Taylor Mourning looks to WJC as last preparation for the VHL

[scoop 3,265]

With Philadelphia's exit from the VHLM playoffs, Taylor Mourning may have played his last hockey as a Reaper. With the goal of playing in the VHL straight after the draft, Mourning's performance in the playoffs could be used as an argument for or against his claim that he is ready to make that leap. When he was good, he was great; but there were also games where he struggled to make any impact. Taking that next step, he'll be up against much fiercer competition every game, and he just might not be ready for that.

 

The off-season may offer him one more chance to prove himself before S79. The World Juniors rosters have yet to be announced, but Mourning is hoping to make it onto Team USA. In recent years, the team has struggled. They haven't won a medal since S74 when they took the bronze, but that is something Mourning would like to change. He would certainly be one to play with a great intensity for his nation, though that is just how he plays naturally.

 

If Mourning does make it on the roster, it is unclear whether the WJC will begin before the VHL draft, so he may not have time to improve his draft stock through the games, though that is not really a concern of his. He will be afforded the same chances just as anyone else no matter when he is drafted.