TAKING AWAY THE POSITIVES

Aside from "the goal", there are many positives for the Juniors to take away from this series. A few of the most notable highlights are:

1 - Experienced gained by Xavier Ouellet (seen in photo). Throughout the entire series Montreal's Coach & GM, Pascal Vincent, provided Ouellet with "number 1 defenseman" type ice-time. The 16 year old junior aged defenseman probably led the entire team in power play time on ice and I would estimate he played between 22 and 24 minutes per game. Ouellet looked comfortable with the added responsibility which is good news for the young defender's personal development and the future of the Juniors' defense corps. Ouellet scored 0 goals and 3 assists in 7 games played. More importantly, Ouellet finished the series with a plus/minus rating of +4. Expect big things from this intelligent player next season.

2 - The emergence of Trevor Parkes. The 18 year old right winger has caught the attention of NHL scouts. Before the playoffs Parkes was viewed as a boarder line player to be drafted this June. Now, after scoring 6 goals and adding 1 assist in 7 playoff games, Parkes is seen as a player who could be drafted between rounds 4 and 6 of the 2010 NHL entry draft. This two way forward plays with grit as well. Parkes didn't miss a shift after getting cross checked to the mouth and loosing two teeth.

3 - The improved play of Guillaume Asselin. After a somewhat disappointing season, Asselin turned his game up a few notches in the playoffs. Montreal's 17 year old right winger's points per game average during the season was 0.63. During the playoffs his average improved to 1.00. Along with his production, the intensity in Asselin's game seemed better as well. He was skating harder and played more physical while battling in the corners for loose pucks. I'm crossing my fingers for this kid and hope he gets drafted by an NHL team in June. Chances are just under 50 / 50.