Three Stars of the Week 10/16-10/22
Third Star of the Week
Carson Wetsch, Calgary Hitman
2 games, 2 goals, 11 SOG
Carson Wetsch has quietly put together a solid start to his D+1 season. He had goals in three straight games and has been an essential start to the Calgary Hitman.
While it hasn't been an explosive start, the consistency over the past week has been significant. Coaches would rather have one goal a game for five games instead of five goals in just one game over a five-game stretch. Wetsch's consistency and ability to play a defined role will make him an NHL player.
Next game: Oct 25 at Regina
Second Star of the Week
Luca Cagnoni, San Jose Barracuda
2 games, 2 goals, 1 assist, 8 SOG
Look at how our baby boy! Luca Cagnoni has already established himself as a key part of the San Jose Barracuda. He's quarterbacking the top power play unit and is soaking up a ton of minutes at even strength. After getting his first point the previous weekend, Cagnoni scored his first goal on Saturday night.
Cagnoni has shown some solid defensive play overall, especially during the transition. While he has some rookie moments, overall, his play has been positive, and he is one of the reasons that the San Jose Barracuda are off to a strong start and are quickly becoming must-watch TV.
Cagnoni has had a beautiful start to his AHL career, and while Shakir Mukhamadullin might cut into some of his workload for a bit, Cagnoni should continue to earn his share of primo ice time.
Next game: Oct 23 at Henderson
First Star of the Week
Yaroslav Askarov, San Jose Barracuda
1 game, 1.000 sv%, 1 shutout
Two games and two shutouts for Yaroslav Askarov. What a perfect start for his career in San Jose. While a particular sector of Sharks fans would rather have the Vegas pick, Askarov is quickly showing he might give the Sharks their best goalie prospect ever.
With Askarov in the crease, this Barracuda team has quickly become a wagon. Through their first 4 games, the Cuda scored 20 goals and gave up 7. They have 8 different 10 different players with at least 3 points. While Askarov isn't providing offense, he is erasing any mistakes the Cuda made.
Next game: Oct 23 at Henderson