PHX Brad

Just thought you guys would like to know that The Hockey News came out with their draft preview and they ranked Parise #10. If you want to pick it up, it looks like this:

Hey guys, has anyone seen or heard about big Matt Smaby. Just wondering what his style is. I would assume he's a physical, defensive defenseman using his big frame to punish his opponents, but I don't won't to sterotype the kind of defenseman Blais recruits As I'm sure a lot of pro teams are doing, a few Coyote scouts have been seen numerous times at Shattuck's. I guess they could be taking a look at Ken Rowe or others, but Smaby is the stud. Also, will Luke Beaverson play for you guys next year? Good to see the Green Bay pipeline is still open. Finally, good luck to Chris Porter tomorrow night. I saw where he's on a line with Potulny and Backes. Those guys should do very well. Thanks for any replies.

Thanks guys, much appreciated. Merry Christmas to all the ND fans!

Sorry if this has been discussed, but I was wondering if anyone had heard/read about how Matt Jones was selected for team USA for the WJC. I read on uscho that he was one of the locks for the team. I think that was solidified when I read a post here stating that Blais said he would be on the team (weeks before any official announcement). I said all that to say that someone from another message board had read that Matt was a "surprise pick" and "was the last defenseman chosen. The US this year built their plan on the same concept Brooks used for the "miracle on ice" team and went with character and team first guys over some bigger names." Also, another poster was wondering if Matt would go across the locker room and say something to Higgins? You guys are having a great season, good luck in the second half. Thanks for any info on Matt.

Oh man, I'm embarassed now. Sorry guys, they just listed ND.

I subscribe to a scouting newsletter called Prospect Advisor and they have a ranking of NCAA forwards, defenseman, and goalies. Among forwards, Zach Parise was #3, and Tim Wallace, Colby Gennoway were top 20. Among defenseman and goalies, none were ranked. Looks to be another fine NHL draft class in the making for you guys.

Thanks for all the links guys. I mentioned the Herald because before the draft, the article below was on there: 'Matt-uration' process begins Two talented Matts from UND, two from Baudette could be chosen in this weekend's NHL Draft in Toronto By Virg Foss Herald Staff Writer Grandforks.com And then after the draft, I found this one. Now I know Thanks again

Can someone list web sites where I can find news about the team? I think grandforks.com is one, but are articles usually under the hockey tab or the university tab? Sorry for the newbie questions, thought I would get them out of the way before the season starts. Thanks for any help

Thanks for the welcome! Matt's central scouting report said: A very smooth, powerful skater with an effortless stride and good balance

Hello, My first post here. I am a Coyotes fan and will be following Matt Jones this year. After years of following Gophers Wyatt Smith, Erik Westrum, and Jeff Taffe, I know a little about the passion you have for UND and college hockey. I've read most of the board and have a feel for what some of you think about Matt. What do you think he needs to do to get better and take his game to the next level? Thanks for any comments