Elite stick protection. Can cradle through contact. Both hands equally reliable — a rare trait at youth level.

Exceptional hands. Catches balls that peers would drop. Creates possession out of almost-turnovers.

Elite passer at their age. Creates scoring opportunities others can't see. Passing range and accuracy are coaching reference points.

Passes accurately with a defender on them. Quick release and multiple options make them almost unguardable.

Elite placement. Makes shots look easy that aren't. A consistent scoring threat from anywhere in the attack zone.

Exceptional shot velocity for age group. Variation in release makes them nearly unguardable in 1v1 shooting situations.

Elite split dodge. Among the most dangerous dodgers at their level. Teams slide early because they have to.

Combination dodges that read and exploit the defensive slide. Beats double-teams through variety.

Elite ground ball winner. Changes momentum through possession battles. An identifiable trait in any game.

Exceptional transition instincts. In position before most players register that a turnover occurred.

Elite individual defender. Opponents avoid their side. Stick and body work together at a high level.

Organizes team defense from the field. Slide calls are early and correct. Defense is a primary team strength.

Operates one to two steps ahead of the game. Reactions look prescient because anticipation is driving apparent speed.

Almost always makes the highest-percentage decision. Rarely forced into a bad choice — creates good ones.

Lower body power is a physical differentiator. Creates advantages in contested situations that peers can't match.

Upper body strength is developed and applied. Generates and absorbs force that changes play outcomes.