WHL: Stamler Stammers Opposition

Bretton Stamler is part of an impressive blueline corps that should number five drafted players after the 2005 NHL Entry Draft. We have notes from a recent game featuring Stamler and Chris Durand.

Bretton Stamler (2005), D

Maturing young blueliner is learning the ropes partnered alongside Clayton Barthel on one of Seattle's impressive defensive pairings .. stumbled on the transition going back for a shoot in, however is generally a very smooth and mobile skater .. pinched up for a hit, although didn't get much behind it .. looked a bit awkward rushing up the ice.. moves the puck quickly on the powerplay .. does carry the puck out of his zone with reasonable speed .. doesn't look to shoot first .. word around the team is that he is supposed to be very mature for his age .. very alert and reads the play well .. competes in traffic .. excellent overall speed .. keeps his slap shot low and on goal for possible rebounds .. joined the rush to make it a three-on-two and failed to see the open man and instead chose to shoot, which was easily blocked .. needs to improve his overall strength .. lacks an intimidation factor to his game .. makes sharp cuts and can turn on a dime . not always accurate with his breakout passes .. communicates well with his defensive partner.

Chris Durand (2005), C

Arguably the best playmaker eligible from the WHL for the 2005 NHL Entry Draft. . blessed with elite hands to go along with superb vision .. centered a line of Ryan Gibbons and Denis Tolpeko .. takes the pass at full speed, even if it happens to be off the mark a tad .. gets himself open to receive the pass .. his head is on a swivel without the puck .. not an overly physical forward, but shows no fear driving to the net .. followed up on a rebound and banged it home for an easy shorthanded goal .. puts pressure on the puck carrier with his effortless skating ability and breathtaking mobility .. has tremendous patience with the puck .. has an accurate shot .. was thrown out of the face off circle a few times .. will take a hit to make a play .. strong on his skates .. makes players around him better .. picks up his man in the defensive zone .. works well in traffic and will move the puck with his feet if held up .. on a two-on-one he can narrow the passing lanes between the puckcarrier and the open man and almost dares the opposition to try and force a pass in which he will be able to intercept .. is a mainstay on both special teams and gets a ton of ice time in all important situations .. very poised and looks to have the respect of his older teammates.