Fournier’s IQ was the main draw for me as it was prevalent throughout the game how he was able to create room and opportunity. He can spot opportunities by remaining a part of plays and getting lost within the chaos of play, arriving into gaps in coverage where he can pick up a puck and make a play. His skating is above average and he’s shifty enough and physical enough to create room and play off checks. He’s all around pucks and is good at anticipating and feeding his teammates. He picked up 2 assists versus the Ducks where he was below the goal line and showed zero hesitation in creating continuity passes which didn’t allow the opposing team to react.

Liam’s excellent vision puts him a step ahead as he constantly scans the ice regardless of whether he has the puck or not. He also has a great East-to-West movement, using zigzag patterns to maneuver up the ice or taking advantage of gaps in the offensive zone to create space or open up options for himself. These combined skills allowed him to routinely be the player to secure his team zones, particularly the offensive zone. When he didn’t have the puck he would position himself outside the play, finding himself around the net, or act as the second man in on net drives, to pick up loose pucks, rebounds, or tips.

Fournier showed himself as a well-rounded force both offensively and defensively in this tournament. He has very nimble hands, which he uses to evade defenders and sustain puck control, paired with his ability to set the pace of play to give him time to scan the ice, he proved to be very difficult to strip of the puck. Additionally, he is good at driving the net to get himself in the slot, which with his good reaction time, he was able to set up for one-timers or make a quick pass in tight. Defensively, Fournier was able to use his stick or make big hits to negate rushes near his blueline and force turnovers. A lot of his contribution though comes down to his vision, as he is good at scanning the ice, allowing him to read plays and react accordingly.