USA Hockey: Its In His Blood

David Toews is a member of the Shattuck-St. Mary's team that won the Tier I U18 National Championship earlier this month. David, who is the younger brother of Jonathan, is ranked No. 79 in Central Scouting's final draft rankings. McKeen's correspondent Kevin Hopson provides an update on Toews ahead of the upcoming NHL Entry Draft.

David Toews (2008), C, Shattuck-St. Mary's

Skillful pivot with a solid two-way game .. not an explosive skater, as he has to work for every step, but shows good hustle when he has to .. also needs to be stronger on his feet .. despite his skating deficiencies, he still has the ability to beat defenders on occasion .. this will obviously prove more difficult at the next level and is a concern for scouts .. what he lacks in speed, he helps make up for with his offensive abilities .. effective at bringing the puck through the neutral zone, as he can gain the opponent's blueline or, if all else fails, dump and chase .. can make a quality pass in transition and possesses the necessary hands to work down low and in tight spaces .. though he shies away from physical play and is not the type to battle along the boards, he works in his own end and puts weight in playing defense .. however, he has more of a defensive presence on the PK, as he will take a knee to block shots and also pressure the puckhandler by tightening gaps .. owns the faceoff capabilities and all-around proficiency to contribute in any situation (even strength and special teams).