The Down-Low with Bristowe

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Prince George was the site of the best BC players available for next week’s WHL Bantam draft at the Under 16 BC Cup. Over 100 dub scouts attended with some teams sending five representatives last week. Some players solidified their spots as WHL draft picks.

Nicolas Petan was the most skillful player according to a few WHL scouts. The five-foot-seven 150-pound centre from North Delta was among the top point getters. Petan finished tied for second in the tournament with four goals and six points.

Matthew Needham was the top point producer with six goals and two helpers. The son of former NHLer Mike Needham is a great skater with an extra gear. One scout did mention to me that Needham might explore the college route.

Other players who stood out were Pursuit of Excellence forward Curtis Lazar, defenceman Kyle Burroughs from Langley, and Macoy Erkamps from South Delta, along with North Delta goalie Tristan Jarry. All of these players could have their names called in the first two rounds of the WHL draft.

Overall, one scout told me it is a depth year for BC players. Another scout mentions BC players do not seem to crash and bang as much as players in the other Western Provinces. Of course, with the WHL draft coming up Thursday April 29 everyone is waiting to see whom the Prince George Cougars will select with the first overall pick. Cougars Director of Player Personnel Wade Klippenstein told CKPG Sports that they have it narrowed down to four players and will make their decision after the Alberta Cup in Leduc this weekend. Most teams and people believe Alex Forsberg will be selected first overall by the Cougars. His brother Jesse patrolled the blue line for the Cats this past season. Forsberg played as an under age in the Saskatchewan Midget AAA League where he was tied for third in scoring in the league. We will find out in just over a week. With the Down Low with Bristowe.

I’m Allan Bristowe