Interesting to Note that Tiger list player Dylan Olsen has reportedly signed an entry level deal with the Chicago Blackhawks. He had decided to stay with the NCAA route rather than play for a major junior team in Canada. His WHL rights belong to the Tigers.
Sources say he was going to be academically ineligible for his 2nd semester, and that he is headed to Chicago's farm team the Rockford Ice Hogs after the world juniors.
From the games I have watched on TV he has looked uncomfortable at the World Juniors and I especially did not like the two attempts where he pushed players into his own goalie.
From the sounds of things he doesn't want to go the Junior route and with the ncaa not working out his overall development might have been better served playing up here. Its too bad considering an Olsen type player is what the Tigers could use on the back-end.
Friday, December 31, 2010
Thursday, December 30, 2010
Tigers Split Home and Home
The Tigers have been playing with a depleted line up of sorts, and to get a split is pretty impressive. They have only dressed 16 skaters the last 2 games. The good News is that Kale Kessey and Sebastien Owuya are expected back next game.
Emerson Etem away at World Juniors
Hunter Shinkaruk away at under 17's
Vahe Zakaryan - decided to stay home
Kale Kessey - 2 game suspension
Sebastien Owuya - Not back from Holidays
Sam Dezman - Concussion indefinite
----
Shinkaruk has goals in three straight games
Emerson Etem has 1 goal in two games.
------------
Future
Its getting near trade deadline time and the Rumours are taking flight. Right now IMO the Tigers have the potential of wining a 7 game series with every team in their conference with perhaps the exception of Red Deer. It is very close to call and many series could be as close as a coin flip. (Their are also many team in the other conference who would be close calls If the Tigers reach the final).
I would imagine Red Deer, Kootenay, and Moose Jaw would all look at gearing up for a run. Saskatoon may add a piece or two as well. Along with the Tigers each team will be looking to improve their team as their is no dominant runaway team.
If the Tigers stood pat I would be a little disappointed. However next year the Tigers should still have quite a bit of talent in bunz, etem, shinkaruk, harrison, grbavac, petryk, bredo, kessey. A perfect world would see them acquire a strong 2 way defenceman with a good first pass who could be back next year, and possibly a defensive forward/ or 50 point guy who could also return. Its possible that the Tigers remain strong next year as well.
With their 20 year old situation next year, I would lay a guess and say Konan, Grbavac would be locks(if not signed in the offseason) and possibly a return of Owuya, otherwise they probably have a spot open unless given to Dezman.
---------------
Due to a lot of personal changes going on, this blog may or may not be a little quiet during the next 2 months.
Emerson Etem away at World Juniors
Hunter Shinkaruk away at under 17's
Vahe Zakaryan - decided to stay home
Kale Kessey - 2 game suspension
Sebastien Owuya - Not back from Holidays
Sam Dezman - Concussion indefinite
----
Shinkaruk has goals in three straight games
Emerson Etem has 1 goal in two games.
------------
Future
Its getting near trade deadline time and the Rumours are taking flight. Right now IMO the Tigers have the potential of wining a 7 game series with every team in their conference with perhaps the exception of Red Deer. It is very close to call and many series could be as close as a coin flip. (Their are also many team in the other conference who would be close calls If the Tigers reach the final).
I would imagine Red Deer, Kootenay, and Moose Jaw would all look at gearing up for a run. Saskatoon may add a piece or two as well. Along with the Tigers each team will be looking to improve their team as their is no dominant runaway team.
If the Tigers stood pat I would be a little disappointed. However next year the Tigers should still have quite a bit of talent in bunz, etem, shinkaruk, harrison, grbavac, petryk, bredo, kessey. A perfect world would see them acquire a strong 2 way defenceman with a good first pass who could be back next year, and possibly a defensive forward/ or 50 point guy who could also return. Its possible that the Tigers remain strong next year as well.
With their 20 year old situation next year, I would lay a guess and say Konan, Grbavac would be locks(if not signed in the offseason) and possibly a return of Owuya, otherwise they probably have a spot open unless given to Dezman.
---------------
Due to a lot of personal changes going on, this blog may or may not be a little quiet during the next 2 months.
Thursday, December 23, 2010
Mid-Season Player Thoughts
I'm going to give out my version of a player scout report cards this year. I'm going to give each player two different grades: A team Grade, and an NHL Grade.
The team grade is based upon the players ability and more-so towards how the player is performing up to his ability.
With the NHL Grade I'm going to use the Hockey's Future rating scale. It is a rating out of 1-10 for the players NHL ability, and a grade from A-F on their potential of hitting their expected ability.
-------------------------------------
Team Grade: A+
Nothing more can be asked of him. Some games he is a man among boys on the ice. Coming to games as a fan you expect him to get a point or two a game, and he usually delivers. Kills penalties, plays the powerplay, his only knock is his physicality,
however he has a touch of Pavel Datsyuk in him, he would rather steal the puck cleanly than ride a player into the boards and it works for him.
NHL Grade: 7B
Above average skill in every facet. He is incredibly smart, has excellent body positioning, adapts well to changes, excellent conditioning, and skilled which is why I think he will be in the nhl someday.
He is one of those guys that wont necessarily be on the Kings radar to make an immediate high impact and become a superstar but he will get a couple years in the minors then work his way up. I think eventually he will be good enough to be a 2nd-3rd line caliber player. His smarts and adaptability make me beleive that he could possibly be a surprise player and have an outside shot at first line material.
-------------------------------------
Team Grade: A
After missing his 15 yr old season in midget he has made a pretty big impression on the Tigers roster. It took him 10 games or so before he had the confidence to take that next step. The Tigers had a small hole in trying to fit a skill player into
the top 6 and Shinkaruk has filled that hole rather well. His offensive potential looks bright, and he plays that dirty shirt style hockey. He has offensive smarts and is one of the better Tigers at blocking shooting and passing lanes, and has the
potential to be an effective penalty killer.
NHL Grade: 7.5D (Still a little too early to tell, hence the D)
With his draft year not until 2013 he will be on the radar for quite sometime. I could see him being a really high nhl pick in the future if he can keep improving.
----------------------------------------------------------------
Team Grade: A+
A Slow start but that has long passed, he is a threat to score every night. Etem and Vey have developed incredible chemistry together on the ice, and it is a pleasure to watch them perform. Emerson Leads the league in short handed goals with 5.
NHL Grade: 7.5B
Incredible straight line speed. Very accurate shot, and long reach.
Some scouts have yellow flags about him saying his game is one dimensional, but he has added another tool as a potential penalty killer. His long reach and straight line speed makes him a good defensive weapon as well as he's someone who can go on the offense if given a chance and still get back in time. I think his transition from the whl to nhl will be fairly quick, in that he wont spend a lot of time in the ahl, maybe a year at most. Its either NHL or WHL with him next year.
----------------------
Team Grade: A-
Cant ask for more from a backup goaltender, he was challenging Bunz to become the starter when Bunz was finding his game. I think he is the perfect backup goalie. He is a Positional goalie, and likes to shove rebounds into the corners or out of play.
NHL Grade: 2.5 C
I dont think he has what it takes to be an NHL goalie. There is a slight glimmer of potential, but I'm not sure if he can keep up a strong starter type pace for an entire season on a minor pro team.
He played phenomenal hockey and single handily earned the Tigers 4 points against Red Deer early in the season. I think Dubyk should find those game tapes and re-watch them. If he can find that form on a consistent basis he might be able to turn some heads in the pro level, But a whl goalie who has never been a starter might have trouble finding a pro team to play on.
---------------------
Team Grade: A+
His leadership on and off the ice is outstanding. He gets an A by default by coming back to the Tigers and turning down 2 AHL contracts. He is very good at creating room in the neutral zone, and for a smaller type body on the ice displays a physical ability. He shows toughness playing through injuries and has a higher than average skillset at the whl level. I wonder if he needs different elbow pads he is always adjusting them on the ice :)
NHL Grade: 4.5B
He is one of those players that his potential is in between the NHL and AHL. Wacey does have a high determination and work ethic which is why I think he would be a definite asset on an ahl team. I see him as more of a career minor league type player, but I am in favor of throwing him in the ahl farm team and seeing what he can do with it. When I think of Wacey I think of Former Tiger Vernon Fiddler.
---------------------------
Team Grade: A-
He brings energy, and plays a power forward type grinding role. Not afraid to drop the mitts when he needs to. He has tripled his numbers from last year and that has come from hard work. I like his energy level and he is an aggressive and protects the puck well along the boards.
NHL Grade: 3C
I like his size, his toughness, his energy and his play in the corners, however his offensive ability at the next level is pretty limited. He is the prototypical 3rd line player.
I think he has the potential to stick around in the ahl playing a middleweight crash bang grinder unsung hero type role. He could develop into a 3rd/4th line ahl'er but I would hate to see him loose a potential college scholarship over a couple years in the ahl. From what I heard Grbavac had a solid camp with the Dallas stars in pre-season I wonder if they invite him back next year.
----------------------------
Team Grade: A-
A bit of an inconsistent start but he has made a ton of high quality saves. He has gotten real hot lately and has been a big factor in the Tigers recent success. He is an elite level whl goalie.
NHL Grade: 7.5 C
Extremely mobile and athletic in net, he is a positional goalie with very good reflexes.
He has the ability to make high quality saves look routine, he also has a pretty good one on one ability. He likes to handle the puck and help out the defensman. I'm not really an expert on goaltenders but I think he has the potential to be at least an nhl backup.
----------------------------------------------------
Team Grade: B+
The former NCAA'er had a pretty slow start but lately he has been playing really well. For the Tigers to make some noise in the playoffs they will need both scoring lines to score regularly. Tyler Pitlick brings a dynamic offensive ability 5 on 5 and if Pitlick were to catch fire it would help vault the Tigers into an elite level whl team.
NHL Grade: 7.5 C
He has the size and skill to play in a top 6 role. He has a big body presence and the capability to throw punishing hits. If he keeps his feet moving, and can keep a constant effort level in both zones he may have second line, possibly first line potential. I like him better as a winger over a center.
-------------------------------------------
Team Grade: B
Speedster impressed in early parts of the season. He is a bit overshadowed when he plays alongside Linden Vey and Emerson Etem, but he has the speed and skill to score at the whl. I think he plays fairly consistent but I'd like to see him emerge and become a bigger scoring threat. I think he is a similar player to Wacey Hamilton, albeit 2 years younger.
NHL Grade: 4.5C
-------------------------------------
Team Grade: A-
I think his game has improved by huge margins this year. He has a mean streak in him like Robyn Regher of the flames and tries to smash people into the boards. His long reach and quickness has swatted away many opponent scoring chances. I think he is the Tigers most valuable defender.
NHL Grade: 5.5 C
A defensive defenceman. He looks like he still needs to grow into his frame a little. I like his quickness and his reach. I also like his shot from the point as its usually a foot and a half off the ice perfect for tipping, however he doesn't get to use it much. One knack i have on him is that sometimes he takes his time getting back to the front of the net after pinning a guy along the boards.
Similar to former Tiger Gord Baldwin except konan is slightly quickerl, and slightly taller. He has also shown in the past a willingness to fight. I think he is good enough to get a shot in the ahl, and with time and seasoning he could possibly get a shot as an nhl depth defenceman.
------------------
Team Grade: B
Incredible start to the season, then fell off the map with inconsistent play, and now he is back to being relatively consistent. He is able to take a hit and not retaliate. He needs to focus on playing a smart defensive game and make good first passes.
NHL Grade: 3C
He works hard, and will stand up for teammates. His defensive hockey sense is above average, his skill and skating is average. I think it would be good for him to play CIS hockey next year.
--------------------------------
Team Grade: B+
Bredo has made big strides in his game this year. He does a lot of the little things right. He plays a smart game. When everyone is healthy he fits in to the Tigers 3rd line really well.
NHL Grade: Unsure 5.5D (Subject To change)
Big body, skill isn't overwhelming but he is a smart player. Not afraid to fight. He would project as a 3rd line defensive checker. He might be worth a late round pick.
---------------
Team Grade B+
Reid has done a good job on the 4th line with rotating rookies. He was anchoring the 4th line, but lately with a couple guys away at camps and shinkaruk out with the flu Petryk has been giving more ice time and he has potted a few goals.
NHL Grade: Unsure
I do see an offensive ability in him that hasn't quite come out yet, he might be a bit of a late bloomer, and he has pretty good size. I think he needs to show a little more scoring prowess to be a late round draft pick, as he projects to be more of a 3rd/4th line scorer.
----------------------
Team Grade: B
+/- ratio is very good. I like his defensive smarts. The Tigers have recently put him on forward with Etem,shinkaruk, and Dezman out of the lineup.
NHL Grade: Unsure / 3C
Similar to Thomas Carr. I'd like to watch him more as the season progresses, but right now I dont see anything that stands out.
---------------
Team Grade: B
A lot more mobile this year. Sometimes a victim to the Tigers defensive numbers. He does make rookie mistakes every once in a while.
NHL Grade: 6.5 D
A bit early to tell. But I like a lot of things about his potential. I think he is a bit underrated, but his skill is still a little raw. He has shown flashes of skill and smarts that remind me of jay bouwmeester.
He has a very good first pass ability. He has big body type at 6'2 and skates fairly well. I think he has a shot at getting drafted because of the potential he shows.
--------------------------------
Team Grade: B
This wont be a popular opinion but I expected a little more from him this year. Prior to the season I saw him as a potential 2nd round power forward type pick. My opinion of him has slid down as he seems to only display a physical grinder/enforcer type role as his puck control isn't that great.
I'd like to see him add more than just the physical element. Lately he has been picking and choosing when to amp up and throw a big hit, as its either a big hit or none at all, But he is an intimidating factor on the ice.
NHL Grade: 5.5 C
His biggest asset is his physical play and his physical smarts. He also not afraid to fight, and displays a confident attitude on the ice. This alone I think will get him drafted in the middle to late rounds.
--------------------
Team Grade: B
I expected more off him at the start, as he came in quite raw and It has taken a bit for him to adjust. The last month he has been playing with a lot more confidence. He has a long reach and has been making a good first pass.
NHL Grade: Unsure 5D
With the Tigers road trip in November I haven't seen him enough to make an accurate decision. He is a big kid, but needs to work on his balance. Also has a tendency to turn away from physical confrontations. He has a lot of things to work on before He makes it into an nhl lineup.
------------------------
Team Grade: B
He is behind the top 6 and is not a physical 3rd liner, so by default he gets dropped to the 4th line and rotates with some of the rookies. Next year he will be expected to take on more of an offensive role. He has shown flashes of brilliance and I think once playoff comes he will be a constant on the 4th line. He hasn't seen a whole lot of icetime with his injuries but I think he is capable of putting up a few more points.
NHL Grade: Unsure
He has some speed and skill but as an 18 year late bloomer he wont be on the nhl radar until he can put up some numbers.
--------------------------------
Team Grade: B+
Leier has been a victim to the numbers game at the forward position. But he has tried to do whatever is necessary to get icetime. He has tried to play a physical role on the ice, and he has shown that he is an above average fighter.
NHL Grade: Unsure
A 17 who hasn't seen a whole lot of icetime with the Tigers. I do see a bit of upside in him at the whl level but with limited ice in the WHL he hasn't played enough to show he is draft material.
--------------------------------
Team Grade: B
I thought the Tigers used him a tad too much early in the season. He has skill but he wasn't nearly quite adjusted to the whl speed. He has been playing ok recently. Patrik shows an impressive ability at digging the puck out of the corners, and the ability to take a hit really well against guys much bigger than him. For a small guy he plays pretty well in the corners, and I like his defensive instincts.
NHL Grade: Unsure
He has some skill but his size will be a big disadvantage he will need to overcome. This is also Patrik's draft year but I dont see enough to warrant a pick at this point.
----------------------------------------
Team Grade: B+
Very good upper body physical strength. He knows his role and despite missing a couple years with concussion problems he is willing to do the dirty work if needed. He has a hint of skill that he displays every once in a while but his 2 years injured from hockey has limited that ability in coming out. Along with zakaryan barring trades I think he will be a constant on the 4th line once the playoffs rolls around. He took a big unsuspecting hit a couple games ago and I believe he is out with a concussion.
NHL Grade: 1.5 D
A first year whl'er at 19 is pretty rare. Dezman sees limited ice with the Tigers. Its too bad he had concussion problems because who knows what he could have accomplished with a couple more years of whl experience.
------------------------------------------------
Team Grade: B-
The reason I dropped him so low is because of a couple things. He had a poor start to the season, and I think he is capable of much more compared to his ability. He also given up to many unforced errors to my liking. I think he is over-evaluating his ability and not playing up to par.
NHL Grade: 3.5 B
Jace Coyle's first pass, passing instincts is a huge weakness. He frequently ignores the first open man then rifles a wrist shot half a foot off the ice to relatively covered players.
He has also made to many giveaways for a 20 year old nhl prospet. He posseses elite level nhl speed and stamina, but his hockey sense is below average. His style is more of an offensive defenceman but his shot is just average. I dont see that much to get excited about.
--------------------------------------------
Team Grade: B-
Valk has been victim of the numbers game on forward, and has seen limited ice. Unless he can find a way to generate more chances he will continue to see spot duty and he could be the odd man out during playoff time. He has however had a couple pretty good games lately.
When opponents see Valk on the ice their eyes tend to light up thinking they can get in a good hit, and Valk hasn't been able to use a quick lateral ability to get out of the way. He will be expected to produce more points next year. This year is a year for him to get his feet wet.
NHL Grade: Unsure
------------------------------------------------
Tigers Christmas list
1. They are playing better defensively as of late. However I would still like a solid #1 two way defenseman to play along with Matt Konan as the top shut down pair.
Coyle and Carr would be better served as a solid #2 pairing. Then Owuya, and Bunsinius/McKay/parkonnen would fight it out for the last spot. Although there would be a slight complication of having too many defenceman.
2.I would also like to see quicker puck movement on their powerplay. 3 or 4 quick passes then a shot.
3. More scoring from sources other than Vey and Etem or they will be heavily keyed on. I'd like to see more low shots from the point that aren't shot right into a defenders shinpads.
The team grade is based upon the players ability and more-so towards how the player is performing up to his ability.
With the NHL Grade I'm going to use the Hockey's Future rating scale. It is a rating out of 1-10 for the players NHL ability, and a grade from A-F on their potential of hitting their expected ability.
-------------------------------------
Linden Vey
Team Grade: A+
Nothing more can be asked of him. Some games he is a man among boys on the ice. Coming to games as a fan you expect him to get a point or two a game, and he usually delivers. Kills penalties, plays the powerplay, his only knock is his physicality,
however he has a touch of Pavel Datsyuk in him, he would rather steal the puck cleanly than ride a player into the boards and it works for him.
NHL Grade: 7B
Above average skill in every facet. He is incredibly smart, has excellent body positioning, adapts well to changes, excellent conditioning, and skilled which is why I think he will be in the nhl someday.
He is one of those guys that wont necessarily be on the Kings radar to make an immediate high impact and become a superstar but he will get a couple years in the minors then work his way up. I think eventually he will be good enough to be a 2nd-3rd line caliber player. His smarts and adaptability make me beleive that he could possibly be a surprise player and have an outside shot at first line material.
-------------------------------------
Hunter Shinkaruk
Team Grade: A
After missing his 15 yr old season in midget he has made a pretty big impression on the Tigers roster. It took him 10 games or so before he had the confidence to take that next step. The Tigers had a small hole in trying to fit a skill player into
the top 6 and Shinkaruk has filled that hole rather well. His offensive potential looks bright, and he plays that dirty shirt style hockey. He has offensive smarts and is one of the better Tigers at blocking shooting and passing lanes, and has the
potential to be an effective penalty killer.
NHL Grade: 7.5D (Still a little too early to tell, hence the D)
With his draft year not until 2013 he will be on the radar for quite sometime. I could see him being a really high nhl pick in the future if he can keep improving.
----------------------------------------------------------------
Emerson Etem
Team Grade: A+
A Slow start but that has long passed, he is a threat to score every night. Etem and Vey have developed incredible chemistry together on the ice, and it is a pleasure to watch them perform. Emerson Leads the league in short handed goals with 5.
NHL Grade: 7.5B
Incredible straight line speed. Very accurate shot, and long reach.
Some scouts have yellow flags about him saying his game is one dimensional, but he has added another tool as a potential penalty killer. His long reach and straight line speed makes him a good defensive weapon as well as he's someone who can go on the offense if given a chance and still get back in time. I think his transition from the whl to nhl will be fairly quick, in that he wont spend a lot of time in the ahl, maybe a year at most. Its either NHL or WHL with him next year.
----------------------
Devan Dubyk
Team Grade: A-
Cant ask for more from a backup goaltender, he was challenging Bunz to become the starter when Bunz was finding his game. I think he is the perfect backup goalie. He is a Positional goalie, and likes to shove rebounds into the corners or out of play.
NHL Grade: 2.5 C
I dont think he has what it takes to be an NHL goalie. There is a slight glimmer of potential, but I'm not sure if he can keep up a strong starter type pace for an entire season on a minor pro team.
He played phenomenal hockey and single handily earned the Tigers 4 points against Red Deer early in the season. I think Dubyk should find those game tapes and re-watch them. If he can find that form on a consistent basis he might be able to turn some heads in the pro level, But a whl goalie who has never been a starter might have trouble finding a pro team to play on.
---------------------
Wacey Hamilton
Team Grade: A+
His leadership on and off the ice is outstanding. He gets an A by default by coming back to the Tigers and turning down 2 AHL contracts. He is very good at creating room in the neutral zone, and for a smaller type body on the ice displays a physical ability. He shows toughness playing through injuries and has a higher than average skillset at the whl level. I wonder if he needs different elbow pads he is always adjusting them on the ice :)
NHL Grade: 4.5B
He is one of those players that his potential is in between the NHL and AHL. Wacey does have a high determination and work ethic which is why I think he would be a definite asset on an ahl team. I see him as more of a career minor league type player, but I am in favor of throwing him in the ahl farm team and seeing what he can do with it. When I think of Wacey I think of Former Tiger Vernon Fiddler.
---------------------------
Cole Grbavac
Team Grade: A-
He brings energy, and plays a power forward type grinding role. Not afraid to drop the mitts when he needs to. He has tripled his numbers from last year and that has come from hard work. I like his energy level and he is an aggressive and protects the puck well along the boards.
NHL Grade: 3C
I like his size, his toughness, his energy and his play in the corners, however his offensive ability at the next level is pretty limited. He is the prototypical 3rd line player.
I think he has the potential to stick around in the ahl playing a middleweight crash bang grinder unsung hero type role. He could develop into a 3rd/4th line ahl'er but I would hate to see him loose a potential college scholarship over a couple years in the ahl. From what I heard Grbavac had a solid camp with the Dallas stars in pre-season I wonder if they invite him back next year.
----------------------------
Tyler Bunz
Team Grade: A-
A bit of an inconsistent start but he has made a ton of high quality saves. He has gotten real hot lately and has been a big factor in the Tigers recent success. He is an elite level whl goalie.
NHL Grade: 7.5 C
Extremely mobile and athletic in net, he is a positional goalie with very good reflexes.
He has the ability to make high quality saves look routine, he also has a pretty good one on one ability. He likes to handle the puck and help out the defensman. I'm not really an expert on goaltenders but I think he has the potential to be at least an nhl backup.
----------------------------------------------------
Tyler Pitlick
Team Grade: B+
The former NCAA'er had a pretty slow start but lately he has been playing really well. For the Tigers to make some noise in the playoffs they will need both scoring lines to score regularly. Tyler Pitlick brings a dynamic offensive ability 5 on 5 and if Pitlick were to catch fire it would help vault the Tigers into an elite level whl team.
NHL Grade: 7.5 C
He has the size and skill to play in a top 6 role. He has a big body presence and the capability to throw punishing hits. If he keeps his feet moving, and can keep a constant effort level in both zones he may have second line, possibly first line potential. I like him better as a winger over a center.
-------------------------------------------
Ryan Harrison
Team Grade: B
Speedster impressed in early parts of the season. He is a bit overshadowed when he plays alongside Linden Vey and Emerson Etem, but he has the speed and skill to score at the whl. I think he plays fairly consistent but I'd like to see him emerge and become a bigger scoring threat. I think he is a similar player to Wacey Hamilton, albeit 2 years younger.
NHL Grade: 4.5C
-------------------------------------
Mathew Konan
Team Grade: A-
I think his game has improved by huge margins this year. He has a mean streak in him like Robyn Regher of the flames and tries to smash people into the boards. His long reach and quickness has swatted away many opponent scoring chances. I think he is the Tigers most valuable defender.
NHL Grade: 5.5 C
A defensive defenceman. He looks like he still needs to grow into his frame a little. I like his quickness and his reach. I also like his shot from the point as its usually a foot and a half off the ice perfect for tipping, however he doesn't get to use it much. One knack i have on him is that sometimes he takes his time getting back to the front of the net after pinning a guy along the boards.
Similar to former Tiger Gord Baldwin except konan is slightly quickerl, and slightly taller. He has also shown in the past a willingness to fight. I think he is good enough to get a shot in the ahl, and with time and seasoning he could possibly get a shot as an nhl depth defenceman.
------------------
Thomas Carr 3B
Team Grade: B
Incredible start to the season, then fell off the map with inconsistent play, and now he is back to being relatively consistent. He is able to take a hit and not retaliate. He needs to focus on playing a smart defensive game and make good first passes.
NHL Grade: 3C
He works hard, and will stand up for teammates. His defensive hockey sense is above average, his skill and skating is average. I think it would be good for him to play CIS hockey next year.
--------------------------------
Dylan Bredo
Team Grade: B+
Bredo has made big strides in his game this year. He does a lot of the little things right. He plays a smart game. When everyone is healthy he fits in to the Tigers 3rd line really well.
NHL Grade: Unsure 5.5D (Subject To change)
Big body, skill isn't overwhelming but he is a smart player. Not afraid to fight. He would project as a 3rd line defensive checker. He might be worth a late round pick.
---------------
Reid Petryk
Team Grade B+
Reid has done a good job on the 4th line with rotating rookies. He was anchoring the 4th line, but lately with a couple guys away at camps and shinkaruk out with the flu Petryk has been giving more ice time and he has potted a few goals.
NHL Grade: Unsure
I do see an offensive ability in him that hasn't quite come out yet, he might be a bit of a late bloomer, and he has pretty good size. I think he needs to show a little more scoring prowess to be a late round draft pick, as he projects to be more of a 3rd/4th line scorer.
----------------------
Scott McKay
Team Grade: B
+/- ratio is very good. I like his defensive smarts. The Tigers have recently put him on forward with Etem,shinkaruk, and Dezman out of the lineup.
NHL Grade: Unsure / 3C
Similar to Thomas Carr. I'd like to watch him more as the season progresses, but right now I dont see anything that stands out.
---------------
Dylan Bunsinius
Team Grade: B
A lot more mobile this year. Sometimes a victim to the Tigers defensive numbers. He does make rookie mistakes every once in a while.
NHL Grade: 6.5 D
A bit early to tell. But I like a lot of things about his potential. I think he is a bit underrated, but his skill is still a little raw. He has shown flashes of skill and smarts that remind me of jay bouwmeester.
He has a very good first pass ability. He has big body type at 6'2 and skates fairly well. I think he has a shot at getting drafted because of the potential he shows.
--------------------------------
Kale Kessey
Team Grade: B
This wont be a popular opinion but I expected a little more from him this year. Prior to the season I saw him as a potential 2nd round power forward type pick. My opinion of him has slid down as he seems to only display a physical grinder/enforcer type role as his puck control isn't that great.
I'd like to see him add more than just the physical element. Lately he has been picking and choosing when to amp up and throw a big hit, as its either a big hit or none at all, But he is an intimidating factor on the ice.
NHL Grade: 5.5 C
His biggest asset is his physical play and his physical smarts. He also not afraid to fight, and displays a confident attitude on the ice. This alone I think will get him drafted in the middle to late rounds.
--------------------
Sebastien Owuya
Team Grade: B
I expected more off him at the start, as he came in quite raw and It has taken a bit for him to adjust. The last month he has been playing with a lot more confidence. He has a long reach and has been making a good first pass.
NHL Grade: Unsure 5D
With the Tigers road trip in November I haven't seen him enough to make an accurate decision. He is a big kid, but needs to work on his balance. Also has a tendency to turn away from physical confrontations. He has a lot of things to work on before He makes it into an nhl lineup.
------------------------
Vahe Zakaryan
Team Grade: B
He is behind the top 6 and is not a physical 3rd liner, so by default he gets dropped to the 4th line and rotates with some of the rookies. Next year he will be expected to take on more of an offensive role. He has shown flashes of brilliance and I think once playoff comes he will be a constant on the 4th line. He hasn't seen a whole lot of icetime with his injuries but I think he is capable of putting up a few more points.
NHL Grade: Unsure
He has some speed and skill but as an 18 year late bloomer he wont be on the nhl radar until he can put up some numbers.
--------------------------------
Boston Leier
Team Grade: B+
Leier has been a victim to the numbers game at the forward position. But he has tried to do whatever is necessary to get icetime. He has tried to play a physical role on the ice, and he has shown that he is an above average fighter.
NHL Grade: Unsure
A 17 who hasn't seen a whole lot of icetime with the Tigers. I do see a bit of upside in him at the whl level but with limited ice in the WHL he hasn't played enough to show he is draft material.
--------------------------------
Patrik Parkkonen
Team Grade: B
I thought the Tigers used him a tad too much early in the season. He has skill but he wasn't nearly quite adjusted to the whl speed. He has been playing ok recently. Patrik shows an impressive ability at digging the puck out of the corners, and the ability to take a hit really well against guys much bigger than him. For a small guy he plays pretty well in the corners, and I like his defensive instincts.
NHL Grade: Unsure
He has some skill but his size will be a big disadvantage he will need to overcome. This is also Patrik's draft year but I dont see enough to warrant a pick at this point.
----------------------------------------
Sam Dezman
Team Grade: B+
Very good upper body physical strength. He knows his role and despite missing a couple years with concussion problems he is willing to do the dirty work if needed. He has a hint of skill that he displays every once in a while but his 2 years injured from hockey has limited that ability in coming out. Along with zakaryan barring trades I think he will be a constant on the 4th line once the playoffs rolls around. He took a big unsuspecting hit a couple games ago and I believe he is out with a concussion.
NHL Grade: 1.5 D
A first year whl'er at 19 is pretty rare. Dezman sees limited ice with the Tigers. Its too bad he had concussion problems because who knows what he could have accomplished with a couple more years of whl experience.
------------------------------------------------
Jace Coyle
Team Grade: B-
The reason I dropped him so low is because of a couple things. He had a poor start to the season, and I think he is capable of much more compared to his ability. He also given up to many unforced errors to my liking. I think he is over-evaluating his ability and not playing up to par.
NHL Grade: 3.5 B
Jace Coyle's first pass, passing instincts is a huge weakness. He frequently ignores the first open man then rifles a wrist shot half a foot off the ice to relatively covered players.
He has also made to many giveaways for a 20 year old nhl prospet. He posseses elite level nhl speed and stamina, but his hockey sense is below average. His style is more of an offensive defenceman but his shot is just average. I dont see that much to get excited about.
--------------------------------------------
Curtis Valk
Team Grade: B-
Valk has been victim of the numbers game on forward, and has seen limited ice. Unless he can find a way to generate more chances he will continue to see spot duty and he could be the odd man out during playoff time. He has however had a couple pretty good games lately.
When opponents see Valk on the ice their eyes tend to light up thinking they can get in a good hit, and Valk hasn't been able to use a quick lateral ability to get out of the way. He will be expected to produce more points next year. This year is a year for him to get his feet wet.
NHL Grade: Unsure
------------------------------------------------
Tigers Christmas list
1. They are playing better defensively as of late. However I would still like a solid #1 two way defenseman to play along with Matt Konan as the top shut down pair.
Coyle and Carr would be better served as a solid #2 pairing. Then Owuya, and Bunsinius/McKay/parkonnen would fight it out for the last spot. Although there would be a slight complication of having too many defenceman.
2.I would also like to see quicker puck movement on their powerplay. 3 or 4 quick passes then a shot.
3. More scoring from sources other than Vey and Etem or they will be heavily keyed on. I'd like to see more low shots from the point that aren't shot right into a defenders shinpads.
Tuesday, December 21, 2010
Kessy Given 2 Game Suspension
Kale Kessy was suspended 2 games for a 4 minute hitting from behind penalty in the Tigers 5-3 Win over Lethbridge on Saturday. I think 2 games is the right call.
It was listed on the WHL discipline page today.
http://www.whl.ca/page/WHL-discipline
----------------------
Should also be noted that Cason Machacek of Lethbridge was given a one game suspension for a warm-up violation before the game.
-------------------------
Etem named To Team U.S.A
http://www.usahockey.com/world_junior_championship_2011/default.aspx?id=295910
It was listed on the WHL discipline page today.
http://www.whl.ca/page/WHL-discipline
----------------------
Should also be noted that Cason Machacek of Lethbridge was given a one game suspension for a warm-up violation before the game.
-------------------------
Etem named To Team U.S.A
http://www.usahockey.com/world_junior_championship_2011/default.aspx?id=295910
Saturday, December 18, 2010
Tigers Defeat Canes 5-3
Tonight was another classic Canes Vs Tiger game. Hard hits, a few fights and intense game atmosphere. Lethbridge Cam Braes knocked out Wacey Hamilton with a couple punches and Boston Leier TKO'd Brady Ramsay as the refs stopped the fight after a wicked punch.
The Canes were in the giving mood as they gave up a shorthanded goal To Linden Vey then took a handful of undisciplined penalties in the second period to give the Tigers a full 2 minute 5 on 3, and took another penalty during the 5on3.
The Tigers were only credited with 1 powerplay goal, but they scored a second goal soon after the last penalty expired. Curtis Valk was then sprung on a breakaway a minute later and made a nice deke backhand to put the Tigers up 4-1. (The canes pulled goaltender Dylan Tait replaced by Brandon Anderson, Tait looked visibly frustrated at this point good move by their coach)
The Tigers went into autopilot mode and the Canes gave the Tigers a scare scoring 2 goals in the first 10 minutes of the third. However they would fail to get the equalizer, and Jace Coyle made a risky 100 yard shot into the empty net to seal a 5-3 win.
The Tigers finish the first half 1 point back of Kootenay, tied with Red Deer with 2 games in hand on both teams.
The Tigers now have 10 days off for the Christmas break, then have a very important home and home with the Kootenay Ice. I'll be doing a little first half report card about the Tigers play which I'll post in a few days.
Scoring Summary
1. M.H Vey, (21) , 11:23 (SH)
2. LET Sutter, (2) (Fyten), 0:42
2. M.H Coyle, (4) (Vey, Hamilton), 6:44 (PP)
2. M.H Vey, (22) (Pitlick, Hamilton), 9:00
2. M.H Valk, (2) (Grbavac), 10:19
3. LET Hood, (7) (Oslanski, Kuvaev), 1:10
3. LET Kizuik, (1) (Sofillas, Maxwell), 8:17
3. M.H Coyle, (5) , 19:31 (EN)
3 Stars
1. M.H - 18 Curtis Valk
2. M.H - 15 Linden Vey
3. LET - 11 Michael Sofillas
Links
Gamesheet
Hurricane Watch - Hurricanes Blog
The Canes were in the giving mood as they gave up a shorthanded goal To Linden Vey then took a handful of undisciplined penalties in the second period to give the Tigers a full 2 minute 5 on 3, and took another penalty during the 5on3.
The Tigers were only credited with 1 powerplay goal, but they scored a second goal soon after the last penalty expired. Curtis Valk was then sprung on a breakaway a minute later and made a nice deke backhand to put the Tigers up 4-1. (The canes pulled goaltender Dylan Tait replaced by Brandon Anderson, Tait looked visibly frustrated at this point good move by their coach)
The Tigers went into autopilot mode and the Canes gave the Tigers a scare scoring 2 goals in the first 10 minutes of the third. However they would fail to get the equalizer, and Jace Coyle made a risky 100 yard shot into the empty net to seal a 5-3 win.
The Tigers finish the first half 1 point back of Kootenay, tied with Red Deer with 2 games in hand on both teams.
The Tigers now have 10 days off for the Christmas break, then have a very important home and home with the Kootenay Ice. I'll be doing a little first half report card about the Tigers play which I'll post in a few days.
Scoring Summary
1. M.H Vey, (21) , 11:23 (SH)
2. LET Sutter, (2) (Fyten), 0:42
2. M.H Coyle, (4) (Vey, Hamilton), 6:44 (PP)
2. M.H Vey, (22) (Pitlick, Hamilton), 9:00
2. M.H Valk, (2) (Grbavac), 10:19
3. LET Hood, (7) (Oslanski, Kuvaev), 1:10
3. LET Kizuik, (1) (Sofillas, Maxwell), 8:17
3. M.H Coyle, (5) , 19:31 (EN)
3 Stars
1. M.H - 18 Curtis Valk
2. M.H - 15 Linden Vey
3. LET - 11 Michael Sofillas
Links
Gamesheet
Hurricane Watch - Hurricanes Blog
Friday, December 17, 2010
Tigers Defeat Canes 2-1
Tyler Bunz played another outstanding game, and the Hockey Gods were smiling on him today as The Canes rang the post about 4 times. Tyler Bunz now has a G.A.A of 2.39 which is 2nd best in the whl, and a .918 save percentage which is 4th best. The Tigers offense has been simmering lately but Tyler Bunz amazing play in net has picked up the slack.
The Hurricanes always seem to play the Tigers tough. These two teams will lay it all on the line tomorrow as it is the last game before Christmas for both teams.
Hunter Shinkaruk did not dress, Emerson Etem is away at world junior camp, but Vahe Zakaryan was back in the lineup tonight returning from injury. The Canes had a couple defenseman out with injuries so they called up 15 year old Joel Topping.
Scoring Summary
2. M.H Vey, (20) (Pitlick, Carr), 8:37 (PP)
2. LET Berglund, (8) , 18:06
3. M.H McKay, (1) , 1:57
3 Stars
1. M.H - 30 Tyler Bunz
2. M.H - 7 Tyler Pitlick
3. LET - 15 Max Ross
I expect Tomorrow should be a packed house in the Hat. The Tigers Vs Hurricane games are usually pretty exciting to watch.
Links
Game Summary
Hurricane Watch - Lethbridge Blog
Medicine Hat News Article
The Hurricanes always seem to play the Tigers tough. These two teams will lay it all on the line tomorrow as it is the last game before Christmas for both teams.
Hunter Shinkaruk did not dress, Emerson Etem is away at world junior camp, but Vahe Zakaryan was back in the lineup tonight returning from injury. The Canes had a couple defenseman out with injuries so they called up 15 year old Joel Topping.
Scoring Summary
2. M.H Vey, (20) (Pitlick, Carr), 8:37 (PP)
2. LET Berglund, (8) , 18:06
3. M.H McKay, (1) , 1:57
3 Stars
1. M.H - 30 Tyler Bunz
2. M.H - 7 Tyler Pitlick
3. LET - 15 Max Ross
I expect Tomorrow should be a packed house in the Hat. The Tigers Vs Hurricane games are usually pretty exciting to watch.
Links
Game Summary
Hurricane Watch - Lethbridge Blog
Medicine Hat News Article
Tuesday, December 14, 2010
Tigers Shutout Rockets 2-0
Player News
Hunter Shinkaruk was scratched for tonight, apparently he has a case of the flu and is day-to-day. Emerson Etem will now depart for Team U.S.A's selection camp which starts on Friday. Linden Vey did dress tonight and he apparently got back into the Hat mid-afteroon. He must have been a bit tired as this was his 3rd game in three nights, and he was also a victim of a 6:00 am Toronto phone call this morning :(
Goaltenders Battle
It was a goaltenders battle tonight at the Arena, as both goalies put on a goal-tending clinic. Tyler Bunz was good when called upon and kept the Tigers in the game when the Rockets pushed early, and also stopped a pair of Rocket breakaways. The Rockets and Tigers both hit a couple posts.
GamePlay
It was a pretty intense game out there. The atmosphere resembled a playoff type game and despite the 2-0 score it was a fun game to watch.
Kelowna played with a real strong aggressive fore-check and the Tigers were able to get some chances off their quick transition game. Kelowna was playing very physical in the first two periods. It took the Tigers a good ten minutes of the first period before they were able to adapt and start evening out the scoring chances.
Despite Kelowna's very high work ethic in the first it was the Tigers who scored the games first goal off a rebound. The puck was sitting ten feet in front of the goalie in a little scrum and Tyler Pitlick neatly gave a backhand 2 foot pass over to Jace Coyle who snapped it home.
In the third period Kelowna seemed to tire and the Tigers started getting some quality chances but their goaltenders Adam Brown played a big part in keeping it a one goal game.
Empty Netter
Emerson Etem scored his league leading fifth shorthanded goal. It was a 6-4 late in the game when the Rockets pulled their goaltender.
Player thoughts
I thought Coyle has been in a bit of a funk lately and he played a good first two periods, but reverted to bad habbit's in the third period.
I have been impressed with the improvement of Matt Konan, Sebastien Owuya, Reid Petryk, and Dylan Bredo. The Tigers defense as a whole has been playing better, including Tyler Bunz.
I also like the development of Dylan Businius. His playing style reminds me of Jay Bouwmeester. Businius made a bad mistake tonight passing without looking and gave the Rockets a breakaway, but I see skills in him which makes me think he will be a pretty valuable player down the road as he is still fairly young at 17.
Tyler Pitlick I thought has been playing pretty good lately as well.
Physical Play
There were some big hits thrown from both sides. Sam Dezman was seeing first/second line minutes tonight until he took a big hit from a Kelowna blueliner, and left the game. Near the end of the game a Rocket player took a big hit from Sebastien Owuya along the boards and immediately headed to the bench during their brief 6-4. Rocket players Zak Stebner and Shane McColgan both took big hits but both returned to the game.
The Rockets were Missing Tyson Barrie, last years whl defenceman of the year, and their head coach Ryan Huska who is an assistant for Team Canada this year.
Links
GameSheet
Regan's Rant - he has had some good stuff on his blog about the Rockets Road Trip. It looks like they have been keeping base camp in medicine hat through the past few days and apparently they love eating at Houston's Pizza.
Kelowna Daily Courier
Bc local News
---------------
Tigers Get CHL Top 10 Honorable Mention
With the Tigers Win last night, the Tigers win percentage is now a hair better than Kootenay and Red Deer. They also Tied Red Deer in the standings. Both teams have a game in hand on the Tigers. Kootenay Remains 1 point ahead of them. However Both teams play tonight while the Tigers remain Idle.
http://www.whl.ca/article/bmo-chl-mastercard-top-10-week-13
------------------
Article About Linden Vey receiving a 6:00 am phone call from Yahoo sports.
http://sports.yahoo.com/juniorhockey/news?slug=ss-firstcuts121410
Hunter Shinkaruk was scratched for tonight, apparently he has a case of the flu and is day-to-day. Emerson Etem will now depart for Team U.S.A's selection camp which starts on Friday. Linden Vey did dress tonight and he apparently got back into the Hat mid-afteroon. He must have been a bit tired as this was his 3rd game in three nights, and he was also a victim of a 6:00 am Toronto phone call this morning :(
Goaltenders Battle
It was a goaltenders battle tonight at the Arena, as both goalies put on a goal-tending clinic. Tyler Bunz was good when called upon and kept the Tigers in the game when the Rockets pushed early, and also stopped a pair of Rocket breakaways. The Rockets and Tigers both hit a couple posts.
GamePlay
It was a pretty intense game out there. The atmosphere resembled a playoff type game and despite the 2-0 score it was a fun game to watch.
Kelowna played with a real strong aggressive fore-check and the Tigers were able to get some chances off their quick transition game. Kelowna was playing very physical in the first two periods. It took the Tigers a good ten minutes of the first period before they were able to adapt and start evening out the scoring chances.
Despite Kelowna's very high work ethic in the first it was the Tigers who scored the games first goal off a rebound. The puck was sitting ten feet in front of the goalie in a little scrum and Tyler Pitlick neatly gave a backhand 2 foot pass over to Jace Coyle who snapped it home.
In the third period Kelowna seemed to tire and the Tigers started getting some quality chances but their goaltenders Adam Brown played a big part in keeping it a one goal game.
Empty Netter
Emerson Etem scored his league leading fifth shorthanded goal. It was a 6-4 late in the game when the Rockets pulled their goaltender.
Player thoughts
I thought Coyle has been in a bit of a funk lately and he played a good first two periods, but reverted to bad habbit's in the third period.
I have been impressed with the improvement of Matt Konan, Sebastien Owuya, Reid Petryk, and Dylan Bredo. The Tigers defense as a whole has been playing better, including Tyler Bunz.
I also like the development of Dylan Businius. His playing style reminds me of Jay Bouwmeester. Businius made a bad mistake tonight passing without looking and gave the Rockets a breakaway, but I see skills in him which makes me think he will be a pretty valuable player down the road as he is still fairly young at 17.
Tyler Pitlick I thought has been playing pretty good lately as well.
Physical Play
There were some big hits thrown from both sides. Sam Dezman was seeing first/second line minutes tonight until he took a big hit from a Kelowna blueliner, and left the game. Near the end of the game a Rocket player took a big hit from Sebastien Owuya along the boards and immediately headed to the bench during their brief 6-4. Rocket players Zak Stebner and Shane McColgan both took big hits but both returned to the game.
The Rockets were Missing Tyson Barrie, last years whl defenceman of the year, and their head coach Ryan Huska who is an assistant for Team Canada this year.
Links
GameSheet
Regan's Rant - he has had some good stuff on his blog about the Rockets Road Trip. It looks like they have been keeping base camp in medicine hat through the past few days and apparently they love eating at Houston's Pizza.
Kelowna Daily Courier
Bc local News
---------------
Tigers Get CHL Top 10 Honorable Mention
With the Tigers Win last night, the Tigers win percentage is now a hair better than Kootenay and Red Deer. They also Tied Red Deer in the standings. Both teams have a game in hand on the Tigers. Kootenay Remains 1 point ahead of them. However Both teams play tonight while the Tigers remain Idle.
http://www.whl.ca/article/bmo-chl-mastercard-top-10-week-13
------------------
Article About Linden Vey receiving a 6:00 am phone call from Yahoo sports.
http://sports.yahoo.com/juniorhockey/news?slug=ss-firstcuts121410
Monday, December 13, 2010
Team Canada Camp: Vey Cut
I haven't heard very much about the play of Linden Vey. I did however find box-scores from both selection camp exhibition games. Linden Vey is playing on team white.
Game 1 Gamesheet (Team Red won 4-1)
Game 2 Gamesheet (Team white won 7-5)
Vey was pointless in game one, but In game two Linden Vey had a goal and an assist. It is expected that first cuts will come Tuesday morning. Then their will be one final game Tuesday night, and the final team will be named on Wednesday.
-----------
Vey Released from Selection Camp
Linden Vey was among the first round of cuts Tuesday morning Tough to make an impression after 2 games. I doubt Vey will arrive in time to play tonight against Kelowna, but it is possible if he catches an early flight.
http://www.tsn.ca/world_jrs/story/?id=345454
Game 1 Gamesheet (Team Red won 4-1)
Game 2 Gamesheet (Team white won 7-5)
Vey was pointless in game one, but In game two Linden Vey had a goal and an assist. It is expected that first cuts will come Tuesday morning. Then their will be one final game Tuesday night, and the final team will be named on Wednesday.
-----------
Vey Released from Selection Camp
Linden Vey was among the first round of cuts Tuesday morning Tough to make an impression after 2 games. I doubt Vey will arrive in time to play tonight against Kelowna, but it is possible if he catches an early flight.
http://www.tsn.ca/world_jrs/story/?id=345454
Sunday, December 12, 2010
Tigers Defeat Lethbridge 6-5 SO
I took a bit of a break the last week, hence the no recaps on the last two Tigers games.
Tonight's game in Lethbridge sounded like a barn burner. The Tigers came back twice from 2 goal deficits. There were a bundle of fights, and the Tigers pulled Deven Dubyk after the 5th Hurricane goal. Bunz was perfect stopping all 13 shots he faced in relief. The Tigers are now also a perfect 4-0 in shootouts.
Tonigh'ts 2 points was doubly good as Red Deer and Kootenay both lost tonight so the Tigers inch closer to both of them.
Scoring Summary
1. LET Berglund, (7) (Ross, Oslanski), 5:03 (PP)
1. M.H Petryk, (4) (Pitlick, McKay), 7:35
1. LET Sutter, (1) (Fyten, Machacek), 13:13
1. LET Braes, (13) (Fyten, Reddington), 16:49
2. M.H Konan, (3) (Harrison), 2:59 (PP)
2. M.H Etem, (20) (Pitlick, Coyle), 5:25 (PP)
2. LET Ross, (9) (Maxwell), 7:35
2. LET Fyten, (11) (Sutter, Ryckman), 8:20
3. M.H Hamilton, (10) (Pitlick, Dezman), 5:22
3. M.H Pitlick, (13) (Carr, Coyle), 17:45
3 Stars
1. LET - 16 Austin Fyten
2. M.H - 7 Tyler Pitlick
3. LET - 19 Brody Sutter
Links
Gamesheet
Hurricanes Watch blog
Medicine Hat News Article
Lethbridge Herald Article
Late Edit:
I forgot to mention Patrik Parkkonen might be injured. He never returned to the ice during the last couple periods against Chilliwack, and he was scratched last night in lethbridge.
Tonight's game in Lethbridge sounded like a barn burner. The Tigers came back twice from 2 goal deficits. There were a bundle of fights, and the Tigers pulled Deven Dubyk after the 5th Hurricane goal. Bunz was perfect stopping all 13 shots he faced in relief. The Tigers are now also a perfect 4-0 in shootouts.
Tonigh'ts 2 points was doubly good as Red Deer and Kootenay both lost tonight so the Tigers inch closer to both of them.
Scoring Summary
1. LET Berglund, (7) (Ross, Oslanski), 5:03 (PP)
1. M.H Petryk, (4) (Pitlick, McKay), 7:35
1. LET Sutter, (1) (Fyten, Machacek), 13:13
1. LET Braes, (13) (Fyten, Reddington), 16:49
2. M.H Konan, (3) (Harrison), 2:59 (PP)
2. M.H Etem, (20) (Pitlick, Coyle), 5:25 (PP)
2. LET Ross, (9) (Maxwell), 7:35
2. LET Fyten, (11) (Sutter, Ryckman), 8:20
3. M.H Hamilton, (10) (Pitlick, Dezman), 5:22
3. M.H Pitlick, (13) (Carr, Coyle), 17:45
3 Stars
1. LET - 16 Austin Fyten
2. M.H - 7 Tyler Pitlick
3. LET - 19 Brody Sutter
Links
Gamesheet
Hurricanes Watch blog
Medicine Hat News Article
Lethbridge Herald Article
Late Edit:
I forgot to mention Patrik Parkkonen might be injured. He never returned to the ice during the last couple periods against Chilliwack, and he was scratched last night in lethbridge.
Tuesday, December 7, 2010
Etem makes U.S.A, Pitlick Skipped.
Team U.S.A announced their world Junior evaluation rosters this morning.
Tyler Pitlick was not on the list. Tyler Pitlick was cut from the U.S.A summer camp, and recently the U.S.A received word that 4 players who were playing in the AHL would be allowed to participate, so that might have factored into the equation.
Emerson Etem was named to the team. I suspected he would be named as he "tweeted" from his twitter account that he was excited to represent the west coat of the U.S.A, however he has since deleted that comment.
The Tigers will have 3 players competing in world tournaments with Linden Vey, Emerson Etem, and Hunter Shinkaruk. Shinkaruk is the only player guaranteed to make their respective teams. Vey, and Etem will both need to impress to make their teams. Bob Mackenzie has said that the roster for team Canada will be fairly wide open.
Team Canada's camp starts on December 11th, which means Vey has one more game as a Tigers before he heads off. Emerson Etem camp gets started the following friday (17th) so he has a couple games with the Tigers before heading off.
Shinkaruks tournament starts on December 28th so he has a few games to go yet.
Tyler Pitlick was not on the list. Tyler Pitlick was cut from the U.S.A summer camp, and recently the U.S.A received word that 4 players who were playing in the AHL would be allowed to participate, so that might have factored into the equation.
Emerson Etem was named to the team. I suspected he would be named as he "tweeted" from his twitter account that he was excited to represent the west coat of the U.S.A, however he has since deleted that comment.
The Tigers will have 3 players competing in world tournaments with Linden Vey, Emerson Etem, and Hunter Shinkaruk. Shinkaruk is the only player guaranteed to make their respective teams. Vey, and Etem will both need to impress to make their teams. Bob Mackenzie has said that the roster for team Canada will be fairly wide open.
Team Canada's camp starts on December 11th, which means Vey has one more game as a Tigers before he heads off. Emerson Etem camp gets started the following friday (17th) so he has a couple games with the Tigers before heading off.
Shinkaruks tournament starts on December 28th so he has a few games to go yet.
Sunday, December 5, 2010
Tigers Defeat Kootenay 3-2 OT
An excellent finish to the Tigers road trip. They went 4-1-1-0 (9 of 12 points) against 6 pretty tough teams who had records above .500. Jeff Bromley on his blog stated that the Tigers played a real physical game, and he felt that Kootenay's goaltender Nathan Lieuwen kept the Ice in the game.
Scoring Summary
1. M.H Petryk, (3) (Grbavac, Shinkaruk), 8:56
2. KTN McNabb, (3) (Dirk, Fraser), 17:04 (PP)
3. M.H Vey, (19) (Etem, Pitlick), 10:20 (PP)
3. KTN McNabb, (4) (Fraser, Dirk), 12:09
OT. M.H Hamilton, (9) (Etem, Parkkonen), 1:37
Shots: 36-30 In Favor of the Tigers
3 Stars
1. KTN - 3 Brayden McNabb
2. M.H - 5 Thomas Carr
3. KTN - 31 Nathan Lieuwen
The Tigers return home and face the Moose Jaw warriors on Wednesday.
Game Links
Gamesheet
Jeff Bromley's Ice Chips
Hollick's Between the Lines
Daily Townsmen
Scoring Summary
1. M.H Petryk, (3) (Grbavac, Shinkaruk), 8:56
2. KTN McNabb, (3) (Dirk, Fraser), 17:04 (PP)
3. M.H Vey, (19) (Etem, Pitlick), 10:20 (PP)
3. KTN McNabb, (4) (Fraser, Dirk), 12:09
OT. M.H Hamilton, (9) (Etem, Parkkonen), 1:37
Shots: 36-30 In Favor of the Tigers
3 Stars
1. KTN - 3 Brayden McNabb
2. M.H - 5 Thomas Carr
3. KTN - 31 Nathan Lieuwen
The Tigers return home and face the Moose Jaw warriors on Wednesday.
Game Links
Gamesheet
Jeff Bromley's Ice Chips
Hollick's Between the Lines
Daily Townsmen
Friday, December 3, 2010
Spokane Defeats Tigers 3-2 OT
Scoring Summary
2. SPO Johnson, (17) (Gal, Cowen), 12:24 (PP)
3. M.H Pitlick, (12) (Shinkaruk), 1:46
3. M.H Kessy, (5) (Hamilton, Coyle), 2:56
3. SPO Johnson, (18) (Uher, Koper), 5:27
OT. SPO Bardaro, (9) (Kuhn), 3:12 (PP)
Overtime
The Tigers Ryan Harrison took a slashing penalty in overtime. During the Kill Linden Vey scooped up a bad pass from Spokane Chief Anthony Bardaro, rushed down the ice and hit the post. Seconds later the same Spokane player Anthony Bardara scored the game winner.
3 Stars
1.Tyler Johnson
2.Tyler Bunz
3.Anthony Bardaro
Links
GameSheet
The Tigers finish their road trip Saturday taking the long trek to Cranbrook to face the Kootenay Ice in an important divisional game. The Tigers are 3-1-1-0 with 7 of 10 points in their road trip so far.
2. SPO Johnson, (17) (Gal, Cowen), 12:24 (PP)
3. M.H Pitlick, (12) (Shinkaruk), 1:46
3. M.H Kessy, (5) (Hamilton, Coyle), 2:56
3. SPO Johnson, (18) (Uher, Koper), 5:27
OT. SPO Bardaro, (9) (Kuhn), 3:12 (PP)
Overtime
The Tigers Ryan Harrison took a slashing penalty in overtime. During the Kill Linden Vey scooped up a bad pass from Spokane Chief Anthony Bardaro, rushed down the ice and hit the post. Seconds later the same Spokane player Anthony Bardara scored the game winner.
3 Stars
1.Tyler Johnson
2.Tyler Bunz
3.Anthony Bardaro
Links
GameSheet
The Tigers finish their road trip Saturday taking the long trek to Cranbrook to face the Kootenay Ice in an important divisional game. The Tigers are 3-1-1-0 with 7 of 10 points in their road trip so far.
Thursday, December 2, 2010
Linden Vey Named WHL Player of the Month
I thought it was a no-contest. With perhaps an exception of the last game, Vey has been a dominant force in November. So much so that his development this year would be better suited for the ahl, but thankfully age rules restrict that:)
WHL Blurb
The 19 year-old forward from Wakaw, SK led all WHL scorers collected 29 points through the month of November finding the net 13 times and accumulating 16 assists to go along with a remarkable +20 rating. Vey went on a seven game goal scoring streak during November netting 10 goals during that span and 21 points. Some highlights include Vey scoring his third career hat-trick against the Swift Current Broncos and his second five point effort of the season in a victory over the Brandon Wheat Kings.
WHL LINK
---------
Another interesting development is that Brayden Schenn is now going back to Brandon.
Sources
Luber's Lounge
Brandon Wheat Kings Official Page
Schenn would be a lock for the world junior team. He might only play a few games with Brandon(if any at all) before Canada's Junior Team try-out camp begins. Schenn could be highly sought out trade bait coming closer to the trade deadline, if Brandon decided to move him. Schenn would certainly be a big boost to Brandon's offense in the meantime.
There are also rumors abuzz on the whiteboard that Brandon has a deal in the works to deal Brayden Schenn to an Eastern Conference team. Saskatoon's name has been thrown out quite a bit.
WHL Blurb
The 19 year-old forward from Wakaw, SK led all WHL scorers collected 29 points through the month of November finding the net 13 times and accumulating 16 assists to go along with a remarkable +20 rating. Vey went on a seven game goal scoring streak during November netting 10 goals during that span and 21 points. Some highlights include Vey scoring his third career hat-trick against the Swift Current Broncos and his second five point effort of the season in a victory over the Brandon Wheat Kings.
WHL LINK
---------
Another interesting development is that Brayden Schenn is now going back to Brandon.
Sources
Luber's Lounge
Brandon Wheat Kings Official Page
Schenn would be a lock for the world junior team. He might only play a few games with Brandon(if any at all) before Canada's Junior Team try-out camp begins. Schenn could be highly sought out trade bait coming closer to the trade deadline, if Brandon decided to move him. Schenn would certainly be a big boost to Brandon's offense in the meantime.
There are also rumors abuzz on the whiteboard that Brandon has a deal in the works to deal Brayden Schenn to an Eastern Conference team. Saskatoon's name has been thrown out quite a bit.
Wednesday, December 1, 2010
Americans Defeat Tigers 4-1
The Tigers played their 4th game in 5 nights, combined with the fact they didn't arrive in Kennewick until 4:30 am due to heavy snow, you can bet they didn't have their legs under them. Fatigue was also evident by the penalties they took in the second half of the game. Deven Dubyk started in goal.
Scoring Summary
2. T.C Messier, (1) , 3:12
2. M.H Petryk, (2) (Dezman, Owuya), 12:38
2. T.C Rankin, (7) (Shinnimin, Hughesman), 15:20
3. T.C Wilgosh, (5) (Messier, Macek), 2:31
3. T.C Macek, (7) (Conrad, Wilgosh), 9:00
Coincidentally Linden Vey's 8 game point streak was also snapped.
Shots: 40-29 In Favor of Tri-CIty
3 Stars
1.Drew Owsley
2.Mason Wilgosh
3.Brooks Macek
Game Links
GameSheet
Tri-City American Blog - Pre-Game Blog
Tri-City Herald - Pregame News Article
Scoring Summary
2. T.C Messier, (1) , 3:12
2. M.H Petryk, (2) (Dezman, Owuya), 12:38
2. T.C Rankin, (7) (Shinnimin, Hughesman), 15:20
3. T.C Wilgosh, (5) (Messier, Macek), 2:31
3. T.C Macek, (7) (Conrad, Wilgosh), 9:00
Coincidentally Linden Vey's 8 game point streak was also snapped.
Shots: 40-29 In Favor of Tri-CIty
3 Stars
1.Drew Owsley
2.Mason Wilgosh
3.Brooks Macek
Game Links
GameSheet
Tri-City American Blog - Pre-Game Blog
Tri-City Herald - Pregame News Article
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)