2014 NHL Draft: Scouting the Southeast’s Top Picks

Carolina Hurricanes, Haydn Fleury

After finishing outside of the playoff picture for yet another season, despite boasting offensive superstars Eric Staal and Jeff Skinner to name a few, the Hurricanes decided to get bigger by choosing Red Deer Rebels defenseman Haydn Fleury.

Jun 27, 2014; Philadelphia, PA, USA; Haydn Fleury poses for a photo with team officials after being selected as the number seven overall pick to the Carolina Hurricanes in the first round of the 2014 NHL Draft at Wells Fargo Center. Mandatory Credit: Bill Streicher-USA TODAY Sports

Known for his physicality, Fleury has the size to intimidate opponents on a nightly basis. That would fit extremely well in Carolina, as Staal needs someone to distract other teams, thus allowing him more room to roam.

He’s also able to jump in offensively, tallying 46 points with the WHL’s Red Deer Rebels last season. Pretty good numbers for a guy who’s often times throwing the body around which, in turn, can lead to injuries.

Compared to Jay Bouwmeester, Fleury’s extremely smooth in his own zone, yet when the opportunity presents itself he’s quick to jump-start a rush up ice.

With the Hurricanes, Fleury has the ability to grow and develop at his own pace because of the young defenseman that look to be NHL ready. Guys like Andrej Sekera and Justin Faulk spent a good chunk of last season with the big club, and will likely crack the opening day roster this year.

Rating: 2 stars