WHL: Award Winning Ray

The burning question that surrounds Kamloops' Ray Macias is, has his development been hurt by playing as a forward instead of what most believe his position will be at the pro-level? We have notes on Macias and a few of his Blazers' teammates.

Kalvin Sagert (2005), D

Partnered with various defensemen, although seemed to be with Victor Bartley the most .. made a nice play backing up his younger defensive partner and clearing the zone when his teammate failed to .. worked over a forward in the crease without taking a penalty .. plays on both special teams .. one of only two Blazers to play in every game so far.

Victor Bartley (2006), D

Improving young blueliner was generally partnered with Kalvin Sagert .. has gotten stronger on his feet, however still tends to be overmatched physically at times .. has the ability to deliver a tape-to-tape breakout pass .. didn't bite on a deke by going for the puck instead of the man and consequently made an excellent defensive play .. has an active stick to help close passing lanes .. swift skater that will only improve as he fills out and adds muscle.

Keaton Ellerby (2007), D

Surprisingly poised youngster has nice height, but very slender and thus doesn't yet have the strength to be an intimidating presence in front of his own net .. good mobility and skates well with the puck .. coaching staff showed faith by playing him late in a tie game .. played on the penalty-kill .. has only an assist after 51 games.

Ray Macias (2005), D/RW

Silky smooth winger is starting to produce, in fact he currently leads his team in points with 39 .. played right wing on a line with Richard Jasovsky and Aaron Richards .. put a nice hit on a puck carrier along the boards .. played the point on the first powerplay unit .. displays good vision and puck moving skills, especially on the point .. pinched in deep on the powerplay and made a tape-to-tape backhand pass to a teammate in the slot who preceded to easily bang it home .. few players have the mobility and elite speed that Macias possesses .. showed tremendous hustle beating out an opposition player to a loose puck .. at his most dangerous when he keeps his feet moving.