I know it's only November, but it's never too early to start looking at the potential front runners for the nations best player award. I've compiled a quick list of the guys I think would have a chance to win it if the award was given tomorrow...
1.)
Carter Camper, Senior, Forward - Miami of Ohio
Commit this name to memory, because this kid can flat out play. In 14 games this season, he has 12 goals and 18 assists for a total of 30 points. 30 points and it's not even December. Good lord. That comes out to 2.14 points per game, so if Miami plays 40 games this season (as they have the past two years), he would be on pace to have 85 points, which is simply not right. Camper is surprisingly undrafted, which many feel is a product of his size - only 5'-9", 170. In his first 3 seasons with the Red Hawks, he tallied 41, 42 and 44 points, respectively.
2.)
Andy Miele, Senior, Forward - Miami of Ohio
A teammate of Carter Camper's at Miami, Andy Miele knows how to score as well. In 14 games, he's tallied 6 goals and 19 assists for 25 points (1.79 ppg). He would only be on pace to have 71 points to Carter's 85. No big deal. Miele is also undrafted (chalk it up to size again: 5'8", 175), but he was invited to the Washington Capitols camp last summer. In his first 3 seasons with Miami, he totaled 14, 31, and 44 points, respectively.
3.)
Jaden Schwartz, Freshman, Forward - Colorado College
An impressive freshman, Schwartz has 9 goals and 9 assists for 18 points in only 12 games thus far this season. Prior to playing at Colorado College, Jaden skated for the Tri City Storm of the USHL. He was taken 14th overall in the 2010 NHL entry draft by the St. Louis Blues.
4.)
Jack Connolly, Junior, Center - Minnesota Duluth
Younger brother of BU's own Chris Connolly, Jack has been putting on a show thus far this season. In 14 games, he has 5 goals and 15 assists, good for 20 points. Prior to playing for UMD, he played for the Sioux Falls Stampede of the USHL and was named the 2007-2008 USA Hockey Junior Player of the Year.
5.)
Dave Warsofsky, Junior, Defenseman, Boston University
Yeah, I'm being a bit of a homer with this one. But Warso is leading Hockey East in defensemen scoring (4-7-11), is averaging just under a point a game, and has a +/- of 7. For a D-man, that's all pretty good. If his offensive numbers keep up or even improve, look for him to be in the Hobey talk come second semester.
Honestly, if the award was given tomorrow, there's no doubt in my mind it goes to Carter Camper. If his offensive output continues, don't be surprised if his name is getting called next spring.
