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NHL draft tracker: Austin Wagner, Regina Pats
Regina Pats wing Austin Wagner has become one of the biggest climbers in the 2015 NHL draft class. He has steadily drove his draft stock in the right direction this season despite entering his sophomore year relatively unknown as he only notched two points in 42 games in 2013-14. The proof is in how NHL Central Scouting Service ranked him the 43rd best North American skater in its midterm ranking following pegging him as a C-list prospect in November.
Wagner, 17, credits increased ice time for his success this season. He has played 15-plus minutes a night in an offensive role under new Pats head coach John Paddock this year. Whereas last season, he played sparingly in a fourth-line energy role under former bench boss Malcolm Cameron.
“I play a lot more this year and get to play in more offensive opportunities,” says Wagner, who has scored 15 goals and 33 points in 48 contest this year. “Last year I was playing a fourth-line checking role as a rookie. I don’t feel that’s the type of player that I am so I was playing a style that wasn’t really me. This year I’ve been able to play to my strengths and play in a role that I was used to playing before I joined the Pats.”
Inevitably, the Calgary, Alta., native has noticed a confidence spike in his new offensive role under Paddock.
“My confidence is way higher this year,” he says. “My confidence just wasn’t there last year. This year I feel more comfortable and much more confident. I know he (Paddock) has confidence in me, so that has helped.”
Wagner’s breakout season hasn’t caught Paddock by surprise because he saw a lot of upside in him back in training camp. His high-end speed and 6-foot-2, 180-pound frame stood out to him as two strengths that separated himself from the majority of the pack.
“I noticed his speed and size right away and thought he could be a good player for us,” says Paddock. “You can’t teach size and speed is something you can learn, but he has a natural ability that not many players have. Those two things make him stand out and are a big reason why he’s made an impact for us this year.”
Wagner’s elite speed is his claim to fame in the draft. His smooth stride, top-notch agility and hustle has made him one of the more enticing prospects outside of the first round because of how important skating in the NHL.
“Speed is something I’ve always had, but I’ve worked on it,” says Wagner, whose 47 penalty minutes show that he has an edge to his game. “I’ve learned to improve on it and I’ve focused on it because I know it’s a strength of mine.”
1. Do you have a favourite NHL player?
“Like any kid, I grew up looking up to (Pittsburgh Penguins star) Sidney Crosby. I also like (Vancouver Canucks wing) Jannick Hansen. I just like the way he plays and think we have some similarities in our games.”
2. Do you have a favourite NHL team?
“I don’t really follow the NHL much, but I’d say the Vancouver Canucks. I’ve always liked them.”
3. What kind of music do you prefer to listen to before a game?
“I usually like hip hop, but I’m not picky or anything. I’m okay with whatever the team wants to listen to.”
4. Do you have a favourite road arena that you like to play in?
“Definitely Calgary (at the Scotiabank Saddledome) because that’s where I’m from. It’s nice to play in front of family and friends.
5. If you weren’t entrenched in hockey, what other sport would you pursue?
“Lacrosse. I used to play it when I was growing up and always enjoyed it.”
Kelly Friesen is a Buzzing the Net columnist for Yahoo! Sports. Follow him on Twitter @KellyFriesen
