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When observers talk about Brandon Hickey, the first attribute that usually comes up is his terrific skating ability. The defenseman who is Boston University-bound is smooth on his skates and possesses offensive upside.
Hickey spent the past two seasons with the Spruce Grove Saints in the Alberta Junior Hockey League (AJHL). A product of the Leduc Oil Kings youth program, Hickey is renowned for his skating ability, but he has good tools all around.
He plays well in his own zone and accepts the responsibility of being a defender first. He is six-foot-one, but has yet to fully develop into his body. Most scouts and college recruiters expect him to gain 20 pounds before becoming a full force at the next level.
Boston University head coach David Quinn compared Hickey to Boston Bruins prospect and current Terrier Matt Grzelcyk in the school's press release announcing its recruiting class.
Hickey, the 63rd ranked North American skater by Central Scouting, finished his final season in the AJHL with four goals and 23 assists, including the playoffs.
Quick Facts:
Brandon Hickey
Central Scouting Final Ranking: 63
Hometown: Leduc, Alberta
2013-14 Team: Spruce Grove Saints (AJHL)
2014-15 Team: Boston University (NCAA)
Height/Weight: 6-1/153
Strengths: Terrific, smooth skater who has offensive upside
Weakness: Needs to add strength and play with a little more physicality
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Jeff Cox covers college, junior and high school hockey, NCAA recruiting and NHL Draft prospects. Follow him on twitter @JeffCoxSports.