The book is only beginning to be written on Jake Walman.
The ink still yet to dry on the first chapter, Walman has National Hockey League scouts anxious to read where his story takes him next.
To simply say the Toronto Jr Canadiens defenseman was a late bloomer is deceiving. Undrafted in two Ontario Hockey League priority selections, the former forward in minor midget found his home on the blue line after converting to defense.
His first season in the Ontario Junior Hockey League was nothing short of brilliant. Walman emerged as not only one of his league’s top rearguards, but immediately drew intense interest from the OHL and college hockey. He chose to pursue his craft south of the border, committing to Providence College, where he should have ample time to fill out the rest of his story.
Given his success as a defender in one season, it’s more fitting to label him a quick study than a late bloomer.
Jake Walman (2014), D
Walman took his game to another level at the World Junior A Challenge and started to turn heads following the tournament .. grew six inches in the off-season which allowed him to physically handle playing in a top four capacity with the Toronto Jr Canadiens .. a dimensional skater whose edge work, pivots and straight ahead acceleration are in the upper echelon of the draft class .. his first-step quickness allows him to spin off checks and side-step oncoming forwards – however, his elite lateral quickness is what separates him from his peers .. converted to a defenseman this season .. his game saw notable improvements throughout the year as he developed better positioning in the defensive zone and even added layers of physical play to his game despite being an undersized 170 pounds .. confidence soared when he became a first unit PP option for his team .. showcased tremendous confidence to make a play due to constantly keeping his head on a swivel and recognizing his best options .. generated chances by using his stinging, fast point shot on a more regular basis .. Walman showed improvement in all facets of his game from the onset of the season .. committed to Providence College where he should have plenty of time to physically mature.