Cole Caufield was the best player at the World Junior Summer Showcase. He made a positive impact for his team every time he was on the ice.

Usually when I track player’s shifts in a given game, most of them aren’t noteworthy. They contain some interesting elements, but the opportunities for exciting moments don’t always manifest themselves. This is where Caufield sets himself apart. Through his ability to read the play, he manages to create those moments, often great scoring chances, almost every time he jumps over the boards.

Contrary to many other top prospects, the diminutive forward does that equally well when the puck is on his stick — through his deadly shot — and when he is away from possession. At the WJSS, his off-the-puck offensive movements were on another level from every other player, even other proven Junior scorers like Arthur Kaliyev.

The tournament could be a great stepping stone for a dominant freshman season for Caufield with the Wisconsin Badgers next season.

Here is a video analysis (with voice-over) of Cole Caufield’s offensive play at the World Junior Summer Showcase, breaking down what drove his success.

Let me know if you would like more studies like this one during the season (or if text inserts remain preferable).