BILL ARNOLD
Boston College
So. | F | Needham, Mass.

Key Statistics: Arnold scored 10 goals (on just 46 shots) as a freshman, good for a fourth-place tie among Hockey East rookies. The Eagles were 9-0-1 in games in which Arnold registered a goal.

What He Does: Jerry York and his assistants had an eye on Arnold since his freshman year at Noble and Greenough Prep in nearby Dedham, but only when he arrived at BC and the coaching staff saw him daily did they realize the impact he could make. York says Arnold has a great understanding of the game; that, coupled with his strength along the wall and on his skates, playmaking and shot-blocking ability, and defensive prowess, has him on track to become a breakout star for the Eagles. Twenty goals, says York, is a realistic projection.

The Bigger Picture: You’ll be seeing less of Arnold this season. Not in terms of ice time—York says he’ll play in all situations and average about 17-18 minutes a night—but in terms of, uhh, visible surface area. Not only has Arnold lost 11 pounds since the end of last season but he’s also reshaped his physique. “He’s never quite been in terrific physical shape,” York said. “He’s got the stature of a man now.”

York on Arnold’s physical transformation: “We try take 45-second shifts. Bill would have a great first 30 seconds but there’d be a drop-off over the last 15 seconds because he didn’t have the conditioning. This summer, he’s been losing weight and re-sculpting his body, which should make him stronger, quicker, and more assertive.”

Bonus quote from York, when informed Arnold would be BC’s A-Z representative: “You picked the right guy.”