On Tuesday Hockey Canada announced 41 players have been invited to the team’s summer World Junior development camp.
Among the 41 is New Jersey Devils prospect Graeme Clarke. Full list below.
Hockey Canada announces the 41 players invited to Canada’s National Junior Team Summer Development Camp. pic.twitter.com/rymKZXomsk
— HockeyProspect.com (@ScoutingService) June 16, 2020
As you’ll notice, the majority of players (up front, anyway) were, or will be, high picks in the NHL draft. There aren’t many mid-to-late rounders – such as Clarke (late 3rd) – so it is encouraging Hockey Canada has him firmly on their radar.
I think Clarke is deserving of such recognition. He was only able to play 16 games during the 2019-20 season due to injuries, and COVID-19 ending things prematurely, but he scored nine goals and looked poised for the big breakout many expected from him.
There were some really encouraging numbers beneath the surface. Clarke was a shooting machine, averaging 4.13 shots per game. That’s a significant jump from the 2.11 he averaged in 2018-19.
His production on a per game basis nearly doubled, he was more efficient, and his on-ice results were remarkably strong. Ottawa out-scored opponents 19-4 with Clarke out there at even-strength, good for an 82.61 Goals For%. That was ~22% higher than their GF% when Clarke was catching a breather on the bench.
I think his natural development, coupled with a larger role in Ottawa, could lead to a massive season in 2020-21.
The 19-year-old sniper seems like a good bet to play his way onto Canada’s World Junior team.
Numbers via Pick224.com Recent Posts The Devils are a bit of a mess