Along with his great collegiate play, Parise started turning some heads late last year by helping Team USA win a gold medal at the World Junior Championships.
Zach tied for first in tournament scoring with 11 points (5 goals, 6 assists) and captured first team all-star honors along with being named the tournaments best forward, and most impressively, MVP of the tourney.
At the end of his college season, Zach decided to give up his final two years of college eligibility to turn pro. He was originally selected as New Jersey's first pick, 17th overall, in the 2003 NHL entry draft.
This year, Zach is showing a smooth adjustment from the NCAA to the AHL, and has been ranked at, or near the top of rookie scoring leaders list all season long.
“Zach’s a great playmaker,” said a source. “He has a great mind for the game and can see plays developing very well for being so young. He’s already one heck of an asset on the power play.”
Some decry his 5'11" size as being too small for a major league center. Parise, a fierce competitor, overcomes the critics by delivering at the position night in and night out.
Zach is very steady defensively, and though not overtly physical, he is not afraid to get down and dirty.
With his top-notch attitude and a year of pro experience under his belt, Parise should have little problem making the transition to the NHL next season.
