AJHL All-Star Game: North Team

The third Annual AJHL All-Star Game, which was played on January 27 at the University of Connecticut, saw the North defeat the South by a score of 10-3. In part 2 of a two-part report, McKeen's correspondent Kevin Hopson looks at some notable players on the North team.

Ryan Boucher (2008), D, Portland Junior Pirates

(36-6-19-25, 14 PIM) .. Currently eighth among defensemen in scoring with 25 points .. a speedy and agile offensive defenseman who looks like a forward at times .. always looking to transition and create offense .. can join the attack or take the puck on his stick and lead the rush himself .. slick with the puck, as he can create time and space with it .. his offensive abilities make him a quality contributor on the PP .. defensively, he relies on his quickness and stick-checking skills to break up plays .. his racing wheels allow him to get back even when he is deep in the attacking zone.

Zac Carriveau (2008), D, Portland Junior Pirates

(36-4-18-22, 28 PIM) .. Currently tied for 10th among defensemen in scoring with 22 points .. a physical, in-your-face style defenseman .. does a quality job of positioning himself and playing the body .. does not allow opponents time and space with the puck, as he effectively closes the gaps and puts pressure on the puckhandler .. defensively, a smart player who is reliable in his own end .. however, he possesses solid offensive abilities as well .. not only is he strong on the puck, but he can also rush the ice with ease .. efficient enough to work the PP.

Chris Labella D, Walpole Express

(34-6-23-29, 18 PIM) .. Has committed to Fredonia (SUNYAC – Division III), where he will play next season .. currently sixth among defensemen in scoring with 29 points .. similar to Boucher and Carriveau in that he is a valuable puckmoving defenseman .. effectively utilizes the boards when in possession of the puck and can make a quality pass out of his zone .. displays sharp stickhandling skills and can gain the opponent's blueline with the puck .. unfortunately, his defensive play leaves a lot to be desired .. appears to be going through the motions at times, making him inadequate at dispossessing and/or shutting down opponents.

Steve Lucchetti C, Walpole Express

(36-22-22-44, 50 PIM) .. Has committed to Hamilton College (NESCAC – Division III), where he will play next season .. currently tied for ninth in the league in scoring with 44 points .. solid skater who is willing to work in both ends .. despite his small frame (5-9, 175), he is not afraid to block shots .. displays good puck control in the corners and keeps his head up, allowing him to survey his options .. can even carry the puck through traffic at times .. however, he needs to be more consistent in pressure situations and not force the puck into congested areas .. was also poor at winning draws during the game.

Seth McNary G, Walpole Express

(2.98 GAA, .913 save percentage) .. Has committed to Castleton State (ECAC East – Division III), where he will play next season .. currently fourth in the league in save percentage and seventh in GAA .. only played one period so viewing was limited .. gave up two goals during the first period – one on the glove side and one down low .. however, he showed strength on the blocker/stick side, where he effectively used his quick reflexes to turn away the puck .. also kept rebounds out of harm's way