2/3 Recap: Cat's three extends streak

Dan Catenacci scored a goal and two assists in the first period Friday as Owen Sound lost in overtime to Windsor, 6-5. Catenacci, who was returning from a one-game suspension, has now collected four goals and nine points in his last four games. Chris Marchese ('12) had a goal and two helpers for the Spits.



Steven Shipley scored his 13th goal of the year as Niagara battled to a key 3-2 victory over the CHL's top-ranked London Knights. The 6'3 center now has goals on two straight games for the third time this season.

Nathan Lieuwen made 28 saves as Kootenay edged Calgary, 2-1. The victory, his first in his last five starts, moves Lieuwen to 21-11-4-2 on the year. Sam Reinhart ('14) scored his second goal of the game with :01 left on the clock to ice the win for the ICE.  

Jerome Gauthier-Leduc picked up an assist as Rimouski blew the doors off Quebec, 9-3. The QMJHL's leading defensive scorer, Leduc has gathered points in four straight games. 2012 draft stud Mikhail Grigorenko finished the game a -6.

Joel Armia earned an assist as Assat got past Tappara, 2-1. At the 40 game mark, the 6'3 wing has 12 goals and 27 points. In 48 games last year, Armia collected 18 goals and 29 points.



In NCAA play, Drew MacKenzie (+1) picked up an assist as Vermont was defeated by #9 Lowell, 3-1. The 6'2 senior has now recorded a point in 18 of his last 21 games.

Brad Navin was credited with a late power play assist in Wisconsin's 5-1 home ice loss to St. Cloud State. The helper was earned when Frankie Simonelli's point-shot deflected off Navin before Brendan Woods tipped it into the Husky net.

Connor Knapp made 12 saves in two periods of relief work as Miami lost at Michigan, 4-1. Knapp allowed a goal on the only Wolverine shot in the second before stopping everything thrown at him in the third. The  6'6 senior had started both ends in two of Miami's four January sets, but began the game on the bench as Cody Reichard was given the nod after posting a shutout last Saturday.



Justin Jokinen assisted on the Mavs insurance goal as Minnesota-State bested Michigan Tech, 5-3. The 6'3 senior has a goal and three helpers in his last 15 games (since 12/1).

Elsewhere, Kevin Sundher did not factor as Brandon was doubled by Lethbridge, 4-2. The Wheat Kings have won just three of 12 games since acquiring Sundher at the WHL trade deadline. Sundher has gone without a point in five of the 12 appearances.

Gregg Sutch was even in lower line minutes as Barrie edged Mississauga, 1-0. Alex Lepkowski did not play for the Colts.

Cedrick Henley finished -1 with seven hits as Val-d'Or was hammered by Shawinigan. 8-1. The Foreurs have now last their last five games.

Colin Jacobs was kept off the scoresheet as Seattle lost at Tri-City, 4-1. The Texas-born pivot has gone without a goal in his last six games.

Mark Adams was scratched as Providence lost to New Hampshire, 3-1. Adams has sat out three of the Friars' last seven games.

1/29 Recap: Leduc bags winner

Jerome Gauthier-Leduc scored the overtime game winner Sunday as Rimouski bested Halifax, 4-3. The power play tally came just 26-seconds into the extra frame to give Leduc goals in two straight games. The Nics are at Victoriaville on Wednesday.

Steven Shipley scored his 12th goal of the year as Niagara blanked Brampton, 3-0. Shipley, whose mark snapped an eight-game drought, now has 30 points in 44 games. The IceDogs travel to London on Friday.

Cedrick Henley finished -1 in Val-d'Or's 4-2 loss to Chicoutimi. The 6'5 forward has now gone four games without a point. Les Foreurs battle Shawinigan on Friday.

Colin Jacobs did not factor as Seattle came up short against Kelowna, 4-3. The 6'1 center has recorded points in eight of 21 games this season, and has yet to click for a multiple point effort. He had 11 multi-point games last year. The T-Birds host Spokane on Tuesday.

Mark Adams finished even as Providence lost to Merrimack, 4-2. The Friars travel to UNH on Friday.

Daniel Catenacci served his one-game suspension as Owen Sound suffered a 3-1 loss to Brampton.

1/27 Recap: Cat pounces for pair, Armia streak at eight

Dan Catenacci scored a pair of goals Friday, his 22nd and 23rd of the year, as Owen Sound dropped a 5-4 decision to Kitchener. The speedy center, who now has five two-goal games this season, is currently tied for 17th in OHL scoring with 53 points (23+30) in 47 games.



Jerome Gauthier-Leduc scored his 22nd goal of the year as Rimouski defeated Gatineau, 5-2. The goal, Leduc's second game winner of the year, snaps his six-game scoring drought. Crafty 2011 eligible Tomas Hyka notched a goal and an assist for the Olympiques.



Colin Jacobs picked up an assist and then scored the only goal in the shootout as Seattle edged Kelowna, 2-1. The shootout goal was Jacobs' third in three tries in the tiebreaker, nearly matching his regulation/OT output of four in 19 games since returning from injury. One of those goals was a penalty shot.



Gregg Sutch recorded two assists for his third multi-point game of the year as Barrie downed Brampton, 6-2. Alex Lepkowski, who was on the ice for a short-handed goal for and two goals against (one on a 5x3 PP), finished even for the Colts.

Mark Pysyk picked up an assist as Edmonton spanked Brandon, 6-2. Kevin Sundher finished the night at -2, giving him two goals and four assists in his first 10 games in Brandon uniform. Pysyk, meanwhile, has two goals and seven assists in 10 games since returning from the World Junior Championships.

Cedrick Henley finished -1 as Val-d'Or lost at home to Chicoutimi, 7-6. The 6'5 forward has 10 goals and 26 points in 35 games this season after having the bulk of his 2010-11 washed out due to wrist surgery.

Steven Shipley upped his goalless stretch to eight games as Niagara was blanked by Guelph, 3-0. The 6'3 Shipley, who has collected 29 points through 43 games, is amidst his longest stretch without a goal since his nine-game drought back in 2008-09 as an OHL rookie.

Nathan Lieuwen allowed five goals on 17 shots before getting pulled late in the second period as Kootenay lost in a shootout to Prince Albert, 7-6. The 20-year old netminder has allowed 12 goals in his last three outings - all ICE losses.

In NCAA, Drew MacKenzie saw his nine-game point streak come to an end as Vermont was thumped by Northeastern, 8-3. The 6'2 defender is currently the sixth leading scoring among Hockey East defensemen with 16 points (6+10) in 22 games.

Connor Knapp stopped 11 of 13 shots but Miami scored just once on 41 shots in a 2-1 loss to Northern Michigan. Knapp, who entered the game with six straight wins including a 0.60 goals against average and .977 save percentage in the month of January, moves to 8-5 on the year.

Brad Navin continued to bring a physical element to to the third line as Wisconsin lost to North Dakota, 5-3. Brad Eidsness served as backup for UND.

Justin Jokinen did not factor as Minnesota State lost to Bemidji State, 2-1. The 6'3 senior has three goals and nine points in 27 games.

Christian Isackson was scratched for the 20th time this season in Minnesota's 2-1 win over St. Cloud State. The freshman, who has bounced between center and wing, is +1 with 14 shots on goal in eight appearances.

***

In the AHL, the Amerks continued their recent offensive woes with a 4-0 defeat at Syracuse. The Amerks coughed up two goals in the game's first three minutes en route to being shut out for the first time all year.

The Rundown:
Kassian: -2, 6 SOG
Crawford: 5 SOG
Foligno: 2 SOG
Szydlowski: -2, 1 SOG
Schiestel: -1
Lagace: -1
Biega: -1, 4 SOG
Fienhage: 2 PIM
Persson: -2
Parker: -2

Drew MacIntyre stopped 29 shots to fall to 6-11-0-2 on the year. Losers of two straight, the Amerks will travel to Toronto on Saturday before heading to the AHL All-Star break.

***

On Thursday, Joel Armia continued to ride his renewed confidence with a pair of assists in Assat's 6-1 win over the Blues. The 6'3 wing is red hot with points in eight straight games, including all six since returning from the World Junior Championship. He has gathered nine goals and eight assists in his last 15 overall.



In other Thursday games, Shipley failed to get in on the fun as Niagara smoked Belleville, 6-0.

Henley registered two hits in his return from a two-game absence as Val-d'Or lost to Drummondville, 3-1.

Sutch (-2) and Lepkowski (-3) were stifled as Barrie dropped a 4-1 home ice decision to Plymouth.

1/21-22 Recap: Armia on tear; Knapp stellar

Joel Armia continued his recent surge Saturday, scoring a pair of goals to extend his point streak to seven games as Assat smoked KalPa, 8-3. Armia's offensive spike, marked by a variety of goal celebrations, has resulted in 13 points (7+6) in his last 10 games to up his season line to 36GP 12-12-24.

>

In NCAA play, Connor Knapp made 22 saves for his 10th career shutout as Miami earned the weekend sweep with a 4-0 win over Western Michigan. The 6'5 senior, who earned back-to-back starts for the second time in three weekends, is now tops among Sabres goaltending prospects with a 1.77 goals against average and .932 save percentage. Knapp also added an assist the old fashioned way en route to securing his grip on the RedHawks' #1 goaltending spot.



In the OHL, Dan Catenacci notched a goal and two assists as Owen Sound lost in overtime to London, 6-5. The goal, his 21st of the year, snaps a seven-game goal drought. It was his fifth three-point effort since joining the Attack.



Colin Jacobs scored a power play goal in Seattle's 5-4 overtime loss to Everett. The goal was Jacobs' fourth point in eight January games, and seventh in 18 games since returning from a lengthy shoulder injury.



Gregg Sutch earned an assist as Barrie doubled Guelph, 4-2. The game marked Sutch's return to the Colts lineup after missing eight games with an upper body injury. Alex Lepkowski finished -1 on the Barrie blueline.

Steven Shipley assisted on the first Niagara goal as the IceDogs lost to Sudbury, 4-3. The point was Shipley's first in five games.

Justin Jokinen (+2) contributed three shots on goal as Minnesota State defeated Nebraska-Omaha 5-4 in overtime. Jokinen was on the ice as the Mavericks' third line clicked for the OT winner.

Brad Navin finished even as Wisconsin edged Alaska-Anchorage, 3-2. The freshman third-liner has two goals and two assists through his first 23 NCAA games.

Brad Eidsness served as backup in North Dakota's 3-2 win over St. Cloud State.

Christian Isackson was a healthy scratch as Minnesota defeated Colorado College, 2-1.

Mark Adams was a scratch as Providence was embarrassed by Boston University, 8-0.

***

On Sunday, Jerome Gauthier-Leduc logged a -2 as Rimouski was shut out by Baie-Comeau. The offensive-minded defender has just two goals and two assists in 10 game since returning from the Christmas break.

Cedrick Henley did not play for the second straight game as Val-d'Or was stomped by Rouyn-Noranda, 9-3.

Jacobs was kept off the scoresheet as Seattle was nipped by Vancouver, 3-2.

Shipley finished +2 with an assist in Niagara's 9-0 blowout of Peterborough.

Lepkowski (-1) and Sutch (2PIM) did not factor in Barrie's 3-0 loss to Oshawa.

1/20 Recap: A first for Pysyk as Oil Kings stay hot

Mark Pysyk recorded the first two-goal game of his WHL career Friday to lead Edmonton to a 6-1 win over Swift Current. The OKs captain, who also added an assist for his second three-point night of the year, now has four goals and 14 points in 12 games since returning from injury on 11/19. The Oil Kings, ranked #1 in the WHL's Western Conference with 67 points, are 7-2-0-1 in their last 10 games.

In NCAA play, Drew MacKenzie extended his point streak to nine games with a third period assist as Vermont lost to Massachusetts, 4-3. The senior defenseman, who also added six shots on goal, now has six goals and 16 points in 21 games. His nine-game streak is the most for a Sabres defensive prospect since Brayden McNabb's 11-gamer a season ago.

Connor Knapp made 26 saves for his fifth consecutive victory as Miami downed Western Michigan, 3-1. Knapp has stopped 101 of 104 shots faced in the month of January, dropping his season goals against average to 1.94 through 11 games heading into Saturday's rematch. With Knapp hot, perhaps coach Enrico Blasi will take corrective action from last weekend when Knapp's Friday win was washed out by a Cody Reichard loss on Saturday.

Kevin Sundher posted an assist as Brandon lost to Saskatoon, 3-2. The six-foot center carried the puck from the right corner and set-up a Mark Stone one-timer from the left circle to even the score 1-1 just 15-seconds after the Blades first struck. Sundher has four assists in six games as a Wheat King, and zero goals in nine January outings - tying the longest goalless stretch of his 261-game WHL career.

Elsewhere, Brad Eidsness made 27 saves in his first start since December 2nd as North Dakota lost to St. Cloud State, 3-1. The senior held firm with 15 stops in the first period before allowing two goals in the middle frame. An empty netter closed things out, giving UND their 12th straight Friday night loss when visiting St. Cloud.

Nathan Lieuwen made 30 saves as Kootenay lost in overtime to Moose Jaw, 6-5. The six goals against is the most allowed by Lieuwen this season. He allowed six on three occasions in 2010-11. The ICE are tied with Medicine Hat for #3 in the Eastern Conference with 58 points.

Colin Jacobs notched an assist as Seattle lost to Kamloops. 5-3. Jacobs helped get the T-Birds on the board when he found Chance Lund in the slot to cut the Blazers lead to 3-1 late in the opening period.

Brad Navin led all Badger forwards with four shots on goal as Wisconsin pitched a 4-0 shut out of Alaska-Anchorage. The freshman has continued to build momentum on the team's third line despite going without a point in five January games.

Steven Shipley finished -1 in Niagara's 3-2 win over Erie. The 6'3 forward has gone without a point in four straight games.

Dan Catenacci did not score as Owen Sound was shut out by London, 3-0. The 5'10 speedster has zero goals in seven January games.

Jerome Gauthier-Leduc punched three shots on goal as Rimouski defeated Chicoutimi, 3-1. The mobile righty has one goal and one assist in six January contests.

Christian Isackson skated even as Minnesota lost to Colorado College, 2-1. The freshman, who has floated between center and wing during his first eight NCAA contests, should see more time moving forward with Nick Larson out over a month with a broken wrist.

Justin Jokinen contributed three shots on goal as Minnesota State dropped a 2-1 decision to Nebraska-Omaha. In 25 games, the 6'3 senior has three goals and nine points. He posted nine goals and 17 points in 38 games as a junior.

Mark Adams was -2 as Providence got throttled by Boston University, 6-1. The sophomore defender has an assist and a -7 rating through 13 games.

Cedrick Henley sat out of Val d'Or's 3-2 overtime win over Rouyn-Noranda.

1/14 Recap: Henley fuels Foreurs upset

Cedrick Henley notched a goal and an assist Saturday to earn the game's #1 star as Val-d'Or toppled Q frontrunner Quebec 4-3 in overtime. The Foreurs captain got on the scoresheet twice during a five-goal third period to record his eighth multiple point game of the season. The 6'5 power forward has 10 goals and 26 points this season including 4+4 in eight games since returning from a broken thumb. Val-d'Or plays at Blainville-Boisbriand on Sunday.

Jerome Gauthier-Leduc didn't get a regulation point but scored the only goal of the shootout to clinch Rimouski's 3-2 win over Rouyn-Noranda. Producing at well above a point-per-game pace all season long, the 6'1 defender has just three goals and four assists in 10 games since being cut from Team Canada's selection camp. The Oceanic are off until Friday when they visit Chicoutimi.





In WHL play, Kevin Sundher picked up a pair of assists as Brandon dropped a 4-3 shootout decision to his former club, Victoria. The power play helpers, Sundher's first points as a Wheat King, keep him tied for second among WHL assist leaders. Brandon travels to Moose Jaw on Sunday.

Mark Pysyk gathered a pair of assists as Edmonton won a 3-2 overtime decision over Kootenay. The steady Oil Kings captain has a goal and four assists in four games since returning from the World Junior Championship. Kootenay netminder Nathan Lieuwen, who was shaken up after getting run into late in the third, finished with a season-high 41 saves to earn the game's #2 star. Edmonton travels to Calgary on Sunday. The ICE are off until Wednesday's tilt at Regina.

Colin Jacobs did not play as Seattle was trumped by Portland, 4-0. The Thunderbirds have been outscored 29-8 en route to losing six straight games. Seattle plays at Spokane on Monday.

In the OHL, Steven Shipley was held without a point for the third straight game as Niagara dominated Barrie, 4-1. Winners of five straight and nine of their last 10, the IceDogs are now tied with Ottawa atop the Eastern Conference standings. Alex Lepkowski finished -2 for the Colts, while Gregg Sutch missed his seventh consecutive game with a head injury. Barrie will battle Saginaw on Thursday. Niagara returns to action Friday at Erie.

Dan Catenacci did not factor into the scoring as Owen Sound shellacked Erie, 5-0. The speedy center has now gone five game without a goal. The Attack will host a well-oiled Whalers squad on Wednesday.

In NCAA action, Justin Jokinen picked up an assist as Minnesota State earned the weekend split with a 3-0 win over Wisconsin. Brad Navin recorded two shots on goal in the loss. Both schools resume their WCHA schedules next weekend, with Minnesota State hosting Nebraska-Omaha and the Badgers welcoming Alaska-Anchorage to Madison.

Brad Eidsness stopped seven of eight shots in relief of Aaron Dell as North Dakota was blown out by Minnesota, 6-2. The third period action was Eidsness' first in league play since picking up a 5-2 win at Alaska-Anchorage back on December 2nd. Gopher freshman Christian Isackson was scratched for the third straight game. North Dakota goes to St. Cloud on Friday while the Gophers get ready for a set with Colorado College.

Connor Knapp was given the the night off as Miami suffered a 4-3 loss at Lake Superior State. The big senior had backstopped three RedHawks wins coming out of the break before giving way to fellow senior Cody Reichard, who hadn't played since December 10th. Miami returns to Oxford for next weekend's battle with Western Michigan.

1/13 Recap: Knapp shines; MacKenzie extends streak

Connor Knapp made 25 saves Friday to earn his fourth consecutive win as Miami defeated #19 Lake Superior State, 2-1. The reigning CCHA Goaltender of the Week has started all three of Miami's games since the Christmas break, stopping 78 of 80 shots to guide the unranked RedHawks to a much needed winning streak. It's expected that Miami bench boss Enrico Blasi will continue to ride the 6'6 senior when the RedHawks look for the road sweep of the Lakers on Saturday.

Drew MacKenzie extended his career-high point streak to seven games with a pair of assists as Vermont upset #11 Lowell 3-2 in overtime. With his first multi-point game of the season (he had four last year), the 6'2 defenseman now has six goals and 14 points in 19 games. The Catamounts host Providence on Sunday.



Dan Catenacci set up the game winning goal as Owen Sound defeated Erie, 3-1. The 5'10 center has five assists in four January games, and a total of 48 points through 42 regular season tilts.The Attack and Otters will do it again on Saturday.



Kevin Sundher finished -3 as Brandon dropped a 5-4 decision to Red Deer. The 6'0 center has yet to record a point in two games (both losses) since being traded from Victoria prior to the WHL deadline. The WHL's #2 assist man, Sundher has also yet to earn first line time for the 8th place Wheat Kings. Sundher will get a chance to play against his former mates on Saturday when Brandon hosts Victoria.

Jerome Gauthier-Leduc picked up a power play assist as Rimouski needed the shootout to down Rouyn-Noranda, 4-3. Leduc, who was stopped in his shootout attempt, has two goals and two assists in his last eight games. He continues to lead all QMJHL defensemen with 21 goals and 54 points.

Colin Jacobs assisted on his team's only goal as Seattle was hammered by Kamloops, 7-1. Playing his 13th game of the year on Friday the 13th, Jacobs has five points since returning from offseason shoulder surgery. The T-Birds resume play on Saturday against Portland.

Cedrick Henley posted one shot on goal as Val-d'Or was throttled by Victoriaville, 6-1. After collecting six points (3+3) in two games, the 6'5 wing has failed to get on the scoresheet in his last two outings.

Steven Shipley finished +1 as Niagara dropped Sudbury, 5-2. The IceDogs do battle with Barrie on Saturday.

Brad Navin recorded a shot on goal in third-line minutes as Wisconsin blanked Minnesota State, 4-0. Justin Jokinen was -1 for the Mavericks. The two clubs will play it back on Saturday.

Brad Eidsness served as backup for the seventh straight game as North Dakota got past rival Minnesota, 2-1. Christian Isackson was a healthy scratch for the Gophers.

***

In Friday AHL action, Rochester continued to struggle against North Division foes with a 2-1 overtime loss to Toronto. The Sabres farmhands are now winless in four tries against the Marlies.

The Amerks were outshot 41-26 in the contest, with David Leggio's 39 saves earning him the game's #2 star. Travis Turnbull scored the lone Rochester goal on the period power play. Alex Biega and Mark Voakes picked up assists.

The Rundown:
Biega: A, 2 SOG
Kassian: 4 SOG
Foligno: 2 SOG, 16 PIM
Lagace: -1, 2 SOG
Schiestel: -1
Brennan: 2 SOG
Boychuk: -1
Parker: 1 SOG
Szydlowski: 1 SOG
Persson: -1

The Amerks will try to right their divisional struggles on Saturday when they host a Hamilton Bulldogs club that has beaten them in six of seven games this season.

1/12 Recap: Pysyk contributes; Colts duo out

Mark Pysyk drew the lone assist on the game winning goal Thursday as Edmonton as defeated Medicine Hat, 6-2. The steady leader, who was one of two Canadian skaters who went without a point at the World Junior Championship, has a goal and an assist in three games back with the Oil Kings. Edmonton will host Kootenay on Saturday.

In the OHL, Steven Shipley played even as Niagara edged Barrie, 2-1. The 6’3 center has gone without a point in just two of his last 11 games. Colts defenseman Alex Lepkowski did not play due to a lower body injury, while Gregg Sutch missed his sixth straight game with a head injury. The IceDogs travel to sudbury on Friday before playing a rematch with Barrie on Saturday.

1/7 Recap: Sundher extends streak, gets tossed

In Saturday action, Kevin Sundher extended his point streak to 12 games with an assist, but Victoria suffered their ninth straight defeat with a 4-3 shootout loss to Kelowna. Both streaks are newsworthy, but it's how Sundher ended the game that had people talking afterwards.

Amidst a high level of frustration, Sundher missed the shootout after getting tossed for attempting to headbutt a taunting Shane McColgan at the end of OT. The two previously came together for offsetting roughing minors as buzzer sounded to end regulation. With his name swirling as perhaps the hottest WHL trade commodity (unless Team Canada scorer Mark Stone is somehow put on the block) and the Royals not taking the ice again until Friday, the game would certainly be a most interesting way for Sundher, the franchise's all-time leading point-getter, to close out his time in Victoria.



Elsewhere, Steven Shipley scored his 11th goal of the year as Niagara doubled Sarnia, 4-2. The 6'3 Shipley has six goals and 14 points in his last 10 games. The Dogs are off until Thursday when they host Barrie.



Mark Pysyk returned from the World Junior Championship and scored his third goal of the year as Edmonton downed Swift Current, 5-3. The 6'2 defender came down the left side late in the second period and stuffed the puck past the Broncos goaltender for his 19th point of the year. The Oil Kings will be in action Sunday when they host Red Deer.



In NCAA play, Drew MacKenzie scored his sixth goal of the year as Vermont dropped a 3-2 overtime decision to Massachusetts at Frozen Fenway. The power play marker extends MacKenzie's career-best point streak to six games. The Catamounts return home next weekend to face Lowell on Friday and Providence on Sunday.



Justin Jokinen avenged a costly penalty the night before by scoring the game winning goal as Minnesota State earned a 3-1 win over Saint Lawrence and a split of their non-league set. The goal, Jokinen's third of the year, was his first game winner since 10/10/08 against Bemidji State.

Connor Knapp made 20 saves for the ninth shutout of his career as Miami swept Michigan State with a 4-0 win. The senior netminder, whose record improved to 5-4, appeared in back-to-back contests for the first time since last January (1/22, 1/28). The RedHawks travel to Lake Superior State next weekend.

Dan Catenacci collected three assists as Owen Sound got past Brampton with a 4-3 overtime win. The speedy center earned helpers on consecutive shifts in the early second as the Attack snatched a 2-1 lead before earning a secondary on the OT winner. The Attack are off until Friday's tilt with Erie.



Nathan Lieuwen stopped 19 of 22 shots as Kootenay was beaten by Moose Jaw, 3-1. The 6'5 keeper has won just three of his last 10 starts (since December 1st) to dip to 17-10-1-2 on the year. The ICE will end the weekend with a Sunday meeting with Medicine Hat.

Colin Jacobs was -1 as Seattle lost to Spokane, 4-2. After missing 26 games while recovering from shoulder surgery, the 6'1 center has gathered fur points (3+1) in his first dozen games of the 2011-12 season. The T-Birds are off until Friday when they visit Kamloops.

Alex Lepkowski finished -1 as Barrie lost to London, 3-2. Colts forward Gregg Sutch missed his fourth straight game with a head injury despite rumors that he had passed his concussion test earlier in the week. The Colts return to action Sunday at Kingston.

In the QMJHL, Jerome Gauthier-Leduc logged a +1 as Rimouski won a 3-2 shootout decision over Baie-Comeau. The QMJHL's leading defensive point-getter, Leduc has gone two games without getting on the scoresheet for the fourth time this season. The Nics are off until Friday when they'll tangle with Rouyn-Noranda.

Brad Navin was even as Wisconsin edged RIT, 2-1. The 6'2 freshman has two goals and two assists through his first 19 collegiate games. The Badgers travel to Mankato next weekend for a WCHA set with Minnesota State.

Christian Isackson did not play as Minnesota lost to Notre Dame, 4-3. The Gophers will play a key WCHA set with North Dakota.

Brad Eidsness served as back-up as North Dakota defeated Clarkson 3-1 at MTS Center in Winnipeg. The senior has started just three of North Dakota's 21 games this season.

***

In the AHL, Phil Varone scored a pair of goals including the game-winner as Rochester defeated Binghamton, 3-2. Varone extends his career-best point streak to six games. He has a ways to go before eclipsing the 16-gamer he posted a year ago while with Erie of the OHL.

Zack Kassian notched an assist in his first AHL game since November 19th, while Shawn Szydlowski added a career-high four shots on goal.

The Amerks close the weekend with a battle against longtime rival Hershey on Sunday.

The Rundown:
Varone: 2G
Kassian: 1A, +1
Foligno: +1
Tropp: 2 SOG
Lagace: 2 SOG
Schiestel: even
Brennan: 3 SOG
Biega: -1
Szydlowski: -2, 4 SOG
Persson: 2 SOG

1/6 Recap: Henley sparks Val-d'Or victory

Cedrick Henley scored a shorthanded goal and added two assists Friday as Val-d'Or rode a strong third period to a 6-4 win over Drummondville. The game's #2 star, Henley knotted the score then set up the game winner in a span of three minutes midway through the third period en route to racking up his second consecutive three-point effort. The 6'5 captain led all players with four hits. Les Foreurs resume play on Sunday against Quebec.

Steve Shipley scored his 10th goal of the year as Niagara earned a 4-3 shootout decision over Owen Sound. With the game tied 1-1 in the third, Shipley followed-up on a breakaway to bury a rebound. Daniel Catenacci saw his three-game point streak snapped but did record his first fighting major of the year in the early third when he engaged Dogs forward Andrew Agozzino in front of the Attack net. Both clubs will go again on Saturday, with the Dogs hosting Sarnia and Owen Sound welcoming Brampton.



Colin Jacobs scored a penalty shot goal, his third of the year, as Seattle was handled by Tri-City, 7-3. Jacobs' five-hole tally allowed the T-Birds to pull within 5-2 at the end of the second period. The #1 team in this week's CHL rankings, the Ams have now won 12 straight games. Seattle battles Spokane on Saturday.

Kevin Sundher notched two assists as Victoria came up short in a 5-2 loss to Kelowna. The pair of helpers extend the speedy center's point streak to 11 games. Sundher remains the subject of heavy trade rumors at the WHL deadline. The Royals and Rockets will close the weekend series Saturday in Victoria.



Jerome Gauthier-Leduc (4 SOG) saw a three-game point streak come to an end as Rimouski was upended by Baie-Comeau, 3-2. The two clubs will play again on Saturday.

In college play, Connor Knapp was excellent in making 33 saves as Miami edged Michigan State in overtime, 2-1. The 6'6 senior has now won three of his last four starts (going back to the end of November). It's unclear if Knapp, who hasn't played in back-to-back games since last January, will get the nod again in Saturday's rematch.



Brad Navin contributed one shot on goal as Wisconsin doubled RIT, 6-3. Rochester native Mark Zengerle picked up two assists for the Badgers to extend his point streak to an impressive 18 games. Wisconsin will try for the non-conference sweep on Saturday.

Justin Jokinen (-1) recorded three shots on goal as Minnesota State was nipped by St. Lawrence, 4-3. With his team leading 3-2 with six minutes left in the third, the senior forward took a high sticking penalty that resulted in the Saints tying the game on the power play. SLU would add another just 1:16 later to get the win. The teams will play again on Saturday.

***

In AHL play, Rochester got regulation goals from Derek Whitmore, Phil Varone, and Maxime Legault, but was outpunched in an eight-round shootout to finish with a 4-3 loss to Wilke-Barre/Scranton. Jonathan Parker and Paul Szczechura lit the lamp in the shootout before Eric Tangradi clinched it for the Baby Pens.

Varone, a 20-year old signed to an AHL contract during training camp, scarfed up a Marcus Foligno rebound to extend his point streak to five straight games.

The Rundown:
Foligno: A, +1
Szydlowski: A, +1
Tropp: A
Finley: +2
Schiestel: +1
Persson: +1
Lagace: 1 SOG
Biega: -1, 2 SOG
Crawford: -1
Parker: -1

***

In the lone Thursday game, Mark Adams was -3 as Providence played to a 4-4 tie with Massachusetts. The Friars will next host UNH on Wednesday.

12/31 Recap: Lepkowski pots 5th; World Juniors tighten

In Saturday action, Alex Lepkowski scored for the second straight game as Barrie downed Erie, 5-3. The 6'4 lefty gave the Colts a 2-1 lead early in the second period when his point shot deflected off an Otters defenseman and into the net. The West Seneca native ups his season line five goals and eight points in 23 games. Colts forward Gregg Sutch missed his second straight game with a head injury.

Steve Shipley recorded an assist as Niagara lost to Guelph, 4-1. The 6'3 center was on the ice for all five goals in the game en route to finishing with a -3 rating. Shipley ends 2011 with points in seven of his last eight (4+8).

In the WHL, Colin Jacobs was unable to produce much as Seattle came up empty in a 2-0 loss to Portland. The 6'2 center has gone four games without a point for the T-Birds, who closed 2011 by being outshot 38-18.

In the college ranks, Brad Navin finished -1 as Wisconsin defeated the USA U18 squad, 4-3. The Badgers will welcome RIT to Madison next weekend for a non-conference set.

Christian Isackson sent four shots on goal as #2 Minnesota dropped a 3-2 decision to Northeastern in the championship of the Mariucci Classic. The six-foot freshman is +1 with no points in seven games played. The Gophers will battle Notre Dame on Saturday.

Brad Eidsness did not play as North Dakota defeated Harvard, 7-3. On Saturday, North Dakota will play a "home" game in Winnipeg against Clarkson.

***

At the World Junior Championship, Joel Armia notched an assist as Finland completed pool play with a 4-0 win over the Czech Republic. Armia now has three goals and two assists through the four round-robin games. After the game, Armia told the Finnish press that he felt his line was the team's worst in the win (will credit with proper link). Giving himself fuel heading into the medal round can only be a good thing. Finland plays Slovakia in the quarterfinals on Monday.

Mark Pysyk was a team-best +2 as Canada held on to defeat the relegation-bound USA, 3-2. The stay-at-home Pysyk, who remains as one of two Team Canada skaters yet to record a point in the tourney, ends pool play with a cumulative +6 rating (3rd highest on team, 2nd among D). Canada will face the winner of the Czech Republic/Russia on Tuesday.

12/30 Recap: Armia scores; forwards produce

In Friday World Junior Championship action, Joel Armia scored his third of the tournament as Finland racked up the goals in 10-1 blowout of Denmark. Armia worked along the boards to help the Finns to their first mark (clip #1) before later burying a backhand with the game getting out of hand. The 6'3 wing now has three goals in three tourney games. Finland completes pool play on Saturday versus the Czechs.



In the QMJHL, Cedrick Henley scored a pair of goals and an assist as Val-d'Or nearly completed a third period comeback in a 6-5 loss to Rouyn-Noranda. The power forward project now has eight goals and 21 points in 28 games. The three-point night was the second of his season and third of his QMJHL career.

Kevin Sundher scored a goal and two assists as Victoria was edged by Portland, 7-6. The six-footer, who is tied for 4th in WHL scoring with 60 points (22+38), has gathered 12 of those over his current nine-game point streak.



Dan Catenacci scored the lone Attack goal, his 20th of the year, as Owen Sound lost to Kitchener, 3-1. Catenacci, who marked to give the Attack a 1-0 lead at 12:54 of the opening frame, has five points (4+1) in four games against the Rangers this season.



Jerome Gauthier-Leduc notched an assist as Rimouski earned a 3-0 shutout of Quebec. The QMJHL's leading defensive point-getter and 10th leading scorer overall (20+32), Leduc closes December with five goals and seven assists in nine outings.

Steven Shipley (-1) saw his career-best six-game point streak come to an end in Niagara's 6-5 shootout win over Mississauga. The IceDogs coughed up leads of 4-0 and 5-2 before finally icing the win in the tiebreaker.

Colin Jacobs did not score as Seattle downed Moose Jaw, 2-0. Still finding his legs after a lengthy recovery from a shoulder injury, Jacobs has gone without a point in his last three games.

Nathan Lieuwen was given the night off as Kootenay lost in the shootout to Spokane, 3-2. The 6'5 netminder got off to a hot start in 2011-12 but is likely looking forward to flipping the calendar after going 2-5 with a 3.56 goals against average and .876 save percentage in the month of December.

In the college ranks, Drew MacKenzie notched an assist to up his point streak to four games as Vermont defeated Ferris State, 4-2. After getting held off the scoresheet in his first two games, the 6'2 lefty has collected points in 10 of his last 14 for the lowly Catamounts.

Christian Isackson (+1) recorded four shots on goal while centering Zach Budish and Nick Larson as Minnesota rolled over Niagara, 5-1. The Gophers, playing without world junior participants Nick Bjugstad and Kyle Rau, outshot the Purple Eagles by a 43-21 margin.

Justin Jokinen picked up an assist as Minnesota State skated to a 3-3 exhibition tie with the U.S. U18 squad. The 6'3 senior has scored two goals in 20 games this season for the Mavericks.

Brad Eidsness served as backup as North Dakota and Harvard played to a 4-4 tie. With Aaron Dell allowing four goals on 18 shots, perhaps Eidsness gets tabbed for Saturday's rematch after a solid showing before the break.

***

In Friday night AHL action, Rochester packed it in with over 9,700 fans but the Amerks came up short with a 5-4 loss to division rival Hamilton. The Amerks got goals form Mark Voakes, Phil Varone, Derek Whitmore, and Paul Szczechura before Bulldogs forward Mitch Wahl broke a 4-4 tie on the power play at 7:44 of the third period.

The Rundown:
Brennan: A, +1, 7 SOG
Foligno: A, 4 SOG
Schiestel: A
Lagace: 1 SOG
Biega: 4 SOG
Persson: -1
Szydlowski: -1
Crawford: 1 SOG

12/28 Recap: Leduc gets 20th; Lagace leads Amerks

Jerome Gauthier-Leduc scored his 20th goal of the year Wednesday as Rimouski lost to Chicoutimi, 6-4. Leduc's 20 goals tie his previous career best set in 2009-10, while his 51 points in 35 games continues to lead all QMJHL rearguards. Rimouski will welcome Quebec to town on Friday.

Gregg Sutch cashed a power play one-timer just 1:28 in but Barrie could not hold on in a 4-2 loss to Sudbury. Sutch now has seven goals and 15 points in 34 games. Barrie defenseman Alex Lepkowski finished the night at -2. The Colts, playing without forwards Mark Scheifele and Tanner Pearson who are away with Team Canada, will host Brampton on Thursday.

Cedrick Henley tested out his recently healed thumb by logging his third fighting major of the year in Val-d'Or's 5-3 loss to Gatineau. Henley, who also earned an instigator and misconduct on the play, will look for his first point since November 18th on Friday when the Foreurs host Rouyn-Noranda.



Steven Shipley picked up a power play assist in his old barn as Niagara edged Owen Sound, 2-1. The helper gives the 6'3 forward a new career high with points in six straight games. Shipley scored 39 goals and 102 points with the Attack from 2008-2010. Dan Catenacci assisted on the lone Attack tally to give him 41 points on the year. The IceDogs move on to face Mississauga on Friday. The Attack will travel to Kitchener.





Kevin Sundher notched two assists to extend his season-high point streak to eight games as Victoria was doubled by Portland, 6-3. Sundher, who has 19 multi-point efforts this season, has amassed 21 goals and 57 points in 36 games. The Royals will look to avenge the loss when the clubs play it back on Friday.





Colin Jacobs was -1 with a shootout miss as Seattle lost to Everett, 4-3. Jacobs now has two goals, an assist, and a -4 rating in seven games since returning from shoulder surgery. Seattle will host Moose Jaw on Friday.

***

At the World Junior Championship, Mark Pysyk was +1 as Canada pitched a 5-0 shutout over the Czech Republic. The steady defender saw time with Nathan Beaulieu and Jamie Oleksiak on the Nats bottom pair. Canada will to keep their winning streak in tact on Friday against Denmark.

***

In AHL play, the Amerks rode a two-goal night from Jacob Lagace to their second straight win over the Barons, 4-3 in a shootout. Lagace added a mark in the shootout, while Jonathan Parker and T.J. Brennan (winner) also scored in the deciding frame to ice the victory.

Brennan also scored in regulation to give him six goals on the year and a six-game point streak heading into Friday's tilt with Hamilton.

Marcus Foligno and Phil Varone each contributed a pair of assists for the Amerks (15-12-4-1).





The Rundown:
Lagace: 2G, SHO G, 5 SOG, +3
Brennan: G, SHO GWG, 5 SOG
Foligno: 2A, +3
Parker: SHO G
Schiestel: A, +2
Biega: A, -1, 2 SOG
Crawford: even
Boychuk: 4 PIM
Szydlowski: -1
Persson: +2

12/17 Recap: Ship on course heading into break

Steven Shipley scored a goal and an assist Saturday as Niagara downed Sudbury, 3-1. The game's #2 star, Shipley now has goals in four straight games while collecting 11 of his 24 points this season during his current five-game point streak. Niagara is now off until the 28th when they face Owen Sound.



Alex Lepkowski scored his third goal of the year as Barrie lost to Ottawa, 6-4. Gregg Sutch assisted on the Lepkowski tally, his 12th point of the season, to end a four-game point drought. The Colts will battle Peterborough on Sunday before heading home for the Christmas break.

Colin Jacobs scored his second goal of the season as Seattle lost their handle in a 5-3 loss to Tri-City. Jacobs, who now has three points in five games since returning form injury, buried a one-timer to give the T-Birds a 3-0 lead heading into the second intermission. The game would turn from there with the Ams scoring five straight goals in the final twenty minutes to show why they're the CHL's #2 ranked team. Seattle returns from the holiday break for a home-and-home series with Everett starting on the 27th.



Jerome Gauthier-Leduc finished +4 with an an assist as Rimouski edged PEI, 6-5. The mobile righty enters the break with an even 50 points (19+31), good for first among all QMJHL defenders. Rimouski visits Quebec City on the 27th to tangle with the league-leading Remparts.

Kevin Sundher notched an assist to extend his point streak to seven games as Victoria was clipped by Medicine Hat, 4-2. The recently inked center enters the holiday break as the WHL's fifth leading scorer with 55 points (21+34) in 35 games. The Royals will next face Portland on the 28th.

Dan Catenacci saw his five-game point streak come to an end as Owen Sound downed Kitchener, 3-1. The speedy center enters the midway point with 40 points (19+21). Owen Sound will next welcome the IceDogs to town on the 28th.

Justin Jokinen contributed two shots on goal as Minnesota State was defeated by Colorado College, 6-2. The senior has added a spark down the middle despite going seven games without a goal. The Mavs, who have now lost nine straight WCHA contests, will host the U.S. NTDP for an exhibition on the 30th.

Drew MacKenzie drew a power play assist in Vermont's 2-1 loss to St. Lawrence. The two-way senior defenseman has four goals and four assists in 14 games. Vermont will next face the Russian Red Stars in an exhibition on the 27th.



Brad Eidsness stopped all 14 shots he faced as North Dakota earned a 5-1 exhibition win over the Russian Red Stars. The Sioux will return from the Christmas break with a non-conference set against Harvard Dec. 30-31.

12/15 Recap: Ship carries load; Sundher signs

Steven Shipley tied a career high Thursday by collecting four points (1+3) as Niagara smoked Erie, 7-0. The 6'3 center, whose line with Andrew Agozzino and David Pacan combined for 12 points, ties a season best by extending his point streak to four games. Earlier in the day, a tweet was posted that was clearly addressed.

The IceDogs return to action Saturday versus Sudbury.

Elsewhere in the OHL, Dan Catenacci posted a goal, an assist, and a career-best +4 rating as Owen Sound downed Windsor, 6-4.  Like Niagara's Shipley, the 5'10 speedster will look to extend his point streak to five games when the Attack travels to Sarnia on Friday.



Alex Lepkowski and Gregg Sutch were unable to get on the scoresheet as Barrie edged Mississauga, 2-1. The Colts will host Ottawa on Saturday.

On Wednesday, Kevin Sundher collected an assist as Victoria was doubled by Edmonton, 6-3. The Surrey native will look to make it points in six straight when the Royals visit Lethbridge on Friday.

***

The Sabres announced Thursday that they have signed Sundher to a three-year entry-level deal. The second of three third-round picks at the 2010 draft (75th overall), Sundher's quick start this season has seen him rise to become the all-time points leader for the WHL's Chilliwack/Victoria franchise.

From the Sabres website:

“Kevin’s a very good skater, whose offensive abilities make him a natural fit for our organization,” Regier said. “With his progression over the last few seasons, his fast start this year is a very positive sign for his development.”

Sundher (5’11”, 184 lbs., 1/18/92), in his fifth season in the Western Hockey League, is ranked sixth in the league in scoring with 52 points (21+31) in 32 games as a member of the Victoria Royals. In 247 WHL games with Victoria and the Chilliwack Bruins, Sundher has accumulated 229 points (89+140) and 294 penalty minutes.

The native of Surrey, British Columbia has improved his point totals in each of his five WHL seasons, finishing the 2010-11 campaign with career highs in points (76) and assists (52).

Here is Sundher's profile from the Spring 2011 Prospect Rankings:

10) Kevin Sundher, C, Chilliwack Bruins (WHL), 2010 3rd round (75th overall)

Readers of this site knew who Kevin Sundher was before this season. Listed in the 2010 Draft Preview as my second option for the Sabres at #75, and seeing how my primary option (Minnesota C Max Gardiner) went at pick #74, it's safe to say I was happy when the Sabres landed Sundher with the 75^th pick.

A highly touted player coming out of the bantam ranks, the 6'0, 193-pound pivot skated with a target on his back for two seasons for the sub-.500 Bruins, racking up 44 goals and an even 100 points before the Sabres even drafted him. The Surrey, B.C. native continued his trend in 2010-11, overcoming a slow start to finish 3^rd in scoring for the Bruins with 24 goals and 52 assists (t15th in WHL). 

Sundher really turned it on from late-October through early December, amassing 24 points in a 15-game stretch. In February, he collected points in 11-straight games to tie Kassian and McNabb for the longest streak of the season. With the year's momentum carrying into the postseason (3+4 in 5GP), it's reasonable to suggest that a quick start next season sees the playmaker become the third member of the class of 2010 to earn Team Canada consideration.

Sundher, who will skate for the relocated Victoria franchise in 2011-12, rates well in four key competencies required of a successful NHL forward – strength, smarts, skill, and determination. He is a gifted passer and an above average stickhandler, so now what you need to see is more tenacity. This isn't to say he's "passive", but given the Sabres need for natural centers to develop quickly, playing with more fire in his belly will accelerate his progress as he moves up a level against bigger players of equal talent.

Lastly, enjoy a quick playlist of Sundher in action this season.

12/10 Recap: CoJac is back

In Saturday WHL play, Colin Jacobs scored a regulation goal and then the shootout game winner to guide Seattle to a 4-3 win over Victoria. Jacobs, who was playing just his second game of the season after missing the first 26 with a shoulder injury, notched his first goal of the season at 10:20 of the middle frame to give the Birds a 3-0 lead. Kevin Sundher clicked for a pair of third period assists as the Royals battled back from the deficit to force extra time. The T-Birds welcome Vancouver to town on Tuesday, while the Royals battle Edmonton on Wednesday.



Badger freshman Brad Navin scored his second goal of the season and added an assist as Wisconsin was beaten by #1 Minnesota-Duluth, 4-2. With 7:19 to play, the freshman lit the lamp on the power play for the second time in as many nights to end the Bulldogs shutout bid. Navin assisted on the Badgers final goal of the night, again with the man advantage, with 2:30 left in regulation. Wisconsin is off until New Year's Eve when they host Team USA U18 for an exhibition in Madison.

Steve Shipley scored his eighth goal of the season as Niagara came up short against Kingston, 3-2. After the Fronts opened scoring at 1:10 of the first period, Shipley replied just nine seconds later to tie the game. The 6'3 center now has goals in two straight for the first time this season to give him eight goals and 18 points and a -11 rating in 28 games. Shipley will look to extend his point streak to four games Thursday when the IceDogs host Erie.



Nathan Lieuwen made 31 saves as Kootenay scored a late power play goal to overcome Medicine Hat, 3-2. The win was Lieuwen's first in five December appearances. The ICE will host Red Deer on Tuesday.

Dan Catenacci notched an assist as Owen Sound pounded Guelph, 6-1. Catenacci is currently tied for 15th in OHL scoring with 37 points (18+19). The Attack return to action Thursday at Windsor.



Gregg Sutch and Alex Lepkowski each finished -1 with a minor penalty (Sutch for an unsportsmanlike and Lepkowski for a check to the head) as Barrie was defeated by Brampton, 4-1. The Colts will tangle with Sutch's former club, the Mississauga-St. Michael's Majors, on Thursday.

Justin Jokinen picked up an assist to go along with four shots on goal as Minnesota State pummeled Alabama-Huntsville, 9-1. Jokinen and the Mavs will sandwich in a WCHA set with Colorado College next weekend before enjoying a holiday break.

Christian Isackson (+1) punched three shots on goal in fourth-line minutes as Minnesota hammered Michigan Tech, 6-2. The freshman nearly connected on his first NCAA goal in the opening period but somehow missed the open net as the line's hard work drew a penalty. The Gophers are off until December 30th when they play Niagara in the first round of the Mariucci Classic.

Connor Knapp watched as Miami lost in overtime to #4 Ohio State, 3-2. The 6'6 senior heads into the break with a 3-4 record, 2.70 goals against average, and .896 save percentage in six starts.

Bead Eidnsess did not play as #19 North Dakota pitched a 1-0 shutout of Nebraska-Omaha. The senior stopper has started just two games thus far for the Sioux en route to posting a 3-1 record, a 2.43 goals against average, and a .918 save percentage. North Dakota will play an exhibition tilt with the Russian Red Stars next Saturday before starting their holiday break.

12/9 Recap: Sundher, Shipley produce; Navin pots first

Kevin Sundher snagged two goals and two assists Friday to lead Victoria to an 8-5 win over Lethbridge. The four-point outing, Sundher's fourth this season, gives the six-foot center 21 goals and an even 50 points in 31 games - good for 6th overall in WHL scoring. The Royals, who snapped three-game losing streak with the win, will face slumping Seattle on Saturday.

Steven Shipley scored two goals including the game winner and added an assist as Niagara downed Mississauga, 5-3. The 6'3 Shipley, who improves his season production to seven goals and 10 assists while skating on the Dog's top line with Ryan Strome and Freddie Hamilton, has points in two straight games for just the second time this season (he had one four-game point streak that extended into early October). Niagara tangles with Kingston on Saturday.

Brad Navin scored his first NCAA goal as Wisconsin skated to a 3-3 tie with #1 Minnesota-Duluth. The freshman forward put the Badgers on the board with a power play deflection in front of the Bulldogs net at 5:49 of the opening frame. The two clubs will play what should be an exciting rematch on Saturday.

In Finland, Joel Armia assisted on the lone Assat goal in a 3-1 loss to Tappara. Armia, who will play in Saturday's contest against the Blues before joining the Finnish national junior squad, played 11:21 in the loss.

Alex Lepkowski finished +2 as Barrie handled Guelph, 8-5. Gregg Sutch, who was shaken up when pulled to the ice late in the 2nd period, finished -1 for the Colts. Trailing 4-0 in the third, the Storm erupted for four goals in a span of 1:09 to make for a tighter final ten minutes. The Colts host Brampton on Saturday.

Jerome Gauthier-Leduc notched an assist and a season-low -3 rating as Rimouski lost at Victoriaiville, 5-3. The QMJHL's leading scorer among defensemen with 18 goals and 47 points, Leduc will travel across the continent on Saturday to skate in Team Canada's World Junior Selection Camp.

Nathan Lieuwen allowed a goal on his first shot of the game and went allow to all three more before getting the hook as Kootenay lost to Medicine Hat, 6-4. Lieuwen made 13 saves before leaving the game with the ICE trailing at 6:20 of the second period. The teams will return to Medicine Hat on Saturday to finish the home-and-home series.

Colin Jacobs made his season debut as Seattle was shutout by Prince George, 1-0. The 6'1 center missed the Thunderbirds' first 26 games while recovering from a shoulder injury. The Thunderbirds will meet Sundher and the Royals on Saturday.

In NCAA play, Connor Knapp made 27 saves as Miami posted a 5-3 upset of #4 Ohio State, 5-3. The victory, Knapp's third of the season and 34th of his career, snaps the Buckeyes 11-game unbeaten streak. The clubs will complete the home-and-home Saturday in Oxford.

Justin Jokinen produced two shots on goal as Minnesota State defeated Alabama-Huntsville, 4-2. The non-league set will conclude Saturday in Mankato.

Brad Eidsness served as backup as #19 North Dakota dropped a 2-1 overtime decision to Nebraska-Omaha. With Aaron Dell stopping 33 shots in defeat, Eidsness may very well resume his backup role when the series continues on Saturday.

Christian Isackson (infection) did not play as #2 Minnesota lost in overtime to Michigan Tech, 3-2. The freshman, who has played in just four games this season, is expected to remain out for Saturday's rematch.

12/8 Recap: Cat snags pair; D-men look to Calgary

Dan Catenacci scored a pair of goals Thursday as Owen Sound lost to Barrie, 5-3. The speedy center now has 18 goals and 36 points through 32 games. Last season through his first 32, Catenacci gathered 18 goals and 42 points. Colts defenseman Alex Lepkowski picked up an assist, while Gregg Sutch finished -2 for the winning side.



Steven Shipley earned an assist and a game-low -2 rating as Niagara defeated Peterborough, 5-2. The big pivot gets on the scoresheet with a helper after being held without a point in his previous four games. The IceDogs will square off with Kingston on Saturday.

Mark Pysyk picked up an assist as Edmonton thumped Brandon, 7-3. The Oil Kings captain will take Friday off before heading to Calgary Saturday morning for the start of Canada's World Junior Selection Camp.

In QMJHL play, Jerome Gauthier-Leduc (+2) saw his three-game goal streak snapped as Rimouski downed Moncton, 4-2. Liam O'Brien ('12) scored two goals to lead the Oceanic, who will next face Victoriaville on Friday. Leduc will join Pysyk at Canada's Selection Camp on Saturday.

12/4 Recap: Pysyk chips in as Oil Kings roll

Mark Pysyk scored his second goal of the year Sunday as Edmonton won their sixth in a row with an 8-3 pounding of Saskatoon. Pysyk, who has five points in his last three games, sent a power play shot late in the second period that deflected off two defenders before going in the net to give the Oil Kings a 6-2 lead. The six-game win streak is record for the modern-day Oil Kings franchise.



Nathan Lieuwen stopped 20 of 22 shots as Kootenay lost at Swift Current, 2-1. The month of December has been unkind to Lieuwen with all three outings resulting in losses. Despite the rough patch, the 6'5 netminder continues to lead all WHL goaltenders with a 1.84 goals against average and .935 save percentage.

In the OHL, Steven Shipley logged a -1 as Niagara was shut out by Brampton, 3-0. Former Jr. Sabres forward Phil Lane paced the Troops with two goals and an assist while West Seneca native Dylan Blujus ('12) added two helpers for the winners.

12/3 Recap: Sutch in the clutch; Cat strikes in loss

Gregg Sutch scored the game-tying goal and then clinched the win with another in the shootout as Barrie edged Niagara, 4-3. A gritty forward with some touch, Sutch has six goals and 11 points in 27 games this season. Alex Lepkowski racked up two minor penalties for the Colts, while Steven Shipley did not factor in any of the Niagara goals.



Elsewhere in the OHL, Dan Catenacci scored a goal and an assist as Owen Sound lost to London, 5-3. The speedy center has four goals and three assists in four games this season against the CHL's top-ranked Knights.

In Finland, Joel Armia earned an assist in 13:10 of work as Assat downed Karpat, 4-1. The big wing now has five goals and three assists in his last nine games.

In WHL play, Nathan Lieuwen stopped 25 shots but Kootenay couldn't muster enough offense in a 2-1 loss to Moose Jaw. Lieuwen's second straight loss drops him to 14-6-2-1 on the year.

Kevin Sundher was -1 as Victoria was doubled by Kamloops, 4-2. The six-foot center has now gone two games without a point for just the second time this season.

In college action, Drew MacKenzie finished -1 as Vermont was swept by Maine, 5-2. The 6'2 defender had scored goals in two straight leading up to the loss.

Christian Isackson recorded two shots on goal as Minnesota rode a three-goal first period to squeak out a 3-2 win over Minnesota State. Justin Jokinen, who continued to man a center spot for the Mavericks, finished even with a shot on goal.

Brad Eidsness served as backup to Aaron Dell as North Dakota earned the road sweep with a 4-1 at Anchorage. The Sioux will host Nebraska-Omaha next weekend at the Ralph.

Connor Knapp watched as Miami lost to Northern Michigan, 5-1. The RedHawks will engage in a home-and-home battle next weekend with in-state rivals Ohio State.