Shots From the Point--Late Hump Day Edition

The WHL has their team-by-team analysis posted, here's the bit on the Ams:

General Manager: Bob Tory

Head Coach: Jim Hiller

2011 pre-season: 5-2-0-0, 10pts

2010-11 Record: 44-24-2-2, 92pts (3rd in U.S. Div., 4th in Western Conf.) GF: 286 GA: 223

2010-11 Power Play / Penalty Killing ranking: PP: 23.6% (2nd); PK: 78.7% (15th)

2011 Playoffs: Lost in six games to Spokane in second round

2010-11 Top Scorers:

Brendan Shinnimin 60gp-34g-62a-96pts

Adam Hughesman 60gp-39g-42a-81pts

Carter Ashton 62gp-33g-38a-71pts

Up Front: Returning up to eight forwards from last year’s team that ranked fourth in the WHL in offense, the Americans should once again possess a fearsome attack. 20-year-olds Adam Hughesman and Brendan Shinnimin both averaged well over a point per game last year, and could both end up among the WHL’s scoring leaders this season. Also back are Justin Feser, Patrick Holland and Jordan Messier, who all topped the 20-goal mark last season. Connor Rankin enjoyed a strong rookie season with 19 goals and 44 points as a 16-year-old. Look for Rankin to step into a larger role this season. Swedish winger Malte Stromwall will also figure heavily into the Ams’ offense this season.

On The Blue Line: The Americans can only return up to four defensemen from last season, meaning there will be some new faces on the blue line. 20-year-olds Matt MacKenzie and Brock Sutherland could both return. However, with five 20-year-olds on the roster and only three overage spots available, some tough decisions will have to be made. 18-year-old Zachary Yuen is back after being drafted by the Winnipeg Jets in June’s NHL Draft. He will be counted on to take on a much bigger role this season. 18-year-old Mitch Topping was acquired from Victoria during the off-season. He brings good mobility and puck movement to the back end. 19-year-old Drydn Dow has impressed in pre-season, and could move up the Ams’ defensive depth chart.

Goaltending: The Americans acquired 19-year-old Ty Rimmer during the off-season from Prince George in return for 20-year-old Drew Owsley. Rimmer, who began his WHL career in Brandon, played well for the Cougars last season, and will look for a heavier workload in Kennewick this year. Meantime, 16-year-old Eric Comrie will also join the Ams after being drafted 13th overall at the 2010 WHL Bantam Draft. Comrie and Rimmer should provide a solid goaltending duo for the Americans.

Player to Watch: Connor Rankin

Tri-Cities’ first round pick, seventh overall, in the 2009 WHL Bantam Draft, Rankin broke into the WHL as a 16-year-old last year and quickly made an impact. The North Vancouver, B.C., native led all 16-year-old rookies in scoring with 19 goals and 44 points, and added another goal and four points in 10 playoff games for the Ams. One of the hardest workers on the ice at any given time, Rankin is a very well-rounded player. His work ethic and no-quit attitude make him a fierce competitor, and his selfless nature makes him a great leader and teammate. Expect to see Rankin become a key contributor among the Ams’ forward ranks this season. (WHL)

I can't disagree with much here.  Connor missed several (most?) pre-season games (thanks Sam Grist!) but when he played he was lights out.  You could see it last year--his talent and skill--and now we get to see great things from him.  I like the recognition of Dow here as well.  He's been outstanding.  I BELIEVE IN DRYDN DOW.

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Patrick Holland was sent back by the Flames today after a strong showing in camp for them. As a 19-year-old it's either junior or NHL so this move doesn't surprise me. It's also why I expect the Winnipeg Jets to return Zachary Yuen soon. With Shinny and Big Mac being 20 they could be assigned to AHL teams or returned.

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Remember when Rene Ferran wrote really good and interesting bits for the Examiner? Yeah, that was awesome.