Tyler Kleven

October 2020 – The Ottawa Senators traded up in the draft to select the big American defender, sending picks 59 and 64 to Toronto for 44th overall. Kleven played for the U.S. National Team Development Program in Plymouth, Michigan. His massive frame and above-average skating are what sold him to the Senators’ front office and they will hope that their player development staff can help develop the rest of his game. He is a decent defender who can close out an attacking player as they cross the blueline and his in-zone defense is above average. Kleven is a big hitter who will provide some value in multi-cat leagues but his offensive upside is fairly limited. He will need to bring his passing game up a step or two and he will need to make better decisions when it comes to when he is attempting to throw the big hit but if he can reign himself in a bit, he could a solid defensive blueliner who can add some physicality to the lineup. He will be attending the University of North Dakota, with fellow Senators draft choice and U.S. NTDP alum Jake Sanderson. Playing NCAA hockey will be an excellent place for the hulking American to develop his puck skills and decision making. Tony Ferrari