Last Thursday night, I had the opportunity to watch Detroit's 2006 2nd round pick,
Cory Emmerton in action with the Kingston Frontenacs of the Ontario Hockey League.
Without question, it appears safe to say, the Wings have another solid young prospect in the system in
Cory Emmerton. The 19 year-old, St. Thomas, Ontario native displayed his fine offensive skills on this night scoring a goal and adding two helpers in a 8-3 defeat at the hands of the Windsor Spitfires.
Late in the first period, Emmerton blew by the Spitfire defensemen, shielded him off with his body and calmly flipped the puck over the glove of goaltender Andrew Engelage. It was an impressive display of offensive ability by the slender centermen.
Emmerton is most known for his deft playmaking skills. On several occasions, he set up his teammates who failed to find the back of the net. Nevertheless, he did pick up two assists in the second period during Frontenac power plays.
Emmerton appears to have the potential to one day become a fine second-line centre for the Red Wings. In addition to his impressive play, he appears to have a good head on his shoulders. During his interview during the 2nd intermission, he stated that he is well aware of the fact he is likely 2-3 seasons away from wearing a Detroit jersey. He knows that he will have to prove his worth in the AHL with the Grand Rapids Griffins. His time in the minors should help season his play, while allowing him to work on other parts of his game that need improvement.
I'm certain the Wings would like for him to become a responsible two-way centremen while increasing his upper-body and leg strength. That being said, you can't teach hockey sense and this is likely Emmerton's greatest asset. He is an extremely intelligent hockey player and one that looks to making others around him better. A player currently in the NHL who Emmerton reminded me of was
Brad Richards of the Tampa Bay Lightning. Not lightning quick, not extremely big and strong, but a real smart hockey player with good offensive skills.
Emmerton recently was invited to the Team Canada Junior team training camp in Calgary next week. He participated in the Canada - Russia Junior Super Series this past summer and is likely to make the World Junior team. Red Wing fans should do their best over the holidays to catch Emmerton in action as they will likely come away impressed with his skill level and work ethic.
Needless to say, only time will tell how well Cory develops once he hits pro hockey in the AHL. However, I for one believe there is a very good chance that one day in the near future, Emmerton will be wearing the Winged Wheel in Detroit as a Wings center.
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Post-game review of the Wings rare visit to Montreal on Tuesday night. According to most reports, Hasek will start vs. the prized Habs rookie,
Carey Price. It is a shame that these teams don't meet more often. I think the league should really look at having each team play a home and home with each team in the opposing conference.
redwingsbuzz@hotmail.com
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