Canucks: Can Braeden Cootes crack the code to become a roster regular? - The Province
Cootes showcases competitive drive at development camp
Braeden Cootes, a prospect for the Vancouver Canucks, demonstrated a strong competitive spirit during a 3-on-3 tournament that concluded a three-day development camp. His performance included scoring on a breakaway, executing quick hands to finish a scoring chance, and displaying a backhander. Mikael Samuelsson, a Canucks development coach, noted Cootes’ impressive play, stating he seemed to be on a mission beyond just a development camp, playing with high pace and skill.
Cootes, who split his WHL season between Seattle and Prince Albert, accumulated 63 points in 45 games. He believes his experience from three NHL games last season has prepared him mentally. He expressed confidence in his ability to make an impact with the team, aiming to be a leader at the development camp.
The prospect drew comparisons to Montreal Canadiens captain Nick Suzuki from Samuelsson, citing similar playing styles and physical attributes. Caleb Malhotra, another prospect, also praised Cootes’ skills, particularly his skating ability, after observing him in the 3-on-3 tournament.
Development camp fosters relationships and hard work
The Canucks Development Camp, held at the Rogers Forum, emphasized hard work and relationship-building among prospects and staff. Jason Krog, the Canucks Skills and Skating Coach, played a key role in leading the camp’s on-ice and video sessions. Krog observed that this year’s group of players were more comfortable and friendly with each other from the start, attributing this atmosphere to Ryan Johnson‘s encouragement for players to focus on being good teammates and having fun, rather than worrying about mistakes.
Former Canuck Alex Edler joined the camp as a coach, expressing his enjoyment in returning to the rink after some time away from the game. He welcomed the opportunity to work with the prospects. Malhotra also highlighted the importance of getting to know staff members and fellow players, alongside working hard and competing.
The camp’s objective extended beyond on-ice drills, incorporating various relationship-building activities. Development coaches Samuelsson and Mike Komisarek stressed the importance of building trust and respect with the players as a foundational step for effective teaching and coaching. The camp is designed to establish lasting relationships between players and coaches, aiming to support their journey to the NHL.
Jenn Gardiner, a forward for the Vancouver Goldeneyes, also participated as a guest coach at the development camp. She offered mentorship to the prospects, sharing insights on college hockey and being drafted. Gardiner noted that her age proximity to many of the prospects helped foster a relatable environment, allowing her to serve as a resource for them. She found the camp to be a valuable learning experience, observing the knowledge shared by experienced staff and players.
Gardiner’s off-season has been busy, including signing a three-year contract with the Goldeneyes and engaging in community activities. She has also been involved in the Fraser Valley Super League games and is preparing for her youth summer camp, Camp JG12, scheduled to run from July 3 to July 5 in Surrey, featuring different age groups and guest coaches.
The development camp included two more on-ice sessions on Wednesday and Thursday, following the initial sessions.
Source: theprovince.com
