Young Prospect To Join Mississauga Hounds

[Andre LeBastard 112]

Young Ottawa Prospect Andre LeBastard To Join Mississauga Hounds

 

Andre LeBastard knows it's time to decide the next phase of his hockey career. The 18-year-old centre, who grew up playing hockey in The Glebe, wants to be playing at the next level, which he knows too, probably means a move away from Ottawa. At 6'3" and 202lbs, Andre has the size that both scouts and coaches alike get excited about, particularly playing up the middle of the ice. However, when you watch him play, it is LeBastard's passing that you notice first. "Primarily, a playmaker", replied Andre, when asked about what he felt his best role on the ice was. 'I love to set up my line-mates and for me, an assist is as good as a goal", he added. 

 

So, if you are looking for a bump and grind, low cycle kind of player, LeBastard is not the guy for you, something Andre himself would be the first to acknowledge. "I know I'm a good size for my age and some coaches have wanted me to hit more." "I also know I need to improve my 200-foot game, that's super important for me too." His father was a little more outspoken, saying "Andre loves the offensive side of the game, for sure." "When he has the puck he is always looking to generate chances for his teammates, I think that is from growing up playing with two older brothers, who were always yelling at him, 'Pass it, Andre!" "I have to say though, that anyone thinking he's a softie, is mistaken, he can play the physical game, his brothers made sure of that, too!" "He just prefers to use his best asset on the ice and play a passing game, I don't think that's a bad thing at all", he smiled.

 

LeBastard received two offers earlier this week and spent the weekend discussing the merits of each proposal with his father, Pierre. The first offer on the table was from Mississauga Hounds Assistant General Manager Zetterberg. With the Hounds struggling to make the playoffs this season and a young roster to contend with, a real chance was available to grow together and build something, whilst learning his trade. Zetterberg indicated that LeBastard would start with 3rd line minutes and his commitment and effort on and off the ice could see the young centre iceman earning a top-six role. 

 

The second offer came from the Halifax 21st organisation. Ahead of the Hounds by a slim margin in the current VHLM standings, the 21st management team had indicated to Andre, that he would step right into a top 6 role at the club. With hard work, the club felt they would make the playoffs and thus provide the Ottawa native a look at postseason hockey in his first season. 

 

Following talks with his family and a past coach, Andre LeBastard has indicated he will sign for the Mississauga Hounds hockey club. Andre spoke about how as he was making his decision, he happened to read a media article about the Hounds  and the battle the club was facing to stay in contention for making the VHLM playoffs this term. 

 

"I don't know", he smiled, "the article just kind of struck a chord with me and I really liked the message being sent, too." "It appealed to me and I sort of thought it was a sign about where I should play", he laughed. 'So, I told my dad that I have decided to sign with the Mississauga Hounds."

[Gustav 6,407]

Good luck in Mississauga @Andre LeBastard!

 

I used to be the GM there, they're a fun bunch.

[Andre LeBastard 112]

Thank you!