Caron could be a big hit
Bruins’ first pick adds size, offense
MONTREAL - Jordan Caron figures he’s the kind of guy the Bruins like.
“They like big guys,’’ said the 6-foot-2-inch, 207-pound Caron, who was Boston’s first pick, No. 25 overall, in the opening round of the NHL draft last night at the Bell Centre, “guys who work hard and hit.’’
Caron, a right winger for the Quebec League’s Rimouski Oceanic, collected 36 goals and 67 points in 56 games last season. If he progresses as the Bruins hope, said Boston general manager Peter Chiarelli, he could turn pro after next season and be on track to break into the NHL one or two years later.
“He’s a lefthanded shot who can play center or wing, and I see him more as a wing,’’ said Chiarelli, who later compared Caron to a young Glen Murray. “He’s a very good goal scorer with a very good shot off the wing.’’
Caron, 18, who grew up in Sayabec, Quebec, and is fluent in French and English, relies on a quick-release wrist shot and lightning-fast one-timer. He’ll return to Rimouski for next season.
“I think I had a lot of confidence this year, in the second half [of the season],’’ said Caron. “I learned to play more physical in the second half when I told myself that I’m as good as anyone in the draft.’’
The league’s Central Scouting Bureau ranked Caron the 21st most-talented skater in North America. In three years at Rimouski, he has 74 goals and 150 points.
“There’s no words for that,’’ said Caron, when asked how he felt when he heard Chiarelli call his name over the arena’s loud speaker. “I was shaking. It’s unbelievable.’’ 