Photo: Monumental Network
This week, we focus in on Shane Gersich, a speedy Left Winger who was a fifth round draft pick in the 2014 NHL entry draft. Last year, Gersich came into the University of North Dakota Fighting Hawks as a freshman, playing in a bottom six role with limited playing time.
Washington Capitals
In 2015-2016, the Chaska, Minnesota native appeared in 37 games, scoring a respectable 9 goals and 2 assists, totaling 11 points overall on part to an NCAA championship. This is a role he has experienced before, playing behind the likes of Jack Eichel, Dylan Larkin, and other talented players in the US National Development Program during his draft year.
As a result, Gersich slid in the 2014 draft to the Caps 134th overall, and due to his hot start to the 2016-2017 season, this pick is starting to look like a steal.
With veteran players like Drake Caggiula and Nick Schmaltz graduated to the NHL, and others graduating from UND, Gersich had the opportunity to play in a much bigger role this season, playing on the first line with Tyson Jost and Brock Boeser.
In just 12 games this season, Gersich has already met his goal total of last year with 8 assists, and 17 points in total. Not to mention the fact that he already has two hat tricks this season, including a highlight reel spin-o-rama goal in overtime.
Even though he plays with two extremely talented players in Boeser and Jost, Gersich is not just some “leech”, benefiting from his linemate’s success. He currently leads the Fighting Sioux, and shows no signs of slowing down at all. The only issue with Gersich is the fact that he could choose to become a free agent in 2018 if he desires to.
Due to the fact that he has been dominating in the NCAA, he has certainly caught the Washington Capital’s attention and I expect the Capitals to do their absolute best to try to sign this guy as soon as possible. Even though Gersich isn’t overly physical, he has great speed, hockey sense, fantastic hands, and a fairly impressive shot. The future is bright for this Caps prospect.
By Keyvaun Pourmokhtari
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