Philly First Gens

[DMaximus 1,046]

I like this theme week, although it does seem similar to the unsung hero theme week from S69. Regardless I welcome any opportunity to talk about the great players on the Philadelphia Reapers. I’m going to highlight some of the first gen players on the Reaper roster.

 

Bob Helminen @Big Bob – Bob signed with Halifax right at the start of S71 and started performing at an elite level immediately.  He averaged over a point a game as a first gen waiver signing. Philly was able to draft him 18^th overall in the S71 draft. He has been a model Reaper ever since. His on-ice performance speaks for itself, over 100 points last season and on pace for over 125 this season. His warm positive personality keeps Reaper spirits high between our soul harvesting runs.

 

Jer Lefebvre @Jer_Lefebvre – Jer joined the league in the middle of S71 and signed with Houston. Much to the consternation of the draft stream due to not being able to pronounce his name, Philly drafted him 19^th overall in the S72 draft. Jer quickly got to work on his player, displaying his best quality, tireless work on his craft. His dedication has paid off as evidenced by him recording over a point a game. He’s proven he can be a top line center not only in the minors but in the big leagues as well.

 

Spencer Elsby @Spence King – Spencer joined after the S70 trade deadline, signing with Mississauga. He barely got a taste of hockey before the season ended. As an unknown player, he fell in the S71 draft to 35^th overall. He may turn out to be the biggest steal in Reaper draft history, rivaled only by consummate pro Charlie Paddywagon who was drafted 47^th overall by Philly. I don’t know the precise moment, if it was hearing his name called on draft day, or putting on the Reaper jersey for the first time, or stepping on to the ice at the Crematorium; but something clicked with Spence and he knew he was meant to be a Reaper. He’s the ideal defenseman, blending skill with raw power and athleticism. He’s on pace to have over a point a game this season. Even more important than that are his off-ice contributions. His passion, energy, and love for the Reapers is unparalleled. Working with him on the team is undoubtedly a highlight of my GM career.

 

Turner McHugh @Turner – Turner joined mid S71 and signed with HOU. He jumped right into things, notching 32 points in 45 games. This drew the attention of the Reaper scouts and we picked him up with the 31^st pick in the S72 draft. Just like he did in Houston, he immediately started performing on the ice. A selfless player who makes everyone else on the ice better. His perfectly timed passes from anywhere on the ice are a thing of beauty. The Reaper organization and fans are excited to watch him continue to grow.

 

John Poremba @CrlineDijohn14 – John signed with Houston right before the start of S71. It was a difficult season, but John showed he could be a starting goalie for any team in the league. His workhorse mentality is exactly what you look for in a goalie. John shows up, gets to work, and stays working for longer than anyone else. His tireless effort pays dividends as he is now a top tier goalie with a fantastic 7 shutouts so for this season. He is expected to be the top goalie in the VHLM next season, if he chooses to return to the minors.

 

Thank you to everyone in this list! You, along with the other Reaper players, are what make GMing this team such a pleasure. #FearTheReaper.