On Thursday, Brayden McNabb and Kevin Porter of the Rochester Americans were chosen for Western Conference duty at the 2013 Dunkin Donuts AHL All-Star Game. The duo will head to Providence for the events which take place Jan. 27-28.
In Thursday play, Alex Lepkowski (-1) did not register as Barrie earned a 3-2 shootout decision over Oshawa. The Colts return to action Friday at Sudbury.
On Wednesday, Luke Adam scored his ninth goal of the year as Rochester got throttled by Binghamton 5-1. The power play tally, which was assisted by Nick Crawford and McNabb, tied the game at one apiece late in the first period. David Leggio made 33 saves in defeat. The Amerks will hit the ice Friday versus Syracuse.
In the USHL, Judd Peterson (-1) recorded a shot on goal in Cedar Rapids' 5-2 loss at Omaha. The RoughRiders will host Waterloo on Friday.
Showing posts with label adam. Show all posts
Showing posts with label adam. Show all posts
Friday, January 18, 2013
Saturday, January 12, 2013
1/11 Recap: Amerks roll; Grigo empty on eve of camp
Brian Flynn scored a goal and an assist Friday to help the Rochester Americans to a 5-2 win over Hamilton. T.J. Brennan, Mark Mancari, Brayden McNabb, and Nick Tarnasky added the other Amerks goals, while Zemgus Girgensons, Luke Adam, and Kevin Porter gathered two assists each. For Girgensons, the two-assist outing was the first multi-point game of his professional career.
The game was a statement for Brennan and McNabb, who both await their missions on the eve of Sabres training camp. Brennan, who currently is tied for 12th in league scoring with 33 points (13+
20), stepped into a booming slap shot for a short-side goal to give the Amerks a 2-1 lead. McNabb dug in and played his physical brand of hockey while adding his third tally of the year. With Marcus Foligno and Cody Hodgson already tabbed for camp duty, the defensive duo are expected to be in the discussion as the Sabres look to round out their troops for the week-long evaluation.
Elsewhere, Mikhail Grigorenko (-2) went without a point for the second straight game as Quebec was embarrassed in a 4-0 home-ice loss to league cellar-dweller Shawinigan. Grigorenko, whose two-game drought is a first in the 2012-13 campaign, will leave for Buffalo early Saturday to participate in his first NHL training camp.
In Western League action, Andrey Makarov returned to action for Saskatoon for the first time since his bronze medal winning performance versus Canada, making 30 saves as the Blades dropped a 3-1 decision to Red Deer. Makarov saw his shutout streak of 134:49 (going back to early Dec.) snapped by surrendering a goal 5:28 into the first period. The Blades battle defending champion Edmonton on Saturday.
Colin Jacobs was kept off the scoresheet as Prince George edged Kamloops 1-0. Jacobs has yet to notch a point in five January games. The Cougars and Blazers play a rematch on Saturday.
In OHL play, newly-named assistant captain Justin Kea was unable to get a point in Saginaw's 4-3 win over Erie. Kea and the Spirit will ride a four-game winning streak into Saturday's game against top-ranked London.
Alex Lepkowski registered a minus-one rating as Barrie suffered 3-2 defeat at Guelph. The Colts welcome Niagara to town on Saturday.
Brady Austin remained out of the lineup with a hand injury as Belleville smoked Kingston 8-2. The Bulls host Windsor on Saturday.
In college action, Christian Isackson notched a pair of assists as No. 1 Minnesota skated to a 4-3 win over Alaska-Anchorage. The helpers extend Isackson's point streak to four games, giving him season totals of 3-11-14 through 21 games. The clubs complete the WCHA set on Saturday.
Jake McCabe made his return from an impeccable performance on Team USA's blueline as the 2013 World Junior Championship as Wisconsin earned a 4-3 overtime victory at Minnesota State. Brad Navin maintained his fourth-line role for the Badgers, who have won five straight and are unbeaten in their last nine games.
In the USHL, Judd Peterson (+1) saw his four-game point streak come to an end as Cedar Rapids defeated Muskegon 4-1. The RoghRiders tangle with Dubuque on Saturday.
The game was a statement for Brennan and McNabb, who both await their missions on the eve of Sabres training camp. Brennan, who currently is tied for 12th in league scoring with 33 points (13+
20), stepped into a booming slap shot for a short-side goal to give the Amerks a 2-1 lead. McNabb dug in and played his physical brand of hockey while adding his third tally of the year. With Marcus Foligno and Cody Hodgson already tabbed for camp duty, the defensive duo are expected to be in the discussion as the Sabres look to round out their troops for the week-long evaluation.
Elsewhere, Mikhail Grigorenko (-2) went without a point for the second straight game as Quebec was embarrassed in a 4-0 home-ice loss to league cellar-dweller Shawinigan. Grigorenko, whose two-game drought is a first in the 2012-13 campaign, will leave for Buffalo early Saturday to participate in his first NHL training camp.
In Western League action, Andrey Makarov returned to action for Saskatoon for the first time since his bronze medal winning performance versus Canada, making 30 saves as the Blades dropped a 3-1 decision to Red Deer. Makarov saw his shutout streak of 134:49 (going back to early Dec.) snapped by surrendering a goal 5:28 into the first period. The Blades battle defending champion Edmonton on Saturday.
Colin Jacobs was kept off the scoresheet as Prince George edged Kamloops 1-0. Jacobs has yet to notch a point in five January games. The Cougars and Blazers play a rematch on Saturday.
In OHL play, newly-named assistant captain Justin Kea was unable to get a point in Saginaw's 4-3 win over Erie. Kea and the Spirit will ride a four-game winning streak into Saturday's game against top-ranked London.
Alex Lepkowski registered a minus-one rating as Barrie suffered 3-2 defeat at Guelph. The Colts welcome Niagara to town on Saturday.
Brady Austin remained out of the lineup with a hand injury as Belleville smoked Kingston 8-2. The Bulls host Windsor on Saturday.
In college action, Christian Isackson notched a pair of assists as No. 1 Minnesota skated to a 4-3 win over Alaska-Anchorage. The helpers extend Isackson's point streak to four games, giving him season totals of 3-11-14 through 21 games. The clubs complete the WCHA set on Saturday.
Jake McCabe made his return from an impeccable performance on Team USA's blueline as the 2013 World Junior Championship as Wisconsin earned a 4-3 overtime victory at Minnesota State. Brad Navin maintained his fourth-line role for the Badgers, who have won five straight and are unbeaten in their last nine games.
In the USHL, Judd Peterson (+1) saw his four-game point streak come to an end as Cedar Rapids defeated Muskegon 4-1. The RoghRiders tangle with Dubuque on Saturday.
Thursday, January 10, 2013
1/9 Recap: Kea continues roll
Justin Kea scored a pair of first-period goals and set up the game winner with just under five minutes to play as Saginaw edged Plymouth 6-5. Kea, who earned the game's number one star for his excellent all-around effort, has steadily improved at every facet of his game this season. The huge developmental year has seen the 6-foot-4 center score 15 goals and 34 points through 42 games, including 4+2 in three January outings.
Dan Catenacci recorded a plus-one rating as Owen Sound sunk to their fourth straight defeat 4-3 at Erie. Catenacci, who has now gone four games without a goal, was playing his first game new teammates Cody Cedi and Steven Janes. The pair arrived in Owen Sound followed a Monday deal with Ottawa.
In the WHL, Colin Jacobs was even as Prince George lost to Portland 3-0. The Cougars are now winless in their last seven.
In the AHL, Luke Adam (8th) and Brian Flynn (11th) scored as Rochester lost to Syracuse 5-3. Mark Mancari also scored for the Amerks, who received 40 saves from David Leggio in defeat. Rochester tangles with Hamilton on Friday.
Dan Catenacci recorded a plus-one rating as Owen Sound sunk to their fourth straight defeat 4-3 at Erie. Catenacci, who has now gone four games without a goal, was playing his first game new teammates Cody Cedi and Steven Janes. The pair arrived in Owen Sound followed a Monday deal with Ottawa.
In the WHL, Colin Jacobs was even as Prince George lost to Portland 3-0. The Cougars are now winless in their last seven.
In the AHL, Luke Adam (8th) and Brian Flynn (11th) scored as Rochester lost to Syracuse 5-3. Mark Mancari also scored for the Amerks, who received 40 saves from David Leggio in defeat. Rochester tangles with Hamilton on Friday.
Thursday, December 27, 2012
Brennan unloads as Amerks take wild one
T.J. Brennan uncorked a career-best five points (1+4) Wednesday as Rochester climbed out of the Christmas break with a thrilling 7-6 overtime victory over Lake Erie. Marcus Foligno ended it at 2:40 of the extra frame after Cody Hodgson, who added a pair of goals himself including one shorthanded, picked the pocket of a Monsters defender behind the net and sent a cross-ice feed to his waiting winger.
Brennan used his cannon slap shot to get his goal, and also saw point blasts tipped for two of his four assists. His previous career-best single game output was three set back in 2010-11.
Evan Rankin, Zemgus Girgensons, and Mark Mancari were the other Amerks scorers, while David Leggio stopped 32 of 38 shots to earn his 13th victory of the year and fifth when allowing five or more goals.
Luke Adam saw his eight-game point streak come to an end in the win. Adam nearly extended the streak in the overtime session while on a shift with Brian Flynn, but was unable to beat Calvin Pickard with the open opportunity.
Please visit amerks.com for the full game recap and video highlights.
The two clubs will travel to Buffalo Friday for a tilt at nearly-sold out First Niagara Center.
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In SEL play, Linus Ullmark served as backup goaltender as MODO returned from the break by posting a 2-0 shutout of AIK. MODO's top club goes back at it Friday at Lulea.
Brennan used his cannon slap shot to get his goal, and also saw point blasts tipped for two of his four assists. His previous career-best single game output was three set back in 2010-11.
Evan Rankin, Zemgus Girgensons, and Mark Mancari were the other Amerks scorers, while David Leggio stopped 32 of 38 shots to earn his 13th victory of the year and fifth when allowing five or more goals.
Luke Adam saw his eight-game point streak come to an end in the win. Adam nearly extended the streak in the overtime session while on a shift with Brian Flynn, but was unable to beat Calvin Pickard with the open opportunity.
Please visit amerks.com for the full game recap and video highlights.
The two clubs will travel to Buffalo Friday for a tilt at nearly-sold out First Niagara Center.
--
In SEL play, Linus Ullmark served as backup goaltender as MODO returned from the break by posting a 2-0 shutout of AIK. MODO's top club goes back at it Friday at Lulea.
Sunday, December 23, 2012
Amerks dominated; McCabe named Captain
Jerome Gauthier-Leduc scored his second goal of the year Saturday as the Rochester Americans were dominated in a 5-1 loss at Binghamton. Leduc's tally came as he joined the rush to the top of the crease and buried a nice feed from Luke Adam, who extended his point streak to eight games with the assist. Connor Knapp made his sixth professional start, stopping 32 of 37 shots in defeat. The Amerks will begin a two-game set with Lake Erie Wednesday at Blue Cross Arena.
In USHL play, Judd Peterson recorded a minus-two rating as Cedar Rapids dropped a 7-4 decision at Sioux Falls. The St. Cloud State commit heads home for Christmas with five goals and 12 points through his first 12 junior "A" contests. Cedar Rapids returns to action Friday at Des Moines.
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In World Junior Championship news, Team USA made two of a required three cuts Saturday. Wisconsin defenseman Jake McCabe was not one of them. Instead, he was named the team's captain for the tournament. Safe to say the speculation that Phil Housley was "comfortable with McCabe" was quite accurate. Congratulations, Jake!
With McCabe's blueline partner Connor Murphy (PHX) reportedly nursing an injury with the tourney set to start Wednesday, Team USA sent just one defenseman, Brady Skjei (NYR) home, while waiting to determine whether or not they will need to send another rearguard home. Devils prospect Stephane Matteau was the lone forward released from the squad.
In Ufa, Mikhail Grigorenko and Andrey Makarov are set to take on Switzerland in their final pre-tourney tilt on Sunday. Russian goalie coach Vlad Myshkin told Sport-Express on Saturday that they have two number one goaltenders, and that they have yet to determine if Makarov or Tampa Bay prospect Andrei Vasilevsky will get the nod when pool play begins Wednesday.
In USHL play, Judd Peterson recorded a minus-two rating as Cedar Rapids dropped a 7-4 decision at Sioux Falls. The St. Cloud State commit heads home for Christmas with five goals and 12 points through his first 12 junior "A" contests. Cedar Rapids returns to action Friday at Des Moines.
---
In World Junior Championship news, Team USA made two of a required three cuts Saturday. Wisconsin defenseman Jake McCabe was not one of them. Instead, he was named the team's captain for the tournament. Safe to say the speculation that Phil Housley was "comfortable with McCabe" was quite accurate. Congratulations, Jake!
With McCabe's blueline partner Connor Murphy (PHX) reportedly nursing an injury with the tourney set to start Wednesday, Team USA sent just one defenseman, Brady Skjei (NYR) home, while waiting to determine whether or not they will need to send another rearguard home. Devils prospect Stephane Matteau was the lone forward released from the squad.
In Ufa, Mikhail Grigorenko and Andrey Makarov are set to take on Switzerland in their final pre-tourney tilt on Sunday. Russian goalie coach Vlad Myshkin told Sport-Express on Saturday that they have two number one goaltenders, and that they have yet to determine if Makarov or Tampa Bay prospect Andrei Vasilevsky will get the nod when pool play begins Wednesday.
Saturday, December 22, 2012
12/21 Recap: Amerks battle back for shootout victory
Cody Hodgson scored his first shootout goal of the year Friday to cap the comeback as Rochester earned a 6-5 victory over Binghamton.
Evan Rankin and Luke Adam scored 28 seconds apart to give the Amerks a 2-1 lead after the opening frame. For Adam, the goal was his fifth in his last six games. The third-year man has points in seven straight.
The teams would continue trading goals over the next 40 minutes. Kevin Porter lit the lamp to give the Amerks a 3-2 lead midway through the second period, but Binghamton would eventually gain a 5-3 advantage in the third. Rochester again would use quick strikes to even the score, as T.J. Brennan went high for his 11th of the year before Kevin Sundher scarfed up a rebound 49 seconds later for his first professional goal.
A momentum changer came early in the third when David Leggio dove back into the crease to rob Stephane Da Costa of a sure goal with a highlight reel stop. Leggio finished the night with 34 saves.
After a scoreless overtime and shootout misses by Brian Flynn, Phil Varone, and Mark Mancari, the Amerks would get three straight goals from Brennan, Marcus Foligno, and Hodgson to earn the extra point.
The two clubs will next travel to Binghamton for a Saturday rematch.
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In USHL action, Judd Peterson recorded two shots on goal as Cedar Rapids was blanked by Fargo 3-0. The RoughRiders will visit Sioux Falls Saturday for their final game before the Christmas break.
Evan Rankin and Luke Adam scored 28 seconds apart to give the Amerks a 2-1 lead after the opening frame. For Adam, the goal was his fifth in his last six games. The third-year man has points in seven straight.
The teams would continue trading goals over the next 40 minutes. Kevin Porter lit the lamp to give the Amerks a 3-2 lead midway through the second period, but Binghamton would eventually gain a 5-3 advantage in the third. Rochester again would use quick strikes to even the score, as T.J. Brennan went high for his 11th of the year before Kevin Sundher scarfed up a rebound 49 seconds later for his first professional goal.
A momentum changer came early in the third when David Leggio dove back into the crease to rob Stephane Da Costa of a sure goal with a highlight reel stop. Leggio finished the night with 34 saves.
After a scoreless overtime and shootout misses by Brian Flynn, Phil Varone, and Mark Mancari, the Amerks would get three straight goals from Brennan, Marcus Foligno, and Hodgson to earn the extra point.
The two clubs will next travel to Binghamton for a Saturday rematch.
--
In USHL action, Judd Peterson recorded two shots on goal as Cedar Rapids was blanked by Fargo 3-0. The RoughRiders will visit Sioux Falls Saturday for their final game before the Christmas break.
Saturday, October 27, 2012
10/26 Recap: Kea keys Spirit to victory
Justin Kea notched a pair of goals Friday including a hard-working short-handed game winner as Saginaw edged Oshawa 3-2. Kea's first-ever two-goal effort in 141 OHL games earned him the game's number three star. The Spirit wrap up their three-game road trip Saturday in Peterborough.
Mikhail Grigorenko scored his 11th goal of the year and added an assist as Quebec dominated Shawinigan 7-0. The Russian pivot sits with 26 points in 14 games heading into Sunday's meeting with Gatineau (which Grigorenko could sit for if Patrick Roy decides to subject his leading scorer to a rotation of European players). Grigorenko's teammate Adam Erne ('13) paced the Remparts with four goals and an assist.
Jake McCabe recorded two assists as Wisconsin blanked Minnesota-Duluth 2-0. McCabe rifled a shot that made it through to traffic to create the first Badger goal. Sophomore forward Brad Navin was unable to get a shot on net in the victory. Wisconsin will go for their first sweep of the season Saturday when the clubs conclude the WCHA set.
Elsewhere, Joel Armia posted two shots in 14:19 of work as Assat skated past HIFK 4-1. Armia has seven goals and 11 points though 16-games, but hasn't connected for points in consecutive games since the opening week of SM-Liiga play. Assat takes on KalPa on Saturday.
Dan Catenacci saw his six-game point streak come to an end as Owen Sound suffered a 3-2 shootout loss to Kitchener. Catenacci went backhand/forehand in his shootout attempt but was unable to score. On Saturday, the Attack will look to get back on track when they host Sudbury.
Judd Peterson was +1 as Cedar Rapids got past Indiana 5-1 in USHL action. On Saturday, the RoughRiders will tangle with undefeated Dubuque.
Logan Nelson (-1) was held off the scoresheet as Victoria was handed a 4-1 loss at Vancouver. The Royals head to Kamloops Saturday to play their second of seven straight road games.
Mark Adams punched a shot on goal as Providence scored a pair of third period goals to earn a 3-2 win over Maine. The Friars and Black Bears will conclude the Hockey East set Saturday at 7:05.
Christian Isackson contributed three shots on goal as Minnesota played to a 2-2 tie with the U.S. Under-18 team. The Gophers will next host Canisius College for a non-conference tilt on Sunday.
In the AHL, Rochester stormed back with a pair of late goals to force extra time but fell short in a 5-4 overtime loss at Wilkes-Barre/Scranton.
Trailing 4-2 with just over a minute to play, David Leggio went to the bench to give the Amerks the extra attacker. Kevin Porter took advantage with 1:08 left before Mark Mancari put a shot just under the crossbar 43 seconds later to complete the unlikely comeback. However, a Paul Thompson goal off a partial breakaway would end the game in the Penguins' favor with just 14-seconds to play.
Luke Adam and Evan Rankin scored the other Rochester goals. T.J. Brennan and Alex Biega added pairs of assists for the Amerks, who head north to Glens Falls on Saturday to take on the Adirondack Phantoms.
Mikhail Grigorenko scored his 11th goal of the year and added an assist as Quebec dominated Shawinigan 7-0. The Russian pivot sits with 26 points in 14 games heading into Sunday's meeting with Gatineau (which Grigorenko could sit for if Patrick Roy decides to subject his leading scorer to a rotation of European players). Grigorenko's teammate Adam Erne ('13) paced the Remparts with four goals and an assist.
Jake McCabe recorded two assists as Wisconsin blanked Minnesota-Duluth 2-0. McCabe rifled a shot that made it through to traffic to create the first Badger goal. Sophomore forward Brad Navin was unable to get a shot on net in the victory. Wisconsin will go for their first sweep of the season Saturday when the clubs conclude the WCHA set.
Elsewhere, Joel Armia posted two shots in 14:19 of work as Assat skated past HIFK 4-1. Armia has seven goals and 11 points though 16-games, but hasn't connected for points in consecutive games since the opening week of SM-Liiga play. Assat takes on KalPa on Saturday.
Dan Catenacci saw his six-game point streak come to an end as Owen Sound suffered a 3-2 shootout loss to Kitchener. Catenacci went backhand/forehand in his shootout attempt but was unable to score. On Saturday, the Attack will look to get back on track when they host Sudbury.
Judd Peterson was +1 as Cedar Rapids got past Indiana 5-1 in USHL action. On Saturday, the RoughRiders will tangle with undefeated Dubuque.
Logan Nelson (-1) was held off the scoresheet as Victoria was handed a 4-1 loss at Vancouver. The Royals head to Kamloops Saturday to play their second of seven straight road games.
Mark Adams punched a shot on goal as Providence scored a pair of third period goals to earn a 3-2 win over Maine. The Friars and Black Bears will conclude the Hockey East set Saturday at 7:05.
Christian Isackson contributed three shots on goal as Minnesota played to a 2-2 tie with the U.S. Under-18 team. The Gophers will next host Canisius College for a non-conference tilt on Sunday.
In the AHL, Rochester stormed back with a pair of late goals to force extra time but fell short in a 5-4 overtime loss at Wilkes-Barre/Scranton.
Trailing 4-2 with just over a minute to play, David Leggio went to the bench to give the Amerks the extra attacker. Kevin Porter took advantage with 1:08 left before Mark Mancari put a shot just under the crossbar 43 seconds later to complete the unlikely comeback. However, a Paul Thompson goal off a partial breakaway would end the game in the Penguins' favor with just 14-seconds to play.
Luke Adam and Evan Rankin scored the other Rochester goals. T.J. Brennan and Alex Biega added pairs of assists for the Amerks, who head north to Glens Falls on Saturday to take on the Adirondack Phantoms.
Saturday, October 13, 2012
10/12 Recap: Amerks open with win
Tropp lit the lamp in the game's opening minute when he tapped in a two-on-one feed from Cody Hodgson. Later in the period, Tropp batted down a Luke Adam shot in front of the net and beat Dustin Tokarski to give the Amerks a 2-1 lead. Marcus Foligno scored shortly after Tropp's second goal to give the Amerks a 3-1 advantage at the first intermission.
Mark Pysyk notched his first professional goal in the second period before the Crunch went on to score four unanswered the take a 5-4 lead midway through the final frame. Mark Mancari rounded out the Rochester scoring to make it 5-5 with under four minutes to play in regulation to force the OT.
David Leggio made 29 saves and another five in the shootout to earn the win. Tropp suffered a lower body injury and is unlikely to play when the Amerks continue their opening weekend Saturday in Toronto.
In the QMJHL, Mikhail Grigorenko continued his superb start to the 2012-13 season by scoring two goals and an assist to extend his point streak to nine games as Quebec defeated Gatineau 4-1. The talented Russian currently ranks second in QMJHL scoring with eight goals and 20 points through the Remparts' first nine games. The Remparts are off until Wednesday's tilt with Saint John.
In Finland, Joel Armia scored his sixth goal of the year as Assat doubled Tappara 4-2. The 6-foot-3 sniper got the Aces on the board when he cut to the net and directed a Michael Ryan pass past the Tappara netminder. The two clubs will play it back on Saturday.
Linus Ullmark made 30 saves as MODO J20 downed Leksands 6-2. Ullmark was making his return to SuperElit action after a three-week loan to Mora IK of HockeyAllsvenskan. MODO and Leksands will play a rematch on Saturday.
In the WHL, Colin Jacobs picked up an assist as Prince George downed Lethbridge 3-2. The helper extends Jacobs' season-starting point streak to a career-best eight games (7+7). The Cougars continue their road trip Saturday in Medicine Hat.
Logan Nelson saw his five-game point streak come to an end as Victoria lost to Kelowna 4-1. The Royals and Rockets will again face off Saturday in Victoria.
Andrey Makarov made 24 saves as Saskatoon lost to Kootenay 4-3. The Blades have lost five straight games to occupy last place in the East Division.
In OHL action, Brady Austin was +1 as Belleville pitched a 2-0 shutout of Brampton. The Bulls, who have secured five wins through the season's first eight games, return to the ice Saturday versus Oshawa.
Justin Kea logged a +1 as Saginaw smoked Sudbury 6-1. The Spirit moves on to face Brampton on Sunday.
Alex Lepkowski (-1) did not point as Barrie got past Oshawa 4-3 in a shootout. Barrie will host Sudbury on Saturday.
Christian Isackson scored his first goal of the year as Minnesota downed Michigan State 5-1. Skating with Florida prospects Nick Bjugstad and Kyle Rau, Isackson buried a wrist shot from the slot for the first regular season goal of his collegiate career. The Gophers and Spartans will conclude their opening weekend set on Saturday.
Brad Navin (2 SOG) and Jake McCabe (4 SOG) each went without a point as Wisconsin lost to Northern Michigan 2-1. McCabe was paired with Frankie Simonelli on the Badgers blueline after sitting out last weekend's tune-up win over the U.S. Under-18. Navin formed a line with Keegan Meuer and Brendan Woods. The Badgers will look for the weekend split on Saturday.
Mark Adams finished +1 as Providence opened the season with an 8-2 throttling of Sacred Heart. The Friars finish their weekend Saturday with a visit to Boston University.
Judd Peterson was +1 with three shots on goal as Cedar Rapids dropped a 3-2 overtime decision to Muskegon. The RoughRiders take on Green Bay on Saturday.
Sunday, April 15, 2012
Adam's mark puts Amerks in position
With his confidence plummeting to perhaps the lowest point of his pro career in recent weeks, and his club desperate for a victory, Luke Adam scored a very big goal Saturday to break a tie and give the Rochester Americans a 2-1 regulation win over the Lake Erie Monsters in their final game of the AHL regular season.
Adam's mark at 4:14 of the third period, his fourth of the year and second in his last three games, would hold up as Amerks' MVP David Leggio made 16 of his 35 saves in the final frame. Paul Szczechura scored the first Rochester goal, while rookies Brayden McNabb and Marcus Foligno (three-game point streak) chipped in with assists.
The victory gives Rochester 86 points, good for 5th place in the AHL Western Conference entering the final day of the season. While not officially in, their playoff hopes are looking pretty good per the explanation provided by Kevin Oklobzija of the Rochester Democrat & Chronicle.
The Rundown:
Adam: G, +1, 6 SOG
McNabb: A, +2
Foligno: A, +1
Crawford: +2
Tropp: +1, 3 SOG
Brennan: 3 SOG
Varone: SOG
Biega: even
Adam's mark at 4:14 of the third period, his fourth of the year and second in his last three games, would hold up as Amerks' MVP David Leggio made 16 of his 35 saves in the final frame. Paul Szczechura scored the first Rochester goal, while rookies Brayden McNabb and Marcus Foligno (three-game point streak) chipped in with assists.
The victory gives Rochester 86 points, good for 5th place in the AHL Western Conference entering the final day of the season. While not officially in, their playoff hopes are looking pretty good per the explanation provided by Kevin Oklobzija of the Rochester Democrat & Chronicle.
The Rundown:
Adam: G, +1, 6 SOG
McNabb: A, +2
Foligno: A, +1
Crawford: +2
Tropp: +1, 3 SOG
Brennan: 3 SOG
Varone: SOG
Biega: even
Saturday, March 3, 2012
Amerks streak ends at three
McNabb gave Rochester a 1-0 lead when he jumped into the slot to beat Ty Conklin for his fourth of the year at 14:54 of the first.
At 1:51 of the second, Rochester gained the two-goal lead when Adam scarfed up a rebound for his first goal in an Amerks sweater.
After the Griffins cashed three straight tallies, T.J. Brennan added his 12th of the year on the power play to tie the game with under seven minutes to play.
Francis Pare answered for Grand Rapids three minutes later to cap the scoring.
David Leggio finished with 28 saves in defeat, while Phil Varone picked up a pair of assists for his seventh multi-point game of the year.
The Rundown:
McNabb: G, -1, 2 SOG
Adam: G, +1, 6 SOG
Brennan: PPG, 4 SOG
Foligno: 5 PIM
Szydlowski: 2 SOG
Crawford: -2
Persson: -1
The Amerks will be in Toronto on Saturday to begin a back-to-back set with the first place Marlies.
***
In the ECHL, Corey Fienhage scored in part of a four-goal third period as Gwinneett as poured it on last to earn an 8-6 win over Trenton. Matt MacKenzie (7 SOG) and Riley Boychuk picked up assists in the win, while Jonathan Parker logged a -3 rating.
Saturday, February 25, 2012
Leggio shines as Amerks win 2nd straight
In Friday AHL play, Derek Whitmore and Dennis Persson scored while David Leggio sparkled with 27 saves as Rochester posted a 2-0 shutout victory over Adirondack. The Amerks (25-21-6-3) have won two straight, and now sit in 9th place in the Western Conference standings with 59 points.
Whitmore's game winner at 11:00 of the first was his team-leading 23rd goal of the year. Third-year man Persson cashed on a power play in the early second period to give him goals in two straight games for the second time in his career.
Luke Adam assisted on both Rochester goals for his second multi-point game in an Amerks sweater. The reigning AHL rookie of the year has collected five assists in six games since being re-assigned.
The game's #1 star, Leggio posted his second shutout of the year and fifth of his AHL career to improve to 17-15-3-1.
The Rundown:
Persson: G, +1, 5 SOG
Adam: 2A, +1, 2 PIM
Foligno: SOG, 2 PIM
Brennan: 2 SOG
McNabb: 2 PIM
Lagace: SOG
Crawford: 2 SOG
The Amerks welcome Lake Erie to the BCA on Saturday.
***
On Wednesday, Corey Tropp potted a pair of goals and an assist to lead Rochester to a 5-2 win over Hershey. Persson added a goal and an assist for the Amerks, while Marcus Foligno notched his 14th of the season.
The Rundown:
Tropp: 2G, A, +2
Foligno: G, +1
Crawford: 2A
Adam: A, -1
McNabb: +2
Brennan: 3 SOG
Lagace: -1
Whitmore's game winner at 11:00 of the first was his team-leading 23rd goal of the year. Third-year man Persson cashed on a power play in the early second period to give him goals in two straight games for the second time in his career.
Luke Adam assisted on both Rochester goals for his second multi-point game in an Amerks sweater. The reigning AHL rookie of the year has collected five assists in six games since being re-assigned.
The game's #1 star, Leggio posted his second shutout of the year and fifth of his AHL career to improve to 17-15-3-1.
The Rundown:
Persson: G, +1, 5 SOG
Adam: 2A, +1, 2 PIM
Foligno: SOG, 2 PIM
Brennan: 2 SOG
McNabb: 2 PIM
Lagace: SOG
Crawford: 2 SOG
The Amerks welcome Lake Erie to the BCA on Saturday.
***
On Wednesday, Corey Tropp potted a pair of goals and an assist to lead Rochester to a 5-2 win over Hershey. Persson added a goal and an assist for the Amerks, while Marcus Foligno notched his 14th of the season.
The Rundown:
Tropp: 2G, A, +2
Foligno: G, +1
Crawford: 2A
Adam: A, -1
McNabb: +2
Brennan: 3 SOG
Lagace: -1
Sunday, January 15, 2012
Foligno, Leggio stifle Dogs
Foligno, who scored the game winner just 17-seconds into the middle frame and added an empty-netter in the final minute, now has 12 goals through his first 36 games. Given his projection as a checker, that number rates well compared to some other recent AHL graduates through their first 36 games: Nathan Gerbe (21), Luke Adam (17), Tyler Ennis (11).
Leggio impressed with several big stops in the third as the Amerks were forced to kill a Jonathan Parker boarding penalty with three minutes to play.
Corey Tropp did not dress for a second straight night, while Drew Schiestel was made a healthy scratch (EDIT - there seems to be conjecture over the Schiestel scratch; will wait for statements regarding lingering knee soreness).
The Rundown:
Foligno: 2G, +1, 3 SOG
Parker: A, +2
Lagace: A
Crawford: A, +1
Szydlowski: A, +1
Biega: +1
Brennan: 2 SOG
Fienhage: 2 PIM
Persson: even
Boychuk: 1 SOG
Kassian: -1, 3 SOG
The Amerks (17-13-5-3, 42 points, 2nd in North Division) will now prepare for a Thursday/Friday series with Olkahoma City.
Saturday, November 19, 2011
11/18 Recap: Armia pots winner
Joel Armia scored the game winning goal Friday, his third of the year, as Assat downed Ilves, 3-1. Armia, who saw just 11:45 of work in the win but put forth a much better effort than recent tries, now has points in two straight games. The 6'3 wing will look for his second three-game point streak of the year on Saturday when Assat battles Tappara.
In the QMJHL, Jerome Gauthier-Leduc recorded an assist and a game-high six shots on goal as Rimouski was trumped by Quebec, 4-3. After scoring 11 goals in his first eleven games, the 6'1 defenseman has just one in his last eleven. Rimouski welcomes Halifax to town on Sunday.
Cedrick Henley assisted on the game-tying goal as Val-d'Or earned a 3-2 shootout win over Gatineau. The Foreurs are off until next Friday when they host Bathurst.
In OHL action, Steven Shipley logged a +1 as Niagara shut out Kingston, 5-0. The IceDogs outshot the Fronts 37-16 en route to winning their third straight game. Niagara will look to keep it going Sunday afternoon at Ottawa.
Gregg Sutch did not score in a third-line role as Barrie outgunned Ottawa, 6-5. Alex Lepkowski (back) did not play for the Colts, who will travel to Kingston on Sunday.
Mark Pysyk sat out with an upper body injury as Edmonton edged Prince Albert, 4-3. The Edmonton captain is marked "day-to-day", so we'll keep an eye out Saturday when the Oil Kings take the ice against Lethbridge.
Kevin Sundher (-1) did not score as Victoria got hammered by Vancouver, 11-3. The Royals leading point man, Sundher returned to the lineup after missing two games last weekend with an upper body injury. Victoria hosts Kootenay on Saturday.
In NCAA play, Drew MacKenzie picked up a power play assist as Vermont came up short at #16 Boston University, 4-3. With the Catamounts trailing 4-2 in the third, MacKenzie faked a shot before wristing one to the net for a tip past Terriers goaltender Grant Rollheiser. The senior rearguard has points in three of his last four games. Vermont remains in Beantown for a Saturday night tilt at Northeastern.
Justin Jokinen skated even as Minnesota State suffered a 5-2 loss at #8 Minnesota-Duluth. Jokinen, who did not get a shot on goal for the fourth time this season, slid from his usual right wing spot to the center position for the series opener. The two clubs play it back on Saturday.
Brad Navin sent three shots on goal as Wisconsin lost at #5 Colorado College, 4-2. The freshman now has one assist and a -5 rating through his first dozen games as a Badger. Wisconsin will try to earn the split on Saturday.
Mark Adams finished -3 as Providence was defeated by Northeastern, 5-2. The Friars, who entered the tilt undefeated in November (four games), are off until next Friday when they face Miami in the first round of the Denver Cup Classic.
Connor Knapp served as backup for the fifth straight game as Miami pitched a 4-0 shutout over Bowling Green. We'll see if Enrico Blasi stays with the hot Cody Reichard or gives Knapp a nod to keep him warm when the clubs rematch on Saturday.
Christian Isackson was scratched for the seventh straight game as #1 Minnesota was upset by St. Cloud State, 4-3. The Gophers will likely come out flying when the clubs close their set on Saturday.
In the QMJHL, Jerome Gauthier-Leduc recorded an assist and a game-high six shots on goal as Rimouski was trumped by Quebec, 4-3. After scoring 11 goals in his first eleven games, the 6'1 defenseman has just one in his last eleven. Rimouski welcomes Halifax to town on Sunday.
Cedrick Henley assisted on the game-tying goal as Val-d'Or earned a 3-2 shootout win over Gatineau. The Foreurs are off until next Friday when they host Bathurst.
In OHL action, Steven Shipley logged a +1 as Niagara shut out Kingston, 5-0. The IceDogs outshot the Fronts 37-16 en route to winning their third straight game. Niagara will look to keep it going Sunday afternoon at Ottawa.
Gregg Sutch did not score in a third-line role as Barrie outgunned Ottawa, 6-5. Alex Lepkowski (back) did not play for the Colts, who will travel to Kingston on Sunday.
Mark Pysyk sat out with an upper body injury as Edmonton edged Prince Albert, 4-3. The Edmonton captain is marked "day-to-day", so we'll keep an eye out Saturday when the Oil Kings take the ice against Lethbridge.
Kevin Sundher (-1) did not score as Victoria got hammered by Vancouver, 11-3. The Royals leading point man, Sundher returned to the lineup after missing two games last weekend with an upper body injury. Victoria hosts Kootenay on Saturday.
In NCAA play, Drew MacKenzie picked up a power play assist as Vermont came up short at #16 Boston University, 4-3. With the Catamounts trailing 4-2 in the third, MacKenzie faked a shot before wristing one to the net for a tip past Terriers goaltender Grant Rollheiser. The senior rearguard has points in three of his last four games. Vermont remains in Beantown for a Saturday night tilt at Northeastern.
Justin Jokinen skated even as Minnesota State suffered a 5-2 loss at #8 Minnesota-Duluth. Jokinen, who did not get a shot on goal for the fourth time this season, slid from his usual right wing spot to the center position for the series opener. The two clubs play it back on Saturday.
Brad Navin sent three shots on goal as Wisconsin lost at #5 Colorado College, 4-2. The freshman now has one assist and a -5 rating through his first dozen games as a Badger. Wisconsin will try to earn the split on Saturday.
Mark Adams finished -3 as Providence was defeated by Northeastern, 5-2. The Friars, who entered the tilt undefeated in November (four games), are off until next Friday when they face Miami in the first round of the Denver Cup Classic.
Connor Knapp served as backup for the fifth straight game as Miami pitched a 4-0 shutout over Bowling Green. We'll see if Enrico Blasi stays with the hot Cody Reichard or gives Knapp a nod to keep him warm when the clubs rematch on Saturday.
Christian Isackson was scratched for the seventh straight game as #1 Minnesota was upset by St. Cloud State, 4-3. The Gophers will likely come out flying when the clubs close their set on Saturday.
Thursday, April 7, 2011
Sabres pot three-peat as Adam takes AHL honors
Congratulations to the Luke Adam for being named the AHL's Most Outstanding Rookie for the 2010-11 season. Congrats to the Buffalo Sabres scouting staff as well, as the award marks the third straight year a Sabres prospect has earned the honor (Nathan Gerbe 2008-09, Tyler Ennis 2009-10).
From the American Hockey League website
So yes, Adam has been the apple of the Pirates eye all season long. Why isn't he in Buffalo you ask? I think it's simple. He needs to keep working hard where he is. Keeping Adam down will make him continue to tune-in defensively and polish some skills - mainly his puckhandling. Plus, it's fair to suggest that it's harder to send player down at the beginning of the next season when he ends the year on the top club.
Regardless, I can't wait to read the next tired article about the Sabres using video scouting...
###
Adam winning the AHL rookie honor makes it kind of a cool day for this site as well, as longtime readers may remember that Luke was talked about quite a bit in this space leading up to his 2008 drafting. From the first time watching him with the St. John's Fog Devils (along with Sabres picks T.J. Brennan and J.S. Allard), you sort of knew Luke could develop into a big bodied goal-scorer at the pro level despite his lack of top-flight wheels. That conviction made him my no-brainer target when the Sabres opened their day two selections, and the Sabres obviously agreed. Not a bad run for the Sabres at that draft getting Myers, Ennis, Adam 1-1A-2. Perhaps Corey Fienhage can continue the dent being made by the class of '08? Baby steps of course, but we're not ruling anything out.
From the American Hockey League website
Adam, a second-round draft choice by the Buffalo Sabres in 2008, ranks among the AHL’s rookie leaders with 28 goals (1st), 32 assists (tied for 3rd), 60 points (2nd) and a plus-22 rating (2nd) in 54 games for Portland this season. The 20-year-old native of St. John’s, N.L., began the season with two goals and two assists in an opening-night win over Manchester on Oct. 9, the first of his 16 multiple-point efforts on the year, and his 11-game scoring streak from Feb. 26 to Mar. 22 was the longest by an AHL rookie forward since 2005. Adam made his National Hockey League debut with Buffalo on Oct. 26 and has totaled three goals and one assist in 19 NHL games with the Sabres.
So yes, Adam has been the apple of the Pirates eye all season long. Why isn't he in Buffalo you ask? I think it's simple. He needs to keep working hard where he is. Keeping Adam down will make him continue to tune-in defensively and polish some skills - mainly his puckhandling. Plus, it's fair to suggest that it's harder to send player down at the beginning of the next season when he ends the year on the top club.
Regardless, I can't wait to read the next tired article about the Sabres using video scouting...
###
Adam winning the AHL rookie honor makes it kind of a cool day for this site as well, as longtime readers may remember that Luke was talked about quite a bit in this space leading up to his 2008 drafting. From the first time watching him with the St. John's Fog Devils (along with Sabres picks T.J. Brennan and J.S. Allard), you sort of knew Luke could develop into a big bodied goal-scorer at the pro level despite his lack of top-flight wheels. That conviction made him my no-brainer target when the Sabres opened their day two selections, and the Sabres obviously agreed. Not a bad run for the Sabres at that draft getting Myers, Ennis, Adam 1-1A-2. Perhaps Corey Fienhage can continue the dent being made by the class of '08? Baby steps of course, but we're not ruling anything out.
Sunday, December 26, 2010
Kassian, Foligno ready to go with future expectations
Sabres fans are licking their chops at the prospects of watching Team Canada's Zack Kassian and Marcus Foligno skate on HSBC Arena ice over the next twelve days as the IIHF conducts the 2011 World Junior Championship. After all, the object of their NHL rooting interest has a 6.5% of making the playoffs so it makes sense to look for future hope.
And just like that, more Sabres fans care about what I do. I'm getting more emails and texts about Kassian. Co-workers are asking questions about the two playing on the same line. My Blackberry and mouth need a massage.
To summarize the conversations, we've all witnessed how playing in the World Junior Championship elevates a player's game to more dominating level. What a player immediately does with the experience, at least with the Sabres anyways, goes a long way in projecting their effectiveness as a professional.
Last season, Luke Adam scored 25 goals and 27 assists in 32 QMJHL games (1.63 ppg) before playing for Team Canada. The big forward returned to pot 24 goals in his final 24 games with Cape Breton, and carried that pace into 2010-11 with an AHL Rookie of the Month honor in his first as a pro.
Prior to skating alongside Tyler Myers at the 2009 tourney, Tyler Ennis averaged 1.16 points-per-game (31GP 15-21-36) with Medicine Hat (WHL) before ripping off 28 goals and 21 assists in his final 30 games (1.63 PPG) to cap his second consecutive 85-point season. Ennis went on the impress the following year, earning AHL Rookie of the Year and a firm spot on the big club.
Do I even need to mention Myers? He didn't become the Calder winning monster that he is until after the 2009 tournament.
So what does this all mean for Kassian and Foligno? Given the make-up of the two players, it's fair to expect the spike to continue.
Kassian has himself been a monster this season in Windsor with 15-33-48 in just 25 games. It's going to be hard for him to maintain his 1.92 ppg pace, but if he can keep it steady with 1.75 over the final 30 games, he'll be the first Sabres prospect to hit the 100-point mark since London's Dylan Hunter did it in 2004-05 and 2005-06. Combine the Ennis and Adam trend with how physically dominant he is against 17-18-19's, and it seems that Kassian hits the target barring injury or suspension, and could blow past it if he gets traded to a top contender.
As far as Foligno is concerned, it's all gravy from here. The 6'3 leader has already posted a career-high in goals with 15 in his first 28 games, and is likely to use the experience to prove that he can beat the D on the forecheck and a cause trouble in front of the opposing net. Foligno works hard, and any exposure to faster, stronger players makes him work harder. Hard work equals production, so I'm setting the final 2010-11 target at 33 goals and 75 points for a weak Sudbury squad.
Every theory has an anomaly, so it's worth mentioning how Clarke MacArthur earned his 2005 World Junior look by amassing 14-27-41 in 30 games with Medicine Hat, but failed to vault his offense upon return with a still-respectable 33 points in his final 28 games. What's funny is that MacArthur's 'starting' trend has continued in the NHL, with nearly half of his 53 career goals coming in October and November...
If we've learned anything, it's that making Team Canada is great but what you do after matters most.
And one last thing - exhibition action saw Kassian and Foligno skate on a line with 2011 draft stud Sean Couturier. With the Sabres sinking and Derek Roy out for the balance of the year, Sabres fans may want to keep an eye on the prize. A prime-time offensive talent, Couturier is currently numero uno on my draft board.
The fun beings with Canada-Russia today (Sunday). Enjoy the games. GO USA!
And just like that, more Sabres fans care about what I do. I'm getting more emails and texts about Kassian. Co-workers are asking questions about the two playing on the same line. My Blackberry and mouth need a massage.
To summarize the conversations, we've all witnessed how playing in the World Junior Championship elevates a player's game to more dominating level. What a player immediately does with the experience, at least with the Sabres anyways, goes a long way in projecting their effectiveness as a professional.
Last season, Luke Adam scored 25 goals and 27 assists in 32 QMJHL games (1.63 ppg) before playing for Team Canada. The big forward returned to pot 24 goals in his final 24 games with Cape Breton, and carried that pace into 2010-11 with an AHL Rookie of the Month honor in his first as a pro.
Prior to skating alongside Tyler Myers at the 2009 tourney, Tyler Ennis averaged 1.16 points-per-game (31GP 15-21-36) with Medicine Hat (WHL) before ripping off 28 goals and 21 assists in his final 30 games (1.63 PPG) to cap his second consecutive 85-point season. Ennis went on the impress the following year, earning AHL Rookie of the Year and a firm spot on the big club.
Do I even need to mention Myers? He didn't become the Calder winning monster that he is until after the 2009 tournament.
So what does this all mean for Kassian and Foligno? Given the make-up of the two players, it's fair to expect the spike to continue.
Kassian has himself been a monster this season in Windsor with 15-33-48 in just 25 games. It's going to be hard for him to maintain his 1.92 ppg pace, but if he can keep it steady with 1.75 over the final 30 games, he'll be the first Sabres prospect to hit the 100-point mark since London's Dylan Hunter did it in 2004-05 and 2005-06. Combine the Ennis and Adam trend with how physically dominant he is against 17-18-19's, and it seems that Kassian hits the target barring injury or suspension, and could blow past it if he gets traded to a top contender.
As far as Foligno is concerned, it's all gravy from here. The 6'3 leader has already posted a career-high in goals with 15 in his first 28 games, and is likely to use the experience to prove that he can beat the D on the forecheck and a cause trouble in front of the opposing net. Foligno works hard, and any exposure to faster, stronger players makes him work harder. Hard work equals production, so I'm setting the final 2010-11 target at 33 goals and 75 points for a weak Sudbury squad.
Every theory has an anomaly, so it's worth mentioning how Clarke MacArthur earned his 2005 World Junior look by amassing 14-27-41 in 30 games with Medicine Hat, but failed to vault his offense upon return with a still-respectable 33 points in his final 28 games. What's funny is that MacArthur's 'starting' trend has continued in the NHL, with nearly half of his 53 career goals coming in October and November...
If we've learned anything, it's that making Team Canada is great but what you do after matters most.
And one last thing - exhibition action saw Kassian and Foligno skate on a line with 2011 draft stud Sean Couturier. With the Sabres sinking and Derek Roy out for the balance of the year, Sabres fans may want to keep an eye on the prize. A prime-time offensive talent, Couturier is currently numero uno on my draft board.
The fun beings with Canada-Russia today (Sunday). Enjoy the games. GO USA!
Monday, November 1, 2010
Adam tabbed for AHL honor
The American Hockey League announced today that Portland Pirates center Luke Adam has been named the Reebok/AHL Rookie of the Month for October. In nine games, Adam tallied six goals, seven assists and a plus-6 rating to help the Pirates to the top of the Atlantic Division standings.
Adam’s professional career began on Oct. 9 with a four-point performance, including two third-period goals, in a 6-5 win over Manchester. He had a second four-point effort a week later, scoring one goal and assisting on three others in a 4-2 victory over Springfield on Oct. 16. Adam ran his goal-scoring streak to three games with markers at Bridgeport on Oct. 17 and vs. Manchester on Oct. 19, and had a goal and two assists as part of a 6-5 win at Norfolk on Oct. 29. Adam also earned two recalls to Buffalo during the month, making his NHL debut with the Sabres at Philadelphia on Oct. 26.
Please visit sabres.com for the complete story.
Monday, October 11, 2010
Adam named AHL Player of the Week
I've often mentioned Luke Adam going to Portland to gain some 'professional momentum'. Well, there's nothing like being named the AHL Player of the Week in his first week on the job.
Visit the the AHL's website for the entire story.
SPRINGFIELD, Mass. … The American Hockey League announced today that Portland Pirates center Luke Adam has been named the Reebok/AHL Player of the Week for the period ending Oct. 10, 2010.
Adam, making his regular-season professional debut, notched four points to pace Portland to a 6-5 win over Manchester on Saturday night. He assisted on two first-period goals to help stake the Pirates to 1-0 and 2-1 leads, and then scored the game-tying and go-ahead goals late in the third period as Portland rallied for the victory. Adam was a plus-2 on the evening and tied a game high with five shots on goal while earning first-star honors.
Visit the the AHL's website for the entire story.
Saturday, May 15, 2010
Odds & Ends: Southorn talking; Tropp on the way?
With 2008 draft pick Jordon Southorn recently finishing his fourth QMJHL season, The Guardian is reporting that player agent Don Meehan is talking to the Sabres about a pro deal.
Enter the Sabres blueline pipeline, where the system is rich with numbers. With Dennis Persson (one year), T.J. Brennan (two), and Drew Schiestel (two) having term remaining on their first contracts, and Nick Crawford recently added to the fold, it is thought that decisions on Portland defenders Matt Generous and Mike Kostka will play a role in what shakes out with Southorn and recent Harvard grad, Alex Biega.
The 5'11 Biega, who served as the Crimson captain this past season, moves well and plays a smart game, but the Sabres have to decide if he has enough juice to produce on the power play while providing consistent even-strength support. In 131 NCAA games in Cambridge, the Montreal native collected 15 goals and 55 assists with a net +1 rating.
Southorn, on the other hand, is waiting and working a summer job after an up-and-down season that saw a shift in his approach.
Southorn isn't a poor depth option by any stretch, but I was surprised to hear that discussions are taking place because there aren't that many jobs to go around in an organization that doesn't use an ECHL affiliate.
The Sabres have five blueliners under contract (Butler, Rivet, Sekera, Montador, Myers) entering 2010-11, with the expectation that RFAs Marc-Andre Gragnani and Mike Weber will be tendered. There is also the potential for UFA back-up plans like a Dennis Seidenberg and perhaps a Dan Hamhuis to be in place in the event that one of both of Henrik Tallinder and Toni Lydman sign elsewhere.
If you look at the depth chart, I already have Brayden McNabb penciled in to assume Dennis Persson's AHL slot beginning in 2011-12. I'll stop short of calling Persson a lame duck this early, but he will be entering the final year of his deal with the expectation of taking a huge developmental step on the Pirates blueline.
--------------------
After signing forward Luke Adam to an entry-level contract at the end of his junior season, the Sabres still have decisions to make with some forwards in the coming weeks.
It's becoming more of a certainty that Michigan State RW Corey Tropp will follow in the footsteps of past collegians Chris Butler, Nathan Gerbe, and Tim Kennedy by leaving school after his junior season to sign with the Sabres. The CCHA program has already lost juniors Jeff Petry (EDM) and Andrew Rowe (PHI) to the pro ranks this offseason, making Tropp's departure a no-brainer given the Sabres depth needs. The 6'0 winger led the Spartans this past season with 20 goals and 42 points, and with MSU bench boss Rick Comley not having a consistent track record for developing pro bodies, it may be in both parties best interests to shift the development cycle to the AHL.
With the Sabres short on forwards, it seems that Jacob Lagacé will ultimately get a look as well despite his disappointing finish with Cape Breton. The fifth-round pick in 2008, Lagacé scored five goals in 25 games with the Eagles after having 30 in 35 with Chicoutimi at the time of the deal.
----------------------------------
In other forward 'stuff', former first-rounder Marek Zagrapan has had his two-year KHL contract with Severstal terminated after one season. After a quick start in his return to European ice, the former Sagueneen/Amerk/Pirate found it tough to earn consistent time and ultimately became a non-factor down the stretch. It remains to be seen where Zagrapan will land moving forward, but the Sabres will continue to retain his NHL rights while the sting of another first round disappointment subsides.
--------------------------------
Speaking of Sabres European prospects, Felix Schutz made noise on the international stage when he scored the overtime winner as Germany shocked Team USA to win the opening game of the 2010 IIHF World Championships. It was a nice touch for Schutz after a tough second half in Portland that saw the tweener limited in ice time while being left off the Pirates clear day roster.
Schutz has two goals through three games for Germany, while fellow Sabres prospect Philip Gogulla has yet to record a point.
--------------------------------
When the University of North Dakota began stockpiling defensive recruits like Derek Forbort and Dillon Simpson, we began to think long and hard about the impact it would all have on Sabres 2008 third-rounder, Corey Fienhage. When Fienhage was sat late in the year in favor of forward-turned-defenseman Matt Davidson, those thoughts intensified.
When we reported that Fienhage was placed on the protected list by the WHL's Kamloops Blazers, the writing was seemingly being scribbled on the proverbial wall.
But when Fighting Sioux junior Chay Genoway announced that he would be returning to the team in 2010-11, the message on the wall stated that Fienhage was outsy.
Nothing is official, but whispers around Grand Forks are suggesting that Fienhage is as good as gone (along with Isles prospect David Toews). Fienhage needs to play, and since he didn't get in the lineup last season until Genoway suffered a concussion, it isn't too difficult to connect the dots.
My question is where does Fienhage go? If he opts for the WHL, his window to earn a deal is cut down to one season. Another option has him seeking a scholarship elsewhere, thus sending him to the USHL for a season of Jr. A to retain his NCAA eligibility, and in turn allow the Sabres to keep his rights for a longer term.
Fienhage is rugged and tough, and I would be eager to watch his game translate to the WHL. However, Fienhage is just 20 and needs consistent reps after playing a scant 39 games over two seasons with the Sioux. Couple that with the fact that the Sabres blueline prospect cupboard is already crowded, and I fully expect the Sabres to advise him to somehow stay in school.
--------------------------------
While we're at it, might as well make official what we already knew. Mark Adams, the Sabres fifth round pick last summer, will be enrolling at Providence College this fall. The right-hander will join Vermont junior defenseman Drew MacKenzie in the competitive Hockey East.
After a minor shoulder injury in the first half, "Roo" got his game clicking as the Steel's year wound down. Adams has good wheels that he'll need to use to limit stick infractions as he steps up a level of competition.
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Lastly, if you're not doing so already, try to follow SabresProspects on Twitter. I'll be in Los Angeles for the draft and will be using it to communicate throughout the entire week. This space will be updated as well, of course, but that feed should be more lively.
Southorn said his agent, Don Meehan, is talking with the Buffalo Sabres, the team that drafted him in the fourth round (104th overall) of the 2008 draft, about a three-year, entry-level contract. At the maximum, it can be worth over $825,000 a year.
Enter the Sabres blueline pipeline, where the system is rich with numbers. With Dennis Persson (one year), T.J. Brennan (two), and Drew Schiestel (two) having term remaining on their first contracts, and Nick Crawford recently added to the fold, it is thought that decisions on Portland defenders Matt Generous and Mike Kostka will play a role in what shakes out with Southorn and recent Harvard grad, Alex Biega.
The 5'11 Biega, who served as the Crimson captain this past season, moves well and plays a smart game, but the Sabres have to decide if he has enough juice to produce on the power play while providing consistent even-strength support. In 131 NCAA games in Cambridge, the Montreal native collected 15 goals and 55 assists with a net +1 rating.
Southorn, on the other hand, is waiting and working a summer job after an up-and-down season that saw a shift in his approach.
Southorn, who turns 20 today, had a solid 2009-10, if not bumpy one.
A pre-season suspension by the Rocket, his second in two seasons, cancelled Buffalo’s plans to bring him to its training camp.
But Southorn focused on his job, finished with a team-high plus-five plus-minus and fourth in hits with 86, and left the offence to itself (four goals, 19 assists, 67 games).
He was down 18 points in scoring from 2008-09, but up 18 points in his plus-minus ratio.
“I think my game changed this year. I was always the offensive guy. My plus-minus was up in the plusses,” he said. “My defensive game got much better. That’s what I was proud of.”
New head coach Eric Lavigne, hired in early October to replace the fired Guy Chouinard, stressed defensive zone coverage and it worked.
Southorn isn't a poor depth option by any stretch, but I was surprised to hear that discussions are taking place because there aren't that many jobs to go around in an organization that doesn't use an ECHL affiliate.
The Sabres have five blueliners under contract (Butler, Rivet, Sekera, Montador, Myers) entering 2010-11, with the expectation that RFAs Marc-Andre Gragnani and Mike Weber will be tendered. There is also the potential for UFA back-up plans like a Dennis Seidenberg and perhaps a Dan Hamhuis to be in place in the event that one of both of Henrik Tallinder and Toni Lydman sign elsewhere.
If you look at the depth chart, I already have Brayden McNabb penciled in to assume Dennis Persson's AHL slot beginning in 2011-12. I'll stop short of calling Persson a lame duck this early, but he will be entering the final year of his deal with the expectation of taking a huge developmental step on the Pirates blueline.
--------------------
After signing forward Luke Adam to an entry-level contract at the end of his junior season, the Sabres still have decisions to make with some forwards in the coming weeks.
It's becoming more of a certainty that Michigan State RW Corey Tropp will follow in the footsteps of past collegians Chris Butler, Nathan Gerbe, and Tim Kennedy by leaving school after his junior season to sign with the Sabres. The CCHA program has already lost juniors Jeff Petry (EDM) and Andrew Rowe (PHI) to the pro ranks this offseason, making Tropp's departure a no-brainer given the Sabres depth needs. The 6'0 winger led the Spartans this past season with 20 goals and 42 points, and with MSU bench boss Rick Comley not having a consistent track record for developing pro bodies, it may be in both parties best interests to shift the development cycle to the AHL.
With the Sabres short on forwards, it seems that Jacob Lagacé will ultimately get a look as well despite his disappointing finish with Cape Breton. The fifth-round pick in 2008, Lagacé scored five goals in 25 games with the Eagles after having 30 in 35 with Chicoutimi at the time of the deal.
----------------------------------
In other forward 'stuff', former first-rounder Marek Zagrapan has had his two-year KHL contract with Severstal terminated after one season. After a quick start in his return to European ice, the former Sagueneen/Amerk/Pirate found it tough to earn consistent time and ultimately became a non-factor down the stretch. It remains to be seen where Zagrapan will land moving forward, but the Sabres will continue to retain his NHL rights while the sting of another first round disappointment subsides.
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Speaking of Sabres European prospects, Felix Schutz made noise on the international stage when he scored the overtime winner as Germany shocked Team USA to win the opening game of the 2010 IIHF World Championships. It was a nice touch for Schutz after a tough second half in Portland that saw the tweener limited in ice time while being left off the Pirates clear day roster.
Schutz has two goals through three games for Germany, while fellow Sabres prospect Philip Gogulla has yet to record a point.
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When the University of North Dakota began stockpiling defensive recruits like Derek Forbort and Dillon Simpson, we began to think long and hard about the impact it would all have on Sabres 2008 third-rounder, Corey Fienhage. When Fienhage was sat late in the year in favor of forward-turned-defenseman Matt Davidson, those thoughts intensified.
When we reported that Fienhage was placed on the protected list by the WHL's Kamloops Blazers, the writing was seemingly being scribbled on the proverbial wall.
But when Fighting Sioux junior Chay Genoway announced that he would be returning to the team in 2010-11, the message on the wall stated that Fienhage was outsy.
Nothing is official, but whispers around Grand Forks are suggesting that Fienhage is as good as gone (along with Isles prospect David Toews). Fienhage needs to play, and since he didn't get in the lineup last season until Genoway suffered a concussion, it isn't too difficult to connect the dots.
My question is where does Fienhage go? If he opts for the WHL, his window to earn a deal is cut down to one season. Another option has him seeking a scholarship elsewhere, thus sending him to the USHL for a season of Jr. A to retain his NCAA eligibility, and in turn allow the Sabres to keep his rights for a longer term.
Fienhage is rugged and tough, and I would be eager to watch his game translate to the WHL. However, Fienhage is just 20 and needs consistent reps after playing a scant 39 games over two seasons with the Sioux. Couple that with the fact that the Sabres blueline prospect cupboard is already crowded, and I fully expect the Sabres to advise him to somehow stay in school.
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While we're at it, might as well make official what we already knew. Mark Adams, the Sabres fifth round pick last summer, will be enrolling at Providence College this fall. The right-hander will join Vermont junior defenseman Drew MacKenzie in the competitive Hockey East.
Adams, a 6-foot-3, 210-pound defenseman, was selected by the Buffalo Sabres in the fifth round (134th overall) of the 2009 NHL Entry Draft. He played three seasons at Malden Catholic High School before spending one season with the Chicago Steel of the United States Hockey League. While with Chicago, Adams played in 53 games and recorded four goals and 10 assists for 14 points during the 2009-10 season.
After a minor shoulder injury in the first half, "Roo" got his game clicking as the Steel's year wound down. Adams has good wheels that he'll need to use to limit stick infractions as he steps up a level of competition.
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Lastly, if you're not doing so already, try to follow SabresProspects on Twitter. I'll be in Los Angeles for the draft and will be using it to communicate throughout the entire week. This space will be updated as well, of course, but that feed should be more lively.
Wednesday, April 7, 2010
Sabres ink Adam
Sources close to both sides of the equation are indicating that Luke Adam has been signed to a three-year entry-level contract by the Buffalo Sabres. Adam, who recently finished second in voting for QMJHL MVP after a 49-goal campaign in Cape Breton, will head to Portland to join the Pirates in preparation for the start of the AHL playoffs.
Adam, 19, comes to the Sabres after a dominating second half that saw him return from Team Canada's silver medal winning performance at the 2010 World Junior Championships to score 24 goals in the Eagles' final 23 games. The 6'2 center totaled 90 points in all to finish fifth in QMJHL scoring while his 1.61 points-per-game was tops in the league.
The St. John's, Newfoundland native can play center and left wing while contributing down low on the power play. Adam, who approaches the game with "a passion for scoring goals", lit the lamp with a respectable 17.8 shooting percentage this past season to set the table for a professional entry.
Adam, 19, comes to the Sabres after a dominating second half that saw him return from Team Canada's silver medal winning performance at the 2010 World Junior Championships to score 24 goals in the Eagles' final 23 games. The 6'2 center totaled 90 points in all to finish fifth in QMJHL scoring while his 1.61 points-per-game was tops in the league.
The St. John's, Newfoundland native can play center and left wing while contributing down low on the power play. Adam, who approaches the game with "a passion for scoring goals", lit the lamp with a respectable 17.8 shooting percentage this past season to set the table for a professional entry.
Sunday, March 28, 2010
3/27 Recap: Five more bounced as Sioux, Eagles lose
Brad Eidsness put forth a solid effort Saturday, stopping 20 shots and keeping his team competitive as North Dakota lost in the NCAA Northeast Regional to Yale, 3-2. Eidsness was beaten by a first period tip before surrendering goals via an inside cut-and-deke and a bad rebound off the rear boards to allow the Bulldogs a 3-0 lead through 40-minutes. The sophomore ends his season 24-10-4 with a 2.11 goals against average and .914 save percentage. Corey Fienhage was even on the Sioux blue to end the year with two assists and a +4 rating in 30 appearances.
At the NCAA Midwest Regional in Fort Wayne, Connor Knapp served as back-up as Miami edged Alabama-Huntsville, 2-1. With Coach Enrico Blasi sticking to his goaltender rotation, Cody Reichard earned the nod over the hot-handed Knapp to guide the RedHawks into a Sunday showdown versus CCHA rival Michigan with a Frozen berth on the line. The RedHawks and Wolverines will rematch last week's CCHA semifinal which saw UM light Reichard up for five goals and force Knapp in to stop the bleeding. As of now, it is unclear who gets the Sunday call, but there's no question that Knapp is deserving.
In the QMJHL, Luke Adam (-2), Maxime Legault (-2), and Jacob Lagacé (-1) were all quiet as Cape Breton was bounced out of the playoffs thanks to a 4-0 blanking by Moncton. Legault, who had the best scoring chance of the three when he was stopped on an early breakaway, was the best Eagles forward throughout the 4-1 series loss, showing heart and character when the majority of the club was playing a baffling uninspired brand of hockey.
Adam, a candidate for league MVP, ends the series with three goals, an assist, and a -8 rating. Legault banged in a goal, while Lagacé collected three assists and just eight shots on goal in the five-game affair. It is expected that the Sabres will look to bolster their AHL affiliate in Portland by adding one or two Eagles for the playoff run. SabresProspects sees Adam and Legault as the most logical choices for extended duty.
In the USHL, Mark Adams was whistled for three minor penalties as Chicago lost to Des Moines, 4-3.
At the NCAA Midwest Regional in Fort Wayne, Connor Knapp served as back-up as Miami edged Alabama-Huntsville, 2-1. With Coach Enrico Blasi sticking to his goaltender rotation, Cody Reichard earned the nod over the hot-handed Knapp to guide the RedHawks into a Sunday showdown versus CCHA rival Michigan with a Frozen berth on the line. The RedHawks and Wolverines will rematch last week's CCHA semifinal which saw UM light Reichard up for five goals and force Knapp in to stop the bleeding. As of now, it is unclear who gets the Sunday call, but there's no question that Knapp is deserving.
In the QMJHL, Luke Adam (-2), Maxime Legault (-2), and Jacob Lagacé (-1) were all quiet as Cape Breton was bounced out of the playoffs thanks to a 4-0 blanking by Moncton. Legault, who had the best scoring chance of the three when he was stopped on an early breakaway, was the best Eagles forward throughout the 4-1 series loss, showing heart and character when the majority of the club was playing a baffling uninspired brand of hockey.
Adam, a candidate for league MVP, ends the series with three goals, an assist, and a -8 rating. Legault banged in a goal, while Lagacé collected three assists and just eight shots on goal in the five-game affair. It is expected that the Sabres will look to bolster their AHL affiliate in Portland by adding one or two Eagles for the playoff run. SabresProspects sees Adam and Legault as the most logical choices for extended duty.
In the USHL, Mark Adams was whistled for three minor penalties as Chicago lost to Des Moines, 4-3.
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