Final Grade: Cameron Gaunce
by David Driscoll-Carignan on Jun 16, 2011 7:00 AM MDT
in Final Grades 2011
Email
Print
This report card is a joint effort by Beachie, Sandie, Paul, SlamDunktheFunk and DDC. Stats courtesy of hockey-reference.com and NHL.com
|
|
|
|
Final Grade |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Final Grade: C+
Position: D
Vitals: 6'1" / 203 / Age 21 / Shoot L
Drafted by Avalanche, 2nd round (50th overall) of 2008 Draft
Joined Avalanche: Debuted against Nashville, February 12th, 2010
MHH Nicknames: Cameron Awesome
Linemates:
- Hunwick 5gp 0g 0a 0pt -2
- Holos 4gp 1g 0a 1pt -1
- Liles 2gp 0g 0a 0pt Even
Avs with Gaunce in the lineup: 0-9-2 (.090 pt %) 2.0 GF 4.18 GA
Ice Time:
- TTOI 12:43 (15th)
- EV 11:09 (15th)
- PK 1:28 (12th)
- PP 0:06 (14th)
Career Highlights: Gaunce scored his first NHL goal (and point) against Pittsburgh's Marc-Andre Fleury on February 16th, 2011
Report: Cameron Gaunce was once a sort of forgotten prospect, stuck somewhere in-between the star prospects like Kevin Shattenkirk, Colby Cohen, and Stefan Elliott. The only guy in the prospect hopper with significant defensive upside, Gaunce showed up in an Avalanche uniform swinging. This is a guy who perceived malfeasance against one of his teammates while he was still in the penalty box and promptly stepped onto the ice and attempted to kick the guy's ass (he didn't succeed but that isn't the point), earning him 5 more minutes of isolation. A decent decision maker with a good outlet pass, Gaunce is a guy whose offense might reach 20-25 points in his prime but whose defense and physicality should make him a very valuable stalwart along the blueline for years to come. From his recent appearance at the OHL awards ceremony, we also know Gaunce handles pressure well and has a decently quick wit about him. A solid rookie season in which he played very well for Lake Erie and showed glimpses for the Avalanche, Gaunce should only continue to improve his game and his chances of making the Avalanche roster permanently.
Fun Fact: AJ loves him.
The Cameron Gaunce Drinking Game: Drink if Gaunce is your favorite player Drunk potential: Only for one of us
2010 Cap Hit: $845,833
2011 Status: Signed for two more years
Outlook for Next Season: Gaunce seems to have a lot of supporters out there in ‘Lanche Land. Based on his meager ice time (only Liffiton and Koci had less ice time on D), we're not sure that Joe Sacco is one of them. We kind of liked what we saw - especially his willingness to drop the gloves even if it meant getting his ass kicked - but we're not the ones making the decisions. We're just the ones doling out grades on some mystery curve and making passive aggressive suggestions to give guys like Gaunce more ice time.
Next Up: Ryan Wilson
39 comments
|
0 recs |
Do you like this story?
Comments
What I want to know is how much SDtF’s A+++++++++++ brought the grade up?
Maybe
Jibblescribbits: C'mon over and waste some time
by Jibblescribbits on Jun 16, 2011 7:14 AM MDT reply actions
Checking the grades right now...
He got 3 B-‘s and 2 C’s
A little rudeness and disrespect can elevate a meaningless interaction to a battle of wills and add drama to an otherwise dull day.
Mile High Hockey : Where B- is different than C+
by A.J. Haefele on Jun 16, 2011 8:08 AM MDT up reply actions
I look forward to seeing more Gaunce next year. Hopefully on a team that does not suck quite as horribly.
by MalachiConstant on Jun 16, 2011 7:41 AM MDT reply actions
I don’t have a good feel for how ALL of these guys — Barrie, Elliot, Gaunce, and whoever else among Larsson, Holos, Chouinard, Wilson, Cumiskey, Hunwick — fit in long term. Heck I have no clue what happens with Liles and Quincey past this year.
But I do hope Gaunce gets a big role, whatever happens. He brought unique talents amongst that group — a solid all around game, size, and snarl.
"I’m predicting 50pts in the NHL for Hensick next season. Anyone want to put $20 on it?" - DetAvs, Jun 18, 2010 3:45 AM EDT
Hensick stats: 13 games, 1g/2a/3p THOMAS/DETAVS: I WANT MY $20
Yeah, it’s going to be quite the new look on D this year, even without a signing or drafting D.
by MalachiConstant on Jun 16, 2011 8:15 AM MDT up reply actions
I’m of the opinion he could be the stay-at-home seabrook-ish guy that we need to play with EJ ultimately. I would love to see Quincey really steady out his game, and a longer term setup of (with a Larsson pick):
Gaunce – EJ
Quincey – Larsson
Wilson – Elliot
Barrie
Wilson is the smallest defender of that group, which is awesome. I’m a big believer in size on the back end. plzdonthurtmebeachieiknowlilesisntinthere.
"I’m predicting 50pts in the NHL for Hensick next season. Anyone want to put $20 on it?" - DetAvs, Jun 18, 2010 3:45 AM EDT
Hensick stats: 13 games, 1g/2a/3p THOMAS/DETAVS: I WANT MY $20
W/out a Larsson pick, we need another big body on the 2nd line. One of Quincey, Liles, or RoB would be o.k., but two would be lackluster.
by MalachiConstant on Jun 16, 2011 8:50 AM MDT up reply actions
plzdonthurtmebeachieiknowlilesisntinthere.
I can’t argue with your pairings – apart from Barrie. I haven’t seen him play enough to give a solid “yay” on that. Not having watched him that much, I’d give the nod to Holøs for that 7th spot, at least for now.
Also, I think this year is the one Liles finally gets traded. As long as it’s for what he’s worth and it’s for someone who will REALLY help the team, I’d accept it.
aka Beachie (Look, Ma, I've gone legit!)
In Rick Pracey we trust (unless he picks Herpaderp)
by Cheryl Bradley on Jun 16, 2011 9:15 AM MDT up reply actions
How come everyone says that it takes longer for defensemen to develop, usually 2 or 3 or even 4 years and yet these pairings have 3 completely wet behind the ears rookies in the top 7.
I like it as a potential set of pairing for 2 years from now, but I don’t think it is realistic for next year.
My immediate thought when looking at any D pairings and discussing how successful they’ll be is as a projection of 2 years from now. I don’t expect this team to be a playoff team next year, but a first round and out the next? Sure, even with rookie D who only have a couple of years under them.
aka Beachie (Look, Ma, I've gone legit!)
In Rick Pracey we trust (unless he picks Herpaderp)
by Cheryl Bradley on Jun 16, 2011 11:47 AM MDT up reply actions
I’m cool with them having one small guy on d, but not 3 or 4 like this year, they’ll just get worn down.
Available for a 3rd round pick.
by An Unmitigated Disaster on Jun 16, 2011 9:26 AM MDT up reply actions
I really hope Wilson is made expendable by better players. I do like the guy but would like an upgrade.
"I’m predicting 50pts in the NHL for Hensick next season. Anyone want to put $20 on it?" - DetAvs, Jun 18, 2010 3:45 AM EDT
by Hardshell_Taco_del_Lowayne on Jun 16, 2011 10:46 AM MDT up reply actions
3 weeks
And I think we’ll probably either know or have a very good idea of what to expect from our D next season.
A little rudeness and disrespect can elevate a meaningless interaction to a battle of wills and add drama to an otherwise dull day.
Mile High Hockey : Where B- is different than C+
by A.J. Haefele on Jun 16, 2011 8:16 AM MDT up reply actions
I am most intrigued by the defensive make-up next year: Gaunce, Elliott, Barrie, (Larsson), etc.
A man who stole my whisky used the defense that no one could resist a bottle of Scotch. I had no choice but to testify on his behalf.
Are you saying those guys will play for the Avs alot this year? Because if those guys play alot for the Avs this year, then we are really fucked/psyched if we want to win/lose.
Mr. Fuji, the devious ways that you put in my mind will come to use.
by Dan Winkler on Jun 16, 2011 2:30 PM MDT up reply actions
I am most intrigued by the defensive make-up next year
defensive make-up next year
next year
Americanario makes Journey reference. Tempestuous Binary listens to Don't Stop Believing. Milan Hejduk scores goal. You know what must be done. DSB Record: 1-3-0
"God I'm excited for those two to fail miserably." - SBNation writer Andrew Sharp on Josh McDaniels and Tim Tebow.
The Number Zero, aiming squarely for the groin.
by Tempestuous Binary on Jun 16, 2011 4:45 PM MDT up reply actions
I’m Cameron Awesome and I play defense…now give me your lunch money bitch
The doctor's say he's got a 50/50 chance of living...though there's only a 10% chance of that. - The Naked Gun
by chiavsfan on Jun 16, 2011 8:41 AM MDT reply actions 5 recs
I’ll rec, but you’re ‘mixing metaphors’, babe!
aka Beachie (Look, Ma, I've gone legit!)
In Rick Pracey we trust (unless he picks Herpaderp)
by Cheryl Bradley on Jun 16, 2011 9:15 AM MDT up reply actions
True…but it just felt right
The doctor's say he's got a 50/50 chance of living...though there's only a 10% chance of that. - The Naked Gun
Hence the rec! It works fo sho.
aka Beachie (Look, Ma, I've gone legit!)
In Rick Pracey we trust (unless he picks Herpaderp)
by Cheryl Bradley on Jun 16, 2011 9:29 AM MDT up reply actions
He’s not a rocket surgeon or brain scientist.
Available for a 3rd round pick.
by An Unmitigated Disaster on Jun 16, 2011 9:27 AM MDT up reply actions
No, I’m a mild mannered reporter…but if I was to change in a phone booth, I’d be arrested
The doctor's say he's got a 50/50 chance of living...though there's only a 10% chance of that. - The Naked Gun
as well you should.
Available for a 3rd round pick.
by An Unmitigated Disaster on Jun 16, 2011 9:40 AM MDT up reply actions
Question is, could you find a phone booth? I can’t remember the last time that I saw one.
2010-2011 Colorado Avalanche: Hugging the cap floor and waiting on their revenue share, because hey, billionaires need welfare too!
Beachie, SDTF. Are you guys planning on grading the coach and GM?
Available for a 3rd round pick.
by An Unmitigated Disaster on Jun 16, 2011 9:40 AM MDT reply actions
http://www.milehighhockey.com/2011/4/29/2134772/final-grades-joe-sacco
http://www.milehighhockey.com/2011/4/28/2137931/final-grade-greg-sherman
I am the most humble blogger of all time
by David Driscoll-Carignan on Jun 16, 2011 9:44 AM MDT up reply actions
Hey, look, I even commented on it too. I have the bestest memory eveah!
Available for a 3rd round pick.
by An Unmitigated Disaster on Jun 16, 2011 10:23 AM MDT up reply actions
Gaunce was good positionally in his brief time. I thought he did really well considering the massive offensive pressure in our own zone at the end of the year. I never understood the evaluation decision from Sacco on playing Hunwick, Holos and even Belle over him at certain points.
I'll keep this brief.
Yes, and missed the AHL playoffs too as a result.
Draft Larsson and McNeil + Pray for Divine Intervention in goal = Kick ass.
by niwotsblessing on Jun 16, 2011 11:35 AM MDT up reply actions
That “A” looks weird….
Mile High Hockey: Command and Control for the 1st Avs Tank Battalion...
Good...? Bad...? I'm the guy with the gun...
I really like Gaunce alot and look forward to him supplanting Wilson here soon. Am I the only one who wants the team to draft his brother next year?
by Stensons Mayostard on Jun 16, 2011 2:31 PM MDT reply actions
...Ok, so he's really not all that mini
Brendan Gaunce
Center
Belleville Bulls, OHL, 65GP, 11G, 25A, 36Pts, 40PIM, -31
6’-2, 210lbs, Shoots Left (And yes, he is a bit bigger than Cameron’s 6’-1, 203 lbs)
DOB: Mar 25, 1994
DRAFT ELIGIBLE: 2012
Really awesome article with quotes from Cameron Awesome and Brendan (Potentially) Awesome
Read this one. It’s awesome.
"People might be expecting more from him (offensively), but what they don’t see is how well he plays in his own zone and how he backchecks and does on faceoffs," says Cameron. "He’s playing a complete game for a 16-year-old, and I think I might be biased, but for him to have that kind of responsibility in his own zone really speaks to that point.
"I still say it; I think he’s a better player than I am."
Dan Sallows, Hockey Scout:
This one also includes an interview video with both brothers
He has great vision, skating ability, hockey sense, a pro (OHL) calibre shot, and unbelievable leadership qualities on and off the ice. The kid is mature beyond his years, and will do anything necessary to make his teammates better, and win hockey games.
Gaunce skates well for someone his age and size. He put his size and smarts to work by effectively cycling the puck as part of Team Ontario’s top line. He also showed his good vision, patience, and decision-making to create scoring opportunities off the cycle.
Brassard was overshadowed by three of his teammates, led by 2012 draft eligible forward and linemate – Brendan Gaunce. I came away extremely impressed by this player. After being selected with the 2nd overall pick in the most recent OHL draft, there has been a great deal of pressure on him to perform. After seeing his impressive 2-way game on display tonight, I can easily assert that he is handling it well. Playing on the 1st line and receiving both PP and PK duties, while taking a lot of important draws, Gaunce appears to be making important strides towards having a bright future. He made very few mistakes tonight, and showed an incredible maturity and hockey sense for a player of his age and inexperience. Brendan sees the ice extremely well, and rarely gets caught out of position.
And Brendan (Potentially) Awesome plays (some) defense too!
"Scoring is great, but if the team is winning that’s much better," said Gaunce, a forward who ended up spending much of his high school hockey season on the blue line for the Markham District Marauders when the team fell short of defencemen.
He strikes me as a cross between Cameron Awesome and Radar. A solid, defensive-minded center with great leadership skills, maturity, and toughness. I don’t think he’ll project to the top 2 lines, but he’d be a KICK ASS bottom 6 forward. Maybe not a Round 1 or 2 selection, but a late-rounder? Um, heck yeah!
Just a Colorado girl in Montana who <3s the Avs.
I still say it; I think he’s a better player than I am.
I love hockey.
by MalachiConstant on Jun 16, 2011 8:31 PM MDT up reply actions
Comments For This Post Are Closed
Secondary Sidebar
User Tools
Related FanPosts on Mile High Hockey
FanPosts
Community blog posts and discussion.
