Showing posts with label shipley. Show all posts
Showing posts with label shipley. Show all posts

Wednesday, March 21, 2012

Prospects set for second season

It’s the first day of Spring, meaning things are about to get a little more interesting for some Sabres prospects. The CHL playoffs kick off on Thursday while the puck drops on the NCAA tourney a day later. And hey, that Armia kid will be looking to put together a playoff run, too.

***

The Sabres pair of QMJHL prospects, Jerome Gauthier-Leduc of the Rimouski Oceanic and Cedrick Henley of the Val-d’Or Foreurs, will square off in the first round beginning Friday. Leduc, a finalist for the QMJHL Defenseman of the Year, led all Canadian junior defensemen this season with 28 goals while tying for the CHL lead with 74 points. Henley captained the Foreurs to a second place finish in the Telus East Division.

The Niagara IceDogs earned the top seed in the OHL’s Eastern Conference, creating a matchup with 8th place Oshawa. Dogs forward Steven Shipley, who was a point-per-game player over the final 20 games, will look to continue his late season pace on a line with David Pacan and Mitchell Theoret.

Dan Catenacci will be front-and-center for the defending OHL champion Owen Sound Attack as they travel to Kitchener for Friday’s game #1. The Attack will be playing without captain and leading scorer Mike Halmo, who was suspended 10 games in the final week of the regular season after lambasting Nail Yakupov with an open-ice headshot.

With star forward Tanner Pearson out with a broken leg suffered in the final game of the regular season, grinding wing Gregg Sutch, who was bumped down the lineup for most of the year, could see an elevated role for the Barrie Colts in their first round battle with Mississauga. West Seneca native Alex Lepkowski will be counted on to set a physical tone while earning big minutes on the Barrie blueline.

Out west, Edmonton captain and World Junior participant Mark Pysyk will lead the #1 seed Oil Kings into battle against the defending league champs, the Kootenay ICE. The ICE won’t have Brayden McNabb playing 30 minutes a night this go-round, but will again be backstopped by reigning playoff MVP Nathan Lieuwen, who enters the postseason with just three wins in his last 13 starts.

The Brandon Wheat Kings are hoping to have their key deadline acquisition, Kevin Sundher, back in the lineup when they begin their first round series with Calgary on Thursday. The speedy six-footer accumulated 64 points in 40 games with Victoria prior to being dealt, but has played just once after suffering a concussion on Valentine’s Day.

In other Thursday action, Joel Armia and Assat will begin their best-of-seven first round series with JYP. The 18-year old scored 18 goals for the second consecutive season, including a impressive 10 goals and 20 points in 21 games upon returning from the World Junior Championship.

After leading the NCAA with a 1.59 goals against average, Connor Knapp will lead Miami (#2 seed in the East Region) into Friday's NCAA tourney matchup with #3 Lowell. Knapp has been the most dominant netminder in all of college hockey since January 1st, compiling an 11-3 mark while allowing three or more goals just twice along the way.

In the West bracket, Brad Eidsness is expected to serve as back-up when #1 seed North Dakota battles #4 Western Michigan. On the other side, #2 Minnesota will take on Boston University. Gophers forward Christian Isackson will likely be a scratch as he has been for the last nine games.

***

Colin Jacobs and the Seattle Thunderbirds missed the WHL playoffs by two points but on Wednesday were awarded the first overall pick in the WHL bantam draft lottery. Justin Jokinen (Minnesota St.), Drew MacKenzie (Vermont), Brad Navin (Wisconsin), and Mark Adams (Providence) all saw their seasons end with losses in their respective conference tourneys.

Monday, March 19, 2012

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

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

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

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

We'll have more on the playoff matchups later.

Sunday, March 18, 2012

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

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



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



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

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

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

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

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

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

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

***

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

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

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

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

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

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

***

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

***

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

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

Friday, March 16, 2012

3/15 Recap: Shipley connects; Sioux move on

In Thursday play, Steven Shipley scored a goal and an assist as Niagara clinched the top spot in the OHL's Eastern Conference playoffs with a 8-1 romp over Peterborough. The 6'3 forward has connected for 11 multi-point games this season versus 33 zero-point efforts. His 45 points (21+24) rank 7th on the IceDogs with two weekend games left on the regular season schedule.

Joel Armia posted six shots on goal in 15:43 of work as Assat skated to a 5-1 win over TPS. The 6'3 wing closes the regular season with 18 goals and 38 points in 54 games. The Aces will open their first round playoff series with JYP on Thursday.

Brad Eidsness served as back-up as North Dakota defeated St. Cloud State 4-1 to advance to the WCHA Final Five semifinal. The Sioux will battle rival Minnesota on Friday in what should be an intense, physical affair.

On Wednesday, Mark Pysyk picked up three penalties (two for roughing and another for boarding) as Edmonton earned a 5-4 overtime win over Kootenay. Nathan Lieuwen, who has won just three of his last 11 starts, finished with 27 saves for the ICE.

Kevin Sundher remained out of action as Brandon lost to Moose Jaw, 3-2. The Wheat Kings are hoping to have the speedy center available when the playoffs begin next weekend.

Wednesday, March 14, 2012

3/13 Recap: Calm before playoff storm

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Saturday, March 10, 2012

3/9 Recap: Knapp sets mark; Armia chips in

Connor Knapp made 27 saves Friday for his fifth shutout of the year and third in his last five starts as #11 Miami cruised to a 6-0 win over #15 Michigan State. The 6'6 senior improves to 14-6 on the year with a 1.45 goals against average (1st in nation) and .942 save percentage (2nd). The shutout, Knapp's 13th of his career, sets a new record for the storied RedHawks program. Miami will look to sweep the Spartans when they play game #2 of their CCHA quarterfinal matchup on Saturday.

In Finland, Joel Armia continued his strong season finish with a one goal, one assist performance to help Assat to a 4-0 victory over Jokerit. The 6'3 wing earned 21:33 of ice time (his second 20+ minute performance in the past two weeks) en route to posting his eighth multi-point game of the year. Armia has now collected 10 goals and 10 assists in 20 games since returning from the World Junior Championship. His 18 goals equals his output from a season ago.



In Quebec league play, Jerome Gauthier-Leduc gathered a goal and an assist as Rimouski downed Shawinigan, 5-3. The power play points give the defender 27-45-72 with just three games to go.

Nathan Lieuwen stopped everything thrown at him for 55-minutes before allowing three goals in the final five as Kootenay was toppled by Medicine Hat, 3-1. The ICE remain locked in the 5th spot in the WHL's Eastern Conference with four games left to play.

Mark Pysyk recorded an assist for the second straight game as Edmonton took out Eastern Division leader Red Deer, 5-2. With the win, the Oil Kings clinched the first overall spot in the Eastern Conference.

Dan Catenacci (-1) went without a point for the second straight game as Owen Sound edged Saginaw, 4-3. Attack forward Gemel Smith ('12) posted three assists to earn the game's #1 star.

Steven Shipley was held off the scoresheet as Niagara defeated Ottawa, 5-1. The victory gives the IceDogs their first Central Division title since moving to St. Catherines.

Cedrick Henley (-2) contributed six shots on goal as Val-d'Or earned an exciting 6-5 win over Gatineau. Foreurs forward Anthony Mantha ('13), whose 9/16 birth date misses the cutoff for the 2012 draft by one day, continued to impress with two goals and two assists.

Kevin Sundher remained out of the lineup as Brandon was hammered by Saskatoon, 6-2. The center has played in just one game since getting his bell rung back on Valentine's Day.

Brad Navin was even as Wisconsin took a 1-0 decision at #9 Denver. A win over the Pioneers on Saturday would thrust the Badgers into next weekend's WCHA Final Five.

Justin Jokinen posted a shot on goal as Mankato lost to #3 Duluth, 4-2. The Mavericks will look to stave off elimination on Saturday when they rematch with the defending national champs.

Brad Eidsness served as backup in #12 North Dakota's 4-1 win over Bemidji State. The Sioux will go for their 10th consecutive WCHA playoff victory on Saturday.

Mark Adams missed his seventh game with a concussion as Providence dropped a 3-2 overtime decision at #7 Lowell. With the Friars taking Thursday's opener by a 5-3 count, the two clubs will play a rubber match on Sunday afternoon to decide the first round playoff series.

Christian Isackson was scratched for the seventh straight game as #5 Minnesota defeated Alaska-Anchorage, 2-1.

***

In the AHL, Luke Adam scored the game-winning goal late in the middle frame as Rochester earned a 3-1 win over Binghamton. The marker gives Adam two goals and seven points in 11 games since being sent down by the Sabres.

Matt MacKenzie assisted on the winner, while veterans Paul Szczechura and Derek Whitmore supplied the other Amerks goals. David Leggio made 35 stops for his 21st win of the year.

The Rundown:
Adam: GWG, +1, 5 SOG
MacKenzie: A, +1
Crawford: A, +1
Brennan: +1, 2 SOG
Biega: 2 SOG
McNabb: SOG
Szydlowski: even

Friday, March 9, 2012

3/7-8 Recap: Lieuwen eyes 30; Sundher issue lingers

In Wednesday action, Nathan Lieuwen made 21 saves as Kootenay edged Medicine Hat, 2-1. The game's #3 star, Lieuwen lowered his league-leading goals against average to 2.37 in the win. The 6'5 netminder sits with 27 wins with five games left on the regular season slate - including two sets of back-to-backs.

Mark Pysyk picked up an assist as Edmonton defeated Moose Jaw 3-2 in overtime. The steady 6'2 defender is +44 in his last 115 WHL games, with the bulk of his time spent against the opposition's #1 forward unit.

Kevin Sundher, who has not practiced all week due to lingering effects from a concussion, was scratched for a second straight game in Brandon's 5-2 win over Regina. Sundher had returned for one game after missing the previous six.

Jerome Gauthier-Leduc finished -2 with three shots on goal as Rimouski lost at Chicoutimi, 5-3. The QMJHL's leading defensive point getter has scored twice in his last dozen games (both goals were in the same game).

Dan Catenacci (-2) was unable to crack the scoresheet as Owen Sound was toppled by Barrie, 6-2. Gregg Sutch (4 PIM) and Alex Lepkowski also had quiet offensive nights on the winning side.

On Thursday, Lepkowski and Sutch were again held without points as Barrie smoked Sudbury, 7-0. The Colts have gone 8-2 in their last 10 games.

Steven Shipley was -1 as Niagara was blanked by Mississauga, 2-0. The 6'3 forward sits with 20 goals and 43 points with five games left on the schedule.

Monday, March 5, 2012

3/4 Recap: Shipley gets 20th; Amerks sweep rival

Steven Shipley followed up his hat trick the night before with a goal and an assist Sunday in Niagara’s 13-4 tuning of Erie. The goal, Shipley’s 20th of the year, came as the IceDogs were facing emergency goaltender Connor Crisp, a 17-year old forward who was forced to put on the goalie gear after Ramis Sadikov left the game with an injury. The Otters dressed just one goalie after losing their back-up to injury on Saturday.

In WHL play, Mark Pysyk played even as Edmonton skated to A 3-1 win over Saskatoon. Winners of five straight, the Oil Kings will next host Moose Jaw on Wednesday.

In the AHL, T.J. Brennan (13th) and Mark Voakes each scored in regulation and Phil Varone found net in the shootout as Rochester earned a 3-2 win over Toronto to sweep the home-and-home with the North Division leader.

Rookie defenseman Matt MacKenzie returned to the Amerks lineup after missing three months with a lower body injury.

The Rundown:
Brennan: G, 3 SOG, fighting major
McNabb: A, -2
MacKenzie: even
Adam: -1
Biega: -2, fighting major
Szydlowski: -1
Crawford: -1
Schiestel: -1

The Amerks (28-22-6-3, 2nd place in North Division) welcome Binghamton to town on Friday.

Sunday, March 4, 2012

3/3 Recap: Shipley tricks; Cat treats

Steven Shipley scored his second career hat trick Saturday as Niagara spanked Belleville, 10-3. The 6'3 center ups his season totals to 19 goals and 41 points with seven games left to play. The IceDogs, currently ranked 10th in the CHL Top 10 Rankings, return to action Sunday versus Erie.

Dan Catenacci scored his 33rd goal of the year and then secured the win with the only mark in the shootout as Owen Sound edged Kingston, 2-1. The quick-footed forward has cashed 13 goals in his last 16 games en route to equaling the 71 points he posted a season ago.

Brad Eidsness made 29 saves for his fifth career shutout and first in nearly two years as North Dakota blanked Minnesota State, 3-0. The senior moves to 7-3-1 on the year with a 2.09 GAA and .923 save percentage. UND opens the first round of the WCHA playoffs on Friday when they host Bemidji State. Justin Jokinen added one shot on goal for Mankato, who will open the playoffs next week at Duluth.

Drew MacKenzie finished out his college career with a shot on goal as Vermont was shut out in a 4-0 loss to Boston College. The senior defenseman ends his four-year career with 17 goals and 64 points in 133 games, including two NCAA tourney appearances and one Frozen Four.

Elsewhere, Cedrick Henley earned an assist as Val-d'Or edged Rimouski 4-3 in overtime. Jerome Gauthier-Leduc picked up an assist in the losing cause for his 70th point of the year.

Gregg Sutch and Alex Lepkowski each played even as Barrie was dominated by Oshawa, 5-1. The Colts return to action Wednesday at Owen Sound.

Kevin Sundher was scratched as Brandon was upended by Regina, 6-4. Sundher returned to the lineup Friday after being sidelined for six games with a concussion.

Mark Pysyk was +1 in Edmonton's 2-1 win over Swift Current. The Oil Kings welcome Saskatoon to Rexall on Sunday.

Nathan Lieuwen made 24 saves as Kootenay defeated Calgary, 2-1. The 6'5 netminder, who entered the game with a 1-4 mark in his previous five starts, continues to lead the WHL with a 2.36 goals against average.

Colin Jacobs did not factor as Seattle lost to Portland, 7-3. The big center has gone without a point in six straight games.

Brad Navin recorded one shot on goal as Wisconsin lost to Minnesota, 2-1. Christian Isackson was scratched for the sixth consecutive game. The Badgers will head to Denver next weekend for the first round of the WCHA playoffs.

Mark Adams sat out for the fifth straight game (concussion) as Providence was defeated at Lowell, 4-2.

***

In AHL play, Paul Szczechura scored on a third period power play to thrust Rochester to a 2-1 win over Toronto. Brayden McNabb assisted on the game winner to give him points in three straight. With an assist on Evan Rankin's first period goal, Phil Varone now has 34 points in his last 35 games.

The Rundown:
McNabb: A
Adam: 4 SOG
Brennan: 2 SOG
Crawford: 1 SOG
Szydlowski: even
Schiestel: even

The two clubs will travel to Rochester for a Sunday rematch.

Friday, March 2, 2012

3/1 Recap: Armia comes through

Joel Armia notched a key assist and the shootout clincher Thursday as Assat skated to a 4-3 win over KalPa. The flashy wing made a nice move at center ice before gaining the zone to set up Tuomas Santavuori to give Assat a 3-2 lead at 15:24 of the middle frame. Armia would later score in the shootout to seal the victory and keep the Aces in the fourth spot with two weeks left in the season.



In the OHL, Alex Lepkowski scored his eighth goal of the year as Barrie downed Kitchener, 5-3. The West Seneca, NY native converted down low after taking a pass off his skate to give the Colts a 2-1 lead midway through the first. Gregg Sutch logged a -1 for the Colts, who have now won seven of their last eight games.

Steven Shipley did not factor as Niagara edged Saginaw, 2-1. With 16 goals and 38 points, Shipley will need to step up his production over the final eight games of the regular season to equal the 50 points he posted a season ago.

Monday, February 27, 2012

2/26 Recap: Henley stars in Foreurs win

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

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

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

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

Saturday, February 25, 2012

2/24 Recap: Knapp ties mark; Eidsness steps up

Connor Knapp remained the hottest goaltender in all of college hockey Friday, stopping 28 shots to tie Miami's all-time record for shutouots in a 3-0 win over Ohio State. The 6'6 senior has been stellar since January 1st, claiming a 9-2 record with a .90 goals against average, .962 save percentage, and four shutouts. Knapp, who moves to 12-6 overall, now leads the nation with a 1.56 goals against average, while his .938 save percentage ranks third (the co-leaders have .939). Look for him to remain in the RedHawks net when the teams travel to Columbus for Saturday's rematch.



Brad Eidsness made 26 saves in his third consecutive start to backstop North Dakota to a 4-3 win over Denver. The Sioux took a 4-1 lead late into the game before the Pioneers beat Eidsness for two goals in the final 47 seconds. Unbeaten in his last four starts, the senior could cause some tough decisions for the North Dakota coaching staff down the stretch. The Sioux, who sit in the fourth spot in the WCHA standings, will look to complete the road sweep on Saturday.

Alex Lepkowski scored his seventh goal of the year as Barrie earned a 5-4 shootout win over Ottawa. The 6'4 defender flung a point shot past World Junior sensation Petr Mrazek to give the Colts their first lead at 4:15 of the third. It was his third goal this season against the 67's. Gregg Sutch (even) committed a slashing minor at the end of the second period that resulted in a 67's power play goal at 1:23 of the third. The Colts head home for a Saturday night tilt with Mississauga.

Elsewhere, Dan Catenacci was held in check as Owen Sound dropped a 6-2 decision at Guelph. Catenacc, who has 10 goals and 19 points in his last baker's dozen, will look to keep his mojo going on Saturday when the Attack host Kitchener.

Nathan Lieuwen allowed five goals on 31 shots as Kootenay was smoked by Saskatoon, 5-0. The 6'5 netminder has lost his last four starts. The ICE will visit Prince Albert on Sunday.

Mark Pysyk did not register as Edmonton got past Calgary, 4-1. The Oil Kings will begin the final 10-game block of the season on Sunday against Lethbridge.

Steve Shipley finished -1 as Niagara was defeated was Mississauga, 3-2. The Dogs return to action Sunday when they host Kingston.

Drew MacKenzie pumped four shots on goal as Vermont was blanked by Boston University, 5-0. The senior defenseman will play his final home game at Gutterson Fieldhouse on Saturday.

Brad Navin recorded a shot on goal as Wisconsin rode a strong second period to a 4-2 win over Bemidji State. The Badgers will complete their first-ever trip to Bemidji on Saturday.

Kevin Sundher remained out of the lineup (day to day, concussion) as Brandon skated to a 3-2 victory over Swift Current.

Mark Adams remained out of action with a concussion as Providence lost to Boston College, 3-0.

Christian Isackson was scratched as Minnesota edged Nebraska-Omaha, 3-2.

Friday, February 24, 2012

2/23 Recap: Shipley lights lamp; Sutch scrappy

In Thursday OHL play, Steven Shipley scored on the power play as Niagara rolled to a 7-1 win over Sault Ste. Marie. The goal, Shipley's 16th of the season, gives him 38 points after 53 games. The victory moves the IceDogs back into the Eastern Conference lead with 10 games left on the schedule. Niagara travels to Mississauga on Friday.

Gregg Sutch (fighting major) and Alex Lepkowski (-1) did not factor into the scoring as Barrie defeated Peterborough 4-3 in the shootout. Sutch, who missed as the Colts second shootout shooter, engaged Stephen Trojanovic in the first period for his fourth fight in his last eight games. Unbeaten in their last four, the Colts will next gallop to Ottawa for a Friday night tilt.



In Finland, Joel Armia did not score but received a season-high 19:32 of work in Assat's 3-2 loss to Karpat. The Aces return to action Saturday when they host HIFK.

Sunday, February 19, 2012

2/18 Recap: Cat keeps cashing; Knapp stays sharp

Dan Catenacci continued his recent surge Saturday with his 29th goal of the year as Owen Sound earned a 5-4 overtime win at Windsor. The speedy pivot, who broke the game's seal at 3:08 of the first period, has been on a tear with nine goals and 16 points in his last 10 games. Chris Marchese ('12) had a goal and an assist for the Spits. Winners of six straight, the Attack will continue their three-games-in-three-nights run through the Western Division on Sunday at Saginaw.

Connor Knapp was again sharp in the crease, stopping 28 of 29 shots as Miami earned the weekend sweep with a 4-1 win over Notre Dame. The 6'6 senior has racked up 10 wins in his last 12 starts to improve to 11-6 with a 1.65 GAA and .934 save percentage. The RedHawks will finish the CCHA regular season schedule next weekend with a home-and-home with Ohio State.

Colin Jacobs returned from a one-game absence to score his eighth goal of the year as Seattle got pummeled by Portland, 11-2. The 6'1 center scored on the wraparound at 17:25 of the third. On the very next shift, he gave the puck up at the blueline to allow the Winterhawks the chance to get their 11th of the game. The T-Birds host Spokane on Sunday.



Brad Eidsness made 23 saves as North Dakota played to 1-1 overtime tie with Michigan Tech. The weekend marked the first back-to-back WCHA starts since March of 2010 for Eidsness, who has held firm in limited duty this season with a 5-2-1 record, 1.92 goals against average, and .926 save percentage. The Sioux return to action next weekend at Denver.

Jerome Gauthier-Leduc finished -1 as Rimouski dropped a 2-1 overtime decision at Cape Breton. With 10 games remaining on the regular season schedule, the 6'1 righty continues to lead all QMJHL defensemen with 62 points (24+38). He has zero goals in his last six games, and just 10 points since January 1st. The Oceanic will remain in Sydney for Sunday's afternoon rematch with the Eagles.

Justin Jokinen notched a secondary assist on the game-tying goal with just 2:04 to play as Minnesota State and Minnesota-Duluth skated to a 4-4 tie. The senior forward has four assists in his last six games while going without a goal in his last dozen. Of his 13 points (3+10) this season, zero have come on the power play. The Mavericks will take next weekend off before closing the WCHA schedule at North Dakota.

Gregg Sutch got into his fifth scrap of the year and Alex Lepkowski was +1 as Barrie downed Oshawa, 5-1. With the Colts holding a 3-0 lead late in the third period, the 6'2 Sutch tangled with 6'2 Josh Graves, getting the better of the Generals forward on the punchstat. The Colts travel to Oshawa on Monday.



Steven Shipley was held without a point as Niagara pitched a 3-1 shutout of Sault Ste. Marie. With 16 goals and 21 assists, the 6'3 center will need to average over a point-per-game in the final dozen games to equal his point output from last season. The Dogs will welcome the Greyhounds back to St. Catharines on Thursday.

Nathan Lieuwen allowed four goals on 24 shots as Kootenay lost to Regina, 4-2. Regina's Chandler Stephenson ('12) broke a 2-2 tie on the power play with 4:03 left before the Pats added another late mark in the waning seconds. Despite the less than sparkling performance, the 6'5 stopper remains atop the WHL leaderboard with a 2.32 goals against average. The ICE will travel to Brandon on Tuesday.

Kevin Sundher missed his third game with an upper body injury as the Wheat Kings defeated Prince Albert, 6-2. Brandon will ride a four-game winning streak into Tuesday's meeting with the ICE.

Drew MacKenzie finished -1 while going without a shot on goal for the first time in 16 games as Vermont lost to New Hampshire, 3-1. The Catamounts are back at it Friday when they host Boston University.

Brad Navin was unable to get a shot on net for the second straight night as Wisconsin downed Denver, 5-2. The freshman left wing has recorded just one assist in his last 12 games. The Badgers will be on the road again next weekend when they travel to Bemidji State.

Mark Adams was scratched as Providence and Northeastern played to a 2-2 tie. The weekend ends without a win or loss in both games for the Friars, who will ready themselves for Friday's tilt with Boston College.

Christian Isackson was scratched for the second straight game as Minnesota skated to a 4-1 win over Bemidji State. The Gophers will pay a visit to Nebraska-Omaha next weekend.

***

In AHL play, Phil Varone scored a shorthanded goal midway through the third period for the only Amerks offensive highlight in a 3-1 loss at Lake Erie. The tally, Varone's eighth of the year and 26th point in his last 30 games, elevates the rookie into the team's scoring lead.



The Rundown:
Brennan: 2 SOG, 2 PIM
Tropp: 6 SOG, 6 PIM
Foligno: 4 PIM
McNabb: 3 SOG, 5 PIM
Lagace: -1, 2 SOG, 2 PIM
Biega: 1 SOG, 2 PIM
Schiestel: +1
Crawford: -2, 2 SOG
Adam: -2, 2 SOG

The Amerks will close out their three-game weekend on Sunday when they welcome division rival Hamilton to the BCA.

***

In the ECHL, Shawn Szydlowski scored his first professional goal as Gwinnett took a 4-3 shootout win over Kalamazoo. On Friday, Szydlowski, Riley Boychuk, and Jonathan Parker all picked up assists in their first games since being re-assigned as the Gladiators defeated Chicago, 4-3.

Saturday, February 18, 2012

2/17 Recap: Knapp red hot for RedHawks, MacKenzie strikes

Connor Knapp made 31 saves for the third shutout in his last eight starts and 11th of his career as #19 Miami blanked #13 Notre Dame, 3-0. The senior netminder moves to 10-6 on the year with a 1.69 goals against average (2nd in nation) and .931 save percentage. It's fair to expect Knapp to remain in net when the RedHawks go for the CCHA sweep on Saturday. In nine starts since the new year, he's posted a dominating 1.03 goals against average and red hot .957 save percentage.

Drew MacKenzie scored on a backhand at 1:38 of overtime as Vermont won at New Hampshire, 4-3. MacKenzie, who also recorded an assist, now has seven goals and 22 points this season while registering in 19 of 27 games. His .81 points per game ranks 11th in nation for NCAA defenders. The win snapped a seven-game losing streak for the Catamounts, who will look for their first sweep of the season Saturday in Durham.



Dan Catenacci scored his prospect-leading 28th goal of the year as Owen Sound throttled Plymouth, 5-1. The 5'10 center has 63 points with 13 games remaining in the schedule. The Attack, third in the Midwest Division and fifth in the Western conference, continue their road trip on Saturday in Windsor.

Cedrick Henley scored his 11th goal of the year and first in 10 games as Val-d'Or lost in a shootout to Drummondville, 4-3. The rugged affair featured a total of seven fights, including five in a span of seven seconds in the middle frame during which Henley dropped the mitts for his fourth major of the year. The Foreurs next visit Blainville-Boisbriand on Sunday.



Brad Eidsness made 19 saves as #14 North Dakota doubled Michigan Tech, 4-2. The victory was the 55th of Eidsness' career, tying for him 3rd on the Sioux's all-time list. Eidsness, who has won his last three starts, could get the nod again on Saturday with Aaron Dell listed as day-to-day with an undisclosed upper-body injury.

Steven Shipley notched an assist in Niagara's 5-2 win over Sudbury. The IceDogs return to action Saturday in Sault Ste. Marie.

Mark Pysyk (-1) earned a pair of minor penalties as Edmonton ended their road trip with a 6-2 loss Vancouver. The Oil Kings get the weekend off with their next game coming Monday at home against Medicine Hat.

Gregg Sutch (2 PIM) and Alex Lepkowski (+1) did not factor into the scoring as Barrie defeated Kitchener, 5-3. The Colts will welcome Oshawa to town on Saturday.

Joel Armia recorded two shots on goal as Assat was shut out by SaiPa, 2-0. The big wing will look to avoid his first three-game point drought since November on Saturday when Assat takes on Lukko.

Mark Adams was -1 as Providence and Northeastern played a 1-1 tie. The two clubs will close the Hockey East set on Saturday in Boston. You can see Adams (#4) on the play as the Huskies scored their only goal.



Justin Jokinen assisted on the game's first goal as Minnesota State lost to #4 Minnesota-Duluth, 4-2. The 6'3 senior has no goals in his last 11 games.

Brad Navin skated even as Wisconsin was shut out by #10 Denver, 3-0. The Badgers, who outshot the opponent for the third straight, for look for the split Saturday at Magness.

Nathan Lieuwen was given the night off as Kootenay got past Spokane, 4-3. The 6'5 netminder is expected to return to action on Saturday when the ICE host Regina.

Kevin Sundher missed his second game with an upper body injury as Brandon crushed Prince Albert, 6-1. The two clubs will play it back on Saturday.

Colin Jacobs did not play as Seattle lost to Tri-City, 5-2. The T-Birds go right back at it on Saturday with an afternoon tilt at Portland.

Christian Isackson was a healthy scratch as #7 Minnesota shut down Bemidji State, 3-0.

***

In the AHL, T.J. Brennan (9th) scored the game winning goal as Rochester dominated Lake Erie, 6-2. Brayden McNabb struck late on the power play for his second goal of the season, while Marcus Foligno potted his 13th of the year. Luke Adam notched two assists for his first points as an Amerk.

Derek Whitmore paced the Amerks with a pair of goals, while Phil Varone added three assists. David Leggio made 20 saves for his 15th win of the year.

The Rundown:
Brennan: G, A, 3 SOG
Foligno: G, -1, 4 SOG
McNabb: G, 3 SOG
Adam: 2A, 4 SOG
Tropp: A, +1, 2 SOG, 5 PIM
Schiestel: A
Crawford: A, +1, 2 SOG
Biega: +1, 4 SOG

Thursday, February 16, 2012

2/16 Recap: Leduc's hand cooled; Pysyk chips in

In the lone Thursday game on the prospect slate, Jerome Gauthier-Leduc logged a -2 as Rimouski gave up four goals in a span of 4:28 in the third period to end up with a 5-3 loss at Halifax. After storming out of the gates with 20 goals and 52 points in 36 games before January, The 6'1 defender has just four goals and 10 points in 15 games since. The Mooseheads and Oceanic are now tied in the QMJHL standings with 68 points.

In Wednesday action, Mark Pysyk notched a pair of assists as Edmonton exploded for five second period goals en route to a 6-3 pasting of Kelowna. The 6'2 defender, who hasn't gone longer than three games without a point this season, has six goals and 30 points through 43 outings on the OKs blueline. A season ago, he had two goals and 25 points at the 43-game mark (early February).



Steven Shipley finished even as Niagara was defeated by Erie, 2-1. The 2010 fourth-rounder has now gone without a point in 26 of 50 games this season. Otters netminder Devin Williams ('14) earned the W the hard way by making an astonishing 61 saves.

Kevin Sundher did not play (upper body) as Brandon skated to a 4-2 win over Lethbridge. The speedy center was hurt in the Wheat Kings Tuesday night win at Kootenay. No word on how long he's expected to be out.

Sunday, February 12, 2012

2/12 Recap: Lieuwen blanks Hitmen

Nathan Lieuwen stopped 26 shots to earn his third shutout this season and ninth of his career in Kootenay's 3-0 blanking of Calgary. The 6'5 netminder has been excellent of late, winning four of his last five starts to improve his record to 24-12-4-2 while leading the WHL with a 2.24 goals against average and .923 save percentage.

Elsewhere, Steven Shipley scored his 15th goal of the year as Niagara's 5-3 win over Oshawa. The 6'3 center has four goals and seven points in his last six games - all Niagara wins.

Kevin Sundher (-2) saw his three-game point streak snapped as Brandon lost to Medicine Hat, 4-2. Sundher, who is -10 since coming to Brandon, has nine points in 16 games (.56 p/g) since the trade. He previously averaged 1.60 points-per-game while with Victoria.

2/11 Recap: Catenacci grabs lead in Attack rout

Dan Catenacci scored his prospect-leading 27th goal of the year Saturday and added an assist as Owen Sound pitched a 12-0 blowout of Peterborough. The speedy 5'10 center has seven goals and 14 points in his last eight games. A season ago, he posted just six marks in 30 games after January 1st. Catenacci now has 21 multi-point games this season, while the 27 goals sets a new career high.



Nathan Lieuwen made 22 saves as Kootenay downed Saskatoon, 5-2. The 6'5 netminder has gone 3-1 thus far in February, allowing two goals or fewer in all four starts. He'll enter the stretch run with a WHL-leading 2.30 goals against average.

In the QMJHL, Jerome Gauthier-Leduc extended his blueline points lead with a pair of assists in Rimouski's 5-4 shootout win over Blainville-Boisbriand. Leduc, who missed in his attempt as the Nics third shooter, has a goal and five assists in five February games to up his line to 24-38-62 through 50 games.



Cedrick Henley snapped an eight-game point drought with an assist as Val-d'Or bagged a 6-5 overtime win over Cape Breton. The 20-year old forward has 27 points (10+17) in 41 games.

Mark Pysyk tied a career-high with a +4 rating as Edmonton avenged their loss the night before with a 5-0 victory over Prince George. The steady captain has 10 points (2+8) in 16 games since returning from the World Junior Championship.

Colin Jacobs earned an assist as Seattle got smoked by Portland, 7-2. The 6'1 Texan has three goals and two assists in his last five games.

Steven Shipley did not factor into the scoring as Niagara blanked Barrie, 3-0. Alex Lepkowski finished -1 for the Colts, while Gregg Sutch collected two minor penalties including an unsportsmanlike after a spirited wrestling match with Luke Mercer late in the third.

Brad Eidsness entered the game in the 22nd minute, stopping all 14 shots he faced the rest of the way as North Dakota's comeback came up short in a 5-4 loss to Minnesota-Duluth. Eidsness, who came over the boards at 1:46 of the middle frame after Aaron Dell allowed five goals on 17 shots, used the relief work to improve to a 2.08 goals against average and .924 save percentage.

Justin Jokinen (-2) punched two shots goal on as Minnesota State earned their first WCHA sweep of the seaosn with a 2-1 win at Alaska-Anchorage. The senior has three goals and 11 points with four games left on the regular season schedule.

Mark Adams played even as Providence defeated Massachusetts, 5-4. Undrafted forward Mike Pereira, a player mentioned in the past two previews, scored a hat trick for the Minutemen.

Christian Isackson (-1) contributed two shots on goal as #2 Minnesota was defeated for the second straight night by #14 Denver, 4-3. The weekend split marked the first time that Isackson played in both games of a WCHA series.

Connor Knapp was given the night off as Miami earned the non-conference sweep with a 4-1 win over Alabama-Huntsville. The 6'6 senior currently leads the CCHA with a 1.81 goals against average (t3rd in nation).

***

T.J. Brennan scored in his first game back on the farm as Rochester was defeated by San Antonio, 4-1.

Trailing 1-0 in the second period, Brennan fired a laser from the point to tie the game. The mark was his eighth of the year and first AHL point since January 8th. Drew Schiestel and Paul Szczechura drew assists on the play.

Reigning AHL Most Outstanding Rookie Luke Adam, who along with Brennan was loaned to the AHL club earlier in the day, finished with two shots on goal and a pair of stick penalties. It was his first game in a Rochester uniform after scoring 29 goals and 62 points last season with Portland.

The Rundown:
Brennan: G, -1, 1 SOG
Schiestel: A, 1 SOG
McNabb: -1, 1 SOG
Tropp: -1, 1 SOG
Crawford: 1 SOG
Parker: 1 SOG
Foligno: -1
Adam: 2 SOG
Fienhage: even
Lagace: even

The Amerks are now off until Friday when they host division foe Lake Erie.

Thursday, February 9, 2012

2/9 Recap: Sutch sets mark; Ship chips in

In Thursday OHL action, Gregg Sutch scored his career-high ninth goal of the year late in the third period as Barrie lost in a shootout to Sarnia, 3-2. The 6'2 grinder, who stole the puck from a Majors defenseman before lighting the lamp, has goals in two straight games for the second time this season. Alex Lepkowski was +1 for the winning side.

Steven Shipley recorded a pair of assists as Niagara skated to a 11-0 blowout win over Mississauga. The 6'3 center now has points in four straight, while the two-assist effort was his eighth multi-point game of the year. Shipley needs 15 points over the IceDogs' final 17 games to equal his total of 50 from a season ago.



Dan Catenacci saw his six-game point streak snapped as Owen Sound defeated Brampton 4-2. The 5'10 center has an even 60 points with 15 games left to play in the regular season.

Sunday, February 5, 2012

2/4 Recap: Cat scratch fever; Ship back on course

Dan Catenacci streaked in for the shorthanded game winner Saturday and added an assist as Owen Sound held on to defeat Belleville, 2-1. The speedy center is currently riding a five-game point streak that has seen him gather five goals and 11 points. Through 50 games in 2011-12, Catenacci has 25 goals and 59 points, good for 14th in the OHL scoring race.



Steven Shipley scored his 14th goal of the year and added an assist as Niagara erupted for four unanswered goals in the third period to overcome Brampton, 5-2. The 6'3 Shipley has struck in three straight for the IceDogs on the heels of a season-long eight-game drought.



Gregg Sutch notched his eighth goal of the season and a fighting major in Barrie's 5-0 shutout win over Sault Ste. Marie. The tally was the first since December 28th for the 6'2 grinder, while the fight was his first since getting the better of former teammate Stuart Percy back in October. Colts defender Alex Lepkowski missed his second straight game due to an unspecified reasons.



Colin Jacobs scored his fifth goal of the year as Seattle's losing losing streak hit five with a 3-1 loss to Kamloops. The 6'1 center, who missed the year's first 26 contests, has nine points this season including three goals in 15 games of the 2012 calendar year.




Nathan Lieuwen made 28 saves to earn the game's #3 star as Kootenay downed Spokane, 4-2. The 20-year old has stopped 56 of 59 shots over his last two starts to move his season record to 22-11-4-2 with a 2.31 goals against average (2nd in WHL) and .921 save percentage (2nd).

In NCAA action, Drew MacKenzie racked up two assists as Vermont was swept by Lowell, 6-4. The Connecticut native, who has new career highs with six goals and 14 assists, is tied for 10th in all of Hockey East with 11 power play points.

Connor Knapp made 28 stops but Miami was shut out by Michigan, 3-0. The 6'6 senior let in three goals for the first time since a 5-3 win at Ohio State back on 12/9. If his 1.86 goals against average (3rd in the country) wasn't enough, Knapp seems to have a firm grip on the #1 job down the stretch after having started seven of the RedHawks' last 10 games.

Elsewhere, Kevin Sundher finished +1 as Brandon dominated Swift Current, 7-3. Sundher has gone without a point in four straight games en route to accumulating just two goals and four assists in 13 appearances for the Wheat Kings. Despite the recent lapse, the six-footer remains tied for 8th in WHL scoring with 70 points (24+46).

Jerome Gauthier-Leduc (-2) saw his four-game point streak come to an end in Rimouski's 2-1 loss to Drummondville. Leduc, who had recorded three goals and three assists during the four-game stretch, has a career-best 24 goals and 60 points through 48 games.

Cedrick Henley finished -1 as Val-d'Or lost to Gatineau, 6-3. The Foreurs have lost six straight games. The 6'5 captain has gone without a point in all six of those defeats while contributing just four shots on goal.

Brad Navin recorded a shot in goal as Wisconsin was swept by St. Cloud State, 2-1. The 6'3 freshman has just one assist in his last 10 games while landing back in bottom line minutes.

Justin Jokinen (-1) recorded two shots on goal as Minnesota State suffered a 7-3 loss to Michigan Tech. The 6'3 senior has a goal and two assists in his last 10 games.

Mark Adams was even as Providence lost a 3-2 overtime decision to New Hampshire. The sophomore rearguard has recorded a shot on goal in just three of 16 games this season.