Leafs prospect Chadwick: A rising star to watch at upcoming NHL training camp
As the summer heat stretches on, the anticipation for the upcoming NHL training camps is palpable, especially among Toronto Maple Leafs fans.
While the spotlight might typically fall on higher-profile prospects like Easton Cowan and Fraser Minten, another name making waves is Noah Chadwick, a defenseman who has swiftly ascended through the ranks to become a notable player to watch this season.
Selected in the 6th round of the 2023 NHL Entry Draft by the Maple Leafs, Chadwick's journey has been anything but typical. Often, late-round picks face long odds of making it to the NHL, but Chadwick's trajectory suggests a promising deviation from the norm. Standing at 6-foot-4, this left-shot defenseman has demonstrated significant progress each year, turning heads with his performance in the Western Hockey League (WHL) with the Lethbridge Hurricanes.
Chadwick's WHL statistics speak volumes about his growth and potential. After a modest start with 3 points in 13 games during the 2021-22 season, he escalated his game to accumulate 5 goals and 20 points in 67 games the following year. His most recent season was a breakout of sorts, with Chadwick netting 12 goals and amassing 56 points in just 66 games. His consistent improvement and scoring prowess have not gone unnoticed.
The leadership qualities of the Saskatoon, Saskatchewan native are equally impressive. Expected to be named captain of the Lethbridge Hurricanes for his upcoming fourth WHL campaign, Chadwick previously served as an alternate captain, showcasing his leadership both on and off the ice. His ability to lead by example and his work ethic are indicative of a player who not only understands the game but also respects the responsibilities that come with each role he assumes.
Despite the odds stacked against him as a 6th round pick, the question surrounding Chadwick is no longer about if he will play in the NHL, but rather when. At 19, he is already showing signs of readiness to take on higher challenges, although making the Maple Leafs roster out of training camp might be a stretch this year. However, his upcoming appearance at the training camp is highly anticipated as it provides an opportunity to gauge his readiness and potential impact at the professional level.
Noah Chadwick's path through the junior ranks into the professional arena is a testament to his hard work and hockey intelligence. For Maple Leafs fans and hockey enthusiasts alike, he is a prospect worth keeping an eye on, as his developmental arc suggests he could exceed the typical expectations for someone chosen in the later rounds. His performance at the forthcoming NHL training camp will be crucial, but the signs are promising for this young defenseman whose potential seems boundless.
Source: MAPLELEAFSDAILY
Intriguing Maple Leafs prospect emerges as someone to watch in training camp
| POLL | ||
Will Noah Chadwick score more than 56 points for the Lethbridge Hurricanes of the WHL this season? | ||
| Yes | 6 | 54.5 % |
| No | 5 | 45.5 % |
| List of polls | ||
