Name: Joe Cecconi
Position: Defense
Team: Muskegon (USHL)
2014-15 Stats: 3-14--17, 35 PIMS, 60 Games Played.
Measurables: 6'3, 205 lbs
CSS Rankings: 88 Final, 70 Midterm
The Rundown
Cecconi is an old school defenseman with a modern skill-set. He's a physical, engulfing 1-on-1 defender who takes care of his own zone and favors solid defense over big hits. He's mobile, makes smart outlets out of the defensive zone and has poise with the puck on his stick.
Cecconi isn't going to play a flashy a game and won't be an offensive go-to guy to the next level, something that he noted to Joe Ray at the All-American Prospects game.
"I just want to play my game and keep it simple," Cecconi explained. "I’m not going to try and do anything that I’m not used to doing just to impress scouts. My family and friends will be there. I’m just going to play my game and play hard."
Arriving at Michigan, the team doesn't have a set 1 or 2 right defenseman which will give Cecconi the opportunity to earn a Top-4 spot from the beginning and showcase his skills against team's best offensive players.
NHL Draft Projection
The mid-to-late 4th round is where I think he'll land.
In today's NHL defenseman who just play good defense aren't coveted like they used to be unless you're a clear #1 at the next level, so Cecconi's production in the offensive end will keep him out of the first three rounds.
After a 3-4 year career at Michigan, an eventual 2nd pair ceiling is a realistic expectation.