NHL draft tracker: Greg Chase, Calgary Hitmen

Hockey runs in the family for the Calgary Hitmen's Greg Chase.

His father, Kyle Chase, is the president of the Sherwood Park Crusaders of the Alberta Junior Hockey League and is a former radio host on Edmonton's Team 1260. His uncle, Kelly Chase, played 10 seasons in the NHL with the St. Louis Blues and Hartford Whalers.

Having close family in high places in the hockey world has greatly benefited Chase. His dad's media job and contacts allowed him to meet highly respected hockey people and get inside perspectives from players and coaches at a very young age.

"It was really cool being able to watch my dad in the studio and listen to him interview big NHL stars," says Greg Chase, 17. "I got to meet people and watch NHL games because of my dad's cool job. Some of my friends were definitely jealous of stuff I got to do."

Meanwhile, working his way up the hockey ranks, his uncle Kelly gives him priceless advice to help him grow on and off the ice.

"My uncle has been a great supporter for me," says Chase. "Before I was even on the radar, he always helped me by showing me ways to improve my game. He also has helped me by giving me tips on how to deal with the media and how to act professionally."

The 6-foot, 195-pound centre has made his mark in Calgary this year as a playmaker. He has notched two goals and 13 assists in 20 games.

"Right now, I think I'm a pass-first player because the plays to set up my teammates have been there," says Chase. "I think I've been able to rack up so many assists because I've been clicking with [overage forward] Cody Sylvester. He finishes a lot of plays and puts himself in position to be at the right place at the right time."

Chase plans on making some adjustments in his game, though. The Sherwood Park, Alta., native wants to put more pucks on net.

"I actually never used to be a pass-first player," says Chase. "My coaches and other people have been telling me I have a great shot and should shoot more. I think going forward I'll try to shoot more if there is a shot that makes sense. I want to score more for my team."

Chase went into his big draft year hoping to notch 60 points. He is currently slightly under par with that number, being on pace to post 54 points.

"Heading into the season, I thought 60 points would be a realistic goal," says Chase. "I thought that would make me a strong offensive contributor and it would probably be enough to be drafted into the NHL."

1. How would you describe yourself as a player?

"I think I'm an offensively skilled forward. I play a two-way game. I score goals, but play strong in my own end. I try to pressure other teams' defencemen to try to make them give up the puck."

2. Who is your favourite NHL team?

"I like the Anaheim Ducks and Colorado Avalanche. I like the Ducks because guys like Ryan Getzlaf, Corey Perry, and Bobby Ryan are some of my favourite players. I like the Avalanche because I grew up watching Joe Sakic a lot. He was an unbelievable player."

3. Do you try to model your game after a player in the NHL?

"I try to play like Getzlaf. He is a big forward that plays really good at both ends of the ice. He can score the big goals, but also sets up his teammates a lot.

4. The Hitmen are currently third in the Eastern Conference. Do you think your squad is a contender this year?

"I know we have what it takes to be a very good team. We have a lot of good scorers, a big defence, and a great goalie in Chris Driedger. I think we are one of the best teams in the league. And with [Carolina Hurricanes prospect Victor] Rask back, we are even better now."

5. What is your favourite movie?

"I really like the movie Dodgeball. I think it is an underrated movie. It has great actors like Ben Stiller and Vince Vaughn, plus a great story to it."

Kelly Friesen is a Buzzing the Net columnist for Yahoo! Sports. Follow him on Twitter @KellyFriesen.