GAME PREVIEW: Petes Look to get Back on Track Against Rangers
PHOTO: Wes Howey Media
It’s been a back and forth week so far for the Peterborough Petes, grabbing a win on Thursday night against the first place Ottawa 67’s , before falling in Oshawa to the rival Generals. Thursday night would see the Petes offence explode for seven goals against the 67’s, who lead the OHL with 126 goals against. Both Kieron Walton and Adam Novotny would grab four points each in the game, with Aiden Young close behind picking up three points of his own. Friday night was a different story. After being down big to the Generals, Peterborough would strike three times in the final frame to cut the deficit in half, falling 8-4.
Tonight the Petes host the Western Conference leading Kitchener Rangers for the only time this season. It’s the Petes annual Next Gen Game presented by Tim Horton’s, in support of Five Counties Children’s Centre. Six five counties kids will sign one-day contracts at a press conference today, with them taking over the roles of General Manager, Head Coach, Assistant Coach, PA Announcer, In-Game Host, and Scout. Keep an eye on the Petes social media for updates throughout the day! There are also a number of fundraising opportunities for Five Counties throughout the game. These include a silent auction and a bucket pass.
The Petes will have their hands full today as they take on a very strong Kitchener team. Import forward Leon Kolarik has been on fire as of late, picking up eight points in his last four games. Kolarik’s recent streak puts him fifth in team scoring with 37 points in 48 games. Newly signed Petes defenceman Holden Carter has gotten off to a great start to his OHL career. Carter picked up two assists in Oshawa on Friday night, giving him two points in his first two games. Aiden Young has also been hot as of late, picking up five points in his last three games.
The Rangers currently have three players in the league’s top 10 in scoring. Chicago Blackhawks prospect Jack Pridham (70 points), Colorado Avalanche prospect Christian Humphreys (70 points), and OA forward Dylan Edwards (69 points) all lead the charge for a potent Rangers offence. Memorial Cup Champions Sam O’Reilly and Jared Woolley have both been excellent since being acquired from the London Knights and will be two to watch for Kitchener tonight.
Puck drop is scheduled for 2:05 p.m. at the Peterborough Memorial Centre. Tickets for the game are sold-out, but the game will be broadcast live on YourTV Peterborough, Freq 90.5., and Flo Hockey.
