Sunday, October 31, 2010

Kings Haunt Chiefs 4-1; Sweep Weekend Series

The Powell River Kings treated themselves to six points over the Halloween weekend.  It began with a road win in Coquitlam on Friday, and concluded with back to back wins over the Langley Chiefs on Saturday night and Sunday afternoon.

This afternoon, the Kings downed Langley 4-1 in front of 712 fans at the Hap Parker Arena. The win gives the Kings a four point cushion atop of the Coastal Conference standings.

The Halloween matinee played similar to last night's contest. The Kings controlled the game from start to finish, scoring when they needed to and surpressing the Langley attack.

The Kings scored the only goal of the first period, as Andrew Pettitt found the score sheet at the 8:26 mark. Powell River could have scored more if it wasn't for the play of Cole Huggins in the Langley net.

In the second period, Steven Schmidt put on quite the performance. The Campbell River native scored twice, one at even strength and one on a power-play, to give his team a 3-0 lead after forty minutes. Shots after two periods were 35- 14 in favour of Powell River.

The third period seemed to be no more than a formality.  The Kings weren't overly threatened by what looked to be a defeated Langley side.  Langley's Josh Myers was able to break Mike Garteig's goose egg on a late marker with a nice individual effort.  Cohen Adair put the final touch on the game when he added an empty net goal with 47 seconds remaining.

The win vaults the Kings record to 15-4-1-1, first place overall in the BCHL.

Could we see a top 5 ranking tomorrow afternoon in the CJHL standings?

GAME LINE UPS / SCRATCHES


Thompson McBride Gerling
Dyck Myers Ius
Blacklock Tebbutt Dhaliwal
Plevy Hansen B.Scholten

D.Scholten Bakken
Haber Miller
Tuohy Daly

Huggins
Galley
SCRATCHES: Sitterley (suspension) Strahle (Healthy)




Waugh Garbowsky Sones
Shinkaruk Adair Pettitt
Renner Forbes Schmidt
Bond Hawryluk Brednan Hawryluk Elliot

DaSilva Dalrymple
Jutzi Yee
Williams Kachur

Garteig
Maguire

SCRATCHES: Niddery (Upper Body) Schuler (Upper Body) Pears (Illness)

Saturday, October 30, 2010

Kings Crown Chiefs 6-1; Halloween Fireworks.

The Kings produced a gritty effort over the Langley Chiefs in front of 808 fans at the Hap Parker arena.

Powell River got things going just 3:49 into the first period when Cohen Adair found the back of the net for his 10th of the season. Before the period closed out, the Kings added one more  from Justin DaSilva.

Shots 12-4 Powell River

In the second the Kings picked up where they left off in the first.They scored two more times courtesy of Matt Garbowsky and Chris Williams. Josh Myers added the only goal for Langley between the King goals.

Shots 18-12 Powell River

The Kings continued to control the pace of play in the final period  and were rewarded with two more goals from DaSilva and Scott Renner.

Simply put, this was a one sided contest. The Kings control the game from the get go and did what they wanted in the offensive zone. The Kings as a unit in their own zone frustrated the Langley forwards all night, resulting in a few ugly incidents in the third period.

In all, 57 penalty minutes were handed out in the game. 39 of which were in the third period alone. Kit Sitterley sparked the fireworks with his blow to the head penalty on Brendan Hawryluk at 18:55. To put it simply, I expect a couple of suspensions might come from the third period shenanigans.

Final Shots: 40-21

Three Stars:
1. Justin DaSilva
2. Cohen Adair
3. Chris Williams.

GAME LINE UPS / SCRATCHES


Thompson McBride Gerling
Dyck Myers Ius
Sitterley Tebbutt Dhaliwal
Plevy Hansen B.Scholten

D.Scholten Strahle
Haber Miller
Tuohy Daly

Galley
Huggins






Waugh Garbowsky Sones
Shinkaruk Adair Pettitt
Renner Forbes Schmidt
Bond Hawryluk Brednan Hawryluk Elliot

DaSilva Dalrymple
Jutzi Yee
Williams Kachur

Garteig
Maguire

Scratches: Niddery (Upper Body) Schuler (Upper Body) Pears (Illness)

Game Notes: Chiefs vs. Kings

The Kings welcome the Langley Chiefs to the Hap Parker arena for the first of two games in one and a half days.

Both teams are coming off wins one night ago. The Kings edged the Coquitlam Express 2-1 and the Chiefs slipped by the Nanaimo Clippers 3-2. Tonight's game is the first meeting between these two clubs since Langley's 3-2 OT win in Powell River on October 15th.













Record: 13-4-0-2 (T-1st)
Road Record: 10-2-0-1 (1st)

The Chiefs possess a three headed attack, Matt Ius (15-18-33), Josh Myers (14-16-30) and  Brad McBride (13-13-26). Don't discount Trevor Gerling, Darnell Dyck and Brandon Thompson who sit third through fifth in team scoring. Langley can score and score a lot. The team has already tallied 86 times this season. However it wasn't any of those five that stick out in the minds of Kings Fans.

Kody Dhaliwal played the hero for Langley and the villain for Kings fans in the first encounter. The 19 year old scored 1:52 into overtime to save his team two points. If you remember, the Kings came back from a first period two goal deficit to force the extra frame.

One of the newest Chiefs, Kitt Sitterley has had  strong debut for the black and gold. The Annapolis native has scored in three straight games after missing time due to injury.

The biggest story from that game was the goaltending of Wyatt Galley. The son of former NHL'er, Gary Galley, stopped 41 of 43 shots thrown at him by King shooters. It seemed like the Kings threw everything at him expect the kitchen sink.


Record: 13-4-1-1 (T-1st)
Home Record: 7-2-0-1 (3rd)

The Kings haven't forgotten the sting of the first meeting between these two teams. However the Kings will need to have a better start to revenge the first meeting of the season.

Spotting the high flying Chiefs an two zip lead just twelve minutes in, won't do you any favours. In fact, the win was Langley's first in Powell River in nine tries. The Kings will have to go back to what makes the most successful. Hard work.

It could be said Powell River was lured into Langley's back and forth style of play in the first meeting. What makes this team successful at home is their commitment to detail in their game  The Kings play well when they keep the puck of their stick, and keep it away from Langley's sharp shooters.

Did you Know?
  • With one assist Friday night, Andrew Pettitt is one assist shy of 100 career points.The record for points in a season belongs to Rob Gordon. In 93-94 Gordan had 158 points.
  • Pettitt is also riding a five game point streak. Third best in the BCHL
  • Cohen Adair had his game five game point streak snapped Friday in Coquitlam. Over that stretch Adair had 4 goals and 6 assists.
  • Chad Niddery is finding the net with regularity. Niddery has recorded eleven points in his last four games.

Friday, October 29, 2010

Kings derail Express 2-1

The Powell River Kings started a busy weekend on an winning note. The Kings edged the Coquitlam Express 2-1 infront of 760 fans at the Coquitlam Sports Centre.

Mike Sones tipped in the game winning goal on the power-play in early in the third period. For the Waterdown, Ontario native, it was seizing the opportunity given to him. Sones saw time on the first powe-play unit and on the wing with Garbowsky and Niddery in the latter part of this hockey game.

To be honest, this wasn't the best effort over sixty minutes we have seen from the Kings. Geoff Grimwood touched on it in the post-game show. Grimwood said the team as an whole did not play well inside their own blue line. Hard to disagree.

In the early going the Kings looked nervous and seemed to run around at times when he Express pressured in the offensive zone. Credit Mike Garteig for backing up his team between the pipes.

The streaking goaltender was solid right from the drop of the puck-literally. Express captain Gerrick Perry tested Garteig on an rush after the opening face-off.

Chris Williams was a bright spot for the Kings on Friday. The 19 year-old Pennsylvania product played a regular shift on the blue line for the first forty minutes of the game before being called up to play right wing. Dan Schuler's upper body injury early in the second shorted handed the Kings upfront. Williams didn't look out of place one bit and seemed to thrive in the situation.

Also the Kings took the special teams battle. Powell River scored once in five opportunities on the man advantage. The biggest key, in my opinion, was the Kings killing off a two minute five on three late in third period.

Goals: PR-Jon Jutzi, Mike Sones CQ-Riley McIntosh
Shots: 26-24 PR
PP: PR-1/5 CQ 0/5
Kings: 13-4-1-1
Express: 8-8-0-3

Thursday, October 28, 2010

Kings Sign Hawryluk Twins



The Powell River Kings are pleased to announce they have signed  forwards Brendan and Bond  Hawryluk for the remainder of the season. The 19 year old twins from Nampa, Alberta were playing as  Affiliate Player's for the past three weeks. The brothers started the season with the Fernie Ghostriders of the KIJHL.


Bond has recorded 1 goal and 1 assist in 6 games and Brendan has picked up 2 goals in 5 games.


Associate Head Coach Chad van Diemen stated, " we brought them in for a try out and they earned a  permanent roster spot with their performance  both on and off the ice."    

The signing also means the Kings had to shuffle their roster. The team announced they  have released forward Nick Indelicato. The 18 year-old from Pembroke, Massachusetts has signed with the Fresno Monsters of the  North American Hockey League  

The Kings would like to thank Nick for his contributions to the organization and wish him the best of luck in Fresno. 

Pack the Hap

The Kings have two home games this weekend against Langley and the marketing department is giving you every reason to go.


First on Saturday, Valley Building Supplies will be giving away 10 thousand air miles. Yes, that's right, 10 THOUSAND air miles to one lucky fan. That story is here.


Also on Sunday the Kings are teaming up with the Sliammon First Nation. The Kings will donate $1000 to Sliammon's Celebration day in November, if 1000 fans come to the Halloween matinee against Langley. More information here


Get out to the rink this weekend!

Wednesday, October 27, 2010

DaSilva commits to Ohio State



Chad Niddery might have found a roommate for next season in Columbus. 20 year-old Justin DaSilva has declared his intent to play for the Buckeyes next fall.

DaSilva recently returned from a campus tour which included an informal meeting with Philadelphia Flyer rear-guard Chris Pronger. His Flyers were in Columbus on Monday for a game against the Blue Jackets. Pronger just happens to be one of DaSilva's idol's.

First and foremost, congratulations to Justin and his family. DaSilva is going to a top notch program in a great conference in the NCAA. Ohio State plays in the CCHA, with conference rivals such as Michigan and Michigan State.

The 20 year-old from Cambridge, Ontario, is in his second and final season with the green and gold. Through 68 career BCHL games DaSilva has collected 12 goals and 37 assists for 59 points. The hulking defenseman has developed into one the premier blue-liners in the BCHL. More importantly, DaSilva is starting to use his 6'5, 215 pound frame to punish opposing forwards. The Buckeyes are getting, to steal a line from Pierre MaGuire, a big body presence.

I expect that we will see more players from this roster  receive NCAA divison 1 scholarships.

Tuesday, October 26, 2010

Tuesday Quick Hits

The Kings hit the ice at 8:30 this morning, their first day back at it after their game Saturday in Salmon Arm. The team will be preparing for a busy three days this weekend.

The Kings are in Coquitlam Friday night for a date with the Express. Then it's an early morning ferry back to Powell River for they're contest with Langley at 7:30pm at the Hap on Saturday. Powell River concludes action with a Halloween Sunday matinee with Langley at 1:30pm. That's three games in two and a half days, good thing their young.

A couple of news and notes from the BCHL:

  • Team Canada's West roster for the upcoming World Jr. A Challenge in Penticton was announced. It includes 8 BCHL'ers, non of which are Kings. More info here
     Congratulations to those players who were selected, as they will do a great job in representing the BCHL.

  • The BCHL announced their Player of the Week. The Honours go to Bradley McGowan. Chad Niddery, once again, received an honourable mention. Click Here
After a busy start to the season, I FINALLY get the opportunity to watch a Canucks game, on TV.  Now you know where I will be come 7pm.

Monday, October 25, 2010

Monday Morning Musings

The Kings have a day of rest after a 6 day road trip through the BC interior that saw them play 4 games in 5 days. Powell River finished the trip with an impressive 3-1 record. And if it wasn't for a 10 minute stretch in the 2nd period on Saturday, the Kings could of been 4-0.

The Kings scored 17 goals in 4 games, and only surrendered 6 over that same span, including blanking Prince George and Merritt. That is only giving up 1.5 goals per game. Stingy. Furthermore, their strong play hasn't gone unnoticed.

  • Today the CJHL has come out with their weekly top 25 national rankings and the Kings have not only made the list, they are in the top 10. More information here
  • With Langley's 6-4 loss to Surrey yesterdays, the Kings still remain tied with the Chiefs for top spot in the BCHL. If this weekend didn't need anymore incentive.
  • The Kings own the league's best goals against average. Through 18 games this season, Powell River has only been scored on 33 times. On average, that's about 1.8 goals per game.
  • The league website has a poll up asking you, the fans, which goaltender you have been impressed with? Garteig sits second in voting to Keifer Smiley. VOTE FOR MIKE!!!
  • The Kings own the leagues best penalty-kill but sit in the middle when it comes to the power-play. That's a head scratch'er. With the talent they have, one would think that should turn around soon.
  • Chad Niddery must be named the BCHL player of the week. The Penticton native, is riding a four game point streak, which includes scoring and assisting in all four. The 20 year-old is on pace for a 102 point season.
  • Niddery's line-mates were no slouches either. Drew Pettitt has collected points in three straight contests and Cohen Adair is riding a 4 game streak. Pettitt and Adair have scored 9 and 8 goals respectively and are tied with 17 points.
  • Mike Garteig is taking the BCHL by storm. Gart's is 1st in every single goaltender category, except for minutes played and save percentage where he sits 2nd.  He's out ahead in shutouts with 4 as well.
  • The Kings are on pace to break the BCHL record for fewest goals allowed in a single season. The Vernon Vipers allowed 130 in 1998-1999. The Kings are on pace to only give up 110.
That's it for now,

Saturday, October 23, 2010

Silverbacks hold off Kings; 3-2

I enter this from the bus in the Sun Wave CEntre parking lot.

The Silverbacks used a strong middle stretch of the second period to hold off the Kings 3-2. Captain David Killip scored the GWG on the power-play, at 19:23 of the 2nd. That followed goals from Jaaryed Tenvaanholt and Bryce Gervais.

The Kings were very strong in the first and third periods. It could be said the third period was there best of the road trip.

Chase Martin was good in goal for Salmon Arm when he had to be, especially in the late going. However the Kings had their chances to put the game back on even terms.

The Kings now have 6 days before a trip to Coquitlam on Friday.

KINGS vs. SILVERBACKS

Kings:

Schuler Garbowsky Niddery

Waugh Adair Pettitt

Sones Forbes Kachur

Bond Hawryluk Brendan Harwyluk Schmidt

DaSilve Williams

Jutzi Yee

Pears Dalrymple

Scratches:
Elliot
Shinkaruk
Indelicato

Friday, October 22, 2010

Friday Morning Headlines; Game Preview: Kings @ Cents'

Good afternoon from the Sandman Hotel in Kamloops.

Before I get to tonight's preview, I thought I would share a few interesting stories generating buzz in the hockey world.

  • An interesting article, TSN's Bob McKenzie wrote on Tie Domi's son. click here. No, He actually uses his hands for more then laying knuckles to opponent's cheeks.
  • Staying within the NHL, the league has announced its suspension for Canucks forward, Rick Rypien. Read it here. First of all, what an idiot. I love Rypien just as much as the next Canucks fan, however, you need to use what you have between your ears.
  • An idea the BCHL should follow? The Oilers announced they are getting cheerleaders. This will distract the fans from Taylor Hall's inability to hit the net. Oh, I kid Edmonton fans.
  • Shifting gears, here is an in-depth preview of tonight's Penticton-Vernon game. click here
  • Over at Evan Hammond's Bulldogs blog, he is doing a nice job of documenting his teams interior road swing. Follow here

An editorial note, I have been remiss when discussing the Powell River Kings depth on this platform. As the term "bottom six" doesn't apply to this hockey club. The Kings have complete confidence in all four lines they ice, game in and game out. For that error, I do apologize.

Now to tonight's game.

For a look at the opposite side of the ledger, check out Brian Wiebe's Cents' blog. He has the Merritt Centennials covered. click here

The Kings haven't had much. if any success, in Merritt in quite some time. In fact, the Kings haven't won in Merritt since January 13th, 2007. On that night, they picked up a 7-2 victory. This rink, hasn't been the kindest to Powell River in recent years.













RECORD: 2-9-0-3 (7TH)
HOME RECORD: 1-2-0-3
LAST 5 GAMES: 1-1-0-3

As I stated above, the Nicola Valley Arena has haunted the Kings in recent years. They haven't won in this tiny barn in four seasons. The Centennials are a much different team at home, then they are on the road. As they use the cramped confines to their advantage.

Also this team will look considerably different from when the Kings blanked the Cent's 3-0 earlier this season. GM-Head Coach, Luke Pierce, traded last year's leading scorer, Dustin Johnson, to Victoria for Scott Milnthorpe and Brett Kolins. Pierce then flipped, Milnthorpe and Ausitn Baecker to Grand Prairie, for goaltender, Lino Chimienti. Kolins, however, hasn't reported to Merritt, and likely will see his rights dealt somewhere soon.

Forwards:
With Johnson gone, there will be  large offensive hole to fill. Jeff Jones, leads the team in scoring with 12 points through 14 games this season. Also the trade means fresh faces will now be counted on to fill larger roles upfront. Max Vallis and Regan Soquila are two rookies who will have to shoulder more of the offense for the Cents'. Vallis has 10 points followed by Soquila's 9.

It remains to be seen if this group can supply the offense this team needs to be successful with the big guns in the interior.

Defense:
The Cents' D has taken a slight hit without Kolins coming from Victoria. However, they do have some veterans that can play significant minutes. Steve Tresierra and Jeff Zmurchyk are two 20 year-olds who will have to eat up a lot of minutes. The shuffling, also means, 16 year-old Reece Wilcox, will have a larger role with this team.  It is a young core, as half of the blue-line are true BCHL rookies.

Goaltending:
The biggest piece in the roster moves, is the addition of Lino Chimienti. The 19 year-old, acquired from the Grand Prairie Storm, has given Pierce a potential clear number one. He has started two games, splitting both and sporting good numbers as a result.  Tyler Steel is also a young goaltender, who looked very sharp in the loss to the Kings earlier this season.











RECORD: 11-3-1-1 (2ND)
AWAY RECORD: 4-1-1-0
LAST 5 GAMES: 4-0-0-1

The Kings are where they expected themselves to be on this interior road trip. They battle through Tuesday's win over Quesnel, before Wednesday's convincing performance against Prince George. The special teams are providing a big boost for the hockey club along with timely scoring.

Forwards:
The line of Cohen Adair, Chad Niddery and Andrew Pettitt are on a role. Each scored in Wednesday's win and collected 8 points in the process. Don't be surprised to see Niddery's name on the BCHL website for Player of the Week honours. The Penticton native is red hot, scoring a goal in his last 3 games, including multiple goal games against Westside and Prince George.

The Kings are getting scoring from everywhere. On Tuesday we saw Brendan Hawryluk get his second of the season. Then on Wednesday, Carter Shinkaruk also chipped in with his second of the campaign. Scoring from all four lines only does wonders for a teams confidence.

Defense:

The Kings rear guards are flexing their muscle to their advantage. On Wednesday they simple shut down the Spruce Kings attack. A night earlier, they made minor adjustments as the game wore on and snuffed out any chance of a Quesnel comeback. Jason Yee and Jon Jutzi are becoming quite the shut down pair. The two blue liners are seeing the oppositions top line and doing very well in keep them in check.

Its invaluble to have the depth the Kings have on their back end, and it starting to show as the season progresses.

Goaltending:
Sean Maguire will get his third start of the season and will look to build against his sharp outing against Quesnel back on the 8th. The Powell River native has the size and mobility to be a top goaltender in this league and he will have plenty of time to prove it.

Mike Garteig will get a night of rest after quite the performance in his home town two nights earlier. The 19 year old, right now, is the best in the BCHL. Rebound control, vision and poise stand out for me as three skills he is Superior in.

Thursday, October 21, 2010

Two for Two in the Cariboo

Powell River won the "Battle Royale" against the Prince George Spruce Kings, 5-0.

The boxscore can be found here

* There should be changes to the score sheet. Cohen Adair indeed scored in the second period, which was credited as Chad Niddery's second.

The Kings, with the exception of the first two and a half minutes, were in control. They dictated the flow of the game when they had to in the early going and settled in when they developed a comfortable cushion. The Kings used their speed to create chances and turnovers inside or near the PG blue-line. The determined fore-check of Powell River dogged the Spruce Kings break out from the get go.

Chad Niddery was terrific recording fourt points; it should read as two and two. Niddery, along with Cohen Adair and Andrew Pettitt, combine for nine points. Niddery's short handed goal early in the second could be called the; "TSN Turning Point".

The defense was terrific; rebounding from an inconsistent performance one night ago. They kept the Prince George attack at bay for the most part, where they didn't, Mike Garteig was there to shut the door.

Garteig's performance is one suited for a Hollywood movie. The local player that, early in his career, could not find a BCHL to take a chance. Tonight, playing at home in front of family and friends, arguably put in his best effort of the season.

Four points from the north, now on the BC interior

Wednesday, October 20, 2010

Game Line Up

Spruce Kings

Murdoch-DeSousa-Berra

Khan-Kharia-Bodo

Ashdown-Tiechko-Spraggs

Fornwald-Ryan-Manlow

Fillion-Henderson

Esau-Davies
Hambrook-Datoff/Wiebe

Wright
Thompson
Scratches: Earnest, Hannas

Powell River Kings

Waugh-Garbowsky-Schuler

Niddery-Adair-Pettitt

Renner-Shinkaruk-Kachur

Indelicato-Elliot-Bond Hawryluk


DaSilva-Williams

Jutzi-Yee

Pears-Dalrymple

Garteig
Maguire

Scratches: Forbes,Sones, Schmidt, Brendan Hawryluk

Battle Royale: Kings @ Spruce Kings











Record: 2-12-0-2 (8th)
Home Record: 2-6-0-1
Last 5: 0-5-0-0

The Spruce Kings have struggled out of the gate in the BCHL. Prince George does own the BCHL's worst record and are in the midst of a five game losing streak.  Those losses came on their recent Island road trip, which saw them surrender 29 goals over that span, including a 10-5 thumping in Nanaimo.

Though Ed Dempsey's club is having a tough go, there are bright spots on this team.

Forwards:
Native son, RJay Berra is putting together a solid 20 year old season. The Prince George product, has amassed 19 points, 10 of which are goals in 16 games. He is supported by another 20 year-old in Nic DeSousa who has collected 17 points through 16 contests. This team is also getting production from their younger faces.

19 year-old Chris Bodo, one of two players committed to an NCAA institution, has chipped in with 15 points. The St. Thomas, Ontario, native came over from Stratroy Kings where he lead his team in regular season and playoff scoring. However one fresh face is receiving quie a bit of attention around the league.

Jujhar Kharia (Judge-ar Care-ah) is a 16 yer-old who has made quite the first impression. The native of Surrey, sits fourth in team scoring and has received plenty of media attention.

The Hockey News wrote a piece on Kharia, you can read it by clicking here.

This team can score, however the issue is, can they keep pucks out?

Defense:
The Kings have surrendered a league high 78 goals against in 16 games. On average, that's just a shade under five goals per game. Team defense, is one area that has burned the Spruce Kings this season. One bright spot on the back end, is the play of Justin Fillion. The rear guard has collected 14 points  in 16 games, which accounts for the majority of the offense from the blue line. After that it gets thin, as Derek Henderson has 4 points in 16 games.

Tonight will be a tall order to keep the Powell River Kings attack at bay for 60 minutes.

Goaltending
Kirk Thompson could be the busiest player on the ice tonight. The rookie from Surrey, has been busy all season for the Sprucies. He and Alex Wright are the men between the pipes for Prince George. Wright is 20 year-old from PG who has played 34 games in the past two seasons. So it's safe to say they don't have a lot of experience in net.











Record: 10-3-1-1 (2nd)
Road Record: 3-1-1-0

Last 5 games: 4-0-0-1

The Kings have now won two in a row and four of their last five games. In fact, the Kings have recorded at least a single point in  seven straight games.

Two recent trends that drew some concern was the lack of finish and special teams. Well if last night is any indication, this team is on the right track. The Kings scored once on the power-play in three opportunites and held the Millionaires without a power-play goal in four opportunities. Furthermore, the team has now scored 10 goals in their last three games.

Forwards:
Touched on in last night, but it's worth mentioning once again. The line of Cohen Adair, Chad Niddery and Drew Pettitt have been on a role. Adair and Niddery had four point between them and could of had more if it wasn't for Kirby Halcrow.

The Kings are also getting key contributions from their bottom six. Carter Shinkaruk was in the middle of the Hawryluk twins looked great. Shink' was great down the middle, creating opportunities for the brothers, and looked in his element. Brendan and Bond are turning into a nice addition for this hockey team.

Matt Garbowsky, underrated?

The St. George, Ontario Native scored his 8th of the year, on the power-play, tying for the team lead with Niddery. Garbowsky could be lobbied as one of the best, if not the best, two way centres in the BCHL. The co-captain is a quiet guy off the ice. However he makes lots of noise with his play on it.

Defense:

The back end battled and survived the tight confines of the Vault in Quesnel last night. You have to admire their ability to adapt their game to the smaller ice surface, and suppress a Quesnel attack that came at the Kings in waves at times.

Jason Yee and Jon Jutzi, once again, are developing into a solid shut down pair.

Goaltending:

The prodigal son returns home for Powell River. Mike Garteig will most likely get the start in goal, in his home town no less. Garteig would most likely want the first goal back, however, the other two can't be pinned on him. He looked great in the late going, thwarting the Mills' comeback attempt.

Kings 5 Quesnel 3

The Powell River Kings overcame some inconsistency and the unique confines of the Twin Arenas to defeat the Quesnel Millionaires 5-3.

For a complete recap, check here

Chad Nidderry and Cohain Adair lead the charge offensively, both recording a goal and an assist. That line of Adair, Nidderry and Pettitt is starting to rack up points. Cohen Adair increased his points streak to four straight games, including four points in the last two games. Nidderry with tonight's effort has five points in the last two games, three of which are goals.

Speaking of Niddery, you can read the story about him committing to Ohio State, here.

The special teams also played a big role, as the Kings were 1 for 3 on the night, while shutting down Quesnel's power-play, in four opportunities.

The Kings looked great at times, however they also looked a touch sloppy at times as well. Call it what you want, bus legs, road weary, what have you. The encouraging sign was this team battled through it and looked better as the game progressed into the third period.

The back six did a good job in managing the opportunities they did surrender. Your going to give up scoring chances in that rink, regardless how you play. I liked Jason Yee and Jon Jutzi tonight, as the Kings shut down pair. They logged important minutes for the team, especially in the late going. Also I would be remiss, not to mention the gritty effort by one, Chris Williams. He was a goal away from the Gordie Howe hat trick, and had chances to get it. Williams seemed to thrive in that type of environment.

The Mills' threw 30 shots on Mike Garteig who stood tall when called upon. I would take him over any goalie in the BCHL if you were to play a game 7. He seems to eat up the tense moments in hockey games. I can point to the nice glove save on Rigby Burgart in the third as a crucial save at that juncture.

Quick Points:
  • Encouraging to see Dan Schuler to find the score sheet once again. The Rookie had a tough start to October, as he was fighting a lingering upper body injury. Nice shot too.
  • Brendan Hawryluk found the score sheet for the second time as a King. It is so important to get contributions from your bottom six, and that's what he and his brother Bond are doing.
  • Carter Shinkaruk looked like he had something to prove. The 19 year old was great between the Hawryluk twins. He showed great poise at times, as well as, some soft hands on several scoring chances.
Talk to you in Prince George

Tuesday, October 19, 2010

Game Preview: Kings @ Millionaires; In the Cariboo; A few scattered Thoughts

The Powell River Kings will square off with the Quesnel Millionaires for the second, and final time this season. Go two weeks back, to October 8th, in Powell River. The Kings defeated the Money Men, quite handly, 7-2. The boxscore can be found here.

The Kings looked like the simply overmatched Quesnel with their speed and skill. Kirby Haclrow, was relieved from goal to start the third period. Furthermore, it was that contest where Andrew Pettitt recorded a hat-trick.

Lets delve into this matchup


Record: 4-8-1-0
Home Record: 3-5-0-0
Last 5 games:  1-4-0-0

Forwards:
Goals have been hard to come by for the Millionaires this season. Quesnel sits last with just 26 goals through 13 games. Former King, Justin Hogan, leads the team in points with 10 in 13 games. The 20 year-old does have 17 year-old and local boy, Spencer Graboski to work with up front. You may remember, Graboski actually opened the scoring on Oct 8th, just 57 second into the contest. Another player that can provide some offensive ins 19 year-old Clayton Chessa. He did not play in the first meeting this season, as he sat out with an injury. This core is built around grit and toughness, and that wont get you too many goals in the BCHL. The key for the Millionaires is to not fall behind early, as the Mills' are 1-4-1-0 when scored on first this season. Furthermore, they are 1-6-0-0 when trailing after the first.

This team will have to captialize on what chances they are given by the Powell River Kings to have success tonight.

Defense:
The blue line leader for Quesnel is their captain, Skyler Smutek. The 20 year-old from Seattle will log considerable amount of ice-time against the top two lines of Powell River. He also can contribute from the back end as well. Smutek has six points (1-5-6) in the 13 games they have played this season.  Smutek will also be supported by Mike Zgraggen, as the 19 yer-old plays top 4 minutes, and will be paired up with Smutek at times this season. The defense, from my observation, is hampered by overall foot speed. They do have big bodies in Anderson White (6'4) Stefan Gonzales and David Thompson who both check in at 6'2. However, what arose was the ability for the Kings to beat the Quesnel defenders wide and subsequently generate scoring chances. However, they do have the familarity and comfort of the smaller ice surface at the Twins Arena, to use to their advantage.

Physical play will be the order of the day for them to halt the Powell River attack.

Goaltending:
Kirby Halcrow, Kirby Halcrow, Kirby Halcrow, did I mention Kirby Halcrow? The Grand Prairie native, and last springs break out performer has been a work horse for the Millionaires. The 20 year-old has played in all but one game for the Mills. Halcrow, saw action on October 8th and was replaced by rookie, Adam Harris to start the second. Halcrow will to come up big tonight, in order for his team to have a chance at two points.

Record: 9-3-1-1
Road Record: 2-1-1-0
Last 5 games: 4-0-0-1

The Kings come into their cariboo/interior road swing playing good hockey. The green & gold took 3 out of a possible 4 points over the weekend. This trip will be a good test, as the club has had a predominately home heavy schedule so far this season.  If you do recall, the Kings struggled on this road trip last year. The Kings lost to Quesnel and Williams Lake and Salmon Arm in overtime.  They won't be looking to repeat that performance.

Forwards:
Don't look now, but rookie, Cohen Adair, is putting  up points. Adair has registered points in three straight games, all assists. In fact, the "Dair Devil" recorded two helpers in his teams 3-1 victory over Westside. His line mates are doing too bad either. Last year's team scoring leader, Chad Nidderry, is in his familar perch, atop of the team scoring lead. Nidderry had two goals and one assist on Saturday to push his points total to 23 in 14 games. I would make a case for him and Matt Garbowsky as the two best all around forwards in the league. Think about it. Nidderry and Garbowsky play a huge chunk of  power-pla, including on the top penalty-kill unit. If their was a Frank Selke trophy in the BCHL, flip a coin and give it to either of the two.

The core up front has started to find its goal scoring touch, Yes, they have struggled on converting their chances over the past week. However, we saw signs of a slow progression into the right direction with the win over Westside Saturday. Mike Sones has shown signs of his offensive flair he played with last year in Ontario. Sones, along with Matt Garbowsky and Brendan Forbes have created significant scoring chances in the opponents end. The bottom six is nine men deep! As Steven Schmidt looks right at home playing with the Harwyluck twins or the combination of Teagan Waugh and Dan Schuler. Furthermore, Ryan Elliot has shown signs of his scoring pension from Manitoba as he is starting to get chances in, and around the net.

More goals will indeed have to come from 6 through 12 to continue the success this team has seen so far. Only time will tell.

Defense:
After an "off night" against Langley. If you can call three goals against on 28 shots an off night. The Kings back end was air tight on Saturday. Mike Garteig only had to face 19 shots from Westside, and wasn't overly tested in the Powell River net. This D-core was expected to given the opposition's forwards a miserable night game in and game out. I think it's safe to say they are starting to achieve that. Justin DaSilva and Craig Dalrymple are developing into a top pairing, using their size and speed to cause havoc at both ends of the ice. 

Jason Yee won't catch your eye in the stat column, however just watch him in person. The 20 year-old could be lobbied as one of the top shut down defensemen in the BCHL. Yee is consistently snuffing out the oppositions top forwards on a nightly basis, playing alongside Jon Jutzi. That Pairing, along with two unique last names, are being noticed for the capabilities inside their own end.

Klay Kachur and Chris Williams have been two versatile players, who on occasion have played forward minutes this seasons. Put it this way, I would not want to be caught with me head down, if those two are on the ice.

Braden Pears, remember him? It's just that his work goes under the radar, as the kings top moving puck defensemen. He can skate like the wind, has vision that you rarely see from a 17 year old D-man and strength is very deceptive on the ice.

Goaltending:
What can you say about the Kings goaltending, that I haven't already? Mike Garteig has played himself into one of the top goaltenders in the BCHL. He sits first or second in every major statistical category for a goaltender. And to think, he still has one more year of eligibility left.

Sean Maguire, who put in a solid effort against the Millionaires, will see action this week, guranteed. The young puck stopper from Powell River, has all the tools to be an elite goaltender in this league. Now we are watching him starting to put it all together.

I will check back with you, later tonight

Saturday, October 16, 2010

Kings take down Warriors, 3-1



It wasn't pretty, however the Kings finished the weekend with a workmen like effort against Westside. The general consensus you can draw from the game is it lacked emotion-from both sides. I saw a team, in Powell River, just put in hard work for sixty minutes to pull out the two points.

Chad Nidderry paced the attack, scoring the opening two goals, both in the final seconds of the first and second period. You almost felt when the Kings scored, the game was decided right then and there.

The defense was razor sharp once again, only surrendering 18 shots. The blemish, was a short handed goal, by Grayson Downing in the third. Besides that, the back-end virtually snuffed out any Westside rushes through the course of the hockey games.

Goals:
PR:Chad Niddery (2), Justin DaSilva
WS: Grayson Downing

Shots: 40-18 PR
3 Stars
1. Chad Niddery (2-1-3)
2. Matt Garbowsky
3. Mike Garteig (17/18)

Record: 9-3-1-1 20pts (2nd)

Game Preview: Warriors vs. Kings













Record: 6-6-1-1 (5th)
Road Record: 3-4-1-0

Last Game: 4-3 win versus Coquitlam

The Scoop:

The Warriors picked up their third road win of the season, their first win away from home since September 24th, last night in Coquitlam, downing the Express, 4-3. Grayson Downing, picked up one goal and set up the game winner in the second, to earn first star honours. Downing is tied with Alex Grieve for first in team scoring and will apply his trade next fall at New Hampshire.

It is certainly tough to get  read on this hockey team. As they are for the most part, even in every statistical category. They don't score a whole lot of  goals, however they don't give up much either. Let's take a look at Westside.

Forwards:
As mentioned, the Warriors attack is lead by two players in particular. Grayson Downing and Alex Grieve are tied with 17 points a piece, however, the tie-breaker goes to Downing who has scored four more goals.  Their line-up, on paper, looks impressive. As they have two forwards, Downing and Tyler Brickler, committed for next season.  Brickler checks in at third in team scoring (4-6-10) and adds another element to the two headed attack of Westside.  The Warriors look well balanced, in the fact they have 8 forwards that have recorded 6 or more points this season.

It is tough to get a true scouting report on a team I haven't seen in action this season, and will only see one more time this season, as they are a non-conference opponent. It does seem like the Warriors are an opportunistic bunch, who have the potential to capitalize on the chances they do get in the course of 60 minutes.

Defense:
What jumps out at me about their blue-line, is the offense upside  they do possess. Matthew Maher and  Michael King have six points each through 14 games this season. That is on pace for a 30 point season from the two.  More importantly, the Warriors return a veteran D-core with the exception of only two rookies, in King and Brayden Sherbinin. That bodes well for a team looking to make a step up with the heavy weight in the Interior.

Goaltending:
Personally, I think the Warriors best strength is in goal. Westside has two, potential number 1's in Cam Gorchynski and Kevin Boyle. The latter, picked up his second win of the season last night, to bring his record to 2-6-0-0.  You might think that isn't good at all, look past those number. Boyle has a vey respectable 2.88 GAA and a sound 900 save percentage. That was good enough to secure a scholarship to U MASS for next season. An added bonus, Gorchynski is only 18, and still has another two years of eligibility left.












Record: 8-3-1-1 (2nd)
Home Record: 6-2-0-1

Last Game: 3-2 OT loss versus Langley

The Scoop:

Touched on it last night in the post-game show and on the blog. The Kings need to find a way to convert on their chances and put teams away. Throwing 48 shots on goal and only having two goals to show for it, won't do you any favours in this league. The power-play also had it's fair share of struggles last night, capitalizing once on seven opportunities. However, both those trends can be reversed with coaching and video. The Kings don't need to hit the panic button.


Forwards:
Hockey is a game of inches and bounces, and neither of those things went the way of the Kings last night. One numerous occasions, they were presented with grade A scoring chances, but, for whatever reason, couldn't get the goal they needed. The message is simple for the boys in green & gold tonight, convert the scoring chances you create, and when that happens your going to find success very quickly. It wasn't that the forward group played poorly collectively. However, the players became too individual in the late going, and that didn't do them any favours. Tonight will be about sticking to their brand of hockey, and  getting back to their structure oriented offensive attack.

Look for a few changes to the line-up tonight from one night earlier. I think we will see a line-up with a greater physical presence upfront that will create chances on the fore check.

Defense:
Bad bounces happen. Its a fact when you play any team sport, especially hockey. The winning goal was prime example of that. The Chiefs Kody Dhawail's winning goal was the result of a puck hitting a King defender infront and sliding past Garteig. The defense was doing what their suppose to, but sometimes that is the nature of the beast. The Chiefs surprised the back-end with their speed early in the game, however credit the six to adjusting as the game wore on and not giving up many chances. It's always good when you get goals from your blue line. Chris Williams scored his first of the season, at the most opportune time, tying the game at two in the second. I believe you will see an angry back-end tonight and that's not a good thing for the opposition.

Goaltending:

If it aint broke.....

Mike Garteig, simply put, is becoming one of, if not, the premier goaltenders in the BCHL. He was terrific last night making saves at the most important times for his team. Just look to his break-away save on Josh Myers in the second, when his team was on the comeback trail. He is developing a pention as a big save goaltender, and this broadcaster loves calling those moments, time and again. It can be tough for any goaltender to see their opposition at the other game, have "career" games against the Kings. However, what makes a good goaltender, great, is how they respond to that challenge. Even though he had a lighter work load, Garteig was their, save for save, with Wyatt Galley.


Look behind the net. Is that Gandalf the Grey?


Friday, October 15, 2010

Kings Comeback falls Short; Langley wins 3-2 OT

Associate Head Coach, Chad Van Diemen, hit the nail on the head in the post-game show. The Kings failed to convert on their chances.

Powell River peppered Langley netminder, Wyatt Galley, with 48 shots and 7 power-plays but were unable to score when it mattered most.  The Kings were presented with  5 on 3 with less then five minutes left, including  a 5 on 4 with just over a minute left, but simple couldn't convert.

In the extra session, Kody Dhaliwal came down on left wing and his centering pass deflected of  a King and past Mike Garteig on the short side.

GAME OVER.

Two things stand out for me in this game:
1. One, is obivious, the amount of opportunities the Kings had and failed to score on. However, as Chad Van Diemen, stated, this are teachable and correctable. Fans should be encouraged at their team creating their own opportunities. When a team starts to fail to create chances, that's when you should be worried.

2. The second, is how Langley was able to get wide open on numerous occasions inside the Kings zone. Van Diemen touched on that, simply put, their team needed to adjust to the speed and skill they were facing. It was the first time this team has saw that skill come at them.

Its time to forget and regroup for tomorrow.

3 Stars
1. Wyatt Galley- 46 saves
2. Mike Garteig-25 saves
3. Kody Dhaliwal- GWG

Two minutes in the Box













Today's guest, # 1Mike Garteig

Niddery Committed to Ohio State

A great day for Chad Nidderry and the Powell River Kings. The 20 year-old has committed to the Ohio State Buckeyes for next season.

You can read the entire story here.

This is an example of  an player being rewarded for his hard work and dedication to the game and the organization. Nidderry is in his fourth year with the Powell River Kings and leading the team in scoring. Also to those young hockey players, not in Jr A and playing in Jr B, let this serve as a notice. Nidderry wasn't a sure thing Jr A prospect. He did his time in the KIJHL with the Grandforks Boarder Bruins. Hopefully this can be used as a source of motivation.

Game Preview: Chiefs vs. Kings



Record: 9-1-0-2 (1st)
Road Record: 7-0-0-1

Last Game: 7-5 win versus Coquitlam
Next Game:  Oct 16th versus Cowichan Valley

The Langley Chiefs find themselves where many have predicted them to be, atop of the Coastal Conference standings. The Chiefs were and still are expected to battle Powell River for first in the coast right until the end of the regular season. They do hold the best winning percentage and road record in the BCHL. They have found their success from a few areas this season. Let's take a look.

Forwards:

As it should be on any good team, the Chiefs are lead upfront by two skilled twenty year-olds. Matt Ius sits first in team scoring and fourth in the BCHL with twenty eight points in twelve games. Ius is having a breakout season after toiling around the league in the previous three. He has also showed he has developed himself into a well rounded player ( 13 goals 15 assists). His line-mate, Josh Myers sits second on the team with twenty-one points. Myers has become a good centering piece for both Ius and Darnell Dyck (6-8-14).

Harvey Smyl has put together a top six that can score. After Ius and Myers, five players have seen their point totals hit double digits. Brian McBride (Air Force 11/12) and Trevor Gerling (Connecticut 11/12)  have given their team a legitimate second line scoring presence. McBride and Gerling sit neck and neck with 16 points respectively. Don't forget their line-mate, Brandon Thompson (RIT 11/12). Thompson has only scored twiced but has become a set up man of sorts playing along with McBride and Gerling. He sits third in team assists with eleven.

Their bottom six features some young talent mixed with a veteran presence. Rookies Mason Blacklock (94), Josn Hansen (92) and Mike Tebbutt (92) bring youthful exuberance and offenseive up-side. Kody Dhaliwal, Stan Smrke, Chris Blessing and Max Fiedler bring some grit and an physical element to compliment their skilled players.

This team can score. No question. They are tied with Surrey (63) for most goals in the BCHL. The question is, can they keep enough pucks out?

Defense:

The one thing I notice when I look at the Langley defense on paper is a lack of depth, literally. This is not a slight to the players they have. However by shear numbers, they are thin. The Chiefs only have 5 players listed as blue liners on their team roster. Rookie Trace Strahle (92) has been taking a regular shift with Tim Daly if you go by the archived games. This group does possive offensive talent, as only Ryan Bakken and James Lively have less then five points on the blue line. However, what draws my attention is the chances their giving to their oppostion.

The Chiefs have surrendered three goals or more in eigh games this season. Furthermore, they have given up thirty or more shots in ten of twelve games. In fact, in nine of those games, the Chiefs have surrendered thirty-five or more shots. Including 56 shots by Alberni earlier this year.

Out of the five starting goaltenders in the Coastal Conference, who's team has a winning record, only Victoria's Matt Ginn has faced more rubber then Wyatt Gallet. That's only by one shot. Galley has faced 355 shots this season and see's on average, 35 shots per game. In contrast, Mike Garteig has faced 152 less shots and only see's 22 shots per game on average.

Goaltending:

As you might as well expect, Wyatt Galley has been busy in the Langley goal. He has played in all but two of his teams games this season. You can make the arguement that his workload is similar to that of Garteig's. However, Garteig hasn't seen the amount of shots as Galley.

He sports a respectable 3.24 GAA that could be argued is affected by the offensive, up tempo game his team playes infront of him. Galley's save percentage reflects the shots he faces, as he hold down .909 average. Galley is counted on, game in and game out, to stand up tall when the opposition counter-attacks.















Record: 8-3-1-0 (2nd)
Home Record: 6-2-0-0

Last Game:  4-1 win versus. Cowichan Valley
Next Game: Oct 16th versus Westside

The Kings are coming off two impressive performances on home ice last week. The Kings thumped Quesnel 7-2 Friday, then followed that with a 4-1 win over Cowichan. The weekend was more business like, as the Kings were expected to take four points. Some might say, a point could be raised, that the lop sided wins can set in complacency ahead of tonight's game. However, when you your playing for first place, and arguably, the toughest opponent yet, complacency is not an issue.

Forwards:

The top six will be buoyed by the return of rookie, Dan Schuler to the line-up. The Rochester Native, was absent last weekend, due to an lingering upper body injury. By all reports, Schuler has made progress in practice and should be fit for tonight's game. Some wonder about his recent slump before he missed last week. Quite a few, including myself were puzzled at his slump, however, we now know the culprit behind that issue. I'll remind you, even with his absence, he still remains fourth in team scoring.

Another good sign is the recent play of Andrew Pettit. The Whitehorse native was terrific on the weekend, registering a hat-trick Friday and four points in the two games. Even if you take the hat-trick away, he is showing signs of getting back on track to last seasons pace. Pettitt seems to be shaking off what ever ailed him in September and early October. 

The two newest faces, the Hawryluk twins have made a good, first impression. How good was their first weekend? They only scored the first two goals for the Kings on Friday, including at that time, the go ahead goal late in the first. Brendan and Bond have look good with Steven Schmidt on a confident fourth line.

Defense:
Just like the forwards, the defense will welcome a familiar face back. Justin DaSilva returns after missing last weekend do to personal reasons. The blue-line did step up in his absence, in particular Jon Jutzi who, returning from injury, scored his first BCHL goal on Friday. The back end has been terrific all season, leading the league in goals against (23) and are one of, if not, the stingiest when it comes to surrendering shots. Mike Gartieg and Sean Maguire, through twelve games, have only had to face on average, 22 shots per game.

Goaltending:
Mike Garteig's hot start is giving him serious consideration for an spot on Team Canada West for the World Junior A Challenge in Penticton. Yes, he wasn't invited for the camp a few weeks back. However his numbers are hard not to put him on the team. Garteig is the early season leader in shutouts, with three, goals against average (1.50) and second in save percentage (.934%).  His numbers aren't obscured by his starts, as he only sits behind Blake Voth, of Vernon for most minutes played. Some argue that it's the defense in front of him, however, a goaltender still has to stop the chances he faces, and he is still doing that. I would say the defense's play goes hand in hand with Garteig's solid 'tending.