Nick Patterson
Everett overage winger Joshua Winquist added another honor to his growing resume today as he was named a second-team Western Conference all-star. He becomes the 11th player in franchise history to be named to one of the all-star teams, and the first since defenseman Ryan Murray was named a second teamer in 2011-12.
Winquist is certainly deserving of the honor. The native of St. Albert, Alberta, had arguably the greatest offensive season in Everett’s 11-year history. He broke the franchise’s single-season record for goals with 47, and he also tied Zach Hamill’s single-season record for points with 93. He finished tied for fourth in the league in goals and 10 in the league in scoring.
But while Winquist had a great season, he wasn’t assured a spot on the all-star teams. There were a lot of standout forwards in the Western Conference this season, particularly among overagers, and it says something that Portland’s Brendan Leipsic couldn’t crack either the first or second team.
Winquist was the only Everett player who received recognition as the WHL announced its all-star teams and award nominees. One has to think Everett coach Kevin Constantine was at least considered in the Coach of the Year category, but Victoria’s Dave Lowry was certainly worthy of the Western Conference’s nomination.
