1/18 Recap: Cat pounces on PP

Dan Catenacci scored his 23rd goal in regulation and then another in the shootout to help spark Owen Sound to a 5-4 come-from-behind win over Kingston. With the Attack trailing 4-2 in the third period, Catenacci buried a Cody Ceci rebound to cut the deficit in half. The Attack travel to Belleville on Saturday.



Brady Austin returned after missing two weeks with a hand injury as Belleville toppled Niagara 7-2 to earn their fourth straight victory. Tyler Graovac (MIN) and Brendan Gaunce (VAN) each got fat with a plus-six rating in the win.

Justin Kea (-1) was unable to point as Saginaw defeated Sault Ste. Marie 5-3. Kea, who has eight points in his last six games, will look to continue his excellent January when the Spirit tackle Erie on Saturday.

Alex Lepkowski finished with an even rating as Barrie dropped a 3-2 decision at Sudbury. The Colts take on Kitchener on Saturday.

In the WHL, Andrey Makarov made 27 saves as Saskatoon held on for a 5-4 win over Moose Jaw. The victory was Makarov's first in four starts since returning from the World Junior Championship. The Blades host Brandon on Saturday.

Colin Jacobs did not get in on the scoring as Prince George lost to Calgary 5-3. Jacobs continues to struggle in January, posting just one goal in seven games since flipping the calendar. The second-worst team in the league standings, PG will travel to Red Deer on Saturday.

In NCAA action, Jake McCabe finished plus-one as Wisconsin extended their winning streak to seven games and their unbeaten run to 11 with a 1-0 triumph over No. 8 Miami. Brad Navin did not factor for the Badgers, who will go for the home sweep on Saturday.

Christian Isackson continued to bounce around the lineup Friday, this time centering a checking line as Minnesota earned a 5-1 win over North Dakota. The Gophers will battle their rivals for the final time in the regular season as member of the WCHA on Saturday.

Joel Armia (-1) registered four shots on goal in 16:51 of work as Assat lost to the Espoo Blues 4-1. The two clubs will play it back on Saturday.

Judd Peterson (-1) went without a point as Cedar Rapids was trumped by Waterloo 7-3. The Junior A rookie will look to snap a four-game funk Saturday versus Sioux Falls.

Phil Varone scored a goal and an assist and Brian Flynn added his 13th goal as Rochester skated to a 4-1 victory over Syracuse. Evan Rankin andMark Mancari added the other Amerks tallies, while David Leggio made 26 stops to improve to 19-12-4-1 on the year.

Jerome Gauthier-Leduc was a healthy scratch following a career-low minus-four in Wednesday's loss to Binghamton.

The Amerks are off until Monday's 1:05 PM matinee with Hamilton.

The Rundown:
Varone: G, A, +2
Flynn: G
Sundher: A
Adam: A
Crawford: A, +2
Schiestel: +2
McNabb: even
Pysyk: SOG
Parker: even

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.

1/5 Recap: Kea shorties lead way; Peterson streak hits four

Justin Kea notched the first three-point game of his career with a pair of shorthanded goals and an assist as Saginaw handled Owen Sound 6-2. Kea, who buried a shorthanded breakaway to give the Spirit a 1-0 lead in the opening period, intercepted a pass and put the fork in the Attack with his second goal of the game late in the third period. The 6-foot-4 pivot has 31 points (13+18) through 40 games heading into Sunday's tilt with Guelph . Daniel Catenacci (-2) went without a point for the Attack, who next take the ice Wednesday at Erie.

In the USHL, Judd Peterson extended his point streak to four games with a goal and an assist as Cedar Rapids pitched a 6-1 blowout of Waterloo. Peterson, who racked up a career-best plus-four rating in the win, has an even 20 points (7+13) through 26 games.

Brady Austin did not play due to a hand injury as Belleville earned a 6-2 win over Sault Ste. Marie. The severity of Austin's injury is unknown at this time but could force the Bulls to shop for a defender at the upcoming trade deadline.

In Sweden, Linus Ullmark stopped all 26 shots sent his way as MODO J20 blanked Sodertalje 5-0. The J20 will square off with Djurgardens on Sunday.

Colin Jacobs finished with a minus-one rating as Prince George was doubled by Kelowna 8-4. The Cougars played with just 15 skaters for the second straight game.

Brad Navin sat out as Wisconsin edged Alaska-Anchorage 1-0.Navin has played in just one of two games for the past three weekend for the Badgers as Mike Eaves rotates his bottom line forwards.

David Leggio made 28 saves as Rochester was defeated 3-1 at Abbotsford. Kevin Sundher and T.J. Brennan drew assists on the lone Amerks goal scored by Nick Tarnasky.

The Rundown:
Brennan: A, SOG
Sundher: A, 2 PIM
Adam: -1
Girgensons: -1
Foligno: 3 SOG
Varone: 2 SOG
Crawford: -1
Pysyk: -1, SOG
Flynn: -1, SOG
Parker: even

McCabe on point as Americans advance

Jake McCabe earned his third point of the 2013 World Junior Championship, an assist, as Team USA easily advanced to the semi-final round with a 7-0 victory over the Czech Republic. The win sets us a rematch with continental rival Canada Thursday at 4:00 AM ET for the right to play for the gold medal.

Again paired with 2013 draft eligible Seth Jones, McCabe saw his share of ice time upped with Shayne Gostisbehere (PHI) serving a one-game IIHF suspension. The Wisconsin sophomore earned his helper when John Gaudreau struck on the power play in the first minute of the second period to give the Americans a 2-0 lead.

The Americans have improved game-over-game, allowing just seven goals all tournament, heading into their second meeting in five days with their neighbors to the north.

 --- 

On Tuesday, Brady Austin finished with a minus-one rating as Belleville lost to Peterborough 4-3 in a shootout. The Bulls will look to avenge the defeat when the two clubs play it back on Thursday.

12/29 Recap: Grigorenko dishes; Peterson posts best

Mikhail Grigorenko notched a pair of assists Saturday as Russia downed Germany 7-0 at the 2013 World Junior Championship.

The crafty pivot feathered a beautiful saucer pass to former Quebec Remparts teammate Nikita Kucherov for the game winning goal at 1:18 of the first period. It was the second time he connected with Kucherov in the tourney, with both goals coming on nearly identical plays. Grigorenko would later send a soft pass back to the point that was pounded in for a goal by Albert Yarullin to make it a 4-0 score. After three tourney tilts, Grigorenko has accumulated three helpers, two penalty minutes, a plus-three rating, and 16 shots on goal.



Following his masterful 41-save performance in Friday's win over the USA, goaltender Andrey Makarov was given the day off while Igor Ustinsky was tabbed to backup Tampa prospect Andrei Vasilevski.

With three wins and eight points in the tournament, Russia gets a day off before battling Canada in a game that will likely settle first place in Group B.

Elsewhere, Judd Peterson posted a career-best three points (1+2) as Cedar Rapids was defeated by Waterloo 7-4. The St. Cloud State commit scored his sixth goal of year, and first on the power play, at 11:46 of the opening period to give the Riders a 1-0 lead. Buffalo Jr. Sabres product Andrew Poturalski drew an assist on the play. Cedar Rapids closes the 2012 portion of the schedule Monday at Tri-City.

Colin Jacobs scored a goal and and assist as Prince George coughed up a three-goal third period lead in losing a 4-3 shootout decision at Victoria. Jacobs has five points in four outings since returning from a six-game suspension. Prince George completes a three games in three nights run Sunday in Vancouver. The Royals were playing without Logan Nelson, the team's second-leading scorer who injured his left leg in Friday's victory over the Cougars. His status going forward is still to be determined pending results of Saturday's medical exam.



In OHL action, Brady Austin assisted on the game winning goal as Belleville edged Kitchener 3-2. The 6-foot-4 defender has two goals and eight points in his last 11 games. Belleville begins a home-and-home series with Peterborough on Tuesday.



Justin Kea posted a power play assist in Saginaw's 8-3 pummeling of Windsor. The Spirit trailed 3-1 in the first minute of the second period before unleashing seven unanswered goals to get the victory. Saginaw next hits the road for a Monday tilt at Sault Ste. Marie.

In NCAA play, Christian Isackson posted a nice assist as Minnesota advanced to the final of the Mariucci Classic with a 4-0 win over Air Force. Isackson chased a loose puck down in the second period and quickly fed it to a crashing Ryan Reilly to give the Gophers a 2-0 lead. On Sunday, Minnesota will square off with Boston College, winners over Alabama-Huntsville in Saturday's opener, for the tourney title.



In the AHL, Marcus Foligno scored his 10th goal of the year and David Leggio earned the game's number two star with 27 saves, but Rochester dropped a 2-1 home-ice decision to Binghamton. The goal gives Foligno points in three straight games heading into Monday's matinee versus Hamilton.

The Rundown:
Foligno: G, +1, 3 SOG
Brennan: -1, 6 SOG, 4 PIM
McNabb: -1, 2 SOG
Flynn: A, +1
Girgensons: -2, SOG
Sundher: SOG
Gauthier-Leduc: SOG
Varone: -2, 2 SOG
Pysyk: even
Adam: even

12/28 Recap: Cat bags 20th; Nelson injured

Dan Catenacci scored his 20th goal of the year Friday and added an assist as Owen Sound cruised to a 6-1 win over Erie. Catenacci, who now has goals in three straight games, collected multiple points for the 16th time this season. The Attack return to action Sunday in Oshawa.



Brady Austin was whistled for a minor penalty in Belleville's 6-3 doubling of Guelph. The Bulls battle Kitchener on Saturday.

In the WHL, Logan Nelson left the game in the first period with a left leg (ankle) injury and did not return as Victoria earned a 5-1 victory over Prince George. The Royals second-leading scorer, Nelson was immediately put on crutches and will be re-evaluated Saturday to determine the length of his absence. The Royals are already without leading point man Alex Gogolev. Colin Jacobs was a minus-one for the Cougars. The two clubs will play a rematch on Saturday.

In USHL play, Judd Peterson recorded two shots on goal as Cedar Rapids downed Des Moines 4-1. The RoughRiders host Waterloo on Saturday.

In Sweden, Linus Ullmark served as backup to Bernhard Starkbaum as MODO defeated Lulea 4-1. MODO hosts Farjestads BK on Sunday.

10/27 Recap: Armia unloads; Kea extends streak

Joel Armia scored on the power play Saturday as Assat lost 4-3 to KalPa. The big wing unloaded a one-timer from the left side for his eighth of the year as the Aces third period comeback came up a goal short. Next up for Assat is a Wednesday meeting with the Espoo Blues.


Also from Europe, Linus Ullmark made 20 saves as MODO J20 scored a late goal to capture a 4-3 win over AIK. Ullmark was a driving force with many big saves late in the game en route to picking up his fifth win of the year. MODO J20 will face Vasteras on Sunday.

In the OHL, Dan Catenacci notched the game winning goal as Owen Sound downed Sudbury 3-1. Catenacci, who added an assist on a Cameron Brace empty-netter, has seven goals and 16 points through the first 13 games. The Attack go back at it Sunday versus Windsor.


Justin Kea picked up an assist to extend his point streak to a career-best four games as Saginaw dropped a 3-1 decision at Peterborough. The 6-foot-4 center elevates his season line to 11 points (3+8) through 15 games. He posted a line of 3-11-14 in 65 games a season ago. After playing three games in three nights, the Spirit get to rest their legs until Saturday's meeting with Belleville.


Alex Lepkowski finished with an even rating as Barrie downed Niagara 4-1. Lepkowski continues to play tough defensively while also seeing time at the left point on Barrie's power play. The Colts travel to Sudbury on Friday.

Brady Austin did not factor into the scoring as Belleville pitched a 1-0 shutout of Kingston. The Bulls are off until Friday when they visit London.


In the WHL, Colin Jacobs connected for a pair of assists as Prince George dominated early but needed a shootout to get a 3-2 win over Brandon. Normally an ace breakaway performer, Jacobs missed on a penalty shot attempt in regulation and was stopped as the first Cougars shooter in the tiebreaking frame. The 6-foot-2 center has 18 points (8+10) at the 15 game benchmark. Prince George returns to action Friday at Kamloops.



Logan Nelson registered an assist in Victoria's 5-2 loss at Kamloops. The helper maintains Nelson's point-per-game pace through the first 15 games of the year (3+12). The Royals continue their road trip next Friday at Portland.



In the USHL, Judd Peterson scored a late third-period goal as Cedar Rapids fell short in a 3-2 loss to undefeated Dubuque. The St. Cloud State commit capitalized on a turnover and scored through the five-hole in the game's final minute. The RoughRiders host Tri-City on Friday.

In NCAA play, Jake McCabe and Brad Navin were unable to factor into the scoring as Wisconsin played to a 2-2 tie at Minnesota-Duluth. The Badgers return home next weekend for a WCHA set with Colorado College.

Mark Adams played even as Providence earned the weekend sweep with a 3-0 win over Maine. Jon Gillies (CAL) made 26 saves for his first career NCAA shutout. The Friars continue the Hockey East schedule next weekend at Vermont.

In AHL play, Rick Schofield recorded the first two-goal game of his AHL career to lead the Rochester Americans to a 6-2 win at Adirondack.

Schofield scarfed up a rebound to give Rochester at 1-0 lead 9:28 of the opening period. Frederick Roy assisted on the goal to record his first professional point.

Schofield again lit the lamp in the middle frame, sandwiched between power play marks by Kevin Porter and Evan Rankin as the Amerks took a 4-1 lead into the second intermission.

The Phantoms would get one back in the third before Nick Crawford's empty-netter and Nick Tarnasky's first of the year sealed the deal for Rochester.

With assists on the Rankin goal, Marcus Foligno and Cody Hodgson each hit the 10-point mark in game number eight to gain a share of the AHL scoring lead. T.J. Brennan went without a point to see his four-game point streak snapped.

Rochester heads home for Friday's tilt with Hamilton. The contest will be the first of five Friday night home games for the Amerks.

10/24 Recap: Kea points in Spirit loss

Justin Kea played a solid all-around game, notching an assist and playing strong defensively as Saginaw was shellacked by Erie 7-1. The 6-foot-4 forward has a goal and seven assists through the Spirit's first 13 games. Erie's 15-year old sensation Connor McDavid picked up an assist to extend his point streak to 12 games.

Also from the OHL, Brady Austin played even as Belleville was drilled by Mississauga 6-1. Austin was on the ice for two power play goals against and another even-strength marker to finish the night with a -1 rating. Losers of two straight, the Bulls next take the ice Saturday at home versus Kingston.

Colin Jacobs did not score as Prince George defeated Spokane 4-2. The Cougars welcome Brandon to town on Saturday.

10/19 Recap: Grigo pots 10th; Cat first star

Mikhail Grigorenko scored his 10th goal of the year as Quebec lost to Victoriaville 6-3. The goal extends Grigorenko's season-starting point streak to 11 games. The Remparts, who lost for just the second time this season, return to the ice Sunday at Drummondville.


Dan Catenacci (+3) notched a pair of assists as Owen Sound skated to a 4-1 triumph over Ottawa. Catenacci's brilliant, no-quit effort earned him the number one star honor. The Attack remain home for Saturday's game with Oshawa.


Justin Kea did not factor into the scoring as Saginaw clobbered Saginaw 6-1. Saginaw welcomes Guelph to town on Saturday.

Brady Austin was -1 as Belleville was defeated by Sudbury 3-2. The Bulls are off until Wednesday when they play Mississauga.

In the WHL, Andrey Makarov made 26 saves as Saskatoon came up short in a 2-1 loss to Swift Current. The Blades will look to get back on track Saturday versus Everett.

In the USHL, Judd Peterson was -2 with a roughing minor as Cedar Rapids held off Indiana to earn a 4-3 victory. Buffalo Jr. Sabres product Andrew Poturalski scored the game winning goal in his first-ever USHL game. The RoughRiders will travel to Indiana Saturday to complete the home-and-home series.

In NCAA play, Christian Isackson assisted on a Nick Bjugstad goal as #1 Minnesota dropped a 5-3 decision at Michigan Tech. The sophomore forward has points in all three Gopher tilts this season.

Mark Adams skated on the second defensive pair as Providence played to a 1-1 tie with Miami.

In Rochester, the Amerks dug themselves out of a two-goal deficit in the second period en route to earning a 4-3 win over Grand Rapids. Brian Flynn (first professional goal), T.J. Brennan, Phil Varone, and Marcus Foligno all scored for the Amerks.

Frederick Roy made his AHL debut, appearing on a line with Nick Tarnasky and Rick Schofield. The other units:

Girgensons - Porter - Flynn
Foligno - Varone - Rankin
Adam - Hodgson - Mancari

McNabb - Pysyk
Finley - MacKenzie
Brennan - Biega

10/13 Recap: Catenacci powers Attack; Austin posts career best

Dan Catenacci scored his second goal of the game in the final minute of regulation and then notched the shootout winner as Owen Sound downed Peterborough 5-4. The 5-foot-10 speedster has six goals, 11 points, and two shootout winners in nine games this season. The Attack are off until Friday when they host Ottawa.


Elsewhere in the OHL, Brady Austin earned the game's number two star with a career-best three assists as Belleville skated to a 4-1 win over Oshawa. Austin has collected five helpers through the Bulls' first nine games.


Alex Lepkowski played even as Barrie earned a 2-1 victory over Sudbury. The Colts are back at it Thursday versus Ottawa.

In USHL action, Judd Peterson pocketed a pair of assists as Cedar Rapids was dealt a wild 8-7 shootout loss to Green Bay. The St. Cloud State commit has a goal and four points through his first four games in a RoughRiders uniform.

In Sweden, Linus Ullmark made 28 stops as MODO J20 defeated Leksands 5-3. The win was Ullmark's second in as many days after being returned to MODO from his loan to Mora.

In Finland, Joel Armia finished -1 in 13:34 of work as Assat lost to Tappara 2-1. Armia will enter Thursday's game against Karpat with nine points (6+3) in 13 games.

In WHL action, Andrey Makarov made 27 saves to backbone Saskatoon to a 5-2 win over Lethbridge. Makarov's victory, his first in two weeks (since 9/29), improves his season record to 3-6 with a 3.51 goals against average and .888 save percentage. The Blades continue their road cruise through Alberta on Sunday with a stop in Medicine Hat.


Logan Nelson earned an assist on the game winning goal as Victoria edged Kelowna 3-2. Fellow Minnesotan Ben Walker (undrafted) had a pair of goals for the winners.


Colin Jacobs (-3) saw his eight-game point streak come to an end as Prince George was buried by Medicine Hat 7-2.

In the college ranks, Christian Isackson netted a pair of assists as #2 Minnesota cruised to a 7-1 hammering of Michigan State. Isackson helped out on goals by linemates Nick Bjugstad (game winner) and Kyle Rau. The Gophers will look to keep their early momentum going next weekend at Michigan Tech.


Mark Adams was +1 with a shot on goal as Providence lost to Boston University 4-2. The Friars return to the road next weekend when they visit #8 Miami.

Brad Navin (-1) and Jake McCabe were both held off the scoresheet as Wisconsin was swept by Northern Michigan 4-2. The Badgers open WCHA conference play next weekend at Minnesota-Duluth.

In the AHL, Marcus Foligno scored on the power play but it was all the Rochester Americans could muster in taking a 3-1 loss to Toronto. David Leggio made 34 saves including 15 in the third period. The Amerks host Binghamton on Tuesday.

10/12 Recap: Amerks open with win

Corey Tropp scored a pair of goals and Mark Mancari scored the only mark in the shootout as Rochester opened the 2012-13 season Friday with a 6-5 win over Syracuse.

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.

10/10 Recap: Cat pounces; Jacobs, Nelson extend streaks

Daniel Catenacci scored his fourth goal of the year as Owen Sound earned a 4-2 win over Plymouth. Effective at the faceoff circle throughout, Catenacci pounced for a power play goal a little over five minutes in to give the Attack a 1-0 lead.



Brady Austin was even as Belleville defeated Brampton 2-1 in a shootout. The two clubs will play a rematch Friday in Brampton.

In the WHL, Colin Jacobs scored his seventh goal of the year off a nice breakaway deke as Prince George edged Kootenay 5-4. The 6-foot-2 center now has seven goals and 13 points through the Cougars' first seven games to place second in WHL scoring.

Logan Nelson assisted on both Victoria goals as the Royals fell to Kamloops 5-2. Nelson has points in five straight games to up his total to 11 (3+8) on the year.

Andrey Makarov made 27 saves as Saskatoon lost to Portland 4-0. Goal support continues to be an issue for the Blades, who have been outscored 23-5 over their last four games - all losses.

10/9 Recap: Ulmark captures victory

Linus Ullmark made 21 saves Tuesday as Mora overcame a two-goal deficit to defeat Asploven 4-2. The victory improves Ullmark's record to 4-2 with a 2.10 goals against average and .904 save percentage. Mora returns to action Friday against IF Troja/Ljungby.

On Monday, Brady Austin finished even as Belleville lost to Oshawa 4-3 in overtime. The Bulls host Brampton on Wednesday.

10/6 Recap: Grigorenko, Nelson spark Saturday wins

Mikhail Grigorenko scored a pair of goals Saturday as Quebec blew past Rimouski 7-2. Grigorenko had his speed and puckhandling abilities on display from the get-go between linemates Logan Shaw (FLA) and 2013 draft eligible Adam Erne. The brilliant center now has six goals and 16 points on the year, good for a share of the QMJHL scoring lead, while boosting the Remparts to a perfect 7-0 start. The CHL's top-ranked club, Quebec will conclude the weekend with a Sunday visit to Blainville-Boisbriand.


In the WHL, Logan Nelson scored two regulation goals and the only mark in the shootout to lead Victoria to a 4-3 win at Tri-City. Nelson, who earlier had tied the game 2-2 with a nice backhand finish, struck again with 35-seconds to play in the third to force the OT. The first-star effort gives Nelson three goals, eight points, and two shootout winners in the Royals' first seven games.


Colin Jacobs kept rolling with a goal and an assist as Prince George was outgunned by Kelowna 7-5. The big Texan opened up for a second-period one-timer as the Cougars attempted to overcome a three-goal deficit. Jacobs has points in all six Cougars' contests this year en route to co-leading the WHL with 12 points (6+6).


Andrey Makarov made 31 saves as Saskatoon lost 4-1 at Edmonton. Makarov surrendered three power play goals in the middle frame to see his record drop to 2-4 with a 3.59 goals against average and .888 save percentage.

In the OHL, Dan Catenacci scored the game winning goal in the shootout as Owen Sound defeated Guelph 4-3. In the second period, Catenacci picked up an assist when the rebound of his speedy breakaway attempt was buried to give him seven points (3+4) through the Attack's first seven games.



Alex Lepkowski notched a pair of assists as Barrie won their fourth straight game 4-3 over Peterborough. Lepkowski's breakout pass earned him a secondary helper on Mark Scheifele's game winner in the final minute of regulation. The multi-point effort was the third of Lepkowski's career and his first since a one-goal, one-assist outing last April in game six of the OHL Eastern Conference semifinal.



Belleville defenseman Brady Austin skated even as the Bulls got past Ottawa 5-3. Sean Monahan ('13) scored his fourth goal of the year for the 67's in a losing effort.

Justin Kea played even as Saginaw earned a 2-1 shootout win over Kitchener. Next up for Spirit is a Thursday visit to Barrie.

In Finland, Joel Armia earned a season-high 20:16 of work but was unable to score as Assat edged TPS 2-1. Former Sabres forward Mike Ryan scored the shootout winner for the Aces, who are off until Wednesday's tilt at Jokerit.

In NCAA exhibition play, Christian Isackson netted a natural hat trick as Minnesota crushed the University of Lethbridge 7-0. Isackson, who manned the right side on a line with Nick Bjugstad (FLA) and Kyle Rau (FLA), scored scored the first three goals of the game as the Gophers dominated with 65 shots on goal.


Brad Navin collected two assists as the Badgers skated to a 5-0 exhibition win over the U.S. U-18 squad. Navin, who made nice pass to slot for his second helper of the night, skated on a line with Joseph Labate (VAN) and Brendan Woods (CAR). Defenseman Jake McCabe sat out with an upper body injury.


In the USHL, Judd Peterson did not dress as Cedar Rapids was handled by Youngstown 5-1. The RoughRiders continue their homestand Friday versus Muskegon.

9/29 Recap: Grigo, Ullmark continue good starts

In Saturday QMJHL action, Mikhail Grigorenko scored a pair of goals including a beauty on a breakaway as Quebec rolled to their third straight win 5-0 over Sherbrooke. Grigorenko, who finished just 4/16 (25%) at the faceoff circle, scored what would eventually hold up as the game winner just 2:35 into the game. He'd go in all alone to add another, his third of the year, late in the second period. Nick Sorensen ('13) added two goals for Quebec, who next do battle with Val-d'Or on Sunday.



Linus Ullmark made 25 saves and then another three in the shootout as Mora edged Leksands 3-2. Ullmark, who allowed a goal from long range midway through the third, now has three wins in four appearances since his loan from MODO while amassing a 1.61 goals against average (2nd in Allsvenskan) and .928 save percentage (4th). Ullmark could again get the nod when Mora plays Orebro on Wednesday.


In the WHL, Colin Jacobs earned an assist to extend his point streak to four games as Prince George was defeated in overtime by Seattle 2-1. The helper gives Jacobs nine points on the year, good for the co-lead among WHL scorers entering the Cougars' pair of tilts with Kelowna next weekend.


Andrey Makarov made 26 saves as Saskatoon clawed their way back to a 2-1 overtime win at Swift Current. The Blades will welcome Red Deer town on Wednesday.


In the OHL, Brady Austin picked up an assist as Belleville lost to Oshawa 5-2. Austin fed Jordan Subban ('13) for a power play mark in the first minute of the third period but the Bulls were unable to further mount a comeback. Belleville is off until Saturday's date with Oshawa.


Dan Catenacci was unable to score but did add four minutes to his OHL-leading penalty total as Owen Sound lost to Sarnia 2-1. After making it clear to the team earlier this week that undisciplined play will not be tolerated, the Attack coaching staff watched as Catenacci was whistled for a checking-from-behind minor three minutes into the game. Owen Sound is off until Friday's rematch with the Sting.

Justin Kea racked up six minutes in penalties as Saginaw dropped a 3-2 overtime decision to Sault Ste. Marie. The Spirit and Hounds will rematch Wednesday in Sault Ste. Marie.

Alex Lepkowski finished -1 as Barrie skated to a 4-1 win over Mississauga. The Colts and Steelheads will go back at it on Friday.

Judd Peterson potted an empty-net goal and added an assist as Cedar Rapids kicked off the 2012-12 schedule with a 4-1 win at Green Bay. The RoughRiders will play their home opener Friday against Fargo.

9/28 Recap: Nelson comes up big

Logan Nelson scored a regulation goal and the shootout winner Friday as Victoria got past Kamloops 4-3. Nelson, who also added an assist, knotted the game 2-2 when he cut hard to net from the corner to pot his first of the year at 5:52 of the third period. The Royals and Blazers will go at it again Sunday in Victoria.



Colin Jacobs scored his fourth goal of the year on a penalty shot and added an assist as Prince George edged Seattle 4-3. Jacobs now has an impressive eight points through the Cougars first three games. The two clubs will finish the two-game set on Saturday.


Dan Catenacci saw his three-game goal streak come to an end as Owen Sound held on for a 3-2 win over Guelph. The speedy center currently leads the OHL with 19 penalty minutes. The Attack return to action Saturday when they host Alex Galchenyuk and the Sarnia Sting. 

Brady Austin finished with an even rating as Belleville dropped a 1-0 decision to Brampton. The Bulls welcome Oshawa to town on Saturday.

Joel Armia went without a point for the third straight game as Assat was dealt a 2-1 loss at JYP. Armia reaped 19:41 of work with the Aces securing a total of eight power play opportunities in the contest. Assat is off until Tuesday when they host the Pelicans.

9/22 Recap: Jacobs begins with career best

Colin Jacobs posted a career-best five points Saturday as Prince George opened the regular season with a 6-0 blowout of Everett.

Jacobs got the ball rolling for the Cougars with a penalty shot goal at 6:43 of the first period. He later struck on the power play in the final minute of the second. The five-point night (2+3), which eclipsed Jacobs' previous high (4) set in December 2010, was a first for a Sabres prospect since Kevin Sundher's one-goal, four-assist performance last October. The Cougars and Silvertips will engage in a rematch Sunday.




Joel Armia scored his third goal of the year as Assat defeated HPK 4-1. The mark, which came in the opening minute of the second period, tied the game 1-1 as Assat began to take control of the game. The Aces get back at it Tuesday when they host HIFK.


In Sweden, Linus Ullmark came on in relief of Daniel Hansen, stopping seven of eight shots in 39:57 of work as Mora rallied from a two-goal deficit to defeat Djurgardens 5-4 in a shootout. Ullmark, who was making his Mora debut, allowed a power play goal off a quick feed from behind the night shortly after entering the game but held firm from there while his team carried the play over the final twenty minutes to force extra time. Mora returns to action Tuesday against Vasteras.

Elsewhere, Dan Catenacci notched a goal and an assist as Owen Sound defeated Saginaw 5-2. Catenacci has four points (2+2) after two regular season games. The Attack continue play Thursday at Barrie. Justin Kea finished -1 for the Spirit, who kick off their home schedule Thursday versus Sudbury.


Brady Austin was -2 as Belleville needed a shootout to defeat Plymouth 3-2. The Bulls take on the Battalion Friday night in Brampton.

In the WHL, Logan Nelson picked up a pair of even-strength assists in Victoria's 3-2 win over Vancouver. Nelson showed off his speed and passing on the second helper, breaking into the Giants zone and deftly sending a cross-ice saucer feed to Alex Gogolev. The Royals are off until Friday when they begin a two-game set with Kamloops.



Andrey Makarov made 25 saves as Saskatoon lost their home opener 5-2 to Prince Albert. The Blades made ti tough on themselves from the start, surrendering three goals in the top half of the first period including two on the power play. The Blades next take the ice Wednesday at Brandon.

9/21 Recap: Russian duo solid in openers

Mikhail Grigorenko scored a goal and three assists Friday as Quebec opened the QMJHL regular season with a 9-4 win over Chicoutimi. All three of Grigorenko's helpers came on goals by Anthony Duclair ('13), who also added an assist to his hat trick. The Remparts return to action Sunday versus Baie-Comeau.


In the WHL, Andrey Makarov made 40 saves to earn the game's #1 star as Saskatoon defeated Prince Albert 2-1 in a shootout. Makarov saw just five shots in the opening period, but was equal parts busy and spectacular the rest of the way beginning with a 17-save second. The Blades and Raiders will complete the home-and-home series Saturday in Saskatoon.


Logan Nelson was +1 as Victoria downed Vancouver 6-4. The two clubs will play it back Saturday in Victoria.

In the OHL, Justin Kea posted an assist as Saginaw squandered a two-goal late in a 4-3 overtime loss at Guelph. Kea was efficient at the faceoff circle all the way from a clean win on his first-period helper to another key decision in the final minute of regulation. Saginaw continues the schedule Saturday in Owen Sound.


Brady Austin assisted on an empty-net goal as Belleville skated to a 3-1 victory over Sarnia. The Bulls go back at it Saturday at Plymouth.


Alex Lepkowski earned an ejection as Barrie dropped their opener 3-1 to Kingston. At 4:30 of the middle frame, Lepkowski racked up a fighting major and an automatic misconduct for being third man in on an altercation. The Colts resume play Sunday at Mississauga.

At the USHL Fall Classic, Judd Peterson recorded two shots on goal as Cedar Rapids closed the preseason with a 3-0 win over Tri-City. The RoughRiders begin the regular season Saturday, September 29 at Green Bay.

9/14 Recap: Armia leads Aces; Peterson pots hatty

Joel Armia scored two goals and an assist to earn the game's #1 star Friday as Assat opened the regular season with a 3-0 shutout of Lukko. Not a bad start for a player who failed to light the lamp in four preseason appearances, and who a season ago needed 15 games to get his second regular season tally.

The 6-foot-3 wing racked up several quality chances throughout the game, unloading a total of 10 shots in 14:45 of work. He finally got the Aces on the board at 10:58 of the middle period when he took a pass as he crashed the net and calmly lifted a backhand. Armia would strike again just under 10-minutes later by unleashing a heavy wrist shot from the right circle to earn the game winning goal. He capped the three-point night late in the third by finding Mika Niemi from behind the net for the insurance marker. Assat continues their weekend with a Saturday tilt against TPS.


In USHL preseason action, 2012 seventh round pick Judd Peterson scored a hat trick as Cedar Rapids dropped a 5-4 overtime decision at Waterloo. The goals came in just Peterson's second junior "A" appearance after scoring 47 times in 30 games last season with Duluth Marshall High School. Taylor Cammarata, who will be in Buffalo on September 29th to play in the CCM/USA Hockey All American Prospects Game, bagged two goals and an assist including the overtime winner just 38-seconds into the extra period. The two clubs will play a rematch on Saturday.

In WHL play, newly-inked Andrey Makarov stopped all 13 shots faced over 31-minutes of work in Saskatoon's 2-1 win over Regina. Makarov started the game before giving way to Patrick Johnson midway trough the second period. The Blades and Pats will resume their weekend set Saturday in Saskatoon.

Colin Jacobs posted an assist as Prince George was defeated by Kamloops 4-3 in a shootout. The helper gives the 6-foot-2 center a goal and two assists through four preseason contests. The Cougars are now done with the preseason with their sights set on Saturday's regular season opener at Everett.

Logan Nelson went without a point in Victoria's 11-round shootout win over Vancouver. The 6-foot-1 Nelson missed in his attempt as the first Royals shooter in the deciding frames. The Royals head home for Saturday's preseason finale against Vancouver.

In the OHL, Brady Austin was left off the scoresheet as Belleville closed out the preseason with a 5-4 win over Oshawa. Austin, who was paired on defense with 2013 draft eligible Jordan Subban, wore an "A" for the Bulls. Belleville opens the regular season Friday at Sarnia.

Alex Lepkowski did not register as Barrie lost to Kitchener, 6-4. The 6-foot-4 rearguard has posted a goal and an assist in his exhibition work. The Colts will close the preseason Saturday at Guelph.

Austin, Kea get helpers; Jacobs bounced

Brady Austin picked up his second assist of the preseason Saturday as Belleville avenged the previous night's loss with a 6-5 decision over Kingston. Winnipeg prospect Austen Brassard pocketed a pair of goals for Belleville. The Bulls get back to action Tuesday when they take on Oshawa.

Justin Kea notched an assist for the second straight game as Saginaw improved their preseason record to 3-0 with a 5-1 win over Sault Ste. Marie. The Spirit will next visit Sarnia on Thursday.

In the WHL, Colin Jacobs failed to collect a point but earned his second game misconduct of the preseason as Prince George dropped a 4-1 decision to Edmonton. Jacobs, who last week was bounced for instigating a scrap in the final five minutes of the Cougars win over Red Deer, was whistled for a check to the head and fighting major with just two ticks left on the clock in Saturday's loss. The Cougars are off until Friday when they visit Kamloops.

Logan Nelson scored the first goal of the shootout as Victoria earned a 3-2 win over Kelowna. The 6'1 forward will look for his first regulation tally on Friday when the Royals take on Vancouver.

Dan Catenacci did not register as Owen Sound downed Mississauga, 5-3. The Attack will travel to Elmira, Ontario on Sunday for an afternoon tilt with Erie.

In the USHL, Judd Peterson did not play as Cedar Rapids was defeated for the second straight game by Dubuque, 4-2. The RoughRiders are off until Friday when they travel to Waterloo.