By Chad Klassen

Zary ready to take next step in his 17-year-old season

Sep 18, 2018 | 4:03 PM

KAMLOOPS — As a 16 year old, Connor Zary fit right in with the Blazers, scoring 11 goals and adding 18 assists in 68 games during his rookie campaign. His totals were good enough for fourth among 2001-born rookies in the WHL last season. 

As the Saskatoon native gets ready to begin his 17-year-old season, Zary is already feeling more comfortable a year later.

“It’s a lot better,” he said. “Coming here knowing you played here last year. It’s a lot easier coming in knowing the whole team. You’re had experience in this league, so you’re just ready to go.”

The 29 points he put up was eighth in Blazers scoring. This season, Zary wants to be near the top, if not the top scorer this year. 

Sound Off

SOUND OFF: Using digital security solutions to help Kamloops business owners deter thieves

1h ago

1000 Ways to Heal

1000 Ways to Heal: Indigenous Environment

Jan 14, 2025

Question of the Week

Would you support borrowing $150 million to build a larger RCMP detachment for Kamloops?

Jan 13, 2025

“Just to improve off my season last year. I thought I had a pretty good season last year,” he noted. “So I’m coming in, I trained hard to be faster and stronger, so I’m going to come out and try and be my best self.”

Zary wasn’t happy with his preseason performance with two goals in four games. But head coach Serge Lajoie is looking forward to more from the speedy, dynamic centreman.

“Connor has tremendous offensive upside. I think he definitely has the puck skills that will make him a very effective offensive player,” said Lajoie. “The one thing young players have to learn is consistency.”

Zary says he struggled with consistency at times during his 16-year-old season, but he’s learned he needs to bring it every game. If he does that, Lajoie feels he can turn into one of the best players in the league. He wants to put Zary in a position where he’s going north and south and utilizing his speed.

“When he’s straight-lined, he stops and starts, when he basically moves pucks early and moves himself and supports the puck, he’s effective,” noted Lajoie. “I think he can be one of the most dynamic players in the WHL.”