Photo credit NHL
Fresh off the NHL Combine event in Buffalo, JP Hurlbert is recounting the experience and updated us on his plans for the fall.
The projected mid-to-late 1st round pick for the NHL Draft June 26th in Buffalo will honour his commitment to the University of Michigan in the fall. It comes after a 97 point season with the Blazers and WHL Rookie of the Year honours.
“I loved every second I spent in Kamloops,” said JP from his home in Allen, Texas.
“Obviously a lot went into (the decision). I felt so confident and comfortable (in Kamloops). I want to keep pushing myself with my goal is to play in the NHL. I think the tough decision is to go to Michigan and honour my commitment. Get stronger and play against (older players).
JP plans to honour his time with the Blazers on Draft Day with his suit.
“It’ll have some team stuff inside the liner. I want to give thanks to everyone who helped get me here. There will be some Blazer things, my teammates and other people who have helped me along the way,” beamed JP.
“As much as It’s an exciting day for myself, it’s an exciting day for a lot of the people that have helped me get here. It’s a chance to share it with everyone.”
Photo credit NHL
Hurlbert comes off a week of grueling fitness tests and mentally tasking interviews with NHL teams. One team placed a brick on the table with one request.
“They wanted me to list as many things I could do with (the brick) in 30 seconds. I think I did alright. A lot of outdoorsy and practical ideas. Another team asked me to describe what type of animal I play like and what animal best describes my personality,” Hurlbert recalled.
“Another team put a sheet of paper with numbers on it and wanted me to identify as many number sequences as I could in 30 seconds… they put you under pressure with 12 people watching.”
The face-to-face portion of the Combine is something the 18 year-old thrives in.
“I think you just have to embrace it and have fun. That shows them who you are the best,” continued JP whos smile you could hear through the phone.
The NHL Draft is slated for two days June 26-27 in Buffalo. While NHL brass will operate remotely, the top prospects will all be present for the big day.
“A cool part about it is that when my name is called in two weeks, I’ll still be a Kamloops Blazer.”
