Regina Pats spring camp showcases latest draft picks

Regina Pats development camp is underway with star Maddox Schultz expected to take a leadership role this season and help the new prospects. Jacob Carr reports.

The Regina Pats Spring camp saw Fletcher MacDonald, the ninth overall selection in this year’s WHL draft, get his first reps in net for the team.

“I actually was dreaming about the ninth overall pick, and just imagining them taking me,” the 14-year-old netminder told CTV News.

“It was a dream and I thought it would be far fetched, that I was going to be picked a lot later, maybe in one of the later rounds. So, I think obviously it’s awesome, but I wasn’t expecting it, definitely a surprise.”

Also on hand was Pats star forward Maddox Schultz.

Now in his second year in the league, the local product, who turned 16 in March, is expected to take on more of a leadership role this season.

• Download the CTV News app to get breaking news alerts sent to your device

“Last year I kind of came in and I was really nervous, so, I can kind of see it where some of these guys are coming from with their nerves and stuff,” he said.

“So, just trying to be there for them and lead by example. I know a lot of the guys last year led by example.”

Both players told CTV News they model their game and look up to current NHL players.

For MacDonald it’s Dallas Stars goalie Jake Oettinger, with both netminders boasting a big frame in between the pipes.

“Yeah, I think obviously being six-three helps my case for sure, but I just try to play calm and take up as much net, same as any other goalie,” he said. “Just be as big as you can, just make sure your angles are right and stop every puck you can.”

Schultz had his own young cheering section during Friday’s afternoon practice, and the Pats forward remembers a time not too long ago when he was attending camps and cheering on former Pat and current Chicago Blackhawk Connor Bedard.

“I’m only five years younger than him, but I still considered him to be the guy I look up to the most. It was super cool coming to some of these camps and some of the practices and watching him and him taking the time to meet with little kids.”

Schultz will get his first full taste of a 68 game WHL season this year, after splitting time between the Pats and Pat Canadians in his rookie year.

He will be looking to lead the team on a deep playoff run coming off of last year’s first round postseason exit at the hands of the Medicine Hat Tigers.