Let me shed some light on Daniel Winnik.
He is my best friend and grew up across the street from me, so perhaps my opinion is biased but I've seen him play at every level he's been at, from A, AA and AAA to Junior A with the Wexford Raiders to the University of New Hampshire.
Winnik is big... even at 6'2", the guy is thick and can be a physically imposing centerman. Daniel has played some left wing in his life, but is much better suited at the center position. His offensive game has always been better than his defensive side, but this year UNH he was seeing some penalty-killing action and performed well.
He is not the best skater in the world, nor is he the smoothest. However, when Winnik gets a full head of steam going, it's hard to stop him. A motivated Daniel Winnik is likely one of the best players on the Wildcats. At a younger age, he was more of a goal scorer due to an incredible slap shot and stickhandling. His center duties have made him more of a playmaker, and that's what he'll likely end up being if he turns professional.
I don't like the fact that people say he sucks because of his point totals this season. He was a healthy scratch early on and after UNH had 8 regulars suspended, Daniel was given the opportunity to perform and cemented himself as a main-stay.
If I had to forecast his role in the pros, it'd likely be as a very good third line centerman with some offensive skill or an all-around second line centerman. Oh, anybody who thinks he is soft needs a reality check. He loves to hit and loves to get hit as well. Likely won't drop the gloves though.
He's actually at my house right now and staying here until this weekend before we go up to the cottage. He was a little upset when he saw some of the comments in regards to his potential, and rightfully so. He'll be a heart-and-soul type player with a drive to win.