Stefan Noesen (RW, 6’0, DOB 1993, 1-21/11)
2009-10 OHL Plymouth 33-3-5-8 +1 4pim (0.24) 18th pts
2010-11 OHL Plymouth 68-34-43-77 +14 80pim (ppg 1.13) t-1st
2011-12 OHL Plymouth 63-38-44-82 +18 74pim (ppg 1.30) 1st
An off the radar first-round selection (ranked #35 by Central Scouting), Noesen shook off a slow start to lead the Plymouth Whalers in scoring and improve on his production from last year. He was signed by the Sens during the season, but he can only turn pro next year if he makes the NHL roster (which is very unlikely). He should dominate the OHL next year and would play for the US at the World Junior Championships. Red Line Report compared him to Jamie Benn, “Texas native decided to get serious about the game, especially his conditioning, and as a result took huge strides this season. Always possessed buttery soft hands and a quick release, but took his game to the next level. In the process, became more of a physical power-type forward who down the homestretch and playoffs was Plymouth’s “go-to” guy, and most consistent and dangerous scoring threat. Plays an edgy physical game that makes opponents take notice when he’s on ice, but also takes lots of questionable penalties. Still has to work on first two-step acceleration, but the time he put in last summer showed us he’s grown up and is now willing to give that off-ice effort. Strong on skates and tough to separate from puck. Has trouble defensively handling coverage assignments down low.” ISS compared him to Colin Wilson, “He kept elevating his game throughout the year to secure his promising ranking here at ISS for the upcoming NHL draft. Noesen is a big, physical center that plays a real hard-nosed style of game. He possesses a very good combination of physical tools; he skates well considering his size, displays soft hands and a real touch with the puck while using his size effectively. He seems to relish playing in traffic while showing a willingness to compete in all three zones. Noesen shows the odd flash of quickness and he is always moving his feet. A very unselfish player, he is aware of where his teammates are and makes good crisp passes. Excellent secondary scoring option that brings great energy to shifts. NHL Potential: Solid two-way forward can chip in offensively.” Pierre Dorion said, “He’s shown that he’s a power forward type of winger who was willing to go to the net and had good skills. He made plays off the rush and he’s got a really good shot. We believe he’s going to be a guy that helps us win down the road.” Here’s Noesen being drafted (via TSN).
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