Gregg Sutch missed his third consecutive game due to a head injury Thursday as Mississauga blanked Brampton, 4-0. It is unclear when the injury occurred, but it's possible it was the result of his scrap with Anthony Camara in the waning minutes of the Majors/Spirit tilt on January 2nd.
Also from Thursday OHL play, Steven Shipley did not get on the scorssheet as Niagara shutout Erie, 3-0.
On Wednesday, Kevin Sundher scored a goal for the fourth straight game as Chilliwack took care of Prince George, 5-2. The 6'0 center opened scoring with his 15th of the season at 11:09 of the first period.
Riley Boychuk (+1) scored his 10th goal of the season as Portland came up short against Spokane, 4-3.
Brayden McNabb finished +3 as Kootenay defeated Edmonton, 5-2. Mark Pysyk skated even for the Oil Kings.
Corey Fienhage finished -3 as Kamloops lost to Medicine Hat, 4-1.
On Tuesday, Matt MacKenzie finished +2 in his Tri-City debut as the Americans trounced Seattle, 7-1. MacKeznie was traded on Monday from league-worst Calgary to the legit Western Conference contender.
In Sunday play, Sundher scored a first period goal as Chilliwack took down Seattle, 5-4 in overtime.
Riley Boychuk returned from his two-game suspension without a point as Portland needed a shootout to defeat Everett, 5-4.
Jerome Gauthier-Leduc did not score but was named the game's #3 star as Rimouski edged Moncton, 2-1 in a shootout.
Shipley (+1) failed to hit the scoresheet as Niagara downed Kingston, 6-2.
Drew MacKenzie recorded an assist as Vermont lost to Boston University, 4-2.
Sunday, January 16, 2011
Sunday, January 9, 2011
1/8 Recap: Gauthier-Leduc rolling; Pysyk stays steady
Jerome Gauthier-Leduc scored his eighth goal of the year Saturday as Rimouski lost to PEI for the second straight night, 6-2. The power play marker ties him for 8th in scoring among QMJHL defensemen with 29 points while giving the puckmover 4+5 over his current five-game point streak. Losers of three straight, the Oceanic will play their third game in three days Sunday versus Moncton.
In OHL action, Marcus Foligno scored his 17th goal of the year as Sudbury held on to upset #2 ranked Mississauga, 6-5. The power play was the key to victory for the Wolves (13-24-2), with Foligno's strike contributing to their 4/6 efficiency in the win. Majors forward Gregg Sutch was held out of the lineup for the second straight game, and remains the subject of trade rumors leading up to Monday's trade deadline.
In the WHL, Mark Pysyk had an assist as Edmonton trounced Regina, 7-1. The Edmonton native now has 17 points in 32 games this season, including a goal and 12 assists in his last 11 games. With a +2 rating, the smooth-skating defender extends his streak to 19 consecutive games rated even or better. Pysyk was last a "minus" player on November 9th, when Kevin Sundher set up a Chillwack goal in an Oil Kings OT win.
Brayden McNabb posted a career-low -5 as Kootenay was dropped by Red Deer, 6-1. McNabb's feat comes just one night removed from a tired Zack Kassian finishing with the same career-low number. These things can happen when you log 26-30 minutes a night. Highly touted '11 eligible Ryan Nugent-Hopkins notched an assist for the Rebels.
Corey Fienhage scored the lone Blazers goal as Kamloops got whacked by Kelowna, 8-1. Six of Fienhage's 11 points this season have come in his past ten games.
Riley Boychuk served game #2 of his two-game suspension as Portland Seattle. He is slated to return for Sunday's match-up with Everett.
In NCAA play, Justin Jokinen snapped an eight-game goal drought with an even-strength marker and two assists as Minnesota State defeated American International, 5-2. Jokinen, who scored from in close as he received a pass from behind the net, had a few strong shifts where his jump created good opportunities for the Mavs. Minnesota State will resume their WCHA schedule next weekend against Denver.
Connor Knapp made 29 saves as Miami was swept by Ohio State, 5-2. Knapp surrendered three goals, one five-hole off a power play pass in front and two others when he was beaten cleanly, before the Buckeyes would get a pair of empty netters to seal their first sweep of the RedHawks since 2004-05. The 6'5 junior will tote a 4-4-3 record into next week's set with Bowling Green.
Brad Eidsness again worked the door as North Dakota edged Robert Morris, 2-1. Eidsness has now sat for nine straight games, and has played in just one of the last 14 for the Sioux. In his place, sophomore Aaron Dell has gone 15-4-1 with a 1.92 goals against average and .922 save percentage, including a recent shutout streak of 224:31 that was snapped with :20 to play in the third period.
Mark Adams finished -1 as Providence lost to Boston College, 3-1. The 6'3 freshman will look for his second career point when the Friars travel to Maine next weekend.
Nick Eno served as backup in Bowling Green's 3-1 loss to Ferris State.
In the USHL, Christian Isackson scored his fifth goal of the year as Sioux Falls defeated Waterloo, 5-2. The 6'0 Gopher commit had gone 15 games without a goal before stealing a pass and burying a shot into an open net to open the game's scoring. The Herd return to action Wednesday against Tri-City.
In OHL action, Marcus Foligno scored his 17th goal of the year as Sudbury held on to upset #2 ranked Mississauga, 6-5. The power play was the key to victory for the Wolves (13-24-2), with Foligno's strike contributing to their 4/6 efficiency in the win. Majors forward Gregg Sutch was held out of the lineup for the second straight game, and remains the subject of trade rumors leading up to Monday's trade deadline.
In the WHL, Mark Pysyk had an assist as Edmonton trounced Regina, 7-1. The Edmonton native now has 17 points in 32 games this season, including a goal and 12 assists in his last 11 games. With a +2 rating, the smooth-skating defender extends his streak to 19 consecutive games rated even or better. Pysyk was last a "minus" player on November 9th, when Kevin Sundher set up a Chillwack goal in an Oil Kings OT win.
Brayden McNabb posted a career-low -5 as Kootenay was dropped by Red Deer, 6-1. McNabb's feat comes just one night removed from a tired Zack Kassian finishing with the same career-low number. These things can happen when you log 26-30 minutes a night. Highly touted '11 eligible Ryan Nugent-Hopkins notched an assist for the Rebels.
Corey Fienhage scored the lone Blazers goal as Kamloops got whacked by Kelowna, 8-1. Six of Fienhage's 11 points this season have come in his past ten games.
Riley Boychuk served game #2 of his two-game suspension as Portland Seattle. He is slated to return for Sunday's match-up with Everett.
In NCAA play, Justin Jokinen snapped an eight-game goal drought with an even-strength marker and two assists as Minnesota State defeated American International, 5-2. Jokinen, who scored from in close as he received a pass from behind the net, had a few strong shifts where his jump created good opportunities for the Mavs. Minnesota State will resume their WCHA schedule next weekend against Denver.
Connor Knapp made 29 saves as Miami was swept by Ohio State, 5-2. Knapp surrendered three goals, one five-hole off a power play pass in front and two others when he was beaten cleanly, before the Buckeyes would get a pair of empty netters to seal their first sweep of the RedHawks since 2004-05. The 6'5 junior will tote a 4-4-3 record into next week's set with Bowling Green.
Brad Eidsness again worked the door as North Dakota edged Robert Morris, 2-1. Eidsness has now sat for nine straight games, and has played in just one of the last 14 for the Sioux. In his place, sophomore Aaron Dell has gone 15-4-1 with a 1.92 goals against average and .922 save percentage, including a recent shutout streak of 224:31 that was snapped with :20 to play in the third period.
Mark Adams finished -1 as Providence lost to Boston College, 3-1. The 6'3 freshman will look for his second career point when the Friars travel to Maine next weekend.
Nick Eno served as backup in Bowling Green's 3-1 loss to Ferris State.
In the USHL, Christian Isackson scored his fifth goal of the year as Sioux Falls defeated Waterloo, 5-2. The 6'0 Gopher commit had gone 15 games without a goal before stealing a pass and burying a shot into an open net to open the game's scoring. The Herd return to action Wednesday against Tri-City.
Saturday, January 8, 2011
1/7 Recap: Foligno pots shortie; Sutch on the move?
Marcus Foligno scored this league-leading fifth shorthanded goal and added two assists Friday as Sudbury throttled Barrie, 8-3. The 6'3 forward now has 16 goals and 36 points through his first 29 games for the Wolves. With 30 games remaining on his OHL slate, the Sudbury captain is trending to finish the season with a line of 59 GP 32-41-73. Last season, he posted 14-25-39 in 67 games.
Gregg Sutch did not play as Mississauga downed Sault Ste. Marie, 5-1. The healthy scratch is fueling speculation that the grinding forward may be traded before the January 10th trade deadline, possibly in exchange for a goaltender. We'll let you know if anything shakes out.
Zack Kassian posted an assist and a career-low -5 rating as Windsor was stung by Sarnia, 9-4. The Sting's highly regarded pair of 2012 eligibles had solid outings, with Alex Galchenyuk scoring a goal and an assist and Nail Yakubov going 1+2. These kids are for real.
Jerome Gauthier-Leduc notched an assist as Rimouski fell to PEI, 4-3. The 6'2 blueliner now has seven goals and 21 assists in 36 games this season. JGL's recent spike after returning from injury has seen him up his production to .78 ppg.
In the WHL, Kevin Sundher scored his 13th goal of the season on the power play as Chilliwack Kamloops. Corey Fienhage skated even for the Blazers, while Colin Smith ('11) paced the winning side with a hat trick.
Matt MacKenzie finished -3 as Calgary got clobbered by Brandon, 9-2. The lowly Hitmen have lost four straight contests.
Brayden McNabb (+1) saw his 11-game point streak come to an end as Kootenay bested Moose Jaw, 3-1. The burgeoning stay-at-homer is currently 6th in WHL scoring for defensemen with 32 points (9+23).
In USHL play, Christian Isackson (+1) chipped two shots on goal as Sioux Falls upended Dubuque, 2-1 in overtime. After netting 13 points in his first 15 games, the crafty forward has just two points in his last ten.
In NCAA play, Nick Eno stopped 13 of 17 shots as Bowling Green lost to Ferris State, 4-1. The Falcons netminder stopped all nine shots he faced through two periods before allowing four goals in the final frame to drop his season mark to 4-6-1.
Mark Adams as Providence lost at #3 Boston College, 4-1. The two clubs will play it back Saturday evening in Providence.
Justin Jokinen contributed three shots on goal as Minnesota State crept past American International, 1-0.
Connor Knapp took his usual Friday night post at the bench door as Miami lost a tight 1-0 affair to Ohio State. Knapp will look to rebound from last week's poor start when the two team's rematch on Saturday.
Brad Eidsness did not play as North Dakota earned their second consecutive shutout via a 8-0 pasting of Robert Morris.
Gregg Sutch did not play as Mississauga downed Sault Ste. Marie, 5-1. The healthy scratch is fueling speculation that the grinding forward may be traded before the January 10th trade deadline, possibly in exchange for a goaltender. We'll let you know if anything shakes out.
Zack Kassian posted an assist and a career-low -5 rating as Windsor was stung by Sarnia, 9-4. The Sting's highly regarded pair of 2012 eligibles had solid outings, with Alex Galchenyuk scoring a goal and an assist and Nail Yakubov going 1+2. These kids are for real.
Jerome Gauthier-Leduc notched an assist as Rimouski fell to PEI, 4-3. The 6'2 blueliner now has seven goals and 21 assists in 36 games this season. JGL's recent spike after returning from injury has seen him up his production to .78 ppg.
In the WHL, Kevin Sundher scored his 13th goal of the season on the power play as Chilliwack Kamloops. Corey Fienhage skated even for the Blazers, while Colin Smith ('11) paced the winning side with a hat trick.
Matt MacKenzie finished -3 as Calgary got clobbered by Brandon, 9-2. The lowly Hitmen have lost four straight contests.
Brayden McNabb (+1) saw his 11-game point streak come to an end as Kootenay bested Moose Jaw, 3-1. The burgeoning stay-at-homer is currently 6th in WHL scoring for defensemen with 32 points (9+23).
In USHL play, Christian Isackson (+1) chipped two shots on goal as Sioux Falls upended Dubuque, 2-1 in overtime. After netting 13 points in his first 15 games, the crafty forward has just two points in his last ten.
In NCAA play, Nick Eno stopped 13 of 17 shots as Bowling Green lost to Ferris State, 4-1. The Falcons netminder stopped all nine shots he faced through two periods before allowing four goals in the final frame to drop his season mark to 4-6-1.
Mark Adams as Providence lost at #3 Boston College, 4-1. The two clubs will play it back Saturday evening in Providence.
Justin Jokinen contributed three shots on goal as Minnesota State crept past American International, 1-0.
Connor Knapp took his usual Friday night post at the bench door as Miami lost a tight 1-0 affair to Ohio State. Knapp will look to rebound from last week's poor start when the two team's rematch on Saturday.
Brad Eidsness did not play as North Dakota earned their second consecutive shutout via a 8-0 pasting of Robert Morris.
Friday, January 7, 2011
1/6 Recap: Kassian's cruise continues in Windsor return
Zack Kassian made a quick return to the Windsor lineup Thursday, scoring a pair of even-strength goals as the Spits fell in overtime to Plymouth, 5-4. Kassian, who now has 17 goals and an even 50 points through his first 26 games, made marks with a wrister through a screen and clean shot on an odd-man rush. With 30 games remaining in the OHL schedule, the 19-year old is trending to finish his final junior season with a line of 56 GP 36-71-107 +30. The bullish forward will continue his quest Friday at Sarnia before getting a week of rest.
Steven Shipley scored his 12th goal of the season as Niagara shutout Belleville, 3-0. Shipley, who sat out the Dogs' Wednesday's loss to Erie, now has three goals in his last five games after potting just two in his previous twelve. Undrafted IceDog netminder Dalton McGrath, a SabresProspects preferred player from the 2010 draft preview, continued his solid play in place of Team Canada's Mark Visentin with his first OHL shutout. The 6'1 McGrath moves to 6-2 on the year and 14-3 in his two-year OHL career.
In the WHL, Matt MacKenzie (-2) recorded four penalty minutes as Calgary was nipped by Swift Current, 3-2. Adam Lowry ('11) scored a hat trick to provide the Broncos entire highlight reel. On Tuesday, MacKenzie finished -2 in a 5-0 loss to Saskatoon.
Also from Tuesday, Jerome Gauthier-Leduc potted his seventh goal of the year on an end-to-end rush as Rimouski lost to Quebec, 4-2.
Christian Isackson ended an eight-game rut with a pair of assists as Sioux Falls lost in a shootout to Sioux City, 5-4.
Corey Fienhage finished +1 as Kamloops lost to Moose Jaw, 4-2.
Mark Pysyk did not point as Edmonton lost at Medicine Hat, 5-2.
Steven Shipley scored his 12th goal of the season as Niagara shutout Belleville, 3-0. Shipley, who sat out the Dogs' Wednesday's loss to Erie, now has three goals in his last five games after potting just two in his previous twelve. Undrafted IceDog netminder Dalton McGrath, a SabresProspects preferred player from the 2010 draft preview, continued his solid play in place of Team Canada's Mark Visentin with his first OHL shutout. The 6'1 McGrath moves to 6-2 on the year and 14-3 in his two-year OHL career.
In the WHL, Matt MacKenzie (-2) recorded four penalty minutes as Calgary was nipped by Swift Current, 3-2. Adam Lowry ('11) scored a hat trick to provide the Broncos entire highlight reel. On Tuesday, MacKenzie finished -2 in a 5-0 loss to Saskatoon.
Also from Tuesday, Jerome Gauthier-Leduc potted his seventh goal of the year on an end-to-end rush as Rimouski lost to Quebec, 4-2.
Christian Isackson ended an eight-game rut with a pair of assists as Sioux Falls lost in a shootout to Sioux City, 5-4.
Corey Fienhage finished +1 as Kamloops lost to Moose Jaw, 4-2.
Mark Pysyk did not point as Edmonton lost at Medicine Hat, 5-2.
Sunday, January 2, 2011
1/2 Recap: McNabb hits mark; Sutch scratches itch
Brayden McNabb scored his 9th goal of the year Sunday to extend his point streak to 11 games as Kootenay downed Edmonton, 2-1. The point-shot through traffic was McNabb's 136th career point in an Ice uniform, allowing him to become the franchise's all-time leader in points for a defenseman. Mark Pysyk (+1) assisted on the lone Oil Kings goal, and has now gone 17 straight games rated "even" or better. Edmonton (19-17-0-2) will visit Medicine Hat on Tuesday while McNabb and Kootenay (26-11-1-2) are off until Friday when they host Moose Jaw.
Elsewhere in the WHL, Kevin Sundher scored his 12th goal of the year as Chilliwack lost to Vancouver, 6-2. Sundher now has 36 points on the season including a team-best 24 assists. After playing Sunday's contest with just nine forwards and 15 total skaters, the last-place Bruins (17-17-2-1) will regroup for Friday's meeting with the team three points ahead of them, Kamloops.
Corey Fienhage (+1) earned an assist as Kamloops defeated Kelowna, 5-1. Five of Fienhage's 10 season points have come in his last seven games. The perfectly .500 Blazers (19-19-1-1 and 5-5 in their last ten) will play Medicine Hat on Tuesday before battling Sundher's Bruins.
Matt MacKenzie (-1) picked up his team-leading 19th assist as Calgary lost in a shootout to Regina, 4-3. The 6'2 defender will carry a three-game point streak into Tuesday when the Hitmen (12-24-2-1) travel to Saskatoon.
In the OHL, Gregg Sutch and his mates were shut down as Mississauga was blanked by Saginaw, 4-0. The checking forward did log his fifth fighting major of the season, taking out some frustration on rugged Anthony Camara ('11) with two minutes to play in the game.
Just 3:53 into the first period with Saginaw already holding a 1-0 lead, Sutch earned a double-minor when he and Ben Chiarot tackled each other.
With the game out of hand in the waning minutes, Sutch looked to send a message by engaging Camara, who has now dropped the gloves with two Sabres prospects this season after grappling with Zack Kassian back in November.
The Majors (29-6-0-1) are off until Friday when they battle the Soo Greyhounds.
In NCAA action, Justin Jokinen (+2) earned an assist as Minnesota State earned the Shillelagh Tournament Championship by trouncing Brown, 7-3. The junior, who now has 10 points this season after entering the year with nine in 48 career games, hasn't scored since netting a hat trick back on November 26th (seven games). The Mavericks (8-8-4) will next play a weekend set with American International College of the Atlantic Hockey Conference.
Drew MacKenzie played even as Vermont defeated Harvard, 3-1. Vermont (3-10-4) will play Boston University on Sunday.
Elsewhere in the WHL, Kevin Sundher scored his 12th goal of the year as Chilliwack lost to Vancouver, 6-2. Sundher now has 36 points on the season including a team-best 24 assists. After playing Sunday's contest with just nine forwards and 15 total skaters, the last-place Bruins (17-17-2-1) will regroup for Friday's meeting with the team three points ahead of them, Kamloops.
Corey Fienhage (+1) earned an assist as Kamloops defeated Kelowna, 5-1. Five of Fienhage's 10 season points have come in his last seven games. The perfectly .500 Blazers (19-19-1-1 and 5-5 in their last ten) will play Medicine Hat on Tuesday before battling Sundher's Bruins.
Matt MacKenzie (-1) picked up his team-leading 19th assist as Calgary lost in a shootout to Regina, 4-3. The 6'2 defender will carry a three-game point streak into Tuesday when the Hitmen (12-24-2-1) travel to Saskatoon.
In the OHL, Gregg Sutch and his mates were shut down as Mississauga was blanked by Saginaw, 4-0. The checking forward did log his fifth fighting major of the season, taking out some frustration on rugged Anthony Camara ('11) with two minutes to play in the game.
Just 3:53 into the first period with Saginaw already holding a 1-0 lead, Sutch earned a double-minor when he and Ben Chiarot tackled each other.
With the game out of hand in the waning minutes, Sutch looked to send a message by engaging Camara, who has now dropped the gloves with two Sabres prospects this season after grappling with Zack Kassian back in November.
The Majors (29-6-0-1) are off until Friday when they battle the Soo Greyhounds.
In NCAA action, Justin Jokinen (+2) earned an assist as Minnesota State earned the Shillelagh Tournament Championship by trouncing Brown, 7-3. The junior, who now has 10 points this season after entering the year with nine in 48 career games, hasn't scored since netting a hat trick back on November 26th (seven games). The Mavericks (8-8-4) will next play a weekend set with American International College of the Atlantic Hockey Conference.
Drew MacKenzie played even as Vermont defeated Harvard, 3-1. Vermont (3-10-4) will play Boston University on Sunday.
Kassian, Foligno provide pressure as Canada advances
Zack Kassian scored into an empty net on one of seven shots on goal Sunday as Canada moved ahead to the World Junior Championship semifinal with a 4-1 win over Switzerland. Marcus Foligno added two shots on goal for the winners, who will now face the rival United States on Monday as HSBC Arena.
The Sabres prospects skated together throughout the contest, providing a strong forecheck and many offensive plays around the Swiss net. The pair began with Louis Leblanc but later played the bulk of their time with Columbus prospect Ryan Johansen of the Portland Winterhawks.
After Switzerland quickly jumped out to a 1-0 lead, Kassian missed a great opportunity to tie the game on the power play. Kassian would spend the entire powerplay within a ten-foot radius of the Swiss net once the play was established.
Here is a full shift for Kassian, Foligno, and Leblanc midway through the first period with the game tied at a goal apiece. After the teams exchange opportunities, Kassian shows off his crisp wrister as the task winds down.
In the second period with the score still tied, Foligno missed a point blank opportunity when the acrobatic Conz got his body in front of the Foligno shot.
Here is another glimpse of Kassian and Foligno skating together, this time on a second period shift with Johansen. After Foligno helps get the puck deep, Kassian seems to have a hit lined up but instead pulls up safely to avoid any possibility of a penalty.
Early in the third period, Kassian and Foligno again came out with Johansen to keep the pressure on the Swiss. Kassian, maintaining his post in the 10-foot radius, just misses on a wraparound attempt after the puck comes in deep from the blueline.
Later in third period, Kassian misses a couple nice power play opportunities before tossing his busted stick in disgust.
Shortly after, Kassian put the cherry on top with an empty-net goal to give Canada the 4-1 win.
The Sabres prospects skated together throughout the contest, providing a strong forecheck and many offensive plays around the Swiss net. The pair began with Louis Leblanc but later played the bulk of their time with Columbus prospect Ryan Johansen of the Portland Winterhawks.
After Switzerland quickly jumped out to a 1-0 lead, Kassian missed a great opportunity to tie the game on the power play. Kassian would spend the entire powerplay within a ten-foot radius of the Swiss net once the play was established.
Here is a full shift for Kassian, Foligno, and Leblanc midway through the first period with the game tied at a goal apiece. After the teams exchange opportunities, Kassian shows off his crisp wrister as the task winds down.
In the second period with the score still tied, Foligno missed a point blank opportunity when the acrobatic Conz got his body in front of the Foligno shot.
Here is another glimpse of Kassian and Foligno skating together, this time on a second period shift with Johansen. After Foligno helps get the puck deep, Kassian seems to have a hit lined up but instead pulls up safely to avoid any possibility of a penalty.
Early in the third period, Kassian and Foligno again came out with Johansen to keep the pressure on the Swiss. Kassian, maintaining his post in the 10-foot radius, just misses on a wraparound attempt after the puck comes in deep from the blueline.
Later in third period, Kassian misses a couple nice power play opportunities before tossing his busted stick in disgust.
Shortly after, Kassian put the cherry on top with an empty-net goal to give Canada the 4-1 win.
Kassian ready for redemption
We're nearing the start of Canada's World Junior quarterfinal match-up with Switzerland. With a Monday date with Team USA on the line, Canada will be getting a much-needed spark this afternoon in the form of Sabres prospect Zack Kassian, who will be returning from his much publicized two-game suspension after a questionable hit against the Czechs.
Switzerland can move the puck well, so Canada is expected to stick to their plan of engaging the opposition physically and pinning their defenseman deep. In a 60-minute contest, I can't think of a better play than a rested Kassian looking to redeem himself to his teammates.
As reported by TSN's Bob McKenzie, Kassian will line up at center between fellow Sabres hopeful Marcus Foligno and Habs prospect Louis Leblanc. Foligno has been a wrecking ball all tournament on the forecheck, while the speedy Leblanc has slashed his way to five points in four games. The even strength move to center implies that coach Dave Cameron clearly wants Kassian near the paint, especially on the power play where he and Brayden Schenn can create all sorts of down-low pressure on Swiss goaltender, Benjamin Conz.
Conz was excellent for Switzerland in the preliminary round, earning a .912 save percentage including a 40-save performance on New Year's Eve against the USA. The 5'10 netminder works well to see the puck, and will likely have to repeat his 50-save performance of a year ago when the Swiss knocked out Russia to advance to the semis.
At the other end, Canada will be starting Niagara IceDogs ace Mark Visentin in place of shaky Olivier Roy. I joked earlier today that another Roy start this afternoon may force Canadian fans to throw waffles at their televisions, but I'm almost wondering if Conz has enough club in the bag to keep that idea fresh.
Enjoy the games.
Switzerland can move the puck well, so Canada is expected to stick to their plan of engaging the opposition physically and pinning their defenseman deep. In a 60-minute contest, I can't think of a better play than a rested Kassian looking to redeem himself to his teammates.
As reported by TSN's Bob McKenzie, Kassian will line up at center between fellow Sabres hopeful Marcus Foligno and Habs prospect Louis Leblanc. Foligno has been a wrecking ball all tournament on the forecheck, while the speedy Leblanc has slashed his way to five points in four games. The even strength move to center implies that coach Dave Cameron clearly wants Kassian near the paint, especially on the power play where he and Brayden Schenn can create all sorts of down-low pressure on Swiss goaltender, Benjamin Conz.
Conz was excellent for Switzerland in the preliminary round, earning a .912 save percentage including a 40-save performance on New Year's Eve against the USA. The 5'10 netminder works well to see the puck, and will likely have to repeat his 50-save performance of a year ago when the Swiss knocked out Russia to advance to the semis.
At the other end, Canada will be starting Niagara IceDogs ace Mark Visentin in place of shaky Olivier Roy. I joked earlier today that another Roy start this afternoon may force Canadian fans to throw waffles at their televisions, but I'm almost wondering if Conz has enough club in the bag to keep that idea fresh.
Enjoy the games.
1/1 Recap: Much improved Sutch steps up
Gregg Sutch scored a pair of goals Saturday as Mississauga avoided their first losing streak of the year with a 2-1 come-from-behind win over Kingston. The two-goal game, the third of Sutch's junior career, gives the checking wing a season line of 7-14-21 +18 through 34 games. Heading into 2010-11, the fifth-rounder had career totals of 10-13-23 -12 in 103 OHL games.
The CHL's #2 ranked Majors, who suffered just their fifth regulation loss on Thursday before Saturday's winning effort, return home Sunday to play their third game in four days against skilled Saginaw. Meanwhile Mississauga coach Dave Cameron and leading scorer Casey Czikas will be in Buffalo with Sabres prospects Zack Kassian and Marcus Foligno as Team Canada battles Switzerland in a World Junior Championship elimination game.
For more on the likable Sutch, check out his blog at The Hockey News here.
Elsewhere, Steven Shipley did not point as Niagara won in overtime over Peterborough, 4-3. Shipley got on the game sheet when he was whistled for a boarding minor early in the second period. Matt Puempel ('11) had a goal and an assist for the Petes.
In the WHL, Matt MacKenzie picked up an assist in Calgary's 3-2 win over Medicine Hat. The Hitmen (12-24-2) will next take on Regina (12-20-5) in a Sunday match-up of league cellar dwellers.
Corey Fienhage skated even as Kamloops edged Seattle, 3-2. The 6'4 blueliner continues to log big minutes for the Blazers (18-19-1-1) despite the entire leadership core being stripped of their letters earlier in the season.
At the Shillelagh Tournament in Chicago, Justin Jokinen (-1) registered a shot on goal as Minnesota State upset #12 Notre Dame, 4-3. The 6'3 junior, who currently leads the Mavs with six goals, hasn't scored in his last six games after earlier enduring an eight-game drought in October-November. The Mavericks (7-8-4) move on to the face Brown in Sunday's championship.
At the Catamount Cup, Drew MacKenzie finished -1 as Vermont dropped a 3-1 decision to Ohio State. Amherst, NY native Shane Sims (NYI) had a pair of assists for the Buckeyes. The host Catamounts (2-10-4) will close the weekend with a game against Harvard on Sunday.
Mark Adams did not factor as Providence lost a 3-1 exhibition at New Brunswick. The Friars will close the Pete Kelly Challenge Cup series with the CIS Varsity Reds on Sunday before resuming their Hockey East schedule at Boston College next Friday.
In USHL action, Christian Isackson finished -2 as Sioux Falls was nipped by Fargo, 5-2. The playmaking Gopher commit has gone eight games without registering a point for the struggling Herd, losers of four straight. Rookie slumps are expected coming out of high school, and the patch Isackson has hit is particularly why Jr. A seasoning is always a good decision for those choosing the NCAA path.
The CHL's #2 ranked Majors, who suffered just their fifth regulation loss on Thursday before Saturday's winning effort, return home Sunday to play their third game in four days against skilled Saginaw. Meanwhile Mississauga coach Dave Cameron and leading scorer Casey Czikas will be in Buffalo with Sabres prospects Zack Kassian and Marcus Foligno as Team Canada battles Switzerland in a World Junior Championship elimination game.
For more on the likable Sutch, check out his blog at The Hockey News here.
Elsewhere, Steven Shipley did not point as Niagara won in overtime over Peterborough, 4-3. Shipley got on the game sheet when he was whistled for a boarding minor early in the second period. Matt Puempel ('11) had a goal and an assist for the Petes.
In the WHL, Matt MacKenzie picked up an assist in Calgary's 3-2 win over Medicine Hat. The Hitmen (12-24-2) will next take on Regina (12-20-5) in a Sunday match-up of league cellar dwellers.
Corey Fienhage skated even as Kamloops edged Seattle, 3-2. The 6'4 blueliner continues to log big minutes for the Blazers (18-19-1-1) despite the entire leadership core being stripped of their letters earlier in the season.
At the Shillelagh Tournament in Chicago, Justin Jokinen (-1) registered a shot on goal as Minnesota State upset #12 Notre Dame, 4-3. The 6'3 junior, who currently leads the Mavs with six goals, hasn't scored in his last six games after earlier enduring an eight-game drought in October-November. The Mavericks (7-8-4) move on to the face Brown in Sunday's championship.
At the Catamount Cup, Drew MacKenzie finished -1 as Vermont dropped a 3-1 decision to Ohio State. Amherst, NY native Shane Sims (NYI) had a pair of assists for the Buckeyes. The host Catamounts (2-10-4) will close the weekend with a game against Harvard on Sunday.
Mark Adams did not factor as Providence lost a 3-1 exhibition at New Brunswick. The Friars will close the Pete Kelly Challenge Cup series with the CIS Varsity Reds on Sunday before resuming their Hockey East schedule at Boston College next Friday.
In USHL action, Christian Isackson finished -2 as Sioux Falls was nipped by Fargo, 5-2. The playmaking Gopher commit has gone eight games without registering a point for the struggling Herd, losers of four straight. Rookie slumps are expected coming out of high school, and the patch Isackson has hit is particularly why Jr. A seasoning is always a good decision for those choosing the NCAA path.
Saturday, January 1, 2011
12/31 Recap: McNabb extends streak, ties franchise mark
Brayden McNabb scored a power play goal Friday to extend his point streak to ten games as Kootenay closed out Swift Current, 5-3. The 6'4 defender is tied for fifth among WHL defensemen with 35 points through 28 games played, while the marker, McNabb's eighth of the year, also thrusts him into a tie for the all-time franchise lead in points for a defenseman with 135. The Ice (25-11-1-2) dominated the Broncos with a 48-14 shots-on-goal advantage to reclaim first place in the Central Division.
In the OHL, Steven Shipley (+1) scored his 11th goal of the year as Niagara cruised past Belleville, 5-1. The 6'3, 212-pounder ends the 2010 portion of the schedule with 28 points, good for eighth-best on the IceDogs. Niagara's leading point-getter, Ryan Strome ('11), scored his 21st goal of the year and earned a fighting major to lead the Dogs attack.
Mark Pysyk finished +1 as Edmonton defeated Brandon, 4-2. The fleeting rearguard has collected a goal and 15 assists this season - with all coming at even strength. The fourth-place Oil Kings (19-16-0-2) end the year with a two-game winning streak, and will next host McNabb and the Ice on Sunday.
Kevin Sundher went without a point for the third straight game as Chilliwack stumbled against Moose Jaw, 4-2. The hard-working center, who was serving a minor penalty for slashing at the time of the second goal against, hasn't scored a goal in his last six games but remains among the league's top-10 in power play assists with 14. The Bruins (17-16-2-1) were playing their first home game since December 7th (seven games).
Riley Boychuk served the first of his two-game suspension for a retaliation as Portland lost to Seattle, 4-3.
In the USHL, Christian Isackson (2 SOG) extended his drought to seven games without a point and a dozen games without a goal as Sioux Falls lost in a shootout to Muskegon, 4-3. The 6'0 rookie, who was also stopped in his shootout attempt, is currently tied for fourth on the Stampede with 13 points (4+9).
In the OHL, Steven Shipley (+1) scored his 11th goal of the year as Niagara cruised past Belleville, 5-1. The 6'3, 212-pounder ends the 2010 portion of the schedule with 28 points, good for eighth-best on the IceDogs. Niagara's leading point-getter, Ryan Strome ('11), scored his 21st goal of the year and earned a fighting major to lead the Dogs attack.
Mark Pysyk finished +1 as Edmonton defeated Brandon, 4-2. The fleeting rearguard has collected a goal and 15 assists this season - with all coming at even strength. The fourth-place Oil Kings (19-16-0-2) end the year with a two-game winning streak, and will next host McNabb and the Ice on Sunday.
Kevin Sundher went without a point for the third straight game as Chilliwack stumbled against Moose Jaw, 4-2. The hard-working center, who was serving a minor penalty for slashing at the time of the second goal against, hasn't scored a goal in his last six games but remains among the league's top-10 in power play assists with 14. The Bruins (17-16-2-1) were playing their first home game since December 7th (seven games).
Riley Boychuk served the first of his two-game suspension for a retaliation as Portland lost to Seattle, 4-3.
In the USHL, Christian Isackson (2 SOG) extended his drought to seven games without a point and a dozen games without a goal as Sioux Falls lost in a shootout to Muskegon, 4-3. The 6'0 rookie, who was also stopped in his shootout attempt, is currently tied for fourth on the Stampede with 13 points (4+9).
Friday, December 31, 2010
Foligno leaves marks as Canada falls
Marcus Foligno did not score but continued to be a major physical force as Canada lost in a shootout to Sweden, 6-5. Team Canada closes the preliminary round with a 3-1 record, and will now have to play a quarterfinal game on Sunday to keep their medal hopes alive.
Foligno, who has two goals, an assist, and a +1 rating in four tourney games, made his presence known early and often as Team Canada skated to a 3-2 lead at the end of the first period.
The hard-hitting checker helped create the first Canadian goal by crashing the crease, allowing Sean Couturier's centering pass deflect off the defender he dragged in.
On his next shift, Foligno would make his presence felt on the forecheck with a hard hit behind the Swedish net.
Later in the period, Foligno again dropped the hammer by delivering what just may be the most solid body check of the tournament thus far.
The teams would trade goals over the next two periods to finish regulation tied 5-5. Sweden kept the pressure on in the overtime before winning the shootout battle with goals on their first three tries.
Foligno looks comfortable playing his blue collar game on HSBC Arena ice. With Zack Kassian returning to the Canadian lineup for Sunday's quarterfinal, look for Canada to return with a chip on their shoulder regardless of opponent.
Foligno, who has two goals, an assist, and a +1 rating in four tourney games, made his presence known early and often as Team Canada skated to a 3-2 lead at the end of the first period.
The hard-hitting checker helped create the first Canadian goal by crashing the crease, allowing Sean Couturier's centering pass deflect off the defender he dragged in.
On his next shift, Foligno would make his presence felt on the forecheck with a hard hit behind the Swedish net.
Later in the period, Foligno again dropped the hammer by delivering what just may be the most solid body check of the tournament thus far.
The teams would trade goals over the next two periods to finish regulation tied 5-5. Sweden kept the pressure on in the overtime before winning the shootout battle with goals on their first three tries.
Foligno looks comfortable playing his blue collar game on HSBC Arena ice. With Zack Kassian returning to the Canadian lineup for Sunday's quarterfinal, look for Canada to return with a chip on their shoulder regardless of opponent.
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