Andy Levangie from the west coast offers a report on Kelowna Rockets, Jesse Lees.
Jesse Lees – RD – Kelowna Rockets – WHL
Height: 6’0 Ft
Weight: 180Lbs
Shoots: R
DOB: Sept 14, 1995
Undersized compared to some WHL stand outs, Lees brings an offensive punch to the Kelowna Rockets blueline. Playing up in the lineup recently due to injuries and improving with opportunity... Quickness and Speed are definite assets… Offensive instincts have garnered second unit PP time alongside fellow draft-eligible prospect Madison Bowey… His first 3-4 steps are quick, allowing him to move around defenders carrying the puck up ice… Has good top speed, however strength is his ability to move east-west and be elusive… Mans the point and has a knack for drawing in defenders… Uses quick footwork to find shooting lanes... Smart and crafty in the offensive zone, has good instincts and makes well-timed pinches… Has a very quick release on his wrist shot and his one-timer, both of which often find the net (currently second in Rockets defensemen scoring)… Speed helps Lees play close while defending... Shiftiness and quick hands contribute to good stick work and creation of takeaways… Doesn’t play very big or throw his weight around much… Has a tough time absorbing physical play… Could have trouble 5 on 5 against bigger NHL forwards... However it’s hard to ignore +38 in 52 GP, not an obvious liability… Needs time to grow and strengthen… Look for an NHL team to take a shot in later rounds.
Andy Levangie, goes by @AndyLevang on twitter and is based out of Kelowna, BC.