USA Midget Major Hockey: Stepan It Up

Shattuck-St. Mary's lived up to its billing as the No. 1 team in the country when the Sabres defeated Team Illinois 5-1 this past Sunday to capture the USA Hockey U18 National Championship. Derek Stepan led the way for the Sabres, as he recorded a team-high 13 points during the six-game stretch. McKeen's correspondent Kevin Hopson takes a look at Stepan, as well as other 2008 draft-eligible prospects on the team.

David Carle (2008), D, Shattuck-St. Mary's

Solid two-way defenseman who possesses an accurate wristshot and a heavy slapper, both of which prove to be valuable on the man advantage .. also owns a nice touch pass, which he utilizes well when operating the point .. capable of throwing ferocious open-ice hits .. despite being a productive skater, there are times when he is sluggish on his feet .. this gets him into trouble, as aggressive forecheckers are able to bear down and pressure him in his own end .. in these instances, he needs to be getting rid of the puck quicker .. sometimes he will try to elude opponents at the last second, either by skating the puck or passing it, which can lead to turnovers.

Derek Stepan (2008), F, Shattuck-St. Mary's

Lanky pivot with good mobility .. also a brisk skater when he hits full stride .. adequate in the circle, particularly on the PP .. has the velocity and stickhandling skills to outmaneuver opponents and move the puck efficiently .. however, he needs to be stronger on the puck, as he can be separated during contact and is vulnerable to going down .. building muscle, especially in the legs, is necessary if he is going to improve his chance of being successful at the next level .. by becoming sturdier on his feet, Stepan will be much more of a force on the puck.

Jordan Murray (2008), F, Shattuck-St. Mary's

Undersized pivot who can do many of the little things .. swift on his feet and productive when it comes to handling and moving the puck .. capable of working both the PP and PK and can be asked to win draws when necessary .. has a knack for being around the net, where he can finish or distribute the puck to open teammates .. a defensively conscious player who will hustle back to break up plays .. despite his small frame, Murray will shovel the puck out of high-traffic areas along the boards and make a run at his opponents, finishing his checks in the process.

Alexander Fallstrom (2008), F, Shattuck-St. Mary's

Well-built pivot that owns a solid wristshot and can be a presence in the attacking zone .. uses his agility, soft hands and distribution skills to create quality-scoring chances .. an adequate defender but more times than not, will anchor himself at the blueline looking for an outlet pass .. not afraid to throw his body around or pursue the puck along the boards .. can work the man advantage given his offensive prowess, as well as his ability to win draws .. also a contributor on the PK, as his elastic frame helps fill the lanes, while his counterattacking talent can lead to breakaway opportunities.