Savoring Schenn

Savoring Schenn.
It's something Kelowna Rockets fans should make a point of doing over the next two seasons, because Luke Schenn has two years tops remaining in his WHL career. Sad but true. Schenn will play with the Rockets this season before being drafted next summer. Then it's likely another year in a Rockets uniform as a 19 year-old, before moving on to the bright lights and big city of pro hockey. Luke Schenn returned to the Rockets Monday after competing for Canada against the Russians at the 8 game Hockey Canada Super Series, and proved once again he is world class. While I lost interest in the lopsided series, that should not diminish Schenn's accomplishments of being one of the best players in this country, and likely one of the best d-men in his age group. In my mind Schenn plays as good as those around him, and didn't look out of place playing with an extremely strong Canadian team. Schenn's experience in the Super Series will make him a better player heading into this season. Any time you can spend several weeks under Brent Sutter, that can't be a bad thing. Schenn would have learned a ton from him, and would have observed and likely implemented some things he saw from fellow Canadian teammates along the way. Now he can take that knowledge and use it himself, or he can pass it down to his fellow teammates in Kelowna.
This season Schenn will be the anchor on the Rockets blue line. He'll play in every key situation, both power play and penalty kill and will likely log close to 30 minutes a night. He'll be watched by fellow teammates, and will be considered a leader even though he doesn't turning 18 until November 2nd. Those watchful eyes will also be at every game he plays this season, as NHL scouts anticipate him being a high pick in the 2008 draft. Much is expected of Luke Schenn this season, yet something tells me he will handle that pressure like he handles a puck, with ease. Rocket fans, enjoy Luke Schenn now, because his days are numbered in junior hockey. I'm just glad I have the privilege of watching him over the next two seasons when the Rockets hit the ice.