With the 32nd overall selection, the Calgary Flames arguably got one of the biggest steals of the first round. They selected Cullen Potter with Florida\u2019s first-round pick from the Matthew Tkachuk trade, officially completing the return. Potter was expected to be drafted within the early to mid-twenties, so when he slid down to 32, it was a no-brainer choice for the Flames. Let\u2019s take a closer look at Potter and what Flames fans can expect from his skill set and pedigree. <\/p>\n
Who is Cullen Potter?<\/p>\n
Potter joined college hockey this season, committing himself to Arizona State University. The American forward has since shown immense promise and a diverse skill set. Being just 17 years old when he entered college, Potter wanted to give himself more of a challenge by playing against harder competition. Potter also got the chance to play for Team USA in the U-18 World Championships this season, scoring a commanding eight points in seven games.<\/p>\n
2023-24USNDTUSHL35 GP9 G 13 A 22 P2024-25Arizona State UniversityNCHC35 GP13 G 9 A 22 P<\/p>\n
Of course, Potter comes from a strong athletic background. His mother, Jenny Potter, is one of the most well-known women\u2019s hockey players, having played for Team USA in the Olympics where she won a gold medal.<\/p>\n
There\u2019s no doubt from scouts and insiders that the Flames have drafted quite a player. Potter was seen as one of the best skaters in this year\u2019s draft class, combining elite speed and edgework that has been described as already being NHL-ready. While undersized, all the Flames see in this player is pure offensive skill, and for him to potentially become a prominent part of the team\u2019s future. <\/p>\n
Potter and his role with the Flames<\/p>\n
The Flames are truly building something when it comes to the future of their forward core. Potter has played both as a centre and as a winger, but the Flames have indicated that they plan on developing Potter exclusively as a centre. <\/p>\n
Centre depth has truly been an issue in the Flames\u2019 organization. Potter having versatility when it comes to his position gives the team some more options. Additionally, the Flames also drafted Cole Reschny, who is a natural centre. For Potter, his NHL projections suggest that his ceiling can be high. Scouts have indicated that he has the potential to become a first-line scoring winger or a top-six centre.<\/p>\n
Potter will still take a couple of years before he makes the transition to the NHL. He\u2019ll need to put on some weight to make up for being undersized at 5\u201910\u201d, to truly enhance his physique and strength for the conditions of pro hockey. The Flames are better off taking it slow to ensure they don\u2019t rush Potter in too quickly. With that being said, don\u2019t be surprised if Potter does make the jump to the NHL quicker than many expect him to. He skates like the wind and possesses strong puck skills combined with an admirable compete level. In short, Potter fits right into the culture and philosophy that the Flames are trying to instill into their young players. <\/p>\n
How this player fits into the Flames\u2019 core<\/p>\n
Given his potential and raw skill set, Potter can very well be a prominent player for the Flames\u2019 future. If he develops as a centre, it would be huge for Calgary\u2019s future down the middle. If he turns into more of a winger, he could be one of the more premium offensive options the Flames have in their top-six<\/p>\n