On February 8th the Colts hosted the Sudbury Wolves. Here are our thoughts on Barrie’s NHL prospects.
Evan Vierling (4.75 Star Amateur Rating, NHL Grade — B) Forward
Evan showed phenomenal foot speed and acceleration all game. He hounded loose pucks and won battles all over the ice, especially in the offensive zone. He was quite honestly a force and was a threat to score at any time. He showed excellent vision and poise on line rushes by judging the defenders gaps and exposing what was given and was by far the most effective player when finding the late attacker. In the defensive zone Evan can be a bit of a puck watcher, but his anticipation and quick stick made up for any short comings. His effort and determination were on full display. Game Grade: A-
Tyson Foerster (4.25 Star Amateur Rating, NHL Grade — A-) Forward
Tyson played like an NHL winger vs Sudbury. He was outstanding along the walls while breaking out, making poised decisions that not only led to clean breakouts, but on a number of times created odd man rushes. In the offensive zone, he was a force below the goal line while cycling and was able to fend off defenders for extended periods of time with his head up looking to make plays. His shot and release are NHL caliber right now and his one-timer is a threat to score on any power play. He played a simple, yet very effective pro-styled game. Game Grade: B
Ethan Cardwell (4 Star Amateur Prospect, NHL Grade — B-) Forward
Very impressive showing for Ethan. Offensively, he used his speed to create mismatches on line rushes and it was obvious that Sudbury’s defensemen were very nervous of his speed. Defensively, he used the combination of an active stick and his elite quickness to take away time and space was a disruptive force that generated turnovers in all three zones. Physically Ethan seems a little light on the puck, but it s not a result of effort or compete so if he has the metabolism and mentality to train an NHL team might end up with something special. Game Grade: B
Brandt Clarke (4.75 Star Amateur Rating, 2021 NHL Grade — A) Defense
As a young defenseman Brandt is as smooth and as confident as you will find. His poise was on full display during a tough Sudbury forecheck that were willing to finish checks all over the ice. He showed no panic and literally looked like he had no concern for their physicality. There were times when he got himself in trouble trying to do too much, but his upside is undeniable and is something any coaching staff would love to deal with. Game Grade: B
Anthony Tabak (4 Star Amateur Rating, NHL Grade — C) Forward
Anthony was very noticeable while killing penalties. He was quick on bobbled pucks and had a very active stick that created turnovers. For a big young man his feet looked nimble and quick. He showed good acceleration in transition and drove the net hard on line rushes. At his size we would like to see him finish his checks with more authority because we feel it would lead to offensive time and space later in the game. Game Grade: C+
Ian Lemieux (3.75 Star Amateur Rating, NHL Grade — Free Agent) Defense
Ian was noticed because of his high compete level and simple yet effective game. He finished every check cleanly but with the purpose of eliminating his man from the play. He made very quick clean decisions in transition while making clean crisp passes. He was strong when clearing shooting lanes and he did not allow second opportunities. We liked his effort and compete. Game Grade: B
