Showing posts with label eno. Show all posts
Showing posts with label eno. Show all posts

Thursday, March 31, 2011

3/30 Recap: Sundher heroic in B's comeback; Eno "Coasts"

Kevin Sundher potted two goals and an assist Wednesday as Chilliwack overcame a three-goal third period deficit to earn a 4-3 OT win over Spokane. Sunder led the way in the third, assisting on a power play goal to bring the Bruins within one before going to the net and making a nice backhand move to cash the game tying goal with 8:16 left and force the extra session. The six-foot center capped the heroic effort just 3:20 in when he broke free from center ice and smoked a quick release over the glove of James Reid. The Bruins now trail the series 2-1 with game #3 Thursday.

Elsewhere in the WHL, Brayden McNabb (+3) had an assist as Kootenay evened their series at two games apiece with a 5-0 shutout win over Moose Jaw. The 6'4 blueliner, who took the puck and delivered a sharp pass after entering the zone as the trailer to give the ICE a 3-0 lead, has a goal and three assists through the four post-season contests. Three of the four series games have been won via shutout. Game #5 is Friday in Kootenay.

Matt MacKenzie (+2) posted an assist as Tri-City earned a first-round sweep with a 5-1 over Vancouver. MacKenzie has a goal, three assists, and a +3 raing in four postseason games. The Ams will now wait for their next opponent to be determined.

Riley Boychuk did not point as Portland defeated Everett, 5-4. With a commanding 3-0 series lead, the Winterhawks will look for the sweep on Thursday.

In the OHL, Zack Kassian notched his first goal of the playoffs and added an assist as Windsor gained a firmed upper hand in their first round tilt with a 7-4 win over Erie. Kassian used his size and strength to spin away from a check and bury his first to give the Spits a 4-2 lead in the early second period. Alexander Khokhlachev ('11) had two goals and assist for the Spits, who can close out the series on Friday.

Jerome Gauthier-Leduc picked up an assist as Rimouski lost in overtime to Gatineau, 4-3. The 18-year old, who assisted on the game-tying goal with 3:55 to play to send the game into overtime, has three points in four playoff games. The defeat puts the Nics in a 3-1 hole in their best-of-seven series, with their first elimination game coming Friday in Gatineau.

Cedrick Henley (-1) recorded two shots on goal and three hits as Val-d'Or was eliminated from the QMJHL playoffs with a 5-2 loss to Quebec. Henley ends the four-game playoff year with no points, a -4 rating, and six penalty minutes.


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In non-playoff news, as expected ex-Bowling Green netminder Nick Eno has signed a contract with Toledo of the ECHL. The 6'3 Eno was long considered a longshot to get a contract from the Sabres, and the Coast league deal essentially brings an end to his time as a Sabres prospect.

Sunday, March 13, 2011

3/12 Recap: Sundher rolls; McNabb closing strong

Kevin Sundher scored two goals and added an assist Saturday as Chilliwack clinched a playoff spot with a 8-5 win over Vancouver. Sundher, who earned the game's #3 star, saw all three points come in the opening 20-minutes to reach the 70-point mark for the first time in his WHL career. It was the 20th multi-point game of the season for the Surrey, BC native. Sundher has accumulated a line of 22-49-71 in 66 games with 24 of those points coming in his last 17 games. The Bruins (32-30-3-3) will face Kelowna on Sunday.

Brayden McNabb (+2) scored a goal and an assist for his 21st multi-point effort of the year as Kootenay lost via the shootout to Spokane, 4-3. The big defenseman notched his 21st goal of the season, his seventh point in his last three games, with 1:40 left in regulation to force overtime in one of the most entertaining games to watch this year. McNabb, whose shootout attempt was stopped to end the game, now has 69 points on the year - three short of tying PEI's Marc-Andre Gragnani (72) for most points by a Sabres defensive prospect in the last decade. However, he likely won't be catching Ottawa's Brian Campbell (87, 1998-99) or Calgary's Matt Kinch (84, 2000-01) for most single-season points for a defenseman drafted under the Darcy Regier administration. The Ice (42-21-1-4) return to action Tuesday against Central Division foes Medicine Hat.

In the QMJHL, Jerome Gauthier-Leduc (+1) extended his point streak to six games with an assist as Rimouski was hammered by Rouyn-Noranda, 6-2. Gauthier-Leduc remains 5th among QMJHL defender with 49 points (12+37). Rimouski (29-31-1-3), who will finish no lower than the 13th playoff position, will play it back with the Huskies on Sunday.

Cedrick Henley (+2) picked up a pair of assists as Val-d'Or posted a 4-0 shutout win over Chicoutimi. Henley has netted six points in his last five games for the Foreurs (25-33-4-4), who have cliched the 14th QMJHL playoff spot.

Elsewhere, Mark Pysyk finished -1 as Edmonton was shut out by high-powered Saskatoon, 4-0. Despite the loss, the Oil Kings (30-32-3-5) were still able to clinch a playoff spot thanks to Lethbridge and Prince Albert losses. Edmonton returns to action Tuesday for tilt with the Hurricanes.

Riley Boychuk (+1) assisted on the game winning goal as Portland edged Everett, 2-1. The bruising power forward now has career highs in goals (15) and assists (17). The Winterhawks (47-18-0-3), who dealt the Tips their seventh straight defeat, will host Vancouver on Wednesday.

Corey Fienhage played even as Kamloops lost in a shootout to Kelowna, 1-0. The Blazers (29-36-3-2) have lost five games in a row, and will look to keep their playoff hopes alive Friday against Prince George.

Justin Jokinen was even with a shot on goal as Minnesota State surrendered a third period lead for the second straight night to end their year with a 3-2 overtime loss to #6 Denver. The 11th seeded Mavericks (14-18-4) played tough but were ultimately outworked by the more talented, #2 seed Pioneers. Jokinen, who finishes his junior season with nine goals and 17 points, saw most of his production come early as he scored just one goal and two assists in his 15 games including a seven-game pointless streak to end the year.

Drew MacKenzie drew an assist as Vermont saw their season end with a 4-3 loss to #10 New Hampshire. The junior defenseman's backhand pass towards the net was knocked in for the game's first goal at 3:49 of the second period. MacKenzie, who is expected to return to Burlington for his senior year, ends the season fourth on the Catamounts in scoring with five goals and 17 points. Vermont finishes their disappointing campaign 8-20-8.

Connor Knapp made 14 saves as #7 Miami earned the sweep of Alaska-Fairbanks, 4-1. The 6'5 stopper moves to 8-5-4 on the year with a 2.03 GAA and .909 save percentage. With the win, the RedHawks (21-9-6) advance to the CCHA semifinals next weekend to face one of Notre Dame, Western Michigan, or Ferris State.

Nick Eno did not start but did play out the final minutes as Bowling Green saw their season come to an end with a 4-1 loss at #5 Michigan. After UM took a three-goal lead late, a class move by Falcons coach Chris Bergeron saw Eno come over the boards for the final 8:54 before taking over his BGSU sweater for the last time. The 6'3 netminder ends his senior year at 4-10-1 with a 3.12 GAA and .885 save percentage, while the Falcons shut it down at 10-27-4.

Brad Eidsness served as backup as #1 North Dakota earned the WCHA first-round sweep with a 3-1 win over Michigan Tech. The McNaughton Cup winning Sioux (28-8-3) advance to the WCHA Final Five where they'll face one of UAA or Colorado College/Wisconsin next Friday.

Saturday, March 12, 2011

3/11 Recap: McNabb in good company as playoffs loom

Brayden McNabb continued his recent stacking of points with two assists Friday as Kootenay won via shootout over Swift Current, 5-4. Still without a NHL contract, McNabb enters the final week of play as the #3 scorer among WHL defenders with 67 points, just five short of eclipsing Marc-Andre Gragnani's (71 in 2005-06) for the highest total among Sabres defensive prospects of the last decade. Barrie's Nick Crawford finished with 70 a year ago. It's also worth noting that McNabb's 20-goal prowess puts him in good company with Dennis Wideman (24, 2003-04) Gragnani (22, 2006-07), and Andrej Sekera (21, 2005-06) among top blueline goal scorers recently drafted by the Sabres.

Elsewhere in the WHL, Kevin Sundher played even as Chilliwack saw their six-game winning streak snapped with a 3-2 overtime loss to Seattle, 3-2. The six-footer, who recently capped a streak that saw him score 19 points over 11 games, has produced two assists in his last five outings.

Mark Pysyk (-3) saw his career-best seven-game point streak come to an end as Edmonton lost to Prince Albert, 5-2. Despite the loss the Oil Kings had a chance to clinch a WHL playoff berth with a Calgary win, but their 2012 World Junior partner could not come through.

Corey Fienhage finished -1 as Kamloops lost to Kelowna, 5-1. Neighbor of my brother and donor of old equipment to my nephew, Shane McColgan ('11) had three power play assists to power the Rockets offense. The Sabres get a good discount when scouting Kelowna, and I'm curious where they see McColgan fitting come draft day. A creative forward with grit, McColgan has put together 21-44-65 this season after a 69 point campaign as 16/17 a season ago.

Riley Boychuk returned to the Winterhawks lineup after missing a half-dozen games with a concussion as Portland downed Everett. Three NHL draft picks and another sure to go early this June, Nino Niederreiter, Ty Rattie ('11), Ryan Johansen and Craig Cunningham, blitzed the Tips for four goals in the first five minutes of the middle period to take control of the game.

Matt MacKenzie was -1 as Tri-City lost to Spokane. Anthony Bardaro ('11) scored his 20th goal of the year for the Chiefs.

In the QMJHL, Cedrick Henley registered four hits including a checking from behind minor as Val-d'Or edged Chicoutimi in a shootout, 3-2. The 6'5 project entered the game with points in three straight games.

Marcus Foligno missed his second straight game due to "illness" as Sudbury lost via shootout to Belleville, 4-3.

Gregg Sutch was a healthy scratch as Mississauga defeated Brampton, 6-2.

In the USHL, Christian Isackson notched a pair of assists as Sioux Falls fell to Cedar Rapids, 5-3. The Minnesotan now has 15 points (4+11) in his 14 games.

In the first round of the WCHA tournament, Justin Jokinen did not get on the scoresheet as Minnesota State lost to #6 Denver, 4-2. The Mavericks held a 2-0 lead after two periods before suffering a four-goal collapse in the third.

In game #1 of the CCHA quarterfinal, Connor Knapp watched as Cody Reichard made 17 saves to help #7 Miami to a 4-1 win over Alaska. UFA senior center Andy Miele scored his 20th goal and 62nd points of the season for the RedHawks. Miele, who leads the nation in scoring, has scored points in 14 straight games.

Also from CCHA quarterfinal weekend, Nick Eno served as back-up to Andrew Hammond as Bowling Green lost to #5 Michigan, 5-1.

In the Hockey East tourney, Drew MacKenzie was +1 with three shots on goal as Vermont lost the opener to #10 New Hampshire, 3-1.

Brad Eidsness did not play as North Dakota cruised past Michigan Tech, 8-0. The Sioux will close to close out their first round opponent Saturday.

Monday, March 7, 2011

3/6 Recap: Henley gets first since fall

Cedrick Henley scored his first goal since October 22nd Sunday as Val-d’Or earned a 3-2 shootout win over #3 ranked Montreal. The even-strength mark, Henley’s fifth of the year, comes in his 17th game of the season and fifth game back after returning from wrist surgery. Last year, the 6’5 forward scored five times in 44 contests for the Foreurs.

In the WHL, Matt MacKenzie scored his career-best seventh goal of the season as Tri-City downed Vancouver, 5-1. The 6’2 defender now has points in two straight games after enduring an 11-game point drought.

Kevin Sundher posted two assists as Chilliwack got past Portland, 6-2. The Bruins center enters the home stretch with 20 goals and 68 points in 63 games. Last season he totaled 25 goals and 61 points while playing in all 72 games.

In the OHL, Zack Kassian finished -1 as Windsor won a 4-3 shootout over Guelph. Kassian took a slashing call on the first shift of overtime which the Spits successfully killed off.

Gregg Sutch (+2) assisted on the game’s first goal, which also held up as the game winner, as Mississauga shut out Sudbury , 4-0. The helper was Sutch’s third point in last 14 games and 24th (7+17) on the year. Marcus Foligno finished -2 for the Wolves.

In the CCHA playoffs, Nick Eno served as backup while Andrew Hammond directed Bowling Green to a 3-2 double-overtime win at Northern Michigan. The upset-minded Falcons will travel to face regular season champion Michigan in the quarterfinals next weekend.

Sunday, March 6, 2011

3/5 Recap: Pysyk extends; Eidsness sighting

Mark Pysyk netted his sixth goal of the year Saturday to extend his career-long point streak to seven games as Edmonton dropped a 3-1 decision to Medicine Hat. The smooth skating rearguard has gathered three goals, half of his season haul, and eight apples over the span.

Kevin Sundher did not point for the second straight game as Chilliwack downed Kamloops, 4-1. It's an event when Sundher doesn't get on the scoresheet after his recent 11-game point streak that saw him amass 19 points. Corey Fienhage was -1 for the Blazers in defeat.

Kootenay captain Brayden McNabb missed the Ice's 4-2 win over Prince Albert due to a one-game suspension from his boarding penalty in Friday's blowout loss to Saskatoon.

In the OHL, Steven Shipley ended a three-game point drought by collecting a goal and two assists as Niagara unloaded on Sarnia, 10-3. The game had a little bit of everything, ranging from a six-point night from David Pacan (FLA) to a goalie fight. The multi-point night gives Shipley a line of 17-28-45 on the year. Nail Yakupov ('12) potted his 45th goal of the year for the Sting, while Alex Galchenyuk scored his 25th.

Zack Kassian scored his 26th goal of the year as Windsor was bested by Plymouth, 6-2. Kassian's rebound of an Alexander Khokhlachev shot gives the 6'3 power forward two goals and three assists over his last three games. Whalers goalie Matt Mahalak ('11) made 50 saves to get the win.

Gregg Sutch did not get on the sheet as Mississauga edged Oshawa, 4-3. The grinding forward, who has been in and out of the lineup of late despite being healthy, has just two goals and two assists in his last 16 games.

In the Q, Cedrick Henley had an assist and three hits as Val-d'Or lost in a shootout to Gatineau, 3-2. The helper was his first point in four games since returning from corrective wrist surgery.

In USHL action, Christian Isackson earned an assist as Sioux Falls fell in a shootout to Tri-City, 3-2. The Gopher commit, who was thwarted in his shootout attempt, has 34 points in 46 games including 14 in his last 15.

In the NCAA, Drew MacKenzie picked up a pair of assists as Vermont doubled Lowell, 4-3. The junior defenseman now has nine points in his last nine games. The Catamounts move on to face New Hampshire in the final

Mark Adams played even as Providence closed their 2010-11 season by upsetting #7 Merrimack, 5-3. The 6'3 defenseman ends his freshman season with three assists, 22 PIM, and a -7 rating. The Friars (8-18-8) missed the Hockey East playoffs by one point after Massachusetts got the last spot with 4-4 tie with Maine.

If you had March 5th in the Brad Eidsness pool, then you're the big winner. The junior goalie made 18 saves in his first start since November 19th as #1 North Dakota closed the regular season with an 11-2 stomping of Michigan Tech. Eidsness ups his numbers to 2-2-1 with a 4.09 goals against average and .812 save percentage.

Also from the WCHA, Justin Jokinen punched two shots on goal as Minnesota State was swept by Alaska-Anchorage, 4-1.

Nick Eno served as backup as Bowling Green forced a third and deciding game of the CCHA first round with a 2-0 shutout of Northern Michigan. The two clubs will play the rubber match Sunday night.

Saturday, March 5, 2011

3/4 Recap: JGL continues roll; Sundher's streak ends

Jerome Gauthier-Leduc gathered a pair of goals and an assist Friday to lead Rimouski past Chicoutimi, 6-4. The 6'2 puck-mover has produced four goals and four assists over his four-game point streak to thrust himself into a tie for seventh among QMJHL rearguards with 46 points (12+34).

In the WHL, Matt MacKenzie ended his 11-game point slumber with a power play goal and an assist on the game winner as Tri-City defeated Everett, 3-2 in overtime. The offensive drought, ended by a laser from the high slot, was MacKenzie's longest since his rookie season back in 2007-08.

Mark Pysyk (+1) posted an assist as Edmonton defeated Medicine Hat, 4-3 in a shootout. The helper gives the 6'1 defender two goals and eight assists over his current career-best six-game point streak.

Kevin Sundher (+1) saw his 11-game point streak snapped as Chilliwack edged Kelowna, 1-0. The 6'0 center collected three goals and 16 assists on the run that began back on 2/5, and sits with 20 goals and a career-best 66 points with nine games left to play.

Brayden McNabb finished -1 as Kootenay got embarrassed by Saskatoon, 9-2. With frustration mounting, McNabb racked up boarding and fighting majors and a game misconduct at the end of the second period when he drove Chris Collins into the boards from behind and was forced to defend his action against Brent Benson ('11) for his fourth fight of the year.




Corey Fienhage finished -1 with his fourth fighting major of the season as Kamloops lost to Lethbridge, 4-1. The 6'4 "Moose" Fienhage dished out a clean hit along the boards early in the third period and was asked to tangle with Hurricanes forward Mitch Maxwell. Earlier in the game, Fienhage ended Hurricane forward Philip Tot's night with another clean, hard hit.



Riley Boychuk did not play (concussion) as Portland clobbered Seattle, 9-1.

In the OHL, Marcus Foligno (+1) notched an assist as Sudbury shut out Brampton, 2-0. The Wolves captain put a scare into Wolves fans when he went to the locker room just a few shifts into the game and did return until the second period.

In the USHL, Christian Isackson picked up an assist on the game-tying goal as Sioux Falls rallied to a 4-3 overtime win over Lincoln. The budding forward has five goals and eight assists in his last 14 games.

In the NCAA, Drew MacKenzie scored the gane-tying goal in with :45 to play in regulation as Vermont played to a 4-4 tie with Lowell. The tally, the junior's fifth of the year, gives the junior 14 points in 31 games this season.

Nick Eno allowed one goal on 16 shots in relief as Bowling Green opened the CCHA playoffs with a 6-3 loss to Northern Michigan. Eno was called into the game in the second period after starter Andrew Hammond surrendered four goals in the first 26-minutes of play.

Justin Jokinen was -2 as Minnesota State lost to Alaska-Anchorage, 4-0.

Mark Adams was -1 as Providence got hammered by #9 Merrimack, 6-1.

Brad Eidsness did not play as #1 North Dakota smoked Michigan Tech, 6-1. I'm done speculating whether or not Eidsness is going to get the start in the Sioux's final regular season game on Saturday, but I did speak to someone in Grand Forks this week that doesn't believe the former AJHL MVP will be in Grand Forks next season.

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On Thursday, Zack Kassian (+1)  contributed a pair of assists as Windsor got past London, 4-3. At the 50-game mark, the 6'3 forward has totaled 25 goals and 74 points for the Spits.

Steven Shipley was -1 as Niagara defeated Sudbury, 5-2. Marcus Foligno logged a -2 in the loss.

Sunday, February 27, 2011

2/26 Recap: Shipley dishes as Dogs pound Petes

Steven Shipley (+3) hit for three assists Saturday as Niagara pounded Peterborough, 8-2. The even strength apples make it points in five straight games for the 6'3 Shipley, whose move back to center seems to be paying dividends for the Dogs. After a hot and cold first half, Shipley been a point-per-game player (3+9) in his last dozen games while flanked by Myles Doan and Darren Archibald. Archibald, who cashed the first of Shipley's helpers, suffered an upper body injury in the first period and did not return.

Gregg Sutch did not point as Mississauga struggled in a 4-1 loss to Belleville. The 6'2 wing hasn't scored since New Year's Day, and has just two assists in his last 12 games. Meanwhile the CHL's #4 ranked Majors are slowing at the wrong time with a 5-5 mark in their last 10 games.

Brayden McNabb (-2) posted a pair of assists as Kootenay lost to Kamloops, 8-5. The assists raise McNabb's season point total to 52 (19+43), good for third among WHL defensemen, while his 13 even-strength goals from the blueline rank second in all Canadian juniors. Fellow 6'4 property Corey Fienhage (-1) did not get in on any of the Blazers goals.

Kevin Sundher dished a one-time feed to extend his career-best point streak to nine games as Chilliwack stumbled against Vancouver, 5-1. The six-footer has gathered three goals and 12 assists over the stretch for the ninth-place Bruins, who will continue to fight for their playoff lives Sunday vs. Prince George.

Matt MacKenzie played -2 as Tri-City was downed by Spokane, 3-1. Having gone nine games without a point, the 6'2 MacKenzie is amidst the longest offensive slumber since his WHL rookie season back in 2007-08.

Mark Pysyk did not play due to an upper body injury as Edmonton skated past Lethbridge, 5-2. The OK's captain is listed as day-to-day and could return as early as Monday.

Riley Boychuk missed his second straight game due to injury as Portland defeated Seattle, 4-3.

In the QMJHL, Jerome Gauthier-Leduc connected for a pair of assists as Rimouski lost to Quebec, 5-2. The power play helpers put the 18-year old on a three-game point streak (2+3) while elevating him to seventh among Q defensemen with 10-33-43 in 54 games.

Cedrick Henley recorded three hits and a shot on goal in his second game back from wrist surgery as Val-d'Or got whacked by Bathurst, 8-3. Undrafted Zach O'Brien had a hat trick for the Titan.

In the USHL, Christian Isackson assisted on the game-winning goal as Sioux Falls rallied to a 3-2 win at Des Moines. The Jr. A rookie has connected for points in seven of his last eight, with a Friday assist being taken away after the game when the final scoresheet was submitted.

In NCAA play, Connor Knapp made 26 saves to earn his seventh win of the year as #11 Miami defeated Lake Superior, 4-1. With a CCHA first-round bye and Knapp looking poised to pounce on the job like he did last season, RedHawks coach Enrico Blasi will have two weeks to decide on Knapp versus the regular Friday starter, Cody Reichard. Senior free agent Andy Miele had a goal and an assist to be come the first Miami player to eclipse the 60-point mark since 1996-97.

Drew MacKenzie finished +1 with three shots on goal as Vermont lost to #15 Boston University, 3-1. The Catamounts will wrap-up the regular season schedule next weekend when they host Lowell.

Also from Hockey East, Mark Adams was -1 with a hooking minor as Providence lost to Lowell, 7-2. The Friars move on to face #4 Merrimack on Friday.

In the WCHA, Brad Eidsness served as back-up as #1 North Dakota defeated Bemidji State, 5-2. The rested junior has started just one out of the last 26 Sioux contests.

Nick Eno did not play as Bowling Green closed out their regular season with a 2-0 loss at Michigan State. The senior is expected to remain as the #2 when the Falcons open the CCHA playoffs next weekend at Northern Michigan.

Saturday, February 26, 2011

2/25 Recap: Streaks continue; Henley returns as injuries mount

Kevin Sundher extended his point streak to eight games Friday with a goal and an assist as Chilliwack defeated Vancouver, 6-4. Sundher's power play marker, his 20th of the year, tied the game at two apiece late in the first period. The 6'0 pivot has collected three goals and 11 assists over the career-long streak.

Brayden McNabb scored an insurance goal and an assist as Kootenay defeated Prince Albert, 4-1. The empty-netter, McNabb's 19th goal of the year, gives the 6'4 defenseman 60 points through 50 games to go along with a solid +25 rating.

Mark Pysyk scored his fifth goal of the year before suffering an upper body injury as Edmonton lost at Lethbridge, 6-3. Pysyk, who tallied on the power play for his second goal in as many games and sixth point in his last three, left the game after the first period and did not return. The extent of the injury will be better known when the Oil Kings get back to Edmonton.

Corey Fienhage played even as Kamloops got past Medicine Hat, 6-5 in the shootout. The Blazers trailed 5-1 in the third period before exploding for four unanswered goals to gain the momentum en route to the shootout win.

Matt MacKenzie skated even as Tri-City defeated Seattle, 5-2. The 6'2 defender has gone eight games without a point - his longest slumber since an eight-game stretch in December of 2008.

Riley Boychuk (day to day) sat out with a concussion as Portland lost to Everett, 2-0. The Silvertips scored a pair of short-handed goals to secure the win.

In the QMJHL, Jerome Gauthier-Leduc scored a goal for the second straight game as Rimouski downed Montreal, 3-2. The Juniors took a 2-0 lead on the first shift of the second period before the Oceanic struck for three goals in the nest five minutes. Gauthier-Leduc's power play tally, his 10th of season, tied the game at 5:13 with the game winner coming just :40 later. The Nics win despite being outshot 43-28 including a whopping 20-1 margin in the third period.

Cedrick Henley returned to the Val-d'Or lineup after a 42-game absence in the Foreurs lost to Moncton, 6-4. The 6'5 forward did not factor in any of the Foreurs goals in his first game back but did earn a five-minute major and game misconduct midway through the third period after a hit from behind. Henley had four goals and five assists in 12 games before having corrective wrist surgery.

In the OHL, Zack Kassian failed to get on the scoresheet in Windsor's 4-2 win at Sault Ste. Marie. The 6'3 ox came to play earlier in the season, getting points in 23 of 26 games leading up to his appearance with Team Canada. In 23 games since returning from the tourney though, Kassian has skated without a point nine times.

Gregg Sutch got back in the lineup but did not point as Mississauga defeated Brampton, 5-3. The 6'2 grinder has seven goals and 23 points this season.

In the USHL, Christian Isackson picked up an assist to extend his point streak to seven games as Sioux Falls defeated Tri-City, 4-3. The power play apple gives Isackson 4+5 over the streak while upping his season totals to 13-18-31 in 41 games.

In the NCAA, Drew MacKenzie scored his fourth goal of the season as Vermont overcame a three-goal deficit to tie Boston University, 3-3. Like many of MacKenzie's goals, this one came as he again made his way into the slot to unleash a backhander to cut the Terriers lead to 3-2. The ex-Waterloo Blackhawk now has six points in his last six games. The rally begins midway throigh the below clip:



Mark Adams recorded an assist as Providence played to a 3-3 tie with Lowell. The 6'3 freshman, who has yet to score a goal for the Friars, now has points in two of his last three games.

Connor Knapp did not play as Miami trounced Lake Superior, 8-1.

Nick Eno served as back-up as Bowling Green came up short in a 2-1 loss to Michigan State.

Sunday, February 20, 2011

2/19 Recap: Trio enjoys six-pack; Eno bids adieu

Kevin Sundher continued to surge with his 19th goal of the season Saturday, but Chilliwack skidded to their third straight loss, 6-3 at Portland. The third-round pivot buried a feed off a steal from behind the net at 9:49 of the second period to extend his point streak to six straight games (2+9). Fellow 2010 pick Riley Boychuk (2 PIM) did not factor into any of the goals for the Winterhawks (39-16-0-3), who clinched a playoff berth with the win. Portland moves on to face Prince George on Tuesday, while Sundher and the Bruins (24-29-2-2) will continue their road run Sunday at Seattle. (it's worth noting that Boychuk's fight on has been added to 1/23 recap. Always good to go back and see Sundher's one-punch KO as well...)

In the USHL, Christian Isackson notched his 13th goal of the season as Sioux Falls rallied for three goals in the final 12-minutes of play to stun Sioux City, 4-3. The crafty forward, who has nine goals in his last 15 games, has collected points in six straight for an even 30 (13+17) on the year. The Stampede (23-14-5) next play Friday at Tri-City.

In the OHL, Zack Kassian picked up a late assist as Windsor lost to Plymouth, 4-3. Kassian, whose helper came with :09 left in regulation, now has points in six consecutive tilts (3+7), while his 69 points rank second on the Spits behind Ryan Ellis' 79. Windsor (31-20-2-3) travels to London on Monday.

Elsewhere, Mark Pysyk (+2) earned an assist as Edmonton was bested in the shootout by Lethbridge, 6-5. The even-strength apple, his 27th of the season, gives Pysyk 30 points on the season. The Oil Kings (26-27-2-5) will look to rebound Wednesday against Calgary.

Matt MacKenzie played even as Tri-City was dominated by Spokane, 6-2. After netting eight points in his first 12 games with the Americans, the 6'2 defender hasn't appeared on the sheet in his last five. Tri-City (36-16-2-2) have a tough match-up on Monday when they host Spokane.

Corey Fienhage finished -1 as Kamloops dropped a 4-3 overtime decision to Red Deer. Ryan Hugent-Hopkins ('11) notched a pair of assists for the Rebels. The Blazers (26-31-3-1) will get back at it Wednesday at Lethbridge.

Brayden McNabb finished -1 as Kootenay was defeated by Saskatoon, 5-3. The Ice (38-18-1-2) will host Kelowna on Tuesday.

In the Q, Jerome Gauthier-Leduc skated -1 as Rimouski lost in a shootout to Victoriaville, 4-3. The Nics (27-28-1-2) will have to regroup quickly for a Sunday tilt with Lewiston.

On senior night in Bowling Green, Nick Eno allowed three goals on 19 shots in the final home game of his collegiate career as the Falcons lost to Northern Michigan, 3-2. The senior netminder falls to 4-10-1 in 16 appearances this season, while the loss drops him to 21-38-5 for his BGSU career. The 6'3 Eno enjoyed ups and downs in his four seasons in Ohio, ousting Flames prospect Jimmy Spratt as the #1 guy as a freshman before an ankle injury sidelined him as sophomore. Upon return to health, he found himself in Spratt's shoes with a worthy challenger emerging in Andrew Hammond for his final two seasons. The Falcons (8-22-4) close their season Friday at Michigan State.

In other NCAA action, Drew MacKenzie (+1) saw his four-game point streak snapped as Vermont played to a 2-2 tie with #8 New Hampshire. The Catamounts (7-17-6) return to action Friday at Boston University.

Justin Jokinen registered two shots on goal as Minnesota State was dumped by #5 Minnesota-Duluth, 6-2. The Mavericks (14-14-6) have a week odd before closing their regular season schedule with a home set against Alaska-Anchorage.

Mark Adams punched one shot on goal as Providence was shut out by #15 Boston University, 1-0. The Friars (7-16-7) host Lowell on Friday.

Brad Eidsness did not play as #2 North Dakota squeaked out a 3-2 win over St. Cloud State. The Sioux (22-8-3) will play out their WCHA schedule against Bemidji and Michigan Tech over the next two weekends. After one start in the Sioux's last 25 games, one would think that the junior would get a look in at least one of those four games.

Sunday, February 13, 2011

2/12 Recap: Sundher in gear; Boychuk stays on edge

Kevin Sundher scored the game winning goal, his 18th of the year, as Chilliwack handled Kelowna, 4-1. The Surrey, BC native has eight points in his last three games and a total of 55 on the year. In 13 January contests, Sundher had just nine points. The Bruins (24-26-2-2) will test their three-game winning streak on Sunday when they take on Tri-City.

Riley Boychuk scored his 15th goal of the year as Portland upended Seattle, 8-2. Boychuk, who has 13 points in his last 14 games, has also been whistled for a penalty in eight of his last nine. In Saturday's win he racked up an aggressive cross-checking/roughing double-minor in the game's fourth minute before settling in. The 'Hawks (38-16-0-3) are off until next Saturday when they take on Chilliwack.

Brayden McNabb scored his 15th goal of the season and added an assist as Kootenay held off Swift Current, 6-4.  The multi-point effort keeps him in third place among WHL defenders with 54 points. The Ice (37-17-1-2) host Medicine Hat on Friday.

Matt MacKenzie managed a +1 a Tri-City was smoked by Spokane, 7-2. The surging Americans (34-15-2-1) have won seven of their last ten.

Corey Fienhage was -1 as Kamloops lost to Vancouver, 3-2. Draft eligible Andrej Stastny, 20, had a power play goal and an assist for the Giants. Fienhage and the Blazers (24-31-2-1) host Tri-City on Tuesday

Mark Pysyk was -2 with a pair of minor penalties as Edmonton lost to Brandon, 6-4. The Oil-Kings (25-27-1-4) are back at it on Sunday at Swift Current.

In the QMJHL, Jerome Gauthier-Leduc notched an assist as Rimouski edged Baie-Comeau, 4-3. The Oceanic (26-28-1-1) return to action Wednesday against PEI.

In USHL action, Christian Isackson picked up a key assist as Sioux Falls edged Sioux City in a shootout, 5-4. Isackson was cresited with the helper when his faceoff win created a point pass to the slot for the game-tying goal with :20 to play in regulation. The Stampede (20-14-5) return to action Sunday against Tri-City.

In the NCAA, Connor Knapp returned to the Miami nets after serving as backup for four games, making just 16 saves as #12 Miami defeated #15 Western Michigan, 3-1. The win was Knapp's sixth of the year for the RedHawks, who will get a week off before closing their CCHA schedule in two weeks at Lake Superior.

Justin Jokinen registered four shots on goal as Minnesota State lost to #19 Colorado College, 2-1. The junior used his size and quick feet to get some nice scoring chances late but was unable to beat CC frosh Josh Thorimbert. The Mavs will get a tough WCHA test next weekend when they host #3 Duluth.

Nick Eno earned the Saturday night look for his first start since January 28th, making 30 saves as Bowling Green was swept by #10 Notre Dame, 5-1. The senior dips to 4-9-1 with a 3.21 goals against average and .885 save percentage.

Mark Adams logged a +1 as Providence played to a 3-3 tie with Massachusetts. The Friars are at #14 Boston University on Friday.

Brad Eidsness was the reserve goaltender as #5 North Dakota swept Alaska-Anchorage, 3-1.

Drew MacKenzie was dinged up in the Cats Friday night win and did not play as Vermont lost to #18 Maine, 4-2.

Saturday, February 12, 2011

2/11 Recap: Sundher keeps dishin'; Kassian kicks funk

Kevin Sundher piled three assists for the second straight game Friday as Chilliwack won a 5-4 shootout decision over Kelowna. The 6'0 center, who also helped get the Bruins tiebreaker off on the right foot with a goal as the first shooter, now has 53 points through 51 games. His 36 assists match the total he posted in all of 2009-10 (72 games).

In the OHL, Zack Kassian potted the game winning goal Friday as Windsor defeated London, 5-2. The backhand wraparound goal, his 22nd of the season, ended a nine-game scoring drought for the 6'3 wing while leaving him one point shy of tying his career-best point total of 63 set in 2008-09 with Peterborough. The nine-game slumber was his longest stretch without a goal since an 11-game run last season turned out to be his last 11 games in a Peterbrough uniform.

Steven Shipley picked up an assist as Niagara dumped Barrie, 7-0. The Dogs unloaded five goals in the final period to improve their mark to an impressive 35-11-2-4.

Gregg Sutch was even as Mississauga lost to Plymouth, 4-3. The Majors, currently the #2 team in the CHL rankings, suffer just their ninth regulation loss of the season (40-9-0-2).

In the QMJHL, Jerome Gauthier-Leduc registered a pair of power play assists as Rimouski blanked Baie-Comeau, 3-0. The 18-year old remains tied for 11th in scoring among league rearguards with 37 points.

Elsewhere in the WHL, Mark Pysyk notched his third goal of the year and added an assist as Edmonton lost in a shootout to Moose Jaw, 5-4. It was the fifth multi-point effort of the season for the steady defender.

Brayden McNabb finished +2 as Kootenay downed Regina, 5-1. Despite the quiet night, the 6'4 McNabb remains third in WHL scoring for defenseman with 52 points.

Matt MacKenzie picked up a power-play assist as Tri-City shut down Portland, 5-0. Winterhawks forward Riley Boychuk added to his busy week at 9:03 of the second period when he paired high sticking and instigator minors with his fifth fighting major of the year.





 
 In USHL play, Christian Isackson scored his 10th goal of year as Sioux Falls lost to Tri-City, 3-2. The power play marker gives Isackson seven goals in his last 11 games.

In NCAA action, Justin Jokinen scored his ninth goal of the year as Minnesota State won a 5-1 decision at #19 Colorado College. The 6'3 junior buried a one-timer on a feed from behind the net to give the Mavs an early 1-0 lead.

In Hockey East, Drew MacKenzie (+1) had an assist as Vermont routed #18 Maine, 7-2. The junior blueliner has points in three straight games.

Mark Adams was even as Providence lost to #1 Boston College, 3-0.

Brad Eidsness did not play as #5 North Dakota defeated Alaska-Anchorage, 6-1. Eidsness has started just one of the past 22 Sioux games.

Nick Eno backed-up Andrew Hammond for the fourth straight game as Bowling Green came up short at #10 Notre Dame, 2-1. Hammond made 36 saves in defeat and will likely retain his #1 position in the Falcons net.

Connor Knapp served as backup to Cody Reichard for the fourth straight game as #12 Miami and #15 Western Michigan played to a 3-3 tie.

Monday, February 7, 2011

2/5-6 Recap: Sundher dishes three; Foligno remains out

Kevin Sundher dished a career-best three assists Saturday as Chilliwack edged Kamloops, 4-3. The three-point night, Sundher's highest output since a two-goal, two-assist outing back on November 26th against Portland, helped fuel the Bruins effort to snap a six-game losing streak. Corey Fienhage finished even for the Blazers.

Brayden McNabb played even as Kootenay defeated Vancouver, 5-2. Recent 20-year old pick-up Andrej Stastny had a goal and an assist for the Giants. The 6'4, 212-pound center has six goals and seven assists in 15 games since joining the Giants after the World Junior Championship. At the tourney in Buffalo, the Slovakian pivot scored a goal and an assist in six games.

Riley Boychuk earned an assist, a fighting major, and the game's #2 star as Portland throttled Tri-City, 8-2. The big winger was strong on the forecheck, helping pin the Ams deep while at one point setting a screen on the third 'Hawks goal. Tri-City defenseman Matt MacKenzie was scratched at gametime due to illness.

Mark Pysyk played even as Edmonton lost to Everett, 3-1. The steady defender has four assists and a +4 rating his last five games.

In the USHL, Christian Isackson (-1) had a goal and an assist as Sioux falls lost to Lincoln, 6-3. The 6'0 Isackson, who currently ranks second on the Stampede with 24 points, received a centering pass from behind the net to cash his 10th goal of the year on the backhand at 8:25 of the third period. The future Gopher has two goals and two assists his last four games.

In the OHL, Steven Shipley crashed the net for his14th goal of the year as Niagara shut out Brampton, 2-0. The 6'3 Shipley, who has moved to the third-line center position between Myles Doan and Darren Archibald, was later whistled for a spearing double-minor at the tail end of period two.

Zack Kassian finished -1 as Windsor got dominated by Erie, 8-2. The 6'3 forward saw time at all three forward positions in the first period before he, Alex Khokhlachev, Nick Ebert, and Jack Campbell were benched midway through the second due to what the coaching staff deemed lazy, uncompetitive efforts.

Marcus Foligno was a game time decision but did not play as Sudbury defeated Peterborough, 4-3. The Wolves captain was injured in the first period of Friday's game and did not return.

In the QMJHL, Jerome Gauthier-Leduc skated -1 with a shot on goal in Rimouski's 3-2 loss to Val-d'Or. The mobile rearguard is currently tied for 11th in scoring among QMJHL defensemen.

In NCAA action, Drew MacKenzie had a goal and an assist as Vermont steamrolled Providence, 7-1. The junior defenseman scored his second power-play goal in as many nights when his backhand pass towards the crease banked off a skate and into the Friars net. Mark Adams was even on the Providence blueline.

In WCHA play, Justin Jokinen posted four shots on goal as Minnesota State lost to Bemidji State, 4-1. The quiet weekend was his first set of games without a point since December 10th and 12th against North Dakota.

Connor Knapp served as backup for the third straight game as #13 Miami shutout #8 Michigan, 3-0. Senior UFA Andy Miele, 22, had three assists for the RedHawks to raise his national-leading point total to 54 (16+38) in 30 games played.

As expected, Nick Eno backed-up Andrew Hammond as Bowling Green lost to #16 Western Michigan, 3-1.

###

On Sunday, Zack Kassian finished +1 as Windsor regrouped from the previous night's shellacking to earn a 7-1 win over Brampton. Kassian began the game on the third line with Kerby Rychel and Kenny Ryan before moving up to play Tom Kuhnhackl and Alex Khokhlachev. Kassian worked harder on the forecheck and provided a couple scoring chances by using his feet, but was unable to register a point for the seventh time in his last eight games.

Marcus Foligno missed his second game in a row with a knee injury as Sudbury lost to Oshawa, 5-4.

Saturday, February 5, 2011

2/4 Recap: Foligno injured; MacKenzie strikes for Cats

Marcus Foligno goes mid-air for goal #21. Photo by John Lappa
Marcus Foligno scored his 21st goal of the season before being injured Friday as Sudbury whooped Saginaw, 8-2. Foligno's power play gem, a breakaway tally scored in mid-air after being hacked at from behind, created a 2-0 lead at 12:22 of the first period as the Wolves would go on to rattle off the first five goals of the game. Later in the period, Foligno fell to the ice with what appeared to be a left knee injury and did not return. It sounds like Foligno was walking around after the game, but I still wouldn't be surprised if he was held out of Saturday's contest at Peterborough depending on how sore he was in the morning.

In Hockey East, Drew MacKenzie scored his second goal of the season as Vermont played to a 1-1 tie with Providence. A crashing MacKenzie broke a scoreless tie on the power play at 4:07 of the second period when he jumped to towards the front of the Friars net to bury a backhand rebound. Providence freshman Mark Adams contributed three shots on goal. The clubs will play it back on Saturday. MacKenzie's goal comes early in the clip below:





Elsewhere, Gregg Sutch finished +1 as Mississauga dominated Sarnia, 6-3. The grinding forward has been hampered of late, and has not recorded a point in his last five games. Nail Yakupov ('12) had a goal and two assists and Alex Galchenyuk ('12) had two assists to pace the losing Sting.

In the QMJHL, Jerome Gauthier-Leduc registered four shots on goal as Rimouski was shut out by Val-d'Or, 2-1. The Oceanic and Foreurs will rematch on Sunday.

Out west, Corey Fienhage was -1 while seeing quite a bit of ice as Kamloops defeated Chilliwack, 2-1. Kevin Sundher, who continued to center the Bruins' #2 line, did not get on the sheet to keep his season line at 17-30-47. The recently-fueled rivalry will continue with a Saturday night rematch.

Matt MacKenzie finished +2 as Tri-City toppled Spokane, 5-2. The Americans will catch a bus to Portland for a key Saturday match-up.

Riley Boychuk (-1, 2 PIM) did not score as Portland closed out Edmonton, 5-2. Mark Pysyk finished -1 for the Oil Kings, who will complete their four-game U.S. road trip Saturday night at Everett.

In WCHA play, Justin Jokinen punched five shots on goal as Minnesota State edged Bemidji State, 2-1. It was a pretty solid all-around effort from the junior right wing, blocking shots in his own end while using his speed to gather loose pucks to create offensive opportunities.

Nick Eno did not play as Bowling Green ground out a 1-1 tie with #16 Western Michigan. BGSU coach Chris Bergeron announced this week that he'd be abandoning the "Eno on Friday/Andrew Hammond on Saturday" goalie rotation, instead opting to ride the hotter hand for the rest of the schedule. As a result, Eno sat for the series opener and may have to wait some additional time before getting back between the Falcons pipes after Hammond's 31-save #1 star performance.

Connor Knapp did not play as #13 Miami downed #8 Michigan, 4-2. Given a strong week of practice, it's fair to think that Knapp gets the nod on Saturday as Cody Reichard made good stops as needed but wasn't "stellar" in the RedHawks victory.

In the USHL, Christian Isackson had three shots on goal as Sioux Falls lost to Lincoln, 2-1. Buffalo native and Niagara commit Sal Alfieri scored his sixth goal of the season for the Stars. The two clubs will go at it again on Saturday.

Sunday, January 30, 2011

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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


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

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

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

###

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

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

Sunday, January 16, 2011

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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





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

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

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

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



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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Saturday, January 8, 2011

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Friday, December 31, 2010

12/30 Recap: Gauthier-Leduc ends year well; Eno injured

Jerome Gauthier-Leduc scored a goal and two assists Thursday to spark Rimouski to a 4-3 overtime win over Montreal. The 6'2 defenseman closed the 2010 calendar with six points over a current three-game streak to up his season line to 6-19-25. The Oceanic (20-18-2) will take the weekend off before returning to host Quebec on Tuesday.

Matt MacKenzie (+1) notched an assist as Calgary bested Brandon, 5-2. After netting just three points in his first 13 games, the 6'2 co-captain has connected for 16 in his last 22. The Hitmen (11-24-2), who with the win snapped a three-game losing streak, will start the year on a seven-game road-trip.

Corey Fienhage finished -1 as Kamloops got smoked by Kelowna, 7-1. Shane McColgan ('11) had two goals and an assist to pace the Rockets.

In the OHL, Gregg Sutch did not factor into the scoring as Mississauga lost to Guelph, 5-2. The defeat was just the fifth in regulation for the league-leading Majors.

In NCAA play, Connor Knapp had a night he'd like to forget, stopping just seven of 11 shots as Miami lost to St. Cloud, 4-3 in the championship game of the Florida College Classic. The loss snaps a three-game winning streak for Knapp, over which he stopped 62 of 65 shots.

Brad Eidsness did not play as North Dakota posted a 5-0 shutout of Duluth at the US Hockey Hall of Fame game.

On Wednesday, Nick Eno made 22 saves as Bowling Green lost to Princeton, 4-2. As the second goal was scored, a Princeton defender collided with Eno, forcing him to leave the game with a head/neck injury. His status for next weekend's set with Ferris State is unclear as of now.

Sunday, December 12, 2010

Sundher, Boychuk producing as quartet departs

Kevin Sundher scored two goals Saturday including one on the penalty kill to lead Chilliwack to a 4-1 win over Medicine Hat. The center now has 11 goals and 33 points through 28 games for the Bruins (15-12-3), including 7+9 in his last ten, and two goals and three assists in three games played this past week.

Riley Boychuk scored his ninth of the year and added an assist as Portland defeated Prince George, 7-4. Boychuk's power play tally tied the game at 2:26 of the third period. Five minutes later he connected Taylor Peters for the game winning goal, allowing him to match Sundher's production with two goals and three assists in the week's three games.

Other than that, it was a pretty mellow Saturday for the Sabres prospects ranks as Zack Kassian, Brayden McNabb, Marcus Foligno, and Mark Pysyk sat out their teams games (all wins) to be in Toronto for the Canadian Selection Camp, while inclement weather knocked three others out of action.

Steven Shipley didn't factor into the scoring as Niagara cruised to a 8-3 win over Barrie.

Corey Fienhage was even as Kamloops got clobbered by Spokane, 10-5.

Jerome Gauthier-Leduc contributed one shot on goal as Rimouski edged Val-d'Or, 2-1.

Mark Adams was +1 as Providence defeated Quinnipiac, 5-2.

Bowling Green's Nick Eno remained the Saturday night back-up as the Falcons were swept by Ohio State, 4-2.

Brad Eidsness and Justin Jokinen were forced to change their weekend plans as the #5 North Dakota/Minnesota State game was rescheduled to Sunday due to the snowstorm dumping on the upper Midwest.

The same blizzard prevented Christian Isackson and the Sioux Falls Stampede from playing their game with Sioux City.

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In Friday action, Matt MacKenzie scored a goal and two assists, including one to spring the game-winner, as Calgary defeated Regina in overtime, 4-3. MacKenzie forced the OT session when his slapshot rebounded off the end boards and deflected off the goalie into the net for his second goal of the season. The excellent effort earned him the game's #1 star en route to the last place Hitmen winning their eighth game of the year.

Riley Boychuk scored an empty-net goal, his eighth of the year, as Portland defeated Prince George, 8-3. Earlier in the game, the 6'5 scrapper tangled with 6'1, 195-pound Jesse Forsberg. Decision to the bigger guy.



Kevin Sundher notched an assist as Chilliwack skated to a 4-3 win over Lethbridge.

Jerome Gauthier-Leduc posted a pair of third period assists to spark Rimouski to 5-4 come-from-behind win over Val-d'Or.

Steven Shipley picked up an assist as Niagara defeated Sudbury, 5-1. Marcus Foligno (-1) failed to register a point in his final game before departing for Toronto.

Brayden McNabb finished -1 as Kootenay lost to Moose Jaw, 6-4.

Corey Fienhage was -1 as Kamloops defeated Swift Current, 3-2.

Nick Eno made 26 saves as Bowling Green lost in overtime to Ohio State, 4-3.

Justin Jokinen (-2) punched two shots on goal as Minnesota State lost to North Dakota, 4-3. Sioux netminder Brad Eidsness served as backup to Aaron Dell for the sixth straight game.

Gregg Sutch was -1 as Mississauga defeated Oshawa, 3-2.

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On Thursday, Zack Kassian fetched two assists as Windsor slid past Sualt Ste. Marie, 4-3. The helpers upped Kassian's line to 15-22-48 through 25 games before leaving for Canadian Selection Camp on Saturday.

Steven Shipley had an assist and was stopped in his shootout attempt as Niagara lost a 2-1 decision to the Majors. Gregg Sutch did not produce any points or PIM in the victory.

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On Wednesday, Brayden McNabb (+2) added two assists to his season heap in helping Kootenay to a 5-0 win over Prince Albert.

Riley Boychuk notched two assits as Portland was throttled by Spokane, 9-2.

Edmonton captain Mark Pysyk and Calgary captain Matt MacKenzie each posted bagels as the Oil Kings defeated the Hitmen, 5-2.

Drew MacKenzie finished -1 with a shot on goal as Vermont was blanked by #1 Yale, 3-0.

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In Tuesday action, Kevin Sundher collected a pair of assists in Chilliwack's 5-4 loss to Swift Current.

Corey Fienhage was -1 as Kamloops lost to Vancouver, 3-0.

Mark Adams recorded his first career point, an assist, as Providence played to a 4-4 tie with Brown. The freshman defenseman was the final Sabres prospect to to get on the stat sheet in 2010-11.