Los Angeles Kings‘ 7th round pick in the 2009 draft rookie center Nic Dowd(26) was selected after his well-played 1st year of US junior hockey in the NAHL with Wenatchee Wild.
He virtually mirrored his debut performance in his next season of USHL with Indiana Ice before heading off to St. Cloud State University.
It took the 6’2″ 196 lbs. forward a couple of years to pick up the pace but by his last two campaigns, serving as team captain as a senior, he was back up to point-per-game production.
For his efforts he was named a Hobey Baker Award finalist.
Upon completion of his college playing days, he signed a one-year entry level deal and was assigned immediately to join affiliate Manchester Monarchs.
In 7 AHL games he posted three assists and added his first pro goal in 4 postseason contests.
After a strong showing in training camp he was one of the final cuts to be sent down and got right to work. Through 58 games he has 5 goals and a healthy 23 helpers.
The 24-year old from the unlikely hockey home of Huntsville, AL leads his team in rookie scoring with 28 points and assists.
He still awaits his first NHL recall but his tenacious playing style and good size probably put him in line sooner than later.