
I didn’t get to stay the entire day. I’m no longer sick but my household still has some issues. So, of the players I saw, here were the standouts good and bad. It’s mostly good.
Jett Luchanko – C – His speed is very good. But I don’t think it’s as fast as Mat Barzal was in his draft year. But he’s the fastest player I’ve seen and has a smooth wrist shot. He’s excellent on the give-n-go, but he had to wait for the pass back because some of the other prospects couldn’t deliver it to him as fast. I liked his backhand and he has very fast reflexes overall which is the sign of a top player. There’s a lot to like.
Jack Berglund – C – I didn’t see him in camp, but I watched him live at the Five Nations when he led his team in scoring. He was on my horrendous flight home, and I have to say he’s a smart, personable guy. When I saw him, he was on the fourth line. He scored a few times, once off the back of the goalie. He has a chance to score some goals and be a third-line center.
Spencer Gill – D – He’s quick up the ice. He tries to clear the crease but needs to add some muscle. He has good tools. I saw Massimo Rizzo push him back, but he’s a stronger, college player in a battle drill.
JR Avon – C – His shot is still very good. I feel like his release has improved. He did get a talking to during a drill that stresses edgework and that’s something to keep an eye on this year regarding his skating, which is good overall so far.
Denver Barkey – Wing – Fearless getting to the net. His passing is excellent. He has a quick wrist shot. His edgework is excellent.
Noah Powell – RW – This overager has to figure out how to score at the next level. He’s got a strong body and he’s a good passer. His shot release is a bit slow right now, so I’ll be watching that.
Oliver Bonk – D – He did everything well, but he has to get physically stronger. He did have trouble against some bigger players. But everything defensively is sound, and he may need some more work with his edges too.
Hunter McDonald – D – I still view him as a third-pairing talent. He is a good skater and can pass the puck in easy situations. He’s stronger than most of the guys in camp. I wouldn’t rush this guy. Sometimes teams do this because there are few players who are physical and can defend. He’s only played 170 games since 2020-21.