Stars - Sweden Recap / Tuesday Thoughts.

Monday night in the Battlefords, the U-17 Swedish squad defeated the Battlefords North Stars 5-2. Filip Forsberg had a goal and two assists while Lucas Wallmark scored twice. The Stars got goals from Mitch Galbraith and Keith Grondin. With the win, the Swedes completed a sweep of the SJHL with prior wins against La Ronge, Humboldt and Flin Flon.

Those in attendance for last night's North Stars/Sweden showdown did not leave disappointed. Sure some fans were probably hoping for a better result, but considering the fact that the Stars hadn't played a game in two-plus weeks, and had only practiced once as a full team - I was impressed. They were physical, tenacious and genuinely seemed interested in competing with the U-17 Swedes. The Stars could have easily mailed last night's game in, and coasted. They didn't. I commend them for that, I look forward to a strong effort from the Stars tomorrow night at home against Notre Dame.

As for Team Sweden. I commend them for their strong-play and their class. They were extremely fun to watch, and it was a real treat getting a chance to witness such talent. Fans in the Battlefords can proudly say in a few years that they saw the likes of Filip Forsberg, Tobias Tornkvist and Jesper Pettersson before they were household names in the World Juniors and NHL.

Overall a very rewarding experience getting to call the game for Access 7, and I am grateful for the opportunity.

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The Stars now get to shift their focus to the Notre Dame Hounds. Don't let their record fool you. The Hounds have given the North Stars fits this year. In two meetings between the two teams, the Hounds have won both in convincing fashion. They are a team with solid goaltending, a gritty defense-core and can beat you offensively if you take them lightly.

I will post a full preview of the matchup tomorrow afternoon, and a reminder that if you can't make it to the rink, you can catch the broadcast live on CJNB/CJNS starting at 7:15.

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Trade rumors are all over the place in the SJHL right now. So far the two teams that are the center of attention are the Melville Millionaires and Melfort Mustangs. With January 10th looming, it's no secret that Jamie Fiesel will be "selling" at the deadline. He told GX94's Craig Stein during a weekly Coach's Show that Craig hosts.

Melfort Mustang's coach and D.H.O. Darrell Mann has also been very forthcoming with the fact that he's looking to add a veteran forward. Is there a match there?

Yes. Earlier today a trade became official. Braydon Metz is now a member of the Melfort Mustangs. In exchange, the Mils receive future considerations.

As far as the North Stars are concerned, the only thing I can tell you is that Ken Pearson is waiting to see what happens with a few kids in the WHL before he sets his sights on the 10th of January. Dominic Favreau (Brandon), Dane Muench (Regina) and Brody Luhning (Calgary) are three players to keep an eye on.

The coach has not revealed any other hints or nformation, and for that matter I haven't really asked. My hunch is that the results of the next two games (Notre Dame and Melville) will have some say in his approach.

More tomorrow.