Buffalo Sabres: 3 deep sleepers in the 2022 NHL Draft

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CALGARY, AB – MARCH 12: Grayden Siepmann #8 of the Calgary Hitmen in action against the Medicine Hat Tigers during a WHL game at Seven Chiefs Sportsplex on March 12, 2021 in Calgary, Canada. (Photo by Derek Leung/Getty Images) /

Deep sleeper #2: Grayden Siepmann

At 5’10, 175-185lb, Siepmann possesses a build akin to Casey Fitzgerald. Currently a defenseman for the WHL’s Calgary Hitmen, Siepmann has catapulted up NHL.com’s draft boards ranking North American skaters. Ranked 139th at the mid-term, Siepmann is now 79th, meaning he should be a mid-round pick.

Siepmann has grown as a hockey prospect, displaying a strong, two-way game in recent seasons. In 2020-21, he played in 21 games for the Hitmen and logged just two points. However, come 2021-22, he made a huge jump in production, scoring 25 times in 66 games, including nine goals. If Siepmann’s game continues to improve, he will provide value on more than just defense.

Recruit Scouting noted Siepmann’s talent on the penalty kill helped build his credibility as one of the WHL’s most talented defensemen. He shows poise on the ice at all times, and he has the ability to maintain a cool head regardless of the situation he finds himself in.

In September 2021, they also questioned whether he could develop his offensive game. And from his performance this past season, the answer has become a resounding yes. Want to get to know Grayden Siepmann? Check out his interview below with the Western Hockey League.

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