Judging by the title and blurb, you're probably thinking that this is another Carter Amico appreciation post. After all, those Nicolas Hague rumors keep swirling despite uncertainty at the defenseman position. He's due for a big contract and the Detroit Red Wings have also expressed interest.
We all know he's a big man who plays solid defense. He's similar to Hague in that he won't put up offensive numbers, yet he'll lay out people and make the necessary plays.
However, this isn't about Amico at all. Instead, there's another NHL Draft prospect that could also replace Hague's services should he be traded. Like Amico, he's also a big dude, standing at 6'5".
Granted, he could add a tad more bulk at 214 lbs. But that's the good news for any young prospect. Father Time isn't hounding on you just yet. Therefore, you can grow into that frame as you play in the NHL.
But who is this mystery man who can also replace Hague? Who can come in and be a defensive stalwart for the Golden Knights (if picked, of course)? The good thing about later picks is that Kelly McCrimmon doesn't discriminate against such players (unlike first-round picks), allowing them to flourish. But enough of that. Let's meet this mystery man, shall we?
The Golden Knights should select Sean Barnhill in the 2025 NHL Draft
Obviously, Barnhill is a big man, standing at 6'5" and weighing 214 pounds. But if you think he's this clumsy, lumbering man who stumbles over his own feet, think again.
In fact, that's Barnhill's specialty. He can deny the incoming rush and go straight into transition with his feet. What's more is that he can match smaller skaters' footwork and doesn't overreach.
He's also versatile as a defender. Need a solid forecheck? Look no further. Want to make a stop down the middle? Barnhill's is your guy.
Of course, he's also not putting up astonishing offensive numbers. His best season on record is 2023-24 with the Phoenix Jr. Coyotes 16U AAA team (16U AAA league), where he scored seven goals and 19 assists (47 games).
This past season saw the Dubuque Fighting Saints defenseman score four goals and eight assists (54 games). Thus, Kelly McCrimmon could use him as a lower-pairing defender.
The parallels between Amico and Barnhill are astonishing
When I do these mock drafts, Carter Amico and Sean Barnhill are two names that regularly pop up. It's not by sheer coincidence, either. They're defenders that would fit in well with the Golden Knights.
What's more is they're nearly identical in their playing styles. Both are known for solid defending, making them ideal as lower-pair players. With both players having the ability to take away the middle, it's easy to see why their names would pop up.
While Amico has the slight edge in offensive capabilities, the Dubuque defenseman can't be discounted, either. He's ideal for a team like Vegas if McCrimmon doesn't get Amico. After all, Hague himself wasn't a first-round pick himself.
While the rumors of Nicolas Hague being traded swirl like an ominous storm cloud, there's hope for a similar player with the Scottsdale native. He could be the guy who can develop similarly to Hague if Vegas picks him in the NHL Draft.
Who knows? Fans might remember some Haguer bombs every time they see the 18-year-old Barnhill. The question is, would they call his hits "Barn Burners?"