Stars - Broncos Preview

Better Late than never! It's been a busy one today at the Civic Center, but here is tonight's preview for the Battlefords North Stars (10-5-1-0) and the Humboldt Broncos (9-7-0-1).

Having just arrived to the rink, immediately I've noticed some strange things with Humboldt's lineup:

- No Braaten, Keller, Johnson, Kotyk, Allan.

Either they've run into a ton of injuries, or coach Dean Brockman is sending a pretty fierce message to his team after a 3-2 loss in Kindersley last night.



Who's Hot For Humboldt:

With no Braaten in the lineup, the honus will now be on the shoulders of Cameron Gibson and Justin Buzzeo to carry the Broncos offensively. Gibson has played particularly well against the Stars so far this season.

Who's on D:

Kyle Cowan remains one of the most consistent Humboldt d-men, and provides his team with some poise and confidence on the blue-line. Humboldt defence is a minor shade of it's former self so far this season, and if things are going to improve, they'll need bigger contributions from players like Calum McCloud, Josh Roach and Cade Kimery.

Who' in Goal:

With Matt LaRochelle no longer in the fold, this is Andrew Bodnarchuk's team. Humboldt will go as far as he chooses to take them. Again, it's going to be a lot tougher with no Braaten, Johnson, Keller or Allan in the lineup tonight, but if anybody can silence the North Stars, it's probably Andrew Bodnarchuk.

X-Factor:

Dane Lindskog remains one of my personal favourite players in the SJHL. He's fast, he's chippy, and he has a nose for the net. If he can chime in with a goal or two tonight, chances are Humboldt can find some success. He'll have to be a big contributor given absense of Braaten, Johnson, and Keller up front.



Who's Hot for the Stars:

Brett Miller or Blake Peake. Take your pick? To explain myself would be fruitless. Read the blog if you're wondering why. Haha.

Who's on D:

Woody Klassen is back in the lineup tonight, and look for him to make an impact!

Who's in Goal:

With the injury to Graham Hilldebrand, Kyle Birch is IT for the forseeable future. We'll probably see Coleman Young play one game next week, but it won't be tonight with the Humboldt Broncos in town.

X-Factor:

Josh Daley is my x-factor for tonight. I choose Josh because he's played well as of late, but hasn't been neccessarily rewarded for his efforts. A big game from Josh, and we're looking great for tonight!

I'll be posting some insight on TWITTER tonight. Follow me at http://www.twitter.com/danoconnor19