Denver University center (and Boston Bruins draft pick) Joe Colborne was featured a little over a year ago in a Prospect Pulse. I had the opportunity to see him again and thought I would do an update.
Colborne possesses an NHL sized frame, standing 6’5 and weighing 190. Though he could use some added bulk, Colborne is still growing and will likely spend at least a couple of seasons at the collegiate level. Strong on faceoffs, Colborne excels in the offensive zone. He has soft hands, possesses excellent passing skills (he is more of a playmaker than shooter), and will follow the puck to the net looking for chances. Colborne moves relatively well given his size and uses his long reach to his advantage, especially on the power play (situated down low) where he sees a lot of time for the Pioneers. So far this season, Colborne has picked up a respectable 20 points in 25 games as a freshman.
True to the words spoken about him prior to the NHL draft, Colborne appears to be a little soft. He does not use his size to his advantage and isn’t a force along the boards or in front of the net, despite standing nearly a foot taller than some opposing players. It doesn’t seem to negatively effect his game, but adding the physical element would make him a much more interesting player.
