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Barbashev, Descheneau Dominate St. Louis Blues Prospect Camp Day 2

By Vanessa Graf

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The St. Louis Blues held Day 2 of their Prospect Camp July 7 at the St. Louis Outlet Mall, drawing a crowd eager to watch future Blues players take the ice and strut their stuff. Everyone wanted to see what the prospects could bring to the table.

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For the Blues front office management, the intent was similar.

St. Louis Blues GM Doug Armstrong told the media, “This is more evaluation and as much orientation with the players. Getting them comfortable for the main camp.”

From what I witnessed with the two practice sessions, the focus today was on offensive zone presence, puck movement, shooting, and stick handling.

Many prospects shone during the drills and many still made simple mistakes that anyone could make. Some drills involved a lot of movement and passing before actually shooting  the puck on net. While others involved more quick movement into up close shots on net.  When it came time for the scrimmage portion of the day, a select group of players from both teams, came ready to show what skills they have.

For Team Tkachuk, which wore yellow jerseys, forwards Ivan Barbeshev and Liam Dunda dominated the first of two periods with aggressive play and tenacity, Barbeshev scoring two goals and assisting on one goal.

Photo By: Kasten Riedle

On defense, three of the four defensemen stood out from the crowd.

Jordan Schmaltz, Vince Dunn, and Thomas Vannelli each had plays that showcased why they deserved to be here.

Schmaltz capitalized on a goal assisted by Barbeshev. The goalies, Ville Husso and Ken Appleby, did well though I was unable to see much of Appleby’s play. Husso definitely showed up to play and made a few great saves.

Team Macinnis, which wore blue jerseys, had players with complementary skills.

Robby Fabbri lead the forwards with his ridiculous speed and agility, though he did not score any goals this time around. Behind him was the dark horse forward of the day, Jaedon Descheneau who blew everyone away with his amazing speed that seemed to appear overnight. He was the only player to score two goals consecutively and almost got a hat-trick.

This is more evaluation and as much orientation with the players. Getting them comfortable for the main camp.

For the defencemen Colten Parayko and Niko Mikkolawere very physical, showing the Blues staff how well they can play shut-down defense. Parayko also made some really crisp passes and became a quick offensive threat. Mikkola lacked offensive treat but was very strong in his own end with his defense.

Photo By: Kasten Riedle

As for the goalies on Team McInnis, Luke Opilka was on the ball and knew for the most part where the puck was even with some players blocking his vision. Jeremy Brodeur showed to some degree that he is slightly better than his brother, who was drafted by the Devils last year, and was somewhat noticeable.

All in all the fans in attendence, who reach close to 1000, were not disappointed with the prospects that the Blues had to showcase. After every goal or save the fans gave their appreciation to the new players who hope to make it into the NHL and prove their worth.

Next: Season In SHL Best For St. Louis Blues F Magnus Paajarvi

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