Nathan Garski went from Grand Rapids sophomore forward to Grand Rapids legend after scoring the GWG with one second left in the game against White Bear Lake on Thursday night at the Minnesota State High School Hockey Tournament.
Garski, who is one of the premier 2008 DOB’s in the state, has a great combination of power and skill, he flashed both in the game, providing Grand Rapids with scoring opportunities on offense and applying suffocating pressure when defending. His strength was evident as he broke through stick checks and bounced players attempting to eliminate him from the play.
Graski had the attention of the White Bear Lake defense early as they played him tight, harassing him with every tough of the puck. Garski was still able to break free and get pucks to the net, using a strong stride and great puck protection to aid his ability to drive the slot.
In the third period you could see Garski become more comfortable, being able to get better looks and having longer puck possession sequences. On one play Garski had a golden opportunity to put Rapids up by 2, but just missed an open net on a rebound chance due to the long reach of White Bear Lake Defenseman Nate Celski.
Garski kept the intensity up and continued to do the little things, winning battles in the dirty areas and gaining zones. On the GWG Garski slipped behind the White Bear defenseman as his teammate William Shermoen brought the puck into the zone along the boards. Shermoen made a great pass out front where Garski received the puck with his backhand and instantly transitioned to his forehand to slip it past the White Bear goalie.
The goal advances Grand Rapids to the State Tournament Semifinal on Friday Night. And for Garski, this is another positive step along the way to a promising future.