Wayzata power forward Matthew Freytag commits to Wisconsin

Wisconsin added another big piece to its future Wednesday, when Wayzata (Minn.) High School star Matthew Freytag announced his commitment to the Badgers.

Proud and excited to announce that I'll be playing my college hockey at the University of Wisconsin. #Badgers

— Matthew Freytag (@MattyTagz15) August 7, 2013

The 1997-born Freytag also visited his hometown Minnesota Gophers, according to Andy Baggot of the Wisconsin State Journal. Freytag is the second elite '97-born forward the Badgers have landed from the Twin Cities, as Freytag's good friend, Brock Boeser of Burnsville, committed to Wisconsin in May.

A 6-foot, 180-pound power forward, Freytag registered 22 goals and 37 points in 31 games last season as a sophomore at Wayzata. Freytag led the Trojans in scoring and helped propel his team to the Minnesota AA state hockey tournament and a semifinals appearance.

Freytag was selected by Tri-City in the USHL Phase I draft with the second pick in the second round, No. 17 overall. It's expected that he will play his junior season at Wayzata before making the transition to junior hockey. Freytag also recently competed at the USA Select 16 festival in New York against the other top '97-born players in the U.S. and registered a goal and two assists in five games.

A left winger by trade, Freytag is reportedly one of the elite goal scorers in the state of Minnesota, according to a scouting report from mnhockeyprospects.com.

Freytag has an assortment of skills that make him a dangerous player, but his ability to finish is his greatest asset. Freytag can drive to the net, taking abuse in the process, or pick corners with a hard and accurate shot. He gives his shot many different looks while shooting the puck and uses opposing defenders as a screen.

When controlling the puck he shows great patience, waiting for an opportunity to present itself, looking very comfortable while under pressure. In transition Freytag does an excellent job opening up his body to receive passes from the defense. He can turn up ice and start the rush thanks to an effective first couple of strides.

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