Jakub Brabenec has had an impressive Rookie Faceoff so far. He's scored two goals and is elevating his offensive game for the Vegas Golden Knights. It's a promising sign for a prospect looking to evolve into a second-line or third-line player for the team. However, he hasn't been the only impressive prospect for the Golden Knights.
Braeden Bowman has also been an eye-opening prospect, scoring two goals himself. The forward is looking comfortable offensively, turning opportunities into solid goals. It's a promising omen for a team seeking forward prospects for the future. Given his amateur pedigree, there's good reason to believe he'll contribute to the lineup regularly.
The undrafted forward scored 97 goals and 83 assists in four seasons with the Guelph Storm. He also had an outstanding performance during the OHL Cup, scoring three goals and two assists in four games for the Kitchener Jr. Rangers in 2018-19. It's easy to see why he's taken over the tournament, for his offensive prowess has made the front office take notice.
That could leave fans in awe of his talents, eventually leading to a spot on the main roster. But what else does he bring to the table for the Golden Knights? What should fans watch for as he continues to impress front-office personnel and the fanbase alike? Here's why you should pay attention to Braeden Bowman as a prospect.
What makes Braeden Bowman appealing as a Vegas Golden Knights prospect
Bowman is a sizable prospect, standing at 6'1" and weighing 205 lbs. He'd fit into the Golden Knights roster with some extra seasoning, making him a viable player on the forecheck. But his calling card is his scoring skill set, where he can make plays without hesitation. How does he do this?
For one, he keeps his touches short and sweet, wasting little time moving the puck. That goes with seeing the play unfold and making the next move accordingly. The Kitchener native can also finish the play, using his quick-release shot or a strong one-timer to score goals. Watch how he deceives the goaltender on this goal against the Los Angeles Kings at the Rookie Faceoff.
look at this absolute beauty from Braeden Bowman 🔥👏 pic.twitter.com/pPyU6p9o5O
— Vegas Golden Knights (@GoldenKnights) September 14, 2024
Braeden Bowman goes at the middle of the goaltender, looking like he will attack his stick side. He uses his body's momentum to carry his body to this side here. But he shoots at his glove side instead of trying to finish on the netminder's stick side, resulting in a goal. It's his quick-release shot that finishes the job, extending Vegas's lead. It's part of the puck control and mastery Vegas Golden Knights fans can expect from Braeden Bowman.
The forward can become a viable playmaker for the Golden Knights, turning unlikely scoring opportunities into goals. His offensive IQ will make him into a valuable piece, where he could eventually crack the lineup. If he continues to impress during his minor league tenure, that time could come sooner than one would think.