Hitmen Hockey Talk

Trying to get back at it

2011-12-03T23:28:00.003-07:00

Its been way too long since my last post, work is super busy, we are looking at moving again and I started my masters this fall. But I have some time now and will try to keep up as we move forward this season.

Since my last post, the Hitmen are an impressive 11-5-1 and have jumped up the Eastern Conference standings. At the end of October they were 2nd last in the conference and as of right now they sit 7th. One point up on the 8th place Rebels and 2 points up on 9th place Regina.

Why the turnaround?
First and foremost, I believe having Chris Dreidger finally healthy, getting into the net and playing well gave the rest of the boys lots of confidence. Brandon Glover has actually been really good in his last few starts and actually took some playing time away from Dreidger the past couple of weeks.

The second reason for the turnaround, without seeing them live, it seems that most of the veterans are finally really carrying this team. Cody Sylvester and Jimmy Bubnick have been racking up a bunch of points the last couple of weeks. The 2 imports Victor Rask and Alex Gogolev have been really good as well and not to forget Danny Gayle. Gayle had 31 career points coming into the season and has 25 points already this season.

Tomorrow is the annual Hitmen Teddy Toss, should be a great afternoon at the Saddledome.

Hitmen can't keep up with the big boys

2011-10-26T19:10:00.002-06:00

On Sunday the Hitmen fell 4-2 to the Ice and last night the Hitmen got hammered 7-1 by Portland. The Portland game was close until the third period when the Winterhawks scored 5 times to run away with the game.

The Hitmen are a better team this year but are still struggling against the top teams in the league. Williamson needs to take some heat because just as the Hitmen find some chemistry up front, he goes and shuffles the lines.

Sunday's Scoring Summary:
1. KTN M. Simpson, (1) (S. Reinhart, J. Antilla), 4:37
1. KTN E. Benoit, (3) (B. Montgomery, J. Antilla), 19:57
2. KTN D. Czerwonka, (5) (M. Reinhart, J. Ismond), 3:07
2. CAL B. Macek, (4) (J. Rissling), 18:59 (PP)
3. CAL T. Cheek, (3) (C. Driedger), 6:21 (PP)
3. KTN A. Rossignol, (5) (J. Leach, E. Benoit), 19:17 (EN)

Tuesday's Scoring Summary:
1. POR S. Swenson, (1) (T. Rutkowski, J. Morrow), 19:08
2. POR J. Trott, (3) (W. Wrenn), 3:31
3. POR T. Leier, (2) (T. Peters), 0:51
3. POR B. Leipsic, (5) (C. De Leo), 1:18
3. POR B. Ross, (8) (T. Rattie), 8:48 (PP)
3. CAL V. Rask, (7) (C. Sylvester, C. Clayton), 12:48 (PP)
3. POR J. Trott, (4) (S. Swenson, D. Pouliot), 18:44 (PP)
3. POR W. Wrenn, (1) (J. Trott), 19:52

Hitmen-Warriors trade

2011-10-26T19:05:00.002-06:00

From the Fan 960's email:

The Calgary Hitmen making a deal today with the Moose Jaw Warriors.
The Hitmen send Justin Kirsch and Kenton Miller to the Warriors in
exchange for 18 year old center Joey Kornelsen, 20 year old blueliner
Collin Bowman and a 4th round pick in 2012. G.M. Kelly Kisio says
the Hitmen needed a puck moving defenceman for their powerplay and to
add young talent up front.

An excellent deal by Kisio. First, it gives the Hitmen a veteran puck moving defenseman in Bowman. Bowman has 4 goals and 5 points this year and had 49 points a year ago. Because of Bowman's ability, he will bring more to the table than Kenton Miller. It also allows the Hitmen to play some of the younger guys up front. Kornelsen is a year younger than Kirsch and their production has been similar so far this year.

Hitmen Sweep Saskatchewan

2011-10-22T23:40:00.002-06:00

I've been down and out with the flu this past week so I am behind again and missed the games but the Hitmen went into Swift Current and Regina and won both games and now have a 3 game winning streak.

Just from reading different things and hearing some people talk, it sounds like Hitmen goalie Chris Dreidger is making a huge difference for the boys and has been excellent since coming off his ankle injury.

Hitmen 7 at Broncos 1
1. CAL K. Miller, (2) (S. Humphries, A. Roach), 2:46
1. CAL T. Cheek, (2) (A. Gogolev, B. Sutherland), 18:10
2. CAL J. Kirsch, (3) (R. Trzonkowski, B. Sutherland), 5:28
2. CAL V. Rask, (4) (J. Kirsch, C. Sylvester), 14:35 (PP)
3. CAL V. Rask, (5) (C. Sylvester, B. Macek), 11:43
3. S.C C. Gordon, (6) (A. Lowry, R. Nedomlel), 12:39 (PP)
3. CAL V. Rask, (6) (C. Sylvester, D. Gayle), 15:00 (PP)
3. CAL P. Kosterman, (1) (B. Macek, C. Clayton), 15:26 (PP)

Hitmen 3 at Pats 1
1. CAL D. Gayle, (2) (V. Rask, B. Macek), 3:19 (PP)
1. CAL C. Sylvester, (2) (D. Gayle, P. Kosterman), 11:07 (SH)
1. CAL K. Miller, (3) (C. Brooks, G. Chase), 17:02
2. REG C. Jobke, (2) (D. Volek, J. Weal), 5:20 (PP)

Hitmen split weekend games

2011-10-17T19:53:00.003-06:00

On Saturday night the Hitmen travelled to Medicine Hat and from all reports played a real good first period but then the wheels fell off the bus and the Tigers went on to win the game 5-0. There is a good writeup over at Tiger Turf, check it out here.

Scoring Summary:
1. M.H H. Shinkaruk, (8) (E. Etem, S. Jensen), 14:06
2. M.H M. Konan, (3) (E. Etem, C. Valk), 0:37 (PP)
2. M.H J. Hart, (2) (R. Dieno, D. Busenius), 2:21
2. M.H H. Shinkaruk, (9) (E. Etem, M. Konan), 3:52
3. M.H D. Bredo, (2) (E. Etem, H. Shinkaruk), 19:51

Yesterday afternoon, the Hitmen returned home and played a very good game against the Broncos. They came out of the gates with lots of jump and were actually rewarded for the effort with 3 first period goals. Alex Gogolev had his best game in the WHL with 2 goals and an assist. It sure helps that the Broncos were playing their 3rd game in as many days and 4th game in 5 nights.

Scoring Summary:
1. CAL A. Gogolev, (3) (C. Sylvester, J. Bubnick), 3:13 (PP)
1. CAL B. Brassart, (2) (A. Gogolev, J. Bubnick), 7:28 (PP)
1. CAL B. Macek, (3) (V. Rask), 13:51
1. S.C R. Moser, (4) (B. Hoban, D. Reum), 17:13
2. CAL B. Brassart, (3) (J. Bubnick, D. Gayle), 15:56
3. CAL A. Gogolev, (4) (P. Kosterman), 9:15

Pats with a late comeback vs Hitmen

2011-10-14T17:26:00.002-06:00

I missed the game Wednesday night so I can't really comment on it. But I will say that anytime you are up 2 goals with less than 3 minutes remaining, you have to find ways to finish the deal.

There are a couple of good reviews over on the Junkies site. You can find those here.

Scoring Summary:
1. REG M. Klimchuk, (3) (D. Volek), 9:31
2. CAL C. Sylvester, (1) (T. Cheek, A. Gogolev), 1:00 (PP)
2. CAL B. Macek, (2) (C. Sylvester, V. Rask), 6:40 (PP)
3. CAL T. Cheek, (1) (S. Humphries, B. Macek), 10:42
3. REG J. Weal, (3) (M. Klimchuk, D. Stevenson), 17:10 (PP)
3. REG D. Stevenson, (4) (B. Davidson, L. Scheidl), 19:09

Rask-No Goal
Weal-Goal
Macek-Goal
Klimchuk-Goal
Gogolev-No Goal

Brad Curle has moved his blog from the Hitmen home page over to this blogspot site.

Cody Sylvester has been named Captain of the Hitmen. Brooks Macek, Spencer Humphries and Jimmy Bubnick are the assistants.

Rebels down Hitmen

2011-10-09T08:37:00.003-06:00

The Red Deer Rebels beat the Hitmen 4-2 on Friday night at the Saddledome. The Hitmen actually played a decent first period but couldn't get more than 1 behind Rebel netminder Bartosak, who finished with 32 saves. The real difference in the game was the power play. The Rebels went 2-7 and the Hitmen were 0-4. Special teams have been a major concern early on for the Hitmen.

Scoring Summary:
1. CAL V. Rask, (3) (D. Gayle, B. Macek), 12:49
1. R.D C. Mayor, (2) (J. Persson, M. Dumba), 18:37 (PP)
2. R.D L. Muller, (1) (D. Siwak, J. Hamilton), 5:01
2. R.D J. Persson, (2) (T. Elson, C. Mayor), 8:15 (PP)
3. CAL B. Brassart, (1) (C. Sylvester, J. Bubnick), 8:56
3. R.D C. Millette, (2) (A. Kambeitz, J. Cowen), 12:32

Over on the junkies site there is a post that the Hitmen have released goalie Michael Snider. Also on Friday's broadcast, Curle had interviews with both Kisio and Williamson, both basically saying that they are not expecting Ben Wilson to return for his overage season with the Hitmen. That would leave the Hitmen with Jimmy Bubnick, Kenton Miller and Brock Sutherland as overagers but the Hitmen still have 8-19 year olds on the roster, something has to give there.

Hitmen Trade Alert

2011-10-06T20:23:00.003-06:00

The Hitmen have sent Nathan MacMaster to the Americans for defenceman Brock Sutherland.

Sutherland, who was dealt to Tri-City as a 17-year-old from the hLethbridge Hurricanes, wraps up a solid career in an Americans’ sweater. A 6’2 205-pound defenseman from Brandon, Manitoba, Sutherland arrived in Tri-City as part of a November 2008 package deal that also brought Mitch Fadden and Cam Stevens to the Americans in exchange for Eric Mestery and Drew Hoff. Sutherland went on to play 167 of his total 186 WHL games with Tri-City, totaling seven goals, 40 points, 155 penalty minutes and a plus-22 rating. Sutherland also departs having played in 39 playoff games with the Americans, ranking him tied for 8th all-time.

Full release here http://www.whl.ca/article/hitmen-and-americans-complete-trade

Its an interesting move by Kisio, trading a 19 year old for a 20 year old defenseman. The move leaves the Hitmen with 5 overagers now, Bubnick, Miller, Snider, Sutherland and Wilson.

There are several scenarios that might play out here but I still think that Snider is one of the overagers to go. Once Dreidger is healthy and ready to go, he becomes the starter in my opinion. Maybe Ben Wilson is not coming back or maybe Kisio sends Bubnick somewhere. Lots of decisions left to be made.

Hitmen Crack Ice, win first of the year!

2011-10-05T21:07:00.002-06:00

I'm late to the party but what else is new. On Sunday afternoon the Hitmen won their first game of the season, 4-2 over the Ice.

It was a 2-1 Kootenay lead after 2 periods but the Hitmen came out in the third period and probably played their best period since the championship season. They scored 3 unanswered goals and held the Ice to just 1 shot in the period.

Victor Rask was impressive and it sounded like Glover made some good saves. I heard a rumor that Chris Dreidger might be ready to go as early as this weekend but that is only hearsay. Also, over on the Junkies site, there is a post mentioning that defenseman Ben Wilson might not be back this year.

Sunday's scoring summary:
1. KTN B. Hurley, (1) (B. Montgomery, S. Reinhart), 16:42
2. CAL D. Gayle, (1) (G. Chase, B. Brassart), 14:06
2. KTN S. Reinhart, (3) (J. Ismond, E. Pearce), 14:59
3. CAL V. Rask, (2) (J. Rissling), 6:14
3. CAL B. Macek, (1) (V. Rask, D. Gayle), 12:27
3. CAL K. Miller, (1) (B. Brassart), 19:50 (EN)

Hitmen get back at it on Friday vs the Rebels.

Hitmen drop high scoring game in Lethbridge

2011-10-01T09:58:00.000-06:00

Mike Williamson better figure out how to get this team to play some defense. 5 goals against in the first game another 37 shots and 6 goals allowed last night. Even though it was a high scoring game with lots of chances both ways the Hitmen had the 2nd best goaltender on the ice. Both Snider and Glover need to be better.

Offensively the Hitmen were led by Justin Kirsch. Kirsch scored his first 2 goals of the season last night. Victor Rask scored his first goal and his first 2 points in the WHL. Russian import scored his 2nd of the season and it sounded like he had several more chances to score.

Scoring Summary:
1. LET J. Merkley, (1) (M. Erkamps), 2:41
1. CAL J. Kirsch, (1) (C. Sylvester, S. Humphries), 8:41
1. LET J. Bezuch, (1) (J. Merkley, M. Erkamps), 9:24
1. LET B. Sutter, (1) (D. Ryckman), 11:01 (PP)
1. CAL A. Gogolev, (2) (A. Roach, B. Brassart), 13:40 (PP)
1. CAL J. Kirsch, (2) (V. Rask), 17:26
2. LET J. Merkley, (2) (G. Hood, A. Blomqvist), 2:44
2. CAL J. Bubnick, (1) , 10:00
2. LET B. Sutter, (2) (C. Braes, M. Marantz), 14:44 (PP)
2. LET C. Braes, (3) (M. Marantz, D. Johnston), 19:59
3. CAL V. Rask, (1) (B. Macek, J. Rissling), 10:17

Home Opener tomorrow afternoon vs the Ice.

Ice 5-Hitmen 1

2011-09-25T04:59:00.002-06:00

The Ice broke a 0-0 tie wide open late in the 2nd with 3 goals in 1:40 and the Hitmen were never able to recover. However, the game was not a 5-1 game. Based on Curle's pbp, the Hitmen carried must of the play but couldn't solve Ice overage netminder Nathan Lieuwen. Lieuwen was the game's first star as he made 29 saves. The lone Hitmen goal was scored by Russian import Alex Gogolev, his first WHL goal.

Hitmen Lineup Last Night:
Brassart-Bubnick-MacMaster
Rask-Macek-Gayle
Miller-Gogolev-Kirsch
Clayton-Trzonkowski-Brooks

Humphries-Sylvester
Rissling-Kosterman
Lubin-Helgesen

Glover and Snider

The Hitmen have released forward John Lawrence. Just too many bodies up front and his age worked against him.

The result was an all to familiar ending for the Hitmen. Marginal goaltending and not enough finish. The Hitmen ran into those problems in most games last year. Hopefully Chris Dreidger is healthy to play soon.

Hitmen don't play again until next weekend in Lethbridge and in 1 week have their home opener.

Scoring Summary:
1, Kootenay, Reinhart 1 (Antilla, Montgomery), 14:17 (PP).
2, Kootenay, Rossignol 1 (Montgomery, Hurley), 14:44.
3, Kootenay, Benoit 2 (Pearce, Neibrandt), 15:57
4, Calgary, Gogolev 1 (Kirsch, Humphries), 10:46.
5, Kootenay, Ismond 1 (Montgomery, Leach), 17:47.
6, Kootenay, Rossignol 2 (Montgomery, Leach), 19:27 (PP).

Season Preview-Gameday!

2011-09-24T09:03:00.002-06:00

The Hitmen season starts tonight in Cranbrook vs the defending champs. The Ice played in Red Deer last night and lost in a shootout.

Here is a Hitmen preview from whl.ca:
Calgary Hitmen

General Manager: Kelly Kisio

Head Coach: Mike Williamson

2011 pre-season: 5-1-0-0, 10pts

2010-11 Record: 20-47-3-2, 45pts (6th in Central Div., 12th in Eastern Conf.) GF: 171 GA: 271

2010-11 Power Play / Penalty Killing ranking: PP: 15.8% (20th); PK: 79.9% (10th)

2011 Playoffs: Did not qualify

2010-11 Top Scorers:

Kris Foucault 65gp-25g-23a-48pts

Justin Kirsch 66gp-25g-17a-42pts

Brooks Macek 63gp-13g-28a-41pts

Up Front: The lowest scoring team in the WHL last season, the Hitmen will have to generate much more offense this season if they are to get themselves back into the post-season. Fortunately, they return six of their top seven scorers from last season, and they will all be looking to rebound from a difficult 2010-11 season. 19-year-old Justin Kirsch is back after sharing the team lead with 25 goals last year. Also back is playmaker Brooks Macek, who has proven offensive skills in the WHL. Veterans Jimmy Bubnick and Cody Sylvester will be looking to bounce back from trying seasons last year, while off-season acquisition Brady Brassart will also greatly bolster the offense. If Swedish star Victor Rask ends up in Calgary, he will make a huge impact offensively for the Hitmen.

On The Blue Line: The Hitmen return six defensemen from last year’s roster, led by veteran Ben Wilson. The 20-year-old Calgarian will head up what is a younger but talented defense corps. 19-year-old Spencer Humphries and 18-year-olds Peter Kosterman, Jaynen Rissling and Alex Roach all bring plenty of size to the Hitmen blue line. 17-year-old Keaton Lubin should see more responsibility this season after getting into 36 games as a rookie last year. Although their penalty killing was strong last season, the Hitmen will need to improve their 20th-ranked power play if they are to move up the standings. More offense from their defense corps would be beneficial in improving the man advantage.

Goaltending: The battle for the starting job in Calgary’s net is heated. Veterans Mike Snider and Brandon Glover split the majority of the workload last year. However, the Hitmen acquired 17-year-old Chris Driedger from Tri-Cities during the off-season to push the incumbents for a roster spot. Driedger showed great potential as Drew Owsley’s back-up last year.

Player to Watch: Brady Brassart

The Hitmen were searching for offense after finishing 22nd in the WHL in goals-for last season. They found scoring help when they acquired 18-year-old Brady Brassart from Spokane during the off-season. A former second-round pick of the Chiefs in 2008, Brassart scored eight goals and 32 points for the Chiefs last season as a 17-year-old. Primarily a playmaker, Brassart is a good skater with strong offensive instincts. Already a strong puck distributor and hard worker, Brassart can also shoot the puck well, making him a dependable forward, overall.

Read the entire article here.

Too Many Forwards?

2011-08-23T10:04:00.004-06:00

As we get near 2011-2012 training camp it has become clear that Hitmen GM Kelly Kisio wanted to create competition among veteran and returning forwards this year, as well as the 3 young kids who got into game action last year. By my count the Hitmen already had 13 returning players on the roster and that is before the 2 imports and 2 more WHL caliber forward pickups the past month or so. Here is the list:
Returning from last year:
1. Jimmy Bubnick
2. John Lawrence
3. Danny Gayle
4. Justin Kirsch
5. Cody Sylvester
6. Brooks Macek
7. Nathan MacMaster
8. Trevor Cheek
9. Brendan Santini
10. Rob Trzonkowski
11. Luke Gordon-2 games played
12. Chase Clayton-55 games played
13. Greg Chase-5 games played
Now add to the mix:
a. Waiver pickup Kenton Miller, an overager, who by the sounds of it is an extremely hard worker. If he is no longer with the Hitmen, someone please let me kn ow.
b. Recent pickup, Brady Brassart, an 18 year old center who had 32 points last year in Spokane.
c. Import Victor Rask, who has been seen in Calgary but may end up in the AHL, depends on how things play out with Carolina Hurricanes.
d. Import Alexander Gogolev, who is also in Calgary ready to attend camp as a 19 year old.

That makes 17 forwards without counting a few other prospects who might be closing in on jobs. It should make for a very interesting camp. Its time for some of these guys to really show up and earn their spots or they will not be on this year's Hitmen squad.

Hitmen trade with Americans

2011-07-20T23:41:00.003-06:00

The Hitmen might have found their goalie of the present and future in Chris Kriedger. He is a 17 year old who seems to have a boat load of potential, I would say he is guaranteed one of the 2 spots on the team come the start of the season.

The big question is, who is the 2nd goalie on the roster? The Hitmen could go with a) Snider-Kriedger b)Glover-Kriedger or c) Kriedger-Shields. Its going to come down to which of those other 3 has the best camp, Snider will be an overager and in my opinion not worth one of those 3 spots. If it is Glover, I could see Glover and Kriedger really splitting the time. If the Hitmen are in no position to contend for a playoff spot this coming season, I wouldn't mind seeing them go with the 2 young kids with Kriedger being the starter and Shields backing him up.

Calgary Hitmen General Manager, Executive Vice President and Alternate Governor Kelly Kisio announced today the acquisition of 17-year-old goaltender Chris Driedger (DREE-ger) from the Tri-City Americans in exchange for a third round pick in the 2012 Western Hockey League Bantam Draft.http://www.blogger.com/img/blank.gif

Driedger joins the Hitmen with an impressive resume having recently attended Hockey Canada’s Program of Excellence goaltending camp where he was one of just 16 invites, including four from the WHL.

The 6’2” 175lbs. Winnipeg, MB product is coming off a solid rookie season in the WHL where he posted a record of 6-6-0-1 with a 3.50 goals against average and a .881 save percentage with the Americans.

Driedger also played in the 2011 World Under-17 Hockey Challenge this past holiday season as the number one goalie for Team West.

“We are very excited to acquire an elite up and coming goaltender in our league,” says Kisio. “Chris will help shore up our goaltending and put our club in a strong position for the future.”

Driedger joins fellow goaltenders 20-year-old Michael Snider and 19-year-old Brandon Glover on the Hitmen roster.

Full article right here.

Hitmen Season Review

2011-04-16T21:56:00.003-06:00

As the WHL wraps up the 2nd round of playoffs, I am back and ready to give a quick run down of the Hitmen season.

The Hitmen finished a miserable 20-47-3-2 for 45 points. They scored just 171 goals and gave up 271 goals.

What went wrong? Its easy to pick out 3 things that really hurt the Hitmen this year:
The first thing is that the veterans on the team really underperformed. The guys who played well a season before, especially in the long run to the Memorial Cup never got on track. Foucault led the team in scoring but with just 48 points. Misha Fisenko, a surprise returnee, scored just 8 goals and 40 points on the season. After a great playoff run Cody Sylvester finished with 32 points. The team's #1 center Jimmy Bubnick scored 17 goals and had 27 points. Tyler Fiddler failed to hit double digits in goals, finishing with 9 goals and 19 points. Those kids were suppose to carry the load offensively but unfortunately didn't have great years.

One of the main reasons why the kids listed above had off years was because they all missed time with injuries. Its a bad excuse but on a team that was not going to be elite, losing their top players for extended stretches just exposed their lack of depth.

The third piece that hurt the Hitmen game in and game out was the lack on legitimate starting goalie. The Hitmen used Michael Snider, Brandon Glover and Juraj Holly between the pipes this season. None of the 3 really stepped and claimed the starting job and often gave up terribly weak goals, which seemed to just kill any good things the team was doing in those game. Holly was so inconsistent that he was sent back to Europe once Glover came over in the Moose Jaw trade.

The good things that came from the season:
Well first off lots of young kids got some experience playing that this level. Justin Kirsch scored 25 goals and looks to be a lock for 30-35 goals next season and finally, the Hitmen won the bantam draft lottery, so they get the first overall pick in the upcoming bantam draft.

Taking a Break

2011-02-27T12:50:00.003-07:00

Once again I have found it very difficult to keep with the blog. Work is super busy this time of year and we are expecting our baby any day now so I have decided to put the blog on hold for awhile. Not sure when I will get back here. The Hitmen are just playing out the season and right now there is not much to talk about for them anyways. I will try to do a season review once the season actually comes to an end and things settle down just a little.

Rough Week for the Hitmen

2011-02-06T22:45:00.002-07:00

The Hitmen played 5 games in the past 8 days and only managed 1 win in those games.

Jan. 29-Rebels 5 Hitmen 3
Jan. 30-Raiders 5 Hitmen 1
Feb. 1-Ice 8 Hitmen 0
Feb. 2-Hitmen 3 Ice 1
Feb. 4-Giants 4 Hitmen 3 OT

It has been a very tough year to follow the team as they are way worse than I ever thought they would be. I expected them to finish some where from 5th to 8th in the conference but obviously that is not going to happen. Here are a couple reasons why things went so poorly.

1) The returning players have all had off years and it is quite evident that these players were great support players on a great teams the past 2 years. Here is a break down of some of the returning players stats:
Foucault 16 goals and 34 points
Fisenko 6 goals and 34 points
Sylvester 17 goals and 31 points
Bubnick 16 goals and 25 points
Fiddler 9 goals and 19 points

Those 5 were really suppose to carry the offensive attack for the Hitmen and it just hasn't happened. It is very likely that the Hitmen's leading scorer at the end of the year will fail to reach 50 points. Justin Kirsch leads the team with 36 points right now.

2) None of the 3 goalies stepped to be a true #1 goalie. Too many nights this season the goaltending has been sub par and inconsistent. Way too many weak/bad goals have been scored on Snider, Glover and Holly. Granted the Hitmen blue line is very young and really inexperienced but Michael Snider was suppose to be able to carry the load this year and has done nothing near that. This is the one area that really needs to be improved for next season. Hitmen prospect Mack Shields is having a great year in the SMHL, maybe he is the long term answer in goal.

The Hitmen are going to get a real good prospect in the upcoming bantam draft and I believe will be picking #3 in the import draft this spring as well. That player, if he reports, could be a real high impact, highly skilled kid. It would be great if the Hitmen could also get Dmitri Jaskin to come over. Two highly skilled Euros in the lineup would sure go along way in helping the Hitmen rebound.

Hitmen this past week

2011-01-28T23:41:00.002-07:00

Once again, I have fallen behind in blogging but here is the quick recap of the last week.

A week ago tonight the Hitmen beat up on Prince Albert, 6-2. The Hitmen got 3 point nights from both Rissling and Fisenko but the big story was Brandon Glover who made 41 saves.

1. P.A I. Revenko, (13) , 7:10
1. CAL J. Rissling, (4) (K. Foucault, S. Humphries), 11:11
1. CAL T. Fiddler, (8) (B. Macek, M. Fisenko), 12:05
2. CAL B. Macek, (9) (M. Fisenko, J. Rissling), 2:36
2. CAL B. Wilson, (3) , 4:12 (PS)
3. CAL T. Fiddler, (9) (M. Fisenko, J. Rissling), 10:35
3. CAL C. Sylvester, (14) (K. Foucault, J. Kirsch), 15:31
3. P.A J. Parker, (28) (A. Corbin, J. Maylan), 19:37

Last Saturday the Hitmen were beat up by Saskatoon, 5-1. The Hitmen were actually the better team in the first period but could only muster 1 goal and it cost them in the end. Michael Snider made 33 saves in the loss.

1. CAL B. Macek, (10) (M. Fisenko, T. Fiddler), 12:16
2. SAS C. Collins, (11) (M. Viedensky, J. Nicholls), 1:24 (PP)
2. SAS M. Viedensky, (20) (J. Nicholls, T. Zahn), 9:07
2. SAS J. Trask, (11) (S. Elliott, B. Schenn), 15:15
3. SAS C. Collins, (12) (J. Nicholls, C. Cox), 6:04
3. SAS M. Viedensky, (21) (D. Dietz, C. Collins), 16:28

The rematch with the Blades was this past Tuesday and once again the Hitmen were on the losing end, this time 8-4. Cody Sylvester scored a pair of goals but the Hitmen gave up 3 power play goals to the Blades. You just knew it was going to be a rough night when the Blades scored just a minute into the game.

1. SAS S. Elliott, (21) , 1:00
1. SAS J. Trask, (12) (C. Hamilton, B. Schenn), 12:19
2. SAS B. Benson, (13) (D. Dziurzynski), 9:12
2. SAS D. Dietz, (4) (B. Schenn, C. Hamilton), 12:43 (PP)
2. CAL N. MacMaster, (10) (P. Kosterman, C. Clayton), 14:12
2. SAS J. Trask, (13) (D. Siemens, S. Elliott), 15:54 (PP)
2. SAS J. Nicholls, (22) (M. Viedensky), 18:02 (SH)
3. CAL C. Sylvester, (15) (A. Roach, B. Macek), 0:59
3. SAS C. Hamilton, (16) (J. Trask, S. Elliott), 12:46 (PP)
3. SAS B. Schenn, (2) (C. Hamilton, D. Thrower), 15:51
3. CAL K. Foucault, (14) (B. Macek, M. Fisenko), 18:26
3. CAL C. Sylvester, (16) (D. Gayle, P. Kosterman), 19:48

And finally, tonight the Hitmen fell 4-3 to the Wheaties. The Hitmen dominated the first period but once again couldn't generate a goal and in fact, were trailing 1-0 after the first thanks to Wheatie goalie Liam Liston. Matt MacKay had 3 points for Brandon while Misha Fisenko had a couple of assists. It was Brandon Glover's turn to start in goal, as Williamson seems to be rotating goalies on a game by game rotation, Glover made 30saves.

1. BDN S. Wiebe, (27) (M. MacKay, R. Hunter), 19:13
2. CAL K. Foucault, (15) (D. Gayle), 3:13
2. CAL A. Roach, (2) (J. Kirsch, M. Fisenko), 8:13 (PP)
2. BDN R. Hunter, (2) (S. Glennie, M. Ferland), 9:05
2. BDN M. MacKay, (15) (R. Miller), 10:17
2. CAL B. Macek, (11) (S. Humphries, M. Fisenko), 17:31
3. BDN M. Stone, (25) (M. MacKay, S. Wiebe), 11:11

Things don't get any easier for the Hitmen, who travel up the QE 2 to face the red hot Rebels tomorrow night, the Rebels have won 10 in a row. The Hitmen will play their 3rd game in 3 nights on Sunday back at the Dome vs the Raiders.

Hitmen take 2 of 3 from the Canes

2011-01-18T21:20:00.002-07:00

The Hitmen have played 3 games since the trade deadline and all 3 were against a division rival, the Lethbridge Hurricanes.

The first game last Wednesday saw the Hitmen come back from a 3-1 second period deficit to win 4-3 in a shoot out. The winner was scored by newcomer Brooks Macek.

1. LET R. Maxwell, (5) (J. Berglund, M. Ross), 11:43
1. LET M. Maxwell, (12) , 17:08 (SH)
2. CAL C. Sylvester, (13) (K. Foucault, N. MacMaster), 1:33 (PP)
2. LET B. Sutter, (5) (A. Fyten, C. Braes), 7:21
3. CAL J. Kirsch, (20) (C. Sylvester, S. Humphries), 5:52
3. CAL K. Schmidt, (2) (M. Fisenko, B. Macek), 19:02

The Hitmen got goals from Macek and Foucault in the shootout.

The middle game of the series, also played in Lethbridge, saw the Canes win 4-2. The Hitmen found themselves down 3-0 early in the 2nd, scored 2 quick goals in the 3rd but after the Hitmen had made it 3-2, the Canes got the insurance goal just 42 seconds later.

1. LET C. Braes, (19) (B. Sutter, C. Machacek), 2:29
1. LET J. Berglund, (11) (M. Ross, R. Maxwell), 7:51
2. LET C. Braes, (20) (B. Sutter, M. Maxwell), 5:20 (PP)
3. CAL N. MacMaster, (9) (C. Sylvester), 1:58 (SH)
3. CAL M. Fisenko, (5) (T. Fiddler, K. Foucault), 6:55
3. LET L. Oslanski, (3) (A. Fyten, C. Braes), 7:37

The third game of the series was played at the Saddledome, the Hitmen's first home game since December 30th, had the Hitmen win 3-1. The Hitmen were solid for 2 periods but really hung on in the 3rd as the Canes pressed for the equalizer. The Hitmen scored an empty net goal late, it was the first goal as a Hitmen by new defenceman Spence Humphries. Brandon Glover was solid on Sunday afternoon making 34 saves.

2. LET A. Fyten, (16) (C. Braes), 8:01
2. CAL C. Clayton, (2) (J. Rissling, B. Glover), 13:00
2. CAL K. Schmidt, (3) (J. Bubnick, K. Foucault), 14:14
3. CAL S. Humphries, (3) (K. Foucault, M. Fisenko), 19:37 (EN/PP)

Hitmen at the Deadline

2011-01-10T20:41:00.004-07:00

For the first time as GM, Kelly Kisio found himself in sellers mode. He did have some attractive pieces but Kisio decided only to move 19 year old defenceman Matt MacKenzie.

In return, the Hitmen receive D Spencer Humphries, F Brooks Macek (both 18 year olds) and a conditional 3rd round pick from the Tri-Cities Americans.

Matt will be missed no question but I think it is highly unlikely that he returns for his OV year. In Macek, the Hitmen get a fairly skilled forward who did have a point per game last year but seems to have taken a step back this year, hopefully a change will do him some good. Kisio says Macek will get lots of time on the first power play unit and is immediately a top 6 forward for a team that has scoring issues. It sounds like Spence Humphries is more of a stay at home type of defenceman who likes the physical side of things.

Based on Kisio's interview with the Fan 960 (listen here)Kelly wasn't interested in other teams picks, because he is happy with the picks the Hitmen currenly have and because it sounded like he doesn't like where the Hitmen are at this year and wants to be much better next year. He goes on to talk about there are a couple of 18 year olds already in the system that should get a look next year.

Based on the fact that he didn't want picks, I think its a good deal for the Hitmen. I would guess most Hitmen fans will be disappointed in the return because of some of the other deals. The only disappointment for me is that Kisio didn't move Jimmy Bubnick and one of Foucault or Fiddler. In my opinion, Bubnick will be one of the Hitmen overagers next year.

Shortly after the trade Juraj Holly, Carter Berg and Brody Luhning disappeared from the Hitmen roster. I asked Hitmen pbp man Brad Curle over twitter the status of those players and here is Curle's response:

Carter Berg has returned to SJHL and Juraj Holly to Slovakia. Brody Luhning also returned to SJHL after Swift Current game.

Hitmen Trade

2011-01-10T14:30:00.001-07:00

Just to update:

It is MacKenzie to the Americans for F Brooks Macek and D Spencer Humphries both those players are 18 plus a conditional 3rd round pick in return.
.
Based on Kristen Odland Twitter:

KO_herald

Just at the #Hitmen skate. Hearing D and co captain Matt MacKenzie to Tri-City ... Left practice early. Not sure for what or who.

Trade Deadline

2011-01-09T15:07:00.011-07:00

Last one of the day:
Everett sends Tochkin, Theriau to Medicine Hat for Harrison, 2nd rounder.

Giants trade D Tanner Sohn to Saskatoon in exchange for a 10th rd Bantam Draft pick in 2013.

Portland trades Branden Scheidl to the Hurricanes in exchange for Ryley Bennefield.

Seattle has acquired defenceman Mitch Spooner from the Pats for a conditional 5th round selection in the '12 Bantam Draft.

The Warriors have traded import F Michal Hlinka and 3rd & 6th round pick’s in '11 to the Raiders for Sebastian Svendsen.

the Blades have given up four draft picks: 1st Round in 2011, 2nd Round in 2011, 1st Round in 2012 and 1st Round in 2012 Import Draft. The Blades also included in the trade two prospects: Ayrton Nikkel (Pursuit of Excellence M-AAA) and Tim McGauley (Regina M-AAA).

Seattle Thunder birds acquired defenceman Ryan Button from the Raiders for Charles Wells and 1st round pick in '11 CHL Import Draft.

Update-the Saskatoon Blades have called a press conference for this afternoon to announce that they have acquired Brayden Schenn from the Wheat Kings. I will update again once the names going to Brandon are known or once another deal is announced. Still waiting on Hitmen GM Kelly Kisio to pull the trigger.

A huge trade between the Ice and Broncos:

Cranbrook, BC -- Jeff Chynoweth, General Manager of the Kootenay ICE Hockey Club, today announced the club has acquired 19-year-old Forward Cody Eakin from the Swift Current Broncos in exchange for 18-year-old Forward Christian Magnus and prospects Ryan Bloom (1993 Forward- Drumheller Dragons – AJHL), Jarett Zentner (1993 Forward - Calgary Mustangs – AJHL), Colby Cave (1994 Forward - Battleford Stars – SMAAAHL) and Steven Myland (1994 Goaltender - Valley West Hawks – BCMMHL) along with a first and second round draft pick in the 2011 WHL Bantam Draft and a third round pick in the 2012 WHL Bantam Draft.

Full details here.

Tough Week for Hitmen

2011-01-08T19:55:00.000-07:00

In the middle of their 7 game road trip, the Hitmen played 3 games this past week and came up short in all 3. Actually, they beat badly in 2 of the 3 games. They lost 5-0 in Saskatoon, 3-2 in Swift Current and 9-2 in Brandon. That Brandon result is one where the Hitmen really have to look at what is going on. Sure the Brandon is ahead of the Hitmen in the standings but the Hitmen really didn't show up to play and that has to be a major concern.

With the trade deadline on Monday, Hitmen fans are wondering what kind of offers Kelly Kisio is receiving. The Hitmen clearly need upgrades in all 3 positions. They can't score goals, the blue line is really young (likely to get younger, will explain more below) and the Hitmen have played 3 different goalies this year and none of the 3 have stood up and taken control to be a #1.

I have the feeling that Kisio will trade or be trying to trade the following players before Monday's deadline: Matt MacKenzie, Jimmy Bubnick and Kris Foucault. There of course could be others dealt but those are the 3 that I think will draw the most interest. Michael Snider could be a good insurance policy for a team looking to go deep into the playoffs. If Snider is not moved, I expect Holly to get released and end up back in Europe. He hasn't had much playing time since Glover was picked up.

MacKenzie and Bubnick should be able to get the Hitmen a good return based on a couple of the other trades that have happened. Bubnick might get moved after Schenn, if Schenn is traded, because he is likely to be plan B for a GM who miss out on Schenn. The one problem is, will some of the teams near the top of the standings make any moves? Jesse Wallin of the Rebels said earlier this week that if the price stays as high as it is, his team will be very quiet because they will not pay that high price. Speaking of the Rebels they really are in tough position because they are not quite there to make the big run without adding another major piece or 2 but they might not have RNH back next year. Personally I think RNH will return, he is not strong enough for the NHL, not yet anyways. Should be an interesting couple of days.

Hitmen Update

2011-01-03T12:18:00.002-07:00

I've really fallen behind here so basically here is the short of the last 8 Hitmen games. This is going all the way back to Dec. 12 vs the Rebels.

Dec. 12-vs Red Deer-Hitmen win 2-0
Dec. 14-vs Bruins-Hitmen win 3-2
Dec. 15-at Ice-Kootenay wins 3-2
Dec. 17-vs Rockets-Kelowna wins 5-1
Dec. 28-vs Moose Jaw-Warriors win 6-1
Dec. 30-vs Brandon-Hitmen win 5-2
Jan. 1-at Medicine Hat-Hitmen win 3-1
Jan. 2-at Regina-Pats win 4-3 in the shootout.

4-3-0-1 record over the past 8 games.

Misha Fisenko hasn't been able to play since the Christmas break as he has been stuck in Russia due to the snow storm.

Even though the Hitmen have been playing much better lately, with just a few days until the trade deadline it is fairly clear Kisio will be looking to trade most veteran players. Based on the cost some teams have already paid, it could help speed up the rebuild for the Hitmen. Players like Fiddler, Foucault, Bubnick, MacKenzie and possibly Snider are all going to be up for grabs.

Happy Holidays

2010-12-25T00:01:00.000-07:00

I will give a full recap of the Hitmen games just prior to Christmas within the next couple of days. Hopefully before I head to Banff on the 27th. Merry Christmas Everyone!

Hitmen win the Battle of the Basement

2010-12-12T04:08:00.001-07:00

I can't remember the last time there was a game where both teams failed to hit the 20 shot mark but that was the case on Friday night in Calgary. The Hitmen outshot the Pats 16-13 in the battle of the basement.

It was nice to see that the Hitmen finally showed up and played a fairly solid 3rd period because for most of the season it has been the other way around and the Hitmen have crumbled in the final 20 minutes of games. The Hitmen were also able to come back from a 3-0 deficit on Friday night. Kris Foucault scored the overtime winner on a breakaway from the center line in. It was a great slap pass by Matt MacKenzie to send in Foucault.

You can find the game highlights right here.

The annual Hitmen Teddy Toss Game goes later this afternoon at the Saddledome vs the Rebels.

1. REG Frazee, (12) (Scheidl, Weal), 6:07
2. REG Mitchell, (9) (Bell, Scheidl), 1:24 (SH)
2. REG Stevenson, (2) (Stephenson, Kilmchuk), 9:36
2. CAL Bubnick, (13) (Sylvester, Foucault), 18:29 (PP)
3. CAL Kirsch, (14) (MacKenzie), 2:08
3. CAL MacKenzie, (2) (Clayton, Sylvester), 7:53
OT. CAL Foucault, (11) (MacKenzie, Roach), 0:25

Outdoor Game Information

2010-12-09T23:35:00.001-07:00

CALGARY HITMEN AND REGINA PATS TO STAGE FIRST EVER WHL OUTDOOR GAME IN CANADA
Tickets for Hitmen / Pats Game at McMahon Stadium on sale December 14

Calgary, AB - The Calgary Hitmen in partnership with the Western Hockey League and Regina Pats today announced further details on the WHL outdoor game to be held at McMahan Stadium on Monday, February 21st at 1:00pm. This event marks the first ever WHL Regular Season Game to be held outdoors in Canada.

Tickets for the Family Day contest will go on sale to the general public at all Ticketmaster locations on Tuesday, December 14th at 10 am. There are two price points of $15 and $12.

“We are extremely excited about the great opportunity this game presents for both our fans and players to be part of such a unique and unforgettable experience,” said Hitmen General Manager Kelly Kisio.

The WHL outdoor game will also feature both teams in special theme jerseys.

The Hitmen jersey features striping inspired by the 1926 Calgary Canadians, the first Calgary franchise to win a Memorial Cup. The grey and black color incorporates colors from the early days of the Hitmen franchise and also features the retro grey and pink logo.

The Pats jersey is the same design as the ones they wore in the mid ‘50s when Regina was the junior affiliate of the Montreal Canadiens. It features a blue and cream color scheme with a Canadiens patch on the sleeve.

"We are thrilled and honoured to be a part of this unique event,” said Pats President and Governor Brent Parker. “For our players to have this once in a lifetime opportunity and for our organization to re connect and pay tribute to our history is something we are truly excited about."

“We wish to extend our appreciation to the National Hockey League and the Calgary Flames for allowing the Western Hockey League to stage our first ever outdoor game in Canada at McMahon Stadium in Calgary,” commented WHL Commissioner Ron Robison, “Our fans are looking forward to sharing in the excitement of this historic event and being part of the 2011 NHL Heritage Classic Festivities.”

Complete article right and pictures right here.

Edmonton beats Hitmen, again

2010-12-09T23:34:00.001-07:00

Once again the Hitmen found themselves in a one goal game starting the third period and once again the Hitmen were unable to come back. The Hitmen played a great first 10 minutes of the game and then the mistakes started happening and it seems like every mistake the boys make, ends up in their net because none of the 3 goalies can stop anything consistently. Glover has been okay but the Hitmen need their goalies to be great. Hopefully all the ice time the young guys are getting pays off because they are learning on the fly.

Hitmen host Regina tomorrow, a game that they actually have a good chance at winning.

1. CAL Roach, (1) (Fisenko), 0:31
1. EDM St. Croix, (16) (Foster, Piluso), 10:03
2. EDM Hrbas, (2) (Lazowski, Hickmott), 0:26
2. CAL Foucault, (10) (Lawrence), 4:27
2. EDM St. Croix, (17) (Reinhart, Foster), 5:00
3. EDM Foster, (9) (Hrbas, St. Croix), 4:54
3. EDM St. Croix, (18) (Lazowski, Wruck), 12:26 (PP)

Kamloops beats Hitmen in OT

2010-12-08T11:23:00.002-07:00

Sorry I haven't got to this sooner. I have been extremely ill. The Hitmen wrapped up their 3 game BC road trip with a 3-2 OTL in Kamloops. The wasn't all that exciting and for a great game summary and recap check out Gregg Drinnan's blog right here. It is about half way down the page.

1. KAM Maschmeyer, (3) (Bortnak, DePape), 7:43
1. CAL Foucault, (9) (Rissling, Gayle), 8:44 (PP)
3. KAM DePape, (11) (Madaisky, Ranford), 7:58
3. CAL Rissling, (2) (Gayle), 8:26
OT. KAM Ranford, (25) (Underwood), 0:16

Hitmen beat Vancouver

2010-12-04T16:03:00.002-07:00

Got a chance to watch the boys on Shaw last night and I was hoping to see an improvement from a couple weeks back when they were in Brandon unfortunately I saw much of the same.

Positives from last night:
1. The Hitmen won a lot of battles in the Giants zone and generated lots of good cycling.
2. The Hitmen had the better goaltender last night, something that hasn't happened enough so far this season.
3. The penalty killing was excellent, they held the Giants to just one power play goal in 6 opportunities.
4. They matched the Giants work ethic and the Hitmen finally showed up and competed for 60 minutes.

Negatives:
1. They lost battles in their own zone because they are very weak on the puck.
2. They really lacked speed last night and for most I don't consider a fast team but they are by no means a slow team either but last night they looked slow compared to the Giants, particularly in the 2nd and 3rd periods.
3. They had some great puck movement on the power play. They were moving it from point back down to the sides near the bottom of the circles with some crisp hard passes and it allowed Justin Kirsch to score 2 power play goals.
4. Turnovers. Turnovers at their own blue line and in the neutral zone.

They showed up and played real hard and didn't stop even after the Giants tied the game up at 3 in third, most nights this season, the Hitmen would have collapsed right then and there.

Hitmen are in Kamloops tonight. It would sure be nice for the boys to win back to back games.

1. CAL Kirsch, (12) (MacKenzie, Fisenko), 17:41 (PP)
2. CAL Foucault, (8) (Kirsch), 3:48
2. VAN Musil, (3) (Cunningham), 11:48 (PP)
3. CAL Kirsch, (13) (Foucault, Wilson), 1:28 (PP)
3. VAN Gallagher, (23) (Rowinski), 1:37
3. VAN Musil, (4) (Rowinski), 4:10
3. CAL Sylvester, (9) (Cheek, MacKenzie), 4:35

Cougars claw Hitmen

2010-12-03T09:01:00.001-07:00

I missed most of the game on Wednesday but once again the rebuilding Hitmen came up a goal short. The bright spot was Jimmy Bubnick who had a natural hat trick in the game. Bubnick has been much better the last couple of weeks.

According to PBP man Brad Curle in 21 of the 27 Hitmen games this season its been a one goal third period game, including 10 straight games. The Hitmen record in those games is 5-16.

1. P.G Inglis, (11) (Buonassisi, Bourke), 6:45
1. P.G Buonassisi, (10) (Inglis, Forsberg), 16:51 (PP)
2. P.G Connolly, (21) (Acolatse, Stefishen), 0:52
2. CAL Bubnick, (10) (Fisenko, Roach), 15:17
2. CAL Bubnick, (11) (Fisenko, Rissling), 16:33
3. CAL Bubnick, (12) (Fisenko), 4:11
3. P.G Inglis, (12) (Acolatse), 9:53

Oil Kings beat Hitmen, Reinbolt released.

2010-11-29T20:28:00.001-07:00

The two teams met for the 3rd in less than a week and once again the Hitmen fail to pick up points. It was a tie game heading to the third where the Hitmen took 3 penalties, including 2 44 seconds apart giving the Oil Kings a 5 on 3 power play. Edmonton wasted little time with the 2 man advantage scoring 29 seconds into the 2 man advantage.

The Hitmen cannot play for 60 minutes consistently. They can stay in games for 40 or 50 minutes but are just not mentally tough enough right now.

1. EDM St. Croix, (13) , 6:04
2. CAL Fisenko, (4) (MacMaster, MacKenzie), 4:50 (PP)
3. EDM Foster, (6) (Pysyk, Ewanyk), 3:24
3. EDM Hickmott, (11) (St. Croix, Lazowski), 7:52 (PP)

The Hitmen released 19 year old forward Riley Reinbolt earlier today.

Rebels beat Hitmen on Buzzer Beater!

2010-11-27T04:19:00.000-07:00

A heartbreaking loss for the Hitmen last night at the Saddledome. The Rebels got the game winning goal with just over a second remaining in the third period to pull out a 4-3 victory.

Same old story for the Hitmen, they play hard for either 20 or 40 minutes but never a 60 minute effort. The Rebels really took it to the Hitmen in the 3rd, outshooting the Hitmen 14-3 in the final 20 minutes.

Kris Foucault had an excellent game for the Hitmen. He scored twice and had several more good scoring chances.

Matt Dumba is already a great defenceman at 16 years old. He threw a couple more crushing hits including one on Cody Sylvester.

Juraj Holly started in goal for the Hitmen and played okay in his first game action in awhile. The last 3 Hitmen games has had each tender getting a start. I wonder if that will continue. Speaking of Holly, he was named to the Slovakian world jr roster on Wednesday.

1. R.D Kudrna, (14) (Persson, Nugent-Hopkins), 0:30
2. CAL Foucault, (6) (MacKenzie), 4:37 (PP)
2. CAL Sylvester, (8) (Cheek), 11:26
2. R.D Elson, (9) (Archer), 13:43 (SH)
3. R.D Dumba, (7) (Ferguson, Siwak), 5:46 (PP)
3. CAL Foucault, (7) (MacKenzie, Fisenko), 17:09 (PP)
3. R.D Kambeitz, (9) (Cowen, Weller), 19:58

Hitmen and Oil Kings split home and home

2010-11-27T04:13:00.000-07:00

The Hitmen and Oil Kings hooked up for a home and home series on Tuesday and Wednesday this past week. The result was each team winning at home.

On Tuesday in the Saddledome, the Hitmen got a huge game from forward Jimmy Bubnick. Bubnick had 2 goals and an assist to the lead the Hitmen to a 3-2 win. Michael Snider got the start in goal was made a couple of great save, especially in the 3rd period when the Hitmen were holding on to a lead.

1. CAL MacMaster, (7) (Bubnick, Wilson), 10:09 (PP)
2. CAL Bubnick, (8) (Foucault), 16:44 (PP)
3. EDM Hickmott, (9) (Wruck), 5:15
3. CAL Bubnick, (9) (Wilson, Snider), 11:32
3. EDM St. Croix, (12) (Reinhart, Lazowski), 17:08 (PP)

On Wednesday in Edmonton, the Oil Kings jumped out to a 2-0 lead just a 1:35 into the game but the Hitmen fought all the way back and actually took the lead early in the third period only to give up 2 goals to the Oil Kings. It was very frustrating as the Edmonton game winning goal was scored after a great pick play by the Oil Kings while on the power play. Brandon Glover played in goal for the Hitmen and although he was good, the Hitmen really need their goalies to be great.

1. EDM Foster, (4) (St. Croix, Pelss), 1:10
1. EDM Rachinski, (1) (Wilson), 1:35
1. CAL Fiddler, (5) (Cheek, MacKenzie), 16:30 (PP)
2. CAL Sylvester, (7) (MacMaster, Fisenko), 9:32 (PP)
3. CAL Kirsch, (11) (Bubnick, Cheek), 3:56 (PP)
3. EDM Pelss, (2) (Foster, St. Croix), 7:16
3. EDM Wruck, (10) (St. Croix, Hickmott), 13:32 (PP)

Hitmen fall in Moose Jaw

2010-11-23T16:12:00.000-07:00

Moose Jaw 6-3 over Hitmen.
It was 2 goals 1:03 apart early in the 3rd that set the Hitmen back in Moose Jaw on Sunday night. I listened to most of the game and it really sounded like the Hitmen showed up and for the most part competed against the Warriors. I think the trade has done a couple of things for the Hitmen. 1. It has provided just alittle spark on the ice and I'm guessing in the room. 2. It has so far balanced the lines out just a bit better. Brandon Glover is very active in the net. Based on the game I saw vs the Wheaties, he overplays some of the shots and finds himself out of position regularly.

The Hitmen host the Oil Kings tonight, I believe the Hitmen have won 15 straight meetings vs Edmonton.

1. CAL Bubnick, (7) (Rissling, Foucault), 1:16
1. M.J Hood, (10) (Rielly, Beach), 6:57 (PP)
1. M.J Edwards, (6) (Beach), 13:58
1. CAL Kirsch, (10) (Fiddler, Rissling), 14:13
3. M.J Edwards, (7) (Honejsek, Hood), 0:34 (PP)
3. M.J Hood, (11) (Rielly, Bowman), 1:37 (PP)
3. CAL Foucault, (5) (MacMaster), 2:45
3. M.J Royer, (3) (Kornelsen, Ehrhardt), 17:46
3. M.J Fioretti, (3) (Howden), 18:56 (EN/SH)

The Losing Streak is OVER! Hitmen 5-3 over Brandon!

2010-11-20T14:50:00.001-07:00

The streak is over at 12! A great third period by the Hitmen, a period in which they scored 3 times for a come from behind 5-3 win in Brandon. The new players all played big roles for the Hitmen last night. Nathan Macmaster scored a goal, Danny Gayle was great in the 3rd period where he picked up a goal and 2 assists, mostly playing on line with Cody Sylvester and Trevor Cheek. And lets not forget about the new goalie Brandon Glover, Glover kept the Hitmen in the game for the first 40 minutes. He made 20 of his 25 saves in the first 2 periods and made several big saves for the Hitmen, something that had been missing so far this season.

It was great to see the boys with so much more confidence and jump in their legs but it is only one game. Hopefully the can build on it tomorrow in Moose Jaw, which should be a fun game.

1. CAL Fisenko, (3) (Fiddler, Kirsch), 0:18
1. BDN Glennie, (6) (Stone, Pulock), 14:18 (PP)
1. CAL MacMaster, (6) (Foucault, Kosterman), 14:44
1. BDN Gustafsson, (4) (Meilleur), 15:15
2. BDN Favreau, (4) (King, Seaman), 11:01
3. CAL Reinbolt, (1) (Gayle, Sylvester), 2:48
3. CAL Sylvester, (6) (Cheek, Gayle), 11:26
3. CAL Gayle, (4) (Sylvester, Cheek), 13:20

Losing Streak Hits 12, Beach and Royer to Moose Jaw

2010-11-16T19:26:00.003-07:00

The Hitmen have tied the franchise record for longest losing streak, 12 games. It was a close game until the 3rd, where the Ice scored 3 times to run away with the game. Matt McKenzie didn't play in the 3rd period due to the flu. Bad penalties hurt them again, especially in 3rd where the Hitmen took 4 penalties.

These are tough times for Hitmen fans, we haven't seen a team this bad since the early years. I am very shocked at how poorly they are doing. But after the trade today, it looks like Kisio is ready to start moving kids out. The trade today was Nathan MacMaster, Danny Gayle and Brandon Glover have been traded to Calgary for 18 year old's Cody Beach and Mackenzie Royer. More on the trade here.

1. KTN King, (8) (McNabb, Boomer), 12:12
1. CAL Sylvester, (5) (MacKenzie, Beach), 13:34 (PP)
2. KTN Boomer, (4) (King, McNabb), 0:47
2. KTN King, (9) (McNabb, Antilla), 8:57
2. CAL Cheek, (4) (Royer), 10:26
3. KTN Bloom, (1) (Zentner, Magnus), 5:58
3. KTN Fraser, (9) (McNabb, King), 9:43 (PP)
3. KTN Dirk, (2) (Boomer, King), 11:47

The Losing Streak is now at 11.

2010-11-12T18:01:00.002-07:00

2 more games this week for the Hitmen that ended with the same result as the previous 9 games, a loss. They are now within 1 game of tying the franchise record of 12 straight defeats of the 1996 season. I guess the good news is that it took the Hurricanes until overtime to beat the Hitmen.

Last night against the Ice, the Hitmen fell behind by 2 goals after 1 period and just couldn't catch up. They have several chances to score but just couldn't get the puck in the net.

1. KTN Pearce, (1) (Benoit, Magnus), 6:09
1. CAL Trzonkowski, (1) (Wilson), 7:20
1. KTN Boomer, (3) (King, McNabb), 12:15
1. KTN Ismond, (7) (Fraser, Reinhart), 15:14
2. CAL Bubnick, (6) (MacKenzie, Fisenko), 10:11 (PP)
3. KTN Fraser, (8) (Ismond), 19:23 (EN)

On Wednesday night in Lethbridge, the Hitmen came back from a 4-1 3rd period deficit to force overtime but took a penalty which allowed the Hurricanes to end the game with a power play goal.

1. LET Reners, (3) (Tot, Berglund), 1:57 (PP)
1. CAL Bubnick, (5) (Kirsch, Wilson), 12:41 (PP)
1. LET Kuvaev, (7) (Sofillas, Hood), 13:17
1. LET Hood, (6) (Johnston, Sofillas), 19:50 (PP)
2. LET Kuvaev, (8) (Hood, Sofillas), 0:57
2. CAL Lawrence, (1) (Wilson, Reinbolt), 1:54
3. CAL Kirsch, (9) (Cheek, Wilson), 2:05
3. CAL Foucault, (4) (MacKenzie, Fisenko), 7:44 (PP)
OT. LET Maxwell, (6) (Oslanski, Reddington), 1:20 (PP)

Ice freeze Hitmen for 3rd time this year

2010-11-07T20:05:00.001-07:00

Make it 9 straight set backs for the Hitmen. They are getting close to the franchise record of longest losing streak. The record is 12 games back in January of 1996.

The bottom line is fairly simple. First, the vets on this team are not playing well enough to lead the team through these tough times. Second, most of the kids are not ready for this level of hockey and finally, neither goalie is playing consistent enough in a game. The Hitmen really need either Snider or Holly to step and give them a legit chance to win a game. Again, both are making some good saves but too many weak goals and too many goals period are going in. They must make a handful of big saves a game.

It sounds like Kris Foucault is getting close to returning. I heard that on the broadcast last night, hopefully when he does return, he is motivated and ready to help turn this ship around.

Its hard to think about playoffs already but they are a real long shot already for the Hitmen. The Hitmen find themselves 9 points out of 8th in the Eastern Conference already.

1. KTN Antilla, (8) (Montgomery), 8:34
1. KTN Rossignol, (1) (King), 15:15
2. KTN Fraser, (7) (Reinhart, Boomer), 5:07 (PP)
2. CAL Kirsch, (8) , 8:54
2. KTN Ismond, (6) (Reinhart), 11:39
2. KTN Paulsen, (2) (King, Boomer), 19:15
3. CAL Schmidt, (1) (Beach, Rissling), 4:20

Blazers beat Hitmen, again.

2010-11-06T17:41:00.001-06:00

The losing streak is now at 8 for the Hitmen. Once again they really competed last night and at least scored some goals but they couldn't keep the puck out. Juraj Holly started and gave up 3 goals on 7 shots and was pulled and replaced by Michael Snider. A big problem imo is that neither goalie is coming up with the big saves for the Hitmen right now. They need one of these 2 kids to step and steal a game for the team. They do make some good saves but they are both giving up some very weak goals, goals that cannot go in when the team is really struggling.

The power play with so good early in the game but when it really needed to come through, a 5 on 3 late in the 3rd, they didn't even muster a shot on goal. Lack of focus and trying to be too fancy when they just needed to simplify the power play, get set up and move the puck around.

The Hitmen are in Cranbrook tonight, the Ice has posted 2 shutouts in 2 games vs the Hitmen so far this year.

1. CAL Cheek, (3) (Fisenko, MacKenzie), 2:37 (PP)
1. KAM Schaber, (7) (Smith, Ranford), 3:32
1. KAM Bortnak, (5) (Smith, Maschmeyer), 10:24 (PP)
1. KAM McVeigh, (1) (Fienhage, Willick), 16:07
1. CAL Beach, (5) (Cheek, Fisenko), 19:36 (PP)
2. KAM Ranford, (14) , 7:22 (PP)
2. CAL Kirsch, (7) (Trzonkowski, Clayton), 14:16
2. CAL Fiddler, (4) (Fisenko, Beach), 16:32 (PP)
3. KAM DePape, (5) (Bortnak, Schaber), 5:34 (PP)

The Losing Streak now sits at 7.

2010-11-03T11:13:00.000-06:00

Game 15-Tigers 2-1:
Make it 7 losses in a row now for the Hitmen. Although last night they really competed but a power play goal by Emerson Etem was the difference in the game. Same old story for the Hitmen, they just cannot score. Lots of good opportunities but they can't get the puck into the net.

2. M.H Vey, (6) (Hamilton, Pitlick), 17:12 (PP)
3. CAL Wilson, (1) (Beach, Sylvester), 6:22 (PP)
3. M.H Etem, (9) (Vey, Hamilton), 7:52 (PP)

Game 14-Blades 5-3:
On Sunday afternoon the Hitmen lost their 6th straight game. It was an ugly first period as referee Matt Kirk called 10 penalties between the 2 teams which really took away from the flow of the game.

The Hitmen actually played a fairly decent game but the Blades capitalized on a bunch of sloppy plays by the Hitmen in their own zone and pulled out the win. The thing that is most alarming to me is that the Hitmen coaching staff are really riding the veterans and they are not getting the job done. I think it is very evident that the leaders of this year's team really benefited from the stars from the past 2 years. This year's group are a much better supporting cast rather than the go to players that they are required to be this year.

1. SAS Dziurzynski, (11) (Benson, Stransky), 5:04
3. SAS Hamilton, (7) (Viedensky, Nicholls), 2:02
3. CAL Cheek, (2) (Sylvester, Fiddler), 6:05
3. SAS Johnson, (2) (Viedensky, Nicholls), 7:00
3. CAL Fiddler, (3) (Schmidt, Sylvester), 8:24
3. CAL Bubnick, (4) , 13:41
3. SAS Elliott, (4) (Nicholls, Hamilton), 19:00
3. SAS Hamilton, (8) , 19:50 (EN)

Bruins Crush Hitmen

2010-10-30T09:12:00.001-06:00

Just another ugly game for the Calgary Hitmen that extended the losing streak to 5 straight games.

The Bruins scored early and often on Hitmen starting goalie Juraj Holly. They had a 2-0 lead on 5 shots just 4:39 into the game. Coach Williamson pulled Holly from the game and replaced him with Michael Snider. The Hitmen responded with 2 goals of their own but it was all down hill from there as the Bruins scored 5 more times. Just a real tough game, I only listened period and just a couple minutes of the 2nd but based on the pbp the Bruins got some lucky breaks early and took full advantage of every Hitmen mistake. The Hitmen played without both Cody Beach and Kris Foucault, who were out with upper body injuries.

This could get uglier before it gets better imo. The vets up front could play so much better and most of the young kids up front are probably not really ready for the dub. The blue line is also a young group and it just seems like every mistake they make is ending up in the net because neither one of Michael Snider and Juraj Holly have shown the ability to keep the team in games and come up with the big save. It will be interesting to see how long Kisio sticks with this roster. He continues to talk about Christmas, he (the organization) has to give the team until Christmas to see what they really have but the fact is if he does wait until Christmas, the season could be over by then. Tough times for Hitmen fans who have been spoiled for several years in a row.

1. CWK Magee, (1) (Soudek, Horak), 1:18
1. CWK Horak, (8) (Pauls, Manning), 4:39 (PP)
1. CAL Kirsch, (6) (Wilson, Berg), 9:20 (PP)
1. CAL Cheek, (1) (Fisenko, Fiddler), 15:16
1. CWK Soudek, (6) (Stahl, Howse), 17:53
1. CWK Collins, (1) , 19:46 (SH)
2. CWK Manning, (5) (Sundher, Howse), 3:46 (PP)
3. CWK Horak, (9) (Howse, Manning), 5:27
3. CWK Sundher, (2) (Manning), 6:21

Kootenay Ice Hitmen

2010-10-28T19:41:00.001-06:00

It was the 2nd meeting of the year between these 2 rivals and for the 2nd time the Ice shutout the Hitmen.

It was a terrible giveaway by the Hitmen lead to the Ice scoring the first goal. a shorthanded goal by Max Reinhart. It stayed 1-0 until late in the 3rd when the Ice put the game away with 2 more goals.

The Hitmen are still lacking major consistency up front up. Some of the vets have to play better and will really have to be better now because, based on some info on Jr. Hockey Junkies site, the Hitmen have lost Kris Foucault with a separated shoulder. That is just speculation at this point in time.

Its only 12 games into the season but the Hitmen have now fallen to 4-8 and sit last in the Eastern Conference. They have to get things figured out.

1. KTN Reinhart, (7) (McNabb), 15:27 (SH)
3. KTN Ismond, (5) (Magnus, Martin), 15:08 (PP)
3. KTN Fraser, (6) (King, Leach), 19:00 (EN)

Hitmen blow lead, lose to Kamloops

2010-10-24T21:40:00.002-06:00

What a disappointing loss for the Hitmen last night. They played so well for the first 40 minutes and then it all fell apart in the third period. It didn't take long for the Blazers to turn the game around, Brendan Ranford scored just 1:30 in and it just gave the Blazers life and it just snowballed from there on the Hitmen.

The big disappointment is that the power play went 0-5 in the game. Despite the 4-7 record I still think the Hitmen are a middle of the pack team in the East, they just really need to come together, get the vets clicking every night and just play some consistent hockey.

1. Calgary, Beach 4 (Sylvester, Rissling) 11:15
2. Calgary, Fiddler 2 (Fisenko, Beach) 17:03
3. Kamloops, Ranford 12 (Schaber, Saip) 1:30
4. Kamloops, Hanes 2 (Willick) 6:21
5. Kamloops, DePape 2 11:56 (pp)

Hitmen end road trip on a low

2010-10-21T21:42:00.001-06:00

I'm a couple days behind so I am combining the last games into 1 post. They are both brief recaps.

Tuesday Night-Hitmen 1 at Americans 3
The boys put up a good fight vs the Americans on Tuesday night and came up just alittle short.

Owsley was the difference in the game, making 34 saves. The Hitmen had a lengthy 5 on 3 power play in the first and were unable to score thanks to Owsley.

2. T.C Hughesman, (8) (Macek, Yuen), 12:33
3. T.C Macek, (2) (Feser, Holland), 6:32
3. CAL Kirsch, (5) (Clayton, Reinbolt), 8:03
3. T.C Holland, (7) , 8:22

Wednesday Night-Hitmen 1 at Spokane 8
The final game of the US road trip was over before it even started. Spokane was up 1-0 just 43 seconds into the game and had a 4-1 lead by the end of the first period. I turned the game off in the 2nd period and at that point there were no positives for the Hitmen.

It will be interesting to see if there are fines or suspensions from the little brawl that happened late in the 3rd period:
3 - CAL Beach, 16:46 - Major-Fighting , 5 min
3 - CAL Rissling, 16:46 - Roughing , 2 min
3 - CAL Snider, 16:46 - Leaving Crease , 2 min
3 - CAL Sylvester, 16:46 - Hooking , 2 min
3 - CAL Sylvester, 16:46 - Major-Fighting , 5 min
3 - SPO Aviani, 16:46 - Major-Fighting , 5 min
3 - SPO Kramer, 16:46 - Major-Fighting , 5 min
3 - SPO Marantz, 16:46 - Roughing , 2 min
3 - SPO Marantz, 16:46 - Roughing , 2 min

Scoring Summary:
1. SPO Gal, (6) (Johnson, Leedahl), 0:43
1. SPO Kramer, (2) (Cowen), 2:27
1. SPO Gal, (7) (Miller, Gow), 11:54
1. CAL Fisenko, (2) (Kirsch, Foucault), 15:56 (PP)
1. SPO Miller, (2) (Cowen, Johnson), 17:06 (PP)
2. SPO Gal, (8) (Kichton), 3:59
2. SPO Miller, (3) (Johnson, Kichton), 6:02 (PP)
2. SPO Aviani, (1) (Marantz), 8:08
3. SPO Holmberg, (4) (Mort), 8:01

Hitmen beat Seattle in Overtime!

2010-10-18T20:57:00.000-06:00

The Hitmen picked up their 2nd win on the US road trip on Saturday night. It sounded like another real good effort by the boys and it is 3 games in a row where they showed up to play. Juraj Holly picked up his first WHL win after stopping 33 shots.

Cody Beach might have been the best skater on the ice, Brad and Ken called his name several times throughout the game. He scored a goal, took a minor and got into a fight.

The Hitmen took a penalty early in overtime, were able to kill off well over a minute of the penalty. Seattle took their own penalty shortly after and just 9 seconds into the power play, Jaynen Rissling found the back of the night to give the Hitmen the win.

1. CAL Beach, (3) (Foucault, Sylvester), 6:45
1. SEA Wells, (2) (Rouse, Dillon), 18:46
2. SEA Alos, (1) (Dillon, Noebels), 15:41 (PP)
2. CAL Kirsch, (4) (MacKenzie, Rissling), 19:33 (PP)
OT. CAL Rissling, (1) (Fisenko), 3:27 (PP)

The road trip continues tomorrow night vs Zak Stebner and the Americans.

Hitmen fall in Everett, 4-2.

2010-10-16T14:23:00.001-06:00

Comments are based on listening to the game.

It sounded like it was a really evenly played game with both teams competing last night. In the end, Everett was just alittle better as their big line struck for a couple of goals in the third period.

It seemed that both teams really used their speed well and tried to catch each other on breaks but the Everett did a better job at knocking down some of those stretch passes by the Hitmen.

Brad's calls of the goals were that pucks beat Michael Snider through the 5 hole, his biggest weakness imo, and that has to be corrected.

Everett lost captain Landon Ferraro in the game what looked like a knee injury. He didn't have any weight on his right leg as he was helped off the ice. It seems like the kid just can't buy a break and stay healthy.

Good effort from the boys last night, hopefully it carries over tonight in Seattle.

1. CAL Kirsch, (3) (Reinbolt, Cheek), 16:27
2. EVT Tochkin, (3) (Ferraro, Maxwell), 7:45 (PP)
2. CAL Beach, (2) (Foucault, Roach), 13:11
3. EVT Maxwell, (9) (MacDonald), 3:32
3. EVT Maxwell, (10) (Tochkin, Hayer), 9:16
3. EVT Stanfield, (2) , 19:48 (EN)

Games 6-Hitmen 5 at Portland 1

2010-10-14T17:54:00.001-06:00

Here are my comments just based on listening to Brad and Ken on the radio.

I wish the Hitmen would put forth these types of efforts all the time, but as expected, it is going to be an up and down year for the Hitmen. It sounded like the Winterhawks came out and wanted to use their size and run the Hitmen out of the rink but the Hitmen are a big team as well and didn't back down to Portland.

The line of Sylvester-Beach-Foucault had a monster night, combined for 8 points, including a 4 point night from Foucault and a couple of goals from Cody Sylvester.

It sounded like Michael Snider had a nice game, Snider made 31 saves in the win.

Hopefully the boys can keep it going tomorrow night in Everett.

1. CAL Foucault, (2) , 8:08
2. CAL Fisenko, (1) (Bubnick, Foucault), 2:15 (PP)
2. CAL Sylvester, (3) (Beach, Rissling), 11:08
3. CAL Sylvester, (4) (Beach, Foucault), 10:49
3. POR Bartschi, (7) (Johansen, Rattie), 15:21 (PP)
3. CAL Foucault, (3) (Fiddler, Snider), 18:39 (EN)
__________________

Stebner to Tri-Cities

2010-10-14T17:42:00.001-06:00

No surprise in my mind at Zac Stebner was going to be moved. The Hitmen needed to move one more overager after released Kyle Aschim late last week. With the Hitmen being much deeper on the blue line than up front and then the return of Misha Fisenko, the writing was on the wall for Stebner to be moved. He was sent to the Americans for a 3rd round pick.

Calgary, AB – Calgary Hitmen General Manager Kelly Kisio announced today the club has traded 20-year-old defenceman Zak Stebner to the Tri-City Americans in exchange for a third round pick in the 2011 Western Hockey League Bantam Draft.

The move reduces the Hitmen roster to a league maximum three overagers.

“This was a very difficult trade to make as Zak is a quality defenceman and individual who was a big part of our championship team in 2010,” said Kisio. “However with an abundance of young defencemen on our roster, this move opens up a lot of key minutes on our blue line allowing the needed playing time for their development.”

The Hitmen overagers this season are Tyler Fiddler, Misha Fisenko and Kris Foucault.

Hitmen finish home stand with 2-1 record

2010-10-09T09:46:00.002-06:00

Combining the last 2 games because I've been super busy at work.

Broncos 3 Hitmen 0

Mike Williamson thought he had his Calgary Hitmen headed in the right direction.

Following a 3-0 setback to the visiting Swift Current Broncos on Friday night at the Scotiabank Saddledome, the Hitmen coach emerged from his office in frustration.

“I was frustrated by the lack of everything tonight,” said Williamson, whose Hitmen (2-3-0) had reeled off two straight home-ice victories prior to the disappointing loss. “Our team showed so many positive things the last two games and our compete level was getting to where it needed to be. We wanted to build on that and instead we took a big step back.”

Other than rookie goalie Juraj Holly, who stopped 21 shots in a losing cause, Williamson said he “it was hard to find a guy tonight that competed” at a high enough level to win.

“He might have been the one guy that you wouldn’t say that he didn’t give it his all,” Williamson said. “He competed hard, he battled for pucks. Unfortunately we didn’t help a lot in front of him or at the other end. We have to score some goals to win hockey games and we were on the perimeter. We weren’t willing to go to the net to get the traffic possible to generate some things.”

Calgary co-captain Matt MacKenzie said the Hitmen will have to put the loss behind them to prepare for a five-game road trip to the United States starting next Wednesday in Portland against the Winterhawks.

“It’s definitely a tough one to swallow,” MacKenzie said. “They out worked us pretty bad in our own building which is hard. I know a lot of guys didn’t come to play tonight so we’ve got to regroup (for the) U.S. road trip.”

Swift Current captain Cody Eakin led the Broncos (2-5-0-0) with a pair of power-play goals, while goalie Mark Friesen stopped all 25 shots he faced to record the shutout.

“Tonight we played solid as a team,” said Eakin, whose squad had lost five straight heading into action. “We have been fighting it the last few games but tonight we kind of turned the page and things were rolling for us.”

Justin Dowling also scored for the Broncos and added a pair of assists.

Cody Sylvester had the best scoring chance for Calgary when he was awarded a penalty shot early in the final frame after being hauled down by Swift Current forward Andrew Sullivan. But Sylvester rang a wrist shot off the post behind Friesen to preserve Friesen’s shut-out bid.

Hitmen 5 Tigers 2

After being challenged by the Calgary Hitmen coaching staff, Jimmy Bubnick has responded in a big way.

Bubnick scored a pair of goals and added an assist to lead the Hitmen to a 5-2 win over the Medicine Hat Tigers on Wednesday night in front of 6,894 fans at the Saddledome.

“It’s just one of those nights,” said Bubnick after a first-star performance. “Everything was going well. Our line gelled really well together I thought. We were generating a lot of scoring chances from the cycle down low. I’m going to have to put forth an effort like that nightly.”

It was the second straight win for the Hitmen, who started the season with two straight setbacks. Hitmen head coach Mike Williamson was pleased to see Bubnick respond with two solid games after the team’s slow start.

“We put some pressure on a few guys (and) he was one of them,” Williamson said. “The last two nights, he’s been one of our best players which he should be.”

Peter Kosterman, Justin Kirsch and Cody Sylvester, into an empty net, also scored for the Hitmen, while Emerson Etem replied with a pair of power-play goals for the Tigers (2-2-0).

Hitmen goalie Michael Snider was solid in net for the Hitmen as he made 26 saves, including several nice pad stops late in the second period.

“I felt confident going into the game,” Snider said. “I’ve had a couple good days of practising and I gained a little confidence from the last win. I’m just kind of riding a high horse out there and I feel good.”

Medicine Hat netminder Tyler Bunz made 24 saves in a losing cause.

Etem scored at 4:25 of the first period to put the Tigers up 1-0 before Bubnick responded with a shorthanded goal for the Hitmen. Bubnick then set up Kosterman for his first-ever WHL regular season goal to give Calgary a 2-1 lead.

The Hitmen then fired the first 12 shots of the second period to take a commanding 18-7 lead on the shot clock.

“We came out in the second and I think that’s the best hockey we’ve played all year,” Williamson said. “I thought we got complacent after that. With a little bit of puck luck and some great goaltending, we were able to hang on for the win.”

At 9:20 of the second period, Kirsch snuck a shot through Bunz’s pads to put the Hitmen up by a pair of goals before Etem notched his second of the contest at 2:34 of the final frame.

A short time later, Bubnick drove hard to the net and fired a shot wide before following up on the play to backhand a shot into the net behind Bunz.

“I managed to get behind their d-man,” said Bubnick, who took a nice pass from Cody Beach to create the scoring chance. “I drew it from my forehand to my backhand and missed the net. It came off the end wall and then I just put a backhand on net and it found its way in.”

Sylvester then rounded out the scoring with an empty-net goal.

Hitmen win first of the season, 6-2 over Moose Jaw!

2010-10-04T22:37:00.001-06:00

The Hitmen were finally able to win their first game of the season last Saturday night. They played a fairly even first period (based on listening to the radio and checking the boxscore) with the Warriors. The two teams exchanged a couple goals a piece and were tied at 2-2 after 20 minutes.

In the second period, the Hitmen really took control. Cody Beach scored his first goal in his first game back from NHL camp, which based on the pbp was a very nice goal. It turned out to be the game winner.

Mackenzie Royer put the Hitmen up by 2 just past the half way mark of the 3rd. It seems the Warriors lost their composure at that time. Kendall Mcfaul, bite Kris Foucault in a scrum and was assessed a match penalty. Mcfaul has since been suspended for his actions. The Hitmen were able to fire home 2 more late goals, both power play goals.

Hopefully the win gives the boys some confidence, it was their first win period this year, preseason and regular season games. They are a much better team with Matt MacKenzie and Cody Beach in the lineup. Still will be interesting to see what happens with the overagers. Fisenko did not play Saturday night.

1. CAL Bubnick, (1) (Fiddler), 6:41 (PP)
1. M.J Honejsek, (2) , 10:40
1. CAL Fiddler, (1) (Kirsch), 16:42
1. M.J Hood, (1) , 19:59
2. CAL Beach, (1) (Clayton), 6:37
3. CAL Royer, (1) (Cheek, Wilson), 12:11
3. CAL MacKenzie, (1) (Bubnick, Beach), 14:57 (PP)
3. CAL Foucault, (1) (Beach, MacKenzie), 17:31 (PP)

Hitmen Name Captains, Co-Captains Once again.

2010-10-01T22:19:00.003-06:00

The Hitmen announced today that Tyler Fiddler and Matt MacKenzie will be Co-Captains for the 2010-2011 season. The assistants will be Jimmy Bubnick and one of Zak Stebner or Ben Wilson.

I know most Hitmen fans do not like the Co-Captain rotation but it really doesn't bother me or surprise me. This will be the 3rd straight year that the Hitmen will go with the Co-Captain set up.

As for the assistant captains, again I am not surprised that Jimmy Bubnick was given an A, he is one of the leaders on this team and lots is expected of him. I am very surprised to see Ben Wilson pick up a letter, it just shows his value to the team and how far he has come in a year. With Stebner picking up a letter, I have to wonder if the writing is on the wall for Kris Foucault. I'm not saying that the team cannot trade a player with a letter but I have a feeling that the Hitmen will keep Fisenko, Fiddler and Stebner as the overagers.

Fisenko Returns, creates a log jam of 20 year olds

2010-09-29T20:53:00.000-06:00

This one has me puzzled. Fisenko is a 20 year old import. He will be the 2nd import on the roster, Juraj Holly the other but the move now puts 5 20 year olds on the Hitmen roster. Kyle Aschim is out with an injury so that is one less move until he is healthy. But that still leaves 4 20 year olds in Fisenko, Stebner, Fiddler and Foucault. Which means another move has to be made.

I can't see Fisenko going, first off it would be very difficult to move a 20 year old import and I don't think he would come back if he wasn't "guaranteed" a spot.

As for Stebner, I am a fan of veteran defenceman in this league but I have to wonder if Stebner is the one to go, the Hitmen are short on skill and goal scoring up front which imo helps keep Foucault and Fiddler around. Plus the Hitmen are relatively deep on the blue line without Stebner. The Hitmen would still have MacKenzie, Rissling, Wilson, Kosterman, Berg, Lubin, Roach and Schmidt on the blue line.

So Hitmen fans, who gets moved?

Game 2-Hitmen 0 at Ice 4

2010-09-25T23:53:00.001-06:00

I listened to most of the game tonight, the Ice came out of the gate really strong and the Hitmen weren't ready for them. The Ice really controlled the game for most of the first 2 periods and probably sat back in the third period. The Hitmen power play went 0 for 9. Obviously, they will need to correct that if they are going to have any chance this year. It really sucks losing but the fact is Hitmen fans are going to have to be alittle patient here while some of the young guys get adjusted. There was some good news tonight as I read over twitter that Cody Beach has been sent back to the Hitmen.

Scoring Summary:
1. KTN Reinhart, (1) (Ismond), 1:06
1. KTN Martin, (1) (Ismond, Fraser), 3:56
2. KTN King, (1) (Boomer), 1:22
2. KTN Reinhart, (2) (Fraser), 11:25

Game 1-Hurricanes 5 at Hitmen 3

2010-09-24T23:36:00.000-06:00

Just got back home in Red Deer after the home opener tonight. The Hitmen absolutely dominated the Canes in the first period, they had lots of jump and some great chances to score but Anderson held his team in the game. After the first, the Canes were the better team and capitalized on their chances. I will add more tomorrow but I will say Anderson was way better than Snider tonight and Holly probably starts tomorrow vs the Ice. I really wasn't impressed by any of the kids, its only game 1 but the Hitmen have a long way to go. I will also try to get some of the videos up tomorrow.

Roster and it is Game Day!

2010-09-23T23:24:00.002-06:00

The Hitmen are really going to be hard pressed to score goals this year. Lots of pressure on the older kids up front this year, Fiddler, Foucault, Bubnick, Beach and Sylvester. I expect a good year from Justin Kirsch. The kid had so many chances last year but just couldn't buy a break. I am really looking forward to seeing this American kid, Trevor Cheek play. Apparently he is fast.

The strength is on the blue line this year and will be anchored by Matt MacKenzie was he is returned. Stebner, Wilson, Kosterman and Rissling round out the top 5.

If some of the young kids can step up in a big way offensively, I see them Hitmen in the middle of the pack but if no kids step up they might be in a fight for a playoff spot.

Current Roster, both Beach and MacKenzie remain away at NHL Camps. Hitmen open the season tonight vs the Canes. Lots of pregame festivities including banner raisings.

Forwards
Cheek, Trevor
Clayton, Chase
Landry, Neil
Lawrence, John
Reinbolt, Riley
Santini, Brendan
Skrudland, Simon
Trzonkowski, Rob
Kirsch, Justin
Bubnick, Jimmy
Sylvester, Cody
Foucault, Kris
Royer, Mackenzie
Fiddler, Tyler
Beach, Cody
Defencemen
Kosterman, Peter
Lubin, Keaton
Roach, Alex
Schmidt, Kyle
Wilson, Ben
Berg, Carter
MacKenzie, Matt
Rissling, Jaynen
Stebner, Zak
Aschim, Kyle
Goaltenders
Holly, Juraj
Snider, Michael

Ugly Preseason Comes to an End

2010-09-19T08:00:00.002-06:00

The Hurricanes beat the Hitmen twice in 2 nights to wrap up the preseason schedule. The Hitmen scored just 7 goals in 5 preseason games. The coaching staff really had no choice but to play the young kids early in preseason. For the most part, Williamson stuck with younger rosters as the veterans came back from their respective NHL camps.

The Hitmen have 5 days get things figured out. This will be a week to really work on systems and hopefully find some chemistry up front.

The Hitmen got Jimmy Bubnick the other day. Bubnick will be the go to guy this season. Cody Beach and Matt MacKenzie are still away at NHL camps, otherwise all other players have been returned.

The Hitmen picked up 19 year old forward Riley Reinbolt from the Warriors yesterday. Reinbolt has 10 points in 116 WHL games. I don't know much about him but I believe he fought Cody Beach in the playoffs last year and gave Cody several good shots.

In other news it looks like Justin Faux, who the Hitmen released last week, has caught on with the Drayton Valley Thunder of the AJHL.

More Hitmen Roster Moves

2010-09-16T22:00:00.002-06:00

The good news of the day, for the Hitmen, is that both Kris Foucault and Tyler have been returned to the Hitmen by the Wild and Coyotes respectively. They are going to be leaned on heavily this season for both scoring and leadership. Both will in the top 6 forwards. In my opinion they will not play together, at least to start the season. I think Jimmy Bubnick and Foucault will be 2/3 of the first line while Fiddler and Sylvester will make up 2/3 of the 2nd line.

The bad news...based on the Hitmen website it looks like the Hitmen have cut Justin Faux and Neil Landry.

Here is the remaining roster:
Forwards (17):
Brossoit, Brandon
Cheek, Trevor
Clayton, Chase
Kochan, Jordan
Lawrence, John
Santini, Brendan
Scott, Corey
Scott, Cory
Skrudland, Simon
Trzonkowski, Rob
Kirsch, Justin
Bubnick, Jimmy
Sylvester, Cody
Foucault, Kris
Royer, Mackenzie
Fiddler, Tyler
Beach, Cody

Defence (10):
Kosterman, Peter
Lubin, Keaton
Roach, Alex
Schmidt, Kyle
Wilson, Ben
Berg, Carter
MacKenzie, Matt
Rissling, Jaynen
Stebner, Zak
Aschim, Kyle

Goalies (2):
Holly, Juraj
Snider, Michael

Training Camp Update

2010-09-14T22:26:00.003-06:00

After falling 3-1 to Medicine Hat tonight, the Hitmen are now 0-3 in the preseason. The Hitmen have made a few changes. They have reassigned Calder Brooks, Greg Chase, Luke Gordon and Matt Hrynkiw. However there are a couple of new forwards in camp now, Jordan Kochan and Simon Skrudland. Based on reading the junkies site, it seems that Kochan has been around with a few different teams in the league but hasn't really been able to find a home. With Hrynkiw being reassigned, the Hitmen will start the year with 2 19 year old goalies. This is not a surprise to me but I wonder if Kisio keeps them around the entire year if things go south on the Hitmen.

Remaining Roster:
Goaltenders: (2)
Juraj Holly
Michael Snider

Defencemen: (10)
Kyle Aschim
Carter Berg
Peter Kosterman
Keaton Lubin
Matt MacKenzie
Jaynen Rissling
Alexander Roach
Kyle Schmidt
Zak Stebner
Ben Wilson

Forwards: (18)
Cody Beach
Jimmy Bubnick
Brandon Brossoit
Trevor Cheek
Chase Clayton
Justin Faux
Tyler Fiddler
Kris Foucault
Justin Kirsch
Jordan Kochan
Neil Landry
John Lawrence
Mackenzie Royer
Brendan Santini
Cory Scott
Simon Skrudland
Cody Sylvester
Robert Trzonkowski

Camp Ends, Preseason Underway

2010-09-08T20:18:00.001-06:00

Sorry for the lack of new posts on the blog. I got busy with a move and went back to work, which has been crazy. Hitmen camp came to an end this past weekend and here is the remaining 32 player roster.

Goaltenders: (3)
Juraj Holly
Matt Hrynkiw
Michael Snider

Defencemen: (10)
Kyle Aschim
Carter Berg
Peter Kosterman
Keaton Lubin
Matt MacKenzie
Jaynen Rissling
Alexander Roach
Kyle Schmidt
Zak Stebner
Ben Wilson

Forwards: (19)
Cody Beach
Jimmy Bubnick
Calder Brooks
Brandon Brossoit
Greg Chase
Trevor Cheek
Chase Clayton
Justin Faux
Tyler Fiddler
Kris Foucault
Luke Gordon
Justin Kirsch
Neil Landry
John Lawrence
Mackenzie Royer
Brendan Santini
Cory Scott
Cody Sylvester
Robert Trzonkowski

Camp Preview from Hitmen Website

2010-08-26T17:16:00.001-06:00

Nice article from the Hitmen website regarding some of the young kids trying to make the Hitmen this season.

Young guns:

Chase Clayton - F: Calgary's first round selection (22nd overall) in the 2009 Bantam Draft. Clayton attended his first Hitmen training camp last year as a 15 year old. The Abbotsford, BC native played the 2009-10 season with the Fraser Valley Bruins of the B.C. Major Midget League. Last year Clayton checked in at five-foot-10, 147-pounds and had high hopes for himself to be bigger and stronger come 2010 training camp. The Fraser Valley Bruins now have him listed as five-foot-11, 160-pounds. He recorded 11 goals and 26 points in 32 games.
"I want to elevate the speed of my game," he told the Calgary Sun last August. "When I come here next year to make this team, I want to step in and be an impact player. I don't want to be a sideline player. Hopefully, it works out. I'll be working really hard this year to make it to this level and be ready for it."
Keaton Lubin - D: Keaton Lubin was the Calgary Hitmen's third round selection (66th overall) in the 2009 Bantam draft. The six-foot, 174-pound 16-year-old is from Okotoks, Alberta. He spent his 2009-10 season with the UFA Bisons (Strathmore) of the Alberta Midget Hockey League. He tallied two goals and 17 assists and 42 penalty minutes in 35 games.

Robert Trzonkowski - F: This 16-year-old from Calgary, Alberta was an eighth round pick (155th overall) in the 2009 Bantam Draft. Although he was further down the list of Bantam selections, scouts say that Trzonkowski has potential to play in the WHL this season. Listed as six-foot-two and 187-pounds, this forward could be one to watch amongst the rookies. Trzonkowski played the 2009-10 season with the Calgary Buffaloes of the AMHL and recorded 12 points and 60 penalty minutes in 35 games.

Calder Brooks - F: Brooks played the 2009-10 season with Regina Pat Canadians in the Saskatchewan Midget AAA League had proved to have a very successful season scoring 21 goals and 16 assists in 43 games as a 15-year-old in Midget.

Who to watch?

Kyle Schmidt - D: Kyle Schmidt was selected in the third round (55th overall) in the 2008 Bantam Draft right behind current Hitmen defensemen Peter Kosterman. Schmidt came to the 2009 Hitmen training camp and impressed down the stretch however he was one of the last cuts made from the final roster. The 17-year-old from Waldheim, Saskatchewan went to play Saskatchewan Midget "AAA" with the Beardy's Blackhawks. The six-foot-one, 175-pound defenseman, had 37 points (10g 27a) in 44 games last season. Coaching staff and management will keep tabs on Schmidt in hopes that he has developed into the player they are anticipating.

Alex Roach - D: Alex Roach was the Hitmen's 11th round bantam pick, (224th overall) in the 2008 Bantam draft. Roach attended training camp last season as a 16-year-old and was definitely noticed by coaching staff and management. He was one of the last to be cut from the main roster. Since then, Roach now sits at 215-pounds and hopes that his size will be the push he needs to get a spot with the Hitmen. The Quesnel, BC native played last season with the Cariboo Cougars of the Major Midget League and picked up 21 points (6g, 15a) and 68 penalty minutes in 40 games.

Trevor Cheek - F: Trevor Cheek of Camas, Washington, has spent the past two winters in Phoenix, playing for the P.F. Chang's-sponsored youth hockey program. Hitmen general manager Kelly Kisio, spotted Cheek at a tournament last fall and soon placed Cheek on the Hitmen's protected list. Kisio said he liked Cheek's overall game and versatility. "He can play center or wing. He plays the point on the power play. He's a very good skater for his size, and he can shoot it a ton," Kisio said. The decision where to play next season wasn't easy. It took Cheek nearly a month to finally sign the contract to come to Calgary. By signing with the Hitmen, Cheek gave up his NCAA eligibility however he can still play college hockey in Canada. Cheek who is entering his 18-year-old hockey season, is a player who is expected to make a splash this upcoming 2010 camp.

John Lawrence - F: John Lawrence played 19 games with the Neepawa Natives of the Manitoba Junior Hockey League and was called up for 18 games with the Hitmen last season. The 1992-born Newdale, Manitoba native is listed at six-foot-three, 182-pounds and will be under the scope come training camp. He is expected to come to camp bigger, stronger and faster than what he showed last season if he hopes to secure a full-time roster spot this season.
Carter Berg - D: Listed as six-foot-four, 190-pounds, the d-man from Saskatoon, Saskatchewan played his 2009-10 season with the Melfort Mustangs of the SJHL where he picked up eight points and 91 penalty minutes in 47 games. Berg was drafted by the Chilliwack Bruins in the second round (26th overall) at the 2007 Bantam Draft. He was later acquired by the Hitmen and appeared in one Hitmen game last season. Berg will see his 18th birthday on September 4th.

Brendan Santini - F: Santini played with the Calgary Northstars Midget AAA fought through some injury trouble but should be close to being able to play. He scored 15 goals and nine assists in 29 games played with the Northstars. Hitmen scouts have recognized the talent in Santini and will be looking to rate his progress at this year's camp.

Jared Morris - F: This 1993-born forward played last season with the Pembina Valley Hawks of the Manitoba Midget AAA League. Morris led the league in goals with 36 goals and 68 points on the season. He will be closely watched and assumingly will be looking to make a lasting impression on the Hitmen coaches.

Full article right here.

Hitmen Training Camp

2010-08-20T09:53:00.001-06:00

Calgary Hitmen General Manager Kelly Kisio announced today the defending Western Hockey League Champion Hitmen will open their 2010 Training Camp on Wednesday, September 1st at Don Hartman North East Sportsplex (5206-68th Street NE).

2010 Rookie Camp Itinerary

Wednesday, September 1st

2:30 – 3:00 p.m. Player Registration

3:00 – 3:30 p.m. Meeting

3:45 – 5:45 p.m. Fitness Testing (Parents/Media BBQ)

Thursday, September 2nd

8:30 – 9:30 a.m. Practice #1 (Team White)

9:45 – 10:45 a.m. Practice #2 (Team Red)

11:00 – 12:00 p.m. Practice #3 (Team Gold)

12:15 – 1:15 p.m. Practice #4 (Team Black)

1:30 – 3:00 p.m. Game #1 (Team White vs. Team Red)

3:15 – 4:45 p.m. Game #2 (Team Black vs. Team Gold)

Friday, September 3rd

8:30 – 10:00 a.m. Game #3 (Team Red vs. Team Gold)

10:15 – 11:45 a.m. Game #4 (Team Black vs. Team White)

12:00 – 1:00 p.m. Goalie Session (All Goalies)

1:30 – 3:00 p.m. Game #5 (Team Red vs. Team Black)

3:15 – 4:45 p.m. Game #6 (Team White vs. Team Gold)

2010 Main Camp Itinerary

Friday, September 3rd

4:45 – 5:00 p.m. Player Registration

5:15 – 7:00 p.m. Fitness Testing

Saturday, September 4th

8:30 – 10:00 a.m. Game #1 (Team White vs. Team Black)

10:15 – 11:45 a.m. Game #2 (Team Red vs. Team Gold)

1:00 – 3:00 p.m. Game #3 (Team Red vs. Team Black)

3:15 – 5:15 p.m. Game #4 (Team Gold vs. Team White)

Sunday, September 5th

9:00 – 10:00 a.m. Practice (Team Black)

10:15 – 11:15 a.m. Practice (Team White)

11:30 – 12:30 p.m. Goalies Session (All Goalies)

1:30 – 3:30 p.m. Game #5 (Team Black vs. Team White)

Monday, September 6th

11:00 – 1:30 p.m. Hitmen Intra-Squad Game (Team Black vs. Team White)

You can find the entire article right here. Should be interesting to see how some of the young guys have progressed. There are probably lots of jobs open up front so that should make for a competitive camp.

Hitmen Schedule Released

2010-08-10T15:00:00.003-06:00

The WHL finalized the league schedule today, below is the Hitmen schedule. It will be nice to get the US trip over with early in the season. 25 of 36 home dates are on weekends or holidays which helps get people into the seats. 50 games broadcast live on the fan 960, which is big increase from the last couple of years.

Hitmen to host Pats in Outdoor Game

2010-08-06T08:35:00.003-06:00

The rumors were finally confirmed on Wednesday when the NHL announced the Flames would play the Habs at McMahon Stadium next February. Also in the rumor mill was that the Hitmen would get a chance to play a regular season on the outdoor rink as well. As it turns out, on Monday February 21, 2011, The Hitmen will play the Regina Pats at McMahon Stadium.

The rest of the information in this post has come from the Hitmen homepage, right here.

“The glorious opportunity presented by the National Hockey League Heritage Classic outdoor game provides a unique and unforgettable experience for not only our loyal Hitmen fans, but fans across the WHL,” said Hitmen President, CEO and Governor Ken King.

“We are extremely excited, honored and feel very privileged that the National Hockey League, the Calgary Flames, the Calgary Hitmen and the WHL have chosen the Regina Pats to be a part of this historic event, said Pats President Brent Parker. “We are truly looking forward to February and what will be a special day for our players and all of our organization”.

"The WHL is very excited to be part of the 2011 NHL Heritage Classic festivities this February in Calgary,” commented WHL Commissioner Ron Robison. "WHL fans will have the opportunity to witness this historic outdoor event which will be capped off with a regular season game featuring the defending WHL Champion Calgary Hitmen and the storied Regina Pats.”

Trevor Cheek will join Hitmen

2010-07-05T23:22:00.003-06:00

Another new face in the Hitmen lineup this season will be that of 17 year old American, Trevor Cheek.

Hitmen GM Kelly Kisio likes what Cheek brings to the table:

Kisio, the Calgary general manager, spotted Cheek at a tournament last fall and soon placed Cheek on the Hitmen’s protected list.

“We think he’s going to be a high-end guy for us,” Kisio said. “He’ll get a lot of playing time and have a chance to get drafted high (by an NHL team).”

Kisio said he liked Cheek’s overall game and versatility.

“He can play center or wing. He plays the point on the power play. He’s a very good skater for his size, and he can shoot it a ton,” Kisio said.

You can read the full article right here.

Hitmen draft 2 in import draft

2010-06-29T19:09:00.002-06:00

The Hitmen drafted 2 new Europeans today which likely spells the end to both Erik Haula and Misha Fisenko. With their first pick the Hitmen drafted a 17 year old forward, Dmitrij Jaskin, from the Czech Republic.

His stats can be found here.

He had decent point totals and looks to have some size.

With their 2nd pick the Hitmen drafted a 19 year old goalie, Juraj Holly, from Slovakia. Not sure whether he will come over and play but he is a big kid at 6'4.

Holly's stats are here.

A look ahead to the Hitmen 2010/2011 Roster

2010-05-30T19:16:00.002-06:00

After taking the last week off I thought I would get this out of the way now. I likely won't be blogging regularly unless something major comes up. So, lets breakdown the roster:

Graduated Players:
Del Cowan
Joel Broda
Giffen Nyren

Next year's overagers who have signed NHL deals:
G-Martin Jones
D-Michael Stone
F-Brandon Kozun
F-Ian Schultz
F-Tyler Shattock
F-Kris Foucault-Rumors say he has signed with the Wild.

Next year's overagers who could be on the roster:
D-Kyle Aschim
D-Zak Stebner
F-Tyler Fiddler
F-Rigby Burgart
F-Misha Fisenko-Also takes up an import position

Thoughts: I think Fiddler is a lock to return unless he gets a tryout somewhere and really does well for himself, I believe he is the next captain of the Hitmen. I think Stebner stays over Aschim because of Aschim's injury problems over the last year or so. Burgart is gone. I cannot see the coaching staff keeping an overaged enforcer on the roster. As for Fisenko, I would think he will turn pro back in Russia but if Foucault is gone, I would guess that the Hitmen would love to have Fisenko back to help out the offence.

Next year's 19 year olds:
G-Michael Snider
D-Matt Mackenzie
D-Ben Wilson
F-Jessi Hilton
F-Jimmy Bubnick

Thoughts: Michael Snider will get his shot at being the number 1 goalie this coming season, I think he is capable of being a number 1 as long as he improves on his consistency and rebound control. Matt Mackenzie will be the #1 defenseman this coming season and after his play in the playoffs, I think he is ready for big minutes. Ben Wilson got better as the year went on and found himself playing along side Michael Stone. He is a small kid who plays with a big heart. He will play in the top 4 next season. Jessi Hilton played just 10 games with the Hitmen last year before getting sent back to the AJHL. I would think he still has to make this team out of camp but if he does, he will likely be a 3rd or 4th line forward. Jimmy Bubnick will return as the #1 center on the team. He will be expected to be the offensive leader for the Hitmen.

Next year's 18 year olds:
F-Cody Sylvester
F-Mackenzie Royer
F-Justin Kirsch
F-Cody Beach

Thoughts: Sylvester took huge steps forward in the playoffs and became a very good player for the Hitmen, I think he will be on the 2nd line next year. Royer brings good energy to the team and could be a very useful bottom 6 forward. Justin Kirsch didn't play at all in the playoffs until the Memorial Cup. I like what he brings to the table, another bottom 6 forward for the Hitmen. Cody Beach is a pest, he likes to chirp and for the most part can back up his words when he fights. I see Beach bouncing between the 2nd and 3rd lines.

Next year's 17 year olds:
D-Peter Kosterman
D-Jaynen Rissling

Thoughts: I thought both players played very well under the conditions. For almost the entire year they rotated in and out of the lineup for each other. Both will be leaned on much more this coming year.

Rookies:
F-Chase Clayton

Thoughts: Chase had a very good camp this past fall and I would expect that if he comes in this fall, works hard, that he will find himself on the roster.

I didn't include goaltender Chase Komistek because I read somewhere that the Hitmen might have released his rights. If they haven't, he is likely the backup to Snider this fall.

Worst case scenario for the Hitmen is that they lose both Foucault and Fisenko. If neither one of them are back, the offence will struggle to score, more than what it is already looking like.

My roster:

Forwards (9):
F-Jessi Hilton
F-Jimmy Bubnick
F-Tyler Fiddler
F-Misha Fisenko
F-Cody Sylvester
F-Mackenzie Royer
F-Justin Kirsch
F-Cody Beach
F-Chase Clayton

Defence (5):
D-Matt Mackenzie
D-Ben Wilson
D-Peter Kosterman
D-Jaynen Rissling
D-Zak Stebner

Goal (1):
G-Michael Snider

I also think that the Hitmen will be looking for a new GM in the near future. During the Memorial Cup week, reports came out that current GM Kelly Kisio is a candidate to become an assistant GM for the Flames. Flames President Ken King confirmed that report on the Fan 960 late last week. Whether Kelly decides to move on is another story, though I believe he will.

Based on the 15 players I listed above, it is probably the start of a rebuilding stretch year for the Hitmen but then again, most people have said that the last couple of years. As of right now, the Hitmen don't have much fire power up front. I think there is a good chance that the Hitmen add a skilled Euro forward for next season. On the blueline, its not as deep as the last couple of years but I do think that it is an okay group. And in goalie, well its Michael Snider's time to shine.

Memorial Cup Final

2010-05-23T20:03:00.003-06:00

To no surprise the Windsor Spitfires have won the Memorial Cup. They didn't just win, they absolutely dominate the Wheat Kings in the final and won the game 9-1.

There is really not much to say about this game as it was a blow out early. It was very clear right from the first game that Windsor was the best team in the tournament and none of the other 3 teams really had a chance to beat them. Windsor is the best junior team that I have ever watched and have now won back to back Memorial Cups, what an accomplishment. I just think about how good the Hitmen have been the past 2 years and the Spits have been that much better, it is really unbelievable.

To no surprise, Taylor Hall has just been named MVP. The first player ever to win the MVP award twice.

What a great season of Junior hockey! I will be back in a couple of days to run down the potential roster moves for the Hitmen in the coming months. It should be an interesting summer once again for the Hitmen as there is lots of speculation that GM Kelly Kisio could be moving into the pro ranks with the Flames.

Memorial Cup Semi Final Game Thread

2010-05-21T16:33:00.008-06:00

Overtime:

Its over, the Brandon Wheat Kings have advanced. They were the better team from the 2nd period on. I'm shocked at how poorly the Hitmen played tonight. I will have a full recap later on.

Third Period Report:

More of the same from the Wheaties, who really deserve to win this game but Martin Jones is the only reason why we are headed to overtime. Robak gave the Wheaties the lead on a power play goal blast from the point. Misha Fisenko tied the game with about 5 minutes left in the period on a bounce off the glass. De Serres absolutely robbed Kozun late in the period but continues to look shaky in the Wheaties net.

I wish we could watch these 2 teams go back at again on Sunday. What a great rivalry this has become.

Second Period Report:

Well the Wheaties have brought they A game tonight. They absolutely dominated that second period and we are all tied with 20 minutes left to play. The Hitmen didn't do many things right that period and the Wheaties took full advantage. A couple of suspect calls just based on what teams have gotten away with up to this point. It will be interesting to see if the Hitmen get some even up calls.

The Wheaties transition game has been great tonight. Their transition game is probably their biggest asset and the Hitmen are allowing them to play that game with bad turnovers at their own blueline and at the Wheat Kings blue line.

I believe the shots were 21-5 for Brandon that period. De Serres is still a suspect goalie in my mind, get more shots, move the puck and move your feet and the Hitmen should be fine. But it is easier said then done. Kudos to the Wheat Kings for bringing their best game in a long time. 20 minutes, maybe OT to determine who advances.

First Period Report:

What a great period of hockey. Both teams generated scoring chances. The Wheaties had the better of the chances but couldn't solve Marty Jones, who made a couple of spectacular saves. The Hitmen got goals from Broda (2) and Schultz (1) 9 seconds apart in the period.

There was several big hits by both teams as well. These 2 teams are so evenly matched but Marty Jones was the difference again for the Hitmen. That cross crease pad save off of Calvert was amazing.

If the Hitmen are going to hold on to this lead they need to move the puck faster out of their own zone, the Wheaties are forechecking hard and creating some turnovers. Nyren didn't have a great period for the Hitmen.

More pregame notes:

From what I've heard on the Fan 960's pregame show:
Sounds like the Hitmen will start with the following lines:

Bubnick-Shattock-Foucault
Fisenko-Cowan-Fiddler
Schultz-Broda-Sylvester
Royer-Kozun-Beach

It will be interesting to see how long Kozie lasts on the 4th line.

Pregame update:

Thanks to Greg Drinnan, the Hitmen will scratch Justin Kirsch and Rigby Burgart for the game tonight.

We are just under an hour and half until game time. Obviously it is the biggest game of the year. What to expect tonight? Based on everything coming from Brandon, we should count out the Wheat Kings. There have been the report that the Wheaties practices have been less than stellar, that the team looks emotionally disinterested. That the Hitmen have a huge advantage because they have beat Brandon in 5 straight games, that the Hitmen are getting CHL leading scorer Brandon Kozun back in the lineup. All that equals a Hitmen win.

While I do believe that the Hitmen will win this game, I think it could be much closer than what the "experts" are predicting. The Wheat Kings are a very good and like the Hitmen, are playing for their lives. I think it comes down to 2 things. The first is Martin Jones who has been spectacular against the Wheaties in the playoffs and on Wednesday night. If Marty is on his game and makes a couple of big saves early, you have to wonder if the Wheaties get it in their heads that they cannot beat Jones. The second thing for me tonight is the first 10 minutes. Which team will come out and dictate the play? Will one team really control the first 10 minutes and come away with nothing? Will the teams exchange chances back and forth? If the Hitmen score early, do the Wheaties roll over and die?

I will be back after the first period. GO HITMEN!

Hitmen Notes

2010-05-20T21:23:00.003-06:00

The day before the Memorial Cup semi final was an interesting day for the Hitmen.

First came the news that Brandon Kozun will play tomorrow night vs the Wheaties in the semi final. Cody Sylvester, Ian Schultz and Kris Foucault are also going to be able to play. Sylvester missed the final round robin game due to an illness. Both Foucault and Schultz suffered minor bumps in that final round robin game but are good to go tomorrow night.

The second bit of news was somewhat surprising. Allan Maki reported that the rumors coming from Brandon are that Hitmen GM Kelly Kisio will become the Flames next assistant GM. You can read Maki's article here.

Rumours are starting that Kelly Kisio, the Calgary Hitmen’s highly-successful GM, will soon ascend to the Flames’ front office, where he will assist Sutter.

That would be a major blow to the Hitmen organization in my opinion. I understand that people move up in the world but Kisio will not be easily replaced. He is easily one of the top 3 GMs in the league, if not the best. It will be interesting to see how this all plays out.

Hitmen v Wheat Kings Game Thread

2010-05-19T19:15:00.004-06:00

Third Period:

The Wheaties were able to generate some good chances but Marty Jones shut the door. The game got chippy, as expected. First Wiebe and Foucault hit knee on knee with Foucault going off the ice in obvious pain. He came back out for a spin around the ice but I don't think he played another shift. Rigby Burgart cross checked Wiebe from behind a short time later and received a 5 minute major and game misconduct for his actions and as time was running out Jones went behind the net to play the puck. Matt Calvert came behind the net from the other side and stuck his stuck under Jones' skate and tried to trip the Hitmen goalie. Jones stumbled and a some minor face rubbing occurred.

A meaningless game that had some good flow in the first, a boring second, and some chippy play in the third. All that for the Hitmen to be the home team on Friday night. I would expect that Brandon Kozun will play for the Hitmen.

2nd period:

The 2nd period slowed down considerably and really that should be no surprise given the given and meaningless result that the game has.

There were a few good chances for both teams including a video replay of a shot that beat Jones through the 5 hole. The puck trickled towards the goal line and just as it was about to cross a Hitmen defender pulled it out of the net. The goal judge turned the light on but the video guys up stairs had the overhead angle. From that angle, who could clearly tell the puck did not cross the line completely.

The goal for the third period is not to have any injuries.

The second period is just under and all I can say is WOW. The Hitmen survived a good push from the Wheaties, thanks to Marty Jones who made a couple of real good saves. The line of Shattock-Foucault-Bubnick have combined for 10 points through the first period and were very, very dominate. Hard to blame Jacob De Serres on the goals, except for the first one, which was super weak. But he has to control rebounds better.

Hitmen v Windsor Game Thread

2010-05-17T18:48:00.004-06:00

Third Period:

It was game over 12 seconds into the period when Taylor Hall went in on a breakaway after a bad turnover by Giffen Nyren. The Spits would add 2 more goals on walk away 6-2. Martin Jones was awful tonight and will have to rebound if the Hitmen are to have any chance the rest of the way. I would be shocked if the Hitmen-Wheaties game means anything on Wednesday. I don't see how Moncton beats Windsor tomorrow night. This is it for recaps tonight as I am trying to get caught up in my marking.

Second Period:

Another real good period for the Hitmen, they continue to win most of the battles and were finally able to score a couple of goals. Unfortunately, Jones has looked real shaky tonight and Windsor had a 3-0 lead before the Hitmen got on the board. More after the 3rd.

First Period:

It is 2-0 Windsor after the first period but the Hitmen were the better team for most of that period. It was a rocky start for the Hitmen mostly because Martin Jones gave up 2 real soft goals. If they can continue to generate chances they will score a goal or 2 but it won't be easy coming back vs Windsor.

No Kozun tonight for the Hitmen. And in other news, Rigby Burgart and Kris Foucault dropped the gloves at the Hitmen morning skate, I don't know how much of a fight it was but I wouldn't make anything of it.

More after 2.

Hitmen with an Epic Comeback at Memorial Cup!

2010-05-15T20:11:00.002-06:00

Well it didn't start off very good for the Hitmen. The Hitmen didn't have any jump in their legs, looked nervous and couldn't complete any passes and to make matters worse, the Moncton Wildcats came to play. I was shocked at how aggressive Moncton was with their forecheck, always have someone on the puck carrier with another forward not too far away. Another aspect of Moncton's game that was surprising, at least for me, was their very good cycling game. That is typically not a trademark of a team from QMJHL but the Wildcats came out and played their game.

By the 14:11 of the second period, the Wildcats had built a 3-0 lead and were in complete control of the game. The first goal went in off Hitmen blueliner Ben Wilson, who drove to try to knock down the centering pass, but it went high over Jones' shoulder. The second goal was a nice move at the blueline by David Savard. Savard made a great toe drag and fired a shot through Marty's legs. The 3rd goal was a goal that Martin Jones would like to have back. It squeaked through Martin on a sharp angle shot.

The big turning point in the game, in my opinion, came with 1:08 left in the 2nd period. Tyler Fiddler was able to grab a loose puck in the circle, delay and then slide a wrist shot right through Riopel. That goal gave the Hitmen some life.

The 3rd period was all Hitmen and they were rewarded for their effort on a goal by Joel Broda. Ian Schultz came down the wing and found Joel Broda was on a center drive and in typical Broda fashion, he fired a wrist shot right under the crossbar to make 3-2.

The Hitmen then took a couple of penalties and with 11:12 left in the 3rd, Alex Saulnier was able to walk out of the corner and get it behind Jones to make it 4-2 for Moncton.

But the Hitmen didn't quit and started to take the game back to the Wildcats. With just under 7 minutes left in the 3rd, the Hitmen went to the power play. For most of the power play, Moncton was able to keep the chances to a minimum but Joel Broda was able to scoop up a loose puck and sent a back hand pass to the blueline and Giffen Nyren blasted home a power play goal to make 4-3 with 5:45 left in the game.

The Hitmen kept pushing and they were rewarding once again Kris Foucault's redirection off the post hit Riopel's pad and went into the net. It was a nice play by Jimmy Bubnick who worked the puck down near the goal line before making a great centering pass to Foucault. Tie game (4-4) with 3:31 left.

The Hitmen then got the bounce of the game. Jimmy Bubnick sent a puck around the boards behind the Moncton net, the puck took a funny bounce off the boards and came right to the side of the Moncton net, Riopel might have touched the puck with his stick but Tyler Shattock was johnny on the spot and banged home the go ahead goal with just 1:18 left in the third period. The comeback was complete, Hitmen win 5-4.

Just a couple of game notes:

1) Brandon Kozun hardly played in this game and it is very evident that his foot/ankle is not even close to a 100%, it will be interesting to see how this plays out over the next week.

2) The unsung hero for the Hitmen was Cody Sylvester. The Hitmen lost defencemen Zak Stebner, who returned, and Jaynen Rissling, who did not return, to injuries. The loss of those 2 defencemen forced coach Williamson to move Sylvester to the backend and he played very well back there.

3) Martin Jones was spectacular today. Sure he let in one soft goal and another one that he normally stops and yes he gave up 4 goals but he made a couple of unbelievable saves right at the end of the first period and in that period Jones was the only reason why the Hitmen were not down by 3 or 4.

4) Its a great way the start the tournament but the Hitmen are going to have to be much, much better the rest of the way. They play Windsor on Monday night.

Hitmen v Wildcats Game Thread

2010-05-15T13:58:00.005-06:00

Third Period:

I am absolutely shocked right now. I have nothing to say but WOW. What a great comeback. Moncton was the better team for the first 2 periods but the Hitmen pushed back in the 3rd and scored 4 times including 3 goals in the last 5:09 to complete the comeback and win 5-4.

I will have more thoughts later but the bottom line is, yes they won the game which they needed to do but they are going to have to be much, much better in the rest of the games if they are going to win the tournament.

2nd Period:

The Hitmen played much better than they did in the first but the Wildcats are excellent in their own, much better than I thought they would be.

The Hitmen still have stretches where they are just standing around.

The 3rd goal by Moncton is a shot that Marty has to stop.

Tyler Fiddler has just scored to make a 3-1 Moncton lead.

The first period is in the books with Moncton leading 1-0. The Wildcats really controlled the play that period and badly out shot the Hitmen 13-3.

The Hitmen looked really bad, probably because of nerves. Lots of missed passes in each zone and tried to be too cute a couple of times instead of just getting pucks to the net.

I am very impressed with how aggressive the Wildcats are. Their forecheck will cause some problems today and throughout the touranment.

Marty Jones held the Hitmen in the game that period and made a couple of great saves right at the end of the period. Hopefully that helps spark the boys.

Hitmenhockey.com's Memorial Cup Preview

2010-05-12T19:35:00.003-06:00

Hitmenhockey.com has done a good job of previewing the 3 teams that the Hitmen will face at the Memorial Cup. Enjoy.

Hitmen vs. Moncton Wildcats, Sunday, May 15, 1:00 p.m. MST at Westman Place, Sportsnet & The FAN 960

HOW THEY GOT THERE: After finishing the regular season with a 48-24-2-4 record, the Wildcats downed the Cape Breton Screaming Eagles 4-1 in the opening round of the QMJHL playoffs before skating past the Rouyn-Noranda Huskies in five games in Round 2. Moncton then dispatched the Drummondville Voltigeurs 4-1 in semifinal action before upsetting the top-ranked Saint John Sea Dogs in six games in the league final. Forward Gabriel Bourque, who won a silver medal with Hitmen goalie Martin Jones and forward Brandon Kozun on Team Canada at the 2010 World Junior Hockey Championships in Saskatoon, was awarded the Guy Lafleur Trophy as the playoff MVP after scoring 19 goals and adding 10 assists in 21 games. “He’s definitely someone you’ve got to watch out for,” said Kozun of Bourque. “He can put the puck in the net and he can set people up pretty well, so you’ve got to be careful of him.”

KEY PLAYERS: In addition to Bourque, the Wildcats have a host of other players who can put the puck in the net, including regular-season scoring leader Nicolas Deschamps, who missed the QMJHL finals after suffering a high ankle sprain in the series against Drummondville. Centre Kelsey Tessier led all Wildcats in scoring in the post-season, while defenceman Mark Barberio and forward Randy Cameron also averaged at least a point a game in the playoffs. Blueliner Brandon Gormley has also turned heads with his play this season and is projected to be a top 10 pick at the 2010 NHL Entry Draft. In goal, the Wildcats will rely on continued steady play from Nicola Riopel, who compiled a 16-4 record in the QMJHL playoffs to go with a 2.14 goals-against average, a .930 save percentage and three shutouts.

Hitmen vs. Windsor Spitfires, Monday, May 17, 6:00 p.m. MST at Westman Place, Sportsnet & The FAN 960

HOW THEY GOT THERE: Like the Hitmen, who battled back from a 3-1 deficit to beat the Moose Jaw Warriors in seven games in the first round, the Spitfires were facing elimination in the OHL playoffs before rallying to capture their second straight title. After finishing the regular season with the second best record in the OHL at 50-12-1-5, the Spitfires swept both the Erie Otters and Plymouth Whalers from playoff contention before losing three straight games to the Kitchener Rangers in Round 3. Windsor then woke up and won four straight against Kitchener to capture the series before sweeping the OHL top-ranked Barrie Cots in four games in the league final. Forward Adam Henrique finished tied among OHL playoff goal scorers with 20, including nine against Kitchener and five more versus Barrie, and was awarded the Wayne Gretzky 99 Award as playoff MVP. The Spitfires will be going for their second straight Memorial Cup title having beaten the Kelowna Rockets in last year’s tournament final in Gatineau, Que.

KEY PLAYERS: In addition to Henrique, highly-ranked prospect Taylor Hall, Calgary Flames first-round draft pick Greg Nemisz and talented offensive defenceman Ryan Ellis all played on Team Canada with Kozun and Jones at the 2010 World Juniors. Hall led all OHL scorers in the playoffs with 17 goals and 18 assists in 19 games and is projected by many to go first in next month’s NHL Entry Draft in Los Angeles. Blueliner Cam Fowler is also touted to go as high as third overall in L.A., while goalie Phillip Grubauer and forward Justin Shugg are pegged by The Hockey News to be picked in the second and third rounds respectively. At forward, the Spitfires also feature the likes of Scott Timmins, Dale Mitchell and Zack Kassian, while rearguard Mark Cundari is also dangerous as evidenced by the 18 points he put up in 19 playoff confidence.

Hitmen vs. Brandon Wheat Kings, Tuesday, May 19, 1:00 p.m. MST at Westman Place, Sportsnet & The FAN 960

HOW THEY GOT THERE: While they wanted to qualify for the Memorial Cup on their own merits, the Wheat Kings had to settle for earning a berth as the host squad after bowing out to the Hitmen in five games in the Husky WHL Eastern Conference Final. In the regular season the Wheaties finished second in the east behind the Hitmen with a 50-18-1-3 record before sweeping the Swift Current Broncos in the opening round of the playoffs. After a hard-fought six-game victory over the Saskatoon Blades in Round 2, Brandon beat Calgary 4-2 in Game 1 of the east final before the Hitmen reeled off four straight wins. Since then, the Wheat Kings have been practising while eagerly anticipating the tournament to get under way this Friday when they face off against the Spitfires.

KEY PLAYERS: The Wheat Kings feature one of the most dangerous lines in junior hockey with Brayden Schenn playing centre between Matt Calvert and Scott Glennie. Calvert and Schenn led the Wheaties in scoring in the regular season with 99 points each, while Schenn paced the Brandon scoring attack in the post-season by scoring eight times and setting up 11 others in 19 contests. Brandon also features the likes of Aaron Lewadniuk, Jay Fehr, Toni Rajala, Brent Raedeke and Shayne Wiebe up front and Colby Robak, Travis Hamonic, Alexander Urbom and Brody Melnychuk on the back end. Right winger Mark Stone, the younger brother of Hitmen defenceman Michael, is the highest-rated Brandon prospect, who’s projected to be a mid-round pick at next month’s NHL Entry Draft. Netminder Jacob De Serres carried the majority of the workload for the Wheat Kings this season, while Andrew Hayes will be ready to get between the pipes should his goaltending counterpart falter.

Blues Sign Shattock

2010-05-12T19:22:00.002-06:00

Congrats to Tyler Shattock on signing his with the St. Louis Blues.

ST. LOUIS – St. Louis Blues President John Davidson announced Wednesday the club has signed Tyler Shattock. The Calgary Hitmen forward was drafted in the fourth round (108th overall) by the St. Louis Blues in the 2009 NHL entry draft..

Shattock, 20, spent the latter half of his 2009-10 season with the Calgary Hitmen of the Western Hockey League (WHL) after being traded from the Kamloops Blazers. After the trade deadline deal, the 6’3”, 200-pound forward played in 30 regular season games for the Hitmen, tallying eight goals and 20 assists for 28 points and 26 penalty minutes, completing his second consecutive 30-goal season.

In the post-season, the Vernon, British Columbia native notched 17 points (five goals, 12 assists) in 21 games, helping the Hitmen capture the league championship, Ed Chynoweth Cup. Their title run has qualified Calgary to represent the WHL at the 2010 MasterCard Memorial Cup in Brandon, Manitoba. They will open their Memorial Cup schedule this Saturday against the champions of the QMJHL, Moncton Wildcats.

Full article here.

WHL CHAMPIONS!

2010-05-08T00:10:00.003-06:00

I will have more tomorrow and hopefully I can get a couple of videos up. But for now, thanks to the whl twitter feed for the picture below:

Americans Avoid Elimination

2010-05-06T11:42:00.003-06:00

The Tri City Americans played their best game of the series in an attempt to keep the series going. The Ams were able to score the first 2 goals and then hold down the fort in the 2nd and pick up a couple more goals in the 3rd for a 4-2 victory.

For the first time in this series a couple of things happened. First of all the Ams were finally able to get some pucks to the net and had lots of traffic around Martin Jones and the Hitmen net. Secondly, the Americans finally got a good goaltending performance, it was the first game of the series where the Hitmen didn't get an easy goal. Pechurskiy made 40 saves but lets face it, the Hitmen didn't get much in terms of quality scoring chances and the great chances the Hitmen did have, they missed the net. In fact, in the 2nd period alone, Ian Schultz had 3 2 on 1s and missed the net each time. All the talk will be that Pechurskiy was great but in mind he didn't have to be great but he was good.

I am not to worried about the Hitmen yet because it was a 1 goal game for well over a period and they really took it to the Americans in the 2nd period. In my mind, they just need to tighten up alittle in their own zone and get more traffic on Pechurskiy.

It is sure going to be nice to have a game 5 at home tomorrow night. I could see a real big crowd down at the Dome. If the Hitmen score first, I think the Ams are in trouble.

Hitmen win game 3, take a commanding 3-0 series lead!

2010-05-05T00:06:00.002-06:00

It was the must win game of the series for the Tri-City Americans and for the most part they played their best game of the series but it was not enough to beat Martin Jones and the Hitmen.

The Americans controlled the play for much of the first half of the first period. The had a huge edge in shots but the problem for the Americans was that most of the shots were from the outside, which led to few good scoring chances. The Hitmen opened the scoring on a nice 2 on 1 play. Jimmy Bubnick took a pass from Giffen Nyren, lost the puck just for a second got it back and made a great move around an American defender and feathered a perfect pass over to Kris Foucault who put it into the empty net. The Hitmen would extend their lead on a power play goal from Michael Stone. Stone took a cross point pass from Nyren and just let a shot goal. It looked like Pechurskiy stopped but it was behind him and in the net. The Hitmen put the game out of reach before the end of the first period. Cody Sylvester broke in on another odd man rush, Sylvester took it right to the top of the crease and it looked like was making a pass across the crease but the puck banked into the net off of Pechurskiy's pad.

In the second period, the Hitmen outshot the Ams but really didn't have too many great scoring chances but the story of the period was the defensive play of the Hitmen. They just continue to surprise me in how much they are willing to pay the price to keep pucks out of their net.

In the third period the Hitmen took 2 early penalties to give the Ams a lengthy 5 on 3. The Hitmen killed off the penalties perfectly, they blocked all kinds of shots and took away several more shooting opportunities by taking away lanes. Late in the third the Ams were finally able to solve Marty Jones. Kruise Reddick finished off a great passing play while on the power play. After scoring, the Ams pushed hard, came close to scoring but Jones made a great blocker save. On the play the Hitmen took another penalty but it was Ian Schultz who scored a shorthanded goal into the empty net to give the Hitmen a 4-1 win.

I think the shot clock is deceiving in this game. Both teams finished with over 30 shots a piece but the reality is most of the shots were from the outside. Yes, there were some in close plays but probably not as many great scoring chances as the high shot totals would indicate.

The Americans just cannot buy a break around the Hitmen net. They had some chances in close tonight but just couldn't get in the net.

The Hitmen have a chance to win their 2nd league title tomorrow night, it would be there first league championship since 1999.

Hitmen beat Ams, lead series 2-0

2010-05-02T15:42:00.002-06:00

The Americans played a much better game last night but it wasn't nearly good enough as the Hitmen scored the first 3 goals of the game and then really just shut the door on Tri-Cities.

Joel Broda opened the scoring on a great 2 on 1 rush with Giffen Nyren. Nyren had just finished a rush and was headed off the ice when the Ams turned the puck over near their own blue line. Nyren turned around took the puck down low into the circle and centered it to a wide open Joel Broda who just fired it past Owsley, who had no chance.

The Hitmen extended the lead on a goal by rookie defenceman Peter Kosterman. Tyler Fiddler sent the puck right across the ice, through the top of the slot, to Kosterman who just fired it at the net and some how it went in. There was lots of traffic but watching it live and watching it again on the highlights at whl.ca, it is a bad goal for Owsley to let in.

Just over a minute later the Hitmen extended the lead to 3-0. Brandon Kozun fired a shot that went wide on Owsley's blocker side, the puck went all the way back to the point on the other side. Michael Stone just got the puck and fired it at the net, Del Cowan redirected it past Owsley to make it 3-0.

The Americans were able to score their first goal of the series when Jarrett Toll sent a puck to the top of the Hitmen goal crease where Johnny Lazo was waiting. Lazo made one move on Jones and put it upstairs on the Hitmen goaltender.

Late in the third period, Brandon Kozun out skated an American defenceman, went in all alone on Pechurskiy, who made a great pad save but Tyler Fiddler was the next player to the puck and just put it into the empty net.

In a lot of ways the Americans played better, they generated more chances to score but Jones was excellent last. Marty made several big saves. The Ams also generated 7 power plays but were not able to score. The Hitmen cannot spend that amount of time shorthanded because eventually it will comeback to hurt them.

Early in the 2nd period, American forward Brian Shinnimin hit Brandon Kozun from behind, right in front of the Hitmen bench. Shinnimin received a 5 minute major and a game misconduct on the play. While I agree with the call, I would be very surprised to see Shinnimin suspended.

Game 3 goes Tuesday night. It is a must win for the Ams.

Hitmen run over Ams, lead 1-0!

2010-05-01T00:37:00.002-06:00

Game 1 of the WHL Championship Series wasn't much of a game on the scoreboard. The Hitmen scored 4 first period goals and scored 3 more by the final horn for a 7-0 victory in game 1. That is probably the best news for the Ams, the fact that is just game 1. They still have lots of time to recover but if they lay another egg like they did tonight, this series will be over quickly.

It was a dominating performance by the Hitmen but not in terms of high shots which lead to lots of goals. Instead, the Hitmen smothered the Ams offensive attack by slowing them down through the neutral zone and by getting pucks out quickly. The Ams never really got a chance to get setup in the Hitmen zone. The Hitmen defencemen would get the puck and either make a break out pass or chip off the boards/glass to clear the zone. That was actually a huge difference in the game. Offensively, the Hitmen capitalized on all of their good chances. And when they got setup in the Ams' zone, they would cycle it a long the boards for long stretches at a time. The cycling didn't always result in a scoring chance but physically, the Hitmen wore out the Ams. Tri-Cities will need to correct this quickly otherwise this is going to be a very short series. It is only one game but it looks like to me that the physical play of the big Hitmen players will wear out the Ams.

The Hitmen do not get very much respect for the defensive play but since round 1 they have been playing very good defence and it happened again tonight. I don't know if Marty had to make one great save, he just had to make one save at a time, few rebound opportunities.

I think tomorrow will say a lot in where this series is headed. It should be a closer game but in the end, I have a feeling that the Hitmen are going to go up 2-0. I really believe that the Hitmen remember last season's loss to the Rockets in the final and it is a huge motivator for them in this series.

1. CAL Sylvester, (10) (Schultz, Stone), 6:08
1. CAL MacKenzie, (5) (Shattock, Stebner), 9:12 (PP)
1. CAL MacKenzie, (6) (Foucault), 10:01 (PP)
1. CAL Fisenko, (5) (Cowan, Stone), 10:52
2. CAL Kozun, (8) (Fisenko, Wilson), 5:28
2. CAL Fisenko, (6) (Cowan, Kozun), 19:20
3. CAL Wilson, (1) (Fiddler, Beach), 15:12

Calgary's Bantam Draft 2010

2010-04-30T11:20:00.001-06:00

Alan Caldwell has done another great job in covering the bantam draft for all teams not just the Hitmen. Check that out here.

He has a good breakdown of all the Hitmen picks over the Junkies site here.

And is what hitmenhockey.com had to say about the Hitmen's first pick Gregory Chase:

The Calgary Hitmen Hockey Club drafted 11 players today in the 2010 WHL Bantam Draft including six forwards, four defencemen and a goalie.

With the team’s first pick, 22nd overall, the Hitmen selected center Gregory Chase from the AAA Bantam Sherwood Park Flyers. Chase had 77 points (42g 35a) in 33 games this season.

“We project Chase to be a top six forward in the Western Hockey League, so we were very excited he was still available 22nd overall,” said Hitmen Head Scout Brad Whelen. “This crop of prospects features a good combination of speed and skill along with defencemen who are going to be tough to play against.”

You can read the full article here.

League Award Winners

2010-04-28T20:21:00.002-06:00

We already knew that Brandon Kozun won the Bob Clarke Trophy as the league's leading scorer. But the Hitmen still had another couple players in the running for a majors award. Martin Jones was up against Calvin Pickard of the Seattle Thunderbirds for the Del Wilson trophy as top goalie. Hitmen defenceman Michael Stone was up against Tyson Barrie of the Kelowna Rockets for the Bill Hunter Memorial Trophy.

The results were one and one for the Hitmen.

Martin Jones was the winner of the Del Wilson as league's top goalie. Maybe this will put an end to some of the nay sayers out there, that continue to say Marty isn't that good of a goalie. Last round vs Brandon and this award states otherwise.

Unfortunately for Michael Stone, he came up short vs Barrie, but really, this was no surprise. Barrie is probably very close to being NHL ready and it would not surprise me to see Barrie in the NHL next season.

The WHL Finals open up on Friday night with game 2 going Saturday night. Not having seen the Ams play this year it sounds like they are very similar to some of the other teams the Hitmen have played in the playoffs. Skilled, small and speedy forwards. Should be an entertaining series.

Eastern Conference Champs!

2010-04-24T22:27:00.003-06:00

For those you read the blog regularly, sorry for not getting anything up this past week but I have had the week from hell. I got home on Monday to my wife telling me that we are having a baby but the doc was sending us for an emergency ultrasound. Long story short, we had an ectopic pregnancy and my wife had emergency surgery on Tuesday. She is well on her way to recovery but nevertheless it was a stressful week. But back to the Hitmen:

The 2 games in Brandon saw the Hitmen jump out into leads and then hold on to win both games. The big difference in games 3 and 4 was Martin Jones. Coming into the series all the "experts" said that the Hitmen had the advantage in net and outside of game 1, Martin Jones was the best goalie and ended up being named Eastern Playoff MVP.

In game 5, it seemed the once the Hitmen got the lead it was game over. The Hitmen continued to come at the Wheaties in waves and Brandon really lost their discipline and the game got out of reach. Obviously for Brandon, they will be in the Memorial Cup in 3 weeks time. For the Hitmen, probably a full week before facing either the Americans or Giants. I think the Hitmen have this thought that there is some unfinished business after losing to the Rockets in last years championship.

All pictures are from www.whl.ca

Hitmen-Wheat Kings Split Games 1 and 2

2010-04-19T20:47:00.002-06:00

The Eastern Conference Final got underway this past weekend. On Friday night the Brandon Wheat Kings defeated the Hitmen 4-2.

The Wheat Kings came out in the first period and really dominated and controlled the game. The Hitmen were fortunate to be tied at 1 after the first period. The second and third periods were much better effort wise for the Hitmen but they couldn't beat De Serres, who didn't have to make many great saves until late in the third period. Clearly, De Serres out goaltended Martin Jones in game 1.

1. CAL Stebner, (2) (Foucault, MacKenzie), 10:37 (PP)
1. BDN Rajala, (3) (Hamonic), 15:32 (PP)
2. BDN Hamonic, (3) (Glennie), 2:37
3. BDN Schenn, (8) (Calvert, Glennie), 9:03
3. CAL Broda, (9) (Kozun), 17:41
3. BDN Calvert, (6) (Schenn), 19:59 (EN)

Saturday night the Hitmen tied the series up with a 3-2 overtime win. Very strange game. It was like 3 different games all within 1. The first period was all Hitmen, they didn't dominate in shots but they sure controlled the play. The second period was exact opposite. The Wheaties took control of the game. The third period was a fairly even period with both teams getting a couple of chances. In OT, the Wheaties took those 2 penalties and the Hitmen were finally able to capitalize on a goal mouth scramble. On the penalties, the second one was obviously a high sticking penalty but the first one is debatable imo. That kind of hit should be called every single time but it isn't called every time which must be frustrating for the players and coaches etc.

1. CAL Fiddler, (2) (Beach, Sylvester), 8:23
1. CAL Fisenko, (3) (Foucault, Nyren), 18:51
2. BDN Ciarelli, (1) (Walker, Melnychuk), 8:50
2. BDN Hamonic, (4) (Rajala, Lewadniuk), 14:36 (PP)
OT. CAL Schultz, (6) (Kozun, Nyren), 2:23 (PP)

Hitmen beat Tigers in OT, advance to Eastern Final!

2010-04-11T23:02:00.002-06:00

The Hitmen overcame an outstanding goaltending display from Tyler Bunz and eliminated the Tigers in 6 games. This was the best game of the series as both teams finally had multiple chances to score.

First Period:
The Tigers opened the scoring just 2:45 into the game when Hamilton came down the blocker side of Jones, fired a great wrist shot that hit Jones up around the top of his shoulder on his glove side, Jones was unable to handle the shot, it dropped behind him and Emerson Etem banged home the loose puck.

The Hitmen responded just 38 seconds later on a goal by Joel Broda. Matt MacKenzie fired a slap shot from the blueline that went just wide. It hit the boards and came right back out into a maze of players and some how Broda was able to bang it through Bunz's legs to tie it up.

From that point on it was really all Hitmen. They dominated the play and once again were able to defend the Tigers perfectly. The Hitmen thought they had taken a lead on another goal from Joel Broda. Broda batted the puck down in the slot and it some how went in the net. The play was reviewed and ruled no goal. It was a very close review, in fact, I think it could have went either way.

Second Period:
The second period was an even period for the most part. The Hitmen controlled more of the play at least until the last 5 minutes. Again, the Tigers were able to get a couple of good shifts back to back. It forced the Hitmen to take 3 penalties in the last 6 minutes of the period. This included leaving the Tigers with a 5 on 3 to start the 3rd period.

Third Period:
The Tigers were able to take the lead on the 5 on 3 power play. The Tigers moved the puck around well, Linden Vey from the top of the slot blasted a slap shot that was stopped by the right pad of Jones. However, the rebound went right to Tristan King who put it into the empty net.

The Hitmen really poured it on and Tyler Bunz was very good keeping the Tigers in the lead. But the Hitmen got a late tying goal from Kris Foucault. The Tigers came out from behind their own net, I believe it was Thomas Carr, the puck was stripped away from him right beside his own net. Foucault took the puck and out waited Bunz who just went down, Bunz sprawled out but Foucault just held onto the puck and it into the empty net. A awful turnover with just 2 minutes remaining the 3rd.

Overtime:
This was the best period of the series in my opinion. Both teams went hard and generated scoring chances but at the same time were cautious and didn't make many mistakes or at least until 18:17 mark of the period. The puck went back into the Tigers zone, Bunz came out to stop the puck, he went to play the puck to his defenceman, unfortunately for Bunz, the pass went right to Kris Foucault who just turned a slide right through Bunz's legs. Series over!

It was an interesting series because for the most part the Hitmen really controlled the games. If it wasn't for Bunz this series is probably over in 5 games maybe even 4 games. The Tigers were not able to match the Hitmen physically. I was also impressed by how well the Hitmen were able to force the Tigers into playing a dump and chase game. Marty Jones continues to look shaky in the net. He just seems to be fighting pucks. In saying that, there weren't as many weak goals in this series as there was in round 1. Marty will have to be in top form in round 3. This is the 4th straight year that the Hitmen have advanced to the conference finals, a great accomplishment in junior hockey.

Tigers Claw Hitmen to live another day, Hitmen lead series 3-2

2010-04-09T22:52:00.002-06:00

The Calgary Hitmen found themselves in complete control of game 5 for the first 36 minutes. They were played their great defence again on the Tigers but the Hitmen couldn't manage to put the Tigers away in the 2nd period when they had 3 straight power plays. The lack of urgency is becoming a common theme in the series as the samething happened in game 3. The Tigers would ultimately tie the game before the end of the second, dominate most of the third, take the lead and then hang on to win 5-4.

The Hitmen opened the scoring on a Matt MacKenzie slap shot, a power play goal. The puck came back to MacKenzie near the blueline after Kris Foucault's shot hit the post.

Matt MacKay would tie the game on a Tiger power play just over 4 minutes later. There was a scramble for the loose puck just off to Jones' glove side, the puck came out to MacKay who snapped a shot between the 5-hole on Jones. Not a good goal on Marty.

30 seconds after tying the game, the Tigers sprung Zdenek Okal on a breakaway, Michael Stone hooked Okal, who was awarded a penalty shot. Okal came in and a nice move to Jones' glove side, raised the puck but Jones' was able to get an arm on it.

The Hitmen regained the lead when Tyler Shattock took the puck towards the Tigers net, he was knocked down, Bunz left a rebound out in front and a Tiger defenceman who had slid back pushed it into his own net.

The Hitmen extended their lead to 3-1 when Cody Sylvester banged home a rebound from a Giffen Nyren shot.

Late in the 2nd, after having no chances to score at all, the Tigers cut the Hitmen lead to 3-2. Scott MacKay redirected a shot from Matthew Konan. Konan just left a soft on ice shot go and MacKay tipped it right between Marty's legs.

3 minutes later the Tigers tied the game. Wacey Hamilton had the puck go in off his skate on a scramble to Marty's glove side. There was a pile of players in and around the crease and the Tigers were able to get right to the side of the net and the puck just ended up going off of Hamilton's skate to tie the game.

Bretton Cameron gave the Tigers the lead 7 minutes into the 3rd period. Cameron fired a wrist shot over Jones' glove, I am not sure Marty saw the shot.

The Tigers took a 2 goal lead when the Hitmen players jumped out their zone early but the Tigers were able to keep the puck in. MacKay was able to get it to Thomas Carr, who walked right into the slot and snapped a perfect wrist shot to the far side on Jones, his blocker side.

The Hitmen would get one goal closer when Giffen Nyren redirected Michael Stone's shot. It was as close as the Hitmen would get, although they did pour it on in the last 5 minutes.

It was really a lack of urgency that did the Hitmen in. The Tigers had nothing going on but they were only down by 2 goals. Medicine Hat killed off the penalties and were able to get a nice redirection goal and it gave them hope. I will be interested to see how the Hitmen respond to this collapse. Obviously, the Tigers will need to have their best game to keep the series alive. The Hitmen just have to think about round 1 when they came back from a 3-1 Moose Jaw lead. Game 6 goes Sunday in the Hat.

Hitmen rebound in game 4, lead series 3-1!

2010-04-07T23:33:00.004-06:00

The Hitmen scored 4 unanswered goals tonight in Medicine Hat and have put the Tigers on verge of elimination. The first period looked a lot like last night's third period and overtime. It was a fast paced period with both teams getting some chances. The Hitmen got back to playing that great defensive hockey that they had played the first 8 periods of the series.

The Tigers opened the scoring on the power play. They got the power play after Kyle Aschim was hit from behind in his own zone, there was no call on the play and apparently Giffen Nyren came in a roughed up a Tiger. On the power play one of the Hitmen penalty killers put the puck right up the middle but it didn't have enough behind the clearing attempt. Zdenek Okal took the clearing attempt and just fired a slap shot past Marty.

The Hitmen would tie the game late in the first (5 seconds) on a power play goal of their own. With 12 seconds left in the period, the Hitmen won the faceoff in the Tigers zone. They moved the puck back to the blue line where Michael Stone walked the line but instead of firing his slapper he sent a pass back to the faceoff circle on Bunz's blocker side. Stone's pass went right to Kozun who made a centering pass to Broda who snuck through Bunz.

In the second period the Hitmen had numerous power play opportunities but nothing came from them and it remained tied despite the Hitmen controlling the play. The Hitmen finally took the lead when Cody Sylvester finished off a 2 on 1 with Kris Foucault. Foucault was over by the boards in the faceoff circle, he sent the puck towards the net and Sylvester was charging to the front of the net and he was able to poke it behind Bunz.

The Hitmen extended their lead to 3-1 with just under 7 minutes remaining. Cody Beach and Cody Sylvester won a couple of board battles in the Tigers zone. Sylvester made a nice move to the left of the Tiger net and just put the puck on the net. Bunz was unable to control the puck and Kris Foucault banged it home.

The Hitmen wrapped up the scoring when Cody Sylvester put in a Joel Broda rebound into an empty net. Broda got the puck in the neutral zone and fired a wrist shot down the ice. Broda's shot hit the post but Sylvester was able to poke it into the net.

The Hitmen were able to get back to their strong defensive play in the final 40 minutes. They only gave up 9 shots in the final 40 minutes. It really comes down to this for me. The Tigers are unable to match the Hitmen's physical play and the Hitmen are forcing the Tigers to play a dump and chase style of offence and it is just not working. The Tiger forwards haven't been able to recover many dump ins.

Game 5 Friday night at the Dome!

Tigers Claw back to win Game 3. Hitmen lead series 2-1

2010-04-07T01:14:00.003-06:00

The game turned out to be the best of the 3 games in the series so far. For the first 2 periods and 5 more minutes of the third the Hitmen were able to shutdown the Tigers offence again. Martin Jones didn't have to make many good saves until the wheels fell off the bus.

The Hitmen opened the scoring on the power play. Brandon Kozun sent a pass through the Tigers penalty killing box to a wide open Giffen Nyren. Nyren just raised it over a stretched out Tyler Bunz.

The Hitmen would make it 2-0 on another power play goal. Matt Mackenzie sent a slap pass just off to the side of the Medicine Hat net, I believe it was Zak Stebner who tipped into the pads of Bunz. Bunz left a rebound out in front and Joel Broda popped it into the net.

The turning point happened early in the third period. The Hitmen got a lenghty 5 on 3 power play. They moved the puck around well and had a couple of chances to score but couldn't. The Tigers gained all kinds of momentum from the penalty kill. Just after killing the penalties, Mark Isherwood floated a puck towards the Hitmen net. The shot was going wide but hit Giffen Nyren and went into the net.

The Tigers tied the game on a 5 on 3 power play. Linden Vey slammed home a rebound from a point shot. The Hitmen would take a lead just over 2 minutes later. A Tiger defenceman pinched in but Joel Broda was able to chip the puck by him. Broda came in on a 2 on 1 with Kozun. Broda came down Bunz's blocker side, got into the circle and let go a great wrist shot high over the glove of Tyler Bunz.

46 seconds after the Hitmen took the lead, the Tigers would tie the game. Tristan King got the puck along the boards and through it towards the net, Emerson Etem made the perfect redirection and the game was headed to over time. In overtime, I still don't know exactly how the puck went in but Emerson Etem was given credit.

Game 4 is tomorrow night. I'm interested to see how both teams respond tomorrow night. Can the Hitmen get back to that air tight defence that the played for 8+ periods in the series or will the Tigers be able to use their speed as they did the last 15 minutes of the third period.

Game 2 results in more of the same from the Hitmen

2010-04-04T22:34:00.002-06:00

The Hitmen took a 2-0 series lead with a 4-0 win over the Tigers tonight. It wasn't the most exciting game I have ever watched, as both teams struggled to generate quality scoring chances, particularly in the first period. Medicine Hat was actually the better team in the first 20 minutes of the game. They controlled much of play but didn't muster many shots or scoring chances. But what they did generate was much more than the Hitmen who didn't play a very good period outside of their own. Defensively, both teams were good.

In the second period, the Hitmen came out with more jump in their step and scored the first goal of the game just over 5 minutes into the period. Michael Stone received a pass from Kyle Aschim, Stone walked over to the circle to Bunz's glove side and just fired a low slap shot. The shot made its way through all the traffic and beat Bunz between the 5-hole.

Just over the half way mark of the period, Tyler Shattock finished off a great 3 way passing play. Shattock had an empty net after Cowan fed Bubnick who made a move (more to get the puck on his fore hand) and sent the puck across the slot to Shattock, who had the empty net.

The Hitmen made it 3-0 in the third when Brandon Kozun pushed a loose puck between Bunz's legs. The puck was laying loose in front after Matt Mackenzie's slap shot hit Bunz, the Tigers couldn't clear the puck and Kozie just pushed it in.

The Hitmen closed out the scoring when Tyler Shattock picked up a puck cut all the way across the slot, in fact, he probably ended up close to the bottom of the faceoff circle and snapped a quick wrist shot over Bunz's glove.

Again the Hitmen didn't allow the Tigers to get going at all. The Hitmen have done an excellent job taking away the Tiger's time and space. The Hitmen weren't that much better offensively but were willing to get more dirty and get into the rough areas on the ice. 2 goals were because of plays right in front of the net.

Game 3 goes Tuesday in Medicine Hat and is a must win for the Tigers.

Hitmen win game 1, 5-2 over the Hat!

2010-04-02T23:35:00.002-06:00

Game 1 of the Eastern semifinal is in the books and it was the Calgary Hitmen who struck first blood.

The first period was fairly even for the first 14 minutes or so. Both teams skated well but really couldn't generate any scoring chances. Both teams played very, very good in their own zone. However once Kris Foucault's goal, on a goal mouth scramble, found its way into the net, the flood gates opened for the Hitmen. The Hitmen got their 2nd goal just 28 seconds later and scored a third goal just 3:06 later. The second goal came from Del Cowan and third was from Kris Foucault, his second of the night.

In the second period the Hitmen just didn't give up anything until the final couple of minutes. The Tigers got their first goal on a great wrist shot over Jones' glove and the cut the lead to 4-2 just over a minute later. Tristan King let a shot go from up near the blueline and it found its way through Martin Jones. It is a goal that Martin would like to have back.

In the third period the Hitmen once again just shut the door on the Tigers. It was easily the best defensive game of the playoffs for the Hitmen. Brandon Kozun scored the 5th Hitmen goal on a nice pass by Cody Sylvester, who has had a great playoff thus far.

If the Hitmen can play defence the way they did tonight, the Tigers are in trouble. I would expect to see a Tiger team who tries to use its skating in game 2.

1. CAL Foucault, (2) (Schultz, Aschim), 14:52
1. CAL Cowan, (3) (Bubnick, Shattock), 15:20
1. CAL Foucault, (3) (MacKenzie, Shattock), 18:26 (PP)
2. CAL Broda, (4) (Kozun, Stone), 17:09 (PP)
2. M.H Coyle, (3) (Kessy, Cameron), 18:25
2. M.H King, (2) (Okal, Kundratek), 19:28 (PP)
3. CAL Kozun, (4) (Sylvester, Nyren), 10:34

Round 2-Hitmen vs Tigers

2010-04-02T12:04:00.003-06:00

I was going to do a series preview but once again time as gotten away from me. the WHL website has a decent preview of the series, so here it is:

1) CALGARY HITMEN vs (5) MEDICINE HAT TIGERS

2009-10 regular-season record: (W-L-OTL-SOL, PTS)
Calgary: 52-17-1-2, 107pts
Medicine Hat: 41-23-3-5, 90pts

2009-10 head-to-head record:
Calgary: 4-1-0-1, 9pts
Medicine Hat: 2-2-0-2, 6pts

2009-10 head-to-head top scorers:
Calgary:
Tyler Fiddler 6gp-6g-4a-10pts
Joel Broda 5gp-3g-3a-6pts

Medicine Hat:
Emerson Etem 6gp-5g-2a-7pts
Taylor Gal 6gp-2g-4a-6pts

The Calgary Hitmen and Medicine Hat Tigers meet in the playoffs for the first time since the 2006-07 season. Darren Helm and the Tigers defeated Ryan White and the Hitmen four games to one in the 2007 WHL Eastern Conference Championship series.

The Hitmen advanced to the second round of the WHL playoffs after eliminating the Moose Jaw Warriors in a tough seven-game series that saw the Hitmen rebound from a 3-1 series deficit. Calgary’s offense may have sputtered early on in their first-round series versus the Warriors, but they found their game towards the end, outscoring the Warriors 18-7 over the final three games to win the series. Brandon Kozun may be the Hitmen’s leading point-getter in the post-season; however, it was the secondary scoring from the likes of Jimmy Bubnick, Cody Sylvester and Del Cowan that enabled the Hitmen to advance. Defensively, the Hitmen improved as the series versus the Warriors went on. Yet, they will have their hands full in trying to contain the Tigers’ speedy, shifty and offensively gifted forwards. Goaltender Martin Jones endured a rough start to the playoffs, but, like his entire team, improved as the series moved along. The 20-year-old has playoff experience on his side, and will need to be sharp and calm in the face of the Tigers’ dynamic offense.

The Tigers are in the second round of the WHL playoffs for the seventh time in the last eight seasons, and advanced to the Conference semi-final having beaten the higher-ranked Kootenay Ice in six games. Like the Hitmen, the Tigers had a rough started the 2010 post-season, losing their opening two games in Cranbrook by a combined score of 10-2. However, they rebounded by winning the next four games versus the Ice by a combined 18-5 score line. Offensively, the Tigers’ balanced attack helped them generate more than enough scoring in the first round, with 13 different players finding the back of the net. Emerson Etem led the way with four goals and seven points while a total of 13 players had at least two points in the series. Defensively, the Tigers improved greatly throughout the series, and surrendered only five goals in the last four games, combined. Mark Isherwood, Jace Coyle and the Tigers’ defense corps will need to be even better to contain a Hitmen attack that scored 31 goals in seven first-round games. Sophomore goalie Tyler Bunz was terrific in the first round, showing poise and confidence beyond his 18 years of age. He will have to carry his strong play into the series versus Calgary if the Tigers want to keep moving on.

Full second round preview can be found here.

Hitmen dominate game 7, come back and win series

2010-03-29T23:43:00.002-06:00

The Calgary Hitmen came out in game 7 and played Hitmen hockey. The Warriors fell behind early but couldn't stop the Hitmen on this night. The game went pretty much as I expected it would. In my opinion, the Warriors had to win game 6 or else they were going to be knocked out and that is exactly what happened.

The Hitmen opened the scoring and a great wrist shot from the glove side circle of Bosch. Sylvester took a nice pass in the neutral zone broke down the wing, hit the brakes in the circle, looked away from the net and then just snapped a wrist shot over Bosch's glove. The Warriors tied the game on another power play goal from Jason Bast. The Warriors moved the puck around well and Bast was sitting in the circle on Jones' glove side, Bast got the puck and fired a one timer behind Jones. The Hitmen would regain the lead when Jimmy Bubnick broke in off of Bosch's blocker side. Bubnick cut right in front of the net and I believe the puck was put into the net by a Warrior defenceman. Just over 2 minutes later, the Hitmen extended their lead to 3-1. While on the power play, Kozun got the puck back to Michael Stone at the blue line, Stone walked into a slap shot. The shot was perfect, right along the ice on Bosch's blocker side, Tyler Shattock was standing all alone at the side of the net and redirected the Stone shot behind Bosch.

The 2nd period had a few stretches where both teams were just alittle passive. The Hitmen were content on holding on to their lead. With just under 4 minutes in the period, Brandon Kozun banged home a rebound on the power play to put the Hitmen up 4-1. With just 14 seconds left in the 2nd, Jimmy Bubnick took a great pass from Kozie just outside the Warrior blue line and went in all alone on Bosch. Bubnick made a great shot from just outside the crease put a wrist shot up under the cross bar on Bosch's glove hand. Probably the nail in the coffin.

In the third, the Hitmen really sat back and the Warriors had a couple of good chances to score but couldn't beat Jones. They did manage to score a beautiful goal about 7 minutes into the period. Kevin Smith sent a pass from the top of the circle on Jones' glove side down to the opposite side of the net where Dylan Hood just tipped the puck into the net. The Warriors might have had one more good chance after that. The Hitmen got the final goal from Cody Sylvester. Cody Beach dug the puck off the boards on Bosch's blocker side. Beach sent the puck into the top of the circle and Sylvester just slapped it behind Bosch. Game over, series over.

The Hitmen took control of the series because they got back to hard work and they found a way to limit the chances that Jason Bast got. Bast almost single handily knocked off the Hitmen, had Moose Jaw gotten more from some of their other forwards, this series is probably different. Kudos to the Warriors on a great opening round, the future looks good in MJ. Hopefully the Hitmen are ready to battle the Tigers starting in game 1.

Trip down memory lane

2010-03-28T23:32:00.002-06:00

I thought I would share the youtube video of Ian Duval's overtime winning goal vs the Ice in the 2007 playoffs. This is from the last game 7 that the Hitmen played in.

We are just hours away from game 7. Lets GO HITMEN!

Hitmen Crush Warriors to force game 7!

2010-03-27T23:52:00.003-06:00

The Hitmen avoided elimination for a second straight night and seem to be finding their groove in the process. The Warriors got a huge boost when Quinton Howden returned to the lineup.

In the first period the Hitmen controlled the play and scored the only 2 goals but the Warriors had a couple of great chances but Marty Jones shut the door. The Hitmen got goals from Jimmy Bubnick and Del Cowan, it was the first goal of the playoffs for both Bubnick and Cowan.

In the second period, Joel Broda extended the Hitmen lead to 3-0 off a brutal turnover by the Warriors. Just a few minutes later the Warriors got a power play goal from Thomas Frazee. Giffen Nyren scored about half way through the 2nd to regain the 3 goal lead, it was a goal by all accounts that Jeff Bosch would like back. But from that point on, the Warriors really took over the period. With the Warriors pressuring the Hitmen, the Hitmen took some penalties and the Warriors made them pay. The Warriors got a power play goal with one second left in the 2nd penalty on a 5 on 3 power play. The Warriors made it a one goal game just a 1:23 later. It wasn't a very good period for the Hitmen and the intermission came at a very good time for the Hitmen.

In the third, the Hitmen got back to doing the little things. They were rewarded with a couple of power plays. Del Cowan scored his 2nd of the game early on and Ian Schultz scored a pair of goals before the game ended.

Marty Jones, despite giving up 3 goals, was very good tonight, in fact it was probably his best game of the series.

Game 7 goes Monday night at the Saddledome. It will be interesting to see how the Warriors respond and will the Hitmen be over confident or have they learned their lessons from earlier in the series.

Hitmen strike back in game 5, MJ leads 3-2

2010-03-27T12:08:00.002-06:00

It was the first must win of the series for the Hitmen, who are on the ropes vs the #8 seed Moose Jaw Warriors. The game started very much like the previous 4 games. The Hitmen couldn't catch a break, a had goal disallowed, a couple of questionable penalties (typical WHL reffing again) and a Moose Jaw goal late in the first period. But then the 2nd period started.

For the first time in the series the Hitmen played Hitmen hockey. Once Misha Fisenko tied the game for the Hitmen, the flood gates opened, the Hitmen had their work boots on, and the power play finally made an appearance in the series for the Hitmen. In all, the Hitmen would score 4-2nd period goals, 2 power plays goals, a shorthanded goal and an even strength goal on 11 shots in the period. But maybe more importantly the Warriors didn't really have a great chance to score. That to me was the key to the game, for the first time in the series the Hitmen looked good in their own zone. Sure there were some break downs but not the breakdowns of the first 4 games.

In the third period Ian Schultz added another Hitmen powerplay goal before the Warriors wrapped up the scoring late. Marty Jones made one or 2 real good saves but really was just steady.

1. M.J Honejsek, (3) (Stanton, Hood), 18:59 (PP)
2. CAL Fisenko, (2) (Schultz, Kozun), 6:32
2. CAL Kozun, (2) (Nyren, MacKenzie), 7:47 (PP)
2. CAL Fiddler, (1) , 13:32 (SH)
2. CAL Stone, (1) (Kozun), 17:00 (PP)
3. CAL Schultz, (3) (Stone, Kozun), 12:13 (PP)
3. M.J Honejsek, (4) (Smith, Reinbolt), 13:53

Game 6 goes tonight, in my opinion this is a must win for the Warriors. I don't like their chances if there is a game 7 on Monday in the Saddledome.

Games 3 and 4 Recaps, MJ leads series 3-1

2010-03-23T21:52:00.003-06:00

Last night the Hitmen played their best game of the series and ended up blowing out the Warriors 7-3. The game was wild and crazy with both teams controlling the play for long periods of time. For the first time in the series Warrior goalie Jeff Bosch looked human and the Hitmen chased him from the net.

1. CAL Sylvester, (1) (Cowan, Aschim), 1:42
1. CAL Schultz, (1) (Kozun), 19:08
2. M.J Frazee, (2) (Smith), 7:43
2. CAL Stebner, (1) (Shattock, MacKenzie), 8:10
2. CAL Fisenko, (1) (Schultz, Kozun), 17:11
2. M.J Bast, (4) (Frazee, Paradis), 19:07
3. M.J Bast, (5) (Edwards, Suer), 0:56 (PP)
3. CAL Broda, (1) (Foucault, Shattock), 4:24
3. CAL Sylvester, (2) (Bubnick, Cowan), 5:20
3. CAL Schultz, (2) (Fisenko, Kozun), 8:39 (PP)

Game 4-The Warriors came out with better legs than the Hitmen and jumped out to a 2-0 lead. The Hitmen would get close numerous times but always found ways to turn the puck over, a reoccurring theme in this series, and those turnovers continue to end up in the back of the Hitmen net.

Marty Jones is clearly being out goaltended by Jeff Bosch. It looks like Jones has no confidence at all right now. It doesn't help when Moose Jaw seems to be getting all the bounces as well. Tonight, the first goal by Jason Bast was a breakaway goal thanks to the puck jumping over Matt MacKenzie's stick at the Warrior blueline. The second goal was a dump in from center ice that hit something and went off Marty's pads and in the net. The Hitmen are getting very few bounces. But in my opinion teams make their breaks and the bottom line is the Hitmen are not playing Hitmen hockey. Not even close. I don't want to take anything away from Moose Jaw because they came into the series with a clear game plan and have executed that game plan but if the Hitmen play their game, I don't think this is much of a series.

The season is on the line Thursday night at the Saddledome.

Warriors Strike Again, lead series 2-0

2010-03-21T12:06:00.004-06:00

I am completely shocked after watching the game last night. The Moose Jaw Warriors, who only won 11 times on the road during the regular season, marched into Calgary and beat the Hitmen not once but twice at the Saddledome. As many fans and people have said, losing the first game can happen from time to time when the opposing goalie steals a game but last night was truly unbelievable.

The Warriors survived the first half of the first period, mostly because the Hitmen failed to hit the net on a couple of glorious scoring opportunities. The 2 chances I remember the most were 1) Joel Broda getting the puck on his stick in the mid-slot and firing a wrist high over the net on the blocker side of Bosch and the second was Michael Stone who had a great shooting lane but fired high and wide.

The last half of the first period was all Warriors and I mean all Warriors. Moose Jaw starting dumping pucks into the corners and sent 2 forecheckers in hard after the Hitmen blue liners. They caused all kinds of havoc and turnovers. The turnovers were very costly for the Hitmen.

Moose Jaw opened the scoring when Honejsek received a cross slot pass from Smith and snapped a shot between Jones' five hole on his blocker side. The puck just trickled through the pads as Jones got a piece of it but not enough.

The Warriors extended the lead after creating a turnover in the Hitmen zone. Frazee sent the puck into the high slot and Jason Bast fired a beautiful wrist shot high on the blocker side of Jones, who didn't even see the shot.

The Warriors took complete control of the game when Hitmen defenceman Giffen Nyren came out from behind is own net. Nyren tried to get away from Dylan Hood, but Hood stole the puck from Nyren right in front of the Hitmen net and put it behind Jones. It was the 3rd Warrior goal in 2:58.

The second period was more of the same, great dump ins to create several turnovers. The period also saw the Hitmen get very undisciplined. Sure, there were a few calls that weren't penalties but the Hitmen really didn't compete at all.

8 seconds into the third period Jason Bast came across the Hitmen blueline and let go another wrist shot, it beat Jones high on the glove side but it was a shot that the Hitmen tender had to stop and as a result it was 4-0 Moose Jaw.

Just over a minute after they fell behind 4-0, Kris Foucault finished off a beautiful play by Tyler Shattock. Shattock came down the wing on Bosch's glove side made a great move around the Warrior defender and sent a cross crease pass to Foucault who popped in the empty net. But that was a close as the Hitmen would get.

Jeff Bosch was solid but not spectacular. He made one outstanding save with about 10 minutes left in the third period. Bosch stretch out post to post and robbed Foucault with his left pad.

The Warriors stole game one but they were by far the better team last night which is absolutely shocking to me. It seems to me that the Warriors have found the "playoff" gear and the Hitmen are still stuck in regular season mode. This series is not over by any means but the Hitmen better starting playing Hitmen hockey or they will be knocked out here in round 1. Game 3 tomorrow night in Moose Jaw.

1. M.J Honejsek, (2) (Hood, Smith), 16:40
1. M.J Bast, (2) (Frazee, McFaull), 17:25
1. M.J Hood, (1) , 19:32
3. M.J Bast, (3) (Frazee), 0:08
3. CAL Foucault, (1) (Shattock, Stone), 1:07