Fast Five: Kingston vs. Ottawa
It is only fitting that game 67 of the 2023-24 OHL season sees the Kingston Frontenacs square off with their division rivals the Ottawa 67’s. Tonight’s game at Slush Puppie Place is the 8th and final regular season matchup between the two teams. The puck is scheduled to drop at 7:00pm.
Tonight’s game is sponsored by Bruce Power, which provides 30% of Ontario’s clean electricity and produces cancer-fighting medical isotopes! Bruce Power is proud to power the province, medical innovation and the Ontario Hockey League.
Tickets: https://www.ticketmaster.ca/kingston-frontenacs-tickets/artist/829722
Tune-In:
Fans have the opportunity to tune in to each game in real-time through Fronts Radio, featuring Kingston’s Pure Country 99 as its driving force. The renowned play-by-play announcer, Jim Gilchrist, will be narrating the games, both home and away.
Listen Live (Streaming): Pure Country 99 https://chl.ca/ohl-frontenacs/fronts-radio-streaming-live-on-pure-country-99/
Watch: YourTV Kingston | https://watch.chl.ca/ (subscription needed)
Five storylines in tonight’s game:
The Series to Date
The Kingston Frontenacs have consistently held the advantage over the 67’s throughout the entire season. In the first seven games of the eight-game season series, the Frontenacs emerged victorious six times, with their only defeat occurring in overtime. They have amassed an impressive 13 out of a possible 14 points against the Eastern Conference’s fifth-seeded 67’s.
Don’t Be Trailing After Two
Comebacks after two periods of play have not been a strong suit for either team this season. Therefore, it is crucial for the Frontenacs to enter the final frame with the lead, ensuring they give themselves the best chance to claim 2 points. Ottawa has yet to secure a win when trailing after two periods, with a record of 0-21-1-2, while Kingston has managed only one win under similar circumstances, holding a record of 1-24-1-0.
Goal Differential
Kingston has demonstrated offensive prowess against the barber poles this season, netting an impressive 35 goals while conceding just 19. This offensive dominance underscores the team’s ability to capitalize on scoring opportunities while maintaining a solid defensive structure. As the upcoming Friday night matchup approaches, the Frontenacs carry the momentum of a decisive 6-3 victory from their last encounter with the opposing team on February 14th.
Player to Watch: Ottawa
The Frontenacs will need to closely monitor newcomer 67’s forward Braeden Kressler. He was acquired by Ottawa at the Trade Deadline and has already made an impact, representing the Barber Poles in one matchup against the Frontenacs this season, where he secured an assist. Prior to joining Ottawa, Braeden faced off against the Black and Gold while with Flint, where he showcased his scoring ability by netting a goal and tallying an assist. In his two games against Kingston thus far, he has managed to contribute both offensively and as a playmaker, boasting a goal and an assist.
Player to Watch: Kingston
Christopher Thibodeau has been a standout performer in the season series, leading with an impressive 12 points to his name. As a 2024 NHL Draft eligible forward, he has showcased his talent with 3 goals and 9 assists in 7 games against Ottawa this season. Thibodeau’s impact extends beyond just offensive production, as he boasts an impressive +8 rating in those matchups. Every time he hits the ice in the series, he presents a significant threat to the opposing team. The Frontenacs will undoubtedly rely on Thibodeau’s continued success today as they aim to secure a crucial 2 points.
