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.

10/5 Recap: Grigorenko gets winner as Remparts remain perfect

Mikhail Grigorenko scored in overtime Friday as Quebec remained perfect through their first six games with a 4-3 come from behind win over Victoriaville. Grigorenko, who earlier helped force the extra frame with an assist in the final minute of regulation, has registered a point in all six Remparts' contests for a total of 14 (4+10) on the year. The crafty pivot dazzled with several exciting plays, including a superb blind pass from his knees in the middle period that was nearly converted. The Remparts will look to remain unbeaten on Saturday when they host Rimouski.

In the WHL, Colin Jacobs scored on the power play as Prince George rode a five-goal first period to a 6-3 win over Kelowna. Jacobs now has five goals and 10 points has through his first five games to remain tied atop the WHL points leaderboard. The teams will finish their weekend set Saturday night in Prince George.

Logan Nelson picked up an assist as Victoria lost a hard-fought 4-3 decision at Spokane. The Royals continue their road trip Saturday in Tri-City.

Andrey Makarov got another short rest as Saskatoon got shellacked by Swift Current 10-1. Makarov, who was previously forced into relief action during his game off last week, entered in the 34th minute with the Blades trailing 7-1. He'd allow two power play goals before settling in the third period with 10 saves on 11 shots. The Blades pay a visit to defending WHL champion Edmonton on Saturday.

In OHL action, Dan Catenacci set up the game winning goal as Owen Sound held off Sarnia 4-3. Catenacci stayed out of the penalty box for the first time this season en route to collecting his sixth point (3+3) through the Attack's first six games. Owen Sound returns to action Saturday versus Guelph.

Justin Kea recorded his first fighting major of the year as Saginaw was blanked by Niagara 4-0. Trailing 2-0, Kea tangled with IceDogs forward Joel Wigle late in the second period. Saginaw welcomes Kitchener to town on Saturday.

Alex Lepkowski logged a +1 as Barrie earned a 4-3 shootout victory over Mississauga. The Colts take on Peterborough.

In the USHL, Judd Peterson finished -1 with a shot on goal as Cedar Rapids downed Fargo 5-2. The RoughRiders will play the second of five straight games at home Saturday against Youngstown.

Joel Armia recorded three shots on goal in 15:55 of action as Assat dropped a 2-1 decision to the Blues. The Aces head back to the ice Saturday against TPS.

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In AHL preseason play, Nick Crawford scored a pair of regulation goals and then the shootout clincher as Rochester closed the preseason with a 4-3 win over Wilkes-Barre/Scranton. Phil Varone added the other Amerks goal. Rookie netminders Connor Knapp and Nathan Lieuwen split the crease duties, with Knapp stopping 15 of 16 shots before giving way to Lieuwen, who blocked 16 of 18 and another three in the shootout to secure the victory.

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.

9/23 Recap: Grigorenko helps out

Mikhail Grigorenko notched a pair of assists Sunday as Quebec blanked Baie-Comeau 5-0. Both of Grigorenko's helpers came on goals by Florida prospect Logan Shaw. Grigorenko now has six points after his first two games. The 6-foot-3 pivot rounded out his line with four shots on goal, a +3 rating, and a 60% success rate at the faceoff circle (18/30). The Remparts are off until Saturday when they visit QMJHL newcomer, Sherbrooke.


In the WHL, Colin Jacobs followed his five-point effort with an assist and a shootout marker as Prince George edged Everett 7-6. Jacobs (2+4) enters the week as the WHL's second-leading scorer behind Portland's Nicolas Pedan ('13), who has eight points in three games. Prince George welcomes Jacobs' former mates from Seattle to town next weekend.

Alex Lepkowski picked up hsi first point of the year, a power play assist, as Barrie dropped a 3-2 decision at Mississauga. The Colts host Dan Catenacci and the Owen Sound Attack on Thursday.

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.

9/14 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.

Jacobs guides Cougars

Colin Jacobs scored a goal and an assist Friday as Prince George rolled to a 3-1 preseason victory over defending WHL champion Edmonton. The goal, which came off a deflection in front of the Rockets cage late in the second period, gives Jacobs a multi-point game in just his second outing as a Cougar after having just two in all of 2011-12 with Seattle. Alex Forsberg ('13) added a pair of assists for Prince George, who moved to a 3-0 thus far in exhibition play. The two teams will go back at it on Saturday in Prince George.


In Finland, Joel Armia notched an assist as Assat completed their preseason with a 4-2 win over Ilves. Armia, who continued to man a scoring line right wing spot, was unable to light the lamp in any of his four exhibition appearances. The Aces open the regular season Friday at Lukko.

Elsewhere, Logan Nelson finished even with a roughing minor in Victoria's 4-1 win over Kelowna. The two clubs will play a rematch of their fight-filled affair Saturday in Kelowna.

In the OHL, Brady Austin recorded a power play assist as Belleville was doubled by Kingston, 6-3. The two clubs will play a rematch on Saturday.

Alex Lepkowski did not point as Barrie dropped a 4-1 decision to Guelph. The Colts next take the ice on Sunday when they take on Kitchener.

In USHL action, Judd Peterson was -2 with three shots on goal as Cedar Rapids opened the exhibition schedule with a 5-3 loss to Dubuque. The two clubs, which combined for 99 penalty minutes on Friday, will resume the home-and-home battle Saturday in Cedar Rapids.

OHL open for business

Dan Catenacci got his first preseason skate in Sunday as Owen Sound dropped a 3-1 decision to Barrie. The speedy forward is the top returning scorer on the Attack roster after scoring 33 goals and 72 points a season ago. The 2012-13 Barrie blueline will be anchored in part by 19-year old Alex Lepkowski, who emerged as a top stay-at-home presence in last spring's playoffs. The two clubs will go back at it Monday night in Barrie.

Justin Kea did not point as Saginaw won 2-0 at London. The two-way Kea is competing for second line center duty this season behind Panthers prospect Vincent Trocheck. Sunday's game featured more fights than goals (three) as some bad blood spilled over from last spring's Western Conference semi-final. Jake Paterson (DET) earned the shutout for Spirit, who are now off until Thursday when they take on Sarnia.

In the WHL, Colin Jacobs did not play as Prince George buried Medicine Hat, 5-0. Chase Witala ('13) paced the Cougars with two goals and an assist. PG returns to action Friday when they host defending WHL champion Edmonton.

In Kravare, CZE, Linus Ullmark served as backup as Sweden defeated Finland 2-1 in overtime to win the Four Nations tourney. Sebastian Collberg (MON) roofed a shot in the first minute of the OT to push the Swedes to a 3-0 weekend mark. Ullmark will head back to Ornskoldsvik to join Modo J20 for Tuesday's tilt with Timra.

Jacobs, Nelson get to work

Colin Jacobs made his Prince George debut a scrappy one Saturday as the Cougars skated to a 6-3 preseason win over Red Deer.

The 6'2 center, who arrived in PG last month after a trade from Seattle, was unable to get in on any of his club's half-dozen goals but still made a mark with under five minutes to play by earning instigator, fighting major, and 10-minute misconduct penalties after a dust-up with Rebels defenseman Kevin Pochuk.

The Texas-born forward is better known for using his hands elsewhere (80% in shootouts last season), having just five majors in his WHL career and none since December of 2010.

Tate Olson, a 6'1 defenseman who isn't eligible for the NHL draft until 2015, led Prince George with a pair of goals including the game winner. The Cougars return to action Sunday against Medicine Hat.

In Friday preseason play, Logan Nelson finished -1 as Victoria was downed by Kamloops, 5-3. A 23-goal scorer a year ago, the game was Nelson's first in front of Royals new bench boss, Dave Lowry. Clay Spencer ('13) scored two goals in a losing effort. Victoria will continue their exhibition schedule on Friday when they host Kelowna.

Jacobs dealt to Cougars

The Prince George Cougars have acquired Sabres prospect Colin Jacobs from the Seattle Thunderbirds in exchange for former captain Jesse Forsberg and a pair of 2013 draft picks (5th, 7th round).

Jacobs (6'2", 204 lbs.) scored nine goals and 19 points in 44 games for the T-Birds last season. His year didn't begin until December after off-season shoulder surgery caused him to miss Seattle's first 26 games. The Dallas-area product had previously notched 22 goals and 44 points in 2011-12 to earn a fourth round selection from the Sabres in 2011 NHL draft.

A strong center with excellent playmaking skills, Jacobs has also proven effective in the shootout, clicking at an 80% success rate en route to bagging four game winning goals in 2011-12.

Jacobs recently skated at Sabres development camp in preparation for his fourth WHL season. With a clean bill of health and his eyes on earning an NHL contract, the move to Prince George could see the 19-year old spend time on a line with touted 2013 draft eligible Alex Forsberg, the younger brother of the player he was traded for.

3/18 Recap: Jacobs points as T-Birds bounced

Colin Jacobs picked up an assist as Seattle failed to make the playoffs with a 8-2 loss to Portland on the final day of the WHL regular season. The 6'1 center finishes the year with nine goals and 19 points after missing the first 26 games of the year due to a shoulder injury.

Jerome Gauthier-Leduc logged a -3 as Rimouski was blanked by Victoriaville, 4-0. The right-handed defender ends the season as the leading scorer among QMJHL defensemen with 28 goals and 74 points, two ahead of the 72 posted by Brayden McNabb in Kootenay a season ago.

Steven Shipley did not factor as Niagara ended the regular season with a 2-0 win over Mississauga. The 6'3 forward finishes the year with 48 points, two fewer than the 50mhe put up last year, and 15 fewer than the 63 scored in his draft year.

We'll have more on the playoff matchups later.

3/17 Recap: Shipley tunes up as Dogs eye run

Steven Shipley scored a goal and two assists Saturday as Niagara hammered Ottawa, 7-3. The 6'3 center is coming on of late on a line with Mitchell Theoret and David Pacan, scoring six goal and 10 points in his last seven games. After finishing the regular season on Sunday with a trip to Mississauga, the top-seeded IceDogs will open the 2012 playoffs on Thursday versus Oshawa.



Dan Catenacci snapped a five-game funk with a faceoff win assist as Owen Sound lost to Guelph, 3-1. With the pair of weekend losses to the Storm, the Attack slip to a 6th place finish in the OHL Western Conference. Owen Sound will be without leading scorer Mike Halmo (suspension) for the entire first round playoff match-up with Kitchener, meaning that Catenacci, who finished the regular season with 33 goals and 72 points, will need to step it up if the Attack is to defend their league crown.



Cedrick Henley recorded an assist as Val-d'Or defeated Baie-Comeau, 7-4. The 6'5 power forward finishes the regular season as Val-d'Or's seventh leading scorer, posting a career-best 13 goals and 39 points in 53 games. The Foreurs will wait for the outcome of Sunday action to learn where they'll be traveling for the first round of the QMJHL playoffs.

Gregg Sutch and Alex Lepkowski did not factor as Barrie was rolled by Brampton, 5-2. Sutch was stung late when he blocked a shot but should be good to go next week when the Colts begin the playoffs at home versus Mississauga.

Colin Jacobs logged a -1 as Seattle lost to Everett, 6-4. The Thunderbirds will now face a must-win situation on Sunday when they battle Portland in the final game of the regular season. Currently two points out of the final playoff spot in the Western Conference, a Seattle victory will force a one-game tiebreaker with Everett on Tuesday.

Mark Pysyk finished +1 as Edmonton finished the regular season with a 7-3 win over Red Deer. The Oil Kings, who enter the WHL playoffs as the #1 seed in the Eastern Conference, will face defending league champion Kootenay in the first round. The first two games will be played at Rexall on Friday and Sunday.

Nathan Lieuwen made 14 saves as Kootenay was blanked by Calgary, 3-0. The ICE 2011-12 co-MVP, Lieuwen finishes the regular season with 27 wins (11th in WHL), a 2.50 goals against average (3rd) and .914 save percentage (5th).

Brad Eidsness backed up as North Dakota reeled off their seventh straight win to claim the WCHA Final Five Championship with a 4-0 shutout win over Denver. The Sioux victory gives them the automatic bid into the NCAA brackets. Their opponent will be announced Sunday at noon.

Kevin Sundher did not play as Brandon closed out the regular season with a 7-2 win over Regina. The Wheat Kings, who finish as the #6 seed in the WHL Eastern Conference, will hope to have the speedy center back on Thursday when they begin their opening round playoff series at Calgary.

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In AHL play, blueliners T.J. Brennan (14th) and Nick Crawford (4th) added regulation goals and Paul Szczechura scored in overtime as Rochester edged Binghamton, 4-3.

Travis Turnbull also scored for the Amerks while David Leggio made 33 stops for his fifth win in his last six starts.

The Rundown:
Brennan: G, +1, 6 SOG
Crawford: G, +1, 2 SOG
Lagace: 2 SOG
Adam: -1, 4 SOG
Biega: +1, 2 SOG
Szydlowski: +1

On Friday, Orchard Park native Nick Schaus scored a late power play goal to give Syracuse a 4-3 win over the Amerks. Szczechura and fellow vets Colin Stuart and Evan Rankin provided the Rochester marks, while Phil Varone added two assists.

The Rundown:
Brennan: A, -3, 5 PIM
Biega: A,
Adam: A, 4 SOG
Lagace: 2 PIM
Crawford: +1
Szydlowski: even

Winners of eight of their last 10, the Amerks welcome Syracuse to the BCA for mid-week tilt on Wednesday.

***

In Texas, Drew Schiestel recorded an assist as Texas dropped both ends of a Friday/Saturday set to Oklahoma City. Schiestel has four assists and a +1 rating in six games since being re-assigned to the Stars top affiliate.

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In the Coast League, Corey Fienhage picked up a pair of assists and Jonathan Parker chipped in a helper as Gwinnett held on for a 4-3 win over Greenville. Riley Boychuk recorded two shots on net in the win.

Since we haven't fed the savages in a while, here's a clip of Boychuk refining his pugilistic skills last weekend against the Road Warriors.

3/16 Recap: Knapp's run ends; Pysyk finds net

Mark Pysyk scored his sixth goal of the year Friday as Edmonton earned their 10th straight victory over Medicine Hat, 4-2. Pysyk now has points in four of his last five games. With a win Sunday, the Oil Kings will clinch the top overall spot in the WHL.

Connor Knapp allowed four goals on 19 shots before getting pulled midway through the second period as Miami was defeated by Western Michigan 6-2 in the CCHA semifinal. Knapp, who was named Best Goaltender at Thursday's CCHA Awards, had allowed four total goals in his previous eight games entering the matchup. The RedHawks will now wait for Sunday's NCAA Tourney Selection Show to learn where and when they'll continue their year.

Gregg Sutch assisted on the game's first goal as Barrie lost to Mississauga in overtime, 4-3. The helper was Sutch's first point since February 9th, ending a 14-game drought for the grinding forward. Alex Lepkowski logged a -3 in defeat.

Jerome Gauthier-Leduc snagged a late power play assist as Rimouski skated to a 7-4 win over Chicoutimi. The mobile defender has collected points in three straight to raise his season total to 74 (28+46).

Brad Eidsness watched from the bench as North Dakota scored six unanswered goals en route to a stunning 6-3 win over Minnesota. The Sioux, who tied a WCHA record with their 12 straight playoff victory, will square off with Denver for the automatic NCAA tourney bid. 

Cedrick Henley finished -1 with a game-high five hits as Baie-Comeau was doubled by Chicoutimi, 8-4. Raphael Bussieres ('12) scored a goal and an assist for the winning side.

Dan Catenacci failed to get a point for the fifth straight game as Owen Sound was blanked by Guelph, 5-0. Storm forward Scott Kosmachuk ('12) scored a goal and an assist.

Nathan Lieuwen allowed two goals in the final minute of regulation and then another in the overtime as Kootenay stumbled to a 6-5 home loss to Calgary. The hottest goaltender in junior hockey at this point a season ago, Lieuwen has won just three of his last dozen starts.

Colin Jacobs tied the game with his ninth goal of the year then set-up former d-camp invite Burke Gallimore for the game winner as Seattle edged Spokane, 4-3. Jacobs' tally snapped an 11-game goal drought.

Kevin Sundher did not play in Brandon's 2-1 win over Regina. Sundher (concussion) has played in just one of the Wheat Kings last 13 games.

Mark Adams watched as Providence saw their season come to an end with a 4-2 loss to #1 Boston College in the Hockey East semifinal. The 6'3 sophomore missed the final nine games after suffering a concussion in a game against Northeastern back on 2/17.

3/13 Recap: Calm before playoff storm

Colin Jacobs recorded an assist Tuesday as Seattle earned a win over Spokane. The 6'1 center has no goals and two assists in his last 11 games. The 11-game goalless drought is the second longest of his WHL career. He went 23 games without a tally as a rookie back in 2009-10.

In Finland, Joel Armia punched four shots on goal in 18:12 of work as Assat lost to Karpat, 3-2. The Aces will wrap up the regular season on Thursday at home versus TPS. Talented 2012 draft prospect Ville Pokka skated over 23-minutes on the Karpat blueline.

Alex Lepkowski tied a career high with a +3 rating as Barrie defeated Sudbury 5-4 in a shootout. Gregg Sutch missed his second game in a row for maintenance purposes.

On Sunday, Steven Shipley was +1 in Niagara's 5-2 win over Kingston. The #1 team in the OHL's Eastern Conference, the IceDogs have won eight of their last 10 with their final three games set for Thursday through Sunday.

Cedrick Henley was +2 with an assist as Val-d'Or came up short against Rouyn-Noranda, 3-2. The 6'5 project has 13 goals, 38 points, and 86 PIM this season - all career highs.

Dan Catenacci was whistled for a slashing minor as Owen Sound was beaten by Plymouth, 4-3. After ripping off 23 points in 16 games, Catenacci has come away empty in his last four.

Jacobs was -1 in Seattle's 3-2 overtime win over Everett. Branden Troock ('12) notched his 13th of the year in the win.

Brad Navin contributed two shots on goal as Wisconsin was eliminated from the WCHA tourney with a 3-2 overtime loss at Denver. Navin ends his freshman campaign with three goals and three assists in 36 games while spending the majority of his time on the Badgers' fourth forward unit.

Mark Adams did not play (concussion) as Providence advanced to the Hockey East semis with a 1-0 win over Lowell. The Friars will take on #1 Boston College on Friday.

3/10 Recap: Knapp, Amerks extend streaks

Connor Knapp made 21 saves Saturday as Miami advanced to the CCHA semifinals with a 4-1 win over Michigan State. Knapp, who has now won seven straight starts, is 12-2 with five shutouts since January 1st while allowing one or none in all 12 of the wins. The RedHawks will now wait for the outcome of Sunday's Ferris State/Bowling Green tilt to see who they'll play on Friday at the Joe.

Jerome Gauthier-Leduc scored his 28th goal of the year as Rimouski was doubled by Blainville-Boisbriand, 4-2. Leduc has scored goals in two straight, bringing him within two points of Kevin Sundher in the race for the prospects scoring title with two games left to play. 

Mark Pysyk picked up an an assist to extend his point streak to three games as Edmonton toppled Red Deer, 7-4. The victory gives the Oil Kings 101 points, making them the first WHL club to hit triple digits this season.

Dan Catenacci went without a point for the third straight game as Owen Sound was shut out by Sarnia, 4-0. Catenacci sits with 33 goals and 71 points with three games to play. Stud 2012 prospect Nail Yakupov left the game in the second period after getting blown up by Attack captain Mike Halmo as he crossed the middle.

Nathan Lieuwen made 36 saves but Kootenay came up short in the final period for the second straight night in a 3-2 loss to Spokane. The game's #2 star, Lieuwen weathered the storm in a busy third until the Chiefs beat him for two goals in a span of 30-seconds with less than seven minutes to play.

In Finland, Joel Armia fired nine shots in Assat's 2-1 win over Tappara. The 6'3 wing is stuck at 18 goals with two regular season games remaining.

Elsewhere, Brad Eidsness got the start in the North Dakota net, making 23 saves to earn the game's #3 star as the Sioux finished off Bemidji State, 4-3. The defending back-to-back champions, North Dakota advances to next weekend's WCHA Final Five to face a yet to be determined opponent.

Brad Navin pumped two shots on net as Wisconsin was overcome by Denver, 3-1. The teams will play a third and deciding game Sunday at Magness for the right to advance to the Final Five next week in St. Paul.

Colin Jacobs finished -2 as Seattle suffered through an 11-3 drubbing by Portland. The big center has gone nine games without scoring a goal.

Alex Lepkowski played even as Barrie blanked Belleville, 3-0. Gregg Sutch was given a night off to rest some bumps and bruises

Justin Jokinen recorded four shots on goal as Minnesota State saw their season end with a heartbreaking 3-2 loss to Duluth in overtime. Chosen in the 4th round of the 2008 draft, the 6'3 forward ends his Mavericks career with 18 goals and 39 points in 124 games.

Kevin Sundher remained out of action (concussion) as Brandon edged Saskatoon, 2-1.

Christian Isackson was scratched for the eighth straight game as Minnesota defeated Alaska-Anchorage, 7-3.

***

While Marcus Foligno was busy scoring his first NHL goal in the Sabres Saturday night win at Ottawa, the Amerks were rather active themselves receiving marks from six different players en route to a 6-1 rout of Binghamton.

Travis Turnbull paced the winners with a goal and two assists. Mark Voakes dished his way to three helpers. Alex Biega, Maxime Legault, Derek Whitmore, Paul Szczechura and Shaone Morrisonn also scored for Rochester. David Leggio finished with 17 saves while holding the B-Sens scoreless for nearly 55-minutes

The Rundown:
Biega: G, +2
McNabb: A, +3
Crawford: +2
Brennan: +1
Szydlowski: +1

Winners of four straight, the Amerks are off until Friday when they visit in-state rival Syracuse.

3/2 Recap: Leduc takes advantage; Sundher returns

Jerome Gauthier-Leduc picked up a pair of power play assists Friday as Rimouski delivered a 4-1 loss to Cape Breton. The productive defender, who now has 2+2 in his last two outings, now ranks 17th in QMJHL scoring with 69 points (26+43) with a half dozen games remaining.



Cedrick Henley earned an assist and a game-high eight hits as Val-d'Or defeated Victoriaville 3-2 in a shootout. The 6'5 forward has nine points in his last eight games.

In WHL play, Kevin Sundher notched a power play assist in his return from a six-game absence as Brandon rolled past Lethbridge, 6-2. The Wheat Kings have now won seven straight.



Colin Jacobs finished -1 as Seattle was blanked by Everett, 4-0. The 6'1 center has skated without a point in five straight games.

In NCAA action, Drew MacKenzie was -2 in Vermont's 5-1 loss at #1 Boston College. The senior defenseman will play his final game for the Catamounts on Saturday.

Brad Navin recorded a shot on goal as Wisconsin downed rival #4 Minnesota, 4-1. The Badgers will go for their fifth straight win when the teams conclude the WCHA set on Saturday. Gopher freshman Christian Isackson was scratched for the fifth straight game.

Justin Jokinen finished +1 as Minnesota State dropped a 4-2 decision at North Dakota. Brad Eidsness served as backup for the Sioux. The two clubs will rematch on Saturday to finish the WCHA regular season.

Mark Adams remained sidelined as Providence was defeated by Lowell, 5-1. Despite the loss, the Friars clinch their first Hockey East Tournament spot since 2008. The two clubs will conclude the regular season slate on Saturday.

2/29 Recap: Duo produces in defeat

Dan Catenacci scored his 32nd goal of the season Wednesday as Owen Sound lost to Barrie, 3-1. The speedy pivot has racked up 12 goals and 22 points in his last 15 games. Last season, he had 6-17-23 in 30 games after January 1st. Alex Lepkowski (+2) and Gregg Sutch did not point for the winners.



Mark Pysyk was whistled for three minor penalties (slashing, cross checking, unsportsmanlike) as Edmonton defeated Kootenay, 3-1. ICE goaltender Nathan Lieuwen was given the night off.

In Tuesday play, Joel Armia scored his 17th goal on the power play in Assat's 5-1 loss to JYP. Trailing 4-0 in the third, Armia skated across the high slot and slung a wrister over the shoulder of the JYP goalie for his 35th point of the season.

Cedrick Henley saw his six-game point streak snapped as Val-d'Or edged Rouyn-Noranda 3-2 in overtime. The 6'5 Henley led all skaters with five hits.

Colin Jacobs finished -2 in Seattle's 3-1 loss to Tri-City. The 6'1 center has gone without a point in his last four games.

2/26 Recap: Henley stars in Foreurs win

On Sunday, Cedrick Henley scored a goal and two assists to earn the game's #2 star as Val-d'Or clobbered Drummondville, 7-3. The win gives the Foreurs three straight victories. Henley's fourth three-point game of the season gives him 34 points (13+21) with seven games remaining.

Elsewhere, Mark Pysyk finished +1 as Edmonton defeated Lethbridge, 4-1.

Colin Jacobs logged a +1 as Seattle was dumped by Tri-City, 5-1.

Steven Shipley sat out with a hip injury as Niagara rolled past Kingston, 9-3.