Cootes’ performance at development camp
Vancouver Canucks prospect Braeden Cootes showcased his competitive nature during a recent three-day development camp, particularly in a 3-on-3 tournament. The camp, designed for information gathering and learning systems, saw Cootes excel with a breakaway goal, quick hands for a scoring chance, and a backhander. His ability to navigate past defenders was also noted.
Mikael Samuelsson, a Canucks development coach, described Cootes as impressive, stating that he appeared to be on a mission to play in the NHL rather than just participate in a development camp. Samuelsson highlighted Cootes’ high pace, skill, and desire to make a difference, noting his consistent effort throughout the week, including being first in line for skating drills.
Cootes, a centre from Sherwood Park, Alta., was a selection in an NHL draft. He accumulated 63 points in 45 games during his WHL season, split between Seattle and Prince Albert. His performance has positioned him to contend for a spot on the Canucks roster.
Aiming for an NHL impact
Cootes expressed his continued ambition to reach the NHL, emphasizing the need to keep working and improving. He believes he can be a leader at the development camp, having been with the organization for a year and understanding its operations. His confidence has grown following three NHL games last season, including his debut, which he described as a valuable experience for mental preparation and familiarization with older players.
The prospect acknowledged that while he could play in the AHL, where he might gain significant ice time in Abbotsford across various situations, his aim is higher. He stated his desire to make an impact, produce, and help the team win in the NHL, rather than merely survive. If he cannot achieve this, he considers the AHL a viable path, but he remains confident in his ability to contribute to the Canucks.
Cootes draws parallels between his playing style and that of Montreal Canadiens captain Nick Suzuki, who is known for his quickness, responsibility, and strong performance off the rush. Cootes views Suzuki as a player he aspires to emulate, noting their similar paths as first-round picks and comparable size and skill sets. Caleb Malhotra, another prospect, praised Cootes’ skill and skating ability after observing him in the 3-on-3 tournament.
The NHL has seen a trend towards younger players, with several individuals participating in the recent season. The question of whether Cootes is ready to establish himself as an NHL regular at his age remains to be seen.
Development camp activities and coaching
The Canucks development camp at Rogers Forum focused on hard work and relationship-building among prospects and staff. Canucks Skills and Skating Coach Jason Krog played a primary role in leading the on-ice and video sessions for the camp. He noted that this year’s group of players appeared friendlier and more comfortable with each other earlier in the camp compared to previous years.
Former Canuck Alex Edler joined the camp as a coach, expressing his enjoyment in returning to the rink and having the opportunity to work with the prospects. Jenn Gardiner, a forward for the Vancouver Goldeneyes, also served as a guest coach. She mentored prospects on topics such as college hockey and being drafted, leveraging her recent experiences.
Gardiner, who is close in age to many of the prospects, found that this proximity helped foster rapport, allowing her to serve as a relatable resource. She emphasized the mutual learning aspect of the camp, gaining insights from the experienced staff and players, which she plans to apply to her own game. The camp included on-ice sessions and various relationship-building activities, aiming to establish lasting connections between players and coaches to support their NHL aspirations.
The development camp included on-ice sessions, following initial activities on Tuesday.
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Source: theprovince.com
