Eurolanche

Mitchell Heard: Interview with 1st pick

Mitchell Heard was drafted from the 41th place of the 2^nd round as the first pick of the Colorado Avalanche organization at the 2012 entry draft. It was surprise for some experts that he was drafted so highly. At the other side, the Avalanche organization has believed in his junior experience, offensive skills and also the style of power forward. Mitch does not like only to score goals, he is willing to fight and defend his teammates in every situation.

Mitch, 20, could be drafted in 2010 or 2011 but it did not happen. He spent his junior career in Plymouth Whalers. In the last season, he got 57 points and 111 penalty minutes in 57 games. He added 11 points and 26 PIM in the 13 playoffs games.

After the great season he finally heard his name at the prestige event. Later he signed his first professional contract with the Colorado Avalanche and will start the new stage of his career in the AHL in the jersey of Lake Erie Monsters this season. Do not be surprised if you will see him in the Pepsi Center soon. The players like him are always needed.

Mitch, first of all, I would like to congratulate you on the behalf of the Eurolanche for being draft by the Avalanche organization and wish you all the best. You could be drafted in 2010, but it happened two years later. Why?

I'd have to say that I am a late bloomer. I continued to work hard and wouldn't go away without success. Keep banging on the door until I was let in. I am fortunate that the Colorado Avalanche have opened that door. Now the real work starts, and I'm more than ready for the task at hand.

How was the feeling when you were drafted? Did you expect this year?

Nothing was for sure. I had a few meetings with teams hoping for the best. Draft day was so exciting and I was fortunate to have spent it with friends and family.

What was your first thought when you heard you were picked by the Colorado Avalanche?

Joe Sakic.

How looked next days after draft? Was it something special or your life continued without major changes or events?

The next few days were really good and full of happiness. It felt like it wasn't real. I was in shock and so happy that I'm that much closer to fulfilling my dreams.

How did you spend summer?

Summer was spent training on and off ice. Otherwise hanging out with friends. Movies, golf, swimming, beach etc.

NHL scouts describe prospects all the time. Can you describe your playing style to us? What are your pros and cons?

Two way center men, play with an edge, willing to fight to protect my team. High compete level. Can score.

There is a big chance the NHL season will not start on the time what also included the cancelation of training camps. They are very important for young players like you. Do you think it could have some impact on your career if there will be no training camp?

Not really but the experience to see how good the pros are and level you need to be at will be missed.

Where will you play in the case of lockout? Lake Erie Monsters, Denver Cutthroats or maybe team based in Europe?

Lake Erie Monsters.

What is you most valuable memory on your time in Plymouth Whalers?

First goal, first fight and being selected to play in the Canada - Russia series this past year. Playing along side of NHL star Tyler Seguin.

Why you wear no. 15?

Birth month and birth day combined. March 12. 3rd month, 12th day. 12+3=15.