Observations:

March 2013 – Pelly is spending much needed development time at the AHL level this season. He has chipped in 20 points in 50 games, thus far but this pace needs to improve for him to get back into a long term NHL role. His excellent skating skills should create more problems for minor league defensemen than it has, and his minus -20 rating leads the Norfolk Admirals, both are reasons for concern to current and prospective owners. He is still only 20 years old and has a promising future but much growth in his game is needed. Anaheim’s current team layout and management could cause force some prospects to be rushed or lower end players to be trust into roles they are not capable of, hopefully Pelly’s potential is not hindered due to short term roster needs. Jason Banks

May 2012- About a year ago Smith-Pelly was competing with the best in junior hockey for the Memorial Cup, with the Mississauga St. Michaels Majors (OHL). This year Smith-Pelly has found himself on the third line of the Ducks as well as playing for Canada at the World Juniors. Unfortunately, his WJC was cut short due to a foot injury. He is very physical and plays well in his role as a third line energy player. He loves to use his solid frame to go for the big hit and he’s not afraid to go to the dirty areas of the ice. He has a great shot, and with a little more speed, he may be able to rip that shot more often. Nonetheless, he has the potential to be a third line energy player that’s capable of bringing offense from the bottom six and, if needed, he can play a top six role. Also a great leader on and off the ice, Smith-Pelly is very good on the penalty kill and could be a good asset on the powerplay in the future.

Fantasy Outlook: B+

Big upside. Needs to improve stride and control his emotions on the ice.

Footage:

Smith-Pelly taps a nice feed from Getzlaf on the penalty kill.

Devante Smith-Pelly statistics courtesy of EliteProspects

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