John Laliberte

History

Picked by the Canucks in the fourth round in 2002 Laliberte has exploded offensively in 2004-05 with 18 points in 20 games, although he has a -2 rating. He gained some weight over the offseason to 200 pounds, which has helped to make him a stronger player on his skates. This season Laliberte has shown more creativity and has found a way to get into the open space at the right time.

He finished the 2004-05 season second on the team in scoring with 30 points (12 goals, 18 assists) in 40 appearances. He co-led the Terriers with seven power play goals. Laliberte enjoyed his first career multi-goal game back on February 7th in the Terriers’ 2-1 win over arch-rival Boston College in their Beanpot Tournament semi-final game. The performance also earned Laliberte his only Hockey East Player of the Week honor this season.

Talent Analysis

Laliberte is a prime example of a checking/defensive forward. However, this season he has proven that he can be an offensive force as well. His defensive play is outstanding. One area where Laliberte really excels is his outstanding and very aggressive play along the boards and in the corners. Equally good is his ability to grind things out. He can be a very difficult player to play against. He possesses excellent upper body strength. He’s a very smart player who anticipates quite well. He possesses very good passing skills. He skates well with powerful strides. Two areas where Laliberte has made vast improvements in are his play around the net and following the plays around it. He has become quite an opportunistic player who has demonstrated the ability to not only following up on rebounds but finishing the play (with a score) as well. Laliberte is also using his 6’2/200 lbs. frame more effectively and efficiently. This has paid off particularly in his ability to create chaos in and around the opposition’s crease area.