Since when do 6'6 smooth skating defensemen go unnoticed? Taken at 22nd Overall by Montreal, Jarred Tinordi took a leap of faith this past year when he shifted from the U.S. National Development Team to the Ontario Hockey League, joining a development powerhouse in the London Knights.
In his 41 games with the Knights, Jarred has yet to find the points that many had hoped with only four assists. However, that's not to take away from the obvious skill he posses. Crafted in the mold of a Jay Bouwmeester, Tinordi skates extremely well for a man of his size. He also posses a canon of a shot from the point, though has yet to realize any potential he has with it.
However, when he was taken at 22nd, Montreal was hoping to see the aforementioned shot become a bit more utilized, especially when they took a chance on him so high. His final rankings this past June had him going a bit further down, but Montreal decided to take a gamble on the raw tools he possesses.
"He's a big strong defenceman like that with a lot of character and leadership, that's something that every team would look for," GM Pierre Gauthier told
Sportsnet.ca following the June Draft.
While he is expected to spend the next year or two with London, Canadiens' Brass hope to see some sort of offensive spark from the former US National Development Team Captain. With the hockey bloodline that the Tinordi's have, and the spotlight that the Bell Centre places on it's Canadiens Stars, Jarred has the weight of the world on his shoulders; his very large shoulders. Projected as more of a Shutdown Defenseman with some offensive ability at the NHL Level, Jarred will need to continue to keep things simple as he moves towards the final goal. A simple first pass, as using his size to ability is all that he needs to do well going forward.
In wake of the loss of Komisarek, and the possibility of going without Hal Gill long term, Montreal has high hopes that Tinordi will be able to add some much needed size and physicality to a highly skilled blue line. The name Subban is becoming the headlining Montreal Blueliner, and with Weber and Carle both in the waiting for their shots over the next season-- the Habs will have the puck moving skills they need. Tinnordi will be counted on as an eventual leader, and the big body to clear the net.
Toronto has it's Luke Schenn. Ottawa has it's Jared Cowen. Will Jarred fill that void for Montreal?
For up to the minute information on all the Top CHL related Prospects, follow Brian on Twitter @BrianHuddle.
As a side note, blog coming on Nashville Predators' prospect, Austin Watson. Just waiting on interview. 
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