Cootes’ performance at development camp
Braeden Cootes, a prospect for the Vancouver Canucks, demonstrated his competitive nature during a three-day development camp that concluded with a 3-on-3 tournament. During the tournament, Cootes scored on a breakaway, showcased quick hands to convert a scoring chance, and executed a backhander. He also frequently maneuvered past defenders.
Mikael Samuelsson, a Canucks development coach, described Cootes as impressive, noting his high pace and skill. Samuelsson observed that Cootes appeared to be on a mission beyond just a development camp, consistently aiming to make a difference. Cootes maintained this level of intensity throughout the week, often being first in line for skating drills and seeking more engagement with the puck.
Cootes expressed increased confidence following three NHL games last season, including his NHL debut. He mentioned feeling more mentally prepared this year, having gained experience and familiarity with the organization and older players. He aims to make an impact and contribute to the team’s success, stating that if he cannot, the AHL might be the appropriate path. Cootes sees himself as a potential leader within the development camp, having been part of the organization for a year.
During his WHL season, split between Seattle and Prince Albert, Cootes accumulated 63 points in 45 games. At 19 years of age, Cootes is also eligible to play in the AHL, where he could potentially gain significant playing time and experience across various situations, keeping him on the parent club’s radar. However, his competitive drive suggests he is focused on higher aspirations.
Caleb Malhotra, another prospect, was impressed by Cootes’ skills during the 3-on-3 tournament, describing him as a great skater and a very exciting player with elite skill. Malhotra also expressed excitement about potentially playing with Cootes in the future.
Development camp activities and coaching staff
The Vancouver Canucks development camp began with prospects taking the ice at the Rogers Forum. The camp focused on hard work and relationship-building among the players and with the development staff. Jason Krog, the Canucks Skills and Skating Coach, played a primary role in running the on-ice and video sessions for the camp.
Krog noted the positive atmosphere among the prospects, observing that they were more comfortable and friendly with each other earlier in the camp compared to previous years. He attributed this to the tone set by Ryan Johnson, who encouraged players not to worry about mistakes and to focus on being good teammates and enjoying themselves. Building relationships is a key aspect of the camp, as development coaches Mikael Samuelsson and Mike Komisarek emphasize its importance for effective teaching and coaching.
Former Canuck Alex Edler joined the camp as a coach, expressing his enjoyment in returning to the rink after some time away from the game. Jenn Gardiner also participated as a guest coach, offering mentorship on topics such as college hockey and being drafted. Gardiner, who will turn 25 in September, noted that her age proximity to the prospects helped establish rapport, allowing her to serve as a relatable resource for them. She also highlighted the learning opportunities available to her from the experienced staff and former players at the camp.
Caleb Malhotra described his experience at the camp as a good sweat, focusing on getting to know his fellow prospects and staff members. He emphasized his main focus was to learn everyone’s names and build relationships, alongside working hard and competing. The camp aimed to create a memorable experience for the prospects, setting a positive tone for their journey with the NHL franchise.
The development camp included various activities designed to foster relationships, with the goal of establishing connections that could last for years, ultimately supporting players and coaches in achieving their objective of reaching and remaining in the NHL. Gardiner was expected to be with the Canucks for one more day of development camp on July 1.
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Source: theprovince.com
Chloe Tremblay is the Sports Reporter at CasinoNews, covering basketball, tennis and athletics with nine years of reporting experience. She reported on the Raptors' rise and two Olympic cycles. She holds a degree in Journalism from Concordia University. Based in Montreal, she plays recreational basketball and follows track athletics. “The best stories come from the athletes everyone overlooks.”
