Zach Parise
In 2003, Zach Parise was drafted by the New Jersey Devils in the first round at 17th overall. He signed with them at the end of the 2003-2004 season, ending his college career. In 2004, Parise was a member of the United States World Junior team that won the gold medal, where he was named tournament MVP. Also in 2004, he was named to the WCHA 1st team.
In 2004-2005, he began his pro career with the Albany River Rats where he totaled 18 goals and 40 assists. This placed him second on the team and fifth highest rookie scorer in the American Hockey League. He also made the starting line up for the league's All-star game.
Parise started playing for the Devils in the 2005-2006 season, in which he scored 32 points in 81 games. The 2006-2007 season would see him nearly double his output, scoring 62 points in 82 games, including 31 goals and 31 assists. Parise will need to get over a merely average first few NHL seasons, as he is expected to be a very gifted player and the offensive future of the Devils.
If Parise is paired with other offensive talents, his production will pick up. If he isn't, however, Parise can be nearly invisible on the ice. He is gifted and has good offensive instincts, but he still needs to flesh out more as a complete player in order to fully reach his potential.
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