When I read about him, most project him as a second line center in the NHL. He said, “I have a 200-foot game, somebody that’s great offensively, but can be relied on in the defensive zone and just be a complete hockey player.”
Turcotte’s dad, Alfie, was drafted 17th overall by Montreal in 1983, but only played 112 NHL games with Washington, Winnipeg and the Canadiens. He didn’t play in Chicago, but that’s where Alex grew up. Living there he got an appreciation for Blackhawks' captain Jonathan Toews. Turcotte said, “Growing up in Chicago, he’s an idol of mine. I’d be lucky to be half as good as him.
“I bring the same qualities as him with the compete and the 200-foot game and I want to be there and be similar to him.”
Alfie Turcotte spent a lot of time playing in Europe and he has been a mentor for Alex, “He played 15 years pro, so he’s been through it and knows what to expect and how to get through it and how to handle yourself in situations like there like how to introduce yourself in interviews and just be yourself.”
Turcotte played with Jack Hughes, Trevor Zegras, Matthew Boldy and Cole Caufield. If any of those players are available for Jason Botterill and No.7, he will likely take him. Turcotte loved playing with such good players, “It was really special having tons of elite players on that team. We’ve all become better hockey players because of it because of how competitive we are and how everyone wants to be the best, it definitely helped us, especially in practice and it’s hard not to get better when you’re going up against the best every day.”
Other players from that Under-18 team that could go in the first round are Cam York and Spencer Knight. Two that possibly could get to Round 1 are Alex Vlasic and Johnny Beecher.
Clarence Center’s own Case McCarthy was on that team. He won’t go in the first round, but likely will be drafted. Turcotte is glad to be going through this process with so many of his teammates, “There’s a lot of emotions, you’re pretty nervous and anxious and excited just knowing that those guys are here with you during this time it lets you have more fun with it.”
The draft begins June 21 in Vancouver.