Game Preview: 67’s at Niagara
In their first action of 2016, Ottawa travels to St. Catharines for a 7 p.m. matchup against the Niagara IceDogs.
Tonight marks these clubs’ second game of the season. In their first, the 67’s exacted some revenge after last year’s opening playoff round loss to the Dogs. Ottawa defeated Niagara 6-3 in regular season play, back in November, a month that saw the Barber Poles play their best hockey of the season.
That victory was a complete team effort for Ottawa, as 12 different 67’s recorded at least a point against the IceDogs. Jeremiah Addison, Sam Studnicka, and Trent Mallette doubled-up, tallying a goal and an assist that night.
Niagara goalie Stephen Dhillon, then starter now backup, gave up five goals on 28 shots against Ottawa. Basically an OHL rookie, Dhillon played only four games last year and was putting together an inspired sophomore season before Niagara traded for Firebirds starter Alex Nedeljkovic.
That trade came at great cost to the IceDogs, as they sent goaltender Brent Moran, three OHL Priority Selection second round picks and two third round picks to Flint for Nedeljkovic and winger Josh Wesley. The transaction had an additional downside for Niagara, as their newly-acquired netminder was named the USA’s starter for the 2016 World Juniors and has missed five OHL games while at the tournament.
In those five games, Dhillon, back in the starter’s role, has earned five points for the IceDogs and only lost once in regulation. He also posted a 2.86 GAA and .921 save percentage. He’ll need to carry momentum in to tonight’s contest versus Ottawa’s streaking offence.
In the past five games, the 67’s have scored 21 goals. Leading the way for Ottawa are Dante Salituro and Sam Studnicka, the pair of forwards recorded 12 combined points over that stretch.
Call ups winger David Pearce and defenceman Ryan Barbosa were recently added to the Ottawa’s roster. Pearce has seen the most action since joining the team, playing in four games and chipping in with his first OHL assist against the Otters on New Year’s Eve.
Where to watch
Catch the 67’s live on Rogers TV Ottawa (Cable 22) or listen to tonight’s game on TSN 1200.
Follow Ottawa 67’s on Twitter for all the latest info and in-game updates.
Youth hockey players in the Ottawa-Gatineau region can obtain free tickets to any 67’s regular-season home game through the 67’s Prospects program. Visit the 67’s Prospects website for details, or call 613-232-6767, x1.
