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LOS ANGELES -- I checked in on the Kings highly regarded 26th overall selection in the 2024 NHL Entry Draft with Windsor Spitfires Head Coach Greg Walters. Greentree has cemented confidence in the Kings high selection of him by being on track to another blazing season in the Ontario Hockey League, seemingly with the help of a little gasoline that was his Team Canada World Junior Championships camp omission.
1. For Kings fans who may not have had a lot of looks at the 2024 NHL Draft's 26th overall pick, what type of game does Liam Greentree bring?
“Tree (Liam Greentree) is a promising power forward known for his combination of size, skill, and scoring ability. Greentree utilizes his physical presence effectively on the ice.” During the 2023-24 season with the Windsor Spitfires of the Ontario Hockey League (OHL), where he served as team captain, Greentree led his team with 90 points, comprising 36 goals and 54 assists over 64 games. This performance placed him among the top 20 players in the OHL for goals, assists, points, and points-per-game (1.41), earning him OHL Third All-Star Team honors. “Tree’s (Greentree’s) offensive prowess is highlighted by his powerful and accurate shot, capable of challenging goaltenders from various angles. His ability to change the angle of his shot upon release makes him a consistent scoring threat. Additionally, his puck-handling skills and creativity allow him to navigate through defenders and generate scoring opportunities.” “Liam brings a blend of size, skill, and scoring touch, projecting as a potential power forward who can contribute significantly to the Kings’ offensive depth in the future.”
2. Greentree was named Captain last season in just his 2nd with the club. What jumped out about his character to earn him the 'C'?
Liam Greentree was appointed captain of the Windsor Spitfires before I came in as the Head Coach. I have previous experience naming a second-year player a captain. Back in Owen Sound we named Colby Barlow captain, and it worked out great for us, he was a great leader. For Greentree, being in just his second season highlights his standout leadership qualities and maturity beyond his years. Coaches like myself and his teammates often cite several factors that set him apart. Greentree is known for leading by example, both on and off the ice. His commitment to improving his game, embracing challenges, and maintaining a professional approach resonated with his coaches and teammates. Despite his young age, Greentree has shown the ability to stay calm and make smart decisions in high-pressure situations. His poise and confidence in critical moments have earned him trust from coaches and teammates alike. Greentree holds himself accountable and sets high standards, creating a ripple effect within the team. His humility and focus on continual improvement exemplify the qualities of a leader. Ultimately, his combination of natural leadership, a relentless work ethic, and a team-oriented attitude made him an ideal candidate for the ‘C.’ The Spitfires clearly saw in Greentree a player who could inspire those around him and embody the values of the organization.
3. As a highly skilled, highly producing 1st round talent and team Captain, many people paying attention to junior Hockey were shocked at Liam getting left off Canada's World Junior camp roster. Since that decision was announced December 2nd, Liam has only had 3 games where he has been left off the scoresheet. Did the perceived snub fire him up?
It certainly seems that being left off Canada’s World Junior camp roster served as extra motivation for Liam Greentree. His response on the ice has been amazing since the December 2nd announcement. The numbers speak for themselves—only three games without a point since that decision, and a sustained level of dominance in his play. He has 12 goals and 14 assists in his last 13 games. Keep in mind it is an older tournament, where teams like to get the oldest players with the most experience, giving them a chance to win. I think he could have been on the team this year but Greentree just turned 19 on January 1st and I can see him making the team this coming December.