The World U17 Challenge in Sarnia, Ontario featured 6 of the top U17 National teams in the World on a best on best format. The tournament focused on the top 2008 birth year players, from the United States, Sweden, Finland, Czechia and two teams from Canada (Red and White). Canada White and Canada Red faced-off in an an all Canadian final with Canada White winning 3-1 in a spirited finals. Sweden beat the US U17s in the bronze medal to take home a bronze medal in the event. Canada White was led down the middle with a trio of dominant centers this week – Tynan Lawrence, Markus Ruck, Adam Valentini. They also showed dominance on the back end with a trio of sturdy two way defenders who kept opposition players off balance – Keaton Verhoeff, Daxon Rudolph, Ryan Lin. Arguably the best player here this week was 2009 (underage) defender Landon Dupont who showed why he is a 5 Star Prospect. His dynamic play was on display all week as he led Canada Red to the finals.
Carter Esler (G, L, 5’9″, 148, Okotoks Oilers U18, 11/28/2008)
Game Rating
B
2 Viewings
Comments: Esler is a young, dynamic and agile goaltender who excelled in high-pressure situations for Team Canada Red this week. He won the #1 starter job this week and was a key asset for Red in their run to the tournament finals. His fast reactions allowed him to make spectacular saves, including reaction saves with his pads and both gloves. He anticipated the play and used quick lateral movement across the crease to cover a lot of ground and react to shots from various angles. Esler was very good in the finals in a goaltending battle that was scoreless halfway through regulation. Both he and Gavin Betts did all they could to keep the game scoreless until deep into the game and each made a number of quality saves. He was skilled at controlling rebounds and minimizing opportunities for second-chance shots. He is undersized but explosive in the net and used his quickness to square up to the puck and make timely blocks.
Cameron^Chartrand|
Game Rating
B
1 Viewing
Comments: Chartrand is a reliable, steady presence on the blue line, excelling in his defensive responsibilities. He was effective all week for Team Red his zone and limited scoring chances while he was on the ice. He possesses a strong, active stick, which he utilized effectively to disrupt plays, poke-check opponents, and break up passing lanes. Chartrand had good positioning and gap control, limiting the space and time available to opposing forwards. He is a strong skater with good lateral movement, enabling him to effectively defend against rushes and cycle plays. His physicality and willingness to battle for pucks along the boards made him a difficult opponent to play against. He was rarely caught out of position and played in key situations for Red. We did not see the two way play we expected from Chartrand this week, he showed as a capable puck mover who can make simple, accurate passes to start the breakout, but he did not get forward as often as we are accustomed to seeing him support the attack.
Carson Carels (D, L, 6’1″, 180, Prince George Cougars, 06/23/2008)
Game Rating
B
2 Viewings
Comments: Carels is a mobile, left-shot defenseman who utilized his skating ability to his advantage on both sides of the puck. His quick feet allowed him to seamlessly transition from defense to offense, making him a threat in both zones. He is not a physical defender, relying more on acceleration and agility, to close gaps quickly, and disrupt opposing plays. His ability to change direction rapidly and execute tight turns allows him to elude checks on the opposition forecheck. He occasionally over handled the puck and had a few loose moments in the finals under pressure in his zone. Offensively, Carels had a productive tournament and had four assists in four games. He showed the ability to transport the puck up the ice and gain zone entry. He was noticeable on the powerplay where he got pucks through to the net and used his mobility to make adjustments at the offensive blueline. His skating ability allowed him to create time and space for himself and his teammates.
Carter Hicks (D, R, 6’2″, 163, London Jr. Knights U16, 02/20/2008)
Game Rating
B-
2 Viewings
Comments: This lanky, right-shot defenseman steadily improved as the tournament progressed. He played a stay-at-home defensive role and played tough in his own zone. He showed a strong physical presence, used his length and reach to effectively compete along the boards and disrupt opposing players. He was most effective in the defensive zone, showed good gap and closed quickly on attackers, limiting scoring chances. Early in the tournament overhandled the puck at times, turned over a few pucks, and got caught out on long extended shifts in his zone. Hicks was able to make adjustments in this play and simplified his game. He showed he could contribute offensively by making simple, accurate passes and joined the rush when opportunities arose. He was also effective at making timely pinches and reading plays on the offensive blue line to extend offensive zone time for Team Red.
Blake Gowan (D, L, 6’0″, 186, Peterborough Petes, 04/29/2008)
Game Rating
B
2 Viewings
Comments: Gowan’s physical play was on display this week. This rugged defender improved steadily this week and once he adjusted to the faster pace at the World U17 Challenge opposition forwards needed to be aware when he was on the ice. He was not the most agile skater on the Canadian Red backend but demonstrated noticeable improvement in his footwork and ability to transition the puck as the week went on. He threw a number of heavy hits and was able to dominate on board battles at times. A handful of his hits were head turners and got a reaction from everyone in building as he stood opponents up and stopped them in their tracks. Gowan played a reliable puck moving game this week, rarely overhandled and moved pucks up ice efficiently.
Cruz Pavao (C, R, 5’10”, 183, Tri-City Americans, 08/24/2008)
Game Rating
B
2 Viewings
Comments: This powerful and skilled right winger showed a willingness to engage physically all week. He has a stocky build and was tough to handle in board battles along the walls. He has above-average straight-line speed and a low center of gravity. This allowed him to power through checks and protect the puck on the cycle. His combination of speed and power made him a difficult player to defend. He was an energy forward for Team Red this week who got things going with his work ethic on extended cycles and quality offensive zone time. He has excellent hands and puck skills and showed no fear making plays in tight spaces. Cruz had a number of quality looks in tight and with more puck luck could have scored 3-4 more goals. He was one of Red’s most dangerous offensive threats in every game.
Parker Vaughan (F, R, 6’1″, 175, Elgin-Middlesex Canucks U16, 03/06/2008)
Game Rating
C+
2 Viewings
Comments: Vaughan used his size and reach combo effectively to disrupt the opposition breakout and extend cycles down low in the offensive zone. He was physical, had a handful of quality hits on the forecheck and protected pucks in the offensive zone with his big frame. He was a versatile forward for Canada Red, playing mainly five on five and in penalty kill situations this week. He was able to generate limited offense in the cycle game and showed a heavy shot that he gets away quickly in traffic. Pucks came off his stick quickly and with good velocity. He worked well with his line mates down low and was effective at creating space with his smart give and go game and his abrasive play in traffic.
Landon DuPont (D, R, 5’11”, 180, Everett Silvertips, 05/28/2009)
Game Rating
A
2 Viewings
Comments: This young right-shot defenseman is an exceptional skater who transitions up and down the ice with elite speed. His stretch pass is a weapon, enabling him to quickly move the puck from the defensive zone to the offensive zone. His elite footwork allowed him to maneuver around opponents and quickly change the angles on breakouts and outlets in his transition game. This agility was particularly noticeable when he walked the offensive blueline where he made adjustments and got pucks through to the net. DuPont activated nearly every shift and showed the ability to beat opponents one on one. He was Canada Red’s best offensive player and most dangerous offensive weapon. He was consistently involved in the play, both offensively and defensively. He supported the attack and follows up on plays, often created scoring opportunities. Did I mention he was an underage in this tournament, a year younger than everyone else? Defensively, he showed outstanding gap control and had supreme confidence in his footwork, ensuring he has was always on top of opposition players and disrupting their flow. DuPont is undersized, he is a year behind the top players in the world in age and physical maturity. Time will naturally address this and it will be interesting to see his development as he naturally fills out and matures physically. Canada White got to DuPont in the finals with speedy forechecks and heavy play along the wall. White made life miserable for him on the breakout and created a few unforced errors from him defensively. This is all part of the learning process for this young defender, he will clean it up in his zone. As a 2009 born player playing in a 2008 tournament with many of the top players in the world, he was arguably the best player here this week.
Alessandro Di Iorio (F, R, 6’0″, 165, Vaughan Kings U16, 03/17/2008)
Game Rating
B+
2 Viewings
Comments: Di Iorio is a talented two-way center with a strong work ethic and a commitment to playing the game the right way – plays hard and 200 feet. He generated most of his offense this weekend on the powerplay or his heavy cycle game. He is not a blazer up and down the ice, excelling in track meets, he relies more on his sturdy build and corner work to create space. Di Iorio is tough to knock off pucks and showed he can win pucks in both the offensive and defensive zone. He was dominant in pool play vs the US, particularly late while protecting the lead. His consistent backchecking efforts helped break up scoring chances for the opposition. He always seemed to be on the right side of the puck to disrupt the attack and transition pucks up ice. He showed a heavy wrist in space and scored a beauty vs the Americans. His net drive set the play up and created the needed space for a quick catch and release past the goaltender.
Jaxon Jacobson (LW, L, 5’10”, 178, Brandon Wheat Kings, 12/11/2008)
Game Rating
B
2 Viewings
Comments: Jacobson showed exceptional skating ability and offensive prowess for Team Red this week. He is a highly skilled offensive player with a knack for getting to the net. His pace was noticeable all week, he accelerated quickly and had the ability to change direction to keep defenders off balance. His quick thinking and playmaking abilities allowed him to make creative plays at top speed. He put this all together on his goal in the Finland game, where his pace, hands, and quality finish gave the Canadians a lead late that they would hang on to. He was one of Canada Red’s most dangerous offensive players and was a trigger man on their powerplay. He processed the game well offensively and made smart decisions with the puck to find teammates with open looks.
Kohyn Eshkawkogan (D, R, 5’9″, 165, Ottawa 67s, 11/19/2008)
Game Rating
B
2 Viewings
Comments: This promising young defenseman plays the game with a calm, composed demeanor. He makes smart decisions, manages the puck effectively, and rarely got himself into trouble in the defensive zone. There are no forced plays, he excelled in executing simple, effective plays up ice. He is undersized compared to many of the big Team Canada defensive unit here this week, but defended well with tight gaps and strong positioning inside. He relied on his quick feet and active stick to take away time and space from opponents on their attack. Eshkawkogan ran one the two Canada Red powerplay units. He was effective with his strong puck management skills on the power play. He found the right player with simple, accurate passes and used his feet well to adjust and find open passing lanes. While he displays a calm demeanor, he could benefit from adding more intensity to his game. We have been watching this young defender for a few years and he still does not fully recognize his potential. A higher level of urgency and physicality could elevate his overall performance. He has more upside in his game than he realizes.
Brett Olson (F, R, 6’2″, 168, St. Albert Raiders U18, 02/24/2008)
Game Rating
B
2 Viewings
Comments: Olson is a prototypical big center who showed it all this week. Size, strength, two-way play, board play, physicality, high energy, strong puck protection – were all on display at various times this week. He was one of the leaders on Canada Red’s offensive unit. He set the tone early in a few games with a big hit or a heavy forecheck and worked to establish himself in all zones of the ice. He a big, strong, and versatile center who plays a physical, two-way game. He is strong on the forecheck on the puck. He was difficult to knock off the puck with his heavy cycle game. Olson contributed defensively with his strong backchecking and defensive zone coverage. He showed a relentless pursuit of the puck all week. His line was dangerous and had offensive consistency in most viewings, generated chances in every game. Olson missed a handful of clear cut breakaways this week and could raise his game significantly with improvements in his finishing ability.
Alex McLean (F, L, 5’10”, 162, Barrie Jr. Colts U16, 08/08/2008)
Game Rating
B
2 Viewings
Comments: McLean is a versatile, intelligent forward who was noticeable with his smarts and ability to disrupt the opposition’s play here this week. He always seemed to be in the lane, in the way defensively. He excelled at reading the play and making smart decisions on both sides of the puck. McLean was used primarily on the penalty and 5 on 5 situations this week and was highly effective in this role. He contributed offensively, creating scoring opportunities through his creativity, vision and quality touches in traffic. He was disruptive on the forecheck and active with his stick applies pressure to opposing defensemen. McLean and linemate Olson started many of the penalty kills for Canada Red used their well rounded skill set and intelligence to keep the play outside and limit chances to the net. He was productive offensively, scoring twice in four games, and provided Canada Red with depth in their offensive scoring. He is not a blazing fast skater, plays more of a cerebral game and worked effectively in a number of different offensive roles here this week.
Gavin Betts (G, L, 5’11”, 175, Mississauga Rebels U16, 04/03/2008)
Game Rating
B+
2 Viewings
Comments: Betts solidified his position as Canada White’s starting goaltender this week, culminating in a stellar performance in the finals. He stopped 38 of 39 shots faced in the finals and was exceptional under pressure. This young goaltender maintained strong positioning and angles, limiting scoring opportunities. He played at the top of his crease with confidence and aggressively challenged shooters. He always seemed set in the net and was able to block pucks effectively. We really liked his puck-playing ability, making smart decisions and initiating effective transitions to support the Canada White defensive unit. Betts was selected to the tournament all-star team and was deserving of the selection. He was a key contributor for Canada White in their tournament championship win.
Keaton Verhoeff (D, R, 6’4″, 207, Victoria Royals, 06/19/2008)
Game Rating
A
2 Viewings
Comments: Verhoeff was a dominant defensive presence this week for Canada White. He possesses a big frame and utilized his length and reach effectively to disrupt plays and deliver big hits. His one on one play was outstanding all week, at times overwhelming opposition with his size and physical play. He controlled the defensive zone, demonstrated good corner work and puck retrieval skills and spent very little time in his defensive zone this week. He was a defensive powerhouse for Canada White, showed strong stickwork and positioning to limit scoring chances. Verhoeff was confident in his two way game and showcased good offensive instincts and playmaking ability, particularly with his vision and passing skills. Outstanding backdoor feed in the finals to Mathis Preston to break the game open late in the second period of the finals. Verhoeff read the play, followed up the attack, slid a pass cross ice for the one timer goal. He played in all key situations for them in their run to tournament champions.
Daxon Rudolph (D, R, 6’2″, 200, Prince Albert Raiders, 03/06/2008)
Game Rating
A-
2 Viewings
Comments: This young right shot defender showed strong defensive fundamentals with his solid gap control, effective stickwork, and physicality. His play progressed throughout the tournament and he was a standout in the finals. Rudolf is an elite passer and showed efficient/quick outlets and an ability to stretch the ice with his stretch pass. He rarely panicked under pressure and looked very strong late with his decision making with the puck. He carried when the space was there, he stretched the play if it was open, and kept the play along the walls – protected the lead effectively. This big defender showed toughness and physicality along the boards and in front of the net and set the tone early in the finals with a big hit early. He showcased a two way game with his confidence to join the rush and provide offensive support. He was not rewarded on the scoresheet this tournament but it wasn’t because he sat back in a defensive role. He was active and didn’t hesitate if the opportunity popped up to get forward. Rudolph is an elite right-shot defenseman with a high ceiling. His combination of offensive skill, defensive ability, and smart decisions on both sides of the puck made him a leader on the Canada White backend this week. He played in all key situations for them in their run to the tournament championship. He was definitely one of the top young defensemen here.
Ethan Belchetz (F, L, 6’5″, 234, Oakville Rangers U16, 03/30/2008)
Game Rating
A-
2 Viewings
Comments: This towering left winger showcased a rare blend of size, speed, and skill that made him a formidable force on the wing for Canada White. His imposing physical presence, combined with his offensive creativity made him a difficult matchup for the young opposition defenders here this week. Belchetz was top 5 in goal scoring at this tournament, with most of his chances coming within 10 feet of the net. Belchetz possesses a significant physical advantage, using his size to protect the puck and create space and showed zero fear in his net drive. Despite his size, he is surprisingly agile and possesses excellent skating ability. He established this net drive early on a goal versus Czechia, he used his pace and big frame to establish inside position and showed good hands redirecting a quality pass into the back of the net. In the finals he also showed his physicality early and set the tone for a competitive game. He delivered a hard impactful hit early and was able to establish a physical presence, disrupting opponents’ with his forecheck. Keep an eye on this player as he improves his overall pace and skating power. At his current pace, he is already difficult to handle in traffic.
Ryan Lin (D, R, 5’11”, 170, Vancouver Giants, 04/18/2008)
Game Rating
B+
2 Viewings
Comments: Lin is a mobile right shot defender who steadily improved his play all week long. He excelled in both offensive and defensive zones and was a standout for Canada White in their tournament victory. His strong defensive play – effective gap control, timely hits, and disruptive stick – complemented his offensive contributions – power-play production and breakout abilities. He was physical early in the finals and set the tone with a few outstanding defensive shifts. Lin delivered two quality hits early and broke up two dangerous attacks with his defensive hustle and positioning. By the end of the week Lin was their top powerplay defender, he maintained composure under pressure, making sound decisions the top of the key and made adjustments with his feet to get pucks through on net. He has excellent skating ability that allowed him to transition smoothly between offense and defense, contributing to quick breakouts and was effective in his defensive coverage. We really liked his closing speed in the defensive zone. He excelled at rapidly closing on opponents and disrupted plays in the defensive zone with his strong stick and smart positioning.
Callum Croskery (D, L, 6’0″, 163, Chicago Steel, 01/29/2008, Boston College)
Game Rating
B
2 Viewings
Comments: Crosskery played an effective depth role on the Canada White backend. His smooth skating and composed demeanor under pressure were notable strengths. He possesses strong skating power and the ability to move the puck efficiently. He got back on pucks quickly and transitioned up ice cleanly, using his partner on the regroup or quick efficient outlets to push the pace up ice. He improved with each viewing as his confidence grew. Early in the tournament Crosskery appeared a bit hesitant and cautious in his play. His gap control was inconsistent, allowing opponents to gain entry into the zone. He tightened this up and was very effective in key situations for Canada White down the stretch in big moments late in this tournament. He also, showed an ability to get to forward and support the attack, where his skating and puck-moving skills became more noticeable.
Beckham Edwards (F, L, 6’0″, 168, Sarnia Sting, 01/06/2008)
Game Rating
B
2 Viewings
Comments: This versatile forward showcased his skills in various roles for Team Canada White. His strong skating ability, combined with his relentless work ethic and attention to detail in his zone made him a valuable asset in White’s run to the tournament win. Edwards showed excellent skating ability with explosive speed, this was evident 5 on 5 and in a penalty killing role. He is a scorer (has been one most of his career) but he accepted a role as an energy forward for Team White this week and excelled in the role. Edwards played both wings and center positions this week. He was disruptive on the forecheck and the penalty kill and was quite effective at taking time and space away from opposition defenders in their transition game. His speed and pursuit of the puck were key factors in generating offensive pressure – generated a handful of quality chances shorthanded were he was able to catch the opposition flat footed and get to the net. Despite not being rewarded on the scoresheet, his impact on the game was evident through his consistent effort and ability to create scoring opportunities.
Liam Ruck (F, R, 5’11”, 175, Medicine Hat Tigers, 02/21/2007)
Game Rating
B+
2 Viewings
Comments: This skilled and physical right winger played a consistent, honest and high intensity game. He excelled in traffic, created scoring opportunities, and showed excellent vision in tight where he was a threat to share the puck or shoot. He forechecked with smarts and physicality and was a powerhouse along the walls. Liam and his brother Markus were outstanding for Canada White this weekend with their give and go game in traffic and were catalysts supporting tournament leading goal scorer, Mathis Preston. They played so well together, extending cycles with their pace and work ethic on the forecheck. The line created in all situations 5 on 5, PK, and with the extra man. Liam showed he could play the game anyway they needed but was most effective in traffic with his strong, physical presence, effective board battles and net-front battles. He broke up a number of rushes this week his back pressure and competed 200 foot and rarely got into trouble in his zone. Pucks were on his stick and transitioned up ice quickly.
Tynan Lawrence (F, L, 6’0″, 168, Muskegon Lumberjacks, 08/03/2008, Boston University)
Game Rating
A
2 Viewings
Comments: This elite, two way center was one of the top all round centers here in Sarnia this week. He is a dynamic center with a high hockey IQ and exceptional skill set. He’s a natural leader with his strong work ethic and was a cornerstone player for Canada White in their tournament win. Lawrence is creative playmaker who excels at finding teammates with timely passes. He ran the powerplay for White and showed good vision as a set up guy for the big shooters. Lawrence scored 3 goals and had 6 points in 5 games, was among Canada White’s top offensive players. His offense started from his own end and was powered by his work ethic and elite pace in his game. He killed penalties and ran down pucks in all zones of the ice, he was tenacious on the forecheck, strong along the walls, and he simply out worked a number of highly skilled players here this week in head to head challenges. Lawrence was the complete package here this week and was a dominant force on both ends of the ice.
Tyler Challenger (F, L, 6’2″, 190, North York Rangers U16, 04/13/2008)
Game Rating
B-
2 Viewings
Comments: Challenger played a tough game this week and showed a physical edge to his game. He played a depth role for Canada White in their tournament win, using his combination of size and speed to deliver a handful of hard hits in the offensive zone. He got in quickly on the forecheck and generated offensive chances with an aggressive style of play, throwing his body around and engaging opponents in physical battles. He was disruptive on the penalty kill with his active stickwork and ability to get in front of pucks directed at the net and forced defenders to change shooting angles. His pace and net drive were noticeable on 5 on 5 and on a handful of penalty kill situations where he played a tough North/South game effectively.
Jean-Christoph Lemieux (C, L, 5’11”, 173, Quinte Red Devils U16, 06/19/2008)
Game Rating
B+
1 Viewing
Comments: Lemieux had an exceptional week where he showcased a dynamic blend of speed and strong offensive play. He was among Canada White’s offensive leaders with 7 points in 5 games. He demonstrated the ability to create separation from defenders, both on the rush and during the cycle. His speed and agility allowed him to gain good body position and generate high-quality scoring opportunities. His pace was on display early in the finals. He brought great energy in to the game early and gave defenders fits with his closing speed on the forecheck. Lemieux worked well with tournament point leader, Adam Valentini, creating a number of quality passes in traffic and off the cycle with his quick first step and high compete around the net. The line of Lemieux, Valentini, and Hawrey/Edwards generated mismatches all week 5 on 5 with their pace and high energy on the offensive zone cycle.
Mathis Preston (C, R, 5’11”, 166, Spokane Chiefs, 07/21/2008)
Game Rating
A
2 Viewings
Comments: Preston plays the game with a noticeable pace and intensity. He was Canada White’s most explosive offensive player this week and showed the potential to be a game-breaker all week. He was among the top goal scorers at the U17 Worlds this week, scoring 6 goals, and was better than a goal per game against some of the best U17 defenders and goaltenders in the world. He thrived in the open ice, where his speed and skill could be fully utilized. He played the off wing and was effective at opening up good angles with his quick catch and release shot or one timer. His skating was elite, he used his exceptional speed and pace to beat defenders to create space for himself for an open look. He broke the championship game open with a beautiful goal. After an extended offensive cycle, he showed good sense to find a soft spot in the defensive coverage and ripped a one timer home. He is not a big offensive bruiser on the forecheck but was effective on the cycle game with his pace and willingness to compete in traffic. His combination of speed, skill, and hockey sense made him one of the most exciting prospects in the tournament this week.
Markus Ruck (C, L, 5’11”, 165, Medicine Hat Tigers, 02/21/2008)
Game Rating
A
2 Viewings
Comments: Ruck is a highly competitive and skilled two-way center who was a valuable asset in all situations this week. His work ethic down the center of the ice made him one of the more capable 200 foot centers here this week. Offensively, he extended cycles with his playmaking and puck protection. He showed excellent vision and passing ability in traffic with his give and go game and ability to create out numbered situations with his linemates on the attack. He protected the puck effectively, maintaining possession in traffic and allowing plays to develop down low in the offensive zone. He played in all key situations for Canada White in their run to the championships and was arguably one of their best centerman this week. Ruck used his high processor and IQ on the powerplay – he let the play develop, showing patience and composure to extend offensive zone time and rarely panicked with the puck. He is a 200-foot player, demonstrating commitment to the defensive side of the game and was trusted by the coaching staff to play in key situations all week. Ruck always seemed to be involved in the play – effective on the penalty kill, good positioning in his own zone to support the puck, showed a high level of competitiveness and a strong work ethic in the corners and in front of his net. Keep an eye on this player with his all round game and willingness to work for space with and without the puck. He is one of those high skilled, high compete 200 foot centers who makes players around him better.
Adam Valentini (C, L, 5’9″, 187, Toronto Marlboros U16, 04/11/2008)
Game Rating
A-
2 Viewings
Comments: Valentini is a high-skilled offensive center with a knack for scoring. He has always shown a highly spirited and competitive game around the opposing team’s net and it was not any different here this week. He created matchup issues for the opposition all week playing down the middle on the third line for Canada White. He was the most productive offensive player for Canada White, 4G and 5A in 5 games. He is an elite finisher with a sneaky good compete game who can transition from defense to offense quickly. While not necessarily the most physically dominant player, he showed a willingness to compete and battle for pucks and used his body effectively to create turnovers and pressure in the offensive zone. He was involved in a handful of goals in traffic and showed good touch down low on the cycle game. There is no fear in this player around the offensive net. Valentini is not the prototypical smooth skating center, he will need to work on extending his skating stride as he moves on to the next level. He generates most of his offense off the cycle and turnovers on transition with his smart play on the counter attack. He showed this week that this type of play can be highly effective in a world championship format and can present challenges for high skilled defensive players.
Lucas Zajic (RW, R, 5’11”, 175, NTDP U17, 01/19/2008)
Game Rating
B+
2 Viewings
Comments: This speedy right winger’s combination of elite skating and puck control made him one of the more dynamic offensive players for the Americans. He led Team USA in goals this week, scoring 4G in 5 games here this week. He can fly in the North/South game and worked hard away from the puck to get open. His pace was deceptive, he got to top speed quickly with a powerful stride and his quick first step. He also used changes of pace to effectively create separation. Zajic had a few clear cut breakaways in one of our viewings set up by his give and go game, elite speed, and willingness to compete to get into open space. He played hard along the walls and was not afraid to engage physically. He often found himself in the middle of the action and showed the ability to get under the skin of opposition players. These traits also allowed him to create separation in the cycle game as he was not afraid to drive into high traffic areas. He protected pucks effectively on the cycle and used his agility to spin or change pace to create the needed separation in traffic. He worked effectively in a top 6 forward role for Team USA this week and was effective with his high skill, high energy game. If this player can continue to develop his core physical strength and center of gravity he could be a force at the next level. His willingness to play physically adds another dimension to his overall skilled and speed game.
Casey Mutryn (C, R, 6’3″, 190, USA NTDP U17, 02/01/2008, Boston College)
Game Rating
B+
2 Viewings
Comments: Mutryn was a key power forward for the Americans this week. His combination of size, shot, and net drive are valuable assets. He had points in every game this week and showed the ability to dominate at times with his strong net drive and his ability to get to the dirty areas around the net. He was effective at sustaining offensive pressure in the zone with his big body and length. He was a key catalyst for his line, creating opportunities through hustle and net presence. Mutryn came up big in the bronze metal game vs Sweden, scoring two big goals late in the game, tying up the game twice late. Both were set up with physical play and a heavy presence in tight around the net. He is a 200 foot center who played in all situations for the Americans. He showed a high compete down low in his zone and was willing to make the tough plays to start the transition up ice. He has pace for his size and this level this is not a standout feature in his game at this point. He will need to continue to improve overall speed and agility as he moves forward to the next level.
Mikey Berchild (C, L, 5’9″, 162, USA NTDP U17, 02/16/2008, Denver)
Game Rating
A-
2 Viewings
Comments: This versatile offensive forward was among the most offensively gifted on Team USA. He is fast, with good edges and quick crossovers, able beat defenders with pace and change of direction. He is shifty and agile, making him difficult to contain one on one. Berchild missed the first two games of the tournament and was still among the US leaders in goals, scoring 3 in 3 games. This number could have been higher, he missed a handful of quality chances in tight, where he had only the goalie to beat. He showed elite offensive creativity and has the ability to break games open with his skill and vision. Berchild is confident with the puck, showed exceptional puck control and despite his undersized frame protected the puck extremely well. He is an elite passer with quick hands and crafty stick handling. He was dangerous in every viewing and with a little puck luck and improved finishing ability could have scored a handful vs the Swedes in the bronze metal game. He showed a high skill level with the extra man and deceived defenders with his vision and quick release. He made a handful of quality feeds where he looked or a shot but then made a late cross-ice pass to teammates with great looks. He is undersized but has a sturdy frame and showed elite quickness to avoid checks. His undersized stature could be a disadvantage at higher levels and he will need to continue to develop his quickness, agility and change of pace to compensate for his lack of size vs bigger faster defenders at the next level.
Victor Plante (F, L, 5’9″, 150, USA NTDP U17, 03/10/2008, Minnesota Duluth)
Game Rating
A-
2 Viewings
Comments: This skating winger was highly effective for Team USA this week with his pace and great vision in traffic around the net. Plante led all US skaters in points and was among the tournament leaders overall with 9 points in 5 games. He was an offensive talent who gave opposing defenders fits with his unselfish play, his tenacious play without the puck, and willingness to distribute pucks in traffic. He was able to pressure opposing players and take away their time and space when playing without the puck. He forced turnovers consistently. Plante worked the give on go well, made players around him better by creating space with his own work ethic and showed a willingness to distribute pucks to the right player on the attack. Linemates Zajic and Mutryn benefitted from Plante’s play. They found themselves wide open after a number of cross-seam feeds or quick touch passes five on five and with the extra man, both had a number of open looks in prime areas around the net. Plante showed no quit in his game and quick closing speed on loose pucks in all 3 zones. If the US found themselves down in games this week he always seemed to be one of the sparks on the offense with his hustle and elevated compete. It felt like the Americans were never out of a game as Plante showed the ability to raise his offensive game in important situations.
Logan Stuart (F, R, 5’9″, 154, Detroit Little Caesars U15, 04/23/2008, Denver)
Game Rating
B-
2 Viewings
Comments: Stuart played a steady 200 foot game for the US this week. A depth center role for him for most of this week and he was one of the top defensive/two-way forwards on the high powered offensive US team. He showed good puck support in all three zones and a willingness to apply back pressure in defensive situations. He broke up a handful of quality chances with his attention to detail on defense and willingness to get back on the puck. Stuart’s versatile play allowed him to play 5 on 5, penalty kill and in powerplay situations all week. Offensively, he showed limited spurts but showed a high IQ game and demonstrated a good give-and-go play in tight on the cycle. A few quality feeds for helpers where he used his vision in traffic to make a play in tight to his winger with an open cage. We didn’t see much off the transition game this week from Stuart on the attack. This is an area he will need to continue develop if he wants to find his way into the US top 6 forwards consistently.
Wyatt Cullen (F, L, 5’4″, 121, Moorhead Bantam AA, 09/08/2008)
Game Rating
B
2 Viewings
Comments: This left winger was fun to watch with his creative offensive game and dynamic play with the puck. He has excellent vision, making skilled cross-ice passes and finding teammates in scoring positions, including backdoor passes to players in quality shooting lanes. He plays with pace and has the ability to change direction and adjust his angles/pace. These attributes made Cullen hard to handle in open space. He had a number of chances in both viewings this week but lacked finish in his game. He did not score despite having 7-8 quality chances in our two viewings. He showed as a nifty and elusive winger, with a knack for making unexpected plays and who can drive wide on defenders effectively. He was another player in the US lineup who seemed to raise his game when they were down and needed a spark or change in momentum. Cullen has a slight, undersized, and wiry build and will need to continue to develop physically if wants to continue to free wheel like this at the next level. While he was effective this week at backing defenders off, the extra power in his game will come in handy at the next level vs bigger stronger defenders. If he can overcome his size disadvantage, he has the potential to be a dynamic offensive player at the next level.
Luke Schairer (D, R, 6’2″, 186, USA NTDP U17, 01/30/2008, Boston University)
Tournament ReportPaul O’Hagan#48 Schairer, Luke (USA U17)Birth Date: Jan 30, 2008Position: RD6.02.25 / 186Underage (’26)
Game Rating
B
2 Viewings
Comments: This lanky right shot defenseman has great size and length. He was physically imposing, especially in front of his net and along the walls where he won the majority of his puck battles. He is mobile for a big defenseman and supremely confident with the puck. His combination of size, mobility, and offensive skills gave him the opportunity to play in all key offensive situations for the US team this week. His heavy shot gets through and he picked his spots well to join the rush and create chances as a secondary option. Schairer played the first unit powerplay with poise and showed offensive awareness in his game managing the blue line. He held pucks and let the play develop in transition and found his teammates moving with pace in transition. He projects as a confident, offensive-minded defenseman with a high ceiling. He seemed a bit over confident at times and this led to a handful of instances where he overhandled, even when he was last man back. A few turnovers turned into quality scoring chances going the wrong way. If he can clean up this area of his game he has the package to develop into a quality two way defender in the future. Reducing turnovers and improving his defensive awareness will be crucial for his development.
Dayne Beuker (F, R, 5’10”, 158, USA NTDP U17, 03/23/2008)
Game Rating
B
2 Viewings
Comments: Beuker is a versatile two way forward who can play a number of roles with his energy game and touch around the net. He is strong and difficult to knock off the puck, also hard on the forecheck. He plays a high energy game and has the ability to play in all situations – five on five, penalty kill, and on the powerplay. He scored an excellent goal vs Sweden in the bronze medal game, showcasing quick hands and agility in traffic to create space and finished with a heavy wrist shot. His high effort and hustle are noticeable throughout his game. Beuker plays a hard, honest, and high-effort game all over the ice (200-foot player). He is an effective penalty killer, demonstrating responsibility and reliability in his own zone and worked effectively to get into shooting lanes and disrupt the attack. While he may not be the most flashy player on this US side, his consistent contributions and reliability made him a valuable asset this week on both sides of the puck.
Lukas Kachlir (D, R, 5’8″, 150, Bili Tygri Liberec U20, 09/05/2009)
Game Rating
C+
1 Viewing
Viewed on TV
Comments: Lukas Is a smaller smooth skating, puck moving defender. He moves very well with the puck and uses deceptive agility skating to create time and space to make a play. Lukas scores the second goal of the game, he gets the puck on the blue line and explodes into open space with efficient skating and gets a good shot through traffic that goes in. He plays the quarterback position on the powerplay well, he uses his skating and passing ability for good breakouts and he moves the blue line well, distributing the puck quickly. With 11 minutes left in the third you can see Lukas using his skating and passing ability to create zone entrys on the power play. One thing Lukas needs to work on to develop his game is his body positioning in the defensive zone. It happens multiple times throughout the game, one example is with 5 min remaining in the first. The puck gets stalled along the wall, a puck battle ensues and Lukas in his haste ends up being pinned on the wrong side of the puck. Being a smaller defender it is vital that Lukas stays on the right side of the puck or at the very least comes up with the puck and makes a play to remove the pressure.
Jakub Vanecek (D, L, 6’0″, 185, Bili Tygri Liberec U20, 02/25/2008)
Game Rating
A-
1 Viewing
Viewed on TV
Comments: Jakub is a strong defender the thing I like the most about his defensive game is how difficult he is to play against, he uses good gap control along with a good stick to take time and space away from forwards. His defensive prowess is on display at the 15 min of the first period. The shift encapsulates what I really like about Jakub’s game. First he stops two on coming forwards, the first with good gap control and physicality and the second with a very good stick. The puck recylces and he stays on the man using his stick again to disrupt the player. He then sees an opportunity to jump in the rush but thinks better of it as the play isn’t made. Jakub then stops two attempted breakouts with well timed pinches and again a very good stick, when the puck recycles into the neutral zone he makes and quick hard pass to the open winger. Jakub is very good with his body, he uses it to box out players in front of the net or shield the puck both when he has it or when he’s moving towards it. He is also not afraid to play physically and hit guys. A great example of this is his shift with 10 min left in the second, he boxes out the forechecker then uses good edges to start a breakout. The play continues into the offensive zone and as it exit he takes a great angle and gets a good hit off near the blueline. At the 16 min mark of the third Jakub displays the offensive side of his game. His offensive game is understated but effective, he gets the puck off the face off, he puts the puck in a great spot behind the net for his forwards to make a play. The puck gets recycled and off the zone entry he sees an opportunity, gets a pass and uses some really nice edges to easily beat his man and beats the goalie with a pull and drag shot off the post. He handles the puck with poise and makes the simple but effective play, he allows the game to come to him. For his game to go to the next level I believe he should continue to get more powerful, he is not the tallest defender so more power in his stride and with his physicality will only make him harder to play against.
Simon Katolicky (RW, L, 6’4″, 190, Tappara U20, 06/24/2008)
Game Rating
B+
1 Viewing
Viewed on TV
Comments: Simon is a big forward with good sense with the puck, he shows poise with his puck handling and decision making. He scores the first goal of the game off a turnover, he stays onside than finds a soft area for his teammate to make a nice pass. He has a breakaway from the hashmarks in and shows poise and a sense for scoring by not rushing a shot and making a nice move backhand for the goal. Simon uses his body very well, he skates well for a bigger guy but what really impresses me is his use and understanding of his body. He gets an assist on the second goal where he shows off puck protection, poise and vision. The puck exits the zone and Simon cuts hard across, he’s played in on a partial break from a very nice pass, he protects the puck and takes it to the net well. The puck recycles to him at the blue line and he shows his hands off to keep it in, he then does a very good job of using his body to suck the winger towards him, he waits till the winger is close than slides the puck to his defence man. He buys his teammate enough time for him to walk the line and put a good shot with traffic for the second goal of the game. My favourite element of Simon’s game is his belief in himself and his willingness to make plays. He skates the puck very well and constantly puts himself into positions to get the puck with speed through the neutral, he is not afraid to take guys on 1 on 1 and he wants to make plays. He does not reside himself to being stationary in the right spot, he actively goes out and gets the puck to try and make plays. This is evident in the first and late in the third when his team is down. For Simon to take his game to the net level I believe he needs to develop his shot. He is a big guy with a long stick so his shot will be heavy if he can develop his release adding some speed and deception he can be a dangerous shooting threat on the powerplay and off the rush.
Photo Credit: Dan Hickling/Hickling Images