The 55th and final pick of the NLL draft usually doesn’t come with much fan fair or media attention, however that was not the case in this years NLL draft, as the Rochester Knighthawks used that 55th selection to selection Goaltender Brandon Styres. You’ll recognize the last name at first glance, and yes Brandon Styres is Rochester Knighthawks owner Curt Styres son. But this pick was not done as favour to his son, this pick was made with improving the Knighthawks goaltending depth as the only goal.
Brandon Styres possess great physical attributes, he stands just over 6’2, and weighs in around 210 pounds. His large frame, benefits him in goal as there is little net for shooters to see. He’s a goalie that plays his angles well, moves fairly well for a bigger guy, he’s more of a shot blocker then an agile guy who jumps around all over the crease like the starter in Rochester Matt Vinc. His work ethic, drive and determination to get better is one of his best qualities. He come’s into camp knowing his chances of cracking the active roster are pretty slim, however he’s taken a positive approach to it. Noting that even practicing with the Knighthawks, and having the chance to learn from NLL Hall of Famer Pat O’Toole and arguably the best goaltender in the world in Matt Vinc as great way to improve his game.
The 19 year old Styres spent this season with the Niagara Thunderhawks of the OLA Jr. B Loop where he appeared in 10 games, going 8-2 with a 7.60 goals against average and a 0.804 Save %. Styres was acquired by Niagara from the Six Nations Rebels on May 17th after appearing in one game for the Rebels. Styres lone start with the Rebels was a 28-6 defeat of the Guelph Regals. The Thunderhawks had gone 5-2 prior to acquiring Styres, and went on to go 10-2 with Styres as their starter. Styres other notable playing experience came in 2012 when he competed in the world renowned Alex Hrebesky Memorial Tournament.
