By Jordan Chong /
Ranked 13th by ISS at the start of the season, dynamic WHL forward and Team Canada gold medalist Evander Kane has risen to the top-end of NHL prospects. The Vancouver-native was selected fourth overall by the Atlanta Thrashers – just behind the big three of Tavares, Hedman, and Duchene. Hockey Now sits down with Kane for 17 questions with the 17-year-old:
What has it been like to see your draft status rise throughout the season?
Well it’s been my plan since the beginning of the year, and it’s definitely what I expected.
What was the toughest exercise at the combine?
There was definitely some hard stuff but I thought it went really well. I’d definitely say the wind gate was the toughest.
What was the most unexpected question team management asked you?
‘If marijuana was legalized tomorrow, how many of your teammates would be excited about it.’
What’s it like playing Junior hockey in your hometown of Vancouver?
It’s great being able to stay close to home, and playing for an organization like the Giants is a real treat; it’s run by Ron Toigo who’s a great owner and [coach] Don Hay who has helped me a lot, and you gotta give the entire organization a lot of credit.
What’s the most memorable moment of your hockey career?
Probably winning the World Junior’s, and playing in the Memorial Cup would be next.
What was it like to get the call to go play for Team Canada?
It was great, I was really excited about it; it was unexpected but it was great.
What’s the most memorable goal you’ve scored?
Off the top of my head, the overtime goal against the Spokane Chiefs (in the second round of the 2009 WHL playoffs).
What’s your go-to breakaway move?
I don’t really have one; whatever’s open, that’s where I like to put it.
What was it like playing for a veteran coach like Pat Quinn?
It was good. Him and Don [Hay] have a lot of similarities, so it wasn’t much of a change, but he was great to play for and he’s a great coach.
You doubled your goal production from your rookie year to your second year – what did you do to prepare yourself in the off-season?
I just wanted to get better in every area. I thought my shot really improved over the summer. I wanted to be the go-to guy on the team and offensively put up big numbers.
Any significant reason you wear number 9?
Not necessarily. For me, it was the best number available, and Gordie Howe is an owner of the Giants and he wore number 9, so it kind of worked out well getting that number.
Who were you cheering for in the NHL playoffs this year and why?
Washington. I like their team a lot, they’re a skilled exciting team and they’re fun to watch.
What did you think of Ovechkin’s celebration after his 50th goal?
I wasn’t necessarily a huge fan of that one, but his other ones are good.
When did you start realizing that you had a shot at making it to the NHL?
Probably when I was 15.
How do you feel about people wanting your autograph?
It’s great. I’m more than willing to give it to them and it’s great they want it.
Who is your NHL comparable?
Jarome Iginla
What is your pre-game meal?
Pizza. I order it from Panago – pepperoni, mushroom and salami. |