Dan Catenacci scored his 32nd goal of the season Wednesday as Owen Sound lost to Barrie, 3-1. The speedy pivot has racked up 12 goals and 22 points in his last 15 games. Last season, he had 6-17-23 in 30 games after January 1st. Alex Lepkowski (+2) and Gregg Sutch did not point for the winners.
Mark Pysyk was whistled for three minor penalties (slashing, cross checking, unsportsmanlike) as Edmonton defeated Kootenay, 3-1. ICE goaltender Nathan Lieuwen was given the night off.
In Tuesday play, Joel Armia scored his 17th goal on the power play in Assat's 5-1 loss to JYP. Trailing 4-0 in the third, Armia skated across the high slot and slung a wrister over the shoulder of the JYP goalie for his 35th point of the season.
Cedrick Henley saw his six-game point streak snapped as Val-d'Or edged Rouyn-Noranda 3-2 in overtime. The 6'5 Henley led all skaters with five hits.
Colin Jacobs finished -2 in Seattle's 3-1 loss to Tri-City. The 6'1 center has gone without a point in his last four games.
Connor Knapp racked up his fifth straight win Saturday, making 22 saves as Miami earned the weekend sweep with a 5-1 victory at Ohio State. The 6'6 senior has now won 12 of his last 14 starts while allowing one goal or less in 11 of those decisions. Knapp finishes the regular season leading the nation in goals against average (1.53) while ranking second in save percentage (.939). The RedHawks will get a week off before taking on Michigan State in a CCHA quarterfinal matchup.
In the QMJHL, Jerome Gauthier-Leduc scored a pair of goals as Rimouski defeated Baie-Comeau, 7-4. Leduc's first multi-goal effort since December 2nd (27 games) increases his season point total to 67, which is 12 more than any other QMJHL defenseman. With 26 goals on the year, Leduc has now set a new single-season high for defensive prospects drafted by the Darcy Regier regime (going back to 1997).
The 6'1 righty has seven games left in his quest to hit the 30-goal mark. The Nics are now off until Friday when they host Cape Breton.
Dan Catenacci scored his 31st goal of the year on the power play as Owen Sound smoked Kitchener, 7-1. The speedy center, who also added a helper in the rout, has collected 11 goals and 10 assists in his last 14 games to jump up to 14th in OHL scoring with 69 points. The Attack return to action Wednesday versus Barrie.
Nathan Lieuwen made 25 saves as Kootenay came away with a 5-4 overtime victory at Prince Albert. The victory, which snaps a personal four-game skid, was the 83rd of hiss career, setting the ICE all-time franchise record for goaltender wins. There's still some room to improve though, as the 6'5 stopper has allowed three or more goals in four of his last five games. The ICE will head home to prepare for Wednesday's battle with Eastern Conference leaders, Edmonton.
Fourth-line forward Brad Navin slammed home a rebound for his third goal of the year and contributed a team-high five shots on net as Wisconsin ended the regular season with a 4-2 win over Bemidji State. The Badgers will begin the WCHA playoffs next weekend with a road set at Minnesota.
Cedrick Henley scored his 12th goal of the year as Val-d'Or drilled PEI, 7-3. The 20-year old forward has scored three times in his last 15 games. Les Foreurs go right back at it on Sunday when they welcome Drummondville to town.
In SM-liiga action, Joel Armia picked up an assist as Assat lost to HIFK, 4-1. Playing the point on the power play, Armia's one-timer deflected right to teammate Mark Lee for the Aces only goal. The helper bumps the 18-year old up to 34 points (16+18) through 47 games. A sign of a growing all-around player, the 6'3 wing earned a season-high in icetime for a second straight game by capturing 21:55 of work. Assat travels to JYP on Tuesday.
Drew MacKenzie collected an assist in the final home game of his career as Vermont suffered a heartbreaking 3-2 overtime loss to #5 Boston University. The Catamounts took a 2-0 lead into the first intermission and held the lead all the way until the 59th minute when Wade Megan's 17th of the year tied it up for the Terriers. Vermont (6-25-1) closes out the regular season next weekend with a nationally televised set at Boston College.
Brad Eidsness stopped 19 of 23 shots in two periods of work as North Dakota was dominated in the middle frame en route to a 5-3 loss at Denver. The senior, who was making his fifth straight start, was replaced by Aaron Dell to start the third period. The Fighting Sioux will host Minnesota State next weekend in the first round of the WCHA playoffs.
Colin Jacobs finished +1 as Seattle shut out Everett, 3-0. The T-Birds will play the front end of home-and-home with Tri-City on Sunday.
Gregg Sutch and Alex Lepkowski were both held off the scoresheet as Barrie was defeated by Mississauga, 2-1. Majors defenseman Trevor Carrick ('12) scored his third of the year.
Kevin Sundher missed his sixth game with a concussion as Brandon edged Regina, 2-1. The Wheat Kings are 6-0 without the services of their prize deadline acquisition.
Mark Adams did not play (concussion) as Providence got hammered by Boston College, 7-0. The sophomore has missed the past three games after getting injured in a hard hitting affair with Northeastern two Fridays ago. The Friars close the regular season next weekend with a home-and-home against Lowell.
Christian Isackson was scratched for the fourth straight game as Minnesota defeated Nebraska-Omaha, 3-2. Isackson and Adams remain as the only two Sabres prospects who have yet to score in 2011-12.
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.
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.
Mark Pysyk had a busy Monday, scoring a goal and two assists in the final twenty minutes as Edmonton clawed their way back from a 3-0 deficit to earn a 5-4 shootout win over Medicine Hat. Entering play with no goals in his previous 12 games, Pysyk knotted the score at 3-3 with his fifth of the year in the 55th minute. After the Tigers regained the lead with under three minutes to play, Pysyk got the puck to the net for Dylan Wruck's game-tying tally with 37 seconds left in regulation. The three-point effort was Pysyk's fourth of the season.
In OHL play, Gregg Sutch and Alex Lepkowski were each held without a point as Barrie cruised to a 6-1 win over Oshawa. Sutch has gone without a point in his last five games. Not known for his offensive numbers, Lepkowski has one in his last 16 games.
In the ECHL, Jonathan Parker scored his first goal in a Gladiators uniform as Gwinnett lost at Cincinnati, 3-2. Riley Boychuk added an assist for the Glads, while Shawn Szydlowski recorded four shots on goal. The trio has combined for two goals and seven points in three games since being sent being assigned to the ECHL.
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 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.
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
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.
In Friday AHL action, Zack Kassian scored a pair of goals while Corey Tropp (three assists) and Brayden McNabb (two assists) posted multi-point nights in Rochester's 9-4 blowout win over Texas. Kassian, whose effort included a short-handed tally, has now scored five goals on 12 shots in his last three games with Rochester.
Travis Turnbull (+5) earned the game's first star with two goals and an assist. Jonathan Parker, Paul Szczechura, Derek Whitmore, Mark Voakes, and Maxime Legault added singles for the Amerks.
All but four Amerks skaters (Lagace, Schiestel, Persson, Ryan) earned a point in the win. Drew MacIntyre made 23 stops to move to 8-11-0-2 on the year.
The Amerks (22-18-6-3, 2nd in North Division) host San Antonio on Saturday.
***
Colin Jacobs recorded a goal and an assist as Seattle lost to Spokane, 5-4. While on a 5x3 in the middle period, the 6'1 center took a long pass and buried the breakaway backhander for his third goal in his last four games. The T-Birds will welcome another division rival to town on Saturday when they host Portland.
Kevin Sundher scored his 26th of the year and second in as many games as Brandon doubled Swift Current, 6-3. The win snaps the Wheat Kings six-game losing streak at home. Brandon will travel to Medicine Hat on Sunday.
Connor Knapp was forced to make just 11 saves as #12 Miami downed Alabama-Huntsville 3-1 in a non-conference affair. The 6'6 senior, who has now started eight of Miami's last 11 games, moves to 9-6 on the year. The two clubs will close the set Saturday in Oxford.
Justin Jokinen picked up an assist as Minnesota State defeated Alaska-Anchorage, 3-2. The senior wing now has a goal and three assists in three games this season versus the Seawolves. The teams will play it back on Saturday.
Elsewhere, Jerome Gauthier-Leduc finished +1 as Rimouski edged Quebec, 2-1. Leduc continues to lead all QMJHL defenders in scoring with 60 points (24+36), nine more than his next closest competitor. The Oceanic will battle Blainville-Boisbriand on Saturday.
Cedrick Henley registered three hits as Val-d'Or was dealt a 3-1 defeat by Moncton. The 6'5 captain will look to snap an eight-game point drought on Saturday when the Foreurs host Cape Breton.
Alex Lepkowski skated even while Gregg Sutch got into his third fight of the year (and second in a week) as Barrie got past Sudbury, 4-3. Winners of five straight, the Colts will host the Niagara IceDogs (winners of four straight) on Saturday.
Drew MacKenzie was held to one shot on goal as Vermont was blown out by #5 Boston College, 6-1. The senior rearguard has gathered points in 18 of his last 24 games. The Catamounts are off until Friday when they visit New Hampshire.
Mark Adams logged a shot on goal as Providence earned a 4-3 win over #12 Maine. The friars move on to face Massachusetts on Saturday.
Christian Isackson saw action as the fourth line center, finishing -2 with a shot on goal as #2 Minnesota suffered a 5-3 loss at #14 Denver. The six-footer will look to dress in both ends of a WCHA set for the first time when the clubs rematch Saturday at Magness.
Mark Pysyk logged a season-low -3 rating as Edmonton dropped a 5-4 overtime decision at Prince George. The Oil Kings, ranked sixth in the latest CHL rankings, will look for the road split when the clubs play the rematch on Saturday.
Brad Eidsness served as backup as #16 North Dakota downed #3 Minnesota-Duluth, 3-1. The Sioux will likely keep the same lineup when they go for the sweep on Saturday.
Nathan Lieuwen was given the night off as Kootenay was shut out 2-0 by Red Deer. The ICE host Saskatoon on Saturday.
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.
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.
Dan Catenacci scored a goal and two assists in the first period Friday as Owen Sound lost in overtime to Windsor, 6-5. Catenacci, who was returning from a one-game suspension, has now collected four goals and nine points in his last four games. Chris Marchese ('12) had a goal and two helpers for the Spits.
Steven Shipley scored his 13th goal of the year as Niagara battled to a key 3-2 victory over the CHL's top-ranked London Knights. The 6'3 center now has goals on two straight games for the third time this season.
Nathan Lieuwen made 28 saves as Kootenay edged Calgary, 2-1. The victory, his first in his last five starts, moves Lieuwen to 21-11-4-2 on the year. Sam Reinhart ('14) scored his second goal of the game with :01 left on the clock to ice the win for the ICE.
Jerome Gauthier-Leduc picked up an assist as Rimouski blew the doors off Quebec, 9-3. The QMJHL's leading defensive scorer, Leduc has gathered points in four straight games. 2012 draft stud Mikhail Grigorenko finished the game a -6.
Joel Armia earned an assist as Assat got past Tappara, 2-1. At the 40 game mark, the 6'3 wing has 12 goals and 27 points. In 48 games last year, Armia collected 18 goals and 29 points.
In NCAA play, Drew MacKenzie (+1) picked up an assist as Vermont was defeated by #9 Lowell, 3-1. The 6'2 senior has now recorded a point in 18 of his last 21 games.
Brad Navin was credited with a late power play assist in Wisconsin's 5-1 home ice loss to St. Cloud State. The helper was earned when Frankie Simonelli's point-shot deflected off Navin before Brendan Woods tipped it into the Husky net.
Connor Knapp made 12 saves in two periods of relief work as Miami lost at Michigan, 4-1. Knapp allowed a goal on the only Wolverine shot in the second before stopping everything thrown at him in the third. The 6'6 senior had started both ends in two of Miami's four January sets, but began the game on the bench as Cody Reichard was given the nod after posting a shutout last Saturday.
Justin Jokinen assisted on the Mavs insurance goal as Minnesota-State bested Michigan Tech, 5-3. The 6'3 senior has a goal and three helpers in his last 15 games (since 12/1).
Elsewhere, Kevin Sundher did not factor as Brandon was doubled by Lethbridge, 4-2. The Wheat Kings have won just three of 12 games since acquiring Sundher at the WHL trade deadline. Sundher has gone without a point in five of the 12 appearances.
Gregg Sutch was even in lower line minutes as Barrie edged Mississauga, 1-0. Alex Lepkowski did not play for the Colts.
Cedrick Henley finished -1 with seven hits as Val-d'Or was hammered by Shawinigan. 8-1. The Foreurs have now last their last five games.
Colin Jacobs was kept off the scoresheet as Seattle lost at Tri-City, 4-1. The Texas-born pivot has gone without a goal in his last six games.
Mark Adams was scratched as Providence lost to New Hampshire, 3-1. Adams has sat out three of the Friars' last seven games.
Alex Lepkowski scored the first game winning goal of his OHL career Saturday to lead Barrie to a 2-1 win over Ottawa. The 6'4 defender, who didn't score his first goal until his 100th game, now has six in his last 26. Gregg Sutch did not score but earned the game's #3 star for his all-around work.
Dan Catenacci recorded an assist before being ejected in the second period for a slew foot match penalty as Owen Sound lost to Guelph, 3-2. The infraction carries a one-game suspension, forcing Catenacci out of Sunday's game against Ottawa. The match penalty is the second of Catenacci's career after getting called for a slew foot on Erie's Brett Thompson a year ago.
Brad Eidsness made 20 saves in his fifth start of the year (and first of the year on a Saturday) to help North Dakota to a 4-2 win over Wisconsin. The victory was Eidsness' fourth of the year and 54th of his WCHA career. Brad Navin contributed one shot on goal in bottom line minutes for the Badgers.
Joel Armia saw his eight-game point streak come to an end as Assat dropped a 6-3 decision to the Pelicans. The 6'3 wing picked up four shots on goal and a roughing minor over 13:53 of work.
Kevin Sundher did not factor into the scoring as Brandon got past Red Deer, 3-2. The six-foot center has gone without a point 15 times this season, with six of those coming during his first 11 games in a Brandon uniform.
Nathan Lieuwen stopped 41 of 46 shots but Kootenay fell in overtime to Spokane, 5-4. The ICE netminder was especially busy in middle period when he faced 18 shots. After starting January with four wins in six outings, Lieuwen is winless in his last four starts.
Mark Pysyk finished -2 as Edmonton was defeated by Vancouver, 3-2.
Colin Jacobs finished -1 with a diving minor as Seattle got pounded by Portland, 8-3.
Drew MacKenzie notched an assist as Vermont was doubled by Northeastern, 4-2. The two-way defender has six goals and 17 points in 23 games.
Justin Jokinen registered one shot on goal as Minnesota State handled Bemidji State, 5-2.
Christian Isackson (3 SOG) was inserted into the lineup as a fourth-line center as Minnesota edged St. Cloud State, 3-2.
Connor Knapp was given the night off as Miami pitched a 6-0 shutout of Northern Michigan.
***
In the AHL, Zack Kassian (11th) and Derek Whitmore (17th) scored first period goals, and David Leggio provided the rest with 37 saves as Rochester held on to defeat Toronto, 2-1. The Amerks head into the All-Star break withb a 19-17-5-3 mark.
The Rundown:
Kassian: G, 2 SOG
Foligno: A, 3 SOG
Persson: A, 1 SOG
Parker: 2 SOG
Crawford: 2 SOG
Biega: 1 SOG
Schiestel: 1 SOG
Lagace: even
Fienhage: even
Szydlowski: even
Dan Catenacci scored a pair of goals Friday, his 22nd and 23rd of the year, as Owen Sound dropped a 5-4 decision to Kitchener. The speedy center, who now has five two-goal games this season, is currently tied for 17th in OHL scoring with 53 points (23+30) in 47 games.
Jerome Gauthier-Leduc scored his 22nd goal of the year as Rimouski defeated Gatineau, 5-2. The goal, Leduc's second game winner of the year, snaps his six-game scoring drought. Crafty 2011 eligible Tomas Hyka notched a goal and an assist for the Olympiques.
Colin Jacobs picked up an assist and then scored the only goal in the shootout as Seattle edged Kelowna, 2-1. The shootout goal was Jacobs' third in three tries in the tiebreaker, nearly matching his regulation/OT output of four in 19 games since returning from injury. One of those goals was a penalty shot.
Gregg Sutch recorded two assists for his third multi-point game of the year as Barrie downed Brampton, 6-2. Alex Lepkowski, who was on the ice for a short-handed goal for and two goals against (one on a 5x3 PP), finished even for the Colts.
Mark Pysyk picked up an assist as Edmonton spanked Brandon, 6-2. Kevin Sundher finished the night at -2, giving him two goals and four assists in his first 10 games in Brandon uniform. Pysyk, meanwhile, has two goals and seven assists in 10 games since returning from the World Junior Championships.
Cedrick Henley finished -1 as Val-d'Or lost at home to Chicoutimi, 7-6. The 6'5 forward has 10 goals and 26 points in 35 games this season after having the bulk of his 2010-11 washed out due to wrist surgery.
Steven Shipley upped his goalless stretch to eight games as Niagara was blanked by Guelph, 3-0. The 6'3 Shipley, who has collected 29 points through 43 games, is amidst his longest stretch without a goal since his nine-game drought back in 2008-09 as an OHL rookie.
Nathan Lieuwen allowed five goals on 17 shots before getting pulled late in the second period as Kootenay lost in a shootout to Prince Albert, 7-6. The 20-year old netminder has allowed 12 goals in his last three outings - all ICE losses.
In NCAA, Drew MacKenzie saw his nine-game point streak come to an end as Vermont was thumped by Northeastern, 8-3. The 6'2 defender is currently the sixth leading scoring among Hockey East defensemen with 16 points (6+10) in 22 games.
Connor Knapp stopped 11 of 13 shots but Miami scored just once on 41 shots in a 2-1 loss to Northern Michigan. Knapp, who entered the game with six straight wins including a 0.60 goals against average and .977 save percentage in the month of January, moves to 8-5 on the year.
Brad Navin continued to bring a physical element to to the third line as Wisconsin lost to North Dakota, 5-3. Brad Eidsness served as backup for UND.
Justin Jokinen did not factor as Minnesota State lost to Bemidji State, 2-1. The 6'3 senior has three goals and nine points in 27 games.
Christian Isackson was scratched for the 20th time this season in Minnesota's 2-1 win over St. Cloud State. The freshman, who has bounced between center and wing, is +1 with 14 shots on goal in eight appearances.
***
In the AHL, the Amerks continued their recent offensive woes with a 4-0 defeat at Syracuse. The Amerks coughed up two goals in the game's first three minutes en route to being shut out for the first time all year.
Drew MacIntyre stopped 29 shots to fall to 6-11-0-2 on the year. Losers of two straight, the Amerks will travel to Toronto on Saturday before heading to the AHL All-Star break.
***
On Thursday, Joel Armia continued to ride his renewed confidence with a pair of assists in Assat's 6-1 win over the Blues. The 6'3 wing is red hot with points in eight straight games, including all six since returning from the World Junior Championship. He has gathered nine goals and eight assists in his last 15 overall.
In other Thursday games, Shipley failed to get in on the fun as Niagara smoked Belleville, 6-0.
Henley registered two hits in his return from a two-game absence as Val-d'Or lost to Drummondville, 3-1.
Sutch (-2) and Lepkowski (-3) were stifled as Barrie dropped a 4-1 home ice decision to Plymouth.
Joel Armia continued his recent surge Saturday, scoring a pair of goals to extend his point streak to seven games as Assat smoked KalPa, 8-3. Armia's offensive spike, marked by a variety of goal celebrations, has resulted in 13 points (7+6) in his last 10 games to up his season line to 36GP 12-12-24.
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In NCAA play, Connor Knapp made 22 saves for his 10th career shutout as Miami earned the weekend sweep with a 4-0 win over Western Michigan. The 6'5 senior, who earned back-to-back starts for the second time in three weekends, is now tops among Sabres goaltending prospects with a 1.77 goals against average and .932 save percentage. Knapp also added an assist the old fashioned way en route to securing his grip on the RedHawks' #1 goaltending spot.
In the OHL, Dan Catenacci notched a goal and two assists as Owen Sound lost in overtime to London, 6-5. The goal, his 21st of the year, snaps a seven-game goal drought. It was his fifth three-point effort since joining the Attack.
Colin Jacobs scored a power play goal in Seattle's 5-4 overtime loss to Everett. The goal was Jacobs' fourth point in eight January games, and seventh in 18 games since returning from a lengthy shoulder injury.
Gregg Sutch earned an assist as Barrie doubled Guelph, 4-2. The game marked Sutch's return to the Colts lineup after missing eight games with an upper body injury. Alex Lepkowski finished -1 on the Barrie blueline.
Steven Shipley assisted on the first Niagara goal as the IceDogs lost to Sudbury, 4-3. The point was Shipley's first in five games.
Justin Jokinen (+2) contributed three shots on goal as Minnesota State defeated Nebraska-Omaha 5-4 in overtime. Jokinen was on the ice as the Mavericks' third line clicked for the OT winner.
Brad Navin finished even as Wisconsin edged Alaska-Anchorage, 3-2. The freshman third-liner has two goals and two assists through his first 23 NCAA games.
Brad Eidsness served as backup in North Dakota's 3-2 win over St. Cloud State.
Christian Isackson was a healthy scratch as Minnesota defeated Colorado College, 2-1.
Mark Adams was a scratch as Providence was embarrassed by Boston University, 8-0.
***
On Sunday, Jerome Gauthier-Leduc logged a -2 as Rimouski was shut out by Baie-Comeau. The offensive-minded defender has just two goals and two assists in 10 game since returning from the Christmas break.
Cedrick Henley did not play for the second straight game as Val-d'Or was stomped by Rouyn-Noranda, 9-3.
Jacobs was kept off the scoresheet as Seattle was nipped by Vancouver, 3-2.
Shipley finished +2 with an assist in Niagara's 9-0 blowout of Peterborough.
Lepkowski (-1) and Sutch (2PIM) did not factor in Barrie's 3-0 loss to Oshawa.
Nathan Lieuwen made 21 saves Wednesday to earn his 20th win of the year as Kootenay earned a 3-2 overtime win over Regina. The 6'5 netminder, who is one game off his 33-win pace from a season ago (he won his 21st game of 2010-11 a year ago to the day), could get a shot to continue his roll on Friday when the ICE travels to Moose Jaw.
Kevin Sundher finished -1 as Brandon downed Saskatoon, 6-4. Sundher has three assists in five games with Wheat Kings, and zero goals in eight January games. The Wheat Kings and Blades will play it back Friday in Saskatoon.
Mark Pysyk was +1 as Edmonton blanked Prince George, 5-0. The Oil Kings are at Swift Current on Friday.
In OHL play, Dan Catenacci did not factor into the scoring as Owen Sound held on for a 5-4 win over Plymouth. The Attack return to action Friday at London.
On Thursday, Alex Lepkowski finished +1 as Barrie defeated Saginaw 4-3 in a shootout. Gregg Sutch missed his eighth game with an upper body injury. The Colts host Guelph on Saturday.
Cedrick Henley notched a goal and an assist Saturday to earn the game's #1 star as Val-d'Or toppled Q frontrunner Quebec 4-3 in overtime. The Foreurs captain got on the scoresheet twice during a five-goal third period to record his eighth multiple point game of the season. The 6'5 power forward has 10 goals and 26 points this season including 4+4 in eight games since returning from a broken thumb. Val-d'Or plays at Blainville-Boisbriand on Sunday.
Jerome Gauthier-Leduc didn't get a regulation point but scored the only goal of the shootout to clinch Rimouski's 3-2 win over Rouyn-Noranda. Producing at well above a point-per-game pace all season long, the 6'1 defender has just three goals and four assists in 10 games since being cut from Team Canada's selection camp. The Oceanic are off until Friday when they visit Chicoutimi.
In WHL play, Kevin Sundher picked up a pair of assists as Brandon dropped a 4-3 shootout decision to his former club, Victoria. The power play helpers, Sundher's first points as a Wheat King, keep him tied for second among WHL assist leaders. Brandon travels to Moose Jaw on Sunday.
Mark Pysyk gathered a pair of assists as Edmonton won a 3-2 overtime decision over Kootenay. The steady Oil Kings captain has a goal and four assists in four games since returning from the World Junior Championship. Kootenay netminder Nathan Lieuwen, who was shaken up after getting run into late in the third, finished with a season-high 41 saves to earn the game's #2 star. Edmonton travels to Calgary on Sunday. The ICE are off until Wednesday's tilt at Regina.
Colin Jacobs did not play as Seattle was trumped by Portland, 4-0. The Thunderbirds have been outscored 29-8 en route to losing six straight games. Seattle plays at Spokane on Monday.
In the OHL, Steven Shipley was held without a point for the third straight game as Niagara dominated Barrie, 4-1. Winners of five straight and nine of their last 10, the IceDogs are now tied with Ottawa atop the Eastern Conference standings. Alex Lepkowski finished -2 for the Colts, while Gregg Sutch missed his seventh consecutive game with a head injury. Barrie will battle Saginaw on Thursday. Niagara returns to action Friday at Erie.
Dan Catenacci did not factor into the scoring as Owen Sound shellacked Erie, 5-0. The speedy center has now gone five game without a goal. The Attack will host a well-oiled Whalers squad on Wednesday.
In NCAA action, Justin Jokinen picked up an assist as Minnesota State earned the weekend split with a 3-0 win over Wisconsin. Brad Navin recorded two shots on goal in the loss. Both schools resume their WCHA schedules next weekend, with Minnesota State hosting Nebraska-Omaha and the Badgers welcoming Alaska-Anchorage to Madison.
Brad Eidsness stopped seven of eight shots in relief of Aaron Dell as North Dakota was blown out by Minnesota, 6-2. The third period action was Eidsness' first in league play since picking up a 5-2 win at Alaska-Anchorage back on December 2nd. Gopher freshman Christian Isackson was scratched for the third straight game. North Dakota goes to St. Cloud on Friday while the Gophers get ready for a set with Colorado College.
Connor Knapp was given the the night off as Miami suffered a 4-3 loss at Lake Superior State. The big senior had backstopped three RedHawks wins coming out of the break before giving way to fellow senior Cody Reichard, who hadn't played since December 10th. Miami returns to Oxford for next weekend's battle with Western Michigan.
Zack Kassian scored a pair of goals Sunday and added an assist - all in the third period - as Rochester lost a 4-3 shootout battle to longtime foe Hershey. Kassian, who added the lone Amerks goal in the shootout, now has four points in two games since returning to the AHL. It was the first three-point night of his professional career.
Trailing 2-0 after two periods, the Amerks came on strong in the final frame to make it a game. Kassian got the ball rolling with his eighth of the year on the power play just 15-seconds in. Minutes later, T.J. Brennan potted his seventh goal of the year to knot the game 2-2. The Bears would get the lead back before Kassian's second of the night with 1:01 left in regulation forced the OT.
The Rundown:
Kassian: 2G, SHOG, A, 5 SOG
Brennan: G, +1, 4 SOG
Foligno: A, +1, 3 SOG
Biega: A, 3 SOG
Tropp: -1
Schiestel: -1
Szydlowski: 1 SOG
Lagace: even
The Amerks are off until Friday when they host divisional rival Toronto.
***
Elsewhere, Nathan Lieuwen made 31 saves to guide Kootenay to a 3-1 win over Medicine Hat. The ICE travel to Red Deer on Wednesday.
Alex Lepkowski logged a -1 as Barrie downed Kingston, 5-3. Gregg Sutch missed his fifth straight game with a head injury. Barrie is off until Thursday when they take on Niagara.
Cedrick Henley recorded three shots on goal as Val-d'Or surprised Quebec, 2-1. The Foreurs will next play on Friday at Victoriaville.
Mark Pysyk finished even as Edmonton lost to Red Deer, 4-3. The Oil Kings travel to Medicine Hat on Thursday.
In Saturday action, Kevin Sundher extended his point streak to 12 games with an assist, but Victoria suffered their ninth straight defeat with a 4-3 shootout loss to Kelowna. Both streaks are newsworthy, but it's how Sundher ended the game that had people talking afterwards.
Amidst a high level of frustration, Sundher missed the shootout after getting tossed for attempting to headbutt a taunting Shane McColgan at the end of OT. The two previously came together for offsetting roughing minors as buzzer sounded to end regulation. With his name swirling as perhaps the hottest WHL trade commodity (unless Team Canada scorer Mark Stone is somehow put on the block) and the Royals not taking the ice again until Friday, the game would certainly be a most interesting way for Sundher, the franchise's all-time leading point-getter, to close out his time in Victoria.
Elsewhere, Steven Shipley scored his 11th goal of the year as Niagara doubled Sarnia, 4-2. The 6'3 Shipley has six goals and 14 points in his last 10 games. The Dogs are off until Thursday when they host Barrie.
Mark Pysyk returned from the World Junior Championship and scored his third goal of the year as Edmonton downed Swift Current, 5-3. The 6'2 defender came down the left side late in the second period and stuffed the puck past the Broncos goaltender for his 19th point of the year. The Oil Kings will be in action Sunday when they host Red Deer.
In NCAA play, Drew MacKenzie scored his sixth goal of the year as Vermont dropped a 3-2 overtime decision to Massachusetts at Frozen Fenway. The power play marker extends MacKenzie's career-best point streak to six games. The Catamounts return home next weekend to face Lowell on Friday and Providence on Sunday.
Justin Jokinen avenged a costly penalty the night before by scoring the game winning goal as Minnesota State earned a 3-1 win over Saint Lawrence and a split of their non-league set. The goal, Jokinen's third of the year, was his first game winner since 10/10/08 against Bemidji State.
Connor Knapp made 20 saves for the ninth shutout of his career as Miami swept Michigan State with a 4-0 win. The senior netminder, whose record improved to 5-4, appeared in back-to-back contests for the first time since last January (1/22, 1/28). The RedHawks travel to Lake Superior State next weekend.
Dan Catenacci collected three assists as Owen Sound got past Brampton with a 4-3 overtime win. The speedy center earned helpers on consecutive shifts in the early second as the Attack snatched a 2-1 lead before earning a secondary on the OT winner. The Attack are off until Friday's tilt with Erie.
Nathan Lieuwen stopped 19 of 22 shots as Kootenay was beaten by Moose Jaw, 3-1. The 6'5 keeper has won just three of his last 10 starts (since December 1st) to dip to 17-10-1-2 on the year. The ICE will end the weekend with a Sunday meeting with Medicine Hat.
Colin Jacobs was -1 as Seattle lost to Spokane, 4-2. After missing 26 games while recovering from shoulder surgery, the 6'1 center has gathered fur points (3+1) in his first dozen games of the 2011-12 season. The T-Birds are off until Friday when they visit Kamloops.
Alex Lepkowski finished -1 as Barrie lost to London, 3-2. Colts forward Gregg Sutch missed his fourth straight game with a head injury despite rumors that he had passed his concussion test earlier in the week. The Colts return to action Sunday at Kingston.
In the QMJHL, Jerome Gauthier-Leduc logged a +1 as Rimouski won a 3-2 shootout decision over Baie-Comeau. The QMJHL's leading defensive point-getter, Leduc has gone two games without getting on the scoresheet for the fourth time this season. The Nics are off until Friday when they'll tangle with Rouyn-Noranda.
Brad Navin was even as Wisconsin edged RIT, 2-1. The 6'2 freshman has two goals and two assists through his first 19 collegiate games. The Badgers travel to Mankato next weekend for a WCHA set with Minnesota State.
Christian Isackson did not play as Minnesota lost to Notre Dame, 4-3. The Gophers will play a key WCHA set with North Dakota.
Brad Eidsness served as back-up as North Dakota defeated Clarkson 3-1 at MTS Center in Winnipeg. The senior has started just three of North Dakota's 21 games this season.
***
In the AHL, Phil Varone scored a pair of goals including the game-winner as Rochester defeated Binghamton, 3-2. Varone extends his career-best point streak to six games. He has a ways to go before eclipsing the 16-gamer he posted a year ago while with Erie of the OHL.
Zack Kassian notched an assist in his first AHL game since November 19th, while Shawn Szydlowski added a career-high four shots on goal.
The Amerks close the weekend with a battle against longtime rival Hershey on Sunday.
Jerome Gauthier-Leduc scored his 21st goal of the year Wednesday as Rimouski was lumped by Shawinigan, 8-3. The league leading goal total for defensemen gives the 6'2 righty a new career best. Rimouski battles Baie-Comeau on Friday.
Elsewhere, Nathan Lieuwen made 33 saves as Kootenay handled Swift Current, 5-1. The 6'5 stopper, who surrendered the goal off a power play deflection, gets his first win since December 16th to move to 17-9-1-2 on the year. The ICE welcome Moose Jaw to town on Saturday.
Drew MacKenzie extended his point streak to a career-high five games with an assist as Vermont was defeated by Maine, 3-1. On Saturday, the Catamounts will travel to Fenway Park for an outdoor tilt with U-Mass.
Alex Lepkowski finished -1 as Barrie lost to Sudbury, 5-3. Gregg Sutch missed his third straight game for the Colts, who move on to face London on Saturday.
Colin Jacobs finished -1 as Seattle lost to Everett, 5-2. The Thunderbirds return to action Friday at Tri-City.
