SHERBROOKE | When he was younger, Ethan Gauthier was always the best player on his teams. He didn’t need to work very hard to dominate. If today, he no longer rests on his laurels and he will probably be a first-round pick in the NHL, it is thanks to his brother Kaylen.
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“He had a big role to play in my career, admits Ethan, 18. I had pure talent, but I didn’t make any sacrifices. It was easy and I was sitting on my talent. I thought I was working hard, but deep down I wasn’t. Without him, I definitely wouldn’t be where I am today. »
For his part, Kaylen, a 21-year-old defenseman, did not have the same skills. However, he had a strong character and he had discipline and a good work ethic.
This has allowed him to have a great career, which he will continue with the University of Quebec in Trois-Rivières next season, while studying finance. Because “earning $20,000 on the East Coast without a diploma” doesn’t interest the captain of the Sherbrooke Phœnix.
“My job has always been to push him, just like my father [Denis], says Kaylen, who spends almost all her time with her younger brother. I wanted to make him understand that at some point, it won’t work anymore. He just couldn’t get away with the talent. He finally understood! He now behaves like a professional. He takes care of himself, he eats well, he sleeps well. »
No jealousy
As a reward, Ethan is expected to be selected in the first round of the NHL Draft in June. The circuit’s Central Scouting ranks him 16th among North American skaters, three places ahead of defenseman Étienne Morin of the Moncton Wildcats.
“There was never any jealousy between us, assures Kaylen, who had never been drafted by a professional team. For me, it’s a feat that I’m here. Never, I would have thought that I would play in the QMJHL. But, for my brother, the work is not finished and I will always be there for him. »
A 100% father with the Phoenix
Ethan can also count on the advice of his father, who played more than 500 games on the blue line in the NHL.
“My father never pressured us. Growing up, my brother had to choose between baseball and hockey. At that time, I think he had a better chance of breaking through in baseball than in hockey. But my dad told him he could do whatever he wanted. »
After having had his heart torn between his Voltigeurs de Drummondville, the team of his childhood and with which he is currently assistant coach and special adviser, and the club of his sons in the previous round, Denis Gauthier will be able to line up 100% behind the Phoenix, who will face the Halifax Mooseheads tonight in the QMJHL semi-finals.