Matt Irwin
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Birthday:
1987-11-29 |
Position:
D |
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Eligible for draft:
2005 |
Shoots:
Left |
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Drafted:
|
Height:
6-2 |
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Acquired:
Free agent signing, 2010 |
Weight:
210 lbs. |
Prospect Talent Score
Probability of Success
- C
History
2008-09: In Matt Irwin’s first season with UMass-Amherst(H-East) he scored 7 goals and picked up 11 assists in 31 games.
2009-10: Sophomore for UMass-Amherst, scoring 24 points in 36 games. Signed an entry-level deal with the Sharks and was assigned to the AHL where in 3 games he posted 0 assists and 2 PIM.
2010-11: Irwin skated in 72 of 80 games for the AHL's Worcester Sharks in his first pro season and was the second-leading scorer amongst defensemen. He scored 10 goals with 21 assists, with 16 of his 31 points coming on the power play, and was -7 with 43 PMs. Worcester finished three points out of the final playoff spot.
2011-12: Irwin had an excellent third season in the AHL with Worcester where the offensive defenseman finished second on the team in scoring and had nine power play goals. The big mobile defender was named to his first AHL All-star game, finished first in the AHL in power play goals and number of shots. He scored 11 goals along with 31 assists but a poor minus nine rating in 71 games this season.
Talent Analysis
Irwin is a big, strong puck-moving defenseman who likes to jump up into the rush as the trailer and has a blast from the point. He has the offensive skills to lead the power play and has good vision to make the tape to tape outlet passes. The Big blueliner needs to play with more physicality while improving his defensive zone positioning and board play down low to play at the NHL level.
Future
Irwin will likely start the season in the AHL with Worcester but could be an injury replacement call-up to San Jose. He would help the Sharks if the team lost one or more of their power play point men.
