Running in with the Petes

BUILD À DAY

Expectations for the Peterborough Petes remain high, although their first half of the season has been somewhat mixed. That's why, as the trade deadline approaches, they've filled their roster with a few exceptional players. Owen Beck is one of them.

To acquire the 18-year-old forward, the Petes gave big: two players and four draft picks. Since Beck had 41 points in 30 games with the Mississauga Steelheads, the game was worth the effort.

Except that since he joined the Petes, the production of the Canadian's second-round pick (33rd overall) in the last draft has been a little more timid. 

In eight games, he scored four points, including two goals.

“I definitely needed a little adjustment,” admitted Beck, acquired by the Petes on January 7th. It's hard to play with an entirely new band. But there is a lot of talent in this team, so we will eventually find solutions. 

Just like home

Beck grew up in Port Hope, just over 30 minutes from Peterborough. So, for him, it's a bit like playing at home.

“It's practically my city team, so that's really cool. I'm already enjoying the experience, so I can imagine what it will be like once we get to the playoffs,” he said when meeting Saturday morning, ahead of his NHL debut.

>

What's also cool is finally reaching his dream of playing in the NHL.

The Canadiens' rookie camp where he stood out, the preparatory calendar during which he made a good impression. 

Everything is changing

And, more recently, his recall by the Canadian junior team, the trade involving him and his match with the Canadiens are all steps bringing him closer to the goal.

“Let's just say that the year 2023 is off to a really good start for me,” says Beck. It's crazy what happened in the last 365 days. I still feel like I haven't had enough time to process everything that happened to me. 

He doesn't hide that sometimes he feels everything is in shambles.

“Trying to be a hockey player fills a life. It's something you have to get used to. Especially at this level. You are on the road often. You don't see your family often, but you try to enjoy it because it's a dream come true.”