From the Flint Firebirds, the Lightning selected Kaden Pitre with their 2024 6th round draft pick. Pitre posted 10 goals and 20 assists in 35 games in the OHL this past season as a left-handed center. The 17 year-old recovered from injury in the last half of the season, but showed flashes of impact during his 35 games. Kaden is the younger brother of 2023 Ducks draft pick Coulson Pitre.
Another forward known for his defensive play, Pitre showed that his skating and physicality makes him an effective defender. His play along the boards on offense makes Kaden an asset in the offensive zone as well (via Hockey Prospects Draft Book). This upcoming season will be a better indicator of where he stands in relation to his draft pick. From the Draft Guide, Mitchell Brown stated that “He perfectly times his acceleration off the rush, but he doesn’t much done with his rushes.”
The Elite Prospects Draft Guide notes his constant activity on the ice and transition play being a solid foundation, requiring development similar to his brother. However, because he was out with injury, his offensive upside has yet to be seen. With positive values in control entries and exists, per 60 and relative percentage, in 8 games tracked, the transition game is noted to give Pitre an opportunity to develop and display his offensive skill.
