Levi Harper

Scouting Notes

In this viewing, Harper showed some offensive tools but questions remain surrounding his ability to consistently translate them against higher-end competition.

He is a shifty handler who can create space, although he can overhandle and try to do too much individually. He has a quick release and a willingness to shoot, but can be extremely shot-centric, often firing pucks into traffic rather than finding better options. His shot/pass decisions were ok in this viewing, though he showed good ability to join the rush and push offence. He is a good puck mover, with strong breakout execution when given time and a willingness to use his defence partner when nothing is available. His rush and breakout passing are positives, although he can rush decisions under pressure and occasionally hold onto the puck too long in the offensive zone, stagnating play and failing to get pucks through to the net.

Defensively, he played more aggressively in this one, specifically on step ups, with some of those decisions paying off in this game. However, his skating remains a concern, particularly his lack of separation and closing speed. I thought his pivots were noticeably more comfortable to the left than the right, and he can be exposed by speed on rush defence. He also lacks consistent control of his angling, making it difficult to dictate where opposing attackers have shot opportunities.

There are further concerns surrounding his play under physical pressure. He can be affected by aggressive forechecks on retrievals, and appears reluctant to engage bigger bodies or absorb contact. While there are some encouraging offensive habits and puck-moving ability, his skating edge limitations, defensive mobility and willingness to play through physical engagement remain significant questions