LA Kings: First round targets if NHL Draft started today, Part I
By Ryan Sikes
Scouting Report
"Clarke went overseas to the Slovakian men’s league to play with HC Nove Zamky just before the New Year. The adjustment to playing overseas and against men hasn’t been without it’s bumps in the road but Clarke has shown some development as well as the flashes of skill that had scouts drooling in the second half of last season. While his straight-line skating needs a bit of work mechanically, the overall mobility is very good. He is able to maneuver the ice and open passing lanes, manipulating forecheckers to give himself room to break the puck out with a pass or his feet. He needs to work on his defensive game as he can sometimes seem a bit overwhelmed, trying the desperation play just to hold his head above water at times. Offensively, the flashes of greatness remain. His ability to read and process the play, understanding when and where to jump into the play, is a big part of Clarke’s game. He has excellent offensive tools, none more valuable than his exceptional eye for the open man. The temporarily former Barrie Colts defender can spot a man a mile away and find their tape with a pass. His shimmy and shake in the offensive zone is also a trait that he shares with few forwards, let alone defenseman. Clarke remains one of the higher upside players in the draft class but unless he really starts to show some refinement, particularly defensively, Clarke may not be as favored to go in the top spot. – DobberProspects/Ferrari"
Production
- 19-20: 6G, 32A, 38 PIM, -6 in 57 games for the Barrie Colts (OHL)
- 2021: 5G, 10A, 41 PIM, +6 in 26 games for HC Nove Zamky