Showing his versatility

Natural centre Gabriel Vilardi growing into role on wing with Spitfires

Windsor Spitfires coach Rocky Thompson is using forward Gabriel Vilardi as much as possible, but the top prospect had to be willing to adapt to make it happen.

The 17-year-old Vilardi has been playing wing for large parts of the 2016-17 season, including at the Memorial Cup. The switch was an easy solution for Thompson because of Windsor’s depth down the middle, and the fact a hole opened up when last season’s leading scorer Christian Fischer moved on to the Arizona Coyotes organization. The payoff for the natural centre has been more ice time in front of scouts ahead of the NHL Draft.

“I wanted him in our top six,” said Thompson. “He arguably plays the most minutes of our forwards because he also plays both special teams. He’s an engine for us, any time he’s on the ice possession goes up.

“He impacts so may different areas of the game. He’s a netfront presence right now but could easily be a half-wall guy.”

It took some time to adjust, but the effort has boded well for Vilardi, who led his team in the Ontario Hockey League regular season with 29 goals and 61 points in 49 games.

“Obviously at first it was tough but going forward I think it helps me,” said Vilardi. “I can play both positions now and that’s huge for me because you never know where you can slide in.”

Vilardi is ranked No. 4 on the central scouting list of North American skaters heading into the draft and could crack the top-five selections when names are called in June. Thompson says the six-foottwo and 200-pound Vilardi will be back at his natural position, whether on an NHL team or in junior next season.

The Spitfires play the OHL champion Erie Otters on Thursday, with the winner going directly to the final for the Canadian Hockey League’s top trophy. Even with the draft so close, the Memorial Cup is all Vilardi wants to think about.