Canucks select OHL goal-scoring leader Anthony Romani with sixth round pick at 2024 NHL Draft

Known for his high hockey IQ, playmaking ability, and powerful shot, Romani is a wizard at finding open spaces to unleash his improved shot. He’s a strong rush player who capitalizes on his constant movement to sift through defenders. So, what made him miss the cut last year? His 43 points didn’t necessarily jump off the page, and his defensive and physical game needed work.

The first thing that stands out about Romani’s game is his hockey IQ. Even last year, that was something that popped, and the results followed with a 68-point increase to 111 this year in his third campaign with North Bay. That all but assured he’d get drafted, with many scouts happy to see him finally live up to expectations after being a strong minor hockey star in the GTHL. He had to deal with playing catch-up after losing his OHL Draft year, where he was expected to challenge for the scoring lead. He has a remarkable shot and his skating continues to get better, but he needs to work on his defensive game still.

Most of Romani’s offence comes off the rush. He’s an ice-stretching playmaker, hitting teammates with long-bomb cross-ice passes. This season, he carried the puck move, creating offence with his weaving rushes and give-and-goes. Either way, he’s constantly shifting the defence around with his east-west movement, creating space for him or his linemates to slip away from the defence.