Acquired in Big Buff Trade, Jeremy Morin Shines at World Juniors
When the Blackhawks made their first trade of this off-season they sent Dustin Byfuglien, Ben Eager and Brent Sopel along with prospect Akim Aliu to the Atlanta Thrashers. Many Hawks fans focused on the pieces of the Stanley Cup championship team the organization was giving away. Well as equally as important as what they gave away is what they got in return, Jeremy Morin. Morin, a second round draft pick of the Thrashers in 2009, was always held in high regard by the Thrashers organization. His performance at the World Junior Evaluation Camp is evidence to why.
As team USA beat Finland 6-3, Morin tallied a goal and an assist showing the scoring side of his game, but Morin is in no way a one dimensional player. His role on last year's World Junior team that beat Canada for the gold medal was a third line checking forward. But this year the Team USA coaching staff is leaning on him to supply offense, toughness and leadership, as he was named the team captain for Wednesday's game. Thrashers GM Rick Dudley still thinks very highly of his one time prospect. In a recent NHL.com interview Dudley said that Morin "gets bigger and stronger when there's an opportunity to score." Despite the Blackhawks having to part ways with many of the key players from last year, Stan Bowman has put a priority and getting elite young talent in return and Morin is no exception that.
