Luke Tuch

May 2022 – Luke Tuch had a very difficult sophomore season at Boston University. His weaknesses were somewhat concealed as a rookie due to his surprisingly good production in a small 18-game sample. However, it was apparent this year that he was consistently a step behind the game. He lacks planning in the offensive zone and rarely finds the best play to execute. He has blinders on with the puck, looking more to dump the puck in upon entering the zone than to pass to an open teammate, and even when he does spot passing options, he more often than not passes into the sticks or skates of opposing defenders. Tuch lacks an understanding of passing lanes in the defensive zone, and his contributions are inconsistent at best. This is not to say he is without his strengths, however. Tuch is a true grinder. He plays a hard-nosed game and is already a rather competent net-front presence at the NCAA level; he’s strong enough to disrupt defenders and park himself in the goalie’s field of view and possesses the hand-eye coordination to be a tipping threat. His shot is also an asset. While it may lack some accuracy, his wrist shot can be shockingly violent. If it continues to be refined, his shot projects as slightly above NHL-average, but in order to project as an entire package to the NHL, Tuch has a lot of work to do in the mental part of the game. While he remains young, Tuch already seems to be a coinflip to make the NHL in any capacity, which is not what any team wants of a player they picked in the second round less than two years ago. He could have value in fantasy leagues that value hits and be a decent addition in larger leagues. Sebastian High

July 2021 – Tuch had a solid freshman season for Boston College, managing 11 points in 16 games in a pandemic altered season. Tuch’s skating improved during this season, which allowed him to assert himself on the forecheck, use his size and strength, and get his team possession of the puck. He will hope to build on this season with a full sophomore season in a more typical hockey year. Pablo Ruiz

October 2020 – Tuch was drafted 47th overall by the Canadiens. Tuch is expected to spend at least two years in college before turning pro.  Jokke Nevalainen

May 2020 – A versatile forward who can play up and down the lineup, Tuch plays a physical brand of hockey and brings a good amount of skill with him. He doesn’t have the flashiest hands but he controls the puck well and works off the boards well. He has a strong cycle game and works out of the corners towards the slot with regularity. His shot is accurate and can be heavy at times but he needs to get to the  dangerous areas often enough to make it effective. He is a capable playmaker who works the puck down low in the zone. He finishes his checks all over the ice and he chooses his spots well. He needs to improve his first few steps because there are times when he can fall behind the play. His top speed isn’t bad but he takes a bit to get there. He profiles as a scoring middle-six winger who has more value in leagues that value hits and penalty minutes. Tony Ferrari