8 days to #1 – Ranking the Prospects
As we near June 10, when the Wildcats will select 1st overall in the 2023 QMJHL Entry Draft, we will be highlighting some of the top talent in the region — as ranked by QMJHL Central Scouting. Moncton Wildcats 2023 Draft coverage is sponsored by Protrans Personnel Services.
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Shawn Carrier Height: 5'9" | Weight: 161 lbs Year of Birth: 2007 Shoots: Left Shawn Carrier is used to the attention by now. The 15-year-old centreman has been a top-ranked prospect from his age group in Quebec since his days playing U13 hockey with the Mauricie Estacades. Driven by his determination and a strong work ethic, he’s always striving to be the best version of himself. Shawn never gives anything less than a full effort and has the talent to go along with that winning desire, which makes for an enviable combination. “His toolbox is full,” said Rémi Royer, head coach of the Trois-Rivières Estacades in Quebec’s U18 AAA Development Hockey League. “He’s a great skater, has a good shot, and there’s a lot of rigour in his game. He has the potential to be a complete player with a skating stride that is better than average.” Carrier’s first season with Trois-Rivières has certainly challenged him and the learning curve has been steep. After all, it’s not easy playing at that level as a 15-year-old when most of his opposition is a year or two older than him. As a top line player, Carrier is also often on the ice at the same time as the best players on the other team. Still, it’s an important step to take in his development because the same scenario could play out next season if he becomes a high pick in the QMJHL Draft. While his offensive production may not be where he expects it to be, despite his 31 points in 38 games, he’s being used in all situations and adding elements to his game to become a more complete player. He’s worked hard to earn those opportunities according to Royer, and he understands that if he plays a 200-foot game, the points will follow. The forward’s priority is to stay positive and make the right decisions to help his team win. Carrier was rewarded for his efforts with a place on Team Quebec at the current Canada Games in Prince Edward Island, where he’s getting a chance to measure himself against the best players his age. “Currently, we’re planting a seed in his flowerpot that, we hope, will continue to grow,” explained Royer. “In my mind, Shawn has the talent to play at the major junior level next year, there’s no doubt. He also has the talent to play at the professional level if he matures physically. The path is wide open for him to continue playing hockey for a long time.” Carrier’s undeniable talent may be the main reason he becomes one of the first selections in the 2023 QMJHL Entry Draft. But it’s the good habits he’s developing now, and learning how to play the right way, that are going to help him have a long and successful career.
Shawn Carrier Height: 5'9" | Weight: 161 lbs Year of Birth: 2007 Shoots: Left Shawn Carrier is used to the attention by now. The 15-year-old centreman has been a top-ranked prospect from his age group in Quebec since his days playing U13 hockey with the Mauricie Estacades. Driven by his determination and a strong work ethic, he’s always striving to be the best version of himself. Shawn never gives anything less than a full effort and has the talent to go along with that winning desire, which makes for an enviable combination. “His toolbox is full,” said Rémi Royer, head coach of the Trois-Rivières Estacades in Quebec’s U18 AAA Development Hockey League. “He’s a great skater, has a good shot, and there’s a lot of rigour in his game. He has the potential to be a complete player with a skating stride that is better than average.” Carrier’s first season with Trois-Rivières has certainly challenged him and the learning curve has been steep. After all, it’s not easy playing at that level as a 15-year-old when most of his opposition is a year or two older than him. As a top line player, Carrier is also often on the ice at the same time as the best players on the other team. Still, it’s an important step to take in his development because the same scenario could play out next season if he becomes a high pick in the QMJHL Draft. While his offensive production may not be where he expects it to be, despite his 31 points in 38 games, he’s being used in all situations and adding elements to his game to become a more complete player. He’s worked hard to earn those opportunities according to Royer, and he understands that if he plays a 200-foot game, the points will follow. The forward’s priority is to stay positive and make the right decisions to help his team win. Carrier was rewarded for his efforts with a place on Team Quebec at the current Canada Games in Prince Edward Island, where he’s getting a chance to measure himself against the best players his age. “Currently, we’re planting a seed in his flowerpot that, we hope, will continue to grow,” explained Royer. “In my mind, Shawn has the talent to play at the major junior level next year, there’s no doubt. He also has the talent to play at the professional level if he matures physically. The path is wide open for him to continue playing hockey for a long time.” Carrier’s undeniable talent may be the main reason he becomes one of the first selections in the 2023 QMJHL Entry Draft. But it’s the good habits he’s developing now, and learning how to play the right way, that are going to help him have a long and successful career.