This spring, J.T. Compher was the captain of the Michigan Wolverines, leading the nation in assists with 47 in just 38 games. After scoring 63 points, he was a finalist for the Hobey Baker Award. Shortly after that, he inked his first professional contract with the Colorado Avalanche, then headed to Russia to represent the United States in the World Championship. Now, after wrapping up rookie camp, he will participate in his first NHL training camp this weekend.
“It’s just been a really exciting summer,” Compher told Mile High Sports. “I had a really fun year at Michigan and loved my time there, and it was really special to be in Russia for the World Championship and I learned a lot. Now, my focus is on training camp and trying to improve every day and make a good impression this week.”
If he is looking to make a good impression, it wouldn’t be Compher’s first on the organization. During last weekend’s Rookie Showcase, he scored two points in two games, often looking like one of the best players on the ice.
“It was my first taste of pro hockey, and I thought I played pretty well both nights,” he said. “I have some things I need to improve on this week, going into main camp, and that’s my focus right now.”
If he continues to build upon his solid rookie camp and showcase, Compher could make quite the case for a spot on the Avalanche opening night roster. He plays a smart, gritty, two-way game. He is an excellent passer He has the versatility to play any of the three forward positions and is a right-handed shot, something the Avalanche could use a few more of. But that is not where is focus lies.
“I’m just trying taking each it step-by-step, day-by-day,” he explained. “Continuing to learn and improve and better myself as a hockey player each and every day.”
