The Anaheim Outlaws drafted two new centermen in the S58 SMJHL draft. One was with their 4th overall pick which they used on Ryuuji Kawashima and their 33rd overall pick on Bob Duncan. In this deep dive I am going to go down the center spine according to the preseason file to see where these new draftees have been placed and how they stack up against the other centers in the Outlaws system.

Kaapo Kampainen - First line center - Preseason stats: 5 games, 0 goals, 2 assists, -3, 55.48% FO%

S57 SHL draftee Kaapo Kampainen has the task of being the centerman on the first line for the Outlaws. Kampainen is a classic example of a two-way forward bringing an excellent face off ability tied together with great defensive skills. Kampainen knows where to position himself in the defensive zone and his read in defensive situations is impeccable. On the other size of the ice, Kampainen uses his passing and puck handling to be the set up guy for his wingers. His offensive read is comparable with his defensive read. In a bind Kaapo has the hands to score a goal. The first line center position is a position you need to give to a player who you can trust and Kaapo is an A grade player to complete those expectations.


Ruuiji Kawashima - Second line center - Preseason stats: 5 games, 0 goals, 2 assists, -3, 48.14% FO%

One of the newest prospects, Ryuuji Kawashima, has been trusted with the second line position so far in the preseason. As the 4th overall pick of the last draft, Kawashima has baggage on his shoulders to play well and the Outlaws are giving him this opportunity. Kawashima is a player maker in its truest essence. Kawashima’s bread and butter are his passing abilities combined with his read of offensive situations and his ability to handle the puck. Defensively Kawashima does not stand out as Kampainen does, but what he lacks in defense, he makes up for in physical presence. Especially with his blasting speed and his ability to get to up to speed in quick succession.

Hubert Andrews - Third line center - Preseason stats: 5 games, 1 goal, 0 assists, -3, 53.36% FO%

Andrews holds down the third line in the Outlaws system and does so while being an extremely balanced two-way forward. Andrews falls in line with the previous two centers as his standout attributes on the offensive are his ability to read the play, as well as bringing crisp passes and puck handling abilities. Andrews uses his body quite a bit and creates a more grindy third line, keeping the other team on their toes when up against him and his linemates. He plays his defensive duties very well and has the stamina to easily keep up all game.

Jack Micro - Fourth line center - Preseason stats: 5 games, 0 goals, 0 assists, 0, 65% FO%

Surprise, 54th overall pick Jack Micro holds down the fourth line, with Bob Duncan sliding to the right wing. Micro was drafted as a right winger, but it seems the Anaheim coaches like these players reversed in their roles. Micro adds an explosive offensive power to the fourth line for the Outlaws. Micro is the player you want to win the face off and get it out quickly with good passes. This player can easily surprise a 4th line, by suddenly adding great offensive pressure.
A look at the Anaheim Outlaws center core.

Approved +5 TPE @Raven