Getting to know a Canuck: Mason Raymond

by Chris Burton on Apr 28, 2011 10:00 AM EDT

The Vancouver Canucks, much like the vanquished Anaheim Ducks, boast some of the NHL's best offensive talent in Henrik Sedin, Daniel Sedin, and Ryan Kesler. In the playoffs, however, unsung heroes are usually found, such as Jordin Tootoo in round one for the Nashville Predators.

One such candidate for the Canucks is speedster Mason Raymond.

Mason Raymond

#21 / Left Wing / Vancouver Canucks

Height: 6-0

Weight: 185

Born: Sep 17, 1985

	GP	G	A	P	+/-	PIM	PPG	SHG	GWG	GTG	SOG	PCT
2010 - Mason Raymond	70	15	24	39	8	10	2	1	5		197

Scouting Report

Assets	Has exceptional skating ability and offensive instincts. Is equally adept at scoring goals and setting up linemates from either wing position.
Flaws	Is somewhat lacking in the strength required to win puck battles on a consistent basis. Therefore, he needs to add more bulk in order to maximize potential.
Career Potential	Scoring winger with tremendous speed.

Raymond typically finds himself on Vancouver's second scoring line and power play unit, so the 39 points may be considered slight under-achievement. That said, 'MayRay' (yeah, I know) possesses ability in spades, and more importantly is one of the fastest players in the NHL.

Raymond's speed combined with scoring ability will be an issue at all times, but never more than when he's on the ice against Shane O`Brien and Cody Franson. Nashville's third defensive pairing is not what you'd call fleet of foot. If Raymond is able to get to the outside, inside, or anywhere in between O'Brien and Franson, I'd suggest closing your eyes and putting your trust in Pekka.

Either way, Raymond's yet another Canuck worth keeping an eye on as the series progresses.

Tweet Comment 4 comments | 0 recs |

Do you like this story?

Comments

MayRay

Has loads of talent, but sometimes lacks finish. He had a monumental scoring drought this year, but played well in the 1st round on the Kesler line. He seems to be getting back into form, and when he scores, they can come in buckets. He just needs to pretend Rinne is Kiprusoff. His strength on the puck is frustrating, but his speed and creativity often outweigh this. He’s due for some goals, and with an assignment not so defensively focused as L2 had with the Toews line, he and Kes should contribute on the board.

Nucks Misconduct's Grumpy Old Man on the Twitter
"ryan kesler will impregnate your mouth" - Passive Voice
All jokes are now certified accurate, because nothing's funny about inaccurate humour.

by Kent Basky on Apr 28, 2011 10:24 AM EDT reply actions

but sometimes lacks finish.

That’s why I’m still a little miffed about chosing MayRay instead of Grabner for that spot on the line. Grabs has crazy finish, but is more about breakaways than hard work and skating circles around the perimeter of the offensive zone.

a ginger ball hockey player... no wonder I'm a Canucks fan

by SteveNux on Apr 28, 2011 5:22 PM EDT up reply actions

Good job, Chris

WAACH pretty much nailed it. This year has been tougher for him. Most NHL Dmen know about his speed and play him with some distance so he can’t go around outside as easily as last year. Unfortunately, instead of using the space to cut back to the middle, he goes outside anyways.

Any breakout from him in this series is what we are hoping for. He definitely has the tools. Also does a good job on the PK when used.

Win it for Manny!
Nucks Misconduct's chief slab of man meat and resident doucherocket.

by kesrows on Apr 28, 2011 10:31 AM EDT reply actions

agreed

I don’t think he gets enough credit for his PK skills, but was a big part of why the Nucks PK was so good all season long

Nucks Misconduct's Grumpy Old Man on the Twitter
"ryan kesler will impregnate your mouth" - Passive Voice
All jokes are now certified accurate, because nothing's funny about inaccurate humour.

by Kent Basky on Apr 28, 2011 10:36 AM EDT up reply actions