If you have read my work here or on my OHL site regularly, then you know I have held the same position on Brett Harrison for a few years: He has long shown the raw talent to make the NHL, but his disengagement has hindered his progress; without more consistent effort and intensity, his skills alone won’t carry him far.
With his big frame, Harrison has spent more time at wing than at his natural center position, dating back to his later days with the Oshawa Generals and then the Windsor Spitfires of the OHL, and continuing now with the Providence Bruins.
Harrison’s skating mechanics are sound, but he lacks blazing speed. This is not to say he’s slow; rather, he relies on hockey IQ and anticipation to position himself well instead of quickness. This cerebral approach works for him.
Harrison’s lethal one-timer from the right circle stands out as one of his best assets. He can unleash it quickly and accurately, making him a force on the power play. His wrist shot is another weapon in his arsenal. By subtly adjusting his release point, he can alter the angle and keep goalies guessing.
Harrison can establish a big physical presence in front of the opposition’s net. He eagerly takes up space there, seeking second-chance opportunities. However, once the physical battles ensue, he tends to shy away from contact.
The player’s tentativeness in physical play has negatively impacted his performance in all zones. In the offensive zone, he often opts for stick checks and fly-bys when asserting his body would be more effective, raising concerns. This issue persists in the neutral zone. Additionally, in his own zone he tends to avoid physical confrontations, waiting for teammates to battle while he prepares to exit the zone.
The coaching staff in Providence, along with the skills coaches, are making a positive impact as evidenced by his increased engagement and progress. Though not fully actualized yet, he has taken a step forward so we are shelving negativity for now and embracing their guidance.
He has always had the skills to be a top-six NHL forward, especially on the wing rather than center, if only he could be more assertive. His tentativeness held him back before, but he is making progress now. Next season will reveal if he can realize his potential.
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Dom - Hockey 
Harrison has always been talented enough to make it to the league, but I love your assessment of what makes him frustrating. I do hope that he takes to Mouganel’s coaching, because if he listens …. he can become the type of player he has the potential to be so.
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