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Player's Profile

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  • Name: Mike Hoeffel
  • Position: LW
  • Shoots: Left
  • Height: 6-2
  • Weight: 186 lbs
  • Birthdate: 1989-04-09
  • Eligible for Draft: 2007
  • Drafted: 2007
  • Hometown: North Oaks, Minnesota
  • Acquired: Drafted in 2007
  • Playing In: NCAA

Mike Hoeffel

Prospect Grade: 6.0 C  (About Prospect Grades)

Profile Contributed By: Jared Ramsden

History

2005-06: Hoeffel is just one of two members of the 2006-07 U-18 NTDP squad who was not a member of the U-17 squad the year prior.  He declined an invitation to join the team, opting to remain a member of his high school team.  Playing for the Hill-Murray School (Minnesota), Hoeffel had an astounding season, putting up 73 points (27 goals, 46 assists) and just 20 PIM in only 30 games.  He also played for the silver medal winning 2006 USA U-18 Select Team at the Memorial of Ivan Hlinka Tournament.  He ended the tournament with three points (one goal, two assists) in four games. 

 

2006-07: In his first season with the NTDP, the 6’2 winger recorded 23 points (16 goals, seven assists) in 44 games.  He also spent 28 minutes in the penalty box.  His 16 goals were fifth most on the squad, and he was in the top ten for the NTDP in points, and PPG.  Nine of Hoeffel’s 23 points came in 22 games against NCAA opposition (seven goals, two assists).  He also recorded 12 PIM against NCAA opponents.  He was in the top five on the NTDP in goals (seven) and PPG (3) against NCAA opposition. Though a late season torn ACL somewhat affected his draft status, the New Jersey Devils spent their top pick in him, choosing him 57th overall in the second round of the 2007 NHL Draft.


* Listen to Mike Hoeffel's Hockey's Future Radio interview

Sean Ruck contributed to this profile

Talent Analysis

Hoeffel showed the ability to put the puck in the net last season and back when he was one of the top high school players in the state of Minnesota, but there seems to be a consensus that he will make a much more effective checker than scorer once he is fully developed, because has average hands around the net and his hockey sense is limited at the offensive end of the rink. That’s not to say that he can’t score at all, it’s just that he likely won’t be guy counted on to shoulder a lot of offensive responsibility at the highest levels.

While his offensive ability may be in question, Hoeffel has plenty of other qualities that should help him become and effective role player. He is strong on his feet and is a top notch skater. He enjoys playing an intense, physical style and his motor always seems to be on high as he constantly keeps his feet moving, showing great energy and hustle. At 6'2, 186 lbs, he already has good size and as he grows into his frame and gets stronger, he should become an even more effective forechecker.

Future

The Devils will likely have to show patience with Hoeffel, but he appears to be the type of player that the Devils should be able to mold into an effective checking line winger, possibly along the lines of a Jay Pandolfo. Plays for the University of Minnesota.

Stats

SEASON    TEAM                              GP G A PTS +/- PIM
2006-07 USA Ntl. U-18 Team
 11 6 5 11 --- 10

 

Profile Last Updated: March, 13th 2008

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