“With the one-hundred-fifty-seventh pick in the 2019 NHL Entry Draft, the Los Angeles Kings select, from The Lawrence Academy, defenseman Braden Doyle.”
Although under 18 with few comparables, there’s no doubt about his hockey skills, elite skating, and puck-moving aptitude. Braden Doyle brings it all and he’s still learning.
Word of this hidden talent spread quickly and he grabbed a roster spot in the USA Hockey All-American Prospects Game, which earned a spot on the initial 2019 NHL Central Scouting Draft Watch List.
Doyle is the 2019 men’s recipient of the John Carlton Memorial Trophy, given annually by the Boston Bruins to the top senior class student-athletes in Eastern Massachusetts, “who combine exceptional hockey skills with academic excellence.”
Now he’s a Los Angeles King. Quite a story.
HOCKEY CARD STATS
Born: August 24, 2001 (Age 17)
Place of Birth: Lynnfield, Massachusetts
Position: D
Height: 6’0”
Weight: 168 lbs.
Shoots: Left
RANKINGS
#40—NHL CENTRAL SCOUTING (North American Skaters)
#102—FUTURE CONSIDERATIONS
STRENGTHS
A star as a senior defenseman at The Lawrence Academy, Doyle is known for jumpstarting the offense from his own end, often handling the duties himself sidesteping rushing defenders and rushing the puck up the ice. High-end lead passes on the breakout and his puck possession skills are the hallmarks of his burgeoning game.
WEAKNESSES
He’s 17 with limited national and international experience. Doyle is a rare, raw talent that needs to be developed.
INTANGIBLES
“I’m an offensive defenseman. I like to look for the quick passes. I have good vision. I like to join the rush and use my skill to help my team offensively.” —Doyle
WHY THE KINGS TOOK A CHANCE
In the mold of their general manager Rob Blake, the Kings continue to stockpile offensive defensemen. Still under 18, Doyle’s meteoric rise as underage prospect with tremendous upside was too good to pass up. Perfect fit in the Kings’ Patience First Reset Plan.
GET TO KNOW HIM: DUBUQUE FUIGHTING SAINTS CAMP PROFILE
STATS
OFFICIAL WELCOME
Welcome to the team, @bdoyle07! 🎉 pic.twitter.com/8AwX0J6NKv
— LA Kings (@LAKings) June 22, 2019