Article on OKC Native Chase Grant as the Fargo Force get ready for USHL Clark Cup Final

Here's an interesting article from the In Forum Newspaper which is in Fargo takes a look at Oklahoma City Native Chase Grant as he has become one of the team's most popular players from the fans and within the org. It takes a look at rise in the sport coming out of the Sooner State.

From Kerry Collins of the Fargo In Forum Newspaper: www.inforum.com

Many years ago, a Canada Native in the United States got stationed in Oklahoma.

The twist of fate introduced Chase Grant to Hockey, and produced one of the most popular players in the two year history of the Fargo Force junior Hockey Team that will play in the USHL Clark Cup Championship Series starting Friday Night.

The Air Force Hockey enthusiast was a neighbor of the Grant Family.

"He got my brother and me involved in hockey, and we are all," Grand said. And i'm not big enough to play football."

The 5'11", 175 pound forward from Oklahoma City has become a fan favorite because of his tireless work ethic and willingness to do the dirty work in the corners and in front of the net.

"He works so hard, and he does the things that a lot of players don't want to do," Force coach Steve Johnson said. "He shows what happens when your always working hard."

"It's not always about skill all the time. He makes things happen."

Grant scored just 28 points last season, but committed to Minnesota State Mankato last summer. He said it took some pressure off going into the season, but it didn't lower his goals.

"It definitely helped having that out of the way so I could just worry about getting better," Grant Said.

Heading into his 2nd season with Fargo, Grant said that he wanted to be the captain. His teammates agreed - voting him unanimously to wear the "C" on his jersey.

"There are guys that want that, and Chase is definitely one of them," Johnson said. The Guys really, really look up to him, and that comes from his consistency."

"He's always on an even keel, and everybody respects that."

Grant also has the knack of citing his teammates for creating the bulk of the scoring chances on the ice. He's been on a line with Matt Leitner - who is also headed to Mankato - for the better part of two seasons. Grant said his familiarity with Leitner and nearly tripling of his goals from last year is no coincidence.

"My job is to get him the puck and get to the net, because he is going to find you," Grant said. "And you better be ready. Even if it looks impossible, he'll find a way to get you the puck.

"Now i'm always ready, and that's made me a better player."

Grant usually dosen't need any extra motivation, but he got some after Game 2 of the West Division Final against Omaha. At the end of Fargo's 4-2 victory, teammate and friend Corey Leivermann was sent to the hospital after a nasty check from Omaha's C.J. Ludwig in the closing minutes.

Grant punished the Lancers with his play in the next game, scoring the first hat trick in the Force's playoff history to lead the Force to a 4-3 win. Fargo went on to win the series in 5 games.

"Here was a guy that I played with for 2 years, and i'm close friends with. It was like a family member was down on the ice," Grant said. "You're worried about his health, but after we found he was ok, that just focused us on the rest of the series.

"It worked out that way, and sometimes it's nice for people to get what they deserve."

Johnson said getting back to the Clark Cup Final for the second year in a row was especially important for Grant - not only because he's the captain of this group, but because of how much of the group means to the captain.

"This is important to him, and this is what he's got all those guys working for," Johnson said. "They respect him, but they believe in him, too."

"He was our leading goal-scorer this season, and in the playoffs. Hopefully he's the leading goal-scorer in the Finals."

OHL Championship Game 2: Another 1 goal win Gives Spitfires a 2-0 Series Lead

A couple of days after the Spitfires came-back from OT to win Game 2. It was another nail bitter as the Spitfires and Colts traded blows as the Spitfires eventually came out on top as the Spitfires will head into the next 2 games in Windsor, Ontario with a chance to complete a series sweep and defend the OHL Championship.

All 5 Windsor goals came from different players as some of the lesser known players got a chance to shine as players like Scott Timmins who had a goal & assist. Plus Mark Cundari who was one of the Game 1 hero's had a goal and 2 assists in Game 2 including a SH Goal that got the scoring going last night.

Barrie attempted to comeback with Kyle Clifford leading the way with 2 goals and almost got the game tied in the 3rd period when as he made the game 3-2 & 5-4 which were looking to turn around the momentum. However it was to no use as the Spitfires fired back the first time and ran out of time on the 2nd attempt.

Barrie will need to find a way to contain the Spitfires high flying offense and find the critical goals as this series will be a close one throughout the series. If not, then expect the Spitfires to celebrate an OHL Championship for the 2nd straight year.


From the Ontario Hockey League Website: www.ontariohockeyleague.com

Dale Mitchell picked a terrific time to snap out of his cold streak. The Windsor Spitfires overage winger scored the winning goal late in the 3rd period to help the Spitfires to a 5-4 win over the Barrie Colts in Game 2 of the Rogers OHL Championship Series.

After winning the opening game 4-3 in overtime on Tuesday. the Spitfires have grabbed a 2-0 lead in the series and will play the next two games on home ice.

"I've been on a bit of a cold streak and to come up big here tonight was good for my confidence and good for the team," said Mitchell, who scored his first goal of the since the 2nd round against the Plymouth Whalers." To come in here and win two is absolutely huge. It was our goal to come in here and give these guys a test."

The Series moves to Windsor for Game 3 on Sunday (3:00 PM) and Game 4 on Tuesday Night. The Spitfires are looking to win the Robertson Cup for the second straight series and they are thrilled with their strong start to the series.

"It's obviously a big game to take coming into this tough building against this great team," said Spitfires head coach Bob Boughner. "Dale Mitchell scores big goals for the Windsor Spitfires. It's a great guy to have with the puck on his stick because he can score big goals."

Mark Cundari opened the scoring for the Spitfires with a short handed goal near the midway point of the first period.

"Any time you get a short-handed goal, its a confidence boost for your team," Cundari said. "It was a timely goal for us and we picked up it from there." We got the lead and never looked back."

Mark Cantin scored his third of the playoffs on a boost from the blueline early in the 2nd period and then Zach Kassian pushed the Spitfires lead to two with a goal at the midway point of the game. Scott Timmins scored his 9th of the playoffs and fifth in the past 4 games midway through the 3rd period and then Mitchell counted what proved to be the game-winner when he burst down the wing and fired a snap shot from the face-off circle under the crossbar for his seventh goal of the post-season.

Kyle Clifford scored two goals for the Colts, including his fifth of the playoffs to close the Spitfires lead to one goal late in the third period but the Colts weren't able to force the game into overtime.

"We need to break through," said Colts coach Marty Williamson. "I don't think our game was too bad today but we got caught making some big mistakes. You can't give a team breakaways like we did. If you make blunders against a team like this, they make you pay."

Alexander Bruistrov put the Colts with a power play marker in the last minute of the first period to tie the score at one and Taylor Carnevale brought the Colts within one goal in the third period when he picked up a loose puck at the edge of the crease and put it over the glove of the Spitfires goalie Philipp Gruaber.

Gruaber made 33 saves, including 18 in the third period for his sixth straight win while Marvic Parks allowed 5 goals on 22 shots in the loss.

It was the Spitfires fourth straight win on the road dating back to Game 4 of the Western Conference Championship Series against the Kitchener Rangers.

"We were just trying to get pucks into the net," Baugher said. "It was a simple game plan. We'll have to go back and look at the tape before Game 3. I don't think it was our best game out there. We still have some things to work on.

We know that Barrie's going to give us all we can handle in Game's 3 & 4. It's great to win two road games but it doesn't mean anything if we don't back it up at home."


Windsor Spitfires Lead Series 2-0, Game 3 is on Sunday Afternoon.


Game Boxscore

Windsor Spitfires 5 Barrie Colts 4 (1-1, 2-1, 2-2)

1-0 WSR: Mark Cundari (SH) (Unassisted) 7:41 1st

1-1 BAR: Alexander Brumistrov (PP) (Kennedy) 19:27 1st

2-1 WSR: Marc Cantin (Cundari, Timmins) 4:32 2nd

3-1 WSR: Zach Kassian (Cundari) 10:46 2nd

3-2 BAR: Kyle Clifford (Cameron, Brodie) 11:50 2nd

4-2 WSR: Scott Timmins (Unassisted) 7:48 3rd

4-3 BAR: Taylor Carnevale (Brodie, Prout) 13:09 3rd

5-3 WSR: Dale Mitchell (Unassisted) 14:10 3rd

5-4 BAR: Kyle Clifford (Cameron) 15:39 3rd


Game Stats

SOG: WSR 22 BAR 37

PP: WSR 0/3 BAR 1/5

PIM: WSR 10 Minutes on 5 Penalties BAR 6 Minutes on 3 Penalties

Goalies: WSR Phillipp Grubauer 33 SVS on 37 Shots BAR Marvic Parks 17 SVS on 22 Shots

ATT: 4312

3rd Star: Kyle Clifford (BAR)

2nd Star: Scott Timmins (WSR)

1st Star: Mark Cundari (WSR)

4/29 Scoreboard & Playoff Update

The Stanley Cup Conference Semifinals got underway last night with the #1 VS. #5 Matchup in the Western Conference as the Sharks used a 3 goal 1st period as Joe Pavelski, Dany Heatley and Devin Setoguchi all scored in a minute and a half to give the Sharks a 3-0 lead and were looking to blow out the Red Wings to open the series after the bad start they got off to against Detroit.

However just a minute later saw Dan Cleary made it 3-1 as the Red Wings were able to turnaround the momentum and Jimmy Howard calmed down after the bad start to keep the game in check.

The 2nd period as they were just 13 shots on goal total in the 2nd period as the penalties started to come down (3 for SJ, 5 for DET). Despite all the PP Time the Sharks had in the 2nd, it was the Red Wings early on with a great set up from Datsyuk on his wrist shot to give the close the gap to 3-2 and the Red Wings had hope again of a comeback.

The opening minute of the 3rd period saw Pavelski and Rafalski score in the first 3 minutes to make it 4-3. The Sharks were looking to put it away late, but a 5 save performance from Evgeni Nabokov helped the Sharks win Game 1 and take the series lead.

San Jose has won 5-in-a-row after losing the first 2 games of the playoffs, the Sharks are looking to get the playoff monkey off their backs that have hampered them the last few years, also to avoid the fate that doomed the top 3 teams in the East as Washington, Buffalo & New Jersey are out of the playoffs.

2 games in the AHL Playoffs as the North Division Final got underway in Hamilton, Ontario as the Heat continued their momentum after coming back from 3-1 down to beat Rochester as Van Der Gulik and Baldwin each scored midway through the game to go up 2-1. Hamilton reacted quickly to make it 2-1. Brett Sutter scored to make 3-1 Heat to stun the Bulldogs and win the opening game. Brock Trotter scored his 4th of the playoffs with less then a minute left, but it was to little to late for the Bulldogs to force OT.

Hershey is zooming in the playoffs as they are the first team to clinch a Conference Spot as the Bears not only ended the Albany River Rats season, but they team as the River Rats will be moving to Charlotte, North Carolina next season to be closer to their NHL Affiliate in the Carolina Hurricanes.

It was another very close game in Barrie as the Spitfires are halfway through to defending the OHL Championship after winning their 2nd straight one goal game. After going into the 2nd intermission up 3-2, it was a couple of unsung hero's as Scott Timmins scored to make it 4-2.

However, the Barrie Colts found lighting in a bottle as Taylor Carnevale made it 4-3. But that's as close it would come as Dale Mitchell scored just a minute later to make it 5-3 to give the Spitfires the gap needed to go up 2-0 in the Championship Series.

It's a huge night as the WHL, QMJHL & USHL all begin their championship Series' tonight while the Surprising Canadians will open up in Pittsburgh against the defending champion Pittsburgh Penguins. While the Texas Stars & Chicago Wolves will open up the West Division Final in Chicago.


Professional Scores

NHL Stanley Cup Playoffs

Detroit Red Wings 3 San Jose Sharks 4 (1-3, 1-0, 1-1)
www.nhl.com/ice/gamecenter.htm?id=2009030231

San Jose Leads Series 1-0, Game 2 is on Sunday Afternoon


AHL Calder Cup Playoffs

Hershey Bears 5 Albany River Rats 4 (OT) (1-2, 1-1, 2-1, 1-0)
http://theahl.com/stats/game-summary.php?game_id=1007286

Hershey Wins Series 4-0, The Hershey Bears advance to the Eastern Conference Final and will play either the Worcester Sharks VS. Manchester Monarchs

Hershey VS. Albany Game Story: http://theahl.com/perreault-s-ot-goal-sends-bears-to-sweep-p142435


Abbotsford Heat 3 Hamilton Bulldogs 2 (0-0, 2-1, 1-1)
http://theahl.com/stats/game-summary.php?game_id=1007297

The Heat Leads Series 1-0, Game 2 is on Sunday

Abbotsford VS. Hamilton Game Story: http://theahl.com/heat-stay-hot-take-game-1-from-dogs-p142438


CHL Presidents Cup Playoffs

No Games on Thursday Night. Game 4 will be Tonight in Allen.


Major Junior Memorial Cup Playoffs

Western Hockey League

The League Championship Series begins Tonight in Calgary, Alberta between the Calgary Hitmen VS. Tri-City Americans


Ontario Hockey League

Look for the Game 2 Game Story between Windsor VS. Barrie


Quebec Major Junior Hockey League

The League Championship Series Begins Tonight between the St. John Seadogs VS. Moncton Wildcats in St. John, New Brunswick.


U.S.A. Junior Scores

USHL Clark Cup Playoffs

The League Championship Begins tonight as the Green Bay Gamblers will play the Fargo Force in Green Bay, Wisconsin.


NAHL Robertson Cup Playoffs

The NAHL Robertson Cup Championship Tournament will begin on May 4 as the Bismarck Bobcats will play the St. Louis Bandits and the Traverse City North Stars will take on the Tournament Host Wenatchee Wild.

Yellow Horn & Bowers have huge nights, Gives the Americans a 2-1 Series Lead

Huge nights with Colton Yellow Horn's Hat Trick plus Justin Bower's 2 goals in the first period stunned the Rapid City Rush who was looking to continue their momentum from the Game 2 OT Win at the Allen Event Center.

In addition to Yellow Horn & Bowers, Americans goalie had to take on a ton of Rush shots as the Rush out-shot the Americans 37-25 in the game, including 14-7 in the 2nd period. For that, they have rookie goalie Chris Whitley to think as he stopped 35 of 37 shots in the game to allow Yellow Horn's 2nd period goals to go up 4-1 and eventually be a big difference in game. Other great nights came from Jarrett Lukin & Tyler Wooddisse who each had two assists in the game.

Rapid City Goals by Brendan Cook & Scott Wray made the score 4-2 late in the 3rd period. But Whitley was able to keep the Rush from coming any closer in this game. Rapid City Goalie Danny Battochio also had to be pulled after the Americans made it 4-0 in the 2nd period. Despite Beaudry stopping all 12 shots and giving the Rush a chance to comeback late, it was to little to late as Yellow Horn scored an empty netter to give him his first pro hat trick of his career.

From the Allen Americans Website: www.allenamericans.com

From Allen, Texas: Colton Yellow Horn scored his first professional hat trick tonight en route to an Allen Americans 5-2 win at the Allen Event Center. The win gives the Americans a 2-1 series lead over Rapid City in the Ray Miron Presidents Cup Final.

The Americans started off their first final's home game by bringing in North Texas hockey icon Norm Green to do the ceremonial puck drop. The former Dallas Stars Owner arrived ready for playoff hockey, wearing his tie that he dons for postseason action.

After the Green Puck Drop, the Americans went on to open the game with a power play at 2:10. Justin Bowers shoved the puck past Rush Netminder Danny Battochio from the top of the crease for his ninth playoff goal. With 6:22 remaining in the first period, Allen increased its lead to two. Bowers scored his 2nd of the night off of a pass from Veteran Erik Adams. After 20 minutes, Allen led 2-0.

Allen's offense continued to score in the middle frame, even when the club was shorthanded. Colton Yellow Horn deked around the Rapid City Defender with an incredible move and lit the lamp 1:25 into the 2nd period on the penalty kill. Yellow Horn grabbed another goal on a three-on-two rush later in the 2nd. Nino Musitelli left a drop pass from Captain Jarrett Lukin, who passed the puck a fallen defender to an open Yellow Horn. The forward poked the puck in his 8th of the playoffs at 10:10.

The Rush replaced Battochio in net with Miguel Beaudry after the fourth Allen Goal of the game similar to Game one. Rapid City got on the scoreboard at 12:11 when Brendan Cook's shot from the high slot hit the back of the net. The goal brought the score to 4-1.

The next goal of the game came at 12:12 of the final period, when Scott Wray grabbed a tally on a slap shop to bring the Rush within two. Rapid City put an extra attacker on the ice with two minutes to go, but Yellow Horn ruined any hopes of the visitors had a comeback when he scored an empty netter to earn a hat trick. The final score 5-2.

Allen's record is now 3-0 in Game 3's in this year's playoffs.

The Championship Series continues in Allen for Game Four and Five on April 30 and May 1, respectively. To show the club's appreciation to all its fans, the Americans and the Allen Event Center are offering $2 beers and $2 hot dogs at the last home games of the team's inaugural season. Additionally, the first 2,000 fans at each game will receive free thunder sticks, and there will be a fan fest before every game at 5:30 PM. Festivities includes bounce houses, interactive gamezones, balloon artists, a rock climbing wall and so much more. Both games start at 7:30 PM.

Tickets are available by 972-912-1000, going to gettix.net or by stooping by the Allen Even Center Box Office. The Box Office is open from 10 AM to 6 PM Mondays through Saturdays. Fans interested in tickets to multiple playoff games are encouraged to speak with an Allen Americans representative regarding savings at walk up prices at 972-912-1000.

Allen Americans Leads Series 2-1


Game Boxscore

Rapid City Rush 2 Allen Americans 5 (0-2, 1-2, 1-1)

0-1 ALN: Justin Bowers (PP) (Graham, Yellow Horn) 2:10 1st

0-2 ALN: Justin Bowers (Adams, Fairbarn) 13:38

0-3 ALN: Colton Yellow Horn (SH) (Wooddisse, Lukin) 1:33 2nd

0-4 ALN: Colton Yellow Horn (Lukin, Musitelli) 10:10 2nd

1-4 RPC: Brendan Cook (Bostock) 12:11 2nd

2-4 RPC: Scott Wray (Reaney, Leblanc) 12:12 3rd

2-5 ALN: Colton Yellow Horn (EN) (Wooddisse) 19:08 3rd


Game Stats

PP: RPC 0/6 ALN 1/4

SOG: RPC 37 ALN 25

PIM: RPC 18 Minutes on 9 Penalties ALN 20 Minutes on 10 Penalties

Goalies: RPC Danny Battochio 8 SVS on 12 Shots Migueal Beaudry 12 SVS on 12 Shots ALN Chris Whitley 35 SVS on 37 Shots

ATT: 3532

3rd Star: Chris Whitley (ALN)

2nd Star: Justin Bowers (ALN)

1st Star: Colton Yellow Horn (ALN)

Stanley Cup Playoffs 2nd Round Schedule

With the Montreal Canadians finished off the 1st Round in huge fashion by knocking out the top seeded Washington Capitals. That means the top 3 seeds in the Eastern Conference as the Washington Capitals, New Jersey Devils and Buffalo Sabres are done for the season and this leaves the defending Champion Pittsburgh Penguins the top seed at #4.

It will be the Pittsburgh Penguins VS. Montreal Canadains & Boston Bruins VS. Philadelphia Flyers in the Eastern Conference Semifinals. Who will be able to take advantage after pulling off huge upsets in the 1st Round of the playoffs.

The Western Conference we will have what should be absolute classics as the San Jose Sharks take on the Detroit Red Wings & the Central Division Champion Chicago Blackhawks VS. Vancouver Canucks in the other 2nd Round Series.

The 2nd Round will get underway tonight with San Jose VS. Detroit, Pittsburgh VS. Montreal gets underway tomorrow night while the Chicago VS. Vancouver & Boston VS. Philadelphia Matchups begin on Saturday.

Here's the Conference Semifinals Matchups as the NHL Website released this late last night. All Start Times are CDT.


Eastern Conference

#4 Pittsburgh Penguins VS. #8 Montreal Canadains

Game 1, 4/30: @ Pittsburgh 6:00 PM CBC, Versus

Game 2, 5/2: @ Pittsburgh 1:00 PM NBC, CBC

Game 3, 5/4: @ Montreal 6:00 PM CBC, Versus

Game 4, 5/6: @ Montreal 6:00 PM CBC, Versus

Game 5, 5/8: @ Pittsburgh 6:00 PM CBC, Versus*

Game 6, 5/10: @ Montreal 6:00 PM CBC, Versus*

Game 7, 5/12: @ Pittsburgh TBD CBC, Versus*

*If Necessary


#6 Boston Bruins VS. #7 Philadelphia Flyers

Game 1, 5/1: @ Boston 11:30 AM NBC, TSN

Game 2, 5/3: @ Boston 6:00 PM Versus, TSN

Game 3, 5/5: @ Philadelphia 6:00 PM Versus, TSN

Game 4, 5/7: @ Philadelphia 6:00 PM Versus, TSN

Game 5, 5/10: @ Boston 6:00 PM Versus, TSN*

Game 6, 5/12: @ Philadelphia TBD Versus, TSN*

Game 7, 5/14: @ Boston 6:00 PM Versus, TSN*

*If Necessary


Western Conference

#1 San Jose Sharks VS. #5 Detroit Red Wings

Game 1, 4/29: @ San Jose 8:00 PM Versus, TSN

Game 2, 5/2: @ San Jose 7:00 PM Versus, TSN

Game 3, 5/4: @ Detroit 6:30 PM Versus, TSN

Game 4, 5/6: @ Detroit 6:30 PM Versus, TSN

Game 5, 5/8: @ San Jose 9:00 PM Versus, TSN*

Game 6, 5/10: @ Detroit 6:30 PM Versus, TSN*

Game 7, 5/12: @ San Jose TBD Versus, TSN*


#2 Chicago Blackhawks VS. #3 Vancouver Canucks

Game 1, 5/1: @ Chicago 7:00 PM Versus, CBC

Game 2, 5/3: @ Chicago 7:00 PM Versus, CBC

Game 3, 5/5: @ Vancouver 8:30 PM Versus, CBC

Game 4, 5/7: @ Vancouver 8:30 PM Versus, CBC

Game 5, 5/9: @ Chicago 7:00 PM Versus, CBC*

Game 6, 5/11: @ Vancouver 8:30 PM Versus CBC*

Game 7, 5/13: @ Chicago 7:00 PM Versus, CBC*

*If Necessary

4/28 Scoreboard & Playoff Update

The end of the Conference Quarterfinals ended last night with the biggest shock of this year's playoffs so far as the Capitals have been knocked out of the playoffs thanks to Canadians goals by Marc-Andre Bergeron and Dominic Moore in the 3rd period to put up the Canadians up 2-0 before a Brooks Laich goal with 2:16 left in the game began a frantic comeback attempt to put the game in OT. Even more fantastic was that the Canadians had to comeback from 3-1 down to comeback to win the series after loses in Games 2, 3 & 4 early on.

The other end of the equation was another amazing night Halak as he had to stop 17 shots in the 3rd period and 41 shots for the entire game. For the entire first round series for the Canadians, Halak had to make 40 or more saves a number of times in this series as he was with-out-a-doubt the MVP of this series as the Canadians will no have to play 4th Seeded and defending Champion Pittsburgh Penguins in the Conference Semifinals. In every game, he had to make 30 or more saves as he was a busy boy against Washington.

With the top 3 seeds now out of the playoffs in the East, it will be Pittsburgh & Boston having home ice advantage as #4 & #6 seeds as they will play the Philadelphia Flyers & Montreal Canadians in the 2nd Round.

Here's the Saves Numbers by Halak in the 1st Round VS. Washington

Game 1: Montreal 3 Washington 2 (OT) Halak: 45 SVS ON 47 Shots

Game 2: Montreal 5 Washington 6 (OT) Halak: 31 SVS on 37 Shots

Game 3: Washington 5 Montreal 1 Halak: 10 SVS on 13 Shots (Pulled in 2nd)

Game 4: Washington 6 Montreal 3 Halak: DNP

Game 5: Montreal 2 Washington 1 Halak: 37 SVS on 38 Shots

Game 6: Washington 1 Montreal 4 Halak: 53 SVS on 54 Shots

Game 7: Montreal 2 Washington 1 Halak: 41 SVS on 42 Shots

Series Stats: 2.46 GAA, .939 SV%, Made 231 SVS on 245 Shots in the Series


Just one AHL Game last night as the Manchester Monarchs had to comeback from 2-1 down which tied the game midway through the 3rd period when Justin Azevedo scored to make it 2-2. Then early in the OT Period saw the game end just 4 minutes into OT as Bud Holloway gets a goal and an assist in this game to tie the series at 1-1.

Expect the Atlantic Division Final to be a tight one as both games have comedown to the wire and don't be shocked to maybe see a multi OT Game or two in this series as well.

The Allen Americans can think Colton Yellow Horn & Justin Bowers to help the Americans take a 2-1 series lead as Allen now has a chance to sweep the 3 games in Allen and win the Championship at home this season. Game 4 will be tomorrow night with Game 5 on Saturday. Expect some huge and crazy crowds in Allen with a chance to win the Championship this weekend.

Nothing in Junior's Last night, but we got some interesting action as Game 2 of the OHL Championship Series takes place in Barrie after the Spitfires used a late comeback to win 4-3. Also the WHL Championship Gets underway in Calgary tonight as the Hitmen take on the Tri-City Americans. Friday Night is a very busy night as the QMJHL & USHL Championship Series will get underway that night.


Professional Scores

NHL Stanley Cup Playoffs

Montreal Canadians 2 Washington Capitals 1 (1-0, 0-0, 1-1)
www.nhl.com/ice/gamecenter.htm?id=2009030117

Montreal Wins Series 4-3, It will be the Pittsburgh Penguins VS. Montreal Canadiens and the Boston Bruins VS. Philadelphia Flyers in the Eastern Conference Finals.

The Western Conference Semifinals begin tonight as the Detroit Red Wings VS. San Jose Sharks begins tonight while the Chicago Blackhawks VS. Vancouver Canucks begins on Saturday.

Look for the Full Conference Semifinals Schedule.

AHL Calder Cup Playoffs

Manchester Monarchs 3 Worcester Sharks 2 (OT) (0-0, 1-2, 1-0, 1-0)
http://theahl.com/stats/game-summary.php?game_id=1007277

Manchester VS. Worcester Game Story: http://theahl.com/holloway-the-hero-again-monarchs-tie-series-p142419

Series Tied 1-1, Game 3 is on Friday Night.


CHL Presidents Cup Playoffs

Look for the Allen Americans VS. Rapid City Rush Game Story.


Major Junior Memorial Cup Playoffs

Western Hockey League

The WHL Championship Series Begins on Friday Night in Calgary between the Calgary Hitmen VS. Tri-City Americans.


Ontario Hockey League

No Games on Wednesday Night, Game 2 of the OHL Championship Series is Tonight in Barrie.
The Windsor Spitfires lead Series 1-0.


Quebec Major Junior Hockey League

The QMJHL Championship Series begins on Friday Night in St. John, New Brunswick between the St. John Seadogs VS. Moncton Wildcats.


U.S.A. Junior Playoffs

USHL Clark Cup Playoffs

The USHL Clark Cup Championship Begins on Friday Night in Green Bay, Wisconsin between the Green Bay Gamblers VS. Fargo Force.


NAHL Robertson Cup Playoffs

The NAHL Robertson Cup Championship Tournament begins on May 3 in Wenatchee, Washington.

AHL Calder Cup Division Final Series

With the Rapid speed of how the East & Atlantic Division Semifinals went by finishing in either 4 or 5 games. The East & Atlantic Division Finals are now underway and the Hershey Bears are already up 3-0 over Albany as 2 of the 3 games have gone to OT as the Bears are looking to finish off their 2nd straight sweep of the playoffs as they look to successfully defend the AHL Calder Cup for the 2nd straight year.



In the East Division has the Atlantic Division Champion Worcester Sharks against the Manchester Monarchs as the Sharks won a back-and-fourth game as the Sharks had to comeback to use a 3 goal 3rd period to win 4-3 against Manchester. Game 2 is tonight and the Sharks look to rookie goalie Alex Stalock after going an impressively 41-19-2 record during the regular season in 61 games played.



In 6 games played so far in the playoffs, the Sharks goalie has a 5-1 record with a strong .928 SV%and a GAA of just over 2 in the playoffs.



Manchester has a strong goalie of their own as Jonathan Bernier who is being considered as a huge part of the future of the LA Kings org. will be able to be up for the challenge. So far in 5 playoff games he has a very strong .943 SV% and a 1.80 GAA so the Atlantic Division could come down to goaltending to eventually determine who will play the Hershey Bears in the Eastern Conference Finals.



The North & West Division Finals are now set as 2 Game 7's had to be played back on Monday & Tuesday to determine the last 4 in the Western Conference. The Texas Stars are beginning to emerge as a possible dark-horse team with the strong defense and goaltending that gave up just 5 goals in the 4 game sweep against Rockford.



If the offense can find it's grove, then the team's Calder Cup Chances will take a huge bump if players like Jamie Benn who had 6 points (3G 3A) and Aaron Gagon who's been off to a slow start, but looking to find his game that helped him become the team's leading goal scorer with 27 this season.

The Stars will be taking on the Chicago Wolves who had to survive a huge scare against Milwaukee as the Admirals won Games 5 & 6 to saw them off in Game 7 with goals by Anthony Stewart and Kevin Odell to end the Admirals season.



Chicago's defense has been a feast or famine in the playoffs. In the Division Semifinals against Milwaukee, the Wolves gave up 5 or more goals in 4 of the games. However in the other 3 the Wolves gave up 1 or fewer goals to help them win the series.



The North Division will have the Hamilton Bulldogs as they finished off Last Year's Calder Cup Runner Up Manitoba Moose in 6 games as the Bulldogs are going play the Abbotsford Heat who had to comeback from 3-1 down to win. It was a strong defense as the Heat outscored the Americans 10-2 in the last 3 games to win the series in 7 games and some are calling one of this year's biggest darkhorses in the Calder Cup Playoffs.



Due to the East & Atlantic Division Series, I will provide Boxscores of how those games have gone so far.





Atlantic Division Final



#1A Worcester Sharks VS. 3A Manchester Monarchs

Worcester Sharks Road to the Calder Cup

Regular Season Record: 49-25-6 104 PTS, 275 GF 239 GA, Finished 1st in the Atlantic Division

DIV. Semifinals VS. Lowell Devils: Game 1 2-3 L, Game 2 3-2 OTW, Game 3 3-2 W, Game 4 4-2 W, Game 5 5-1 W

Worcester Sharks Leading Scores

Dan Dasilva 6 GP 7 PTS (2G 5A, +2)

T.J. Trevelyan 6 GP 6 PTS (4G 2A, +1)

Danny Groulx 6 GP 6 PTS (1G 5A, +2)

Worcester Sharks Goaltending

David Shantz 7 GP 4-2 2.81 GAA .884SV%

Full Worcester Sharks Stats: http://theahl.com/stats/statdisplay.php?type=skaters&season_id=33

Manchester Monarchs Road to the Calder Cup

Regular Season Record: 43-28-9 95 PTS, 213 GF 200 GA

DIV. Semifinals VS. Portland Pirates: Game 1 2-1 W, Game 2 3-1 W, Game 3 2-1 W, Game 4 7-2 W

Manchester Monarchs Scoring Leaders

Bud Holloway 5 GP 5 PTS (4G 1A, +4)

Justin Azevedo 5 GP 5 PTS (0G 5A, +4)

Trevor Lewis 5 GP 4 PTS (3G 1A, +2)

Manchester Monarchs Goaltending

Jonathan Bernier 5 GP 4-1 1.80 GAA .943 SV%

Full Manchester Monarchs Stats: http://theahl.com/stats/statdisplay.php?type=skaters&subType=7&season_id=33&leagueId=4&lastActive=&singleSeason=&confId=0

All Worcester Sharks Home Games are @ DCU Center

All Manchester Monarchs Home Games are @ Verizon Wireless Arena

Game 1, 4/25: Manchester Monarchs 3 Worcester Sharks 4 (2-0, 0-1, 1-3)
http://theahl.com/stats/game-summary.php?game_id=1007276

Game 2, 4/28: @ Worcester 6:05 PM

Game 3, 4/30: @ Manchester 6:30 PM

Game 4, 5/1: @ Manchester 6:00 PM

Game 5, 5/5: @ Worcester 6:05 PM*

Game 6, 5/7: @ Manchester 6:30 PM*

Game 7, 5/8: @ Worcester 6:05 PM*

*If Necessary


East Division Final

#1E Hershey Bears VS. #2E Albany River Rats

Hershey Bears Road to the Calder Cup

Regular Season Record: 60-17-3 123 PTS, 342 GF 198 GA, Finished 1st in the East Divison

DIV. Semifinals VS. Bridgeport: Game 1 4-3 OTW, Game 2 3-2 W, Game 3 7-2 W, Game 4 1-4 L, Game 5 4-1 W


Hershey Bears Scoring Leaders
Alexandre Giroux 8 GP 15 PTS (9G 6A, +5)
Andrew Gordon 8 GP 14 PTS (9G 5A, +5)
Keith Aucoin 8 GP 11 PTS (1G 10A, +3)

Hershey Bears Goaltending
Michal Neuvirth 5 GP 5-0 2.14 GAA .904 SV%
Branden Holtby 3 GP 2-1 3.60 GAA .857 SV%

Full Hershey Bears Stats: http://theahl.com/stats/statdisplay.php?type=skaters&subType=5&season_id=33&league_Id=4&lastActive=&singleSeason=&confId=0


Albany River Rats Road to the Calder Cup

Regular Season Record: 43-29-8 94 PTS, 244 GF 231 GA, Finished 2nd in the East.

DIV. Semifinals VS. W-B/Scranton: Game 1 4-3 W, Game 2 3-2 W, Game 3 2-1 W, Game 4 5-3 W


Albany River Rats Scoring Leaders
Jerome Samson 7 GP 7 PTS (4G 3A, E)
Drayson Bowman 7 GP 7 PTS (3G 4A, +3)
Jamie Mcbain 7 GP 6 PTS (4G 2A, +8)


Albany River Rats Goaltending
Justin Peters 7 GP 4-2 2.81 GAA .884 SV%

Full Albany River Rats Stats: http://theahl.com/stats/statdisplay.php?type=skaters&subType=1&season_id=33&league_id=4&lastActive=&singleSeason=&confId=0

All Hershey Bears Home Games are @ Giant Center

All Albany River Rats Home Games are @ Times Union Center


Game 1, 4/24: Albany River Rats 3 Hershey Bears 4 (OT) (1-1, 1-1, 1-1, 0-1)
http://theahl.com/stats/game-summary.php?game_id=1007283

Game 2, 4/25: Albany River Rats 3 Hershey Bears 6 (1-1, 1-1, 1-4)
http://theahl.com/stats/game-summary.php?game_id=1007284

Game 3, 4/27: Hershey Bears 6 Albany River Rats 5 (OT) (0-2, 3-1, 2-2, 1-0)
http://theahl.com/stats/game-summary.php?game_id=1007285

Game 4, 4/29: @ Albany 6:00 PM

Game 5, 5/1: @ Hershey 6:00 PM*

Game 6, 5/3: @ Albany 6:00 PM*

Game 7, 5/5: @ Hershey 6:00 PM*

*If Necessary


North Division Final


#1N Hamilton Bulldogs VS. #3N Abbotsford Heat

Hamilton Bulldogs Road to the Calder Cup

Regular Season Record: 52-17-11 115 PTS, 271 GF 182 GA

DIV. Semifinals VS. Manitoba: Game 1 2-0 W, Game 2 8-2 W, Game 3 2-7 L, Game 4 5-4 OTW, Game 5 2-5 L, Game 6 3-2 OTW


Hamilton Bulldogs Scoring Leaders
David Desharnais 6 GP 7 PTS (3G 4A, E)
Andre Benoit 6 GP 7 PTS (1G 6A, -3)
Brock Trotter 6 GP 6 PTS (3G 3A, +1)

Hamilton Bulldogs Goaltending
Cedrick Desjardins 6 GP 4-2 2.69 GAA .893 SV%
Robert Mayer 1 GP 0-0 4.83 GAA .812 SV%

Full Hamilton Bulldogs Stats: http://theahl.com/stats/statdisplay.php?type=skaters&subType=4&season_id=33&leagueId=4&lastActive=&singleSeason=&confId=0


Abbotsford Heat Road to the Robertson Cup

Regular Season Record: 39-25-12 90 PTS, 217 GF 231 GA

DIV. Semifinals VS. Rochester: Game 1 3-2 W, Game 2 1-4 L, Game 3 4-8 L, Game 4 1-6 L, Game 5 3-1 W, Game 6 5-1 W, Game 7 2-0 W


Abbotsford Heat Scoring Leaders
Brett Sutter 7 GP 8 PTS (2G 6A, +4)
Jon Rheault 7 GP 6 PTS (5G 1A, +2)
Mikael Backlund 7 GP 6 PTS (1G 5A, +5)

Abbotsford Heat Goaltending Leaders
David Shantz 7 GP 4-2 2.81 GAA .884 SV%

Full Abbotsford Heat Stats: http://theahl.com/stats/statdisplay.php?type=skaters&season_id=


All Hamilton Bulldogs Home Games are @ Copps Coliseum

All Abbotsford Heat Home Games are @ Abbotsford Sports & Enterainment Center


Game 1, 4/29: @ Hamilton 6:30 PM

Game 2, 5/2: @ Hamilton 1:00 PM

Game 3, 5/4: @ Abbotsford 9:00 PM

Game 4, 5/6: @ Abbotsford 9:00 PM

Game 5, 5/8: @ Abbotsford 9:00 PM*

Game 6, 5/10: @ Hamilton 6:30 PM*

Game 7, 5/11: @ Hamilton 6:30 PM*

*If Necessary


West Division Final

#1W Chicago Wolves VS. #2W Texas Stars


Chicago Wolves Road to the Calder Cup

Regular Season Record: 49-24-7 105 PTS, 264 GF 214 GA

DIV. Semifinals VS. Milwaukee: Game 1 6-5 W, Game 2 3-0 W, Game 3 0-6 L, Game 4 1-0 W, Game 5 4-5 L, Game 6 4-5 OTL, Game 7 2-1 W


Chicago Wolves Scoring Leaders
Joey Crabb 7 GP 6 PTS (4G 2A, +1)
Tim Stapleton 7 GP 6 PTS (2G 4A, -2)
Matt Anderson 7 GP 6 PTS (0G 6A, 0)

Chicago Wolves Goaltending
Peter Mannino 4-2 2.89 GAA .901 SV%


Texas Stars Road to the Calder Cup

Regular Season Record: 46-27-7 99 PTS, 238 GF 198 GA

DIV. Semifinals VS. Rockford: Game 1 2-1 W, Game 2 3-1 W, Game 3 6-1 W, Game 4 4-2 W


Texas Stars Scoring Leaders
Travis Morin 4 GP 7 PTS (0G 7A, +4)
Jamie Benn 4 GP 6 PTS (3G 3A, +4)
Perttu Lindgren 4 GP 4 PTS (1G 3A, +5)

Texas Stars Goaltending
Brent Krahn 4 GP 4-0 1.25 GAA .961 SV%


All Chicago Wolves Home Games are @ Allstate Arena

All Texas Stars Home Games are @ Cedar Park Center

Game 1, 4/30: @ Chicago 7:30 PM

Game 2, 5/2: @ Chicago 3:00 PM

Game 3, 5/4: @ Texas 7:30 PM

Game 4, 5/5: @ Texas 7:30 PM

Game 5, 5/7: @ Texas 7:30 PM*

Game 6, 5/9: @ Chicago 3:00 PM*

Game 7, 5/11: @ Texas 7:00 PM*

*If Necessary

CHL Shots from the Point on the Presidents Cup Final

3 times a week during the playoffs. The Central Hockey League does a segment called "Shots from the Point" to provide news and notes, quick-hits and briefs on the Playoffs. Here's today's edition which will get you ready for the 3 Games in Allen which begin tonight as the battle for the Ray Miron Presidents Cup Championship continues.

From The Central Hockey League Website: www.centralhockeyleague.com

The Rapid City Rush and Allen Americans will met in Game 3 of the Ray Miron Presidents' Cup Championship Series with the series tied at 1-1. Tonight mark's the first of three straight games at the Allen Event Center where the Americans are 5-2 during the post-season.

Game's 4 & 5 are scheduled for Friday & Saturday Night at the Allen Event Center. Game 3 has not been much of an indicator in the past as the team that has won Game 3 has won either the CHL or the WPHL Championship 13 of 21 times in league history. The Game 3 winner has won the series in each of the past two seasons and in three of the last 4.


Presidents Cup Championship Update:

Game 1, 4/23: Allen Americans 4 Rapid City Rush 1
www.pointstreak.com/stats/pro/boxscore.html?gameid=1269586

Game 1 Story: http://centralhockeyleague.com/pressroom/index.html?article_id=4603


Game 2, 4/24: Allen Americans 4 Rapid City Rush 5 (OT)
www.pointstreak.com/stats/pro/boxscore.html?gameid=1269587

Game 2 Story: http://centralhockeyleague.com/pressroom/index.html?article_id=4605


Game 3, 4/28: @ Allen 7:30 PM

Game 4, 4/30: @ Allen 7:30 PM

Game 5, 5/1: @ Allen 7:30 PM

Game 6, 5/4: @ Rapid City 6:35 PM MDT*

Game 7, 5/7: @ Rapid City 7:05 PM MDT*

*If Necessary

Game 1: Allen Americans 4 Rapid City Rush 1

Allen goaltender Chris Whitley made 48 saves and the Americans scored four times in the 2nd period to earn the Game 1 win. Nino Musitelli led the way offensively scored a pair of goals in the win.

Game 2: Allen Americans 4 Rapid City Rush 5 (OT)

Rapid City Defensemen Dave Grimson scored the game tying goal with less then a minute remaining and Blane Jarvis scored his first professional OT Game Winner as the Rush evened the Series. Allen Chris Whitley's made 52 saves in the losing effort. Brendon Hodge and Les Reaney each had three helpers for the Rush.


CHL TV

Catch all of the Ray Miron Presidents Cup Playoffs live on CHL-TV. Individual Live Games and archives are available as well as the packages that allow you purchase a series at a time. Throughout the post-season, the CHL has partnered with Bieler Bros. Records (www.bilerbros.com) giving each Live Game or archive purchase a free download from Bieler Bros. Records Artists and for every playoff package, fans receive a free Bieler Bros. Record CD. Visit http://chltv.insinc.com for more info.


Close Calls

The Americans will play each of the next three games on home ice where they are 5-2 during the post-season. Although they have an impressive home record, the Americans have only outscored the opposition 27-21 in their seven playoff contests. The line of Justin Bowers, Bruce Graham, Nino Musitelli have combined for 39 points (14G 25A) with a +22 in the seven home games so far.


Comfy in Allen

The Rapid City Rush have lost home-ice advantage but they have good memories in their only previous visit to the Allen Event Center. On Friday, January 15, the Rush dismantled the Americans 6-1 handing them one of the biggest losses of the season on home ice during the regular season. Les Reaney scored a pair of goals and Scott Wray and had a goal and two assists. Danny Battochio stopped 33 of 34 shots earning the win.


Series Quick Hits

• Nino Musitelli leads all skaters with 12 goals in the post-season (CHL Playoff Record is 17). He is currently on a four game goal scoring streak with five goals over that time.
• Rapid City's OT Win on Saturday's moves their OT Record in the Post-Season to 4-0. Conversely, the Americans are 0-3 in playoff games this post-season.
• Allen's goaltender Chris Whitley has made 100 saves on 106 shots in the two games combined so far versus Rapid City. The rookie stopped 48 shots in Game 1 and 52 in Game 2. Whitley is 9-7 in the playoffs so far and with his next appearance, he will tie the CHL record for most appearances by a goaltender in the playoffs (Chad Erickson of San Angelo and Steven Plouffe of Ft. Worth). Whitley is within reach as well of breaking Erickson's records for most minutes played and saves in a playoff season.
• The imporantance of drawing first blood is magnified with the Rush and the Americans as the team strikes first typically wins the game. So far in the playoffs, the Rush and the Americans are a combined 14-3 when scoring first and through the first two games of the Finals, the team that scored first won the game.

Q&A with Allen Americans Head Coach Dwight Mullins

Dwight Mullins has taken an expansion team from its infancy to the League Championship in the team's first season in the D/FW Suburb of Allen. Prior to joining the Allen Americans, Mullins in his first full season with the franchise to a 2nd place finish in the Southern Conference.

His coaching style has allowed the Americans to have a strong balance of offense which has been led by the top players of Nino Musitelli, Bruce Graham and Justin Bowers who have scored double digit goals in the playoffs. A strong defense like Jordie Benn & Ryan Fairbarn have lead a rock-hard defense that gave up the 2nd fewest goals of the 10 playoff teams this season with 183.

After winning 2 7 Game Matchups against the Odessa Jackalopes & Laredo Bucks in the Conference Semifinals & Finals. The first 2 games ended up very well in the Final against the Rapid City Rush with a 4-1 win in Game 1 and a 5-4 OTL in Game 2. This will be a huge week for their CHL Championship Hopes as they will play their 3 Home Games this week on Wednesday, Friday & Saturday Night as they look to defend home ice and take giant steps towards winning the CHL Presidents Cup Championship.

Here's the Q&A with Allen Americans Head Coach Dwight Mullins that the League did earlier this week.

1. What has been the biggest key to your playoff run so far?

Our players have done a great job in focusing on the game at hand and we haven't gotten too high or too low through the playoffs.


2. Did you expect a rookie in goal to be as steady and calm as he appeared?

Chris has had great success in the playoffs the past few years, That, combined with a strong regular season has him feeling very confident. He has definitely met our expectations and is a major player in our playoff success.


3. What has the addition of Mike Salekin as a playoff performer meant to your team?

Mike is like Gum on the bottom of your shoe! He's going to make you know he's there every step! He is an unbelievable competitor and a warrior every night.


4. The line of Bruce Graham, Justin Bowers and Nino Musitelli has been nearly unstoppable, how has your plan on using them translated to actually using them in games?

They have definitely led the way offensively, the big plus is they have competed and performed even when they not together.


5. Who or what is your toughest matchup for your team when it comes down to taking on the Rapid City Rush?

Very well balanced, well coaches team, they transition quickly through the neutral zone and can generate some quality scoring off it.


6. When did you feel that you had something special in Allen and a team that could be playing in the Final?

Well it's been a special year, starting with the day we drove to Allen and saw the facility and area, It was very exciting and we couldn't wait to get started. The Finals! wow, we have had such a great battle to get here. We believe in ourselves more and more as we work through each series, and honestly, like I started before we haven't through past tomorrow.


7. With such a young team, what has the veteran presence of Erik Adams meant to your team?

Eric is a solid character guy and has really been a big asset on and off the ice. He comes from a great tradition of winning from the Eagles and that has helped in our program.


8. How important was taking Game 1 in the Finals?

Winning any games in the playoffs is important, Rapid City does a great job in supporting their team and makes it challenge to win there.


9. Any fear of losing momentum with the OT Loss in Game 2?

No, none, we are focused on Game 3 and putting fourth the effort to win their game.

Tornado Goalie Dan Sullivan commits to the University of Maine

After a rare year without a single NCAA Commitment from the Texas Tornado. They hoping that this off-season and going into the 2010-2011 season can start putting the Texas Tornado back on the map as a place that players can have strong NCAA & Professional Careers after their junior days are over.

First up is Tornado Goalie Dan Sullivan who's ending a great year where he played 51 games during the regular season with a strong .912 SV% and a GAA of just over 3. During the playoffs, he almost played a big part in an upset bid against the St. Louis Bandits in the opening Round of the Playoffs where he put a strong .949 SV% and a solid 1.85 GAA in the 5 playoff games.

He's heading to the University of Maine which is in Hockey East where the Maine Black Bears finished 4th in the regular season before getting to the Hockey East Championship Game before losing to Boston College in the Conference Final. Unfortunately for the Black Bears, not even the trip to the Hockey East Championship wasn't enough to get them into the National Tournament.

Some other players to look for possibly to maybe announce or make major decisions include players like Nick Taurence and Jack Prince who lead the Tornado in scoring. This finishes off a great season where over the weekend, he was also named to the All South Division Team as well.

From Shannon Smith of the Texas Tornado Website: www.tornadohockey.com

The Texas Tornado is proud to announce that goaltender Dan Sullivan has committed to the University of Maine for the 2010-2011 season. Sullivan played in 51 regular season games for the Tornado this past season, posting a 3.08 GAA, making 1575 saves, and put up a .912 SV%. During five playoff games against the St. Louis Bandits he put a 1.65 GAA, 185 saves and an amazing .949 SV%.

"Sully started at a high level this year and because of his work ethic and willingness to learn just better and better. Dan is going to an outstanding program at Maine and I have no doubt that he will be a big success in their future success," said Head Coach Tony Curtale. "I have coached several big time goalies in the past like Ben Bishop, Al Montoya, Dave Mckee, Brandon Crawford-West, Ron Vorgel and Sullivan is right there with the group."

Former Alumni Ben Bishop who attended Maine from 2006-2008 and led the team to two Final Four's appearance before leaving early to play for the St. Louis Blues and the AHL's Peoria Rivermen. Maine has a great history in NCAA Hockey with 11 Frozen Fours, earned 5 Hockey East Championships and 2 National Championships.

Here's a look at other recent Tornado Alum Goalies and where they Playing right now.

Al Montoya, San Antonio Rampage (AHL)

Ben Bishop, Peoria Rivermen (AHL)

David Mckee, Allen Americans (CHL)

Brendon Crawford-West, Miami of Ohio (CCHA)

OHL Championship Game 1: Cundari & Hall make the difference late

One of the this summer's top players for the 2010 NHL Draft this summer Taylor Hall made the difference late in the first OT as he scored his 15th of the OHL Playoffs to help the Spitfires win their 5th in a row after having to comeback from 3-0 down to the Kitchener Rangers in the Conference Finals.

After a slow start to the game, things got cooking late in the 1st period as Windsor's Adam Henrique & Ryan Ellis scored late in the first after Barrie's Matt Kennedy and Kyle Clifford scored to make it 2-0 Colts.

After the 2 Spitfires goals late in the first, the game turned into a defensive showing as both teams were careful about giving up the next goal as both teams thought that it might have been a barn burner in Game 1 of the OHL Final.

Windsor continued to barrage it's SOG with 48 but Barrie Goalie Marvic Parks made 44 saves on 48 shots in the game while Windsor's goaltending situation has been a bit shaky this season, but Spitfires goalie Philipp Grubauer made 29 saves on 32 Barrie Shots as the Spitfires turned it up in the 3rd period by out-shooting the Colts 5-0 in the OT Period.

For Barrie to handle Windsor's shooting ways as the Spitfires have among the league leaders in SOG by a wide margin all year in the OHL.

Game 2 of the OHL Championship will be back in Barrie on Thursday Night as the Colts will look to comeback from the Game 1 OT Loss.

From Aaron Bell of the Ontario Hockey League Website: http://www.ontariohockeyleague.com/

The Barrie Colts are quickly finding out why people are calling the Windsor Spitfires the "Comeback Kids". The Colts took an early lead in Game 1 of the Rogers OHL Championship Series in Barrie on Tuesday and then had the lead again late in the game but resilient Spitfires battled back both teams and then scored in OT to win the Series Opener.

Taylor Hall was again the hero for the Spitfires when he blasted a one-timer from the faceoff circle 2:35 into the overtime to give the Spitfires a 1-0 Series Lead.

"I knew that their guys were kind of forcing Ryan Ellis and I had to get into a soft spot," Hall said about the goal. "Fortunately I got a lot on the shot and I don't think he saw it at all. It was very fortunate for us.

"I thought it was a pretty good effort by our team. We started off a little bit sluggish and that cost us an early lead but as we got going, that helped out legs."

Matt Kennedy opened the scoring at 13:11 into the game and then Kyle Clifford staked the Colts to a two-goal-lead three minutes later. But Adam Henrique put the Spitfires on the board just 33 seconds later and then Ryan Ellis tied the game in the last minute of the opening period.

Darren Archibald pushed the Colts ahead again midway through the 2nd period and the Colts held on to the lead until Mark Cundari tied it with 3:16 in the third period to force Overtime.

The Spitfires earned their way into the Championship Series after a dramatic comeback against the Kitchener Rangers in the Western Conference Final Series. The Rangers won the first 3 games of that series before the Spitfires roared back with 4 straight wins to reach the OHL Finals for the 2nd straight season.

"Coming into this game, we just wanted to keep this simple, play a solid road game and never give up," said Cundari, who grabbed a loose puck in the slot and fired it on the net for his 2nd goal of the playoffs. "In the 3rd period I got a bounce and I buried it and we brought it to Overtime. We went into the room and said we were going to win this game. We needed it. It was a huge bounce for us."

Philipp Grubauer won his fifth straight game after allowing 32 shots while Marvic Parks took the loss after stopping 44 of 48 shots in the opening game for the Colts, who suffered their first loss in 8 playoff games.

Game 2 is in Thursday in Barrie (6:30 PM CDT) before the series shifts to Windsor for Game 3 on Sunday and Game 4 on Tuesday.

The Colts welcomed a sold-out crowd of 4296 for their first appearance in the OHL Championship Series since 2002 and are looking to even up the series at home on Thursday Night.

"I think it's huge for us", said Colts Defensemen Alex Pietrangelo. "We worked all season to get home ice advantage for the circumstance right here. The fans were good here tonight I just wish we were able to put on a little better performance and get the win. Were ready to go for the next game."

For the Spitfires, they have an opportunity to take the series lead back home for the next two games.

"Were going to play the exact same as we did today," Cundari said. "Obviously were going to clean up some things in our defensive zone and work on some of the top things that we need to be successful. It's going to be a great game and hopefully we will end up on top."


Windsor Spitfires Lead Series 1-0


Game Boxscore

Windsor Spitfires 4 Barrie Colts 3 (OT) (2-2, 0-1, 1-0, 1-0)

0-1 BAR: Matt Kennedy (Gaskin) 13:11 1st

0-2 BAR: Kyle Clifford (Pither) 16:10 1st

1-2 WSR: Adam Henrique (Wallace) 16:43 1st

2-2 WSR: Ryan Ellis (Cantin, Nemisz) 19:27 1st

2-3 BAR: Darren Archibald (Carnevale, Crawford) 10:36 2nd

3-3 WSR: Mark Cundari (Wellwood) 16:44 3rd

4-3 WSR: Taylor Hall (PP) (Ellis, Fowler) 2:35 OT


Game Stats

SOG: WSR 48 BAR 32

PP: WSR 1/4 BAR 0/4

PIM: WSR 10 Minutes on 5 Penalties BAR 10 Minutes on 5 Penalties

Goalies: WSR Philipp Grubauer 29 SVS on 32 Shots BAR Marvic Parks 44 SVS on 48 Shots

ATT: 4296

3rd Star: Darren Archibald (WSR)

2nd Star: Mark Cundari (WSR)

1st Star: Taylor Hall (WSR)

4/27 Scoreboard & Playoff Udate

Just one game in the NHL as the Phoenix Coyotes & Detroit Red Wings finished up the Western Conference Quarterfinals where it wasn't much of a game. A 4 goal 2nd period lead by Nicklas Lindstorm and Pavel Datsyuk who each scored twice. Plus a strong goaltending by Jimmy Howard performance fustratred the Coyotes attack all night as the Coyotes couldn't win their first playoff series since the late 80's when they were the Winnipeg Jets.

Also add on 50 shots on goal as the Red Wings peppered the Coyotes all night long as Phoenix couldn't escape the barge of pucks coming at Detroit's way. If anything is going well on Phoenix is that they ended the playoff drought in Arizona and could go along way towards saving the team as ownership and relocation rumors continue to lag on.

If this current ownership group falls through, then the team could be gone. Even though no specific rumors have been confirmed, some cities that could be possibilities include Seattle and Kansas City.

This means the Western Conference Semifinals are now set as the San Jose Sharks take on the Detroit Red Wings & the Chicago Blackhawks will be taking on the Vancouver Canucks as both 2nd Round Matchups are expected to begin sometime this weekend most likely. We are looking for a couple of classics as all 4 teams have had playoff matchups against each other in recent years.

The Eastern Conference 1st Round will be wrapping up tonight with Game 7 between Washington & Montreal. If the Capitals win tonight, it would be Washington VS. Philadelphia & Pittsburgh VS. Boston. If the Canadians pull off the upset of the top overall seed. It would be Pittsburgh VS. Montreal & Boston VS. Philadelphia as the top 3 seeds would all be gone in the 1st Round.

The American Hockey League saw the Abbotsford Heat & Rochester Americans play a Game 7. It was goals by John Lammers & Olivier Latendresse gave the Heat a 2-0 shutout win as the Heat completed a comeback to win the series in 4-3. The Heat outscored the Americans 10-2 in the final 3 games to beat the Rochester Americans and advance to play the Hamilton Bulldogs in the North Division Final.

The Hershey Bears are steamrolling in the playoffs as the Bears used a 6-5 OT win to go up 3-0 in the East Division Final against the Albany River Rats. Despite Albany giving Hershey a strong going in the offense, it's finding goals in critical times as 2 of the 3 games have advanced to OT as the Bears scored with 4 minutes left in the 1st OT to put the River Rats on the verge of elimination and ending the River Rats era in Albany, New York. The team began in 1990 as the River Rats will move to Charlotte, North Carolina after this season.

It was the opening game of the OHL Championship Series in Barrie as Mark Cundari tied the game at 3-3 with just over 3 minutes left in the 3rd period. Then Taylor Hall scored his 15th of the playoffs to make it 4-3 Spitfires to take the opening game of the OHL Championship. It starts a big week for the Junior Leagues as the WHL, QMJHL & USHL begin their Championship Matchups on Friday. While the NAHL Robertson Cup Tournament Begins on May 4.

With the Junior League Championships getting underway. Look for full Game Stories and Boxscores as the Race's for the Memorial Cup, USHL Clark Cup & the NAHL Robertson Cup Championships begin this week.

Professional Scores


NHL Stanley Cup Playoffs

Detroit Red Wings 6 Phoenix Coyotes 1 (0-0, 4-1, 2-0)
www.nhl.com/ice/gamecenter.htm?id=2009030187

Detroit Wins Series 4-3, It will be the Detroit Red Wings VS. San Jose Sharks & Chicago Blackhawks VS. Vancouver Canucks in the Western Conference Semifinals.


AHL Calder Cup Playoffs

Hershey Bears 6 Albany River Rats 5 (OT) (0-2, 3-1, 2-2, 1-0)
http://theahl.com/stats/game-summary.php?game_id=1007285

Hershey VS. Albany Game Story: http://theahl.com/bears-outlast-rats-for-3-0-series-lead-p142406

Hershey Leads Series 3-0


Abbotsford Heat 2 Rochester Americans 0 (1-0, 1-0, 0-0)
http://theahl.com/stats/game-summary.php?game_id=1007240

Abbotsford Wins Series 4-3, It will be the Hamilton Bulldogs VS. Abbotsford Heat in the North Division Finals with the series beginning on Thrusday in Hamilton, Ontario.

Abbotsford VS. Rochester Game Story: http://theahl.com/heat-blank-amerks-complete-comeback-p142404


CHL Presidents Cup Playoffs

No Games on Tuesday Night. Game 3 between Allen & Rapid City is tonight in Allen, Texas.


Major Junior Memorial Cup Playoffs

Western Hockey League

No Games on Tuesday Night. The WHL Final between the Calgary Hitmen VS. Tri-City Americans will begin on Friday Night in Calgary, Alberta.


Ontario Hockey League

Look for the Barrie Colts VS. Windsor Spitfires Game Story as Game 1 was played last night.


Quebec Major Junior Hockey League

The QMJHL Final will begin on Friday Night as the St. John Seadogs VS. Moncton Wildcats will begin on Friday Night in St. John, New Brunswick.


U.S.A. Junior Scores

USHL Clark Cup

No Games on Tuesday Night. The USHL Clark Cup Championship between the Green Bay Gamblers & Fargo Force on Friday Night in Green Bay, Wisconsin.


NAHL Robertson Cup

No Games until May 4 as the NAHL Robertson Cup will begin in Wenatchee, Washington.

Full NAHL Robertson Cup Schedule

With the St. Louis Bandits clinching the final spot for the NAHL Robertson Cup Championship Tournament last night. This year's Final 5 is all set and the schedule is all set with the 4 Division Champions plus the Wenatchee Wild who are hosting this year's tournament up in Wenatchee, Washington. It will be a Round Robin Format where each team playing 4 games. Then after the Round Robin comes to an end, it will be a single game between the top 2 seeds for the League Championship this year.

Last year the Wenatchee Wild finished 2nd in the Round Robin when they reached the Robertson Cup Championship. Then in the Championship ended badly as the team lost in OT to the St. Louis Bandits as they won they 3rd Robertson Cup Championship in a row. The St. Louis Bandits are going to be the hunted this year as the Wild will be looking get some revenge on their home ice and win the teams first ever Championship.

Joining the Wenatchee Wild & St. Louis Bandits who are expected to be the favorites again this year. The Bismarck Bobcats are back in the Robertson Cup after winning the Central Division for the 2nd straight year, but after the Bobcats poor showing where they only win came against North Iowa in Double Overtime, the Bobcats will be looking to players like Jason Fabian and Ryan Jacobsen who are among the playoff leaders in goals. While Dominic Panetta who has 11 assists as the Bobcats sweepet both the Albert Lea Thunder & Owatonna Express in the Central Division Playoffs.

Traverse City is the newcomer this year as the North Stars have won their first Division Title since joining the league 4 years ago. However the question is do they have the defense to keep up as the North Stars came out of a very balanced Division. But the North was thought as a weak division, the team will look to goalie David Strandberg who's played every minute of every game in the playoffs with a GAA of 1.00 and 2 shutouts in the playoffs as the North Stars have beaten the Janesville Jets & the Motor City Metal Jackets who themselves shocked the Top Seeded Marquette Rangers in the 1st Round.

Fairbanks is being seen as this year's long shot as the Icedogs are being the designated West Division Team with the Wild being Tournament Hosts. They will be the long-shot and be the 5th & Lowest Seeded Team in this year's Robertson Cup Tournament.

A tough schedule awaits them out the shoot as the Icedogs will have the first day off then will play the Wenatchee Wild & St. Louis Bandits back-to-back on May 5 & 6. If Fairbanks is going to need a strong team game from everybody, especially from the top players like Matt Millis and Mark Pustin for the Icedogs to have a shot this year.


Here's a look at how the 5 teams reached the NAHL Robertson Cup & how they seeded for this year's Tournament.

#1 Wenatchee Wild (West Division Champions & Tournament Hosts)

#2 St. Louis Bandits (South Division Champions)

#3 Bismarck Bobcats (Central Division Champions)

#4 Traverse City North Stars (North Division Champions)

#5 Fairbanks Ice Dogs (West Division Runner Up)



Wenatchee Wild Road to the NAHL Robertson Cup

Regular Season Record: 45-10-3 93 PTS, 219 GF 125 GA, Finished 1st in the West & Overall

DIV. Semifinals VS. Kenai River: Game 1 5-2 W, Game 2 5-2 W, Game 3 3-1 W

DIV. Finals VS. Fairbanks: Game 1 6-2 W, Game 2 6-2 W, Game 3 7-1 W

Wenatchee Wild Scoring Leaders
Ryan Tilmar 6 GP 8 PTS (6G 2A, +6)
Dajon Mingo 6 GP 8 PTS (2G 6A,+8)
Michael Di Puma 6 GP 7 PTS (3G 4A, +7)

Wenatchee Wild Goaltending
Brandon Jeager 5 GP 5-0 1.84 GAA .889 SV%
Brendan Jensen 1 GP 1-0 1.00 GAA .950 SV%

Full Wenatchee Wild Stats: http://nahl.stats.pointstreak.com/teamplayerstats.html?teamid=137690&seasonid=4578


St. Louis Bandits Road to the Robertson Cup

Regular Season Record: 44-11-3 91 PTS, 211 GF 125 GA, Finished 2nd in the West Division

DIV. Semifinals VS. Texas: Game 1 2-3 L, Game 2 1-3 L, Game 3 1-0 W, Game 4 3-2 OTW, Game 5 3-2 OTW

DIV. Finals VS. Topeka: Game 1 2-1 W, Game 2 6-2 W, Game 3 1-4 L, Game 4 4-1 W, Game 5 5-0 W


St. Louis Bandits Scoring Leaders
Patrick Sheehan 10 GP 9 PTS (0G 9A, +2)
Ryan Belonger 9 GP 6 PTS (3G 3A, +3)
Craig Kitto 10 GP 6 PTS (1G 5A, E)

St. Louis Bandits Goaltending
Tyler Bruggeman 9 GP 6-3 1.65 GAA .933 SV%
CJ Groh 2 GP 0-1 3.05 GAA .852 SV%

Full St. Louis Bandits Stats: http://nahl.stats.pointstreak.com/teamplayerstats.html?teamid=13177&seasonid=4578



Bismarck Bobcats Road to the Robertson Cup

Regular Season Record: 39-11-8 86 PTS, 195 GF 130 GA, Finished 1st in the Central Divison.

DIV. Semifinals VS. Albert Lea: Game 1 4-2 W, Game 2 8-2 W, Game 3 6-1 W

DIV. Finals VS. Alexandria: Game 1 9-1 W, Game 2 5-2 W, Game 3 3-1 W


Bismarck Bobcats Scoring Leaders
Dominic Panetta 6 GP 16 PTS (5G 11A, +10)
Jason Fabian 6 GP 11 PTS (4G 7A, +4)
San Rendle 6 GP 9 PTS (2G 7A, +3)

Bismarck Bobcats Goaltending
Jake Williams 4 GP 4-0 1.75 GAA .930 SV%
Ryan Faragher 2 GP 2-0 1.00 GAA .974 SV%

Bismarck Bobcats Full Stats: http://nahl.stats.pointstreak.com/teamplayerstats.html?teamid=13184&seasonid=4578


Traverse City North Stars Road to the Robertson Cup

Regular Season Record: 33-20-5 71 PTS, 217 GF 172 GA, Finished 2nd in the North Division

DIV. Semifinals VS. Janesville: Game 1 7-1 W, Game 2 4-0 W, Game 3 2-0 W

DIV. Finals VS. Motor City: Game 1 4-1 W, Game 2 5-1 W, Game 3 5-3 W


Traverse City North Stars Scoring Leaders
Garrett Thompson 6 GP 8 PTS (5G 3A, +4)
Doug Clifford 6 GP 8 PTS (1G 7A, +3)
Tim Opie 6 GP 7 PTS (3G 4A, +6)

Traverse City North Stars Goaltending Leaders
Drew Strandberg 6 GP 6-0 1.00 GAA .958 SV%

Full Traverse City North Stars Stats: http://nahl.stats.pointstreak.com/teamplayerstats.html?teamid=36621&seasonid=4578


Fairbanks Ice Dogs Road to the Robertson Cup

Regular Season Record: 32-22-4 68 PTS, 203 GF 182 GA, Finished 3rd in the West Division.

DIV. Semifinals VS. Alaska: Game 1 2-1 W, Game 2 6-4 W, Game 3 4-2 W

DIV. Finals VS. Wenatchee: Game 1 6-2 W, Game 2 6-2 W, Game 3 7-1 W


Fairbanks Ice Dogs Scoring Leaders
Matt Millis 6 GP 5 PTS (4G 1A, -4)
Mark Pustin 6 GP 5 PTS (3G 2A, -4)
Zach Tolkinen 6 GP 4 PTS (1G 3A, -6)

Fairbanks Ice Dogs Goaltending
Joe Phillippi 5 GP 3-2 4.02 GAA .868 SV%
Mike Taffe 3 GP 0-1 4.23 GAA .897 SV%

Full Fairbanks Ice Dogs Stats: http://nahl.stats.pointstreak.com/teamplayerstats.html?teamid=13174&seasonid=4578


Here's the Full Schedule of Games for the NAHL Robertson Cup which begins on May 4. (All Start Times are at PDT)

May 4

Bismarck Bobcats VS. St. Louis Bandits 2:05 PM

Traverse City North Stars VS. Wenatchee Wild 6:35 PM


May 5

Traverse City North Stars VS. St. Louis Bandits 2:05 PM

Fairbanks Ice Dogs VS. Wenatchee Wild 6:35 PM


May 6

Fairbanks Ice Dogs VS. St. Louis Bandits 2:05 PM

Traverse City North Stars VS. Bismarck Bobcats 7:05 PM


May 7

Fairbanks Ice Dogs VS. Traverse City North Stars 2:35 PM

Bismarck Bobcats VS. Wenatchee Wild 7:05 PM


May 8

Fairbanks Ice Dogs VS. Bismarck Bobcats 2:35 PM

St. Louis Bandits VS. Wenatchee Wild 7:05 PM


May 9 (Championship Game)

#1 Seed VS. #2 Seed 5:05 PM

4/26 Scoreboard & Playoff Update

The National Hockey League saw 3 Game 6's last night as we saw the Boston Bruins & Chicago Blackhawks are moving on to the 2nd Round.While Montreal's Halak made an amazing 53 of 54 saves to force a Game 7 in Washington D.C. as the Capitals & Canadiens will be playing on Wednesday Night.

Nashville & Chicago had a crazy first period where the Blackhawks were leading 4-3 after 20 minutes. All 5 goals from the Blackhawks came from different players as Patrick Kane & Jonathan Towes both scoring pretty early, other players including Duncan Keith & Patrick Sharp also scored to make it 4-3 Blackhawks as the 1st period continued to go back-and-fourth as the 1st period ended 4-3.

Then the 2nd & 3rd periods turned into both teams getting desperate. The 2nd period saw the Blackhawks looking to pull away, but Predators goalie Patrick Rinne kept the Preds in the Game as the Blackhawks out-shot Nashville 16-4.

The 3rd period saw the tides turn as the Predators were looking to at least force OT or even comeback to win and save the Predators season as the SOG were 15-3 in favor of NSH, but Chicago Goalie Antti Nemi kept the Blackhawks up and John Madden put the game away with an empty net goal to win Game 6 & the Series 4-2.

As the Blackhawks put the Predators away in the first round away, it will be Chicago & Vancouver in the Western Conference Semifinals as we have the first confirmed 2nd Round Series. As for the other Western Conference Semifinals, it will be the San Jose Sharks against the winner of tonight's Game 7 between Phoenix & Detroit.

Boston ended what was a very physical series against the Buffalo Sabres as David Krejci scored twice in the game to win Game 6 to clinch the Series in 6 Games. With the Top Seeds in the East being in big trouble, it's defiantly possible that the Bruins could be getting home ice advantage for the 2nd Round with the 2nd seeded New Jersey Devils and 3rd seeded Buffalo Sabres out of the playoffs, also with the Capitals VS. Canadians going to Game 7 which will be played on Wednesday Night.

It was the first of 2 Game 7's in the AHL as the Chicago Wolves finally saw off the Milwaukee Admirals with a 2-1 win where the Wolves had to fight off after scoring twice in basically a minute-and-a-half. After the Wolves made it 2-0, Admirals goalie Mark Dekanich hang tough to keep the Admirals in the game despite getting out-shot 36-16 in the game.

Even though an Admirals goal by Marty Murray made it 2-1, the Admirals were able to hold on 2-1 to win the series in 7 games. It will be the Texas Stars VS. Chicago Wolves in the West Division Final with the Best-of-7 Series getting ready on Friday Night.

We made some history in the QMJHL as the St. John Seadogs ended the Series in 6 as the Seadogs used 3 & 4 goal periods to advance to the Championship Series against New Brunswick Arch rival Moncton Wildcats. This is the first time in QMJHL History that we are going to see an all Maritime Region Championship Series. No Schedule has been released yet for the QMJHL Final which will begin St. John later this week.

In the very tough NAHL South Division, the Bandits used a 4 goal 2nd period to end the Roadrunners season to win 5-0 as the Bandits will look to win the NAHL Robertson Cup for a 4th straight time.

The Tournament begins on May 4 as the Wenatchee Wild will be hosting this year and won the West Division as well. Bismarck, Traverse City & Fairbanks have also advanced to this year's Robertson Cup Championship.


Also tonight is a big night as we have Game 7 in Arizona as the Coyotes & Red Wings will determine who will play the San Jose Sharks. Also Rochester & Abbotsford have a Game 7 of their own with the winner playing the Hamilton Bulldogs in the AHL North Division Final.

The first of the Major Junior Championships gets underway with the OHL. It's the top Conference Seeds as the Barrie Colts will take on the Windsor Spitfires for the OHL Championship & a Memorial Cup Spot.

Professional Scores

NHL Stanley Cup Playoffs

Washington Capitals 1 Montreal Canadians 4 (0-2, 0-0, 1-2)
www.nhl.com/ice/gamecenter.htm?id=2009030116

Series Tied 3-3, Game 7 is on Wednesday Night


Buffalo Sabres 3 Boston Bruins 4 (0-1, 1-1, 2-2)
www.nhl.com/ice/gamecenter.htm?id=2009030136

Boston Wins Series 4-2, The Bruins will await they Eastern Conference Semifinals Opponent.


Chicago Blackhawks 5 Nashville Predators 3 (4-3, 0-0, 1-0)
www.nhl.com/ice/gamecenter.htm?id=2009030166

Chicago Wins Series 4-2, It will be the Chicago Blackhawks VS. Vancouver Canucks in the Western Conference Semifinals.


AHL Calder Cup Playoffs

Milwaukee Admirals 1 Chicago Wolves 2 (0-2, 1-0, 0-0)
http://theahl.com/stats/game-summary.php?game_id=1007275

Chicago Wins Series 4-3, It will be the Texas Stars VS. Chicago Wolves in the West Division Final.


CHL Presidents Cup Playoffs

No Games on Monday Night, the Series resumes on Wednesday Night in Allen as the Allen Americans & Rapid City Rush are tied 1-1 in the Championship.


Major Junior Memorial Cup Playoffs

Western Hockey League

No Games on Monday Night. The WHL Championship Series will begin on Friday Night between the Tri-City Americans VS. Calgary Hitmen


Ontario Hockey League

No Games on Monday Night. The OHL Championship Series will begin on Tuesday Night as the Windsor Spitfires VS. Barrie Colts will play for the OHL Title.


Quebec Major Junior Hockey League

Victoriaville Tigers 1 St. John Seadogs 7 (0-3, 0-1, 1-3)
www.lhjmq.qc.ca/lang_en/index.php?page=342374&id_partie=20988

St. John Wins Series 4-2, It will be the St. John Seadogs VS. Moncton Wildcats in the QMJHL Championship.


U.S.A. Junior Scores

USHL Clark Cup Playoffs

No Games on Monday Night. The USHL Clark Cup Championship Series between the Green Bay Gamblers VS. Fargo Force will start on Friday Night.


NAHL Robertson Cup Playoffs

St. Louis Bandits 5 Topeka Roadrunners 0 (1-0, 4-0, 0-0)
http://nahl.stats.pointstreak.com/boxscore.html?gameid=1260871

St. Louis Bandits win Series 3-2, The Bandits have advanced to the Robertson Cup Championship Tournament Which Begins on May 4 with the Bismarck Bobcats, Traverse City North Stars, Wenatchee Wild & Fairbanks Ice Dogs

Western Hockey League Championship Series

Just like the Ontario Hockey League Championship Series, the Western Hockey League will have both of the Top Seeded Teams from both the Eastern & Western Conference. Calgary is back in the Eastern Conference Championship for the 2nd straight year as the Hitmen is looking to make up for losing last year's WHL Championship to the Kelowna Rockets.

Leading the way for Calgary has Brandon Kozun who's leading the entire playoffs with 26 PTS (7G 19A) while Joel Broda is among the playoff leaders in goals with 12 as he will need to be a big part of a team that's generally very fast but do they have enough finishers. Cody Sylvester is doing a great job towards increasing his scoring ability.

During his 2 seasons with the Hitmen, he has only 15 goals combined during the regular season. So far in the playoffs, he has 9 goals thanks to a huge series against Moose Jaw where he had to help the Hitmen who to comeback after having a bad start to the series against the Moose Jaw Warriors in the Opening Round of the playoffs.

In goal for the Hitmen is Martin Jones who's a strong 12-6 in this year's playoffs. If he can have a strong Championship that can get his team to the Memorial Cup in Brandon, it could make things interesting with the LA Kings who currently hold his rights and would at least be with the LA Kings AHL Affiliate Manchester Monarchs.

Tri-City is looking to pull off the upset of sorts as the Americans won the Division and have had interesting playoff run. The Conference Quarterfinals saw a tough Chilliwack Team took them to 6 games, another tough series against defending league champion Kelowna Rockets. Despite the Americans won in 5 Games, every game was decided by 2 or fewer goals in every game and the Rockets goalie Mark Guggenberger made things tough at times. Recently against the B.C. Division Champion Vancouver Giants had them down 1-0 & 2-1 before the Americans won 3 straight to win the Series in 6 games.

For the Americans to have a shot on offense, the Americans will need the efforts as no one has double digit goals and the team has some great setup men like Justin Feser & Adam Hughesman who are among the assists leaders. But they will need these players to join in the attack with players like Brendan Shinnimin, Kruise Reddick and Sergei Drozd. These are the Centerman that are looking to be the physical bunch that can also push around the smaller Hitmen Forwards.

If the Americans goaltending starter as Drew Owsley as he has a 12-3 record with a strong looking 2.14 GAA. This could be the Americans biggest strength and could have what it takes to help fight off Hitmen superstar Brandon Kozoun.

Expect a great battle for the WHL Championship. However, the big issue is that the playoff series have been the longest of the 3 major Junior Leagues who are looking to win the Memorial Cup. Could fatigue be a factor for Brandon & the WHL Champion as the OHL & QMJHL Champions could be fresher and be able to get that final push to win the 2010 Memorial Cup Championship which will begin on May 14 in Brandon, Manitoba.


#1E Calgary Hitmen VS. #1W Tri-City Americans

Calgary Hitmen Road to the Memorial Cup

Regular Season Record: 52-17-3 107 PTS, 269 GF 177 GA, Finished 1st Overall

CONF. Quarterfinals VS. Moose Jaw: Game 1 3-4 L, Game 2 1-4 L, Game 3 7-3 W, Game 4 3-4 L, Game 5 5-2 W, Game 6 7-3 W, Game 7 6-2 W

CONF. Semifinals VS. Medicine Hat: Game 1 5-2 W, Game 2 4-0 W, Game 3 3-4 OTL, Game 4 4-1 W, Game 5 4-5 L, Game 6 3-2 OTW

CONF. Finals VS. Brandon: Game 1 2-4 L, Game 2 3-2 OTW, Game 3 6-3 W, Game 4 4-3 W, Game 5 6-1 W


Calgary Hitmen Scoring Leaders
Brandon Kozun 18 GP 26 PTS (7G 19A, +6)
Joel Broda 18 GP 16 PTS (12G 4A, +3)
Tyler Shattock 16 GP 15 PTS (5G 10A, +3)


Calgary Hitmen Goaltending
18 GP 12-6 2.61 GAA .905 SV%

Full Calgary Hitmen Stats: http://whl.ca/stats/statdisplay.php?type=skaters&subType=1&season_id=235&leagueId=26&lastActive=&singleSeason=&confId=0


Tri-City Americans Road to the Memorial Cup

Regular Season Record: 47-22-3 97 PTS, 272 GF 193 GA, Finished 1st in the West

CONF. Quarterfinals VS. Chilliwack: Game 1 4-2 W, Game 2 8-1 W, Game 3 1-5 L, Game 4 4-3 OTW, Game 5 3-4 OTL, Game 6 4-1 W

CONF. Semifinals VS. Kelowna: Game 1 5-3 W, Game 2 2-3 L, Game 3 2-0 W, Game 4 3-2 W, Game 5 4-3 OTW

CONF. Finals VS. Vancouver: Game 1 2-4 L, Game 2 4-0 W, Game 3 2-3 OTL, Game 4 5-2 W, Game 5 4-1 W, Game 6 5-2 W


Tri-City Americans Scoring Leaders
Brendan Shinnimin 17 GP 22 PTS (8G 14A, +5)
Kruise Reddick 17 GP 21 PTS (9G 12A, +12)
Brooks Macek 17 GP 17 PTS (6G 11A, +13)


Tri-City Americans Goaltending
Drew Owsley 17 GP 12-5 2.14 GAA .931SV%
Alexander Pechurskiy 2 GP 0-0 2.93 GAA .920 SV%

Full Tri-City Americans Stats: http://whl.ca/stats/statdisplay.php?type=skaters&subType=14&season_id=235&leagueId=26&lastActive=&singleSeason=&confId=0


All Calgary Hitmen Home Games are @ Pengrowth Saddledome

All Tri-City Americans Home Games are @ Toyota Center

Game 1, 4/30: @ Calgary 8:00 PM

Game 2, 5/1: @ Calgary 9:00 PM

Game 3, 5/4: @ Tri-City 9:05 PM

Game 4, 5/5: @ Tri-City 9:05 PM

Game 5, 5/7: @ Calgary 8:00 PM*

Game 6, 5/9: @ Tri-City 7:05 PM*

Game 7, 5/10: @ Calgary 8:00 PM*

*If Necessary

To follow the WHL Championship Series, log on to the following Websites.

Western Hockey League: www.whl.ca

Calgary Hitmen: www.hitmenhockey.com/index.asp

Tri-City Americans: www.amshockey.com