Enroth dismisses Admirals

Nathan Gerbe and Tim Kennedy continued their scoring binge with a goal each, and Felix Schutz knocked him home his first of the year as Portland defeated Norfolk, 4-0. Jhonas Enroth made 29 saves on the road to earn the first shutout of his contract.

Gerbe's goal gives him seven in as many games, including five in his last four. Meanwhile Kennedy's marker puts him on a seven-game scoring streak heading into tomorrow's rematch with the Admirals.

The Rundown:

Enroth: 29 saves, SO
Schutz: 1 G, +2
Kennedy: 1 G, +1
Gerbe: 1 G, +1
Mancari: 1 A +1
Gragnani: 1 A, +1
Butler: +3
Kostka: +1
Zagrapan: +1
Card: even
Weber: even
Whitmore: even

React:

10/30 Recap: Schiestel leading Dog race at quarter turn

Drew Schiestel (-1) had a power play assist for Niagara in their 3-1 win over Guelph. Having registered a point in all but three of his 16 games, the Hamilton native continues to lead the Dogs in scoring with two goals and 15 assists. John Cullen (Hamburg, NY) made 23 saves for Niagara in relief of Mark Visentin to get the W. With 25% of the regular season complete, the 5-7-1-4 IceDogs are tied with Barrie for 2nd place in the Central Division.

In a beggar's night contest, RW Andrew Orpik had two shots on goal as #2 Boston College upended Merrimack, 4-1. Jimmy Hayes (TOR) potted a pair of goals to lead the Eagles.

Starting to ramp his way back up, Dennis Persson (-1) logged 13:48 of play in Timra's 4-0 loss to MODO. Prize 2009 prospect Victor Hedman was +2 for MODO, while former NHLers Niklas Sundstrom and Per Svartvadet paced the victors with two points each.

Finally, a bizarre incident in Moscow caused the contest between Kazan (Vjacheslav Buravchikov) and Dynamo to be suspended after one period of play. It appears that smoke filled the arena after a Dynamo goal celebration, and would not dissipate despite several measures to clear the air. Buravchikov will return to action on Sunday.

React:

Southorn returns to Rocket

After a meeting Wednesday, the PEI Rocket have reinstated suspended defenseman Jordon Southorn in time for Thursday's game versus Moncton. The Pincourt, QC native was -1 with 4 PIMs in the 3-2 shootout loss to the Wildcats, and was pretty gassed by the end as it looked like he was on the ice for about half of the game. His second period penalty resulted in the second Moncton goal on the PP.

The Guardian offered up this regarding the reinstatement.

Southorn - "I'm embarrassed and ashamed"

After being reinstated Southorn practised with the club Wednesday and returns to the lineup tonight versus the Moncton Wildcats (7 p.m.) in Moncton.

“Obviously, I was going in the wrong direction. I’m embarrassed and ashamed I would do something like that. (We made it clear) this will not affect our relationship, personal or business,” Southorn told The Guardian after the Rocket practice on Wednesday. “My agent wasn’t happy at all. Me and my dad had a blowup. My parents wanted me to know what this means.”

Before practice Southorn apologized to his teammates in a team meeting and accepted the assitant captain’s ‘A’ being stripped off his jersey. It won’t be given to anyone else.

“It wasn’t easy looking at them. I think that by doing that it shows I care,” he said. “Them being there shows they care also. We’re a family here.”

Southorn seems sincere in his return, and understanding of the "A" being removed. This situation already seems different from a two seasons back when Marc-Andre Gragnani suffered similar consequences after disagreeing with Rocket management.

React:

Myers, Ennis named to 'Dub club

2008 first round picks Tyler Myers and Tyler Ennis have been named to Team WHL when the ADT Canada/Russia Challenge makes it way west in late November.

FORWARDS: Jason Bast, Moose Jaw; Kyle Beach, Everett; Jamie Benn, Kelowna; Zach Boychuk, Lethbridge; Joel Broda, Moose Jaw; Matt Calvert, Brandon; Jordan Eberle, Regina; Tyler Ennis, Medicine Hat; Evander Kane, Vancouver; Brandon Kozun, Calgary; Colton Sceviour, Lethbridge; Braydon Schenn, Brandon; Brett Sonne, Calgary; Dustin Sylvester, Kootenay; Dana Tyrell, Prince George.

DEFENCE: Keith Aulie, Brandon; Jared Cowen, Spokane; Travis Hamonic, Moose Jaw; Thomas Hickey, Seattle; Tyler Myers, Kelowna; John Negrin, Kootenay; Jared Spurgeon, Spokane; Colten Teubert, Regina.

GOALTENDERS: Chet Pickard, Tri-City; Dustin Tokarski, Spokane.

2008 ADT Canada Russia Challenge Schedule of Games:

Game 1 – Monday, November 17 in Sydney, NS (Adam, Byron)
Game 2 – Wednesday, November 19 in Saint John, NB (Adam, Byron)
Game 3 – Thursday, November 20 in Guelph, ON
Game 4 – Monday, November 24 in St. Catherines, ON
Game 5 – Wednesday, November 26 in Swift Current, SK (Myers, Ennis)
Game 6 – Thursday, November 27 in Prince Albert, SK (Myers, Ennis)

Drew Schiestel and Nick Crawford were left off the roster for Team OHL.

React:

10/29 Recap: Gerbe, Kennedy keep firing

Playing catch-up...

In a mid-week AHL tilt, Nathan Gerbe scored on the power play and Tim Kennedy added another assist as Portland dropped a 3-2 decision to Hartford. Gerbe's goal was his sixth in as many games, while Kennedy now has a point all six. Chris Butler, Marek Zagrapan, and Mike Kostka also posted assists in the loss.

The Rundown:

Gerbe: 1 G, 4 SOG
Kennedy: 1 A, -1
Zagrapan: 1 A, -2, 4 PIM
Kostka: 1 A, -1
Butler: 1 A, 3 SOG
Schutz: 2 SOG
Gragnani: -1
Mancari: -1
Whitmore: -1
Card: -2
Dennis: 20 saves, L

It was also announced this week that Dylan Hunter will be out four-six weeks after taking a puck in the foot during Sunday's win. Mike Funk (concussion) has started skating with the team, but is expected to be held back until next week.

Also on Wednesday, Tyler Myers skated to a +2 as Kelowna cruised to a 7-2 win over Seattle.

In the Q, Jacob Lagacé (+2, 5 SOG) scored an empty-netter as Chicoutimi topped Rimouski, 5-2.

React:

Southy's situation addressed

Following up on our Sunday bit, Charlottetown's The Guardian today reported on the suspension of talented defenseman, Jordon Southorn.

Southorn and head coach Guy Chouinard argued as he skated to the bench for a shift change.

Southorn said he threw his gloves and hockey stick to the floor, left the bench and went to the Rocket dressing room midway through the period.

“We kind of exchanged words. I kind of lost it,” Southorn told The Guardian from his Pincourt home Monday. “I got upset (and) said a few things I shouldn’t have. As a leader, I shouldn’t have done that. I think I should have stayed on the bench.”

The third-year defenceman said his frustration boiled over after a difficult road trip to western Quebec, which included four games in five nights in Rouyn-Noranda and Val-d’Or, and he and his Rocket team (7-9-0-1) struggling to play better.

“Obviously they haven’t been happy with my play and I haven’t either. I think I pushed (Chouinard’s) last button,” said Southorn, who has eight points, 10 penalty minutes and has a minus-one ratio in 13 games this season.

While he's been told to stay away indefinitely, the team's assistant captain sounds contrite and ready to get back to his team. Part of the maturation process is realizing your shadow as a leader. If Southorn better understands that, perhaps this ordeal can be seen as a positive down the road.

For Southorn’s part, he doesn’t harbour any bad blood, and if and when he returns, is willing to accept whatever comes his way.

“I don’t hold any grudges. I’m going to apologize to Guy when I get the chance. I think he doesn’t hold any grudges either,” said Southorn, a fourth-round pick of the Buffalo Sabres in 2008.

“I wouldn’t be surprised if they took the ‘A’ off my jersey.”

React:

10/28 Recap: Persson extra; Slava update

Dennis Persson was the seventh defenseman for a third straight game, registering two shots on goal in 10:50 of action in Timra's 4-3 win over Skelleftea. Defenseman Eric Moe, 20, was Timra's best player in just his sixth game of the season, potting a goal and an assist while being paired with the Eagles top d-gun Mikko Lehtonen. Moe's production has been a pleasant surprise for Timra, and his rise up the depth chart continues to come at Persson's expense.

In the KHL, Vjacheslav Buravchikov went pointless in Kazan's 8-3 win over Minsk. The 6'1 defender is averaging 16:10 of time on the bottom pair for the third-place club while contributing a goal, an assist, and a -2 rating in 19 games.

React:

Schedule 10/27-11/2

Monday (10/27)
(no games)

Tuesday (10/28)
Timra (Persson) at Skelleftea

Wednesday (10/29)
Portland (AHL) at Hartford
Rimouski at Chicoutimi (Lagacé)
Seattle at Kelowna (Myers)

Thursday (10/30)
MoDo at Timra (Persson)
PEI (Southorn) at Moncton
Guelph at Niagara (Schiestel)
Merrimack at Boston College (Orpik)
Kazan (Buravchikov) at Dynamo

Friday (10/31)
Straubing at Cologne (Gogulla)
Portland (AHL) at Norfolk
Gatineau (Byron) at Acadie-Bathurst
Quebec (Allard) at Rouyn-Noranda
Montreal (Adam, Brennan) at Val-d'Or
Niagara (Schiestel) at Sudbury
Medicine Hat (Ennis) at Kootenay
Dartmouth at Harvard (Biega)
Boston College (Orpik) at Merrimack
Nebraska-Omaha at Bowling Green (Eno)
Western Michigan at Michigan State (Tropp)
Minnesota State (Jokinen) at Minnesota
Wisconsin at North Dakota (Eidsness, Fienhage)

Saturday (11/1)
Timra (Persson) at Lulea
Portland (AHL) at Norfolk
Gatineau (Byron) at PEI (Southorn)
Quebec (Allard) at Val-d'Or
Montreal (Adam, Brennan) at Rouyn-Noranda
Oshawa at Saginaw (Crawford)
Niagara (Schiestel) at Barrie
Lethbridge at Kelowna (Myers)
USA U-18 at Harvard (Biega)
Boston University at Vermont (MacKenzie)
Nebraska-Omaha at Bowling Green (Eno)
Wisconsin at North Dakota (Eidsness, Fienhage)
Michigan State (Tropp) at Western Michigan
Minnesota at Minnesota State (Jokinen)

Sunday (11/2)
Wolfsburg at Cologne (Gogulla)
Victoriaville at Chicoutimi (Lagacé)
Gatineau (Byron) at Halifax
Lewiston at PEI (Southorn)
Kitchener at Saginaw (Crawford)
Vermont (MacKenzie) at Dartmouth
Medicine Hat (Ennis) at Calgary
Edmonton at Kelowna (Myers)

React:

Three Stars of the Week 10/20-10/26

Nathan Gerbe, LW (Portland - AHL)
The hottest stick in hockey? After scoring five goals in two Frozen Four games to close his NCAA career, the 5th round pick in 2005 has notched five goals through his first five games to help propel the Pirates to a 4-1 record.

Tyler Ennis, C (Medicine Hat - WHL)
Ennis scored five points in two games during the week, including a goal and three assists in a 7-3 win over Prince George on Wednesday. Ennis now has seven points in his last four games.

Luke Adam, LW (Montreal - QMJHL)
With Angelo Esposito nursing a hand injury, the Newfoundland native stepped up Sunday with a goal and three assists in the Juniors 7-3 trouncing of Victoriaville.

React:

10/26 Recap: Adam pads; Genny steady in upset

Luke Adam had a goal and three assists to earn the game's #2 star as Montreal smoked Victoriaville at home, 7-3. The multi-point night pushes Adam's point total to 16 (8+8) on the year. Defenseman T.J. Brennan did not factor into any of the Juniors goals, while Matt Fillier (LA) netted the hat trick against a Tigres club playing its third game in as many nights.

ESPNU's Sunday night match-up saw Matt Generous (+1) snatch an assist while playing an impressive all-around game as unranked St. Lawrence upset #4 New Hampshire, 4-1.

On a third period power play after he was boarded by UNH's Jerry Pollastrone, Generous slid a cross-ice pass to Zach Miskovic who neatly sniped the corner for his second goal of the game. The senior rearguard has battled shoulder issues over the past year, so it was good to see him get up from the dumping. In an interview played during the second intermission, SLU co-captain Shawn Fensel called Generous "an intense, hard worker on the ice". East Amherst, NY native and former USHL Player of the Year Phil DeSimone (WAS) was shutout for UNH.

In the DEL, Philip Gogulla had a power play assist and a team-high six shots on goal as Cologne defeated Ingolstadt, 3-2. After a slow start, the Sharks have now won three in a row and four of their last five. The German winger will take a four-game point streak into Friday's game with Straubing.

In Gatineau, Paul Byron (-1) had an assist as the Olympiques lost to Acadie-Bathurst, 4-2. Byron found Hugo Laporte on the power play to open the scoring at 16:03 of the first period. The Ottawa native now has a goal and five assists in his last four games, but the Piques are faltering with seven consecutive losses and a management team looking to shake things up. With just three goals in 15 games, perhaps Byron is being dangled.

Jean-Simon Allard went scoreless for the fifth straight game as Quebec rolled over Lewiston, 7-1.

In the OHL, Saginaw's Nick Crawford was assessed a five-minute major for cross-checking as the Spirit lost to Guelph, 4-1.

React:

Southorn suspended

PEI coach Guy Chouinard has suspended defenseman Jordon Southorn after an off-ice blow-up during Saturday's loss to Rouyn-Noranda. After a mistake led to the game winning goal against, Southorn threw his gear and left the bench area, and was later told to stay there. The decision to send the 18-year old home for an undetermined time was made following the game.

The 6'3 lefty was chosen in the 4th round of the 2008 draft (104th overall) after a 12 goal, 31 point year for the Rocket. Named as the team's assistant captain this season, Southorn has one goal and seven assists, but has struggled as of late.

This isn't the first time the Rocket has had to penalize a Buffalo Sabres prospect. In January of 2007, they gave star defenseman Marc-Andre Gragnani some down time after a road trip incident. The relationship seemed strained from there on.

React:

10/25 Recap: Crawford posts career high in loss

In the OHL, Nick Crawford had a career-high three assists for Saginaw in their 5-4 loss to Niagara. All three helpers came on the power play as the Spirit and Dogs traded goals through the first two periods. Drew Schiestel (+3) had a point shot tipped in by Matt Piva for his 14th assist of the season in the win.

Elsewhere,Tyler Ennis scored his fifth goal of the season as Medicine Hat failed to make it four wins in a row with a 5-2 loss to Calgary. The power play marker was Ennis' seventh point in his last four games after posting six through the first nine, and it seems the talented forward is ready to apply some heat to the Tigers offense. The Hitmen extend their unbeaten streak to six games with the win.

Also from the WHL, Tyler Myers (-2) had two assists for the second straight night in Kelowna's 3-2 loss to Brandon. The four-point weekend brings his season point total to eight on the year.

J.S. Allard (2 PIM) failed to register a point as Quebec lost at Rimouski, 2-1. The loss to the Nics was the Remparts first road defeat this season.

Jordon Southorn was -1 in PEI's 4-3 loss to Rouyn-Noranda. The Rocket will look to shake it off when they face Val-d'Or on Sunday.

In the SEL, Dennis Persson again dressed as the seventh defenseman (2:16 TOI) as Timra defeated his former club Djurgardens, 3-2 in overtime. The return of 20-year old Erik Moe to the Eagles lineup has offset the loss of Par Styf (hand injury), but has also put Persson in the backseat for the time being. Moe gives the Eagles offense a nice boost from the back end, posting four assists and a steady even rating in five games.

React:

Zagrapan, Gerbe pace Pirates

Down on the farm, Marek Zagrapan and Nathan Gerbe each potted a pair of goals as the Pirates extended their record to 4-1 with a 5-4 win over Wilkes Barre-Scranton. The goals were the first points of the season for Zagrapan, who also had an assist on the night, while Gerbe now has five in as many games. Marc-Andre Gragnani scored the first Pirates goal.

Mark Mancari added three assists, while Jhonas Enroth made 33 stops to notch his first AHL win. Tim Kennedy racked up another assist, giving him points in all five games this season.

The Rundown:

Zagrapan: 2 G, 1 A, +1
Gerbe: 2 G, +2, 6 SOG
Mancari: 3 A, +2
Gragnani: 1 G, +1
Card: 1 A, +1
Schutz: 1 A, +1
Kennedy: 1 A, -1
Weber: +2, 4 PIM
Kostka: +1
Whitmore: 4 SOG
Butler: -2
Hunter: left game (foot)
Enroth: 33 saves, W

React:

10/24 Recap: Orpik pots winner

In an ESPNU featured contest, Andrew Orpik (+1) scored what turned out to be the game winning goal for Boston College in their 3-2 win over Vermont. With BC up 2-1 late in the third, Orpik took the puck all the way down the right side from his own end and lifted a sharp wrister over Mike Spillane's shoulder to put the Eagles ahead by two. West Seneca, NY native Brian Roloff would score in the final minute to close the gap for UVM.

In the end Orpik was excellent, hitting at even strength while helping control things down low on the power play to earn the game's #2 star. 2007 seventh-rounder Drew MacKenzie was -1 for the Cats.

In NCAA exhibition play, shot machine Alex Biega fired six at the Trois-Rivieres net in Harvard's 3-1 win.

Corey Tropp (mono) sat out as Michigan State skated to a 2-2 tie with Northern Michigan.

In the DEL, Philip Gogulla potted the first Sharks goal then assisted on the game winner as Cologne keeps their momentum going with a 3-2 win over Kassel. The victory gives the Sharks their first two-game win streak of the season.

In WHL action, Tyler Myers had two assists in Kelowna's 6-0 shellacking of Chilliwack. The Rockets shutout was the second straight against the Bruins after a 5-0 win on Wednesday. Myers now has a goal and five assists this season.

Jacob Lagacé (+2, 2 PIM) had a goal and an assist to earn the game's #2 star in Chicoutimi's 7-1 win over Halifax. The win snaps a four-game skid for the Sags.

J.S. Allard (-2) went pointless for the third straight game as a rusty Quebec team fell to Drummondville, 5-2. The Remparts, who played for the first time in eight days, lost just their second game of the season.

Paul Byron (+1) had an assist while winning 13 of 17 draws for Gatineau in their 3-2 loss to Montreal. T.J. Brennan (1 SOG) and Luke Adam (2 SOG) were held scoreless but were otherwise effective for the Juniors. Adam was taken down by Byron with 1:06 left in the third, but his penalty shot was stopped by Maxime Clermont.

Jordon Southorn was +1 in PEI's 5-2 win over Val-d'Or. Rocket 'tender Bobby Nadeau made 44 saves to earn the victory.

Nick Crawford was -1 in Saginaw's 3-2 win over Erie. The Spirit (16 pts) sit in a distant second place in the OHL's Western Division behind CHL's top-ranked Windsor (26 pts).

Drew Schiestel (2 PIM) was +1 as Niagara put forth a better effort than Thursday, but still came up short in a 4-3 loss to Mississauga. The Hamilton native was credited with breaking up a 2-1 break in the second period while skating without a point for the third time this season.

In the AHL, Portland overcame a poor start to defeat Bridgeport, 4-3. Trailing 2-0 after one, the Pirates got their junk together in the final 40:00 with goals by Nathan Gerbe, Chris Butler, and Mark Mancari to set-up Tyler Bouck's game winner late. Adam Dennis made 33 saves for the win, while Tim Kennedy extended his point streak to four games with an assist on Gerbe's goal.

The Rundown:

Gerbe: 1 G, 5 SOG
Mancari: 1 G, +1, 2 PIM
Butler: 1 G, +1
Hunter: 2 A, +2
Kennedy: 1 A, +1
Gragnani: 1 A, +1, 4 PIM
Whitmore: 1 A, +2
Kostka: +2
Weber: +2, 9 PIM
Zagrapan: -1
Card: 4 PIM
Schutz: even

React:

Buffalo to host World Juniors

The media advisory was very bland to not steal the thunder of Monday's 2:00 PM presser, but all signs indicate that USA Hockey will be announcing Buffalo as host of the 2011 World Junior Championships.

There's no rush to go any deeper right now. We'll wait until next week.

However, SabresProspects would like to offer congratulations and thanks to the Sabres organization for earning the event and allowing Buffalo's support of junior hockey to be displayed on a prestigious international stage.

React:

Falcons to see no Eno

This weekend sees Bowling Green making the long trip to the northwest for a CCHA set with Alaska-Fairbanks. Per Ethan Magoc of The Bowling Green News, those looking for sophomore netminder Nick Eno to see his first action of the season will have to wait at least one more week.

Goaltending will be central to determine what those stats look like after tomorrow night's game. Senior netminder Jimmy Spratt will again start both games for BG, as sophomore Nick Eno is still recovering from an ankle sprain suffered in practice on Sept. 23.

It's been one full month, and Eno is still aggravated by the tender left wheel. He's been practicing, but still isn't 100% fit for game duty. The Falcons have given up 14 goals en route to winning just one of their first four games in his absence, with Jimmy Spratt (CAL) posting a .853 save percentage along the way. BGSU will look for the CCHA All-Rookie team member to return next weekend when Nebraska-Oamaha pays a visit to Ohio.

React:

10/23 Recap: Schiestel chastised, keeps producing

Drew Schiestel (-1) picked up another assist, yet the IceDogs continued their plummet to the bottom of the OHL's standings with an uninspiring 5-1 loss to Erie. Registering a point in 11 of his 13 games, the Sabres 2007 second rounder continues to contribute despite a difficult situation in St. Catherines. Niagara has won just three of 14 games this season, and the gentle rumble in head coach Mario Cicchillo's pot is nearing full boil.

Schiestel has endured the hard road before, playing on a last place Mississauga club as a rookie in 2005-06. One would hardly think that he's OK with sitting back and letting the Dogs get outplayed on a nightly basis. In the final minute of Saturday's loss at Saginaw, the defender exercised some frustration when he took a run at Spirit defenseman T.J. Brodie (CAL). Schiestel earned a minor penalty on the play, but Mark Constantine of The Saginaw News clearly disagrees with the call.

Defenseman T. J. Brodie will miss the three road games the Spirit have in Erie, Niagara and Guelph on Friday, Saturday and Sunday with an injury to his mouth sustained in the final minutes of Saginaw's 4-2 win over the IceDogs last Saturday.

Brodie was viciously slammed into the end boards from behind near the back of the Spirit goal by Niagara's Drew Schiestel, who was given a minor penalty for checking from behind.

That was a terrible call. Schiestel did more than check Brodie from behind, he took three or four strides before launching himself into Brodie and deserved a five-minute major for boarding. The league also should look at the tape and suspend Schiestel for the kind of play that is totally uncalled for in the OHL or another league, for that matter.

Either way, it would seem there's a guy ready to help lead the charge if fan whispers of Ted Nolan ever come to fruition in St. Kitts.

In other action Thursday, Jacob Lagacé notched an asisst in Chicoutimi's 4-1 loss to Saint John. The Sags, who have now dropped four games in a row, will close out a three-games-in-three-nights road swing Friday night at Halifax. Meanwhile, the Sea Dogs set a club record with their seventh straight victory.

React:

Persson odd man out in loss

Still feeling the lingering effects from a weekend puck to the face, Dennis Persson (2 PIM) saw just 4:59 of ice time in Timra's 3-1 loss to Brynas on Thursday. Despite being tabbed as the seventh defenseman for the contest, Persson created some heat with a solid scoring opportunity late in the second period.

The 6'1 defenseman was bleeding from the nose as he left the ice in the second period of Saturday's loss to Rogle. His cheekbone was swollen and it appears stitches were required, but a quick exam after the game revealed no breaks (or dental issues).

React:

Adam, Byron to face Russians

Sabres prospects Luke Adam and Paul Byron have been selected to skate for the QMJHL in next month's ADT Canada/Russia Challenge.

Players from the QMJHL eligible to play for Canada at the 2009 world junior
hockey championships (age 19 and under) starting Dec. 26 in Ottawa were chosen
to the squad that will face a team of Russian select players Nov. 17 in Sydney,
N.S., and Nov. 19 in Saint John, N.B. The Russians will then face the Ontario
Hockey League and conclude the series against the Western Hockey League. The
Canadian Hockey League is hosting the Russians in a six-game series for the
sixth straight year. The CHL is 25-5 versus Russia.

The players for the Canada-Russia Challenge will be evaluated by Hockey Canada head scout Al Murray, Quinn and Boucher for possible invitations to the Canadian junior team’s selection camp in early December. “It’s a great opportunity for the players to get some national exposure,” Boucher said in a statement. “There are two things that players need to focus on to stand out: speed and feistiness. When comparing two equally talented players, the one who battles and ultimately comes out with the puck will draw the most attention.”

The full QMJHL roster is as follows:

Goaltenders - Jake Allen (Montreal); Maxime Clermont (Gatineau); Olivier Roy (Cape Breton).

Defencemen - Mathieu Brodeur (Cape Breton); Marc-Andre Bourdon (Rouyn-Noranda); Simon Despres (Saint John); Brandon Gormley (Moncton); Alex Grant (Saint John); Hubert Labrie (Gatineau); Kevin Marshall (Quebec); Charles-Antoine Roussel (Shawinigan); Marco Scandella (Val-d’Or); Yann Sauve (Saint John).

Forwards - Luke Adam (Montreal); Paul Byron (Gatineau); Jordan Caron (Rimouski); Patrice Cormier (Rimouski); Philippe Cornet (Rimouski); Nicolas Deschamps (Chicoutimi); Christopher DiDomenico (Saint John); Angelo Esposito (Montreal); Olivier Fortier (Rimouski); Dave Labrecque (Shawinigan); Logan MacMillan (Halifax); Maxime Sauve (Val-d’Or); Kelsey Tessier (Quebec)

Last season, Jean-Simon Allard replaced the injured Benjamin Breault (at that point a Sabres prospect) for Team QMJHL.

React:

10/22 Recap: Ennis explodes

Tyler Ennis poured out a goal and three assists as Medicine Hat surged to their third straight win by defeating Prince George, 7-3. The game's first star, Ennis has been the target of the opposing defense all season, greatly limiting his offensive effectiveness for the Tigers. The Edmonton native now has four goals and eight assists in 12 games and will look to keep his stick hot on Saturday against Calgary.

Also from the WHL, Tyler Myers posted zeros across the board in Kelowna's 5-0 win over Chilliwack. Rookie Adam Brown made 15 saves for the Rockets to earn the shutout.

In Moncton, Jacob Lagacé was -1 with an assist as the Sagueneens lost to the Wildcats, 4-2. Lagacé will carry his .91 ppg pace into a Thursday night match-up with Saint John.

Jordon Southorn picked up a minor penalty in PEI's 4-2 loss to Rouyn-Noranda.

In the lone Monday game from Russia, Vjacheslav Buravchikov went pointless in Kazan's 3-2 win over Vityaz.

React:

Schedule 10/20-10/26

Monday 10/20
- no games -

Tuesday 10/21
Kazan (Buravchikov) at Vityaz

Wednesday 10/22
Chicoutimi (Lagacé) at Moncton
PEI (Southorn) at Rouyn-Noranda
Prince George at Medicine Hat (Ennis)
Kelowna (Myers) at Chilliwack

Thursday 10/23
Brynas at Timra (Persson)
Erie at Niagara (Schiestel)
Chicoutimi (Lagacé) at Saint John

Friday 10/24
Bridgeport at Portland (AHL)
Cologne (Gogulla) at Kassel
Neftekhimik at Kazan (Buravchikov)
Bowling Green (Eno) at Alaska
Northern Michigan at Michigan State (Tropp)
Vermont (MacKenzie) at Boston College (Orpik)
Saginaw (Crawford) at Erie
Niagara (Schiestel) at Mississauga
Gatineau (Byron) at Montreal (Adam, Brennan)
PEI (Southorn) at Val-d'Or
Chicoutimi (Lagacé) at Halifax
Drummondville at Quebec (Allard)
Chilliwack at Kelowna (Myers)

Saturday 10/25
Wilkes-Barre/Scranton at Portland (AHL)
Djurgarden at Timra (Persson)
Bowling Green (Eno) at Alaska
Northern Michigan at Michigan State (Tropp)
Saginaw (Crawford) at Niagara (Schiestel)
Quebec (Allard) at Rimouski
PEI (Southorn) at Rouyn-Noranda
Calgary at Medicine Hat (Ennis)
Brandon at Kelowna (Myers)

Sunday 10/26
Ingolstadt at Cologne (Gogulla)
Dynamo at Kazan (Buravchikov)
New Hampshire at St. Lawrence (Generous)
Saginaw (Crawford) at Guelph
Acadie-Bathurst at Gatineau (Byron)
Lewiston at Quebec (Allard)
PEI (Southorn) at Val-d'Or
Victoriaville at Montreal (Adam, Brennan)

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Three Stars of the Week - 10/13-10/19

Tim Kennedy (Portland - AHL)
Showing that leaving school early was the correct move, the former MSU Spartan has started his pro career by pointing in Portland's first three contests for a total of five altogether.

Drew Schiestel, D (Niagara - OHL)
The swift-skating defenseman saw a six-game point streak snapped over the weekend, but his 2-12-14 line makes him the IceDogs co-leader in points, and 2nd overall among OHL rearguards.

Brad Eidsness, G (North Dakota - WCHA)
The Chestermere, Alberta native posted his first career NCAA victory on Saturday, stopping 25 pucks as the Sioux defeated Mankato, 4-3.

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10/19 Recap: Gogulla grooving as Sharks start to bite

In the DEL, Philip Gogulla assisted on the fifth Cologne goal as the Sharks opened up a Sunday can on Augsburger, 6-1. The 6'2 winger is starting to heat up, netting two goals and two assists in his past five games. Victorious in two of their last three, one could say that the four-win Sharks are starting to get a little warm as well. They will look for their first winning streak of the season on Thursday when they skate against the Kassel Huskies.

In QMJHL play, Paul Byron had an assist for Gatineau in their 5-3 loss to Val-d'Or. The 5'9 playmaker also won 11 of his 18 draws on the afternoon for the Piques, but goals are still hard to come by. The Foreurs first win comes one night after tying the QMJHL record for most consecutive losses to start the season (14).

In PEI, Jordon Southorn was -3 with five shots on goal as the Rockets fell to Bathurst, 4-1. The Rocket was slow and sloppy defensively, allowing the Titan to make the most of their 22 shots on goal.

Jacob Lagacé finished -2 as Chicoutimi lost for the second straight night, 4-2 to the Drakkar.

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Enroth gets first start; Kennedy streaking

In Portland, Tim Kennedy and Mark Mancari assisted on the only Pirates goal in their 4-1 loss to Providence. From behind the B's net, Kennedy found Mancari who shuttled the puck to Paul Baier at the left circle. His shot beat Tuukka Rask at the 4:03 mark of the first period to give the Pirates the 1-0 lead. Kennedy's helper gives him a point in each of Portland's three games this season and a total five on the year.

Jhonas Enroth got his first start out of the way for the Pirates, stopping 26 of 29 shots in defeat. Meanwhile, Marek Zagrapan would like to improve on the 0-0-0 -2 line he's put up in the young season.

The Rundown:

Kennedy: 1A, +1
Mancari: 1A, +1
Gerbe: +1
Butler: 3 SOG
Weber: 3 SOG
Card: even
Zagrapan: 2 PIM
Schutz: 1 SOG
Whitmore: -1, 2 PIM
Kostka: -1
Hunter: -1
Gragnani: -2, 2 PIM
Enroth: 26 saves, L

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10/18 Recap: Eidsness posts first W

In the NCAA, Brad Eidsness earned his first career win as North Dakota defeated Mankato, 4-3. The AJHL product stood up to the road pressure, flashing leather with brilliant glove saves while holding his ground in some busy penalty kill situations. Making 25 stops to guide the Sioux to a split with the Mavericks, Eidsness looks to have earned the start when NoDak resumes play in two weeks with a set against Wisconsin.

Leading 2-0 in the second period, the Mavs saw a potential three-goal lead disappear when officials determined that Eidsness was interfered with. The Sioux would have the momentum shift after the reversal, storming back to get the lead and avoid going 0-4 to start the season. Corey Fienhage saw bottom pair time for the Sioux, while fellow freshman Justin Jokinen was even with no points for the Mavs.

In Boston, Andrew Orpik finished -1 as #1 Boston College was upset by unranked Northeastern. Joe Vitale's short-handed goal in the first minute of the third held up the rest of the way for the Huskies. The Eagles will look to settle the score in February when the two clubs reconvene in the opening round of the Beanpot.

In Burlington, freshman defenseman Drew MacKenzie was even for Vermont in their 3-3 tie with Miami.

Finishing the collegiate slate, Matt Generous was -1 with two shots on goal as St. Lawrence earned the Western New York sweep with a 2-1 defeat of RIT.

In the WHL, Tyler Ennis scored his third goal of the season and was named the game's #2 star as Medicine Hat beat Regina, 6-4. Ennis' marker started a four-goal rush for the Tigers after falling behind 2-0 in the opening period.

Tyler Myers was +1 with 4 PIM as Kelowna edged Seattle, 3-2. After having three consecutive games with a fight, the Alberta native has now gone four straight without throwing a fist but still ranks fourth in WHL PIM's.

In the OHL, Saginaw's, Nick Crawford (+1) had two assists for the Spirit in their 4-2 win over Niagara. The sixth rounder has been steady since his return fom Sabres camp, quietly amassing seven points and a +5 to date. For the Dogs, Drew Schiestel (-1) saw his six-game point streak come to an end in the loss. The Spirit are off until Friday, while Niagara will next take to the ice on Thursday against Erie.

Rounding out the Saturday schedule, Jacob Lagacé picked up an assist in Chicoutimi's 2-1 loss to Moncton. The 2008 pick was credited with the primary on Olivier Ouelette's power play goal to get on the sheet for the first time in three games while maintaining his point-per-game pace. Chicoutimi (4-7-1-1) will host Baie-Comeau on Sunday.

Also from the Q, Jordon Southorn (+2) assisted on the overtime winner as PEI knocked off Bathurst, 2-1. Speculation that Southorn is battling a nagging injury is hard to prove, but his play hasn't been as sharp as it was to start the year despite the offensive production. The Rocket move to 5-6-0-1 on the season with the win, and will close the weekend in Charlottetown against Bathurst.

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Gerbe guns for two in Pirates win

Returning to the state where he achieved collegiate stardom, Nathan Gerbe scored a pair of goals to earn the game's #1 star as Portland won their second straight, 3-2 over Springfield. The explosive rookie was active throughout, firing a game-high seven shots on goal to lead the attack. Colton Fretter scored the other Portland goal.

All three Pirates goals on the evening came with the man advantage. Gerbe closed a passing play with Tim Kennedy to give Portland a 2-0 lead in the first, then later lit the game winner in the mid-second. Marc-Andre Gragnani added a pair of power play assists for the Pirates, while Adam Dennis made 21 saves to get the win.

The Rundown:

Gerbe: 2 G, 7 SOG
Gragnani: 2 A
Kennedy: 1 A
Butler: 1 A, -2
Kostka: 1 A
Mancari: 5 SOG
Weber: 4 PIM
Hunter: 2 SOG
Whitmore: 2 SOG
Schutz: -1
Zagrapan: -1
Card: 4 PIM
Dennis: W, 21 saves

Look for Jhonas Enroth to get his first AHL start on Sunday when the Pirates do battle with Providence.

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Afternoon Recap: Byron busts out

In perhaps his best performance of the young season, center Paul Byron had a goal and two assists as Gatineau fell to Rimouski, 5-4 in a seven-round shootout. As the Piques second shooter, Byron also cashed his shootout attempt after getting stopped by Maxim Gougeon on a second period penalty shot. The game ended when the fourteenth shooter, Gatineau's Gerrit Fauser, failed to solve Gougeon.

Byron's afternoon output is encouraging, as it's just a matter of time before the dazzler steps up and starts potting goals more regularly for les Olympiques. He's been controlling play in spurts of late, and now must kick his trailblazing skills into a higher gear if he's to get another look from Hockey Canada for their World Junior entry this winter.

In the other afternoon game in the Q, Luke Adam (-1) added a late goal for Montreal in their 3-2 loss to Cape Breton. The tally, Adam's seventh of the year, came on his seventh shot of the game with the Juniors net empty. Worth noting is that Adam was again a shot-blocking machine, turning back six Screaming Eagles attempts in defeat. As mentioned earlier, T.J. Brennan scored his second goal of the season for Montreal, and now has seven points in ten games.

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First intermission: Brennan scores, Adam leveled

Defenseman T.J. Brennan scored the opening goal of today's contest between Montreal and the #2 team in the CHL Mosaik Top-10, Cape Breton. Brennan's second of the season was the only goal mustered by the Juniors in the period, as the score stands at a 1-1 tie after 20:00 of action.

With 2:14 to go, 6'2, 203-pound Luke Adam had the boom lowered on him by a Jan Piskacek hip check as he cut across the middle just inside the Cape Breton blue. Clearly shaken on the play, Adam went immediately to the dressing room for the rest of the period. However, Adam is skating as the teams hit the ice for the second period.

The Juniors will be without top-line center Angelo Esposito for the rest of the afternoon. The Thrashers prospect immediately jumped Piskacek after the blow to Adam, picking up an instigator, fighting major, and game misconduct.

The contest featuring two of the QMJHL's elite goaltenders in Jake Allen (STL) and Olivier Roy ('09 eligible) has seen a fair of amount of offense with a combined 23 shots in the first period. Roy, who in previous viewings has been a lights-out type of stopper, doesn't seem as sharp thus far. Allen on the other hand has been very good, including a few nice saves down low late in the period.

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Puck drops Persson

Dennis Persson was knocked out of the game after taking a puck in the face during Timra's 5-1 loss to Rogle on Saturday. The defenseman was bleeding from the nose as he made his way off the ice at 14:10 of the second period. Skating 12:50 worth of shifts through slightly more than half the game, Persson was on his way to another twenty-minute workout at the time of the injury.

At one point fifth in the SEL standings, October has seen the injury bug cause an Eagles dive into the league's bottom three teams. With Timra's next game not coming until Thursday against Brynas, it's possible that Persson doesn't miss additional game time. The 2006 first round pick has shown developmental strides this season, averaging over 18:00 a night while learning from past mistakes in his 13 appearances. We'll update his status when more info becomes available.

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10/17 Recap: Orpik drops rare deuce; Adam apple of Juniors O

Andrew Orpik had a pair of assists as #1 Boston College defeated Bowling Green, 5-3. Both points came on the power play as the Thayer product notched his first multi-point game since 10/31/06 when he had a pair of helpers at Providence. Brock Bradford (BOS) paced BC with two goals and an assist in the win.

Jimmy Spratt (CAL) took the loss for Bowling Green as Nick Eno remained out for a second straight week with a tender ankle. The Eagles will drive across town to face Northeastern tomorrow, while the Falcons head to Providence.

In the QMJHL, Luke Adam had a goal and an assist to rescue a dormant Montreal offense in their 3-2 win over Rouyn-Noranda. The Juniors suffered two shutout losses while Adam recovered from a sore knee, and the big forward marked his return with two points in the game's first six minutes. Adding to a common theme, Adam was the game leader in SOG (6) and blocks (5). Defenseman T.J. Brennan had a power play assist and a game-best four hits for the winners.

In the West, Tyler Myers (-2, 2 PIM) had an assist in Kelowna's wild 8-6 loss to Everett. Trailing 4-3 entering the third, the Rockets all of sudden found themselves with a 6-4 lead with 9:47 left to play. However, the Tips pumped out four unanswered goals in the final 8:14 to earn the win. The game featured a crunching first period hit by the 6'8 Myers on 5'6 Zack Dailey that left the Tip forward feeling the effect for a couple of shifts..

Also in the Dub, Tyler Ennis (+1) assisted on a gorgeous short-handed play as Medicine Hat shut out Chilliwack, 3-0. The 5'9 forward now has seven points (2+5) in ten games. The Tigers square off with a rugged Regina squad on Saturday.

Elsewhere in the NCAA, Justin Jokinen went pointless as Minnesota State scored three short-handed goals to spark their 5-1 pounding of North Dakota. Defenseman Corey Fienhage had a strong performance for the Sioux, finishing as one of six skaters to be even or better while showing his true colors with a roughing minor. Brad Eidsness was the back-up to Aaron Walski, and should get the start on Saturday when the two schools play it back.

Drew MacKenzie was -1 as #17 Vermont upended #7 Miami, 4-3. MacKenzie was on the ice for the third Redhawks as the Catamounts move to 2-0 with the win.

St. Lawrence defenseman Matt Generous was even with a shot on net in the Saints' 5-3 win over Niagara. SLU will head east to Rochester for a Saturday match-up with RIT.

In the DEL, Philip Gogulla had four shots on goal in Cologne's 5-1 loss to Wolfsburg. With another loss, the Sharks remain second-to-last in the league standings.

Drew Schiestel (-1) notched another assist as Niagara lost at Plymouth, 5-4. The Dogs power play is clicking with eight goals in four games, and the Hamilton native now has a point in six straight to equal his previous best run from last March.

Nick Crawford was -2 in Saginaw's 3-0 shutout loss to Barrie. It was just the second time this season that the Caledon, Ontario native finished the game with a minus rating. The Spirit will host Schiestel's Dogs on Saturday.

Also from the collegiate ranks, Michigan State winger Corey Tropp has come down with mono, obviously keeping him out of the lineup in the Spartans 3-1 win over Lowell. Expecting him to ready for next week's battle with Northern seems unreasonable at this point. The focus is on getting rest, and we all hope he gets well as quickly as possible.

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10/16 Recap: The calm before the storm

In Thursday SEL play, Dennis Persson was stationed on Timra's left side for a total of 20:42 in their 2-1 overtime loss to HV71. The 6'1 blueliner didn't score any points, but he made a standout play when breaking up a two-on-one break in the early second period.

With Mikko Lehtonen returning to the Eagles lineup, it was unclear how the veteran's presence would impact the progress made by the 20-year old Sabres prospect. If one game is any indication, it would appear that the time is Persson's to lose.

In the NCAA, Sophomore Corey Tropp had two shots on goal as #11 Michigan State stumbled on home ice in a 3-0 loss to Lowell. Dressing a total of 13 underclassmen, the mistake-prone Spartans looked every bit inexperienced in the shutout.

Tropp has been skating on a line with freshmen Daulton Leveille (ATL) and Andrew Conboy (MTL), but was mixed-and-matched quite a bit last season. Regardless of line combos, expect a sharper Spartan club Friday night when the two play it back at Munn.

After a quiet Thursday, a 30-game weekend will make this space a tad more robust. The coffee will be brewing, so stop back throughout to keep tabs on how it all shakes out.

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10/15 Recap: D-men point; forwards quiet

Tyler Myers had a steady night, finishing +2 with an assist in Kelowna's 3-1 win over Prince Albert. On the power play in the early third, Myers found Jamie Benn (DAL) who cashed the game winner. The Rockets (6-5) will travel to Everett on Friday against Kyle Beach (CHI) and the Silvertips.

In the OHL, Drew Schiestel (-3) had an assist in Niagara's 4-2 loss to Erie. The Otters owned the final 20:00, scoring a pair of goals while limiting the Dogs to just five shots. Factoring into goals in nine of his ten games this season, Schiestel will ride a five-game point streak into Plymouth on Friday.

Elsewhere, J.S. Allard was -1 as Quebec needed a shootout to win their tenth straight game, 5-4 over Val-d'Or. The winless Foreurs took a 3-0 first period lead on the Rems, but Patrick Roy's club roared back with three goals of their own in the second. The teams traded goals :18 apart in the third before an exciting shootout (sans Allard) rounded out the action. The Remparts are now off until the 24th.

Chicoutimi's Jacob Lagacé and Gatineau's Paul Byron were both quiet statistically in the Sags 4-1 defeat of the Piques. Lagacé registered one shot on net for the winners, while Byron (-1) buzzed about all game but was shut down at the dot, winning just four of 15 draws in the battle of sub-.500 clubs.

Jordon Southorn fired five of his team's 23 shots, but came up empty in PEI's 4-3 loss to Saint John. The Sea Dogs themselves fired 43 shots, with reigning QMJHL Offensive Player of the Week Alex Grant (PIT) staying hot with a goal and two assists to lead the Sea Dogs.

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Wobbly ankle still hobbling Eno

Bowling Green coach Scott Paluch told the BG News that Nick Eno is still bothered by an ankle sprain, and may not be ready for this weekend's action against Boston College and Providence.

Paluch said goaltender Nick Eno's attempts at getting onto the ice at the end of practice last Monday did not go well at all. He said the sophomore goalie lasted about five minutes before pain in his ankle caused him to leave the ice. That pain prompted an MRI on the ankle, which again confirmed that it is just an ankle sprain, but a lingering one at that.

Paluch said Eno's status for this weekend is very questionable, and it will be determined this week in practice if he will travel with the team to New England. He will not travel if he can't play.

Eno, 19, was 12-10-0 with a 2.79 GAA as a freshman last season. He will again rotate starts with senior Jimmy Spratt (CAL) once healthy, eventually looking to gain the lion's share as the season wears on.

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10/14 Recap: Byron back on board

In the QMJHL, center Paul Byron posted a goal and an assist as Gatineau gave up a third period lead in their 5-4 loss at Baie-Comeau. Byron, who averaged 1.31 points-per-game in 2008-09, notched his second multi-point effort of the season after a two-game dry spell. The Piques will travel to Chicoutimi for a Wednesday match-up with the Sagueneens.

Jean-Simon Allard was +2 in Quebec's 7-1 win over Rouyn-Noranda. The 10-1 Remparts will try to keep their undefeated road record in tact Wednesday night when they visit winless Val d'Or (0-10-1).

In a basement battle, Philip Gogulla assisted on the game winner as Cologne defeated Duisburg, 4-2. The 6'2 forward now has four points in his last three games. With their third win against ten losses, the Sharks leave the DEL's last place spot all to the Foxes.

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10/13 Recap: Schiestel shines

Drew Schiestel (2 PIM, +1) had a goal and two assists as Niagara ended their five-game skid by defeating Peterborough, 4-2. Schiestel scored the game winner in the third when a Matt Sisca feed found him with just enough net to fill. The three-point effort earned him the game's #1 star, and a season point total (12) that is not only second among OHL defensemen, but also good enough to top all of his fellow Sabres prospects to date.

In the SEL, Dennis Persson was -2 while Timra kicked a five-game skid of their own in a 4-3 overtime win over Skelleftea. The 6'1 rearguard again ripped off a nice chunk of time, earning 18:47 of action in the win. Paired on the left side with veteran Par Styf, Persson has an average TOI of 17:48 thus far with the Eagles.

Tyler Ennis continues his early season WHL struggles, going -1 with no points in Medicine Hat's 4-3 loss to Kootenay. The Edmonton native has been a minus player in six of nine games this season after a total of 18 minus showings during the entire 2007-08 schedule. Unless the Tigers go out and get some help, Ennis will continue getting hit early and often as the opposing D's main target.

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Hockey world mourns loss of Cherepanov

Former NHL first-rounder Alexei Cherepanov, 19, collapsed tonight during a KHL game and was pronounced dead a short time later. The tragedy comes less than a year after the deaths of talented young players Luc Bourdon and Mickey Renaud. Coverage of the sad development to TSN:
Ranger prospect Cherepanov dies during KHL game

Omsk head coach, Wayne Fleming, said Cherepanov collapsed on the bench during the third period of the game and did not see anything that happened on the ice that may have contributed to it.

Fleming also said medical authorities tried to get Cherepanov's heart beating again after it had stopped.

Sources in Russia tell TSN that the ambulance that is normally at all games had already departed and had to be called back.

It is not clear exactly how long it took for Cherepanov to be transported from the rink to the hospital but one source in the arena told TSN it was "probably 15 or 20 minutes."

Also, there is some question as to whether defibrillators at the arena were in good working order.

No further details are available at this point.

The sudden passing takes away an NHL superstar in waiting, as many considered Cherepanov step-for-step with 2007 #1 overall pick Patrick Kane in terms of offensive talent.

TSN continues:

He had seven goals and 12 points in 14 games played this season in KHL, including the first goal in today's game.

Cherepanov played 106 games during his career in the KHL/RSL (Russian Super League), all with Avangard Omsk and scored 40 goals with 29 assists over that span.

He set the RSL record for goals by a rookie with 18, beating the previous mark held by Pavel Bure (17 goals), during the 2006-07 season. His total of 29 points in his rookie campaign was more than Evgeni Malkin, Alexander Ovechkin and Ilya Kovalchuk during their first initial RSL seasons.

Cherepanov helped lead Russia to a Bronze Medal at the World Junior Championships in 2008, scoring three goals and adding three assists with a plus-three rating over his six games at the tournament.

Cherepanov was drafted by the Rangers in the 1st round, 17th overall, in the 2007 NHL Entry Draft.

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Three Stars of the Week - 10/6-10/12

Nick Crawford (Saginaw - OHL)
The 6'1 defender had a Friday-Sunday stretch that saw him pot three assists and a +7 in three Spirit wins. Crawford ranks 12th in the OHL with a +6 rating.

Mark Mancari (Portland - AHL)
With a hat trick and two assists, the big winger teamed with Nathan Gerbe and Tim Kennedy to pile up 10 points in the Pirates 6-3 opening night win.

Justin Jokinen, RW (Minnesota St. - WCHA)
On Friday, the freshman winger scored the game winning goal in his first collegiate game against Bemidji State.

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Schedule 10/13-10/19

Monday 10/13
Skelleftea at Timra (Persson)
Peterborough at Niagara (Schiestel)
Kootenay at Medicine Hat (Ennis)

Tuesday 10/14
Gatineau (Byron) at Baie-Comeau
Quebec (Allard) at Rouyn-Noranda
Duisburg at Cologne (Gogulla)

Wednesday 10/15
Niagara (Schiestel) at Erie
Gatineau (Byron) at Chicoutimi (Lagacé)
Saint John at PEI (Southorn)
Quebec (Allard) at Val d'Or
Prince Albert at Kelowna (Myers)

Thursday (10/16)
Timra (Persson) at HV71
Lowell at Michigan State (Tropp)

Friday 10/17
Cologne (Gogulla) at Wolfsburg
Bowling Green (Eno) at Boston College (Orpik)
Lowell at Michigan State (Tropp)
North Dakota (Eidsness, Fienhage) at Minnesota State (Jokinen)
Miami at Vermont (MacKenzie)
St. Lawrence (Generous) at Niagara
Rouyn-Noranda at Montreal (Brennan, Adam*)
Niagara (Schiestel) at Plymouth
Barrie at Saginaw (Crawford)
Chilliwack at Medicine Hat (Ennis)
Kelowna (Myers) at Everett

Saturday 10/18
Timra (Persson) at Rogle
Portland (AHL) at Springfield
North Dakota (Eidsness, Fienhage) at Minnesota State (Jokinen)
Miami at Vermont (MacKenzie)
Boston College (Orpik) at Northeastern
Bowling Green (Eno) at Providence
St. Lawrence (Generous) at RIT
Niagara (Schiestel) at Saginaw (Crawford)
Moncton at Chicoutimi (Lagacé)
Rimouski at Gatineau (Byron)
Cape Breton at Montreal (Brennan, Adam*)
PEI (Southorn) at Acadie-Bathurst
Kelowna (Myers) at Seattle
Regina at Medicine Hat (Ennis)

Sunday 10/19
Providence at Portland (AHL)
Baie-Comeau at Chicoutimi(Lagacé)
Val d'Or at Gatineau (Byron)
Acadie-Bathurst at PEI (Southorn)
Augsburger at Cologne (Gogulla)

*injured

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Ennis minus in Tigers loss

In the final game of the weekend, Tyler Ennis was -1 as Medicine Hat was shutout by Swift Current, 2-0. The Edmonton native has two goals and three assists in eight games, and is quite a bit off his 2007-08 start that saw him net ten goals in his first ten games. The second place Tigers will host Central Division rival Kootenay on Monday.

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10/12 Recap: Crawford cruises

Nick Crawford (+1) capped off a three-game weekend with two assists in Saginaw's 3-2 win over Plymouth. The Caledon, Ontario native assisted on Jack Combs' first goal of the season in the first period. With 2:37 left in the third and the game tied 2-2, Crawford set up Tyler Murovich for the game winner. The Spirit will ride a four-game winning streak into Friday's match-up with Central Division leader Barrie.

Struggling offensively without the injured Luke Adam (1-2 weeks, knee), the Montreal Juniors were shutout for the second straight game via a 1-0 loss to Moncton. Adam's linemates, Angelo Esposito and Nick Layton, have failed to produce a point in two games since the barreling forward went down. 2007 second-rounder T.J. Brennan had a minor penalty for Montreal in the loss.

Paul Byron continued his quiet start, registering a single shot on goal in Gatineau's 4-1 loss to Rimouski. The 5'9 forward has scored one goal in nine games this season after netting 37 in 52 games in 2007-08, and is bound to come up in QMJHL trade rumors sooner or later.

Tyler Ennis and the Tigers are underway in Swift Current.

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Jokinen's first career NCAA goal

For those hungry for highlights, here is video of Justin Jokinen's first collegiate goal from Minnesota State's 5-2 win on Friday. The 6'3 wing scored the game winner when he buried an Adam Mueller feed to break a second period tie in the Mavs decision over Bemidji State.

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10/11 Recap: Myers plays nice; Adam sore

A night after getting blown out by provincial rival Vancouver, the Kelowna Rockets opened up a can of their own in Saturday's 8-1 win over Prince George. The game featured four fights, yet Tyler Myers gave his knuckles a rest en route to capturing a +4 on the evening. With Myers staying out of the box for the first time all season, the Rockets limited the Cougars to a total of 12 shots on goal while firing 45 of their own.

Nick Crawford was +3 for a second consecutive game in Saginaw's 5-2 win over Sarnia. The Spirit currently sit in third place in the OHL's West Division, and will host in-state rival Plymouth on Sunday.

In the Q, T.J. Brennan was -1 in Montreal's 4-0 loss to the Saint John Sea Dogs. Missing the services of Luke Adam due to sore knee suffered in Wednesday's loss, the struggling Juniors offense mustered just 20 shots in defeat. The timing of the injury couldn't be worse, as the Juniors would greatly benefit from Adam's offensive control when they battle league-best Moncton on Sunday. The full prognosis hasn't been made, so for now Adam should be considered day-to-day.

Jordon Southorn assisted on the Rocket's insurance goal in their 4-2 win over Chicoutimi. Jacob Lagacé (4 SOG) was held without a point for the Sags, and has one assist in his last three games after starting the season with eight points in five games.

J.S. Allard (+1) scored the first Remparts goal in their 4-1 win over Baie-Comeau. With Quebec riding an eight-game winning streak, Allard leads all of the Sabres CHL prospects with 11 points this season.

In NCAA play, Justin Jokinen went without a point in Minnesota State's 4-2 win over Bemidji. The Mavericks swept the weekend set with the Beavers, and are heading for a showdown with a hungry 0-2 North Dakota club next weekend.

Matt Generous was -1 as St. Lawrence fell to Michigan, 5-3. After a weekend sweep at the hands of the Wolverines, the Saints will head to Western New York next weekend for tilts with Niagara and RIT.

Corey Tropp was -1 as Michigan State dropped the IceBreakerChampionship game to Boston University, 2-1. The Spartans will have a short prep week as they host Lowell for a Thursday-Friday set.

Nick Eno again watched from the press box as Bowling Green and Niagara played to a 3-3 tie.

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Pirates majestic in 6-3 win over Monarchs

Mark Mancari scored a hat trick and two assists to lead the Portland Pirates to a 6-3 season opening win over the Manchester Monarchs.

One impressive first impression:

"(Mancari) put some points on the board, and he was a presence," Dineen said. "I think he is very aware he's playing with some guys who have some special skills, and he's embracing that."

The two "guys with special skills" happen to be prospects Tim Kennedy and Nathan Gerbe. Kennedy added a goal and two assists in his first professional game, while Gerbe posted a pair of helpers to propel the Pirates. Adam Dennis made 28 saves between the pipes to secure the win.

The rundown:

Mancari: 3 goals, 2 assists,
Kennedy: 1 goal, two assists, +2
Gerbe: 2 assists, +2
Butler: 2 assists, +2
Gragnani: 1 assist, +1
Hunter: assist, +1
Whitmore: 1 assist
Kostka: even
Schutz: 2 PIM
Zagrapan: -1
Weber: -2
Card: -2

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MacKenzie, Cats look good in win

Freshman Drew MacKenzie was +2 as Vermont defeated RPI 4-1 in the season opener for both clubs. The alma maters of Joe Juneau (RPI) and Martin St. Louis (UVM) met in Quebec City as part of Challenge Hockey 2008. The Catamounts will host Miami next weekend.

Corey Fienhage made his collegiate debut as North Dakota closed a disappointing weekend with a 3-2 loss to Massachusetts. The Sioux outshot the Minutemen 41-16, but again had issues finishing plays. With the Sioux 0-2 and Aaron Walski avaerage at best in tonight's 13-save loss, Brad Eidsness will likely get another look as the NoDak enters conference play next weekend against Justin Jokinen and the Minnesota State Mavericks.

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Comeback falls short for Timra

Defenseman Dennis Persson (2 PIM, 1 SOG) saw 16:23 of action as Timra was defeated by Farjestad, 6-4. Trailing 5-2, comeback-minded Timra scored a pair of goals in the final 20:00, one of which Persson was on the ice for, before FBK found an empy net with :07 to go.

And so the winless skid hits five for the Eagles, who will next take the ice on Monday against Skelleftea.

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Dennis to start; Funk out indefinitely

The Portland Pirates will kick off their 2008-09 season tonight with a skate against Manchester. The Maine Hockey Journal reports that Kevin Dineen will likely keep Jhonas Enroth in waiting, instead giving the start to veteran netminder Adam Dennis. MHJ has also posted what they feel will the line combos for the contest.

F
Mancari – Kennedy – Gerbe
Darche – Zagrapan – Murphy
Whitmore – Hunter – Bouck
Fretter – Schutz – Bonneau

D
Weber – Card
Butler – Baier
Kostka – Gragnani

With Mike Funk concussed, the presence of Mike Weber should provide quite a spark to the Pirates blueline. Per the Portland Press Herald, Weber thinks there might be a natural flicker by no longer sharing an AHL affiliation with the Florida Panthers.

Portland Pirates defenseman Mike Weber had been in town less than 24 hours, but he already sensed a big difference between this AHL team and the one he played on last season in Rochester.

"It's a better setup than what we had in Rochester," Weber said Friday morning. "We had two different (NHL) teams barking at the coaching staff, and there was a divide in the locker room. Here, it's a different situation."

Last spring, the Sabres ended a 29-year relationship with the Rochester Americans after sharing the AHL affiliate with the Florida Panthers for three seasons.

"Florida said they wanted these systems, and Buffalo said they wanted these systems, and the players were in the middle," Weber recalled. "It was a little bit crazy."

In June, Buffalo became the new NHL parent of the Pirates after the Anaheim Ducks ended their three-year affiliation with Portland.

"Everyone's on the same page here," Weber said. "It provides a less stressful environment."

It's safe to say that these comments validate the patience that many have taken with promising talents like Marek Zagrapan. On top of lacking veterans, last year's Amerks lacked any sense of cohesion.

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10/10 Recap: Brennan returns from illness; Myers goes again

T.J. Brennan was +1 with three shots on goal in Montreal's 4-1 win over Halifax. Brennan, 19, did not play in Wednesday's loss at Rimouski after falling ill with "concussion-like" symptoms and a very sore throat. He was taken to a hospital, where he was also tested for mononucleosis. Thankfully the results were negative, and the defender hopped on a plane for tonight's contest in Nova Scotia. Luke Adam did not play for the Juniors after getting dinged on Wednesday.

In the WHL, Tyler Myers (-2) got into a fight for his third consecutive game in Kelowna's 7-1 loss to Vancouver. The defenseman handily defeated 5'10 Craig Cunningham after checking highly-touted forward Evander Kane from behind in the first period

Apparently the Sabres gave the towering rearguard a big box of foil before sending him back to the Dub, telling him to simply "use it". Myers played 65 games last season with only a handful of tussles. Kane, a projected top-20 pick in 2009, had a hat trick and five points to lead Vancouver despite the hit, and is now the WHL's leading scorer with nine goals and 18 points.

Minnesota State freshman Justin Jokinen scored his first collegiate goal - the game winner no less - in the Mavs 5-2 win over Bemidji State. The 6'3 forward buried an Adam Mueller pass from the slot midway through the second period to break a 2-2 tie. The game saw a total of 22 power plays between the two clubs.

At the IceBreaker in Boston, freshman Brad Eidsness was a surprise starter, making 28 saves in his first collegiate start as North Dakota fell to Boston University, 5-1. Initial reports from Sioux camp suggested that Eidsness would give way to Aaron Walski before entering the crease for Saturday's game with Massachusetts, but ND coach Dave Hakstol had other designs.

The Alberta native played decently after a bumpy start, making some nice saves during a busy second period when he was often left high and dry by a slow-reacting defense. I'd love to see Hak go back to the rookie again as a way to send a message to his skaters, but chances are Walski will get a chance against the Minutemen. Perhaps that message will come in the form of inserting defenseman Corey Fienhage into the NoDak lineup. The 2008 third rounder was a Friday scratch. Forward Colin Wilson (NSH) had a goal and an assist for the Terriers.

Also from the IceBreaker, Corey Tropp (+1) picked up an assist as Michigan State defeated Massachusetts, 3-1. In the opening minutes, a Tropp wrister created a rebound that was stuffed home by Andrew Rowe to give the Spartans a 1-0 lead.

With Nathan Gerbe returning to help raise the 2008 Championship banner, Boston College skated out to a 5-4 win over Wisconsin. Andrew Orpik assumed his right wing spot on the Eagles grind line, going -1 with two shots on goal.

Defenseman Matt Generous was even as St. Lawrence dropped a tough 4-3 loss at Michigan, while goaltender Nick Eno (ankle injury) did not dress in Bowling Green's 4-2 win over RIT.

In the OHL, Niagara's Drew Schiestel had an assist in the IceDogs' 4-3 shootout loss to Guelph. Niagara couldn't hold a 3-1 lead, firing a paltry two shots on goal the entire third period while the Storm stormed back.

Saginaw's Nick Crawford (+3) notched an assist in their 7-3 win over Kingston. The Spirit out-shot the Fronts by a 41-20 margin.

J.S. Allard (-1, 4 PIM) had an assist in Quebec's 5-4 shootout win over Chicoutimi. On the losing side, the Sags' Jacob Lagacé had an assist with a less than savory -3 while committing four minor penalties on the night.

Jordon Southorn (+1, 2 PIM) went pointless in PEI's 3-1 win over Baie-Comeau. The Rocket scored three unanswered goals in the third to get the W.

In Europe, Philip Gogulla was -1 with four shots on goal in Cologne's 4-3 loss to Straubing. The DEL's worst team, the Sharks have now lost ten of their twelve games after a 2007-08 campaign that saw them reach the league championship. Gogulla, 21, has two goals and five points on the young season.

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Weekend Schedule 10/10-10/12

With the CHL needle starting to wear a groove, the NCAA will turn it up a notch this weekend with a near-full slate of action.

Justin Jokinen will team up with Adam Mueller and Joe Schiller on an all-freshman line for Minnesota State when they open with a set against Bemidji.

Freshman Brad Eidsness will get the goaltending nod for North Dakota on Saturday in their IceBreaker match-up against Massachusetts. Sioux senior Aaron Walski has been tabbed for tonight's opener versus Boston University.

Be sure to check this space often for tape-to-tape coverage of the weekend happenings.

The complete rundown:

Friday 10/10
Kolner Haie (Gogulla) at Straubing
Michigan State (Tropp) at Massachusetts
Wisconsin at Boston College (Orpik)
North Dakota (Fienhage, Eidsness) at Boston University
RIT at Bowling Green (Eno)
St. Lawrence (Generous) at Michigan
Bemidji State at Minnesota State (Jokinen)
Kelowna (Myers) at Vancouver
Kingston at Saginaw (Crawford)
Niagara (Schiestel) at Guelph
PEI (Southorn)at Baie-Comeau
Quebec (Allard) at Chicoutimi (Lagacé)

Saturday (10/11)
Farjestad at Timra (Persson)
St. Lawrence (Generous) at Michigan
Vermont (MacKenzie) vs. RPI
North Dakota (Fienhage, Eidsness) vs. Massachusetts
Niagara at Bowling Green (Eno)
Bemidji State at Minnesota State (Jokinen)
Michigan State (Tropp) at Boston University
Prince George at Kelowna (Myers)
PEI (Southorn) at Chicoutimi (Lagacé)
Quebec (Allard) at Baie-Comeau
Montreal (Adam, Brennan) at Saint John
Saginaw (Crawford) at Sarnia
Manchester at Portland (Gerbe, Enroth, Butler, Zagrapan, Gragnani, Kennedy, Schutz, Funk, Whitmore, Kostka, Card, Hunter, Mancari, Dennis)

Sunday (10/12)
Medicine Hat (Ennis) at Swift Current
Montreal (Adam, Brennan) at Moncton
Gatineau (Byron) at Rimouski
Plymouth at Saginaw (Crawford)

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10/8-9 Recap: Ennis nets first multi-point night

My apologies for lacking a timely Wednesday update. I was eagerly awaiting the riveting NHL opening night performance by Def Leppard. Come on, Gary.

In a humpday WHL contest, Tyler Ennis scored a goal and an assist as Medicine Hat defeated Edmonton, 5-4. The 5'9 forward scored his second goal of the season early on the power play, then later added an assist to fuel the Tigers third period comeback effort. Currently with five points over seven games, Ennis is going to bust out sooner or later to elevate his sub-1.00 point-per-game status.

Wednesday evening also saw three QMJHL games relative to Sabres prospects.

Defenseman Jordon Southorn (-1) had an assist as PEI was doubled-up on the road by Saint John, 6-3. The Rocket were out-shot (34-29) and out-hit (25-12) while going an abysmal 0/10 on the power play. The Rocket continues its road ways with visits to Baie-Comeau on Friday and Chicoutimi on Saturday.

Paul Byron failed to register a point in Gatineau's 2-1 win over Val d'Or. Continuing to be a controlling presence at the dot, the 5'9 Byron won 12 of his 18 faceoffs. Les Olympiques will battle Rimouski on Sunday.

Already in Rimouski, Luke Adam was -1 as Montreal got blanked by the 'Nics, 4-0. Long bus trips can often work against teams as they try to get their legs going, and such was the case with the Juniors on Wednesday. T.J. Brennan did not dress for Montreal.

Tonight was relatively quiet, with just two games on the slate before a hectic weekend kicks off.

Dennis Persson again piled up the minutes with a healthy 20:17 of time in Timra's 5-2 loss to SSK. The loss was the fourth in a row for the sliding Eagles.

In the OHL, Drew Schiestel (-3) had an assist in Niagara's 5-3 loss to Kitchener. Schiestel drew the primary assist on Andrew Agozzino's goal with 1:29 to play to cut the Rangers lead to 4-3. Moments later while still on the power play, the Dogs surrendered a short-handed goal to land themselves a fourth straight loss. It was a shaky night for the Dogs blueline, and there's no end in sight with Alex Pietrangelo sticking with St. Louis for at least the nine game limit.

Checking in with the KHL, Vjacheslav Buravchikov now has a goal, an assist, and 4 PIM in 13 games with Kazan. After jumping out to a +5, the 6'1 defenseman has gone -6 over his last four games.

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10/7 Recap: Goal goal Gogulla

Yes, that's a Blue Oyster Cult reference.

2005 second round pick Philip Gogulla scored a pair of third period goals to force overtime, but Cologne couldn't seal the comeback in their 4-3 loss to Hamburg. The goals were Gogulla's first of the season, as the Dusseldorf native now has five points through seven DEL games. Currently sitting in last place in the 16-team league, Cologne will lace them up again on Friday at Straubing.

With Mikko Lehtonen gone, Dennis Persson logged another 19:57 of ice time in Timra's 2-1 loss to his former club, Djurgardens. Robin Figren (NYI) factored into both goals for DIK en route to handing Persson's Eagles their third consecutive defeat. Timra has slipped from 5th to 8th place during the skid, but has performed admirably considering injuries to three forwards.

Wednesday will see another four games on the Sabres prospect slate. Paul Byron and Gatineau will host Val d'Or in a rescheduled make-up after fog consumed Centre Robert-Guertin back on September 14th. Also in the Q, Jordon Southorn and the PEI Rocket will travel to Saint John to battle the Sea Dogs, while Luke Adam and T.J. Brennan hit the road for a tilt with Rimouski. In the WHL, Edmonton will visit Tyler Ennis' Medicine Hat Tigers.

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10/6 Recap: Tropp tunes up

Michigan State's Corey Tropp had a goal and an assist Monday as the Spartans kicked off the 2008 exhibition season with a 4-3 win over Western Ontario. The six-footer pounced on a power play rebound just 2:29 in to get things going for MSU, then later assisted on a Daultan Leveille game winner in the third.

The Spartans will head to Boston this weekend for the IceBreaker for games against Massachusetts and Boston University. The North Dakota Fighting Sioux (Brad Eidsness, Corey Fienhage) will also participate.

Following up on the ankle injury to Nick Eno, the Sentinel-Tribune (Bowling Green, OH) reports that the sophomore is currently "day to day" and should be ready to go next weekend.

Bowling Green goalie Nick Eno didn't play in Saturday's exhibition against Wilfred Laurier University, the result of a sprained ankle suffered in practice Sept. 24.
The sophomore's status is "day to day," Falcon coach Scott Paluch said.
Eno is battling senior Jimmy Spratt, who made 11 saves in a 5-1 win over WLU, for the starting job.
The injury happened, Paluch said, when Eno was going post to post during a drill. He's practiced twice since the injury, but hasn't been back on the ice since a week ago today.
"It only effects his on-ice movements," Paluch said. "He's comfortable doing workouts as far as biking and foot movement off the ice. Getting up and down on the ice is where it's effecting him. We're hoping he responds well to the days off."
Eno and Spratt split BG's goaltending duties last season. Eno posted a 2.79 goals-against average and a .905 save percentage in 23 games to earn a spot on the All-Central Collegiate Hockey Association rookie team.
BG is hoping Eno will be able to start one of the team's season-opening games next weekend.

In the QMJHL, Montreal defenseman T.J. Brennan came up short as stud '09 goalie Olivier Roy was named Q Defensive Player of the Week.

Roy recorded two victories last week - including a shutout - while posting a 1.00 goals-against average and .961 save percentage. Drew Paris of the Acadie-Bathurst Titan, T.J. Brennan of the Montreal Junior and Charles Lavigne of the Quebec Remparts were also considered.

Brennan, 19, won the award twice last season.

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Three Stars of the Week - 9/29-10/5

Luke Adam (Montreal - QMJHL) - Adam closed the week with a three goal, two assist performance against Victoriaville. The 6'3 forward, who also blocked nine shots in the week's two games, now has 9 points in five games after scoring the first hat trick of the season for the Sabres prospects.

Dennis Persson (Timra IK - SEL) - The defenseman had a goal and an assist last week, but the story is ice time. After seeing an average of 7:22 in 21 games with Djurgardens in 2007-08, the 6'1 Swede has averaged 17:12 this season with Timra. He logged a career-high 22:21 in Tuesday's 3-1 win over Lulea.

Paul Byron (Gatineau - QMJHL) - Byron usually lands here because of his goal scoring ability, but this week we tip our cap to his faceoff dominance. In three games last week, the 5'9, 170-pounder won 40 of his 57 faceoffs (70%).

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Pirates stop Rats, 5-3

Instead of writing up a long-winded recap of my own, I thought it best to steer you to our good friends at Maine Hockey Journal for a rundown of last night's pre-season victory by the Pirates.

Pirates push past Albany in pre-season action

Fitchburg, Mass. – Marek Zagrapan scored two goals and an assist for the Portland Pirates as they battled past the Albany River Rats, 5-3, at the Wallace Civic Center on the campus of Fitchburg State College in Fitchburg Massachusetts.

Zagrapan, who arrived in Portland late Saturday, was playing in his first action since being sent to the Pirates on Friday, but despite being demoted he was still excited to get on the ice.

“I think we have a bunch of young and fun guys,” said Zagrapan. This was just our first day together as a team; hopefully we’ll have all week to practice and get together and try to have a good start (of the season).”

After a scoreless first period, the Pirates found themselves down 1-0 on a goal from Matt Murley at 8:07 of the second period, but just a little over three minutes later Zagrapan tied the game for the Pirates when he found puck at his feet for the easy tap-in at the left post, beating River Rats goaltender Justin Peters

At 14:52, the Pirates made it 2-1, as Nathan Gerbe, Buffalo’s 2005 fifth round draft pick, was in alone on a breakaway, beating Peters with a forehand-backhand deke. Tim Kennedy would receive an assist on the play.

Just 38 seconds later, the game was tied at 2-2 when Mike Angelidis found the back of the net on Adam Dennis, who replaced Jhonas Enroth after the first 30 minutes of play.

Enroth played exceptionally well in his first AHL action. In 30 minutes of play, Enroth stopped 14 of 15 shots including an amazing paddle save, while on his stomach.

Felix Schutz also scored a short-handed goal on a breakaway in the third period. There's more meat to the MHJ article, including:

Line Combinations:
Colton Fretter – Marek Zagrapan – Mathieu Darche
Derek Whitmore – Tim Kennedy – Nathan Gerbe
Jimmy Bonneau – Felix Schutz – Mark Mancari
Josh Vatri – Dylan Hunter – Colin Murphy

Chris Butler – Paul Baier
Marc-Andre Gragnani – Mike Kostka
Tyler Bouck – Mike Card

Jhonas Enroth

Scratches: Mike Funk (injury)

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10/5: Myers ornery; Sioux debut

Tyler Myers was in a foul mood this weekend, and Sabres fans shouldn't be happier. After picking up 17 PIM's from a fight in Saturday's loss to Lethbridge, the 6'8 defender racked up another ten in tonight's 6-3 win over Kootenay. The gloves didn't come off tonight, but three of his five minors were of the roughing variety, including a double-bagger after a scrum with 5'9 Andrew Bailey in the first period.

It was stressed last night, and it's worth a mention again - Myers will learn to pick his spots. An aggressive Myers in juniors will make for a more confident professoinal, and we're sure the balance will come as he adapts to this season's role.

In another WHL contest, Tyler Ennis notched a power play assist as Medicine Hat fell to Saskatoon, 5-2. The Blades jumped out to a 5-0 lead before the tired Tigers made it respectable with a pair of goals in the third.

Brad Eidsness stopped eight of 10 shots in a little over 20:00 of action in North Dakota's 6-2 win over the University of Manitoba. Both goals came with the Sioux down a man, with the first being a deflection that offered Eidsness little chance of stopping. The second came when a NoDak defenseman shoved a Bisons forward into Eidsness, preventing the freshman from keeping the puck out of the net. 2008 third round pick Corey Fienhage also made his exhibition debut, going even in the win. The Sioux will travel to Boston University on Friday.

With eight freshman in the lineup, Matt Generous was one of nine regulars who watched as St. Lawrence tied the University of Guelph, 2-2. The Saints head to Ann Arbor next weekend for a set with Michigan.

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10/5 Recap: Big night for Adam

Luke Adam (+2) scored a hat trick and added two more assists as Montreal smoked Victoriaville, 8-4. Skating down the left wing with Angelo Esposito at center, Adam scored all three of his goals at even strength and now has 9 points in five games this season. T.J. Brennan (+4) added a goal an assist for the Juniors.

Also from the Q, Paul Byron (+2) scored his first goal of the season as Gatineau defeated Val d'Or, 4-2. The Ottawa native was dominant from the dot, winning 18 of 25 draws, and now has a goal and four assists on the year.

In NCAA exhibition play, Drew MacKenzie was even for Vermont in their 3-2 win over McGill. McGill was coming in off a 2-1 win over Merrimack on Saturday.

North Dakota-Manitoba is just getting underway in Grand Forks. It appears that Brad Eidsness will play the second period, while Corey Fienhage is dressed as the #7 defenseman. We'll have an update after the game.

Along with the UND update will be results for St. Lawrence defenseman Matt Generous, as well as WHL coverage of Tyler Myers and Tyler Ennis.

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10/4 Recap: Myers steps up, drops gloves

Take a run at a Kelowna Rocket this season, and you just might have to deal with an upset 6'8 defenseman. That's what happened to Lethbridge's Craig Orfino, as the 6'2, 200-pounder was forced to take on Tyler Myers after earning a boarding penalty in the first period of tonight's game.

Myers was a unsatisfying -2 in the 7-3 loss, but his being the instigator en route to racking up 17 PIMs on the play is a key developmental nugget in this young season. Sure the Rockets can't afford to lose their best defenseman for half-period clips, but like Drew Schiestel last week in Niagara, jumping to a teammate's aid after a cheap lick does wonders for both the team and the developing prospect.

Elsewhere in "the dub", Tyler Ennis (+2) scored his first goal of the season in Medicine Hat's 5-4 OT loss to Prince Albert. The Tigers stormed back with three goals in the third before 16-year old Ryan Harrison ended it for the Raiders.

In the QMJHL, center Jean-Simon Allard (+2) had a pair of assists and a game-high five shots on goal in Quebec's 4-2 win over Chicoutimi. For his efforts, the 6'2 pivot was named the game's #2 star. Jacob Lagacé, who was averaging 1.75 points-per-game heading into tonight, had four shots on goal for the Sags in defeat.

Also in the Q, Jordon Southorn (2 PIM) cooled off with a -1 in PEI's 7-4 loss to Shawinigan. The 2008 pick was +5 with a goal and three assists in his two previous contests since returning from Buffalo.

Paul Byron (-1, 2 PIM) matched Southorn's stat line as Gatineau fell to Rouyn-Noranda, 4-1. Byron continues his goal scoring drought, failing to cash in any of his six Olympiques games this season.

In the OHL, Drew Schiestel (-2) picked up an assist as the IceDogs fell to Plymouth in a wild, back-and-forth shootout, 7-6. Tied at four heading into the third, both teams scored a pair of goals in the final twenty minutes to force the extra session. With resources already at max bandwidth on the Dogs blueline, things got a little worse when 19-year old Reggie Traccitto was lost to a leg injury.

2008 sixth-rounder Nick Crawford had 2 PIM as Saginaw also needed a shootout to defeat Sudbury, 3-2. Crawford was initially credited with an assist on the second Spirit goal, but the scoresheet was corrected between the second and third periods. It would have given the 6'1 rearguard points in three straight games.

In NCAA action this afternoon, Bowling Green's Nick Eno sat out of the Falcons 5-1 win over Wilfrid Laurier due to a sore ankle.

With college exhibition schedules underway, the Sabres will have four prospects wearing a new sweater for the first time on Sunday.

Vermont defenseman Drew MacKenzie will dress in their afternoon tilt against McGill. Matt Generous and St. Lawrence will host Guelph, while Brad Eidsness and Corey Fienhage may very well see time when North Dakota skates with Manitoba.

These collegiate tune-ups can often be one-sided, but not always. Teams like Ryerson and McGill have historically proved worthy exhibition mates for their east coast opponents. Just last season, New Brunswick defeated a talented New Hampshire club by a 4-3 score.

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Persson making most of time

Timra defenseman Dennis Persson had a short-handed assist in Timra's 5-4 loss to Rogle. The 2006 first round pick continues to make the most of Mikko Lehtonen being out of the lineup, playing even over 18:21 of time in the loss. He now has a goal and an assist through the Eagles first seven games.

Persson's game kicks off a full deck Saturday for Sabres prospects. Jacob Lagacé, Jordon Southorn, J.S. Allard, and Paul Byron will all skate in QMJHL play this evening, while the OHL's Drew Schiestel and Nick Crawford, and the WHL's Tyler Myers and Tyler Ennis are also set to strap it on.

We'll especially be looking for Ennis to start shaking double-teams and start producing points for the Tigers. The opposition has put the lockdown on the creative forward thus far, limiting him to a single assist through four games. Last season, Ennis had five goals and an assist through the Tigers first four.

With no Tyler Myers-like defenseman on the Raiders blueline to bottle him up, tonight's game with Prince Albert will be a good time for Ennis to go on the attack. He came close to getting his first goal of the year last night, but was robbed by a Kris Lazuruk glove before the puck could find the open net.

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10/3 Recap: Lagacé keeps up pace

2008 first-rounders Tyler Myers of Kelowna and Tyler Ennis of Medicine Hat faced one another Friday in a SabresProspects spotlight game, a 4-1 Tigers win. The pair did not factor into any of the scoring plays, but Myers put forth another great effort for the Rockets to earn the game's #3 star in defeat.

With Ennis struggling en route to finishing a 'minus' player for the fourth straight game, the story was Myers, who again logged big minutes, busted up plays, and handled himself physically with increased responsibilty. Both prospects will skate again Saturday, with the Rockets facing Lethbridge while the Tigers do battle with Prince Albert.

In the QMJHL, Jacob Lagacé scored an unassisted shorthanded goal in Chicoutimi's 3-2 loss to Rimouski. The top-line winger also fired a game-best seven shots while being the best player on the ice for the Sagueneens. Known to produce offense with a goal-per-game pace thus far (four in four), Lagacé's defensive game has proved to be very sound as well this season.

J.S. Allard saw his four-game point streak come to an end as Quebec defeated Baie-Comeau, 3-0. The Alma, PQ native punched three shots through while winning nine of 17 faceoffs in the win. The Remparts will remain at home on Saturday for a game against Lagacé and the Sagueneens.

Defenseman Jordon Southorn (+3) had a power play assist as PEI posted a big road win against Halifax, 7-2. Sitting in last place in the Q's Atlantic Division, the Rocket will make their way back to Charlottetown Saturday to battle one of the league's better teams, Shawinigan.

T.J. Brennan picked up an assist on the game winner as Montreal defeated Acadie-Bathurst, 4-3. Luke Adam was -2 with five shots on goal and an equal number of blocked shots as the Juniors welcomed the return of Angelo Esposito from Atlanta's camp.

In the OHL, Nick Crawford had an assist as Saginaw fell to London, 4-2. The Spirit carried play through most of the final forty minutes, but it wasn't enough to make up a 2-0 deficit after the first. Crawford and company will return to action Saturday against Sudbury.

Drew Schiestel (-3) logged major minutes as Niagara surrendered a 3-1 road loss at Mississauga. Filling the gap from two rearguards being at NHL camps, the 6'2, 193-pound defenseman failed to register a point for the first time in five games since returning from Buffalo. The Dogs will square off with the Whalers Saturday night in St. Kitts.

In Europe, Philip Gogulla was -1 with two shots on net as Cologne got pummeled by Krefeld, 6-1. The Sharks have won just two of their first ten games, and will look for win #3 on Tuesday versus Hamburg.

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