BOBBY
BUTLER
New Hampshire
So. | F | Marlborough, Mass.
Butler's overtime goal in the Hockey East semifinals
highlighted a two-goal, one-assist weekend in Boston.
Key Statistics: Butler
scored a goal in his first collegiate game and followed
that with eight more, ending up about halfway down the
UNH scoring chart with 9-3—12 in 38 games. Foremost
among his three game-winning goals was his second-OT
chip shot against Massachusetts in the Hockey East semifinals.
What He Does: Butler
can do a bit of everything, with a 6-foot-0, 180-pound
frame that willingly goes into the corners, hockey sense
that gets him in the right places and hands that can
finish. He boasts a quick release on what's usually
a hard shot — with the exception of that goal
in Boston.
The Bigger Picture: Butler
produced remarkable offensive numbers playing for his
father, John, at Marlborough High School while also
skating for the Boston Jr. Bruins, but it was hard to
predict his impact joining the Wildcats right out of
high school. UNH freshmen — at least pre-James
van Riemsdyk — traditionally wait their turn before
becoming stars, and Butler began the year on the fourth
line. Injuries opened up ice time and he took advtantage,
scoring four goals in the season's last nine games.
He should enter this year among the team's top six forwards
and will be expected to provide offense from the drop
of the puck.
UNH forward Mike Radja on Butler:
“At first I thought he reminded me of
a Brett Hemingway type player, but he's a little more
aggressive, digging and banging in the corners, than
Brett. He’s a different player, I’m not
sure I’ve ever played with anyone like him. He’s
got something special about his game.”
