Colorado Avalanche draft pick Taylor Makar is moving to the Black Bears this season

ORONO, Maine (WABI) – Taylor Makar is joining the Black Bears after playing during one of Maine head coach Ben Barr's previous stops at UMass.

“I have a story with Ben Barr. He recruited me to UMass before. I talked to him a lot. The other two coaches were great, so I think it was right for me,” senior forward Makar said.

“We hope he has his best year in college hockey this year. That is the goal. Our job is to get the best out of him. “He’s a big kid who has a lot of potential,” said head coach Barr.

Makar brings a tough style to Orono.

“I want to bring a power forward style of play to this team, be a guy they can rely on (penalty kill) and power play, and help the team overall to get us as far as we can,” Makar said.

“We're hoping he can be a guy that can take on that power forward role,” Barr said.

His teammates are already seeing his impact in practice.

“He will have a chance to shine here and show his abilities more than he may have done where he has been before. I think a change is good for a lot of people in some ways and I think he's going to take full advantage of that,” graduate forward Lynden Breen said.

“All of the freshmen and transfers we brought in are not only great hockey players, but also great people who really contribute positively to our culture,” senior defenseman David Breazeale said.

Makar learned a lot from his older brother Cale, who won a Stanley Cup with the Colorado Avalanche.

“It's just great to learn all the little tips and tricks, always talk to each other and always get something out of your game,” Makar said.

Both Makar brothers are Avalanche draft picks. Taylor explained how Maine will support his professional aspirations.

“I want to play this dark style. We play fast here. I know there will be a step up in the NHL and professional level, so it’s great here,” Makar said.

Maybe one day the Makars will play on the same power play unit in the NHL.

Maine drops the puck on a new season Saturday at 7 p.m. against American International College at Alfond Arena.

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