Kevin Sundher potted two goals and an assist Wednesday as Chilliwack overcame a three-goal third period deficit to earn a 4-3 OT win over Spokane. Sunder led the way in the third, assisting on a power play goal to bring the Bruins within one before going to the net and making a nice backhand move to cash the game tying goal with 8:16 left and force the extra session. The six-foot center capped the heroic effort just 3:20 in when he broke free from center ice and smoked a quick release over the glove of James Reid. The Bruins now trail the series 2-1 with game #3 Thursday.
Elsewhere in the WHL, Brayden McNabb (+3) had an assist as Kootenay evened their series at two games apiece with a 5-0 shutout win over Moose Jaw. The 6'4 blueliner, who took the puck and delivered a sharp pass after entering the zone as the trailer to give the ICE a 3-0 lead, has a goal and three assists through the four post-season contests. Three of the four series games have been won via shutout. Game #5 is Friday in Kootenay.
Matt MacKenzie (+2) posted an assist as Tri-City earned a first-round sweep with a 5-1 over Vancouver. MacKenzie has a goal, three assists, and a +3 raing in four postseason games. The Ams will now wait for their next opponent to be determined.
Riley Boychuk did not point as Portland defeated Everett, 5-4. With a commanding 3-0 series lead, the Winterhawks will look for the sweep on Thursday.
In the OHL, Zack Kassian notched his first goal of the playoffs and added an assist as Windsor gained a firmed upper hand in their first round tilt with a 7-4 win over Erie. Kassian used his size and strength to spin away from a check and bury his first to give the Spits a 4-2 lead in the early second period. Alexander Khokhlachev ('11) had two goals and assist for the Spits, who can close out the series on Friday.
Jerome Gauthier-Leduc picked up an assist as Rimouski lost in overtime to Gatineau, 4-3. The 18-year old, who assisted on the game-tying goal with 3:55 to play to send the game into overtime, has three points in four playoff games. The defeat puts the Nics in a 3-1 hole in their best-of-seven series, with their first elimination game coming Friday in Gatineau.
Cedrick Henley (-1) recorded two shots on goal and three hits as Val-d'Or was eliminated from the QMJHL playoffs with a 5-2 loss to Quebec. Henley ends the four-game playoff year with no points, a -4 rating, and six penalty minutes.
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In non-playoff news, as expected ex-Bowling Green netminder Nick Eno has signed a contract with Toledo of the ECHL. The 6'3 Eno was long considered a longshot to get a contract from the Sabres, and the Coast league deal essentially brings an end to his time as a Sabres prospect.
Thursday, March 31, 2011
Wednesday, March 30, 2011
3/29 Recap: Gauthier-Leduc fuels Nics rally
Jerome Gauthier-Leduc scored a goal and assisted on the game winner Tuesday to lead pesky Rimouski to a 7-4 win over Gatineau. With an effort marked by quick execution in his own zone and the usual proper steering on the power play, it was an overall heady performance for the escapable 6'2 puckmover. He cashed his first goal of the playoffs on the power play to give the Nics a 4-3 lead late in the second period. At 4:10 of the third period, he sent a pass to Patrick Delisle-Houde for the game winning goal. The Oceanic now trail the series 2-1 with the clubs going right back at it on Wednesday.
Also from the QMJHL, Cedrick Henley was -1 as Val-d'Or got drilled by Quebec, 9-0. The 6'5 forward has gone without a point in nine career playoff games. Trailing the series 3-0, the Foreurs face a "win or go home" scenario on Wednesday.
In the OHL, Steven Shipley finished +1 as Niagara defeated Brampton, 3-1. The victory gives the IceDogs a commanding 3-0 series advantage with game #4 taking place Thursday in Brampton. The 6'3 Shipley, who was on for the Dogs final goal while centering scorer Darren Archibald and Myles Doan, has yet to record a point in seven career playoff games.
Gregg Sutch skated even with a minor penalty as Mississauga completed the first round sweep of Belleville, 4-0. Skating on the Majors fourth line with Jamie Wise and Corey Bureau, the grinding Sutch was whistled for a checking to the head penalty late in the first period. The 6'2 forward had no points in the series for the Majors, who will now wait to see who they'll face in round two. The injury-riddled Bulls dressed just nine forwards along with seven defensemen to end the season.
Marcus Foligno was unable to point for the third straight game as Sudbury battled back to steal a 5-4 overtime win over Ottawa. Foligno, who has been skating with Eric O'Dell and Michael Sgarbossa, hasn't been putting up points but he's still made noise in the offensive zone by pounding defensemen on the check. He started the night with a crowd pleasing boom on big Cody Ceci ('12) before lowering the boom on Ryan Shipley (brother of Steven) for the third time in the series. His efforts have drawn the attention of 67's bruiser Dalton Smith, making for a Sabres-centric sidebar when the #7 seed Wolves look to pull off the sweep/upset of the #2 seed Thursday in Ottawa.
In WHL action, Brayden McNabb was -1 as Kootenay lost game #3 of their first round series to Moose Jaw, 4-0. the shutout loss was the second in three games against the Warriors. The ICE will look to even the series at two games each on Wednesday.
Matt MacKenzie was kept off the scoresheet as Tri-City shut out Vancouver, 4-0. The Ams will look to take the brooms to the Giants when the puck drops for Wednesday's game #4.
Also from the QMJHL, Cedrick Henley was -1 as Val-d'Or got drilled by Quebec, 9-0. The 6'5 forward has gone without a point in nine career playoff games. Trailing the series 3-0, the Foreurs face a "win or go home" scenario on Wednesday.
In the OHL, Steven Shipley finished +1 as Niagara defeated Brampton, 3-1. The victory gives the IceDogs a commanding 3-0 series advantage with game #4 taking place Thursday in Brampton. The 6'3 Shipley, who was on for the Dogs final goal while centering scorer Darren Archibald and Myles Doan, has yet to record a point in seven career playoff games.
Gregg Sutch skated even with a minor penalty as Mississauga completed the first round sweep of Belleville, 4-0. Skating on the Majors fourth line with Jamie Wise and Corey Bureau, the grinding Sutch was whistled for a checking to the head penalty late in the first period. The 6'2 forward had no points in the series for the Majors, who will now wait to see who they'll face in round two. The injury-riddled Bulls dressed just nine forwards along with seven defensemen to end the season.
Marcus Foligno was unable to point for the third straight game as Sudbury battled back to steal a 5-4 overtime win over Ottawa. Foligno, who has been skating with Eric O'Dell and Michael Sgarbossa, hasn't been putting up points but he's still made noise in the offensive zone by pounding defensemen on the check. He started the night with a crowd pleasing boom on big Cody Ceci ('12) before lowering the boom on Ryan Shipley (brother of Steven) for the third time in the series. His efforts have drawn the attention of 67's bruiser Dalton Smith, making for a Sabres-centric sidebar when the #7 seed Wolves look to pull off the sweep/upset of the #2 seed Thursday in Ottawa.
In WHL action, Brayden McNabb was -1 as Kootenay lost game #3 of their first round series to Moose Jaw, 4-0. the shutout loss was the second in three games against the Warriors. The ICE will look to even the series at two games each on Wednesday.
Matt MacKenzie was kept off the scoresheet as Tri-City shut out Vancouver, 4-0. The Ams will look to take the brooms to the Giants when the puck drops for Wednesday's game #4.
Tuesday, March 29, 2011
3/28 Recap: Kassian bullish in Spits win
Zack Kassian earned #1 star honors Monday, posting a pair of first period assists and providing a major physical element to help Windsor to a 6-2 win over Erie. It was Kassian’s bullish game that earned the first-star recognition, as he again kept his feet moving to push bodies, attempt more one-on-one plays, and generally get the puck to the net. Seemingly upping his battle to assist the Spits to a 2-1 series lead, Monday’s effort was exactly the style of game that made that the 6’3 wing the 13th overall pick in the 2009 draft. The now head back to Erie for Wednesday’s game #4.
Elsewhere in the OHL, Marcus Foligno finished -1 as Sudbury downed Ottawa for the second straight game, 5-3. Foligno provided power forward muscle in the contest, using his strength to win 50/50 battles, and like Kassian, succeed in getting the puck to the net for scoring chances. The captain grinding his gears helped the Wolves to a 53-18 advantage in shots on goal. The two teams will reconvene Tuesday with Sudbury holding a 2-0 series lead.
In the WHL, Mark Pysyk logged a -2 as Edmonton lost game #3 of their first round series to Red Deer, 3-1. The steady captain put a scare into Oil Kings nation in the early third period when he took a puck to the head and returned to the bench on wobbly legs with the score knotted at zero. Pysyk, who previously put EDM fans on pins and needles when he was rammed hard into the boards early in game #1, would return to action minutes later. On the verge of being swept, the Oil Kings will look to extend their season another day when they take the ice Thursday in Edmonton.
Elsewhere in the OHL, Marcus Foligno finished -1 as Sudbury downed Ottawa for the second straight game, 5-3. Foligno provided power forward muscle in the contest, using his strength to win 50/50 battles, and like Kassian, succeed in getting the puck to the net for scoring chances. The captain grinding his gears helped the Wolves to a 53-18 advantage in shots on goal. The two teams will reconvene Tuesday with Sudbury holding a 2-0 series lead.
In the WHL, Mark Pysyk logged a -2 as Edmonton lost game #3 of their first round series to Red Deer, 3-1. The steady captain put a scare into Oil Kings nation in the early third period when he took a puck to the head and returned to the bench on wobbly legs with the score knotted at zero. Pysyk, who previously put EDM fans on pins and needles when he was rammed hard into the boards early in game #1, would return to action minutes later. On the verge of being swept, the Oil Kings will look to extend their season another day when they take the ice Thursday in Edmonton.
Sunday, March 27, 2011
3/27 Recap: Boychuk strikes again as 'Hawks take command
Riley Boychuk scored his second goal in as many games Sunday as Portland dominated Everett, 7-2. The 6'5 Boychuk, whose tip of a Troy Rutkowski power-play blast put the 'Hawks ahead 4-1 at the end of two periods, helped protect the lead in the third with physical play that included minors for checking from behind and roughing with a little over seven minutes to play. Sven Bartschi ('11) added a pair of assists for Portland, who now takes a 2-0 series lead into Wednesday night's tilt at Everett.
In the OHL, Gregg Sutch skated even in limited minutes as Mississauga shut out Belleville, 2-0. The Majors will look to finish the first round sweep Tuesday in Belleville.
Steven Shipley was unable to score as Niagara stifled Brampton, 2-0. Ryan Strome ('11) scored the game winning goal at 4:20 of the first period. The IceDogs now lead the series 2-0 heading into Tuesday's game #3.
In NCAA tourney action, Brad Eidsness served as backup North Dakota advanced to the 2011 Frozen Four with a 6-1 win over Denver. The Sioux will meet Michigan two Thursdays from now for a chance to earn their eighth national title.
In the USHL, Christian Isackson did not factor into the scoring as Sioux Falls cruised to a 6-2 win over Fargo. The six-foot center has now gone without a point in two straight games for the first time since 2/4 (20 games).
In the OHL, Gregg Sutch skated even in limited minutes as Mississauga shut out Belleville, 2-0. The Majors will look to finish the first round sweep Tuesday in Belleville.
Steven Shipley was unable to score as Niagara stifled Brampton, 2-0. Ryan Strome ('11) scored the game winning goal at 4:20 of the first period. The IceDogs now lead the series 2-0 heading into Tuesday's game #3.
In NCAA tourney action, Brad Eidsness served as backup North Dakota advanced to the 2011 Frozen Four with a 6-1 win over Denver. The Sioux will meet Michigan two Thursdays from now for a chance to earn their eighth national title.
In the USHL, Christian Isackson did not factor into the scoring as Sioux Falls cruised to a 6-2 win over Fargo. The six-foot center has now gone without a point in two straight games for the first time since 2/4 (20 games).
3/26 Recap: McNabb, Boychuk come up big as playoffs heat up
Brayden McNabb continued to be a point machine Saturday, scoring a goal and adding two assists as Kootenay evened their best-of-seven series at one game apiece with a 5-2 win over Moose Jaw. After netting an assist on the game's first goal, McNabb scored on a power-play slapper from the high slot to gave the Ice an early 2-0 lead. The three-point night ties a Kootenay franchise mark for points by s defenseman in a playoff game. The two clubs will lock in Tuesday for game #3 in Moose Jaw.
Elsewhere in the WHL, Riley Boychuk opened the game with a power play goal and set-up another Winterhawks tally a few minutes later as Portland opened the playoff season by pitching a 4-0 shutout over Everett. Boychuk, who was also called for a pair of interference penalties (one in the paint on the goalie) had just three points in 13 playoff games in 2009-10. Game #2 will be played Sunday evening.
Matt MacKenzie scored the game winning goal as Tri-City held on to defeat Vancouver, 5-4. MacKenzie drilled a shot while on 5-3 advantage to give the Ams a 5-3 late at 9:47 of the third period. The Ams take a 2-0 series lead heading into Tuesday's game #3.
Mark Pysyk logged a -1 as Edmonton lost for the second straight night to Red Deer, 5-1. Ryan Nugent-Hopkins ('11) scored his third goal of the series and was whistled for a diving minor in the Rebels victory. I'm not a fan of diving. Shame on you, RNH. The Oil Kings will look to halve the Rebels 2-0 series lead on Monday.
Kevin Sundher was even Chilliwack was shut out by Spokane, 5-0. Trailing the series 2-0, the Bruins now face the difficult task of having to win two of the next three games in the Chiefs barn in order to keep their season hopes alive. The two teams re-engage for game #3 on Wednesday.
In the OHL, Zack Kassian finished +2 with six shots on goal and a smattering of hits as Windsor took game #2 of their first round match-up with Erie, 4-3 in double-overtime. The 2009 first-rounder was engaged from the get-go, using his feet to complete checks and battle for loose pucks, and seemed to get better (i.e. played with a greater sense of urgency) as the game progressed. With a slew of penalties against the Spits hampering Kassian's early ice time, the 20-year old was up on the bench directing teammates and chirping at the opposition. He was locked in mentally, which could bode well for Windsor entering Monday's game #3. If this effort is any indication of his preparedness moving forward, which keep in mind was by no means "overwhelming", then there's little question he'll be Portland-bound when his OHL season is done.
Marcus Foligno finished -1 as Sudbury opened their playoff year with a wild 8-7 overtime win over Ottawa. The strapping 6'3 forward made his presence felt just :11 in when he was whistled for a nasty slash/spear to the mid-section of gritty 67's forward Dalton Smith. The Wolves, who trailed 5-4 at the second intermission, sealed the deal when Andrey Kuchin completed his hat trick at 3:26 in to the extra session.
Gregg Sutch did not point as Mississauga edged Belleville, 1-0. The Majors, holders of a 2-0 series lead, will look to shake the disappointing effort when the teams meet for Sunday's game #3.
Jerome Gauthier-Leduc was -1 as Rimouski lost in overtime to Gatineau, 3-2. The 18-year old rearguard was on the receiving end of a vicious hit from behind midway through the first period after advancing the puck at his blueline (below). Piques forward earned a five-minute boarding major on the play. The series will resume Tuesday with Gatineau holding a 2-0 lead.
Cedrick Henley was unable to score as Val-d'Or lost to Quebec, 6-4. The Foreurs now trail the bes-of-seven 2-0, with game #3 set for Tuesday.
At the NCAA Tournament, Connor Knapp served as back-up as top-seed Miami lost in the Northeast regional semi-final to New Hampshire, 2-1. The junior metminder ends his season with a record of 8-5-4 in 17 appearances with a 2.03 goals against average and .909 save percentage. Senior UFA Andy Miele failed to get a point, ending his 17-game point streak, to finish the year with a line of 24-47-71 in just 39 games. Given the fact that he plays center, it's basically no-brainer that the Sabres make an attempt to sign the creative talent.
In other NCAA action, Brad Eidsness served as back-up as North Dakota advanced to the Midwest regional final with a 6-0 ripping of RPI. The Sioux move on to face familiar foe Denver Sunday with a Frozen Four berth on the line.
In the USHL, Christian Isackson recorded a shot on goal as Sioux Falls was blanked by Sioux City, 2-0.
Elsewhere in the WHL, Riley Boychuk opened the game with a power play goal and set-up another Winterhawks tally a few minutes later as Portland opened the playoff season by pitching a 4-0 shutout over Everett. Boychuk, who was also called for a pair of interference penalties (one in the paint on the goalie) had just three points in 13 playoff games in 2009-10. Game #2 will be played Sunday evening.
Matt MacKenzie scored the game winning goal as Tri-City held on to defeat Vancouver, 5-4. MacKenzie drilled a shot while on 5-3 advantage to give the Ams a 5-3 late at 9:47 of the third period. The Ams take a 2-0 series lead heading into Tuesday's game #3.
Mark Pysyk logged a -1 as Edmonton lost for the second straight night to Red Deer, 5-1. Ryan Nugent-Hopkins ('11) scored his third goal of the series and was whistled for a diving minor in the Rebels victory. I'm not a fan of diving. Shame on you, RNH. The Oil Kings will look to halve the Rebels 2-0 series lead on Monday.
Kevin Sundher was even Chilliwack was shut out by Spokane, 5-0. Trailing the series 2-0, the Bruins now face the difficult task of having to win two of the next three games in the Chiefs barn in order to keep their season hopes alive. The two teams re-engage for game #3 on Wednesday.
In the OHL, Zack Kassian finished +2 with six shots on goal and a smattering of hits as Windsor took game #2 of their first round match-up with Erie, 4-3 in double-overtime. The 2009 first-rounder was engaged from the get-go, using his feet to complete checks and battle for loose pucks, and seemed to get better (i.e. played with a greater sense of urgency) as the game progressed. With a slew of penalties against the Spits hampering Kassian's early ice time, the 20-year old was up on the bench directing teammates and chirping at the opposition. He was locked in mentally, which could bode well for Windsor entering Monday's game #3. If this effort is any indication of his preparedness moving forward, which keep in mind was by no means "overwhelming", then there's little question he'll be Portland-bound when his OHL season is done.
Marcus Foligno finished -1 as Sudbury opened their playoff year with a wild 8-7 overtime win over Ottawa. The strapping 6'3 forward made his presence felt just :11 in when he was whistled for a nasty slash/spear to the mid-section of gritty 67's forward Dalton Smith. The Wolves, who trailed 5-4 at the second intermission, sealed the deal when Andrey Kuchin completed his hat trick at 3:26 in to the extra session.
Gregg Sutch did not point as Mississauga edged Belleville, 1-0. The Majors, holders of a 2-0 series lead, will look to shake the disappointing effort when the teams meet for Sunday's game #3.
Jerome Gauthier-Leduc was -1 as Rimouski lost in overtime to Gatineau, 3-2. The 18-year old rearguard was on the receiving end of a vicious hit from behind midway through the first period after advancing the puck at his blueline (below). Piques forward earned a five-minute boarding major on the play. The series will resume Tuesday with Gatineau holding a 2-0 lead.
Cedrick Henley was unable to score as Val-d'Or lost to Quebec, 6-4. The Foreurs now trail the bes-of-seven 2-0, with game #3 set for Tuesday.
At the NCAA Tournament, Connor Knapp served as back-up as top-seed Miami lost in the Northeast regional semi-final to New Hampshire, 2-1. The junior metminder ends his season with a record of 8-5-4 in 17 appearances with a 2.03 goals against average and .909 save percentage. Senior UFA Andy Miele failed to get a point, ending his 17-game point streak, to finish the year with a line of 24-47-71 in just 39 games. Given the fact that he plays center, it's basically no-brainer that the Sabres make an attempt to sign the creative talent.
In other NCAA action, Brad Eidsness served as back-up as North Dakota advanced to the Midwest regional final with a 6-0 ripping of RPI. The Sioux move on to face familiar foe Denver Sunday with a Frozen Four berth on the line.
In the USHL, Christian Isackson recorded a shot on goal as Sioux Falls was blanked by Sioux City, 2-0.
Saturday, March 26, 2011
3/25 Recap: Sundher points as teams get tough starts
Kevin Sundher posted an assist Friday as Chiliwack opened the 2011 playoff year with a 3-2 overtime loss to Spokane. Midway through the second period with the game locked at a goal apiece, Sundher entered the zone with the puck on a 2-1 break with Jamie Crooks. When the Chiefs defender slid to take the pass away, the six-footer stopped on a dime and made a nice dish to Crooks to give the Bruins the 2-1 lead. The apple was Sundher's sixth point in seven career playoff games, while Bruins netminder Lucas Gore made 60 saves before giving up the game winner halfway through the OT. Game #2 takes place on Saturday.
Mark Pysyk regrouped from an early jilt to finish the night +3 as Edmonton lost an entertaining game #1 to Red Deer, 5-3. The Oil Kings suffered a scare on the game's opening shift when Pysyk left the ice gingerly after being rammed into the boards, only to return without issue. Michael St. Croix ('11) knotted the game 3-3 in the third period before Ryan Nugent-Hopkins ('11) took over with a pair of goals in a span of 1:06 to give the Rebels a 1-0 series lead. The clubs will take the ice for game #2 Saturday.
Matt MacKenzie was +1 as Tri-City came from behind to defeat Vancouver, 2-1. After tying the game with 7:55 to play in the third period, Carter Ashton iced the Ams win with just three ticks left in the first overtime after Andrej Stastny was whistled for a costly tripping call. The well-seasoned MacKenzie, who represented the WHL in last year's Memorial Cup as a member of the Calgary Hitmen, will dress for his 47th career playoff tilt when the teams play game #2 on Saturday.
Brayden McNabb logged a -2 as Kootenay was shut out Moose Jaw, 4-0. The Ice will look to play tougher from the first drop in Saturday's game #2, as giving up three first period goals on home ice was hardly the way they wanted to begin the postseason. It was a disappointing postseason start for McNabb, who on Thursday was named a WHL Eastern Conference First Team All-Star.
Jerome Gauthier-Leduc finished -1 as Rimouski was clobbered by Gatineau, 6-0. The 6'2 defender had just closed the regular season with a 10-game point streak but can always begin another when tow clubs play it back on Saturday. Igor Levitsky ('11) had a goal and an assist for the Piques.
In the QMJHL, Cedrick Henley (-1) did not point as Val-d'Or was dumped by Quebec, 7-2. Mirko Hoefflin (undrafted in '10) had a pair of assists for the Remparts, who will take a 1-0 series lead into Saturday's game #2.
Mark Pysyk regrouped from an early jilt to finish the night +3 as Edmonton lost an entertaining game #1 to Red Deer, 5-3. The Oil Kings suffered a scare on the game's opening shift when Pysyk left the ice gingerly after being rammed into the boards, only to return without issue. Michael St. Croix ('11) knotted the game 3-3 in the third period before Ryan Nugent-Hopkins ('11) took over with a pair of goals in a span of 1:06 to give the Rebels a 1-0 series lead. The clubs will take the ice for game #2 Saturday.
Matt MacKenzie was +1 as Tri-City came from behind to defeat Vancouver, 2-1. After tying the game with 7:55 to play in the third period, Carter Ashton iced the Ams win with just three ticks left in the first overtime after Andrej Stastny was whistled for a costly tripping call. The well-seasoned MacKenzie, who represented the WHL in last year's Memorial Cup as a member of the Calgary Hitmen, will dress for his 47th career playoff tilt when the teams play game #2 on Saturday.
Brayden McNabb logged a -2 as Kootenay was shut out Moose Jaw, 4-0. The Ice will look to play tougher from the first drop in Saturday's game #2, as giving up three first period goals on home ice was hardly the way they wanted to begin the postseason. It was a disappointing postseason start for McNabb, who on Thursday was named a WHL Eastern Conference First Team All-Star.
Jerome Gauthier-Leduc finished -1 as Rimouski was clobbered by Gatineau, 6-0. The 6'2 defender had just closed the regular season with a 10-game point streak but can always begin another when tow clubs play it back on Saturday. Igor Levitsky ('11) had a goal and an assist for the Piques.
In the QMJHL, Cedrick Henley (-1) did not point as Val-d'Or was dumped by Quebec, 7-2. Mirko Hoefflin (undrafted in '10) had a pair of assists for the Remparts, who will take a 1-0 series lead into Saturday's game #2.
Friday, March 25, 2011
3/24 Recap: Kassian generates as Spits drop opener
Zack Kassian (-1) notched an assist for his 20th career playoff point as Windsor opened the 2011 playoff year with a 2-1 loss to Erie. Kassian, whose power play blast by tipped-in by Stephen Johnston for the only Spits goal, put together a decent performance despite the loss while on a line with Johnston and Leafs prospect Kenny Ryan. The 6'3 banger showed engagement early, opening the game with a big hit only to be whistled for charging a couple of shifts later. He was controlling and patient with the puck, and more importantly was physical in all three zones in an effort to pressure the Otters carriers. Windsor scored on just one of 11 power play opportunities, a stat that will need to improve when the series shifts to Erie for game #2 Saturday.
Elsewhere on opening night, Steven Shipley finished +1 as Niagara rolled to a 7-1 thrashing of Brampton. The IceDogs rode four goals from the stick of Darren Archibald to notch their first win of the playoff year, while Shipley remains without a point through five career playoff games. Ranked #9 in the final CHL rankings, Niagara now travels to Brampton for Sunday's game #2.
Gregg Sutch played even as Mississauga defeated Belleville, 4-1. The 6'2 grinder, who came to life last year in the playoffs with four goals and an assist in 16 games, will have plenty of opportunities to eclipse that line with the CHL's #3 ranked Majors hosting this year's Memorial Cup. Austen Brassard ('11) scored the Bulls' lone goal.
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On Wednesday, Christian Isackson (+1) scored his 16th goal of the year as Sioux Falls downed Omaha, 4-1. The goal thrusts Isackson into the team scoring lead with 41 points, one ahead of Brown commit Ryan Jacobson in two fewer games. Another future Gopher, Kyle Rau ('11) paced the Herd with two goals and an apple.
Elsewhere on opening night, Steven Shipley finished +1 as Niagara rolled to a 7-1 thrashing of Brampton. The IceDogs rode four goals from the stick of Darren Archibald to notch their first win of the playoff year, while Shipley remains without a point through five career playoff games. Ranked #9 in the final CHL rankings, Niagara now travels to Brampton for Sunday's game #2.
Gregg Sutch played even as Mississauga defeated Belleville, 4-1. The 6'2 grinder, who came to life last year in the playoffs with four goals and an assist in 16 games, will have plenty of opportunities to eclipse that line with the CHL's #3 ranked Majors hosting this year's Memorial Cup. Austen Brassard ('11) scored the Bulls' lone goal.
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On Wednesday, Christian Isackson (+1) scored his 16th goal of the year as Sioux Falls downed Omaha, 4-1. The goal thrusts Isackson into the team scoring lead with 41 points, one ahead of Brown commit Ryan Jacobson in two fewer games. Another future Gopher, Kyle Rau ('11) paced the Herd with two goals and an apple.
Monday, March 21, 2011
3/20 Recap: Hats off to Jerome as CHL closes
Jerome Gauthier-Leduc completed his strong stretch run with a bang Sunday, potting a hat-trick to lead Rimouski to a 6-3 win over Victoriaville. Gauthier-Leduc heads into the playoffs on a wicked 10-game point-streak that saw him collect 10 of his 18 season goals (as well as a +9 rating to net out to a season finish of -1). With 56 points (18+38), the puck mover finishes his 18-year old season as the #2 scorer among QMJHL defensemen. By comparison, Marc-Andre Gragnani went 16-55-71 -23 in his 18-year old season, while T.J. Brennan posted a line of 16-26-41 -15 at the same developmental point. The #12 Oceanic will face #5 seed Gatineau in the first round.
In the OHL, Marcus Foligno collected two assists as Sudbury lost at Ottawa, 7-3. The 6'3 captain finishes his final regular season of junior play with career bests in goals (23), assists (36), and plus/minus (+5). The Wolves and 67's will get reacquainted Saturday afternoon at Scotia Bank Place for game #1 of their first round playoff battle.
Gregg Sutch notched a pair of assists as Mississauga completed their excellent regular season with a 4-1 win over Barrie. The grinding 6'3 forward, who looks to have played his way back in to the lineup full-time after being in-and-out most of the past month, completes the schedule with a line of 8-20-28 +20 - all career bests. The CHL's #3 ranked Majors move on to their first-round series against Belleville.
In the WHL, Riley Boychuk scored his 18th goal of the year as Portland ended their 2010-11 campaign with a 6-3 loss to Spokane. The 6'5 Boychuk improves his season totals to 18-17-35 in the defeat, while Anthony Bardaro ('11) had a pair of goals for the winning Chiefs. Portland, the top seed in the Western Conference, will face #8 Everett in the opening round.
Matt MacKenzie did not score as Tri-City defeated Seattle in overtime, 4-3. The Americans, the #4 seed in the West, will battle Vancouver in a first-round WHL playoff series.
In the QMJHL, Cedrick Henley recorded four hits as Val-d'Or lost in overtime to Drummondville, 3-2. The Foreurs, owners of the 14th playoff seed, will face the Quebec Remparts in the opening round.
In the OHL, Marcus Foligno collected two assists as Sudbury lost at Ottawa, 7-3. The 6'3 captain finishes his final regular season of junior play with career bests in goals (23), assists (36), and plus/minus (+5). The Wolves and 67's will get reacquainted Saturday afternoon at Scotia Bank Place for game #1 of their first round playoff battle.
Gregg Sutch notched a pair of assists as Mississauga completed their excellent regular season with a 4-1 win over Barrie. The grinding 6'3 forward, who looks to have played his way back in to the lineup full-time after being in-and-out most of the past month, completes the schedule with a line of 8-20-28 +20 - all career bests. The CHL's #3 ranked Majors move on to their first-round series against Belleville.
In the WHL, Riley Boychuk scored his 18th goal of the year as Portland ended their 2010-11 campaign with a 6-3 loss to Spokane. The 6'5 Boychuk improves his season totals to 18-17-35 in the defeat, while Anthony Bardaro ('11) had a pair of goals for the winning Chiefs. Portland, the top seed in the Western Conference, will face #8 Everett in the opening round.
Matt MacKenzie did not score as Tri-City defeated Seattle in overtime, 4-3. The Americans, the #4 seed in the West, will battle Vancouver in a first-round WHL playoff series.
In the QMJHL, Cedrick Henley recorded four hits as Val-d'Or lost in overtime to Drummondville, 3-2. The Foreurs, owners of the 14th playoff seed, will face the Quebec Remparts in the opening round.
Sunday, March 20, 2011
3/19 Recap: Sundher stars as clubs ready for playoffs
Kevin Sundher hit for two insurance goals and an assist Saturday as Chilliwack blanked Everett, 3-0. The six-foot pivot went to work with the Bruins holding a 1-0 lead after 40-minutes, first forcing Ryan Murray ('11) to cough up the puck allowing him to sail down and pot his 23rd on a shorthanded breakaway, and then snapping a shot from the slot a couple of shifts later for his 24th goal and sixth three-point game of the year. The Surrey native finishes the regular season as the Bruins #3 scorer with 76 points. Depending on what shakes out on Sunday, Chilliwack will visit either Tri-City or Spokane when the WHL playoffs kickoff next week.
Elsewhere in the WHL, Brayden McNabb (+1) registered an assist, his 50th helper of the year, as Kootenay hammered Lethbridge, 7-1. The 6'4 defenseman caps his fantastic regular season with 22 goals and 72 points, making him the 3rd-most productive WHL blueliner, while his sturdy +25 is representative of the quality (and sheer amount of) even-strength minutes logged during season grind.
Mark Pysyk skated -1 as Edmonton lost their second game in as many nights to Red Deer, 3-1. The weekend set allowed plenty of bad blood to brew prior to the clubs' squaring-off for their best-of-seven playoff round next week. Pysyk scored six goals this season while posting career highs in points (40), penalty minutes (88), and plus/minus (+29) in his first season as Oil Kings captain. He played like a leader to end the year and is sure to be counted on heavily as Edmonton engages the tough task of taking down the Rebs, lead by Ryan Nugent-Hopkins ('11).
Matt MacKenzie registered an assist as Tri-City defeated Spokane, 6-4. The two-way defender has points in three of his last four games. He had posted points in three of his previous 17 prior to the productive home stretch. The Ams wrap up the regular season on Sunday versus Seattle.
Riley Boychuk had no points and 17-penalty minutes as Portland defeated Seattle, 5-4. The 6'5 Boychuk earned his sixth fighting major of the year when he dropped the gloves with 6'5 17-year old Mitch Eliot.
Corey Fienhage finished -1 in the final WHL game of his career as Kamloops lost to Prince George, 5-1. The 6'4, 221-pound "Moose", who played his previous two seasons with the University of North Dakota, scored four goals and 10 assists in 70 games this season on the Blazers blueline.
In the OHL, Steven Shipley scored his 18th goal of the year as Niagara pummeled Kingston, 8-4. Ryan Strome ('11) collected four assists to finish tied atop the OHL's scoring list with 106 points (33+73). The IceDogs will await the results of Sunday play before learning their first-round opponent. A Brampton win will see the Dogs play Kingston. A loss will set the stage for shorter drives with a Dogs/Brampton first round match-up.
Marcus Foligno (+3) notched an assist as Sudbury doubled Belleville, 6-3. The 6'3 captain was a physically intimidating throughout, earning a double minor for roughing and a 10-minute misconduct late in the second period after his hit sparked a powerkeg. The Wolves will close the regular season Sunday with a tilt against their first-round playoff opponent, #2 seed Ottawa.
Zack Kassian notched an assist as Windsor defeated Saginaw, 5-4 in overtime. The bullish wing, who had eight 3+ point efforts before the World Junior Championships and just two after, finishes the regular season with 26-51-77. Just like a year ago, the Spits will face the Erie Otters in the opening round of the playoffs.
In the QMJHL, Cedrick Henley (+1) picked up two assists Val-d'Or lost to Shawinigan, 8-4. The 6'5 Henley, who was called for boarding on the game's first shift, has 17 points in 21 games this season including a goal and seven assists in nine games since returning from wrist surgery. Les Foreurs will close their regular season Sunday against Drummondville.
In the USHL, Christian Isackson scored an empty-net goal and an assist as Sioux Falls rolled past Green Bay, 4-0. The six-foot rookie has 15 goals and 40 points in 51 games this season and has been a point-per-game player over his last 20.
Connor Knapp did not play as #6 Miami won their first-ever CCHA Tournament title with a 4-2 win over #12 Western Michigan. Senior UFA Andy Miele scored a goal and an assist to give him 71 points (24+47) in 38 games this year. By comparison, Nathan Gerbe's best season at BC (2007-08) saw him net 35-33-68 in 43 games. The RedHawks will now wait Sunday's announcement of the NCAA tournament bracket to determine who they'll next face.
Brad Eidsness served as backup as #1 North Dakota won the Broadmoor Trophy as WCHA Tornament champs with a 3-2 double-overtime win over #5 Denver. Like Knapp's RedHawks, Eidsness and the Sioux will wait for Sunday to learn who they face as one of the #1 regional seeds.
Elsewhere in the WHL, Brayden McNabb (+1) registered an assist, his 50th helper of the year, as Kootenay hammered Lethbridge, 7-1. The 6'4 defenseman caps his fantastic regular season with 22 goals and 72 points, making him the 3rd-most productive WHL blueliner, while his sturdy +25 is representative of the quality (and sheer amount of) even-strength minutes logged during season grind.
Mark Pysyk skated -1 as Edmonton lost their second game in as many nights to Red Deer, 3-1. The weekend set allowed plenty of bad blood to brew prior to the clubs' squaring-off for their best-of-seven playoff round next week. Pysyk scored six goals this season while posting career highs in points (40), penalty minutes (88), and plus/minus (+29) in his first season as Oil Kings captain. He played like a leader to end the year and is sure to be counted on heavily as Edmonton engages the tough task of taking down the Rebs, lead by Ryan Nugent-Hopkins ('11).
Matt MacKenzie registered an assist as Tri-City defeated Spokane, 6-4. The two-way defender has points in three of his last four games. He had posted points in three of his previous 17 prior to the productive home stretch. The Ams wrap up the regular season on Sunday versus Seattle.
Riley Boychuk had no points and 17-penalty minutes as Portland defeated Seattle, 5-4. The 6'5 Boychuk earned his sixth fighting major of the year when he dropped the gloves with 6'5 17-year old Mitch Eliot.
Corey Fienhage finished -1 in the final WHL game of his career as Kamloops lost to Prince George, 5-1. The 6'4, 221-pound "Moose", who played his previous two seasons with the University of North Dakota, scored four goals and 10 assists in 70 games this season on the Blazers blueline.
In the OHL, Steven Shipley scored his 18th goal of the year as Niagara pummeled Kingston, 8-4. Ryan Strome ('11) collected four assists to finish tied atop the OHL's scoring list with 106 points (33+73). The IceDogs will await the results of Sunday play before learning their first-round opponent. A Brampton win will see the Dogs play Kingston. A loss will set the stage for shorter drives with a Dogs/Brampton first round match-up.
Marcus Foligno (+3) notched an assist as Sudbury doubled Belleville, 6-3. The 6'3 captain was a physically intimidating throughout, earning a double minor for roughing and a 10-minute misconduct late in the second period after his hit sparked a powerkeg. The Wolves will close the regular season Sunday with a tilt against their first-round playoff opponent, #2 seed Ottawa.
Zack Kassian notched an assist as Windsor defeated Saginaw, 5-4 in overtime. The bullish wing, who had eight 3+ point efforts before the World Junior Championships and just two after, finishes the regular season with 26-51-77. Just like a year ago, the Spits will face the Erie Otters in the opening round of the playoffs.
In the QMJHL, Cedrick Henley (+1) picked up two assists Val-d'Or lost to Shawinigan, 8-4. The 6'5 Henley, who was called for boarding on the game's first shift, has 17 points in 21 games this season including a goal and seven assists in nine games since returning from wrist surgery. Les Foreurs will close their regular season Sunday against Drummondville.
In the USHL, Christian Isackson scored an empty-net goal and an assist as Sioux Falls rolled past Green Bay, 4-0. The six-foot rookie has 15 goals and 40 points in 51 games this season and has been a point-per-game player over his last 20.
Connor Knapp did not play as #6 Miami won their first-ever CCHA Tournament title with a 4-2 win over #12 Western Michigan. Senior UFA Andy Miele scored a goal and an assist to give him 71 points (24+47) in 38 games this year. By comparison, Nathan Gerbe's best season at BC (2007-08) saw him net 35-33-68 in 43 games. The RedHawks will now wait Sunday's announcement of the NCAA tournament bracket to determine who they'll next face.
Brad Eidsness served as backup as #1 North Dakota won the Broadmoor Trophy as WCHA Tornament champs with a 3-2 double-overtime win over #5 Denver. Like Knapp's RedHawks, Eidsness and the Sioux will wait for Sunday to learn who they face as one of the #1 regional seeds.
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