Beyond Tomorrow: MacInnis impressing with hard work Photo: U.S. NTDP forward and 2014 NHL Draft prospect Ryan MacInnis has made great strides in his game since the beginning of the 2012-13 season (courtesy of Shaun Botterill/Getty Images) The first thing that most people notice about Ryan MacInnis is his size. Even just having turned 17 years old a couple of weeks ago, MacInnis already stands 6’3” and weighs 174 pounds. His size is imposing, even on a U.S. National Team Development Program team that is peppered with big bodies. Leadership role a perfect fit for 67′s talented Monahan Photo: Ottawa 67's captain and 2013 NHL Draft prospect Sean Monahan missed a chance to play for Canada at the U-20 WJC, but should get his chance to represent his country at the U-18 tournament in April (courtesy of Terry Wilson/OHL Images) Canada’s national game is, in fact, lacrosse. And that sport’s loss has been a huge gain for the Great White North’s unofficial game as Ottawa 67’s captain Sean Monahan has taken the lessons learned from the field and parlayed them into a potential top-10 selection at the upcoming 2013 NHL Draft. Leadership qualities already a part of Nurse’s game Photo: Sault Ste. Marie Greyhounds defenseman Darnell Nurse has vaulted up 2013 NHL Draft rankings with his strong play in the 2012-13 season (courtesy of Terry Wilson/OHL Images) Combining an elite professional athlete pedigree with dynamic on-ice skills, already-manifested leadership capabilities, and pure freakish physicality, Sault Ste. Marie Greyhounds’ blueliner Darnell Nurse looks to be the prescription for success for one lucky NHL franchise. Scout’s Perch: NHL Draft observations from the road Photo: Erie Otters phenom forward Connor McDavid has been one of the few bright spots for an Erie club that is in rebuilding mode (courtesy of Terry Wilson/OHL Images) Thoughts accumulated on a two-week trip that took me through eight states and four provinces. Lots of snow and lots of coffee. 2013 ECHL All-Star Game: Grubauer’s ECHL swan song comes on a high note Photo: Washington Capitals prospect Philipp Grubauer, shown here playing for the OHL's Kingston Frontenacs, has performed impressively so far in the ECHL (courtesy of Aaron Bell/OHL Images) The ECHL and the ECHL All-Star Game has quietly become one of the top showcases and grooming grounds for upcoming National Hockey League goaltenders. Just ask the Washington Capitals. |
