2022 QMJHL Draft | Under the Microscope: Éliot L’Italien
Éliot L’Italien has come a long way since being a finalist at the Quebec International Pee-Wee Hockey Tournament in 2018-19.
As he’s risen through the minor hockey ranks, the 16-year-old has always been among the best players on his team. Now, he’s on the verge of being a top pick during this summer’s QMJHL Draft.
The versatile forward has put up 17 goals and 32 points in 39 games this season in U18 AAA with the Séminaire St-François Blizzard. He has shown that he can have an impact at both ends of the ice and, although his offensive production doesn’t match other players in the league, he does many things that help his team win on a nightly basis.
“He is a very complete player,” said Blizzard head coach Frédéric Parent. “He has an explosive skating stride for someone his size. Defensively, for his age, he is very mature and almost impeccable. He uses his stick well and plays physically as well. He takes great care in his own zone.”
Parent describes L’Italien as calm and composed. He’s someone who is close to his teammates and always ready to lend a helping hand, especially to the team’s equipment managers. He’s also very humble and polite, so it’s no wonder that he was named an assistant captain this season.
The coaching staff is working hard with L’Italien to help boost his offensive numbers. They’ve been working on his puck handling skills, having quicker hands and being able to get his shot off in more situations.
Because he’s so detail oriented, Parent likes to compare L’Italien to none other than Patrice Bergeron and Sean Couturier. He also has a great attitude and approach to the game, which will be his keys to success at the next level.
“There are a lot of players who have talent. But to make it really far, you must emphasize the details, and Éliot is like that,” explained Parent. “The little details are there; he’s a team first guy, he has an impeccable attitude and he always works hard.”
If a team is looking for a highly effective two-way forward with untapped potential and intangible leadership qualities at the upcoming draft, then L’Italien should certainly be at the top of their list.
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Éliot L’Italien
Height: 6’1″ | Weight: 185 lbs.
Birthdate: March 23, 2006
Birthplace: L’Ancienne-Lorette, Quebec
Shoots: Right
