#14 Tom Fitzgerald
Scouting Report
The Finesse Game
Fitzgerald is a good penalty killer but has elevated his game another step above the average third-liner by becoming a reliable
crunch-time player. He is very quick and uses his outside speed to take the puck to the net. He is also less shy about using his shot,
perhaps because he is working to get himself into better shooting situations, but he doesn't have the quickest release and the goalie can
usually adjust in time despite Fitzgerald's speed. Fitzgerald isn't very creative. His chances come off earnest work around the net. Fitzgerald played both centre and right wing last season,
but the constant shifting doesn't faze him. There is a logjam at centre in Florida, so his versatility helps get him ice time. He is only average on draws. His hands aren't very quick and he seems to be at a disadvantage against bigger centres with the new rules regarding skate placement in the circles.
The Physical Game
Fitzgerald is gritty and strong. He has fairly good size and uses it along the boards and in front of the net. Although he's a pesky checker who gets people teed off, his own discipline keeps him from taking many cheap penalties. He gives his team some bang and pop and finishes his checks. He isn't huge, but he's among the best open-ice hitters in the league.
The Intangibles
Fitzgerald is one of Colorado's most consistent forwards. He is developing into a top-notch checking forward who probably deserves some Selke Trophy recognition.