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.

1/3 Recap: Armia finds net; prospects play for bronze

Joel Armia continued to show his offensive potential Tuesday, netting a regulation goal and another in the shootout as Finland suffered a 3-2 loss to Sweden in the World Junior Championship semifinal. The Finns will now play for the bronze medal on Thursday against Canada, giving them an opportunity to exact revenge after the 8-1 whopping at the hands of the hosts in the tourney opener.

Armia, who was again working well beneath the goal line and getting to the front of the net, notched his fifth goal of the tournament at 15:30 of the middle frame to give Finland a 2-1 lead heading into the second intermission.



With the goal holding up well into the third, it looked as if Armia would again be the hero until Sweden's Max Friberg struck with 1:44 to play in regulation to send the game to overtime. The clubs would endure a back-and-forth affair in the 10-minute OT before entering a three-round shootout to decide who'd play for gold.

Armia came down as the Finns first shooter, making a quick fake before snapping a shot off the post to even things at a goal apiece. Armia celebrated the goal by mockingly "riding his stick" past the Swedish bench after Friberg did the same in pool play against the Swiss.



Afterwards, Armia called the move "the dumbest thing I've ever done in my hockey career"...

The 6'3 wing enters the bronze medal game with five goals on 18 shots (27.8%) to go along with two assists and a +2 rating.

In the second semifinal, Mark Pysyk sent four shots on goal as Canada couldn't cap an exciting comeback in a 6-5 loss to Russia. The Russians held a 6-1 lead after two periods before holding on for dear life in the final twenty as the Canadians exploded with four goals over a five minute stretch. Pysyk, who again manned the right side of Canada's bottom pair, executed perhaps the biggest open-ice hit of his career when he put Yaroslav Kosov on his back midway through the third. (Kosov was hunched over holding his shoulder as he left ice.) The steady stay-at-homer is one of just two Canadian skaters who've yet to register a point in the tourney.

***

In CHL play, Kevin Sundher earned an assist to extend his point streak to 10 games as Victoria was hammered by Calgary, 9-4. The subject of several WHL rumors with the January 10th trade deadline looming, Sundher also recorded his first fighting major of the year late in game when he tangled with 6'1 Brady Brassart. The six-footer is currently tied with Emerson Etem for 4th in league scoring with 61 points (22+39).

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.

12/16 Recap: Leduc leads Nics; streaks extend

Jerome Gauthier-Leduc scored his 19th goal of the year and added an assist Friday as Rimouski rocked Chicoutimi, 6-1. The defender, who earned the game's #2 star in his first game back from Canada's world junior camp, struck with a pair of power play points just 55-seconds apart in the second period. The Nics welcome PEI to town on Saturday.



Dan Catenacci extended his season-high point streak to five games by earning an assist as Owen Sound lost at Sarnia, 5-3. The helper puts Catenacci at the 40-point mark (19+21) through his first 35 games. The Attack hosts Kitchener on Saturday.



In WHL play, Kevin Sundher earned an assist as Victoria was stopped in overtime by Lethbridge, 5-4. With 54 points through 34 games, Sundher remains on pace for a 100-point season. The nifty six-footer will look to make it points in seven straight when the Royals take on visit Medicine Hat on Saturday.

Nathan Lieuwen made 28 saves as Kootenay won in the shootout over Swift Current, 5-4. The slumping netminder gets the win to slightly improve his December numbers to a 3.48 goals against average and .881 save percentage in seven contests. Kootenay will now enter the holiday break with their next game set for Tuesday, December 27th against Lethbridge.

Colin Jacobs finished -2 as Seattle was defeated by a strong Tri-City club, 5-1. Jacobs earned a 10-minute misconduct early as poor discipline dogged the T-Birds. The two clubs will complete the home-and-home in Seattle on Saturday.

Justin Jokinen finished even as Minnesota State lost in overtime to Colorado College, 2-1. The senior looks set for the second half of the season after putting together a nice stretch of games at center leading up to the break. The two clubs will play it back on Saturday.

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.

12/7 Recap: Sundher cashes 19th in Royals loss

Kevin Sundher scored his 19th goal of the year Wednesday as Victoria lost for the second straight night to Tri-City, 5-3. Sundher gave the Royals an early 2-1 lead when he charged to the edge of the crease with his stick on the ice to bury a Jamie Crooks pass. The Royals host Lethbridge on Friday.



In weeknight Hockey East action, Drew MacKenzie notched a power play assist as Vermont came up short at #5 Merrimack, 5-2. The well-rounded defenseman has four goals and three assists in 13 games this season. The Catamounts are off until December 17th when they host St. Lawrence.

Joel Armia recorded five shots on goal in 14:47 of work in Assat’s 4-3 loss to TPS. The Pori native has no points and a -3 rating in three games this season against TPS. Assat travels to Tappara on Friday.

12/6 Recap: Leduc running it up

Jerome Gauthier-Leduc extended his point streak to three games Tuesday with a goal and an assist in Rimouski's 6-5 loss to Bathurst. Leduc, whose 17 goals and 29 assists place eighth overall among QMJHL scorers, has nine points over the streak, making for the most productive three-game span of his prolific season. The Nics welcome Moncton to town on Thursday.

In WHL action, Kevin Sundher snapped a two-game schneid with a power play assist as Victoria was defeated by Tri-City, 6-2. The Surrey, BC native remains among WHL leaders with 18 goals (t8th), 27 assists (t6th), and 45 points (6th). The Royals and Americans will play a rematch on Wednesday.

Mark Pysyk saw his three-game point streak come to an end as Edmonton dumped Calgary, 6-2. Winners of seven straight, the Oil Kings will host Brandon on Thursday.

In college play, Mark Adams was even with a shot on goal as #20 Providence lost to #3 Boston College, 4-1. The Friars will now enter the holiday break with their next game coming on New Year's Day versus Brown.

Also of note, Cedrick Henley missed his third game with a broken thumb as Val-d'Or downed Rouyn-Noranda, 5-2.

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.

12/2 Recap: Armia, Leduc post big nights

Jerome Gauthier-Leduc continued to show a boost from being named to Canada's selection camp Friday, notching two goals and two assists as Rimouski earned a 5-4 win over Chicoutimi. The offensive stalwart has collected 17 goals and 44 points this season - both tops among all QMJHL defenders.



Speaking of World Juniors, Joel Armia had his first two-goal game of the year and added an assist as Assat doubled Lukko, 6-3. The 6'3 wing was named the game's #1 star - also a season first. An absolute no-brainer for what could be a stacked Finnish World Junior entry, Armia now has seven goals and 15 points this season.



Drew MacKenzie scored his fourth goal of the season as Vermont lost to Maine, 6-4. The power-play marker gave the Catamounts a 3-2 lead at the second intermission before the Black Bears closed strong with a four-goal third period.



Alex Lepkowski scored his second goal of the year as Barrie downed Erie in a shootout, 4-3. Gregg Sutch was unable to get on the scoresheet for the Colts, while development camp invite Steven Beyers notched a regulation goal and the shootout winner.

Elsewhere, Dan Catenacci logged a +3 for the second straight game as Owen Sound defeated Guelph, 4-1. The Attack will battle a well-oiled London club on Saturday.

Nathan Lieuwen allowed two goals on 11 shots in 16:54 of relief work as Kootenay was bested by Prince Albert, 7-5. Lieuwen surrendered his fifth loss of the year despite playing less than one period's worth of hockey.

Kevin Sundher had three breakaways but did not register a point as Victoria edged Kelowna, 2-1. Despite not scoring, Sundher's all-around effort was rewarded with the game's #2 star.

Cedrick Henley missed his first game due to a broken thumb as Val-d'Or got rocked by Victoriaville, 6-1. The 6'5 wing is expected to miss two-three weeks while recovering.

In NCAA action, Brad Eidsness stopped 26 of 28 shots as North Dakota took a 5-2 decision at Alaska-Anchorage. The start was Eidsness' third of the year and first since October 21st.

Connor Knapp made 13 saves in nearly 50-minutes of action as #18 Miami lost to Northern Michigan, 2-1. The senior netminder, who was originally scheduled to start the contest, violated team rules Friday morning and was punished by sitting the first half of the opening period.

Mark Adams recorded one shot on goal as Providence upset top-ranked Merrimack, 2-1. The two clubs will play it back on Saturday.

Justin Jokinen contributed two shots on goal as Minnesota State lost to #5 Minnesota, 4-2. Christian Isackson was a healthy scratch for the Gophers for the 14th time this season.

11/30 Recap: Sundher streaks to five; Lieuwen wins fourth in a row

Kevin Sundher extended his point streak to five games Wednesday, scoring a pair of goals as Victoria lost in overtime to Kamloops, 6-5. The six-footer continues to pace the Royals with 18 goals and 44 points through 26 games. Last season, Sundher scored 24 goals in 70 regular season contests.



Nathan Lieuwen made 20 saves to earn his fourth straight victory as Kootenay bashed Saskatoon, 6-1. The 6'5 stopper maintains his postion as an elite WHL netminder, posting a 14-4-1-2 mark with a 1.75 goals against average and .939 save percentage.

Dan Catenacci notched a pair of assists and finished a game-best +3 as Owen Sound defeated Barrie, 3-1. Cartenacci leads the Attack with 15 goals and 32 points through 29 games. Alex Lepkowski and Gregg Sutch each finished -1 for the Colts.

11/29 Recap: D elevate after invite; Sundher sets mark

Jerome Gauthier-Leduc celebrated his Canadian camp invite in fine fashion Tuesday, scoring two goals and adding an assist as Rimouski doubled Gatineau, 6-3. Leduc, who has scored three or more points five times this season, continues to lead all QMJHL blueliners with 15 goals and 25 assists through his first 27 games. The Oceanic will host Chicoutimi on Friday.



In WHL play, Mark Pysyk made his return to the lineup after a five-game absence, notching an assist and making several heady plays as the Oil Kings cruised to a 4-1 win over Spokane. The two-way defender showed no ill-effects from his upper body injury after taking a solid pop early, and seemed to get better as the game progressed. Edmonton continues their homestand Thursday versus Calgary.

Kevin Sundher collected two assists as Victoria lost to Kamloops, 4-3. The first assist thrust him into the Chilliwack/Victoria all-time franchise lead with 21 points. Sundher, who is currently tied for 6th in WHL scoring with 16 goals and 42 points, will look to extend his four-game point streak Wednesday when the Royals host Kamloops.

In Finland, Joel Armia recorded three shots on goal as Assat lost to SaiPa, 2-1. The speedy wing saw just 10:29 of work in the loss. The Aces tangle with Lukko on Friday.

Pair earn Canadian invite

A pair of Sabres defensive prospects will be packing their bags for a chance to play at the World Junior Championship as Mark Pysyk of the Edmonton Oil Kings and Jerome Gauthier-Leduc of the Rimouski Oceanic have been named to the roster for Team Canada's selection camp being held next month in Calgary.

Leduc, who currently leads all QMJHL blueliners with 13 goals and 36 points, and Pysyk, the Oil Kings' responsible two-way captain, were the only Sabres prospects to attend Canada's summer evaluation camp in August.

Pysyk, a 2010 first round pick of the Buffalo Sabres, for one, has been waiting a year for another shot.

“Yeah, since last year when I was up at six in the morning waiting for the phone call,” he said. “I didn’t sleep at all that night (before the final cuts). I was up rolling around, waiting.

“My roommate was Marcus Foligno,” continued Pysyk, “and when I picked up the phone, he said ‘is Mark there? I thought maybe there was a slight chance he wanted Marcus ... but it was me.

“I’m looking forward to another crack at it. I’m fortunate enough to get another chance.”

While Pysyk and Leduc will get a shot, Kevin Sundher's quick start was not rewarded with a camp selection.

"It's obviously a tough pill to swallow," said Sundher, who has 16 goals and 40 points this season.

"It's disappointing. It's not the news I wanted to hear. It was a goal of mine coming into this season but now it can't be reached. I'll focus on my other goals, which are winning games in Victoria and signing a pro deal [he was taken in the third round of the 2010 NHL draft by the Buffalo Sabres]."

The fleet-footed Sundher missed two and two-thirds games with an upper body injury during a crucial stretch earlier this month.

"Everyone has setbacks they have to deal with and there can be no excuses," he said.

Camp opens December 10th in Calgary.

11/26 Recap: Sunder shines with camp spot on the line

In Saturday action, Kevin Sundher scored his 16th goal of the year on the power play and added an assist as Victoria lost an exciting contest to Kelowna, 6-5. At 9:01 of the third, Sundher one-timed a Robin Soudek from the right dot to not only tie the game 4-4, but also tie him for the Chilliwack/Victoria franchise all-time record with 217 points (Ryan Howse). Victoria will next face Kamloops on Tuesday, By then Sundher will know if his ticket has been punched for Canada's World Junior Selection Camp.



Gregg Sutch scored his fifth goal of the year as Barrie came up short in a wild 6-5 loss to Sudbury. Sutch capped a seven-goal third period by scoring with the extra attacker in the final minute. Alex Lepokowski remained out of the Colts lineup with a back injury. Barrie travels to Owen Sound on Tuesday.

Elsewhere, Joel Armia did not factor into the scoring as Assat fell in overtime to Ilves, 4-2. Armia skated for 13:52 despite serving a 10-minute misconduct during the second period. Assat hosts SaiPa on Tuesday.

Jerome Gauthier-Leduc finished -2 as Rimouski was beaten by Shawinigan, 6-3. Rimouski and Gatineau square off on Tuesday. Like Sundher, Leduc is expected to hear his name called when Canada's Selection Camp roster is announced on Monday.

Cedrick Henley was unable to score as Val-d'Or edged Baie-Comeau, 5-4. Les Foreurs are off until Friday when they host Victoriaville.

Steven Shipley did not get on the scoresheet as Niagara doubled Sarnia, 4-2. The Sting were without stud '12 prospect Nail Yakupov, who sat out with a bad back. Niagara and Erie will battle in St. Kitts on Thursday.

Dan Catenacci failed to get a point in his return to his old stomping grounds as Owen Sound cruised to a 5-2 win over Sault Ste. Marie. Catenacci leads the Attack with 15 goals and 30 points through 28 games since coming over from the Hounds in an offseason trade.

Mark Pysyk missed his fifth game with an upper body injury as Edmonton downed Lethbridge, 5-2. A final cut for the 2011 squad, it seems that Pysyk will get an invite to Canada's camp despite the day-to-day ding. The OKs welcome Spokane to Rexall on Tuesday.

In NCAA play, Brad Navin recorded two shots on goal as Wisconsin defeated Mercyhurst, 5-2. The big freshman moved up to left wing on the third line as the Badgers earned the non-conference weekend sweep. Wisconsin will get a weekend off before resuming their WCHA schedule on December 9th versus Duluth.

Justin Jokinen set up the game-tying goal and contributed a productive seven shots on goal as Minnesota State played to a 5-5 tie with Alaska-Anchorage. Despite spending the majority of his career in Mankato down the right side, the senior has continued to open eyes with his special teams work while manning the center position on the Mavs checking line. Minnesota State travels to Minneapolis next weekend to take on the Gophers.

Christian Isackson played even as Minnesota and Michigan State skated to a 4-4 tie. Isackson, who played in just his third game of the year after nine straight scratches, nearly earned a penalty in the second penalty when his stick inadvertently clipped a linesman in the head, forcing the crew to work shorthanded the rest of the way.

At the Denver Cup Classic, Connor Knapp served as backup as Miami won the first place trophy with a 4-2 win over the host Pioneers. Unbeaten in their last eight, the RedHawks return to action next Friday at Northern Michigan.

In the Denver Cup Classic third place game, Mark Adams played even as Providence lost to Princeton, 3-1. The Tigers scored the game winner as Adams sat in the box with an interference penalty. The Friars will next host top-ranked Merrimack on Friday.

Brad Eidsness did not get the start as North Dakota earned the weekend sweep with 4-3 win over Colorado College. Eidsness was excellent in relief of Aaron Dell in Friday's win but the Sioux opted to not let their #1 goaltender get cold heading into next weekend's set at Anchorage.

11/25 Recap: Armia strikes; Lieuwen stops 'em all

Joel Armia notched his fifth goal of year Friday as Assat downed Ilves, 5-3. Parked in front of the net on a third period power play, the big wing nimbly tipped a shot in for Assat's insurance marker. Armia (13:33 TOI) now has three goals in his last four games. He'll look to keep the upward trend going on Saturday when the two clubs complete the home-and-home at Ilves.



In OHL play, Steven Shipley scored his fifth goal of the season as Niagara defeated Windsor, 6-3. The 6'3 center opened scoring with a power play marker at 5:48 of the first period to end a five-game point slumber. Niagara will visit a tough Sarnia club on Saturday.



Kevin Sundher struck late on the power play as Victoria lost to Kamloops, 4-1. The six-foot center notched his 15th of the year with 3:51 left in regulation to break Cole Cheveldave's shutout. With 38 points in 23 games, Sundher will now patiently wait to get a call when Team Canada's World Junior Selection Camp roster is announced on Monday.



Elsewhere, Nathan Lieuwen stopped all 35 shots he faced as Kootenay blanked Kelowna, 4-0. The shutout, Lieuwen's second of the year and eighth of his career, improved his league lead in the goals against average (1.78) and save percentage (.938) categories. The ICE are off until Wednesday when they visit Saskatoon.

Daniel Catenacci scored his 15th goal of the year but was stoned in his shootout attempt as Owen Sound dropped a 4-3 decision to Sudbury. Catenacci, who now has goals in three straight after scoring in just one of his previous dozen games, will be in familiar territory Saturday when the Attack travels to Sault Ste. Marie for the first time since his trade this fall.



Gregg Sutch (+1) picked up an assist as Barrie thumped London, 6-2. The 6'2 grinder has gone eight games without a goal since getting bumped out of Barrie's loaded top-six. Alex Lepkowski missed his fourth straight game with a back injury.

In QMJHL action, Jerome Gauthier-Leduc posted a pair of assists as Rimouski downed Blainville-Boisbriand, 5-3. The helpers, one shorthanded and the other with the man advantage to set-up Alexandre Mallet's game winner, give Leduc 37 points on the season - 12 more than other QMJHL defenseman. It seems that Canada will look hard at Leduc as an offensive option since Ryan Murphy of the Kitchener Rangers is still sidelined with a concussion.

Cedrick Henley scored the deciding goal in the shootout to give Val-d'Or a 5-4 win over Bathurst. The 6'5 captain hasn't scored in his last seven games. He had gotten a goal in six in previous seven leading up to the slumber. The Foreurs will take on Baie-Comeau on Saturday.

Mark Pysyk (upper body) did not play as Edmonton blanked Medicine Hat, 3-0. The Oil Kings captain has missed the last four games while being listed as "day-to-day", but could get back Saturday when Lethbridge comes to town. There is no question that Hockey Canada wished they had seen a little more of Pysyk before Monday's camp announcement.

At the Denver Cup Classic, Connor Knapp made 19 saves in his first start since October 28th to help Miami to a 6-2 win over Providence. Knapp earned the non-league visit, his second of the season, after serving as backup for the previous six games. Mark Adams, who has yet to record a shot on goal in five games since returning from a lower body injury, did not get in on either of the Friars goals. Miami will face the host Pioneers for the tourney title on Saturday. Providence and Princeton will open the day in the consolation.

In the WCHA, Brad Eidsness stopped all 13 shots he faced in relief of starter Aaron Dell as North Dakota held on for a thrilling 7-6 win over Colorado College. Eidsness, who hadn't seen any action since getting yanked in a loss to Wisconsin back on October 21st, entered the game at 10:54 of the second period after Dell allowed six goals on 22 shots. Eidsness stopping the bleeding should lead to a start Saturday when the teams drop the puck for what is sure to be an exciting rematch.

Justin Jokinen potted a goal and an assist as Minnesota State lost to Alaska-Anchorage, 5-4. The multi-point game was the fourth of Jokinen's four-year career in Mankato, and the first against a WCHA opponent.

Brad Navin recorded a shot on goal as Wisconsin throttled Mercyhurst, 7-2. Navin, who moved to center for the front end of the non-league set, has been solid through his first 14 games in Madison despite producing just one assist. The clubs will complete the set on Saturday.

Drew MacKenzie logged a -2 as as Vermont lost to old friend Colgate, 4-1. The schools were meeting for just the third time since the Catamounts left the ECAC for Hockey East in 2005. Vermont welcomes Dartmouth to town on Sunday.

Christian Isackson was scratched for the ninth straight game as Minnesota lost at Michigan State, 4-3. The freshman has appeared in the Gopher lineup just twice thus far. Minnesota will look for the split on Saturday.

11/19 Recap: Pair get goals on losing Saturday

Dan Catenacci notched a goal and an assist Saturday as Owen Sound came up short in a 7-5 loss to London. The 5'10 center, who ups his season totals to 12 goals and 27 points, began the year with a 1.22 points-per-game pace but has slid to .71 in seven November contests. The third-place Attack (12-11-1-1) and first-place Knights will play it back on Sunday.

Kevin Sundher scored his 14th goal of the year but Victoria was blown out for the second straight night in an 8-3 loss to Kootenay. The goal gives Sundher 37 points this season, good for fifth on the WHL leaderboard. Nathan Lieuwen got the night off for the ICE (14-5-1-2) , who continue their road trip Sunday at Vancouver. The Royals (11-12-0-1) will begin a short two-game road trip Friday in Kamloops.





Mark Pysyk missed his second straight game with an upper body injury as Edmonton lost Lethbridge, 5-2.. The Oil Kings (12-8-1-2) will again meet up with the Hurricanes again on Wednesday.

In Finland, Joel Armia was -1 as Assat was doubled by Tappara, 4-2. The 6'3 wing, who saw a two-game point streak come to an end, posted three shots on goal in just 11:39 time-on-ice. Armia and the Aces will battle the Pelicans on Tuesday.

In NCAA play, Brad Navin finished -1 as Wisconsin lost at Colorado College, 4-1. The Badgers (5-8-1) will play a non-league set next weekend in Madison against Mercyhurst.

Justin Jokinen had two shots on goal in Minnesota State's 7-3 loss to Minnesota-Duluth. The Mavericks (3-9-3) host Alaska-Anchorage next weekend.

Drew MacKenzie (-2) posted three shots on goal as Vermont lost to Northeastern, 4-1. The Catamounts (1-7-1) will next prepare for a Tuesday night matchup with Massachusetts.

Connor Knapp sat on the Miami bench for the sixth straight game as the RedHawks skated to a 4-4 tie with Bowling Green. Unbeaten in their last six games, the RedHawks (6-6-2) will face Providence next Friday at the Denver Cup Classic.

Brad Eidsness served as backup as North Dakota rolled to a 5-2 win at Bemidji State. The Sioux (4-6-1) and Beavers will close their WCHA series on Sunday.

Christian Isackson was scratched for the eighth straight game as Minnesota shut out St. Cloud State, 5-0. The Gophers (11-3-0) travel to Big ten rival Michigan State next weekend.

11/18 Recap: Armia pots winner

Joel Armia scored the game winning goal Friday, his third of the year, as Assat downed Ilves, 3-1. Armia, who saw just 11:45 of work in the win but put forth a much better effort than recent tries, now has points in two straight games. The 6'3 wing will look for his second three-game point streak of the year on Saturday when Assat battles Tappara.

In the QMJHL, Jerome Gauthier-Leduc recorded an assist and a game-high six shots on goal as Rimouski was trumped by Quebec, 4-3. After scoring 11 goals in his first eleven games, the 6'1 defenseman has just one in his last eleven. Rimouski welcomes Halifax to town on Sunday.

Cedrick Henley assisted on the game-tying goal as Val-d'Or earned a 3-2 shootout win over Gatineau. The Foreurs are off until next Friday when they host Bathurst.

In OHL action, Steven Shipley logged a +1 as Niagara shut out Kingston, 5-0. The IceDogs outshot the Fronts 37-16 en route to winning their third straight game. Niagara will look to keep it going Sunday afternoon at Ottawa.

Gregg Sutch did not score in a third-line role as Barrie outgunned Ottawa, 6-5. Alex Lepkowski (back) did not play for the Colts, who will travel to Kingston on Sunday.

Mark Pysyk sat out with an upper body injury as Edmonton edged Prince Albert, 4-3. The Edmonton captain is marked "day-to-day", so we'll keep an eye out Saturday when the Oil Kings take the ice against Lethbridge.

Kevin Sundher (-1) did not score as Victoria got hammered by Vancouver, 11-3. The Royals leading point man, Sundher returned to the lineup after missing two games last weekend with an upper body injury. Victoria hosts Kootenay on Saturday.

In NCAA play, Drew MacKenzie picked up a power play assist as Vermont came up short at #16 Boston University, 4-3. With the Catamounts trailing 4-2 in the third, MacKenzie faked a shot before wristing one to the net for a tip past Terriers goaltender Grant Rollheiser. The senior rearguard has points in three of his last four games. Vermont remains in Beantown for a Saturday night tilt at Northeastern.






Justin Jokinen skated even as Minnesota State suffered a 5-2 loss at #8 Minnesota-Duluth. Jokinen, who did not get a shot on goal for the fourth time this season, slid from his usual right wing spot to the center position for the series opener. The two clubs play it back on Saturday.

Brad Navin sent three shots on goal as Wisconsin lost at #5 Colorado College, 4-2. The freshman now has one assist and a -5 rating through his first dozen games as a Badger. Wisconsin will try to earn the split on Saturday.

Mark Adams finished -3 as Providence was defeated by Northeastern, 5-2. The Friars, who entered the tilt undefeated in November (four games), are off until next Friday when they face Miami in the first round of the Denver Cup Classic.

Connor Knapp served as backup for the fifth straight game as Miami pitched a 4-0 shutout over Bowling Green. We'll see if Enrico Blasi stays with the hot Cody Reichard or gives Knapp a nod to keep him warm when the clubs rematch on Saturday.

Christian Isackson was scratched for the seventh straight game as #1 Minnesota was upset by St. Cloud State, 4-3. The Gophers will likely come out flying when the clubs close their set on Saturday.