Landon Sim, F
3 goals, 2 assists, +1
Sim, drafted in the sixth round of the 2022 NHL Draft, led the Blues prospects in scoring in Traverse City with five points over the three games. He provided the lone goal in the loss to Columbus and opened the scoring against Toronto, adding a power-play assist as well. His speed and tenacity were on display, working hard to win puck battles and creating plays for himself and his teammates. Sim's plus-1 on the tournament shared the team lead, too.
Andrei Bakanov, F
3 goals, 2 PIMs, 1 GWG, hat trick
Bakanov was responsible for two of the biggest highlights of the entire tournament. He scored on a penalty shot, then completed a hat trick in a lopsided win over Toronto. Bakanov is signed to an AHL contract with the Springfield Thunderbirds, but his goal-scoring display against the Maple Leafs can surely help put him on the map.
Will Cranley, G
1-0, 4.14 GAA, .867 SV%
Cranley started in goal for the win over the Maple Leafs, saving 28 out of 31 shots as the Blues earned their only win in Traverse City. He was steady in net, weathering a multitude of opposing power-plays throughout the game. Additionally, Cranley was subbed in to both other games in relief, showing an ability to step in and help the team when needed.
Zachary Bolduc, F
2 goals, 2 assists, 1 PPG, 6 PIMs
Bolduc was of the more highly-touted prospects on the Blues squad heading into Traverse City as the No. 17 overall pick in the 2021 NHL Draft. He showed scouts and executives why by using his size, speed and powerful shot throughout the tournament to put pressure on opposing defenses. A three-point outing against Toronto was the highlight, but Bolduc was a heavy presence in all three games the Blues prospects played.
Honorable mention: Defenseman Matt Kessel and forward Keean Washkurak for their special teams play.
