Player's Profile
Picture Courtesy of www.amerks.com
- Name: Dylan Hunter
- Position: LW
- Shoots: Left
- Height: 5-11
- Weight: 198 lbs
- Birthdate: 1985-05-11
- Eligible for Draft: 2003
- Drafted:
- Hometown: Petrolia, Ontario
- Acquired: 9th Round (273rd overall), 2004 NHL Draft
- Playing In: Pro
Dylan Hunter
Prospect Grade: 6.5 D (About Prospect Grades)
Profile Contributed By: HF Staff
History
The Buffalo Sabres dipped into NHL bloodlines with their last pick in the 2004 draft, selecting Dylan Hunter of the OHL’s London Knights in the 9th round (273rd overall). The winger is the son of Knights coach and co-owner Dale Hunter, who played 19 NHL seasons as a pesky forward with the Quebec Nordiques, Washington Capitals, and Colorado Avalanche.
Hunter, a left-handed shot, spent his younger years with the Washington Little Capitals, Lambton Lightning, and London Nationals hockey organizations. His success at the lower levels earned him a second-round selection (21st overall) in the 2001 OHL Priority Draft by London. He immediately stepped into the Knights lineup, compiling 27 points in his 54-game rookie campaign. That season would also see him win a bronze medal with Team Ontario at the 2001 Under-17 Championships in Selkirk, Manitoba.
Hunter was a well thought of prospect entering the 2003 draft year, but his abysmal 2002-03 season in London led to every team passing on the winger. In 68 games that year, Hunter scored a paltry 42 points, finishing with a –14 rating. Despite the down year statistically that saw him play a rather “lazy” game, Hunter would get his first taste of NHL life, and a career wake-up call, by attending the Washington Capitals training camp the following September.
The Petrolia, Ontario native returned the OHL play in 2003-04 20 pounds lighter, nearly doubling his pervious year’s production while posting career marks in all offensive categories, including a +35 rating. He played the entire season on the top line, as well as the #1 power play. His renewed confidence led to 26 goals, with his 79 points good for third on the team and 13th in the OHL. His point total was better than those of teammates and 2004 first round picks Rob Schremp (75) and David Bolland (67). He was named to the OHL’s Third All-Star Team.
Hunter, the London Knights all time leader in assists and games played, signed a three-year entry-level deal with Buffalo on 6/1/06.
Talent Analysis
Overall, Hunter has a basic grasp of the offensive aspects of the game. He has average hands and strength, but below average speed and agility. He isn’t considered to be a natural finisher. Much like his father, Hunter works hard and competes hard. Unlike his father, Hunter does most of this exclusively in the offensive end of the rink. While displaying great positional instincts and a knack for using his strength to dig in the corners of the opponent’s zone, Hunter often neglects his backchecking responsibilities altogether. His defensive shortcomings often outweigh his offensive contributions.
Future
Future Analysis Coming Soon...
Stats
| Year | Team | League | GP | G | A | Pts | PIM |
| 2003-04 | London | OHL | 64 | 26 | 53 | 79 | 47 |
| 2004-05 | London | OHL | 67 | 31 | 73 | 104 | 64 |
| 2005-06 | London | OHL | 62 | 32 | 85 | 117 | 50 |
Profile Last Updated: March, 26th 2008
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