Rob O'Gara, D
6-3, 185
July 6, 1993
Shoots: Left
Boston's 5th choice, 151st overall (fifth round) in 2011 Draft
Signing status: Unsigned
Talent Analysis
Physical: Fine size; tall, lanky frame with long limbs and plenty of room to grow/add muscle mass. Strength and conditioning will be O'Gara's biggest priority over the next several years, as he's a beanpole right now. Strong skater with long, fluid stride and the ability to gain the blue line with speed. Crisp footwork and solid coordination for a big kid who just turned 18 the day before he reported to development camp. Fine passer and puck-mover who keeps his head up and hits the breakouts with ease. Big, powerful shot that he is still working on in terms of getting off faster and making more accurate. Generates real velocity and torque on his drive if he gets all of it. Not a thundering hitter, but understands body leverage and angling rubs guys out along the boards and pins them to the wall. Active stick and exhibits good gap control. Defensively sound and just needs more experience at higher competition levels to bring out the best in his physical attributes. Plays lacrosse in the spring to further hone his physical edge and athleticism.
Intangibles: Smart, hard working kid who came from out of nowhere this past season with Milton Academy after playing junior in his native Long Island. Rough and raw- only played one year in prep and will get one more year at that level before he moves onto the NCAA. At his best when he keeps it simple. A leader who will captain the Mustangs this season. High character kid who has a natural feel for the game and brings a good level of humility to the mix as well.
Boston Bruins 2011 Development Camp assessment
Although raw, clearly impressed with his physical tools and willingness to work. Made numerous instinctive plays with and without the puck that were visible when studying him closely. As he gains more experience and confidence, he'll likely spread his wings more and try to improve the creativity. Underrated puck-mover: defense is his strong suit, but he has the wheels and head to advance the puck and join the play. He did so at the right moments and while he wasn't flashy, kept things simple and corrected his mistakes. O'Gara is a talent who could pay nice dividends in time: where he's lacking isn't due to a dearth of ability but because he hasn't played at all that high a level.
Development Camp interview with Rob O'Gara
Projection
O'Gara's low ranking is much more reflective of the deep Bruins system and how far away he is from competing for a job with the big club than any lack of upside on his part. He has one more year at Milton, and then will take his game to Yale University in 2012. Has top-four potential but could just as well settle in as a solid No. 5 defenseman at the highest level given his size and skill package. He understands he's behind the developmental curve a little bit in terms of where he grades out against his peers and elite competition, but as a late bloomer is in a good spot to open some eyes in the next 2-4 years. Although he grew up a diehard New York Islanders fan (he was born the summer after the Isles' longest playoff run since the 1984 Stanley Cup final), he's thrilled to be a Bruin because of his time spent in the Bay State surrounded by B's fans at Milton. Comes from a real good family and will put in the work he must to put himself into the Boston mix when the time comes.
Quotable
"[Rob] O’Gara who we talked about, or [Bruins Assistant GM] Donny [Sweeney] talked about him yesterday, I think he’s going to be a good player, provided he gets some strength and gets his feet under him. He’s got a good head, good stick, good sense. "- Bruins GM Peter Chiarelli; July 11, 2011
"Robby O’Gara, I know that you’ve commented like he maybe looks like he’s baby faced and won a lottery ticket to be a Bruin or something but he does not look out of place in any way, shape or form. He’s a nice piece of clay right now that we all get to go to work with. And he’s a great kid and he’s really excited to be part of our group."- Bruins Assistant GM Don Sweeney; July 11, 2011
"You obviously have to have a feel for the (prep) league and guys that have come out of there and how their trajectory has gone. It’s a harder route. I went that path. It’s definitely a harder route. You don’t play as many games. Level of competition, I mean, it’s still hockey. There’s games in any league that teams are on a rebuilding mode. You go into buildings that aren’t necessarily up to par for where that team is. So I don’t want to put down the Prep School Hockey League overall. Will I tell you they’re producing a lot of NHL players? No, they’re not. But it’s still good hockey and Rob’s at a stage where he’s coming out of an area that probably isn’t known for producing a lot of players. So things are kind of new to him and you can tell he’s a little wide-eyed and trying to get himself up to pace. But that’s a good thing from where we sit."- Sweeney; July 9, 2011
"He’s got the next four, five, whatever years, whatever he needs to develop into the player we think he can become. He’s not getting any smaller and, you know, hopefully he only continues to get bigger and he could be like Tommy Cross here, coming back for four or five of these camps and you just see him continue to grow and develop as a player before we even think about him turning pro. That’ll map itself out, as I said, there’s no course of action laid out for each and every one of them, they’ll set their own course. But him being in our backyard, I think gives us the ability now to dial in a little bit even better through the course of the season when I go see him play. I didn’t talk to him at all until we interviewed him. But now, I’ll be getting to pull him aside and say, ‘X, Y and Z,’ and be very specific about things."- Sweeney; July 9, 2011
"Robby [O’Gara]’s a piece of clay right now, albeit it’s a big piece. At 6’4” it can change. Things have come at him here a little quicker in the last, I’d say, eight months. But we got a chance, I did in particular and other people got a chance to see him a lot. He’s in our backyard. We went down and spoke to him and he’s excited. This is probably catching him a little off guard in terms of the preparation aspect of it. As I mentioned, you come from the prep school ranks and you know, there’s a lot to digest here in a short period of time."- Sweeney; July 7, 2011
"The good thing is there’s no timetable for him. He’s not going to get any smaller. He’s only going to fill out and continue to get better. And he’s going to be right in our backyard for another year then on to a real good program in Yale. So I think that he’ll learn a lot. He’ll be one of those kids that walks out of here, hopefully, and learns an awful lot and takes some of this stuff going forward."- Sweeney; July 7, 2011
*(Not affiliated with the Boston Bruins or the New England Hockey Journal)
Thursday, August 4, 2011
Bruins prospect profile #28: Zane Gothberg
Zane Gothberg, G
6-1, 177
August 20, 1992
Catches: Left
Boston's 6th choice, 165th overall (sixth round) in 2010 Draft
Signing status: Unsigned
Talent Analysis
Physical: Although lean, Gothberg has a sizeable frame and is long-limbed, which is ideal for NHL goalies these days. Highly athletic, with excellent quickness, reflexes and flexibility. His style is best described as a hybrid between butterfly and standup; he keeps his feet more than the average butterfly netminder, but will scramble and employ older save techniques such as the two-pad stack and the half-butterfly. Quick glove and blocker hands; could stand on working to catch the puck cleanly more, but usually gets a piece of the shot to make the stop. Very good puckhandler; makes crisp passes to start the breakout and can clear it off the glass on his own. Decent rebound control, but that is a skill he, like most young goalies, must continue to work on. Fundamentals will need some refining; he's more of an athletic and instinctive player than he is a technician at the position at this stage of his development. Battles hard, but tends to flop and flail when play gets scrambly; needs to try and remain upright and use his size/athleticism to better advantage.
Intangibles: Relaxed, even quirky Gothberg personality masks a fierce competitor and highly successful Minnesota H.S. product. Struggled to find his comfort zone in the USHL early with Fargo, but played well in the World Jr. Challenge in November and returned to the league with a new focus. Played extremely well in the second half, matching starter Ryan Massa with some top performances and carrying the confidence of a veteran. Seems to display exceptional mental toughness and an ability to shake off bad goals with subsequent big stops/tough saves. One-of-a-kind personality and extrovert who keeps everyone loose. Among his favorite music at 2011 development camp: Wiz Khalifa.
Boston Bruins 2011 Development Camp assessment
Clearly improved his fundamentals and technique, but still raw in terms of his development and progression. When playing in control, he's tough to beat but bails on the basic butterfly pretty quickly when the opposition moves the puck. More instinctive and reactive at this stage, but will be a much better goaltender when he gets more playing time/experience and is able to anticipate and read the play better. Made a highlight reel save on Brian Ferlin on a breakaway after Ferlin picked Dougie Hamilton's pocket and cruised in alone. It wasn't pretty, as Gothberg ended up on his stomach, but he was able to pluck the puck out of the air as it was headed toward the twine and deny Ferlin a glorious scoring opportunity.
Development Camp interview with Zane Gothberg
Projection
Gothberg is a long-term project, but he has NHL starter upside with his natural talent and intangibles. Expect him to take the long road of one more season in the USHL, followed by at least two in the NCAA before he turns pro, followed by another several years in the minors. How quickly he signs will depend on how well he plays, but he will be 20 by the time he gets to Grand Forks and the University of North Dakota. Although a character in terms of his personality and laid-back style, he's a serious guy who understands the value of hard work and realizes that he has a long way to go. Watch this kid-- he could end up being a legitimate NHL prospect and someone to track closely as he moves on to the next level.
Quotable
“I have been privileged to coach Zane for the last three years. He has been a coaches dream to have on my team. The best things about Zane do not even involve his on ice performance, without being asked he put in the time to help out our youth programs and he just plan gets it. He is a very mature and confident young man. He makes our team better because of this. He has great leadership and his work ethic is where it needs to be to get to the next level. He has size and also quickness. If he continues to progress and I am sure he will, I see good things for Zane.”- Thief River Falls H.S. head coach Tim Bergland to NHL.com, 2010
“This kid is very good. He impressed me the first time I saw him. He's very controlled. He is a lot like Michael Lee (selected by the Phoenix Coyotes in Round 3, No. 91, in the 2009 NHL Entry Draft) from the previous year, only quicker. I like his quickness and net coverage. I like his strength. He's smart and reads the play well. There's not a lot that I don't like about his game. As the years go by, he's going to be a very good NHL goaltender."- NHL Central Scouting's Al Jensen to NHL.com, 2010
“We were really excited about Gothberg. He’s a bankable kid for us. We have some goaltending depth right now that we’re very comfortable with. He has excellent quickness. We really like the kid’s character; we had him higher than where he went.”- Bruins amateur scouting director Wayne Smith to New England Hockey Journal, Los Angeles; July 26, 2010
“It just shows you that every ounce of energy you have left, you have to put it forward otherwise these guys are going to beat you clean. Got snipped a couple of times out there but that was just cause mentally and physically I need to get to the next level. From here, it’s a good building block towards the future. Just hanging with the guys and soaking it all in.”- Zane Gothberg to hockeyjournal.com, Wilmington, Mass.; July 6-10, 2010
6-1, 177
August 20, 1992
Catches: Left
Boston's 6th choice, 165th overall (sixth round) in 2010 Draft
Signing status: Unsigned
Talent Analysis
Physical: Although lean, Gothberg has a sizeable frame and is long-limbed, which is ideal for NHL goalies these days. Highly athletic, with excellent quickness, reflexes and flexibility. His style is best described as a hybrid between butterfly and standup; he keeps his feet more than the average butterfly netminder, but will scramble and employ older save techniques such as the two-pad stack and the half-butterfly. Quick glove and blocker hands; could stand on working to catch the puck cleanly more, but usually gets a piece of the shot to make the stop. Very good puckhandler; makes crisp passes to start the breakout and can clear it off the glass on his own. Decent rebound control, but that is a skill he, like most young goalies, must continue to work on. Fundamentals will need some refining; he's more of an athletic and instinctive player than he is a technician at the position at this stage of his development. Battles hard, but tends to flop and flail when play gets scrambly; needs to try and remain upright and use his size/athleticism to better advantage.
Intangibles: Relaxed, even quirky Gothberg personality masks a fierce competitor and highly successful Minnesota H.S. product. Struggled to find his comfort zone in the USHL early with Fargo, but played well in the World Jr. Challenge in November and returned to the league with a new focus. Played extremely well in the second half, matching starter Ryan Massa with some top performances and carrying the confidence of a veteran. Seems to display exceptional mental toughness and an ability to shake off bad goals with subsequent big stops/tough saves. One-of-a-kind personality and extrovert who keeps everyone loose. Among his favorite music at 2011 development camp: Wiz Khalifa.
Boston Bruins 2011 Development Camp assessment
Clearly improved his fundamentals and technique, but still raw in terms of his development and progression. When playing in control, he's tough to beat but bails on the basic butterfly pretty quickly when the opposition moves the puck. More instinctive and reactive at this stage, but will be a much better goaltender when he gets more playing time/experience and is able to anticipate and read the play better. Made a highlight reel save on Brian Ferlin on a breakaway after Ferlin picked Dougie Hamilton's pocket and cruised in alone. It wasn't pretty, as Gothberg ended up on his stomach, but he was able to pluck the puck out of the air as it was headed toward the twine and deny Ferlin a glorious scoring opportunity.
Development Camp interview with Zane Gothberg
Projection
Gothberg is a long-term project, but he has NHL starter upside with his natural talent and intangibles. Expect him to take the long road of one more season in the USHL, followed by at least two in the NCAA before he turns pro, followed by another several years in the minors. How quickly he signs will depend on how well he plays, but he will be 20 by the time he gets to Grand Forks and the University of North Dakota. Although a character in terms of his personality and laid-back style, he's a serious guy who understands the value of hard work and realizes that he has a long way to go. Watch this kid-- he could end up being a legitimate NHL prospect and someone to track closely as he moves on to the next level.
Quotable
“I have been privileged to coach Zane for the last three years. He has been a coaches dream to have on my team. The best things about Zane do not even involve his on ice performance, without being asked he put in the time to help out our youth programs and he just plan gets it. He is a very mature and confident young man. He makes our team better because of this. He has great leadership and his work ethic is where it needs to be to get to the next level. He has size and also quickness. If he continues to progress and I am sure he will, I see good things for Zane.”- Thief River Falls H.S. head coach Tim Bergland to NHL.com, 2010
“This kid is very good. He impressed me the first time I saw him. He's very controlled. He is a lot like Michael Lee (selected by the Phoenix Coyotes in Round 3, No. 91, in the 2009 NHL Entry Draft) from the previous year, only quicker. I like his quickness and net coverage. I like his strength. He's smart and reads the play well. There's not a lot that I don't like about his game. As the years go by, he's going to be a very good NHL goaltender."- NHL Central Scouting's Al Jensen to NHL.com, 2010
“We were really excited about Gothberg. He’s a bankable kid for us. We have some goaltending depth right now that we’re very comfortable with. He has excellent quickness. We really like the kid’s character; we had him higher than where he went.”- Bruins amateur scouting director Wayne Smith to New England Hockey Journal, Los Angeles; July 26, 2010
“It just shows you that every ounce of energy you have left, you have to put it forward otherwise these guys are going to beat you clean. Got snipped a couple of times out there but that was just cause mentally and physically I need to get to the next level. From here, it’s a good building block towards the future. Just hanging with the guys and soaking it all in.”- Zane Gothberg to hockeyjournal.com, Wilmington, Mass.; July 6-10, 2010
Bruins prospect profile #27: Justin Florek
Justin Florek, LW
6-4, 195
May 18, 1990
Shoots: Left
Boston's fifth choice, 135th overall (fifth round) in 2010 draft
Signing status: Unsigned
Talent Analysis
Physical: Big, lean winger has the height and long limbs to be an effective power forward and is gradually adding mass and strength to his frame. Powerful skater with a long, loping stride and the ability to cover ground quickly. Still a bit gangly, and not as proficient in his lateral movements as he is in a straight line when he's going up and down the wing. Okay hands but not high-end offensive skills; doesn't handle the puck a lot in traffic. Bullet shot that he unleashes from the wing: hard, heavy and accurate. Able to finish off chances in close and around the net. An underrated playmaker; able to find seams in defenses and set up teammates for scoring chances. A willing physical player who understands his role and responsibilities and uses his size well to gain position in front of the net. Looks to have a bit of a mean streak, but is more of an honest skater who doesn't try to intimidate but won't shy away when the hitting picks up, either. Plays a solid three-zone game and is an effective special teamer at the NCAA level.
Intangibles: Hard-working, character player who is a good teammate and has the desire to go along with an impressive set of natural gifts. He's an intelligent two-way player, but doesn't appear to have the kind of elite offensive instincts that would translate into a top-six role in the NHL. However, he understands that he's most effective when going to the net and picking up the trash. A diligent, responsible player who puts in the work without a lot of fanfare.
Boston Bruins 2011 Development Camp assessment
Helped himself at development camp. Much like Zach Trotman, showed considerable improvement over where he was a year ago at this time. Anyone who was at development camp and wondered why the B's spent a fifth-round pick on a previously passed over player like Florek may have had a lot of the doubts quelled after the way he performed. Unloaded that drive of his on several occasions, finding the back of the net high and in the corners. Worked effectively with Ryan Spooner and Brian Ferlin, scoring goals and creating time and space for his creative playmaking pivot Spooner.
Development Camp interview with Justin Florek
Projection
Florek could possibly make the NHL as a third-line winger, but will probably spend considerable time in the minors first. He's raw and doesn't do much at the high end of the offensive spectrum, but is the kind of guy who could exceed expectations because he has the work ethic to go with his size and skating. He's picking things up in his development and even though he scored fewer goals as a junior than he did a year ago, he's poised for a big senior season and should push for 30+ markers if it all comes together for him. Watch for Florek to be skating for Providence in late March/early Apri when his NCAA eligibility is exhausted, and with his big body and underrated offensive skill, he could bring a nice boost in what everyone in Rhode Island hopes will be a playoff spring.
Quotable
"That one line, I thought was very good, with [Justin] Florek, [Ryan] Spooner, and [Brian] Ferlin. I thought you could see the, they made plays together, they found each other, they scored. Just, it was just good to see the confidence in the players come out. You’re worried, not worried, but you watch if they improve and you know they’re going to improve, just because they’re good players, they’re going to improve from day to day, but it’s good to see when the confidence starts to come out and I saw that in a lot of these kids."- Bruins GM Peter Chiarelli; July 11, 2011
"Well I mean you look at the physical size and he isn’t even done, you know, filling out that frame. So there’s a lot of room there. Look at the drills, look at the power skating, you know it’s hard for him because he’s not a kid that’s a fluid skater. But he gets there, and he’s heavy when he gets there. And he’s heavy around the front of the net and then you see the release when he gets one chance. Some guys need two, three, four, five, right. But he gets one and buries it. Thats the stuff that you kind of say, okay, if we can continue to work on the other stuff, and he’s willing to work on that stuff then you know you could find a player there for sure."- Bruins Assistant GM Don Sweeney; July 10, 2011
"He's a big kid who moves well and has some good upside as a power forward. We think he's only scratching the surface of what he's capable of and with his character, is someone we're glad to have in the organization."- Bruins amateur scouting director Wayne Smith to B2010DW, Los Angeles; June 26, 2010
“First year, I was heartbroken like any kid would be expecting to get drafted and not being drafted. The second year I didn’t really think about it but obviously, it’s in the back of your head. And then, the third year, I just picked up the shift on Saturday, draft day, and didn’t even think about it. I was working when I got the call.”- Justin Florek to hockeyjournal.com, Wilmington, Mass.; July 6-10, 2010
“I’m a big power forward; I pick up loose pucks around the net and maintain possession down low. I throw the body around when I need to. I’m a defensive forward; I penalty kill a lot and play the power play, penalty kill, 5-on-5– I do it all.”- Justin Florek, Wilmington, Mass.; July 6-10, 2010
6-4, 195
May 18, 1990
Shoots: Left
Boston's fifth choice, 135th overall (fifth round) in 2010 draft
Signing status: Unsigned
Talent Analysis
Physical: Big, lean winger has the height and long limbs to be an effective power forward and is gradually adding mass and strength to his frame. Powerful skater with a long, loping stride and the ability to cover ground quickly. Still a bit gangly, and not as proficient in his lateral movements as he is in a straight line when he's going up and down the wing. Okay hands but not high-end offensive skills; doesn't handle the puck a lot in traffic. Bullet shot that he unleashes from the wing: hard, heavy and accurate. Able to finish off chances in close and around the net. An underrated playmaker; able to find seams in defenses and set up teammates for scoring chances. A willing physical player who understands his role and responsibilities and uses his size well to gain position in front of the net. Looks to have a bit of a mean streak, but is more of an honest skater who doesn't try to intimidate but won't shy away when the hitting picks up, either. Plays a solid three-zone game and is an effective special teamer at the NCAA level.
Intangibles: Hard-working, character player who is a good teammate and has the desire to go along with an impressive set of natural gifts. He's an intelligent two-way player, but doesn't appear to have the kind of elite offensive instincts that would translate into a top-six role in the NHL. However, he understands that he's most effective when going to the net and picking up the trash. A diligent, responsible player who puts in the work without a lot of fanfare.
Boston Bruins 2011 Development Camp assessment
Helped himself at development camp. Much like Zach Trotman, showed considerable improvement over where he was a year ago at this time. Anyone who was at development camp and wondered why the B's spent a fifth-round pick on a previously passed over player like Florek may have had a lot of the doubts quelled after the way he performed. Unloaded that drive of his on several occasions, finding the back of the net high and in the corners. Worked effectively with Ryan Spooner and Brian Ferlin, scoring goals and creating time and space for his creative playmaking pivot Spooner.
Development Camp interview with Justin Florek
Projection
Florek could possibly make the NHL as a third-line winger, but will probably spend considerable time in the minors first. He's raw and doesn't do much at the high end of the offensive spectrum, but is the kind of guy who could exceed expectations because he has the work ethic to go with his size and skating. He's picking things up in his development and even though he scored fewer goals as a junior than he did a year ago, he's poised for a big senior season and should push for 30+ markers if it all comes together for him. Watch for Florek to be skating for Providence in late March/early Apri when his NCAA eligibility is exhausted, and with his big body and underrated offensive skill, he could bring a nice boost in what everyone in Rhode Island hopes will be a playoff spring.
Quotable
"That one line, I thought was very good, with [Justin] Florek, [Ryan] Spooner, and [Brian] Ferlin. I thought you could see the, they made plays together, they found each other, they scored. Just, it was just good to see the confidence in the players come out. You’re worried, not worried, but you watch if they improve and you know they’re going to improve, just because they’re good players, they’re going to improve from day to day, but it’s good to see when the confidence starts to come out and I saw that in a lot of these kids."- Bruins GM Peter Chiarelli; July 11, 2011
"Well I mean you look at the physical size and he isn’t even done, you know, filling out that frame. So there’s a lot of room there. Look at the drills, look at the power skating, you know it’s hard for him because he’s not a kid that’s a fluid skater. But he gets there, and he’s heavy when he gets there. And he’s heavy around the front of the net and then you see the release when he gets one chance. Some guys need two, three, four, five, right. But he gets one and buries it. Thats the stuff that you kind of say, okay, if we can continue to work on the other stuff, and he’s willing to work on that stuff then you know you could find a player there for sure."- Bruins Assistant GM Don Sweeney; July 10, 2011
"He's a big kid who moves well and has some good upside as a power forward. We think he's only scratching the surface of what he's capable of and with his character, is someone we're glad to have in the organization."- Bruins amateur scouting director Wayne Smith to B2010DW, Los Angeles; June 26, 2010
“First year, I was heartbroken like any kid would be expecting to get drafted and not being drafted. The second year I didn’t really think about it but obviously, it’s in the back of your head. And then, the third year, I just picked up the shift on Saturday, draft day, and didn’t even think about it. I was working when I got the call.”- Justin Florek to hockeyjournal.com, Wilmington, Mass.; July 6-10, 2010
“I’m a big power forward; I pick up loose pucks around the net and maintain possession down low. I throw the body around when I need to. I’m a defensive forward; I penalty kill a lot and play the power play, penalty kill, 5-on-5– I do it all.”- Justin Florek, Wilmington, Mass.; July 6-10, 2010
Bruins prospect profile #26: Tyler Randell
Tyler Randell, RW
6-2, 195
June 15, 1991
Shoots; Right
Boston's 4th choice, 176th overall in 2009 Draft
Signing status: Signed through 2014
Talent Analysis
Physical: A power forward prospect who has all of the abilities and skills to be an impact NHL player but has yet to put it all together. Average skater; a little sluggish, but has an efficient stride; can really motor in the open ice. Lateral agility is OK and could stand to improve overall edgework. Crashes the net and creates problems for opposing defenders and goalies with his strength and stick. Excellent shooter with quick hands and a hard, heavy wrister that he can wire topshelf with ease. Gets a lot of power on his slap shot and can do damage with it when he gets some space to work with. Underrated backhander. Not much of a passer; tends to finish off chances going up and down the wing rather than setting the table for his linemates. When on his game, plays with a nasty edge, banging bodies and dropping the gloves. Fought a lot in the OHL this past season and still found the time to score 20 goals. Can handle himself well in that department and seems willing to stick up for teammates when the situation calls for it.
Intangibles: Coming around in his consistency and effort levels. In talking to people who know him well, you get the impression that he's uneven with putting forth maximum effort and has issues with the compete level at times. When motivated and on his game, he's a force; if the light ever comes on for him and stays on, he could be something at the highest level. Hockey sense isn't exceptional; he has to play a standard up-and-down game to be effective and you don't get much creativity from him.
Boston Bruins 2011 Development Camp assessment
Randell showed off his fine shot once again: it's hard, heavy and comes with a rapid release. He doesn't have the greatest skating or agility, but when he gets up a powerful head of steam, he goes to the net and is tough to stop. Randell is at his best when initiating contact, going into the greasy/dirty areas of the ice and using that shot to force goalies to make saves. It was another solid development camp performance from a guy who is essentially a meat-and-potatoes, north-south player, but who has enough talent to challenge for an NHL job one day.
Tyler Randell in action
Randell fight highlight vid on YouTube posted by randomdude16
Projection
He's a lot like Lane MacDermid in that he'll make his bones on the fourth line as a banger who will fight more than someone who scores. Randell has a higher skill level than MacDermid but isn't as industrious a player-- it will be interesting to see how Randell fares in the pros. At one time, he was considered a top-three round prospect for the 2009 draft, so the raw talent is there, he will just have to keep his motor revving on high to get his opportunities. For a sixth-round selection, he's shaping up to be an eventual contributor, but how far Randell goes will largely be up to him and how hard he's willing to work.
Quotable
"Anthony Camara as I mentioned yesterday is a kid that has a lot of bite. You know you saw him play a physical brand of hockey but he still can make some plays. Tyler Randell is the same way. You know we want to see whether or not, where his skill set is and continue to improve. You know Shawn Thornton is the best example of that that you can possibly come up with. I mean, Shawn Thornton scored ten goals for us this year and you know, he does the other part of his job, he’s used in all situations. You know the guys that play that type of sole should be identifying with that. But Shawn worked hard on his skills. And those guys need to."- Bruins Assistant GM Don Sweeney; July 11, 2011
"Tyler is a very big, physical, skilled player. What he's going to need to work on is his consistency. There are games when he's dominant and other nights, he's filling a sweater. At this level, he should be scoring 25-30 goals in a season, so this is a big year for him."- Kitchener Rangers coach Steve Spott to B2010DW; June, 2010
"I've told Tyler that there's going to be someone from Boston evaluating him every night. The difference in the paycheck between Boston and Providence every night is huge. Like (Dustin) Byfuglien, he's going to have to go to the net and make his hay there. Last year was tough for him because he battled through some back injuries, but with his size and skill level, he's capable of bigger things, and he knows that."- Steve Spott to B2010DW; June, 2010
“I think I’ve progressed a lot since the last time I was here. It’s been great so far this week. We did the Program, which was some crazy training. It was great to work as a team with these guys and push each other to be the best we can be.”- Tyler Randell to B2010DW, Wilmington, Mass.; July 6-10, 2010
“I think the best thing I bring is strength and teamwork. I’ll battle in the corners and drag the puck to the net. I’ll always be there for my teammates if they’re in trouble. I’m more a team player and hard, gritty player.”- Randell to B2010DW, Wilmington, Mass.; July 6-10, 2010
“When I have the chance, I’ll let the shot go. But other than that, I’ll drive my body to the net and use my size and weight and get in that crease.”- Randell to B2010DW; July 6-10, 2010
6-2, 195
June 15, 1991
Shoots; Right
Boston's 4th choice, 176th overall in 2009 Draft
Signing status: Signed through 2014
Talent Analysis
Physical: A power forward prospect who has all of the abilities and skills to be an impact NHL player but has yet to put it all together. Average skater; a little sluggish, but has an efficient stride; can really motor in the open ice. Lateral agility is OK and could stand to improve overall edgework. Crashes the net and creates problems for opposing defenders and goalies with his strength and stick. Excellent shooter with quick hands and a hard, heavy wrister that he can wire topshelf with ease. Gets a lot of power on his slap shot and can do damage with it when he gets some space to work with. Underrated backhander. Not much of a passer; tends to finish off chances going up and down the wing rather than setting the table for his linemates. When on his game, plays with a nasty edge, banging bodies and dropping the gloves. Fought a lot in the OHL this past season and still found the time to score 20 goals. Can handle himself well in that department and seems willing to stick up for teammates when the situation calls for it.
Intangibles: Coming around in his consistency and effort levels. In talking to people who know him well, you get the impression that he's uneven with putting forth maximum effort and has issues with the compete level at times. When motivated and on his game, he's a force; if the light ever comes on for him and stays on, he could be something at the highest level. Hockey sense isn't exceptional; he has to play a standard up-and-down game to be effective and you don't get much creativity from him.
Boston Bruins 2011 Development Camp assessment
Randell showed off his fine shot once again: it's hard, heavy and comes with a rapid release. He doesn't have the greatest skating or agility, but when he gets up a powerful head of steam, he goes to the net and is tough to stop. Randell is at his best when initiating contact, going into the greasy/dirty areas of the ice and using that shot to force goalies to make saves. It was another solid development camp performance from a guy who is essentially a meat-and-potatoes, north-south player, but who has enough talent to challenge for an NHL job one day.
Tyler Randell in action
Randell fight highlight vid on YouTube posted by randomdude16
Projection
He's a lot like Lane MacDermid in that he'll make his bones on the fourth line as a banger who will fight more than someone who scores. Randell has a higher skill level than MacDermid but isn't as industrious a player-- it will be interesting to see how Randell fares in the pros. At one time, he was considered a top-three round prospect for the 2009 draft, so the raw talent is there, he will just have to keep his motor revving on high to get his opportunities. For a sixth-round selection, he's shaping up to be an eventual contributor, but how far Randell goes will largely be up to him and how hard he's willing to work.
Quotable
"Anthony Camara as I mentioned yesterday is a kid that has a lot of bite. You know you saw him play a physical brand of hockey but he still can make some plays. Tyler Randell is the same way. You know we want to see whether or not, where his skill set is and continue to improve. You know Shawn Thornton is the best example of that that you can possibly come up with. I mean, Shawn Thornton scored ten goals for us this year and you know, he does the other part of his job, he’s used in all situations. You know the guys that play that type of sole should be identifying with that. But Shawn worked hard on his skills. And those guys need to."- Bruins Assistant GM Don Sweeney; July 11, 2011
"Tyler is a very big, physical, skilled player. What he's going to need to work on is his consistency. There are games when he's dominant and other nights, he's filling a sweater. At this level, he should be scoring 25-30 goals in a season, so this is a big year for him."- Kitchener Rangers coach Steve Spott to B2010DW; June, 2010
"I've told Tyler that there's going to be someone from Boston evaluating him every night. The difference in the paycheck between Boston and Providence every night is huge. Like (Dustin) Byfuglien, he's going to have to go to the net and make his hay there. Last year was tough for him because he battled through some back injuries, but with his size and skill level, he's capable of bigger things, and he knows that."- Steve Spott to B2010DW; June, 2010
“I think I’ve progressed a lot since the last time I was here. It’s been great so far this week. We did the Program, which was some crazy training. It was great to work as a team with these guys and push each other to be the best we can be.”- Tyler Randell to B2010DW, Wilmington, Mass.; July 6-10, 2010
“I think the best thing I bring is strength and teamwork. I’ll battle in the corners and drag the puck to the net. I’ll always be there for my teammates if they’re in trouble. I’m more a team player and hard, gritty player.”- Randell to B2010DW, Wilmington, Mass.; July 6-10, 2010
“When I have the chance, I’ll let the shot go. But other than that, I’ll drive my body to the net and use my size and weight and get in that crease.”- Randell to B2010DW; July 6-10, 2010
Bruins prospect profile #25: Maxim Chudinov
Maxim Chudinov, D
5-10, 195
March 25, 1990
Shoots: Right
Boston's 7th choice, 195th overall (seventh round) in 2010 Draft
Signing status: Unsigned
Talent Analysis
Physical: Short and squat, with extremely strong legs and a powerful upper body despite the lack of height-- a real specimen. Short arms and stick pose a challenge for him defensively. Very good skater with fast initial step, smooth acceleration and the ability to move well laterally and backwards. Makes a good first pass and can move the puck well on the transition. For his size, has a big shot from the point, but needs to work on getting it off faster and without so much of a windup/wasted motion. Good wrister and has the mobility to get in below the circles and let it fly. Plays with some bite: will initiate and likes to hit. Gets up under bigger players and leverages them off-balance with his strength and technique. Working on playing a more positionally sound defensive game, which is important given his lack of size and reach. Coming off his best year in the KHL with 8 goals, 23 points in 52 games, leading all Cherepovets defenders in scoring, six points ahead of former 35th overall pick in 2002 (Penguins) Ondrej Nemec.
Intangibles: Pretty good vision and instincts, but more is needed to be seen from him at the KHL level. He'll have an opportunity to pick up more minutes with Alexandrov headed to North America. Has a reputation as a fierce competitor (read: borderline dirty player) and could be seen as a nastier version of David Warsofsky. Said to have a lot of heart, character and drive-- if he continues on his upward developmental curve in Russia, could zoom up the Boston prospect depth chart.
Boston Bruins 2011 Development Camp assessment
Did not attend; watch for him to be there in 2012.
Chudinov (and Alexandrov) in action
Chudinov's infamous late hit on Claude Giroux at 2007 Super Series posted by gregC89
Projection
Chudinov is hard to peg right now because there aren't a whole lot of folks who have seen him play, but he was more productive than Alexandrov was at the same age, and his 23 points are pretty solid numbers for a Russian defenseman. The safe bet is that he's a top-four with special teams acumen, but we'll have to see how he performs in the next couple of seasons. Peter Chiarelli not only likened his playing style to that of Brian Rafalski, but said at the draft that he didn't expect Chudinov to compete for a spot in Boston for another two years, so it will be interesting to see what transpires from here. He should be higher than 25th on the depth chart, but given that it's hard to see him and get feedback, his ranking is more reflective of the situation. You could just as easily make a case for Chudinov being top-15 as 25th, but for now, the guys in North America are a little easier to project and therefore get the benefit of the doubt.
Quotable
"I really like this player. He's short, but built like a fire hydrant and he can skate and shoot the puck. He plays with an edge and in my opinion has been one of the better young Russian d-men in the international competitions he's been involved in over the past several years. This is a pretty good pick for Boston in the seventh round; there's some upside here."- Red Line Report chief scout Kyle Woodlief to B2010DW, Los Angeles; June 26, 2010
5-10, 195
March 25, 1990
Shoots: Right
Boston's 7th choice, 195th overall (seventh round) in 2010 Draft
Signing status: Unsigned
Talent Analysis
Physical: Short and squat, with extremely strong legs and a powerful upper body despite the lack of height-- a real specimen. Short arms and stick pose a challenge for him defensively. Very good skater with fast initial step, smooth acceleration and the ability to move well laterally and backwards. Makes a good first pass and can move the puck well on the transition. For his size, has a big shot from the point, but needs to work on getting it off faster and without so much of a windup/wasted motion. Good wrister and has the mobility to get in below the circles and let it fly. Plays with some bite: will initiate and likes to hit. Gets up under bigger players and leverages them off-balance with his strength and technique. Working on playing a more positionally sound defensive game, which is important given his lack of size and reach. Coming off his best year in the KHL with 8 goals, 23 points in 52 games, leading all Cherepovets defenders in scoring, six points ahead of former 35th overall pick in 2002 (Penguins) Ondrej Nemec.
Intangibles: Pretty good vision and instincts, but more is needed to be seen from him at the KHL level. He'll have an opportunity to pick up more minutes with Alexandrov headed to North America. Has a reputation as a fierce competitor (read: borderline dirty player) and could be seen as a nastier version of David Warsofsky. Said to have a lot of heart, character and drive-- if he continues on his upward developmental curve in Russia, could zoom up the Boston prospect depth chart.
Boston Bruins 2011 Development Camp assessment
Did not attend; watch for him to be there in 2012.
Chudinov (and Alexandrov) in action
Chudinov's infamous late hit on Claude Giroux at 2007 Super Series posted by gregC89
Projection
Chudinov is hard to peg right now because there aren't a whole lot of folks who have seen him play, but he was more productive than Alexandrov was at the same age, and his 23 points are pretty solid numbers for a Russian defenseman. The safe bet is that he's a top-four with special teams acumen, but we'll have to see how he performs in the next couple of seasons. Peter Chiarelli not only likened his playing style to that of Brian Rafalski, but said at the draft that he didn't expect Chudinov to compete for a spot in Boston for another two years, so it will be interesting to see what transpires from here. He should be higher than 25th on the depth chart, but given that it's hard to see him and get feedback, his ranking is more reflective of the situation. You could just as easily make a case for Chudinov being top-15 as 25th, but for now, the guys in North America are a little easier to project and therefore get the benefit of the doubt.
Quotable
"I really like this player. He's short, but built like a fire hydrant and he can skate and shoot the puck. He plays with an edge and in my opinion has been one of the better young Russian d-men in the international competitions he's been involved in over the past several years. This is a pretty good pick for Boston in the seventh round; there's some upside here."- Red Line Report chief scout Kyle Woodlief to B2010DW, Los Angeles; June 26, 2010
Bruins prospect profile #24: Lane MacDermid
Lane MacDermid, LW
6-2, 210
August 25, 1989
Shoots: Left
Boston's 3rd choice, 112th overall (fourth round) in 2009 Draft
Signing status: Signed through 2012
Talent Analysis
Physical: Big, strong, physical winger with good bloodlines; his father, Paul, played nearly 700 NHL games for the Hartford Whalers, Winnipeg Jets, Washington Capitals and Quebec Nordiques. Average skater; worked hard on his initial burst and agility between first and second seasons and it showed during the rookie games against the Islanders a year ago in September. Has a pretty big shot that is underrated, but his overall hockey skills are limited., Physicality and fighting are strengths are what could get him to the NHL as an enforcer. He goes out and hits everything in sight. Relishes the fighting aspect of the game and is developing into a feared pugilist in the minors. Went from five points as an AHL rookie two years ago (two goals) to 19 (seven goals).
Intangibles: Hard worker who understands his role and his limitations. Earned former Providence coach Rob Murray's respect for his willingness to go the extra mile to address the shortcomings in his game while regularly fighting and taking one for the team. Character guy and leader who understands what it takes to make it in the pros and has been a model citizen on the farm.
Boston Bruins 2011 Development Camp assessment
Did not attend
Lane MacDermid in action
Click here to see fight vs. Isles Travis Hamonic in rookie game Sep. 10 posted by hockeyfights.com
Click here to see MacDermid vs. Tom Sestito on YouTube posted by JimKorn20
Projection
Fourth line enforcer; MacDermid is developing into a similar player to Shawn Thornton and could provide the same kind of impact that 'Sugar" has for the B's. He's a willing and nasty fighter and should continue to develop after putting in the work to improve his hockey skills. His chances of making the big club continue to be tough sledding because of the organizational depth and due to Thornton's established niche on the team. If there are injuries up front, MacDermid could get a look.
Quotable
"We've never had to tell him to get in the gym, to do a little extra. We got back from a Sunday afternoon game a while ago, and as I was leaving to go home I looked in the gym, and there was Dermie. We had Monday off and he understood, 'Here's a good chance for me to get a workout in.''- former Providence Bruins head coach Rob Murray to Providence Journal; March 26, 2010
“I certainly wasn’t the most skilled hockey player, but I worked hard, and coaches are the ones opening and closing the doors, whether you get out on the ice or not. If you work hard, it’s hard for the coach not to like you. Everybody’s going to make mistakes, but if you’re lazy and making mistakes, the coach isn’t going to open the door. That’s what I try to tell the kids. Wayne Gretzky made a mistake every game, but it’s what you do after you make a mistake that the coach really wants to see. I think some of that has rubbed off on Lane, and I certainly never had to tell Lane to work hard during a game.”- Paul MacDermid to NESN.com; August, 2010
6-2, 210
August 25, 1989
Shoots: Left
Boston's 3rd choice, 112th overall (fourth round) in 2009 Draft
Signing status: Signed through 2012
Talent Analysis
Physical: Big, strong, physical winger with good bloodlines; his father, Paul, played nearly 700 NHL games for the Hartford Whalers, Winnipeg Jets, Washington Capitals and Quebec Nordiques. Average skater; worked hard on his initial burst and agility between first and second seasons and it showed during the rookie games against the Islanders a year ago in September. Has a pretty big shot that is underrated, but his overall hockey skills are limited., Physicality and fighting are strengths are what could get him to the NHL as an enforcer. He goes out and hits everything in sight. Relishes the fighting aspect of the game and is developing into a feared pugilist in the minors. Went from five points as an AHL rookie two years ago (two goals) to 19 (seven goals).
Intangibles: Hard worker who understands his role and his limitations. Earned former Providence coach Rob Murray's respect for his willingness to go the extra mile to address the shortcomings in his game while regularly fighting and taking one for the team. Character guy and leader who understands what it takes to make it in the pros and has been a model citizen on the farm.
Boston Bruins 2011 Development Camp assessment
Did not attend
Lane MacDermid in action
Click here to see fight vs. Isles Travis Hamonic in rookie game Sep. 10 posted by hockeyfights.com
Click here to see MacDermid vs. Tom Sestito on YouTube posted by JimKorn20
Projection
Fourth line enforcer; MacDermid is developing into a similar player to Shawn Thornton and could provide the same kind of impact that 'Sugar" has for the B's. He's a willing and nasty fighter and should continue to develop after putting in the work to improve his hockey skills. His chances of making the big club continue to be tough sledding because of the organizational depth and due to Thornton's established niche on the team. If there are injuries up front, MacDermid could get a look.
Quotable
"We've never had to tell him to get in the gym, to do a little extra. We got back from a Sunday afternoon game a while ago, and as I was leaving to go home I looked in the gym, and there was Dermie. We had Monday off and he understood, 'Here's a good chance for me to get a workout in.''- former Providence Bruins head coach Rob Murray to Providence Journal; March 26, 2010
“I certainly wasn’t the most skilled hockey player, but I worked hard, and coaches are the ones opening and closing the doors, whether you get out on the ice or not. If you work hard, it’s hard for the coach not to like you. Everybody’s going to make mistakes, but if you’re lazy and making mistakes, the coach isn’t going to open the door. That’s what I try to tell the kids. Wayne Gretzky made a mistake every game, but it’s what you do after you make a mistake that the coach really wants to see. I think some of that has rubbed off on Lane, and I certainly never had to tell Lane to work hard during a game.”- Paul MacDermid to NESN.com; August, 2010
Wednesday, August 3, 2011
Bruins prospect profile #23: Marc Cantin
Marc Cantin
6-1, 195
March 27, 1990
Shoots: Left
Signed as a free agent; March 2011
Signing status: Signed through 2014
Talent Analysis
Physical: Decent size but plays bigger than his 6-1 frame. Thick build with a lot of natural strength. Good skater with decent acceleration and straight-line speed. Fluid in his pivots and turns with smooth footwork. Makes good passes in transition. Above average point shot with some power, but needs to work on keeping it lower to the ice and getting it on net. Superb physical presence; a big hitter who relishes contact and can make the open-ice contact effectively. Tough, snarly competitor who hits to intimidate. Superb with the hip check- slides over smoothly and effortlessly drills the oncoming forward. Makes opponents pay a price for setting up in front of his net. Works guys over along the walls and down low. Drops the gloves and is a solid middleweight fighter who can more than hold his own. Suffered a broken jaw in an off-ice altercation a year ago, but recovered well and posted a career season as an overager before being signed by Boston.
Intangibles: Keen defensive awareness and smarts. Understands the position and keeps it simple- does not play outside of his capabilities. Good, solid work ethic. Former captain at Belleville who can be a leader when focused on his team objectives. Won a Memorial Cup with Windsor and helped take Mississauga to the 2011 Memorial Cup championship game before falling to Saint John. Aggressive playing style is sure to lead to some dustups, but handles himself well and will earn the respect of teammates because he's always willing to back it up or go to bat for his guys.
Boston Bruins 2011 Development Camp assessment
Cantin made his presence known throughout the camp sessions by throwing big hits and playing his style, refusing to dial it back. He attempted one huge hip check on Justin Florek and just missed, but would have cleaned out the forward had he connected. He didn't wow anyone, but at the end of the day, he looked sharp and solid like he did a year ago. He made few mistakes if any, and when a defenseman is doing his job best, you don't notice him all that much. That adage holds true for Cantin.
Marc Cantin in action
Click here to see YouTube fight video between Cantin and Mark Cundari posted by JimKorn20
Projection
Cantin brings little in the way of offensive upside, but is one of those solid, safe defenders that you win with. The Mark Stuart comparison is used with him a lot, and Sean O'Donnell is another similar style of player, though Cantin is a better skater than the former Bruin. If Cantin makes it to the NHL it will be as a 5/6/7, but a valuable one because he plays a rugged defensive game and handles any situation well because of his smarts. Cantin is one of those "old time hockey" guys, but there is value and utility with him. It will take some time of riding buses in the minors for him to make it to the big show, but his time could come sooner rather than later because of his maturity and experience. No player in Boston's system has seen more action in both regular season and playoffs over the last four seasons than Cantin has. There is no substitute for seeing a lot of games at a high level like the OHL, so Cantin should be a little more polished going into the Providence than the average AHL rookie.
Quotable
"Cantin I thought played well and he’s one of those guys that’s may be a little bit older than the rest of the crew but as the days progressed, I thought he was strong out there today."- Bruins GM Peter Chiarelli; July 11, 2011
"Marc Cantin reminds me a lot of Mark Stuart. You know real, real competitive kid, has leadership qualities and loves to play hockey."- Bruins Assistant GM Don Sweeney; July 11, 2011
"Marc Cantin has won everywhere he’s been. He’s got kind of the build that Mark Stuart had. I haven’t been inside the locker room with him but all indications are that he has the intangibles of the player that we lost in Mark [Stuart]. So we’ll see what continues. I mean, he’s got some areas that we’re going to continue to work. But we’re really excited to have him. He was a player that went through the draft. We acquired him through free agency. He was an unsigned, undrafted player. Coaches speak highly of what he brings to the table and he’s just a kid that kind of, you know, puts the boots on and goes to work. "- Sweeney; July 7, 2011
6-1, 195
March 27, 1990
Shoots: Left
Signed as a free agent; March 2011
Signing status: Signed through 2014
Talent Analysis
Physical: Decent size but plays bigger than his 6-1 frame. Thick build with a lot of natural strength. Good skater with decent acceleration and straight-line speed. Fluid in his pivots and turns with smooth footwork. Makes good passes in transition. Above average point shot with some power, but needs to work on keeping it lower to the ice and getting it on net. Superb physical presence; a big hitter who relishes contact and can make the open-ice contact effectively. Tough, snarly competitor who hits to intimidate. Superb with the hip check- slides over smoothly and effortlessly drills the oncoming forward. Makes opponents pay a price for setting up in front of his net. Works guys over along the walls and down low. Drops the gloves and is a solid middleweight fighter who can more than hold his own. Suffered a broken jaw in an off-ice altercation a year ago, but recovered well and posted a career season as an overager before being signed by Boston.
Intangibles: Keen defensive awareness and smarts. Understands the position and keeps it simple- does not play outside of his capabilities. Good, solid work ethic. Former captain at Belleville who can be a leader when focused on his team objectives. Won a Memorial Cup with Windsor and helped take Mississauga to the 2011 Memorial Cup championship game before falling to Saint John. Aggressive playing style is sure to lead to some dustups, but handles himself well and will earn the respect of teammates because he's always willing to back it up or go to bat for his guys.
Boston Bruins 2011 Development Camp assessment
Cantin made his presence known throughout the camp sessions by throwing big hits and playing his style, refusing to dial it back. He attempted one huge hip check on Justin Florek and just missed, but would have cleaned out the forward had he connected. He didn't wow anyone, but at the end of the day, he looked sharp and solid like he did a year ago. He made few mistakes if any, and when a defenseman is doing his job best, you don't notice him all that much. That adage holds true for Cantin.
Marc Cantin in action
Click here to see YouTube fight video between Cantin and Mark Cundari posted by JimKorn20
Projection
Cantin brings little in the way of offensive upside, but is one of those solid, safe defenders that you win with. The Mark Stuart comparison is used with him a lot, and Sean O'Donnell is another similar style of player, though Cantin is a better skater than the former Bruin. If Cantin makes it to the NHL it will be as a 5/6/7, but a valuable one because he plays a rugged defensive game and handles any situation well because of his smarts. Cantin is one of those "old time hockey" guys, but there is value and utility with him. It will take some time of riding buses in the minors for him to make it to the big show, but his time could come sooner rather than later because of his maturity and experience. No player in Boston's system has seen more action in both regular season and playoffs over the last four seasons than Cantin has. There is no substitute for seeing a lot of games at a high level like the OHL, so Cantin should be a little more polished going into the Providence than the average AHL rookie.
Quotable
"Cantin I thought played well and he’s one of those guys that’s may be a little bit older than the rest of the crew but as the days progressed, I thought he was strong out there today."- Bruins GM Peter Chiarelli; July 11, 2011
"Marc Cantin reminds me a lot of Mark Stuart. You know real, real competitive kid, has leadership qualities and loves to play hockey."- Bruins Assistant GM Don Sweeney; July 11, 2011
"Marc Cantin has won everywhere he’s been. He’s got kind of the build that Mark Stuart had. I haven’t been inside the locker room with him but all indications are that he has the intangibles of the player that we lost in Mark [Stuart]. So we’ll see what continues. I mean, he’s got some areas that we’re going to continue to work. But we’re really excited to have him. He was a player that went through the draft. We acquired him through free agency. He was an unsigned, undrafted player. Coaches speak highly of what he brings to the table and he’s just a kid that kind of, you know, puts the boots on and goes to work. "- Sweeney; July 7, 2011
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