The second day of Estevan Bruins training camp is over, and there was a ton of talent out there on the ice today. Of the four Bruins training camps I've covered, this one is probably the best. So many skilled players with something to offer.
I saw three of the games, with the exception being the third one, Orange vs. Grey.
Where to start? Brad Arabia was fantastic today. He looks like a lock to make the team. He can put the puck in the net, period. He's another example of the Bruins' Thunder Bay connection paying off.
Keaton Longpre continues to be one of the best players in camp. I thought he was the team's most improved player from beginning to end last year, and he's clearly taken another step or two in his development. Look for him to bring an offensive dimension this year, along with being an excellent checker and penalty killer.
1996 F Mahlon Head was outstanding in the first game of the day, and I missed his other game but heard he was excellent in that one as well. He's secured himself a spot on the team.
Keegan Hull, a 1995 forward who played in Wichita last year, was a walk on to camp and he has opened a lot of eyes. He scored four goals in his team's first game today. I've noticed him in every game.
RT Rice played for both Grey and Pink today and looked excellent on the back end. That's where he'll start the year. He's looking great with the puck and will contribute to the attack.
Kaelan Holt was one of the best players on the ice today and the local product seems primed for a good year with the AAA Stars in North Battleford.
Finally, let's talk about Tylor Ludwar. The kid is 14 but you'd never know it. The defenceman was phenomenal today against players much older. He's too young to even be listed yet but he's clearly got a bright future.
Cuts were made after the two evening games, prior to tomorrow's Black and Gold game. One of the cuts was 1995 D Christian O'Dowd, from Chicago. Before camp it sounded like he had a good shot to make the team. I think the coaching staff was expecting more than he showed this weekend.
Here are the guys who stood out to me today. There were so many guys who did good things and I might miss some, so again, if you're not on this list, don't worry about it.
Orange: Cody Durdle, Josh Rieger, Keegan Hull, Kaelan Holt, Mahlon Head, Richard Yusa, Brett Lewchuk
Grey: RT Rice, Ryan Duret, Keegan Allison
Green: Jake Tesarowski, Kyle Eberle, Joey Ogden, Jason Duret, Chaseton Sare, Keaton Longpre, Isaac Sandomirsky, Tristyn DeRoose
Pink: Mason Benning, Tylor Ludwar, Brad Arabia, Lynnden Pastachak, Chase McKersie, Connor Chaulk, Turner Ripplinger, Matthew Kesslering, Bobby Palzer
The Black and Gold game goes at 2 p.m. tomorrow at Affinity.
