Cody Ceci to Ottawa Senators: Video Highlights, Scouting Report and Analysis

Position: D

Height/Weight: 6'1", 209 lbs

Shoots: Right

DOB: 12/21/1993

Youth Team: Peterborough M.H.A.

Current Team: Ottawa (OHL)

In a draft class that is stacked with defensive talent, there is no question that Cody Ceci stands out as one of the best. The 18-year-old rearguard for the OHL's Ottawa 67's is unquestionably one of the most dynamic offensive defensemen in the entire draft, and that is likely what caused so many teams to be interested throughout the draft process.

This past season, Ceci racked up an impressive 60 points in 64 regular-season games and added another 15 points in 18 playoff tilts. Ceci was absolutely dominant in that regard in Canada's top junior league, so the sky is the limit in terms of his NHL potential. He is truly capable of doing a little bit of everything on the offensive end.

Ceci is probably one of the best all-around skaters in the draft, and that is something that is integral for a defenseman at the NHL level. On top of that, he has a huge shot, which contributed to many of his points in juniors and makes him a big asset on the power play. Additionally, he is a crisp passer who can outlet as well as anyone available in the draft.

If Ceci is going to be a complete player in the NHL, however, there is no doubt that he has to work on his defensive game.

He has good size and should get bigger, but he doesn't always use it to his advantage in his own zone. Ceci could stand to be more physical with opposing players, and he also needs to learn to sacrifice his body more often in the form of blocking shots.

With that said, Ceci has the frame and the skill to do all of those things, so with another year in juniors he should be a very well-developed prospect by the time he is ready to make the jump to the NHL.

Perhaps he isn't yet as polished as guys like Mathew Dumba, Ryan Murray and Jacob Trouba, but there is a real chance that Ceci could be the best defenseman from this draft when it's all said and done.