Wisconsin men's hockey fans knew that they were going to see something special this season. The Badgers brought in the nation's top recruiting class, but just how special the team would be remained to be seen.
Now two weekends of college hockey are in the books, and it is apparent that freshman forward Kyle Turris holds onto a majority of the something special"" that fans were looking for.
Turris, who was the third overall pick in last June's NHL Entry Draft, obviously came to Wisconsin with some high expectations. However, after tallying 12 points over the first four games of the season and nabbing WCHA Offensive Player of the Week honors, it seems doubtful that anyone expected him to get off to such a good start.
""I didn't expect [the quick start],"" Turris said. ""I just came in working hard and trying to help the team in any way I could.""
The New Westminster, B.C., native has helped in almost anyway possible, registering five goals and seven assists over the first two weekends of the season. He currently ranks first in the nation in points and goals and is tied for first in assists, something unheard of at Wisconsin.
Compared to former Badgers Dany Heatley and Joe Pavelski, Turris is off to a far better start, but the freshman doesn't look at statistics as that important.
""I really don't compare myself to how Heatley did or Pavelski,"" Turris said. ""They are in the NHL right now and I am not, so that's the way I look at it.""
While Turris may not take notice of his play, his teammates are.
""He is just dangerous every time he is on the ice,"" junior forward Ben Street said. ""He creates something from nothing and is able to get the puck into scoring areas and make sure he gets good shots. Whether it goes in or rebounds, he is always creating [opportunities].""
Street, Turris and sophomore forward Michael Davies have created a formidable front line for UW, combining for 24 points so far this season. Turris credits Street and Davies as the reason for his quick start.
""I have been playing with Ben Street and Mike Davies, two phenomenal players who have made some great plays to get me the puck,"" Turris said. ""So it's easy for me to put [the puck] in the net when you are playing with good players.""
Fans have been quick to label Turris as a ""Freshman Phenom,"" yet he doesn't see himself that way.
""I don't see that at all. I am just another kid coming in to play hockey and go to school. I am kind of living in the moment and having fun at college and it's exciting.""
Street has played with the likes of Robbie Earl and Joe Pavelski, but can't compare Turris to any past teammates.
""I have played with a lot of good guys but he is probably one of the most dynamic guys,"" Street said. ""Especially when you don't really see something there and then he creates.
""I don't know if I can compare him to anyone, he is his own player. But he is a pretty special player, that's for sure.""
