Prospect Interview featuring - Myles Bell

McKeen's correspondent Randy Gorman recently had the opportunity to interview defenseman Myles Bell of the Prince Regina Pats. Bell talks about his game, his minor hockey roots, playing for the Pats, the thoughts of playing one day for Canada at the World Junior Tournament, the biggest influence on his hockey career to date and his thoughts on the 2011 NHL Entry Draft.

McKeen's: Where did you play your minor hockey?

Bell: I played minor hockey in a small community called Springbank, just outside of Calgary until I reached bantam, and then I went on to play for the Northwest Athletic Association in Calgary before joining the Regina Pats.

McKeen's: What was the biggest adjustment you had to make from minor hockey to major junior?

Bell: I would have to say the schedule. I mean, we play 72 games in the WHL compared with 34 in midget. Your body has to get used to the grind, and less time off between games.

McKeen's: The conditioning at this level must take a lot of planning by yourself and the team?

Bell: Yes, summers are a lot shorter; you have to keep in top shape.

McKeen's: This is your draft year; does it bother you that scouts have you under the microscope every night?

Bell: I try not to think about that. You just go out and play the game. If I take care of the d-zone, hopefully the rest of my game will come along as well.

McKeen's: What would you describe as the best part of your game, and what are the things you want to work on?

Bell: I think my offensive ability, where I can contribute on the powerplay from the point, I think I have a good shot and can skate pretty well. As for things to work on, well, I think I have to simplify things in the d-zone, chip pucks out and limit mistakes and scoring chances.

McKeen's: What does it feel like to be considered a top prospect for the draft?

Bell: It's just a big compliment to all the hard work I put in over the years to get here. Also, to my mom and dad who had to wake up early and drive me to practices and games.

McKeen's: Who's had the biggest impact and influence on your hockey career to date?

Bell: Definitely, my dad, he was very supportive from the moment I picked up a stick. I didn't come from a hockey family, but he was with me every step of the way.

McKeen's: Growing up, was there a player you idolized and wanted to pattern your game after?

Bell: I liked watching Mike Green of the Washington Capitals. We work out at the same gym in the summer. I know these would be big shoes to fill, but that's who I would like to pattern my game after.

McKeen's: As you previously mentioned about the schedule being what it is, do you find these west coast trips tough?

Bell: No, not really. I think getting to play teams in the Western Conference, and being away from Regina gives us a chance to re-energize.

McKeen's: If you could be Commissioner of the NHL for one day, what rule would you like to see implemented or changed?

Bell: I would like to see hybrid icing put into the game. Where a team has the momentum and they happen to ice the puck, the game would just keep going. It would give the game a little boost of energy and fewer stoppages.

McKeen's: Was there any goals going into the season that you set for yourself personally, and for the team?

Bell: Definitely, team wise we want to be a playoff team, and hopefully things are going in the right direction. Personally, I just want to help this team win hockey games, and the stats will be there.

McKeen's: Do you have any future aspirations of making the World Junior team, and get that chance to perform on the World stage for Canada?

Bell: At some point down the road, definitely, if I have that opportunity, that would be an honour, but right now I just want to help the Regina Pats win.

McKeen's: How important is learning to play defense, and thus becoming a complete player - as you are noted for your offense?

Bell: Definitely, it's the number one priority for me. If you don't play both ends of the ice it's pretty hard to make the next step to the pro level.

McKeen's: What's it like playing for a historic and esteemed team like the Regina Pats?

Bell: Definitely, a huge honour, I try to keep the tradition alive. The fans in Regina are fantastic, and it's great to play in front of them.

McKeen's: What do you like to do in the off-season to relax?

Bell: I like to golf, and head out to my buddy's cabin to relax away from the game.