While Adam Fox's slight 5-foot-9 frame isn't overly imposing, the highly skilled offensive defenseman put together another impressive campaign in 2013-14 with the Long Island Gulls U16. Scoring at a clip of over two points-per-game, Fox was only held off the scoresheet during two league games all season. 

Another impressive season has translated into an opportunity for Fox to follow in the footsteps of former Gull and current USNTDP U18 defenseman Brandon Fortunato as Fox was recently invited to the NTDP's annual U17 selection camp. Adding to the comparison, Fortunato ('96) is a fellow Harvard commit who also lacks ideal size but makes up for it with impressive puck moving ability and offensive instincts.

Fox notched the game-winning goal in the Gulls' semi-final game against Team Comcast and went on to follow that up with a goal and three helpers in the team's championship win over Wilkes-Barre/Scranton.

It is tough not to get excited when watching Fox. It seems like he does something new everytime he touches the puck. He has shown the ability to beat players in so many different ways and he is always looking to complete each shift with either a goal or an assist.

Fox’s skating-ability is second-to-none as his footwork and ability to accelerate off his first couple of steps is very impressive. He has no issue with eluding pressure and taking the puck end-to-end with his speed and he has also shown strong edge-control and balance on his skates. Fox is very agile and very quick and when he gets going he is a tough player to contain with the puck.

With excellent puck skills and hockey IQ, he sees the game at an advanced level and should have no issues adjusting to the next level despite lacking ideal size. Fox has an extremely high panic-threshold, and it almost seems like he doesn’t realize that there is another team on the ice attempting to take the puck from him. He is very calm and collected and has the tools to escape intense pressure when it hits him.

His game doesn't come without risk as Fox shows no fear with the puck and isn't afraid to activate himself from the point if he feels he has a chance to make a play. His defensive game also needs some work as his consistency and effort level can leave a lot to be desired. Coaches at the next level will really need to work with him on maintaining his defensive coverage and becoming a better stick on puck defenseman.

Tags: 2016 nhl draft prospects | 2016 nhl draft | 2014 ohl draft prospects | 2014 ohl draft | Adam Fox |