A perspective on anything hockey
With Brent Maranto
An overview of the 10th annual WSHL Showcase in Sin City, including Power Rankings
I took a lot away from the 2009 Western States Hockey League All-League Showcase and relished the opportunity to broadcast a number of games for the league and fasthockey.com last season.
After yet another privileged opportunity to broadcast a number of games at the 10th Annual Showcase, I once again noticed a few more things about this ever-expanding league.
Commissioner Ron White, with the help of both Bob Armando and Laura Ellis, once again put on a fantastic four-day weekend of hockey at a great venue, not too far from the Las Vegas strip.
For the second straight season the number of scouts in attendance again went up and sometimes it was even hard to find a seat in the hospitality room, as everyone tried to escape the frozen tundra of Las Vegas Ice Center to grab a hot cup of Joe in between games.
In just speaking to a few scouts and over-hearing other conversations, the overall connotation the league as a whole gets is right on par with the east-coast junior leagues. In fact, I was told by one scout that if the WSHL was playing frequently in front of the aforementioned scouts, just as similar leagues like the AJHL and EJHL do right in their own backyards, that it could be considered the premiere Tier III Junior A Hockey League in all of the United States.
Unlike last season, where there were a few blow-outs and obvious discrepancies in talent between teams, nearly every game was close in 2010. Teams that struggled last season like the New Mexico Renegades and Tulsa Rampage really put on a show this year and were the only two undefeated teams in the showcase. Not Idaho, not Fresno and not even El Paso. The term “parity” comes to mind and it’s very apparent that any team in either division could win on any given day.
Below are my personal power rankings and my opinions from what I saw over the weekend and throughout the first-half of the season, not the opinion of the Valencia Flyers Hockey Club.
I have ranked teams 1-13 for the entire league, with their divisional ranking in parenthesis. Also included are their overall record, record at the showcase, place in standings as of today and lastly three key players.
So here they are, take it for what it’s worth:
1. Idaho Jr. Steelheads (1)
Current Record: (23-4-1, 1st Place)
Showcase Record: (2-2-0)
The Idaho Jr. Steelheads are without a doubt the best team in the all of the Western States Hockey League. With only four regulation losses on the season and the best +/- in the league by about double, they are a well-oiled machine with Head Coach John Olver at the controls. In Las Vegas they suffered close defeats to both Helena and El Paso but rebounded with solid victories over Boulder and a team that is quickly becoming their bitter rival, the Fresno Monsters. Idaho lost in the first round of the playoffs last season to a tough Phoenix squad but don’t expect the same result this year, as the Jr. Steelheads can roll four lines with any team in Tier III Junior A Hockey.
Key Players:
1. Brad Atkinson (Goaltender)-
Atkinson starred for the Long Beach Bombers only a couple seasons ago before going back to high-level minor hockey in Dallas. Well he’s back now, better than ever and getting the bulk of the minutes in the Idaho crease. Atkinson is a big goaltender who controls his rebounds well and is as tough to beat one-on-one as you’ll see at this level.
2. Nate Stanley (Forward)-
I said it last season and I’ll say it again; Stanley is the best passer you may ever see at this level. He has USHL senses and vision but is not the fastest of skaters. He plays on the top line with long-time teammate and buddy Stephen Rock and quarterbacks the power play. Look for Stanley to turn it up late in the season and help make sure Idaho does not have another collapse in the playoffs.
3. Greg Chapman (Defenseman)-
Chapman fits into the same mold that his former teammates Ryan Maul and Conner Kingsbury did as well while they were in Boise; both of those two men are now playing in the North American Hockey League. The captain Chapman is a smart stay-at-home defenseman that isn’t afraid to step up at the blue line and lay the pain. He’s a decent skater that can also play on the power play when needed and will put up decent numbers while not taking too many risks.
2. Fresno Monsters (2)
Current Record: (20-6-2, 2nd Place)
Showcase Record: (1-2-1)
The Fresno Monsters lost a lot of talent from the roster that burst onto the scene last year in its inaugural year and took the WSHL by storm. It hasn’t mattered however, as role players from that same team have stepped up this season and with the help of some good rookie pick-ups, the Monsters are once again one of the toughest teams in the league. New Head Coach Bryce Dale has his team poised and playing that physical brand of hockey you come to expect from the green and black. They have a tough time with Idaho but if they continue to pick up their game, it’s inevitable these two teams will clash in the playoffs for a great series of hockey. In Vegas, Fresno had an impressive win over Boulder and a near-win over Helena before losing in the shootout. They lost in regulation to both Idaho and El Paso.
Key Players:
1 Don Coyle (Forward)-
With all the talent in the top six forward spots for the Monsters last year, Don Coyle was just an afterthought. This season however, Coyle leads the Monsters in scoring with 34 points in 27 games and is a threat to score any time he touches the ice.
2 Marcus Harbison (Goaltender)-
The Colorado Springs native is among the biggest goaltenders in the league. It’s hard to find much net if any while he is standing between the pipes and even on his knees, Harbison is still able to fill up the 4 x 6. Harbison is similar to Idaho’s Brad Atkinson, in the fact that he controls his rebounds well and makes the timely saves in big spots.
3 Cody Osburn (Defenseman)-
Osburn came to the Monsters late last season after playing prep-school in Ohio. It’s obvious he is a great athlete, as he also was a stud on the baseball diamond. Osburn is a smooth-skating defenseman who seems to get his shots through with ease from the point. He can lead the rush one way and still have enough stamina to get back on defense and help break-up a counter-attack.
3. El Paso Rhinos (1)
Current Record: (16-7-2, 3rd Place)
Showcase Record: (2-2-0)
The El Paso Rhinos are essentially the Phoenix Polar Bears of the Mid-West Division. They are continually at the top of the standings and always a force to be reckoned with come playoff time. Head Coach Cory Herman always has his team ready to go and won’t be out-coached by anybody in the league. They don’t have the same fire-power they did last season, with the departures of Austin Balko and Nick Gualano but nearly every player they have can put the puck in the net. El Paso had a decent showcase with impressive wins over Fresno and Idaho but equally as unimpressive losses to Valencia and San Diego. The Rhinos are only third in their division because they have played the least amount of games in the entire league. Look for them to ascend the Mid-West standings in the second half of the season.
Key Players:
1. Tyler Beasley (Forward)-
The Rhinos leading scorer does not always make it look pretty, but he very rarely fails to get the job done. He is a smaller forward but is not afraid to go into areas of traffic to make a play. In big moments of big games look for #17 to be on the ice for the El Paso Rhinos.
2. Tyler Ridgedell (Forward)-
My favorite player to watch in the entire league, Ridgedell is the consummate junior hockey player. If you see him stop moving his feet while on the ice, be sure to take a picture because it won’t last long. If the league kept the statistics he would lead the WSHL in hits by a mile. He gets to the net and puts up a decent amount of points but is more known for his shut-down ability. Ridgedell will often go unnoticed because he does not possess the top-end skill that players like Tyler Beasley do but any GM in the league would jump at the chance to pick up #23.
3. Tyler Benson and Kyle Shapiro (Defensemen)-
I cheated a little bit here, as I said I’d only do three key players per team but I could not choose between these two D-men. Benson and Shapiro are one-in-the-same, as both are big, versatile defensemen. In my opinion they are the two best all-around back-enders in the league and luckily for Coach Herman, they both are on the same pairing. Each plays in all situations and can shut down the opposition and score on the rush the other way. They can play rugged or finesse hockey and have poise beyond their years.
4. Boulder Bison (2)
Current Record: (19-7-2, 1st Place)
Showcase Record: (1-3-0)
I’m not one to toot my own horn but I said last year in my power rankings that after an impressive showcase in 2009, Boulder should make a run at the title in the Mid-West. Not only did they win the title but they pushed Phoenix to a decisive game 3 finally before losing late in the Thorne Cup Finals. Head Coach Brent Cullaton is as good as they come in the league and he still finds time to dabble a few games here and there in the Central Hockey League; well maybe dabble is the wrong word…. He dominates. The Bison had a tough showcase this season and never really got off the mat, while victorious over only San Diego, with losses to Idaho, Fresno and Phoenix. Look for Boulder to pick it up in the second half and battle it out with El Paso for the top spot.
Key Players:
1. Jamison Wicks (Defenseman)-
Wicks was on my list last season and I tried but could not bring myself to leave him off this year. He could be the best stick-handler in the league and plays a solid two-way game (think Brian Rafalski). He can play against bigger forwards and not be tossed around. He is a force on the power play and is a key player in all situations.
2. Daniel Turgeon (Forward)-
Turgeon is a bigger forward with high-end speed and skill. He hasn’t put up huge numbers this season but when he gets in the zone, there are not a lot of defenseman in the league that can slow him up. He is another type of player that can play in all situations and although he has above average offensive flair, he’s never a liability while on the ice.
3. Preston James (Defenseman)-
There was nobody that impressed me as much this weekend as the new blue-liner for the Boulder Bison. James, who played last season for the Helena Bighorns in the NORPAC, is a smooth skating defenseman with a bit of an edge to his game. He can also play in all situations and drop the gloves with anyone in the league. James handed out a beating to one of, if not the toughest guy in the league, San Diego’s Weston Cydell. James brings an edge to an already lethal Boulder defense corps.
5. Phoenix Polar Bears (3)
Current Record: (18-10-3, 3rd Place)
Showcase Record: (3-1-0)
After a tough start to the season, I think it’s safe to assume that the Phoenix Polar Bears are back. The now eight-time champions are without their long-time bench boss Harry Mahood but new Head Coach Jeff Heimel has done an admirable job of getting this team on pace. Again the fire power of recent years is not quite up to par but the stingy defense more than makes up for it. The Polar Bears nearly went undefeated in the showcase; after leading all game against Helena, they ended up losing late to a very good hockey team. Phoenix took care of business against Boulder, Long Beach and Texas. Do not hibernate on the Polar Bears as they always make a run in the second half and without a doubt will cause problems for other teams come playoff time.
Key Players:
1. Wyatt Pressick (Defenseman)-
Pressick is not a big defenseman but he sure plays like he is. He is a good skater and is not afraid to take the body. He plays big time minutes in all situations and can skate for days without tiring. He has a bit of an edge and won’t take kindly to opponents in and around his crease. To go along with that he also has some of the best “flow”, or hair in the league.
2. Travis Ringeman (Forward)-
The Western Divisions’ equivalent to El Paso forward Tyler Ridgedell. He never stops moving his feet while on the ice and plays the body constantly. When #9 is on the ice for Phoenix you do not want to be an opposing defenseman. He creates turnovers with his gritty play and can find nylon when he has the puck. Another one of the players that will go unnoticed some games but ask Coach Heimel and he’ll tell you Ringeman is one of the Polar Bears’ MVP’s.
3. Johnny Blaus (Forward)-
The smaller forward leads the team in assists and points and is also third in penalty minutes. Blaus can dangle with the puck and also crash the net looking for rebounds. He is a real team leader as well, as he dropped the mitts in a tight game with Helena to try and get his team pumped. Size is always an issue with some smaller players; Johnny Blaus is not one of them.
6. San Diego Gulls (4)
Current Record: (15-11-0, 4th Place)
Showcase Record: (1-3-0)
The San Diego Gulls could be the fastest team in the all of the WSHL. Their top three lines can skate with anybody in the league, as can their bigger defenseman like Weston Cydell and Don Keffer. They have three goaltenders that can steal a game for them and the fieriest coach in the league, Bruce Miller, who always has them ready to play. The Gulls struggled at times in the showcase, with tough losses to Valencia, Boulder and Helena but a good win over El Paso. San Diego will pick up their play in the second-half and as usual, be a threat in the post-season.
Key Players:
1. Weston Cydell (Defenseman)-
Cydell could be not only the best defenseman but the best overall player in the WSHL. His combination of size, speed and skill are unparalleled at this level. He plays a physical brand of hockey and can seemingly score at will on the power play. He often times gets in trouble due to a temper and can sometimes be a bit nonchalant but when he’s on his game he is nearly unstoppable.
2. Jarryd Ramborger (Forward)-
Ramborger is one of the many players that have returned to the WSHL this season after starting the year with the NAHL’s New Mexico Mustangs. He is not the biggest of skaters but is quick on the puck and has a knack for finding the back of the net. He is as good a passer as he is a sniper and has very good hockey sense.
3. Kyle Edson (Defenseman)-
Last but not least is unheralded defenseman Kyle Edson. The Vermont native may often times be overshadowed by guys like Weston Cydell and Cassidy April but is a rock on the blue line for the Gulls. He plays big minutes, as Bruce Miller plays his top two pairings often but he can still skate with the best of them. He rarely is beaten one-on-one and on his best nights, you won’t even notice him because he’s that solid.
7. Texas Jr. Brahams (3)
Current Record: (17-12-4, 2nd Place)
Showcase Record: (3-1-0)
Formerly the San Antonio Diablos, the new-look Texas Jr. Brahmas enjoyed a good showing at their first-ever showcase. Texas had solid victories over Long Beach, Arizona and Bakersfield but were ousted by the similar jerseys of the Phoenix Polar Bears. The Jr. Brahmas benefit from playing out of the same facility as the CHL franchise and the coaching there within. They are a fast hockey team but struggle against the size of the top teams in their division. They look like a shoe-in for playoffs and certainly can skate with any team in the league.
Key Players:
1. Albert Bolush (Forward)-
The Riga, Latvia native has burst on to the scene in his first season with Texas. The smooth skating forward has notched a league-leading 50 points in just 33 games. He plays big minutes and is lethal on the power play, where he has notched 40% of his points.
2. Kevin O’Donnell (Forward)-
O’Donnell has definitely made the most of playing with the aforementioned Bolush. He currently is tied for the team-lead in goals with 23 and second in points with 44. He also scores a ton of his points while on the power play along with Bolush.
3. Jeremy Kaunisto (Defenseman)-
Brother of former University of Northern Michigan standout and Los Angeles Kings’ prospect Ray Kaunisto, Jeremy is a completely different type of player. The stay-at-home defenseman will not put up numbers like his brother did but he will shut down the opposition from putting up big numbers. Kaunisto is a big defenseman who has to be solid with the quick Texas offense often being caught deep in the offensive zone.
8. Tulsa Rampage (4)
Current Record: (16-10-1, 4th Place)
Showcase Record: (4-0-0)
If the Tulsa Rampage are able to make a run in the post-season in 2011, they may look back to their fantastic showcase performance as the pivot point of the season. A team that usually is around the middle of the pack in the five-team Mid-West Division, Tulsa was the only team to win all four of their games in Sin City. Fiery Coach Chad MacLeod had his boys ready to play and that they did, with wins over Bakersfield, Arizona, Long Beach and Valencia. Their top line of Shane Khalaf, Grady Graham and Bobby Watson is as lethal as any in the league but the Rampage do not have enough fire power to consistently stick with Boulder and El Paso. If they can get offense from more than just their top line, Tulsa could be the sleeper in the Mid-West.
Key Players:
1. Bobby Watson (Forward)-
Watson is a quick-skating, smaller forward that is the key-cog for the Rampage for the second season in a row. He leads the team with 39 points and an amazing 31 assists. He can play in every situation and is also a very smart player to go along with his high-end skill.
2. Matt Boente (Defenseman)-
The Minnesota native was as steady as they come on the Tulsa blue line over the four games. He has decent size to go along with above average skating and also shows good decision-making with the puck. He can pinch in and get his points but also knows when to hold the fort down and break-up odd man rushes.
3. James Ryerse (Forward)-
Ryerse is the top player on the second line for Tulsa and if they want to make it past the big teams in the Mid-West, they will need him to continue his strong play. Ryerse is a good skater and gets to the front of the net quickly. He is not the biggest of guys but can mix it up, as well as play with some edge. Again, if Tulsa wants to move up the standings guys like Ryerse need to play at a very high level.
9. Valencia Flyers (5)
Current Record: (10-18-2, 6th Place)
Showcase Record: (2-1-1)
The Valencia Flyers are the wild-card in the Western Division. At times they look like they can skate with anyone in the league, with impressive wins over Fresno, Phoenix and San Diego during the regular season. And at times they struggle against teams they think they should be beating, like Long Beach and Arizona. After an undefeated showcase last season, the Flyers lost only one in regulation in 2010. After leading 3-0 after one period, the Flyers collapsed against New Mexico and lost 4-3 in overtime. Valencia then came back with solid wins over both San Diego and El Paso, before coming out flat in a 4-0 loss to Tulsa. New Head Coach Eric LeMarque seems to have the team back on track after a lengthy losing streak and with games left with teams in front of them, the Flyers could seemingly make a run at a playoff berth.
Key Players:
1. Stephen Palmer (Goaltender)-
The 17-year-old Palmer has been the saving grace for the Flyers this season. Through much turmoil and personnel turnover, Palmer has remained a rock in the Valencia net. He continually makes saves he has no business making and keeps his team in the game at big times. There is no doubt Palmer will land in the NAHL next season.
2. Tyler McGreevy (Forward)-
McGreevy had a slow start to his second season with the Flyers and admittedly he felt he could have played better. In the past two weeks, there has been nobody better on the Flyers roster than #12. McGreevy provides great energy with high-end skill. He can run through a defenseman, skate around him or dangle between his feet to get to the net. His play has picked up at the right time for a Valencia team in need of offense.
3. Jake Ryan (Defenseman)-
Ryan is a young defenseman in the mold of a Chris Pronger. Nobody on the opposition wants to play against him. He is a big kid who knows how to play the body and drops the gloves frequently. He can also provide offense when needed with a big shot from the point and the ability to get his shot through traffic.
10. New Mexico Renegades (5)
Current Record: (7-22-2, 1st Place)
Showcase Record: (3-0-1)
The New Mexico Renegades are the most improved team in the league by a long shot. Head Coach Peter Ambroziak has done a fantastic job of sticking to the plan through adversity and giving his team a chance to win every night. By no means are they one of the top teams in the division and they have little chance at making the playoffs this season but the Renegades will contend in the WSHL soon enough. Coming into the showcase New Mexico had just four wins on the season; they nearly equaled that total in four days of hockey. An improbable come-from-behind win over Valencia in overtime got them started off on the right foot and regulation victories over Long Beach and Arizona sealed a great showcase. The only blemish was a tough shootout loss to Bakersfield. With new talent coming in and the returning players stepping their game up, New Mexico can play spoiler this season and really make a run in 2011-2012.
Key Players:
1. Peter Ambroziak (Head Coach)-
Again, I cheat here a bit and insert a coach instead of a player but Peter Ambroziak deserves it. After a 15-year professional playing career Ambroziak became a big player in youth hockey in New Mexico. After taking a struggling franchise from Texas and moving it further west, Ambroziak has continued to build his team the way he wants it. After a tough year last season, Ambroziak, who is also the General Manager, has picked up top-line players to help bolster his team. When New Mexico makes a run in the years to come, they can thank Ambroziak for his hard-work and dedication.
2. Bryan Fiol (Forward)-
All Bryan Fiol has done since being traded to the Renegades from the Valencia is carry the team on his shoulders. The forward could stick-handle in a phone booth and finds the back of the net with ease. He currently leads the team in points and sooner rather than later will get a call to the nearby Mustangs of the NAHL, where he started the season.
3. William Manchester (Forward)-
Another new addition to the Renegades, the New York native has fit right in on a line with Fiol. The bigger forward skates well for his size and is also a solid stick-handler. He gets to the net and a lot of times is the beneficiary of a Fiol rebound. If he and his counterpart had been on the roster all season, we could be talking about a first-place New Mexico squad.
11. Long Beach Bombers (6)
Current Record: (11-17-1, 5th Place)
Showcase Record: (0-4-0)
The Long Beach Bombers had to be the biggest disappointment of the 2010 showcase. After a torrid start to the season, Long Beach has since cooled off and sits just one place out of the post-season. Their top line is as good as any you’ll see, as the brothers Linehan always seem to find a place on the score sheet, but their power play has been suspect all year. The only winless team in the showcase dropped games to Phoenix, Tulsa, Texas and New Mexico. If the Bombers can bounce back and string a few games together, they could definitely contend with San Diego for the final playoff spot.
Key Players:
1. Johnny Linehan (Forward)-
Although his older brother Tim is the team’s leading scorer, I put Johnny first here for a reason. Last season he was the leading scorer on the team and has dropped off a bit in the first half of this season. If he can elevate his game to where it was last year, Long Beach has that much better of a chance to make a run.
2. Tim Linehan (Forward)-
The older LInehan is absolutely tearing up the league this season, with an astounding 46 points in just 29 games. He gets to the net and is always able to put himself in a great position to score. With the Linehan’s go the Bombers and Tim will need to keep up his hot play in the second half of the season.
3. Marcus Dahlstrom (Defenseman)-
Possibly the best pure skater in the league, the big Swede has fit right into the North American style of hockey. If he wanted to, he could probably be the best forward on the team as well. Dahlstrom can take the puck end to end when needed and still have enough in the tank to get back in position. He also is not afraid to play with an edge to his game.
12. Bakersfield Jr. Condors (7)
Current Record: (6-18-1, 7th Place)
Showcase Record: (1-3-0)
The Jr. Condors are another team that has had a lot of turnover in not only player personnel but also in the front office. New Head Coach and former Bakersfield Condors legend Jamie Cooke has taken control of a team in limbo and given them some stability. Bakersfield has gotten better with recent acquisitions but still struggles to compete against elite talent. A good win over an upstart New Mexico team showed resiliency for the Jr. Condors, but losses to Arizona, Texas and Tulsa made the Vegas trip a tough one. If Cooke can implement his plan with the new faces in town, Bakersfield can start winning and getting more talent into their system.
Key Players:
1. Brendan Kelso (Defenseman)-
Kelso is a roving defenseman that played in Bakersfield last season before departing for Canada. The captain is back this season and playing just as well as ever. Kelso is not the biggest of guys but can play the rough stuff with the best of them as well as spring the rush the other way. He is a bit fiery and his temper can creep up on him but if harnessed he can continue to be a real asset to the “Bako” blue line.
2. Jeff Lundberg (Forward)-
The big center has played very well for the Jr. Condors since being acquired out of the NORPAC. Lundberg is not the best skater but uses his size exceptionally well and possesses a very strong shot. He sees the ice well and finds his teammates and will be a big part of the Bakersfield offense going forward.
3. AJ Ramirez (Forward)-
Ramirez is an undersized forward in every sense of the word but somehow he always seems to make the plays. He is a gifted stick-handler and an above-average skater. He plays on both the power play and penalty kill and excels in both positions. Ramirez took a shot to the head in Vegas and may be out for some time; the quicker he’s back the better for the Jr. Condors.
13. Arizona Redhawks (8)
Current Record: (4-22-2, 8th Place)
Showcase Record: (1-3-0)
The Arizona Redhawks have struggled in their first two season of existence due in large part to the shadow of the nearby Phoenix Polar Bears. The Redhawks facility in Peoria is separated by just 35 miles from the Polar Bears’ facility in Chandler and the talent in the area has chosen to flock to the eight-time champions down the road. The Redhawks have recruited better this season and have a mix of players that come ready to play every game. They struggle against the skill of the Fresno’s and Idaho’s of the league but can compete with the bottom four or five teams on a given night. If Arizona can continue to recruit and win the games they need to, you may see them make a run in the next few years.
Key Players:
1. Chad Karns(Goaltender)-
Many expected Swedish import Peter Sjostrom to take over the crease in Peoria after his signing early in the off-season. The Centerville, Ohio native Karns had other ideas. Karns faces tons of shots nightly and is able to hold strong and make some fantastic saves. The smaller goaltender has struggled as of late and has to be dead tired but he continues to play and keep his team in games they should not be in.
2. Adam Kesser (Defenseman)-
The captain is as good on defense as you’ll see. He is not a big guy by any stretch of the imagination but plays a rough-and-tumble style. Kesser logs huge minutes against the opposition’s top lines and never backs down, even when trailing by plenty.
3. Theo Campe (Forward)-
The former San Diego Gulls forward decided to head to the desert this season and he has struggled early on. He is as skilled as them come and will need to pick up his game if Arizona would like to play spoiler.
A perspective on anything hockey
With Brent Maranto
An overview of the 10th annual WSHL Showcase in Sin City, including Power Rankings
I took a lot away from the 2009 Western States Hockey League All-League Showcase and relished the opportunity to broadcast a number of games for the league and fasthockey.com last season.
After yet another privileged opportunity to broadcast a number of games at the 10th Annual Showcase, I once again noticed a few more things about this ever-expanding league.
Commissioner Ron White, with the help of both Bob Armando and Laura Ellis, once again put on a fantastic four-day weekend of hockey at a great venue, not too far from the Las Vegas strip.
For the second straight season the number of scouts in attendance again went up and sometimes it was even hard to find a seat in the hospitality room, as everyone tried to escape the frozen tundra of Las Vegas Ice Center to grab a hot cup of Joe in between games.
In just speaking to a few scouts and over-hearing other conversations, the overall connotation the league as a whole gets is right on par with the east-coast junior leagues. In fact, I was told by one scout that if the WSHL was playing frequently in front of the aforementioned scouts, just as similar leagues like the AJHL and EJHL do right in their own backyards, that it could be considered the premiere Tier III Junior A Hockey League in all of the United States.
Unlike last season, where there were a few blow-outs and obvious discrepancies in talent between teams, nearly every game was close in 2010. Teams that struggled last season like the New Mexico Renegades and Tulsa Rampage really put on a show this year and were the only two undefeated teams in the showcase. Not Idaho, not Fresno and not even El Paso. The term “parity” comes to mind and it’s very apparent that any team in either division could win on any given day.
Below are my personal power rankings and my opinions from what I saw over the weekend and throughout the first-half of the season, not the opinion of the Valencia Flyers Hockey Club.
I have ranked teams 1-13 for the entire league, with their divisional ranking in parenthesis. Also included are their overall record, record at the showcase, place in standings as of today and lastly three key players.
So here they are, take it for what it’s worth:
1. Idaho Jr. Steelheads (1)
Current Record: (23-4-1, 1st Place)
Showcase Record: (2-2-0)
The Idaho Jr. Steelheads are without a doubt the best team in the all of the Western States Hockey League. With only four regulation losses on the season and the best +/- in the league by about double, they are a well-oiled machine with Head Coach John Olver at the controls. In Las Vegas they suffered close defeats to both Helena and El Paso but rebounded with solid victories over Boulder and a team that is quickly becoming their bitter rival, the Fresno Monsters. Idaho lost in the first round of the playoffs last season to a tough Phoenix squad but don’t expect the same result this year, as the Jr. Steelheads can roll four lines with any team in Tier III Junior A Hockey.
Key Players:
1. Brad Atkinson (Goaltender)-
Atkinson starred for the Long Beach Bombers only a couple seasons ago before going back to high-level minor hockey in Dallas. Well he’s back now, better than ever and getting the bulk of the minutes in the Idaho crease. Atkinson is a big goaltender who controls his rebounds well and is as tough to beat one-on-one as you’ll see at this level.
2. Nate Stanley (Forward)-
I said it last season and I’ll say it again; Stanley is the best passer you may ever see at this level. He has USHL senses and vision but is not the fastest of skaters. He plays on the top line with long-time teammate and buddy Stephen Rock and quarterbacks the power play. Look for Stanley to turn it up late in the season and help make sure Idaho does not have another collapse in the playoffs.
3. Greg Chapman (Defenseman)-
Chapman fits into the same mold that his former teammates Ryan Maul and Conner Kingsbury did as well while they were in Boise; both of those two men are now playing in the North American Hockey League. The captain Chapman is a smart stay-at-home defenseman that isn’t afraid to step up at the blue line and lay the pain. He’s a decent skater that can also play on the power play when needed and will put up decent numbers while not taking too many risks.
2. Fresno Monsters (2)
Current Record: (20-6-2, 2nd Place)
Showcase Record: (1-2-1)
The Fresno Monsters lost a lot of talent from the roster that burst onto the scene last year in its inaugural year and took the WSHL by storm. It hasn’t mattered however, as role players from that same team have stepped up this season and with the help of some good rookie pick-ups, the Monsters are once again one of the toughest teams in the league. New Head Coach Bryce Dale has his team poised and playing that physical brand of hockey you come to expect from the green and black. They have a tough time with Idaho but if they continue to pick up their game, it’s inevitable these two teams will clash in the playoffs for a great series of hockey. In Vegas, Fresno had an impressive win over Boulder and a near-win over Helena before losing in the shootout. They lost in regulation to both Idaho and El Paso.
Key Players:
1 Don Coyle (Forward)-
With all the talent in the top six forward spots for the Monsters last year, Don Coyle was just an afterthought. This season however, Coyle leads the Monsters in scoring with 34 points in 27 games and is a threat to score any time he touches the ice.
2 Marcus Harbison (Goaltender)-
The Colorado Springs native is among the biggest goaltenders in the league. It’s hard to find much net if any while he is standing between the pipes and even on his knees, Harbison is still able to fill up the 4 x 6. Harbison is similar to Idaho’s Brad Atkinson, in the fact that he controls his rebounds well and makes the timely saves in big spots.
3 Cody Osburn (Defenseman)-
Osburn came to the Monsters late last season after playing prep-school in Ohio. It’s obvious he is a great athlete, as he also was a stud on the baseball diamond. Osburn is a smooth-skating defenseman who seems to get his shots through with ease from the point. He can lead the rush one way and still have enough stamina to get back on defense and help break-up a counter-attack.
3. El Paso Rhinos (1)
Current Record: (16-7-2, 3rd Place)
Showcase Record: (2-2-0)
The El Paso Rhinos are essentially the Phoenix Polar Bears of the Mid-West Division. They are continually at the top of the standings and always a force to be reckoned with come playoff time. Head Coach Cory Herman always has his team ready to go and won’t be out-coached by anybody in the league. They don’t have the same fire-power they did last season, with the departures of Austin Balko and Nick Gualano but nearly every player they have can put the puck in the net. El Paso had a decent showcase with impressive wins over Fresno and Idaho but equally as unimpressive losses to Valencia and San Diego. The Rhinos are only third in their division because they have played the least amount of games in the entire league. Look for them to ascend the Mid-West standings in the second half of the season.
Key Players:
1. Tyler Beasley (Forward)-
The Rhinos leading scorer does not always make it look pretty, but he very rarely fails to get the job done. He is a smaller forward but is not afraid to go into areas of traffic to make a play. In big moments of big games look for #17 to be on the ice for the El Paso Rhinos.
2. Tyler Ridgedell (Forward)-
My favorite player to watch in the entire league, Ridgedell is the consummate junior hockey player. If you see him stop moving his feet while on the ice, be sure to take a picture because it won’t last long. If the league kept the statistics he would lead the WSHL in hits by a mile. He gets to the net and puts up a decent amount of points but is more known for his shut-down ability. Ridgedell will often go unnoticed because he does not possess the top-end skill that players like Tyler Beasley do but any GM in the league would jump at the chance to pick up #23.
3. Tyler Benson and Kyle Shapiro (Defensemen)-
I cheated a little bit here, as I said I’d only do three key players per team but I could not choose between these two D-men. Benson and Shapiro are one-in-the-same, as both are big, versatile defensemen. In my opinion they are the two best all-around back-enders in the league and luckily for Coach Herman, they both are on the same pairing. Each plays in all situations and can shut down the opposition and score on the rush the other way. They can play rugged or finesse hockey and have poise beyond their years.
4. Boulder Bison (2)
Current Record: (19-7-2, 1st Place)
Showcase Record: (1-3-0)
I’m not one to toot my own horn but I said last year in my power rankings that after an impressive showcase in 2009, Boulder should make a run at the title in the Mid-West. Not only did they win the title but they pushed Phoenix to a decisive game 3 finally before losing late in the Thorne Cup Finals. Head Coach Brent Cullaton is as good as they come in the league and he still finds time to dabble a few games here and there in the Central Hockey League; well maybe dabble is the wrong word…. He dominates. The Bison had a tough showcase this season and never really got off the mat, while victorious over only San Diego, with losses to Idaho, Fresno and Phoenix. Look for Boulder to pick it up in the second half and battle it out with El Paso for the top spot.
Key Players:
1. Jamison Wicks (Defenseman)-
Wicks was on my list last season and I tried but could not bring myself to leave him off this year. He could be the best stick-handler in the league and plays a solid two-way game (think Brian Rafalski). He can play against bigger forwards and not be tossed around. He is a force on the power play and is a key player in all situations.
2. Daniel Turgeon (Forward)-
Turgeon is a bigger forward with high-end speed and skill. He hasn’t put up huge numbers this season but when he gets in the zone, there are not a lot of defenseman in the league that can slow him up. He is another type of player that can play in all situations and although he has above average offensive flair, he’s never a liability while on the ice.
3. Preston James (Defenseman)-
There was nobody that impressed me as much this weekend as the new blue-liner for the Boulder Bison. James, who played last season for the Helena Bighorns in the NORPAC, is a smooth skating defenseman with a bit of an edge to his game. He can also play in all situations and drop the gloves with anyone in the league. James handed out a beating to one of, if not the toughest guy in the league, San Diego’s Weston Cydell. James brings an edge to an already lethal Boulder defense corps.
5. Phoenix Polar Bears (3)
Current Record: (18-10-3, 3rd Place)
Showcase Record: (3-1-0)
After a tough start to the season, I think it’s safe to assume that the Phoenix Polar Bears are back. The now eight-time champions are without their long-time bench boss Harry Mahood but new Head Coach Jeff Heimel has done an admirable job of getting this team on pace. Again the fire power of recent years is not quite up to par but the stingy defense more than makes up for it. The Polar Bears nearly went undefeated in the showcase; after leading all game against Helena, they ended up losing late to a very good hockey team. Phoenix took care of business against Boulder, Long Beach and Texas. Do not hibernate on the Polar Bears as they always make a run in the second half and without a doubt will cause problems for other teams come playoff time.
Key Players:
1. Wyatt Pressick (Defenseman)-
Pressick is not a big defenseman but he sure plays like he is. He is a good skater and is not afraid to take the body. He plays big time minutes in all situations and can skate for days without tiring. He has a bit of an edge and won’t take kindly to opponents in and around his crease. To go along with that he also has some of the best “flow”, or hair in the league.
2. Travis Ringeman (Forward)-
The Western Divisions’ equivalent to El Paso forward Tyler Ridgedell. He never stops moving his feet while on the ice and plays the body constantly. When #9 is on the ice for Phoenix you do not want to be an opposing defenseman. He creates turnovers with his gritty play and can find nylon when he has the puck. Another one of the players that will go unnoticed some games but ask Coach Heimel and he’ll tell you Ringeman is one of the Polar Bears’ MVP’s.
3. Johnny Blaus (Forward)-
The smaller forward leads the team in assists and points and is also third in penalty minutes. Blaus can dangle with the puck and also crash the net looking for rebounds. He is a real team leader as well, as he dropped the mitts in a tight game with Helena to try and get his team pumped. Size is always an issue with some smaller players; Johnny Blaus is not one of them.
6. San Diego Gulls (4)
Current Record: (15-11-0, 4th Place)
Showcase Record: (1-3-0)
The San Diego Gulls could be the fastest team in the all of the WSHL. Their top three lines can skate with anybody in the league, as can their bigger defenseman like Weston Cydell and Don Keffer. They have three goaltenders that can steal a game for them and the fieriest coach in the league, Bruce Miller, who always has them ready to play. The Gulls struggled at times in the showcase, with tough losses to Valencia, Boulder and Helena but a good win over El Paso. San Diego will pick up their play in the second-half and as usual, be a threat in the post-season.
Key Players:
1. Weston Cydell (Defenseman)-
Cydell could be not only the best defenseman but the best overall player in the WSHL. His combination of size, speed and skill are unparalleled at this level. He plays a physical brand of hockey and can seemingly score at will on the power play. He often times gets in trouble due to a temper and can sometimes be a bit nonchalant but when he’s on his game he is nearly unstoppable.
2. Jarryd Ramborger (Forward)-
Ramborger is one of the many players that have returned to the WSHL this season after starting the year with the NAHL’s New Mexico Mustangs. He is not the biggest of skaters but is quick on the puck and has a knack for finding the back of the net. He is as good a passer as he is a sniper and has very good hockey sense.
3. Kyle Edson (Defenseman)-
Last but not least is unheralded defenseman Kyle Edson. The Vermont native may often times be overshadowed by guys like Weston Cydell and Cassidy April but is a rock on the blue line for the Gulls. He plays big minutes, as Bruce Miller plays his top two pairings often but he can still skate with the best of them. He rarely is beaten one-on-one and on his best nights, you won’t even notice him because he’s that solid.
7. Texas Jr. Brahams (3)
Current Record: (17-12-4, 2nd Place)
Showcase Record: (3-1-0)
Formerly the San Antonio Diablos, the new-look Texas Jr. Brahmas enjoyed a good showing at their first-ever showcase. Texas had solid victories over Long Beach, Arizona and Bakersfield but were ousted by the similar jerseys of the Phoenix Polar Bears. The Jr. Brahmas benefit from playing out of the same facility as the CHL franchise and the coaching there within. They are a fast hockey team but struggle against the size of the top teams in their division. They look like a shoe-in for playoffs and certainly can skate with any team in the league.
Key Players:
1. Albert Bolush (Forward)-
The Riga, Latvia native has burst on to the scene in his first season with Texas. The smooth skating forward has notched a league-leading 50 points in just 33 games. He plays big minutes and is lethal on the power play, where he has notched 40% of his points.
2. Kevin O’Donnell (Forward)-
O’Donnell has definitely made the most of playing with the aforementioned Bolush. He currently is tied for the team-lead in goals with 23 and second in points with 44. He also scores a ton of his points while on the power play along with Bolush.
3. Jeremy Kaunisto (Defenseman)-
Brother of former University of Northern Michigan standout and Los Angeles Kings’ prospect Ray Kaunisto, Jeremy is a completely different type of player. The stay-at-home defenseman will not put up numbers like his brother did but he will shut down the opposition from putting up big numbers. Kaunisto is a big defenseman who has to be solid with the quick Texas offense often being caught deep in the offensive zone.
8. Tulsa Rampage (4)
Current Record: (16-10-1, 4th Place)
Showcase Record: (4-0-0)
If the Tulsa Rampage are able to make a run in the post-season in 2011, they may look back to their fantastic showcase performance as the pivot point of the season. A team that usually is around the middle of the pack in the five-team Mid-West Division, Tulsa was the only team to win all four of their games in Sin City. Fiery Coach Chad MacLeod had his boys ready to play and that they did, with wins over Bakersfield, Arizona, Long Beach and Valencia. Their top line of Shane Khalaf, Grady Graham and Bobby Watson is as lethal as any in the league but the Rampage do not have enough fire power to consistently stick with Boulder and El Paso. If they can get offense from more than just their top line, Tulsa could be the sleeper in the Mid-West.
Key Players:
1. Bobby Watson (Forward)-
Watson is a quick-skating, smaller forward that is the key-cog for the Rampage for the second season in a row. He leads the team with 39 points and an amazing 31 assists. He can play in every situation and is also a very smart player to go along with his high-end skill.
2. Matt Boente (Defenseman)-
The Minnesota native was as steady as they come on the Tulsa blue line over the four games. He has decent size to go along with above average skating and also shows good decision-making with the puck. He can pinch in and get his points but also knows when to hold the fort down and break-up odd man rushes.
3. James Ryerse (Forward)-
Ryerse is the top player on the second line for Tulsa and if they want to make it past the big teams in the Mid-West, they will need him to continue his strong play. Ryerse is a good skater and gets to the front of the net quickly. He is not the biggest of guys but can mix it up, as well as play with some edge. Again, if Tulsa wants to move up the standings guys like Ryerse need to play at a very high level.
9. Valencia Flyers (5)
Current Record: (10-18-2, 6th Place)
Showcase Record: (2-1-1)
The Valencia Flyers are the wild-card in the Western Division. At times they look like they can skate with anyone in the league, with impressive wins over Fresno, Phoenix and San Diego during the regular season. And at times they struggle against teams they think they should be beating, like Long Beach and Arizona. After an undefeated showcase last season, the Flyers lost only one in regulation in 2010. After leading 3-0 after one period, the Flyers collapsed against New Mexico and lost 4-3 in overtime. Valencia then came back with solid wins over both San Diego and El Paso, before coming out flat in a 4-0 loss to Tulsa. New Head Coach Eric LeMarque seems to have the team back on track after a lengthy losing streak and with games left with teams in front of them, the Flyers could seemingly make a run at a playoff berth.
Key Players:
1. Stephen Palmer (Goaltender)-
The 17-year-old Palmer has been the saving grace for the Flyers this season. Through much turmoil and personnel turnover, Palmer has remained a rock in the Valencia net. He continually makes saves he has no business making and keeps his team in the game at big times. There is no doubt Palmer will land in the NAHL next season.
2. Tyler McGreevy (Forward)-
McGreevy had a slow start to his second season with the Flyers and admittedly he felt he could have played better. In the past two weeks, there has been nobody better on the Flyers roster than #12. McGreevy provides great energy with high-end skill. He can run through a defenseman, skate around him or dangle between his feet to get to the net. His play has picked up at the right time for a Valencia team in need of offense.
3. Jake Ryan (Defenseman)-
Ryan is a young defenseman in the mold of a Chris Pronger. Nobody on the opposition wants to play against him. He is a big kid who knows how to play the body and drops the gloves frequently. He can also provide offense when needed with a big shot from the point and the ability to get his shot through traffic.
10. New Mexico Renegades (5)
Current Record: (7-22-2, 1st Place)
Showcase Record: (3-0-1)
The New Mexico Renegades are the most improved team in the league by a long shot. Head Coach Peter Ambroziak has done a fantastic job of sticking to the plan through adversity and giving his team a chance to win every night. By no means are they one of the top teams in the division and they have little chance at making the playoffs this season but the Renegades will contend in the WSHL soon enough. Coming into the showcase New Mexico had just four wins on the season; they nearly equaled that total in four days of hockey. An improbable come-from-behind win over Valencia in overtime got them started off on the right foot and regulation victories over Long Beach and Arizona sealed a great showcase. The only blemish was a tough shootout loss to Bakersfield. With new talent coming in and the returning players stepping their game up, New Mexico can play spoiler this season and really make a run in 2011-2012.
Key Players:
1. Peter Ambroziak (Head Coach)-
Again, I cheat here a bit and insert a coach instead of a player but Peter Ambroziak deserves it. After a 15-year professional playing career Ambroziak became a big player in youth hockey in New Mexico. After taking a struggling franchise from Texas and moving it further west, Ambroziak has continued to build his team the way he wants it. After a tough year last season, Ambroziak, who is also the General Manager, has picked up top-line players to help bolster his team. When New Mexico makes a run in the years to come, they can thank Ambroziak for his hard-work and dedication.
2. Bryan Fiol (Forward)-
All Bryan Fiol has done since being traded to the Renegades from the Valencia is carry the team on his shoulders. The forward could stick-handle in a phone booth and finds the back of the net with ease. He currently leads the team in points and sooner rather than later will get a call to the nearby Mustangs of the NAHL, where he started the season.
3. William Manchester (Forward)-
Another new addition to the Renegades, the New York native has fit right in on a line with Fiol. The bigger forward skates well for his size and is also a solid stick-handler. He gets to the net and a lot of times is the beneficiary of a Fiol rebound. If he and his counterpart had been on the roster all season, we could be talking about a first-place New Mexico squad.
11. Long Beach Bombers (6)
Current Record: (11-17-1, 5th Place)
Showcase Record: (0-4-0)
The Long Beach Bombers had to be the biggest disappointment of the 2010 showcase. After a torrid start to the season, Long Beach has since cooled off and sits just one place out of the post-season. Their top line is as good as any you’ll see, as the brothers Linehan always seem to find a place on the score sheet, but their power play has been suspect all year. The only winless team in the showcase dropped games to Phoenix, Tulsa, Texas and New Mexico. If the Bombers can bounce back and string a few games together, they could definitely contend with San Diego for the final playoff spot.
Key Players:
1. Johnny Linehan (Forward)-
Although his older brother Tim is the team’s leading scorer, I put Johnny first here for a reason. Last season he was the leading scorer on the team and has dropped off a bit in the first half of this season. If he can elevate his game to where it was last year, Long Beach has that much better of a chance to make a run.
2. Tim Linehan (Forward)-
The older LInehan is absolutely tearing up the league this season, with an astounding 46 points in just 29 games. He gets to the net and is always able to put himself in a great position to score. With the Linehan’s go the Bombers and Tim will need to keep up his hot play in the second half of the season.
3. Marcus Dahlstrom (Defenseman)-
Possibly the best pure skater in the league, the big Swede has fit right into the North American style of hockey. If he wanted to, he could probably be the best forward on the team as well. Dahlstrom can take the puck end to end when needed and still have enough in the tank to get back in position. He also is not afraid to play with an edge to his game.
12. Bakersfield Jr. Condors (7)
Current Record: (6-18-1, 7th Place)
Showcase Record: (1-3-0)
The Jr. Condors are another team that has had a lot of turnover in not only player personnel but also in the front office. New Head Coach and former Bakersfield Condors legend Jamie Cooke has taken control of a team in limbo and given them some stability. Bakersfield has gotten better with recent acquisitions but still struggles to compete against elite talent. A good win over an upstart New Mexico team showed resiliency for the Jr. Condors, but losses to Arizona, Texas and Tulsa made the Vegas trip a tough one. If Cooke can implement his plan with the new faces in town, Bakersfield can start winning and getting more talent into their system.
Key Players:
1. Brendan Kelso (Defenseman)-
Kelso is a roving defenseman that played in Bakersfield last season before departing for Canada. The captain is back this season and playing just as well as ever. Kelso is not the biggest of guys but can play the rough stuff with the best of them as well as spring the rush the other way. He is a bit fiery and his temper can creep up on him but if harnessed he can continue to be a real asset to the “Bako” blue line.
2. Jeff Lundberg (Forward)-
The big center has played very well for the Jr. Condors since being acquired out of the NORPAC. Lundberg is not the best skater but uses his size exceptionally well and possesses a very strong shot. He sees the ice well and finds his teammates and will be a big part of the Bakersfield offense going forward.
3. AJ Ramirez (Forward)-
Ramirez is an undersized forward in every sense of the word but somehow he always seems to make the plays. He is a gifted stick-handler and an above-average skater. He plays on both the power play and penalty kill and excels in both positions. Ramirez took a shot to the head in Vegas and may be out for some time; the quicker he’s back the better for the Jr. Condors.
13. Arizona Redhawks (8)
Current Record: (4-22-2, 8th Place)
Showcase Record: (1-3-0)
The Arizona Redhawks have struggled in their first two season of existence due in large part to the shadow of the nearby Phoenix Polar Bears. The Redhawks facility in Peoria is separated by just 35 miles from the Polar Bears’ facility in Chandler and the talent in the area has chosen to flock to the eight-time champions down the road. The Redhawks have recruited better this season and have a mix of players that come ready to play every game. They struggle against the skill of the Fresno’s and Idaho’s of the league but can compete with the bottom four or five teams on a given night. If Arizona can continue to recruit and win the games they need to, you may see them make a run in the next few years.
Key Players:
1. Chad Karns(Goaltender)-
Many expected Swedish import Peter Sjostrom to take over the crease in Peoria after his signing early in the off-season. The Centerville, Ohio native Karns had other ideas. Karns faces tons of shots nightly and is able to hold strong and make some fantastic saves. The smaller goaltender has struggled as of late and has to be dead tired but he continues to play and keep his team in games they should not be in.
2. Adam Kesser (Defenseman)-
The captain is as good on defense as you’ll see. He is not a big guy by any stretch of the imagination but plays a rough-and-tumble style. Kesser logs huge minutes against the opposition’s top lines and never backs down, even when trailing by plenty.
3. Theo Campe (Forward)-
The former San Diego Gulls forward decided to head to the desert this season and he has struggled early on. He is as skilled as them come and will need to pick up his game if Arizona would like to play spoiler.
