2009 NHL Draft: Pittsburgh Penguins select Simon Despres, 30th overall (audio available)

by FrankD on Jun 27, 2009 12:28 AM EDT in 2009 NHL Draft

With the 30th pick in the 2009 NHL Draft, the Pittsburgh Penguins selected defenseman Simon Despres. I was pretty confident heading into the draft that the Pens were looking to add to the blueline. The Pens obviously have enough going for them on the wings and couldn't possibly add another center to the parent team if they tried. In the SBN Mock Draft Hooks and I decided on Stefan Elliot, an offensive defenseman that more or less carries the same qualities as Despres.

A lot has been said of Despres's abilities. Even scouts initially projected Despres in the 12-15 slots. The fact he dropped to the last pick in the first round may say something, but not all of it is negative.

Some would argue Despres was a good player on a bad team. As a member of the QMJHL Saint John Sea Dogs (34-30-2), Despres posted two goals and 30 helpers over 66 games. The Dogs edged into the playoffs but were swept by the Cape Breton Screaming Eagles in the first round.

Simon hails himself as a big defenseman that can skate, although he admits he has to shoot a little more (as I'm sure two goals last season would indicate).

Audio from his post-draft presser below (PS - I edited out the French replies)

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Can’t wait to see what this kid can do!

"Oh, buy Sam a drink and get his dog one too!" - Mike Lange

by gorgalor on Jun 27, 2009 12:53 AM EDT reply actions

His style of play strikes me as Letang-like. To be honest I was sold on the comparison when he said “I need to shoot more.” Letang’s first year he was timid. Same can be said of Gogo last year. I guess it’s just something defenseman, especially guys who take pride in the offensive side of things, develop over time.

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by FrankD on Jun 27, 2009 2:18 AM EDT reply actions

If he's plays like Letang

with his bigger frame(6.3 1/2 compared to Letang’s 6’ even), then we got ourselves a good player. Especially if he fills up his frame to 220-230

by Stros Bro on Jun 27, 2009 8:40 AM EDT up reply actions

Sounds good

any guess as to his ETA?

Okay, just so I understand it... in your wildest fantasy, you are in hell. And you are co-running a bed and breakfast with the devil.

by bren on Jun 27, 2009 8:49 AM EDT up reply actions

Probably not right away but the Pens can afford to take their time. I’d like to see the kid playing in WB/S or something. We’ll see. If I get a chance I’ll try and ask Danny B today what he thinks.

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by FrankD on Jun 27, 2009 9:37 AM EDT up reply actions