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Four prospects are really standing out: About to cause a surprise at training camp

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Felip Gosselin
September 18, 2023  (8:51)
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The Canucks' rookie tournament has been underway since Friday. The team played outstandingly on Friday and captured a 7-1 win over the Flames but suffered a 3-2 shootout loss in tonight's event.

4 PLAYERS ARE STANDING OUT

The Canucks featured an experienced lineup on the ice that clearly showed. Akito Hirose, Aatu Raty and Arshdeep Bains were prominent contributors to the team's performance. It's hard not to mention Aidan McDonough's offensive prowess; the winger scored in both meetings and added the Canucks' lone shootout goal in the loss.

McDonough, Raty and Hirose have seen what it takes to make it to the NHL. On his part, Bains just finished his first professional season and has constantly progressed. The 21-year-old may not be at a point where he could have a full-time NHL job, but how he's been going and improving his two-way game adds value to the team's depth chart.

''Another dominant first period for the #Canucks prospects. I liked what I saw from Akito Hirose, who continues to be superb at defending the rush but has also been very effective on the offensive blue line.

Arshdeep Bains and Aatu Räty also stood out in the first.''

Hirose is putting on a clinic, and we might assist a heck of a battle for the team's third left Defenseman. The team acquired Carson Soucy, Ian Cole and Matt Irwin via free agency, but Christian Wolanin, Guillaume Brisebois and Akito Hirose are all strong candidates to take a roster spot.

''Akito Hirose already has 4 points, all assists, in 5 periods at the Young Stars Classic. #Canucks''

The team will be taking the ice for their last Rookie Tournament game, leading to its official camp starting relatively soon. Bains and McDonough will try and cause a surprise in a group with no roster spot left on the wings; Hirose will do the same, while Raty will compete with the newly signed Teddy Blueger and Pius Suter for a chance to play in the NHL.

Youngsters challenging veterans can only mean one thing: Internal competition. That's a good thing for a team like the Canucks.

POLL

Who do you think will be this year's training camp surprise?

Akito Hirose22334 %
Aidan McDonough19629.9 %
Arshdeep Bains12519.1 %
Aatu Raty11217.1 %
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