Few prospects have risen as rapidly up the organizational depth chart as Francis Perron.
A 7th round pick (190th overall) in the 2014 Entry Draft, Perron was a bit of a late-round gamble by the Ottawa Senators. While there was no doubting his offensive ability, he was considered undersized and a long-shot to reach the pro level.
And while Ottawa’s scouts have had success with their late round selections, expectations were pretty low for Perron.
What a difference a couple years makes.
In his third season (2014-2015) with Rouyn-Noranda, Perron registered 76 points (including 29 goals) and quickly put himself on the radar of the organization. He was a standout in the team’s annual rookie tournament and had many in the organization signing his praises.
Last year he took it to another level.
Perron was one of the top players in the QMJHL from wire to wire last year, racking up 108 points (41 goals) in just 62 games. He continued his ridiculous production in the playoffs too, picking up 33 points in 18 games. As Captain, not only was Perron counted on to provide the bulk of the Huskies’ offence but he was a leader for his team on and off the ice.
Perron was named QMJHL MVP at the year-end awards and then followed that up by winning the playoff MVP award.
A quick glance at his offensive production will show you he’s got elite offensive skills including “tremendous passing skills and a great shot.”
And while he may be small, he certainly isn’t the type of player that gets pushed around. In fact he’s often the one engaging in physical contact.
This off-season is a big one for Perron though and he knows it. At the team’s Development Camp (his third with the organization) he weighed just 162lbs. He’s hoping to hit 175lbs in time for training camp next month.
Perron signed his entry level contract in March of this year and will make the jump to the professional ranks next season. Make no mistake- it’s going to be a big jump for Perron. Dominating in the QMJHL is one thing but playing against men in the American Hockey League is an entirely different challenge.
In the matter of a couple years, Perron has gone from late-round gamble to one of the organization’s most intriguing prospects. He’ll attend the main camp in September and baring an exceptional performance in camp and preseason, will start the year in Binghamton.
How he handles the transition to the pro game will be something to watch this season.
The “One to Watch” Series
