16. Cam York, D, USNTDP-USHL
Jan. 5, 2001 | 5-foot-11 | 176 pounds
Skating: 55
Puck Skills: 60
Physical Game: 40
Hockey Sense: 60
York was the No. 1 defenseman on the NTDP this past season, the main power play QB for most of the season and had one of the most productive statistical careers ever by an NTDP defender. York’s hockey sense is what makes him so valuable. His poise with the puck is fantastic. He’s never pressured into bad decisions and exhibits great vision. His teammates constantly praise what a calming influence he is when he has the puck. York has a high skill level but often does not lean on his stick handling, preferring to make a play to his forwards. York skates well. He lacks a dynamic top gear you’d like in a small defenseman, but he can skate pucks out of trouble or into the offensive zone. He defends well due to his feet and great brain, but it will be interesting to see how that translates versus men, as I wouldn’t call him a top-tier defender.
USNTDP center Jack Hughes on York: “He’s such a smart player, so steady and never in the wrong position. He moves the puck quick. His first pass is always on the tape. He can skate the puck up and shoot it. He’s a real good defender, too.”