Cody Glass, the 20-year-old forward from Winnipeg, Manitoba was the Vegas Golden Knights first draft selection in 2017 (sixth overall). He stands 6-foot-2, 192 pounds and possesses some of the smoothest hands in the game.
His statistics in the WHL, where he played for the Portland Winterhawks, are very impressive. In 171 games he scored 84 goals and 181 assists for 265 points. That amounts to 1.55 points per game and displays the young man’s potential.
Cody Glass Has Great Potential in the NHL
? WHL Highlight of the Night ?
December 2, 2018Cody Glass ➡ @joachimblich ➡? ➡ ? for @pdxwinterhawks#WHLHoN pic.twitter.com/oThG6Wh8Mg
— The WHL (@TheWHL) December 3, 2018
Cody Glass Getting a Roster Spot
Glass is fighting for a roster spot at centre, but there may not be any room for him in the lineup to play that position. He really can’t be placed on the fourth line that may hold him back offensively. He has great two-way skills playing the entire surface of the ice. For him to break through to play on the third line he will need to surpass Cody Eakin and that may not happen. Eakin had 41 points including 22 goals in 78 games last season.
Could Glass match those numbers if he were to play on that third line? Or could he be eased into the NHL by playing on the wing instead?
No matter where he plays, he’s going to impress. He’s a good two-way player who is responsible in his own end. When he goes on the offensive attack, his soft hands and adept passing ability free up streaking players towards the goal.
Playing in the AHL in Chicago is a Possibility
If Glass doesn’t make the Golden Knights roster, he will be heading back to play for the Chicago Wolves of the AHL. It may not be a bad thing since he will gain valuable experience and can play in his natural position. The other factor is he can be called up if injuries happen as they did last season to both Max Pacioretty and Paul Stastny.
Glass is Full of Potential
With his skating and playmaking abilities, there is no doubt that Glass is filled with potential every time he steps out on the ice. His hockey IQ will carry him to the NHL. What the Golden Knights don’t want to do is rush his development and cause him to lose confidence in his game.
Glass is versatile enough to play with any linemates and finding the right fit for him will help endlessly. He has the determination and maturity even at his young age to help the Vegas club win games.
Whether that is this season or next is not really a matter of concern. He fits the style of play that the Golden Knights excel in, speed and team play. Any NHL team could only wish for a player of his level to be on their squad.
So, Chicago may be his destination but look for him to get called up to the big club at some juncture during the season and watch this kid play.
He has the tools to be a star NHL player.
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