Welsh named 7th best Hurricanes prospect

by Ryan Fay

Corey Pronman of Hockey Prospectus/ESPN has named former Union forward Jeremy Welsh as the seventh-best prospect in the Carolina Hurricanes organization.

Welsh starred at Union from 2009-2012, recording 100 points (53 goals, 47 assists) in 119 games played. He gave up his senior year of eligibility when he signed with the Hurricanes after the 2011-2012 season.

Here's Pronman's report on Welsh (used with author's permission) -

7. Jeremy Welsh, Center
2011-12 Ranking: 3rd
Date of birth: 05/30/1988
Age: 25
Height: 6'3''
Weight: 208
Shoots: Left
Statistics: 69 GP, 14 G, 26 P (Charlotte, AHL)
Acquired: College free agent

Year in Review: Welsh struggled to start the season, but he picked up his game as he went along. Still, his first pro season was only average.

The Good: Welsh has solid two-way instincts, and he shows innate hockey sense that could translate to the top level. His skating, while decent overall, is good for a bigger player. He is big and strong, and he protects the puck well. Welsh kills penalties effectively, and if his offense does not come around, he could have some defensive value. He can play center or wing.

The Bad: Welsh struggled with the faster pace of the pro level, and overall, his season was underwhelming. He has the tools to play at both ends, but as an older player, he simply needs to display more output.

Projection: He could be a bottom-six forward.