Former U.S. National Team Development Program coach Kurt Kleinendorst tells it how it is.
For the duration of a recent half-hour phone call, he backs up that statement by picking apart some of his former star pupils in Ann Arbor. He paints a collection of crystal clear portraits for the NHL draft prospects, never hiding the warts when they are worth mentioning. But when he starts speaking of lightning-quick winger Matt Nieto, his tone changes slightly.
The cool analysis cracks, just a little, and in creeps an unmistakable inflection of awe.
"Matt is an absolutely beautiful player," he waxes. "He's a thoroughbred. He's strong as an ox. He's got toughness. His skating and puck skills are never going to be an issue."
In short, Nieto is a natural.
For the full profile, you need to be an ESPN Insider.
ABOUT THIS BLOG
NHL Draft Blog
Your home for in-depth reports on the NHL draft and its top prospects.
Follow the NHL Draft Blog on Twitter
Grant Sonier
Grant Sonier has scouted for six NHL organizations over the past 13 years, most recently for the Atlanta Thrashers during the 2010-11 season. He is a special contributor to ESPN Insider.
Follow Grant Sonier on Twitter
Victoria Matiash
Victoria Matiash has served as a Fantasy Hockey columnist for ESPN.com since 2007, and contributor to NHL Rumor Central since 2010. She lives in Toronto.
Follow Victoria Matiash on Twitter
