USA Hockey: Boyds Buzzing Blades

The Minnesota Blades are a team compiled of some of the top 1993-born players from the state of Minnesota. McKeen's correspondent Max Giese has notes on some up and coming prospects including Max Everson, Matt McNeely, Michael Sit and potential stud Travis Boyd.

Travis Boyd (2011), C, Minnesota Blades

A bonafide talent that is a potential stud in the making with incredible offensive gifts .. lively skater that is remarkably quick with his feet and has dynamic lateral bursts of speed .. handles the puck like it's on a string with his magnetic blade and electrifying stick fakes .. an intelligent offensive threat that is always assaulting opponent defenders while displaying his creative and deft playmaking touch in tight traffic areas .. his passing skills are elite and his offensive anticipatory skills are off the charts, however he still needs to become more selfish with the puck and continue to bulk up .. fairly physical and has no hesitation attacking traffic areas .. solid player away from the puck, as he supports his teammates well and then bursts to the puck with speed .. possibly the top 1993-born player in the state of Minnesota.

Max Everson (2011), D, Minnesota Blades

Physically gifted defenseman with size and speed .. an encompassing skater with fluid footwork and excellent mobility .. works the powerplay well and is a skilled passer that likes to jump into the rush, although he needs to process the game quicker and can be guilty of forcing the issue .. despite his expansive frame, Everson is a finesse defender that needs to ratchet up his intensity and refine his defensive positioning.

Matt McNeely (2011), G, Minnesota Blades

Typical modern day butterfly goaltender that relies on positioning his large frame to clog the net .. augments his net coverage with a compact stance and butterfly .. owns fast legs and covers the lower portions of the net well, although he needs to become more disciplined at keeping his stick home while moving side-to-side to help guard himself better against shooters aiming five-hole .. handles the puck well, but will need to upgrade his skating .. mechanical netminder that relies on positioning more than quickness.

Michael Sit (2011), C, Minnesota Blades

Skilled finesse centerman .. an elegant skater with a lively release and soft hands ..keeps his head on a swivel while carrying the puck up ice and is an above-average playmaker .. must get stronger and tougher, as currently he's weak in the trenches and is a perimeter player that needs to do a better job in the faceoff circle.