WHL: Balan-cing Act

We take a look at some of the young players that Portland Winter Hawks are trying to build around. We highlight Nashville draft pick Stanislav Balan who was a seventh round selection (209th overall) in the 2004 NHL Entry Draft. We also have notes Cameron Cepek, Colton Sceviour, Kelly Friesen and Nick Hotson.

Cameron Cepek (2006), D

Had four points (2-2-4) last season with the Winter Hawks while adding 104 pims .. still needs to read the play better .. continues to add some sandpaper to his game and is a work in progress handling the puck .. is a willing fighter when need be, however is not strong or big enough to be considered a heavyweight .. must be more protective of the puck and make the high percentage play, especially in his own zone .. has some upside once he matures physically and mentally, however is still prone to unforced errors .. wore #7.

Colton Sceviour (2007), RW

Played in six games last season with Portland and recorded one goal .. must learn to play with more urgency with or without the puck .. although has decent size 6'0"-185lbs., he lacks much physicality to his game .. wore #9.

Kelly Friesen (2006), C

Saw limited action last season in the WHL appearing in only two games and did not record a point .. will take the body, however isn't overly punishing with his hits .. displayed some moves and stickhandling ability .. must fight harder through contact .. wore #14.

Nick Hotson (2006), RW

Recorded nine points (1-8-9) in 62 games with the Winter Hawks last season .. supports the defense well .. can be a bit of a slushy skater at times .. has some room on his 6'4" frame to add some much needed muscle .. wore #15.

Stanislav Balan (Nsh), LW

The Winter Hawks appear to have found an import that should be a solid addition to the roster after a few hit and miss selections in previous seasons .. boasts a heavy slap shot .. works hard in traffic to gain position even after contact .. displays some imagination and touch in the offensive zone .. is a threat to force turnovers of puckcarriers that are lax protecting the puck .. generally comes back on defense and picks up his check .. has a bit of an unconventional technique in the face-off circle .. wore #16.