Pacific Division Shoot out re-cap

The third annual Pacific Division Shootout Rookie Tournament was a good showcase for some of the best prospect talent the Western Conference has to offer. Some players performed to or above expectations while others seemed to disappoint. Previous players to represent their teams at the tournament are Steve Bernier, Ryan Getzlaf, Milan Michalek, Corey Perry, and Keith Ballard. Here is a look the studs and duds of the weekend tournament.

Top Performers

Lukas Kaspar (SJ), F

After an up and down first year in the pros, Kaspar seems to have learned a thing or two over the summer. Kaspar finally went hard to the net, using his size to scrum for loose rebounds and planted him self in prime position for scoring chances. Lukas also showed little hesitation to use his heavy shooting arsenal instead of going for the pretty play that often didn't work for him last year. Seems to finally understand the North American game and was rewarded with a goal in each game of the tournament to finish with four goals and two assist. Sharks defenders who scored goals should also thank him for applying the screens in front. Terrific top end speed that allows him to get to the outside and he seems to be improving on his one on one skills to be more dangerous. A vastly underrated playmaker that can make your jaw drop once a game with a beautiful pass. If he keeps this more physical, instinctive play up to go along with his superb skill set, expect a mid-season call up to the Sharks.

Keith Yandle (Phx), D

Picking up right where he left off offensively with Moncton last year, Yandle also seems to have added a physical dimension to his game. Along with showcasing his elite offensive tools, Yandle surprised, and impressed with his physical defensive play. Looks to have added five to ten pounds of bulk over the summer and appears raring to use it. Is not afraid to unload his rocket shot from the point that can be a huge weapon for his team. Also a deft playmaker who disguises his intentions well. An amazing skater and has a blistering pace and can take the puck end to end. A game breaker from the point. Keith appears to have to be a true gem from the 2005 draft and could be a fine two way defenseman some day in the NHL if he continues these improvements on the defensive side of the puck. His speed, shot, and creativity all look ready for the pro game and expect a call up to the Coyotes this year after some tutelage in the AHL.

Marc-Edouard Vlasic (SJ), D

Arguably the best defenseman at the tournament and looks to be close to NHL ready. Exceptional positional sense in all three zones is very difficult to beat one on one because he always maintains a good gap and remains in position. While not overly physical, he is good at using his body to get solid contact and he likes to use a long stick which helps aide his long reach. Effectively ties his man up in front, anticipates the game well, very good at disrupting the passing lanes and blocking shots. Composed in all facets of the game, makes ice stretching outlet passes look effortless even in the face of oncoming pressure, willing to make the simple to get the puck out of the zone. Passes the puck crisply tape to tape, not an elite passer but is calm and smart about it. Has a very quickly released shot from the point that finds its way through traffic every time which creates a lot of rebounds, an accurate shooter when below the dots and can pick a corner when he jumps up into the play. Not the prettiest skater looks hunched over while skating. While not a poor skater, he mostly compensates for his lack of explosiveness with smooth all compass skating and smarts. Scored two goals and added four assist in three games.

Brett Skinner (Ana), D

Was the most impressive of the Ducks defenseman and his game was noticeably more mature than the rest. Skinner possesses good size and instincts in the offensive zone. Makes quick decisions with the puck, distributes the puck creatively and most of all effectively. For an offensive defenseman, he also displayed the awareness not to be caught up the ice and is usually back for oncoming rushes. Still prone to spotty one on one defending skills but looks to be on track for a mid-season call up, especially with Smid's departure.

Anze Kopitar (LA), F

Kopitar was so impressive that he was pulled off the ice after one game because the Kings felt they seen enough and he will now challenge for a spot on the opening day roster. Only used him again in the championship series in which he scored an important goal for the Kings. A tall, well built forward with fantastic play making ability, as well as one on one moves. Uses his condor like wingspan to shield the puck magnificently and can also make some jaw dropping moves. Has a quickly released shot that looks more and more accurate every time I see him. Uses his size as an offensive weapon but could be more involved physically. Still he looks to have top six forward in the NHL sooner than later written all over him.

Martin Hanzal (Phx), F

The towering Czech centerman looks to have added some meat to his bones and seems to have regained his offensive touch. Composed with the puck, Hanzal is very dangerous when given time to work with. His playmaking abilities really stood out, as once the offensive zone was gained he showed the ability to thread the needle with a beautiful pass to set up a prime scoring opportunity. Still isn't very physical for a player of his size and his first gear is suspect. More of a pass first shoot later kind of player but he has all the skill and a great frame.

Matt Moulson (LA), F

Recently signed former Pittsburgh Penguin product, Moulson looks to have an outside shot of making the opening night roster for the Kings. He's the type of player who you can line up on any line, and he'll be effective. Tenacious on the forecheck and likes to use his size to be a physical presence down low. Hard to move off of the puck, strong in traffic areas, good on the cycle, he's a force every shift. Has a finishers touch from in close.

Ryan Carter (Ana), F

It is possible that the Ducks have found another undrafted free agent signing from the NCAA. Carter left after his sophomore year for Minnesota State and should spend the season with Portland, but a call up is not out of the question. The best pure goal scorer of the Ducks prospects at the tournament. Ryan possesses a lightning quick release on his wrist shot; he has a very powerful shooting arsenal and seems to have the touch to pick corners. Had three goals on an offensively starved Ducks team. Very aggressive without the puck and likes to play physical. Rather drive through a defender than go around them. Not a finesse player, but a brute physical one with an enticing shooting arsenal.

Honorable Mentions: Enver Lisin (Phx), Joe Pavelski (SJ), Brendan Mikkelson (Ana), Matt Balesky (Ana), Thomas Greiss (SJ), Taylor Dakers (SJ), Jean-Philippe Levasseur (ANA).