Just one year after drafting 2008 QMJHL Defenseman of the Year Marc-Andre Bourdon, 67th overall in the 2008 NHL Entry Draft, the two-way blue liner is going pro. On Friday, the Flyers inked Bourdon to an entry-level deal, in which terms were not disclosed.
“Marc-Andre turns pro after an outstanding 2008-09 season in the Quebec Major Junior Hockey League, where he was honored for his play during the regular season and in the playoffs,” said Flyers’ General Manager Paul Holmgren. “We believe Marc-Andre has tremendous potential to develop into a solid defenseman at the next level.”
The 19-year old rear guard was drafted in the third round, but many believed he had first-round talent. There were rumors of him dropping to the third round due to questionable skating and that his team, Rouyn-Noranda, was difficult to scout because of location.
“I think a lot of it had to do with my skating and mobility, things I’m still working on,” Bourdon told hockey writer Al Alven, back in February. “I think I’ve made a lot of improvements in those areas, but I still have some work to do.”
At 6’0, 206 lbs., Bourdon has excellent vision and a great first pass, making him a solid offensive catalyst. But just because he has some finesse, doesn’t mean he shy’s away from the physical aspect. He isn’t the biggest player on the ice, but he plays like it. Bourdon plays what only can be described as a tough game with a tough attitude.
“That’s not why I play the game,” Bourdon said. “Hockey is a team sport. You play for your teammates and coaches, for the fans and the town you represent. Winning is all that matters.”
The downside of Bourdon has always been his skating. He isn’t the best skater, or the fastest, but after a phenomenal year with Rimouski Oceanic/Rouyn-Noranda, in which he had a combined 18 goals and 42 assists in 54 games, it seems as if even his skating has improved enough to impress the Flyers.
Bourdon will attend rookie camp and training camp, and despite injury or extremely impressive play, will start on the blue line of the Adirondack Phantoms.
Phila.Bright 