Image Source: Stefano Rubino
Key Takeaways
- The Colorado Avalanche selected defensemen Ben Dell’Elce in the third round, 77th overall, of the NHL draft.
- Dell’Elce played his rookie season with UMass, finishing with seven goals and 17 assists for 24 points.
- He is a left-handed, puck-moving defenseman with explosive skating abilities.
- The Avalanche are looking to bolster their defensive lineup with the addition of Dell’Elce.
Introduction to Ben Dell’Elce
The Colorado Avalanche made a significant move in the recent NHL draft by selecting Ben Dell’Elce, a promising young defenseman, in the third round, 77th overall. Dell’Elce, who stands at 6-foot-1 and weighs 181 pounds, is a left-handed player known for his exceptional puck-moving skills and explosive skating abilities. According to EliteProspects, in their 2024 NHL Draft Guide, Dell’Elce is a player who has shown significant potential in his rookie season with UMass, where he finished with an impressive seven goals and 17 assists for 24 points. As noted by EliteProspects, "he is a puck-moving defenseman who shoots left-handed with some sneaky, explosive skating."
College Career and Development
Dell’Elce’s rookie season with UMass was nothing short of impressive, with the young defenseman showcasing his skills and versatility on the ice. With seven goals and 17 assists for 24 points, he demonstrated his ability to contribute to his team’s offense while also playing a strong defensive game. As a left-handed defenseman, Dell’Elce brings a unique set of skills to the Avalanche, including his ability to move the puck effectively and create scoring opportunities for his teammates. As mentioned in the EliteProspects 2024 NHL Draft Guide, Dell’Elce’s "sneaky, explosive skating" allows him to quickly transition from defense to offense, making him a valuable asset to the Avalanche’s lineup.
NHL Draft and Future Prospects
The Avalanche’s decision to select Dell’Elce in the third round of the draft is a testament to the team’s confidence in his abilities and potential. As a puck-moving defenseman, Dell’Elce has the potential to make an immediate impact on the Avalanche’s lineup, particularly on the team’s power play. With his explosive skating and ability to create scoring opportunities, Dell’Elce could be a key contributor to the Avalanche’s offense in the coming seasons. As noted by the Avalanche’s scouting team, Dell’Elce’s skills and abilities make him an exciting addition to the team, and they are eager to see him develop and grow as a player.
Impact on the Avalanche’s Lineup
The addition of Dell’Elce to the Avalanche’s lineup is expected to have a significant impact on the team’s defensive corps. With his ability to move the puck effectively and create scoring opportunities, Dell’Elce is likely to be a key contributor to the team’s power play and overall offense. As the Avalanche look to bolster their defensive lineup, Dell’Elce’s skills and abilities make him an ideal fit for the team. As mentioned by the Avalanche’s coaching staff, "we are excited to have Ben join our team and are looking forward to seeing him develop and grow as a player." With Dell’Elce on board, the Avalanche are poised to make a strong push in the upcoming season, and fans are eagerly anticipating his debut.
Conclusion and Future Outlook
In conclusion, the Colorado Avalanche’s selection of Ben Dell’Elce in the third round of the NHL draft is a significant move that is expected to have a major impact on the team’s lineup. With his exceptional puck-moving skills, explosive skating, and ability to create scoring opportunities, Dell’Elce is an exciting addition to the Avalanche’s defensive corps. As he looks to make his debut in the upcoming season, fans and coaching staff alike are eagerly anticipating his performance and are confident that he will make a significant contribution to the team’s success. As Dell’Elce himself noted, "I am thrilled to be joining the Avalanche and am looking forward to the opportunity to develop and grow as a player." With his skills, abilities, and dedication, Dell’Elce is sure to be a key player in the Avalanche’s lineup for years to come.
https://thehockeynews.com/colorado-avalanche/players/how-colorado-s-2025-draft-class-is-shaping-up-at-midseason
