Dubuc scored his first goal on opening night, a top shelf wrist shot, was a quick demonstration that he possesses an outstanding shot. Dubuc also picked up two assists in game two, then broke out with a natural hat trick in game three.
After three games, Dubuc has four goals, two assists, and has hammered 17 shots on net, is indicative of his fast start. Dubuc has so far been teamed with line mates Travis Morin, the Stingray’s leading scorer last year, and another rookie Maxime Lacroix who also has excellent offensive skills. Accordingly, if the line reaches it’s apparent potential low country hockey fans could see real firepower and excitement from this combination.
When Dubuc stepped off the ice last spring after his junior team, the Rouyn-Noranda Huskies, were eliminated in the finals of the Quebec Major Junior Hockey League (QMJHL) playoffs. After the loss, he began to consider turning pro. Dubuc had just finished his fourth season in the QMJHL scoring 112 goals and 94 assists (206 points) in 231 games with
Dubuc was traded after the finals to the
Courtesy SC Stingrays
After seeking some advise, Dubuc felt it was time to move on.
“I chose to go pro as I believe I can really improve my game here as opposed to staying another year in junior hockey” said Dubuc.
His decision was based on the fact that as a 20 year old, Dubuc would have been one of the older stronger veterans in the “Q”. By moving up to the pros however, he reversed his situation. He would no longer be the older, stronger veteran, but rather be faced with having to step up in all phases of his game in order to compete.
While seeking advice on his decision about turning pro, it became clear to him that he needed to embark on building both his overall strength and adding weight to his 6 foot 2 inch fame. He did so over the off season by embarking on an intense strength and conditioning program that added weight and strength. He is now approaching 186 pounds early this season.
While conditioning and size are important, exposure to the stronger faster players at the pro level quickly became part of his off season development experience. One of his early stops was at the Washington Capitals rookie camp where invitees competed against some of the NHL’s biggest names in practice sessions and games.
Playing in a Capitals in-house tournament, which was made up of teams composed of Capital roster players, draft choices, and prospects, Duduc got the chance to play against Alex Ovechkin, last year’s NHL MVP, along with other Capital veterans.
“I found myself sitting on the bench between shifts between Alexander Semin and Sergei Fedorov. Who would have thought three months ago I would have that experience.”
After spending time with the Hershey Bears in preseason, Duduc was assigned to the Stingrays. Regarding
“An amazing city, especially since it is already snowing in
He also is clear on the advice he is getting, including input from Stingray Head Coach Jared Bender, to work on his total game.
“I am concentrating on improving my physical play and my play in the defensive zone. I am looking forward to demonstrating the ability to work on special teams including killing penalties.”
His past play has been indicative of a natural scoring touch and if he is able to hold the form displayed early this season he should score goals. Accordingly, he understands that improving his defensive game will be a major step in his career advancement.
The approachable Dubuc seems to be genuinely enjoying the challenges that a young rookie faces in turning professional. Stingray fans are looking forward to observing his progress.
Contact the author at Phil.Brand@prohockeynews.com
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