Film Room: Unearthing Joey Willis’ off-puck genius and defensive mastery

It's challenging to categorize Joseph Willis as an under-the-radar prospect when he doesn't even appear on most scouting radars.

NHL Central Scouting has him ranked 174th among North American skaters, which realistically would not make him a selection this summer. Daily Faceoff ranks him at 72nd, and on our most recent ranking (prior to the launch of our annual Draft Guide), Elite Prospects had him at 41st.

That's the extent of his recognition.

At first glance, Willis' production in his draft season may not stand out. In his rookie year in the OHL, he tallied 15 goals and 44 points in 68 games. Considering the offensive prowess of the Saginaw Spirit, his numbers are slightly lower than what one would expect from a player we currently project as a second-round pick.

However, it's important to n