“I have to improve my speed and my strength”: Owen Beck wants to play for the Canadiens this year, at 19

Of the 37 players present at the development camp this week in Brossard, only one has NHL experience: Owen Beck, who was urgently recalled for a meeting last season.

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“It allowed me to know what it takes to play in the NHL. Every day since that game, I’ve been working towards that. My eyes are on the NHL,” said Peterborough Petes forward.

The Ontarian is not without knowing that the Canadian is ready to open the doors of the locker room to young players. The organization did just that last year by hosting Kaiden Guhle, Arber Xhekaj, Juraj Slafkovsky and Jordan Harris.

Photo MARTIN ALARIE

The very first pick of the second round in 2022, Beck would like his turn to come in the fall.

“I have short term goals. I want to try to make the team even though I’m 19. Otherwise, I will go back to the juniors to try to have another successful season.

IF the winter of his 18th birthday is a prelude to what awaits him next season, Beck will have a busy campaign. Last year, in addition to playing a game with the Habs, Beck won the gold medal with Junior Team Canada, thanks to a last minute participation.

Traded from the Mississauga Steelheads to the Peterborough Petes, he won the Ontario Junior Hockey League playoff championship, which allowed him to play in the Memorial Cup tournament.


Didier Debusschere / Le Journal de Quebec

“As quickly as possible”

In 60 regular season games, he had 66 points, including 24 goals. At first glance, it does not seem like much, but the center player contributes in several other ways. By his efficiency in the face-off circle and his responsible play in every zone of the ice.

Moreover, the Canadian staff made sure to make him understand that he liked what he saw of the young man and encouraged him to refine what makes his strength on the playing surface.

“They told me to trust my identity, keep playing the same way and use the strengths that got me here,” he explained.

“I need to improve my speed and strength. I have to be able to play men every game. I’m focusing on that because I want to play here as soon as possible.”

He will definitely get there one day. It remains to be seen when.


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