Few players can go into their sophomore season playing for the same team and say they’re still relatively unknown to the fans. For Marcus Nguyen, a 17-year-old forward out of Edmonton, his rookie season came on the heels of a pandemic. Playing post-pandemic meant playing in arenas devoid of fan fair. So to say this coming season will be different would be an understatement.
When speaking with Marcus about what he’s looking forward to this season, the fans and the atmosphere at the Veterans Memorial Coliseum were at the top of his list. For someone who has already suited up for 16 games as a Winterhawk, the fact that he has never experienced the VMC and its fans, is strange.
Just as he has not seen the fans, the fans haven’t really gotten a feel for how Marcus plays. A glitchy app to stream games on isn’t the same as experiencing a game in person; anyone knows that.
What to expect
When Winterhawks fans finally get to experience Marcus live, they can expect to watch someone quick on the ice, focused on the puck, and determined to create offense. In addition, he’s a two-way player and not afraid to provide defense when needed.
Marcus goes into the 21-22 season determined to prove himself. He’s draft eligible this season, and he is hungry for it. He’s focused, not just on the game but the little steps he has to take along the way to get there.
Sometimes those little steps aren’t seen around the rink or even in the gym. Sometimes those little things about learning the city you’re living in and getting to know your teammates off the ice. He’s already taken a liking to Portland and all it has to offer in the way of golf.
Neely Cup Fun
This year, for some fans, the Neely Cup was the first upfront look they had of Marcus Nguyen in action. During the Neely cup, Marcus suited up from team Iverson (red) before moving over to Ludvig (white) due to injury. Nguyen and Team Ludvig made it to the finals during the four-day tournament, facing off against Team Hill (black). He managed to score a goal, but his team fell just short of his goal of back-to-back championships.
When and where
The Winterhawks kick off the season on October 1st in Tri-City against the Americans. Puck drop is 7:05 pm.
The first home game of the season with be October 2nd against Seattle. The game will be at the VMC, and puck drop is at 6 pm.
Northwest Sports Desk 