Category Archives: Anthony Romani

Anthony Romani, Canuck Prospects, Canucks Prospects, Melvin Fernstrom, Sawyer Mynio, Vancouver Canucks, World Junior Hockey Championship

Canucks Prospects at the World Junior Summer Showcase

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Three Vancouver Canucks prospects took part in the World Junior Summer Showcase (WJSS) in Plymouth, Michigan, where top young players are evaluated ahead of the World Junior Championship (WJC) this winter. While it’s early and there’s no guarantee these names will appear on the final WJC roster, it’s encouraging to see them invited to participate in this event.

For most prospects, the road to the WJC began this past week at the WJSS. Here’s what we learned about Canucks prospects Sawyer Mynio, Anthony Romani for Canada, and Sweden’s Melvin Fernstrom during the evaluative national team event.

Melvin Fernstrom: A Swedish Sensation

Vancouver Canucks’ 2024 third-round pick Melvin Fernstrom has shown a keen understanding of his developmental priorities: get stronger and faster to let his natural scoring talent shine through.

Since being drafted in late June, Fernstrom has been diligently working on his game. After an informative development camp at UBC, where he absorbed insights from the Canucks’ Swedish contingent, he joined his Tre Kronor teammates at the national team camp in Michigan.

Fernstrom is focusing on enhancing his overall game, particularly physicality and speed. “Being physical will help me create space for myself and give me more chances to use my skill and make good reads and plays,” he told TSN.

The 6-foot-2, 187-pound winger, known for his offensive prowess, led Sweden in scoring at the U18 World Championship last season with eight points (3G, 5A) in seven games. In the J20 Nationell league, he tallied 31 goals and 32 assists in 45 games.

During the WJSS, Fernstrom skated on Sweden’s third and fourth lines, recording two assists in three games. His first assist came on a power play against Team USA, and his second involved a skillful play leading to a breakaway goal against the Americans.

Fernstrom’s commitment to getting stronger to be more effective in tough areas is exactly what you want to hear from a prospect aiming to transition to professional hockey with Orebro in Sweden next season.

Anthony Romani: The Canadian Underdog

Anthony Romani, the Canucks’ 2024 sixth-round pick, turned heads with his performance at the WJSS. Despite being the lowest drafted forward invited to Team Canada camp, Romani made a significant impact.

In an 8-6 win over Finland, Romani, deployed on the fourth line, showcased his playmaking ability by assisting Ducks draft pick Beckett Sennecke on a power play goal. Although he only played one game and did not dress against Sweden or in a shootout loss to Team USA, Romani made the most of his opportunity.

Last season, Romani excelled in the OHL with a league-high 58 goals in 68 games and 53 assists, putting him back on the NHL radar. The 6-foot, 183-pound right-shot winger is known for his offensive skills and skating ability, which he uses to create chances for himself and his linemates. He is expected to play a significant role for the North Bay Battalion next season.

Sawyer Mynio: The Steady Defenseman

Defenceman Sawyer Mynio, a 2023 third-round pick, also represented Canada at the WJSS. Mynio, a two-way, left-shot defenseman, was initially surprised but ultimately felt he earned his invitation.

“I was a little shocked but I think I earned it. Last year, I had a really good year, so yeah, I’m excited,” Mynio said.

Mynio had an impressive season with the WHL’s Seattle Thunderbirds, contributing on both the penalty kill and power play while scoring 16 goals in 67 games. During the WJSS, he scored in an intrasquad scrimmage and added a primary assist, showcasing his well-rounded game.

Head coach Dave Cameron praised Mynio’s performance, highlighting his ability to get pucks to the net. Mynio played alongside Calgary Flames’ 2024 first-rounder Zayne Parekh on the third pairing, leaving a positive impression despite not registering points in two games.

Future Prospects

Overall, the WJSS was a promising showcase for Canucks prospects. While there is still much work to be done for Mynio, Romani, and Fernstrom to secure spots on their respective national teams for the WJC, their participation in this event demonstrates their progress and potential.

These young players have shown they are on the right track, with strong performances and a commitment to improvement. Canucks fans can look forward to watching their development as they continue to strive for greatness.

Go Canucks Go!

Anthony Romani, Basile Sansonnens, Canuck News, Canuck Prospects, Canucks Prospects, Melvin Fernstrom, Parker Alcos, Riley Patterson, Todd Harvey, Vancouver Canucks

Canucks Director of Scouting Todd Harvey On His Selections

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Recently Canucks Director of Scouting Todd Harvey had this to say on their Selections at this years NHL Draft in Vegas.

“We had guys rated pretty high that were there for us.”

The Vancouver Canucks approached the National Hockey League Draft in Las Vegas with limited draft capital but managed to walk away feeling good about their selections. Canucks Director of Scouting Todd Harvey is confident that the team made the most of their picks, adding three forwards and two defensemen to their prospect pool.

“We’re really excited how the draft played out for us,” Harvey told Canucks.com.

The Canucks targeted offensive talent with their first three picks, starting with Swedish winger Melvin Fernström in the third round. They followed this by selecting Riley Patterson, a center from Barrie, in the fourth round, and Anthony Romani, a right winger from North Bay, in the sixth round.

Given the Canucks’ recent history of trading away draft picks, the team aimed to maximize their mid-round selections by focusing on players with significant offensive potential. This strategy reflects the team’s understanding that they need to replenish their prospect pool, particularly with players who can eventually contribute to their scoring depth.

Harvey highlighted that despite their draft position, the team was able to secure players they had rated highly. “Obviously you look where our picks were, but we had guys rated pretty high that were there for us and that made us really excited,” he explained. “I couldn’t be happier with the way it played out here on the draft floor today.”

In the later rounds, the Canucks shifted their focus to defense, picking Parker Alcos in the sixth round and Basile Sansonnens in the seventh. Alcos, a right-shot defenseman from the WHL’s Edmonton Oil Kings, and Sansonnens, a left-handed defenseman from the Swiss Junior League, bring size and physicality to the team’s prospect pool.

The Canucks’ selections this year might not immediately alter their prospect rankings, but they represent a strategic approach to building depth. The organization is counting on its development staff to polish these prospects and help them reach their potential. The process will begin at the team’s annual summer development camp at UBC, where the young players will receive valuable training and guidance.

“Our development staff does a fantastic job,” Harvey said. “We’re going to have a camp here, the kids are going to come in and they’re going to learn. And they’re going take from the camp what they need back to their club teams and it’s going to make them better. And obviously they’re in contact throughout the season all the time and making sure they’re playing the right way and doing the right things to make themselves better.”

Fan Reactions and Future Prospects

Canucks fans have been vocal about their thoughts on this year’s draft class. Many are excited about the potential offensive boost with picks like Fernström, Patterson, and Romani. There’s a sense of cautious optimism, with fans acknowledging the need for patience as these players develop. The focus on skill and potential, even without early-round picks, has been generally well-received.

Canucks fans have shown a mix of excitement and cautious optimism about the new draftees. Many are enthusiastic about the offensive potential of Fernström, Patterson, and Romani. Fans have expressed their thoughts on social media, with comments like, “Fernström’s hockey IQ is a great addition,” and “Patterson has the potential to be a real steal in the fourth round.”

While there is excitement, there is also an understanding that these players are long-term investments. A fan remarked, “It’s all about development now. These guys won’t make an immediate impact, but they could be great in a few years.”

The Canucks leave Las Vegas with a sense of optimism, having added three offensive talents and two defensive stalwarts to their roster. Although the team had limited picks, they believe they made the most of their opportunities. It will take time to see if these players can transition to the NHL and make an impact, but there is hope that they can develop into valuable assets for the Canucks.

Canucks fans, what are your thoughts on this year’s draft class? Who do you believe has the highest potential to make an impact? Share your thoughts and let’s keep the discussion going.

Go Canucks Go!

Anthony Romani, Basile Sansonnens, Canuck News, Canuck Prospects, Canucks, Canucks Prospects, Melvin Fernstrom, Parker Alcos, Riley Patterson, Vancouver Canucks

Vancouver Canucks 2024 Draft Picks: Skill and Size for the Future

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Final review of the Vancouver Canucks 2024 Draft Picks. The Vancouver Canucks navigated the 2024 NHL Entry Draft without the advantage of early-round picks, yet managed to strategically enhance their prospect pool with a blend of skill and size. Their selections demonstrate a keen eye for potential and a commitment to building a well-rounded team. By focusing on players who bring a mix of offensive creativity, defensive reliability, and physical presence, the Canucks addressed key areas of need. This approach reflects a balanced strategy aimed at fostering long-term success. Despite the absence of top-tier draft positions, the Canucks’ scouting team identified and secured promising talent across multiple positions, showcasing the organization’s ability to find value in later rounds. Here’s a detailed look at each pick, their potential impact, and how they fit into the Canucks’ future plans.

Draft Picks Overview

  1. Melvin Fernström (3rd Round, 93rd Overall)
    • Position: Right Wing
    • Height: 6’0″
    • Weight: 187 lbs
    • Nationality: Sweden
    • Highlights: Fernström is noted for his high hockey IQ and excellent play-reading ability. He anticipates plays well, positions himself effectively, and has a precise shot. His development in Swedish youth leagues has equipped him with a strong foundation in fundamentals.
    • Potential: High potential due to his smart positioning and offensive instincts.
  2. Riley Patterson (4th Round, 125th Overall)
    • Position: Center
    • Height: 6’1″
    • Weight: 192 lbs
    • Nationality: Canada
    • Highlights: Patterson’s dynamic playing style includes excellent puck handling, quick crossovers, and a sharp wrist shot. He posted impressive stats in the OHL with the Barrie Colts, recording 62 points in 68 games.
    • Potential: Strong potential as a dynamic offensive player, especially if he can adapt his skills to the NHL level.
  3. Anthony Romani (6th Round, 162nd Overall)
    • Position: Center/Right Wing
    • Height: 6’0″
    • Weight: 183 lbs
    • Nationality: Canada
    • Highlights: Romani excels at generating offense off the rush and is an effective playmaker. His ability to stretch the ice with long passes and create space with east-west movement makes him a constant threat.
    • Potential: Versatile forward with good offensive upside, ideal for creating scoring opportunities.
  4. Parker Alcos (6th Round, 189th Overall)
    • Position: Defense
    • Height: 6’3″
    • Weight: 181 lbs
    • Nationality: Canada
    • Highlights: Alcos is a fluid skater with excellent mobility, capable of winning puck races and controlling contact. His defensive awareness and ability to transition the puck effectively make him a solid prospect on the blue line.
    • Potential: High potential due to his skating ability and defensive awareness, making him a promising defensive prospect.
  5. Basile Sansonnens (7th Round, 221st Overall)
    • Position: Defense
    • Height: 6’4″
    • Weight: 198 lbs
    • Nationality: Switzerland
    • Highlights: Sansonnens is a towering defenseman known for his physical presence and defensive reliability. He uses his size effectively to disrupt opponents and has a strong shot from the point.
    • Potential: Significant potential as a physically dominant defenseman with offensive capabilities.

Positional Breakdown

  • Forwards: 3 (Melvin Fernström, Riley Patterson, Anthony Romani)
    • Right Wing: 1 (Fernström)
    • Center: 2 (Patterson, Romani)
    • Center/Right Wing: 1 (Romani)
  • Defensemen: 2 (Parker Alcos, Basile Sansonnens)

Highlights and Highest Potential

Despite not having early-round picks, the Canucks managed to draft players with significant potential. Here are the highlights:

  • Skill and Playmaking: Riley Patterson and Anthony Romani bring dynamic offensive skills and playmaking abilities, making them exciting prospects for the Canucks’ forward lines.
  • Defensive Strength: Parker Alcos and Basile Sansonnens add considerable size and defensive capabilities to the blue line. Alcos’ mobility and Sansonnens’ physical presence provide a solid foundation for future defensive depth.
  • Hockey IQ and Positioning: Melvin Fernström stands out for his high hockey IQ and excellent positioning, making him a forward with great potential to develop into a reliable and smart player.

Highest Potential:

  • Riley Patterson likely has the highest potential among the forwards due to his dynamic offensive skills and impressive performance in the OHL.
  • Parker Alcos could be the standout defenseman with his exceptional skating ability and defensive awareness, providing a strong backbone for the team’s future defensive lineup.

Final Thoughts on this Years Draft Class

The Canucks’ 2024 draft strategy focused on adding both skill and size to their prospect pool. While they didn’t have early-round selections, they made the most of their picks by targeting players with high potential and versatility. As these prospects develop, they could play pivotal roles in the Canucks’ future success.

Canucks fans, what do you think of this year’s draft class? Who do you believe has the highest potential to make an impact? Share your thoughts and let’s keep the discussion going.

Go Canucks Go!

Anthony Romani, Canuck News, Canuck Prospects, Canucks, Canucks Prospects, Canucks Transactions, Vancouver Canucks

Canucks Draft Anthony Romani with 6th Round Pick, 162nd Overall

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Canucks Draft Anthony Romani with 6th Round Pick, 162nd Overall of the 2024 NHL Entry Draft. The Vancouver Canucks selected versatile forward Anthony Romani with the 162nd overall pick in the sixth round. Born on July 12, 2005, in Pickering, Ontario, the 18-year-old Romani has shown considerable promise with his dynamic offensive play and versatility. Standing at 6’0″ and weighing 183 lbs, Romani can play both center and right wing, offering flexibility and depth to the Canucks’ prospect pool.

Anthony Romani’s Junior Career and Performance

Romani’s recent season in junior hockey highlighted his offensive capabilities and playmaking skills. Known for his ability to generate offense off the rush, Romani excels in stretching the ice and hitting teammates with precise, long-bomb cross-ice passes. His ability to carry the puck and create scoring opportunities with weaving rushes and give-and-go plays makes him a constant threat in the offensive zone.

Anthony Romani’s Playing Style

Romani’s playing style is characterized by his east-west movement and ability to shift defenses around. By constantly changing directions and creating space, he not only opens up lanes for himself but also for his linemates. His offensive game thrives on speed and agility, allowing him to break through defensive setups and generate high-quality scoring chances.

Most of Romani’s offense is initiated through his dynamic rushes, making him an exciting player to watch. His ability to maintain control of the puck while maneuvering through defenders demonstrates his advanced puck-handling skills. Additionally, his vision on the ice enables him to execute pinpoint passes, setting up his teammates for prime scoring opportunities.

Potential and Development

As Romani transitions from junior hockey to the professional ranks, his focus will be on further honing his physical and defensive aspects of the game. The step up to the NHL will require him to adapt to a more physical style of play while maintaining his offensive creativity. With the Canucks’ development staff, Romani will have the resources and guidance needed to refine his skills and reach his full potential.

Anthony Romani’s Fit with the Canucks

Selecting Anthony Romani in the sixth round represents a strategic investment by the Vancouver Canucks. His offensive versatility and ability to play both center and right wing add valuable depth to the team’s prospect pool. Romani’s playmaking abilities and knack for generating offense off the rush align well with the Canucks’ need for dynamic and versatile forwards.

Path Forward for Anthony Romani

Romani’s journey to the NHL will be closely watched by Canucks fans and the organization. His ability to adapt to the physicality and pace of professional hockey will be crucial for his development. As he progresses, his focus will be on maintaining his offensive creativity while improving his defensive reliability and physical play.

Fan Perspective

For Canucks fans, Anthony Romani’s selection in the sixth round is a promising development. His dynamic playing style and offensive capabilities bring an exciting element to the team’s future prospects. Fans will be eager to see how Romani evolves and contributes to the Canucks in the coming years.

Final Thoughts on Anthony Romani

Anthony Romani’s selection at 162nd overall is a testament to the Vancouver Canucks’ commitment to building a deep and versatile roster of prospects. His impressive junior career, highlighted by his offensive production and playmaking skills, makes him a player to watch as he continues to develop within the organization. With the right development and guidance, Romani has the potential to become a significant contributor to the Canucks’ future success.

Canucks fans, what are your thoughts on this pick? How do you envision Romani fitting into the team’s future plans? Share your opinions and let’s keep the conversation going.

Go Canucks Go!