Game Preview: IceDogs vs Hamilton

The IceDogs will make their way to Hamilton for their second meeting of the season as they try to even the season-series with the Bulldogs. The last time these two teams met was on October 15th when the Bulldogs defeated Niagara in overtime by a score of 4-3. Adam Laishram scored the game-winning goal while also adding an assist in the game. Josh Ho-Sang, who scored the first goal for the IceDogs in the game, will be returning to the lineup after serving a two game suspension. The 2014 first round draft pick of the New York Islanders currently leads the team with 13 goals and 46 points through 34 games played this season.  

Hamilton currently sits last in the Eastern Division while also finding themselves on the wrong end of a three game losing streak. Meanwhile, the IceDogs, who sit fourth in the Central Division, are coming off a thrilling 4-3 win over the Ottawa 67’s where rookie William Lochead netted his first OHL goal, and eventual game-winner, in front of a sellout crowd at the Meridian Centre. 

Perlini Returns 

The IceDogs will be adding another player back into their lineup on Wednesday as Brendan Perlini is expected to make his return to the club. The Sault Ste. Marie native has been away from his OHL home after being selected to Canada’s World Junior team, which was eliminated from the tournament after a heartbreaking loss at the hands of host Finland. Perlini, a 2014 first round pick of the Arizona Coyotes, finished the tournament fourth on the team with 13 shots on goal.  

Players to Watch 

Alternate Captain Stephen Harper of Hamilton leads the way for the Bulldogs as he looks to build on his team-leading 41 points through 37 games this season. Harper has six points in his last six games while also being tied for third in the league in shots with 141.  

Niagara IceDogs latest addition to the club, Tyler Boston, will look to make his debut with the team after being acquired on January 4th from the Guelph Storm in exchange for draft picks. The 5’11 forward is looking to set a career high in points this season as he currently sits on 17 points through 33 games, while finishing last year with 23 points in 55 games played.  

Team Stats