The offseason provides us writers with the opportunity to step away from our typical articles and touch on things we may not find the time to cover during the regular season. I have spent a lot of time touching on Tampa Bay Lightning history and although I want to continue doing so this summer, another area I want to focus on while we have the time is the Bolts prospect pool.
Now I have mentioned that I am no prospect expert by any stretch of the imagination so these posts will not only provide you, the reader, with some information about the youth in the Lightning organization, it will increase my knowledge as well.
Each post we will touch on a different prospect, covering everything from background information, statistics, and possible fit with the Lightning in future. Today, we will start things off with Mathieu Joseph of the Saint John Sea Dogs.
Background Info
Mathieu Joseph is a 20-year-old winger from Chambly, Quebec. He was selected in the third round, 51st overall, by the Saint John Sea Dogs in the 2013 QMJHL draft. He has played with the Sea Dogs for the last four seasons.
Joseph was selected by the Lightning in the fourth round, 120th overall, of the 2015 NHL Entry Draft.
The Stat Line
Joseph's numbers have progressively improved each year in the QMJHL as he as played more games and acquired more experience. He has seen a steady climb in goal numbers, going from one in 2013-14, 21 in 2014-15, 33 in 2015-16, to 36 in 2016-17. His assist numbers have also continued to increase, recording 44 this season. Joseph has racked up 206 points in 201 regular season games played with the Sea Dogs.
On top of an impressive 2016-17 regular season campaign, Joseph is also in the midst of having a really strong postseason. He has scored 13 goals and added 19 assists in 18 games.
Scouting Report
Joseph is a solid two-way winger that works hard and is a strong competitor. He puts the same amount of effort in in all three zones and can be placed on any line one through four. Although he is both dedicated and versatile, he needs bulk up physically. He likes to establish a presence down low and in the front of the net so he could become quite the force in that area if he is able to put on some more muscle.
Future Outlook
Mathieu Joseph is set to be assigned to the Syracuse Crunch next season where he will continue to develop his skills against pro level talent.
His abilities as a two-way winger will prove to be a valuable asset for the Lightning and he should become a reliable member of the team that can be thrown on any line depending on the circumstance. Luckily the Lightning have enough depth up front to allow Joseph to continue his develop and hit the weights a little harder.