Sam Noreau

[NYR Boyler87]

He is a Rangers prospect who is a HUGE, hulking, defensive d-man who can throw bombs with his fists. I am looking for anyone with a first hand account of him either this season or last year as he seems to be developing well and he looked good in Traverse City last year. He keeps the game simple and has good foot-work for a guy his size.

Thanks in advance!

http://www.hockeydb.com/ihdb/stats/p...php?pid=124883

[WildcatMapleLeafs28]

He's a big ,6'5" 225lbs, stay at home defenceman. He is very physical and likes to take the body and punish his opponents. Theres a definate toughness to his game and he's willing to stick up for his teammates and is considered the heavy weight of the QMJHL. Samuel keeps his play simple and eficient. He makes good , safe decisions when defending and that's partly to do with his great hockey IQ. Noreau makes a good first pass and posseses a powerful slapshot. Offensively , he isn't expected to bring much , however he does have 15 points in his first 20 games with Baie Comeau this season. He's getting PK time , being rotated on the #1 unit and #2 unit. He's play high while defending and forces the play of opposing player. Although a powerful slapshot, he wrist shot is weaker and accuracy for both isn't the greatest. For a big frame, he's an okay skater but would certainly need to continue to improve his foot speed to make the jump to pro. He seldom pinches, which is good for his game. This is where his foot speed gets exposed as he has a hard time recovering. Overall he's a solid defenceman in the Q. His stay at home style is well suited for his hulking frame. I think his upside would be a #6-#7 NHL dman or downside(most likely) top 4 AHLer.