ST-LOUIS: The High Risk, High Reward Details in Jérémie Poirier’s Transitional Play

After showing flashes of brilliance as a rookie, Jérémie Poirier is closely pursuing the lead in points for defencemen in the QMJHL this season.

His point-per-game pace could give him one of the best seasons by a U18 defenceman in the entire ‘Q.

But, while Poirier’s production factored into his high position in our November NHL Entry Draft rankings, it wasn’t its main justification.

[Read more: EliteProspects 2020 NHL Entry Draft Ranking Version 1.0]

The modern game is all about puck possession — how does one maintain it? By escaping the constant suppression of opposing defences. It’s what Poirier does best. He breaks the puck out masterfully, escaping opponents to lead his team to the attack. This talent has driven a lot of his success at the junior level and will translate to professiona