Detroit’s top two picks in the 2014 NHL entry draft were both invited by USA Hockey to their national junior evaluation camp, but while everyone is talking about center Dylan Larkin, Detroit’s recently-signed first-round pick, the other Wings prospect who will be in Lake Placid from Aug. 1-8 isn’t even the most famous skater in his own home.
Center Dominic Turgeon is his father Pierre’s son, but he’s not the player that his dad was. While Pierre Turgeon, the top player chosen in the 1987 NHL entry draft, was an offensive dynamo that twice posted 100-point seasons and hit the 90-point plateau on three other occasions, Dominic earns his coach’s trust when the other team has the puck.
“I guess we’re pretty different,… said Dominic, who was selected 63rd overall. “He was a highly-offensive player in the NHL. I feel that right now my game is very strong defensively. But I feel as time goes on my offensive game is going to really jump.…
“I’m going to be a two-way forward. I’m going to be a very strong defensive player but I’m also going to be able to produce a lot of offense in my game.…
Last season with the Portland Winterhawks of the WHL, Dominic produced 18 goals and 43 points in 67 games, but then exploded for eight goals in 17 playoff games.
In four seasons with Portland, Turgeon has already played 43 playoff games and thinks the success of the team has also played a role in his personal development as a player.
“They’ve been huge for my game and everyone’s game that’s been there,… Turgeon said. “The way they develop kids is unbelievable. The whole organization does everything so well.
“I felt it’s been a big part of my career playing for the Portland Winterhawks.…
Turgeon, 19, who signed a three-year entry-level deal in May, figures to spend one more season in junior with the Winterhawks before turning pro.
“It’s unbelievable,… he said of getting to go to his first pro camp last fall. “It’s been a dream of mine ever since I was a little kid, ever since I saw my father dad in locker rooms, I’ve always told myself this is what I want to do.
“This is just one step closer, so it’s just an unbelievable experience.…
Howe Update Gordie Howe underwent a second round of stem cell treatments last week and the 87-year-old Red Wings legend, who is battling the effects of a stroke and dementia, has relocated from his daughter Cathy’s home in Lubbock, Tex. to his son Dr. Murray Howe’s place in the Toledo, Ohio area.
“Currently, dad is living with me and is happy and comfortable and doing well,… Murray Howe said. “He goes for daily walks and helps out around the house. He is surrounded by friends and family and is showered with love.
“He continues to participate in an ongoing stroke trial, and we prefer to not provide any more updates until that trial is completed.…
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