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Saturday, October 9, 2010

Murphy continuing his assault on OHL scoring race

Defenseman Ryan Murphy shows no sign of slowing down. He posted a four-point night (1 goal, 3 assists) in his team's 7-5 win over the Barrie Colts Friday. You can see highlights here.

That gives him a ludicrous (with h/t to one of my favorite movies Spaceballs) stats line of 4-9-13 in just five games so far. The goal he scored last night was an absolute perfect example of how dangerous a player he is-- he uses his speed to get around the defense and then beats the goalie on the wrap-around after the rebound wasn't controlled.

If NHL scouts aren't on his bandwagon already, I don't think it will take much more to get them on board. He's always had the offense, but this year, his defense is improved and the bottom line is-- he's getting it done in all areas including special teams, where he is an absolute stud as point man, who can either distribute the puck beautifully or can unleash a howitzer blast himself. Size is really the only issue with this kid, but if he keeps up his torrid pace, that won't matter, as Jeff Skinner proved last year.

Speaking of Skinner, the amazing thing is-- the Rangers are doing all of this offensive wizardry without his services. He made a lasting impression in his first NHL game with the winning shootout goal against Minnesota.

German ace winger Tobias Rieder also tallied twice in the win, and now has four goals and nine points.

Here's more on the former York Simcoe Express star


1 comment:

  1. I wasnt able to go to the game last night as i was at the Knights game but i PVR'ed it and watched it when i got home. After the goal you speak of (its a set play for him to shoot it off the backboards and pick it up although the goaltender should have had it) the TV announcers referred to Murphy as "Quietly reminding us of two former Bruin greats".

    Cant wait to see him in an international tournament. I was able to score a bunch of tickets for some HF board posters to go to the OHL vs Russian Jrs next month in London. I wish you could come up and see the kid just once before the draft Kirk. I think there is something special in the making with this kid. Let me know and Jamie and i will take care of you !! Although he should be at the WJC Barring some misjustice like the Ivan Hlinka.

    On another note, i know he's already drafted, but he is a Bruin, so i hope you dont mind me adding that Tyler Randell is playing very well !! I dont think there is a harder worker or better forechecker in the OHL right now. There is just no quit right now. I can see why they are considering giving him an A when they name a captain (probably Landeskog). All they are waiting for is to see if Skinner gets returned, which doesn't look likely.

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