By: Tim A. Richardson | Follow Me On Twitter @TimARichardson
Next up on my prospect season review is Cameron Hughes. The young forward was drafted in the sixth round 165th overall in the 2015 NHL Draft. Hughes spent four years at the University of Wisconsin, the last of which he served as team captain before playing in his first full professional season last year. Hughes had an excellent 2018-2019 campaign. In 52 games, he netted 13 goals while dishing 15 assists for 28 total points (stats courtesy of EliteProspects). The University of Wisconsin Alum was looking to build on that this season. Let’s dive in and see how his 2019-2020 campaign went.
The 2019-2020 season had a rough start for Hughes. In his first ten games, he netted two goals while dishing out one assist for three total points (stats courtesy of the AHL). Over his next 20 games, he found the back of the net once while tallying six assists for seven total points (stats courtesy of the AHL). The young forward would pick up his play over his last 14 games, netting three goals and dishing out three assists for six total points (stats courtesy of the AHL). Combining those totals, in 44 games, he would net six goals while tallying ten assists for 16 total points (stats courtesy of the AHL).
Despite the fantastic 2018-2019 season, it looked like Hughes took a bit of a step back in 2019-2020. I think one of the main reasons for this was an injury. Despite not making any strides forward, the Boston Bruins were still impressed with his game early in the year. So much so that he received a one-game call-up in November. The University of Wisconsin Alum wouldn’t register any points on the scoresheet in that game. The former sixth-round pick is a skilled player. He skates fast and can find the different holes in the defense to create offensive chances. Unfortunately, he’s a bit undersized, and there’s a question whether or not he can hold up a full NHL season.
Hughes is a playmaker on the ice and could still develop into an NHL depth player. One of the main things working against the former Wisconsin Badger is that there are players in Providence that are ahead of him on the depth chart. Guys like Trent Frederic, Jack Studnicka, and Zach Senyshyn are going to get chances to make the big club in Boston before Hughes. However, he still could carve himself a spot in Boston with hard work. One question remains, what happens next with Hughes?
I believe Hughes will eventually develop into an NHL depth player. He will never be a top-six guy. However, I do think that the former sixth-round pick develops into a bottom-six forward in the NHL. In my opinion, that likely will not be with the Boston Bruins. I think that there are too many guys ahead of him on the depth chart. It may take a change in scenery for him to see his full potential. I hope everyone is staying safe. Feel free to send me any questions or comments on Twitter. As always, GO, Bs, GO!
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