The 2016-17 season marked the emergence of an intriguing prospect—Kevin Gravel. The 6’4, 212 pound defenseman from St. Cloud State rose quickly through the minor league ranks. According to Gann Matsuda of Frozen Royalty, coaches credited his decision to sign an AHL contract with the Kings after college, instead of declaring for the NHL draft. By doing so, Gravel took advantage of the Kings’ developmental system, and increased his level of play, which stalled at St. Cloud State.
Gravel is not a heavy-handed, physical defenseman—that would be Brayden McNabb by a clear margin.