It’s my Parting Shot to muse about potential uncertain times when it comes to talent in Major Junior hockey…..

There were two news items involving the Prince Albert Raiders yesterday – one that I liked and the other that had me somewhat concerned and dismayed!

First, congratulations to Ryan McDonald for having the interim label taken away and being named permanent head coach up in P-A!

The second thing – Tomas Mrsic has, according to reliable sources, committed to attend Colorado College and play at the N-C-Double-A – this coming season!

This news, if true – and I have no reason to believe otherwise – is another blow to the W-H-L specifically and the Canadian Hockey League in general.

Since last November 7th, when the N-C-Double-A made a rule change allowing players from the C-H-L to be eligible for N-C-Double-A hockey programs starting in the upcoming season, several veteran W-H-L players, either having completed their 20-year-old seasons or heading into their overage campaigns, committed to play in the N-C-Double-A. The rule change, which officially comes into effect on August 1st, allows C-H-L players to play in N-C-Double-A Division 1 programs while retaining their eligibility. Previously, C-H-L players were considered professional due to the meagre monthly allowances they received, making them ineligible for N-C-Double-A hockey. The rule change removed the restriction, providing C-H-L players with more options for continuing their hockey careers.

At the time, the prevailing sentiment was, Great! The competition to recruit potential young stars would be done!

Not so fast, bunky!!

Since the last season ended, Cooper Williams of the Saskatoon Blades, Macklin product and centre Cole Reschny – plus his Victoria Royals’ team-mate, defenceman Carter Verhoeff – and now Mrsic have committed to the University of North Dakota – in the cases of Williams, Reschny and Verhoeff – and Colorado College in Mrsic’s case – all with the intention of playing for those schools before they turn 20 and once they’ve earned their high school diplomas!

Oops! I was worried about this happening. Now it is, and there’s going to be more of it, with rumours of Medicine Hat superstar and all-but-certain first overall N-H-L Draft pick in 12 months time, Gavin McKenna, heading to Michigan State this fall becoming more and more rampant. The reason? I’ll get into that more on Thursday, but for now, if you thought your team was looking strong for a few years to come, think again!!

That’s my Parting Shot. I’m Les Lazaruk…and it turned out nice again!