Now right off the bat, people who don't follow hockey closely, or at least college hockey, ask...Is he related to the Hanson Brothers? (of Slap Shot fame) YES! Notre Dame senior Christian Hanson is the son of Dave Hanson...Best know for his role in Slap Shot...Now just because your dad was a thumper doesn't mean you have to be...But Christian's 6-foot-4, 228 pound frame would initially make you think that...
When Hanson first came to Notre Dame he was a checker...In his time there he has improved in all areas of the game, and flourished under coach Jeff Jackson...Hanson, who is an alternate captain this season...Is an excellent two-way player...A solid face man...He's a strong forechecker who likes to use his size and reach to pester his opponents...He plays physical in the corners, and is strong in front of the net...Christian has shown an outstanding work ethic, and great determination...
This season in 34 games, the Notre Dame center has put up...16 goals...14 assists...for 30 points...He's a +10...with 6 power play goals...1 short handed goal...and 5 Game winners...
Another interesting thing about Hanson...His draft eligibility has expired...So when this season is done....Hopefully after a Fighting Irish National Championship...Hanson will be a free agent...
There are a few other college players in the same situation...The Hockey News points out University of Denver center Tyler Bozak...Who will have to that even at 5-foot-9, he can play with the big boys...Goaltenders Brad Thiessen from Northeastern, and Ben Scrivens from Cornell...But the big name on the list is Boston University defenseman Matt Gilroy...He's got NHL caliber hands, size, and skating ability...
I'm biased, but I'll take Hanson...I think he'll develop into a quality power forward...
Later, The Beeze.
1 comment:
The NHL loves players size and desire to contact others as "diggers" are always needed ... well, as long as he has the all-important skating speed.
Nice post Beeze, and good luck to your Irish in the CCHA final 4.
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