PEI Rocket Select Matej Beran 35th Overall in CHL Import Draft
June 29, 2011 - Quebec Maritimes Junior Hockey League (QMJHL)
P.E.I. Rocket News Release
The PEI Rocket selected 17 year old forward, Matej Beran, from the Czech Republic with their 2nd first round pick (35th overall) in today's CHL Euro Draft.
International Scouting - Talent Analysis
Matej Beran - A big powerful player, Beran improved every game and was one of, if not the best Czech forward during their last two games of the 5 Nations event. He started out the tournament a little bit lethargic and didn't seem to have much energy but as the event wore on, he turned up more and more each game. Beran has a lot to like, but still has a lot of developing to do. He is a power forward in the making and has soft hands that allow him to come out of the corners and be a dangerous scoring threat. His big body allows him to protect the puck and also makes him a very effective net presence when he positions himself properly. He can create a lot of confusion for defenders and a lot of space for his teammates as defensive schemes often need adjust to deal with active movement from the corners to the net front. Beran finishes his checks well along the boards and works hard on the forecheck and in net area scrambles. He demonstrated improved defensive awareness and effort as the tournament wore on and looks to be a solid prospect for next year's NHL draft.
"Beran is a big strong, aggressive hockey player who works very hard. He is a real competitor" said Serge Savard Jr., President and Governor of the PEI Rocket. "He played in Sweden last year in an Elite league and did very well, so we are excited to have him join the Rocket. At 6'4" and 205lbs Matej was also the most penalized player in the entire league. He brings a hard nose type of game that we want with the Rocket. This kid has a huge upside" added Savard.
Quebec Maritimes Junior Hockey League Stories from June 29, 2011
- PEI Rocket Select Matej Beran 35th Overall in CHL Import Draft - P.E.I. Rocket
- PEI Rocket Select Tomas Pavelka 26th Overall in CHL Import Draft - P.E.I. Rocket
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