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Top 25 Under 25: Number 17 Tucker Poolman

Tucker Poolman was drafted all the way back in 2013 with the Winnipeg Jets fifth round pick. He is the player that has some fans talking like he can win a NHL spot right out of camp even though he is 24 years old and coming off of major surgery. While at the University of North Dakota, Poolman showed improvement every season. However, he started playing there when he was 21, opting to stay in the USHL until that point. He is an older player and there is less time for him to adjust to professional hockey and prove himself to the Jets.

Tim: Poolman is an interesting player with a bit of a run away hype train. This isn't to say he's bad. Poolman is a versatile, do-everything defender, but he is also breaking into the NHL at 24 years old – after double shoulder surgery. Given the recovery timeline and the Jets depth on D, it is unlikely that he makes the Jets out of camp, but he'll have to crack the roster soon before he ages out of the prospect conversation. This is his last year of eligibility for the top 25 under 25 and he has zero games played. 

Brian: There are two different Tucker Poolmans. The first one is the one created by the hype machine of him being in college for all four years. The second Poolman is the one we'll be seeing on the ice this year. You shouldn't expect a Norris winner with him, but a solid 7th defenseman option would help the team immensely. 

Andy: Poolman is a bit of a risk in my books. Coming off major surgery to both shoulders really cuts back on the conditioning and season preparation all NHL players are currently partaking. This, aswell as a single year entry level deal make Poolman a candidate for bust over boom.

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