When the National Hockey League scouts come to see the Victoria Royals this season, they will be spending a lot of time watching monster defenceman Keegan Kanzig.
At 6-foot-5 and 240 pounds, Kanzig has the tools. As a 17-year-old and in his NHL draft year, Kanzig is mobile and he loves all the physical aspects of the game.
"When I came into the league [Western Hockey League] last year, it took some time for me to get used to the speed, size and strength of the players,'' Kanzig said. "As the year progressed, I got more comfortable with everything.''
Kanzig and the Royals return to exhibition action tonight in Maple Ridge against the Kelowna Rockets. The two teams will also meet again Saturday in Kelowna. The Royals are 0-2 so far in exhibition play, losing twice to the Kamloops Blazers.
"After the long summer break, it is important to play these exhibition games,'' Kanzig said. "We want to get back up to speed as soon as possible and be prepared for the start of the season.
"There are still a few spots open on this team and I want to play hard in these games.''
In 63 games last year, Kanzig had two assists and 66 penalty minutes.
"I really haven't been much of an offensive threat since my pee wee days,'' Kanzig said. "My main focus is defence as I want to be one of the guys on the ice to shut down the other team's top line.
"I want to be more physical this year and crush guys when I get the chance. I like the battles in the corners and in front of the net. I also want to be better in our end and make sure that the passes are right on the tape.''
Kanzig, who is from Athabasca, Alta., is in Grade 12 at Vic High.
"Playing in the WHL and going to school is tough. You have to focus on getting your work done and not let it pile up so you get behind.
The teachers are very understanding and they will give you extra help if needed.
"You can also work ahead like I did this summer by taking an online course. That way, I'll have less of a workload this year.''
The Royals' roster now sits at 30 after forward Justin Spagrud was traded to the Swift Current Broncos for the rights to forward Evan Richardson, who is expected to play this season in the sa国际传媒 Hockey League with the Powell River Kings.
Victoria coach Dave Lowry indicated that he would not be making any more moves to the roster until after the two games against the Rockets.
"I have been through training camp before and I know what to expect and I can't wait for the season to begin,'' said Kanzig. "This is a very exciting time to be a hockey player.''
