Before getting selected fourth overall 2019 OHL Priority Draft, Brandt Clarke helped a dominant Don Mills Flyers team. Clarke would play 73 games, producing 35 goals and 78 assists for 113 points in his U16 year. He was easily the top defenceman at the OHL Gold Cup after tying the overall lead in tournament points with eight (three goals and five assists). Clarke was also named to the OHL Gold Cup's first all-star team.
Clarke joined the Colts 2019-20 season. In 57 games, he scored six goals with 32 assists. His 32 assists were the most in the OHL that season by a rookie and he would go on to be named to the OHL First All-Rookie Team.
Due to the OHL and all Canadian leagues shut down due to COVID-19, Brandt would play 2021 in Slovakia with HC Nove Zamky on loan. During his time there, Clarke would score five goals and add 10 helpers through 26 games.
Clarke would also represent Canada at the U-18 WJC helping the team bring home Gold. Clarke scored a pair of goals and added seven assists in seven tournament games. He also went on to be named to the U-18 WJC All-Star Team.
Clarke is a highly gifted offensive threat and the defending team needs to be aware of him at all times. An incredible stick handler, Clarke has the hands to create exceptional plays. A tremendous puck handler with the ability to open up space with his strong deking and surveying the scene with his head up and the puck on a string.
Clarke's skating is easily one of his strongest attributes. A strong first step and powerful motor allow him to hit his top speed quickly. Brandt has great strides and outstanding overall control of his edges. Clarke uses his speed and agility to open up lanes and expose opposing defencemen which usually translates into offensive chance. It also affords him to backcheck and get back into position when needed.
PHOTO: Terry Wilson / OHL Images
Defensively, Clarke is also excellent. His speed allows him to handle gap control and he has good size which allows him a chance to win any puck battle. Clarke does well fighting for loose picks and is strong on puck battles. He's got a mean streak and stands his ground firmly on his defensive assignments. Not afraid to chirp his opponents and get under their skin a bit too. It was notable at the U18 World Championships how far his game has developed in his own zone.
Brandt also has a very elite hockey IQ. He identifies threats and blocks lanes very well. He is also incredibly confident which helps him as an offensive threat with the puck as well as in his own zone. When you watch him, you always see that he is aware of all that is happening around him while maintaining a good active stick, and knows where he needs to be with sound positioning. The game comes naturally to him and he doesn't hesitate when it counts.
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