Film Room: Cole Perfetti combines on- and off-puck brilliance to create magic

In a game that emphasizes speed, physicality, and flashy moves, Cole Perfetti operates in the spaces between.

Perfetti isn’t fast – his skating’s probably a smidge below-average for the NHL. He’s not exactly big or an overwhelming physical force, either. And while he’s capable of flashy moves, they aren’t a staple of his game.

Instead, the Winnipeg Jets' top prospect plays a game based on anticipation, timing, and deception, often using the opponent’s expectations against them. When most players step on the gas pedal, he hits brakes. When they rush the net, he pops into space around the high slot. When they use their hands to beat defenders, he passes.

The result is a player who seems to be playing a different game than everyone else or, at least, mastered it. On shifts where most players get two or three touches, he gets double or even triple that. He’s the rare combination of high-volume creation and high efficiency.