At the beginning of last season, forward A.J. Greer was entering his sophomore campaign with Boston University, hoping for a larger roll on the squad. That never materialized, so midseason,he decided to take his talents to the QMJHL and the Rouyn-Noranda Huskies.
With the Huskies, Greer flourished, scoring 27 points in 33 games (and 22 in 20 playoff contests). He received an expanded role, both on the ice and as a leader, and he took advantage. The 19-year-old regained his confidence. Now, he hopes to carry over that success as he transitions to the professional game.
“Transitioning from college and juniors to the pro game was difficult,” Greer told Mile High Sports. “I didn’t know what to expect, but my training and all of the ice work I did this summer, I think it really helped.”
His hard work showed on the ice during last weekend’s Rookie Showcase, where he picked up a goal off of a pretty pass from Mikko Rantanen, whom he was picked a round after by the Colorado Avalanche in the 2015 NHL Entry Draft. A developing power forward, Greer was right where you wanted him to be: in front of the net.
“I think that over the weekend I showcased myself,” he said. “Being that offensive forward … power forward kind of guy.”
A true presence in front of the net is something that the Avalanche could use. The potential opportunity is not lost on Greer, as he hopes to continue to impress when he takes to the ice for training camp on Friday.
“I work hard,” Greer said of his game. “I’m an energy guy and all I do is 100 percent. I forecheck. I backcheck. I hit. My expectation is just to give my 100 percent and play the way that they want me to play. Just kind of bringing that grit and effort into main camp and keep playing my game.”