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Rams Football – vs. Manitoba, Friday (7:00 p.m.) at Mosaic Stadium

Women's Soccer – vs. Trinity Western, Saturday (12:00 p.m.) at U of R Field

Women's Soccer – vs. UBC, Sunday (12:00 p.m.) at U of R Field





Rams Football – Converted slotback Zach Oleynik lifted the University of Regina's football team to a big 38-14 road win over Alberta on Saturday. Playing quarterback for the first time in his CIS career, Oleynik threw four touchdown passes and racked up 254 passing yards as the Rams moved the ball efficiently all game long against the Golden Bears' defence. The Rams are back at home this weekend and can move into the fourth and final Canada West playoff spot with a victory over Manitoba (2-2). Kickoff is scheduled for 7 p.m. on Friday night at Mosaic Stadium.



Women's Soccer – The Cougars lost a pair of 2-0 games to the Manitoba Bisons over the weekend, dropping their Canada West record to 0-5-1 on the season. The schedule gets no easier for the U of R this weekend, as the team hosts No. 5-ranked Trinity Western (4-1-0) and No. 7 UBC (3-1-1) on Saturday and Sunday. Both matches will kick off at noon on campus at the U of R Field.

Rider Roster Changes

Dallas Baker and Eddie Russ have been taken off the 46 game roster for tomorrow's game in Calgary while Andy Fantuz and Lance Frazier have been put on. I'll be hosting Four Seasons Football Friday with Scott Schultz on "The Sportscage" today so we'll break it down for you.

TSN Is Your Curling Home

Big news for curling in Canada and good news for the many that watch it every winter on TSN. Click here to see the latest in the marriage between the network and the Canadian Curling Association

Could It Be????

Get out the tent! It would appear as if Mosaic Stadium will host its 3rd Grey Cup in 2013. Check it out here from the Regina Leader-Post.

WHAT A NIGHT!!!

It does not get any better than it was on the last night of baseball's regular season. In fact, it might be the greatest night of regular season baseball ever. Where do you start??

The Tampa Bay Rays and Boston Red Sox needed wins on the final night to get to a one-game playoff. The Rays found themselves down 7-0, but they scored six times in the 8th, one more in the 9th and just mere moments after Boston blew a 3-2 lead in the bottom of the 9th to Baltimore, Evan Longoria homered to send the  Rays into the playoffs with an unbelievable 8-7 win.

Meanwhile, the Atlanta Braves went into the top of the 9th needing three outs to advance to a one game playoff against St. Louis, but they couldn't hold the lead and lost to Philadelphia.

It ended a night of pure drama and one that was great for the game as it had the sports spotlight all to itself. It was fantastic theatre to watch and once again verified that this is real reality TV and not that crap like "Amazing Race", "Survivor" and whatever else trashes up our TV screens.
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This means the playoffs will see the Tigers taking on the Yankees and the Rays playing Texas in the American League Divisional Series. The Diamondbacks will play Milwaukee with the Phillies and Cardinals meeting in the other matchup.

World Series prediction--Phillies over Tigers
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 (photo courtesy CTV Regina)

I was deeply saddened to hear of the fire that destroyed the clubhouse at Aspen Links (formerly Emerald Park) golf club. I have golfed many a round at Emerald Park and have had many a cold beer with friends along with attending other events at the clubhouse. The pictures show it didn't take long for the structure to go up. I can only hope that another building to replace this one is built and that the community can get back on its feet quickly. 

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Don't look now, but the Regina Pats are 3-0. They walked into Medicine Hat and beat the Tigers 5-3 as Jordan Weal had a pair. Regina had a 3-0 lead, but the Tigers tied it before Morgan Klimchuk scored the game-winner with just under seven minutes to play.

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Let me get this straight---London police can find the guy who threw the banana at Wayne Simmonds a week after it happened, but Vancouver police still can't find those responsible for the Game 7 riot. HMMMMMMM!!!!

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"Moneyball" is a fantastic movie. Go see it if you can. 

Good News For The Warriors

The Moose Jaw Warriors are getting their marquee player back. The Florida Panthers have sent Quinton Howden back to the team ending any speculation that he may stick with the big club.

Read It And React Accordingly

The Tony Romo Love Astounds Me/Riders Update

I'm not a Tony Romo fan. I never have been, I never will be. I think the guy is highly over-rated and that he only gets the attention he does because he is the quarterback of America's Team.

If you watched Monday Night Football last night, you know the Cowboys beat the Washington Redskins, but   all I am hearing today is Tony Romo this and Tony Romo that. You would think Romo single-handedly put the Cowboys on his back and threw for 450 yards and five touchdowns. I'll give him credit for playing just over a week after suffering a broken rib and a punctured lung, but he was not the reason why Dallas won this game last night. It was their defence.

How many times did Romo get his team into the endzone???  None!
The Redskins had to settle for one field goal in the red zone while another field goal was blocked. This was because the defense was doing its job, much like the Washington defense was doing its job in keeping the Cowboys out of the endzone.

Romo didn't win this game. It was the Cowboys defense. Where is the love for them? Please give credit where credit is due.
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The Riders were back on the Taylor Field turf today for the first time since getting eviscerated 42-5 on Saturday by B.C. Lance Frazier was back practicing, but Andy Fantuz wasn't. I didn't see it, but Dallas Baker landed on his head after being clipped by Sean Lucas during a drill and while he wanted to continue, he was not in shape to and left early.

The playoff picture also looks bleak for the Riders for the loss, but the team continues to say the right things as it gets ready for what really is a must-win game against Calgary on Thursday. I also saw a very animated Ken Miller today as he became agitated with a couple of questions.

The first question was asked by Jamie Nye and while Miller answered the question, he went on to say the following.

"Its been suggested to me that I look at the big picture. I would like someone to explain to me exactly what the big picture is. Somebody needs to explain to me how this thing will turn out in the end. Until then, we'll play it one game at a time and that's how we'll approach it. 

Coach Miller then barked back at Rod Pedersen when the play-by-play voice of the team asked for an explanation as to why the team came out so flat on Saturday. With a stern tone to his voice, Miller responded with

"I’m not going to tell you they were flat. You watch our game video and you see guys playing with great effort for the duration of the game. We weren’t playing well collectively and I don’t know the reason for that. In the final plays of the game we played with tremendous effort offensively and defensively. We’re not playing like a team that is flat. For some reason, we’re unsynchronized and not playing well together. That’s the thing I have to get figured out. They played with tremendous effort."

The Tony Romo Love Astounds Me/Riders Update

I'm not a Tony Romo fan. I never have been, I never will be. I think the guy is highly over-rated and that he only gets the attention he does because he is the quarterback of America's Team.

If you watched Monday Night Football last night, you know the Cowboys beat the Washington Redskins, but   all I am hearing today is Tony Romo this and Tony Romo that. You would think Romo single-handedly put the Cowboys on his back and threw for 450 yards and five touchdowns. I'll give him credit for playing just over a week after suffering a broken rib and a punctured lung, but he was not the reason why Dallas won this game last night. It was their defence.

How many times did Romo get his team into the endzone???  None!
The Redskins had to settle for one field goal in the red zone while another field goal was blocked. This was because the defense was doing its job, much like the Washington defense was doing its job in keeping the Cowboys out of the endzone.

Romo didn't win this game. It was the Cowboys defense. Where is the love for them? Please give credit where credit is due.
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The Riders were back on the Taylor Field turf today for the first time since getting eviscerated 42-5 on Saturday by B.C. Lance Frazier was back practicing, but Andy Fantuz wasn't. I didn't see it, but Dallas Baker landed on his head after being clipped by Sean Lucas during a drill and while he wanted to continue, he was not in shape to and left early.

The playoff picture also looks bleak for the Riders for the loss, but the team continues to say the right things as it gets ready for what really is a must-win game against Calgary on Thursday. I also saw a very animated Ken Miller today as he became agitated with a couple of questions.

The first question was asked by Jamie Nye and while Miller answered the question, he went on to say the following.

"Its been suggested to me that I look at the big picture. I would like someone to explain to me exactly what the big picture is. Somebody needs to explain to me how this thing will turn out in the end. Until then, we'll play it one game at a time and that's how we'll approach it. 

Coach Miller then barked back at Rod Pedersen when the play-by-play voice of the team asked for an explanation as to why the team came out so flat on Saturday. With a stern tone to his voice, Miller responded with

"I’m not going to tell you they were flat. You watch our game video and you see guys playing with great effort for the duration of the game. We weren’t playing well collectively and I don’t know the reason for that. In the final plays of the game we played with tremendous effort offensively and defensively. We’re not playing like a team that is flat. For some reason, we’re unsynchronized and not playing well together. That’s the thing I have to get figured out. They played with tremendous effort."

“I’m not going to tell you they were flat. You watch our game video and you see guys playing with great effort for the duration of the game. We weren’t playing well collectively and I don’t know the reason for that. In the final plays of the game we played with tremendous effort offensively and defensively. We’re not playing like a team that is flat. For some reason, we’re unsynchronized and not playing well together. That’s the thing I have to get figured out. They played with tremendous effort.’’ 

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Riders Add To Their Practice Roster

The Saskatchewan Roughriders announced they have signed import defensive backs Tyron Brackenridge and Justin Wilson, import wide receiver LJ Castile, import defensive ends Roberto Davis and Kenny Rowe and import linebacker Chris Francis to the practice roster.

Brackenridge (6’0 – 189 lbs) spent the last four seasons in the NFL after originally signing with Kansas City in 2007. In two seasons with the Chiefs, the 27-year-old played in 14 games and tallied 27 tackles and two forced fumbles.  Most recently the Washington State product spent two seasons with the Jacksonville Jaguars and played in 32 games where he had 44 tackles and three forced fumbles. He was waived by the Jaguars in July, 2011.

Wilson (5’10 – 194 lbs) played with Southern Mississippi. Last season as a senior he tallied 38 tackles, three tackles for a loss and four pass breakups in 12 starts. He was selected as a 2010 Conference USA Second Team selection.

Castile (6’3 – 223 lbs) helped Delta State to the Division II Championship game by leading the team’s receiving corps in all categories with 67 catches for 900 yards and 13 touchdowns. Previous to transferring to Delta State his senior year, Castile played his first three years at Houston.

Davis (6’2 – 254 lbs) played for Northwest Missouri State and in his senior year he recorded 52 tackles, ten tackles for a loss, seven quarterback sacks and three forced fumbles in 14 starts. Davis started his college career at New Mexico State before transferring in 2009.

Rowe (6’2 – 244 lbs) played for Oregon and in his senior season led the team with seven sacks and 16.5 tackles for a loss, had 48 tackles and tied for second in NCAA and first in PAC-10 with five forced fumbles. In 2010, he played in the East-West Shrine game. In 2009, he tied a Rose Bowl record with three quarterback sacks and went on to be named the Rose Bowl Defensive MVP.

Francis (6’0 – 229 lbs) played with Baylor and in his senior season in 2010 had 72 total tackles in 12 games. He finished his college career with 159 total tackles, three tackles for a loss, two interceptions and 1.5 quarterback sacks.

Monday Morning Thoughts

If you are a fan of both the Saskatchewan Roughriders and the Minnesota Vikings, I have nothing but sympathy for you today and hope that at no time were you around a sharp object last night. That being said, have the people at Evraz Place seen Josh "I Love the Wiggles" Shaw today. Seriously, I don't know what collapses quicker---the Vikings in the 2nd half this year or the Metrodome roof when it snows. YIKES

Hamilton not only throws up 55 on Calgary, but they may have struck a huge dagger into the Riders playoff chances. Unless someone in the West really collapses down the stretch (Edmonton???), the green and white may be with Toronto on the outside looking in come playoff time. Sad to think that a win on Saturday might have had this team thinking home playoff game and now no playoffs is a real reality.

The Bombers say Fred Reid's season is done. How much will that affect the Bombers going down the road?

Michael Vick is complaining about unfair treatment and being abused?? I just want to make sure I'm getting that right.

Did you take Peyton Manning in a fantasy football draft this year? If you did, who is your QB now?

The Lions and Bills are 3-0?? Really!!!!

The Bills-Patriots game was highly entertaining yesterday. The Panthers-Jags game was as well for completely different reasons. I love seeing players sloshing around when conditions are miserable.

It doesn't look right seeing Matt Hasselbeck in a Tennessee Titans uniform.

What good does Tony Siragusa bring to a FOX broadcast?

Tonight's Monday Night Football game features the Cowboys. How much Tony Romo love will we be forced to endure tonight. Is there a more over-rated QB in the NFL right now than Romo.

Good on the New Jersey Devils for announcing they will retire the #27 jersey worn by Scott Niedermayer, He may have the most decorated resume in the history of Canadian hockey when you consider he has won it all.

Colten Teubert is still with the Oilers main squad. Does he have a shot at being their 7th defenceman this year. I would think he is off to Oklahoma City, but if he makes it, good for him. You know L-A basically got rid of him when they threw him into the package when getting Dustin Penner (nice trade by the way) so to see him flourish would be nice.

After seeing this, I don't know if I can ever watch Coach's Corner in the same light again....

Is this real or has this been photoshopped? If it was Henry Burris, you know he'd have an excuse.

SGI says it has sold 22-thousand Rider licence plates. That's it?? It seems everyone has one of those on their cars. I honestly thought there would be more.

One commenter blamed me for Saturday's Rider loss saying I wasn't wearing my fancy yellow shirt and that got the Riders off their game. I would take that blame if it wasn't for the fact the yellow shirt has been worn at other home games this year where the Riders have lost.
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Trying To Dissect That Disaster

(Picture Courtesy Jonathan Carriere    www.jcfotos.ca)


Disappointment doesn't even start to describe it. I don't even know if a good old fashioned WTF can describe it. That was not Rider football under Ken Miller. I don't know what that was, but it was three hours of my life that I am not getting back. I did not see the B.C. Lions walking into Taylor Field and taking a 42-5 win over a putrid looking Riders team that made me wonder if we had done a rewind to the first part of the season.

I had a bad feeling about this one when the Lions marched down the field on a 15 or 16 play drive getting a field goal and then seeing the defence go back out immediately on a 32 degree day. The offence had to move the ball and they didn't when they had to. That spelled disaster.

Other thoughts on this debacle

--The Riders really and I mean REALLY missed Lance Frazier in the secondary.
--Just for a change, can we start throwing the ball on first down. 2nd and longs after a two or three yard run just don't cut it.
--Doug Berry may have left, but the shotgun draw remains in the playbook. That is the most predictable play out there and everyone can see it coming.
--Not that it mattered when it comes to the final score, but you get to the one yard line and then throw the ball three times?? Was Doug Berry back on the sidelines?
--Dario Romero is a good football player, but he has to get his attitude under control.
--Weston Dressler is not only good, but he is a tough s-o-b. He takes a lot of punishment out there.
--Nick Graham just can't do what he did. He wasn't the only one who had braincramps though.
--Has a Ken Miller team ever taken 16 penalties in a game?
--I won't be disappointed when the wasps are no longer a problem at the stadium.
--Korey Banks running into the goalpost at full steam was scary. He could laugh about it after, but that could have been a very sad way to end what was a sad football game.
--When was the last time the Riders got beat that bad at home. I can't remember seeing such a one sided verdict for the visitors since I've  been going to games and I've been going for a long time. Its a tough question because Vanstone didn't even know.
--I really hope Paul McCallum is remembered as one of the greatest kickers the CFL has ever seen and not for one missed field goal in a Western Division final.
--How dumb has this CFL season been? Road teams have won more than home teams and that stupid coin that I flipped on Wednesday's Sportscage is 3-0 this week!!!!

The momentum of the past three weeks has definitely come to a screeching halt. The football team has six games left in the regular season. Dare I say they have to win 5 of them to get into the West playoffs.

The magic may have disappeared on the Mosaic turf this afternoon, but I don't think the spell that Ken Miller has cast over this team is gone. I think we all know this team is better than what they showed yesterday, but I think we also know that what seemed so promising when we woke up Saturday morning has all of a sudden taken a drastic turn.
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Congrats to the Rams as they get in the win column with a 38-14 win over Alberta.
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Is it just me or do you know that a CFL game where Andre Proulx is worth watching because you know at some point, he will botch something up.  WOWWW!!
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I know I am anti-Canadian in saying this, but I have no time for the single point. Remove the rouge!!
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How many starters did the Bombers lose? I don't think I've ever seen one team lose so many guys.
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Clarence Denmark of the Bombers made the catch of the year in the CFL and arguably football this season.
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Thumbs up to the Pats who take two in a row from Swift Current to start the season as they go into Swift and win 4-2.
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I guess Mark Lee is still with CBC as he did the exhibition game tonight between the Ducks and Canucks.
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I just can't watch NHL pre-season hockey. I'll be there though when the real stuff starts.
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Do you feel safer when outside knowing you won't be hit by a satellite returning to earth. I know I am.
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Jon "Bones" Jones is one mean mo-fo.
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Chris Cuthbert is now following me on Twitter. I find that to be so strange, yet I do consider it an honour. Thanks Chris!!
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One of my neanderthal UFC buds found a video of midget MMA. Enough said!
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Time to spend another Sunday on the couch flipping channels for Week 3 of the NFL season.

LOCK OF THE WEEK---Ravens over Rams
UPSET OF THE WEEK ---Seahawks over Cardinals (You are reading that right!!)
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That is all! Enjoy your Sunday.

YIKES!!

That was ug-lee!!! Its hard to find any positives when you get clubbed by 37 at home. Here are some comments after the 42-5 B.C win over Saskatchewan starting with Ken Miller's post-game media session.....



File0075 by mitchellblair


DurantSept24 by mitchellblair

ShologanSept24 by mitchellblair

I Liked What I Saw--Sort Of!

Its only one game, and its only the Swift Current Broncos, who are expected to struggle, but a win is a win and the Regina Pats have that under their belt to start the WHL season.

The future was on display at the Brandt Center as Chandler Stephenson had two goals and two assists while Morgan Klimchuk scored his first of what will be many WHL goals with Jack Rodewald (who this blogger thinks will be a player before his days are over) also had his first ever WHL goal while Matt Hewitt stopped 25 of 26 shots in an impressive 5-1 win.

The Pats looked to be tentative to start off the game and perhaps that was opening night jitters, but after the midway mark of the first period, they took control of the game and outworked Swift Current. If this is what a Pat Conacher team is going to be like, I think you have to be very happy. It won't happen every night, especially against quality opponents, but games like this have to leave what was a very good crowd at the Brandt Center feeling good about the future.

While the game was good, there were two things that happened during the game that leave me wondering if the striped shirts are going to do their part in helping curb the violence that the league wants.

In the first period, Swift Current's Dillon Heatherington and the Pats Dyson Stevenson dropped the mitts. This followed an encounter in which Stevenson had run over Heatherington at the blue line and moments later took a cross check from Heatherington with the ref standing right there. No call thus a fight starts. If the call is made, the fight doesn't happen. Thus, make the call and prevent the so-called ugly stuff from happening.

Stevenson was involved in the 2nd incident as well. He smacked a Swift Current player right by the penalty box with a clean hit, but as we are prone to see in hockey when someone gets hit hard, someone has to come to his rescue and drop the mitts which is what Jordan Evans did as he delivered some payback. I don't understand why it is when someone gets nailed cleanly that someone else has to step in and start a fight. There's no reason for it. If refs would start penalizing these guys who jump in on incidents like this with an additional double minor, it might stop things.
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I'm looking forward to a great game at Mosaic tomorrow between the Lions and Riders. It will be playoff football in September. I don't like the fact that Lance Frazier won't suit up for the green guys as I think his absence will mean more than the void left by Andy Fantuz. This one will be decided by less than a TD and it could come down to the foot of Paul MacCallum or Chris Milo.
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Is it possible that a Riders win tomorrow could not only put them in third, but in real sight of 2nd and perhaps 1st. A win would leave Saskatchewan at 5-7 and if Hamilton were to beat Calgary at Touchdown Atlantic, the Stamps would be 7-5. The Riders have six of their last seven against Western Division opponents so as you can see, dreams of a home playoff game could certainly be alive after this one. We weren't saying that a while ago were we?
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I would love to know what Greg Marshall is thinking these days? He can't be a happy camper as he sees this turnaround as he wonders why this team wouldn't give him the energy that they've given Miller. Is Marshall still in Regina? I hear he is.
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There is no doubt to the greatness that is Mike Modano. However, I ask you this. Would you rather have had  Modano or the equally ageless Teemu Selanne. That's a good debate.
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I really can't believe that someone would be that low on the food chain to throw a banana at a black hockey player as was the case Thursday night in London, Ontario when the Wings took on the Flyers when it happened to Wayne Simmonds. I thought we were above that---especially in Canada. I guess not!
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I had the good fortune to see the iconic Graham Tuer at the Pats game. If you know that old coot, you have to have a profound amount of respect for him. He is a good, good man. He made trips to SJHL arenas more pleasurable last year when he was there.
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I overheard a conversation that Rod Pedersen had with WHL communications guy Cory Flett in Moose Jaw on Thursday at the Warriors season opener. Flett was telling Roddy that he will be flying to this place and that place and this place this year. In Tier 1, you fly, In Tier 2 as I found out last year, you take a yellow truck that is painted up with the SJHL decal across the highways and by-ways of this province. I'll miss those trips with then prez Laury Ryan. They were late nights, but they were good ones.
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It would seem as if Mark Lee is out at CBC Sports. The changes that Hockey Night in Canada announced this week said nothing about Lee and seeing CBC Sports really is Hockey Night in Canada, it would look as if he has been dusted off.
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Good on Brendan Shanahan for giving Jody Shelley a 10 game suspension for his hit from behind on a Leafs player this week. The times have changed in the NHL with a new sherriff in town that has skated down those dirty streets. Hopefully, the WHL disciplinary board will do the same thing with Moose Jaw's Cody Beach after his disgusting elbow to the head of a Brandon player Thursday night. There is simply no room for that and a stiff sentence will hopefully make these guys think twice.
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With player safety being one of the big questions in football, former NFL quarterback Boomer Esiason is absolutely right to question who OK'ed Tony Romo's return to the football field last week after he had suffered a broken rib and a punctured lung. Do the Cowboys have the same personnel that the Bombers have when it comes to treating Buck Pierce?
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The NBA has postponed pre-season games, but you wouldn't know it by watching "The Score" or TSN Friday night. That shows you where basketball ranks on the Canadian sports spectrum. This should be remembered when Canadians talk about the lack of hockey talk in the US. We don't care about hoops in much of this country much the way Americans don't care about hockey.
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If the Blue Jays have a good off-season, I truly believe they can contend for a wild-card spot next season.
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There are just 191 days left until the 2012 baseball season ends meaning I can start being pessimistic about the Cubs chances of ending their drought in about 205 days. SIGHHHHH!!! Speaking of the Cubs, ESPN films will have "Raising Hell--The Steve Bartman Story" on September 27. TSN can't pick that show up soon enough as far as I'm concerned. I must see that.
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I have to go see "Moneyball". End of story!
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UFC 135 should be great. I'm hoping to catch the final couple of fights with my fellow good-natured neanderthals, but I may not be able to make it because of the Rider game. Speaking of which, Ballsy is in Edmonton with the Rams so I will be doing both "The Touchdown Club" and the "Rider Roundtable" after the game. What's the over/under on stupid calls should the Riders lose?
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If money doesn't grow on trees, why do banks have branches??
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GO RIDERS!!

Opening Night Video

The Moose Jaw Warriors have never had an opportunity to do an opening video before for obvious reasons. That changed this year with the Warriors playing in the brand new Mosaic Place. Here is how they opened it up last night...


The Pats usually bring us a pretty good video package so we'll see what they come up with tonight.

Final Thoughts

The Riders met the media for the final time before tomorrow's game against B.C at what will be a sold out Mosaic Place. Here are the comments of Coach Miller, Darian Durant and Jerrell Freeman...


MillerSept23 by mitchellblair



FreemanSept23 by mitchellblair


DurantSept23 by mitchellblair

Pats Home Opener Tonight

Friday, September 23rd     Broncos @ Pats        Brandt Centre 7:00pm 
The season opener is the Habitat for Humanity “Hockey and Hammers” home opener for the Pats and it will be a great night beginning with the 620 CKRM season opening BBQ beginning at 5:30, outdoors on the Northeast side of the Brandt Centre. Get to the game early for the pregame ceremonies, video and light show. The Pats will welcome the return of Brandon Davidson, Ricard Blidstrand, Campbell Elynuik, Artem Bidlevskii and Jordan Weal back to the lineup after extended stays at NHL training camps.
Saturday, September 24th    Pats @ Broncos        Credit Union I-Plex 7:00pm
The Pats enjoyed some success against the Broncos last season, with a 7-1-0-0 record. Their lone loss came at the Swift Current I-Plex, which in the past has been a very difficult place to play for the Pats.

The faces of the Swift Current Broncos: 
LW – Adam Lowry 
The 18 year old 3rd round pick of the Winnipeg Jets this past spring is looking to step his play up to the next level. A season ago, Lowry had 45 points in 66 games with the Broncos.
D – Reece Scarlett 
The 18 year old 6th round pick of the New Jersey Devils was tops amongst Bronco defencemen a season ago in scoring with 24 points. He was just one of 2 Broncos to play all 72 regular season games in 2010-11.
D – Richard Nedomlel 
The big Czech defenceman had just 10 points a season ago, but showed that he was not someone to mess with, racking up 107 minutes in penalties. His rough and tumble play earned him a 6th round pick by the Detroit Red Wings.

Pats Stats: 
Jordan Weal is climbing the all-time Pat standings in points and assists:
Points:                              Assists:            
13. Dave Michayluk – 307    9. Louis Dumont – 188    
t14. Dirk Graham – 283      10. Josh Holden – 185        
t14. Clark Gillies – 283       11. Dave Michayluk – 183            
t16. Jordan Weal – 269      12. Jordan Weal – 175 
t16. Taylor Hall – 265        13. Clark Gillies – 166

Rider Lineup Changes

Andy Fantuz and Lance Frazier are off of the 46 man roster for Saturday's game against B.C. They will be replaced by Mathieu Boulay and Eddie Russ.

The club has also announced that the game is a sell-out.

Cougar Athletics This Weekend

Home Events
Women's Volleyball – University of Regina Invitational, Friday to Sunday at CKHS
Women's Hockey – vs. Alberta, Friday (7:00 p.m.) at The Co-operators Centre
Women's Soccer – vs. Manitoba, Saturday (12:00 p.m.) at U of R Field
Women's Hockey – vs. Team Saskatchewan Under-18, Saturday (7:00 p.m.) at The Co-operators Centre
Women's Hockey – vs. Balmoral Hall School, Sunday (10:00 a.m.) at The Co-operators Centre
Women's Soccer – vs. Manitoba, Sunday (12:00 p.m.) at U of R Field

Away Events
Men's Hockey – at Manitoba, Friday (7:00 p.m.) in Winnipeg, Man.
Cross Country – at Roy Griak Invitational, Saturday (11:20 a.m. CDT) in Minneapolis, Minn.
Rams Football – at Alberta, Saturday (1:00 p.m.) in Edmonton, Alta.
Men's Hockey – at Manitoba, Saturday (2:30 p.m. CDT) in Winnipeg, Man.

Women's Soccer – The Cougars (0-3-1) lost a pair of road games to nationally ranked opponents over the weekend, being edged 1-0 by No. 5 UBC on Friday and losing 3-0 to No. 9-ranked Trinity Western on Saturday. The team returns home this weekend to host Manitoba (0-4-0) on Saturday and Sunday at noon at the U of R Field.

Women's Volleyball – The Cougars host the University of Regina Invitational this weekend at the Centre for Kinesiology, Health & Sport. Alberta, Brandon, Calgary, Manitoba, Saskatchewan, Thompson Rivers, and Winnipeg will all be in town to participate in the eight-team tournament, which kicks off on Friday at 1 p.m. at the Centre for Kinesiology, Health & Sport. The tournament wraps up with the gold and bronze medal matches at 1 p.m. on Sunday.

Women's Hockey – The Cougars played their first non-conference games of the season over the weekend, defeating Manitoba 2-1 on Friday and losing 3-2 to the Bisons on Saturday. Gina Campbell and Shalyn Cowan scored for the U of R on Friday, while Katelyn Kennedy and Rianne Wight tallied for the Cougars on Saturday. Both games were played in Dauphin, Man. The Cougars continue their non-conference schedule with a trio of games at the 2nd Annual Mandi Schwartz Challenge this weekend at The Co-operators Centre.

Mosaic Place Opens With A Bang

The Moose Jaw Warriors dropped the curtain on their new home Thursday night and what a home it is. The people in the Band City should be very proud of its new attraction as Mosaic Place is a fantastic facility to watch a hockey game in.

The new rink was showcased across Western Canada Thursday night as SHAW Television broadcast the opening game of the WHL season between the hometown Warriors and the Brandon Wheat Kings and while the Wheat Kings won the game, the wnner of the night was definitely Mosaic Place and the city of Moose Jaw as they have had the first of what should be many exciting nights in the new facility for not only hockey, but whatever else.

Congrats to all those who had this dream and helped get what is an outstanding building to the people of Moose Jaw and area.

Are The Blue Jays Changing Their Logo?

They might be, and if this report is true, they are going back to the olden days. Could the return of Fergie Olver be next??? Is Fergie Olver still alive? He was really creepy when he hosted that game show with kids and their parents. REALL-LYYY CREEPY!!

Pats Get D-Man From Kelowna

Regina Pats General Manager, Chad Lang would like to announce the acquisition of 19 year old defenceman, Colton Jobke as well as a 2^ndround pick in the 2012 and a 5^th in the 2013 WHL Bantam drafts in exchange for 18 year old defenceman Myles Bell.

Colton is entering his 3^rd season in the WHL and has signed a 3 year entry level contract with the Minnesota Wild. The Delta, BC native played in 51 games with the Kelowna Rockets last season, collecting a goal and 9 assists.

Regina Pats General Manager, Chad Lang “Colton has spent three years in a quality, successful program in Kelowna and his play has earned him a pro contract with the Minnesota Wild. He will provide leadership and a steadying presence on our blue line.”

WHL Team Previews

The WHL season will open at the brand new Mosaic Place in Moose Jaw tonight when the Warriors entertain the Wheat Kings. I can't wait to see a new chapter in Moose Jaw sports history get written. It will be interesting to see how the new rink compares to the Civic Center when it comes to atmosphere. It will be interesting to see if James Gallo (Warriors p x p guy) will wear a tux to the occasion and yeah, I'll have to see if they moved the kitchen from the Civic Center to Mosaic Place because the C-C had maybe the best rinkburgers going. Rod Pedersen and Kelly Remple will be doing "The Sportscage" from the new home of the Warriors starting at 5. I'll tag along for the ride so you may hear me, but I doubt it.  If you've got time, here are previews on all WHL teams. Its a lengthy read so I hope you're on a break. Thanks to the WHL for supplying these previews.

East Division

Brandon Wheat Kings

General Manager: Kelly McCrimmon

Head Coach: Cory Clouston

2011 pre-season: 1-3-0-0, 2pts

2010-11 Record: 32-31-1-8, 73pts (3^rd in East Div., 6^th in Eastern Conf.) GF: 281  GA: 275

2010-11 Power Play / Penalty Killing ranking: PP: 23.2% (3rd); PK: 74.9% (21^st)

2011 Playoffs: Lost in six games to Medicine Hat in first round

2010-11 Top Scorers:

Mark Stone       71gp-37g-69a-106pts

Scott Glennie    70gp-35g-56a-91pts

Matt MacKay    71gp-29g-51a-80pts

Up Front:  Mark Stone finished tied for third in WHL scoring last season as an 18-year-old.  The Ottawa Senators prospect will be counted on to put up more big offensive totals for the Wheat Kings this season.  19-year-olds Michael Ferland and Brendan Walker both put up respectable numbers in secondary scoring roles last year for the Wheat Kings.  Both will need to take on more of the offensive load this season after the Wheat Kings graduated three of their top four scorers from last season. Swiss rookie Alessio Bertaggia has shown some offensive skill through pre-season, and could be a contributor to the team’s attack this season.

On The Blue Line:  The Wheat Kings can return six regulars on the blue line from last season, including impressive 17-year-old Ryan Pulock.  The Grandview, MB, product quietly put up eight goals and 42 points as a 16-year-old, and will be a key component in the Wheaties’ defense corps this season.  Also back is veteran Brodie Melnychuk and sophomores Eric Roy and Jordan Fransoo, who will all look to help the team reduce its goals-against and improve upon what was the 21^st-ranked penalty killing unit last season.  Rookie Ayrton Nikkel has impressed in pre-season play, and could add to the Wheat Kings’ defense corps this season.

Goaltending:  Corbin Boes and Liam Liston split time in the Wheat Kings’ net as rookies last season.  Boes posted a 3.44 GAA in 33 starts last season while Liston earned 20 wins though his 41 starts.  Both return to provide the Wheat Kings with a capable tandem in goal.

Player to Watch:  Ryan Pulock

Pulock enjoyed a tremendous season as a 16-year-old rookie last year, scoring eight goals and 42 points in 63 games.  The Grandview, MB, native, who was a seventh-round bantam draft pick in 2009, led all Wheat Kings defensemen in scoring and also performed well for Team West at the 2011 World Under-17 Challenge.  A good skater with excellent vision, a low panic level and strength at both ends of the ice, Pulock will be an important factor in any success the Wheat Kings enjoy this season. 

Moose Jaw Warriors

Director, Hockey Operations: Alan Millar

Head Coach: Mike Stothers

2011 pre-season: 6-1-0-0, 12pts

2010-11 Record: 40-26-2-4, 86pts (2^nd in East Div., 5^th in Eastern Conf.) GF: 245  GA: 240

2010-11 Power Play / Penalty Killing ranking: PP: 17.7% (16^th); PK: 81.8% (8^th)

2011 Playoffs: Lost in six games to Kootenay in first round

2010-11 Top Scorers:

Dylan Hood                   71gp-33g-50a-83pts

Quinton Howden           60gp-40g-39a-79pts

Spencer Edwards          63gp-27g-39a-66pts

Up Front:  The Warriors could return three of their top five scorers from last season, including 19-year-old Quinton Howden.  Howden scored 40 goals in just 60 games last season, and also starred for Team Canada at the 2011 World Junior Championships.  If he doesn’t stick in the NHL with the Florida Panthers, expect Howden to be one of the WHL’s marquee players this season for the Warriors.  St. Louis Blues prospect Cody Beach and Swiss rookie Eric Arnold should factor into the Warriors’ offensive attack while veteran Sebastian Svendsen will also provide plenty of scoring for what should be a strong Warriors offense. 

On The Blue Line:  The Warriors return up to six rearguards from last year’s team that boasted the fifth-best defensive record in the Eastern Conference.  20-year-old veteran Collin Bowman and 19-year-old Dylan McIlrath provide the Warriors with solid defensive play, size and toughness while Joel Edmundson, Dallas Ehrhardt and Kendall McFaull all stand at least 6’2” and add more defensive strength to what should be a very good Warriors’ blue line.  17-year-old Morgan Rielly, a possible high pick in next year’s NHL draft, will look to build on his solid rookie season last year.  Rielly should be able to improve upon the six goals and 28 points he put up as a 16-year-old last season.

Goaltending:  The graduation of veteran Thomas Heemskerk will leave big shoes to fill in the Warriors net.  18-year-old Brandon Stone is back after posting a 4-5 record in 15 starts last season while 17-year-old rookie Spencer Tremblay looks to take a spot on the roster as well.  The Warriors acquired 20-year-old Deven Dubyk from Medicine Hat during the pre-season. 

Player to Watch:  Morgan Rielly

One of several blue-chip defensemen eligible for the 2011 NHL Entry Draft, Rielly looks to take on a key role on the Warriors’ blue line this season after a very good rookie season last year.  The 17-year-old from Vancouver, B.C., possesses tremendous poise and patience with the puck, making him a strong presence on the power play.  Rielly has also developed his defensive game to become a reliable presence in his own zone.  Having dominated for Team Canada at the Memorial for Ivan Hlinka tournament in August, many expect Rielly to continue turning heads for the Warriors this season.

Prince Albert Raiders

General Manager / Head Coach: Bruno Campese

2011 pre-season: 3-1-0-0, 6pts

2010-11 Record: 31-36-2-3, 67pts (4^th in East Div., 8^th in Eastern Conf.) GF: 247  GA: 283

2010-11 Power Play / Penalty Killing ranking: PP: 18.8% (14^th); PK: 79.0% (14^th)

2011 Playoffs: Lost in six games to Saskatoon in first round

2010-11 Top Scorers:

Jonathan Parker           71gp-45g-41a-86pts

Mark McNeill                70gp-32g-49a-81pts

Justin Maylan               66gp-21g-48a-69pts

Up Front: The Raiders could return a powerful offensive group this season, with six of their top seven scorers from last season eligible to come back.  18-year-old Mark McNeill is coming off a 32-goal season as a sophomore, leading the Chicago Blackhawks to take him in the first round of the 2011 NHL draft.  McNeill will surely be a big contributor for the Raiders this season.  20-year-olds Jonathan Parker, Brandon Herrod and Justin Maylan are all eligible to come back. With 45 goals last season, Parker could be one of the WHL’s top goal-scorers again this season.  18-year-old Todd Fiddler will look for a bigger offensive role this season after netting 23 goals as a rookie last year, while 17-year-old Mike Winther will be counted on to increase his production in his sophomore campaign.

On The Blue Line:  Veteran Antoine Corbin heads up a group of six rearguards eligible to return to the club this season.  Corbin, a 19-year-old, led the Raiders’ defense corps with eight goals and 29 points last season.  Also back are 18-year-old Harrison Ruopp, who was drafted by Phoenix in the third round of the 2011 NHL draft, and sophomores Austin Bourhis, Mathew Berry-Lamontagna and Tyler Yaworski.  With another year of experience under their belts, it will be up to the returning Raiders’ rearguards to help reduce the team’s goals-against from the 283 they allowed last season.  Rookies Sawyer Lange and Josh Morrissey will look to break into the Raiders’ defense corps this season, too.

Goaltending:  18-year-old Eric Williams returns to take the starting job with the Raiders.  Williams appeared in 40 games for the team last season, posting 17 wins and a .898 save percentage, and has shown he is capable of taking the top netminding job.  Joining Williams is fellow 18-year-old Cole Holowenko.  Acquired from the Victoria Royals last season, Holowenko will look to push Williams for playing time. 

Player to Watch:  Mike Winther

The Raiders’ first-round pick, sixth overall, in 2009, Winther potted nine goals as a 16-year-old rookie last season.  A skilled offensive player with good attacking instincts, Winther also boasts a high energy level and strong work ethic.  Although his offensive game is his strength, Winther has shown he can assume any role assigned to him.  His physical and energetic play for Team Pacific at the 2011 World Under-17 Challenge showed his adaptability on the ice.  Entering his NHL draft-eligible season, expect Winther to assume a larger role in the Raiders’ offensive plans in 2011-12.

Regina Pats

General Manager: Chad Lang

Head Coach: Pat Conacher

2011 pre-season: 3-3-0-0, 6pts

2010-11 Record: 23-39-7-3, 56pts (5^th in East Div., 10^th in Eastern Conf.) GF: 216  GA: 312

2010-11 Power Play / Penalty Killing ranking: PP: 16.0% (18^th); PK: 74.7% (22^nd)

2011 Playoffs: Did not qualify

2010-11 Top Scorers:

Jordan Weal                 72gp-43g-53a-96pts

Garrett Mitchell             70gp-18g-34a-52pts

Brandon Davidson         72gp-8g-43a-51pts

Up Front: Jordan Weal will head up a Pats offense that is looking to improve upon what was the 17^th-ranked attack in the WHL last season.  The dynamic Weal, a Los Angeles Kings prospect, has put up 269 points over the last three seasons, and should find himself among the WHL’s leading scorers again this season.  Veteran Lane Scheidl put up 30 points in 48 games after coming to the Pats in a trade last season, and will look for more production this season.  Sophomore Chandler Stephenson and Czech rookie Dominik Volek will also be counted on to provide offense for the Pats.  Talented rookies Jack Rodewald, who led the team with five pre-season goals, and Morgan Klimchuk could also add depth in the Pats’ offensive plans.

On The Blue Line:  The Pats finished 22^nd in the WHL in goals-against last year, having allowed 312 goals in 72 games.  With potentially four rearguards returning from last year, plus the influx of some newcomers, the Pats will be aiming to reduce their goals-against considerably this season.  Brandon Davidson led the Pats in scoring from the blue line with 51 points.  The team hopes Davidson returns from pro camp, as he would be a key fixture on the blue line this season.  Fellow 20-year-old Art Bidlevskii could also return, giving the team toughness and a physical presence.  Sophomore Ricard Blidstrand and off-season acquisition Brandon Underwood add skill and puck-moving ability to the Pats’ back end. 

Goaltending:  With veteran Damien Ketlo having been moved to Lethbridge, sophomore Matt Hewitt takes over as the Pats’ starting netminder.  The 18-year-old from New Westminster, B.C., posted a 12-14-0-1 record in 32 appearances as a rookie last year, and has been very good in pre-season this year.  17-year-old rookies Teagan Sacher and Adam Beukeboom are battling for the back-up role.

Player to Watch:  Chandler Stephenson

The 5^th overall pick from the 2009 WHL Bantam Draft, Stephenson enjoyed a solid season as a 16-year-old rookie for the Pats in 2010-11.  The product of Saskatoon, SK, scored seven goals and 19 points in 60 games last year, and has been strong through the 2011 WHL pre-season.  A skilled and speedy forward with an accurate and deceptive shot, Stephenson will look to take on a bigger role in the offensive plans for the Pats this season.  Eligible for the 2012 NHL draft, expect Stephenson to step up his play and help get the Pats back into the playoffs.

 

Saskatoon Blades

General Manager / Head Coach: Lorne Molleken

2011 pre-season: 2-2-0-1, 5pts

2010-11 Record: 56-13-1-2, 115pts (1^st in East Div., 1^st in Eastern Conf.) GF: 310  GA: 213

2010-11 Power Play / Penalty Killing ranking: PP: 21.4% (8^th); PK: 82.4% (6^th)

2011 Playoffs: Lost in four games to Kootenay in second round

2010-11 Top Scorers:

Marek Viedensky          63gp-36g-52a-88pts

Josh Nicholls                71gp-34g-53a-87pts

Curtis Hamilton             62gp-26g-56a-82pts

Up Front:  The Blades lose many of their veteran forwards who helped the team share the best offensive output in the WHL last year.  Making up for the 115 goals scored by Marek Viedensky, Curtis Hamilton, Stefan Elliott and Brayden Schenn won’t be easy.  Fortunately, the Blades return high-scoring forward Josh Nicholls and veteran Chris Collins, who will both be counted on to provide offense.  20-year-olds Jake Trask and Darian Dziurzynski are also eligible to return, which would add even more offensive depth.  Sophomore Matej Stransky should be able to improve upon his 14 goals while Brent Benson will also be counted on to step up and take on a bigger role this season.  Second-year forwards Ryan Olsen and Lukas Sutter also expect to play bigger roles this season.

On The Blue Line:  The departure of veterans Stefan Elliott and Teigan Zahn opens the door for a new group of leaders on the Blades’ blue line.  18-year-old Duncan Siemens, a first-round pick by Colorado in the 2011 NHL Draft, is ready to assume a top role on the Blades’ blue line.  The Sherwood Park, AB, product is an intimidating physical and defensive presence, and can also generate offense.  Also returning are sophomore Darren Dietz and veterans Connor Cox and Dalton Thrower, who all possess good two-way abilities.  18-year-old Kyle Schmidt was acquired from Calgary during the pre-season to add defensive depth.

Goaltending:  The graduation of Steven Stanford leaves 20-year-old Adam Morrison as the likely candidate for the starting job this season.  Morrison, a former Philadelphia Flyers draft pick, has 79 games of WHL experience under his belt, and has proven he can be relied upon in the Blades’ cage.  18-year-old Russian Andrey Makarov, who played in the QMJHL with Lewiston last season, has been impressive during pre-season.  Makarov and Morrison give the Blades a solid duo in goal.

Player to Watch:  Matej Stransky

Having lost a few of their top offensive players from last season, the Blades will need some more contributions from their returnees.  Stransky is a prime candidate to take on a bigger role in the Blades’ attack.  The Ostrava, CZ, product is a big presence who is difficult to knock off the puck, and boasts strong puck skills and hockey sense.  Drafted by Dallas in the sixth round of the 2011 NHL Entry Draft, Stransky should be able to improve on the 14 goals and 26 points he netted last season.

Swift Current Broncos

General Manager / Head Coach: Mark Lamb

2011 pre-season: 2-4-1-0, 5pts

2010-11 Record: 26-44-0-2, 54pts (6^th in East Div., 11^th in Eastern Conf.) GF: 181  GA: 260

2010-11 Power Play / Penalty Killing ranking: PP: 17.1% (17^th); PK: 81.8% (T-8^th)

2011 Playoffs: Did not qualify

2010-11 Top Scorers:

Justin Dowling              63gp-20g-47a-67pts

Brad Hoban                  71gp-25g-26a-51pts

Taylor Vause                62gp-18g-29a-47pts

           

Up Front:  The Broncos will be looking to increase their offensive output from the 181 goals they scored last season which ranked 20^th in the WHL.  Three of their top five scorers from last season are eligible to return, including Adam Lowry, who was a third-round pick of the Winnipeg Jets in the 2011 NHL Entry Draft.  Lowry provides a big, physical presence and will look to better the 18 goals and 45 points he recorded last season.  20-year-olds Taylor Vause and Brad Hoban are also eligible to come back.  Both will be counted on to provide scoring and leadership.  17-year-old rookie Coda Gordon impressed during pre-season play, and could add depth to the Broncos’ offense if he finds himself on the opening-night roster.  18-year-old Graham Black is another forward the Broncos hope can help out their offense.

On The Blue Line:  Led by 18-year-old Reece Scarlett, the Broncos can return up to six rearguards from last season.  Scarlett, a New Jersey Devils prospect, is the leading point-getter among the team’s returning blue liners, and will be counted on to play a much larger role this season.  Czech defenseman Richard Nedomlel will also be looked upon to carry a heavy workload this season as the Broncos aim to shave down from the 260 goals they allowed last season.  Veterans Dalton Reum, Jordan Evans, Graham Craig and Tanner Muth are also back, with only Craig and Evans boasting over 100 games of WHL experience.  Rookies Dillon Heatherington, the team’s first-round pick in 2010, and Bobby Zinkan have shown they can play at the WHL level, and could push one of the returning vets for a full-time spot.

Goaltending:  The Broncos’ goaltending situation took a hit with the departure of Steffen Soberg, the team’s first-round pick from the 2011 CHL Import Draft.  The loss of Soberg leaves sophomore Austin Smith and rookie Steven Myland as the go-to guys in net for the Broncos.  Smith got into 11 games last season as a 17-year-old playing behind veteran Mark Friesen, and has been good in pre-season action.  Myland was acquired from Kootenay in the Cody Eakin trade last year.  

Player to Watch:  Adam Lowry

The Broncos will need offense this season, and Adam Lowry is a top candidate to fill a first-line role for the Club.  Selected by the Winnipeg Jets in the third round of the 2011 NHL Draft, Lowry is a big, energetic power forward who plays physical, is defensively responsible, and can provide offense.  The son of former Calgary Hitmen coach Dave Lowry, Adam Lowry should be able to improve on the 18 goals he scored last season while also continuing to play his high-energy, rambunctious style.  If the Broncos are to make a push for the playoffs, Lowry will need to be a key factor.

Central Division

 

Calgary Hitmen

General Manager: Kelly Kisio

Head Coach: Mike Williamson

2011 pre-season: 5-1-0-0, 10pts

2010-11 Record: 20-47-3-2, 45pts (6^th in Central Div., 12^th in Eastern Conf.) GF: 171  GA: 271

2010-11 Power Play / Penalty Killing ranking: PP: 15.8% (20^th); PK: 79.9% (10^th)

2011 Playoffs: Did not qualify

2010-11 Top Scorers:

Kris Foucault                65gp-25g-23a-48pts

Justin Kirsch                66gp-25g-17a-42pts

Brooks Macek              63gp-13g-28a-41pts

Up Front:  The lowest scoring team in the WHL last season, the Hitmen will have to generate much more offense this season if they are to get themselves back into the post-season.  Fortunately, they return six of their top seven scorers from last season, and they will all be looking to rebound from a difficult 2010-11 season.  19-year-old Justin Kirsch is back after sharing the team lead with 25 goals last year.  Also back is playmaker Brooks Macek, who has proven offensive skills in the WHL.  Veterans Jimmy Bubnick and Cody Sylvester will be looking to bounce back from trying seasons last year, while off-season acquisition Brady Brassart will also greatly bolster the offense.  If Swedish star Victor Rask ends up in Calgary, he will make a huge impact offensively for the Hitmen.

On The Blue Line:  The Hitmen return six defensemen from last year’s roster, led by veteran Ben Wilson.  The 20-year-old Calgarian will head up what is a younger but talented defense corps.  19-year-old Spencer Humphries and 18-year-olds Peter Kosterman, Jaynen Rissling and Alex Roach all bring plenty of size to the Hitmen blue line.  17-year-old Keaton Lubin should see more responsibility this season after getting into 36 games as a rookie last year.  Although their penalty killing was strong last season, the Hitmen will need to improve their 20^th-ranked power play if they are to move up the standings.  More offense from their defense corps would be beneficial in improving the man advantage.

Goaltending: The battle for the starting job in Calgary’s net is heated.  Veterans Mike Snider and Brandon Glover split the majority of the workload last year.  However, the Hitmen acquired 17-year-old Chris Driedger from Tri-Cities during the off-season to push the incumbents for a roster spot.  Driedger showed great potential as Drew Owsley’s back-up last year. 

Player to Watch:  Brady Brassart

The Hitmen were searching for offense after finishing 22^nd in the WHL in goals-for last season.  They found scoring help when they acquired 18-year-old Brady Brassart from Spokane during the off-season.  A former second-round pick of the Chiefs in 2008, Brassart scored eight goals and 32 points for the Chiefs last season as a 17-year-old.  Primarily a playmaker, Brassart is a good skater with strong offensive instincts.  Already a strong puck distributor and hard worker, Brassart can also shoot the puck well, making him a dependable forward, overall.

Edmonton Oil Kings

General Manager: Bob Green

Head Coach: Derek Laxdal

2011 pre-season: 2-3-0-0, 4pts

2010-11 Record: 31-34-2-5, 69pts (4^th in Central Div., 7^th in Eastern Conf.) GF: 249  GA: 252

2010-11 Power Play / Penalty Killing ranking: PP: 15.9% (19^th); PK: 79.3% (T-11^th)

2011 Playoffs: Lost in four game to Red Deer in first round

2010-11 Top Scorers:

Dylan Wruck                 71gp-38g-40a-78pts

Michael St. Croix          68gp-27g-48a-75pts

Jordan Hickmott           72gp-28g-38a-66pts                 

           

Up Front:  The Oil Kings made great strides last year, offensively, with the team setting a franchise record for goals in a season with 249.  Most of the team’s top offensive stars will be back this season, meaning expectations are as high as they have been in the four-year history of the team.  18-year-olds Dylan Wruck and Michael St. Croix combined for 65 goals and 153 points last season.  Both could find themselves among the WHL’s scoring leaders this season.  Also back are Josh Lazowski, TJ Foster and Kristians Pelss, who are all capable of hitting the 20-goal mark.  Look for talented rookie Curtis Lazar to make an impact offensively this season.  The second overall pick from the 2010 WHL Bantam Draft, Lazar appeared in six regular-season games and four playoff contests as a 15-year-old last season.

On The Blue Line:  The Oil Kings return a strong group of defensemen, led by the trio of Mark Pysyk, Keegan Lowe and Griffin Reinhart.  Pysyk led the Oil Kings’ defense corps with 40 points last season, while Lowe boasted a team-best +33 rating.  Reinhart was a dominant force as a 16-year-old last season, though he missed a large part of the season due to injury.  Expect Reinhart to take on a big role at both ends of the rink for the Oil Kings this season.  Towering Slovakian Martin Gernat should also make a big impact as a two-way presence this season.  With a good blend of size, mobility and skill, the Oil Kings should be able to reduce their goals-against from the 252 they allowed last season.

Goaltending:  Both Laurent Brossoit and Jon Groenheyde return to the team, providing two solid options in goal for the Oil Kings.  Groenheyde has 94 games of WHL experience under his belt, including 34 games with the Oil Kings last year after coming over from Kamloops.  Brossoit, who was drafted by the Calgary Flames in 2011, posted a 13-12-2 record with two shutouts in 34 games for the Oil Kings last season, and has shown he can be a dependable starter.  16-year-old talent Tristan Jarry is also in the mix looking for a roster spot.

Player to Watch:  Griffin Reinhart

One of three Reinhart brothers playing in the WHL, Griffin Reinhart is considered one of the top defensive prospects in the WHL ahead of the 2012 NHL Entry Draft.  At 6’4”, 202 lbs, Reinhart is an intimidating presence on the ice who can play a tough, physical game.  Yet, as good as he is defensively, Reinhart is also an effortless skater and a great puck mover who can play on the power play and generate offense.  After missing a large portion of his rookie season to injury, look for Reinhart to make a big impact on the Oil Kings’ blue line as a sophomore this year.

 

Kootenay Ice

General Manager: Jeff Chynoweth

Head Coach: Kris Knoblauch

2011 pre-season: 1-4-0-0, 2pts

2010-11 Record: 46-21-1-4, 97pts (3^rd in Central Div., 4^th in Eastern Conf.) GF: 272  GA: 218

2010-11 Power Play / Penalty Killing ranking: PP: 21.8% (T-6^th); PK: 79.3% (T-11^th)

2011 Playoffs: 2011 WHL Champions (Defeated Portland in five games in WHL Championship series)

2010-11 Top Scorers:

Cody Eakin                   56gp-36g-47a-83pts

Max Reinhart                71gp-34g-45a-79pts

Kevin King                    68gp-33g-43a-76pts

Up Front:  Though many of the veteran forwards from last year’s championship team have moved on, the Ice return several players who are more than capable of putting up offensive numbers.  Max Reinhart, the team’s leading returning scorer, will head up the attack, and could very well find himself among the top scorers in the WHL this season.  Also returning are 20-year-olds Joe Antilla and Jesse Ismond.  Antilla scored 21 goals last season while Ismond netted 49 points.  Both could be key components of the Ice offense should they survive the overage cut-down.  19-year-olds Elgin Pearce and Drew Czerwonka are both capable of providing offense.  16-year-old Sam Reinhart, the younger brother of Max Reinhart, boasts excellent offensive skills and vision. 

On The Blue Line:  The Ice’s blue line will have a big hole with the departure of Brayden McNabb to the professional ranks.  Replacing McNabb’s 72 points and his 30-minutes-per-game on the ice will be difficult.  However, with the hopeful return of veteran James Martin, and with Joey Leach and Luke Paulsen returning, the Ice still boast a good blend of size, defensive acumen and offensive skill.  Also back are John Niebrandt and Jagger Dirk, who both have the experience of last season’s championship run.  17-year-olds Mike Simpson and Jeff Hubic each saw a handful of games last season for Kootenay.  Both will look to push for a roster spot this season.  

Goaltending:  Nathan Lieuwen backstopped the Ice to the WHL championship last season, earning Playoff MVP honors in the process.  Though eligible to move to the professional level, Lieuwen could come back to the Ice as a 20-year-old this season.  Should Lieuwen move on, 18-year-old Brett Teskey and highly-touted 17-year-old Mackenzie Skapski will take the reins in the Ice’s goal.  Teskey got into 18 games for the Ice as Lieuwen’s back-up last season, while Skapski was Kootenay’s third-round pick in the 2009 WHL Bantam Draft.

Player to Watch:  Max Reinhart

Kootenay’s fourth-round pick in the 2007 WHL Bantam Draft, Max Reinhart broke out as an 18-year-old last season, scoring 34 goals and 79 points in 71 games.  He took his game to another level during the post-season, notching 15 goals and 27 points in just 19 games as the Ice captured the Ed Chynoweth Cup.  Reinhart, a Calgary Flames prospect, boasts tremendous vision and hockey sense, enabling him to find openings and create plenty of scoring chances.  A strong skater with a quick and accurate shot, Reinhart should be among the WHL’s top scorers by season’s end.

Lethbridge Hurricanes

General Manager / Head Coach: Rich Preston

2011 pre-season: 1-4-0-1, 3pts

2010-11 Record: 23-36-5-8, 59pts (5^th in Central Div., 9^th in Eastern Conf.) GF: 205  GA: 295

2010-11 Power Play / Penalty Killing ranking: PP: 15.2% (21^st); PK: 78.3% (T-17^th)

2011 Playoffs: Did not qualify

2010-11 Top Scorers:

Cam Braes                   71gp-31g-30a-61pts

Austin Fyten                 52gp-24g-30a-54pts

Mitch Maxwell               72gp-19g-33a-52pts

Up Front:  Veterans Cam Braes and Austin Fyten will be tasked with leading the Hurricanes’ offense again this season.  20-year-old Braes scored a career-best 31 goals last season, and will be counted on to put up similar or better numbers this season while providing valuable leadership.  Fyten averaged over a point per game last season, and will be a key contributor again this season.  20-year-old Brody Sutter could also return to the ‘Canes. A big, physical forward, Sutter put up 42 points in 46 games for Lethbridge last season.  Expect 17-year-old sophomore Russ Maxwell to take on a larger role in the offense this season.  Maxwell put up a respectable nine goals and 24 points as a 16-year-old rookie last season.  18-year-old Phil Tot will also look for an expanded role this season.

On The Blue Line:  The ‘Canes could welcome back five regulars from last year’s roster, including veterans Derek Ryckman, Landon Oslanski, Reid Jackson, Tyler Kizuik and Daniel Johnston.  Oslanski boasts good offensive skills and will look to help the ‘Canes improve their power play from its 21^st ranking last season.  Ryckman, Kizuik, and 18-year-old Swedish rearguard Albin Blomqvist all boast good size and strength.  Blomqvist is a solid defensive presence who will make life difficult for opposing forwards.  He should help shore up the Hurricanes’ penalty killing unit. 

Goaltending:  19-year-old Brandon Anderson returns after getting into 59 games for the Hurricanes last season.  A Washington Capitals prospect, Anderson has 101 WHL games of experience under his belt.  The Hurricanes also acquired 20-year-old veteran Damien Ketlo from Regina during the pre-season.  Ketlo also has plenty of WHL experience, making the battle for the starting job a competitive one.  17-year-old Tanner Kovacs got into one game for the ‘Canes last season, and is challenging for a spot on the roster this season.

Player to Watch:  Russell Maxwell

One of two sixth-round picks by the Hurricanes in the 2009 WHL Bantam Draft, Russell Maxwell turned in a strong rookie season as a 16-year-old last year.  The Magrath, AB, product scored nine goals and 24 points in 69 games for the ‘Canes, and was named the team’s Rookie of the Year.  A good skater with solid offensive skills, many in Lethbridge thought Maxwell turned in the best performance for the ‘Canes by a 16-year-old since Zach Boychuk.  Though not the biggest player, Maxwell doesn’t shy away from physical play, and is always willing to stick up for his teammates.  Look for Maxwell to take on a bigger chunk of the offensive load this season as the ‘Canes aim to get back into the post-season.

Medicine Hat Tigers

General Manager: Brad McEwen

Head Coach: Shaun Clouston

2011 pre-season: 4-1-0-1, 9pts

2010-11 Record: 46-18-4-4, 100pts (2^nd in Central Div., 3^rd in Eastern Conf.) GF: 265  GA: 196

2010-11 Power Play / Penalty Killing ranking: PP: 21.2% (T-9^th); PK: 81.9% (7^th)

2011 Playoffs: Lost in four games to Kootenay in Eastern Conference Championship series

2010-11 Top Scorers:

Linden Vey                   69gp-46g-70a-116pts

Emerson Etem              65gp-45g-35a-80pts

Wacey Hamilton           67gp-20g-53a-73pts

Up Front:  The departure of 2011 WHL scoring champion Linden Vey and veteran Wacey Hamilton leaves a big hole in the Tigers’ attack.  Still, the Tigers should have 45-goal man Emerson Etem back to lead the offense.  Also returning are Kellan Tochkin and Hunter Shinkaruk, who will both assume large offensive responsibilities.  Shinkaruk turned heads with his play as a 16-year-old rookie last season, and should be able to better the 14 goals and 42 points he netted in 2010-11.  Czech rookie Adam Rehak showed good offensive abilities during the pre-season, and will be counted on to provide some scoring, while 20-year-old Cole Grbavac and 18-year-olds Reid Petryk and Curtis Valk could also provide offensive depth.

On The Blue Line:  The Tigers could see up to six defenseman return from last year’s team that owned the second-best goals-against in the Eastern Conference.  20-year-old Matt Konan, a veteran of 229 games in a Tigers jersey, is the elder statesman on the blue line, and is as dependable as they come in the defensive zone.  19-year-olds Alex Theriau and Scott MacKay and 18-year-olds Dylan Busenius and Patrik Parkkonen are also back, giving the Tigers solid defensive depth.  Busenius could see a much bigger role on the offensive side with the graduation of Thomas Carr and Jace Coyle.

Goaltending:  Tyler Bunz returns for his fourth season with the Tigers.  The 19-year-old Edmonton Oilers prospect enjoyed an excellent season last year, posting 35 wins, a 2.47 GAA and an impressive .919 save percentage.  With Bunz in goal, the Tigers have the chance to win every night.  Towering 17-year-old Dawson MacAuley will take on the back-up role with the departure of veteran Deven Dubyk.  MacAuley, a second-round Bantam Draft pick in 2009 who stands 6’6”, impressed with a .911 save percentage during pre-season play.

Player to Watch:  Hunter Shinkaruk

The Tigers’ first round pick in the 2009 WHL Bantam Draft, Shinkaruk made a splash in the WHL as a 16-year-old rookie last season, potting 14 goals and 43 points with a +13 rating in 63 games.  He also dominated for Team Pacific at the 2011 World Under-17 Hockey Challenge and was a key contributor for Canada’s Gold medal-winning Under-18 team at the Memorial for Ivan Hlinka tournament in August.  An explosive and agile skater, Shinkaruk boasts elite level puck skills, excellent vision and hockey sense, and has a genuine passion for the game of hockey.  Not eligible for the NHL Draft until 2013, Shinkaruk should take on a much bigger role for the Tigers this season as a sophomore.

Red Deer Rebels

General Manager / Head Coach: Jesse Wallin

2011 pre-season: 4-2-0-0, 8pts

2010-11 Record: 48-16-4-4, 104pts (1^st in Central Div., 2^nd in Eastern Conf.) GF: 268  GA: 159

2010-11 Power Play / Penalty Killing ranking: PP: 22.2% (5^th); PK: 85.5% (2^nd)

2011 Playoffs: Lost in five games to Medicine Hat in second round

2010-11 Top Scorers:

Ryan Nugent-Hopkins   69gp-31g-75a-106pts

Andrej Kudrna               65gp-29g-53a-82pts

Byron Froese                73gp-43g-38a-81pts

Up Front:  The Rebels are praying that Ryan Nugent-Hopkins returns for his third season with the team.  The 18-year-old from Burnaby, B.C., was selected first overall in the 2011 NHL Entry Draft by the Edmonton Oilers, and will be given every opportunity to stick with the NHL Club this season.  Yet, having already seen the departure of their second and third-leading scorers, Byron Froese and Andrej Kudrna, having Nugent-Hopkins back would greatly ease the loss of Froese and Kudrna.  Swedish winger John Persson will be tasked with improving on his 33 goals and 61 points from last year, while veteran forwards Adam Kambeitz, Turner Elson, Colten Mayor and Daulton Siwak should take on more responsibility as well. 

On The Blue Line:  Led by 19-year-old Alex Petrovic, the Rebels could return up to seven rearguards from last year’s team that allowed the fewest goals against in the WHL.  Petrovic netted 57 points last season, and will be a leader in all areas for the Rebels’ defense corps.  17-year-old Mathew Dumba, the reigning WHL Rookie of the Year, has already made a name for himself in the WHL as an exciting, hard-hitting and offensively skilled blue liner.  Expect Dumba to continue his progression this season.  Veterans Aaron Borejko and Justin Weller, both 20 years old, could be back while sophomores Lucas Grayson, Matt Pufhal and Brad Deagle should be ready for more responsibility this season.

Goaltending:  Reigning WHL Goaltender and WHL Player of the Year Darcy Kuemper has moved on, leaving big shoes to fill in the Rebels’ cage.  Czech rookie Patrik Bartosak looks to have the inside track on the starting job.  The 18-year-old has impressed in pre-season with a 1.97 GAA and a .928 save percentage.  17-year-old Bolton Pouliot looks to take on the back-up role after starting the season with the Rebels as a 16-year-old last season.

Player to Watch:  Mathew Dumba

Red Deer’s first-round pick in the 2009 WHL Bantam Draft, Dumba enjoyed a stellar season as a 16-year-old last year.  The defenseman from Calgary, AB, scored 15 goals and 26 points to go with a +24 rating in 62 games for the Rebels, and earned WHL Rookie of the Year honors for his efforts.  An excellent skater with a penchant for laying big hits and making dazzling offensive forays, Dumba regularly gets fans out of their seats with his exciting style of play.  A possible top 10 pick in the 2012 NHL Entry draft, Dumba has made it a goal to be as dependable in his own zone as he is exciting in the offensive zone.  Look for Dumba to be a key contributor in Red Deer as the Rebels aim for a long playoff run this year.

B.C. Division

Kamloops Blazers

General Manager: Craig Bonner

Head Coach: Guy Charron

2011 pre-season: 2-2-0-1, 5pts

2010-11 Record: 29-37-3-3, 64pts (5^th in B.C. Div., 9^th in Western Conf.) GF: 219  GA: 285

2010-11 Power Play / Penalty Killing ranking: PP: 19.5% (T-11^th); PK: 76.4% (20^th)

2011 Playoffs: Did not qualify

2010-11 Top Scorers:

Brendan Ranford           68gp-33g-53a-86pts

Thomas Frazee             70gp-31g-41a-72pts

Colin Smith                   72gp-21g-29a-50pts

Up Front:  Philadelphia Flyers prospect Brendan Ranford heads up the Blazers attack after leading the team in scoring last season.  The talented 19-year-old has the tools to be among the top scorers in the WHL again this season.  Joining Ranford is 20-year-old Chase Schaber, who plays a solid defensive game and put up nearly a point per game last season.  18-year-old Colin Smith and 19-year-olds Dylan Willick and Jordan DePape will also play big roles in the Blazers’ offense this season.  17-year-old Swiss forward Tim Bozon showed good offensive ability during pre-season, and could be a valuable asset this season.  Look for rookie Matt Needham to be a contributor as well after posting seven points in 13 games as a 15-year-old last year.

On The Blue Line:  20-year-old veteran Bronson Maschmeyer heads up a Blazers’ defense corps that will look to improve upon what was the 20^th-ranked goals-against last season.  Also back is 19-year-old Austin Madaisky, who should log big minutes for the team this year after recovering from a broken neck, suffered last season.  The Blazers acquired 18-year-old Czech puck-mover Marek Hrbas from Edmonton to help their transition game and the power play.  Sophomore Brady Gaudet will look for more responsibility after adjusting to the WHL as a 16-year-old last year.  20-year-old Josh Caron could return to the team as well, but could also play in the AHL.

Goaltending:  19-year-old Cam Lanigan looks to take over the starting job this season after coming to the Blazers in a trade with Edmonton last year.  The Calgary, AB, product has 90 games of WHL experience under his belt and should provide a solid veteran presence in the Blazers’ net.  Rookies Taran Kozun and Cole Cheveldave are battling for the back-up role.

Player to Watch:  Matt Needham

Though he may be just 16 years old, Matt Needham has already proven he can play and be a contributor at the WHL level.  The Blazers’ first-round Bantam Draft pick in 2010, Needham scored three goals and seven points in 13 games with the team last season.  A smaller player, Needham boasts tremendous offensive skills and a feisty, competitive demeanor.  The son of former Blazer standout Mike Needham, Matt is a player who always seems to step up when his team needs a goal.  Watch for Needham to make an impact in his first full WHL campaign.

Kelowna Rockets

General Manager: Bruce Hamilton

Head Coach: Ryan Huska

2011 pre-season: 6-0-0-0, 12pts

2010-11 Record: 43-28-0-1, 87pts (1^st in B.C. Div., 2^nd in Western Conf.) GF: 240  GA: 201

2010-11 Power Play / Penalty Killing ranking: PP: 19.3 (T-11^th); PK: 84.1% (3^rd)

2011 Playoffs: Lost in six games to Portland in second round

2010-11 Top Scorers:

Shane McColgan          67gp-21g-45a-66pts

Geordie Wudrick           71gp-43g-16a-59pts

Tyson Barrie                 54gp-11g-47a-58pts

Up Front:  The Rockets return an arsenal of solid offensive options this season, led by 18-year-old New York Rangers prospect Shane McColgan.  Though not the biggest player on the ice, McColgan doesn’t back down from a challenge, and competes as hard as any player in the League.  Expect McColgan to be among the WHL’s top scorers at season’s end.  Also back are veterans Cody Chikie and Brett Bulmer, who both should see an increase in their offensive output.  Talented sophomores Colton Scissons and Zach Franko impressed with their offensive games last year.  Both could see big jumps in their point totals on what should be a powerful offense in Kelowna this season.

On The Blue Line:  The Rockets return five defensemen from last year’s squad that finished with the second-best goals-against in the Western Conference.  Veterans Kevin Smith and Mitchell Chapman are back to provide the team with plenty of experience and a good blend of offense and defense.  MacKenzie Johnston and Damon Severson will look for bigger responsibility this season while rookies Madison Bowey and Jesse Lees have shown great potential as 16-year-olds.  Bowey is an offensive talent who could eventually help replace the departure of Tyson Barrie.

Goaltending:  With 20-year-old Adam Brown and 18-year-old Jordon Cooke both returning, the Rockets own one of the best goaltending tandems in the WHL.  Brown has already proved his worth as a starter in the WHL, having already accumulated 85 wins to go with a sparkling 2.57 GAA and a .911 save percentage over 148 career games.  Cooke impressed with his play as a rookie last season, and will definitely push Brown for playing time this season.

Player to Watch:  Colton Scissons

Acquired from Saskatoon during the 2009-10 season, Scissons made his WHL debut as a 17-year-old rookie last year, scoring 17 goals and 41 assists with a solid +15 rating.  A competitive and well-rounded player, Scissons plays an excellent two-way game, making him a valued contributor at both ends of the ice.  The North Vancouver, B.C., product should be able to increase his offensive output this year.  He should also garner plenty of attention from NHL scouts as he readies for his NHL draft-eligible season.

Prince George Cougars

General Manager: Dallas Thompson

Head Coach: Dean Clark

2011 pre-season: 1-3-1-0, 3pts

2010-11 Record: 33-35-2-2, 70pts (4^th in B.C. Div., 7^th in Western Conf.) GF: 258  GA: 265

2010-11 Power Play / Penalty Killing ranking: PP: 18.4 (15^th); PK: 82.7 (5^th)

2011 Playoffs: Lost in four games to Kelowna in first round

2010-11 Top Scorers:

Brett Connolly               59gp-46g-27a-73pts

Taylor Stefishen           68gp-24g-43a-67pts

Sena Acolatse              67gp-15g-48a-63pts

Up Front:  Brett Connolly heads up a Cougars offense that finished fourth in the Western Conference in goals last season.  The 19-year-old from Prince George, B.C., scored an impressive 46 goals in just 59 games last season, and is a legitimate threat to hit the 50-goal mark this season.  Connolly, however, could stick with the NHL’s Tampa Bay Lightning, which would greatly hamper the Cougars’ offence.  19-year-old Charles Inglis scored 32 goals last season for the Cougars, and will figure heavily into the Cougars’ attack this year.  Also returning is 17-year-old Troy Bourke, who turned heads with 19 goals and 42 points to go with his team-leading +15 rating as a rookie last year.  Alex Forsberg, the first overall pick from the 2010 WHL Bantam Draft, will make his full-time debut this season.

On The Blue Line:  Though they lose high-scoring veteran Sena Acolatse from the mix, the Cougars still return a strong group of defenders for this season.  Towering Slovakian Martin Marincin could return to head up the blue line in Prince George.  The 19-year-old put up 14 goals and 56 points in 67 games for the Cougars last season.  But, he could remain in the Edmonton Oilers’ system as well.  Guaranteed back are veterans Jesse Forsberg, Daniel Gibb, Cody Carlson and sophomores Shane Pilling and Josh Smith.  Now in his third WHL season, Forsberg should be able to step up and shoulder a heavier workload.  Expect youngsters Linden Springer and Joseph Carvalho to push for roster spots as well.

Goaltending:  The acquisition of Drew Owsley from the Tri-City Americans gives the Cougars a bona fide No. 1 netminder who can give them a chance to win every night.  Owsley, a product of Lethbridge, AB, posted 76 wins, a 2.68 GAA and a .911 save percentage in 122 career games with the Ams, and has extensive playoff experience.  The Cougars have several options for the back-up role, including Bantam Draft selections Brett Zarowny and Devon Fordyce.  Tyler Santos is also in the mix for the back-up job.

Player to Watch:  Troy Bourke

The Cougars’ second-round pick in the 2009 WHL Bantam Draft, Bourke emerged as one of the team’s better offensive players as a 16-year-old rookie last year.  The Onoway, AB, native scored 19 goals and 42 points and led the team in plus/minus.  He also starred for Team Pacific at the 2011 World Under-17 Challenge, helping the team to a Bronze medal.  His offensive skills are already apparent, but it is Bourke’s two-way ability and hockey sense that will have plenty of scouts keeping a close eye on him in his NHL draft-eligible season.

Vancouver Giants

General Manager: Scott Bonner

Head Coach: Don Hay

2011 pre-season: 3-0-2-1, 9pts

2010-11 Record: 35-32-1-4, 75pts (2^nd in B.C. Div., 5^th in Western Conf.) GF: 236  GA: 251

2010-11 Power Play / Penalty Killing ranking: PP: 19.2% (13^th); PK: 78.4% (16^th)

2011 Playoffs: Lost in four games to Tri-City in first round

2010-11 Top Scorers:

Brendan Gallagher        66gp-44g-47a-91pts

Spencer Bennett           72gp-37-33a-70pts

Neil Manning                72gp-15g-36a-51pts

Up Front: 19-year-old Brendan Gallagher heads up a Giants attack looking to improve upon what was the WHL’s 14^th ranked offense last season.  The diminutive Gallagher, a Montreal Canadiens prospect, was among the WHL’s top scorers last year and could very well find himself near the top of the list again this season.  Slovakian forward Marek Tvrdon should be able to provide plenty of offense after missing almost all of last season with an injury, while veteran James Henry will also be counted on to carry a heavy offensive load.  Sophomores Dalton Sward, Teal Burns and Cain Franson have the skill to step into secondary scoring roles.  Jordan Martinook will look to improve on the 11 goals and 28 points he produced as a rookie last season.

On The Blue Line:  The Giants could return up to six regulars from last year’s defense corps.  Veterans Neil Manning, Wes Vannhieuwenhuizen and David Musil head up the Giants’ blue line, and will all be looking to cut down the team’s goals-against after having allowed the most goals in a season since the 2003-04 campaign.  Manning has racked up 141 points in 251 career games, and should continue to provide plenty of offense from the back end.  Musil and Vannieuwenhuizen are imposing figures who will need to make life difficult on opposing forwards.  18-year-olds Zach Hodder and Luke Fenske are also back, but will be pushed by several of the talented, young defensemen in the Giants’ system.

Goaltending:  18-year-old Brendan Jensen is ready to assume the starting job with the Giants after backing up Mark Segal the past two seasons.  Jensen has 36 games of WHL experience on his resume, and will be given the opportunity to show he can handle a heavy workload in net.  16-year-old Jackson Whistle, the Giants’ fourth-round pick in the 2010 WHL Bantam Draft, will take on the back-up role after turning in a string of solid performances during the pre-season.

Player to Watch:  Marek Tvrdon

Giants’ fans got a small taste of what Marek Tvrdon can bring to the table when he appeared in 12 games in 2010-11, scoring six goals and 11 points.  Unfortunately, a season-ending shoulder injury kept the 6’2”, 208-lb winger from making a real impact for the Giants.  Yet, even though he was limited to just 12 games, the Detroit Red Wings thought highly enough of him to select him in the fourth round of the 2011 NHL Entry Draft.  A big-bodied forward with great hands, puck skills and the ability to protect the puck in traffic, Tvrdon is a menace in front of the opposition net.  The Nitra, Slovakia, product has a heavy shot and the ability to get shots off quickly in traffic.  Expect Tvrdon to be a key performer for the Giants now that he is once again healthy.

Victoria Royals

General Manager / Head Coach: Marc Habscheid

2011 pre-season: 1-4-0-0, 2pts

2010-11 Record: 33-31-4-4, 74pts (3^rd in B.C. Div., 6^th in Western Conf.) GF: 227  GA: 255

2010-11 Power Play / Penalty Killing ranking: PP: 21.8% (T-6^th); PK: 79.2% (13^th)

2011 Playoffs: Lost in five games to Spokane in first round

2010-11 Top Scorers:

Ryan Howse                 70gp-51g-32a-83pts

Roman Horak               64gp-26g-52a-78pts

Kevin Sundher              70gp-24g-52a-76pts

Up Front:  The Royals lose three of their top five scorers from last year, including 51-goal man Ryan Howse.  Replacing the offense created by Howse, Roman Horak and defenseman Brandon Manning won’t be easy.  Fortunately, the Royals return 19-year-old Kevin Sundher and 20-year-old Robin Soudek to carry the offensive load.  Both topped the 20-goal mark last year.  19-year-old Jamie Crooks will be expected to improve upon the 19 goals and 38 points he recorded last season and carry more responsibility this season.  Sophomore Brandon Magee is coming off a terrific season as a 16-year-old last year.  He and fellow 17-year-old Steven Hodges should be able to contribute more to the attack this season.

 

On The Blue Line:  The Royals will see six WHL-experienced rearguards return this season.  20-year-old Hayden Rintoul was acquired in the off-season from the defending WHL champion Kootenay Ice.  Rintoul is a strong two-way presence who can help generate offense from the back end and bolster the power play.  18-year-old Jesse Pauls has some offensive flair to his game, having generated 19 points in 34 games over the last two seasons.  Veterans Tyler Stahl and Zach Habscheid add plenty of size and physical presence to the Royals’ defense corps.  Rookies Kade Pilton and Keegan Kanzig will look to earn spots in the lineup this year as both have promising futures with the Club.

Goaltending:  With the graduation of Lucas Gore, the job of No. 1 netminder in Victoria is open.  20-year-old Braden Gamble served as Gore’s back-up for the last two seasons, and is an option for taking on the top job this season.  The Royals acquired 19-year-old Keith Hamilton from Portland to vie for the starting job as well.  Hamilton posted 17 wins and a .914 save percentage in 28 games for Portland last season.  17-year-old Jared Rathjen is also in the mix for a spot in the goaltending tandem.

Player to Watch:  Brandon Magee

The Royals’ fourth-round pick in the 2009 WHL Bantam Draft, Magee turned in a valiant effort as a 16-year-old rookie last year, scoring 12 goals and 29 points with a team-leading +15 rating in 65 games.  A hard-working, competitive forward who knows how to get under the skin of opponents, Magee also has the ability to score and create offense.  Though not a very big player, Magee plays hard and doesn’t shy away from the tough areas on the ice.  Taking on a bigger role this season, expect Magee to continue to impress with his no-quit attitude.

U.S. Division

Everett Silvertips

General Manager: Doug Soetaert

Head Coach: Mark Ferner

2011 pre-season: 3-4-0-0, 6pts

2010-11 Record: 28-33-7-4, 67pts (4^th in U.S. Div., 8^th in Western Conf.) GF: 172  GA: 218

2010-11 Power Play / Penalty Killing ranking: PP: 14.2% (22^nd); PK: 78.3% (T-17^th)

2011 Playoffs: Lost in four games to Portland in first round

2010-11 Top Scorers:

Tyler Maxwell               68gp-41g-25a-66pts

Ryan Harrison              69gp-21g-31a-52pts

Ryan Murray                 70gp-6g-40a-46pts

Up Front:  Tyler Maxwell leads a group of nine regulars eligible to return for the Silvertips this season.  Maxwell’s 41 goals were, by far, the most of anyone on the team last year, and he factored into nearly 40% of the ‘Tips’ entire offensive output.  Maxwell will be relied on heavily again to find the back of the net.  Ryan Harrison and Josh Birkholz will also need to step up and provide scoring for a ‘Tips team that managed the second-fewest number of goals last year.  19-year-old Cody Fowlie and 18-year-old Josh Winquist will look to improve on their offensive totals this year and give the team some solid secondary scoring.  Sophomore Jari Erricson could also see a larger role in the Silvertips’ attack this season.

On The Blue Line:  Ryan Murray will anchor a Silvertips’ defense corps that finished an impressive third in the Western Conference in goals against last year.  The 18-year-old All-Star is already a dominating presence at both ends of the ice for the Silvertips, and is considered a potential top 5 prospect ahead of the 2012 NHL Entry Draft.  Aside from Murray, only veteran Brennan Yadlowski has more than 100 games of WHL experience, meaning the defense corps will be relatively inexperienced this season.  Sophomores Evan Morden and Nick Walters will need to step up into bigger roles this season while German rookie Dominik Bittner could be a valuable addition to the blue line, having international experience with Germany at the World Junior Championship.

Goaltending:  19-year-olds Kent Simpson and Luke Siemens are both back in the fold for the Silvertips.  Simpson, a Chicago Blackhawks prospect, posted a 21-20-9 record with a .916 save percentage in 53 games last season, while Siemens posted an impressive .917 save percentage in 23 appearances as a rookie.  Both give the Silvertips dependable netminding.  16-year-old Austin Lotz, a seventh-round bantam pick in 2010, is also vying for a spot on the roster. 

Player to Watch:  Ryan Murray

Entering his third season in the WHL, Murray has established himself as one of the premier defensemen in the League and was named a Western Conference Second Team All-Star last season.  He also narrowly missed out on making Canada’s National Junior team as a 17-year-old.  An all-around talent, Murray skates incredibly well, boasts excellent puck-moving skills and a heavy shot, making him an offensive threat.  Yet, he also possesses terrific defensive awareness, a big frame and a cool head, making him solid defender.  At the top of many scouting lists, expect Murray to enjoy another dominant season in Everett as he enters his NHL draft-eligible campaign.

 

Portland Winterhawks

General Manager / Head Coach: Mike Johnston

2011 pre-season: 2-1-0-1, 5pts

2010-11 Record: 50-19-0-3, 103pts (1^st in U.S. Div., 1^st in Western Conf.) GF: 303  GA: 227

2010-11 Power Play / Penalty Killing ranking: PP: 22.4% (4^th); PK: 83.3% (4^th)

2011 Playoffs: Lost in five games to Kootenay in WHL Championship series

2010-11 Top Scorers:

Ryan Johansen             63gp-40g-52a-92pts

Craig Cunningham        71gp-27g-60a-87pts

Sven Bartschi               66gp-34g-51a-85pts

Up Front:  Though they may lose a few of their top guns from last year, the Winterhawks still return a powerful arsenal of offensive forwards.  19-year-old Sven Bartschi and 18-year-old Ty Rattie will head up the attack.  Both boast excellent offensive abilities, having combined for 62 goals and 164 points last season.  Also back are sparkplug Brad Ross, who scored 31 goals and accumulated 171 penalty minutes last year, and impressive 17-year-old Brendan Leipsic, who should be able to better his 16 goals and 33 points from last year.  Veteran Charles Wells was acquired from Prince Albert to add depth, while towering physical forward Riley Boychuk can also be a contributor to the offense.  If either Ryan Johansen or Nino Niederreiter is returned from their respective NHL teams, the Hawks will be even more dominant offensively.

On The Blue Line:  The Hawks expect to return six rearguards from last year’s Western Conference championship team.  Joe Morrow, Troy Rutkowski and William Wrenn headline the Hawks’ defense corps.  Morrow and Rutkowski offer plenty of offense and puck-movement while Wrenn brings a solid defensive game, having posted an impressive +25 rating in just 29 games last season.  Sophomore Derrick Pouliot, a highly rated prospect for the 2012 NHL Entry Draft, should be in line for a much bigger role this season.  Tyler Wotherspoon also returns to the team, giving the Hawks another solid shutdown defenseman.  16-year-old Layne Viveiros earned his way onto the team, and could be a valuable asset in providing defensive depth.

Goaltending:  19-year-old Mac Carruth is back for his third season with the Winterhawks.  The Chicago Blackhawks prospect posted 31 wins and a solid .913 save percentage in 48 games last year, and took his game to another level in the post-season to help the Hawks reach the WHL Championship series.  19-year-old Chase Martin and 16-year-old Brendan Burke will battle for the back-up role.  Burke is the son of former NHL standout Sean Burke.

Player to Watch:  Sven Bartschi

The Hawks’ first round pick, seventh overall, in the 2010 CHL Import Draft, Bartschi made a splash as a rookie with the Winterhawks last season, scoring 34 goals and 85 points while earning the Western Conference nomination for WHL Rookie of the Year.  Drafted by the Calgary Flames 13^th overall in 2011, the Swiss speedster is a terrific skater with outstanding puck skills, a quick and accurate shot, and a competitive edge.  With a year of WHL experience under his belt, and playing on a potent Winterhawks team, look for Bartschi to be among the WHL scoring leaders this season.

 

Seattle Thunderbirds

General Manager: Russ Farwell

Head Coach: Steve Konowalchuk

2011 pre-season: 1-4-0-0, 2pts

2010-11 Record: 27-35-5-5, 64pts (5^th in U.S. Div., 10^th in Western Conf.) GF: 195  GA:264

2010-11 Power Play / Penalty Killing ranking: PP: 21.2% (T-9^th); PK: 77.4% (19^th)

2011 Playoffs: Did not qualify

2010-11 Top Scorers:

Burke Gallimore                        71gp-34g-36a-70pts

Brenden Dillon              72gp-8g-51a-59pts

Marcel Noebels             66gp-28g-26a-54pts

Up Front:  The T-Birds return their top four highest-scoring forwards from last season.  20-year-old Burke Gallimore led the way with 34 goals last year, and will look to crack at least the 40-goal plateau this season.  German forward Marcel Noebels enjoyed a productive season as a rookie.  The 19-year-old should be able to better his 59 points from last season.  Also back are Luke Lockhart and Colin Jacobs, who both topped the 20-goal mark last season, and Brendan Rouse, who has the talent to improve on his 29 points from last year.  The T-Birds will need bigger contributions from returnees Chance Lund and Tyler Alos this season if they are to compete with the offensive depth of division rivals like Portland, Spokane and Tri-Cities.

On The Blue Line:  The T-Birds only return three regular defensemen from last year’s team, including Erik Fleming, Dave Sutter and Austin Frank.  Sutter, a towering figure, is expected to take on a much larger role on the blue line this season, especially with the departure of Brenden Dillon.  The T-Birds acquired 20-year-old veterans Cason Machacek from Lethbridge and Kyle Verdino from Swift Current to add experience, size and toughness to their defense corps.  Verdino and Machacek will need to be steady in the defensive zone to help out goaltender Calvin Pickard, who faced, by far, the most shots of any goalie in the WHL last year.  16-year-old rookie Jared Hauf, who stands 6’5”, could step in and make an impact on the blue line this season.

Goaltending:  Calvin Pickard has been a workhorse for the T-Birds over the last three season, appearing in 177 games and facing more than 6,000 shots since debuting as a 16-year-old rookie.  Pickard provides the T-Birds with consistency and durability in goal.  If his workload remains the same as it has been over the last three years, Pickard will be in line to break the WHL record for saves and minutes played.  19-year-old Michael Salmon and 17-year-old Daniel Cotton are battling for the back-up job behind Pickard.

Player to Watch:  Marcel Noebels

Seattle’s first-round pick, 10^th overall, in the 2010 CHL Import Draft, Noebels made an impact as a rookie with the T-Birds last season.  The product of Tonisvorst, GER, scored 28 goals and 54 points in 66 games to finish third on the team in scoring.  He also represented Germany at the 2011 World Junior Championship.  A big player, standing 6’3”, 201 lbs, Noebels possesses good offensive abilities, strong skating, and a hard shot.  His vision and hockey sense enable him to make creative passes and find open ice, while his size makes him difficult to knock off the puck.  Also defensively responsible, Noebels doesn’t hesitate to engage physically or go to high-traffic areas.  Expect the Philadelphia Flyers prospect to be a key cog in Seattle’s offense this season.

 

Spokane Chiefs

General Manager: Tim Speltz

Head Coach: Don Nachbaur

2011 pre-season: 4-2-0-1, 9pts

2010-11 Record: 48-18-4-2, 102pts (2^nd in U.S. Div., 3^rd in Western Conf.) GF:310  GA: 193

2010-11 Power Play / Penalty Killing ranking: PP: 26.7% (1^st); PK: 87.3% (1^st)

2011 Playoffs: Lost in six games to Portland in Western Conference Championship series

2010-11 Top Scorers:

Tyler Johnson               71gp-53g-62a-115pts

Levko Koper                 70gp-32g-50a-82pts

Brenden Kichton           64gp-23g-58a-81pts

Up Front:  The departure of Tyler Johnson and Levko Koper leaves 85 goals and 197 points for the Chiefs to make up from what was the WHL’s best offense last year.  Still, the Chiefs return a healthy number of forwards who are capable of collectively making up the difference.  Steve Kuhn, Matt Marantz, Anthony Bardaro, Blake Gal and Dominik Uher all return to the team after each hitting at least the 20-goal mark last year.  All five are capable of increasing their offensive totals if given bigger roles this season.  However, with four 20-year-old on the roster, tough decisions will need to be made with regards to Kuhn, Marantz and feisty sparkplug Darren Kramer, who was terrific in the post-season last year.  18-year-old Mitch Holmberg and Collin Valcourt could see more responsibility this season, in terms of generating offense.

On The Blue Line:  High-scoring rearguard Brenden Kichton heads up a group of five returning defensemen from last season’s team that owned the second-best defense in the WHL.  Kichton exploded for 23 goals and 81 points last season, and will log key minutes again this season for the Chiefs.  20-year-old Corbin Baldwin is also eligible to return, as is 19-year-old Davis Vandane.  Both would provide an imposing physical presence on the blue line.  Tanner Mort and sophomore Reid Gow round out the returning defensemen, while rookies Tyler King, Jason Fram and Cole Wedman will look to break into the lineup and add defensive depth.

Goaltending:  18-year-old Mac Engel is set to take over the starting job after the graduation of James Reid.  Engel appeared in 32 games last season for the Chiefs, posting a 2.30 GAA and a .909 save percentage.  He has proven he can be a reliable starter, earning Goalie of the Month in February after posting a 9-2-2 record with a 1.83 GAA and .930 save percentage when Reid went down with an injury.  Rookies Zach Rakochy and Luke Lee-Knight are in contention for the back-up role.

Player to Watch:  Brenden Kichton

Spokane’s third-round pick in the 2007 WHL Bantam Draft, Kichton spent his first two seasons in the WHL playing more of a depth role in a defense corps loaded with talented rearguards.  Given a much bigger role last season, Kichton exploded for 81 points to share the WHL lead in points by a defenseman.  A smooth and agile skater, Kichton’s best asset is his excellent hockey sense.  The Spruce Grove, AB, product rarely gets caught out of position and has a knack for knowing when to join the rush.  With strong puck-moving ability and a deceptive shot, Kichton is a major reason why the Chiefs owned the WHL’s best power play last season.  His outstanding 2010-11 campaign led the New York Islanders to select him in the fifth round of the 2011 NHL draft.

Tri-City Americans

General Manager: Bob Tory

Head Coach: Jim Hiller

2011 pre-season: 5-2-0-0, 10pts

2010-11 Record: 44-24-2-2, 92pts (3^rd in U.S. Div., 4^th in Western Conf.) GF: 286  GA: 223

2010-11 Power Play / Penalty Killing ranking: PP: 23.6% (2^nd); PK: 78.7% (15^th)

2011 Playoffs: Lost in six games to Spokane in second round

2010-11 Top Scorers:

Brendan Shinnimin        60gp-34g-62a-96pts

Adam Hughesman        60gp-39g-42a-81pts

Carter Ashton               62gp-33g-38a-71pts

Up Front:  Returning up to eight forwards from last year’s team that ranked fourth in the WHL in offense, the Americans should once again possess a fearsome attack.  20-year-olds Adam Hughesman and Brendan Shinnimin both averaged well over a point per game last year, and could both end up among the WHL’s scoring leaders this season.  Also back are Justin Feser, Patrick Holland and Jordan Messier, who all topped the 20-goal mark last season.  Connor Rankin enjoyed a strong rookie season with 19 goals and 44 points as a 16-year-old.  Look for Rankin to step into a larger role this season.  Swedish winger Malte Stromwall will also figure heavily into the Ams’ offense this season.

On The Blue Line:  The Americans can only return up to four defensemen from last season, meaning there will be some new faces on the blue line.  20-year-olds Matt MacKenzie and Brock Sutherland could both return.  However, with five 20-year-olds on the roster and only three overage spots available, some tough decisions will have to be made.  18-year-old Zachary Yuen is back after being drafted by the Winnipeg Jets in June’s NHL Draft.  He will be counted on to take on a much bigger role this season.  18-year-old Mitch Topping was acquired from Victoria during the off-season.  He brings good mobility and puck movement to the back end.  19-year-old Drydn Dow has impressed in pre-season, and could move up the Ams’ defensive depth chart.

Goaltending:  The Americans acquired 19-year-old Ty Rimmer during the off-season from Prince George in return for 20-year-old Drew Owsley.  Rimmer, who began his WHL career in Brandon, played well for the Cougars last season, and will look for a heavier workload in Kennewick this year.  Meantime, 16-year-old Eric Comrie will also join the Ams after being drafted 13^th overall at the 2010 WHL Bantam Draft.  Comrie and Rimmer should provide a solid goaltending duo for the Americans.

Player to Watch:  Connor Rankin

Tri-Cities’ first round pick, seventh overall, in the 2009 WHL Bantam Draft, Rankin broke into the WHL as a 16-year-old last year and quickly made an impact.  The North Vancouver, B.C., native led all 16-year-old rookies in scoring with 19 goals and 44 points, and added another goal and four points in 10 playoff games for the Ams.  One of the hardest workers on the ice at any given time, Rankin is a very well-rounded player.  His work ethic and no-quit attitude make him a fierce competitor, and his selfless nature makes him a great leader and teammate. Expect to see Rankin become a key contributor among the Ams’ forward ranks this season.