Danick Gauthier
Danick Gauthier is a late 1991 birth year player from Repentigny Quebec. Gauthier had a very solid season for the Sea Dogs en route to the NHL Draft later this month. The 6'2" power forward chipped in with 13 goals this season and is a force along the walls. Danick is ranked 86th by HockeyProspect.com in our NHL Draft rankings. We spoke to him recently about his season, the NHL Draft and next season.
HP: How did your year go in St. John?
DG: I think I had a really good start. But, when all the guys got back from the procamps, it got tough because I wasn’t getting as much ice time and opportunity,so it was an adjustment.
HP: Do you expect to have a bigger role next year, which maymake it easier to be consistent?
DG: I think I may have a bigger role because some guys will be gone. But, Istill have to work hard because nobody said its going to be easy because I mayget more opportunity. I have to work hard and make my plays no matter who is onthe team.
HP: What are some of your strengths on the ice?
DG: I think I’m a big, physical presence. I’m happy to go inthe corner because I’m big and can win the battles. I think I improveddefensively over the year and also have good hands and I’m patient with thepuck. A lot of people say I have good vision.
HP: What are some things you want to work on for next year?
DG: I want to work on getting stronger. I also want to getmore fast and explosive on the ice. Ialso need to work on getting more consistent.
HP: Have you been nervous at all about the draft?
DG: I thought about it a little during the season, but when the playoffs started all I was thinking about was winning the series. Now thatthe season is over I am thinking about it, but not nervous,
HP: Speaking of the playoffs, what was that deep run like?
DG: It was a great experience. I wanted to win so badly withthis team because everybody was working so hard. It was a good experience to bewith this team and winning so much with this team. I think it was a great experience and willmake us a lot stronger for next year because I know we want to go even further andto the Memorial Cup.
HP: Are there any specific NHL players you like to modelyour game after?
DG: I like to watch lots of players, but I don’t exactlymodel myself after any. I just want to be myself and go game by game, becomingthe best I can.
HP: What are your goals for next season?
DG: I want to be better at everything and every aspect of the game. I want tobe more consistent, better defensively, and I want to get stronger because Iplay much better when I’m physical. I want to hit more and involve myself moreon the ice.
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