INSIDE HOCKEY

Ben McCoy spoke to a few of the Ottawa Senators prospects at the Sens' Prospect Development Camp. Here are some of their quotes.

Jared Cowen, 2009 1st round pick

On getting on the ice: "Today was the first time with full equipment and it felt better than I thought it would so I was happy with that."

Talking about where he will play in the fall: "I want to play here but if it is better for my knee or for me I will go back ( to junior ) but I definitely play here as soon as I can."

Robin Lehner 2009 2nd round pick

Early thoughts on the camp: "Good players, good shots. I am expecting more from this camp and I am expecting more from myself and just going harder."

On his adjustment: "In Sweden I go out and challenge the shooter a lot and I want to still do that. I want to play the way I have always played. If I can manage that I can be a good goalie."

On being a Sen: "I was really happy, it was like a dream and I can't describe it. I have always loved the team and I didn't know they wanted me so I was really happy."

Wants to play in the CHL: "I think it will be best for my development so I can learn the rinks and still be close to Ottawa which helps if their goalie coach wants to work me out."

Patrick Wiercioch 2008 2nd round pick

Talking about his second camp: "I know what to expect this year. You know a few more guys which makes the transition a lot easier."

What he worked on in the last year: "My fitness testing is a lot better than last year, especially with some of the strength exercises. Speed is something I will need to work on so hopefully from last year it is a little better. My body might not be as mature as some of the other guys here but when it is I hope to make that jump"

On gaining 20 pounds over last year: "Once you get up to this level no matter how skilled you are you need to be more durable. With an 82 game season it is a lot different from college so that extra weight should help me."

His goal: "I hope to be up here (Ottawa), that's my number one goal. If Ottawa sees something in me that is deserving of a chance to make the team than it will be a tough decision."

Erik Karlsson 2008 1st round pick

On attending his second camp: "I have more experience and I can relax a little bit more. I know almost all the guys here and I need to take more responsibility this year."

What he worked on over the last year: "When I went home last year they asked me to work hard on everything and try to get my strength up by adding more weight."

Where he wants to play in the fall: "I will do my best so that I am ready for the camp. If I am here I am here; if not then I am going to work hard and make the team next season."

Talking about the future of Ottawa's blueline: "They ( Sens management ) have done a pretty good job. I haven't seen Cowen play but if they are picking him with their first pick he is obviously really good. And Patrick is a big skilled guy and when everyone is ready to play it will be good."

Likes the city after spending some time here: "It's been good and I like the city so far. It is a big city and I haven't seen it all but I like it and the people here. I have played in the Sens arena and it is a great feeling. I am very happy to be here and I think it will be a good home for me."

Louie Caporusso 2007 draft, 90th overall

On his third development camp: "It is unbelievable. When you come in the first year you don't realize how much development you have left and it is almost a little shocking how far you come in three years.

How he has improved, his compete level: "Just general stuff, getting stronger, faster, can you compete with men? You know you can compete with the boys but can you compete with the men?"

Playing bigger than his 5'10" frame: "I like to hit and step up. I am not afraid to go into the corners and get my nose dirty and go to the net. Small guys are becoming the norm in the league. I think it is all will and it doesn't have as much to do with your size."

Possibly coming out of school after his junior season: "It would be cool to graduate and get an education. We will see what goes on and hope for the best."