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Why Zach Hyman's name is being mentioned around a Leafs prospect
Photo credit: Timothy T. Ludwig-Imagn Images
One Toronto Maple Leafs prospect could be the Leafs next Zach Hyman, as the data shows a potential comparison.
A member of the Toronto Maple Leafs is showing a comparable to former Leaf and current Edmonton Oilers forward Zach Hyman.
Toronto Maple Leafs prospect Nick Moldenhauer was recently compared to Zach Hyman as analytics showed some statistical similarities between the two forwards.
Moldenhauer, a forward with the University of Michigan, was drafted by the Toronto Maple Leafs in the third round of the 2022 NHL Entry Draft.
A junior at Michigan, Moldenhauer has had a profile in production similar to Hyman, according to analytics from Byron Bader.
Could Nick Moldenhauer really be the Leafs next Zach Hyman?
Statistically, Nick Moldenhauer shows some similarity to Zach Hyman, but the two are clearly different players with notably different play styles.
Hyman was a late bloomer, playing in the OJHL as a youngster and taking a few years in the NHL to become a top-six forward through a high effort level.
Moldenhauer does come with some questions in his game. He's not a big forward at 5'10 and hasn't been a dominant player at Michigan this season, with just three goals and 13 points in 20 games for the Wolverines.
Michigan Daily's Matthew Auchinloss wrote on Moldenhauer and the impact that the 21-year-old has had despite a lack of production.
His versatility has improved dramatically since joining the Wolverines, and he's converted from a one-dimensional shooter into an everyman who throws the body, kills penalties and still scores goals.
His on-ice vision has improved, allowing him to make more plays, and he's a much more dynamic force for the Wolverines than he has been in previous years.
His on-ice vision has improved, allowing him to make more plays, and he's a much more dynamic force for the Wolverines than he has been in previous years.
What would make Nick Moldenhauer an NHLer?
Nick Moldenhauer is a player who works hard to overcome a lack of size and not having natural high-end skills, the type of effort level that helped Hyman make it to the NHL.
As well as his energy and willingness to be physical beyond his size, Moldenhauer has been viewed as one of the most personable players in college hockey, discussed as charismatic and social off the ice.
Moldenhauer has been dependable and a hard working player for Michigan, but it's a big offensive boost that could make or break his NHL chances, as he has until August 2027 to sign or be a free agent, meaning he has this season and next to prove himself to the Leafs management.
While Moldenahuer has a projection that remains unclear how well it can translate to a higher level, there is hope that he could be an impactful player, and some suggestion despite the numbers that an NHL future is possible.