Five Vancouver prospects worth watching closely
The Sun’s Iain MacIntyre checks strengths, weaknesses and question marks heading into Penticton
JAKE VIRTANEN, 19, RW
After a busy summer that included playing for Canada in the World Junior Showcase and getting leaner and stronger, the power forward from Abbotsford, who was chosen sixth overall in the 2014 draft, feels he’s in the best shape possible to challenge for NHL time. A Canucks’ roster spot is his to win or lose.
JARED MCCANN, 19, C
The skilled centre is desperate to show what he can do after sitting out the prospects tournament last year because of mononucleosis, but still must be cleared after hurting his shoulder and neck playing for Canada a month ago. Drafted with the Ryan Kesler pick, McCann may eventually centre the Canucks’ top line.
JORDAN SUBBAN, 20, D
Drafted 115th overall in 2013, P.K.’s little brother — literally and figuratively at 5-foot-9 — is a wildcard prospect. At his size and draft position, odds are against Subban making it to the NHL. But he has something lacking in the Canucks’ organization: speed and offence from the defence.
GUILLAUME BRISEBOIS, 18, D
The third-round selection last June will never be as popular as Eddie Lack, the player GM Jim Benning dealt to acquire Carolina’s draft pick. But Benning was thrilled to get Brisebois, whose complete game should eventually translate to the NHL. Penticton provides his first pro experience.
BRENDAN GAUNCE, 21, LW
The Canucks’ top pick from 2012 (26th overall) was eclipsed by subsequent first-rounders Bo Horvat and Jake Virtanen, but a move to wing from centre and a solid rookie season in the minors has reignited Gaunce’s NHL prospects. At 6-foot3 and 215 pounds, he is built for pro hockey and should be noticeable in Penticton.