Game Preview: Niagara vs Hamilton

The IceDogs are facing off against the Hamilton Bulldogs today for a morning game beginning at 10:30am. Hamilton and Niagara have split their past two meetings of the season, both games combining for a total of 15 goals. This game marks the return of former Bulldog Stephen Harper to his old rink since being traded to the IceDogs, Harper scored his 19th of the season against his old team at the IceDogs home game on January 31. 

Hamilton finds themselves in a rather precarious position right now, as they continue to battle for the last playoff spot in the Eastern Conference. Tied with Oshawa with 43 points, the last post-season slot is currently held by the Bulldogs who have a game in-hand over their Eastern Division counterpart. Despite not having officially clinched a playoff berth quite yet, the IceDogs find themselves comfortably locked in for a deep playoff push as they currently sit second in the Central Division and are hoping to make up some ground on the Barrie Colts who are ahead of them by six points. 

School Day Game

The Bulldog’s annual School Day game is the reason for the early start time of this contest. Originally slated for 7:00pm, the game is now taking place at 10:30 in the morning. It will be interesting to see how each team performs as they may not be used to the game-time mentality so early in the day.

Players to Watch

Hamilton forward Trent Fox made the IceDogs pay in their last bout, scoring the eventual game-winning goal in the second while also adding the insurance marker in the dying moments of the third period. The Chatham, ON native also added an assist on an empty-netter, finishing the game with five shots and a +/- 1 rating. Not to be overlooked was Fox’s ability to be an impact player in the faceoff dot, completing the game winning 62% of his draws.

Graham Knott wrapped up the month of January at a point-per-game pace and will be looking to carry over that momentum deep into February. A noticeable player whenever he’s on the ice, the 2015 Chicago Blackhawks draft pick has been looking to develop in other areas of the ice this season. Usually viewed as a left winger, Knott has been testing his hand at centre whenever called upon, becoming a reliable asset not only on the wing but in between the circles as well. 

Team Stats