The over-age player is really the bread and butter of the NAHL, especially since the USHL restricts the number of over-age players pretty heavily. These players may not be the most naturally gifted players, but they are the most mature and developed players in junior hockey, which makes them particularly attractive to college recruiters.
Standard disclaimer: It's a big tournament and I'm sure I missed a few very good players.Nothing personal if you think I've missed a certain player. I'm just pointing out a few players I noticed.
You can read the list after the jump.
Dan Olszewski-F-St. Louis Bandits(NAHL)-Power forward that plays a lot bigger than he is. Put up a ton of points this weekend.
Jared Rickord-F-Springfield Jr. Blues(NAHL)(Bentley commit)-Always finds way to put up points. I think Bentley got a steal with this kid.
Chris Darnell-F-Owantonna Express(NAHL)-Former Mercyhurst recruit that is looking for another school. A really strong kid and a good skater. Should get a lot of offers this year.
Jared Larson-F-Fairbanks Ice Dogs(NAHL)-Good size and he skates pretty well. He'll probably line up a college commitment fairly soon.
Mike Thompson-D-Janesville Jets(NAHL)-A short defenseman, but I thought he played really well both times I saw him play. It looks like he's going to play a lot in Janesville.
Andrew Mueller-D-Texas Tornado(NAHL)-Top defenseman for Texas.
Justin Kirchevel-F-St. Louis Bandits(NAHL)-Long-time NAHL vet. Tremendous offensive skills, but needs to improve some other areas of his game.
Nick Curry-F-Springfield Jr. Blues(NAHL)-I'd seen him before at a couple tryout camps and he's got some real talent. Should have a very good year playing on a line with Rickord and Schaber.
Mark Pustin-F-Fairbanks Ice Dogs(NAHL)-Little playmaker that passes the puck well.
Mike Schaber-F-Springfield Jr. Blues(NAHL)-After adjusting to the NAHL last year, it looks like he'll have a nice year this year.
Denys Petrukhno-D-Springfield Jr. Blues(NAHL)-Solid, mature defenseman. Named to all-tournament team.
Jake Parenteau-D-Alaska Avanlanche(NAHL)-Played a lot of big minutes for Alaska.
Alec Hagaman-F-Topeka Road Runners(NAHL)-Hard-working grinder that has impressed me at the past two Showcases.
Jon Schreiner-D-Fairbanks Ice Dogs(NAHL)-One of the top D for Fairbanks