SPITS PICKS ROUNDS 4 & 6
SCHMALTZ GOES #76
With the #76 pick in the fourth round, GM Warren Rychel selected highly-touted prospect Nick Schmaltz of the Chicago Mission Under-16s. A native of Verona, Wisconsin, Schmaltz may be a longshot to join the club, as he is headed to the Green Bay Gamblers of the USHL.
SCOUTING REPORT
Nick is possibly the most skilled forward in the draft this year. While playing at the Midget Minor level in the States, Nick seemed like he was just playing with the other teams and doing this at will. He had the ability to make passes and score goals that left you just shaking your head asking “did he really just do that?” Nick has the ability to slow the game down and make plays as if he was standing still. He is a very good skater and will only get quicker and faster as his lower body strength increases, which will make him even more dominant.
BILLINGS GOES #108
The Spits went for a 1995 forward known to be aggressive on the forecheck in Culver U16’s Jack Billings. A solid, 5’10” 180-pound two-way player and a good skater. In 33 games last season, Billings had 26 goals and 50 points.
SCOUTING REPORT
Intelligent player that possesses exceptional hockey sense and instincts to anticipate the play. Is effective with his positioning and is defensively supportive. Sturdy, balanced and mobile skater that has a hard time separating himself and needs to continue developing his first few steps. His attack mentality and feel for the puck is forceful and intriguing, and he holds a great deal of shimmy with the puck. Is strong on his stick and hard to dislodge from the puck. Has a deceptively hard shot that he gets off with a quick release. Passes the puck cleanly and with purpose – shows flashes of NHL caliber distribution and vision.
