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Devils Rookie Camp gets underway at AmeriHealth Pavilion
Date: July 15, 2014By: Anthony DiPaolo
It has been hardly a month since the Stanley Cup was lifted in Los Angeles, but for rookies and draft prospects, training camps have already started around the National Hockey League.
The New Jersey Devils began their 2014 Rookie Camp on Monday morning at the AmeriHealth Pavilion in Newark, N.J.There were three sessions; the first one featuring defensemen, the second showcasing the forwards, and finally a 3-on-3 scrimmage.Overall, head coach Peter DeBoer said he was happy with what he saw from the youngsters.
"The excitement of the guys being here, I think that's always nice to be around," he told reporters shortly after the scrimmage.
The most notable prospects included Jeremy, Anthony, and William Brodeur, sons of the legendary Devils goaltender, Martin Brodeur.The twins, Jeremy and William, both 17, are not yet eligible for the draft. Anthony was selected 208th overall in last year's draft.Like their father, Jeremy and Anthony are goaltenders while William is the lone skater of the family.While none of them are in serious contention for roster spots this year, it was a memorable experience for the young brothers.With the increasing possibility of Marty's departure, the three sons are carrying on the family name within the organization.Pete DeBoer was certainly impressed by their presence.
"It's great, isn't it? Actually amazing," DeBoer said. "You have three kids at an NHL camp. It's a lot of fun to see them, and they're great kids. They're very personable when you have a conversation with them, well-raised kids."
Another notable prospect includes forward Reid Boucher.Drafted 99th overall in 2011 by the Devils, the 20-year-old left wing has the most NHL experience out of all of the prospects (23 games).Scoring two goals and seven points last season, he hopes that he can become a regular in the NHL.
"I just have to show them what kind of player I am that got to play in the NHL last year," Boucher said. "I just try to work hard and do everything the right way."
DeBoer also remarked that Boucher has some similarities to former Devil Zach Parise.
"Whether [Boucher] is playing on a first line, or fourth line, he has to bring that workman-like mentality," he said. "[Parise] was a first line player with a fourth line work ethic, and I think Reid could take some notes from that."
Boucher, the Brodeurs, and all of the other prospects for the Devils will resume training sessions Tuesday morning.While DeBoer admitted that nobody truly stood out on the first day, that will most likely change as the camp continues throughout the week.
For live updates during the Devils Rookie camp, follow me on Twitter, @dipaolo_016
Posted in: From the Stands, Sports
