Hockey News Names Bennett #1 On Hot List

(above) DU's newest recruit is Californian Beau Bennett

photo credit: Ryan Pinder

DU's newest recruit, Beau Bennett, received recognition today as the #1 player on the Hockey News' "Hot List."

1. Beau Bennett, RW – Penticton Vees (BCHL): As the only non-United States League player on Team USA’s champion World Jr. A Challenge squad, Bennett stuck out, but for a California kid playing in the B.C. League, that’s not unusual.

“I was kind of the outcast, being from the BCHL, but all the guys were really cool,” Bennett recalled. “It was unbelievable. It was the chance to play for my country.”

And he did it well. Bennett had four points in five tourney games, adding to the 52 points he has tallied for Penticton in 27 games – best among rookies and tied for third in the league.

As a member of the L.A. Jr. Kings, Bennett played alongside Kelowna Rockets rookie Shane McColgan and Gasper Kopitar, younger brother of Anze. Raised five minutes from the beach in Southern California, Bennett honed his skills playing roller hockey, something very common in the state.

“All the California kids started out in roller,” he said. “It helps with your hands; it’s such a puck-possession game.”

Along with his playmaking ability, Bennett cites his vision and hockey sense as his assets, while noting he wants to get stronger. He’ll be working on that in the NCAA, no question.

“I’m going to college for sure,” he said. Bennett’s options have been whittled down to Denver and Colorado College and the savvy left winger said the decision is coming in the next few weeks. Draft eligible in 2010.