The DFO Prospect Show – Ep. 12: Jack O’Brien

Another Western Hockey League star, Jack O’Brien from the Portland Winterhawks, joined Liam Horrobin on The Daily Faceoff Prospect Show. O’Brien is the 111th North American ranked player by NHL Central Scouting and was initially graded as a B prospect late in 2020.

O’Brien went undrafted in the WHL bantam draft. Instead, he signed with the Winterhawks and went on to become one of their top offensive players. The Colorado native told the story of how he signed with Portland and how his time has been with them.

With the COVID-19 pandemic, last year was a strange one for everyone, including O’Brien. With the uncertainty surrounding the WHL’s season, he opted to play in the USHL for the Lincoln Stars. O’Brien was very open about his time in Lincoln and the struggles he faced there. He explained the difference between the leagues (WHL and USHL) and the adjustments he had to make.

Eventually, O’Brien made his way back to Portland and finished the year with four assists in six games.

Also, in the interview, they talk about what he’s most excited about for the draft day, one player he always excels with, and much more.

Check out episode 12 with O’Brien and our other episodes with interviews with Sebastian Cossa, Colton Dach, and Ryder Korczak.