This review is based off my television viewing of the game. I find live viewings to give you more insight on the developing play, but I was unable to attend the tournament this season so I'm stuck watching it on t.v.
For the most part I felt the game was pretty choppy. Tons of passes were in the feet or missing players entirely. Shots were being fanned on and so were the passes - not things you would usally see in regular season games.
It's expected though. Many of these players are shaking the rust from a long off-season, and the players who had the opportunity to compete in the Memorial Cup (i.e. Jesse Blacker) had a bit more jump in their games due to a shorter off-season.
As for the first game, there were a few standouts. Below are just a few thoughts from last nights 4-2 Maple Leafs victory over the Chicago Blackhawks:
Kenny Ryan: One player I think needs to have a good tournmanet, had a great start. Great speed, good hustle, smart two-way play. A nice goal, although a bit weak on the goalies end.
Jake Gardiner: As expected, his speed really showed. He had a bit of a rough game, but as the game wore on he started to round into form. Great finish with 2 goals.
Jesse Blacker: Punishing players all night, Blacker was arguably the best player on the ice. A few 'too cute' moments where he could have burried the puck, but overall a very strong game at both ends of the ice.
Matt Frattin: Wasn't all that impressive away from the puck, but when he had it. he owned it. I expect his game to get better as the tournament moves along.
Sondre Olden: He's got great natural ability and was making things happen. Singing the same tune as last seaosn, he needs to add bulk. Should be an interesting season for him in Erie.
Mark Owuya: Strong first game. Not tested too much from what I remember, but he stopped what he had to.
Jamie Devane: Great use of size and a nice muckers goal. I don't think this kid is going back to the OHL, he just seems better suited for a pro game.
Stuart Percy: Looked a bit rusty, and his low-key style of game isn't suited for the crazy, disorganized style of the rookie-tournament. Should get better as the games go on.
A few players started out well, but seemed to fade a bit were Garrett Clarke, Matt Stanisz, and Brad Ross. The other players I don't have much to comment on as they didn't catch me eye enough. I think Greg McKegg in particular needs to up his game a bit.
As it was the first game, I wasn't really looking at anyone in particular. In games like this, I like to see the players make their own impression on me, then me having to look out for a Jake Gardiner or a Jesse Blacker and expect results.
Game goes again tonight against the veteran Pittsburgh Penguin rookies at 7:00pm. The Maple Leafs had many of their veteran players sitting out last night (Cowan, Brennar, Urban, Neuber) so expect them to rotate in for some of the free-agent invites.
Catch the 30 minute tape delay at MapleLeafs.com and http://ourleafs.blogspot.com/ had a live stream going last night which, I'm guessing, will be up again tonight.
