Prospect Randomness on the Road to Peoria

How’s the snow? Wouldn’t know. Luckily I’m on the road. Trekking up the stretch of I-55 that Niktin, Cole and about half the Blues lineup knows very well.

Those guys are out in Minnesota taking on the Wild, fighting for pride and their jobs next season. As much as I’d love to give Blue Bleeders a heads up on the happenings in America’s hockey capital, I’m happily heading to Peoria.

The nature of my visit it to see the Rivermen of course. Most of the future Blues who should be in Ptown are already up, but there are some guys still grinding it out worth watching. Which lead me do think of Mark Cundari, which made me think of the Blues prospects in general and how a few have been “in the news” lately.

…but a little R&R is long overdue thanks to recent events. So before I switch to relax mode to, I’ll pass along some random thoughts, tidbits and FYIs on a few of future Note wearing skaters.

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- There are many excellent reasons for Blue Bleeders to be excited to see Vladimir Tarasenko, but Jaden Scwartz showed last night why the anticipation should be just as high for his arrival in St. Louis.

In the biggest game of his brief college career (not counting the WJC) Jaden stepped up big time. Registering the GWG and 4 points in Colorado College’s 8-4 win over Boston College in the West Regional.

Sure, “it’s just college”, but he was heads and shoulders above his peers. Playing at a very high pace and executing like it was practice, not a NCAA tournament game. His vision and ability to distribute the puck are ready to go.

What about his head? What I saw on the ice reaffirms my perspective after my Q&A with him earlier this month. He has no qualms about getting down low. Proving what he told me. It’s not all about size, but the hands and skills to find ways to get the puck in the net.

CC may want to keep Jaden around for a while, but a huge performance this spring could tip the scales to starting his professional career.

- The Blues need to sign Jaden’s brother Rylan as a college free agent. He may not be as skilled as his younger brother, but he understands the game about as well. With plenty of college experience he could step in and help Peoria next season.

- The Rivermen will be getting an influx of newbies on defense next season with Brett Ponich, Cade Fairchild and David Shields, but tonight I’ll get an advanced look at forward Jay Barriball.

The Blues finally announced his deal and is expected to kick off his professional career in Peoria tonight.

- Not holding my breath that Jori Lehtera ever comes over.

- Don’t expect Jonas Junland to come back over. It’s more possible than Lehtera coming.

- I’d love to find out more about how Sebastian Wannstrom is doing since the WJC.

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A couple FYIs…

- Trying to hook up with Alex Seren Rosso for another Q&A on the Blues prospects and former players over in the KHL.

- Trying to get in contact with Andy Kemper to find out how Ponich’s recovery/rehab is going.

- Will try to give an update on Jake Allen, Cundari and a few other baby blues who are on their way.