Chris Barton is co-captain of the Merrimack Warriors. The junior has scored 10 points in just eight games which has helped Merrimack currently place 6th in Hockey East. The Warriors have the highest goals per game average in conference play thanks in part to Barton's play. The Sports Juke had the opportunity to ask him questions about this year's team.
1) Last season Merrimack missed out on the Hockey East playoffs but finished the season strong. Is there a different mindset that has led to the early season success?
I think overall we have more skill and depth than we have ever had in recent years. The mindset is not much different than in the past. We have always strived to win but I think this year we have more guys who know how to win. Many guys this year have won championships in the past with their other teams. We have a long way to go but it is nice to see some of the hard work over the years paying off.
2) You are from Calgary. What was the appeal of attending an American college versus playing in the Canadian Hockey League?
As far as me coming to Merrimack, I have always wanted to recieve a scholarship to the US to play hockey. As far as Canadian Colleges go; you either play in Major Junior in Canada or you go to the States on scholarship. After major junior if you do not turn pro then you attend canadian universities. I am honored to be playing hockey in the states as many of my prior teamates did not get the chance that I did.
3) In your opinion what will it take for this season to be considered a success?
For this season to be considered a success we need to first of all make the playoffs. Secondly, move forward as deep as we can in the playoffs and finally our ultimate goal is to win a hockey east championship. We have a long way to go to reach our ultimate goal and we will continue to work hard and get better every day to accomplish our goal.
4) You are one of the top scorers in Hockey East with seven goals and three assists. Any secret to the offensive production?
No secret but just want to continue to contribute to help our team win. My success thus far is not only because of me but because of the help from my teamates, after all it is a team game.
5) Which NHL player would you say you play a similar style as?
Thats a tough question but maybe someone like Marco Sturm or Marc Savard.
Word association. Say the first thing that comes to mind.
The new Merrimack jerseys: Sharp
Two games with BU this weekend: Battle
Upsetting BC and Vermont: Fun
Change one Hockey East rule: Allow fighting
Megan Fox or Bar Rafaeli: Megan Fox
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