Position: Defenceman
Height: 6'4"
Weight: 187
Shoots: R
DOB: June 17th, 1993
Nationality: Canadian
2010-2011 Team: Niagara IceDogs
League: OHL
Stats: 67 GP - 12 G - 46 A - 58 P - 77 PIM
Playoffs: 14 GP - 4 G - 12 A - 16 P - 16 PIM
AT: At this point, Hamilton is my number one choice for the Islanders. Coming from two athlete parents, Hamilton has the genes to make it work in the NHL. Originally known for shying away from the physical aspect of the game, the 6'4" (and still growing) Hamilton stepped up the usage of his body this year with Niagara. Has a huge offensive upside and could be a solid PP QB for whatever team decides to take him. Another thing I love about Hamilton is the fact that he was renowned for his intelligence - and it seemed to translate to his game. He makes smart decisions with the puck and relentlessly goes after loose pucks. He's not really known for delivering huge, open ice, bone crushing hits - certainly not yet - but he will work along the boards to pin a forward down.
Defense can be learned and improved upon. Hamilton has shown he has the desire to change the parts of his game that he lacks in. He would be a great addition to the Islanders blue line and I truly believe he is the perfect fit for the Islanders unless Larsson magically falls to them at 5. I'm really hoping the Isles take a chance on Hamilton - and more importantly, that if he's drafted, every time he scores the Coliseum will play "Teach Me How To Dougie".
CH: If the Islanders drafted Hamilton at #5 this Friday, I'd be absolutely thrilled. Not only may he be the BPA there, he also fills a huge organizational need. He'd instantly become the biggest defenseman in the organization under 25 years old. As Alex touched on, his overall game needs work but there's no reason why it shouldn't all come together for him.
As far as his NHL outlook goes, he'll probably need one more year in Niagara to refine his game, but that's okay. If he is the Isles choice, with guys like Eaton and Jurcina coming off the books, Hamilton should have no problem stepping into a great situation with the Islanders in 2012-13 with the team on the rise.
Most likely to be drafted: 3-8
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