2018 Preseason Opens with Rookie Faceoff

Max Paddock

After a breakout season in Regina for the 2018 Memorial Cup hosting Regina Pats the undrafted Max Paddock has been a mainstay with the Sharks this summer. The Sharks are obviously interested in the 18-year-old goalie. Paddock may have more to play for at this event than anyone else as he will be trying to pursue an Entry Level Contract from the Sharks. The Sharks goaltending pipeline continues to be one of its weaker points and adding Paddock would definitely help bolster them at that position. Obviously, Martin Jones will not need replacing any time soon but having depth is always a need at any position.

Josef Korenar

Korenar will be making his North American pro-hockey debut this season as the likely backup to Antoine Bibeau with the San Jose Barracuda. While his European numbers are not exceptional there is a lot to like about Korenar in the way that he plays the position. Having the opportunity to work with Hedberg, Nabokov and the rest of the development staff on a daily basis will give him an excellent opportunity to develop his game. There are some high hopes for the Barracuda this year to have a rebound season and Korenar will need to be a big part of that especially if Bibeau is called up to the big club for any reason.

Joachim Blichfeld

Blichfeld had a good season with the Portland Winterhawks last season with 56 points in 56 games. Turning pro this season with the Barracuda he will face stiff competition for a roster spot in the Barracuda’s glut of forwards. A solid showcase and camp would go a long way in securing one of those spots. This pressure should make Blichfeld a player to watch when he draws into the lineup this weekend. It will also be interesting to see who this crafty playmaker will be playing with over the weekend for hints of what we may see in the early AHL campaign.

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