3-v-3: Players to watch when Ottawa hosts the Bulldogs
67’s
Nathan Todd (#81)
With a rash of injuries down the middle for the 67’s, Nathan Todd has been elevated onto the top line as of late. Centring wingers Dante Salituro and Jeremiah Addison, he’s found good chemistry with that duo and had a very productive January. Todd scored four goals and added seven assists in the first month of 2016. Look for him to carry that momentum into the last 19 games of the season.
Travis Barron (#19)
After missing four games with a lower body injury, Barron should be back in the Barber Poles lineup tonight against Hamilton. The Bulldogs should be a welcomed opponent for his first game back, as Travis has three points (2G, 1A) in three games versus the East Division rival this season. He should definitely provide a spark to Ottawa tonight, as they’ve been lacking his tenacious and tough style of play.
Hudson Wilson (#3)
The rookie defenceman is getting all kinds of love for his seeing-eye stretch pass that led to Dante Salituro’s 101st OHL goal. The astounding assist landed Wilson in the number two spot among the OHL’s TipTop Plays of the Week last week. Though the Toronto native has never really been a prototypical offensive defenceman, his overall game has started to come in to form with increased ice time. Look for him to have a bigger role on the 67’s blue line tonight and throughout the remainder of this season.
Bulldogs
Matthew Strome (#18)
The youngest of the Mississauga Strome brothers could be the most talented yet. Selected eighth overall by the Bulldogs in this year’s OHL Priority Selection, Matthew has been one of the league’s most impressive 16-year olds this year. The rookie forward has tallied eight goals and 12 assists, and currently sits in the top 20 of OHL rookies. He should see a ton of ice time down the stretch for Hamilton, as they’re banking the club’s future on his hockey pedigree.
Connor Hicks (#29)
Since the Dogs sent starter Charlie Graham to Sarnia at the trade deadline, Hicks has been the man in Steeltown. The Kanata, ON native started 28 games last season in Belleville, though struggled as the backup on a rebuilding club. Since being appointed the number one option, Hicks’ game has slowly improved. He stopped 47 shots against Niagara last weekend, on the way to his second victory in 2016. Look for him play big against hometown team.
Trent Fox (#16)
The sophomore centre was traded from Erie with defenceman Jesse Saban and six picks for forwards Remi Elie and Jake Marchment in 2015. In his second OHL season, Fox has found his role with the Bulldogs, as a smart, two-way centreman. He has 36 points (20G, 16A) in 47 games this year and uses his large frame (6’3″, 200 lbs.) to his advantage. Watch for him to line up against Ottawa top line tonight at TD Place.
Getting Here
You can take advantage of free OC Transpo bus service for Ottawa 67’s games! Your ticket provides you with free transit on any OC Transpo bus starting 3-hours before the game, and up to 3-hours after the game! For more information on transit service to TD Place, please visit the OC Transpo website.
Pre-purchasing your parking pass is HIGHLY encouraged, as the garage may sell out. Pre-purchased game day parking passes reserve your spot and are available by clicking here.
For more information on getting to TD Place, please click here.
Where to Watch
Can’t make it down to TD Place? Catch the 67’s live on Rogers TV Ottawa (Cable 22) or listen to this afternoon’s game on TSN 1200.
Follow Ottawa 67’s on Twitter for all the latest info and in-game updates.
Tuesday Night Battle
Fans who purchased seats for the November 8 game versus the North Bay Battalion can use their original tickets to access The Arena at TD Place on Tuesday, February 9 at 7 p.m. There is no need to reprint your tickets, as your barcode will be reactivated for next week’s game.
Family Day Game
The 67’s Family Day game is set for Monday, February 15 at 2 p.m. against the North Bay Battalion. After the game, all kids are invited to hit the ice with the team and grab autographs from your favourite players. So make sure you come early and stay late.
Tickets are still available by clicking here, calling 613-232-6767 x1, or in person at the TD Place Box Office located beside Gate 3.
