Paul Phillips
| Birthday: 1991-07-16 | Position: D |
| Eligible for draft: 2009 | Shoots: Left |
| Drafted: 2009 | Height: 6-0 |
| Acquired: 7th round (195th overall), 2009 | Weight: 195 lbs. |
Probability of Success
- C
History
2008-09: Paul Phillips served as the captain in his second year with the Cedar Rapids Roughriders in the USHL. The blueliner skated in 60 games, scoring 8 goals and 25 assists for 33 points. He was held off the scoresheet in 5 USHL playoff games.
2009-10: The mobile defender played regularly during his freshman season at the University of Denver. Though he recorded only 4 assists during his 31 game season, Phillips played a steady, defensive role for the Pioneers.
2010-11: Phillips earned 38 starts as a sophomore at Denver University, equaling his freshman season total of 4 assists.
2011-12: Phillips spent much of the season skating alongside Islanders prospect Scott Mayfield in his junior season at Denver. In 40 games he scored 1 goal with 8 assists and was plus-one with 22 penalty minutes. One of the leading shot-blockers for Denver, Phillips was a solid presence in his own end. The Pioneers finished third in the WCHA and reached the Broadmoor Trophy WCHA playoff championship game after defeating second-place Minnesota-Duluth in a double overtime semifinal game. Denver lost to eventual NCAA runner-up Ferris State in the NCAA Midwest Regional semifinals.
2012-13: Phillips served as a captain at the University of Denver in his senior season. In 39 games he scored 1 goal with 10 assists and was +1 with 24 penalty minutes. The Pioneers were one of college hockey's top teams for much of the season, finishing fourth in the WCHA and receiving an at-large bid to the NCAA tournament. Denver lost to rival Colorado College in a three-game WCHA quarterfinal series and was defeated by New Hampshire in the NCAA Northeast Regional semifinals. Phillips did not receive a contract from Chicago, becoming an unrestricted free agent, and signed with the ECHL's Colorado Eagles in July 2013.
Talent Analysis
Phillips is a mobile defenseman who is capable at both ends of the ice. He has sound positioning defensively and is willing to work the tough areas in front of his net and along the boards. Plays with great awareness and consistently makes the right decision. Though he does not shoot a lot, he can get the puck to the net in a hurry. Also displays leadership ability and served as a captain for Cedar Rapids in the USHL.
Future
Phillips graduated from the University of Denver in 2013 but was not signed to a pro contract by the Blackhawks. His well-rounded game and leadership ability should earn him a chance somewhere, but it does not appear that it will be with the Blackhawks.
