Julian Melchiori

History

2009-10: Julian Melchiori played for the Newmarket Hurricanes of the CCHL.  In 39 games, Melchiori scored 7 goals and added 16 assists for 23 points.  In 20 playoff games for the Hurricanes, Melchiori scored 2 goals and added 9 assists for 11 points while registering a +6 rating.  Melchiori is the nephew of former NHL player Mike Murphy.

2010-11: Melchiori played it safe in his first season with the Kitchener Rangers of the OHL, staying within his limitations and taking care of his own end first. Although he had been a top scoring blueliner within the OJHL, quarterbacking the power play for the Newmarket Hurricanes, and is believed to have a significant offensive upside, his rookie numbers of 1 goal and 18 assists in 63 games represent a game in transition.

2011-12: Melchiori signed a three-year entry-level contract with the Jets in March 2012 and made his pro debut – skating in one game for Winnipeg AHL affiliate St. John's following an overage season in the OHL. He was minus-one with no points or penalties in his only game with the IceCaps. Melchiori began the year with Kitchener before being traded to Oshawa in January 2012. He scored 2 goals with 34 assists and was plus-10 with 64 penalty minutes in 61 OHL games between the two teams. Oshawa made the playoffs after finishing third in the East Division. Melchiori scored 2 goals with 1 assist and was minus-two with 2 penalty minus in six playoff games.

 

Talent Analysis

Melchiori is a big, strong defenseman who can skate with the puck and who can play in all situations. He was used to getting a lot of ice time in Newmarket and will hope to do the same as he moves to college hockey at U Mass-Lowell. Melchiori should only improve as he grows and develops physically and continues to refine his game.

 

Future

Melchiori has the frame and mobility for the pro game.