Game played on 12/01/2024.
Kalem Parker (D, R, 6’0″, 190, Calgary Hitmen, 10/12/2004)
Grade: B+
Comments: Kalem, the Minnesota Wild’s 6th-round pick in the 2023 NHL Draft, recorded two assists in this contest. On his first assist, Kalem entered the offensive zone up the right side and dropped the puck to Tulk, who scored off a quick shot. Kalem is a dynamic skater who made aggressive pinches to jump into the offense and hold the blue line. Upon gaining possession, he consistently cut to open space with his head up and made smart passes to his teammates. He also excelled at getting his shots through to the net from the point, showcasing intelligence and composure in the offensive zone. On the defensive side, Kalem used his stick effectively to knock pucks away. However, on one rush, he was beaten wide by an opposing attacker, highlighting an area for potential improvement. Overall, Kalem is an intelligent and smooth offensive defenseman who would thrive in the NCAA—if he does not turn pro next season.
Maxim Muranov (RW, L, 6’2″, 188, Calgary Hitmen, 06/02/2004)
Grade: B
Comments: Maxim is a rare import overage player, as he returns to the Hitmen for his fourth season, after recording 50 points in 63 games last year. In this game, he recorded an assist, as he drove hard up the right wall through contact, and made a backhand pass (while being hit) to Wetsch, who scored in the slot. As a bigger forward, Maxim was effective along the boards and at the net front. He was hard on pucks down low in the offensive zone and was at his best when the game was in tight. We did note that Maxim struggled to create speed through his first few strides, and thus was less effective when the game became more free flowing. On the defensive side of the puck, Maxim worked hard to come back to the defensive end, and was able to block shots. In our view, due to Maxim’s current toolkit, his game would be better suited for the pro ranks than the NCAA.
Connor Hvidston (LW, L, 6’2″, 164, Calgary Hitmen, 09/11/2004)
Grade: A-
Comments: Connor has an impressive resume at the WHL level, tallying 180 points in 195 games played. The Anaheim Ducks’ fifth-round pick in 2022 played seven games in the AHL with the San Diego Gulls in 2023. What impressed us most about Connor in this game was his spacing. He excelled at getting open as a passing option and was quick to track down loose pucks, demonstrating an excellent ability to read the play. With the puck on his stick, he created space using his edges and made smart passes to his teammates. His passing stood out most when he was along the wall, as he consistently connected with teammates in the middle of the ice to generate scoring chances. Listed at 6’3′, Connor utilized his size effectively in tight spaces, handling the puck through contact to reach advantageous areas. On the defensive side, he showcased a strong work ethic, hustling to get back and establish himself in the defensive zone. He disrupted plays by getting his stick into passing and shooting lanes and positioned himself effectively to make stops. As it stands, Connor is one of the top 2004-born players in the WHL and is poised to make an impact at the professional level next season.
Photo Credit: Dan Hickling/Hickling Images