Prospect Write Up Massimo Rizzo

Massimo Rizzo, 5'11, 174lbs, C, PHI, 2019 Round 7 #216 overall. 

The prospect write-up is something I'm going to do to highlight a prospect that a majority of people haven't heard of and give some insights on their game and possible fantasy or real life impact. Rizzo, currently ranked as prospect #90 on Dobbers top 200 forward prospects, is leading the NCAA right now with 31 points in 18 games. For context  Macklin Celebrini(17) potential 1st overall pick in this year's draft, has 25 points in 15 games. Rizzo is no Macklin, but is posting these numbers with no real grade A blue chippers on his NCAA team(apart from possibly Zeev Buium more about that in a different article). Rizzo's size doesn't jump off the page at you, but on tape Rizzo does get to the dirty areas. He has won a national championship with Denver and was a pivotal part in that run. He has a very good one timer. Has a knack to get into scoring position and get open. Rizzo is a play driver, he does not need linemates to support his offense. He's not exactly the greatest skater on planet Earth, but has energy and tenacity, and an above average hockey IQ that can translate to the NHL. Philidelphia is also a perfect team for him if he does end up cracking the NHL in the next few years. He is a player I feel head coach John Tortorella can get the most out of. Their is some aging players on Philadelphia so Rizzo might see playing time sooner rather than later if PhilI decides to fill the depth chart from within and not the free agent market. Rizzo's ceiling is hard to gauge, a point per game in the NCAA is nothing to scoff at, but it's a not always translateable into the NHL. However I do see him at around the 45-55 point range if all things go right. For a guy most likely sitting on your waiver wire right now that's worth a stash. He also has a really badass name.

Photo by Jeff Haynes/University of Denver)