Game Day at Portland

Just a quick update, I know it's the first away game and everything, but I've got family in town and we're gonna be doing stuff, so no liveblog tonight.  Tomorrow night either, sorry my friends.  Family takes precedence.

GO AMS!

Explanation & more stuff

Messier was suspended for his actions Sunday against Portland. Messier had a minor interference penalty in the second period, but league disciplinarian Rick Doerksen saw the play differently.

"Portland requested supplemental discipline. They felt it should have been a major and a game misconduct," he said. "I reviewed the play and determined it should have been a major for charging and a game misconduct. At the time, they made the determination that it was a minor penalty because there was no injury on the play."  (Herald)

Charging and a major when the original call was interference?  According to the WHL rulebook:

43.1 Charging - A minor or major penalty shall be imposed on a player or goalkeeper who skates or jumps into, or charges an opponent in any manner.
Charging shall mean the actions of a player or goalkeeper who, as
a result of distance traveled, shall violently check an opponent in any
manner. A “charge” may be the result of a check into the boards, into
the goal frame or in open ice.
43.5 Game Misconduct Penalty - When a major penalty is imposed under this rule for a foul resulting in an injury to the face or head of an opponent, a game misconduct shall be imposed.  (WHL)

Evidently the Portland felt it was a hit to the head and the league agreed.  I am not going to comment since I didn't see the hit.  It's clear the WHL is cracking down on dangerous hits, as you can see from the discipline list so far.  Good on them, bad on Big Mess who's already struggling after missing pre-season action.
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If you missed it the other day, big news out of Minnesota.  Former American Aaron Boogaard is expected to sign a two-way contract with the Houston Aeros, AHL affiliate of the Minnesota Wild.  The Wild, of course, being the team his older brother Derek used to play for.  From the Star Tribune (apologies to Russo for cutting and pasting the whole thing, but it's good stuff):

Aaron Boogaard still is mourning the death of his older brother, Derek, but on Monday, Boogaard was overjoyed to be back in a safe haven.

Boogaard, a former Wild draft pick, arrived in Houston for the start of Aeros training camp. If all goes to plan, Boogaard should receive a work visa by Friday and sign a two-way contract with the Wild's American Hockey League affiliate.

"A couple months ago I thought I'd probably never play again," said Boogaard, 25, a tough guy who has played four minor-league seasons. "Me and my family couldn't be more ecstatic. It's almost a starting point for us. After all this court stuff, I don't think any of us have had an opportunity to grieve the loss of Derek yet."

Derek Boogaard died May 13 because of a toxic mix of alcohol and the painkiller, Oxycodone. In July, Aaron Boogaard was charged with a felony count of third-degree sale of a controlled substance and interfering with a death scene, which is a gross misdemeanor.

Boogaard still faces charges, but Friday, he says a judge signed off to allow him to leave Minnesota. His next court appearance is scheduled for Oct. 6.

Earlier this month, Aaron brother, Ryan, told the Star Tribune that Derek never overcame an addiction to painkillers despite twice going to rehab.

"People can think what they want about me, but you have to live it to have a weird understanding of things," Aaron Boogaard said Monday. "If you don't have to deal with someone who has an addiction, you're fortunate. This was a little brother trying to protect a big brother, but at the end of the day, you look at your big brother like he's your Superman, like your idol.

"It's unfortunate that I had to ride shotgun to the selfishness of my brother's addiction." Aeros GM Jim Mill, who doubles as the Wild's assistant to the GM, said the Wild's trying to be compassionate to a beloved former player's brother.

"We want to give Aaron an opportunity to continue his hockey career," Mill said. "We're trying to help him out."

Boogaard tried out for the Aeros last season before spending 53 games with Laredo in the Central Hockey League.

"If that happens again, that's fine. I just can't say enough things for what the Wild's done," Boogaard said. "It just shows what a class organization the Wild are. They are filled with good people who want to push people in the right direction."  (Star Tribune)

If you want to keep up with Aeros news, I highly recommend my peeps over at The Third Intermission. 

Well, that was quick

Shinny spent more time with the Coyotes than with their farm team:

Edwards has already released one player as Brendan Shinnimin was sent back to the Tri-City Americans of the Western Hockey League.  (Maine Hockey Journal)

A lot of speculation about what will happen to the Americans roster now.  I don't even care to venture a guess, it's going to break my heart no matter what. 
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File under WTF?  Jordan Messier was given 2 games:

Two games under supplemental discipline versus Portland on September 25  (WHL)

During the game he was assessed a 2-minute minor for interference, so I don't know what this is for.  Anyone have any insight?

POW

The Western Hockey League announced today that Tri-City Americans’ forward Adam Hughesman is the WHL Player of the Week.

Hughesman picked up seven points, scoring one goal and six assists to go with a +4 rating, in two games over the WHL Opening Weekend, helping the American's to a 2-0-0-0 start on the season.

On Saturday, September 24^th, the Tri-City Americans opened their regular season at home playing host to WHL U.S. Division rivals the Spokane Chiefs.  Hughesman scored one goal and added two assists helping the Ams’ defeat the Chiefs 4-1.  On Sunday, September 25^th, last year’s WHL finalists the Portland Winterhawks were in Tri-City to face the Americans.  Hughesman picked up four assists in the Ams’ 6-5 win over the Winterhawks.  

Hughesman, a 20-year-old from Winnipeg, MB, is in his fifth full season with the Tri-City Americans.  The Manitoban enjoyed career highs in goals and points last season, finding the net 39 times, while collecting 81 points.  This is his first WHL Player of the Week Award.

The WHL has also nominated Drew Owsley of the Prince George Cougars for the CHL Goaltender of the Week Award.  Owsley posted a 1-0-0-0 record this past week with the shut-out, stopping all 32 shots faced for a perfect 0.000 goals-against average and 1.000 save percentage.  Owsley, a native of Lethbridge, AB, back-stopped the Cougars to a 1-0 road win over the Kamloops Blazers on Saturday, September 24^th and was named the games 1^st Star.  (WHL)

What was that??

Sloppy

Discombobulated

Ramshackle

Clusterf@ck

Chaotic

Slapdash

Calamitous

Erratic

Berserk

I pulled out the thesaurus.com to find words like sloppy to describe last night's game.  Sloppy alone doesn't seem to cover it.  Yes, there was obviously a problem with the ice, especially by the 3rd period.  It was like human bumper cars with all the falling bodies out there.  But that doesn't excuse the rest of the chaotic play.

Passes were all over the place, players were all over the place, it was bedlam.  I'm sure he'll get there, but Comrie was making me nervous all night.  He got lucky, very lucky, in the first with the goal posts and help from his defense, but I admit I cringed every time the Hawks were buzzing around his net.

I did a double-take at the score sheet, Captain Suds was a +4 and his D partner Mitch Topping was a +3.  They're lucky in that sense that +/- isn't affected by power play goals since both of Rattie's goals were on the PP.  Meanwhile, Yuen and his D pairing Plutnar were both a -2.  It's been a very long time since I've seen Zachary struggle so much.  I'm not trying to single him out, it was a bad game from the top of the roster to the bottom.  

Hopefully it's a wakeup call that they all have to play 60 minutes, not just sit back on a 5-goal lead.

Not a good game for my Malted Milk Balls, nor for Big Mess.  Whatever kept him out of pre-season obviously sidelined him and he's trying to get back in game shape.  I hope it happens sooner rather than later, I have high hopes/expectations for him this year.

The few positives to take away from the game include, of course, Connor Rankin and his natural hat-trick in under 2 minutes.  That was pretty hot.  By the time Portland figured out what was going on he'd score another one.  Then another one.  He almost got a 4th after the faceoff following his hattie, but Hawks were able to stop him.  I just remember shouting "LOOK OUT HERE HE COMES!"  He earned first star of the game, and first star over at Buzzing the Net:

No. 1 star: Connor Rankin, Tri-City Americans (WHL)
There is nothing in the BTN stylebook that any player who allows us to make a Colton Yellow Horn reference will get a star, but it might as well be. Rankin, the Ams' 16-year-old centre, scored a natural hat trick in a span of 1:53 to give Tri-City the juice to outlast the Portland Winterhawks 6-5.

The Ams led 2-0 entering the second period. Rankin scored twice in the first two minutes to chase Winterhawks goalie Brendan Burke from his first WHL start. Nine seconds after the North Vancouver native's second goal, Mason Wilgosh hit Rankin with a perfect pass and he beat replacement Mac Carruth.

Rankin also had a helper to finish with four points; as you probably guessed, the last American to score a natural hat trick was Yellow Horn, whose final junior season was in 2007-08.  (BTN)

I'm liking Mackenzie Royer more and more, he's shaping up to be this years' unsung hero if he keeps that up.  Considering how the game went I'm also quite impressed with Brian Williams.  Holy crap can that kid skate.  I don't know that I've seen anyone that fast since Erik Felde.  Four helpers for Adam Hughesman ain't too shabby either.

I stayed for the skate so I didn't get to hear the post-game show, I can't imagine coach was very happy.  You wouldn't know it by the Herald though:

"It's always entertaining. The fans get their money's worth," said Americans coach Jim Hiller, whose team opened its season 2-0-0-0. "What you saw, clearly, was we get a couple of goals -- bang-bang -- and thought it was over. They got a couple short-handed, and we had to scratch and claw at the end. We shouldn't have expected anything less."

"It's exciting," Rankin said of his accomplishment. "I can't thank Hughesman and (Mason) Wilgosh enough -- without them, I have no goals. The first one I saw the puck come out and the whole net was open. That was easy. The second was a breakaway pass from Hughesman and the third was off a terrific pass from Wilgosh. Sometimes it's better to be luck than good."

"We handled ourselves pretty well," Rankin said of the third. "Any time you are up 5-0 and they come back is scary. You learn from that -- next time it could be worse."  (Herald)

There'd better not be a next time like that one.

Game 1 of 72 in the books

It most definitely was the first game--sloppy passing, sloppy line changes.  But the end result is what matters and that's the 4-1 win.

I didn't think any one player played particularly bad, I think it's just a matter of chemistry needing to come together.  That's why there's 72 games.

Some observations:

• The new retro-style jerseys are HAWT.  And more amazing, the team splurged on matching socks.
• The "ice girls" were tastefully dressed
• Ty Rimmer is pretty good.  He's got a different style than Owsley which I'm so used to seeing, more...floppy for lack of a better term, but it works for him.  He got some good help from the D corps as well.
• Mason "Wrecking Ball" Wilgosh.  That is all.
• Total highlight of the night??  Michal Plutnar's goal celebration.
• Penalty kill looked great.
• Walter's scrap may have sealed Olli Dickson's fate.

"We had a lot of new faces in the room and a packed building, and it took us a bit to get our legs under us," Hughesman said. "Everyone played well and contributed. I think a guy like (Lukas) Walter, stepping up with a big hit and a fight helped turn it around for us."

"I thought we got better as the game went along," Feser said. "Everyone did their part and we were good on the PK. We had good communication on the power play and it showed in the results."  (Herald)

Tonight the Portland Winterhawks are in town, ought to be a good show.  Don't forget you can skate with the Americans after the game.

It's Finally Here!!

Happy Home Opener Day!!!

This will be first time in several years where the Americans will not be raising any banners on opening night, which sucks.  But veterans Adam Hughesman and Mason Wilgosh reflect on their past 4 seasons as Americans (warning, you'll tear up a little bit):

Work ethic. Team work. Accountability on and off the ice.

Mason Wilgosh and Adam Hughesman learned from Day One as a Tri-City American that those qualities will help you be a better person, a better hockey player and help your team succeed.

"Give (Don Nachbaur) credit for that," Wilgosh said of his former coach. "It all starts with work ethic. The team has to have it, and Donnie instilled that in us. I learned that at 16. It sticks with you. You don't forget it -- you don't want to forget it."

[...]

Every time you win one, it's just as exciting," Wilgosh said. "It's something you work for. The WHL Finals was a great experience. It's hard to describe when we lost (in five games to the Calgary Hitmen) and how badly that sucked. We didn't win anything last year, but we still had a good season. Hopefully we can carry that into this year."

As their final season begins, Wilgosh and Hughesman are the veterans, being looked upon to pass on their knowledge.

"It doesn't come easy," Wilgosh said. "You have to work for everything you get. You get what you earn. I bring my work ethic and energy every shift to try and shut down the other guy. I will score the odd goal. It's all part of my job."

One Hughesman can appreciate.

"Fans see it every night -- big hits, his leadership and a guy opposing teams hate to play against," Hughesman said. "He's very versatile. First line, third line, he can play on any of them. That's why he's so valuable."

While Wilgosh brings the grit, Hughesman brings the glamour. He was on pace to score 50 goals and 100 points last season before a knee injury derailed the latter part of his season. He still finished with 39 goals and 81 points.

"He brings a knack around the net," Wilgosh said. "He keeps his head up and makes plays. Just the way he can control the game with a puck and a stick -- and an occasional big hit -- you have to appreciate that."

[...]

"We talked about it this summer," Hughesman said, adding in fellow Winnipegger Shinnimin. "We know we may not all be here until the end, and we are OK with that. We will respect Bob's decision.

"It has been a great ride, and I've enjoyed my time here," Hughesman continued. "We have always been successful. I don't think my junior career could have been in a better place." (Herald)

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So no Matt MacKenzie or Brendan Shinnimin tonight.  Both are with AHL teams but without contracts at this point.  Makes it all still up in the air as far as them returning to Tri.  If they do sign and stick in the AHL a.)great for them b.)it'll hurt the Ams but not as bad as some think, in my opinion anyways.  

If there's no Shinny and no Big Mac, that means keeping Willy and Suds (potentially, Bob could still trade either for other 20s).  Is Wilgosh going to be able to put up the goals that Shinny could?  Hell no, but like the Herald says, his work ethic is second to none, and he can create room for Hughesman, Malte, Rankin, Williams, etc. to pot some goals.  

With Sutherland, I think he's more than capable.  He showed last year that he's improved.  He's solid and reliable.  I haven't yet seen a sexy slapper from the blue line like Matt can do, but maybe he's worked on that this summer in anticipation of having to be that veteran defenceman.

I'm not as worried about the defense as I was a couple weeks ago.  At all.  Even if they're without Matt.  Suds is good, Dow's improved and is playing fantastic, Yuen and Grist are back and I have confidence in both of them.  Mitch Topping has played great, he'll do well.  That leaves Guenther and Hamonic.  Neither has been outstanding, neither has been terrible, but they're young--gotta develop sometime. 

Home Opener in ONE DAY!!

Steve Ewan at the Vancouver Province takes a look at the top 30 players in the WHL, including our Shinnimin and Holland:

5. BRENDAN SHINNIMIN, TRi-CITY, CENTRE
(NHL team: Free agent)
NHL people worry about his size and whether he's got the footspeed to make up for it. WHL people, outside of Tri at least, worry about whether he's going to have their guys' lunch. The 20-year-old from Winnipeg, who was skipped over in the bantam draft, has also been passed by in three straight entry drafts, despite tearing it up for the Americans, including last season (60-34-62-96, plus-20, 84 PIMs.). The 5-foot-10, 175-pound lefty shot is getting a free agent look from the Phoenix Coyotes, but here's a bet that he's back to take a run at the WHL scoring title.

19. PATRICK HOLLAND, TRI-CITY, RIGHT WING
(NHL team: Calgary Flames, seventh round, 2010)
What's with Tri-City guys flying under the radar? Nobody wants to go to Kennewick, Wash., to watch them? The 6-foot, 175-pound Holland, 19, could be a late-round nugget for the Flames, considering his shot and willingness to go the net. He showed that last year (71-22-40-62, plus-10, 24 PIMs). The Americans took the right-handed shooting Lethbridge, Alta., native in the sixth round of the 2007 bantam draft.  (Province)

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Shinnimin, as noted yesterday, got sent to the Coyote's AHL affiliate so they can keep evaluating him.

"It's been awesome," said Shinnimin, who will leave Phoenix today for Portland, Maine. "I went to the rookie camp with the mentality to making main camp. I guess the GM and coaches were impressed. I got the invite to main camp. I adapted really quick and did well there, too."
The Coyotes have not signed Shinnimin to a contract, but he's hoping that will come soon.
"Nothing is for certain right now," he said. "They are sending me to Portland and hopefully I can develop in that league. Things seem to be coming together as I hoped they would. I'm at a stage where negotiations are starting to happen. Hopefully I'll have a contract when it's done."
Shinnimin played in exhibition games during rookie camp, but didn't get the opportunity in main camp.
"I didn't get to play with the pros, but it was exciting to see them play at that level," said Shinnimin, who will not be in the lineup for the Americans' home opener Saturday against Spokane. "That was pretty cool."  (Herald)

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We may not agree on everything, but I agree with Dylan Bumbarger's tweet from last night:

"I understand it to an extent, but I find the media reports about the Myles Bell deal a little creepy in what they leave out."

Bell was in a car accident where drinking was involved and the passenger killed.  Since Bell was a minor at the time his name wasn't released but it doesn't take a rocket surgeon to put 2 + 2 together.  Bell was traded to the Kelowna Rockets from the Regina Pats yesterday and none of the usual places I get info from have mentioned the accident much at all.  Only Alan Caldwell had this:

the Rockets say Bell will join them immediately and is expected to play this weekend. I was thinking the deal was a little risky for the Rockets since Bell had the injury and didn't attend Pats training camp - not to mention his other issues that he has going on. But if he's ready to play, then at least from the hockey point of view this deal makes sense on both sides. From the other points of view.....there's going to be some strong feelings amongst some fans about seeing him back on the ice.  (Small Thoughts At Large) 

Strong feelings is right.  Keep in mind he hasn't been sentenced yet and I believe in innocent until PROVEN guilty, but I can also see where some people are coming from.  Tough situation for sure.

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Kelly Friesen over at Buzzing the Net asks 10 questions about the WHL including the Comrie question (the Dub only gets 10 questions while BTN has been fellating the OHL with 5 questions per team all week.  Ahh well, I'm not usually very happy with Friesen's work so maybe it's better):

5. Will 16-year-old Eric Comrie struggle or blossom in his rookie season between the pipes?

Comrie didn't ask the Tri-City Americans to trade their previous season's top two goaltenders, Drew Owsley and Chris Driedger, to make room for him, but they did anyways. And with those trades the Americans undoubtedly added a heap of pressure on the 6-foot, 175-pound goaltender's shoulders.

With Comrie being compared to former Americans goaltender Carey Price, some might expect him to have a similar rookie season to the Montreal Canadiens backstop. All Price did in his first season in the WHL was post a a 2.38 goals-against average and .915 save percentage in 28 games. With that in mind, it is safe to say expectations are unfairly high for Comrie.  (Buzzing the Net)

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Matt MacKenzie was sent to Buffalo's AHL affiliate today.  At least he's still playing for a team named the Americans?
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As usual, this post will be updated if anything new comes along today.  In the meantime, Happy Home Opener Eve!

Player Reassignments **UPDATED**

DYLAN FLUTER  1994 C  to Humboldt Broncos  SJHL

BRENNEN BOSOVICH  1993 C  to Kindersey Clippers  SJHL

MATT HUGHESMAN 1994 RW to Selkirk Steelers MJHL

Can't personally say I'm surprised by either of these moves.  With guys returning from NHL camps and trimming the overall roster, I doubt this is the end of Bob's moves. 
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Speaking of players returning, Yuen was returned by the Jets today.
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Shinnimin got sent to Phoenix's AHL camp today.  That bodes well for him having a chance to stick in the pros (or minor pros).

Shots From the Point--Late Hump Day Edition

The WHL has their team-by-team analysis posted, here's the bit on the Ams:

General Manager: Bob Tory

Head Coach: Jim Hiller

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

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

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

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 13th 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. (WHL)

I can't disagree with much here.  Connor missed several (most?) pre-season games (thanks Sam Grist!) but when he played he was lights out.  You could see it last year--his talent and skill--and now we get to see great things from him.  I like the recognition of Dow here as well.  He's been outstanding.  I BELIEVE IN DRYDN DOW.

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Patrick Holland was sent back by the Flames today after a strong showing in camp for them. As a 19-year-old it's either junior or NHL so this move doesn't surprise me. It's also why I expect the Winnipeg Jets to return Zachary Yuen soon. With Shinny and Big Mac being 20 they could be assigned to AHL teams or returned.

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Remember when Rene Ferran wrote really good and interesting bits for the Examiner? Yeah, that was awesome.

Shots from the Point--Late Monday Edition

The Calgary Flames are impressed with our Patrick Holland:

Evidently the confidence Holland gained from attending the Team Canada world junior development camp this summer carried over to the Young Stars tournament because the Flames seventh-round pick in the 2010 NHL Entry Draft was playing at another level in Penticton. 

Holland was placed on the top line for the Flames last two games in Penticton and he didn't look out of place at all. He, Reinhart and Baertschi were the perfect mix of grit and skill, making them the Flames most effective unit throughout the entire tournament.

"I'm pretty honoured to play with those two guys," Holland said. "They're obviously great players and I felt really comfortable with them."

Neither of the 19 year-old's two goals against the Canucks on Monday could be called fancy by any stretch of the imagination but that doesn't bother Holland a bit.

"I'll take anything," he chuckled. "They both just kind of chipped over the goalie. Our line had good battle. We got to the net."

Ward praised Holland's line for the level of compete they brought each shift, stating the rest of his squad could take a cue from the three youngsters.

"They play at a high pace," said Ward. "That's the part I really like about them. They don't play a slow game. Like for young kids out there, they're playing at a higher pace than some of our guys who have a little more experience."  (Flames)

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The Philadelphia Flyers returned Sam Grist to us.

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The Pipeline Show revisits their talk with Bob Tory about gambling on a 16-year-old goalie (ass-pat to Aeris for passing along):

"Everyone told us that we couldn't win with a 16-year-old goalie and all he did was take us to the Memorial Cup."

That is a quote from Tri-City Americans GM Bob Tory from his September 3rd appearance on our show. On paper, the Americans are arguably as deep as any other team in the WHL and may have the best trio of overage players as well. But after trading away both 20-year-old starter Drew Owsley and solid prospect Chris Driedger, Tory is taking a huge risk putting most of his eggs in the very young basket of Eric Comrie.

Then again, Tory is no stranger to this scenario and it's paid off pretty well for him in the past.

[...]

Comrie played 214 minutes in the pre-season and finished with a 3.36 GAA and .887 SV%. The other netminder in Tri-City, Ty Rimmer, played the exact same amount of minutes and posted a 1.96 GAA and .938 SV%.  (Coming Down the Pipe!)

The End of Pre-Season

A sluggish start, letting the foot of the gas the second half, but still came out with the win.  At one point I mentioned Connor Rankin was the only one playing all 60 minutes.

The chemistry is starting to come together which is good, but gotta keep in mind the roster is still quite bloated and changes are a-comin'.  There's still five guys at NHL camps, who knows which of them will be back.  I think it's fair to assume Grist and Yuen will be back.  MacKenzie, as we all know, could be kept by the Sabres.  Shinnimin has moved on to the Coyotes main camp, which is great for him, but now places his return to junior in question.  Same with Patrick Holland--he's had a great stint with the Flames so far.  If those three do not return to junior, it would leave some mighty big holes.  However, there's some great talent ready to fill in.

I'm less worried about the defense as I was 2 weeks ago.  Dow's been lights out.  He's logging a ton of minutes and playing fantastically.  Additionally, he's the kind of player that's got speed and a small-ish stature so he's like a TJ Fast--he can go coast-to-coast and get in close to the net to chip in some greasy goals.  That's hot.  Riley Guenther has been playing well, he's got pretty good vision and size.  Justin Hamonic hasn't been unimpressive.  I haven't necessarily noticed him much--and that's a good thing.  Means he's playing well, not making glaring mistakes.  Like coach said in the paper yesterday, these young guys are going to be works-in-progress, which is fine, that's what junior hockey is.  Michal Plutnar had the best game I've seen him in, which is good, I was nervous for a while about his play.  Mitch Topping was one of the best additions to the team in the off-season--on the blueline and the looks department.

Ty Rimmer started the game last night and played well.  Comrie played the 2nd half of the game, did fairly well.  Since I'm not privy to coaching decisions, I don't know yet how that tandem will operate--will they split the games 50/50?  I think that's probably how they'll start anyways, and depending on how that goes, give Comrie more starts the 2nd half of the season.

So many talented forwards!!  I'm glad I'm not a GM who has to make those tough decisions.  What does the final roster carry, 14, 15 forwards?  Who I'd keep (in no particular order)

• Shinnimin (or Wilgosh if Shinny stays with Phoenix)
• Hughesman
• Stromwall
• Royer
• Rankin
• Williams
• Gutierrez
• M. Messier
• J. Messier
• Feser
• Holland
• Walter
• Bosovich
• Nickles

Obviously, that's with the current roster.  Bob may still have some trades in the works.  Personally I haven't been overly impressed with Nickles, but not unimpressed either, he's just kind of "meh" right now, he's got potential, just haven't quite seen it all yet.  I've only seen Walter in the one game so far, but I thought he had a decent game.  It looks like he's got some grit and skates well, so that's good.

Herald recap of last night's game.

Gimme a D! Gimme an E! Gimme a FENCE!!

"We are happy with the progress of the blue line," Tory said. "Getting Topping, and Michal in the CHL draft, who has come in and played better than we thought, gives us depth. Two of them (Brock Sutherland and Matt MacKenzie) are 20, and we are still in the process of making decisions, but the players have come back and raised their level of play."

"I like our defense this year," said Brent Bilodeau, the Americans' defensive coach. "As a coaching group, we are excited. Mitch has been playing really well, and we'll have to see what happens with MacKenzie (the Buffalo Sabres might have other plans for him)."

"The speed of the game and the strength of the players is different than in midgets," Bilodeau said. "You can seen the growing pains. It's a lot like Sam (Grist) last year -- he got better as the year went along. That's what we prepare them for. They are getting a lot of playing time in different situations. You want to see improvement. You want to see who can do the work and who can think."

Dow, who also can play forward in a pinch, said he's enjoyed the extra responsibility.

"It's good for us to be leaders in the room and on the ice," Dow said. "You have to lead by example and play hard every shift. When you are young, you are a bit nervous out there. When you are in the shoes, you are more confident. It has been nice to have the ice time."

With a depleted group of forwards at one point last year because of injuries, Dow moved up and showed flashes of brilliance on offense.

"On defense, there is a lot of stuff you need to pay attention to, but after awhile, it gets ingrained in your mind," Dow said. "Playing forward gave me an opportunity to learn different aspects of the game and develop as a player. I feel more confident to take more chances and I'm more comfortable with the systems and what I'm doing."

"It's nice to be one of the older guys on the blue line," Sutherland said. "When I was younger I looked up to guys like Jarrett Toll and Tyler Schmidt. I want to be able to be there for these guys. A few times this week, I've had to remind them this is still training camp and they haven't earned anything yet. They have to work hard in practice and in the preseason games. Even though I'm a veteran, I'm still trying to make the team. You have to go out and show you deserve to be here."  (Herald)

I think the biggest question marks are on D (I mean besides the obvious question mark of whether a 16-year-old goalie can carry the team).  And as mentioned, it mostly comes down to what happens with Matt.

Another Pre-Season Win? Check.

The boys were in Spokane last night to take on the Chiefs for another pre-season game.  Adam Hughesman had a hell of a night with 2 goals and an assist.  Americans' goals also came from Marcus Messier, Brian Williams, and Brennan Bosovich.  Rimmer was manning the net and allowed only one goal on 42 shots.  That's impressive.

From the score sheet it appears the 2nd period was pandemonium.  Fighting majors for Sutherland, Dickson, and Dallman.  The two teams face each other again for the final pre-season game this Saturday.

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From the Calgary Flames, "Hot Holland" after his great game against the Vancouver Canucks the other night in the Young Stars Tournament.

He was also named 1st star of that game:

This summer, Patrick Holland was invited to attend the Team Canada summer development camp and it looks like he has gained a lot of confidence from the experience. He was on solid against the Sharks on Sunday and there wasn't an ounce of tentativeness in his game on Monday afternoon. He potted two goals in the game and look dangerous all afternoon. While his goals couldn't be called pretty, they were the product of hard work and determination - two key ingredients in Holland's game.  (Flames) 

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Brendan Shinnimin had the game-tying goal the other night against the LA Kings as the Coyotes went on to beat LA 8-7 (what, no goalies?)
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Moline to Leth

Tri-City Americans Governor/General Manager Bob Tory announced today that the team has traded 18-year-old forward Max Moline to the Lethbridge Hurricanes in exchange for a conditional 5th round pick in the 2013 Bantam Draft.

Moline, listed at 6’3 and 195 pounds, played his first full WHL season last year with Tri-City, appearing in 53 games and totaling four points and 42 penalty minutes. The Lethbridge, Alberta-native was originally a 5th round (110th overall) pick by Tri-City in the 2008 Bantam Draft and spent the 2009-10 season with the Lethbridge Y’s Men Hurricanes, finishing 6th on the team in points (20) and earned an invite to Hockey Alberta’s U-17 camp.

“Max is a quality kid and this move will allow him to play closer to home in front of his family and friends,” explained Tory. “We wish Max all the best in Lethbridge.” (Americans)

I can't say I'm surprised by this move, though it does bum me out a little bit, Max is a great kid.  Then again, they all are.  I think Max shows a lot of promise and I hope he does well in his hometown.

Depth is a good problem to have, but it does mean some decisions have to be made.  Best of luck Max!!

Quick post

My work is randomly blocking websites, including sports sites.  What the heck?  Blogger still works so that's something.  Then again, I probably shouldn't be using work time to blog about hockey.

I'm shuffling what I'm able to get to.

From the Herald:

"He (Lukas Walter) caught my eye at the Everett tournament and when they were here last weekend," Tri-City general manager Bob Tory said. "He was unprotected, and I picked him up. I don't think they are too happy with me."

Walter, 18, who skated against Tri-City last Friday in a 3-2 Portland victory, participated in his first practice with the Americans on Wednesday. He will travel with the team to Spokane tonight for a game against the Chiefs at Eagles Ice-A-Rena.

"This was unexpected," Walter said of the move. "It's a good feeling to be wanted. It's quite a bit of a change from Portland, and the whole system is different, too."

A native of Langley, British Columbia, the 6-foot, 190-pounder played for the North Delta Devils (Pacific International Junior Hockey League) last season, scoring one goal with eight assists and a team-high 188 penalty minutes in 38 games.

In three preseason games with Portland, Walter had one goal and 14 penalty minutes. (Herald)

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From Drinnan:

According to the Fredericton Daily Gleaner, F Taylor Procyshen (Tri-City, 2004-09) won’t be back with the U of New Brunswick Varsity Reds “due to concussion-related issues.” The Varsity Reds are the reigning champions in Canadian university hockey.  (Taking Note)

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And if you missed this bit from Gregg yesterday:

Jessi and her friends Mitch Topping (left) and Justin Feser.
(Photo courtesy of Carrie Carlson)

If you are a regular visitor to this site, you will be familiar with the story of Jessi, the young lady who is a huge fan of the Tri-City Americans and has Down Syndrome.

Well, the Americans held their annual miniature golf tournament for players and booster club members on Sunday and, yes, Jessi played a big part in it.

As usual, Dawn Johnson, one of Jessi’s teachers and a big Americans fan herself, fills us in:
“With the graduation of Taylor Procyshen and Kruise Reddick, Jessi's mom, Tracy Engel, was a little nervous about who would be kind enough to play a round with Jessi. Adam Hughesman has been a great friend to Jessi, but he was away at the New York Islanders' camp.

“But we shouldn't have worried — Kruise had texted Justin Feser before the event and asked him to make sure Jessi was looked after.

“So Justin and his friend and new teammate Mitch Topping joined Jessi on the (mini) links.

“Similar to last year with Kruise and Adam, they played half of the game blindfolded — as you remember Jessi lost her sight a few years ago. Justin said he was amazed at how difficult it was to play while blindfolded.

“I was extremely proud of both Justin and Mitch, and the rest of the team who continue to amaze and inspire me.

“Last season during the ‘Skate with the Ams’ after each Sunday night game, many of the boys were fighting over who would be next to push Jessi in her wheelchair on the ice. It definitely is a highlight for Jessi.”

It sounds like Jessi’s involvement is a highlight for the Tri-City players, too.

Well done, guys!  (Taking Note)

Shots From the Point

The first two bits found via Buzzing the Net this morning:

``There's actually a lot of people from China, from Hong Kong and locally in Vancouver who are following him now,'' said his father, Charles, looking remarkably fresh after driving six hours from Vancouver to watch his son at the South Okanagan Events Centre.

``I've seen a lot of Facebook pages, articles, blogs about him . . . it's good. Hopefully this encourages more Chinese to play hockey as well. It's very exciting.''

A swift-skating, five-foot-11, 196-pound defenceman, Yuen is likely headed back to the Western Hockey League's Tri-City Americans where head coach Jim Hiller hopes to increase his workload and lean on the 18-year-old for leadership.

Yes, Yuen's career arrow is definitely aiming skyward.

``I'm like every kid who dreams of playing in the NHL,'' Yuen said Monday. ``This is another step toward that goal.

``I'd love it if one day I could be a role model for Chinese Canadians. Most of them come over and they don't speak too much English. It's hard for them to immerse themselves in a game they don't understand. But there is a growing interest in the Chinese community, especially in places like Vancouver and Winnipeg where there are big communities.

``Hopefully there will be a couple guys who are of Asian descent playing at the highest level and that will inspire other Chinese Canadians to participate in hockey. There was nobody like that for me growing up, hopefully I can grow into that role model.'' (Winnipeg Free Press)

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Patrick Holland admitted his childhood sins Monday night after collecting two garbage goals on behalf of the baby Calgary Flames.

"Uhh, I grew up as an Oilers fan," the Tri-City Americans left-winger said. "It's kind of not something I share too often.''

Flames supporters will no doubt forgive the Lethbridge product for the early error of his ways - especially if he beats the odds and makes it to the NHL. Not many seventhrounders do.

Fresh off attending the Team Canada world junior summer development camp, Holland led the way for the Flames prospects in a 4-3 overtime loss to the baby Vancouver Canucks. The line of Holland-Max Reinhart-Sven Baertschi hemmed in the West Coasters all night long with scoring chance after scoring chance on Karel St. Laurent.

Neither of Holland's strikes will hit the highlight reels - not that he cares.

"I'll take anything," he said. "They both just kind of chipped over the goalie. Our line had good battle.

"We got to the net." (Calgary Herald)

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This is from the other day over at On the Forecheck with tidbits from The Goalie Guild:

"Pickard has to carve his own path, but Nashville will side with Rinne long term since he’s already established. I think some of Pickard’s flaws are his complacency and mobility. He’s a bigger goalie that relies on his size to get body parts behind pucks. It’s the polar opposite of Rinne, who tries to go out and stop everything. Pickard likes to let pucks hit him and then react from there. He’s still capable of being a "franchise" goalie because Pickard has awesome durability and technique. When the foundation is there, anything is possible over the course of two or three seasons. So it’s impossible to judge their ability’s ceiling or floor. It really just depends on each and every game they play. I like his confidence level and his mental toughness but he needs to speed up his footwork if he wants to be effective in the NHL." (The Goalie Guild)

During the 2010-2011 season, Pickard went through an extremely rough patch, going months without a win for Milwaukee, and getting sent down to the ECHL for a while to sort things out.

The development path for goaltenders is often long and unpredictable, which is why it's risky to use a high draft pick on one as the Preds did here. While his horrid 2010-2011 season is concerning, what's even more important is how he responds to that adversity going forward as he faces a 3-way battle for what are likely two roster spots in Milwaukee. We'll get a good look at how he handles that pressure over the next couple weeks. (On the Forecheck)

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Drinnan notes the Winterhawks had to cancel a pre-season game because they are short of players, with 15 at NHL camps.  Nestled in his piece is also this:

The Winterhawks played in a preseason tournament in Kennewick, Wash., on the weekend and were able to dress only 16 skaters. According to a press release, they “lost one player to injury over the weekend and a second to a waiver claim from another team.”

The player the Winterhawks lost on waivers? It was F Lukas Walter, 18, who was claimed by the Tri-City Americans. He had one goal in three exhibition games with Portland.  (Taking Note)

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Guy Flaming over at The Pipeline Show has an interesting piece on what happens to WHL-ers after they're done.  He looks specifically at the Edmonton Oil Kings, but it's applicable to all teams I think, as far as the route(s) players take after their time in the Dub.

The mission of the Major Junior system is to produce professional hockey players with the promise that if it doesn't work out, players will be taken care of in terms of their education. Out west, players receive a year's worth of scholarship money (tuition and books) for every season they played in the WHL. We're told that dressing for a single game qualifies as "a season" thus entitling said player to a full year of covered education costs even if action in the league was minimal.

Again, the educational package is the safety net for the CHL player; getting a pro contract by 20/21-years-of-age is the primary goal of playing major junior. Therefore, in my mind, those who scrutinize the CHL for low university graduation rates should take into account the number of players who accomplished their main objective - pro hockey - and consider those as success stories too.

In order to give a fair assessment of the Major Junior system from both the hockey and academic perspective, I thought it might prove interesting to check up on one of the weaker teams the WHL has seen in the last decade. A bad team would give me a roster of players with a good mix of potential on and off the ice. (read the rest, it's very interesting, at Coming Down the Pipe!)

I need a weekend to recover from my weekend

As noted in the previous post, Adam Hughesman is on his way back to the Americans after not passing his physical with the Islanders.  Not sure what that means, he walked away with the camp fitness awards here.  Weird. But it will be nice to have him back.

Some general observations/opinions:

• Thursday night's goaltending (Comrie) worried me.  Friday night's goaltending (Rimmer) worried me.  Saturday night's goaltending (Comrie) looked much better.  I have a feeling it's going to be like that all season, up and down.  Then again, if it's more down than up, Bob will work some of his magic to make something happen.
• Mackenzie Royer is off my "uh...no" list.  Kid can win a few faceoffs, and that's something.
• I really like the work ethic and skill of Malte Stromwall.  And his tenacity.  RAWRRR
• Mitch Topping is a solid addition, he'll do well.
• I opened my eyes and figured it out, Marcus Messier had a good weekend.
• Riley Guenther and Justin Hamonic, also quite solid.
• I repeat my thoughts that Drydn Dow has been playing well and that the extra ice time at forward last year boosted his game and his confidence immensely.  And the confidence the coaches have in him.  Is he going to be in the top two D pairings?  Not sure, but he certainly wouldn't be out of place.  He's better than a 6th D man, IMO.
• Behbeh-faced rookies that impressed me: Gutierrez, Williams, and Bosovich had some flashes of goodness.

Overall it was sloppy as hell, all the teams were.  That's part of the deal with pre-season, GM and coach evaluations and working out the chemistry and tightening up the messy play.  Passes were terrible, turnovers galore, but that's what pre-season is for.  One more matchup against the Chiefs this Saturday, then onto the real deal!

Camper Updates

September 11: Camp invite Adam Hughesman did not clear his physical and has returned to junior.  (Islanders)

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Those players will come to camp known well by Coyotes fans. In this blog, I will identify five of the other players who will fly into this camp “under the radar,” if you will. Here they are, in numerical order:

• No. 74 - Brendan Shinnimin, C: Shinnimin is one of 10 players at this camp on an amateur tryout. He has caught the Coyotes staff’s attention by notching 178 points (61 goals) over the past two seasons while playing for Tri-City of the WHL. The undrafted center is not the biggest or fastest player on the ice, but he’s often the best player because of his competitiveness.  (Coyotes)

Tragedy in Russia

Since this is a junior hockey blog I haven't said anything about the horrific summer in the sport.  Puck Daddy has had the best coverage about the tragedy in Russia the other day and it just makes me tear up.  RL6 found this video, many of you have probably seen it, but at the 1:44 mark is former American Sergei Drozd.  It's a touching tribute to the players that were lost.

First Pre-Season Loss

The Kootenay Ice rolled into town and handed the Americans a 5-4 pre-season loss.  Holy mother of Jesus I always forget how sloppy pre-season hockey is.  The Ams iced a nearly all-rookie roster, only Wilgosh, Dow,  and Sutherland provided some veteran presence.  The behbeh goalie played like a behbeh goalie, I wasn't overly impressed, but wasn't particularly unimpressed.  In my little world he's got pretty big skates to fill after losing Drew.

After 1 game, my keepers:

Malte Milk Balls

Lucas Nickles

Justin Gutierrez

Fluter Flakes

Riley Guenther

Justin Hamonic

Brian Williams

my "meh"s:

Tyson Dallman

Michal Plutnar (word is his game is improving so he'll move up and stay, obvs)

Marcus Messier

Max Moline

Clint Filbrandt

Brennan Bosovich

my "uh....no"s:

Matt Hughesman

Mackenzie Royer

Realistically, not sure about Gutierrez sticking, he's still a behbeh, though he's a big enough kid.  I thought Malte looked good, he's got energy, not afraid to get in there and get gritty.  Lucas Nickles just looked fine.  Period.  Damn, son.  He got in a good scrap too, that was hot.  Then he got a game misconduct and ended up in the stands in a suit.  Woah Billy.

Max, Marcus, I love you boys but you're fighting some youngsters for a spot, better step it up.  Marcus I'm not AS worried about, he's quick and has some puck luck, Max...not so much.  Moline has the size and some skill, but has never been one to have a lot of puck luck.  I want him to do well, I want them all to do well, but there's quite an impressive young crop eager for their chance.

Obviously the team that played last night is nowhere near what will be the final product, there's the other overagers--Shinny, Hughey, Big Mac--fighting for spots but they're off at NHL camps (yay for them!) so 2 20s will still have to be trimmed.  Which makes me sad.  

I thought Dow played really well.  I've always like his play but I think that time he got at forward last spring did wonders for him.  Especially for his confidence.  It didn't hurt his skating or puck-handling either.

Yes, I'm well aware these are observations being made after ONE pre-season game.

PS--I had some folks ask me after yesterdays post if it meant I was not going to continue with the blog.  That is NOT the case, I'm here to stay, folks.  Until I'm not, but that's not in the foreseeable future.  So no worries, I'm not going anywhere.  Sorry haters, you're stuck with me (or you could just not read the blog, J/S)

And So It Begins...

I was writing down the schedule in my little pocket planner book the other day and here it comes, hockey season.  Those of you who are not hockey compatriots (why are you reading this?) I'll see you in the spring.

Confession time.  This summer, as some of you know, I had the most amazing vacation, a 7-day Alaskan cruise.  To say it was life-changing is a bit dramatic and yet kinda accurate.  For those 7 days I didn't have (easy or free) access to internet.  No Facebook, no Twitter, no blogging, no email, no nothing.  For the first 12 hours or so I had some anxiety--what was I missing?  What was going on that I didn't know about immediately??  That feeling went away.  And it was fabulous.  I loved not being connected, not being accessible.  I vowed to step away from the World Wide Web when I returned home.  Not entirely, of course, that'd be ridiculous.  But it turns out I don't NEED to know what everyone is doing at every moment, nor do they need to know what I'm doing at every moment.  I also found I didn't particularly care about what everyone was doing at every moment.  That's not to say I don't care about the people I'm friends with on FB or follow on Twitter, but it just seemed so...unimportant.  So unimportant.  I did a huge friend purge on the Spacebook, did a purge on the Twitter.  I'm not off the grid, just more selective.  Are FB and Twitter still fairly narcissistic time-sucks?  Oh yeah, but at least now it's not a complete waste of my time.

Other confession--the cruise made me think about priorities.  And I had to toss around if hockey was truly a top priority in my life.  Turns out, it's not.  I love it, I love the sport, I love the games, the intensity.  It's a great organization and a great group of guys.  But when looking at priorities money is always an issue.  I am so very grateful to have a job I love.  But I have taken a pay cut so times are a bit tight.  When that happens the first thing that should be cut is entertainment.  It's not a necessity for life like food, shelter, and so on.  But I couldn't bring myself to do it, even though I know I should.  It's a nice escape for me and most of my bestest friends are my hockey friends.  That's really the part I didn't want to cut out of my life.

So why am I confessing these things here?  Hockey is still a priority, just a much lower one.  Social media is still a priority, just a much lower one.  What does that mean for this blog?   I don't know yet.  I can't seem to figure out what I want out of this space.  There are times it has felt like maintaining it and posting is a 2nd job, one I'm not compensated for, which becomes a chore.  At the same time I feel obligated to my readers (I LOVE YOU ALL) to keep posting.  But there are days the creativity, if there ever was any, is gone.  For that I apologize.  Most days (but not all) I enjoy writing here, especially when I have something to write about, not just cut and paste quotes and links.  Some days I want nothing--absolutely nothing--to do with I Mean, We Got Guys...  I'm not sure where the blog is headed this season, we'll see where the game takes us I suppose. 

Final note then I'll get to hockey stuff, the last part of all this concerns the liveblogs.  There's times when I love the ability to have a place to come together with other hockey people and talk hockey and talk about the game going on.  There's times I despise the liveblogs.  So much rage builds up.  When the boys are losing which duhhhh happens sometimes there was so much negativity.  I hate negativity.  Bums me out, man.  But who can predict ahead of time if they're going to win or lose?  I have debated with myself as to whether I want to continue hosting the liveblogs.  Part of the reason for owning a blog rather than a message board is to make it mine.  MY little corner of the internet.  Is that arrogant?  Sure.  Sharing that corner during the liveblogs is essentially having to share, which I'm not good at, and having to give up control, which I'm also not very good at.  As of now, liveblogs are still on, we'll see how it goes.  But you've been warned, they may go away.

Ok, let's talk actual hockey!  Tonight is the first night of the Red Lion tournament and the Americans will be taking on the Kootenay Ice.  The Ice are the defending WHL champs so it should be a good match.  It's pre-season obviously so teams will be using this time for player evaluations.  Hiller will be mixing-and-matching since some players will be gone:

Hiller will have to piece together lines this weekend as six players take off for NHL camps, including defensemen Sam Grist (Flyers), Matt MacKenzie (Sabres) and Zach Yuen (Jets), and forwards Patrick Holland (Flames), Adam Hughesman (Islanders) and Brendan Shinnimin (Rangers).

"We have a number of guys going to camp, but that gives us a chance to look at some of the other guys," said Hiller, who has 31 guys in camp. "You are always excited and optimistic about the young guys. We expect them to make an impact their first year."

Standing out among the crowd have been rookie forward Brian Williams and European players Malte Strmwall (Sweden) and Michal Plutnar (Czech Republic).

"Brian is competitive," Hiller said. "He was playing against guys who were bigger than him, but he was going to the net and playing hard.

"We feel fortunate to have the quality of players like Malte and Michal. We expect them to get nothing but better. They each scored last weekend, and that's always nice when you come overseas to get that first one. Malte has a lot of passion and he has a good personality. He wants to be a good hockey player."

While Hiller has been concentrating on getting the right line combinations and defensive pairings, goalies Eric Comrie and Ty Rimmer have quietly gone about their business. They split time on goal during both games last weekend.

"We take it day by day," Hiller said. "We have a lot of belief in both of them. We know they are both good goaltenders." (Herald)

I'm pretty excited to see the newbies.  I've heard great things about Williams and Malte.  And of course I have to make important decisions--who will be my hockey bf this year?  Who will be worthy of a sign now that Drew's gone?  Yes, these are the things that keep me up at night.

Welcome back hockey, welcome back players and personnel, welcome back my lovely & awesome readers!  Let's have a great season, eh?

Seven Americans to NHL Camps

Carter Ashton, Tampa Bay Lightning, 2009, Yes

Sam Grist, Philadelphia Flyers, F/A, No

Patrick Holland, Calgary Flames, 2010, No

Adam Hughesman, New York Islanders, F/A, No

Matt MacKenzie, Buffalo Sabres, 2010, No

Brendan Shinnimin, New York Rangers, Phoenix Coyotes F/A, No

Zachary Yuen, Winnipeg Jets, 2011, No

The yes/no indicates if they've been signed yet, only Carter Ashton has been signed. Holland, Yuen, Big Mac, were the only ones drafted (and Ashton, but I am not really counting him. I'm surprised he's on this list, but hey, what do I know?) the others are free agent tryouts. Best of luck to all the boys! As a fan it's tough because I love watching them in junior but want the best for them. Obviously I would LOVE to have Matt MacKenzie back on the blueline for the Americans but I'll be very happy for him if he makes the Sabres (or their affiliates). Same with Holly. And all the rest on the list.  (list via the Americans)

Hughey ATO

Via Drinnan:

F Adam Hughesman of the Tri-City Americans has signed an ATO with the NHL’s New York Islanders. Hughesman, a 20-year-old from Winnipeg, is coming off a season in which he totalled 81 points, including 39 goals, in 60 games. He is preparing for his fifth full season with the Americans.  (Taking Note)

Huge congratulations and best of luck to Adam!

Tory Interview on The Pipeline Show

Our second hour of the program had us welcome back Tri-City Americans GM Bob Tory. We asked Tory for his thoughts on eliminating fighting from the major junior hockey and if that would lead to other problems. Then we started in on his off season dealings including moving two older goalies to make room for a 16-year-old Eric Comrie. Has Tory drafted another Dan Blackburn or Carey Price? What about the rest of the Americans' roster? Finally we tossed around the pros and cons of inter-league play which he really had some great insight into. (Segment Four)  (Coming Down the Pipe!)

If you click on the "Segment Four" link you'll be able to hear the interview.   Ass-pat to Aeris for passing this along.

Almost sounds like the plan is for Rimmer to be Comrie's backup.  It'll be interesting to see how it all unfolds.

"Are they (the Americans) putting all their eggs in a very young basket?"

Pre-Season Game #2, Win #2

It was a comeback win, the Ams trailed 2-1 after the first, 4-2 after the second, but came back and got two in the 3rd forcing overtime and eventually a shootout.

Goals from Feser, Williams, Stromwall, and Dickson.  This Olli Dickson kid also got in a scrap in the 3rd.  Word on the street (cuz I hang out on the streets, y'know) is he can't skate well, but can throw 'em.  Sorry kid, I got no use for someone who can't skate.

Shinny was the only scorer in the shootout, clinching the victory.  Here's the goal from an awesome friend of the blog:

First Preseason Game, First Preseason Win

The Americans beat the Everett Silvertips last night, 5-2.  Goals from Feser, Plutnar, Topping, Marcus Messier, and Nickles.  Impressive boys, impressive.  Feser's goal was shorthanded and he was a team-leading +3 as well.

From the scoresheet it looks like our lovely Matt MacKenzie got himself into a tussle with Tyler Maxwell with less than a minute left in the game.  Someone correct me if I'm wrong, but isn't a fight and/or game misconduct (he got both) an automatic 1-game suspension in pre-season?  

Americans were 1-for-8 on the power play, Tips 0-for-6.  Goalie Ty Rimmer started the game, made 5 saves on 6 shots.  Eric Comrie played the 2nd half stopping 7 of 8.  Yep, the Ams outshot the Tips 45-14.  For real.  That's hot.  And a great game plan.  Are they copying the Winterhawks' plan of 10 shots in the first 10 minutes?  Possibly, they out shot Everett 16-1 in the first period.

Speaking of Winterhawks, the Americans play them at 3 this afternoon, again at the Everett tournament.

The WHL's re-tweeting fascination

I learned (thanks to the amazing Navin) you can block re-tweets.  Go to the user's page, there's two little buttons next to the "Follow" button, you want to click the 2nd one, the one with two arrow.  When you've blocked their re-tweets and you hover your mouse over the icon, it will look like this:

Now you don't have to unfollow the WHL but don't have to get the gazillion re-tweets they are so keen on.

WHL's 7-Point Plan

The Western Hockey League Board of Governors wrapped up their Annual General Meeting today in Calgary by announcing they have adopted a Seven Point Plan to reduce blows to the head and concussions.  The WHL Seven Point Plan is a comprehensive approach to addressing this important matter and includes the adoption of new playing rules; more severe suspensions for repeat offenders; production of an educational video on risks of concussion; educating the players to be more responsible for themselves on the ice; a seminar for all WHL Head Coaches and General Managers; new soft cap elbow and shoulder pads; expanded research data and a review of all WHL arena facilities safety standards.

The WHL Playing Rule changes includes the adoption of a Checking to the Head penalty for lateral and blind side hits to an unsuspecting opponent in open ice where the head is targeted or is the principle point of contact.  The WHL also tightened the standard on late hits as well as charging and interference penalties to address players building up significant speed and hitting the opponent along the boards with excessive force.  The WHL also adopted a new embellishment rule and introduced automatic suspensions for players who receive multiple penalties for checking to the head, checking from behind, embellishment and kneeing.

“The WHL is fully committed to addressing head blows and concussions in a comprehensive manner,”  commented WHL Commissioner Ron Robison.  “We believe the Seven Point Plan we have adopted will not only create a safer environment for our players but will also enable us to better educate our players, coaches and officials as to what constitutes a legal hit.”  (WHL)