Hendrix Lapierre
Position: Center
Team: Chicoutimi Sagueneens, (QMJHL)
2020 Draft Prospect Ranking (Central Scouting): 13th Amongst North American Skaters
Hendrix Lapierre is one of the more intriguing names leading up to the 2020 NHL Entry Draft. Born and raised in Gatineau, Quebec, the diminutive centerman is simply one of those players who excels at many different facets of the game. In addition, his all-around, solid two-way game has (quietly) turned heads this season in the Quebec League. With the first phase of the NHL Draft Lottery complete, let’s take a closer look at the playing career and NHL prognosis of Chicoutimi Sagueneens centerman, Hendrix Lapierre.
Make sure to check out all of our NHL Draft Profiles here.
Junior Career
Lapierre’s junior career began at the start of the 2018-19 season with the Chicoutimi Sagueneens of the Quebec Major Junior Hockey League (QMJHL). During his time in Chicoutimi (spanning two seasons), Lapierre has notched 15 goals, 47 assists, and 62 points. Quantify these statistics over 67 games and you have a near point-per-game pace (0.93). For a player not entirely known for his offensive explosiveness, this is quite impressive, to say the least. Over this timeframe, Lapierre was also adored by his teammates and a fan-favorite amongst the passionate fans in Chicoutimi. He also developed a sturdy reputation as a quality, reliable centerman, who plays the game the right way.
This past season, which was cut short both from the COVID-19 pandemic and a concussion, Lapierre scored 17 points in 19 games. (Are we sure he’s not a top goal-scorer?) Despite appearing in limited action, we’re beginning to see a common trend from Lapierre. That trend is consistency and predictability.
[youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=y41PoVyMTMY&w=560&h=315]
Simply put, when he’s healthy, you know what you’re getting from Lapierre. Being consistent and “ready to play” are integral aspects of any aspiring NHL player. Lapierre checks both of those boxes with flying colors. As his time in junior potentially comes to a close, he will be remembered as one of the more versatile and well-respected centers in the Quebec league. He will also be known as a “Jack of all trades” for his propensity to excel in all situations on the ice.
NHL Prognosis
Hendrix Lapierre has an extensive toolkit at his disposal and the potential to become a real good NHL player. When he’s on the ice, he plays with lots of energy and enthusiasm with a relentless will to win. This energy, coupled with his passion for the game rubs off on all of his teammates. Lapierre is also an excellent leader with an elite hockey-IQ. He’s one of those players you’d love to have on your team and would hate to be on the opposite side of. He’s strong on his feet, heavy on his stick, and plays a complete 200-foot game. Lapierre also provides various viable options for his coaches because of his versatility and ability to adapt to all situations. A coach’s dream? Yeah, that’s Lapierre in a nutshell.
At the upcoming 2020 NHL Entry Draft, Lapierre is a shoo-in to go in the first round. As the 13th ranked North American Skater, I see him being selected as a late-first rounder (picks 23-28). He very well could be that “diamond in the rough” at this year’s draft. If he can stay healthy, Lapierre can be a nice complementary piece for any NHL club. I see him starting off as a productive third-line, penalty killing centerman who works his way up into the top-6. One final question remains…Which team is fortunate enough to secure his services at the NHL Draft? The hockey world will just have to wait and see.
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