Initial Impressions: Ray Stanton

[horoscope 32]

Finally, I'm getting around to Spring cleaning, and uncovered an old scouting report from a recent Saskatoon Wild signing. Ray Stanton joined their VHLM roster January 27th, 2024; however, this report is from early March last year. It's one I hastily jotted down when I was watching the University of Nevada-Las Vegas club play against the University of Colorado in the D1 ACHA. Stanton would put up 2 assists in a 4-2 loss against Colorado. He wore his heart on his sleeve about the loss, but he made sure the group as a whole was on the same page about focusing on the next game.

 

Ray Stanton is a 5'10'', 160 lb, right-shooting defenseman. Born in Henderson, Nevada, he's a little undersized to play pro at this point, but you see why he's where he is. He proves to be swift offensive-minded playmaker for UNLV this season. While his college peers are still working on winning the footrace in the offensive zone, Stanton has already shown to be able to join the rush when needed, while still being defensively responsible enough.

The Good: 
Man, this kid is fast. Real finesse player behind the net. Not afraid of the gritty work. Defaulting for smart, safe passes, but is always looking for creative moves. Tries to get all of his teammates involved. So calm in tight ice under coverage. Will join the rush for scoring chances. Has a nostalgic slapshot off the rush. Has handles for days compared to his college peers.

The Bad:
He doesn't take up enough space due to his small stature. He has difficulty holding his own winning board battles. Usually, small enough to knock over, but always bounces back up with something to say. He has penalty issues.
I mean jeez, dude, you've taken 2 tripping calls tonight.

 

The Ugly:

You see him before the game, and he looks nervous. I've noticed him looking both ways like he's looking for a train. These nerves seem to melt away once he takes the ice, where he seems very at home.
He prefers fried foods before games. I'm not sure why one would wage a war on two fronts with hockey, and heartburn. 

 

From what I've heard about the kid, everyone has nothing but good things to say about this kid's attitude. He's humble, treats arena staff with respect, always driven to win. He's professional enough, but knows how to loosen the mood up when needed. 
 

March 03, 2023

Rick Hammer
HammerTimeBlog@VHL.com
City National Arena

Las Vegas, Nevada