2014 NHL Draft Prospect: Yale recruit Ryan Hitchcock

Yale recruit Ryan Hitchcock saw his stock plummet in his draft year, going from 95th at the mid-term to 131 in the Central Scouting Service's final rankings.

The US National Team Development Program left shot center or leftwing is a terrific passer with equally impressive vision. He is creative in the offensive zone and can fit pucks through narrow seams. He posted nine goals and added 35 assists in 45 games this season with the NTDP. He is solid in his own zone as well.

The reason for his drop in the rankings was likely due to concern among scouts about his lack of size and ability to finish.

A likely sixth or seventh round pick, Hitchcock told SBNation in September at the CCM/USA Hockey All-American Prospects Game that he is excited to play for Keith Allain and the Bulldogs, the 2013 NCAA Champions.

Quick Facts:

Ryan Hitchcock

Central Scouting Final Ranking: 131

Hometown: Manhasset, NY

2013-14 Team: US National Team Development Program

2014-15 Team: Yale (NCAA)

Height/Weight: 5-9/155

Strengths: creative, great passer, finds seams, good vision

Weaknesses: size and strength, lack of a finishing touch

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Jeff Cox covers college, junior and high school hockey, NCAA recruiting and NHL Draft prospects. Follow him on twitter @JeffCoxSports.