– Dalyn Wakely –
Quinte Red Devils (ETA) | Center | 2020 OHL Draft Eligible
As a member of a perennial powerhouse in the 2004-born circuit, the Quinte Red Devils, Dalyn Wakely has developed into one of the most highly-anticipated prospects available for the 2020 OHL Draft.
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An intimidating force to go up against, Wakely has consistently dominated his competition all over the ice. Showcasing immense strength, he can level opponents with powerful open-ice hits, or effectively separate them from the puck along the wall. With a heavy shot, an electric release, and creative hands, Wakely can light the lamp in a multitude of ways.
Wakely’s impressive attributes were enough to catch the eyes of Jr. A brass, as he made his OJHL debut in September of 2019. With the Red Devils being a heavy favourite in the ETA, Wakely will undoubtedly be a name to watch for heading up to the 2020 OHL Draft and beyond.
Strengths:
- Shot Power and Release
- Strength and Physicality
- On-Ice Awareness
The leader of the reigning OMHA Champion, Quinte Red Devils, Dalyn Wakely is a dynamic forward who can make a significant difference at both ends of the ice. Oozing with skill and strength, he can create problems for his opposition in plenty of ways, whether by enforcing the physical aspect of the game, or by creating dangerous scoring chances. With impressive lower-body strength and a solid center of gravity, Wakely is able to dish out some devastating open-ice hits, making sure that opponents know when he’s on the ice. This also makes him a force along the wall in the offensive zone, as he becomes nearly impossible to bump off of the puck.
That strength further comes in handy when Wakely is snapping shots past goaltenders. He has a quick, yet powerful release, ripping heavy shots off of the rush or while posted up off of the half-wall. With that said, he also displays creative vision of the ice, utilizing his silky hands and sense of developing plays to turn defenders inside-out. Wakely can also be dangerous from a playmaking standpoint, as opponents are forced to respect his shot, he can fake them out before sliding a cross-ice pass to a wide-open teammate. Further, Wakely is very intelligent with his puck movement on the powerplay, and can even direct plays on his own.
Area of Improvement:
- Straight-Line Speed and Edge Work
In order to become a more dynamic and truly dominant player in all facets of the game, Wakely could stand to work on his edge work and his top speed. While his skating certainly isn’t going to hold him back from having a successful future, it’s simply an area which could be further developed.
Growing his straight-line speed would allow him to separate from defenders a little quicker on the rush and create more odd-man opportunities and breakaways. Further, some slicker edges would make him a much more unpredictable skater, and would force defenders to play on their heels a little bit more.
Future Potential:
With that being said, Dalyn Wakely should, by all means, be considered a first-round prospect for the upcoming 2020 OHL Draft. He’s got the size and strength to jump straight into the OHL next year, as well as all the natural talent to become an offensive force at the next level and beyond. Keep your eyes peeled for Wakely and the entire Quinte Red Devils squad during the course of the 2019-20 season.
Prospect Pipeline 