Sunday, January 30, 2011

Monday Morning Rap Sheet

Some Sabremetrics to enjoy with your Monday morning coffee...



NEWS & NOTES


WINTER WARMTH

*Marcus Foligno is on a four-game point streak (2+6); has 5-12-17 in 10 games since return from WJC
*Marc-Andre Gragnani is on a four-game point streak; is 1-7-8, +9 over span
*Christian Isackson has four goals in his last five games (2 GWG)
*Brayden McNabb has 4-9-13 in his last seven games
*Riley Boychuk has 3-4-7, 2 GWG, +7 in his last six games
*Mark Pysyk has 1-6-7 in his last seven games

WINTER CHILL

*Zack Kassian (hampered by flu) has points in just one of his last five games
*Luke Adam has zero goals in seven games after being sent back to Portland
*Demoted ECHL forward Jacob Lagace has zero points in his last four games
*Steven Shipley has points in just three of his last 12 games
*Kevin Sundher -8 in his last five games

LEADERBOARDS

*Brayden McNabb ranks 3rd in WHL scoring for defensemen
*Jerome Gauthier-Leduc tied for 10th in QMJHL scoring for defensemen
*Connor Knapp currently ranked 20th in NCAA goals against average
*Zack Kassian ranks 9th in OHL assists
*Riley Boychuk ranks 21st in WHL PIM

SHORTHANDED HORSES

*Marcus Foligno is tied for 1st in the OHL with five shorthanded goals
*Steven Shipley and Brayden McNabb each have two short-handed assists

POWER-PLAYERS

*Marcus Foligno has nine power-play goals (19th in OHL)
*Paul Byron has 7 PPG (t16th in AHL)
*Kevin Sundher, Brayden McNabb, Zack Kassian each have 4 PPG
*Matt MacKenzie has 17 power-play assists (t12th in WHL)
*Zack Kassian has 17 PPA (10th in OHL)
*Kevin Sundher has 16 PPA (t17th in WHL)
*Jerome Gauthier-Leduc and Brayden McNabb have 11 PPA.

WINNERS

*Three of Christian Isackson's nine goals this season have been game winners
*Marcus Foligno, Gregg Sutch, and Riley Boychuk each have 2 GWG
*Both of Jacob Lagace's goals while with Portland were GWG

IT'S TRICKY

*Marcus Foligno has two hat tricks this season
*Justin Jokinen has the only other hat trick thus far

INJURED/RUSTY

Cedrick Henley (wrist) has missed the past 33 games

FIGHT LEADERS

*Corey Tropp (7)
*Gregg Sutch, Maxime Legault (5)
*Zack Kassian, Marcus Foligno (4)
*Brayden McNabb, Riley Boychuk, Corey Fienhage, Matt MacKenzie (3)
*T.J. Brennan (2)
*Kevin Sundher, Paul Byron, Cedrick Henley, Mark Pysyk (1)

STOPPERS

*Connor Knapp owns the only two prospect shutouts this season
*Portland's David Leggio, 26, has one shutout this year but is out of prospect scope
*Jhonas Enroth was tops in shutouts last season with five
*Nick Eno has yet to record a collegiate shutout
*Brad Eidsness has not started since November 19th, a span of 16 games
*Eidsness played in 41 games in each of his freshman and sophomore seasons

PLUS

*Four defensemen in top-5 (Pysyk +19, Biega +18, McNabb +15, Schiestel +15)
*Sutch (+16) only forward in top-5
*Nick Crawford topped the 2009-10 leaderboard with a +53
*Tyler Mylers was tops in 2008-09 with a +31

MINUS

*Corey Fienhage sits lowest on totem pole with -15 rating. Ranked 609th in WHL, only 27 players have a lower +/-
*Zack Kassian clocked in with prospect low of -17 in 2009-10
*Drew Schiestel rated lowest in 2008-09 with a -29

OLD FRIENDS

*Andrew Orpik 41GP 4-12-16 with Wheeling (ECHL)
*Jordon Southorn 21GP 0-4-4 with Trenton (ECHL)
*Matt Generous 15GP 0-0-0 25 PIM with Lake Erie (AHL). Previously had 1-4-5 with Reading (ECHL)
*Dylan Hunter 14GP 1-1-2 with Milwaukee (AHL). Previously had 21 pts in 22 games with Cincinnati (ECHL)

1/30 Recap: Kassian getting debugged; Sutch scratched

Zack Kassian continued to battle a flu bug Sunday as Windsor coughed up a late lead in a 5-4 loss to Kitchener. The 6'3 winger, who started the game at RW with Alexander Khoklachev and Tom Kuhnhackl and later saw saw time at center, made a few nice set-ups, killed penalties, and later drew one after receiving a pass in front of the Rangers net, but did not produce any points for the fourth time in his past five games. Entering the third period with a 4-2 lead, the Spitfires were 17-0 when leading after two before allowing the Rangers three unanswered goals. Windsor (27-16-2-2) returns to action on Thursday when they host Mississauga.

Elsewhere in the OHL, Gregg Sutch was listed as a healthy scratch as Mississauga defeated Sarnia, 7-1. The 6'2 grinder, who returned this weekend for a pair of games after missing the previous eight, was on the receiving end of a stick-brreaking slash from Peterborough goaltender Bryce O'Hagan in the final minute of the Majors' Saturday night win.

1/29 Recap: Foligno hits 50; Isackson pots winner

Marcus Foligno scored his 20th goal of the season Saturday and added two assists as Sudbury gutted out a thrilling 7-6 win over Guelph. The three-point night gives Foligno an even 50 points through 38 games. Trailing 6-5 with a little over three minutes to play, the Wolves attacked with two goals including the short-handed game-winner with just two ticks on the clock to secure the victory. Sudbury (18-26-2-1) will look to make it eight wins in their last ten when they travel to Soo on Tuesday.

Elsewhere in the OHL, Gregg Sutch finished -1 with a late unsportsmanlike conduct penalty as Mississauga defeated  Peterborough, 5-2. Sutch, who is gettng his legs back after an eight-game injury stint, has seven goals, 21 points, and a +16 rating this season. The CHL's #2 ranked Majors (36-8-0-2) will play host to Sarnia on Sunday.

Steven Shipley posted bagels across the board as Niagara scored a 5-4 win over Saginaw. The struggling Shipley has registered points in just three of the 12 games in 2011. Niagara (31-11-2-4, #8 in CHL rankings) are off until Thursday when they host the Greyhounds.

In the WHL, Mark Pysyk (+1) notched a pair of assists as Edmonton doubled Prince Albert, 4-2. The Oil Kings captain closes his most productive offensive month of the season with a goal and eight assists in 13 January games. To date, the smooth defender has 24 points (2+22) and a shiny +19 rating through 42 contests. Edmonton (23-24-0-3) opens the February portion of the schedule Tuesday in Seattle.

Brayden McNabb (+1) saw his five-game point streak come to an end as Kootenay won in OT against Lethbridge, 4-3. The 6'4 minute-eater is currently ranked third among WHL defensemen with 45 points (13+32). The Ice (32-16-1-2) host lowly Calgary on Tuesday.

Matt MacKenzie did not factor into the scoring as Tri-City edged Spokane, 5-4. The 6'2 defenseman was whistled for a pair of minor penalties (checking from behind and hooking), with each leading to Chiefs popwer play tallies. The surging Americans (31-13-2-1)  host Edmonton on Wednesday.

Riley Boychuk was +1 with a roughing minor as Portland defeated Seattle, 5-2. Despite being suspended for the first two games of the month, the 6'5 forward closes January with four goals, two game winners, four assists, and a +9 rating for his best ten-game stretch of the 2010-11 season. The #10 ranked Winterhawks (34-15-0-3) are off until Friday when they host the Oil Kings.

Corey Fienhage played even as Kamloops defeated Chilliwack, 5-1. Kevin Sundher, whose hooking penalty at 1:07 of the first period led to the first Blazer goal, finished -2 for the Bruins (21-24-2-2). Chilliwack will take a four-game losing streak into Wednesday's meeting at Kelowna, while the Blazers (22-28-2-1) are also off until a midweek tilt with Everett.

In USHL play, Christian Isackson potted the game-winning goal as Sioux Falls downed Waterloo, 6-4. The Minnesota commit has nine goals, 21 points, and 100 shots on goal through 32 junior "A" games this season. The Stampede (19-11-4) next play Wednesday night in Omaha.

In NCAA action, Justin Jokinen recorded five shots on goal as Minnesota State was handled by St. Cloud State, 6-2. Talk about crazy-8's, the junior forward has eight goals, eight assists, eight minor penalties, and a -8 rating in 28 games this season. The Mavericks (11-11-6) will look to get back above the .500 mark next week when they host Bemidji.

Mark Adams finished -1 as Providence was swept by #7 New Hampshire, 5-1. The freshman rearguard has an assist and a -6 rating through his first 23 NCAA contests. With the loss, the Friars (7-12-5) conclude a futile six-game run against top-15 teams (BC, Maine, UNH).

Drew MacKenzie (-2) contributed two shots on goal as Vermont got lit up by #14 Merrimack, 7-1. The floundering Catamounts (5-15-4), who have at times used the offensive-minded MacKenzie as a wing on the power play, will look to regroup next week when they host Providence.

Connor Knapp did not play as #11 Miami and #9 Notre Dame tied for the second straight night, 2-2. It will be interesting to see what RedHawks coach Enrico Blasi does with his goaltending rotation next weekend when they return home to face #6 Michigan. The junior pair are near identical with Knapp (5-5-4) having a 2.26 GAA and .901 save percentage, while the undrafted Cody Reichard (9-4-0-1) currently checks in with a 2.29 GAA and .901 save percentage. Entering the practice this week, I suspect he will go back to Reichard on Friday with Knapp penciled in for Saturday barring a stellar performance in the opener.

Nick Eno did not play as Bowling Green earned a weekend split with a 2-1 win over Lake Superior. Eno will look to improve his 4-8-1 record next Friday when the Falcons (8-18-2) travel to #16 Western Michigan.

Brad Eidsness remained parked on the bench as #4 North Dakota avenged their Friday showing with a 6-0 shutout of #20 Colorado College. The junior netminder, who hasn't made a WCHA start since November 19th, will need some action soon to improve on a the lowest save percentage (.794) this site has seen in three+ years of existence. The Sioux (19-8-2) will take a week off before hosting Alaska-Anchorage.

1/28 Recap: McNabb continues roll; Kassian ends quiet time

Brayden McNabb had a three-point night Friday, setting up a pair of power play goals and adding an empty-netter of his own  as Kootenay cruised to a 6-3 win over Lethbridge. The output gives the 6'4 defender 10 points over a five-game point streak heading into Saturday's rematch with the Broncos.

Kevin Sundher had two assists as Chilliwack lost to Spokane, 5-3. The special teams helpers, one each on the power play and on the penalty kill, give the 6'0 pivot 45 points in 46 games on the year.

Matt MacKenzie assisted on the game-winning goal as Tri-City defeated Portland, 5-2. Winterhawks forward Riley Boychuk (-2) could not follow-up on Wednesday's career-high effort in the loss.

Mark Pysyk registered a -2 as Edmonton was blanked by Red Deer, 5-0. Ryan Nugent-Hopkins ('11) had a goal and an assist for the Rebels.

Corey Fienhage was -1 with an elbowing minor as Kamloops lost to Vancouver, 3-1.

In the OHL, Zack Kassian (+3) picked up two assists as Windsor thumped Kitchener, 7-1. The apples end a season-high three-game point drought for the bullish Kassian, giving him a line of 21-38-59 through 35 games. His career highs were set in 2008-09 when he posted 24-39-63 in 61 games.

Steven Shipley dished two assists as Niagara earned a 6-5 shootout victory over Plymouth. The multi-point effort was Shipley's first since December 3rd.

Marcus Foligno (+1) earned an assist as Sudbury lost to Belleville, 5-3. The grinding forward has points in three straight games heading into Saturday's match-up with Guelph.

Gregg Sutch was kept off the sheet in his first game since January 2nd as Mississauga defeated Brampton, 4-1. The 6'2 checking forward missed the previous eight games due to injury.

In the QMJHL, Jerome Gauthier-Leduc rang up six shots on goal and blocked another four as Rimouski lost to Lewiston, 5-4. The Nics gave up four unanswered goals after leading with five minutes to play in the middle frame.

Connor Knapp got the rare Friday start, making 27 saves as Miami played to a 5-5 tie with Notre Dame. With the junior coming off his seventh career shutout, RedHawks coach Enrich Blasi switched up his goaltending rotation to stay with the hot hand. Despite the five goals, Knapp's movement and overall play the past two weeks has been sharper.

Justin Jokinen posted an assist and four shots on goal as Minnesota State tied St. Cloud State, 3-3.

Nick Eno surrendered three goals on 11 shots before getting relieved as Bowling Green lost to Lake Superior, 4-2. The senior netminder allowed two goals on the PK including a 5-3 and a third via a defensive breakdown, prompting Falcons coach Chris Bergeron to make a goalie change early in the second period.


Mark Adams (-1) punched a shot on goal as Providence lost to New Hampshire,

Drew MacKenzie registered a shot on goal as Vermont lost to Merrimack, 2-1.

Brad Eidsness did not play as North  Dakota lost to Colorado College, 4-2.

###

On Thursday, Kassian finished -1 as Windsor lost in a shootout to Plymouth, 5-4.

Shipley did not factor as Niagara lost a thriller to London, 7-6.

Saturday, January 29, 2011

1/26 Recap: Boychuk pours career high as 'Hawks dominate

Riley Boychuk (+4) contributed a goal and three assists Wednesday as Portland smoked Chilliwack, 9-2. With a career-high four points, the 6'5 power forward elevates his season line to 13-12-25 through 45 games. Last season, Boychuk went 14-16-30 in 66 games.

Brayden McNabb scored a goal and an assist in Kootenay's 5-4 loss to Brandon. The Kootenay captain's second straight two-point outing lifts his season point total to 42 (12+30).

Mark Pysyk scored his second goal of the year as Edmonton lost to Saskatoon, 4-3. The even-strength marker was Pysyk's first since December 3rd.

Corey Fienhage earned an assist and his third fighting major of the season as Kamloops was dominated by Prince George, 9-5. The 6'4 defenseman stepped in to take on Jesse Forsberg after the Cougars forward put a big hit oin the WHL's third leading scorer, Brendan Ranford,






In the QMJHL, Jerome Gauthier-Leduc notched an assist as Rimouski lost to Quebec, 5-4.The assist keeps Gauthier-Leduc tied for seventh in scoring among QMJHL defenders with 33 points.

1/23 Recap: McNabb points, Boychuk stays hot on fight-filled Sunday

In Sunday WHL play, Brayden McNabb scored 30-seconds into play and added an assist but Kootenay would eventually be overcome by Red Deer, 6-4. The two-point night raises McNabb's point total to an even 40 on the year. Ryan Nugent-Hopkins posted four assists to lead the Rebels charge.

Riley Boychuk scored his 12th goal of the season as Portland edged Spokane, 6-5 in overtime. The 6'5 banger earned an instigator and fighting major when he dropped the gloves with 6'5 Corbin Baldwin late in the second period. Boychuk stepped in after teammate Bredan Leipisic ('12) was flattened, throwing a big one and getting the sweater up on Baldwin before the refs jumped in.



Kevin Sundher (-2) did not factor into the scoring as Chilliwack got throttled by Vancouver, 7-3. The 6'0 center showed some fire in the loss though, earning his first fighting major of the year when he one-punch KO'd Greg Lamoureux as time expired in the first period. Lamoureux did not return after taking the hard right  hand.







 Matt MacKenzie finished -1 as Tri-City lost to Kelowna, 4-3.

In the OHL, Marcus Foligno finished +1 with an assist as Sudbury defeated Brampton, 3-1. The Wolves captain dropped the gloves for the fourth time this season when he wrestled with the Troops' Scott Tanski.






Steven Shipley finished -1 with a roughing minor as Niagara was doubled by Mississauga, 6-3. Majors forward Gregg Sutch remained out of action with an upper body injury.

In the QMJHL, Jerome Gauthier-Leduc registered a -1 as Rimouski lost to Lewiston, 3-1.

In exhibition play, Mark Adams finished +1 as Providence defeated Team USA U18, 5-4.

1/22 Recap: Foligno ramping up; Knapp gets shutout

Marcus Foligno (+1) scored a power play and added two assists Saturday as Sudbury lost in a shootout at Niagara, 5-4. The hard-checking Foligno has 45 points n 35 games this season, including 17 in his last 10 for the most productive ten-game block of his junior career. Steven Shipley was a -1 for the victorious IceDogs.

Zack Kassian saw his 11-game point streak come to an end as Windsor skated past Barrie, 5-2.

In the WHL, Matt MacKenzie finished +2 with a fighting major as Tri-City  defeated Everett, 7-4. Midway through the first period, the 6'2 rearguard engaged Ryan Harrison for his third fight of the year and first as an Am:





Elsewhere in the Dub, Mark Pysyk earned an assist as Edmonton lost in a shootout to Medicine Hat, 6-5.

Kevin Sundher (-3) contributed an assist as Chilliwack was downed by Prince George, 4-3 in a shootout.

Corey Fienhage finished -3 as Kelowna lost to Vancouver, 6-1.

In the NCAA, Connor Knapp made 26 saves to earn his second shutout of the season as Miami downed Michigan State, 4-0. The shutout, the seventh of Knapp's three-year collegiate career, helped the RedHawks earn the split after getting dominated by the Spartans on Friday.

Justin Jokinen (+1) registered an assist and three shots on goal as Minnesota State lost to Wisconsin, 2-1.

Brad Eidsness served as backup as North Dakota defeated Nebraska-Omaha, 4-2.

Drew MacKenzie finished -1 as Vermont was shut down by Massachusetts, 6-0.

In the USHL, Christian Isackson posted two shots on goal as Sioux Falls fell to Team USA, 3-2.

Saturday, January 22, 2011

1/21 Recap: Boychuk plays hero

Riley Boychuk scored the overtime winner Friday and added an assist as Portland defeated Everett, 3-2. Boychuk, who netted his 11th of the season in the #1 star effort, has 2+1 and a +5 rating in six games of the 2011 calendar. Perhaps more important, the 6'5 power forward skated his second straight game without a penalty after getting whistled for a minor in seven straight contests.

Mark Pysyk (+1) notched an assist as Edmonton got doubled by Moose Jaw, 6-3. Pysyk is currently a +19 through 37 games. Last season he finished -19 in 48 games.

Brayden McNabb picked up a power play assist as Kootenay lost at Spokane, 5-2. The 6'4 anchor remains 6th in scoring for WHL defensemen with 37 points (10+27).

Kevin Sundher failed to record a point for the third straight game as Chilliwack needed overtime to earn a 3-2 win over Kamloops. Sundher quiet patch is his longest since he opened the season with a four-game drought. Corey Fienhage finished +1 for the Blazers.

In the QMJHL, Jerome Gauthier-Leduc earned a pair of assists as Rimouski defeated Quebec, 4-3. The 18-year old is currently ranked 6th among QMJHL defensemen with 32 points (8+24).

In the OHL, Steven Shipley scored his 13th goal of the year as Niagara defeated Mississauga, 5-3. Shipley's tip of a Luke Mercer point-shot ended a four-game point drought - his longest in the past two seasons. Gregg Sutch remained out of the lineup with a UBI.

Marcus Foligno did not factor into the scoresheet as Sudbury edged Barrie, 3-2. The quiet night ends his streak of five straight games with a point since returning from the World Juniors.

In the NCAA, Connor Knapp came on in relief to allow two goals on nine shots as Miami lost to Michigan State, 7-4. The RedHawks lose despite outshooting the Spartans by a 46-22 margin.

Brad Eidsness also was given some relief work as North Dakota was doubled by Nebraska-Omaha, 8-4. Eidsness entered play at the midpoint of the game, allowing four goals on 15 shots in his first league action since November 19th (when he was yanked against the same UNO club).

Drew MacKenzie (-1) punched two shots on goal as Vermont skated to a 2-1 win over Massachusetts.

Mark Adams finished -1 as Providence fell in overtime to New Hampshire, 4-3.

Justin Jokinen logged a -2 as Minnesota State fell short against Wisconsin, 3-2.

In the USHL, Christian Isackson contributed three shots on goal as Sioux Falls won a 3-2 OT decision over Youngstown. Earlier in a mid-week tilt, Christian Isackson scored an empty-net goal as Sioux Falls defeated Tri-City, 3-1.

In Thursday play, Zack Kassian extended his point streak to 11 games with a pair of goals as Windsor took a shootout over Brampton, 6-5. Kassian, who potted his 20th and 21st goals of the season, missed the chance at the hat trick in overtime when he missed on a penalty shot after being hauled down just :16 in.

On Wednesday, Matt MacKenzie scored a power play goal as Tri-City shutout Kamloops, 5-0. MacKenzie has two goals in five games since being traded to the Americans after having just two in 40 starts with Calgary. Kamloops' Fienhage picked up 12 PIM on the evening, including a misconduct from a scrum after some Blazers stickwork.

Wednesday, January 19, 2011

1/18 Recap: McNabb nabs 10th; Pysyk logs a "minus"

Brayden McNabb (+1) scored his 10th goal of the season Tuesday as Kootenay held off Edmonton, 4-3. McNabb made a game-saving play at the goalmouth in the final minute as the surging Oil Kings looked to complete the four-goal comeback. Edmonton captain Mark Pysyk finished -2, ending his 23-game streak of games rated even or better, while adding four penalty minutes (boarding, interference) to his season line.

Matt MacKenzie (-3) saw his two-game point streak come to an end as Tri-City lost to Portland, 5-4. Riley Boychuk missed the game with an unspecified injury for the Winterhawks.

Kevin Sundher (-1) did not factor as Chilliwack was easily handled by Spokane, 6-1. The 6'0 pivot has now gone two games without a point for the just the third time this season after beginning the year with a four-game rut.

Corey Fienhage recorded six penalty minutes as Kamloops used a shootout to edge Seattle, 4-3. The Blazers (21-24-1-1) will square off with MacKenzie and the Ams on Wednesday.

Tuesday, January 18, 2011

1/17 recap: Isackson clicking in new year

Christian Isackson scored a pair of goals Monday to lead Sioux Falls past Fargo, 3-1. The even-strength tallies, Isackson's sixth and seventh of his USHL career, were enough to spark the Herd to their fifth straight win as future coach Don Luicia looked on. The two-goal output gives the Minnesota commit six points in his last five games after enduring an eight-game point drought that lasted from Black Friday to New Year's Day.

The Stampede (16-10-4) will host Tri-City on Wednesday.

Sunday, January 16, 2011

Monday Morning Stat Sheet

 Thought I'd save you a click...

1/16 Recap: Kassian's streak hits ten; Pysyk cruising

Zack Kassian extended his point streak to 10 games Sunday, scoring his 19th goal of the season on the power play as Windsor defeated Kingston, 3-1. Kassian has gone 8+11 over his current streak, including four goals and two assists in five games since returning from his stint with Team Canada. With 54 points, the 6'3 power forward is currently tied for 15th on the OHL's leaderboard.

Marcus Foligno posted an assist and two minor penalties as Sudbury upended Oshawa, 5-3. The 6'3 captain is currently second on the Wolves with 42 points, while leading the special teams charge with eight power play goals and five shorties. Nicklas Jensen ('11) scored a pair of goal for the losing Generals.

In the WHL, Mark Pysyk earned an assist as Edmonton lost a hard-fought road game at Moose Jaw, 3-2. The steady defender now has a goal and 18 assists in 36 games this season, while being a "minus" player just five times. The Sunday +1 continues his 23-game streak of being rated even or better, thrusting him into the Sabres prospects season lead with a +20 mark.

Also of note, Mississauga grinder Gregg Sutch missed his fifth straight game due to an apparent head injury as the Majors downed Ottawa, 6-1.

1/15 Recap: Foligno hits career mark; Kassian continues streak

Marcus Foligno (+2) scored his 18th goal of the season Saturday and added two assists as Sudbury smoked Peterborough, 9-4. Foligno, who has eight points in four games since returning from the World Junior Championship, now has a career-high 41 points in 32 games. Last season, he posted 39 in 67 games.

Also from the OHL, Zack Kassian (+1) earned an assist as Windsor cruised to a 10-2 drubbing of Belleville. The helper ups the forward's season point total to 53 (18+35) while continuing a nine-game point streak that began before the World Juniors.

Steven Shipley was -1 as Niagara defeated Barrie, 7-3. The 6'3 center/wing has now gone four games without a point for the fifth time this season. Shipley's longest stretch without a point last season was three games, and that happened just once.

Elsewhere, Matt MacKenzie contributed a pair of assists as Tri-City handled Vancouver, 5-2. The 6-2 defenseman has a goal and two assists in three games for the Ams since arriving in a deadline trade with Calgary.

Mark Pysyk (+3) had an assist as Edmonton dominated Brandon en route to a 9-0 shutout win. The smooth defenseman has now rated "even" or better in 22 straight games.

Brayden McNabb was -4 as Kootenay got blown out by Spokane, 11-2. The outdoor game hosted by Spokane was the first of its kind in the WHL. Despite the quiet statistical night, the 6'4 defenseman remains 5th in WHL scoring for defensemen with 35 points (9+26) in 33 games played.

Kevin Sundher (-1) did not point as Chilliwack defeated Prince George, 3-1. The Bruins stay above .500 with the win, while Sundher sees his six-game point streak come to an end.

Riley Boychuk skated +2 as Portland downed Kamloops, 5-2. Corey Fienhage finished -2 with a late kneeing minor for the Blazers.

In the QMJHL, Jerome Gauthier-Leduc was even as Rimouski lost to Baie-Comeau, 5-2. Gauthier-Leduc remains 9th in QMJHL scoring for defensemen with 30 points (8+22) in 40 games played.

In the NCAA, Justin Jokinen finished a team-low -3 as Minnesota State lost in OT to Denver, 4-3. The Mavs hit the road next weekend for a WCHA set with Wisconsin.

Drew MacKenzie was -1 with a shot on goal as Vermont was shut down by Northeastern, 2-0. After the split with the Huskies, the Catamounts move on to face Massachusetts next weekend.

Connor Knapp served as backup as Miami broke away from their goaltending rotation in a 3-1 win over Bowling Green. The 6'5 junior has been shaky of late, and RedHawks coach was in no mood to take a chance with his club needing to keep pace in the CCHA. Nick Eno took his usual spot on the bench for the Falcons in defeat.

Brad Eidsness again served as backup as North Dakota even the weekend with a 4-1 win over Minnesota. For those scoring at home, that's one start for Eidsness in the last 17 games.

1/14 Recap: McNabb makes noise; Sundher streaks to six

Brayden McNabb (+3) posted three assists Friday as Kootenay handled Spokane, 6-2. McNabb, whose output thrust him into the top-five in scoring among WHL defensemen with 35 points, also dropped the gloves for the third time this season when he took on Chiefs LW Collin Valcourt ('11) in the third period.





Also from the WHL, Kevin Sundher extended his point streak to six games with an assist as Chilliwack lost to Prince George, 7-3. The even-strength apple gives Sundher 41 points through the first 39 games of the season. He had goals in four straight games coming into the Friday night contest.

Matt MacKenzie scored his third goal of the year and first in a Tri-City uniform as the Americans dominated Kamloops, 7-3. Corey Fienhage was -2 for the Blazers.

Riley Boychuk finished -1 with an unsportsmanlike conduct minor as Portland was defeated by Kelowna, 5-3.

In the OHL, Zack Kassian scored his 18th goal of the year and registered his fourth fight of the season as Windsor doubled Ottawa, 6-3. The 6'3 bruiser engaged rugged 67's forward Dalton Smith to get an early start on the second intermission.



Marcus Foligno had a power play assist as Sudbury lost to Brampton, 3-2. The Wolves outshot the Troops by a 34-25 margin, including a 16-3 advantage in the final twenty minutes.

Steven Shipley did not factor as Niagara lost in a shootout to London, 2-1.

Gregg Sutch missed his fourth straight game with what we're hearing is a head injury as Mississauga edged Belleville, 3-2. I'm still looking to confirm details on the injury kincluding a timetable for return, so stay tuned.

In the QMJHL, Jerome Gauthier-Leduc had an assist and five shots on goal as Rimouski defeated Shawinigan, 4-1.

In the NCAA, Justin Jokinen scored his eighth goal of the year by taking the puck to the net as Minnesota State battled to a 4-4 overtime tie with Denver. The junior's goal with 1:47 left in regulation appeared to be the game winner before the Pioneers struck right back 33-seconds later to force the OT.

Mark Adams skated +2 as Providence lost in overtime to #14 Maine, 4-3. Midway through the opening period, the freshman defender took the brunt of boarding major that created a seven-minute man advantage for the Friars.

Drew MacKenzie posted an assist as Vermont toppled Northeastern, 3-1. The helper was MacKenzie's seventh point of the season and second in as many games to go along with a -6 rating through 18 season starts.

Nick Eno made 23 saves as Bowling green stumbled against # Miami, 5-1. The loss moves the junior's season mark to 4-7-1, with his last win coming on November 26th over Hunstville. Connor Knapp served in his usual Friday backup role for the RedHawks.

Brad Eidsness again watched from the bench as # North Dakota lost to Minnesota, 3-2.

In the USHL, Christian Isackson poured four shots on goal as Sioux Falls defeated Dubuque, 4-1.

1/9-13 Recap: Sutch injured; Sundher keeps lamp lit

Gregg Sutch missed his third consecutive game due to a head injury Thursday as Mississauga blanked Brampton, 4-0. It is unclear when the injury occurred, but it's possible it was the result of his scrap with Anthony Camara in the waning minutes of the Majors/Spirit tilt on January 2nd.

Also from Thursday OHL play, Steven Shipley did not get on the scorssheet as Niagara shutout Erie, 3-0.

On Wednesday, Kevin Sundher scored a goal for the fourth straight game as Chilliwack took care of Prince George, 5-2. The 6'0 center opened scoring with his 15th of the season at 11:09 of the first period.

Riley Boychuk (+1) scored his 10th goal of the season as Portland came up short against Spokane, 4-3.

Brayden McNabb finished +3 as Kootenay defeated Edmonton, 5-2. Mark Pysyk skated even for the Oil Kings.

Corey Fienhage finished -3 as Kamloops lost to Medicine Hat, 4-1.

On Tuesday, Matt MacKenzie finished +2 in his Tri-City debut as the Americans trounced Seattle, 7-1. MacKeznie was traded on Monday from league-worst Calgary to the legit Western Conference contender.

In Sunday play, Sundher scored a first period goal as Chilliwack took down Seattle, 5-4 in overtime.

Riley Boychuk returned from his two-game suspension without a point as Portland needed a shootout to defeat Everett, 5-4.

Jerome Gauthier-Leduc did not score but was named the game's #3 star as Rimouski edged Moncton, 2-1 in a shootout.

Shipley (+1) failed to hit the scoresheet as Niagara downed Kingston, 6-2.

Drew MacKenzie recorded an assist as Vermont lost to Boston University, 4-2.

Sunday, January 9, 2011

1/8 Recap: Gauthier-Leduc rolling; Pysyk stays steady

Jerome Gauthier-Leduc scored his eighth goal of the year Saturday as Rimouski lost to PEI for the second straight night, 6-2. The power play marker ties him for 8th in scoring among QMJHL defensemen with 29 points while giving the puckmover 4+5 over his current five-game point streak. Losers of three straight, the Oceanic will play their third game in three days Sunday versus Moncton.

In OHL action, Marcus Foligno scored his 17th goal of the year as Sudbury held on to upset #2 ranked Mississauga, 6-5. The power play was the key to victory for the Wolves (13-24-2), with Foligno's strike contributing to their 4/6 efficiency in the win. Majors forward Gregg Sutch was held out of the lineup for the second straight game, and remains the subject of trade rumors leading up to Monday's trade deadline.

In the WHL, Mark Pysyk had an assist as Edmonton trounced Regina, 7-1. The Edmonton native now has 17 points in 32 games this season, including a goal and 12 assists in his last 11 games. With a +2 rating, the smooth-skating defender extends his streak to 19 consecutive games rated even or better. Pysyk was last a "minus" player on November 9th, when Kevin Sundher set up a Chillwack goal in an Oil Kings OT win.

Brayden McNabb posted a career-low -5 as Kootenay was dropped by Red Deer, 6-1. McNabb's feat comes just one night removed from a tired Zack Kassian finishing with the same career-low number. These things can happen when you log 26-30 minutes a night. Highly touted '11 eligible Ryan Nugent-Hopkins notched an assist for the Rebels.

Corey Fienhage scored the lone Blazers goal as Kamloops got whacked by Kelowna, 8-1. Six of Fienhage's 11 points this season have come in his past ten games.

Riley Boychuk served game #2 of his two-game suspension as Portland Seattle. He is slated to return for Sunday's match-up with Everett.

In NCAA play, Justin Jokinen snapped an eight-game goal drought with an even-strength marker and two assists as Minnesota State defeated American International, 5-2. Jokinen, who scored from in close as he received a pass from behind the net, had a few strong shifts where his jump created good opportunities for the Mavs. Minnesota State will resume their WCHA schedule next weekend against Denver.

Connor Knapp made 29 saves as Miami was swept by Ohio State, 5-2. Knapp surrendered three goals, one five-hole off a power play pass in front and two others when he was beaten cleanly, before the Buckeyes would get a pair of empty netters to seal their first sweep of the RedHawks since 2004-05. The 6'5 junior will tote a 4-4-3 record into next week's set with Bowling Green.

Brad Eidsness again worked the door as North Dakota edged Robert Morris, 2-1. Eidsness has now sat for nine straight games, and has played in just one of the last 14 for the Sioux. In his place, sophomore Aaron Dell has gone 15-4-1 with a 1.92 goals against average and .922 save percentage, including a recent shutout streak of 224:31 that was snapped with :20 to play in the third period.

Mark Adams finished -1 as Providence lost to Boston College, 3-1. The 6'3 freshman will look for his second career point when the Friars travel to Maine next weekend.

Nick Eno served as backup in Bowling Green's 3-1 loss to Ferris State.

In the USHL, Christian Isackson scored his fifth goal of the year as Sioux Falls defeated Waterloo, 5-2. The 6'0 Gopher commit had gone 15 games without a goal before stealing a pass and burying a shot into an open net to open the game's scoring. The Herd return to action Wednesday against Tri-City.

Saturday, January 8, 2011

1/7 Recap: Foligno pots shortie; Sutch on the move?

Marcus Foligno scored this league-leading fifth shorthanded goal and added two assists Friday as Sudbury throttled Barrie, 8-3. The 6'3 forward now has 16 goals and 36 points through his first 29 games for the Wolves. With 30 games remaining on his OHL slate, the Sudbury captain is trending to finish the season with a line of 59 GP 32-41-73. Last season, he posted 14-25-39 in 67 games.

Gregg Sutch did not play as Mississauga downed Sault Ste. Marie, 5-1. The healthy scratch is fueling speculation that the grinding forward may be traded before the January 10th trade deadline, possibly in exchange for a goaltender. We'll let you know if anything shakes out.

Zack Kassian posted an assist and a career-low -5 rating as Windsor was stung by Sarnia, 9-4. The Sting's highly regarded pair of 2012 eligibles had solid outings, with Alex Galchenyuk scoring a goal and an assist and Nail Yakubov going 1+2. These kids are for real.

Jerome Gauthier-Leduc notched an assist as Rimouski fell to PEI, 4-3. The 6'2 blueliner now has seven goals and 21 assists in 36 games this season. JGL's recent spike after returning from injury has seen him up his production to .78 ppg.

In the WHL, Kevin Sundher scored his 13th goal of the season on the power play as Chilliwack Kamloops. Corey Fienhage skated even for the Blazers, while Colin Smith ('11) paced the winning side with a hat trick.

Matt MacKenzie finished -3 as Calgary got clobbered by Brandon, 9-2. The lowly Hitmen have lost four straight contests.

Brayden McNabb (+1) saw his 11-game point streak come to an end as Kootenay bested Moose Jaw, 3-1. The burgeoning stay-at-homer is currently 6th in WHL scoring for defensemen with 32 points (9+23).

In USHL play, Christian Isackson (+1) chipped two shots on goal as Sioux Falls upended Dubuque, 2-1 in overtime. After netting 13 points in his first 15 games, the crafty forward has just two points in his last ten.

In NCAA play, Nick Eno stopped 13 of 17 shots as Bowling Green lost to Ferris State, 4-1. The Falcons netminder stopped all nine shots he faced through two periods before allowing four goals in the final frame to drop his season mark to 4-6-1.

Mark Adams as Providence lost at #3 Boston College, 4-1. The two clubs will play it back Saturday evening in Providence.

Justin Jokinen contributed three shots on goal as Minnesota State crept past American International, 1-0.

Connor Knapp took his usual Friday night post at the bench door as Miami lost a tight 1-0 affair to Ohio State. Knapp will look to rebound from last week's poor start when the two team's rematch on Saturday.

Brad Eidsness did not play as North Dakota earned their second consecutive shutout via a 8-0 pasting of Robert Morris.

Friday, January 7, 2011

1/6 Recap: Kassian's cruise continues in Windsor return

Zack Kassian made a quick return to the Windsor lineup Thursday, scoring a pair of even-strength goals as the Spits fell in overtime to Plymouth, 5-4. Kassian, who now has 17 goals and an even 50 points through his first 26 games, made marks with a wrister through a screen and clean shot on an odd-man rush. With 30 games remaining in the OHL schedule, the 19-year old is trending to finish his final junior season with a line of 56 GP 36-71-107 +30. The bullish forward will continue his quest Friday at Sarnia before getting a week of rest.

Steven Shipley scored his 12th goal of the season as Niagara shutout Belleville, 3-0. Shipley, who sat out the Dogs' Wednesday's loss to Erie, now has three goals in his last five games after potting just two in his previous twelve. Undrafted IceDog netminder Dalton McGrath, a SabresProspects preferred player from the 2010 draft preview, continued his solid play in place of Team Canada's Mark Visentin with his first OHL shutout. The 6'1 McGrath moves to 6-2 on the year and 14-3 in his two-year OHL career.

In the WHL, Matt MacKenzie (-2) recorded four penalty minutes as Calgary was nipped by Swift Current, 3-2. Adam Lowry ('11) scored a hat trick to provide the Broncos entire highlight reel. On Tuesday, MacKenzie finished -2 in a 5-0 loss to Saskatoon.

Also from Tuesday, Jerome Gauthier-Leduc potted his seventh goal of the year on an end-to-end rush as Rimouski lost to Quebec, 4-2.

Christian Isackson ended an eight-game rut with a pair of assists as Sioux Falls lost in a shootout to Sioux City, 5-4.

Corey Fienhage finished +1 as Kamloops lost to Moose Jaw, 4-2.

Mark Pysyk did not point as Edmonton lost at Medicine Hat, 5-2.

Sunday, January 2, 2011

1/2 Recap: McNabb hits mark; Sutch scratches itch

Brayden McNabb scored his 9th goal of the year Sunday to extend his point streak to 11 games as Kootenay downed Edmonton, 2-1. The point-shot through traffic was McNabb's 136th career point in an Ice uniform, allowing him to become the franchise's all-time leader in points for a defenseman. Mark Pysyk (+1) assisted on the lone Oil Kings goal, and has now gone 17 straight games rated "even" or better. Edmonton (19-17-0-2) will visit Medicine Hat on Tuesday while McNabb and Kootenay (26-11-1-2) are off until Friday when they host Moose Jaw.

Elsewhere in the WHL, Kevin Sundher scored his 12th goal of the year as Chilliwack lost to Vancouver, 6-2. Sundher now has 36 points on the season including a team-best 24 assists. After playing Sunday's contest with just nine forwards and 15 total skaters, the last-place Bruins (17-17-2-1) will regroup for Friday's meeting with the team three points ahead of them, Kamloops.

Corey Fienhage (+1) earned an assist as Kamloops defeated Kelowna, 5-1. Five of Fienhage's 10 season points have come in his last seven games. The perfectly .500 Blazers (19-19-1-1 and 5-5 in their last ten) will play Medicine Hat on Tuesday before battling Sundher's Bruins.

Matt MacKenzie (-1) picked up his team-leading 19th assist as Calgary lost in a shootout to Regina, 4-3. The 6'2 defender will carry a three-game point streak into Tuesday when the Hitmen (12-24-2-1) travel to Saskatoon.

In the OHL, Gregg Sutch and his mates were shut down as Mississauga was blanked by Saginaw, 4-0. The checking forward did log his fifth fighting major of the season, taking out some frustration on rugged Anthony Camara ('11) with two minutes to play in the game.

Just 3:53 into the first period with Saginaw already holding a 1-0 lead, Sutch earned a double-minor when he and Ben Chiarot tackled each other.




With the game out of hand in the waning minutes, Sutch looked to send a message by engaging Camara, who has now dropped the gloves with two Sabres prospects this season after grappling with Zack Kassian back in November.





The Majors (29-6-0-1) are off until Friday when they battle the Soo Greyhounds.

In NCAA action, Justin Jokinen (+2) earned an assist as Minnesota State earned the Shillelagh Tournament Championship by trouncing Brown, 7-3. The junior, who now has 10 points this season after entering the year with nine in 48 career games, hasn't scored since netting a hat trick back on November 26th (seven games). The Mavericks (8-8-4) will next play a weekend set with American International College of the Atlantic Hockey Conference.

Drew MacKenzie played even as Vermont defeated Harvard, 3-1. Vermont (3-10-4) will play Boston University on Sunday.

Kassian, Foligno provide pressure as Canada advances

Zack Kassian scored into an empty net on one of seven shots on goal Sunday as Canada moved ahead to the World Junior Championship semifinal with a 4-1 win over Switzerland. Marcus Foligno added two shots on goal for the winners, who will now face the rival United States on Monday as HSBC Arena.

The Sabres prospects skated together throughout the contest, providing a strong forecheck and many offensive plays around the Swiss net. The pair began with Louis Leblanc but later played the bulk of their time with Columbus prospect Ryan Johansen of the Portland Winterhawks.

After Switzerland quickly jumped out to a 1-0 lead, Kassian missed a great opportunity to tie the game on the power play. Kassian would spend the entire powerplay within a ten-foot radius of the Swiss net once the play was established.





Here is a full shift for Kassian, Foligno, and Leblanc midway through the first period with the game tied at a goal apiece. After the teams exchange opportunities, Kassian shows off his crisp wrister as the task winds down.





In the second period with the score still tied, Foligno missed a point blank opportunity when the acrobatic Conz got his body in front of the Foligno shot.





Here is another glimpse of Kassian and Foligno skating together, this time on a second period shift with Johansen. After Foligno helps get the puck deep, Kassian seems to have a hit lined up but instead pulls up safely to avoid any possibility of a penalty.





Early in the third period, Kassian and Foligno again came out with Johansen to keep the pressure on the Swiss. Kassian, maintaining his post in the 10-foot radius, just misses on a wraparound attempt after the puck comes in deep from the blueline.





Later in third period, Kassian misses a couple nice power play opportunities before tossing his busted stick in disgust.





Shortly after, Kassian put the cherry on top with an empty-net goal to give Canada the 4-1 win.


Kassian ready for redemption

We're nearing the start of Canada's World Junior quarterfinal match-up with Switzerland. With a Monday date with Team USA on the line, Canada will be getting a much-needed spark this afternoon in the form of Sabres prospect Zack Kassian, who will be returning from his much publicized two-game suspension after a questionable hit against the Czechs.

Switzerland can move the puck well, so Canada is expected to stick to their plan of engaging the opposition physically and pinning their defenseman deep. In a 60-minute contest, I can't think of a better play than a rested Kassian looking to redeem himself to his teammates.

As reported by TSN's Bob McKenzie, Kassian will line up at center between fellow Sabres hopeful Marcus Foligno and Habs prospect Louis Leblanc. Foligno has been a wrecking ball all tournament on the forecheck, while the speedy Leblanc has slashed his way to five points in four games. The even strength move to center implies that coach Dave Cameron clearly wants Kassian near the paint, especially on the power play where he and Brayden Schenn can create all sorts of down-low pressure on Swiss goaltender, Benjamin Conz.

Conz was excellent for Switzerland in the preliminary round, earning a .912 save percentage including a 40-save performance on New Year's Eve against the USA. The 5'10 netminder works well to see the puck, and will likely have to repeat his 50-save performance of a year ago when the Swiss knocked out Russia to advance to the semis.

At the other end, Canada will be starting Niagara IceDogs ace Mark Visentin in place of shaky Olivier Roy. I joked earlier today that another Roy start this afternoon may force Canadian fans to throw waffles at their televisions, but I'm almost wondering if Conz has enough club in the bag to keep that idea fresh.

Enjoy the games.

1/1 Recap: Much improved Sutch steps up

Gregg Sutch scored a pair of goals Saturday as Mississauga avoided their first losing streak of the year with a 2-1 come-from-behind win over Kingston. The two-goal game, the third of Sutch's junior career, gives the checking wing a season line of 7-14-21 +18 through 34 games. Heading into 2010-11, the fifth-rounder had career totals of 10-13-23 -12 in 103 OHL games.

The CHL's #2 ranked Majors, who suffered just their fifth regulation loss on Thursday before Saturday's winning effort, return home Sunday to play their third game in four days against skilled Saginaw. Meanwhile Mississauga coach Dave Cameron and leading scorer Casey Czikas will be in Buffalo with Sabres prospects Zack Kassian and Marcus Foligno as Team Canada battles Switzerland in a World Junior Championship elimination game.

For more on the likable Sutch, check out his blog at The Hockey News here.

Elsewhere, Steven Shipley did not point as Niagara won in overtime over Peterborough, 4-3. Shipley got on the game sheet when he was whistled for a boarding minor early in the second period. Matt Puempel ('11) had a goal and an assist for the Petes.

In the WHL, Matt MacKenzie picked up an assist in Calgary's 3-2 win over Medicine Hat. The Hitmen (12-24-2) will next take on Regina (12-20-5) in a Sunday match-up of league cellar dwellers.

Corey Fienhage skated even as Kamloops edged Seattle, 3-2. The 6'4 blueliner continues to log big minutes for the Blazers (18-19-1-1) despite the entire leadership core being stripped of their letters earlier in the season.

At the Shillelagh Tournament in Chicago, Justin Jokinen (-1) registered a shot on goal as Minnesota State upset #12 Notre Dame, 4-3. The 6'3 junior, who currently leads the Mavs with six goals, hasn't scored in his last six games after earlier enduring an eight-game drought in October-November. The Mavericks (7-8-4) move on to the face Brown in Sunday's championship.

At the Catamount Cup, Drew MacKenzie finished -1 as Vermont dropped a 3-1 decision to Ohio State. Amherst, NY native Shane Sims (NYI) had a pair of assists for the Buckeyes. The host Catamounts (2-10-4) will close the weekend with a game against Harvard on Sunday.

Mark Adams did not factor as Providence lost a 3-1 exhibition at New Brunswick. The Friars will close the Pete Kelly Challenge Cup series with the CIS Varsity Reds on Sunday before resuming their Hockey East schedule at Boston College next Friday.

In USHL action, Christian Isackson finished -2 as Sioux Falls was nipped by Fargo, 5-2. The playmaking Gopher commit has gone eight games without registering a point for the struggling Herd, losers of four straight. Rookie slumps are expected coming out of high school, and the patch Isackson has hit is particularly why Jr. A seasoning is always a good decision for those choosing the NCAA path.

Saturday, January 1, 2011

12/31 Recap: McNabb extends streak, ties franchise mark

Brayden McNabb scored a power play goal Friday to extend his point streak to ten games as Kootenay closed out Swift Current, 5-3. The 6'4 defender is tied for fifth among WHL defensemen with 35 points through 28 games played, while the marker, McNabb's eighth of the year, also thrusts him into a tie for the all-time franchise lead in points for a defenseman with 135. The Ice (25-11-1-2) dominated the Broncos with a 48-14 shots-on-goal advantage to reclaim first place in the Central Division.

In the OHL, Steven Shipley (+1) scored his 11th goal of the year as Niagara cruised past Belleville, 5-1. The 6'3, 212-pounder ends the 2010 portion of the schedule with 28 points, good for eighth-best on the IceDogs. Niagara's leading point-getter, Ryan Strome ('11), scored his 21st goal of the year and earned a fighting major to lead the Dogs attack.

Mark Pysyk finished +1 as Edmonton defeated Brandon, 4-2. The fleeting rearguard has collected a goal and 15 assists this season - with all coming at even strength. The fourth-place Oil Kings (19-16-0-2) end the year with a two-game winning streak, and will next host McNabb and the Ice on Sunday.

Kevin Sundher went without a point for the third straight game as Chilliwack stumbled against Moose Jaw, 4-2. The hard-working center, who was serving a minor penalty for slashing at the time of the second goal against, hasn't scored a goal in his last six games but remains among the league's top-10 in power play assists with 14. The Bruins (17-16-2-1) were playing their first home game since December 7th (seven games).

Riley Boychuk served the first of his two-game suspension for a retaliation as Portland lost to Seattle, 4-3.

In the USHL, Christian Isackson (2 SOG) extended his drought to seven games without a point and a dozen games without a goal as Sioux Falls lost in a shootout to Muskegon, 4-3. The 6'0 rookie, who was also stopped in his shootout attempt, is currently tied for fourth on the Stampede with 13 points (4+9).