Sam Cosentino Joins The Insider Show: World Juniors & LAK Prospects Discussion
In a recent episode of The Insider Show, Sam Cosentino, a reporter for Sportsnet and NHL Network, discussed the World Junior Championships and prospects for the Los Angeles Kings. The tournament took place in Minnesota, where Cosentino evaluated several promising players, including tournament MVP Vojtěch Čihař, Carter George, Petteri Rimpinen, Jan Chovan, and Brendan McMorrow.
Evaluating Vojtěch Čihař’s Tournament Performance
Vojtěch Čihař stood out during the tournament. His aggressive playstyle helped drive the team’s performance. Having previously played in the Czech Extra Liga, where he scored eight points in 27 games, Čihař has now transitioned to a more competitive environment in North America.
Cosentino compares Čihař to Phillip Danault, highlighting his potential to become a robust two-way player. Danault thrived as a defensive center while providing secondary scoring, a role that Čihař is expected to fulfill in the NHL.
Expectation for the WHL Season
For the remainder of the Western Hockey League (WHL) season, Čihař is anticipated to face challenges. The Kelowna Rockets are hosting the Memorial Cup, giving him an extended opportunity to showcase his skills. This high-stakes environment is invaluable for a young player’s development.
- Increased high-pressure games
- Opportunity to play against top talent
- Adaptation to smaller rinks, crucial for his future with the Kings
Carter George and Team Canada
Carter George recently earned a bronze medal representing Canada. Despite initial fatigue during the tournament, his calm demeanor and efficient gameplay helped him regain focus for the bronze match. Cosentino notes his poise as a significant asset for his role as a goaltender.
Petteri Rimpinen’s Strong Performance
Petteri Rimpinen played every minute for Team Finland in the tournament, showcasing his resilience. His previous experience in the gold medal game last year provided him with the necessary confidence to lead his team to a silver medal this year. Despite some criticism over his performance this season, his athleticism and strong character suggest a promising future.
Conclusion
The discussion on The Insider Show highlights the key prospects for the Los Angeles Kings. With players like Čihař, George, and Rimpinen demonstrating their potential on the international stage, the Kings’ future looks bright. As they develop further, these young talents could significantly impact the franchise in the coming years.
