islesinfo:
2007-08 Update: April
1, 2008: Blake Comeau went 4-2-6 in 14 games played
with the New York Islanders during the month of March.
He recorded a goal in a 4-3 SO win at MSG on Mar. 4th to
end a 14 game streak without a point. Comeau tallied an
assist on a goal by Freddy Meyer in a 4-1 loss at
Philadelphia Mar. 8th. On Mar. 11th he recorded an
assist on the power play on Ben Walter's first NHL goal
at Tampa Bay. Comeau scored a power play goal in a 4-2
loss at Florida on Mar. 12th giving him a three game
point scoring streak in which he went 1-2-3 from Mar.
8th to 12th. He scored a goal in a 3-1 win at New Jersey
on Mar. 21st. Comeau recorded another goal in a 4-3 SO
loss vs. Philadelphia Mar. 29th. In that game he saw an
NHL career high 19:56 TOI. The Islanders posted a record
of 3-10-1 during the month of March with Comeau in the
lineup. They were 2-3-1 in games in which Comeau
recorded a point.
March 1, 2008:
Blake Comeau recorded one goal in 13 games played with
the New York Islanders during the month of February. His
goal came in the first game of the month, a 4-1 loss at
Montreal on Feb. 2nd. The Islanders posted a record of
7-5-1 during the month of February with Comeau in the
lineup. They were 0-1-0 in games in which Comeau
recorded a point.
February 1, 2008:
Blake Comeau went 2-2-4 in 14 games played with the New
York Islanders during the month of January. He recorded
the second multiple point game of his NHL career with a
goal and an assist on a Brendan Witt goal in a 6-3 win
at Carolina Jan. 22nd. In the previous game, he tallied
an assist in a 3-2 OT loss vs. Carolina Jan. 21st.
Comeau recorded a goal earlier in the month in a 3-2 SO
loss at Vancouver on Jan. 8th. He was unsuccessful in a
shootout attempt during the same game. The Islanders
posted a record of 4-6-4 during the month of January
with Comeau in the lineup. They were 1-0-2 in games in
which Comeau recorded a point.
January 1, 2008:
Blake Comeau went 1-2-3 in 7 games played with the New
York Islanders during the month of December. He was
called up from Bridgeport on December 18th following the
suspension of Chris Simon for stomping Pittsburgh's
Jarkko Ruutu and made his NHL season debut the next
night vs. Buffalo. In his second game Comeau was named
the first star after scoring his first career NHL goal,
the game winning goal and adding an assist on the game
tying goal earlier by Andy Hilbert for his first NHL
point at Pittsburgh on Dec. 21st. He went on to record
another assist on a goal by Bill Guerin in a 5-2 loss at
Ottawa on Dec. 27th. In his 7 games with the Islanders
Comeau was a +5. In 6 games played with the Bridgeport
Sound Tigers prior to getting called up he recorded 2
assists: one in a 4-3 shootout win vs. Lowell on Dec.
1st and another in a 4-3 win vs. Albany on Dec. 16th. Bridgeport posted a record of 9-5-0 during the month of
December and are 16-16-1 overall. They were 2-0-0 in games in which
Comeau recorded a point. The Islanders posted a record
of 5-2-0 once Comeau was called up and were 1-1-0 in
games in which he recorded a point.
December 1, 2007:
Blake Comeau went 2-3-5 in 12 games played with the
Bridgeport Sound Tigers during the month of November. He
recorded a goal in a 5-2 loss at Binghamton on Nov. 2nd.
Comeau also scored the first goal of the game in a 6-3
loss at Hershey Nov. 17th. Assists came in a 4-2 loss
vs. Worcester Nov. 7th, on the power play in a 4-0 win
vs. Hershey Nov. 11th, and on the power play in a 5-3
loss vs. Hartford Nov. 23rd. In the game at Hershey on
Nov. 17th, Comeau got into two fights: one in the second
period against LW Louis Robitaille and another in the
third period against D Tyler Sloan which eventually
ended up in former Sound Tiger teammate Daryl Bootland
getting ejected for third man in. He was a -6 during the
month of November. Bridgeport posted a record of 4-7-1 during the month of
November and are 7-11-1 overall. They were 1-4-0 in games in which
Comeau recorded a point.
November 1, 2007:
Blake Comeau went 1-1-2 in 7 games played with the
Bridgeport Sound Tigers during the month of October. He
recorded his first goal and point of the season on the
power play vs. Hershey on Oct. 19th. His assist came on
a shorthanded goal by Jeremy Colliton in a 2-1 loss at
Norfolk on Oct. 27th. Bridgeport posted a record of 3-4-0 during the month of
October. They were 1-1-0 in games in which Comeau recorded an assist.
2007-08 Season
Highlights
NHL
* Named first star with a goal (gw) and an assist in 4-2
win at Pittsburgh Penguins December 21, 2007.
AHL
* Named third star with a goal (pp) in 4-2 win vs.
Hershey Bears October 19, 2007
Islanders Defeat
Penguins 4-2
Dec. 21, 2007
PITTSBURGH (AP)
-Curiously, misfortune sometimes can benefit a team in
unexpected ways. Blake Comeau probably wouldn't
be in the NHL if Chris Simon hadn't been suspended
again, yet the New York Islanders won a game because he
is.
Comeau scored his
first career goal to give the Islanders the lead midway
through the third period, Trent Hunter added a goal 37
seconds later and New York shook off a recent slump to
beat the Pittsburgh Penguins 4-2 on Friday night.
Comeau, a rookie
playing only his second game this season and the fifth
of his career, took fourth-line center Andy Hilbert's
pass in the left circle and beat Dany Sabourin inside
the far post to put the Islanders back into the lead at
3-2.
"Andy did a great
job of getting me the puck," Comeau said.
"When I looked to the net, I heard guys yelling
`Shoot.' There were bodies there and the lane was open.
So I put my head down and tried to put it on net as hard
as I could and it ended up going in."
INS AND OUTS -
BLAKE COMEAU
Dec. 10, 2007
What do
you do in the off-season besides skate and workout for
the upcoming season?
My family has a cottage on Lake Okanagan
in Kelowna, BC where I do a lot of camping and wake
boarding. A lot of my friends live around the area so we
hang around the lake during the day and have big bon
fires on the water's edge at night. We also play a lot
of golf and one of the best moments of last summer was
when I had a hole-in-one on one of the tougher holes at
the local course.
If you
were not playing hockey, what career would you have
chosen?
I'd want to be a scientist. I always loved
the shows like Bill Nye the Science Guy. I also got good
grades in my science courses which made the subject that
much more fun.
What has been the proudest moment of your hockey career?
Playing in the NHL has always been a goal
of mine and achieving it was incredible but right now in
my career, the best moment has to be winning a goal
medal at the World Junior Championships. Playing for
your country and having the red and white maple leaf on
the crest of your jersey is an honor in itself but to
win the gold when the tournament was in Vancouver, BC
was unforgettable.
What is the best part of watching a hockey game?
If I am not playing, there really is no
good part of watching. I want to be out on the ice
playing, helping my team win games. If I was a spectator
though, I love to watch the flow of the game develop.
Obviously the fights are pretty exciting too.
What
hockey player did you look up to as a kid?
Steve Yzerman was my favorite player because he was an
incredible leader and could score goals. He wasn't
afraid to dig in the corners for loose pucks or
challenge one of the tougher players on a team to stand
up for a line-mate.
What is the worst hockey injury you have
suffered?
Breaking my wrist last season was awful. I went through
a lot of long painful rehab so that would be number one.
I also separated my shoulder and that was also painful.
2006-07 Update: May 1,
2007: Blake Comeau went 1-4-5 in 6 games
played with the Bridgeport Sound Tigers during the month
of April. His goal was an empty netter in a 4-2 win vs.
the Albany River Rats on Apr. 1st. Comeau did not play
in Bridgeport's final two regular season games on Apr.
14th vs. Philadelphia and Apr. 15th vs. Norfolk. The
young power forward had a respectable rookie season and
he will be counted on even more in 2007-08 as he works
his way towards making the New York Islanders.
April
1, 2007: Blake Comeau recorded 3 assists in 5 games
played with the Bridgeport Sound Tigers during the month
of March. He missed the first 7 games of the month
recovering from a sprained ankle suffered Feb. 16th.
Comeau missed a total of 14 games with the injury. He
returned to the Sound Tigers lineup on Mar. 24th vs.
Portland. Comeau recorded an assist in Bridgeport's 7-2
loss at the Hartford Wolf Pack on Mar. 28th. He had a
multiple assist game on Mar. 31st in a 6-5 loss at the
Hershey Bears. The Sound Tigers posted a record of 5-8-1
in March and they went 1-4-0 after Comeau returned to
the lineup. He was a -4 on the month.
March
1, 2007: Blake Comeau went 4-3-7 in 8 games
played with the Bridgeport Sound Tigers during the month
of February. He scored the first goal of the game on
Feb. 2nd in a 6-2 loss at the Worcester Sharks. It was
his first goal in 19 games since Dec. 6th. Comeau
recorded the game tying goal on Feb. 10th that forced a
shootout vs. the Lowell Devils. He was unsuccessful in
his shootout attempt but the Sound Tigers won the game
4-3. Comeau had a goal and an assist on the power play
in February. On Feb. 11th he scored a shorthanded empty
net goal in a 5-3 win vs. the Binghamton Senators.
Comeau had back to back multiple point nights (1g,1a) on
Feb. 10th vs. Lowell and Feb. 11th vs. Binghamton. On
Feb. 16th Comeau sprained his ankle in the first period
of a game vs. Lowell and missed the Sound Tigers last 7
games of the month of February. Bridgeport posted a
record of 8-7-0 in February.
February 1, 2007: Blake Comeau recorded 5 assists
in 10 games played with the Bridgeport Sound Tigers
during the month of January. After a strong start to his
rookie season, Comeau has seen a dip in his offensive
production. He went 1/3 in the shootout in January. He
scored a shootout goal in a 2-1 win vs. Philadelphia on
Jan. 10th. Comeau missed on chances in the shootout in a
4-3 loss vs. Providence on Jan. 14th and in a 4-3 win at
Hershey on Jan. 20th. Two of his assists during the
month came on special teams, one on the power play and
another while shorthanded. Bridgeport as a team played
much better in January posting a record of 7-2-1.
January 1, 2006: Blake Comeau went 1-4-5 in 12
games played with the Bridgeport Sound Tigers during the
month of December. Comeau made his NHL debut with the
New York Islanders on December 7, 2006 vs. the Montreal
Canadiens. Wearing #57, he took 15 shifts in the game
for a total of 11:33 of ice time, recording 2 hits in
the process. Comeau would play in the next two games for
the Islanders for a total of 3 before getting sent back
down to Bridgeport on Dec. 16th. He saw action Dec. 9th
vs. the Florida Panthers taking 14 shifts for 8:20 and
recording 1 hit. On Dec. 15th at the Pittsburgh
Penguins, Comeau took 10 shifts for 8:22 and recorded 1
hit. The Islanders went 1-2-0 in the three games Comeau
appeared in. While with the Islanders he missed one game
with Bridgeport on Dec. 9th at Binghamton. Before he was
called up to the Islanders, Comeau scored the game tying
goal and assisted on Jeff Tambellini's overtime game
winner in Bridgeport's 3-2 win vs. Binghamton on Dec.
6th. Comeau's goal came with 4:10 remaining in
regulation. On Dec. 23rd, Blake recorded 2 assists in
the Sound Tigers 2-1 overtime win vs. the Manchester
Monarchs. Comeau was a -6 during the month of December
with Bridgeport, due in large part to the team going
1-7-0 in their last 8 games. Twice he was a -3 in a
game. He ended the month on a four game scoreless streak
and has recorded only 2 points in his last 9 games.
December 1, 2006: Blake Comeau went 4-5-9 in 13
games played with the Bridgeport Sound Tigers during the
month of November. He's been one of Bridgeport's most
consistent players through the first two months of the
season. Comeau scored the game winning overtime goal in
the Sound Tigers 4-3 win at Hershey on November 18th. He
is third on Bridgeport in scoring behind Jeff Tambellini
and Robert Nilsson. Comeau was a -4 in November.
November 1, 2006: Blake Comeau scored 9 of his 10
points during the month of October between the Sound
Tigers first two games of the season, both on the road
in Binghamton and Hartford. In his first career AHL
regular season game on October 8th in Binghamton, Comeau
recorded a team record 4 assists in the 5-3 win. He then
recorded a Sound Tigers record 5 points on 2 goals and 3
assists in the Sound Tigers second game of the season, a
6-3 win at Hartford. The Sound Tigers trailed 3-1
entering the third period of the game and Comeau helped
to spark a 5 goal comeback. For a few days Comeau was
the AHL's leading scorer. After his first 7 games,
Comeau's 10 points ranks him fourth among rookie scorers
in the AHL. He then went cold, not recording a point for
the next 5 games. Comeau had a good training camp for
the Islanders before getting sent down to Bridgeport on
September 27th. He impressed new head coach Ted Nolan,
who stated about Comeau: "He's going to be a
dandy." Sound Tigers head coach Dan Marshall plays
Comeau in all aspects of the game, including special
teams.
2006-07 Season
Highlights
* Named first star
with 4 assists in 5-3 win at Binghamton Senators October
8, 2006 (1st Reg. Season Gm)
* Named first star with 2g, 3a in 6-3 win at Hartford
Wolf Pack October 13, 2006 (Bridgeport record)
* Named second star with 1g(PP), 2a in 5-2 win at
Binghamton Senators November 3, 2006.
* Named second star with 1g(PP), 1a in 5-4 shootout win
vs. Worcester Sharks November 12, 2006.
* Named first star with a SO goal in 2-1 win vs.
Philadelphia Phantoms January 10, 2007.
* Named third star with a goal in 2-1 OT win vs.
Worcester Sharks February 7, 2007.
* Named third star with a goal (PP) and an assist in 4-3
SO win vs. Lowell Devils February 10, 2007.
Comeau can't wait to
contribute again
by Michael Fornabaio, connpost.com, Mar. 22, 2007
BRIDGEPORT —
Fortunate with injury through his junior career, Blake
Comeau has had an unlucky past month. He suffered a
sprained ankle Feb. 16 against Lowell, could feel the
ligaments tear, and has been out ever since. It's a far
cry from the minor injuries that kept him out, at most,
four or five games at a time.
And with the
Bridgeport Sound Tigers in a desperate race for the last
playoff spot, the rookie winger can't wait to get back.
"That's what you
want is to try to be out there and help the team,"
Comeau said. "Every game we're going for that last
playoff spot. It (stinks) to be watching from the
stands."
His spectator days are
dwindling. The team calls him day-to-day for this
weekend, which includes a game tonight at Binghamton,
N.Y., and home games Saturday and Sunday against
Portland. If this weekend doesn't work out, Comeau is
hoping to be back next week, when the Sound Tigers play
four games in five nights. "I think he's going to
be good any day now," coach Dan Marshall said.
"It's just a matter of how he feels."
Comeau's 35 points,
physical play and penalty killing sit on the shelf along
with Jeremy Colliton, Brandon Nolan and Petteri
Nokelainen. None of the last three are expected to play
this weekend. And Eric Boguniecki — not feeling well,
Marshall said — will at least miss tonight's game.
"We're desperate for players first," Marshall
said, "then we need points."
SOUND TIGERS WIN IN
SHOOTOUT
soundtigers.com, Feb. 10, 2007
The Sound Tigers and
Devils traded leads in regulation, with Sound Tiger Blake
Comeau's third period power play tally tying the
game 3-3 and forcing the extra session. The Sound Tigers
have six power play goals in their last five games,
including several that were clutch. They've scored the
game-winning or tying goal on the power play in the
third period or overtime in each of their last four
games during the winning streak.
The Sound Tigers
improved to 6-4 in shootouts and 20 of their 49 games
have been decided by just a goal. Dubielewicz has been
between the pipes in nine of the team's 10 shootouts.
The Devils drew first
blood on Jason Ryznar's goal 4:02 into the game. Ryznar
redirected a feed from veteran Grant Marshall into the
net to finish a two-on-one opportunity. The Sound Tigers
got the next two goals. Hard work by Comeau and Nolan
kept the puck in the zone and both players assisted
defenseman Mark Wotton's slap shot goal from the point
at 12:50 of the first. Eric Boguniecki extended his
goal-scoring streak to three games when he deflected a
shot by Robert Nilsson for a 2-1 lead at 14:01 of the
second, Nilsson has six assists in three games - all
wins - against Lowell this season.
Jeremy Colliton had
the secondary assist on Boguniecki's goal and Comeau had
an assist on Wotton's goal.
WHAT'S THE DEAL
WITH ...
by Mike Fornabaio, connpost.com, Dec. 27, 2006
... the boarding major
and game misconduct Tuesday night?
Blake Comeau's bump on
Dean Arsene late in the second period was like a tour of
Rule 42. While Comeau surely wasn't out to hurt the
Hershey defenseman — he may hit like a freight train,
but he hasn't played dirty — the legalese almost
necessitated a major penalty, the first non-fighting
major on a Sound Tiger this season.
First, because Arsene
was touching up an icing, Comeau had to make sure not to
hit him. But whether intentional or not, Comeau did hit
him into the boards on the touch-up. That's a boarding
penalty, by definition.
On we go to the next
step. Arsene suffered a head injury on the play. That
makes it a major penalty. And any boarding major carries
a game misconduct as well. From one hit, Comeau's night
was over.
islesinfo.com note:
what's odd about this story is the boxscore does not
show any game misconduct or penalty to Blake Comeau. It
doesn't show any penalty & misconduct for any
player. Comeau is listed as having 0 PIM's in the game.
Comeau's official statistics still last him as having a
total of 22 PIM's on the season. The following was in
Fornabaio's game recap:
The power play went
0-for-7. The penalty kill was fine, including killing a
five-minute major to Blake Comeau for hitting Dean
Arsene on an icing touch-up in the final seconds of the
second period. Arsene didn't return.
Interview
with Sound Tiger's Rookie Blake Comeau -
( 12/20/06 video from Sound Tigers Media Page )
Comeau
called to play with NY Islanders
by Kathy Gallant, meadowlakeprogress.com, Dec. 17,
2006
One of Meadow Lake’s
well known hockey prodigies recently lived out his
lifelong dream - to play hockey in the NHL.
Blake Comeau, who was born and raised in Meadow Lake, is
currently playing hockey with the Bridgeport Sound
Tigers, a farm team of the New York Islanders.
On Thursday December 7, Blake received notification that
he would be playing with the Islanders in their game.
Blake’s father, George Comeau said that the family is
very proud of Blake.
“Of course he’s humble,” Comeau said of his son.
“We’re definitely happy for him. Like many other
dedicated hockey players, his dream was to play in the
NHL one day.”
Comeau said that when he heard from his son, he was
notably excited.
“Blake said he almost didn’t believe it,” said
Comeau.
“But he was looking forward to heading out on the ice.
We watched him play that night and it was great.
Comeau said Blake was slated to play two more games with
the Islanders this weekend against Pittsburgh. He was
slated to play games on December 15 and 16.
“It’s great that he’s getting so many
opportunities to play such a high calibre of hockey,”
he noted.
“We hope that he continues to have fun and do well.”
“Blake has always loved hockey and he’s doing what
he loves.
Comeau earns big
promotion
by Greg Logan, Newsday, Dec. 8, 2006
Ted Nolan's original
plan was to leave 20-year-old Blake Comeau in
Bridgeport this season to develop. But after a poor
performance by Jeremy Colliton in an emergency role
Tuesday against Ottawa, Nolan yesterday called up Comeau
to make his NHL debut against Montreal last night at
Nassau Coliseum.
Nolan previously said he would be more likely to call up
Jeff Tambellini, but the 6-1, 198-pound Comeau is more
suited to a fourth-line checking role than the smaller
Tambellini. At the same time, Comeau has scored seven
goals and 14 assists in 23 games at Bridgeport, which
ranks second only to Tambellini's 23 points.
Nolan traveled to
Bridgeport Wednesday night to watch the Sound Tigers'
3-2 overtime win against Binghamton. Comeau scored the
goal with 4:10 left in regulation that sent the game to
overtime, and he assisted on the winner by Tambellini.
At the morning skate yesterday, Nolan described Comeau
as "clearly the best player on the ice."
Although Comeau will start on the fourth line, Nolan
made it sound as if he could stick, saying,
"Everything after that will depend on how Blake
performs."
COMEAU TO MAKE NHL
DEBUT
soundtigers.com, Dec. 7, 2006
Nolan called him
"the best player on the ice last night."
Blake Comeau,
one of the Islanders' top forward prospects, has been
recalled from the Bridgeport Sound Tigers on an
emergency basis and will make his NHL debut tonight when
the Islanders host the Montreal Canadiens. Comeau was
selected in the second round of the 2004 NHL Draft. This
season with the Sound Tigers, Comeau has 7 goals and 14
assists for 21 points in 23 games.
Last night in
Bridgeport, Comeau scored with 4:10 left in regulation
to tie the game and then set up Jeff Tambellini's
overtime goal in the Sound Tigers' 3-2 win over
Binghamton. Islanders head coach Ted Nolan made the trip
to Bridgeport and said at today's morning skate that
Comeau was "clearly the best player on the
ice."
Nolan said Comeau will
start tonight's game on the fourth line.
"Everything after that," said the coach,
"will depend on how Blake performs."
SOUND TIGERS TOP
SHARKS 5-4 IN SHOOTOUT
soundtigers.com, Nov. 12, 2006
The Sharks salvaged a
point by overcoming a 4-1 deficit to force overtime. The
Sound Tigers built a 4-1 lead in the second period
behind three unanswered goals in a span of less than
five minutes midway through the second period to
seemingly seize control of the game. Blake Comeau
gave Bridgeport a 1-0 first-period lead when he blasted
a power play goal off the far post at 4:31 of the first
period. The Sharks answered to tie the game 1-1 when Joe
Pavelski scored at 4:07 of the second period. Bridgeport
scored the next three as Eric Boguniecki (at 8:30 of the
second) and Jeff Tambellini (at 11:18) struck on the
power play. Frans Nielsen scored an even strength goal
at 13:23 to make it 4-1 before Worcester began a
comeback.
Comeau had an assist
on New Haven/West Haven native Boguniecki's goal to give
Comeau a team-leading 14 points (4 goals, 10 assists).
Tambellini's goal was his team-best seventh.
SOUND TIGERS TOP
SENATORS 5-2
Comeau, Ferraro, Regier and Berry lead attack
soundtigers.com, Nov. 3, 2006
BINGHAMTON, N.Y. - The
Bridgeport Sound Tigers beat the East Division-rival
Binghamton Senators for the second time in as many
meetings this season with a 5-2 win at Broome County
Veterans Memorial Arena on Friday night. The Sound
Tigers ended a three-game losing streak and improved to
4-3-0-2; Binghamton fell to 3-5-0-2. Bridgeport's Blake
Comeau, Peter Ferraro, Steve Regier and Rick Berry
all had two point efforts to lead the way.
Comeau, who assisted
on four of Bridgeport's five goals in a 5-3 win at
Binghamton in the season opener back on Oct. 8, again
played a key role in his team's success against the
Senators. Comeau, a rookie, figured in three of his
team's markers with a goal and pair of assists on
Friday.
Comeau and Rick Berry
assisted Ferraro's net-finder and Ferraro later returned
the favor, setting up Comeau for his third goal of the
year on a first period power play. Eric Boguniecki also
picked up an assist on Comeau's goal as the Sound Tigers
built a 2-0 lead though the first 20 minutes.
Binghamton twice cut
two-goal deficits in half on rebound tallies - the first
by Serge Payer to make it 2-1 early in the second.
Comeau and Mark Wotton assisted Steve Regier for his
third goal and a 3-1 lead before Binghamton's Jamie
Allison buried a rebound to make it 3-2. Regier's goal
stood up as the game-winner and the Sound Tigers put the
game away late in the third. Jeff Tambellini scored his
fourth goal, assisted by Regier and Frans Nielsen, to
open a 4-2 lead and Berry capped the scoring with his
second of the year, an unassisted empty-netter with less
than a second showing on the scoreboard clock.
Nolan content to
let Comeau mature in AHL
by Greg Logan, Newsday.com, Nov. 1, 2006
Islanders coach Ted
Nolan made it clear early in training camp how much he
loves 20-year-old forward Blake Comeau, who has 10
points in seven games with AHL Bridgeport. But when
Comeau opened the season on a hot streak, Nolan wasn't
even a little tempted to call him up.
In Nolan's view, it's best to let the top prospects in
the system play consistently in the minors rather than
letting them take their lumps at the NHL level before
they're ready. Early on, Nolan made that point to owner
Charles Wang and new general manager Garth Snow.
"When you're
trying to change the culture on the team, it's not
changed by going with the wind, by calling up a kid on a
hot streak and playing him 10 shifts and sending him
back," Nolan said.
"The Montreal Canadiens back in the day put those
kids down for a good year or year and a half. I'm not
saying that's the case, but it will be good for a kid to
stay down and get his confidence. Comeau is going to be
a heck of a player. To ruin it by letting him get hot
for five games, bring him up for two games and then send
him back down ... You see a lot of flash in the pans.
When guys are here for good, they're here for
good."
Blake’s
No Fake
by Mike Scandura, New England Hockey Journal, Nov.
1, 2006
Dan
Marshall saw a glimpse of the future two years ago.
Marshall,
who's in his first season as the Bridgeport Sound
Tigers' head coach, was working in the Islanders' hockey
operations department when the team made forward Blake
Comeau its second-round pick (47th overall) in the 2004
NHL Entry Draft.
Comeau
was only 17 at the time but already had starred for Team
Canada (which won the gold medal in the 2003 Under-18
Tournament in Russia) and led Kelowna to the Memorial
Cup championship.
"I've
known Blake for a few years … since he attended our
rookie camp (in 2004)," recalled Marshall.
"Now, he's 20 and about 6-1 and 205 pounds. He
really has a lot of power for a young man. He also loves
to work the puck along the wall, take the hit and pay
the price to make the pass.
"That's
what makes him a quality, young prospect."
Comeau
already is flashing some of the talent that makes him
one of the Islanders' very best prospects. Through his
first seven pro games, he's fourth among AHL rookies in
scoring with 2-8-10 totals - and skates on Bridgeport's
special teams besides taking his regular shift at
forward.
In
retrospect, Comeau was overshadowed by the talent on his
junior team in Kelowna of the WHL.
"He
was on the third line at that time (he was
drafted)," said Marshall. "I think he went to
the second line and the first line. But his draft year
he wasn't among their top six forwards because he was on
a very strong team (i.e. skating on Kelowna's third line
was the equivalent of skating on a lesser teams' first
line).
"Blake
was kind of a late bloomer. From the standpoint of
offensive numbers, he started to put them up his last
two years of juniors."
Indeed.
Last
season, for example, Comeau posted 21-53-74 totals (his
53 assists tying him for second in the WHL and helping
him earn First Team All-Star honors).
"Comeau's
a multi-dimensional player," said an NHL scout.
"He's smart with the puck and has good offensive
instincts. I feel he combines strong skating with an
accurate (wrist) shot and has the ability to protect the
puck.
"He's
what I call a gritty player in that he'll battle along
the boards and in the corners."
The
one area where Marshall would like to see improvement is
his start.
"Blake's
not slow but it takes him a bit to get going," said
the coach. "He's got to get a little bit faster
with his first step because it's a new game. But just
because he does all the little things so well, it's
obvious he was well-coached.
"We
look for him (to play) both ends of the rink. I think
the sky's the limit but I don't want to put third line
or second line on him. I just think he's going to be a
quality, quality NHL player when he matures."
Interview
with Sound Tiger's Rookie Blake Comeau -
( 10/20/06 video from Sound Tigers Media Page )
excerpt from Patience
pays off for Islanders
by Shane Malloy, foxsports.com,
Oct. 18, 2006
Blake Comeau, Right
Wing, 20 (second round, 47th overall pick in 2004)
currently with Bridgeport (AHL)
An underrated winger
who loves to bang and crash his way through the
opposition, Comeau understands what it takes to be a
winner. His leadership ability and his willingness to
pay the price to win will put a letter on his chest one
day. Expect him to be a second-line winger, depending
how his offensive skills translate at the NHL level.
Tigers top 'Pack
by Michael
Fornabaio, Connpost.com, Oct. 18, 2006
HARTFORD - They were
resilient throughout the preseason, and Friday night,
the Bridgeport Sound Tigers showed some resiliency in
the regular season. And they may have themselves a new
superstar.
Coming back from a
two-goal, third-period deficit, Bridgeport scored two
goals in 30 seconds to take the lead and added two more
to defeat the Hartford Wolf Pack 6-3 in front of 3,047
fans at the Hartford Civic Center. Blake Comeau scored
his first two professional goals in the third period and
added three assists, setting a Bridgeport team record
for points in a game. His four assists on opening night
had been the 15th time a Sound Tiger had scored four
points in a night. "It feels good to get off to a
good start, but the team starting 2-0, that's the most
important," Comeau said. "I think we came out
a little slow, but we showed some character here."
Comeau has nine points
in his first two professional regular-season games.
"Quite obviously
he's a prospect," Bridgeport coach Dan Marshall
said. "He was well-coached at Kelowna (WHL). ... He
has hockey sense, vision. There's not much he doesn't do
well, but he still has things to learn, little
things."
Tigers solid in opener
Comeau had the Primary Assist
by Michael Fornabaio, Connpost.com, Oct. 9, 2006
BINGHAMTON, N.Y. — Like the rest of his young
Bridgeport Sound Tigers teammates, Blake Comeau found
himself on the ice in almost every situation in Sunday's
season opener. Comeau made the most of it in a 5-3
victory over the Binghamton Senators at Broome County
Veterans Memorial Arena. He assisted on four goals,
including Steve Regier's empty-netter, moments after
Comeau had missed the open net himself. "It's going
to really help our development early in the
season," said Comeau, who played all seven playoff
games for Bridgeport last year after his junior season
ended. "We don't really have any designated first,
second, third lines. Everybody rolls."
Comeau had the primary assist — meaning he sent the
pass to the goal-scorer — three times. He killed
penalties and was on the ice for a final-minute penalty
kill. But a bit of snow on his stick disrupted his
empty-net goal attempt, but he led Regier on a breakaway
soon after. "That's the type of player he is,"
coach Dan Marshall said. "He's one of those players
you want out there in the last minute, whether you're a
goal down or up that goal"
Bridgeport Wins Opener; Comeau
Records 4 Helpers
islesinfo.com
October 8,
2006: Blake Comeau recorded four assists in his
professional regular-season debut, helping
Bridgeport
to a 5-3 win in
Binghamton
on Sunday evening. Comeau, who had three assists in seven Calder Cup
Playoff games for the Sound Tigers last spring, set up two of the
Sound Tigers’ three power-play goals in the first period, added an
assist on Frans Nielsen’s first AHL goal in the
final minute of the second, and fed Steve Regier
for a shorthanded empty-net insurance marker with 14 seconds to
play.
Wade Dubielewicz
made 32 saves for
Bridgeport
, which was playing its first game of 2006-07. Jeff Heerema scored twice
for the Senators, who fell to 1-1-0-0 on the year. The
Sound Tigers jumped out to a commanding 3-0 lead in the first period with
power play goals from Peter Ferraro, Luch Aquino (1st AHL
goal), and Robert Nilsson. Binghamton drew to within 3-2 in the
second period but with second left Nielsen scored what would turn out to
be the game winner. Comeau was named the first star of the game. Ferraro
was named the third star.
Connpost.com
2006-07 Bridgeport Player Capsule
NAME — Blake
Comeau
NUMBER — 14
POSITION — Right wing
SHOOTS — Right
VITALS — 6-1, 198
BORN — Feb. 18, 1986, Meadow Lake, Saskatchewan
LAST SEASON — Kelowna-WHL (60: 21-53-74)
RESUME — Another highly touted prospect from the WHL,
he was the 47th overall pick in the 2004 NHL Entry
Draft. ... Scored 13 points in 12 WHL playoff games,
then joined Bridgeport for the AHL playoffs and had
three assists in seven games. ... Power forward played
for Canada in the World Junior Championship.
|
Islanders Sign Prospect Blake
Comeau to Three Year Deal |
|
| March 22,
2006: The Islanders have signed RW Blake Comeau to a
three year contract. One of the Islanders top prospects, Comeau was
an assistant captain back in December for the Gold Medal winning
Team Canada at the 2006 World Junior Championships. He led the team
in scoring with 3 goals and 7 points in 6 games and threw some huge
crunching hits in the process. |
At 6'1" and 207 pounds, the 20
year old Comeau is another piece to the puzzle for the Islanders
youth movement as they enter into the future. Comeau was the Islanders second round draft pick in
2004, 47th overall.
"We're very proud to have Blake as a big part of
the future of our franchise," said Islanders general manager Mike
Milbury. "As he demonstrated with Team Canada and the Kelowna
Rockets, Blake is a winner. He does everything well, works incredibly hard
and is the ultimate team player." With
the Kelowna Rockets of the Western Hockey League this season, Comeau went
21-53-74 in 60 games played with 85 penalty minutes. His 53 assists tied
him for second in the WHL. In 2003-04, Kelowna won the Memorial Cup as
champion of the Canadian Hockey League. Currently, Comeau and the Rockets
are preparing to take on the Kootenay Ice in the first round of the WHL
playoffs which begins March 24th.
"It's a great feeling knowing the Islanders have
signed me to a contract and consider me an important part of their
future," Comeau said this afternoon. "Last year's training camp
with the Islanders was a good start for me. I learned what I needed to do
to make it in the NHL. I took a lot of that with me when I returned to the
Rockets and when I played for Team Canada."
Comeau, a native of Meadow Lake, Saskatchewan, was named
First Team all-star for the Western Conference of the WHL.
For extensive coverage of Blake Comeau's experience at
the WJC's and junior career check out islesinfo.com's coverage of the 2006 World Junior
Championship's, which includes a photo gallery.
* Awesome Blake Comeau
Interview following the 2006 WJC's - Click
Here
(requires windows media player/.wmv format - 1:58
duration, 3.25mb)
* Video of Blake
Comeau Returning to the Kelowna Rockets - Click
Here
(requires windows media player/.wmv format - 1:18
duration, 2.16mb)
* Video of Blake
Comeau pre-WJC press interview - Click
Here
(requires windows media player/.wmv format - 4:03
duration, 2.90mb)
2005-06 Update: 5/1/06
- WHL Playoffs: Blake Comeau's Kelowna Rockets advanced
to the WHL Conference Semifinals against the Everett
Silvertips. In the series win 4 games to 2 against
Kootenay, Comeau went 3-4-7 in 6 games played and was a
+5. Kelowna saw the role reversed in the second round
and were defeated 4 games to 2 by Everett, who was led
by Peter Mueller. In the series Comeau went 1-5-6 and
was even in 6 games played. Overall in the playoffs he
went 4-9-13 in 12 games played. Comeau was eliminated
from the WHL playoffs just in time to join the
Bridgeport Sound Tigers in their first round AHL series
against the Wilkes-Barre/Scranton Penguins. He recorded
3 assists in the 7 games, but the Sound Tigers lost the
series 4 games to 3. During the series, Comeau played on
a line with Rob Collins and Jeff Tambellini. In Game 7
he played on a line with Ryan O'Marra. He received his
first professional point April 22nd with an assist on a
power play goal by Tambellini.
Sound Tigers Notebook
4/20/06: COMEAU COMETH — Another touted New York
Islanders youngster joined the Sound Tigers after
practice Wednesday when Blake Comeau arrived from
western Canada. Comeau, the Islanders' second-round pick
in 2004, is in on an amateur tryout contract and is set
to make his pro debut tonight. He had 21 goals and 74
points in 60 games for Kelowna, which was eliminated
from the WHL playoffs Sunday. "I think I'm more of
a power forward. I like to play physical," Comeau
said. "I think I'm more of a playmaker than a
goal-scorer, but I'll shoot the puck, too."
Comeau, a righty-shot
right winger, will wear No. 14. Before getting on the
bus, he skated at the Arena at Harbor Yard with
Islanders director of player development Dan Marshall.
"It was good to skate. I haven't skated since
Sunday," Comeau said. "I'm excited to be
here."
4/1/06
- Blake Comeau went 2-4-6 in the final 10 games of the
WHL regular season for the Kelowna Rockets during the
month of March. He finished second on the team in
scoring to Justin Keller. His +15 was tied for second
best on the team. Comeau averaged 1.23 points per game
on the season. His 21 goals fell three shy of the 24
goals he scored in 2004-05. His 53 assists were 30 more
than his 2004-05 total and was tied for second most in
the league, two behind Tri-City's Ian McDonald who had
55. Comeau finished 13th in scoring in the WHL with 74
points. Had a 3 game point scoring streak from March 8th
to 12th in which he went 1-2-3. Scored the game winning
goal in a 4-1 win vs. the Kamloops Blazers March 18th.
Comeau was named WHL first team all-star at the close of
the season and signed a three year deal with the New
York Islanders on March 22nd.
Playoffs:
Kelowna face the Kootenay Ice in the WHL Quarterfinals,
best of seven series. Kelowna entered the series with
home ice advantage. Going into April Kelowna leads the
series 3 games to 2. In the five games Comeau is tied as
Kelowna's leading scorer(with Keller) having gone 3-3-6.
Two years ago, it was Comeau who helped sink the Ice
with a hat trick in Game 1 of their opening round series
which the Rockets went on to sweep in four straight.
"That series wasn't as easy as it looked, and we
certainly don't expect this one to be either," said
Comeau, who led the Rockets with 53 assists.
"We have the same systems, they work hard and
they're a character team, a lot like us. We're going to
have to counter with the same thing."
3/1/06
- Blake Comeau went 4-15-19 in 14 games played during
the month of February. He's second on the Kelowna
Rockets in scoring and leads the WHL with 49 assists. On
the season he's averaging 1.29 points per game. Had a
four game point scoring streak from January 28th to
February 4th going 3-5-8. Had a three game assist
scoring streak in which he had 4 assists from February
11th to February 17th. Had a three game point scoring
streak from February 22nd to 25th going 1-6-7. Comeau
was a +7 during the month of February.
2/1/06
- Blake Comeau went 3-9-12 in 9 games played for the
Kelowna Rockets during the month of January after
returning to the WHL folowing the 2006 WJC's. He's
currently second on his team in scoring and leads the
team in assists with 35. Fought center Jacob Dietrich in
a 4-1 win vs. the Lethbridge Hurricanes January 25,
2006. Recorded 3 assists in a 6-0 win at the Kootenay
Ice January 28, 2006. Had a 4 game point scoring streak
from January 15-21 and went 2-3-5 in that span. Had a
personal 4 game point scoring streak which started
before the WJC's back on Dec. 14th and ended January
13th after the WJC's in which he went 1-6-7 in that
span. His 49 points is a new career high surpassing the
47 points he tallied in 65 games during 2004-05. He has
set a new career high in assists with 34 surpassing last
years mark of of 23. After winning the gold at the 2006
WJC's Comeau has become very popular in Canada and his
islesinfo.com profile has become one of the most viewed
pages on the site.
1/1/06
- Blake Comeau only played in 3 games for the Rockets in
the month of December recording 2 goals and 5 points. He
was named by coach Brent Sutter as one of the final 34
to take part in Canada's final selection camp for the
WJC team on December 6th. On December 16th he was
officially named to Team Canada. In the preliminary
round, Comeau helped Canada finish with a 4-0 record by
supplying offense and physical play. You can read about
it and see pictures by checking out the islesinfo.com's 2006
WJC page.
12/1/05
- Blake Comeau cooled off a bit in the month of November
recording only a goal and 6 points in 9 games played for
the Rockets.
* ADT Canada/Russia
Challenge: Blake Comeau went scoreless in Team WHL's 9-2
victory over Russia on November 30, 2005. In the second
game on December 1, 2005 Comeau recorded an assist on
the winning goal by Kyle Chipchura in Team WHL's 3-1
win. The wins helped Canada sweep the Russians 6-0 in
the six game tournament.
As of 11/1/05: Blake
Comeau is currently 2nd in the WHL in scoring with 26
points in 15 games played.
Comeau has been
selected to take part in the WHL's representation in the
Canada/Russia Challenge. The
Drummondville Voltigeurs will host the first game of the
ADT Canada-Russia Challenge on November 21. The second
game will be hosted by the Moncton Wildcats on November
23. The Kitchener Rangers will host the first OHL-based
game on November 24 followed by the Peterborough Petes
on November 28. The series will conclude in the WHL with
the Saskatoon Blades hosting on November 30 and the
Regina Pats hosting the finale on December 1.
Head Coach for Team
WHL will be Brent Sutter of the Red Deer Rebels, while
Cory Clouston of the Kootenay Ice and Lorne Molleken of
the Saskatoon Blades will serve as Assistant Coaches.
Comeau's great early
start should all but seal his selection to Team Canada
at the 2006 World Junior Championship's.
2005-06 Season
Highlights
* Named first star
with 1g, 2a in 6-3 win at Saskatoon - October 11, 2005
* Named second star with 2g, 2a in 7-6 win vs. Moose Jaw
- October 19, 2005
* Named first star with 2g, 3a in 5-3 win at Spokane -
October 30, 2005
* Named third star in 2-1 win vs. Red Deer Rebels -
November 11, 2005
* Named second star with an assist in 3-2 loss at
Kootenay - November 15, 2005
* Named first star with 1g, 1a in 4-1 win vs. Vancouver
Giants January 7, 2006(1st game back from WJC)
* Named first star with 1g (GW & PP), 1a in 2-0 win
vs. Everett Silvertips February 1, 2006
* Named second star with 1g (EN), 1a in 3-1 win at
Prince George Cougars February 3, 2006
* Named third star with 3a in a 5-2 win vs. Spokane
Chiefs February 22, 2006(+ 3 crushing body checks)
* Named second star with a goal(EN) in a 3-1 win at
Kamloops Blazers March 8, 2006.
Playoffs:
* Named second star
with a goal(PP) and an assist in 5-1 win vs. Kootenay
Ice March 25, 2006.(Gm 2)
Comeau’s
Big Apple stay comes to a conclusion
By Doyle Potenteau, Kelowna Daily
Courier-Local - May 1, 2006
Life
in the American Hockey League lasted just seven games
for Blake Comeau.
Three weeks after getting called up by the Bridgeport
Sound, the Tigers’ playoff run came to a quick,
first-round end on Saturday.
For Comeau, it was the second time this month he
suffered a post-season KO, the first taking place on
April 16, when the Kelowna Rockets were booted from the
WHL post-season by the Everett Silvertips.
“We lost, but it was still a good experience,”
Comeau said Sunday from the New York Islanders’ beach
house on the Atlantic Coast.
Twenty-four hours earlier, the Tigers were eliminated
from the Calder Cup playoffs by the
Wilkes-Barre/Scranton Penguins. Led by two former WHLers,
the Penguins defeated Bridgeport 5-4 in Game 7 on home
ice to win the series 4-3.
Wilkes-Barre’s win on Saturday was the only one by the
home team in the series, and all seven games were
decided by one goal, a first in the 70-year history of
the Calder Cup.
“We won all our three games in their building, and
they won their (first) three in our building, so that
was a bit strange.” said Comeau, who was called up by
the Connecticut club 12 hours after Kelowna’s
post-season elimination and just three days before the
Tigers’ playoffs began.
“In Game 7, they got up on us a couple of goals, and
even though we played well, we couldn’t finish.”
In Game 7, former Brandon Wheat King Ryan Stone
(Brandon) and ex-Prince George Cougar Jonathan Filewich
both scored third-period goals for the Pens, who
finished atop the East Division with a stellar record of
51-18-5-6, good for 113 points and third overall
league-wise.
Former Kamloops Blazer sniper Erik Christensen also
plays for the Penguins, who will now face the Hershey
Bears in second-round play beginning Thursday. Comeau,
wearing his familiar No. 14, netted three assists
through seven games for Bridgeport.
“It would have been nice to play more, but it was
still a good experience,” said Comeau. “Wilkes-Barre
was fun to play in; they had crowds between eight and
nine thousand. At Bridgeport, we had about 2,500 a
game.”
Also bigger were the paycheques he received. As a
veteran with the Rockets, the 20-year-old winger took
home around $120 every two weeks. With Bridgeport, the
Tigers paid him $200 a game plus per diems.
“Actually, making the adjustment to the AHL was easier
than I thought it’d be,” said Comeau. “Now we have
some exit meetings with (New York Islanders’) general
manager Mike Milbury on Tuesday and then I’ll be going
home to Kelowna sometime in the week. Now that the
playoffs are over, I’m itching to get back to see
family and friends."
Back
in action
By Doyle Potenteau, Kelowna Daily
Courier-Local - Apr. 23, 2006
Exactly
one week ago, just 12 hours after the Kelowna Rockets
were knocked out of the WHL's 2006 post-season courtesy
of the Everett Silvertips, Comeau received an early
morning phone call from the New York Islanders. The
message: Report to the playoff-bound Bridgeport Sound
Tigers immediately.
"I was pretty disappointed at how our season ended,
losing to Everett," Comeau said from Bridgeport,
Conn., site of the Islanders' AHL farm team. "But
then I get this phone call on Monday and they wanted me
out there for (Bridgeport's first) playoff game on
Thursday. Everything happened was so fast . . .
honestly, I'm surprised that I'm out here.
"I wasn't expecting to be out of the playoffs, then
back in them. Not like this. But to get the call, I'm
pretty excited. It really hasn't sunk in yet, that I'm
here, back in the playoffs, but it's a good feeling. The
Islanders wanted me to join them quick, which shows they
have confidence in me, and that's great to have."
Comeau's turnaround was quick. Almost too quick, in
fact. After that Monday 9 a.m. phone call, Comeau had to
be on a 1 p.m. flight out of Kelowna. In between, he had
to pack some clothes, then grab some gear from the rink.
Also, he had to leave behind his new second-hand Lincoln
Aviator, which he just purchased after having signed a
contract with the Islanders earlier this month. Details
of that contract, including the signing bonus, weren't
released by New York, which selected Comeau 47th overall
(second round) in the NHL's 2004 Entry Draft.
"I left it parked in Kelowna," laughed Comeau,
20. "I got it just before the Kootenay series and
waited to drive it until that series was over to avoid
being distracted. Then the Everett series came quick,
and now this.
"Yeah, I want to drive it, but being in the AHL
now, I'll definitely take the tradeoff to have a vehicle
waiting."
After leaving Kelowna, Comeau arrived in Toronto,
midnight local time, had a short nap, then hopped a 4:30
a.m. flight for New York. He arrived in Bridgeport,
about a 90-minute drive northeast along Long Island
Sound, at 11 a.m., where he just missed practice. Still,
the six-foot-one winger managed a half-hour skate to
"get rid of the rust."
"It wasn't so much physical as it was mental,"
said Comeau. "Even though I had skated and played
Sunday, it was weird, preparing not to play hockey. It
was amazing how good it felt to be back on the ice
again, to be back playing. After Sunday's game, I
thought the season was done. I wasn't aware that I was
coming out here and I was preparing to reminisce with
the guys about the season. Then I get a 9 a.m. phone
call and there's a mad scramble, but I'm happy to be out
here."
The Tigers play out of the Bridgeport Arena, an
8,500-seat venue that Comeau says is slightly larger
than the Everett Events Center. He added that most
players for Bridgeport, being a city located on the
Atlantic Ocean, have homes on the beach.
"It's a nice city, a nice building," said
Comeau, who is playing alongside veteran Rob Collins,
28, and rookie Jeff Tambellini. Comeau is the line's
gritty player, as both Collins, at 5-10, Tambellini, at
5-11, are under six feet.
Keen Rockets fans may remember Tambellini.
The small but talented left winger opted to play U.S.
college hockey instead of traveling the major junior
route and was drafted by the L.A. Kings 27th overall in
2003. This season, after shuttling between L.A. and its
AHL farm team, the Manchester Monarchs, the Kings traded
him on March 8 to New York, where he played 21 games
with the Isles, who failed to make the NHL's postseason.
In between getting drafted and traded, Tambellini played
three seasons with the University of Michigan. And in
early 2004, the Rockets acquired his rights from the
Spokane Chiefs just prior to the roster deadline of Jan.
10, the same season Kelowna played host to the Memorial
Cup. But instead of taking up Kelowna's offer for 2004
and 2004-05, Tambellini chose to stay with Michigan.
Of course, the Rockets went on to win the 2004 Memorial
Cup, the WHL championship in 2005 and a fourth-place
finish at the '05 Memorial Cup. At the same time,
Michigan went on to win back-to-back CCHA regular-season
division titles, but failed to make the national
championship Frozen Four tournament, getting ousted in
the second-round, Elite Eight quarter-finals both times.
In 2004, Michigan failed to win the CCHA playoff title,
losing 4-2 to Ohio State. One year later, Michigan
flipped the tables on OSU, winning 4-2, but was later
ousted in the second round of the NCAA playoffs, 4-3 to
Colorado College.
"Yeah, I'm going to have to razz him about that,
not wanting to report," chortled Comeau. "We
really had two great seasons there . . . but now I'm
here, and there's some familiar faces for me in (defenceman)
Dustin Kohn (Calgary Hitmen, Brandon Wheat Kings), who I
played with the under-18s, and Ryan O'Marra at the
(2006) world juniors.
"It's great knowing guys here because I know
they're going to help me out along the way. I'm nervous,
but I'm a lot less because of the people I know
here."
ICE CHIPS: Bridgeport finished fourth in East Division
standings with a regular-season record of 38-33-6-3.
Finishing first, at 51-18-5-6, were the Wilkes-Barre
Scranton Penguins, whom the Tigers are playing in the
first round of the Calder Cup playoffs. . . . Comeau
said he wasn't worried about playing WSB, as Bridgeport
had several of its top young guns playing with the
Isles, which then sent them down once the NHL's regular
season came to a close. . . . On Thursday, the Tigers
beat the Pens 2-1 in Game 1. On Saturday, Bridgeport won
3-2 and Comeau netted his first AHL point, an assist. .
. . Game 2's stars were all Tigers: goalie Wade
Dubielewicz, who made 41 saves, Tambellini and Collins.
. . . . Game 3 is Sunday at Bridgeport. . . . Former
Prince George Cougars head coach Lane Lambert is an
assistant coach with Bridgeport.
Rockets face uphill
battle to overcome deficit
by Warren
Henderson - kelownacapnews.com - April 14,
2006
Blake
Comeau is all for history repeating itself. Only
this time around, the Kelowna Rockets’ forward would
like to see it happen in reverse.
In 2004, the Everett Silvertips roared back from a
three-games-to-one deficit in the Western Conference
final to beat the Rockets in seven games.
In 2006, the tables have been turned—Kelowna needs
three straight victories over the ‘Tips in the
best-of-seven conference semi-final to avoid extinction
from the Western Hockey League playoff landscape.
“Every guy on the whole team knows it’s
possible…Everett did it to us before, now we’re
going to have to do the same if we want to keep
playing,“ said Comeau, whose Rockets host the
‘Tips tonight in Game 5.
“Obviously we didn’t want to be down 3-1, but
that’s the situation and there’s no quit on this
team. There needs to be desperation on every shift for
the rest of the series.”
While head coach Jeff Truitt doesn’t point the finger
at any of his players for a lack of offensive production
in the series, veterans such as Justin Keller, Blake
Comeau, Tyler Spurgeon and Troy Bodie haven’t
been delivering quite as hoped. The quartet has combined
for just two goals in the first four games, a partial
result of Everett’s stifling defensive style.
Comeau inks 3-year
deal with NY Islanders
by Kevin Parnell - kelownacapnews.com - March 29,
2006
Blake
Comeau had a little housekeeping to take care of
before hitting the ice this weekend in the first round
of the Western Hockey League playoffs.
Comeau, 20, signed a three year NHL contract with
the New York Islanders earlier this week, putting his
name on his first pro hockey contract.
“It was nice to get those papers,” said Comeau,
the 6-foot-1 Meadow Lake, Saskatchewan native.
“They’ve been negotiating for awhile. It’s nice to
get it out of the way. All I have left now is to focus
on the playoffs. The contract is a result of team
success and the help that my teammates gave me.”
Comeau was selected by the Islanders in the
second round (47th overall) of the 2004 NHL entry draft
and was impressive in his first camp with the Isles
prior to returning to Kelowna for this WHL season.
“Blake has developed into a well-rounded player
and an excellent prospect,” New York head amateur
scout Tony Feltrin said on newyorkislanders.com.
“His winning track record of three straight Memorial
Cup appearances including one championship, along with
being a key contributor in Canada’s victory at this
year’s WJC are examples of his dedication and talent. Blake’s
attitude and hockey abilities will serve him well as he
begins his professional career. Islander fans can look
forward to seeing Blake contribute to the
Islanders’ success for many years to come.”
The year has been a hockey player’s dream for Comeau.
An NHL contract, a gold medal with Team Canada at the
World Junior Hockey Championships, and his best ever
year production wise at the major junior level.
“It’s been unbelievable this year,” he said.
“I’m a pretty lucky junior hockey player. It all
starts with the Rockets’ organization. They are a
great organization. Guys get personal success because
the team is so good. It’s such a classy organization.
Everything has been great these last four years.”
With the contract out of the way Comeau turned
his sights to the first round playoff series against
Kootenay, the first two games of which were taking place
this weekend.
“I think it’s going to be a good series,” he said,
“Every game we have played it’s always been a good
battle. Both teams had a week off to rest and recover.
Both teams are familiar with the systems. It’s going
to come down to who can execute.”
Comeau turned 20 this year and is eligible to
return to Major Junior hockey next year as an overage
player. Odds are he will likely end up playing in the
Islanders minor league system.
Whatever happens, when Comeau put his name on the
dotted line this week, he took another step toward the
ultimate dream for every Canadian hockey player: Making
the NHL.
“It feels good,” he said. “Making the NHL is a
long process and there are a lot of steps. This is just
another step. It feels great to know the team you are
drafted by is interested and wants you in their
organization.”
Sound
Tigers weekly - 3/23/06
COMEAU COME-ON? —
The Islanders announced Wednesday they have signed right
winger Blake Comeau, a 2004 second-round pick who's
considered one of the team's bright prospects, to an
entry-level contract. It was a deal that had to get done
before the summer to prevent Comeau, 20, from
re-entering the NHL draft. Comeau's junior team, Kelowna,
opens a WHL playoff series Friday against Kootenay. He
would be eligible to join Bridgeport at the end of the
Rockets' season, if he and the Islanders choose. And if
he doesn't make the Islanders next fall, he will play
for the Sound Tigers.
Q&A with Blake
Comeau
by Glenn Erickson - hockeyfuture.com
February 2, 2006
excerpt:
HF: What kind of
experience have you had with the Islanders so far?
BC: I keep in contact
with their head of player development, Dan Marshall,
usually once every couple of weeks. Last year was my
first camp and I thought I had a good camp. I played in
three exhibition games, one in Boston and two in
Philadelphia. You know, if you come back to junior with
something like that under your belt, it’s obviously
going to boost your confidence and I think that’s when
you’re going to play your best hockey. To see the
speed and what it takes to play at the next level was an
experience that I think has really helped me this year.
Meadow Laker makes
Canada proud
By Theresa
Seraphim - January 15, 2006 - meadowlakeprogress
This year’s World
Junior Hockey Championships were a once-in-a-lifetime
experience for Blake Comeau.
The former Meadow Laker, who now plays for the Kelowna
Rockets of the Western Hockey League, got three goals
and four assists during the tournament to help Team
Canada win the championship January 5 in Vancouver.
Comeau said he was thrilled to be a contributor to the
team’s success.
“It was a pretty big honour to be named to the
team,” he noted.
Winning the gold medal was the 19-year-old forward’s
top highlight of the tournament, but having his parents
watch him play also ranked up there.
“After we won, I got to celebrate with them,” Comeau
noted.
He said the tournament had “a lot faster pace than
what I’m used to”, but the team pulled together.
“We were underdogs right from the very start (but) we
had the best defensive team ever for Canada,” Comeau
commented.
He said he wasn’t surprised Canada faced the Russians
in the final.
“We knew they had a good team.”
Right now, he’s concentrating on his role with the
Rockets and is taking things as they come.
George Comeau said he’s proud of his son’s
accomplishments.
“He had a good tournament,” George noted.
“At that level and with that much hype...it was very
exciting.”
George said the tournament was well-organized and many
of the games were sold out.
“It was a good time and we got the result we
wanted.”
Blake credits the Meadow Lake Minor Hockey program with
providing him with valuable sports experience.
“Obviously if I wasn’t playing minor hockey there, I
wouldn’t be where I am today.”
Local hockey hero returns
Jan. 8, 2006 - By Kevin Parnell Staff
Reporter
kelownacapnews.com
Sixteen hours after
having a gold medal hung around his neck, Blake Comeau
strolled down the walkway at the Kelowna airport as one
of this country’s newest heroes.
Comeau and the rest of his Team Canada teammates
shrugged off any suggestion they were underdogs and
completed a perfect 6-0 run at the 2006 World Junior
Hockey Championship, winning the gold medal with a 5-0
win over Russia Thursday night in Vancouver.
“It hasn’t really sunk in yet,” said Comeau
Friday morning, amidst a sea of media and several fans.
“It’s a great feeling anytime you get to wear the
Canadian jersey. I remember growing up dreaming about
playing in a tournament like this.”
Comeau, a 19-year-old from Meadow Lake, SK,
played a solid tournament, scoring three times and
adding four assists in six games.
He was on the ice during many of the tournaments
critical times and scored goals in both the Canadian
semi-final win over Finland and the gold medal game
against Russia.
“I think we proved a lot of naysayers wrong,” said Comeau
of the Canadian team being considered underdogs.
“We were a confident team. I knew there was going to
be some pretty good games but we just went quietly about
our business which was to get the gold.”
Much of the talk following Canada’s 5-0 win over
Russia centred on a Russian goal in the second period
that went into the Canadian net but wasn’t seen by
officials on or off the ice until it was too late.
If the goal had stood, it would have made the score 2-1
at a time when the Russians were pressing. But the game
continued with Canada up 2-0.
Comeau had a unique view of the play.
“I was on the ice and knew it went in,” he said.
“After they called the ref, I went and asked our coach
if they could call it a goal and he didn’t know so I
was worried. I don’t think it changed the game though.
We played a really good game. ”
Comeau’s gold medal comes a year after former
Kelowna Rocket teammate Shea Weber brought home his gold
medal following Canada win at the junior world
championships in North Dakota.
Kelowna Rockets’ general manager Bruce Hamilton, who
was on the flight home with Comeau, said he was
proud of the way his player handled himself throughout
the event, both on and off the ice.
“I thought he played great,” said Hamilton.
“Most of all we are very proud of him and the way he
handled himself. Every time he was interviewed he was
very professional.
Hamilton said Comeau will be in the Rockets
lineup Saturday night against Vancouver before he takes
some time to go home and rest.
Comeau
Rejoins Rockets
Blake
Comeau and his gold medal arrived in Kelowna Friday.
January 6, 2006
The Kelowna Rocket was instrumental in Canada's gold
medal victory over Russia at the World Junior Hockey
Championship in Vancouver.
Comeau had three goals in the tourney, including one
against the Russians in the final.
"I just tried to deflect it on net because I
didn't have much of an angle. And I got the rebound
and put it in the five hole," says Comeau.
"It was a big booster for our team." Canada
went on to blank the Russians 5-0.
Comeau says the experience of playing with the top
junior players in the country will be a big help if he
goes to the NHL.
"Anytime you can win a championship, the
experience is awesome and you carry that with you for
a long time. I'm not going to forget it."
This isn't Comeau's first gold medal. He won a gold
medal with the Under-18 Team Canada in 2003 at the
IIHF Under-18 Hockey Championship.
Comeau will be rejoining the Kelowna Rockets on
Saturday when they face the Vancouver Giants.
Comeau selected for
junior team
By Theresa
Seraphim - December 25, 2005 - meadowlakeprogress
A Meadow Laker has
been selected for the Canadian Junior hockey team which
will compete in the World Junior hockey championships
later this month.
Blake Comeau, 19, is in Vancouver with his teammates to
face Finland in their first match, scheduled for Boxing
Day. The team already played an exhibition match against
the Czech Republic December 20.
Comeau’s father George said Blake has been on a long
road to get to this point.
Blake began skating at age 3 or 4, then took skating
lessons before getting into minor hockey.
“He’s got a passion for the game,” said George.
“A lot of kids have a dream to play for their country
in a national junior team. It’s finally coming true
(for Blake).
“He’s pretty excited to realize his dream of playing
for Canada.”
George said the family will go to Vancouver to watch
Blake play.
“It’s a chance of a lifetime,” he explained.
“Being on home soil - it’s fantastic.”
Blake Comeau is grateful that his family is able to go
see the tournament.
“My dad and I used to watch this tournament over the
holidays and it’s something that was his dream as
well. I think that he takes a lot of pride in the fact
that I’m playing for Team Canada.”
Blake said the team was hoping to do well in the
tournament.
“During the tournament I just want to go out there,
work hard and play hard. (Coach) Brent Sutter said that
he chooses players who are going to be out there and
competitive, so it feels good that he thinks I am a
go-getter.”
Blake, who currently plays for the Kelowna (B.C.)
Rockets, is also grateful for what this town provided
for him with hockey.l
“I owe a lot to Meadow Lake minor hockey for the
skills that they taught me and the awesome league they
offer. If it wasn’t for Meadow Lake minor hockey, I
wouldn’t be where I am today.”
Hometown support is another thing Blake is thankful for.
“I hope to make my hometown proud. You never forget
your roots and where you came from.”
-with files from Kathy Gallant
Comeau
Ready To Lead
December 22, 2005
He is
an assistant captain with the Kelowna Rockets, and now
Blake Comeau is being asked to fill the same role with
Team Canada.
The 19-year-old forward will share the assistant
captain's role on a rotating basis with returnee Cam
Barker, Vancouver Canucks draft choice Luc Bourdon and
David Bolland. Prince Albert Raiders forward Kyle
Chipchura was named team captain.
Comeau says it was an honour to be given the
leadership responsibility.
"Everybody is a leader on their respective club
team---almost every player wears either a
"C" or an "A" on their team. To
have the coaching staff have that confidence in me,
it's something I take great pride in," says
Comeau.
While many players on the team have some international
experience, only Barker has felt the spotlight on this
stage before, earning a gold medal in last year's
tournament.
Comeau says guys don't realize how big this tournament
is until they are a part of it and pull on the
uniform.
"Every channel you turn to, there's something on
it. The pressure is there, not only from the country,
but from within the dressing room."
While Comeau didn't make an impact on the scoresheet,
he did provide a physical presence, especially with a
thunderous body check in the opening period that
brought the Prospera Place crowd to their feet.
"That's what I like to do, play physical. I think
it gives me that much more energy and I'm playing my
best when I'm physical. I thought I did a good job of
that."
Comeau and the rest of Team Canada play their final
tune-up game against Russia tonight in Kamloops before
opening up the tournament on Boxing Day in Vancouver
against Finland.
‘Special’
time for Comeau
By Doyle Potenteau
Monday, December 19, 2005
Blake
Comeau is sleeping a lot easier these nights, knowing a
goal he’s been dreaming of for years will soon be
realized. In seven sleeps, to be exact.
“To be part of the world junior tournament is
special,” Comeau said of the 11-day tournament that
begins a week from today on Dec. 26, when Canada opens
against Finland in Vancouver.
But before that Boxing Day matchup, Comeau and the baby
Nats will play two exhibition games — Tuesday in
Kelowna against the Czech Republic and Thursday in
Kamloops against Russia.
“To play for Canada is something more special,” said
the six-foot-two winger.
“And to have it in the Okanagan, to play an exhibition
game in front of the city and fans and (Rockets)
organization I’ve been playing my whole career for,
that’s something pretty special. It’s something
I’ve been looking forward to for quite some time.”
Central Okanagan hockey fans are also looking forward to
seeing Canada and Comeau play on Tuesday. That is,
judging from Friday’s fan reaction in the Rockets’
5-2 win over Portland in Kelowna. Just prior to the
contest, when the game scratches were announced, Comeau
and teammate Alexander Edler were given a rousing cheer
by the Prospera Place faithful for having made
Canada’s and Sweden’s national teams.
En route from Vancouver to Chase on Friday after
Canada’s roster was announced, Comeau wasn’t there
to acknowledge the support. He did via cellphone though,
saying it was much appreciated. And he hopes to show his
appreciation by playing well Tuesday against the Czechs,
a team chock-full of CHLers, such as Regina Pats sniper
Petr Kalus, one of the WHL’s most exciting forwards.
“It’s obvious those (guys) who play in the CHL, they
won’t shy away from physical play, especially the guys
who play out west,” said Comeau “These exhibition
games are important because we can learn from them. The
games start counting from Boxing Day, but we want to win
these games.
“We want to get better every day. We’re not building
for the medal round, but for the first round and every
game after.”
On Thursday night, prior to head coach Brent Sutter
announcing Team Canada’s final roster Friday morning,
Comeau said he’d have a restless night by renting
movies. And, for the most part, he did.
“We were all pretty nervous,” Comeau recalled. “I
didn’t end up renting any movies. I wound up going
back to the (hotel) room with my roommate (forward)
Michael Blunden (Erie Otters, OHL) and watching movies
on TV until pretty late.
“We were tired but we didn’t want to sleep. We’d
be pretty close to sleeping, then we’d ask each other
about being asleep yet. We’d say no, so we’d turn
the TV back on. We finally shut it down around 1 a.m.”
Rockets
blank Blazers as WJC hopefuls face off
By Doyle Potenteau
Sunday, December 11, 2005, 12:00 AM
KELOWNA
— It took 48 minutes and 30 seconds, but Blake Comeau
finally got the better of Devan Dubnyk on Saturday.
Riding a wave of power plays in the third period — 10
to be exact, and cashing in on three of them — the
Kelowna Rockets blanked the Kamloops Blazers 4-0 in
Western Hockey League action Saturday night at Prospera
Place.
Comeau got into the scoring spree by firing a power-play
bullet past Dubnyk. But today, any rivalries that exist
between Comeau and Dubnyk have been shelved. At least
temporarily.
Both leave their respective communities today for
Vancouver to attend Team Canada’s final
selection camp for the upcoming 2006 world junior hockey
championship.
“There’s always a rivalry between us and Kamloops,”
said Comeau, whose 12th goal of the season made it 3-0.
Comeau’s marker, and Kelowna’s 46th shot of the
night, also got Dubnyk — by far the game’s best
player — yanked from the game. Had it not been for the
rangy six-foot-six netminder, Saturday’s score would
have been much higher.
“He’s a good goaltender, and that’s why he’s
been invited to the world juniors,” Comeau said.
“He’s one of the top goaltenders in junior hockey
and he proved it again tonight. I played under-18 with
him and been with him at (world-junior) camps. He’s
impressed me every time I’ve seen him play and played
against him.
”Dubnyk’s thoughts are now focused on making Team
Canada.
“It’s a short camp and you have to go into it
flying,” said Dubnyk. “(Comeau) is a real good
hockey player. So are (Justin) Keller and (Troy) Bodie.
I see them around, and it’s pretty easy to put (the
rivalry) away. I have a lot of respect for those guys on
the ice. It’s fun to play against them, and yes, there
is a rivalry, but it’s easy to put away.”
special teams in hockey are huge now and our power play
clicked, which was good for us.”
After Darzins’ goal at 3:41, Comeau made it 3-0 at
11:30, then Ofukany closed out the scoring at 14:51. All
of Kelowna’s third-period goals came on the power
play.
Comeau
receives invite
By Doyle Potenteau
Tuesday, December 6, 2005
Brent
Sutter is keeping true to his word, much to Blake
Comeau’s delight.
Three weeks ago in this newspaper, Sutter, head coach of
Canada’s national junior team, said “we’re
counting on (Comeau) to be a very good player for us
come Christmas-time.”
On Monday, the six-foot-one winger for the Kelowna
Rockets was one of 34 players named to the national
junior team’s final selection camp that starts Sunday
in Vancouver.
“When you read comments like that from the head coach,
it’s definitely a good feeling,” Comeau said on
being one step closer to representing Canada at the 2006
world junior hockey championship.
Team Canada’s 22-man roster will be announced Dec. 16
in Vancouver, with the world junior tournament starting
Dec. 26 on three different fronts; Vancouver, Kelowna
and Kamloops.
“But there’s always that chance a guy might not make
it,” continued Comeau, 19. “So, first of all, I’m
honoured I did make the (final) camp. I’m done yet,
though, because there’s a team to be made.”
Not only was Comeau’s selection not surprising, but
also as expected were the large number defencemen chosen
from the WHL. Of the 12 rearguards invited, six are from
the West, including the team’s only returnee from last
season, Cam Barker of the Medicine Hat Tigers.
There should have been seven, but, strangely, hulking
Vancouver Giants blue-liner and captain Mark Fistric
wasn’t issued a final-camp invite.
“If there are 12 guys better than Mark Fistric, I
don’t see how we wouldn’t win a gold medal for
sure,” Giants owner Ron Toigo told The Province. “If
there are 12 guys better than Mark Fistric, we’ve got
the best defence in the world by a mile. I can’t think
of two guys better than him right now.”
Up front, only four WHLers were issued invites; Comeau,
Dustin Boyd (Moose Jaw Warriors), Kyle Chipchura (Prince
Albert Raiders) and Devin Setoguchi (Saskatoon Blades).
“That was the case last year too,” said Comeau, who
woke up at 5:15 a.m. Monday morning to a 7:45 a.m.
flight to attend Hockey Canada’s press conference in
Vancouver.
“There’s a lot of WHL defencemen, which goes to show
how good our league is defensively and what type of
players we bring out of our league.
“The other leagues, they have good scorers, so it’s
the same story it has been in previous seasons. But the
guys coming out of the WHL are all pretty
competitive.”
Nov 30 2005
Rocket trio ready for the Russians
By
Warren Henderson Staff Reporter, kelownacapnews.com
As much as it will be a homecoming for Blake Comeau,
the Canada-Russia Challenge in Saskatchewan this week
will have more to do with making a lasting impression.
The rugged Kelowna Rockets forward hopes to consolidate
his case for a spot on Canada's national junior squad as
Team WHL battles Russia tonight in Saskatoon and again
on Thursday in Regina.
National junior head coach Brent Sutter, who will also
be coaching Team WHL, will have one more chance to
evaluate his western talent pool before the start of
Team Canada's selection camp next month in Vancouver.
"Most of the guys go in there knowing it's a
preliminary tryout," said Comeau, 19, a
native of Meadow Lake, Sask., who already has an
invitation to the final camp beginning Dec. 10.
"You need to go in there and make the best of the
opportunity.
"They're going to be looking at how guys play and
whether guys can bring it every night.
"It's another important step along the way."
Comeau is one of three Rockets who will wear Team
WHL colours this week on the Prairies; forward Justin
Keller will dress for both games, while stopper Derek
Yeomans will split the goaltending duties with Calgary's
Justin Pogge for the matchup in Regina.
Keller, who will serve as an assistant captain along
with Comeau for tonight's game, is looking
forward to his first sample of international
competition.
"It's going to be fun to play with and against a
lot of these guys for the first time," said Keller,
who leads the Rockets with 18 goals this season.
"I don't think you need to put too much pressure on
yourself, just go out there and showcase your skills and
enjoy it."
While Keller-a 2004 draft pick of the Tampa Bay
Lightning-will only be showcasing his talent for one NHL
club, Yeomans will be playing to a much broader
audience.
The St. Albert, Alta., native was passed over in the
last two NHL entry drafts, despite having posted some
solid numbers including a 1.83 goals against average
last season.
Still, Yeomans isn't about to heap too many expectations
on his own shoulders.
"I'm just glad I've been asked to be there,"
said Yeomans, who has a .925 save percentage and a
11-3-0-1 record this season.
"Obviously I want to do well and do the best I can,
and maybe catch the interest of some teams."
Meanwhile, Comeau will wear the C on his jersey
for Team WHL on Thursday in Regina, his first assignment
as a team captain since bantam AA hockey in Saskatchewan
five seasons ago.
"It's pretty amazing-I'm a bit overwhelmed they've
asked to me to wear it," added Comeau.
"It'll be nice to get to wear it in front of family
and friends."
Comeau
awarded WHL captaincy
By Doyle Potenteau
November 26, 2005 - Kelowna Daily Courier-Local
KELOWNA
— Blake Comeau will have his letter upgraded next
month, from A to C.
“I’ve been a captain before, but it’s been a long,
long time. My last year bantam, actually,” said Comeau,
the
Kelowna Rockets assistant captain who will lead one of
two WHL all-star teams for the 2005 ADT Canada-Russia
Challenge Series in Saskatoon and Regina next week.
Kyle Chipchura of the Prince Albert Raiders will captain
the WHL’s first entry on Nov. 30 in Saskatoon, while
Comeau, the Rockets’ leading scorer, will lead the
WHL’s second entry in Regina on Dec. 1.
In all, 35 WHLers, including a trio of Rockets in Comeau,
winger Justin Keller of Summerland and goaltender Derek
Yeomans, will compete in the two-game series against the
touring Russians, who are currently halfway through
their six-game CHL trek of Canada. The Europeans went
0-2 against the QMJHL and are 0-1 against the OHL, with
the series’ fourth game to take place Monday.
Comeau and Keller will play in both games, while Yeomans
will split netminding duties in Regina with Calgary
Hitmen ’stopper Justin Pogge of Penticton.
Another Okanagan tie to the two-game series is Brady
Calla of Kelowna. The Everett Silvertips winger will
play in Regina.
For Comeau, captaining Saskatoon would have been nicer,
since he’s from Meadow Lake, located 90 minutes
northwest. But Regina is still fine, he notes.
“It’d be a nice switch because all my friends and
family would go to the game,” said Comeau, who will be
an assistant captain in Saskatoon, along with Keller and
Dustin Boyd of the Moose Jaw Warriors.
In Regina, Comeau’s assistants will be Chipchura, Boyd
and Medicine Hat Tigers defenceman Cam Barker.
All of them are 19 years old.
“But I don’t think they’ll be going to Regina,”
continued Comeau. “Still, to be honoured with
something like that, it’s amazing . . . it’s a
pretty special feeling. To be named captain, it’s
pretty special and it wouldn’t have happened without
the help of my teammates.
“It’s a huge honour, and something like this has
never happened to me before. I’ve had a pretty
successful junior career, going to the Memorial Cup
three times with the team, but this, this is pretty
amazing and it makes you feel pretty good about
yourself.”
Today, Comeau, Keller and Yeomans aren’t concentrating
on next week’s series. Rather, they’re focused on
the Regina Pats and tonight’s 7 p.m. tilt against the
East Division franchise.
It’s the second and final meeting of the season
between Kelowna (16-7-1-1) and Regina (15-11-0-0), with
the Rockets having bested the Pats 6-4 on Oct. 7 in
Regina.
Kelowna held a 4-0 lead in that contest before the Pats
rallied by scoring three unanswered goals to make things
interesting.
The Rockets enter tonight’s tilt with two days’ rest
following a 5-2 victory over the visiting Medicine Hat
Tigers on Wednesday. For the Pats, it’s game seven of
a seven-game Western Conference road trip. On Friday,
the Pats were in Vancouver to play the Giants.
WHL THIS WEEK -
News Edition
By
Jesse Watts 11/24/2005
COMEAU, ROCKETS AIM FOR PIECE OF MAJOR JUNIOR HISTORY
- Blake Comeau might not be considered a Western Hockey
League superstar.
He doesn't receive the attention that high-profile
players such as Dion Phaneuf, Gilbert Brule, or Ryan
Getzlaf garnered during their time in the WHL.
Yet, the 19-year-old winger from Meadow Lake, SK, has
quietly carved out a truly impressive WHL career that
surely would draw the envy of any Major Junior hockey
player.
Comeau, in his fourth WHL campaign, has enjoyed a level
of success with the Kelowna Rockets that very few Major
Junior hockey players experience. In his first three WHL
seasons, he's twice hoisted the President's Trophy as a
WHL champion - in 2003 and 2005 - and he's made three
consecutive trips to the Memorial Cup, including winning
the storied trophy in front of a home crowd when the
Rockets hosted the tournament in 2004.
Now, Comeau and the Rockets have a chance to do
something very special, something accomplished only once
before in the history of Major Junior hockey - make a
fourth consecutive appearance at the CHL's championship
tournament.
"I think it's a really important thing for the
team," said Comeau about the possibility to, once
again, head to the Memorial Cup. "I think it's a
fact that this organization takes a lot of pride in what
we do, and we want to continue that success.
"I think every player's goal is to win a league
championship and go to the Memorial Cup, but the fact
that we've been there the last three years and we have
the opportunity to do it a fourth time is pretty
special," he said.
So far, the Rockets are off to a good start to the
2005-06 season. The team is currently eight games over
.500 and battling for the B.C. Division lead.
"I think we've gotten off to a pretty good
start," said Comeau, whose team returns 18 players
from last season's WHL championship roster. "We've
kind of leveled off a bit, but the beginning of the
season is always a bit of a learning curve.
"What we want to do is get better every day at the
start of the season, because when it comes around to
playoff time, you want to be peaking, and the mistakes
that happen early on are the ones you don't want to be
making in the playoffs," said Comeau, who has 60
post-season contests under his belt after three
campaigns.
Yet, as Comeau well knows, it will be a very tough
battle for the Rockets if they want to repeat as WHL
champs and earn their spot in the Memorial Cup -
especially considering the team is playing in, quite
possibly, the league's toughest division.
"It's very tough competition," said Comeau
regarding the ultra-tight B.C. Division. "Every
team is above .500 in the division, so we know we can't
take any nights off and we have to compete every night.
"Also, with us being the defending champs, lots of
teams will be gunning for us trying to prove they can
beat the champions," said the New York Islanders
prospect.
While the Rockets have the luxury of returning many of
the faces that have helped them be so successful in the
past few years, they did lose several valuable players
from last year's team like Shea Weber, Brett Palin, and
Tyler Mosienko. Therefore, it's been up to players like
Comeau, Justin Keller, and Troy Bodie to step in a fill
the holes not only offensively and defensively, but also
in terms of leadership.
Comeau, who attended the Islanders training camp in
September and Hockey Canada's national junior team
summer development camp, has performed admirably so far
with his increased responsibilities. The swift-skating
forward has become an offensive catalyst for the
Rockets, and has also earned and "A" on his
sweater as one of the Rockets' veteran leaders.
"I feel I've had a good start to the season,"
said Comeau, who will suit up for Team WHL at the
upcoming ADT Canada-Russia Challenge. "One thing I
wanted to get better at this year was being more
consistent day-to-day, and not have a those up-and-down
stretches.
"Coming back this year as one of the older guys, I
really wanted to put up some points, and I really wanted
to be a leader both on and off the ice, and I think my
experience this summer at the World Junior camp and at
NHL camp was a real confidence-booster.
"When you come into the season with tons of
confidence, that's when you're going to be playing your
best hockey," said Comeau.
While individual success and recognition is something
that every player dreams about at one time or another,
it's winning as a team that give most players the
biggest sense of satisfaction. Comeau certainly know a
thing or two about team success, and it is his goal to
taste that success with the Rockets one more time.
Chipchura and Comeau
Named WHL Captains
11/25/05
Calgary, AB – The
Western Hockey League today announced that Kyle
Chipchura of the Prince Albert Raiders and Blake
Comeau of the Kelowna Rockets have been named
captains of TEAM WHL for the 2005 ADT Canada Russia
Challenge Series.
Chipcura, a 19-year
old from Vimy, Alberta who has played four seasons in
the WHL, all with the Prince Albert Raiders will be
captain for the game in Saskatoon on November 30 while
19 year old Blake Comeau from Meadow Lake,
Saskatchewan who has also played four seasons in the WHL,
all with the Kelowna Rockets, will be captain in Regina.
The assistant captains
for TEAM WHL in
Saskatoon will be Blake Comeau, 19-year old
forward Dustin Boyd of the Moose Jaw Warriors from
Winnipeg, Manitoba and 19-year old forward Justin Keller
of the Kelowna Rockets from Summerland, British
Columbia. The assistant captains for TEAM
WHL in Regina will be
Kyle Chipchura, Dustin Boyd and 19-year old defenceman
Cam Barker of the Medicine Hat Tigers from Winnipeg,
Manitoba.
Blake
Comeau: "It's been awesome."
by Tina Comeau
The Vanguard, September 20, 2005
It's one thing to be a
prospect at a National Hockey League training camp. It's
quite another to be sandwiched between the likes of
Alexei Yashin and Miroslav Satan.
“That's an awesome experience in itself,” said
19-year-old Blake Comeau who found himself in this
enviable position during last week's New York Islanders
training camp in Yarmouth when he was assigned to Team C
during the morning workouts, and placed on the Yashin-Satan
line for Friday's night's inter-squad game.
Comeau - selected by the New York Islanders in Round 2
during the 2004 entry draft - said the camp was pretty
much what he expected it would be.
“I thought the ice in rookie camp in New York was
easier than here but that's to be expected,” said
Comeau. “They want to get the guys who have been off
for a year back in shape.”
Comeau's visit to Yarmouth with the Islanders was also
unique in that he has family ties to the area. His
father George lived in Weymouth before moving to
Saskatchewan, where Comeau was born, and the forward
still has family in Yarmouth and Digby counties.
Comeau - described as an extremely hard-working player
during his shifts with good offensive instincts, smart
puck-handling skills and not one to shy away from a
physical game - has spent the past few years playing
with the Kelowna Rockets in the Western Hockey League.
Aside from his season stats, his successes have included
trips to the Memorial Club, - including the 2004
championship - being selected to play for the 2003 U-18
Team Canada and going to this year's World Juniors camp.
“Hopefully I'll have a good start to the year and be
invited back,” he said about the juniors.
Sitting down for an interview on board the Cat last
Wednesday - one of the off-ice activities held as part
of the team chemistry-building portion of the camp - you
can't help but be struck by how mature and grounded he
comes off. Still his youthfulness sneaks in with his
repetitive use of the adjective 'awesome' to describe
his experience in Yarmouth.
Asked about what it takes to get here ¬- 'here' being a
shot at the NHL - Comeau says, “I think the biggest
thing is the off-ice training and a healthy diet.
There's a lot of people that have the right skill and a
lot of things going for them but they don't take care of
themselves off the ice. When you put that together with
work ethic and skill and it's all going to come
together.”
Having almost reached
the midway point of the camp, Comeau said he'd love to
spend this season in an Islanders jersey. If not he'll
go back to Kelowna to continue playing in junior,
pointing out he's too young to play AHL in Bridgeport.
“I wouldn't be too
disappointed because it's a great situation there but my
main goal right now is to try and stay in New York,”
he says, admitting the entire experience has been
overwhelming.
“Four years ago I was playing midget in Saskatoon and
never thought this day would come and I look back on it
now and all the hard work has paid off,” he said.
“You get here and you see all these guys you've
watched on TV all the time but once you get to know them
they're all good guys. They put their pants on one leg
at a time like everyone else.”
Comeau
Leads Rockets’ Returnees As Camp Opens
by Dana Soleski - August 31, 2005 -
KelownaRockets.com
It
seems like just yesterday that Blake Comeau was making a
good impression at his first Rockets’ training camp.
But
three eventful WHL seasons have passed since then and
now the New York Islanders’ burgeoning prospect
represents a standard against which future hopefuls will
be measured. With the Rockets’ main camp underway this
week, there is no shortage of lofty expectations for the
6’1” 205 pound power forward.
“This
should be a breakout year for Blake,” says Rockets’
President and General Manager, Bruce Hamilton. “We
expect him to have an impact each and every game. This
will be his fourth year in the league and it’s his
time to take that responsibility. Consistency is the key
for him – it’s something he’s lacked at times but
something he’ll need to have if he wants to play in
the NHL or in the World Juniors.”
Aside
from his play, the high esteem that Comeau is held in
the eyes of the NHL and Canada’s World Junior talent
evaluators is a major reason for the enthusiasm and
promise that engulfs the former second round WHL and NHL
draft pick. In fact, a good portion of his summer has
been spent under the watchful eyes of both.
After
a short 7-day respite following the Memorial Cup, Blake
journeyed to New York and a 2-week orientation camp
along with 15 other top-end Islanders’ prospects. He
then spent several days in August performing at Team
Canada’s summer evaluation camp held in Whistler and
Vancouver. Life on hockey’s frozen ‘river of
dreams’ has made this offseason a blurr for Blake.
“The
Islanders orientation camp was great,” he says.
“There were 16 of us and we stayed in two mansions on
Long Island. I stayed in a mansion that used to be owned
by Billy Joel – it was featured in his ‘Glass
Houses’ album. There were some WHL players (Steve
Regier, Cody Blanshan, Jeremy Colliton) at the camp and
also guys from the OHL, QMJHL and the AHL.”
“We
skated and worked out each morning. We had lunch at the
rink each day and then we’d spend the afternoon sight
seeing and hanging out. Each evening, we got to go out
for a big supper at a restaurant. There wasn’t much
evaluation going on. The Islanders want us all to come
to the camp for 3 or 4 years – to get to know guys who
might be future teammates,” he continues. “We also
met Mike Milbury and the Coaching Staff for the first
time.”
And,
like most first time visitors to North America’s
largest city, Blake has an interesting New York
‘tale’ to tell.
“I
landed at La Guardia Airport and a guy from the
Islanders’ training staff was supposed to pick me
up,” he explains. “Turns out I was waiting in the
wrong spot – I sat outside for an hour before he
finally found me! Coming from a small town of 5,000
people, it was quite a feeling seeing the city for the
first time.”
Although
the junior camp was in more familiar surroundings, it
was no less eventful. Blake played on a line with
Vancouver Giants’ star Gilbert Brule, who was his
roommate in camp. The swanky Westin Resort Spa provided
accommodations for the team in Whistler while a
post-camp golf tournament united the junior hopefuls
with Canada’s men’s Olympic team.
“I’m
really pleased with how the camp went,” he says. “I
worked out hard getting ready (with NHL’ers Dean
McAmmond and David Oliver in Vernon) I wanted to get off
to a good start and make a good impression. I scored 3
goals in 3 intrasquad games and I thought I left on a
good note. Now it’s a matter of getting off to a good
start here in Kelowna so that I have a chance to make
the final roster.”
“As
one of the older guys, I know I’m going to be counted
on for big offensive numbers and leadership with the
Rockets this year,” continues Blake who roomed with
Shea Weber and Troy Bodie in Kelowna when he wasn’t
cavorting around this summer. “I’m really excited
about our team this year. We have lots of depth. It’s
good seeing the guys again and we’re all looking
forward to the season.”
Comeau
Gets WJHC Invite
June 9, 2005
Kelowna
Rockets forward Blake Comeau is one of 44 players
invited to Canada's world junior hockey team summer
evaluation camp in Whistler.
Comeau is the only member of the reigning Western Hockey
League championship team to be invited to the camp,
which runs August 10-15.
Comeau had 24 goals and 23 assists during the regular
season, and added 9 goals and 12 assists during the
playoffs and Memorial Cup.
2004-05 Update:
Blake Comeau had his
best offensive output this past season, putting up 47
points, including 24 goals, in 65 games played. He
finished the regular season fifth on the Rockets in
scoring, but his importance does not seem to be measured
in his regular season stats. Blake is a gritty heat and
soul type player who seems to step his game up another
level whenever the playoffs come around. That was
especially evident when Comeau put up a goal and three
assists in Game 3 of the WHL Conference Semifinals, a
4-1 win over the Kootenay Ice. Blake is currently third
on the Rockets in playoff scoring with 6 goals and 16
points in 23 games played. The Rockets are looking to
win the WHL Championship for the second straight year as
they face Brandon in the Finals. Comeau is the type of
player the Islanders could really use during playoff
time and he should definitely be signed to an NHL
contract when the time arrives.
Blake Comeau Voted Onto the Island
By Dana Soleski - July 13, 2004
KelownaRockets.com
With 2 Memorial Cup appearances and one Championship in
his first 2 WHL seasons, Blake Comeau is surely leading
a charmed life. On NHL draft day, June 26th, his resume
got even more impressive as he became the 6th highest
drafted player in Rockets' history when he was nabbed in
the second round, 47th overall by the New York Islanders
who rode a roster of tough WHL'ers to 4 consecutive
Stanley Cups in the 1980's.
When Blake learned he'd been drafted, the announcement
interrupted a conversation he was having with friend
Sidney Crosby. Sitting in the stands at the RBC Centre
in Raleigh-Durham, North Carolina along with his family,
Blake was busy catching up with the man who'll likely be
the top pick in next year's draft and who was Blake's
teammate with Team Canada at the 2003 World Under-18
Championships.
"At that point in the draft, I wasn't paying too
much attention," recalled Blake recently from
Vancouver where he will spend a good portion of this
summer while on an ambitious workout regime. "I was
just talking to my buddy when all of the sudden I heard
my name called. I looked at my parents in amazement - it
was a very pleasant surprise."
"Heading into the draft, the Islanders weren't one
of the teams I thought were interested in me based on
what my agent told me and on the interviews I'd had with
the clubs. Toronto told me they were very interested.
They didn't have a pick until the 3rd round but told me
they were crossing their fingers that I'd still be
there. I also heard that teams like Boston, Detroit and
Colorado were interested."
In the final Central Scouting Bureau rankings, Comeau
was listed as the 63rd best North American prospect - a
positioning that was expected to result in a 3rd or 4th
round selection. Five WHL forwards were ranked higher
yet only 2 ended up being drafted ahead of him. Despite
a 10-goal season, Blake's excellent all-round,
team-oriented game and knack for victory were enticing
to the pros. Furthermore, his size (6'1.5", 198
lbs.), outstanding skating skills and grit make him an
imposing package in the offensive end where his best
hockey has yet to be played.
"The Islanders told me they want me to work on my
offensive game and get more confident with the
puck," said Blake who enjoyed an extended stay in
the Carolinas with his parents, sister, Aunt and cousin
following the draft. "They know I didn't put up
offensive numbers last year but our team didn't play a
wide open style."
A couple of weeks before the draft, the world's best
prospects assembled at a 3-day evaluation camp in
Toronto where extensive interviews and fitness testing
can definitely sway teams impressions dramatically.
Blake alone attended 19 interviews in one day and
apparently aced the Islanders' detailed personality
test.
"Most teams asked the same type of questions like
'what type of player are you and what do you think you
can bring to the team.' A couple gave personality tests.
The Islanders' test was 150 questions long. They also
asked me what I would want if I could have 3 wishes. I
told them that I wanted to play in the NHL, I wanted to
win a Stanley Cup and I wanted to pay off my parents'
debt. After the draft they told me I scored well on the
personality test so that may have influenced them in
picking me."
"I'm not surprised at how high Blake got
drafted," said Rockets' Director of Player
Personnel, Lorne Frey. "Mentally, things get away
from him at times but he's a big, talented guy. He can
really skate and he's also tough - really tough."
"We're pleased for Blake," said President and
GM Bruce Hamilton. "It's a very deserving honor for
him."
|
Isles Select RW Blake Comeau
47th |
| The Islanders
finally draft a North American player when they selected right wing
Blake Comeau with the 47th pick overall. Comeau was a key member of
the 2004 Memorial Cup Winning Kelowna Rockets of the WHL. Back in
January Comeau helped Team Cherry win the NHL Top Prospects game 9-3
over Team Orr by recording a record tying 4 point game.(one goal,
three assists) The Isles continue to focus on character. Comeau does
not put up big numbers but scores at opportune times when the games
on the line. |
Central Scouting Bureau: Blake Comeau
Is a good strong skater with adequate speed....maintains his balance even when being checked by
opponents....makes smart decisions with the puck, rarely forcing the play....although he didn't score many goals, those he did get were often at important times of the game....is very aware of his responsibilities when on the ice....makes good plays getting the puck out of his zone....is a very smart two-way player who is used to protecting a lead....will finish his checks with authority....battles hard in the corners and in front of the net....uses his body well to protect the puck....not afraid to take a hit to make a play....will sacrifice his body to block shots....is persistent when being the first man checking.
Isles Scouts: "This kid is a
coach's dream," said Western Canada scout Harkie Singh. "He
brings a lot of character and passion to the table.
"He's a winner, plain and
simple," said Singh. "He's been a part of teams that have
accomplished a heck of a lot in the last few years. And he's played a part
in that."
"He's going to be a leader on his
team next year," said Singh. "He's a two-way player who does all
of the little things. His best asset is his ability to go into the corner
or fight along the boards and win the puck. That's something that is very
hard to teach or acquire."
"When you look at the type of young
players that we have in the system – Bruno Gervais, Jeremy Colliton,
Ryan Caldwell and others that we have that are superb citizens who can
play the game – Comeau is going to fit right in with them."
from forecaster.ca:
Preview: Blake Comeau, RW,
Kelowna Rockets (WHL) Was a member of the 2004 Memorial Cup champion
Kelowna Rockets, but went pointless in the tournament (4 GP, 0-0-0, even,
6 PIM). Is not shy about throwing his body around, and works extremely
hard every time he steps onto the ice. Finished third on the Rockets with
123 penalty minutes in 2003-04. Works the corners well and is a
responsible two-way player at both ends of the ice. Projects to be either
a third-line checker or energy-line worker at the NHL level. Doesn't have
great hands or a huge offensive upside. Played in the 2004 CHL top
prospects game.
Scouting Report: Was a member of
the 2004 Memorial Cup champion Kelowna Rockets, but went pointless in the
tournament (4 GP, 0-0-0, even, 6 PIM). Is not shy about throwing his body
around, and works extremely hard every time he steps onto the ice.
Finished third on the Rockets with 123 penalty minutes in 2003-04. Works
the corners well and is a responsible two-way player at both ends of the
ice. Projects to be either a third-line checker or energy-line worker at
the NHL level. Doesn't have great hands or a huge offensive upside. Played
in the 2004 CHL top prospects game.
Impact: After selecting Petteri Nokelainen in the first round, the
Isles again went for grit and two-way ability with the acquisition of
Comeau. So far, Isles GM Mike Milbury has surprised the hockey
establishment by being somewhat conservative in his draft approach. That
could change at any moment.
Kelowna Rockets Press Release: Jun
26, 2004
From Kelownrockets.com
NEW YORK
ISLANDERS DRAFT COMEAU
Kelowna, BC – The Kelowna Rockets are thrilled to announce that forward Blake Comeau has been selected 47th overall by the New York Islanders of the National Hockey League.
Blake has spent two seasons with the Rockets collecting over 10 goals, 23 assists and 123 penalty minutes this past season. Comeau was drafted in the 2nd round of today’s NHL Entry Draft in Raleigh, North Carolina.
Comeau drafted 47th
By Anthony Charron
Progress Staff, Meadowlakeprogress.com:
July 3, 2004
Meadow Lake Progress — Meadow
Lake’s Blake Comeau was elated and a little surprised after being
selected 47th overall by the New York Islanders in the 2004 NHL entry
draft June 26.
“I set my goal to be drafted on the first day and when I ended up going
early in the second round it was exciting. My whole family was pretty
stunned when they called my name,” said Comeau.
The 18-year-old winger has had quite a year. First playing on the Memorial
Cup winning Kelowna Rockets and now earning a chance to take his skills to
the next level in the NHL.
Meadow Lake played an important role in shaping the 6 foot 1 inch, 200
pound prospect. “I grew up there and played my whole minor hockey there
so it (the town) was definitely a big part of it.” he said.
Comeau said he looks forward to the chance to skate with the Islanders.
“They have a few players that that it would be really neat to play with
like Mike Peca, Alexei Yashin and I think it will be really cool to shoot
on their first overall pick (goalie) Rick Dipietro.”
He hopes to attend an Islanders camp this summer but due to a possible
lock out is not sure if one will take place. “I want to go to camp this
year and set a good first example and I guess take it from there,” he
said.
Comeau will spend the summer training in Kelowna and Vancouver but plans
to return to Meadow Lake sometime in July to visit friends and family.
When asked what he hoped for in the next couple of years Comeau replied
that he will likely suit up for the Rockets again this fall “my goal for
the next year is win the Memorial Cup and after that we’ll have to
see.”
Four Rockets chosen at NHL draft
By Warren Henderson, staff reporter
from kelownacapnews.com
Blake Comeau was fully
prepared to wait all day Saturday to hear his name
called.
Instead, the NHL Entry
Draft in Raleigh, North Carolina was only a few hours
old when the New York Islanders made the 18-year-old
Kelowna Rocket forward a second round choice, 47th
overall.
“It was definitely a
surprise,” said Comeau. “I was talking to one of my
buddies (Sidney Crosby) when they made the pick. It was
a shock. I wasn’t really expecting it to happen that
way.”
Comeau was ranked 65th
among North American skaters by the NHL’s Central
Scouting Service heading into the draft, but the
Islanders clearly saw more value in the native of Meadow
Lake, Sask.
The 6-foot-1,
198-pound right winger turned heads with his physical
play this season and his compatability with the
structured, defensive system emlpoyed by the Rockets.
A 29-game goal scoring
drought during the 2003-04 campaign apparently did
nothing to harm Comeau’s stock, at least in the eyes
of the Islanders.
“I think teams
probably liked the fact that I played on winning teams
for the last couple of years,” added Comeau, who will
spend the rest of the week in the Southern U.S. with
five of his family members, including his mom and dad.
“Being with the Rockets has obviously really helped
me.”
Rockets, Kelowna products ready for
NHL draft
By Warren Henderson, staff
reporter - June 25, 2004
from kelownacapnews.com
Blake Comeau gets
shivers down his spine when he watches highlights of the
2004 Memorial Cup final.
The 18-year-old
Kelowna Rockets forward is expecting much the same
sensation when his name is called this weekend at the
NHL Entry Draft in Raleigh, N.C.
Comeau is ranked 65th
among North American skaters by the NHL’s Central
Scouting Service and is projected to be a third round
choice on Saturday.
“It’s going to be
pretty exciting,” said Comeau, a native of Meadow
Lake, Sask., who will be making the trip to Raleigh
today with five members of his family.
“The best thing to
do is not to get my expectations too high. The biggest
thing is just to get drafted and, you know, get my foot
in the door. That’s the most important thing.”
Comeau is one of three
Rockets who are expected to be chosen during this
weekend’s draft—the others are forward Justin
Keller, ranked 132nd on the continent, and defenceman
Mike Card. Rockets centre Tyler Spurgeon could also
receive some consideration in the later rounds.
Comeau’s stock rose
dramatically after a four-point effort in Canadian
Hockey League’s Top Prospects game Jan. 21 in London.
However, a subsequent
scoring slump followed as the 6-foot-1, 195 pounder
failed to find the opposition’s net over the last 29
games of the WHL’s regular season.
The extended dry spell
was just one reason Comeau dropped in the scouting
bureau’s bi-annual rankings—to 65th from 43rd—but
it may not cost him too much come Saturday afternoon.
“I don’t think
that really hurt him too much at all,” said Rockets
president and general manager Bruce Hamilton. “He’s
a physical guy who can play both ways and a lot of teams
I know are still quite interested in him.”
Hockey's Future
Profile by Jay Thompson
History
Selected with the
Kelowna Rockets second round pick, 35th overall, in the 2001 WHL Bantam
Draft, Blake Comeau started playing with the Rockets as a 16-year-old. In
2003, Comeau was selected to play for Team Canada in the 2003 U18
tournament in Yaroslavl, Russia, in which he and his teammates brought
home the Gold Medal. During the 2003-04 regular season, Blake played with
Edmonton Oilers prospect Troy Bodie and 2004 draft eligible prospect Tyler
Spurgeon to form the 'Network Line'. In the playoffs, Comeau was able to
help the Rockets win the Memorial Cup in front of their own fans as the
host team.
Talent
Analysis
A multi-dimensional
player, Comeau is a very smart puckhandler with strong
offensive instincts. He combines strong skating, an
accurate wrist shot, and a knack for protecting the puck
from attackers. Comeau is very good making drives into
the offensive zone with the puck on the end of his
stick, looking for opportunities to pass or shoot. Plays
a gritty game down low, and battles well along the
boards and displays excellent spade work in the corners.
Good work ethic and awareness on the ice allows for
Comeau to play a good defensive game as well, which led
to his being used on the penalty kill by Rockets head
coach Marc Habscheid on a semi-regular basis. While
Comeau is a strong offensive player, he seems to lack
that extra gear that some other high-end players do, but
even still, Comeau can contribute in many ways on the
ice, not just on the scoresheet.
Future
Many Kelowna Rockets fans and WHL
scouts expected Comeau to score a little more than he
did in 2003-04, and while he certainly did not have a
poor season, Blake has the ability to score much more
than he has in the past. His scoring potential has not
yet broken out, and if it does, it could mean Blake
someday could become a 2nd or 3rd line scoring-line
player in the NHL. If he cannot find that extra level
offensively, Comeau may be more suited to a depth role
on a NHL team.
Comeau leads Team Orr
to win
LONDON, Ont. (CP) -- Kelowna Rockets
right-winger Blake Comeau did everything he could to improve his draft
stock and London Knights centre Robbie Schremp put on a bold performance
in the Home Hardware CHL/NHL Top Prospects Gameon Wednesday.
Comeau had a goal and three assists to lead Bobby Orr's team to a
6-2 win over Don Cherry's team. Schremp contributed a goal and two assists
and was named Orr's MVP for crowd-pleasing moves.
Comeau, from Meadow Lake, Sask., is ranked No. 43 among North
American skaters by NHL Central Scouting for the NHL entry draft in June,
but he may have impressed scouts enough to improve his status.
"If they like what they see, they like what they see,"
Comeau said. "I just have to keep playing the way I'm playing."
The 17-year-old got involved forechecking and showed some excellent
playmaking abilities. He said he had butterflies before the game began,
but after scoring on his first shift, he was off to the races.
"It went a lot better than I expected," Comeau said.
"Playing with Rob Schremp and Andrew Ladd, we definitely complemented
each other tonight and it showed up on the scoreboard."
Comeau, Schremp and Ladd, ranked No. 2
by Central Scouting, made up the best line of the game and combined to
give Orr a 3-0 lead within the first nine minutes before a full house of
8,835 at the John Labatt Centre.
Comeau's four points tied a Top
Prospects record with Trevor Wasyluk and Daniel Briere, who each had four
points for Cherry in a 9-3 win in the first game in 1996.
Comeau scores big in Top Prospects game
By Jacquie McFarlane
Progress Staff, Meadowlakeprogress.com: Jan. 25, 2004
Meadow Lake Progress — Heading
into the NHL draft later this year, Blake Comeau is making a name for
himself.
Comeau had one goal and three assists while participating in the 2004 CHL/NHL
Top Prospects Game in London, Ont. on Wednesday night. The contributions
from Comeau contributed to the 6-2 win for Team Orr over Team Cherry.
Watching the game was exciting for Comeau’s family, who were glued to
the television, said his dad George.
“He had a pretty good game. We’re pretty happy for him,” said
George. “It’s almost like a dream. You can’t believe it’s your son
doing that.”
Comeau’s four points tie a record set by player Trevor Wasyluk and
Daniel Briere set in the first Top Prospects game held in 1996. George
acknowledges that the points were also part of a team effort.
“He was on a really good line with guys who could put it in the net so
he could contribute,” said George.
Comeau also earned the MVP title for the skills competition held on
Tuesday evening.
According to George, Comeau phoned his family last night after the game,
“just to let us know he was pretty happy with his performance.”
There’s no rest for Comeau this week. After leaving his WHL team, the
Kelowna Rockets, following a game against Tri-City last weekend he had to
get up early to make it to London. Then he flies back to Kelowna to play
with the Rockets in two games this weekend.
“He’s having a pretty good season so it’s exciting,” said George.
Comeau and his teammates, including Meadow Lake player D. J. King, have a
guaranteed spot in the Memorial Cup this year as the host, but George said
the team wants to be more than just a token in the tournament.
“They’re working hard to earn their way in and have a very competitive
team in the Memorial Cup,” said George.
The opportunity to play in the tournament will be a good one because
it’s the last chance for scouts to see the players before the NHL draft.
Comeau to play in
Top Prospects game
Progress Staff, Meadowlakeprogress.com: Jan. 18, 2004
Meadow Lake Progress — Local
hockey player Blake Comeau got another giant boost towards the NHL on
Tuesday when he was named to one of the two teams in the Home Hardware CHL/NHL
Top Prospects Game.
The game, which will be broadcast by Sportsnet on January 21 at 6 p.m.
central time, features celebrity coaches Don Cherry and Bobby Orr as well
as best up and coming hockey players.
After last year’s game all 40 of the players featured were drafted by
NHL teams. And over the nine years over 300 players in total have been
drafted.
Earlier this year Comeau was named as one of the WHL’s best players by
NHL Central Scouting.
The 2004 NHL entry Draft will be held in Raliegh, N.C. on June 26 and 27.
Comeau 11th in
scouting standings
By Jacquie McFarlane
Progress Staff, Meadowlakeprogress.com:
Dec. 1, 2003
Meadow Lake Progress — It’s
draft year for hockey player Blake Comeau and he got a boost last week in
rankings released by the NHL Central Scouting.
Blake was placed 11th in the WHL’s top 25 player list and is in the top
five for offensive players in the preliminary ranking.
“We’re pretty proud of him for being eleventh overall, to be ranked
that high in a pretty good league,” said dad George Comeau.
So far this season with the Kelowna Rockets, Blake has notched three goals
and nine assists in 27 games, while only spending 37 minutes in the
penalty box. However, George isn’t getting too serious about the ranking
just yet.
“There’s a lot of season to go yet but that’s pretty good to be
ranked in the preliminaries that high,” he said. “This is a good way
to indicate where you are in relation to the other kids of draft age.”
Central Scouting puts forth three rankings each year. The preliminary
ranking in November, a mid-season ranking in February and a ranking just
before the draft. This is Blake’s first draft year, which would mean he
is eligible to opt-out, but George noted that he’s decided to go ahead
this year.
“I think it was a pretty easy decision so he’s decided to opt-in and
see how it goes,” George explained. “Because Blake’s got such a high
ranking it shows that he’s ready to go and that there’s some interest
in him.”
While the Central Scouting rankings are a good indicator, NHL teams have
their own scouting systems and don’t necessarily agree with other
scouting systems.
Tournament good
experience despite placing
By Jacquie McFarlane
Progress Staff, Meadowlakeprogress.com: Aug. 24, 2003
Meadow Lake Progress — Sometimes
it’s better to sleep in. Blake Comeau got to after he earned a spot on
the 2003 National Summer Under-18 World Cup Team.
After the tryout camp, which ran from Aug. 1 to 7, hockey players were cut
from the team at 5:00 a.m. but Comeau wasn’t one of them.
“I was kind of nervous that night but I thought I had a good camp so I
thought I should make the team,” he said.
“We were happy for him. We thought it was great and it would be a good
experience for him and it proved to be,” said Blake’s dad, George.
The team was then plagued by some bad luck as they travelled to the Czech
Republic to play in the tournament, which ran from Aug. 11 to 16. After a
delay in Calgary, a six hour wait in London and a bus ride from Vienna,
the team arrived at the arena only to find some of the gear missing.
Unfortunately they were scheduled to play an exhibition game against the
home team that day.
The equipment eventually arrived but many players were missing hockey
sticks. The game ended in a 5-0 loss, however that game wasn’t to be
representational of how the team played for the rest of the tournament.
“They were pretty well close in all their games except the Czech
Republic in the bronze medal game. It either went into overtime or it was
close,” said George, who followed the tournament through the internet.
The team rallied and were able to recover in time for their first game
against Finland Aug. 11. It was close with Finland scoring one in the
first, Canada came back with two goals in the second. In the third Canada
had one goal while Finland had two. The game was won in overtime by a
penalty shootout. Canada had outshot their opponents 54-27.
The next day Canada faced off against Switzerland, earning two goals in
the second and four in the third. The team won 6-3, once again outshooting
their opponents.
Their third match was against the Czech Republic, and despite hard work
lost the game 3-0. At least one of the goals came on a power play.
A turning point for the team, according to Blake, could have been the game
against the United States. The match bumped Canada out of gold medal
contention with a 4-3 overtime loss. Canada was leading 2-0 after the
first period with two power play goals but the U.S. had three unanswered
goals in the second period. Canada was able to tie it up with two minutes
left but their goalie was beaten in overtime.
This was the first time in the last eight years that Canada has not won
the gold medal at the tournament so the players were disappointed going
into the bronze medal game.
“We played pretty good throughout the whole tournament but we should
have won against the U.S.,” said Blake. “If we had won we would have
probably won the gold medal but because we lost it was hard for the team
to get up for the bronze medal game.”
In the 8-2 loss for Canada the team was able to get two goals in the
second period but penalties really hurt them. Five of the Czech Republic
goals came from power plays.
Despite the disappointing tournament the experience was a good one for
Comeau and something he’d like to do again in the future.
For now though he’s getting ready for the Kelowna Rockets camp to start
on August 20th with his team’s first game being on September 5th. Next
summer Comeau will be eligible for the NHL draft but he’s not putting
too much pressure on himself.
“I’ll just have to have a good season,” Blake said.
Prospect Performs
by Laurence Heinen, From BCHockey.com
Winning the Memorial Cup has its
privileges. One of those rewards is that prospects get a great chance to
showcase their skills to National Hockey League scouts on their way to
winning Major Junior hockey’s ultimate prize.
“That’s what it’s all about,” said Kelowna coach Marc Habscheid
after his Rockets downed the Gatineau Olympiques 2-1. “This is a
stepping stone. This is something that they’ll remember for the rest of
their lives - that’s what’s great about it. All their work paid
off.”
While the Kelowna Rockets don’t boast a host of top-end prospects in the
eyes of the scouting community, ranked prospects like Blake Comeau, Justin
Keller and Mike Card definitely raised their stock heading into the NHL
Entry Draft on June 26 in Raleigh, N.C.
“We knew a lot of people were
watching,” said Comeau, who also showcased his skills to scouts at the
CHL Home Hardware Top Prospects Game. “We wanted to come out and all the
guys were focused on winning and I thought we came out and did a great
job. It’s definitely a feather in everyone’s cap for everyone who
wants an opportunity in the NHL.”
Ranked 65th among North American skaters in the Central Scouting
Service’s final draft rankings, Comeau is hoping his performance this
season will earn him a spot in the top three rounds of the draft.
“I’m very reliable defensively,” said the 6-foot-1, 195-pound Comeau
when asked to describe his strengths. “I don’t think I proved myself
offensively this year ... definitely I think I have a lot more to offer
offensively.” “Comeau’s a gritty guy,” pointed out Habscheid.
“He can play all types of games.”
Comeau also hopes to see his teammates
reap the rewards of the Rockets success this season. “It’s an
opportunity for everyone in the draft, guys who are looking for tryouts
and guys who are looking for contracts,” Comeau said.
Saskatchewan Born Player Makes National
Team
early Summer, 2003
Blake Comeau has made
the 2003 National Summer Under-18 Junior World Cup Team.
This Summer's Under-18 World Cup will run Aug 11- 16,
2003 in the Czech Republic. Canada will be
fighting for an 8th consecutive gold medal at this event
having captured gold at all seven previous events.
Blake Comeau is from
Meadow Lake and is just coming off a championship season
with the Kelowna Rockets. The 2003-2004 hockey
season will have him entering his third year of playing
time in the Western Hockey League.
Rookies boost
Rockets play off run
By Warren Henderson, staff reporter
Rookie enjoys
playing for a winner.
Don’t get Blake
Comeau wrong; he thoroughly enjoyed the time he spent as
a member of the Saskatoon Contacts.
But with all due
respect, the 17-year-old forward finds the Kelowna
Rockets and Western Hockey League playoff atmosphere a
tad more compelling than playing in front of 100 or so
fans back in Saskatchewan.
Almost one year ago
today, Comeau’s team was on the verge of being chased
from the Saskatchewan midget AAA post season picture by
Swift Current.
Now, he’s playing an
important role with the No. 1 ranked team in the
Canadian Hockey League, logging considerable ice time
and gaining experience in the process.
“I was pretty
nervous my first playoff game, but after the first
couple of shifts everything felt pretty good,” says
Comeau, a native of Meadow Lake, Sask. “It’s great
to be in the middle of the playoffs with such a good
team and a good bunch of guys. This is the kind of thing
you think about all through minor hockey.”
Comeau is just one out
of a huge throng of rookies who have made their presence
felt during the most successful season in Kelowna
Rockets history.
Rocket
rookies are rivals at Canada Games
By Warren Henderson, staff reporter - Feb. 19,
2005
kelownacapnews.com
Blake Comeau has a
stern warning for Mike Card.
“He’d better keep
his head up, “ Comeau says with a smile. “If we go
into the corner together, I’m coming out on top.”
Teammates with the
Kelowna Rockets since September, Comeau, Card and Tyler
Spurgeon will all become arch enemies beginning this
Saturday in Bathurst, New Brunswick, site of the Canada
Winter Games.
Comeau will suit up
for Team Saskatchewan, Card with B.C., while Spurgeon
will play for his native Alberta as 10 provinces and one
territory compete for Canadian hockey supremacy for
players born in 1986.
Based on their
performance at the last Canada Games, the Albertans
heads into Bathurst as the top ranked team. Among the
WHL talent joining Spurgeon on the Alberta roster is
Prince Albert’s Kyle Chipchura, Mark Fistric from
Vancouver, and Kamloops goaltender Devan Dubnyk.
And as much as hockey
will be his main focus, Spurgeon is taking pride in
being part of a much bigger team.
“A lot of us on the
Alberta team are all going to fly out together and that
should be fun,” says Spurgeon, the Edmonton native who
has 12 points for the Rockets in his rookie season.
“We’ll be cheering
for each other once we get down there. It’s an honour
to represent your province,” Spurgeon says.
Card, whose teammates
on the B.C. team will include the Blazers’ Reid
Jorgensen and Jeremy Schenderling from Kootenay, counts
himself fortunate to be chosen for one of the
country’s premier sporting events.
“It’s great
because it only happens every four years,” says Card,
a native of Penticton.
“I’m going to miss
the guys and being with the team back here, but it’ll
be a great experience.”
The absence of the
three rookies from the Kelowna lineup will mean more
opportunities over the next 10 days for players like
Troy Bodie, David Jacobsen, and Darren Deschamps.
But it will also mean
having to compensate for the loss of three players who
have all played key roles with the Rockets this season.
“These guys
haven’t been sitting on the bench, they’ve all
played lots here,” says Rockets president and general
manager, Bruce Hamilton. “It’ll hurt our hockey
team, no doubt about it. But it’s going to be a good
experience for all of them.”
B.C. and Saskatchewan
will play out of the same pool at the games and will
collide in preliminary round action on Monday, Feb. 24.
Card says he has plans
for Comeau, but is hesitant to let the cat out of the
bag.
“I don’t know if I
want to say,” jokes Card. “I hope we have a good
game against them.”
Among the WHL players
joining Comeau on Saskatchewan’s team is Logan
Stephenson from Tri-City and Calgary’s Aaron Boogaard.
“We might not have
as many WHL guys as some of the other teams, but we
should be a hard working team,” adds Comeau, who hails
from Meadow Lake, Sask.
“Hopefully we’ll
come out with a medal.”
The gold medal final
will be played Saturday, March 1. Comeau, Card and
Spurgeon will return to the Rockets Sunday, March 2 in
Cranbrook when Kelowna takes on Kootenay.
Team Saskatchewan:
2003 Canada Games
Media Guide:
Blake Comeau, 16
Saskatoon
Named MVP at a AAA Bantam hockey tournament, Blake was
also the top scorer of his Bantam team. A well-rounded
athlete, he has also competed in baseball at the
provincial level. Blake is proud to be representing
Saskatchewan at the 2003 Canada Winter Games, and he
looks forward to performing to the best of his ability
amongst high-level competition.
Highlights:
- October 9, 2004:
Rockets defeat Rebels in Red Deer 2-1. Comeau scores a
goal and an assist including the game winner in
Overtime.
- December 17, 2003:
Named first star of the game with a two goal effort in a
3-3 tie with the Prince George Cougars.
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