Training Camp Notes: September 29

With training camps winding down and final cuts just around the corner there have been a few surprises so far and more to come in the upcoming days leading into opening night.

Matt Duchene (C) – COL – The 3rd overall selection has made the opening day roster and looks to be on the 2nd line. On a weakened Avalanche team, owners must keep in mind that he is a long term prospect and not to expect too much from him this season. Being sent down is not out of the question.

Cody Hodgson (C) – VAN – The young center has not impressed the Canucks management thus far. Still recovering from a back injury, Hodgson now sits on the bubble to make the team. Owners should probably expect to see him sent back to his junior team with the hopes of cracking the roster next season. He remains an excellent prospect in keeper pools.

Cory Schneider (G) – VAN – After Roberto Luongo signed his new contract in the off-season the future of Schneider with the Canucks looks bleak. A blue chip goaltending prospect, Schneider was returned to Manitoba after losing the back-up battle to Andrew Raycroft. He will now get a chance to dominate the AHL once again. Look for Schneider to be called up at some point when the Canucks realize that Andrew Raycroft cannot play at the pro level any longer. The demand from other teams will continue to grow at that point, and he should be traded for a hefty ransom. Draft Schneider and wait it out if you can as he should be a starter in years to come.

Peter Regin (C) – OTT – The 6 foot, 200 lbs Centre appears as if he has made enough of an impact to secure a spot on the opening night roster. Regin had a taste of the NHL last year appearing in 11 games and scoring 2 points. During pre-season action, Regin lined up as the second line center, displacing Fisher to the wing. The transition worked well as Fisher netted 4 points that game. Consider picking up Regin in deeper leagues and keep an eye on his ice time and line-mates. If he becomes the second line center, grab him on your waiver wire in deeper leagues.

Danny Syvret (D) – PHI – Securing a spot on one of the top Eastern Conference teams is no small feat, but the 24 year old will start the season as the Flyers number 6 d-man. With a successful season in the AHL last year, 57 points and 44 PIMs in 76 games, Syvret should make a smooth transition to the NHL. With Randy Jones being placed on waivers, Syvret will gain valuable experience learning from veterans like Pronger and Timonen. Syvret offers very little value at this time but may turn into an option in deeper leagues in the future, keep an eye on him.

Mark