While the top players for St. Albert can take the spotlight, I’m not sure I’ve seen a game yet where I didn’t like what Van Iperan was bringing to the table. He does nice work on the half wall to cause turnovers, can pull pucks away from pressure on the wall, and drives wide in order to slip passes to the slot for chances. The feet and hands work collaboratively to make touch passes, fill gaps, and rip into shot releases at times. His habits and approach to the game make him one you can feel comfortable to throw in any situation.

Van Iperen had a nice tournament for St. Albert and has already showed some improvement in areas of concern from earlier this season. At his best, Van Iperen is a dynamic offensive player whose raw skill and speed immediately catch the eye. His quick, deceptive hands are a major weapon, and he shows impressive puck control even in compromised positions, off balance, or under pressure. There were numerous times in this tournament where he looked in trouble yet would pop out unscathed with possession. When he opens up his stride, he can flat-out fly, attacking with speed and making defenders uncomfortable in open ice. His skill level tracks at full gallop, and I like his ability to work under sticks and put pucks in areas that only he can get to. His skill and speed allow him to navigate pressure, but he has some work to do in his mental processing. He can bury his head at times, leading to missed opportunities or less-than-optimal decisions. Adding weight to his frame will also be critical to maximizing his effectiveness and sustaining his style of play at higher levels. He did a much better job of getting interior in this tournament but his lack of strength and average problem solving can keep him confined to the perimeter at times.