Who will be looked upon in the dying minutes of a tie game? Who will be counted upon to provide leadership on the long road to a national title? Who will make the key pass? Score the big goal? Make the huge save?

Three players from each of the five teams competing in Brooks, Alta., have been identified as Players to Watch at the 2019 National Junior A Championship.

Who made the list?

BROOKS

Pierce Charleson
efficient in the net … plays the puck well … challenges shooters … can win games on his own … durability is off the charts

William Lemay
strong on his skates … produces points … plays in all situations… not afraid to block shots ... an offensive leader

Brandon Scanlin
shutdown defenceman … skates well for his size… has an excellent one-timer from the point … logs big minutes

OAKVILLE

Will Barber
aggressive goaltender … challenges shooters … outstanding puck-handler … plays best in big games … good communicator

Spencer Kersten
extremely high motor … hockey IQ off the charts … gives defenders fits down low … puck hound … excels on the PK

Ryan Nicholson
effortless skater … likes to jump into the rush … picks his spots … doesn’t sacrifice defence for offence … plays smart

OTTAWA

Francis Boisvert
athletic goaltender … solid rebound control … good lateral quickness … dedicated to the game … loves big games

Bailey Brant
shutdown defenceman … plays extremely physical … great shot … rarely gets beat one-on-one … good anticipation

Darcy Walsh
tremendous leader … plays on the edge … quick release … wants to be counted on in big games … loves to score goals

PORTAGE

Chase Brakel
200-foot player … plays in all situations … leads with intelligence and poise … loves to compete … makes things happen

Owen Murray
very quick and agile … competitive … not afraid to get dirty … solid defensive skills … very good offensive instincts

Ocean Wiesblatt
exceptional skater … aggressive on the forecheck … strong on the PK … very good on face-offs … plays bigger than his size

PRINCE GEORGE

Layton Ahac
mature for his age … confident with the puck … sees the ice very well … hard, accurate shot … plays a complete game

Logan Neaton
very athletic … tremendous leader … plays a composed game … technically sound … compete level is off the charts

Ben Poisson
explosive speed … very strong on the puck … leads by example every shift … loves to play physical … very reliable