Norton ranked second on Providence with 14 goals
last season, but scored just three in the last
two months of the season. |
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Key Statistics: Norton's
offensive numbers have progressed dramatically in his
first three seasons as a Friar, from three points to
11 to 24 last year as a junior. His 14 goals in 2007-08
ranked second on the team and included a team-high seven
on the power play. He had four two-goal games. His 65
penalty minutes also led the team.
What He Does: Norton
is an effective power forward who is at his best below
the faceoff dots. His size (6-foot-2, 200 pounds) and
hands make him a key component of the Friars' power
play.
The Bigger Picture: After
a strong start, including back-to-back two-goal games
in November, Norton's production fell off in the second
half of the season. With more consistency – and
fewer untimely penalties – he could be in store
for a very big senior year. Providence returns the bulk
of its roster but loses some big names in Jon Rheault
and Cody Wild. If Norton improves the way his track
record and skills suggest that he could, he may be the
kind of go-to offensive weapon the Friars appear to
be lacking.
Providence head coach Tim Army
on Norton: “He has gotten a little quicker
and more comfortable with the pace of the college game
in his three years here. We're encouraged by his progress
and I'm anxious to see how he comes ready to play from
the start of this season. He certainly has the ability
to be a really good power forward at this level.”
—
Nate Ewell |
