Saturday, August 30, 2008

Southorn a leader on the Island

Continuing on with notes from junior camps, The Guardian of Prince Edward Island reports that third-year man Jordon Southorn (2008, 4th round) is assuming the role of leader on the PEI Rocket blueline.
And at the Quebec Major Junior Hockey League club’s 2008-09 training camp which began Friday, the 18-year-olds realize all eyes are on them to anchor this year’s squad — this after shadowing players like David Laliberte, Marc-Andre Gragnani, Brett Morrison and Geoff Walker. But Southorn said he's ready for the burden, with his ego checked at the door. “I want to be one of the leaders for the guys to look up to us and we'll move together as a team and not individually. We’re stepping up to the role. We’re eighteen (with) a lot of expectations, but don’t put pressure on yourself,” said Southorn.
The 6'2, 190-pound Southorn's ability to elevate his overall game will be a key driver for a Rocket club that went 30-36-2-2 in 2007-08. A good way to cast a shadow is by contributing offensively. The Pointe-Claire, Quebec native went 12-19-31 in his draft year, and there's no reason why he can't hit the 41-point mark that fellow Q prospect T.J. Brennan posted the past two seasons with St. John's. However, "Southy" knows his primary responsibilities lay in the defensive end. With his example, a better team concept should help spin around last season's -10 as well. Judging by his words, we like where his head is at as he embarks on his first NHL training camp. The lefty turned 18 in May, so he will be in the Q for two more seasons. Evaluating his development to date, his skating style suggests a smooth transition to the AHL once the added strength and experience blends in.