Signed as an undrafted free agent by the Anaheim Ducks back in 2013 after a productive junior career in the Ontario Hockey League (OHL), Charles Sarault isn’t giving up on his dream to play in the NHL.

And if that includes a stint with the ECHL’s Utah Grizzlies, the 24-year-old from Ottawa, Ont., is happy to do what it takes to one day play on the grandest stage.

This season with the Grizzlies, Sarault is leading the team in scoring and has averaged nearly a point per game much of the season. He had 54 points through 58 games leading into the Kelly Cup Playoffs.

“When Anaheim assigned me here for the season, I decided to make the most of it,” Sarault said. “I wasn’t sure how I would fit in here, but I’ve really concentrated on hockey this season and as a pro now for three years, I’m definitely happy to be here in Utah.”

Sarault’s last two years in the OHL, he compiled 195 points in 136 games with the Sarnia Sting. In his three previous seasons with the Kingston Frontenacs, Sarault registered 63 points over 198 games.

“In Sarnia, they gave me an opportunity,” explained Sarault. “One of our top players (Alex Galchenyuk, now with the NHL’s Montreal Canadiens) got hurt and our coach asked me if I could play with this new Yakupov kid (Nail Yakupov, now an Edmonton Oiler). That year, I got seen a lot and then signed with Anaheim the next year (after finishing second in the OHL scoring race).”

Now with the ECHL playoffs in full swing, Sarault wants to see Utah play to its fullest strengths.

“We have a great team on paper,” said Sarault. “Lately, we haven’t been playing well and I think we need to find our swagger again. We have a great group of guys and I think we can make a run here.”

Photo/Josie Vimahi

— Matt Mackinder