After 115 games in minors, Zach MacEwen finally gets called up to NHL
Big, undrafted winger earns promotion to Canucks after his rapid improvement in the AHL
Guillaume Brisebois had that look when approached following practice Sunday.
The recalled Vancouver Canucks prospect was expecting to explain his development with the Utica Comets and how the parent club can advance his NHL learning curve. Those queries came later because he was first asked a series of questions about Zack MacEwen. And rightfully so.
The rationale to call up MacEwen on Sunday was based upon his imposing size, impressive productivity, rapid improvement and curiosity about how all that translates to the toughest level.
The undrafted 22-year-old right winger has 42 points (1725) in 49 AHL games, including a four-point effort Saturday, and with an open roster spot his promotion could cause some commotion when the Charlottetown, P.E.I. native plays his first regular-season game.
“He’s an amazing player,” Brisebois said of the 6-foot-4, 211-pound right winger, who has another year left on his entry-level deal. “He’s been really important for us in Utica because he has played big minutes and really presents himself every game. Big player. Power forward. He brings everything and good for him, he deserves this because he keeps improving every day.”
A year ago, MacEwen was ranked 10th among franchise prospects. It’s not a stretch to suggest that he has passed wingers Kole Lind (6th) and Jonah Gadjovich (7th) in a seeding that had Elias Pettersson, Thatcher Demko and Adam Gaudette as the Big 3.
After MacEwen produced 33 points (10-23) in 66 games last season in his rookie pro campaign, the former QMJHL forward put in the work in the off-season. He improved his skating, became a big netfront presence and has also thrived as a penalty killer. A thirst for knowledge and a drive to get better have accelerated his development.
“The coaching staff is good at pointing out little details that improve my game drastically,” MacEwen told the Utica Observer-Dispatch.
“They give me more time, more confidence and it has really helped me. It’s just great to have that support and if you put the work in, you’ll be rewarded. That’s the way I’ve always been.”
Comets coach Trent Cull lauded MacEwen’s willingness to be a consummate pro at the minor-league level and do the tough stuff away from the ice.
“The work that he put in during the summer has changed his body,” he said. “He’s done a great job and is hungry to learn. He’s doing a better job at (defensive) zone coverage and when he protects pucks, he’s a tough guy to play against.”
The Canucks face the San Jose Sharks tonight before embarking on a three-game California swing. Is it too early to put MacEwen up against the Pacific Division contenders, who have won five straight, and boast a lineup with ample skills and physical will?
“I’m not sure — we’ll see — and I’m not committing to anything” said Canucks coach Travis Green, who has had a willingness to put called-up players right into the NHL fire. It’s the right time with all the games and the roster spot.
“He’s a guy we’ve been hoping to get up at some point. He’s progressing and a good character guy and a big body who has decent hands at that level. I’d like to get a look at him and you’re always looking for size and guys who can play the game and skate.”
Meanwhile, Brisebois looks and sounds like a player who’s more comfortable in his own
skin. The 2015 third-round selection has but nine (2-7) points in 45 AHL games this season and was recalled Tuesday after Alex Edler suffered a concussion in Philadelphia.
“I’m very anxious to see if I get a game and about the opportunity and to just be around the guys here,” said the young defenceman. “I’ve improved on my physical side and being more confident with the puck and making plays and just being poised.”
Which is a pretty good leap for Brisebois. He’s not that far removed from being overwhelmed at his first two Canuck camps.
“Every kid is different,” added Green. “Some are so humble that you can tell they’re not confident when they get here. It’s not a bad thing. He’s respectful and sometimes the best kids are the most nervous around the NHL guys when they haven’t been here before.
“There’s a big difference in his demeanour with his second time here.”
OVERTIME: A stitched-up Edler was working out in the gym Sunday and Demko (knee sprain) was spotted watching practice and could be on the ice in the next couple of days.
I’d like to get a look at him and you’re always looking for size and guys who can play the game and skate.”
Travis Green