[LHCB]

Ryan Culkin getting praises from one of the best NHL defenseman.

http://www.lapresse.ca/le-soleil/spo...8_section_POS1

Letang sees himself in Culkin

Ranked second in points among QMJHL defensemen, Ryan Culkin has a tremendous season so far with the Remparts. Just yesterday, the 18 years old dazzled on several defensive plays at Centre Robert-Guertin.

For the 18 years old Montrealer, known for his hard work in the gym, everything starts with preparation. That’s how he relates to his mentor - and Summer training partner - Kristopher Letang.

Present in Quebec on Thursday for a charity hockey game, the Pittsburgh Penguins defenseman was full of praises for the #7 of the Remparts. According to him, the Flames’ prospect (fifth round in 2012) has the kind of determination needed to pursue a professional career.

"First, this is a guy who has super good values. This is a guy who is hard at work. I've never seen him loosen in his work. We gave him difficult things to do and he always kept a good attitude. I'm not surprised he has success here in Quebec, "suggested the teammate of Sidney Crosby.

Letang goes further, claiming to see himself in Culkin, a young man with an offensive flair and a similar physic, equally as devoted to his sport.

"When I see a young person like me, who is diligent in training, who is there every day, who does not waste his time, I see a certain part of myself in him. I think it's good, I want to help and try to give them tools ... And he is a good kid! "said the #58 of the Penguins with a smile.

Central part of the best defensive corp in the QMJHL (16 goals allowed before yesterday's game), Culkin does not want to credit himself for his good start to the season, preferring to talk about "the team."

"Now, what we want is to continue to grow and have a good record. The guys are working hard. And we hope it will continue like that! "he said.