By Matt Dolloff, 985TheSportsHub.com
The Bruins rounded out their class in the 2019 NHL Draft on Saturday with the selection of left wing Jake Schmaltz out of McFarland, Wisconsin. Schmaltz is committed to play for the University of North Dakota for the 2020-21 season.
Schmaltz played the 2018-19 season for the Chicago Steel in the USHL. He scored five goals and 18 points in 60 games.
A cousin of fellow NHL-ers Nick and Jordan Schmaltz, Jake described himself as a player to Brad Elliott Schlossman of the Grand Forks Herald after committing to UND.
“I like to think of myself as a playmaker,” Jake said. “A heads-up guy who works really hard. I try to be the energy guy who gets everyone going. I like to look for the pass, but I also like to give a shot threat, too.”
At 6 feet and just 165 pounds, Schmaltz clearly has to add some bulk to become a more viable NHL forward. As a self-described “energy guy” he has a chance to develop into at least a fourth-line wing down the road.
Matt Dolloff is a digital producer for 985TheSportsHub.com. Any opinions expressed do not necessarily reflect those of 98.5 The Sports Hub, Beasley Media Group, or any subsidiaries. Have a news tip, question, or comment for Matt? Follow him on Twitter @mattdolloff or email him at matthew.dolloff@bbgi.com.