Showing posts with label mccabe. Show all posts
Showing posts with label mccabe. Show all posts

Sunday, January 20, 2013

1/19 Recap: Catenacci keeps pace

Dan Catenacci assisted on the game winning goal Saturday and added an empty-netter as Owen Sound pitched a 4-0 shutout of Belleville. Catenacci, who finished 2012 with goals in four straight games, has marks in two consecutive outings for the first time in 2013 to bump his line to 24-33-57 through 44 games. The Attack concludes a three-games-in-three-nights run Sunday at Ottawa. Brady Austin finished with an even rating for the Bulls, who next take on Oshawa on Wednesday.



Elsewhere, Justin Kea notched his 17th goal of the year as Saginaw was doubled by Erie 4-2. Kea's power play strike, which gave the Spirit a 1-0 lead, was his sixth goal in his last seven games. The two clubs will rematch Wednesday in Erie.

Alex Lepkowski was plus-one as Barrie struck for five straight goals in a 6-3 win over Kitchener. The top ranked team in the OHL's Eastern Conference, the Colts will battle Owen Sound on Wednesday.

In WHL play, Andrey Makarov celebrated his Bobblehead Night with 31 saves in regulation and another 10 in the shootout as Saskatoon dropped a 3-2 decision to Brandon. The squads will re-convene for what should be another exciting contest Tuesday in Brandon.

Colin Jacobs was blanked as Prince George got past Red Deer 3-1. Jacobs will look to get back in the goal column Sunday afternoon in Edmonton.

Joel Armia recorded five shots in 17:13 of work as Assat was shut out by Espoo 4-0. The Aces are next in action Thursday at JYP.

Jake McCabe was steady on the top pair in Wisconsin's 2-1 loss to Miami. With the loss to the RedHawks, Wisconsin's seven-game winning streak and 11-game unbeaten streak come to an end. For the fifth straight weekend, Brad Navin did not dress in the back end of the Badgers' weekend doubleheader.

Christian Isackson picked up a secondary assist as Minnesota played to a 4-4 tie with North Dakota. The Gophers continue the WCHA schedule next weekend versus Minnesota State.

Judd Peterson (-3) recorded two shots on goal as Cedar Rapids lost to Sioux Falls 7-4. The Riders host Des Moines on Friday.

Saturday, January 19, 2013

1/18 Recap: Cat pounces on PP

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



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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Sunday, January 13, 2013

1/12 Recap: Kea connects; Brennan's "Gordie" leads way

Justin Kea notched a goal and an assist Saturday as Saginaw extended their winning streak to five games with a 5-2 victory over London. Kea, who finished with a game-best plus-three rating, was rewarded with the game's number three star while upping his season line to 16-20-36 through 44 games. The Spirit victory was the first time in 29 games that the Knights were defeated in regulation time. Saginaw hosts Sault Ste. Marie on Friday

Dan Catenacci recorded an assist as Owen Sound blasted Kingston 7-0. The polished pivot now has 54 points (22+32) in 42 appearances heading into next Friday's tilt at Kingston.



Alex Lepkowski did not play as Barrie handled Niagara 5-1. The Colts' stay-at-homer returned this week for a pair of games, but was forced to sit Saturday after agitating the shoulder that saw him miss seven games from mid-Dec. to early Jan.

In the WHL, Andrey Makarov made 30 saves as Sakatoon lost to Edmonton 2-1. The Blades are back at it Tuesday versus Kootenay.

Colin Jacobs scored his 14th goal of the year on the power play as Prince George lost a 2-1 overtime decision to Kamloops. The Cougars visit Calgary on Friday.


In NCAA play, Jake McCabe returned to WCHA action, earning an assist on the overtime game winner as Wisconsin swept Minnesota State with a 2-1 overtime victory. The Badgers extended their winning streak to six games, while going unbeaten in their last 10 games (7-0-3). Brad Navin was a healthy scratch for the Badgers, who welcome CCHA power Miami to town next weekend.

Christian Isackson saw his four-game point streak snapped as No. 1 Minnesota skated to a 7-1 win over Alaska-Anchorage. Minnesota returns to action next weekend, hosting WCHA rival North Dakota for the final time in the regular season as members of the WCHA.

In the USHL, Judd Peterson was a game-low minus-three as Cedar Rapids was defeated by Dubuque 4-1. The Riders are off until Wednesday's visit to Omaha.

In SM-Liiga action, Joel Armia directed nine shots in 14:08 of work in Assat's 3-2 win over TPS. Armia has one assist in three games with the Aces since returning from the World Junior Championship. The Aces will be in action again on Tuesday versus Tappara.

Linus Ullmark served as backup MODO lost to Linkopngs 4-3. Ullmark will start for the J20 on Sunday, while the top club is off until Thursday when they face HV71.

In the AHL, T.J. Brennan notched the Gordie Howe hat trick by scoring his 14th goal, picking up an assist, and getting in a second-period scrap as Rochester downed Syracuse 4-1. Rick Schofield, Nick Tarnasky, and Kevin Porter added the other Amerks goals.

Rochester rookie Zemgus Girgensons was wiped out by a Richard Panik elbow in the second period and did not return. Girgensons was taken for observation and more info should be known about his status early next week.


Saturday, January 12, 2013

1/11 Recap: Amerks roll; Grigo empty on eve of camp

Brian Flynn scored a goal and an assist Friday to help the Rochester Americans to a 5-2 win over Hamilton. T.J. Brennan, Mark Mancari, Brayden McNabb, and Nick Tarnasky added the other Amerks goals, while Zemgus Girgensons, Luke Adam, and Kevin Porter gathered two assists each. For Girgensons, the two-assist outing was the first multi-point game of his professional career.

The game was a statement for Brennan and McNabb, who both await their missions on the eve of Sabres training camp. Brennan, who currently is tied for 12th in league scoring with 33 points (13+
20), stepped into a booming slap shot for a short-side goal to give the Amerks a 2-1 lead. McNabb dug in and played his physical brand of hockey while adding his third tally of the year. With Marcus Foligno and Cody Hodgson already tabbed for camp duty, the defensive duo are expected to be in the discussion as the Sabres look to round out their troops for the week-long evaluation.

Elsewhere, Mikhail Grigorenko (-2) went without a point for the second straight game as Quebec was embarrassed in a 4-0 home-ice loss to league cellar-dweller Shawinigan. Grigorenko, whose two-game drought is a first in the 2012-13 campaign, will leave for Buffalo early Saturday to participate in his first NHL training camp.

In Western League action, Andrey Makarov returned to action for Saskatoon for the first time since his bronze medal winning performance versus Canada, making 30 saves as the Blades dropped a 3-1 decision to Red Deer. Makarov saw his shutout streak of 134:49 (going back to early Dec.) snapped by surrendering a goal 5:28 into the first period. The Blades battle defending champion Edmonton on Saturday.

Colin Jacobs was kept off the scoresheet as Prince George edged Kamloops 1-0. Jacobs has yet to notch a point in five January games. The Cougars and Blazers play a rematch on Saturday.

In OHL play, newly-named assistant captain Justin Kea was unable to get a point in Saginaw's 4-3 win over Erie. Kea and the Spirit will ride a four-game winning streak into Saturday's game against top-ranked London.

Alex Lepkowski registered a minus-one rating as Barrie suffered 3-2 defeat at Guelph. The Colts welcome Niagara to town on Saturday.

Brady Austin remained out of the lineup with a hand injury as Belleville smoked Kingston 8-2. The Bulls host Windsor on Saturday.

In college action, Christian Isackson notched a pair of assists as No. 1 Minnesota skated to a 4-3 win over Alaska-Anchorage. The helpers extend Isackson's point streak to four games, giving him season totals of 3-11-14 through 21 games. The clubs complete the WCHA set on Saturday.

Jake McCabe made his return from an impeccable performance on Team USA's blueline as the 2013 World Junior Championship as Wisconsin earned a 4-3 overtime victory at Minnesota State. Brad Navin maintained his fourth-line role for the Badgers, who have won five straight and are unbeaten in their last nine games.

In the USHL, Judd Peterson (+1) saw his four-game point streak come to an end as Cedar Rapids defeated Muskegon 4-1. The RoghRiders tangle with Dubuque on Saturday.


Saturday, January 5, 2013

McCabe golden in USA triumph; Russian duo gets bronze

Team USA captain Jake McCabe earned a gold medal Saturday as Team USA downed Sweden 3-1 to claim first place at the 2013 World Junior Championship. The victory was USA's first gold medal at the U20 event since defeating Canada in the 2010 final.

The Wisconsin sophomore, who began each period paired with Seth Jones, played a simple defensive game in the tourney finale. His stick was down, he made quick clears, and he kept his position around the USA net while not chasing the play en route to earning a plus-two rating. McCabe did a great job of forcing the Swedish forwards wide to the outside. His most impressive play came early in the second period with a great read to break up a two-on-one chance for the Swedes.

A native of Eau Claire, Wis., McCabe finishes the event with a line of 3-3-6 through the seven games, along with 16 PIM, 13 shots on goal, and a team-best plus-nine rating. His overall effort was rewarded with a spot on the tournament All-Star Team.

In the end, players from 13 different states, including 15 who currently play with NCAA Division I programs, banded together and got better with each passing game to take the gold medal on Russian soil.

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In the day's first game, Andrey Makarov made 40 saves to backstop Russia to a thrilling 6-5 overtime victory over Canada to earn the bronze medal. With the loss, Canada's streak of 14 straight years with a medal came to an end.

With a decision in a medal game for the second consecutive year, Makarov ends the tournament with a 2-1 record, 2.99 GAA, and .933 save%.

Mikhail Grigorenko was unable to score in the game, but made perhaps his biggest defensive play of the tournament with a leg save in overtime prior to Valeri Nichushkin breaking in and scoring the game winner to get Russia the medal.



The talented centerman was named as one of Russia's top three players at the conclusion of the tournament with a productive 2-4-6 in seven games. Grigorenko rounded out his performance with 33 shots on goal, a 48.5% success rate on faceoffs (65W-69L), and a plus-four rating.

Thursday, January 3, 2013

Captain McCabe leads way as Americans cruise past Canada

Jake McCabe scored a pair of first period goals Thursday to lead the USA past Canada 5-1 to advance to the gold medal game at the 2013 World Junior Championship. The Wisconsin sophomore, who also added an assist, was named Team USA's player of the game following the superb three-point effort.

McCabe scored the game's first goal at 7:18 when he took a Riley Barber pass in the high slot and wired a shot through a maze of bodies past Canadian netminder Malcolm Subban.

A scorer of just five goals through 42 career NCAA games, Captain McCabe gathered his second of the afternoon on a similar play at 16:02 when he again stepped into the slot and beat Subban through a screen to give the Americans the 2-0 lead.

USA stormed out of the gates in the middle frame, getting their third goal of the game just 2:58 in when McCabe cleared a puck out of danger from the USA crease right to the stick of Bosron College standout Johnny Gaudreau, who cruised into the Canadian zone and made a nice toedrag before wristing a shot past Subban to make it 3-0.



Just like the American team as a whole, McCabe has shown tremendous game-over-game growth en route to collecting three goals and six points through USA's six tourney games. His plus-seven rating is tied with Seth Jones ('13) for the team lead. With an emotional win over their continental rival behind them, USA will ride a wave of momentum into Saturday's gold medal game against the winner of Thursday's Russia-Sweden tilt.

Wednesday, January 2, 2013

McCabe on point as Americans advance

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

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

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

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

Monday, December 31, 2012

McCabe masterful as Americans advance

Jake McCabe continued his exceptional all-situations play at the 2013 World Junior Championship Monday, netting a goal and an assist as USA advanced to the quarterfinal round with 9-3 shellacking of Slovakia.

The mobile defender gave the Americans a 2-1 lead when he cut to the net and buried a backhand off a nice feed from John Gaudreau at 5:10 of the opening period.

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McCabe, who saw the majority of his even-strength time with Seth Jones ('13), would later make a neutral zone pass to earn a secondary assist on Gaudreau's power play goal at 4:55 of the second period.

The victory gives the USA a third place finish in Group B. Their next opponent will be known after the completion of Group A's final round robin match between Finland and Sweden.

Sunday, December 30, 2012

McCabe performs well in USA loss

Jake McCabe functioned well in his shutdown role Sunday while earning a late misconduct penalty as USA was defeated by rival Canada 2-1 at the 2013 World Junior Championship.

The Wisconsin sophomore continued to be effective on the penalty kill, smartly using his stick to break up passes and disrupt the flow of the Canadian forwards while paired with Connor Murphy (PHX) and later Seth Jones ('13). He didn't record a shot on goal in the contest, but he joined the rush and helped pin the puck deep before responsibly retreating back to his left defensive post. Through three games, McCabe has been one of the more consistent defensemen for Team USA.

Minutes after Jacob Trouba got Team USA on the board in the third period, McCabe was whistled for a questionable checking to the head penalty for a hit at the blueline. The two-minute minor was served by teammate John Gaudreau, while McCabe served the additional 10-minute misconduct as regulation time expired. The penalty to USA's captain seemingly sprung a leak in his team's discipline, with McCabe's being the first of five calls against the Americans over the final eight minutes of play.



Despite the barrage of late penalties, USA would receive a power play to run out regulation time but was unable to beat the red-hot Malcolm Subban to tie the game. Both Subban and Team USA goaltender John Gibson left spectacular performances on the ice, earning their teams' Player of the Game honors following the one-goal Canadian victory.

McCabe and Team USA will complete Group B round robin action Monday versus Slovakia.

Saturday, December 29, 2012

Makarov magnificent as Russia nips USA

Andrey Makarov earned Player of the Game honors Friday thanks to a sparkling 41-save performance as Russia earned a hard-fought 2-1 victory over the USA.

Makarov made several point-blank stops, including perhaps his biggest in the game's second minute when he pushed from right to left in stopping a mini three-on-one break.


The Saskatoon Blades reigning MVP was tough from start to finish in the Russian crease, using quick limbs, and at one point even his head, to steer pucks out of danger.

Mikhail Grigorenko punched five shots on goal while winning 50% of his faceoffs (8/16). Despite being listed on paper as Russia's second line centerman, the 6-foot-2 distributor was the focus of an American clamp-down for much of the contest, as the defensive pressure pushed Grigorenko to the outside on the majority of his opportunities.

Team USA captain Jake McCabe, who finished the game with one shot on goal, showed a strong compete level while again being paired with Connor Murphy. His active stick was one factor in keeping Nail Yakupov off the scoreboard for the second straight game.

Russia will look for their third straight victory Saturday against Germany. Next up for Team USA is a Sunday showdown with Canada.

Thursday, December 27, 2012

Captain McCabe steady as USA opens with victory

Jake McCabe recorded five shots on goal and a plus-one rating Thursday as Team USA kicked off the 2013 World Junior Championship with an 8-0 victory over Germany. The USA captain also added a pair of minor penalties in the win.

Paired with Connor Murphy (PHX), McCabe showed his footwork and mobility in a variety of situations in the tourney opener. On his very first shift, the 19-year old waltzed into the German zone, skated the puck deep beneath the goal line, and slung a quick shot from a poor angle. In his left defense post, the Eau Claire, Wis. native showed good awareness in using his angles and stick. 

The four penalty minutes arrived via holding and tripping calls. The holding penalty came in the second period with fellow defender Jacob Trouba already in the box, putting the Americans down two men.  

The USA defense corps, which surrendered 26 shots to the Germans, will face a much stiffer test Friday when they take on Mikhail Grigorenko and the host Russians. With a victory, USA can maintain the top position in Group B heading into Sunday's showdown with Canada.

Sunday, December 23, 2012

Amerks dominated; McCabe named Captain

Jerome Gauthier-Leduc scored his second goal of the year Saturday as the Rochester Americans were dominated in a 5-1 loss at Binghamton. Leduc's tally came as he joined the rush to the top of the crease and buried a nice feed from Luke Adam, who extended his point streak to eight games with the assist. Connor Knapp made his sixth professional start, stopping 32 of 37 shots in defeat. The Amerks will begin a two-game set with Lake Erie Wednesday at Blue Cross Arena.

In USHL play, Judd Peterson recorded a minus-two rating as Cedar Rapids dropped a 7-4 decision at Sioux Falls. The St. Cloud State commit heads home for Christmas with five goals and 12 points through his first 12 junior "A" contests. Cedar Rapids returns to action Friday at Des Moines.

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In World Junior Championship news, Team USA made two of a required three cuts Saturday. Wisconsin defenseman Jake McCabe was not one of them. Instead, he was named the team's captain for the tournament. Safe to say the speculation that Phil Housley was "comfortable with McCabe" was quite accurate. Congratulations, Jake!



With McCabe's blueline partner Connor Murphy (PHX) reportedly nursing an injury with the tourney set to start Wednesday, Team USA sent just one defenseman, Brady Skjei (NYR) home, while waiting to determine whether or not they will need to send another rearguard home. Devils prospect Stephane Matteau was the lone forward released from the squad.

In Ufa, Mikhail Grigorenko and Andrey Makarov are set to take on Switzerland in their final pre-tourney tilt on Sunday. Russian goalie coach Vlad Myshkin told Sport-Express on Saturday that they have two number one goaltenders, and that they have yet to determine if Makarov or Tampa Bay prospect Andrei Vasilevsky will get the nod when pool play begins Wednesday.

Saturday, December 22, 2012

Armia solid as Finns pound Team USA

Joel Armia continued his excellent string of pre-World Junior Championship action Saturday, directing a team-best seven shots towards to the net in 17:29 of work as Finland scored four third-period goals to roll past Team USA 5-1.

The Sabres' first round pick at the 2011 draft, Armia was a confident player with the puck, mixing deft passing and vision plays in with the usual one-on-one moves and quick-release wrist shots. Just as impressive for Armia was his physical game, as he willingly used his 6-foot-3, 191-pound frame to bump and shoulder the American defenseman as the game played out -- a sign that his October and November battles with concussion symptoms should be a non-factor when pool play begins on Dec. 26.



Wisconsin defenseman Jake McCabe continued his steadiness and awareness on the American blueline despite the late collapse and undisciplined penalties. The USA NTDP product, who remained paired with Phoenix prospect Connor Murphy but also saw shifts with 2013 eligible Seth Jones, made a nice shot block early on the penalty kill and showed superb footwork in his own zone while garnering 16:56 of work.

A power play producer with the Badgers over his first year-and-a-half in Madison, the collegiate sophomore looks to have gained the trust of coach Phil Housley, and will likely survive the evening's final cutdown to remain with Team USA when play opens Dec. 27 versus Germany.

Final roster decisions are to expected be made by end of business Saturday.

Sunday, October 28, 2012

10/27 Recap: Armia unloads; Kea extends streak

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


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

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


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


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

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


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



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



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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Saturday, October 27, 2012

10/26 Recap: Kea keys Spirit to victory

Justin Kea notched a pair of goals Friday including a hard-working short-handed game winner as Saginaw edged Oshawa 3-2. Kea's first-ever two-goal effort in 141 OHL games earned him the game's number three star. The Spirit wrap up their three-game road trip Saturday in Peterborough.


Mikhail Grigorenko scored his 11th goal of the year and added an assist as Quebec dominated Shawinigan 7-0. The Russian pivot sits with 26 points in 14 games heading into Sunday's meeting with Gatineau (which Grigorenko could sit for if Patrick Roy decides to subject his leading scorer to a rotation of European players). Grigorenko's teammate Adam Erne ('13) paced the Remparts with four goals and an assist.


Jake McCabe recorded two assists as Wisconsin blanked Minnesota-Duluth 2-0. McCabe rifled a shot that made it through to traffic to create the first Badger goal. Sophomore forward Brad Navin was unable to get a shot on net in the victory. Wisconsin will go for their first sweep of the season Saturday when the clubs conclude the WCHA set.

 Elsewhere, Joel Armia posted two shots in 14:19 of work as Assat skated past HIFK 4-1. Armia has seven goals and 11 points though 16-games, but hasn't connected for points in consecutive games since the opening week of SM-Liiga play. Assat takes on KalPa on Saturday.

Dan Catenacci saw his six-game point streak come to an end as Owen Sound suffered a 3-2 shootout loss to Kitchener. Catenacci went backhand/forehand in his shootout attempt but was unable to score. On Saturday, the Attack will look to get back on track when they host Sudbury.

Judd Peterson was +1 as Cedar Rapids got past Indiana 5-1 in USHL action. On Saturday, the RoughRiders will tangle with undefeated Dubuque.

Logan Nelson (-1) was held off the scoresheet as Victoria was handed a 4-1 loss at Vancouver. The Royals head to Kamloops Saturday to play their second of seven straight road games.

Mark Adams punched a shot on goal as Providence scored a pair of third period goals to earn a 3-2 win over Maine. The Friars and Black Bears will conclude the Hockey East set Saturday at 7:05.



Christian Isackson contributed three shots on goal as Minnesota played to a 2-2 tie with the U.S. Under-18 team. The Gophers will next host Canisius College for a non-conference tilt on Sunday.

In the AHL, Rochester stormed back with a pair of late goals to force extra time but fell short in a 5-4 overtime loss at Wilkes-Barre/Scranton.

Trailing 4-2 with just over a minute to play, David Leggio went to the bench to give the Amerks the extra attacker. Kevin Porter took advantage with 1:08 left before Mark Mancari put a shot just under the crossbar 43 seconds later to complete the unlikely comeback. However, a Paul Thompson goal off a partial breakaway would end the game in the Penguins' favor with just 14-seconds to play.

Luke Adam and Evan Rankin scored the other Rochester goals. T.J. Brennan and Alex Biega added pairs of assists for the Amerks, who head north to Glens Falls on Saturday to take on the Adirondack Phantoms.

Sunday, October 14, 2012

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

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


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


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

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

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

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

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


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


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

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


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

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

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

Saturday, October 13, 2012

10/12 Recap: Amerks open with win

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

Tropp lit the lamp in the game's opening minute when he tapped in a two-on-one feed from Cody Hodgson. Later in the period,  Tropp batted down a Luke Adam shot in front of the net and beat Dustin Tokarski to give the Amerks a 2-1 lead. Marcus Foligno scored shortly after Tropp's second goal to give the Amerks a 3-1 advantage at the first intermission.

Mark Pysyk notched his first professional goal in the second period before the Crunch went on to score four unanswered the take a 5-4 lead midway through the final frame. Mark Mancari rounded out the Rochester scoring to make it 5-5 with under four minutes to play in regulation to force the OT.

David Leggio made 29 saves and another five in the shootout to earn the win. Tropp suffered a lower body injury and is unlikely to play when the Amerks continue their opening weekend Saturday in Toronto.

In the QMJHL, Mikhail Grigorenko continued his superb start to the 2012-13 season by scoring two goals and an assist to extend his point streak to nine games as Quebec defeated Gatineau 4-1. The talented Russian currently ranks second in QMJHL scoring with eight goals and 20 points through the Remparts' first nine games. The Remparts are off until Wednesday's tilt with Saint John.


 In Finland, Joel Armia scored his sixth goal of the year as Assat doubled Tappara 4-2. The 6-foot-3 sniper got the Aces on the board when he cut to the net and directed a Michael Ryan pass past the Tappara netminder. The two clubs will play it back on Saturday.



Linus Ullmark made 30 saves as MODO J20 downed Leksands 6-2. Ullmark was making his return to SuperElit action after a three-week loan to Mora IK of HockeyAllsvenskan. MODO and Leksands will play a rematch on Saturday.

In the WHL, Colin Jacobs picked up an assist as Prince George downed Lethbridge 3-2. The helper extends Jacobs' season-starting point streak to a career-best eight games (7+7). The Cougars continue their road trip Saturday in Medicine Hat.

Logan Nelson saw his five-game point streak come to an end as Victoria lost to Kelowna 4-1. The Royals and Rockets will again face off Saturday in Victoria.

Andrey Makarov made 24 saves as Saskatoon lost to Kootenay 4-3. The Blades have lost five straight games to occupy last place in the East Division.

In OHL action, Brady Austin was +1 as Belleville pitched a 2-0 shutout of Brampton. The Bulls, who have secured five wins through the season's first eight games, return to the ice Saturday versus Oshawa.

Justin Kea logged a +1 as Saginaw smoked Sudbury 6-1. The Spirit moves on to face Brampton on Sunday.

Alex Lepkowski (-1) did not point as Barrie got past Oshawa 4-3 in a shootout. Barrie will host Sudbury on Saturday.

Christian Isackson scored his first goal of the year as Minnesota downed Michigan State 5-1. Skating with Florida prospects Nick Bjugstad and Kyle Rau, Isackson buried a wrist shot from the slot for the first regular season goal of his collegiate career. The Gophers and Spartans will conclude their opening weekend set on Saturday.


Brad Navin (2 SOG) and Jake McCabe (4 SOG) each went without a point as Wisconsin lost to Northern Michigan 2-1. McCabe was paired with Frankie Simonelli on the Badgers blueline after sitting out last weekend's tune-up win over the U.S. Under-18. Navin formed a line with Keegan Meuer and Brendan Woods. The Badgers will look for the weekend split on Saturday.

Mark Adams finished +1 as Providence opened the season with an 8-2 throttling of Sacred Heart. The Friars finish their weekend Saturday with a visit to Boston University.

Judd Peterson was +1 with three shots on goal as Cedar Rapids dropped a 3-2 overtime decision to Muskegon. The RoughRiders take on Green Bay on Saturday.

Sunday, October 7, 2012

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.




Sunday, August 12, 2012

Finland finishes trip with win

Joel Armia did not register a point Saturday as Finland defeated Team USA 3-2 in overtime to close out the United States National Junior Evaluation Camp in Lake Placid. The 6'3 wing finishes his visit with a goal and eight penalty minutes in the week's five games. The win was Finland's first of the week.

Despite the statistical low (he posted a goal and three assists in four games at last year's camp), Armia still showed signs of what's to come by doing a good job shielding the puck and instinctively adding movement on the power play. He's strong at taking the puck off the half-wall to the slot and effectively rotates into position around the net without it. He unleashed a couple of wristers on Saturday that missed high. Overall you want to see him connect more while continuing to increase his even-strength compete level when the SM-liiga season begins next month.

Jake McCabe had another solid game for Team USA. The 6'1 defender was more conservative with the puck than earlier in camp and wisely chose spots to close-in offensively. His strong footwork (at one point he outraced Armia back to his own end to steer away an opportunity) and physical engagement drove his play, but it's hard to suggest that he stood out over any of the other bottom-pair candidates throughout the week. USA's U20 blueline crop is a very competitive group. An impressive start at Wisconsin this fall should keep McCabe right in the mix when USA makes their World Junior picks in December.

Thursday, August 9, 2012

McCabe shows well in USA win

Jake McCabe played strong defensively Wednesday but did not get in on the scoring as Team USA defeated Finland 5-2 at the United States National Junior Evaluation Camp in Lake Placid, NY. Paired with Connor Murphy, the Wisconsin sophomore saw his tough, physical game emerge in his own zone for a full sixty minutes while displaying flashes of his up-ice skills.

The Sabres' top pick in 2011, Joel Armia, did not point for Finland for the second straight game after scoring a goal in their opener versus Team Blue.

Nic Kerdiles scored the game winning goal late in third. Stefan Matteau, Sean Kuraly, John Gaudreau, and Stefan Noesen added the other American marks. Miro Aaltonen paced the Finns with a pair of goals.

Team USA will return to action Thursday against Team Sweden. Finland gets another crack at Sweden on Friday.