The Unlikely Rise of Finn Harding: From Late-Round Pick to Defensive Prospect
In the world of professional ice hockey, the journey from a late-round draft pick to a promising prospect is often a tale of perseverance and unexpected success. This is the story of Finn Harding, a young defenseman who is defying the odds and making a name for himself in the AHL.
The Seventh-Round Dart Throw
Harding, a 21-year-old right-handed defenseman, was selected in the seventh round of the 2024 NHL Draft by the Pittsburgh Penguins, a pick that many might consider a long shot. The odds of a seventh-round selection making a significant impact are slim, and most players in this position often fade into obscurity. But Harding has proven to be an exception.
Impressive OHL Performance
Before turning pro, he showcased his talent in the Ontario Hockey League with the Brampton Steelheads. His performance was remarkable, especially during the 2024-25 season, where he set a franchise record for assists among defensemen with 50. This caught the attention of the Penguins' management, who offered him an entry-level contract, signaling their belief in his potential.
Earning His Spot in the AHL
What's truly impressive is Harding's ability to earn regular playing time in the AHL as a 20-year-old. The AHL is a highly competitive league, and for a young player to secure a spot is no small feat. His 22 points in 54 games last season with the Wilkes-Barre/Scranton Penguins is a testament to his skill and adaptability.
The Plus-Minus Conundrum
Wilkes-Barre/Scranton's head coach, Kirk MacDonald, highlighted an intriguing aspect of Harding's game: his impressive plus-minus rating. While some may argue that this statistic is outdated, MacDonald believes it indicates a player's ability to be in the right place at the right time. Harding's consistently high plus-minus ratings suggest he has a keen understanding of the game and excellent positional awareness.
Personally, I find this aspect of his game particularly intriguing. In today's analytics-driven sports world, some traditional stats like plus-minus are often overlooked. However, I think it's a valuable indicator of a player's defensive instincts and ability to contribute to the team's success. It's a detail that can separate a good player from a great one.
The Road Ahead
Harding's future looks promising, but it's not without challenges. The Penguins have a deep pool of right-handed defensemen, making it unlikely for him to get an NHL call-up in the upcoming season. However, this shouldn't deter him. In my opinion, another season in the AHL will provide him with the necessary development and experience to refine his skills.
While Harrison Brunicke remains the top defensive prospect in the organization, Harding is making a strong case for himself. His journey from a late-round pick to a prospect worth watching is a testament to hard work and talent. Even if his ceiling may not be as high as others, his progress is a reminder that potential can be found in unexpected places.
What many people don't realize is that these late-round picks often have a chip on their shoulder, driving them to prove the doubters wrong. Harding's story is a great example of how perseverance and consistent performance can lead to success in professional sports. It's a narrative that resonates with fans and players alike, showing that the path to greatness is rarely straightforward.
