Rangers Roundup: Braden Schneider wins WHL Defenseman of the Year, another scout leaves, and more
The accolades keep coming for 2020 first round draft pick, Braden Schneider. Yesterday, the WHL announced him as their 2021 Defenseman of the Year.
“On behalf of all the REALTORS of RE/MAX of Western Canada, we congratulate Braden Schneider of the Brandon Wheat Kings on this tremendous achievement,” said Elaine Langhout, Director of Regional Advertising for RE/MAX of Western Canada. “We know that your hometown of Prince Albert must be super proud as well and we wish you well on your future hockey journey and wherever life takes you. Our sincere congrats Braden!”
WHL.com
Braden Schneider wins WHL Defenseman of the Year
The Bill Hunter Memorial Trophy is presented annually to the league’s best all around defenseman and this year it belongs to 19 year-old Rangers prospect, Braden Schneider.
At 6-2 and 210 pounds, Schneider plays a physical brand of hockey. He was highly regarded by Jeff Gorton who admitted he tried to trade up several times to draft him and was ultimately successful. After making a deal with the Calgary Flames, the Blueshirts chose him 19th overall.
Schneider had an amazing 2021 as he just won Gold with Team Canada at the World Championships on Sunday. Now he’s the WHL’s top defender after scoring 27 points in 22 games.
Congrats Braden.
Steve Konowalchuk leaves to coach
Nik Bobrov, the Director of European Scouting was let go by Chris Drury recently. Now, Steven Konowalchuk who scouted players like Schneider and Matthew Robertson in the WHL is heading back to coaching.
“I would like to thank Brent Sutter and the Red Deer Rebels for the opportunity to coach in the WHL again. The organization has established itself as a top franchise in the league, and I look forward to working with the staff and players on reaching the organization’s high expectations. I would also like to express my gratitude to the New York Rangers for the opportunity given to me over the past 3 seasons,” Konowalchuk told RedDeerRebels.com
Red Deer Rebels
Top players likely to be traded this NHL offseason
The NHL Trade Rumors buzz is going to pick up steam as we get closer to the Seattle Expansion Draft. This summer there are several high profile players that are either known to be available or often mentioned in trade talks. Let’s break down the top candidates.
More About:New York Rangers Analysis