Wednesday, March 16, 2011

3/15 Recap: Pysyk scraps as Oil Kings romp

Mark Pysyk finished +2 while earning his second fighting major of the year Tuesday as Edmonton clobbered Lethbridge, 8-1. The Oil Kings captain took exception to d-partner Keegan Lowe ('11) getting dumped into the boards midway through the opening period by engaging Hurricanes forward Cam Braes for a quick tilt.



It was basically the same scenario that led to Pysyk's first major back in October - a teammate took a hit and he quickly chased down retribution. The 6'1 Pysyk isn't the most skilled pugilist, and it's not a practice his coaches want him in engaging in with the playoffs around the corner, but it's still good to see the instinct take over when necessary. It's clear that Pysyk's value is on the ice not in the box as evidenced by his 40 points and +29 rating. Michael St. Croix ('11) added a pair of helpers for the Oil Kings.

In other action, Brayden McNabb finished +1 as Kootenay downed Medicine Hat, 4-1. The 6'4 Saskatechewan native, who coming in had enjoyed his only two multi-goal games of the year against the Tigers, remains locked in 3rd place among WHL rearguards with 69 points (21+48).