A smallish winger, he is a sound skater who owns an extra gear that can burn blue-liners. Fonstad is known for his cerebral approach – smart reads and creative puck distribution. Not only is he a great passer – from both sides of his stick – Fonstad possesses a patience with the puck that draws defenders out of position and creates offensive opportunity for his teammates. On the power play, with that poise under pressure and his awareness of open ice, he becomes an even more dangerous element. Not surprisingly, he is a pass-first player. His shot, always a last resort for him, could use an upgrade in power and that would certainly put more weapons in his arsenal. And at times, he is actually too calm with the puck, holding onto it instead of attacking. There are concerns, too, that his defensive game is lagging behind. One scout referred to it as wishy-washy – passive in the neutral zone, not nearly diligent enough along the boards, and not fully committed on the back-check. He can be caught floating and only watching the puck. Some observers, however, deem his own-zone play to be competent and responsible. Ideally, Fonstad could use more weight. But the scouts agree that he is progressing and there is lots to like about his game, especially offensively. He seems tailor-made for the new NHL.

Very good offensive hockey sense; has a good creative aspect to his game – very good vision and anticipation – more of a play maker coming in off the wall – displays quick hands with a soft touch around the net – sees play developing before line mates can react at times; makes players around him effective – very slippery and elusive with the puck; can mesmerize defenders at times – quick feet in tight quarters – always a threat on the power play.