Rangers’ American Born Players Thriving In New Surroundings

Off to a 12-1-1-2 start, the Kitchener Rangers sit behind only the Windsor Spitfires for second place overall in the Ontario Hockey League.

No thanks to their two newest – American – additions.

Jeremy Morin, a 6’1″, 192 pound left winger from Auburn, NY, and John Moore, a 6’2″, 189 pound defenceman from Winnetka, IL, are both making a major impact in their first full seasons with the club.

Morin came to the OHL after playing two seasons with the USNTDP (United States National Team Development Program) under-18 team, scoring a total of 120 points over 99 games.

The USNTDP teams play college teams around the US, and sometimes face Canadian University teams in exhibition games.

When asked about the major differences between the USNTDP and the OHL, he emphasized the skill of the OHL.

“Last year we played mostly college teams with big, powerful guys that were all older, some up to 24 years old,” said Morin.  “This league is more skill.  There are a lot of good players that can move on – to higher levels – so you have to respect them a lot more.

Moore had a slightly different route on his way to the OHL.  He joined the Rangers this season after two successful years in the USHL (United States Hockey League) scoring 52 points in 107 games.  Last season he was named USHL defenceman of the year.  The league is tier 2 hockey in the United States, and is comprised of players 20 and under.

Moore was also asked about the differences between the USHL and the OHL, and the new challenges that he‘s faced this season.

“It’s definitely a little more competitive and a lot deeper here,” he said.  “It‘s a little more physical than what I‘m used to, but great in terms of developing and trying to take myself to the next level.”

One advantage for both before they made the transition to the OHL was their experience this off-season with their respective NHL team camps; Morin with the Atlanta Thrashers, and Moore with the Columbus Blue Jackets.

Rangers Head Coach Steve Spott emphasized that his job is to help these players with their transition not only to the OHL, but prepare them for the next level.

“Both of these kids are going to play in the NHL one day,” said Spott.  “I think they have to understand that they have to play a complete game in all three zones in this league.  For me, it’s all about paying attention to detail and teaching them that it’s about defending as hard as they press the offense.”

Statistically, they’re both putting together solid seasons.  Morin leads the team lead in goals with 14, and is third on the team in points with 21.  Moore leads all defenceman on the team with eight points in 13 games, and is a +5.

“I think my job with those two guys specifically is to make sure when they leave here that they’re complete players so that the Ken Hitchcock’s or John Anderson’s of the world have the comfort to put them on the ice at the NHL level,” added Spott.