Friday, January 8, 2010

Stars / Bruins Preview



Record: 14-24-2-2 (Sixth Place in the Sherwood Conference.)

Who's Up Front:

After dealing many of their 20-year-olds, the Estevan Bruins are clearly in a rebuilding mode. That being said, they've shown throughout the year that they'll pounce on teams that take them lightly. Chad Filteau is still a Bruin, and is still one of the most dangerous players in the SJHL. His speed, smarts and skill are 'second to none' and he alone can carry a team on his back and win a hockey game.

Who's on D:

I like Estevan's defence. They're young, but they're promising. Tyler Spencer, Luke Stubel, Brett Rock and Chris Neurauter are all strong at both ends of the ice, and all can play with a physical edge.

Who's in Goal:

Since arriving in the SJHL, Chris Neamonitis has been very impressive. He's got a GAA of 2.83 and a save percentage that is flirting with .91%. Simply put: Estevan's recent inconsistency has had NOTHING to do with goaltending.

X-Factor:

17-year-old forward Dylan Smith is a great player, and one who has been on the radar of NHL scouts this year. He's got great vision, and plays with a maturity beyond his years. A strong game from Smith tonight could go a long way in helping Estevan win.



Record:
21-15-1-2 (44 Points and Third in the Bauer Conference.)

Who's Up Front:

The North Star forwards were awesome in Flin Flon Wednesday. Not only were they great in the offensive zone, but all 12 forwards contributed defensively, and seemed to have (at least momentarily) bought into the concept of complete team defense. Blake Peake chipped in with two goals and an assist, and hopefully has regained some confidence after a tough finish to 2009.

Who's on D:

Chad Filteau and Dylan Smith are two strong offensive threats that must be stopped. Tonight I'm looking to the defense tandem of Coleman Brodbin and Grant Fahnhorst to see a lot of ice-time against the above two. Fahnhorst was impressive in his North Star's debut. He kept it simple, and showed that he can be counted upon late in games. Coleman Brodbin has proven the same over his three-year history with the club.

Who's in Goal:

Kyle Birch will get the start tonight, and will look to keep some strong momentum moving forward after one of his best games in recent memory on Wednesday night.

X-Factor:

Brody Malek will be playing forward tonight for a second straight game. Malek does not shy away from the physical stuff, and looked good on a line with Blake Tatchell and Dane Muench on Wednesday. If he can create some space for his two linemates, he could very well proove to be quite useful to the North Star's tonight.

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