Some quick thoughts from the event today. A little repetition from earlier posts as well.
Red carpet stuff:
1. A great atmosphere overall and the players seemed to really embrace it. Everyone had smiles and took their time to sign every autograph and be in every picture. Extremely professional.
I am disappointed about the turnout, though. Maybe 1k people? $5 for kids and $10 for adults for the red carpet, 2 practices and a full scrimmage with all the stars playing. I'm not sure it was marketed well enough.
2. Brady, Sandy, Yak and Kleven all looking massive. Timmy looking thicker as well.
Pinto, Batherson, Greig and Norris looking fit, but lean. Crooker looked very solid.
On ice:
1. Timmy was dancing and was very physical. In battle drills and during the game. He laid a good hit on Crookshank near the benches and Crookshank absorbed it but game him a shot back as Stu was getting off the ice.
I am hoping Timmy continues to evolve his game and my goal of manifesting him tuning up Gallagher is closer.
2. Chabot was flying and silky smooth everywhere.
3. Halliday impressed me yet again. This kid just knows where to be and where to put the puck. I am sensing his shot may be underrated as he is such a pass first guy. Might not be a big transition guy transporting the puck, but he is heady and will make things happen in the offensive zone
4. Cousins is a sh!t even during intrasquad games! LOL. He took an extra poke at the puck after the whistle and Zub shoved him. Cousins looked at him, then poked after the puck again.
5. The Riddler is ready for another step. He is so quick with his reads and hands. Had a great game for team Black, who were outplayed.
6. All the "4th line challengers" showed fine.
I have seen quite a few of these intrasquad games over the years and without a doubt, this one had the most pace and intensity.
It may have slowed down in the latter portion, as I missed the end, but Green seems to have them going early.
Who knows if it means anything, but I came away feeling good.
