Record: 30-15-1-4 (Second place in the Sherwood Conference.)
Who's Up Front:
The last time these two teams met, the Hounds were without the services of their second leading scorer Kyle Ireland. Ireland was injured during the pre-game warmup and did not dress. This time the Stars won't be so lucky. Ireland has 59 points so far this season, and has been a tremendous source of leadership for Darren Evjen's club. Combine Ireland with the SJHL's leading scorer Travis Janke, and the Hounds have no shortage of offensive weapons in their arsenal.
Who's on D:
Blayne Stevenson was great for the Hounds when these teams met eight days ago. He logged a lot of minutes and scored a goal late for Notre Dame which put them within one of the Stars. His numbers are impressive with seven goals and 15 assists.
Who's in Goal:
Similar to the Stars, the Hounds have two goaltenders that they use, and use often. Russell Abbott played Thursday night and the Hounds haven't played since. Does that mean we see Matt Smidt get the call tonight for N.D.?
X-Factor:
The Hounds have better depth than a lot of teams realize. One player who truly stood out for me last Saturday was 17-year-old forward Trevor Cameron. He's shifty, he's tough and he has a nose for the net. He's got 43 points in 45 games, and should be one of the clear candidates for Rookie of the Year in the SJHL.
Record: 31-16-1-2 (Second place in the Bauer Conference with 65 points. They trail Flin Flon by five points for first with two games in hand.)
Who's Up Front:
Last night the Stars defeated Weyburn because of their depth and their hustle. Tonight they'll have to be 'no different.' Blake Peake scored a wonderful goal last night, and should be heading into tonight's game with a lot of confidence. The Star's will need Peake to use his speed, and his experience in order to come out on top tonight in Wilcox.
Who's on D:
With so much open ice, it's imperative that the Star's defence don't take too many foolish chances. Jesse Lebreton WILL be playing tonight, and his speed will be a great asset for the Stars.
Who's in Goal:
After two solid games from Graham Hildebrand, it will be awfully difficult decision for Ken Pearson to make. That being said, Kyle Birch was nothing short of spectacular the last time he faced the Hounds, and I for one would LOVE to see him get another crack at them. Not to mention the fact that Kyle is a very competitive guy, and no doubt he wants to show his teammates and coaching staff that he's up to the task. I predict Kyle, but by no means would I be surprised if Ken goes with Graham again. Does that answer your question? Haha. Sorry.
X-Factor:
It's been a quiet road-trip so far for forward Chad Filteau who has recorded two assists. He's definitely due for a breakout game tonight as his speed and skill will no doubt be on display with such a big ice surface. If Filteau can pot a goal or two, the Stars will be in really good shape.
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A win for the Stars tonight, and that will give them six in a row. But more importantly, a victory tonight will move them within three points of the Flin Flon Bombers for first place in the Bauer Conference.
Don't let the Superbowl distract you, THIS is the game that North Star supporters need to be paying attention to.
Enjoy the broadacast tonight, I'm really looking forward to bringing you the call.
Cheers,
DO
PS: Go Indy!
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