2017 Draft diary: Jake Oettinger

Jake Oettinger, a B rated prospect on NHL Central Scouting's players to watch list for the 2017 NHL Draft, is a freshman goaltender at Boston University in Hockey East. The native of Lakeville, Minn., is 6-4 with two ties, a 1.92 goals-against average and .930 save percentage in 12 games for the Terriers. Oettinger (6-foot-4, 206 pounds) has offered to maintain a blog for NHL.com all season leading up to the 2017 draft in Chicago. His December blog comes after learning he was invited to USA Hockey's selection camp for possible participation in the 2017 IIHF World Junior Championship.

Hello again everyone!
It was a huge honor to learn I was invited to be a part of the selection camp for USA Hockey in Buffalo (Dec. 16-20). The world junior tournament is something I've been watching since I was a little kid, and to be selected for the camp is a tremendous honor. I'm going to do everything I can to make that team because it would be a dream come true.
It's obviously a tremendous honor knowing seven players from Boston University were invited to the camp. That's special for all our guys because we'll be able to share this experience together.
When I think of the world junior tournament, I feel it's important to have fast, skilled players, especially because the game has become so fast. I feel you need players who can get the puck up the ice quickly and can transition quickly. From the time I spent with USA coach Bob Motzko at development camp in August, I know that's something he really stresses. He wants fast players, so I think the game is changing more in that direction.
Looking at the roster, I feel there's a lot of depth in all areas; that's a credit to USA Hockey. I think whenever a guy's name is called, he's going to be ready to go because there's such great depth.
Turning to our team at Boston University: I think we've played well, but I also think that every guy in the room would tell you we can do a lot better. There are a lot of things we can improve on. I think as a team we really haven't even scratched the surface of what we can be. Everyone is working on finding a way to get better every day, and we're trying every weekend to get better every series.
I just want to continue to be more comfortable and learn not to make the same mistake twice. So the big thing for me is to gain experience and play well every weekend.
I think the one thing I've changed this season is having more flow in my game. When I have flow, it means I'm playing my best so I think that's been a big stressing point from the coaching staff. By flow, I mean not being flat-footed or square, and being able to move when the opponent begins a rush. It's important and something I have to continue to work on.
Well, that's it for now. Thanks for reading. Have a Merry Christmas and enjoy the World Junior Championship.