After watching a few of the Phantoms players for the first few weeks, I have these observations.
BRIAN BOUCHER- Boosh has improved his game over last season, his appearance in Game 5 of the Calder Cup Finals may have been an indication of things to come. Boosh has shown some early brilliance, this may be due to the fact that he is now the starting golatender. His confidence seems to be increasing with each passing period. He finally seems to have won over the sometimes hostile Spectrum crowd, which will only help his confidence. Boucher is now moving faster and anticipating the plays better. If he can put together some really strong games against the likes of the Hartford Wolf Pack and Albany River Rats, he may be a leading candidate to be in the NHL next season.
BRIAN WESENBERG- the big winger, really seems to have picked his game up, Wesenberg may never be a huge goal scorer. WESIE has an uncanny knack of having teams take penalties against him. Wesenberg is proving to be a valuable asset due to his aggressive fore-checking. He consistently creates opportunities while at even strength and don't forget his "diving" ability. As soon as Wesenberg feels an opponent near him, he takes that dive which results in a penalty. Wesenberg has learned the esssentials of timing, he seems to sense when to go down. With the noticable improvement in his hand-eye coordination, watch for Wesenberg to become a Phantom star before playoff time.
Which brings me to the biggest surprise thus far, FRANCIS BELANGER- Belanger has quickly become a fan favorite. He can hit, score and fight. He has a few fights under his belt which will open the ice up for his line-mates to create scoring chances. Belanger has shown signs of being a legitimate player at this level. When he has made mistakes, he seems to correct them and not make them again. Belanger has the quick hands of a goal scorer. He also seems to have good on ice "vision".