Sunday, June 22, 2008

Express Draft Pick - Anthony Hayes

Anthony Hayes - 5'11"/180lbs - Forward

'89 birth year out of Canton, Michigan. Was selected in the 8th round of the 2005 OHL (Major Juniors) by the Plymouth Whalers. Attended Whalers tryout camp this summer. Played the past 2 seasons with the Green Bay Gamblers in the USHL. 2006/07 - 53 games with the Gamblers, scoring 5 goals and 2 assists, -4, and 45 PIM, playing with former Express players Sean Murphy, Derek Kohles, and Nick Graves. 2007/08 - 54 games with the Gamblers, scoring 8 goals and 7 assists, was a -12 with 60 PIM. Before that, played with Victory Honda/Compuware Midget Major programs and Team Michigan Select 17's.

My take: Minimal chance to end up in Owatonna, as he seems to have a pretty firm spot on the Gamblers roster, but strange things happen, and don't forget there is a brand new coaching staff in Green Bay. Solid Division 1 prospect, and is listed on the NHL's Central Scouting Players to Watch List. If he somehow ends up in an Express sweater, look for him to be a major piece of the offense, and an all-around solid player.

Welcome to Owatonna Anthony Hayes.

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