Charlie McAvoy's biggest strength as a defender is his skating ability. He was one of just two college hockey players to earn an "A" rating from NHL's Central Scouting for skating ability. His ability to skate helps him tremendously with puck possession and he shows poise in deciding whether to move the puck with a pass or skate it himself.
"He’s a confident puck carrier who attacks openings with speed, but can also slow it down and patiently weigh his options. Always moving his feet, McAvoy is capable of slipping through gaps without the puck, or stickhandling around traffic while keeping the puck close to his body.