Few forwards in this draft class get the puck as often as Cootes. He’s relentless with a non-stop motor, and he showed that in spades at the U-18 World Championship. Cootes is also a solid playmaker, often easily finding teammates in open space. I think his value goes far beyond his numbers, which you want from a center. He’s not small at six-foot, but he’s not huge, either. That doesn’t seem to hurt him, though, because he’s not afraid to play with an edge.

The Alberta native checks all the right boxes the Canucks could hope for in a prospect. Known for his relentless work ethic, he’s the kind of player who leaves it all on the ice, earning a reputation as a “heart and soul” type with leadership potential written all over him. He’s a tireless competitor on the ice, providing a real “Energizer Bunny” brand with his non-stop motor. He’s a responsible, all-situations (right-shot) pivot who thrives in all three zones, bringing a pest-like forecheck that wears down opponents.

While he may not deliver bone-crushing hits, his constant pressure and volume of engagement make him a nightmare to play against. He forces defenders to constantly swivel, overthinking each time they skate toward the corners.