Preseason Recap: Hawks win third straight contest
Kennewick, Wash. – The Portland Winterhawks picked up their third consecutive victory in preseason play with a 5-2 win over the Tri-City Americans in Kennewick on Friday. Marcus Nguyen starred with two goals, while Diego Buttazzoni (1G, 1A) and Josh Mori (2A) posted standout efforts for the Hawks as well.
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After each team tallied once in the first period – Portland on Nguyen’s first of the night at 12:08 and Tri-City on Max Curran’s goal 94 seconds later – the Winterhawks took over with a three-goal second stanza. Braeden Jockims opened up the floodgates with his first of the preseason 2:38 into the frame, followed seven minutes later by Buttazzoni continuing his torrid start to the exhibition slate with another goal. Deagan McMillan got the Ams back on the board, but Nguyen struck for the second time soon after to restore the Hawks’ two-goal lead. Deep into a scoreless third period, Nick Johnson put the game away with a 5-on-3 strike set up by Mori and Buttazzoni.
Through four games, Buttazzoni ranks second in the WHL with 10 points – trailing only Spokane’s Berkly Catton with 11 – and co-leads the league alongside teammate Josh Zakreski with four goals.
Goaltender Luke Brunen earned his first win as a Winterhawk with 17 saves on 19 shots, playing all 60 minutes in the contest.
The Winterhawks wrap up their preseason slate in Kennewick tomorrow against the Spokane Chiefs. Puck drop is set for 2:05 P.M. and fans can purchase tickets by clicking here.
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Tickets for the 2023-24 season are on sale NOW! With single-game seats, season tickets, flex packs, group tickets and more, there’s an option for every fan. We’re dropping the puck at the VMC on October 6 against Everett – call us at 503-236-4295 and chase the dream with the Hawks this season!
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