Introducing Michael Mac to the VHL

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Written by Harvard's top scout, Dan Schulman.

 

He is one of college hockey’s most exciting young players and one of the most scrutinized. At 25 years old, he has developed in the AHL and is a far more experienced rookie than many of the others in this rookie class. We don't expect he will be in the minors long after signing a $1.5 million contract with the Mississauga Hounds. We anticipate he will quickly make a name for himself and get the call up.

 

Coming into S71, no collegiate player had a more glaring spotlight on him than Harvard freshman Michael Mac.

 

The Mississauga, ON native has handled the exceedingly high and sometimes unrealistic expectations with grace, dignity and humility throughout the season. In the process, he has become far more than the “one dimensional” player that some have labeled him.

 

Mac ranks fifth on the VHL Scouting’s Final Rankings. While he is projected to be in the top five, he could possibly be any teams first choice due to his offensive ability.

 

Mac played two seasons with the Canadian National Team Development Program (CNTDP). In his final season, Mac amassed an astounding 108 points (62 goals, 46 assists) to lead the team. His 62 goals set a new program single-season record. During his tenure with the CNTDP, Mac participated in numerous international tournaments. In his last year, he led Team Canada to a gold medal at the IIHF World U-18 Championship in the Czech Republic and earned the IIHF’s Directorate Award as the tournament’s most outstanding forward with 18 points (Eleven goals, seven assists) in six games.

 

Mac concluded his freshman campaign leading the nation in rookie scoring with 68 points (35 goals, 33 assists). His 33 assists as well as his points per game also led all rookies. His 68 points and 15 power play goals both rank first on his team. He has notched at least one point in 38 of the 39 games he has played in this season. In eight of the 28 games, he has posted three or more points.

 

Mac is a marvel to watch. He combines dazzling moves with excellent hockey sense, tremendous poise and confidence with the puck, a tireless work ethic, and a very professional approach to the game. Mac is a player who can make those around him better and has the ability to make things happen.

 

In an interview with Hockey’s Future just prior to the conclusion of the 2014-2015 season, Harvard head coach Don Lucia articulated his praise and assessment of his opponent.

 

“Michael has had a tremendous year for us. He’s been a big reason why we won the MacNaughton Cup (WCHA regular season champions). A freshman like Mac who can come in and do what he’s done, it doesn’t happen very often. He’s matured and growing both as a player and as a person. What I’ve been impressed with is that he’s been a good listener and teammate and he’s actually done everything that we’ve asked of him. I think he’s a pretty happy kid right now, which is nice to see.”

 

One attribute that immediately jumps out about Mac is his extraordinary skating ability. His explosive speed and effortless strides are what set him apart from just about every other player in the nation.

 

No doubt we look forward to watching him in the VHL.