NHL Draft: Simon Despres Profile

"I think for a potential pro player, he's got the size and mobility. I've seen him many games, and he never seems to make a bad play. He's never going to get 100 points, but definitely, when you want a guy to play defense, he's your guy. He does it all, he'll block shots and he moves the puck at the right time.”
- Chris Bordeleau, NHL Central Scouting

"A tall and lanky defenseman, Despres will be a project for a team with patience. The upside, however, is too good to overlook. A natural puck-carrier, Despres admittedly has a lot of work to do on his shot before being considered an elite-level offensive defenseman."
- McKeen's 2009 Draft Guide
 

"He is a big hulking d-man who moves very well and has great size for a d-man. His play is sometimes inconsistent and his puck skills need some improvement. He will have to learn to play more physical. As opposed to using the body when absolutely necessary, he will have to consistently learn to finish checks and step up in the neutral zone."
- International Scouting Services 2009 Draft Guide

"Has all the tools with great size/strength, good puckhandling skills, strong footwork and fine intelligence level. This was supposed to be his break-out year, but instead his game stagnated offensively with only two goals. He's smooth and poised with the puck, but seems content to make good outlets and play a steady game. We question whether he's willing to push himself."
- Red Line Report 2009 Draft Guide