Simon Despres, the final cut from Penguins training camp, has returned to his junior team in Saint John and has been dominant. He was announced as the third star of the league this week for the Quebec Junior Major Hockey League.
↵↵↵Nicholas Champion, Ondrej Palat and Simon Després today were named the TELUS three stars of the week for the period extending from October 11 to 17.
↵Saint John Sea Dogs defenseman Simon Després receives the third star. The Sea Dogs defenseman contributed four assists in three wins. Morevoer, he posted an excellent +6 rating.
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It’s long been known that Despres is a big defenseman who thinks the game well and is a solid skater. But what’s come to light recently has been Despres’ improvement with the puck. It’s early, but in five games he’s now a point-per-game player in juniors, and many observers have marveled at his newfound confidence and skill with the puck. While Despres may never been an elite NHL offensive defenseman, his development is seemingly continuing very nicely in Quebec.