A return to a normal college hockey environment is on the docket for Northeastern junior Aidan McDonough, as the power forward prepares for his upcoming year with fans returning to the building in Boston.
Drafted by the Vancouver Canucks with the 195th pick in 2019, McDonough was praised for both his shot and the way he uses his size, prompting Vancouver to snag him in the seventh round.
With the college hockey season approaching and the possibility of turning pro after the season, McDonough chatted with The Canuck Way in a Q&A session.
TCW: What are you most looking forward to about the season?
AM: “I’m looking forward to a full college hockey season with fans and travel. Been a long time since I was able to play in front of family and friends. I’m also looking forward to being an upperclassman and a leader for the younger guys and competing for a championship and I think we have the team to do it with.”
TCW: What was the experience like getting drafted?
AM: “Getting drafted was awesome. It was a little bit shocking, I wasn’t expecting to hear my name called but it was great to be around my best friends when I got the call so I could share that moment with them. Having the Canucks draft me was a huge honour and I was very excited to be picked by such a great organization.”
TCW: What are your team and individual goals for the season?
AM: “My goals are to help the team in any way that I can. I don’t have any statistical goals other than to get better and make an impact on every single game. If I’m playing the right way and working hard, the points will come. Our team goals are the same as always and those are to win the Beanpot, Hockey East and the national championship which I believe we can do.”
TCW: Have you had any contract conversations with the Canucks?
AM: “I have not had any conversations with the Canucks about a contract and to be honest I am completely focused on being the best player I can be for Northeastern this year and helping my team.”
McDonough had 10 goals and 20 points in 21 games last season for the Huskies. His squad kicks off the season on October 2 against Bentley University.