Matt Tassone

History

2007-08: Tassone saw an increased role in his second year with Swift Current (WHL) and his scoring pace followed.  He showed the tendency to be a gritty player that will drop the gloves if the need arises; he was one of three players with 110+ PIMs on the Broncos this year.  Tassone stepped up his game in the playoffs for Swift Current as well, which may have been the ticket that got “Taz” drafted by the Stars in the sixth round.

Talent Analysis

Tassone is a fiery competitor.  He leaves everything on the ice and will stand up for his teammates in any way possible.  He owns pretty good size to survive being a gritty NHLer.  Has the ability to step up his play in big games.  Is willing to go to the net to dig for goals, but he isn’t brimming with natural talent or creativity.  He’s going to need to continue to develop his physicality, fighting ability and defensive play in order to be an asset at the NHL level.  Needs to work on his skating and can sometimes get a little lost on the ice.  Has to ensure that he doesn’t get distracted by opposing players or take any foolish/cheap penalties. He can ill-afford to take shifts off if he wants to be a regular player at the professional level.   

Future

Potential: Gritty third-line forward who can fight and/or be put in front of the net, like Jamal Mayers with a slower stride.