Film Room: Teddy Stiga's rapid development could make him one of the steals of the draft

On a recent Q and A on our youtube channel, a viewer asked which 2024 NHL Draft prospect would thrive in the NHL playoffs. Teddy Stiga immediately came to mind. 

Last measured at the draft combine at 5-foot-10 and 178 pounds, Stiga lacks the power forward build that we typically associate with playoff performers. And he’s also on the lighter side of a draft class, featuring plenty of towering and strong defencemen and forwards. But there are other types of skill-sets that shine in the playoffs. 

Jonathan Marchessault, one inch shorter than Stiga, was recently awarded the Conn Smythe Trophy, given to the post-season MVP, after scoring 13 goals and 25 points in the Vegas Golden Knights run to the Stanley Cup in 2023. And Jake Guentzel also built his reputation as a playoff goal-scorer, putting up 38 in 69 appearances. 

Stiga has many skills in common with these players, especially the second one. 

Just like Guentzel, Stiga has refined the tactical aspect of his game. He supports the play, positions himself offensively, and stays connected with teammates exceptionally well. He moves where defences can’t see him, anticipates the flow of the play, and he’s constantly adjusting his footwork to create and stay in passing lanes. 

As his teammates carry the puck down below the goal line, he comes down from the point and sneaks behind the backs of opponents in prime scoring spots. And when they spin off their check on the wall, looking for an immediate outlet, he stands in the slot right in the middle of the slot, in a seam between two defenders.