The Leafs signed the previously undrafted Sikic to an AHL minor league contract in the spring of 2024 after a 4-year career in the OHL. He consistently improved his point totals year-over-year and topped out at 18 goals and 57 points in 66 games in his final year of junior. Sikic at this point, is a minor league depth player with some noteworthy qualitative characteristics. He has a well-rounded skill set that includes leadership, hockey IQ, and a solid two-way game which slots him into a bottom six role. However, if he is going to succeed even at the minor league level, he will need to focus on improving his physical strength, scoring consistency and skating speed.
Based on his OHL career, Sikic displayed the following strengths and weaknesses:
Strengths
1. Versatility and Hockey IQ: Sikic’s OHL career was notable for his versatility on the ice, capable of playing both center and wing positions effectively. His high hockey IQ allowed him to read plays well and position himself advantageously both offensively and defensively. This adaptability made him a valuable asset, especially in situations that required quick decision-making and smart positioning.
2. Leadership and Consistency: Throughout his junior career, Sikic has been lauded for his leadership qualities. He consistently led by example, showing a strong work ethic and determination, which earned him the respect of his teammates and coaches. His consistency in effort and performance was a standout trait, making him a reliable player in various situations.
3. Offensive Upside: Sikic showed flashes of offensive potential, particularly in his playmaking abilities. He possesses a good sense of timing and vision, enabling him to create scoring opportunities for his teammates. His ability to make quick, accurate passes under pressure is a testament to his calm demeanor and offensive awareness.
4. Defensive Responsibility: In addition to his offensive skills, Sikic is also recognized for his defensive contributions. He played a responsible two-way game, and was often being deployed in critical defensive situations. His ability to backcheck effectively and support his defensemen made him a reliable option in penalty-killing scenarios.
Weaknesses
1. Physicality and Strength: One area where Sikic needs improvement is his physicality. While he has decent size, he can struggle in battles along the boards and in front of the net against more physically imposing opponents. As he transitions to professional hockey, further developing his strength will be crucial for him to succeed at higher levels where the physical game is more intense.
2. Consistency in Scoring: Although Sikic has shown offensive potential, his scoring consistency has been somewhat erratic. He tends to go through stretches where he
struggles to produce points. Improving his shot accuracy and becoming more assertive in high-danger areas could help him become a more consistent offensive threat.
3. Skating: Sikic’s skating, while adequate, is another area that could use refinement. His acceleration and top speed are slightly below average compared to other prospects at his level. Enhancing his skating mechanics, particularly his explosiveness, would greatly benefit his overall game and help become more effective now that he has turned pro.
Conclusion
Sikic is on a one-year AHL contract. He will have to show that the strengths he displayed in junior hockey translate to the minor pros. Given his likely bottom six role, he will have to improve his skating, be willing to engage with more physicality and demonstrate he can contribute offensively. These improvements will be important demonstrations to the Leafs that he is a prospect worthy of further development, and another contract, beyond this season.