NORTH RICHLAND HILLS, TX — As the top team in the NAHL South Division, the Lone Star Brahmas are sending five players — four forwards and one defenseman — to Team South and two players to the NAHL Selects.
Hunter Stanley is one of those seven Brahmas skaters headed to Plymouth, Michigan to play in the NAHL Top Prospects tournament. Stanley, a big 6-foot-2, 200 pound forward, will represent Team South.
“I think it’s going to be a great time up there, playing in front of all the college and NHL scouts and hopefully being able to talk to some,” Stanley said. “A good all-around experience.”
The tournament will be a unique experience for a few Brahmas in particular — Stanley has spent nearly all season skating on a line with Carson Kelley and Troy York, both of whom will also play for Team South.
Their line has been one of the Brahmas’ most productive, registering 109 points through 46 games this season. With the whole line in Michigan, it’s a no-brainer that the three forwards will likely get to hit the ice together.
“[I’m looking forward] to playing with my linemates and helping get them scholarships,” Stanley said.
Hockey is a team sport, and his chemistry with his linemates has undoubtedly played a significant role in his success. From an individual standpoint, though, Stanley has been one of the Brahmas’ most consistent offensive contributors over the course of the season, putting up 35 points (15 goals, 20 assists) in 40 games. 13 of those points have come on the power play, making Stanley one of Lone Star’s top power play producers.
With Brahmas Head Coach Dan Wildfong at the helm of Team South at the Top Prospects Tournament, it’s entirely conceivable that Brahmas fans will have the pleasure of seeing Hunter Stanley create chaos in front of the net on the man advantage for Team South, just as he does for Lone Star.
For his part, Wildfong is pleased to be able to coach Stanley at the tournament.
“[He’s a] big guy with a lot of skill. Good hands. You don’t usually see guys with both in our league. He’s just very good around the net and he’s got a great, quick shot with a quick release,” Wildfong said. “He can make plays with the puck and he’s really worked on his second and third effort to compete and that’s been the difference for him.”
WIldfong, Stanley, and the rest of Team South will play Monday, February 27 at 6:00 PM CST and Tuesday, February 28 at 1:00 PM CST.