Watching Jason Gao was an absolute treat during this event, and he is the first Western Canadian player to make an appearance on this list. Absolutely lethal speed down the wing, he was able to carry the puck across both bluelines in transition with relative ease as he flew down either wing, got defenders turning around, and opened enough ice to fire a heavy shot on net in stride. This sporadic rush chances seemingly came out of nowhere at times, making him so hard to defend, as one moment he’s at a near standstill, and the next he’s entered the offensive zone and is about to fire the puck on net. Despite not having the same talent level as some of the players I have ranked in the top-40 or so range, he possesses some of the best game-breaking skills within the later parts of this ranking thanks to his speed and pace. He can make great plays at his top speed, granted with varying results, but the fact he can even execute on some here-and-there, and seemingly off of pure instinct is very impressive; and for that reason, I have Gao ranked where he is. He reminds me a lot of Aiden Janz from the 2007-born American class who I viewed plenty – a dominant rush player who can help push the pace of play for your team all by himself.

Yuhao Jason Gao was another high-paced skater for St. George’s who was able to get a few decent looks during the game as result of supporting the puck well, being in strong position at both ends of the ice and utilizing a long and quick stride to transport him around the ice. Despite not portraying himself as the biggest of forwards, when the puck was on Gao’s stick, he showed no fear or hesitation in driving the middle lane of the ice, leaning on opponents, showing some decent strength and power as he carved out some space for himself. The release on his shot was advantageous for tight spaces, capable of getting it off from different angles and body positions, he could shoot through small seams and crowds, getting pucks on net from difficult locations.