Justin Keller

History

Justin Keller had a fine rookie season for Kelowna of the WHL as he was among team leaders in scoring and found a regular shift all season. The year and Keller’s career so far was highlighted by his role in Kelowna’s Memorial Cup Championship. Kelowna beat the Gatineau Olympiques in the final 2-1 and it was Keller’s third period goal that broke a 1-1 tie and gave the Rockets the championship. Keller will forever be known in Kelowna as the player who scored the 2004 Memorial Cup winning goal.

8th round (245th overall), 2004

May 2005 Q&A with Keller

August 2006 Q&A with Keller

2007-08: After a successful 2006-07 season with the Springfield Falcons (AHL), Keller was traded over to Norfolk. In 70 games the winger registered 15 goals and 22 assists and finished the season a +7. He registered his first point with Norfolk on Oct. 26 vs. Philadelphia. He had several multi-point games this season and was named to the 2008 AHL All-Star Classic on Jan. 23 to replace teammate Kyle Wanvig (on recall to Tampa). He also skated for the Canadian AHL All-Stars in the AHL All-Star Game on Jan. 28 at Binghamton, N.Y. He also led the AHL with a +11 rating in the month of February.

Talent Analysis

Keller is an undersized forward who possesses top-end skill. He's an adequate skater and is willing to go to high traffic areas to score and dig out the puck. Because he is undersized, his skating must be among the team's best if he is to make it in the pros. He must improve his leg strength, heart, and drive - a blueprint set for smaller players by Lightning forward Martin St. Louis - if he is to make the NHL. He has a good wrist shot and good vision, but he must improve his play away from the puck and along the wall.