What I Want From The Vets

The Kelowna Rockets have a bright future ahead of them, with the likes of Barrie, Myers and St. Denis to name a few. But it's the 18-19 and 20 year-olds that will be the deciding factor in the Rockets success,or lack-their-of this season.

This is what I anticipate/want from the Rockets 16 returning players from last season. I'm leaving the goaltenders out of this:

Evan Bloodoff: Again Evan will provide energy for the Rockets, but this season I anticipate his name showing up on the score-sheet more often. Bloodoff isn't an offensive threat, but should score 10 goals this season. The younger Bloodoff is used in more of checking role, so don't expect big offensive numbers from the guy.
Lucas Bloodoff: Lucas wants to be an offensive player, and my expectations are a 15 goal season from the 18 year-old. I'd like to see him use his body more. He should run over people at 6'2 - 210.
Justin Bernhardt: Can he regain his form when he scored 22 goals as a 17 year-old? I think he can, with the right mindset. Bernhardt will need to see extensive time on the power play to reach that goal, and needs to play with a set-up man.
Brandon McMillan: A great 16 year-old season in my mind. McMillan is going to score some goals this season, and 15 isn't out of the question. Could he be a Rockets captain down the road?
Tyler Myers: If he can shore up his defensive game, I have no concerns about the offensive side. I hope he rushes the puck more this season, and uses his greatest strength (skating) to his advantage. Sure he is a big dude, but don't expect him to punish people.
Luke Schenn: All I want to see from Schenn is physical play, and a good first pass out of the zone. Schenn will get his share of points, but brings more value as a strong presence in the corners and infront of the Rockets net.
Dylan Hood: Hoody needs to bring more to the table this season. Sure he's just 17, but has to show he can either score, or get involved physically. Hood is just 175 pounds, so bringing a physical edge is tough to come by. I'd like to see him get his confidence back by getting his first WHL goal.
Myles MacRae: Would the real Myles MacRae please stand up? You've teased me for two pre-seasons with your ability to score, it's now time to bring that 'touch' into the regular season. As one of just two 19 year-old forwards, no less than 25 goals is a disappointment.
James McEwan: The heart of the team. If you notice pushing in the corner, McEwan will be in the middle of it. He won't back down. As captain, it will be interesting to see how he response to the new role. He loves to fight, and will continue his aggressive ways, yet he is also valuable on the Rockets bench, rather than sitting for 5 minutes in the box.
Tysen Dowzak: Keep it simple. Off the glass and out, or make a strong outlet pass to get the puck out of your own zone. Dowzak needs to eliminate the number of holding penalties he takes. Improved positioning will go a long way in making Dowzak as solid defensive defenseman.
Jason MacDonald: An energy guy, who can contribute on the penalty kill. I don't expect much offensively from MacDonald, but if he can keep the opponents top guys off the scoreboard, he's doing his job.
Cody Almond: Almond needs to again be among the leaders offensively. After 15 goals last season, 25 to 30 should be right down his alley. Almond has to again use his shot to his advantage, as it's hard and accurate. A little selfish play won't hurt his cause if he wants to be an elite goal scorer. A strong work ethic won't hurt either.
Colin Long: I have such high expectations for him this season. Is 20 goals too optimistic? I could see him leading the team in assists. If he remains healthy, I believe Long will show the greatest improvement offensively from one season to the next.
Colin Joe: The coaches were so high on his play in the exhibition season, things look promising for C-Joe. Those comparisons with Josh Gorges were killer for him in the early stages of his career. He is not that gifted offensively, but has the ability to skate and fend away forwards who are trying to use their foot speed to the outside. If Joe can keep it simple, fans will realize why he is a top 4 d-man on the Rockets this season.
Matt Brusciano: Where does he fit into the scheme of things? I frankly don't know. Is he a forward or a defenseman? He has to earn a spot up front, considering all of the bodies on the defensive core. A big man at 6'4 205, but I haven't yet seen him play like it.
Riley McIntosh: Rockets head scout Lorne Frey says McIntosh has improved substantially since arriving with the team last season. You wonder if an extra year if midget would have served him better? McIntosh is just 17, yet is he better than Verdino, Barrie or Bowman? All three are a year younger. An added burst of intensity is needed.