Player's Profile
Picture Courtesy of http://www.newjerseydevils.com/
- 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: 2nd round (57th overall), 2007
- Playing In: NCAA
Mike Hoeffel
Prospect Grade: 6.0 B (About Prospect Grades)
Profile Contributed By: HF Staff
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
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.
2007-08: It took awhile for Hoeffel to get things going this season, but once he did, Minnesota reaped the benefits as he made a fairly big splash in his freshman season. Playing in all 45 games, Hoeffel led all Golden Gophers in rookie scoring with nine goals and 10 assists. He excelled on the penalty killing unit, scoring two short handed goals. Hoeffel gradually was able to show various aspects of his game that had scouts raving prior to having been drafted, such as his wonderful skating and physical play.
* Listen to Mike Hoeffel's Hockey's Future Radio interview
2008-09: It was a tale of two seasons for Hoeffel, as he did not get off to a great start, but in the second half of the season for the Golden Gophers, after playing for Team USA at the World Junior Championships, he appeared to get his game back on track. In 35 games, he scored 12 goals (third best on the team and six of which were power-play goals) and eight assists to go along with 38 PIM's. His -12 rating was somewhat disappointing, considering that he is supposed to be a sound defensive forward.
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
Hoeffel's ceiling is that of a grinding, checking line winger, much like current Devil Jay Pandolfo in his prime. He is a fairly safe prospect, but has the ability to have a much better year than 2008-09 when he returns to the University of Minnesota for his junior season. A bounce back year could very well be in order.
Stats
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Profile Last Updated: October, 31st 2009
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