Developing success

 

The Windsor Spitfires have produced talented players in the past and have been adding names to their list this season.

Windsor has produced 13 NHL draft picks in the last five years, including four in the first round. Defencemen Mikhail Sergachev, Logan Stanley and forward Logan Brown have been added to that group as they were featured in the NHL Central Scouting’s list of top 30 skaters.

Head coach Rocky Thompson said while his team is an offensive one, he has laid a foundation for development and a focus on play without the puck. He said he believes Brown, Stanley and Sergachev all bring a physical presence to their game and a high skill set to go along with their thirst to constantly improve.

Defenseman Logan Stanley is number 23 on NHLCS’s midterm rankings. Stanley said he owes a lot of his success to his coaching staff and his teammates. He said being on a strong team this year has helped and that being a year older has given him with a little more confidence.

Logan Brown who is ranked 14th, is the son of former NHL player Jeff Brown. Brown said having received coaching his entire life has helped in his development and has brought up his hockey sense.

“Ever since I was young I’ve been able to understand the game and my dad has taught me a lot,” said Brown. “He knows what it takes, the sacrifices to make and the things you have to do to get to the next level. He’s been real helpful in my development and coached me my entire life.”

Rounding out the list is Russian defenseman Mikhail Sergachev, who is ranked 10. Sergachev said he is confident in the defensive zone and feels he can contribute in all ends and roles. He also said he credits the coaches for working with him and improving his game. Thompson corroborates this, saying that Mikhail was crucial to the team.

“Mikhail is more of an offensive threat at this time, he is very physical player, skates extremely well and can make the game look easy at times with how he can move the puck,” said Thompson.

With all three combining for 125 points in 167 games, Thompson and the Spitfires hope to utilize the three and their skill sets for a deep playoff run. The Spits sit one point out of top spot in the Western Conference.