Marcus Foligno gathered a goal and an assist in his return to the lineup Friday as Sudbury downed Kingston, 6-3. The 6'3 physical forward has scored 23 goals in 45 games this season after scoring a total of 26 over his previous two seasons (132 games). Foligno had missed last weekend's games with an illness. The Wolves close the regular season with weekend road games at Belleville and Ottawa.
Also from the OHL, Gregg Sutch scored a goal and an assist as Mississauga shut out Brampton, 2-0. The power-play marker, Sutch's eighth of the season, came off a failed Troops clearing attempt with 3:43 remaining in the 2nd period.
Zack Kassian did not score as Windsor downed Sault Ste. Marie, 4-2. Kassian, who three months ago looked like a lock for 100 points and even two weeks ago made 80 seem very reasonable, has gone -2 with an assist in his last four games to check in with 26-50-76 as the Spits enter their final regular season game Saturday versus Saginaw.
In the QMJHL, Jerome Gauthier-Leduc scored his 15th goal of the season to extend his point streak to nine games as Rimouski lost at Gatineau, 3-1. The 6'2 Quebec City native has scored seven time over the streak (nearly half of his season haul) to go along with eight assists. Gauthier-Leduc is ranked 4th among Q defenders with 53 points (18+33) with one game left.
In the WHL, Brayden McNabb notched his 22nd goal of the season and added an assist as Kootenay downed Lethbridge, 5-3. The 6'4 McNabb now has 71 points with one game remaining, placing him 3rd overall among all WHL rearguards while tying him with Marc-Andre Gragnani (2005-06) for third-most single-season points for a Regier-drafted defenseman behind Brian Campbell (87, 1999-00) and Matt Kinch (84, 2000-01).
Matt MacKenzie collected a pair of assists as Tri-City defeated Chilliwack, 6-1. Kevin Sundher finished -2 for the Bruins.
Riley Boychuk scored his 17th goal of the year as Portland rallied to beat Everett, 4-3. The aggressive 6'5 grinder, who scored goals in back-to-back games for the fourth time this season, was whistled for three minor penalties in the game - two for roughing and one for cross-checking.
Mark Pysyk was +1 as Edmonton battled in a hard-fought 4-3 loss to Red Deer. The game, played in Rexall Place between clubs that are locked into to a first-round playoff match-up, was attended by 12,960 fans. Pysyk has posted career highs this season in assists (34), points (40), plus/minus (+30), and penalty minutes (86).
Corey Fienhage skated +1 as Kamloops saw their playoff hopes fade away via a 3-2 shootout loss to Prince George. The Blazers needed a regulation win to stay alive in the race for the final spot in the Western Conference bracket. The 6'4 stay-at-homer will play his finish his WHL career Saturday in a rematch at PG.
In the USHL, Christian Isackson (+2) scored his 14th goal of the season as Sioux Falls rolled over Chicago, 7-0. The six-footer, who has points in 13 of his last 16 games, had skated his previous nine games without a goal.
In the collegiate ranks, Connor Knapp served as backup as #6 Miami advanced to the CCHA Final with a 6-2 win over #8 Notre Dame. UFA's Andy Miele (two goals, two assists) and Carter Camper (two goals, one assist) paved the way for the RedHawks, who move on to face Western Michigan in Saturday's championship.
At the WCHA Final Five, Brad Eidsness did not play as North Dakota edged Colorado College, 4-3. The Sioux will battle Denver on Saturday for the tourney title.
Saturday, March 19, 2011
Friday, March 18, 2011
3/17 Recap: Gauthier-Leduc streaks to eight
Jerome Gauthier-Leduc notched an assist to extend his season-high point streak to eight games as Rimouski was doubled-up by Montreal, 4-2. Still just 18 years of age, the 6’2 Quebec City native is currently tied for 4th among QMJHL defensemen with 52 points (14+38). The Nics have two games left, with their season ending Sunday versus Victoriaville.
In the OHL, Steven Shipley registered his 49th point of the season, an assist, as Niagara gave up a third period lead in a 2-1 loss to Central Division rival Mississauga. Ship's 2010 draft-mate Gregg Sutch finished even with a minor penalty for the Majors. With one game remaining on the regular season schedule, the CHL’s #10 ranked IceDogs will finish in second place behind the #3 ranked Majors.
Zack Kassian finished -2 as Windsor lost to Saginaw, 5-0. The Spits loss seals their second place finish in the OHL’s Western Division, while the team handing them the loss takes their first division title. Kassian, who averaged 1.92 points-per-game prior to the World Junior Championship, has recorded 28 points in his past 29 games. Windsor closes their regular season with Friday-Saturday games at Soo and Saginaw.
In the OHL, Steven Shipley registered his 49th point of the season, an assist, as Niagara gave up a third period lead in a 2-1 loss to Central Division rival Mississauga. Ship's 2010 draft-mate Gregg Sutch finished even with a minor penalty for the Majors. With one game remaining on the regular season schedule, the CHL’s #10 ranked IceDogs will finish in second place behind the #3 ranked Majors.
Zack Kassian finished -2 as Windsor lost to Saginaw, 5-0. The Spits loss seals their second place finish in the OHL’s Western Division, while the team handing them the loss takes their first division title. Kassian, who averaged 1.92 points-per-game prior to the World Junior Championship, has recorded 28 points in his past 29 games. Windsor closes their regular season with Friday-Saturday games at Soo and Saginaw.
Thursday, March 17, 2011
3/16 Recap: Boychuk gets "easy" one
Riley Boychuk scored his 16th goal of the year Wednesday as Portland defeated Vancouver, 5-3. Click here and bump it up to the 1:22 mark to watch Boychuk slip into the crease, fish out the puck, and slide it between his legs "no look" style into the open cage.
Also from the WHL, Kevin Sundher was -1 with a shootout miss as Chilliwack dropped a 2-1 decision to Spokane. The Bruins lose in the shootout despite out-firing the Chiefs by a 79-23 margin over the previous 65-minutes of action.
Matt MacKenzie (-1) did not score as Tri-City lost to Spokane, 2-1. The 6'2 defender has five goals and 12 points in 30 games since coming to the Ams.
In the OHL, Steven Shipley (+1) notched an assist as Niagara doubled Peterborough, 6-3. The 6'3 forward has a goal and five assists in his last five games, and a season line 17-31-48 in 63 games this season. Last year, Shipley potted 23 goals and 40 assists in 68 games.
Also from the WHL, Kevin Sundher was -1 with a shootout miss as Chilliwack dropped a 2-1 decision to Spokane. The Bruins lose in the shootout despite out-firing the Chiefs by a 79-23 margin over the previous 65-minutes of action.
Matt MacKenzie (-1) did not score as Tri-City lost to Spokane, 2-1. The 6'2 defender has five goals and 12 points in 30 games since coming to the Ams.
In the OHL, Steven Shipley (+1) notched an assist as Niagara doubled Peterborough, 6-3. The 6'3 forward has a goal and five assists in his last five games, and a season line 17-31-48 in 63 games this season. Last year, Shipley potted 23 goals and 40 assists in 68 games.
Wednesday, March 16, 2011
3/15 Recap: Pysyk scraps as Oil Kings romp
Mark Pysyk finished +2 while earning his second fighting major of the year Tuesday as Edmonton clobbered Lethbridge, 8-1. The Oil Kings captain took exception to d-partner Keegan Lowe ('11) getting dumped into the boards midway through the opening period by engaging Hurricanes forward Cam Braes for a quick tilt.
It was basically the same scenario that led to Pysyk's first major back in October - a teammate took a hit and he quickly chased down retribution. The 6'1 Pysyk isn't the most skilled pugilist, and it's not a practice his coaches want him in engaging in with the playoffs around the corner, but it's still good to see the instinct take over when necessary. It's clear that Pysyk's value is on the ice not in the box as evidenced by his 40 points and +29 rating. Michael St. Croix ('11) added a pair of helpers for the Oil Kings.
In other action, Brayden McNabb finished +1 as Kootenay downed Medicine Hat, 4-1. The 6'4 Saskatechewan native, who coming in had enjoyed his only two multi-goal games of the year against the Tigers, remains locked in 3rd place among WHL rearguards with 69 points (21+48).
It was basically the same scenario that led to Pysyk's first major back in October - a teammate took a hit and he quickly chased down retribution. The 6'1 Pysyk isn't the most skilled pugilist, and it's not a practice his coaches want him in engaging in with the playoffs around the corner, but it's still good to see the instinct take over when necessary. It's clear that Pysyk's value is on the ice not in the box as evidenced by his 40 points and +29 rating. Michael St. Croix ('11) added a pair of helpers for the Oil Kings.
In other action, Brayden McNabb finished +1 as Kootenay downed Medicine Hat, 4-1. The 6'4 Saskatechewan native, who coming in had enjoyed his only two multi-goal games of the year against the Tigers, remains locked in 3rd place among WHL rearguards with 69 points (21+48).
Monday, March 14, 2011
Sunday, March 13, 2011
3/13 Recap: Gauthier-Leduc pots deux; Pair dishes 50
Jerome Gauthier-Leduc scored a pair of goals Sunday to extend his point streak to seven games as Rimouski cruised past Rouyn-Noranda, 6-1. The 6'2 defenseman has scored six goals and seven assists over the streak, and currently sits 6th among QMJHL in scoring with 51 points (14+37). He previously had a seven-game run in October that saw him collect a goal and seven assists.
In the WHL, Kevin Sundher dished a pair of assists as Chilliwack lost in overtime to Kelowna, 3-2. The six-footer, who has clicked for 26 points (5+21) in his last 18 games. ups his season line 22-52-73 with three games remaining on the regular season slate. Sundher spoke of needing to be a more consistent player at the time of his drafting, and on a broader scope he has. In his first 34 games, the Surrey product totaled 11+25. In 33 games since January 1st, he has netted 11 goals and 26 assists.
Matt MacKenzie notched a power play assist to help Tri-City to a 6-3 win over Prince George. The 6'2 defender, who has points in just three of his last 17 games, elevates his line to 7-28-35 though 69 starts. Tri-City currently holds down the #4 spot in the Western Conference playoff standings.
In the OHL, Zack Kassian returned to action after a one-game benching due to indifferent play, notching an assist on the first Spits goal as Windsor edged Sarnia in a shootout, 4-3. The assist, his 50th of the season, gives the budding power forward 76 points in 53 games.
Steven Shipley (+1) picked up an assist as Niagara used the shootout to defeat Kingston, 4-3. The 6'3 third-line center has a goal and four assists in his last four games.
Gregg Sutch was even with a hooking minor as Mississauga earned a 3-2 overtime win over Ottawa. Sutch was a healthy scratch in five of the previous twelve Majors' tilts heading into the weekend.
In the USHL, Christian Isackson skated -1 with two shots on goal as Sioux Falls lost to Omaha, 2-1. The Minnesota commit has 15 points in his last 15 games.
In the WHL, Kevin Sundher dished a pair of assists as Chilliwack lost in overtime to Kelowna, 3-2. The six-footer, who has clicked for 26 points (5+21) in his last 18 games. ups his season line 22-52-73 with three games remaining on the regular season slate. Sundher spoke of needing to be a more consistent player at the time of his drafting, and on a broader scope he has. In his first 34 games, the Surrey product totaled 11+25. In 33 games since January 1st, he has netted 11 goals and 26 assists.
Matt MacKenzie notched a power play assist to help Tri-City to a 6-3 win over Prince George. The 6'2 defender, who has points in just three of his last 17 games, elevates his line to 7-28-35 though 69 starts. Tri-City currently holds down the #4 spot in the Western Conference playoff standings.
In the OHL, Zack Kassian returned to action after a one-game benching due to indifferent play, notching an assist on the first Spits goal as Windsor edged Sarnia in a shootout, 4-3. The assist, his 50th of the season, gives the budding power forward 76 points in 53 games.
Steven Shipley (+1) picked up an assist as Niagara used the shootout to defeat Kingston, 4-3. The 6'3 third-line center has a goal and four assists in his last four games.
Gregg Sutch was even with a hooking minor as Mississauga earned a 3-2 overtime win over Ottawa. Sutch was a healthy scratch in five of the previous twelve Majors' tilts heading into the weekend.
In the USHL, Christian Isackson skated -1 with two shots on goal as Sioux Falls lost to Omaha, 2-1. The Minnesota commit has 15 points in his last 15 games.
3/12 Recap: Sundher rolls; McNabb closing strong
Kevin Sundher scored two goals and added an assist Saturday as Chilliwack clinched a playoff spot with a 8-5 win over Vancouver. Sundher, who earned the game's #3 star, saw all three points come in the opening 20-minutes to reach the 70-point mark for the first time in his WHL career. It was the 20th multi-point game of the season for the Surrey, BC native. Sundher has accumulated a line of 22-49-71 in 66 games with 24 of those points coming in his last 17 games. The Bruins (32-30-3-3) will face Kelowna on Sunday.
Brayden McNabb (+2) scored a goal and an assist for his 21st multi-point effort of the year as Kootenay lost via the shootout to Spokane, 4-3. The big defenseman notched his 21st goal of the season, his seventh point in his last three games, with 1:40 left in regulation to force overtime in one of the most entertaining games to watch this year. McNabb, whose shootout attempt was stopped to end the game, now has 69 points on the year - three short of tying PEI's Marc-Andre Gragnani (72) for most points by a Sabres defensive prospect in the last decade. However, he likely won't be catching Ottawa's Brian Campbell (87, 1998-99) or Calgary's Matt Kinch (84, 2000-01) for most single-season points for a defenseman drafted under the Darcy Regier administration. The Ice (42-21-1-4) return to action Tuesday against Central Division foes Medicine Hat.
In the QMJHL, Jerome Gauthier-Leduc (+1) extended his point streak to six games with an assist as Rimouski was hammered by Rouyn-Noranda, 6-2. Gauthier-Leduc remains 5th among QMJHL defender with 49 points (12+37). Rimouski (29-31-1-3), who will finish no lower than the 13th playoff position, will play it back with the Huskies on Sunday.
Cedrick Henley (+2) picked up a pair of assists as Val-d'Or posted a 4-0 shutout win over Chicoutimi. Henley has netted six points in his last five games for the Foreurs (25-33-4-4), who have cliched the 14th QMJHL playoff spot.
Elsewhere, Mark Pysyk finished -1 as Edmonton was shut out by high-powered Saskatoon, 4-0. Despite the loss, the Oil Kings (30-32-3-5) were still able to clinch a playoff spot thanks to Lethbridge and Prince Albert losses. Edmonton returns to action Tuesday for tilt with the Hurricanes.
Riley Boychuk (+1) assisted on the game winning goal as Portland edged Everett, 2-1. The bruising power forward now has career highs in goals (15) and assists (17). The Winterhawks (47-18-0-3), who dealt the Tips their seventh straight defeat, will host Vancouver on Wednesday.
Corey Fienhage played even as Kamloops lost in a shootout to Kelowna, 1-0. The Blazers (29-36-3-2) have lost five games in a row, and will look to keep their playoff hopes alive Friday against Prince George.
Justin Jokinen was even with a shot on goal as Minnesota State surrendered a third period lead for the second straight night to end their year with a 3-2 overtime loss to #6 Denver. The 11th seeded Mavericks (14-18-4) played tough but were ultimately outworked by the more talented, #2 seed Pioneers. Jokinen, who finishes his junior season with nine goals and 17 points, saw most of his production come early as he scored just one goal and two assists in his 15 games including a seven-game pointless streak to end the year.
Drew MacKenzie drew an assist as Vermont saw their season end with a 4-3 loss to #10 New Hampshire. The junior defenseman's backhand pass towards the net was knocked in for the game's first goal at 3:49 of the second period. MacKenzie, who is expected to return to Burlington for his senior year, ends the season fourth on the Catamounts in scoring with five goals and 17 points. Vermont finishes their disappointing campaign 8-20-8.
Connor Knapp made 14 saves as #7 Miami earned the sweep of Alaska-Fairbanks, 4-1. The 6'5 stopper moves to 8-5-4 on the year with a 2.03 GAA and .909 save percentage. With the win, the RedHawks (21-9-6) advance to the CCHA semifinals next weekend to face one of Notre Dame, Western Michigan, or Ferris State.
Nick Eno did not start but did play out the final minutes as Bowling Green saw their season come to an end with a 4-1 loss at #5 Michigan. After UM took a three-goal lead late, a class move by Falcons coach Chris Bergeron saw Eno come over the boards for the final 8:54 before taking over his BGSU sweater for the last time. The 6'3 netminder ends his senior year at 4-10-1 with a 3.12 GAA and .885 save percentage, while the Falcons shut it down at 10-27-4.
Brad Eidsness served as backup as #1 North Dakota earned the WCHA first-round sweep with a 3-1 win over Michigan Tech. The McNaughton Cup winning Sioux (28-8-3) advance to the WCHA Final Five where they'll face one of UAA or Colorado College/Wisconsin next Friday.
Brayden McNabb (+2) scored a goal and an assist for his 21st multi-point effort of the year as Kootenay lost via the shootout to Spokane, 4-3. The big defenseman notched his 21st goal of the season, his seventh point in his last three games, with 1:40 left in regulation to force overtime in one of the most entertaining games to watch this year. McNabb, whose shootout attempt was stopped to end the game, now has 69 points on the year - three short of tying PEI's Marc-Andre Gragnani (72) for most points by a Sabres defensive prospect in the last decade. However, he likely won't be catching Ottawa's Brian Campbell (87, 1998-99) or Calgary's Matt Kinch (84, 2000-01) for most single-season points for a defenseman drafted under the Darcy Regier administration. The Ice (42-21-1-4) return to action Tuesday against Central Division foes Medicine Hat.
In the QMJHL, Jerome Gauthier-Leduc (+1) extended his point streak to six games with an assist as Rimouski was hammered by Rouyn-Noranda, 6-2. Gauthier-Leduc remains 5th among QMJHL defender with 49 points (12+37). Rimouski (29-31-1-3), who will finish no lower than the 13th playoff position, will play it back with the Huskies on Sunday.
Cedrick Henley (+2) picked up a pair of assists as Val-d'Or posted a 4-0 shutout win over Chicoutimi. Henley has netted six points in his last five games for the Foreurs (25-33-4-4), who have cliched the 14th QMJHL playoff spot.
Elsewhere, Mark Pysyk finished -1 as Edmonton was shut out by high-powered Saskatoon, 4-0. Despite the loss, the Oil Kings (30-32-3-5) were still able to clinch a playoff spot thanks to Lethbridge and Prince Albert losses. Edmonton returns to action Tuesday for tilt with the Hurricanes.
Riley Boychuk (+1) assisted on the game winning goal as Portland edged Everett, 2-1. The bruising power forward now has career highs in goals (15) and assists (17). The Winterhawks (47-18-0-3), who dealt the Tips their seventh straight defeat, will host Vancouver on Wednesday.
Corey Fienhage played even as Kamloops lost in a shootout to Kelowna, 1-0. The Blazers (29-36-3-2) have lost five games in a row, and will look to keep their playoff hopes alive Friday against Prince George.
Justin Jokinen was even with a shot on goal as Minnesota State surrendered a third period lead for the second straight night to end their year with a 3-2 overtime loss to #6 Denver. The 11th seeded Mavericks (14-18-4) played tough but were ultimately outworked by the more talented, #2 seed Pioneers. Jokinen, who finishes his junior season with nine goals and 17 points, saw most of his production come early as he scored just one goal and two assists in his 15 games including a seven-game pointless streak to end the year.
Drew MacKenzie drew an assist as Vermont saw their season end with a 4-3 loss to #10 New Hampshire. The junior defenseman's backhand pass towards the net was knocked in for the game's first goal at 3:49 of the second period. MacKenzie, who is expected to return to Burlington for his senior year, ends the season fourth on the Catamounts in scoring with five goals and 17 points. Vermont finishes their disappointing campaign 8-20-8.
Connor Knapp made 14 saves as #7 Miami earned the sweep of Alaska-Fairbanks, 4-1. The 6'5 stopper moves to 8-5-4 on the year with a 2.03 GAA and .909 save percentage. With the win, the RedHawks (21-9-6) advance to the CCHA semifinals next weekend to face one of Notre Dame, Western Michigan, or Ferris State.
Nick Eno did not start but did play out the final minutes as Bowling Green saw their season come to an end with a 4-1 loss at #5 Michigan. After UM took a three-goal lead late, a class move by Falcons coach Chris Bergeron saw Eno come over the boards for the final 8:54 before taking over his BGSU sweater for the last time. The 6'3 netminder ends his senior year at 4-10-1 with a 3.12 GAA and .885 save percentage, while the Falcons shut it down at 10-27-4.
Brad Eidsness served as backup as #1 North Dakota earned the WCHA first-round sweep with a 3-1 win over Michigan Tech. The McNaughton Cup winning Sioux (28-8-3) advance to the WCHA Final Five where they'll face one of UAA or Colorado College/Wisconsin next Friday.
Saturday, March 12, 2011
3/11 Recap: McNabb in good company as playoffs loom
Brayden McNabb continued his recent stacking of points with two assists Friday as Kootenay won via shootout over Swift Current, 5-4. Still without a NHL contract, McNabb enters the final week of play as the #3 scorer among WHL defenders with 67 points, just five short of eclipsing Marc-Andre Gragnani's (71 in 2005-06) for the highest total among Sabres defensive prospects of the last decade. Barrie's Nick Crawford finished with 70 a year ago. It's also worth noting that McNabb's 20-goal prowess puts him in good company with Dennis Wideman (24, 2003-04) Gragnani (22, 2006-07), and Andrej Sekera (21, 2005-06) among top blueline goal scorers recently drafted by the Sabres.
Elsewhere in the WHL, Kevin Sundher played even as Chilliwack saw their six-game winning streak snapped with a 3-2 overtime loss to Seattle, 3-2. The six-footer, who recently capped a streak that saw him score 19 points over 11 games, has produced two assists in his last five outings.
Mark Pysyk (-3) saw his career-best seven-game point streak come to an end as Edmonton lost to Prince Albert, 5-2. Despite the loss the Oil Kings had a chance to clinch a WHL playoff berth with a Calgary win, but their 2012 World Junior partner could not come through.
Corey Fienhage finished -1 as Kamloops lost to Kelowna, 5-1. Neighbor of my brother and donor of old equipment to my nephew, Shane McColgan ('11) had three power play assists to power the Rockets offense. The Sabres get a good discount when scouting Kelowna, and I'm curious where they see McColgan fitting come draft day. A creative forward with grit, McColgan has put together 21-44-65 this season after a 69 point campaign as 16/17 a season ago.
Riley Boychuk returned to the Winterhawks lineup after missing a half-dozen games with a concussion as Portland downed Everett. Three NHL draft picks and another sure to go early this June, Nino Niederreiter, Ty Rattie ('11), Ryan Johansen and Craig Cunningham, blitzed the Tips for four goals in the first five minutes of the middle period to take control of the game.
Matt MacKenzie was -1 as Tri-City lost to Spokane. Anthony Bardaro ('11) scored his 20th goal of the year for the Chiefs.
In the QMJHL, Cedrick Henley registered four hits including a checking from behind minor as Val-d'Or edged Chicoutimi in a shootout, 3-2. The 6'5 project entered the game with points in three straight games.
Marcus Foligno missed his second straight game due to "illness" as Sudbury lost via shootout to Belleville, 4-3.
Gregg Sutch was a healthy scratch as Mississauga defeated Brampton, 6-2.
In the USHL, Christian Isackson notched a pair of assists as Sioux Falls fell to Cedar Rapids, 5-3. The Minnesotan now has 15 points (4+11) in his 14 games.
In the first round of the WCHA tournament, Justin Jokinen did not get on the scoresheet as Minnesota State lost to #6 Denver, 4-2. The Mavericks held a 2-0 lead after two periods before suffering a four-goal collapse in the third.
In game #1 of the CCHA quarterfinal, Connor Knapp watched as Cody Reichard made 17 saves to help #7 Miami to a 4-1 win over Alaska. UFA senior center Andy Miele scored his 20th goal and 62nd points of the season for the RedHawks. Miele, who leads the nation in scoring, has scored points in 14 straight games.
Also from CCHA quarterfinal weekend, Nick Eno served as back-up to Andrew Hammond as Bowling Green lost to #5 Michigan, 5-1.
In the Hockey East tourney, Drew MacKenzie was +1 with three shots on goal as Vermont lost the opener to #10 New Hampshire, 3-1.
Brad Eidsness did not play as North Dakota cruised past Michigan Tech, 8-0. The Sioux will close to close out their first round opponent Saturday.
Elsewhere in the WHL, Kevin Sundher played even as Chilliwack saw their six-game winning streak snapped with a 3-2 overtime loss to Seattle, 3-2. The six-footer, who recently capped a streak that saw him score 19 points over 11 games, has produced two assists in his last five outings.
Mark Pysyk (-3) saw his career-best seven-game point streak come to an end as Edmonton lost to Prince Albert, 5-2. Despite the loss the Oil Kings had a chance to clinch a WHL playoff berth with a Calgary win, but their 2012 World Junior partner could not come through.
Corey Fienhage finished -1 as Kamloops lost to Kelowna, 5-1. Neighbor of my brother and donor of old equipment to my nephew, Shane McColgan ('11) had three power play assists to power the Rockets offense. The Sabres get a good discount when scouting Kelowna, and I'm curious where they see McColgan fitting come draft day. A creative forward with grit, McColgan has put together 21-44-65 this season after a 69 point campaign as 16/17 a season ago.
Riley Boychuk returned to the Winterhawks lineup after missing a half-dozen games with a concussion as Portland downed Everett. Three NHL draft picks and another sure to go early this June, Nino Niederreiter, Ty Rattie ('11), Ryan Johansen and Craig Cunningham, blitzed the Tips for four goals in the first five minutes of the middle period to take control of the game.
Matt MacKenzie was -1 as Tri-City lost to Spokane. Anthony Bardaro ('11) scored his 20th goal of the year for the Chiefs.
In the QMJHL, Cedrick Henley registered four hits including a checking from behind minor as Val-d'Or edged Chicoutimi in a shootout, 3-2. The 6'5 project entered the game with points in three straight games.
Marcus Foligno missed his second straight game due to "illness" as Sudbury lost via shootout to Belleville, 4-3.
Gregg Sutch was a healthy scratch as Mississauga defeated Brampton, 6-2.
In the USHL, Christian Isackson notched a pair of assists as Sioux Falls fell to Cedar Rapids, 5-3. The Minnesotan now has 15 points (4+11) in his 14 games.
In the first round of the WCHA tournament, Justin Jokinen did not get on the scoresheet as Minnesota State lost to #6 Denver, 4-2. The Mavericks held a 2-0 lead after two periods before suffering a four-goal collapse in the third.
In game #1 of the CCHA quarterfinal, Connor Knapp watched as Cody Reichard made 17 saves to help #7 Miami to a 4-1 win over Alaska. UFA senior center Andy Miele scored his 20th goal and 62nd points of the season for the RedHawks. Miele, who leads the nation in scoring, has scored points in 14 straight games.
Also from CCHA quarterfinal weekend, Nick Eno served as back-up to Andrew Hammond as Bowling Green lost to #5 Michigan, 5-1.
In the Hockey East tourney, Drew MacKenzie was +1 with three shots on goal as Vermont lost the opener to #10 New Hampshire, 3-1.
Brad Eidsness did not play as North Dakota cruised past Michigan Tech, 8-0. The Sioux will close to close out their first round opponent Saturday.
Friday, March 11, 2011
Kassian saying right things, but words best be put to action
As expected, Windsor Spitfires forward Zack Kassian is saying all the right things after being benched for Thursday's contest against Owen Sound. As someone who judges people by their actions and not their words, I'm playing and wait and see game when it comes to the powerful 20-year old.
The story
Some quotes:
Kassian has 75 points this season, but I've been quiet about my opinion of his play until recently. His raw ability makes him a #1 prospect, but his lax approach to this season has me close to dropping him from the top of the list. The guy was a Memorial Cup champion a year ago. Tasting a title win should get the hunger brewing again, not turn you into a coasting player waiting for his pro career to begin.
The way you practice is the way you play.
About a week ago, I penned a reply to someone asking about the forward's overall game and what to expect in his first contract with the Buffalo Sabres. Here is an excerpt:
Let's see where this takes us. The concerns I raised earlier are still lingering, and the time is now for Kassian to not just say that he's learned a lesson, but actually show it on and off the ice.
The story
Some quotes:
“We’ve got five games remaining and we need a lot more out of Zack Kassian and we’re not getting it,” said Jones, who dressed two players under the limit of 20 for the game. “We won’t be a contending playoff team unless Zack Kassian plays to his full potential.”
“I’m the first to admit, I wasn’t playing well,” Kassian said as he watched the game from a suite at the WFCU Centre. “It’s a wake up call for me to take a bigger leadership role and be a bigger part of this to help the team.”
Kassian has 75 points this season, but I've been quiet about my opinion of his play until recently. His raw ability makes him a #1 prospect, but his lax approach to this season has me close to dropping him from the top of the list. The guy was a Memorial Cup champion a year ago. Tasting a title win should get the hunger brewing again, not turn you into a coasting player waiting for his pro career to begin.
The way you practice is the way you play.
About a week ago, I penned a reply to someone asking about the forward's overall game and what to expect in his first contract with the Buffalo Sabres. Here is an excerpt:
Like most have said, Kassian is a big, tough guy with pro hands. He likes to set up on the goal line where he'll look to distribute or power it to the net. He'll be a typical paint player in the NHL. Effective around the net with or without the puck. If I watch him on the boards and in the slot and think of the overall toughness element that he can bring when "on", I think it's OK to consider him Bertuzzi-esque in that regard.
His issue is keeping his feet moving and bringing it night-to-night. He skates with a long stride but sometimes finds himself flat-footed away from the puck. That split-second needed to re-start makes a difference, so keep it chugging. Regarding the effort, I was hoping he'd use this season to start preparing for the daily mental and physical grind of an NHL season but the off nights have appeared here and there. They will need to be limited and eventually eliminated moving forward.
Down in Erie a few weeks back, he showed his versatility by playing all three forward positions on his first four shifts.
The Spits were awful that night. Campbell was a sieve. D assignments were missed. Kassian and some of the better players weren't playing with much fire, while Czinder was bringing it physically and Ellis and Carnevale were creating. I made a note midway the 2nd that some guys were getting double-shifted over Kass when all of a sudden he came over the boards (with Khoko + Ebert) and went to the dressing room for the night for "not giving 100%"....
His last shift that game followed a goal against which he was on the ice for. A few seconds after the faceoff he had an opportunity to put a guy into the boards and let his teammates know he was engaged but didn't take it. Even if you don't connect, even if you hit all glass, you need to go hard in that spot. This was one of those "off nights"...
One of the best things that has happened to Kassian has been developing a friendship with Marcus Foligno. Marcus is a natural leader with a great work ethic who comes from a hockey family. He is what Zack isn't. There are going to be days when Kass is going to have some guilty skating to do in practice. I think a guy like Marcus will help him understand when those days are....
So yeah, it's great that Marcus can help him with that, but there's still a need for serious veteran leadership if this team wants to get the most out of Kassian early. For now, little things like him staying out of the box are seen as positive steps.
One other note about Zack worth looking at is his average post-World Jrs performance. Ennis, Myers, Adam all took it up a notch after playing for Canada. Kassian had a flu bug shortly after his return (which involved a week off) and is still a point-per-game guy (10+14 in 24 GP), but hasn't elevated his overall game. He had 48 points in 25 games pre-tourney.
These aren't serious red flags. There's a lot to like. If Zack has his epiphany and becomes the monster on the forecheck/backcheck and commanding scorer down low, it'll bring the team up. There are things the Sabres will do to make it happen.
Also about the tourney, interesting that he was among the top FO performers when called upon. Cameron used him primarily on o-zone PP draws to get him to the front of the net right away, but long term it's an interesting thought based on his very good passing hands. His plan for now remains as a wing no doubt. Keep it simple all the way around...
Let's see where this takes us. The concerns I raised earlier are still lingering, and the time is now for Kassian to not just say that he's learned a lesson, but actually show it on and off the ice.
3/10 Recap: Kassian sits; Red hot Leduc keeps rolling
Zack Kassian was a healthy scratch Thursday as Windsor needed the shootout to earn a 4-3 win over Owen Sound. Kassian, plagued by inconsistent effort since returning from the World Junior Championship, has been rumored to be at odds with the Spits staff of late. The Sabres can't be entirely pleased with Kassian's lack of focus either, and should be expecting a dominating response from their 2009 first-rounder before further evaluating his status once his OHL season ends.
Elsewhere, Jerome Gauthier-Leduc extended his point streak to five games with a pair of primary assists as Rimouski lost via shootout to Saint John, 3-2. The red-hot defender has amassed 10 points for his most productive five-game tear of the season to surge into a tie for fifth place among QMJHL defenders with 48 points.
In the OHL, Steve Shipley set-up the game winning goal in overtime as Niagara got past Brampton, 4-3. The 6'3 Shipley, who has been nearly a point-per-game player (4+10) over his last 15 outings, had a total of 17 goals and 46 points this season.
Gregg Sutch skated even as Mississauga doubled Peterborough, 6-3. The 6'2 grinder has hit a rough patch in his development, garnering just nine points in his last 25 games.
Marcus Foligno missed Sudbury's 6-3 loss to Barrie due to illness.
Elsewhere, Jerome Gauthier-Leduc extended his point streak to five games with a pair of primary assists as Rimouski lost via shootout to Saint John, 3-2. The red-hot defender has amassed 10 points for his most productive five-game tear of the season to surge into a tie for fifth place among QMJHL defenders with 48 points.
In the OHL, Steve Shipley set-up the game winning goal in overtime as Niagara got past Brampton, 4-3. The 6'3 Shipley, who has been nearly a point-per-game player (4+10) over his last 15 outings, had a total of 17 goals and 46 points this season.
Gregg Sutch skated even as Mississauga doubled Peterborough, 6-3. The 6'2 grinder has hit a rough patch in his development, garnering just nine points in his last 25 games.
Marcus Foligno missed Sudbury's 6-3 loss to Barrie due to illness.
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