Jack NESBITT

Center
6’4/185
Left
Windsor Spitfires/OHL

Related: Lynden Lakovic

Standing at 6’4″ and weighing 185 pounds, Jack Nesbitt currently plays for the Windsor Spitfires in the OHL, he is a prototypical power forward center with an impressive combination of size, skating ability, and a developing offensive skillset. Nesbitt is an all-situations player on a team loaded with talent, he’s got elite hand-eye coordination, which makes him an excellent net-front option and efficient on draws. He’s a big, 6-foot-4 center putting up slightly under a point per game while still playing a physical, no-nonsense game. Teams crave big centermen who bring energy and can hit, and Nesbitt does it well. In 58 games with the Windsor Spitfires, Nesbitt has tallied 21 goals and 55 points. Overall, Jack Nesbitt has the physical tools and potential to play in the NHL. His development in areas such as shooting efficiency and physical engagement will determine whether he can evolve into a reliable NHL middle-six center. Jack Nesbitt’s draft projection is all over the place, some have him projected to go in the late 20s, while some have him going as high 16, where he ends up getting drafted will depend on the team drafting and how strong he finishes the season.

Size/Strength Excellent
Skating Good
Shot/Scoring Average
Puckhandling Good
Physical Play Great
Offensive Play Good
Defensive Below Great
Hockey Sense Great
Competitiveness Excellent

Strengths

1. Nesbitt’s frame gives him natural leverage in puck battles, allowing him to protect the puck effectively in all three zones. He is hard to knock off the puck and uses his size to shield opponents and drive to the net.
2. Nesbitt generates a high number of grade “A” scoring opportunities per game, demonstrating strong hockey IQ and positioning in the offensive zone. His wrist shot has both power and deception.
3. Nesbitt demonstrates a solid 200-foot game, positioning himself effectively in the defensive zone and taking smart effective routes on the forecheck.

Areas of Improvement

1. Despite generating a high number of scoring chances, Nesbitt scores on just 13% of them.
2. While Nesbitt averages 1.30 hard hits per game, this number could be higher as he gains size, strength, and explosiveness.
3. Nesbitt is a strong skater, but he doesn’t have great top end speed.

Scouting Report

Jack Nesbitt is a promising young hockey player currently playing for the Windsor Spitfires in the OHL. Standing at 6’4″ and weighing 185 pounds, he is a prototypical Shutdown center with an impressive combination of size, skating ability, and a developing offensive skillset. At 6’4″ and 185 pounds, Nesbitt uses his frame effectively to protect the puck and win battles along the boards. He is a smooth, powerful skater with long strides, good agility, and solid edge work. Nesbitt generates a high number of scoring opportunities with his strong hockey IQ and positioning. His wrist shot is powerful and deceptive. He brings a consistent, high compete level, battling hard in traffic and maintaining possession. Nesbitt demonstrates a solid 200-foot game, positioning himself effectively in the defensive zone and taking smart routes on the forecheck. Jack Nesbitt has been compared to Jordan Staal, the Captain and long time center
for the Carolina Hurricanes. Jordan Staal is known for his strong defensive play, physical presence, and ability to contribute offensively, making them fitting comparisons for Nesbitt. Overall, Jack Nesbitt has the physical tools and potential to play in the NHL. His development in areas such as shooting efficiency and physical engagement will determine whether he can evolve into a reliable NHL middle-six center. Despite not being a player with immense
offensive potential, his ability to be a shutdown center and play in all situations, combined with his 6’4″ frame makes him an intriguing prospects for NHL teams drafting between 16-26.

Skill: Well Rounded Center with a combination of size, skating, and Hockey IQ

NHL Comparable: Jordan Staal

NHL Potential: Middle-six Two way Center

Season	Team	League	GP	G	PTS
2023-24	Windsor Spitfires	OHL	58	9	18
	Canada White U17	WHC-17	8	1	2
2024-25	Windsor Spitfires	OHL	58	21	55