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#4 Nathan Paetsch
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Pos: D
D.O.B.: 3/30/83
From: LeRoy, Sask
Height: 6'0
Weight: 195
Shoots: Left
Drafted: 2003 draft 7th rnd, 202nd overall by Buffalo (NHL)
Acquired: Signed to 1-yr contract by Grand Rapids (AHL) 7/9/12 |
| Personal: |
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| Plus: Hard worker... Versatile performer can play up front if needed... Solid defensively... Great vision and passing... Can quarterback powerplay... Good skater... Intelligent Playmaker... Can play physical...
| | Minus: Off-ice issues... |
| Organizational Comments: Griffins Coach Jeff Blashill Nathan has really been our best all-around defenseman, What I'd say about Nathan is he's highly competitive and highly smart. Those are two great qualities to be a really outstanding hockey player. |
What GRC says: 2015-16 The veteran defender saw his offense tail off a bit over the second half, but was still a key player in his own end. His biggest strength is his ability to break the puck out and fuel the transition game. He saw a ton of ice time as one of the workhorses on the blueline often paired with Sproul over the second half and was also a staple on the penalty kill. He is still signed through next season and should once again anchor the backend while breaking in a greener partner, a role he has played well for 4 seasons in Grand Rapids.
2014-15 Paetsch enjoyed his best season as a Griffin statistically, and continued to play a valuable role in mentoring the organizations young crop of defensemen. This season he was more involved in the offense, doing a great job of stepping up into the play when needed, but using his veteran savvy to make key defensive plays and break up odd man rushes. He really ramped up his play in the second half and into the playoffs where his great first pass set up scoring chances. At the end of his contract, could be retained to provide leadership and offensive skills.
2013-14 Savvy veteran blueliner really elevated his game the last 20 games and into the playoffs. He played steady defense, chipped in 12 points during that stretch, and used his mobility to press the issue. He will have to adjust to playing without usual partner Almquist next season, but should continue to be a good mentor for the blossoming corps of young defenders in the system.
2012-13 Paetsch concentrated more on defense the second half, allowing the development of his normal partner Almquist. He fueled the transition game for the team, breaking up plays and moving the puck up ice to set up a scoring opportunity. The veteran puck-mover came up big in the playoffs where he played a ton of ice time and never stopped skating. He also set the example to do anything to win, blocking shots, banging around the boards and making plays from his knees. He was rewarded for his stellar play with a new two-year contract.
Fall 2012 Paetsch is a solid veteran who can get things done at either end of the ice. A versatile player with a lot of skill and a work ethic to match, expect Paetsch be a calm influence on the young crop of blueliners in grand Rapids this season.
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| Role: Veteran Defenseman |
| Projection: NHL 5-6 Defenseman |
| Transactions |
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| 7/9/12 | Signed 1 yr contract with Grand Rapids (AHL) |
| 7/8/13 | Signed 2-yr contract with Grand Rapids (AHL) |
| 9/10/13 | Invited to Detroit's Training Camp (NHL) |
| 9/23/13 | Assigned by Detroit (NHL) |
| 9/28/13 | Signed to PTO by Detroit (NHL) |
| 9/29/13 | Released from Tryout by Detroit (NHL) |
| 9/27/14 | Released from Camp by Detroit (NHL) |
| 7/6/15 | Signed 2 yr contract with Grand Rapids (AHL) |
| 9/27/15 | Released from Detroit (NHL) Training Camp |
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