Moving on Up: Eric Cornel
The Peterborough Petes have graduated over 150 players to the NHL, and Eric Cornel believes he will be part of the next crop of Petes-turned pro. Cornel was drafted by the Buffalo Sabres in the second round and 44th overall in 2014 and is now the Sabres’ 14th ranked prospect. Cornel earned this opportunity with his two-way play and impressive play making ability, but still credits his time with the Petes for his pro pedigree.
“The everyday practice and workouts really helped me develop as a player and the work is only going to get harder when I go to the Pros, but I definitely think Peterborough was a great stepping stone for me,” Cornel said.
Cornel was a stud for the Petes. After being drafted third overall in the 2012 OHL Priority Selection he made the team as a 16 year-old and was in the top three in scoring every season except his rookie campaign – he was also the Captain this year as well as a reliable penalty killer. After it all, though, one series will stick out in his mind forever.
“[In 2014] we came back to beat Kingston in the first round, when we overcame a three game to none deficit to win four straight,” he said. “That was a great memory and an incredibly close team and it was the fourth time that it ever happened in the OHL, so it was great being a part of history.”
The Kemptville native was a major contributor in that historic comeback with four goals and one assist in seven games.
Over the last two years Cornel has got a small taste of the AHL with 12 games played, but he has still gained some idea of the type of pro player he wants to be.
“I think I definitely fit in with the speed and skill – I’m hoping especially in the AHL to try and chip in offensively. I think my game should transition pretty well as a playmaking, speed type player. Moving towards the NHL I want to contribute any way I can if I get the opportunity to play there,” Cornel said.
Although he has tasted success already, the dynamic forward is still humble enough to realize there will be work on the road ahead.
“I want to get stronger and add some size. [Moving to the pros] is a big jump in terms of strength and physicality. Also, continue to improve my skills and skating and always try to get better and improve my game,” he said. “My goal is to play for Rochester in the American Hockey League. I think it’s achievable and that’s the feeling I also get from the Sabres.”
The Petes are proud of Eric’s success so far, and know he’ll work hard to contribute whether in the NHL, AHL, OHL, or otherwise next season. Want to cheer on the Petes first-hand next year? How about season tickets.
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