Vancouver Canucks Standouts From The 2024 Young Stars Classic
The Vancouver Canucks finished with a perfect 3-0 record at this year's Young Stars Classic
Photo by Cassandra Vettor/Abbotsford Canucks - Vancouver Canucks Standouts From The 2024 Young Stars ClassicThis year's Young Stars Classic was a massive success for the Vancouver Canucks. Not only did they go a perfect 3-0 in the tournament, but they also received standout performances from a number of prospects. Now that the tournament is complete, here is a look at six standouts from the 2024 Young Stars Classic.
Vilmer Alriksson
Vilmer Alrkisson had a Young Stars to remember. The 2023 fourth-rounder was tied for the tournament lead with two goals and three points and was able to show off just how dangerous he can be when the puck is on his stick. Listed at 6'6", Alrkisson was also a physical presence throughout the weekend, throwing massive checks, including a few reverse hits that knocked the opposition to the ice.
Max Sasson
Max Sasson had an impact in all three of Vancouver's games. Finishing with a goal and two assists, the 24-year-old showcased his ability to drive the net and was able to find teammates in high-danger areas consistently. A force on the forecheck all tournament long, Sasson looks ready to take another step in his development and become an even bigger part of the Abbotsford Canucks lineup this season.
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Arshdeep Bains
While he only had one point during the three games, Arshdeep Bains was one of, if not the best Canucks prospect at this year's Young Stars. He helped swing the momentum back in Vancouver's favour when they went down 2-0 against the Winnipeg Jets and Calgary Flames, thanks to his physical play and overall playmaking. Bains' willingness to go to the net and create traffic was also noticeable, especially against the Flames, as it led to his only goal during the tournament.
Danila Klimovich
Danila Klimovich put together a quiet yet impressive weekend. While most of the focus will be on his tournament-leading three assists, it was his play away from the puck and in the defensive that really stood out. If Klimovich can keep this momentum and carry it into the start of the AHL season, he should be able to have a massive bounce-back year and maintain a consistent spot in Abbotsford's middle six.
Elias Pettersson
Defenceman Elias Pettersson was one of the more physical players from the weekend. He laid a few massive hits and was constantly getting into scrums after the whistle whenever the opposition tried to crash the net. D-Petey also showed that he can effectively clear the zone while under pressure, which is a valuable skill he will need to keep improving as he makes the transition to the AHL this season.
Nikita Tolopilo
In net, Nikita Tolopilo was solid, stopping 39 of the 42 shots he faced. He looked confident in the crease, and when he did give up rebounds, he was able to push them either to the boards or away from the opposition. At 24, Tolopilo has a lot of potential and could be NHL-ready sooner rather than later.
