by Tim Morris
Last season, then first-year Junior Senators forward James Taylor was a defense-minded forward. He used his 6-6, 225-pound frame to protect in his own zone. But, if he wanted to play a bigger role with the team, the Ottawa native knew he had to contribute more at the other end of the ice.
“Last year I was very hesitant every time I got over the red line,” he explained. “I knew I needed to make more plays.”
So, Taylor focused extensively on what he needed to improve on in the off-season.
“This summer I did a lot of work on shooting skills and my stick handling,” the 19-year forward noted. “I did a mix of things.”
Those off-season drills worked out well for the forward and in turn, for the Junior Senators. He came back a more confident and reassured player ready to play a more significant role.
Taylor’s ice time is up and he’s become a more integral part of the Ottawa offense. He’s scored 27 points in his 43 games on 11 goals—three of them game-winners—and 16 assists compared to last year when he scored nine points (two goals, seven assists) in 46 matches.
“It’s a big mindset change to think more offensive,” said Taylor. “I used to be pass first. Now I’m attacking more. ”
The stick handling drills helped give Taylor the confidence he needed to hold onto the puck longer, which has helped him increased his offensive production.
He is no longer hesitant when he crosses the red line. He’s more aggressive looking for his shot more and making plays for his teammates.
“I’m just a lot more comfortable with the puck now,” he pointed out.
Always at ease using his size on defense and to intimidate opponents on the forecheck, he’s now using his imposing presence and physicality on the power play where he often positions himself in front of the net.
The jostling and battling to maintain position can leave black and blue marks, but that’s fine with Taylor. He’ll take one for the team if it leads to a goal.
“I look for tips and rebounds that come along,” he explained. “I use my size a lot more to shield the puck with my body to maintain possession.”
As Ottawa gears up at another run for the Bogart Cup championship, Taylor sees his role with team as being responsible on defense, being physical, produce more (offensively) and continue to help out on the power play.
Things he has been doing all season for the defending Bogart Cup champions.
