With their final selection in the 2024 NHL Draft, the Edmonton Oilers have selected Bauer Berry 218th overall. Berry played for the Muskegon Lumberjacks of the USHL last season.
Bauer Berry player profile
Berry is a bit of a slower-developing defender. Known most for his physical play, the 6’4″, 196-pound defender knows how to use his size. He has most recently played with the Muskegon Lumberjacks of the USHL and has committed to the University of St. Thomas in the NCAA.
| Season | Team | League | GP | G | A | P |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2021–22 | Northstar Christian Acad 16U AAA | NAPHL 16U | 24 | 5 | 8 | 13 |
| 2021–22 | Northstar Christian Acad 16U AAA | 16U AAA | 51 | 9 | 24 | 33 |
| 2022–23 | Northstar Christian Acad 18U AAA | 18U AAA | 52 | 9 | 29 | 38 |
| 2022–23 | Muskegon Lumberjacks | USHL | 6 | 1 | 1 | 2 |
| 2023–24 | Muskegon Lumberjacks | USHL | 59 | 1 | 13 | 14 |
Analyzing the pick
There is never a problem getting some extra size on defence. And that is exactly what Berry provides. He knows how to use his size to his benefit both for physical play and to improve his defensive prowess. That is where he thrives, playing overwhelming and suffocating defence.
He may not be a flashy offensive player but he knows how to start the play. His positioning and initial passes are quick, accurate, and smartly placed. Due to his size and physicality, he finds it easy to win puck battles down low. Once he moves to a higher level with bigger and stronger players, we will see if his impact in this area remains strong.
It is noted that his skating is one area that needs work. While he may be able to get by in development leagues with his size and reach, better players are faster and may be able to easily beat him with speed and agility catching him flat-footed.
What’s next for Bauer Berry
Berry will be off to the NCAA with his commitment to the University of St. Thomas for 2025–26. From there, he will likely play out a full career in college hockey before he gets consideration to turn pro. If he can work on the flaws in his game, however, there is promise for him as a physical, shutdown defender in the style of Vincent Desharnais that he may find a development arc similar to.
2 Comments