By Chris Pryor
Let’s Play Hockey Columnist

This is a question that probably will put me in unfavorable territory with some agents/advisors. I do believe at a certain point in time in one’s career the need for an advisor becomes apparent. However, when a player is 14, 15 years old, to have a person represent you becomes questionable for me.

I’m not sure what decision can’t be handled by a parent , coach or friend at that age that an agent needs to be involved. There are many quality individuals in Minnesota that do a good job of handling this area of expertise and I’m not proposing that they do not serve a purpose, BUT at what point in time?

I know from a scouting perspective, if you’re a good player, you’re a good player. If you have or don’t have an agent has no bearing on the selection process.

The game has evolved through the years where players in today’s world have a number of options. Starting around their sophomore/junior year of high school the choices become complex. USHL or major junior hockey? National program or high school?

As I talked about in an earlier article, the right choice comes down to the individual and what that player is looking for. This choice is a tough one and bringing in a neutral party to help with that process might be advantageous.

As with anything else, the player needs to do his research on the particular representative to see if he’s right for you. It’s no different than choosing a school, team or place to work. Ask questions and educate yourself.

At the end of the day, there is one point I do want to make. Remember this, these people work for you. If you do not like the decision process or the lack of communication that you are receiving, pick up the phone and ask questions.

They work for you, you do not work for them.

Chris Pryor is the director of hockey operations for the Philadelphia Flyers. He is in charge of the amateur and pro scouting departments. A native of St. Paul, Pryor spent eight seasons as a scout for the Flyers. He played parts of six seasons in the NHL with the Minnesota North Stars and New York Islanders. If you have a question for a pro hockey scout, e-mail it to This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it .