Metro draft pick Theut NAHL-bound?

Jacob Theut was drafted in the fifth round of last month’s North American 3 Hockey League draft by the Metro Jets, but the team brass isn’t counting on Theut tending goal at Lakeland Arena.

Simply put, Theut (pronounced ‘TOYT’) was the best goaltender available when the Jets selected 68th overall, but should most likely play next season in the North American Hockey League with the Kenai River Brown Bears after the Alaskan squad tabbed him in the seventh round of its draft a week prior to the 3HL draft.

That’s not to say plans may get tweaked between now and the start of the 2011-2012 season and Theut knows that. He also knows what his options are going forward.

“It’s an honor to be drafted by any team in any league, especially by a local team like the Jets,” said Theut, who played last year for Warren De La Salle Collegiate High School and was named to the “Dream Team” and earned First Team All-State honors. “The Jets told me that they were going to draft me, but were uncertain on what round. The coaching staff has been really patient with me and has been encouraging me to play at higher levels. Any player should consider themselves lucky to able to play with the Jets, a team with a very experienced coaching staff.”

A hybrid goalie with a very athletic style, Theut models his game after three NHL legends and hopes to keep improving on a daily basis.

“I’m an athletic goalie like Dominik Hasek and I admire Patrick Roy for his focus and positioning,” explained Theut. “I model my off-ice characteristics after Steve Yzerman with his great leadership and his strong work ethic. My game hasn't plateaued yet, but I know I am getting better, stronger and smarter each year. With the help of (personal goalie coach and Jets’ goalie coach) Randy Wilson, he is helping prepare me for the next levels.”

“My short-term goal right now is to sign with a junior team. My goal for after juniors is to be playing Division I college hockey.”

Whether or not Theut’s path to college runs through Waterford remains to be seen, however.

Photo courtesy BC Photography