Reid emerging as top defenceman eligible for NHL Draft

Terry Wilson / OHL Images

Soo Greyhounds defenceman Chase Reid continues to put himself in the conversation to be the first blueliner selected in this year’s NHL Entry Draft.

The 18-year-old was rated fourth overall among North American skaters in NHL Central Scouting’s midterm rankings, a recognition he credits to his teammates and coaches.

“I couldn’t have done it without my teammates and coaches over in the Soo, but it’s always a pleasure to get ranked that high. Still more room to grow and stuff like that, but it’s definitely an honour.”

The Chesterfield, Michigan native has 16 goals and 40 points with a plus-28 rating in 36 games this season and represented the United States at the World Junior Championship. Reid is committed to Michigan State.

Taken in the seventh round of the 2023 OHL Priority Selection, Reid has developed into one of the league’s top-ranked prospects since joining the Greyhounds from the NAHL’s Bismarck Bobcats.

“I’d definitely say cleaning up the defensive side of my game. You have to be solid on both sides of the puck to have the confidence to play offence,” Reid said. “So I’d say it’s about rounding out my game, becoming more of a two-way defenceman, and just being who I am now and excelling from there.”

TSN director of scouting Craig Button has Reid ranked third in his latest list.

The Greyhounds are 26-14-1-1 this season, sit fourth in the West Conference, and were active at the trade deadline, acquiring the top goalie on the market in Carter George and added St. Louis Blues prospect Lukas Fischer from Sarnia. Overage forward Justin Cloutier also rejoined the club after beginning the season in the NCAA with Arizona State.

As he gets ready for the NHL Draft, Reid is hoping to help lead his team on a deep playoff run.

“Going far in the playoffs will definitely help everyone’s draft stock rise,” Reid said. “Then, obviously, just playing as a team. Making sure I’m leading in the locker room, on and off the ice. Making sure I’m doing all the little things correctly and leading our group in the right direction.”