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Eric Knodel, D |
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Shoots: L |
Height: 6-6 |
Weight: 225 |
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Born: 1990-06-08 |
Hometown: West Chester, Pennsylvania |
Drafted: 2009 by Toronto Maple Leafs, 128th Overall |
Observations:
July 2015 – On the ice, Knodel had a rather strong season in the AHL and ECHL, compiling half-point-per game stats and showed responsibility. Unfortunately due to numbers he spent a quarter of the season in the stands. He is currently a Free Agent, but should find work with another organization in the fall as an AHL prospect. He has good upside that can’t be ignored, just needs ice and full time opportunity. Jason Banks
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February 2015 – Knodel has had an up and down season, and sporadically shows upside that is immensely attractive. After a numbers game on AHL defense, he was assigned to the ECHL where his game struggled, but since being recalled due to injuries and needs in both the NHL and AHL, Knodel has been the most offensive defender (per game basis) and has shown good stability and maturity as he has adjusted to the pro game. He plays kind of soft for a big man, but as he matures he should start to utilize his size and strength more for benefit on both sides of the puck. He just came off a four game point streak, and could see a bigger jump should he see powerplay time with newly acquired T.J. Brennen. Knodel needs to establish himself as a key player to stay a staple in the AHL lineup amongst the 9 current prospects and new ones coming, but the outlook is good. Jason Banks
March 2014 – The rather large and mobile, NCAA product has recently signed an entry level deal and will start his pro career in the AHL. He left the college ranks with a rather strong 28 point campaign in 41 games while serving as the captain of the University of New Hampshire team. It appears he will log large, responsible minutes, being capable of chipping in points, while not needing to take an abundance of penalties. Toronto’s version of Zdeno Chara might be in the making, but those are lofty hopes at this point. His contract is a rather odd, single season, entry level that does not start until next season (likely due to the fact Dave Nonis is at his 50 contract limit for this season), meaning he is not eligible to play in the NHL this campaign no matter how well he plays. Jason Banks
He may contribute in the NHL within a pair of seasons, but he will take a couple more seasons to become fantasy relevant. How he will contribute is currently up for questioning.
Footage:
Amateur Highlight pack from his current NCAA season. Displays an ability to just get shots through and fluid motion.
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Buy the latest Fantasy Prospects Report here.
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