Friday, September 26, 2008

9/26 Recap: Schiestel gets a Gordie

All junior prospects but one (Tyler Myers) were returned to their clubs this week, and the result is the first full slate of Friday action in the CHL. Coming off their high paced pro experiences, it was a very productive evening statistically for those in uniform. QMJHL action saw all of the Sabres prospects hit the score sheet, while a contest in Oshawa saw the first Gordie Howe Hat Trick of the season fall. Luke Adam (+2) posted a pair of goals and an assist to earn the game's #1 star as Montreal cruised to a 6-3 home victory over Saint John. Adams first goal came on the power play while his second was a top-shelf snap off a Matt Fillier feed. Not only did he dominate play with a game-high eight shots on goal, but the 6'3 pivot blocked eight shots as well. 2007 second rounder T.J. Brennan picked up an assist on Adam's first goal while finishing +2 for the Juniors. Defenseman Jordon Southorn (+2) returned to PEI in a big way, pacing the Rocket with a goal and two assists in their 5-2 win over Halifax. The game's #1 star, Southorn's empty netter capped the Rocket's first win in five tries this season. Jacob Lagacé (+1) scored the overtime winner in Chicoutimi's 4-3 win over Baie-Comeau. The Beloeil, Quebec native also had an assist and a game-best six shots on goal for the Sags. In Gatineau, forward Paul Byron picked up two assists as les Olympiques defeated Rouyn-Noranda 3-2 in OT. J.S. Allard notched an assist as Quebec needed a shootout to defeat Drummondville, 4-3. In the OHL, Niagara's Drew Schiestel (+1) racked up the Gordie with a goal, two assists, and a fight in a frustrating 6-4 loss to Oshawa. Schiestel was the Dogs best player, earning the games #2 star for his offense and pugilist ability in a fight with Rochester native John Padulo. With Alex Pietrangelo, Josh Day, and Scott Fletcher still in NHL camps, the dog days look to continue on the Niagara blueline. Nick Crawford was even with no points as Saginaw defeated struggling Sarnia, 4-1. Not looked to for offense, his veteran presence helped steady the blueline according to coach Todd Watson. The Spirit returns to action tomorrow against Sault Ste. Marie. Closing things out, Medicine Hat's Tyler Ennis was -1 with 2 PIM in the Tigers 1-0 overtime loss to Lethbridge. Tomorrow in Buffalo, Myers will make his first preseason appearance for the Sabres when they take on the Leafs.