While he had a solid first entrance into the NHL, the St. Albert, Alberta, native has been hard at work to continue developing his skills, including attending the Avalanche's development camp at the end June.
ColoradoAvalanche.com caught up with the young gun at the team's development camp to talk about his experiences, training, family and goals for the upcoming season.
What was it like being back at the Avalanche Development Camp?
"It's exciting. Obviously to see all these new young faces, it's nice to see them. I want to be more of a leader because I have been here before. Last year I looked up to a lot of the older guys, and I want to be that guy this year. It's exciting to be back. It's a great week where they teach you a lot and you learn a lot."
You say you want to bring on more of a leadership role, what qualities do you feel that entails?
"I remember last year I didn't know really what to expect. I got to talk to the older guys who had been here before, and they walked me through things so I didn't go into it with a blind eye. That's what I am doing this year, on and off the ice, and I think that is really big. Being a professional, that is what it takes to grow in the National League. A lot of kids are focusing on outside the rink stuff, so I want to set an example like bearing down on nutrition. Really just leading by example."
What is your biggest takeaway from development camp?
"I remember last year they focused a lot on the off-ice stuff, and this year they are focusing more on the on-ice stuff and the little things that will improve your game and help you be in the National League. That's the thing I have taken away this year, just focus on the little skills. I also learned that last year in the six games I played--that you have to focus on the details that can help your game."