Word on the street today has former UND Fighting Sioux standout and Winnipeg native Jason Gregoire considering the possibility of signing with Winnipeg should he not be able to reach terms with the New York Islanders, who drafted Gregoire.
Gregoire, a left-winger chosen in the 3rd round (76th overall) out of Lincoln in the USHL in the 2007 Entry Draft, left UND after his junior season to take advantage of the “Blake Wheeler-rule” in the CBA, which allows players to sign with any team should his drafting team not sign him within 30 days past the 4-year mark of the team drafting said player.
More about this prospect after the jump.
A solidly built player with offensive talent, Gregoire plays a robust game and would figure to be a 2nd or 3rd line winger at the NHL-level. He possesses a hard, accurate shot and is not afraid to play a physical game. In addition to his offensive skills, he is a hard worker who wins a lot of board and front-of-net battles with superior strength and tenacity. He has shown a steady improvement in production and leadership from junior to the college game, and played on one of the most feared lines in college hockey this past season.
If signed by Winnipeg, I would think he would spend time in the minors honing his game, but would not be surprised to see him in the NHL in short order. He plays a style of game that would fit in will with what Chevaldayoff and Heisinger are said to want to play, and having a home-town kid on the roster can’t hurt.
Your thoughts in the comments, as always.
