can utilize the one-timer he likes to use, particularly on the power play. Additionally, Tullio uses his quickness and anticipation to intercept passes, and his positioning and overall defensive game are admirable.

The fact that he plays well with skilled players makes him a realistic top-six option should he gain much-needed size and strength.

Jack Finley

2019-2020 club: Spokane Chiefs (WHL)

Position: Centre

Height: 6’5″ 207 lbs.

Many of the prospects listed above are undersized. Such is not the case for Jack Finley. The big-bodied centre managed 19 goals and 57 points in 61 games last season. I had the opportunity to watch Finley live when the Spokane Chiefs came to visit the Giants.

Finley is a decent skater for his size, though his initial few steps are underwhelming. He uses his large frame very well in protecting the puck until he can find an open teammate. His vision and playmaking skills are noticeable, and his shot is hard. On occasion, he takes too long to release the puck and has it frequently blocked. His ability as a goal scorer is somewhat limited, but he offers a sizable net presence.

Finley has a remarkable defensive game, often using his long reach to take away passing lanes. Despite his size, Finley is not overly powerful and will need to gain strength to play professionally. His offensive upside, in my opinion, is limited. However, with his size and the responsible defensive game he shows, Finley is well-suited for a bottom-six role.

dark. Next. Redrafting the Canucks' 2003 draft class (part 1)

The players listed above are just a representation of the many options that the Canucks could look at to add centre-ice depth to the organization. They are all considered long-term projects, as picks in the third round and beyond require a great deal of development before they are ready for regular NHL duty.

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