Brendan Brisson Is Now a Golden Knight. What Does He Bring to the Table?
On Sunday, Brendan Brisson was called up to the Golden Knights roster. Amid all the injuries, the former first round pick might be a gem. Here's what he brings to the table.
1. Brendan Brisson's Background
Our newest call-up, Brendan Brisson has been doing this hockey thing his whole life. Born on October 22, 2001, in the pristine hockey town of... Manhattan Beach, California, Brisson started his career with the Los Angeles Kings 13U AAA team. There, he scored 28 total points in 2014-2015, getting his feet wet for his inevitable NHL career.
But it wasn't until he started playing for Shattuck St. Mary's prep team that he started to take off. In 2017-2018, the winger scored 67 points, bumping his total up to an astonishing 101 points the next season. He also had a brief stint in the USHL, playing two seasons in the league before heading off to college.
There, Brisson became a Michigan Man, scoring 63 points (31 goals, 32 assists) during his Wolverine tenure. He was on the Second-Team All Big Ten team and was on the NCAA All-Region Team. It wasn't until he was done singing "Hail to the Victors" that he caught the eye of the Vegas Golden Knights. Drafted 29th overall, Brendan Brisson was ready to start his new journey towards the NHL.
But first, the winger had to make his cut in the AHL with the Henderson Silver Knights. This was where he became a staple on the team in a short time. In three seasons, he totaled 68 points (31 goals, 37 assists), making his impact known.
2. Brendan Brisson's Impact
Brendan Brisson is regarded by scouts as an incredible problem-solving forward. That asset's vital if he's ever on special teams, for he can sniff out a look and make the according play. Therefore, Vegas can use his intelligence.
With both Jack Eichel and William Karlsson out for some time, it's expected that the winger will get some looks here. When he was called up on Sunday, the former first-round pick had a bit of a learning curve. He was outmuscled on some pucks and had to fight for his keep.
However, Bruce Cassidy said it perfectly, saying, "In those battles, these are men. This is a man's league. That's why we emphasize the fitness part."
Much of Brisson's game will grow over time. That includes his physicality, sense of the game, and his puck control. With more experience, he'll fit right into the lineup seamlessly.
3. Brendan Brisson's Strengths and Weaknesses
Aside from his hockey IQ, Brendan Brisson is also big on his mechanics. From making the perfect pass to having an incredible shot, the Manhattan Beach native has the template to become a dynamic offensive player.
However, he does have some areas to improve. You can't expect anyone to be perfect, you know. First, he must get bigger. Standing at 6'0" and weighing in at roughly 185 lbs., Brendan Brisson can get pushed around easily.
The winger also doesn't have breakneck speeds, making his offensive efficiency more challenging. He would be better in non-transition situations, preferring to set up plays while picking apart defenses. Still, this is Brisson's domain, which will make him a deadly threat against the competition.
For all of Vegas's past successes, they've rarely had a first-round pick work out for them. After all, most of them have been traded away (Zach Dean and Nick Suzuki). Brisson has the chance to dispel the myth, becoming an incredible force for a team in need of depth. Now that would save the day.
Vegas Golden Knights vs. New York Rangers. 25-14-5. 942. 7:00 PM PST. 28-13-2. 95. January 18, 2024. VGK -128. NHLPP/ESPN+
feed