Several stand out for Chiefs

On the first day of on-ice scrimmages at the Spokane Chiefs training camp on Friday, the players who looked good included most of those who are supposed to be standouts.

Of course, the returning veterans made their presence known. But camp isn’t about the team’s front office discovering what they can do. It’s mostly about the players battling for the final half-dozen spots.

A couple of players who were in camp last year as 15-year-olds showed off their sophomore knowledge, natural skill and improved physiques during some impressive first-day performances.

There are no guarantees for rookies to make the team, but it’s almost a sure bet that forward Mitch Wahl and defenseman Michael Reddington will be Chiefs this season.

Wahl, the Chiefs’ first-round draft pick in 2005 (fourth overall), is a talented offensive player who continues to show a nose for the puck. Reddington, the team’s second-round pick that same year, is a well-rounded defenseman who has a rock-solid build and innate toughness.

Wahl is a highly rated National Hockey League prospect whose California team finished third at nationals last season. He followed up that feat by representing his country in the recent Three Nations’ international tournament, then came straight to Spokane’s camp.

“This year, I feel a lot more comfortable,” said Wahl, who is up to 5-foot-11 1/2 and 175 pounds. “I have a lot more confidence this year because I did it last year. I’m ready this year for sure.”

Reddington was already on the team’s radar for this season, but his stock is rising due to his continued improvement and a fragile depth at the position for Spokane. The Chiefs have been dogged by injuries among the defensive corps the past two seasons and already have one player out as camp opens and another one recovering from an off-season surgery.

“I feel great,” said Reddington, a 6-0, 198-pounder. “I trained real hard all summer and I think I have a good chance to make this team.”

Each of the players shows a level of confidence that wasn’t present last year. Another player whose play is noticeable also has a good shot at making the roster.