CHL on CBC: 1-on-1 with Tyler Peddle
Tyler Peddle isn’t interested in dipping his toe into the water.
Originally chosen second overall in the 2021 QMJHL Entry Draft, Peddle has made an immediate splash with the Drummondville Voltigeurs where through the first 13 games of his rookie campaign he already has 10 points to his name, good for third in team scoring as well as third-best among his fellow freshmen league wide.
Eligible for the 2023 NHL Draft, the dynamic forward sat down with CHL.ca prior to his Saturday showdown versus the Saint John Sea Dogs where he reflected on his quick start with the Voltigeurs, which professional he likens his playing style to, the opportunity to play before a national audience on CBC, and more:
Q: What style of forward are you?
TP: I am a skilled, power forward who can play a 200-foot game, put the puck in the net, and be relied on in pressure situations.
Q: Who do you compare your game to?
TP: I wouldn’t compare myself to anyone, but I try to play like Auston Matthews, the skilled scorer type.
Q: What was it like having your name called second overall?
TP: It was an unreal feeling. Ever since I was a kid, I wanted to get drafted to the ‘Q’. Going that high, I couldn’t have asked for anything more.
Q: What was your overall impression of Drummondville when you first showed up?
TP: I loved my first visit earlier this year. It’s a beautiful place, an incredible rink, and I really love it.
Q: How was your transition to the QMJHL so seamless?
TP: I am lucky to play with great linemates. They get me the puck in great situations and I try to do what I do best, which is put the puck in the net. My coaches have given me a lot of opportunities, and the size and the speed hasn’t been an issue yet.
Q: What are your personal goals for the season?
TP: To try to improve every day and be the best player I can be. I’m still at a young age so I need to focus on improving my shot as well as my skills.
Q: How would you describe your team?
TP: We are a young team, but we have huge potential. We have a great locker room, with great character and good coaches, so we are in a good spot.
Q: What do you expect from the game on Saturday?
TP: We need to come hard out of the gate because the Sea Dogs are not going to hold back. We will have to put pucks on net, play a gritty game, and play two-way hockey.
Q: Which players are you focusing on regarding the match up vs. Saint John?
TP: We will have pre-scouts before the game, focus on who we will be watching, but of course Dufour and Reynolds.
Q: What does it mean to be on national television, especially on CBC?
TP: It’s a crazy feeling. Ever since I was a kid, I’ve watched hockey on CBC. Just knowing that we are playing in them now, it’s a crazy and unreal feeling.
Q: How do you prepare for such a big occasion?
TP: We will try to stay calm in the room, so we should be ready to go.
Q: Why should a hockey fan tune in on Saturday?
TP: We can put on a good show, we work hard, and we are a fun team to watch. We are skilled but very young and have an incredible work ethic.
Q: Scouts are already talking about your draft year. How does that make you feel?
TP: It’s obviously crazy, it’s still far, far away so I’m trying to take everything game by game and improve daily.
Q: What would make this season a success for you?
TP: Knowing that I left everything on the ice and improved on my game in key spots would be a successful year.