By @StefanKubus –
The NHL Scouting Combine began Monday in Buffalo, and the grueling fitness tests that the combine is renowned for take place Friday and Saturday to wrap up the week.
The week-long event allows NHL general managers and scouts to meet draft-eligible prospects face-to-face and interview them one-on-one to learn more about their character and personality. Players are also tested with various physical challenges, such as the standing long jump, bench press, shuttle run and Wingate test to determine such attributes as grip strength, aerobic fitness, balance and explosiveness.
Of the 104 players invited to participate in the event, the following have Michigan ties, whether they are from Michigan or skated here during the 2016-17 campaign. The Michigan natives are listed in italics.
Evan Barratt – USA Hockey’s National Team Development Program Under-18 Team
Sasha Chmelevski – Ottawa (OHL) – Northville
David Farrance – U.S. NTDP U18
Max Gildon – U.S. NTDP U18
Tyler Inamoto – U.S. NTDP U18
Nathan Knoepke – U.S. NTDP U18
Ivan Lodnia – Erie (OHL) – Novi
Luke Martin – Michigan (NCAA)
Tommy Miller – U.S. NTDP U18 – West Bloomfield – Michigan State commit
Grant Mismash – U.S. NTDP U18
Josh Norris – U.S. NTDP U18 – Oxford – Michigan commit
Keith Petruzzelli – Muskegon (USHL)
Scott Reedy – U.S. NTDP U18
Jason Robertson – Kingston (OHL) – Northville
Jack Studnicka – Oshawa (OHL) – Northville