Maple Leafs Prospect Profile - Peter Metcalf
Peter Metcalf (University of Maine) - The uncompromising Black Bears' captain
has been a pillar of strength during his senior season, posting career-best numbers
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and earning Hockey East First-Team honours. However, his biggest contributions
have not come on the scoreboard. Meltcalf has done a tremendous job mentoring
a youthful Maine blueline corps and helping the club overcome the tragic loss
of coaching icon Shawn Walsh, who lost his battle with cancer just prior to the
start of the season. Metcalf's leadership has been instrumental in guiding Maine
to the NCAA Frozen Four Tournament for the eighth time in school history.
Scouting: Metcalf is a physical, no-nonsense defenseman with solid overall
skills. Aptly described as a 'grinder with hands', Metcalf moves the puck well
and is very adept at supporting the attack. He likes to utilize his good passing
and puckhandling skills, and is a competent power play quarterback. However,
his best attribute is his competitiveness. Although not overly big by NHL standards,
he is a consistent physical presence, plays with a nasty edge and always leaves
everything he has on the ice. But he can be too aggressive at times, prone to
cheap shots and taking retaliatory penalties. He must learn how to keep his
emotions in check to excel at the pro level, and to continue upgrading his overall
quickness, as he can be exploited by fast, shifty forwards down low in the defensive
zone.
Grade (C+): A 'heart-and-soul' type player, Metcalf boasts a well-rounded
package of grit, talent and determination, and has a chance to make it to the
NHL as a No. 5 or 6 defenseman. Look for him to need a full year of apprenticing
in St. John's before being ready to challenge for an NHL spot.