Caden Zasada: Hill-Murray’s X-Factor

In early 2022, I was asked to scout a peewee game for a junior team. Peewee games aren’t usually my focus, but I decided to drop in, watch, and report back. The targeted player performed well, but it was someone else who kept grabbing my attention, a relentless playmaker from Cottage Grove who stood out with every shift. That player was Caden Zasada.

That seems like an eternity ago, at least in the development of Caden, as he since has had a short stint in bantams and now three seasons of high-school hockey. Caden is just a 2009 DOB and a young sophomore with a May birthday.

Zasada is now a dynamic right-winger for Hill-Murray and has been showing his ability to be a game-changer. With slick skating and a high hockey IQ, he has a unique ability to make the game feel like it’s moving slower around him. This poise allows Zasada to make smarter, quicker decisions under pressure, positioning him as the X-factor that powers Hill-Murray’s offensive depth.

One of Zasada’s standout traits is his exceptional hockey sense. He has an innate understanding of where to be on the ice at all times, positioning himself in key areas to create opportunities offensively and support defensively. His creative vision allows him to execute plays that others might miss, whether it’s threading a pass-through tight space or pouncing on a loose puck in the slot.

What truly sets Zasada apart is his hard work in the zone. His strong stick and quick hands make him a formidable presence in tight spaces, where he’s able to shield the puck and maintain possession. His ability to dance through traffic and make plays makes him a treat to watch.

Zasada’s impact on the second line is crucial to Hill-Murray’s success. Caden contributes consistently, proving to be a valuable offensive asset. To end the regular season Caden scored in four straight games and against good competition (Mahtomedi, Rogers, St. Thomas, and Moorhead). His 25 points in 25 games might not seem overwhelming, but an overview of his play suggests otherwise.

Caden Zasada’s combination of hockey IQ, puck control, and playmaking ability make him an invaluable resource for Hill-Murray. He provides the spark needed to elevate Hill’s offense and plays a pivotal role in their success when he’s on the ice.