Training Camp Casualties: The First Eight Cuts and Mark Visentin
Sep 16, 2013; Anaheim, CA, USA; Phoenix Coyotes goaltender Mark Visentin (40) defends the goal against Anaheim Ducks right wing Emerson Etem (65) in the second period at Honda Center. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports
As we move deep into the throes of training camp, hockey finally becomes on-ice news-worthy. A couple of updates have been given, regarding who’s out- and why.
The First Round of Cuts
Yesterday, the Arizona Coyotes released the names of the first eight players to be cut from the final roster.
While none of the names were really a surprise, this always gives me minor heartburn. As soon as they start making cuts, you know that things are going to start picking up speed. The team has now gone from 62 potential players to 54, and counting.
These were the players sent home:
[table id=9 /]
As you can see, among those cut are the players drafted this year- and last- that no one expected to make the final roster. This includes Al MacInnis‘ son Ryan, and second rounder Laurent Dauphin of the QMJHL, both from this draft class, and 2013 third-rounder Pavel LaPlante.
All eyes, of course, are still on the forwards that are vying for a roster spot this year. It’s unlikely that Brendan Perlini will be one of the final roster players, but don’t expect to see him cut until the bitter end. Max Domi, Henrik Samuelsson, Tyler Gaudet, Lucas Lessio, and Tobias Rieder will be among the last to learn their fate, as well.
Mark Visentin Is Injured
According to a tweet by AZ Central’s Arizona Coyotes correspondant Sarah McLellan, Mark Visentin went down during practice yesterday afternoon.
Visentin down after a low shot. Being helped off the ice. No pressure on left foot at all.
— Sarah McLellan (@sarah__mclellan) September 21, 2014
While we’re all breathing a sigh of relief that it’s not Mike Smith being escorted off the ice, this doesn’t look good for the Coyotes prospect. Visentin saw his first NHL game last season against the San Jose Sharks, and is expected to be a contributor this season as well.
Hopefully, it’s nothing serious, and we can all watch the up-and-coming netminder make some moves in the coming weeks.
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