HUMBOLDT — The Humboldt Broncos are succeeding with Logan Foster in the middle of things.
Over his junior hockey career, the 19-year-old from Kamsack has seen time at both wing positions and at centre. Lately he has been centring a productive line that also includes Bryson Cecconi and Brayden Camrud.
“They are both really skilled and play with a lot of speed,” Foster said. “I believe we have one of the fastest lines in the league and we can be really dangerous when we have the puck. We just started playing together after Christmas and now our chemistry is really starting to show.”
In the eight games between Jan. 19 and Feb. 12, Foster registered one point in six and had three multi-point games. Over that run, he posted 10 points with five goals. Over 47 games this season, Foster has 13 goals and 34 points.
Humboldt head coach Scott Barney said that he feels Foster can create more opportunities when he’s playing centre.
“He creates a lot of chances not only five-on-five but on the power play and the penalty kill,” the Broncos bench boss said. “He plays in all situations for us.”
Where does Foster like to play most?
“Preferably I like to play centre, as I can use my speed more to my advantage, but I will play whatever position the coach wants me to play,” he said.
Barney praised the 5-foot-9, 175-pounder’s speed, ability to skate, and work ethic.
“Every shift, he is out there giving 110 per cent.”
As well, the head coach likes the experience Foster brings as a third-year junior player who has competed in the Western Hockey League.
After spending time in the midget AAA ranks with the Notre Dame Agros and the Tisdale Trojans, Foster split his first junior season, 2016-17, between the WHL’s Spokane (Wash.) Chiefs and the Saskatchewan Junior Hockey League’s Estevan Bruins and Melville Millionaires.
Last season he suited up for the Millionaires and in the WHL for the league champion Swift Current Broncos.
Foster saw action in one playoff game with Swift Current.
“I think playing in the WHL has helped me grow as a player and as a person,” he said. “The billets and the community really welcomed me in. Playing with guys who are drafted in the NHL really shows what it’s like to play at the next level. It was nice to watch them play and learn from them. I think that my time in the WHL gave me the confidence to try new things in practices and games. It really was a privilege to play at that level.”
Foster started this season with Melville and was acquired by the Broncos in late October. He had posted 11 goals and 25 points in 33 games since the trade.
Foster appreciates life on and off the ice in Humboldt. He stays with his “awesome” billets Dudley and Laurie Warford and their children Colten, Shelby and Taryn.
“I think what I’ve enjoyed the most while playing in Humboldt is the group of guys,” Foster said. “Everyone is really close with each other. I think that after everything everyone has went through this year it has brought us a lot closer together as a team. It makes going to the rink everyday enjoyable.”
