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Player's Profile

  • Name: Craig Switzer
  • Position: D
  • Shoots: Left
  • Height: 6-1
  • Weight: 195 lbs
  • Birthdate: 1984-07-16
  • Eligible for Draft: 2002
  • Drafted:
  • Hometown: Peachland, British Columbia
  • Acquired: 2004 NHL Entry Draft by Nashville
  • Playing In: NCAA

Craig Switzer

Prospect Grade: 4.5 C  (About Prospect Grades)

Profile Contributed By: DJ Powers

History

Choosing not to opt in for the 2003 NHL Entry Draft, Salmon Arm Silverbacks defenseman Craig Switzer has seen his stock rise significantly after a very successful season. He was selected to the 2004 BCHL All-Star Game, and lead the Silverbacks blueline all season long. By the end of the year, Switzer was selected to the Interior Conference 1st All-Star Team along with teammate Travis Zajac. Finally, to top of a great 2003-04 season, Switzer was awarded the BCHL Top Defenseman Award for the Interior Conference.

2006-07: In his three years at UNH, Craig Switzer has established himself as one of the Wildcats top defensemen, logging a lot of ice time and helping to be a stabilizing presence on the blueline. He posted 17 points (three goals, 14 assists) playing in all 39 games. Where Switzer has been particularly effective has been on the Wildcats’ excellent power play. Of Switzer’s 17 points, twelve came on the man-advantage. His plus-21 led UNH and ranked second in Hockey East. Switzer, a player who excels in the classroom as well, was also named to the Hockey East All-Academic Team. 

October 2005 feature on Switzer

Talent Analysis

Switzer is an excellent puck-moving defenseman with good size. He makes great use of his 6’2 frame and long reach. He is very strong in his positional play, particularly in one-on-one situations. He is a smooth skater who is strong on his skates, but could be a little quicker in his transitioning. One of his Switzer’s greatest assets are his puck skills. He has great poise and patience with the puck and makes excellent decisions with it. He possesses a very good, fairly accurate shot. Switzer is a smart player who has great vision and awareness. While he won’t hesitate to join the play, it almost never comes at the expense of his defensive responsibilities. Switzer is not a particularly physical player but can finish his checks. 

Future

Switzer will enter his senior year at the University of New Hampshire this fall, where he will serve as one of the team’s assistant captains.

Stats

Stats Coming Soon...

Profile Last Updated: August, 29th 2007

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