2009 World Junior Hockey Tournament

Saskatoon, SK - December 27, 2009

Remember this name - Benjamin Conz.

The Switzerland and Geneve Servette goaltender played against the USA Junior team and did little other than stop the puck and look composed. Conz stopped 46 out of 49 shots, and was named man of the match for Switzerland in the post-match ceremony.

Although the final score was USA 3:0 SUI, the three goals scored on him by the United States today were seemingly off of rebounds or deflections. Conz seemed to make all of the initial saves, whilst controlling most of the rebounds or kicking/sticking pucks aside.

Apparently, Mr. Conz wasn’t so successful representing his country in the U-18 World Hockey Championships. On the Hockey’s Future website (Last updated in June of this year), he is listed as:

“a small netminder, who plays deep in his net. He has very unusual technique, which is not very effective.”

Hockey’s Future’s assessment of Mr. Conz’ future:

“Long-shot for the NHL.”

Having seen him play against a USA Junior team loaded with offensive talent, I have to disagree with this assessment.

Benjamin Conz may have improved very much indeed since his Hockey’s Future profile was last updated in June of this year - presumably after his less than impressive showing at the U-18 World Championships.

At the tender age of 18 he hasn’t yet been drafted by an NHL club. Perhaps this is destined to change this summer. I believe Mr. Conz did an excellent job of showcasing his ability in holding off the American team for so long and his 46 save performance went a long way towards impressing NHL scouts should he decide to pursue a career outside of Switzerland.