WHL: Brotherly Love, Bartley Style

The Everett Silvertips held their second annual preseason tournament recently and we were there to take in the excitement of exhibition hockey. There were some nice goals, saves and even the odd good fight. However, one fight that will likely get a bit of discussion around the dinner table, at least at the Bartleys, would be the minor scrap that the brothers got in to. We have scouting notes on Victor Bartley as well as three of his teammates.

Kalvin Sagert (2006), D

Was not selected in the 2005 NHL Entry Draft .. has a heavy wrist shot, however must work on being more accurate with it .. not an offensive defender, but will join the rush when given the opportunity .. needs to work on his stickhandling .. moves the puck well .. his offensive upside is limited as he lacks elite vision or playmaking skills.

Benn Olson (2006), D

Large blueliner recorded zero points in 46 games as a rookie last season for the Blazers .. delivers solid open ice hits, with the ability to really devastate as he grows in to his 6'5" frame .. lacks vision and his passing needs work, especially in regards to his breakout passes .. fills a role as a stay at home defender with some grit that can also answer the bell when called upon.

Victor Bartley (2006), D

Maturing in to a solid all around defender and is a heady player that rarely hurts his team anywhere on the ice .. the younger of the Bartley brothers in the WHL proved that he is no push over when they fought each other during an exhibition game .. moves the puck extremely well .. supports the puck carrier .. appears to be more filled out this season which is resulting in him being significantly stronger on his skates .. communicates with whomever is his defensive partner and is displaying budding leadership .. puts the pass right on the tape and crisply .. will pinch in from the point, but picks his spots reasonably well .. not a physical force, he is competent at taking the man and doesn't shy away from contact .. boasts very good mobility and acceleration .. still prone to the odd gaff like forcing a pass through traffic, but even that behavior is becoming less frequent .. as he becomes physically stronger his draft stock should improve.

Tanner Irwin (2006), LW

Averaged-sized forward that will drive to the net and has good hand-eye coordination .. can be guilty of holding on to the puck too long and doesn't display much vision .. must work on getting stronger and being more effective after contact .. has a solid wrist shot, just must hit the target .. will try to finish his checks and take the body, but is fairly ineffective.

Bryan Kauk (2006), RW

Swift, elusive skater that uses his speed well to put pressure on the forecheck .. on his attempt in the shootout he made some slick moves and slid it home .. has some zip to his wrist shot .. doesn't always hit the target, but can really get behind his slap shot .. would be well advised to add some beef.