Smalley Online

OCN Blizzard Game Day

2012-02-17T06:56:00.000-06:00

The 2011-2012 season won't be the best in Blizzard history but there is still plenty to like from this year's group. When they want to, they have treated everyone to some good, exciting hockey. At other times they have confusing and frustrating. But in the end they are playoff bound and for the 1st time in 6 seasons will have home ice in at least 1 playoff series. Now all that really matters is finishing strong and staying healthy. But make no mistake they want to still win their final 5 games and tonight they will get another crack at a team that has beaten them 4 straight times and realistically has clinched 1st in the division since way back earlier in the season.

The Blizzard enter play tonight with games left on the road, all in a row before finishing at home with 2. Their record entering tonight is 30-20-7=67 pts and could still match last year's win total of 34 but clearly have to go 4-1 to do that. That's not so important as being healthy again which slowly the team is doing. Last week they welcomed back Josh Elmes and Mitch Backhouse and could have 1 or 2 guys back tonight. The playoffs likely start 2 weeks tonight but who OCN facs remains up in the air. We know there will be no meeting with Dauphin in Round 1. That would have to wait until Round 2.

The Kings have had another spectacular regular season as they enter tonight at 39-12-5=83 pts and again have led the Sherwood Division from start until now the finish. They still can finish 1st overall in the league too as they trail Portage by 1 point. The Kings have 2 games in hand on the Terriers. Tonight is the Kings 1st home game in a while since they had to vacate Credit Union Place for the provincial Men's curling playdowns last week. Forward Jesse Sinatynski goes into this weekend with 56 goals and has 6 games to get 60. He hit the 50 mark 3 weeks ago against OCN no less and could certainly hit 60 against them too. The Kings have great depth at offense but a quirky stat is that Sinatynski might have 50 pus goals but not 1 other King has 20 goals. Mitch Van Teeling could/should hit 20 as he is next closest with 17.

Three Keys To A Blizzard Victory

1. Tighten Up The Penalty Kill

Last time these clubs met the Dauphin power play was a big reason they won both games, moreso in the 2nd game. Overall they went 4/16 or 25 percent in the 2 wins. It wouldn't hurt for OCN to stay disciplined either. The Kings just have so many weapons that the Blizzard really need to be strict on the "pk".

2. Have A Better 1st Period

Three weeks ago it was 2 lousy 1st periods that helped sink the Blizzard. They ended up battling back to be in both games, even in the 2nd game when they were down 3-0 and lost 6-3. But of the 10 goals surrendered in the 2 games, they gave up 5 in the two 1st periods. On the flip side they gave up only 1 goal in two 2nd periods.

3. Try Keep Sinatynski Quiet

This just in! Jesse Sinatynski is a pretty good hockey player leading the Kings and league in goals with 56. He scored 5 of the 10 Kings goals in the last 2 meetings and hey let's give some credit to everyone he has played with particularly Neil Tarnasky and Mitch Van Teeling. They are very good too. I've never hidden that I love the way Tarnasky plays and Marlin Murray called him a "beast" for how hard he works.

Special Teams Breakdown

OCN power play – 38/247=15.38% (10^th)

Dauphin power play – 65/317=20.50% (4^th)

OCN penalty kill – 269/319=84.33% (1^st)

Dauphin penalty kill – 242/287=84.32% (2^nd)

Previous 10 Games

OCN is 6-3-1 and on the road are 12-13-2-1 including both Showcase games

Dauphin is 8-2

Season Series (Dauphin leads 4-3)

October 1st @ OCN - The line of Hannas-Collins-Restoule combines for 10
points as the Blizzard pound the Kings 6-2 handing previously unbeaten
Dauphin it's 1st loss.

October 2nd @ OCN - Spencer Brennan scores twice and Matt Krahn makes 33
saves as the Blizzard again dominate the Kings, this time by a score of
5-2.

October 18th @ Dauphin - The Blizzard open a 2-0 1st period lead and go on
to beat the Kings 3-1. Garick Gray, Erik Pushka and Mike Collins all
score for the Blizzard who were outshot 41-25. Matt Krahn was easily the
games best player and the Blizzard penalty kill goes a perfect 9-for-9.

November 25th @ OCN - Despite a 1st period lead of 2-0 and 3rd period
leads of 3-1 and 4-2 the Blizzard win up losing 5-4 in a shootout. The
Kings have a strong 3rd period which sees them tie the game with just 43
seconds left. Mitch VanTeeling leads all Kings with a goal and 2 assists
while Denis Restoule has 2 goals for the Blizzard. Tyler Noseworthy had
the lone goal in the shootout.

November 26th @ OCN - Once again the Blizzard score 1st but they could
only manage 1 goal in a 3-1 loss. Mitch VanTeeling had 2 goals including
the winner while TJ Constant had the only Blizzard goal. The Kings
outshot the Blizzard quite heavily 42-27 to complete the 2 game sweep on
GLMC ice.

January 27^th @ Dauphin – The Kings score 2 goals in the 1^st period and go on to double the Blizzard

4-2. Twice OCN got to within a goal but could never tie the game. Jesse Sinatynski had 2 goals and 1 assist to lead the Kings. Erik Pushka and Gui Vallee scored for the Blizzard who were outshot 35-26.

January 28^th @ Dauphin. An even uglier 1^st period by the Blizzard as the Kings scored on their first 3 power plays and never looked back in a 6-3 triumph. The Blizzard trailed 3-0 but again tried to stay in the game getting to within 3-2 and 4-3 before a bad 3^rd period sunk them. Jesse Sinatynski had 3 more goals to give him 5 on the weekend. Neil Tarnasky had 3 assists and Brendan Kotyk did 1 better with 4. OCN's goals were from Gui Vallee, Kirk Chief and Erik Pushka.

Both games from Dauphin this weekend are on CJ 1240 starting each night at 7:10 with the Murray Dunn GM Pre-Game Show at 7:10.
Finally I would like to say a VERY BIG Happy 97th Birthday to Mrs, Evelyn Jebb who turns 97 years young on Monday. She listens to all Blizzard games and I know for a fact she gets right into games. So Happy Birthday Mrs. Jebb and enjoy the games this weekend and hopefully the guys give you 2 wins!

-Smalley-

Blizzard Have Gone To The Dogs

2012-02-16T12:15:00.001-06:00

Today is Day # 2of the Northern Manitoba Trapper's Festival and the Blizzard were helping out with the dog sled races and doing traffic control. Captain Dallas Drysdale aka DJ Daldry decided to try his hand at dog race reporting. Does he have a future? Ummmm I don't think so but you be the judge:

And how about assistant coach Curtis Brolund? I think these boys had better stick to hockey maybe.

Blizzard Secure Home Ice In Round 1

2012-02-15T10:25:00.000-06:00

For the 1st time since 2006, the Blizzard will have the luxury of home ice in a round of the MJHL Playoffs. With the Swan Valley Stampeders losing 4-0 in Wayway last night, the Wolvs have made the race for 3rd very tight now only 2 points back and those 2 clubs still meet twice more by Monday.

It was virtually a given that OCN would finish 2nd but now the question is who do they face and who do they prefer to face. A poll on here awhile back showed the fans (those that voted) would rather face Swan Valley. The last time the Blizzard had home ice in 2006 was in Round 1 and against Swan Valley. The Wolverines are the only current Sherwood team that the Blizzard have never met in the playoffs.

For travel, the Stamps are the better opponent and aren't as offensive as Wayway, but the Stamps also have Jayson Argue back and he can win a series by himself if need be. On the flip side, it would be cool to see the 2 First Nations owned teams finally meet in the post season and travel isn't too bad either at just over 4 hours.

Swan Valley now has 6 games left with 3 home against Dauphin, Wayway and OCN and on the road visit Neepawa, Wayway and Dauphin which isn't exactly an easy schedule.

The Wolverines also have 6 games left with 3 at home against Neepawa, Swan and Dauphin and on the road they visit Swan, Dauphin and Neepawa. Suffice it to say that neither team has an easy 6 games and those 2 head-to-head matchups are going to be huge.

-Smalley-

Blizzard Week Ahead

2012-02-14T10:57:00.001-06:00

Just 2 games for the Blizzard this week and hopefully this time around a double header that will be more exciting in Dauphin than the last time. The Blizzard face the Kings for the 8th and 9th times this season on Friday and Saturday, both at 7:30 and both CJ 1240.

The Blizzard had won the 1st 3 meetings but Dauphin has won 4 straight now. Dauphin and OCN will not meet in the 1st round guaranteed which is fine by me. The Kings should draw the Saints and the Blizzard the Stampeders who with a loss tonight (Tuesday) could do no better than 3rd place. Friday's game will be the 1st home game for Dauphin in awhile since they were excused from the D-Cup because of the provincial men's curling play downs. It'll also be the 1st in a whole week for OCN who gets a rare week off of game action this late in a season.

Games Left

Dauphin (2) - Both in Dauphin
Swan Valley (1) - In Swan River February 22nd. Stamps lead season series 4-3-0-1
Neepawa (2) - Both at GLMC February 25th and 26th (make-up game). Assuming the 26th game is still going to be played.

Walking Wounded

(F) Denis Restoule (lower body) feels better and is possible to return this weekend
(D) Nathan Bruyere (upper body) is 50/50 right now to return Friday
(F) Luke Hannas (upper body) is "questionable" and the least likely to play this weekend

Josh Elmes (lower) and Mitch Backhouse (sick) both returned to game action last Friday after lengthy absences.

Playoff Dates and Tickets

It's a safe bet that Game 1 of Round 1 will be Friday March 2nd or Saturday March 3rd depending on who OCN faces. As for when playoff tickets will be available, that should be announced sometime soon. If the Blizzard face Swan Valley then that will be a 1-1-1-1-1-1-1 format and would save each team some money. If they face Waywayseecappo however that could be a 2-2-1-1-1 series but also a chance it's 1-1-1-1-1-1-1 format. I know I would prefer it be 2-2 instead but that's just me.

-Smalley-

Blizzard Work Overtime For Win #30

2012-02-10T23:47:00.000-06:00

In what is becoming normal, the Blizzard need more than 60 minutes to get a victory and Friday night was no different with a 302 shootout victory over Swan Valley. It was the 5th win in 6 for OCN and the 4th in that span that was decided in extra time. Factor in the point for losing Wednesday and that's now a point in 6 straight and 10/11 overall.

At times the play was lacklustre but hey a win is win right now and the Stamps earning a point also inches closer, the chance of these 2 clubs meeting in Round 1. The Blizzard are 13 points ahead of Swan and the Stamps now 6 ahead of Wayway.

Spencer Brennan and Danil Kalashnikov scored both OCN goals while Kyle Smart and Tony Partridge scored for the Stampeders who have 8 extra time losses which is the same as the Wolverines. In the shootout, the 1st 2 Blizzard shooters scored, Kirk Chief and Jorden Iron. The Stamps used all 3 shooters but only shooter # 2 Kyle Smart, found the net.

Swan Valley outshot the Blizzard 35-27 while going 0-5 on the power play and the Blizzard 1/5. Over the 2 meetings this week OCN was able to kill off all 12 Stampeder man advantages.

The Blizzard are now 30-20-7=67 points and do not see action until next Friday and Saturday in Dauphin. The Stamps are in Wayway on Tuesday.

-Smalley-

OCN Blizzard Game Day

2012-02-09T23:51:00.000-06:00

The OCN Blizzard were shown again on Wednesday that if you don't play for 60 minutes, then a win isn't likely in the cards. The Blizzard weren't horrible in a 3-2 overtime loss, but they weren't spectacular either. And even though they control their own fate and should finish 2nd in the Sherwood Division, you can be sure that they want to win and show that they deserve 2nd place. To do that again, they are going to need a win or 2 over the Stampeders and it just so happens they have 2 left to try and take the season series and show a potential 1st round opponent that wins will not be easy now and maybe when it matters most.

Like the Blizzard, the Stamps also control their own fate as they have 8 games left now, 2 with OCN and 3 with Wayway. Getting the win on home ice upped their lead to 5 over the Wolverines who are on the road this weekend. At 23-24-7=53 points the biggest test will be playing 5 of their last 8 on the road. Maybe that's good though since the Stamps have won the last 2 games at the GLMC by scores of 7-2 and 2-1. Swan Valley has 2 players in the running for year end league awards. Goaltender Jayson Argue will battle Matt Krahn in both the MVP and top goaltender voting. Forward Justin Valentino, who had 2 assists in Wednesday's win, is up for top rookie. Personally I feel Valentino is a lock to win his award.

The Blizzard might have won 4 of their last 5 but they haven't been spectacular in 4 of those games. Still their best effort was in the 5-1 win a week ago tonight in Neepawa. Another thing is there has been lots of hockey played as 4 of those games have gone to extra time. Tonight is a chance to get some payback on their divisional foes and tie the season series and then end a 3 game losing streak against the Stamps too. Taylor Santorelli and TJ Constant both had goal scoring streaks stopped Wednesday. Santorelli's was 3 games and Constant's 2 games. It remains to be seen if any of the walking wounded will be back tonight. Denis Restoule, Nathan Bruyere and Luke Hannas are all still for sure out. Josh Elmes is doubtful for a return Friday.

3 Keys To A Blizzard Victory

1. More Shots On Goal Maybe?

The Blizzard had a decent amount of 26 on Alcide Grenier on Wednesday but their 1st shot in the 3rd period didn't come until the period was just over 15 minutes old. Grenier was very sharp in the 2nd period but gave up plenty of big rebounds early on but was tasked with only only 4 shots in the 3rd and none in overtime making it just 4 total in 22 minutes.

2. Go To Net More

Okay so this one plays off of # 1 but still there was not enough drive to the net overall Wednesday and had there been well then there could have been more goals too. It's not for sure, but how do you know unless you do it. It's likely Grenier starts in place of Argue again so the OCN knows what they need to do.

3. Get The Powerplay Going

With 2 bitter rivals playing big games and one playing for a playoff spot, you can bet there will be lots of power play opportunities. Swan Valley was 0/7 Wednesday and the Blizzard 0/6. Yes, credit goes to both teams' penalty kills for sure but even 1 man advantage goal by either team Wednesday and the game doesn't go to overtime. This game figures to be tight one tonight and even 1 power play goal could be the difference in this game too.

Special Teams Breakdown'

OCN power play - 37/242=15.29% (10th)
Swan Valley power play - 44/278=15.83% (9th)

OCN penalty kill - 264/314=84.08% (2nd)
Swan Valley penalty kill - 203/248=81.85% (6th)

Previous 10 Games

Swan Valley is 6-3-1
OCN is 6-3-1 and on home ice are 17-7-3

Season Series (Swan Valley leads 4-3)

September 17th @ Swan River - The Blizzard score the 1st goal early in the 2nd period and would hold that lead for over a whole period. But the Stamps score 3 times in the 3rd, one into an empty net to grab a 3-1 victory. Jayson Argue makes 31 saves for the win while Ryan Delorme played very well for the Blizzard despite the loss making 31 saves as well.

September 30th @ OCN - The Blizzard win a true goaltenders battle 1-0 in which they outshot the Stamps 37-20. Matt Krahn gets the better of Jayson Argue and Guillaume Vallee scores the only goal of the game early in the 3rd period.

November 13th @ Swan River - Jorden Iron scores 2 goals and sets up another as the Blizzard down the Stamps 5-2. Luke Hannas & Guillaume Vallee each have a goal and an assist and Denis Restoule sets up 2 as "20 year olds" finally bust out in a big way on the scoresheet.

November 23rd @ Swan River - The Blizarrd end up hanging on for a 4-3 win despite leading 3-0 after the 1st period with Josh Elmes and Kolton Baptiste each scoring on the power play. TJ Constant scored what turned out to be the game winner in the 3rd period. Ryan Delorme made 40 saves for the win.

November 30th @ OCN - The Blizzard scored 1st but the Stamps came right back with a vengance to win 7-3 on the strength of 7 straight goals, including 4 in the 1st period. Dylan Reimer and Kyle Smart each had 2 goals and 1 assist while Sam Briscoe and Ryan Elliot each had a goal and 2 helpers. Cody Zulyniak, Gui Vallee and Erik Pushka all scored for OCN who were outshot 33-30.

January 18th @ OCN - By description, a very slow and boring game by both teams which the Stamps won 2-1 to tie the season series. All 3 goals were scored in the 1st period, including Kirk Chief getting the lone Blizzard marker, his 1st in OCN colors.

Tonight's game is on CJ 1240 starting with the Murray Dunn GM Pre-Game Show starting at 6:40. Remember to buy your tickets for The Pas Rotary Club's NHL ticket draww tonight. There are still some available. Also, tonight's 50/50 draw is a GUARANTEED minimum of $1000. Blizzard/Stamps, 2 NHL ticket draws and a monster 50/50 payout, do you need any more reasons to come to the GLMC tonight?

See ya at the rink!

-Smalley-

League Award Finalists Announced

2012-02-09T10:50:00.001-06:00

Matt Krahn is once again up for top goaltender and league MVP as well.

The award finalists are:

MVP - Steve “Boomer” Hawrysh Award

Jayson Argue                   Swan Valley Stampeders
Matt Krahn                      OCN Blizzard
Jesse Sinatynski               Dauphin Kings

Defenseman - Brian Kozak Trophy

Yvan Pattyn                     Portage Terriers
Steve Sorensen                Winkler Flyers
Brenden Kotyk                 Dauphin Kings

Rookie - Vince Leah Trophy

Corey Petrash                  Winnipeg Saints
Justin Valentino                Swan Valley Stampeders
Tanner Jago                     Winkler Flyers

Hockey Ability & Sportsmanship – Lorne “Windy” Lyndon Trophy

David Conrad                   Selkirk Steelers
Derek Gingera                 Winnipeg Blues
Cole Brunet                     Dauphin Kings

Top Goaltender Trophy

Adam Harris                    Selkirk Steelers
Jayson Argue                   Swan Valley Stampeders
Matt Krahn                      OCN Blizzard

Coach of the Year – Portage Terriers “ Muzz McPherson” Award

Marlin Murray                  Dauphin Kings
Don MacGillivray             Winnipeg Blues
Blake Spiller                     Portage Terriers

Blizzard Winning Streak Over At 4 Games

2012-02-09T10:22:00.001-06:00

In hockey, it's pretty much a given that if you don't shoot you can't score. That was the case for the OCN Blizzard in the 3rd period of last night's 3-2 overtime loss in Swan River. The Blizzard did not register a shot on goal until the 15:30 mark of the 3rd. It's not the main reason they lost but it would be interesting to see what might have happened had they fired another half dozen shots or so on the Stamps net.

Jeff Bartel scored the game winner at 1:55 of the extra period to give the Stamps a much needed win moving them 5 points back ahead of Waywayseecappo for the 3rd and soon to be final playoff spot in the Sherwood Division. Between the whole 3rd period and nearly 2 minutes of overtime, so basically 22 minutes of hockey, OCN managed 4 shots on goal. That's just not going to work but hey they got a point and were always a shot away from winning the game.

Both Blizzard goals were scored by Erik Pushka (15th) and Kirk Chief (5th) as both guys continue to have very good 2012 point totals. The Stamps 2 markers were from TJ Fairall and Dylan Favell.

OCN was missing plenty of key regulars again with Josh Elmes, Luke Hannas, Nathan Bruyere and Denis Restoule all out. Those are guys that can really make a difference but the Blizzard were more than capable of winning last night without them. Elmes is the most likely to be back in the lineup Friday but that is likely 50/50 at best right now. The rematch goes Friday night at the GLMC at 7pm an can be heard on CJ 1240.

Post game comments from Jomar Cruz:

-Smalley-

Blizzard Stamps Pre-Game

2012-02-08T19:06:00.000-06:00

Here are the scratches for the 2 teams tonight:

OCN - Josh Elmes, Nathan Bruyere, Luke Hannas, Denis Restoule, Mitch Backhouse

Swan - Dalton Reimer, Jagger Thomas, Brett Charette, Jayson Argue

OCN Blizzard Game Day

2012-02-08T09:37:00.001-06:00

There are only a couple of things that have been decided in the MJHL playoff picture but where the OCN Blizzard finish is still not officially determined yet. Yes they are in the driver seat when it comes to finishing 2nd but mathematically they could still finish 3rd. But the good news is they control their own destiny and with a couple of wins this week they could essentially lock up 2nd spot. But they still need to play well and their opponent the next 2 games is right behind them in the standing and all of a sudden find themselves in a battle for their playoff lives and will be more than ready to give the Blizzard all they can handle over the next 2 games.

The Blizzard have won 4 games in a row, 3 of them needing extra time but wins are wins and are often very critical at this time of the year. OCN enters tonight at 29-20-6=64 points and still 13 ahead of the Stampeders for the coveted 2nd spot in the Sherwood Division. It is unlikely the Stamps will catch the Blizzard but again the numbers show that it could happen. Overall the Blizzard have won 5 of their last 7 and 6 of their last 9 so they are playing some good hockey and should they beat the Stamps twice in regulation this week, that should give them 2nd spot and finally a chance to relax.

The Stamps meanwhile are feeling the squeeze after Waywayseecappo has won 2 straight this week, including 4-2 over the Stamps last night in Wayway. The Stamps now are only 3 points ahead of the Wolverines and the 2 clubs will meet 3 times over the next 12 days. There is no question the Stamps miss Jayson Argue whose exact return date is not yet known. But at 22-24-7=51 points Swan Valley hasn't exactly been bad without Argue. They have been in most games and this young team is one not to be taken lightly.

Three Keys To A Blizzard Victory

1. Keep Playing Like Road Warriors

Again, it might be hard to believe but the Blizzard have been pretty good overall on the road this year, except a game in Portage, Wayway and 2 in Dauphin. At times, they seem more relaxed on the road than at home and find ways to win. They also have 2 wins in Swan River this year.

2. No Argue Doesn't Mean No Effort

Just because the Stamps # 1 goalie is out doesn't mean there is a win in the cards. The Stamps are generally a pretty young team but have been a good surprise this year. Sure Argue is the backbone and MVP but there are some young studs at forward who can find the back of the net with regularity. Swan Valley might be as good without # 29 but if you think he is the only good player on the team then a wakeup call will be coming fast.

3. Make A Statement

Over the years, regardless of records, the season series with these 2 is usually very close and no different this year. OCN should be considered the better team but with a 1st round meeting still very possible the Blizzard need to show the Stampeders that they are for real and will play like a more veteran team now and should they meet in the "2nd season".

Special Teams Breakdown

OCN power play - 37/236=15.68% (10th)
Swan Valley power play -44/271=16.25% (7th)

OCN penalty kill - 257/307=83.7%
Swan Valley penalty kill - 197/242=(7th)

Previous 10 Games

OCN is 6-4 and on the road are 12-13-2-1 including both Showcase games.
Swan Valley is 6-3-1

Season Series (Tied at 3-3)

September 17th @ Swan River - The Blizzard score the 1st goal early in the 2nd period and would hold that lead for over a whole period. But the Stamps score 3 times in the 3rd, one into an empty net to grab a 3-1 victory. Jayson Argue makes 31 saves for the win while Ryan Delorme played very well for the Blizzard despite the loss making 31 saves as well.

September 30th @ OCN - The Blizzard win a true goaltenders battle 1-0 in which they outshot the Stamps 37-20. Matt Krahn gets the better of Jayson Argue and Guillaume Vallee scores the only goal of the game early in the 3rd period.

November 13th @ Swan River - Jorden Iron scores 2 goals and sets up another as the Blizzard down the Stamps 5-2. Luke Hannas & Guillaume Vallee each have a goal and an assist and Denis Restoule sets up 2 as "20 year olds" finally bust out in a big way on the scoresheet.

November 23rd @ Swan River - The Blizarrd end up hanging on for a 4-3 win despite leading 3-0 after the 1st period with Josh Elmes and Kolton Baptiste each scoring on the power play. TJ Constant scored what turned out to be the game winner in the 3rd period. Ryan Delorme made 40 saves for the win.

November 30th @ OCN - The Blizzard scored 1st but the Stamps came right back with a vengance to win 7-3 on the strength of 7 straight goals, including 4 in the 1st period. Dylan Reimer and Kyle Smart each had 2 goals and 1 assist while Sam Briscoe and Ryan Elliot each had a goal and 2 helpers. Cody Zulyniak, Gui Vallee and Erik Pushka all scored for OCN who were outshot 33-30.

January 18th @ OCN - By description, a very slow and boring game by both teams which the Stamps won 2-1 to tie the season series. All 3 goals were scored in the 1st period, including Kirk Chief getting the lone Blizzard marker, his 1st in OCN colors.

Tonight's game is on CJ 1240 starting with the Murray Dunn GM Pre-Game Show at 7:10 and puck drop at 7:30. Don't forget to buy your tickets to see the Jets and Flyers in Winnipeg February 21st. The draw is Friday night during the rematch! Also remember to pick up your "Rumble On The Rez Tickets" for the MMA event at the GLMC on Saturday night!

-Smalley-

A Streaky Bunch, Those Blizzard Are

2012-02-07T11:11:00.001-06:00

Okay, so we all know that the Blizzard have been pretty streaky when it comes to wins and losses this season. We need not look further than going 1-4 against Steinbach but then 7-0 against Neepawa. Also, OCN started 3-0 against Dauphin but now have dropped 4 straight to the division leaders.

But over the last week I have had people ask me who is the hottest player in terms of points. So I did a little digging and came up with a list and yes, some younger players are doing their fair share but some vets have been up there too while others have struggled. With that in mind, here is a list of some players who contributed to the scoresheet in heavy fashion over the last 10 games. I have listed them in order of points, but feel free to discuss who you are most or least impressed with. Criticism is fine but be constructive and rationale please!

Erik Pushka - "Push" has been the best player in terms of points scoring 6 times and adding 3 assists. The scary thing is he is far from hitting his peak. Play away from the puck has been inconsistent and the coaches will tell you that. But he is only 18 and after an early sophomore slump has taken off in 2012.

Gui Vallee - Another player who started really slow and maybe didn't have a strong 1st half. But Gui has been better lately with 5 goals and 3 assists in the last 10 games. He is a vocal leader and is passionate about this team going far. I have really liked his play overall lately.

Danil Kalashnikov - Dan is the epitome of hard work with maybe 1 bad game in Blizzard colors. He has 2 goals and 5 assists over 10 games. He has fit in nicely, is easy to talk to and is the epitome of hard work. Plenty of guys bust their butts on this team, night in and night out, but there might not be a harder worker than # 11. And I'll repeat, this is no slight on others like say Chief, Santorelli and Brennan to name a few.

Denis Restoule - Just 2 goals since Christmas but has added 6 assists. Has Denis been perfect? No, but he still leads the team in goals and points and okay penalty minutes too. He puts immense pressure on himself and I know because I billet him. So I know he wants to be better. Like Kalashnikov, he is really built for grinding playoff hockey.

Dallas Drysdale - Being a captain is no easy task in this community but Drysdale handles it fine. You know what you get from him all the time and he can really control the pace of the game when effective. He has 6 assists in 10 games and his point totals are very good despite missing significant time again with injury.

Kirk Chief - Right now in terms of work ethic, "Kirkland" is one the most consistent. Players, coaches and even myself saw ability in him from the get go. He struggled early which a rookie is allowed to do, but with 4 goals and 1 assist over the last 10 games we are starting to see the potential in full force.

Jorden Iron - He has 2 goals and 3 assists in 10 games but his effort at both ends of the ice has been better and has also been one of the more consistent 20 year olds lately at both ends of the ice. Sees the ice well and passes as well as anyone. Has started shooting more and his 2012 has impressed me so far.

Darien Cardinal - Has 5 assists in 10 games but work ethic is also very encouraging. It took Darien awhile to get used to playing here but has chemistry with whomever he plays with. Lots of potential still there but his play lately certainly has been encouraging.

Taylor Santorelli - Pushka had a goal in 5 straight games and now Taylor is near that mark with a goal in 3 straight contests. He was a healthy scratch last Wednesday otherwise it could be 4. He too works his but off and how often do you see him take a shift off or make a mistake? Almost never. Has been very good in 2012 as well.

TJ Constant - Always have and always will be a big supporter of "Teej". Has been in a funk lately with 3 goals and 1 assist but he plays at home, has huge pressure on his shoulders and I know deep down is still a little jaded not sticking in the WHL. But he has a goal in 2 straight games and Saturday's shorthanded marker was huge to tie the game in the 3rd period. When he is hot, he is red hot. Better to slump now than in the playoffs. Almost always, is the 1st guy at the rink and there might not be a player who puts more pressure on himself than # 19.

-Smalley-

OCN Blizzard Game Day

2012-02-04T04:38:00.001-06:00

The OCN Blizzard kept their perfect week intact with a 5-1 over Neepawa on Friday night and in turn ran their winning streak to a stellar 14 games over the Natives. They scored a goal in the 1^st, 3 in the 2^nd and 1 more in the 3^rd period to go to 3-0 this week. Tonight they have a chance to finish this week with 4 wins and most importantly get some pay back on a team that might be at the bottom of a division but a team that is a perfect 4-0 against OCN this season, and the only team the Blizzard have not yet beaten this season.

The Steinbach Pistons come to the GLMC tonight after a 6-2 loss in Swan River on Friday and sadly for the Pistons it is indeed waiting until next year once again. It has become a long season for them with the difficult task of playing in such a tough division as the Addison is this year. Steinbach enters tonight at 15-34-5=35 pts, a full 20 points behind the Winnipeg Saints who appear destined for the crossover spot into the Sherwood Division. Brock Genyk is the Pistons leading scorer with 11 goals and 27 assists.

As for the Blizzard, they enter tonight at 28-20-6=62 pts and this game with Steinbach is the final game against an Addison Division opponent. The Blizzard have 2 wins exactly against every Addison team except the Pistons of course...go figure! OCN can potentially move 2 points further ahead of Swan Valley should they win tonight and the Stamps lose to Dauphin. Denis Restoule left the game in Neepawa last night and his status for tonight is not know as of Saturday morning. Erik Pushka saw his 5 game goal scoring streak come to end in Friday's game and TJ Constant had his 1^st goal in quite a few games last night and is tied with Pushka for 3^rd in team scoring at 34 points.

Three Keys To A Blizzard Victory

1. Don't Worry About The Record Against Steinbach

The record against Steinbach is bad and the efforts against them have been even worse but tonight is a chance to right some wrongs. The Pistons might be in the heads of the Blizzard players enough to affect them but it's up to the Blizzard to control this game. They are better now than earlier this season and the Pistons are worse.

2. Win The Special Teams Battles

This is an area where Steinbach has been better in head to head meetings even though now their special teams are at the bottom of the league. So therefore if OCN can stay disciplined and make Steinbach pay on their penalties, then this will be a big area to watch. Remember though in that 8-2 debacle in Steinbach, the Pistons went 4/7 on the powerplay and scored shorthanded too.

3. Come Ready To Play And Do It For 60 Minutes

This sort of plays off of # 1 but the difference being that the Blizzard have won their 1^st 3 this week and might assume # 4 will come easy being against the Pistons and at the GLMC. They should know nothing will be easy and good first few minutes and ultimately solid 1^st period will go a long way to showing how prepared they really are.

Special Teams Breakdown

OCNpower play – 37/232=15.95% (9^th)

Steinbachpower play – 4//255=15.69% (10^th)

OCNpenalty kill – 255/304=83.88% (4^th)

Steinbachpenalty kill – 206/272=75.74% (11^th)

Previous10 Games

OCNis 5-5 and on home ice are 16-7-3

Steinbachis 2-8

Season Series (Steinbach has won and leads 4-0)

September24th @ OCN - A tight game through periods, the Pistons score 2 goalsin the 3rd to open up 4-1 lead and win the game. Steinbach has 4different players score a goal and despite being outshot 30-17 pickup their 1st ever win in the GLMC. October 8th @ Winnipeg(Showcase) - Brock Genyk scores 2 goals and the Pistons outshoot theBlizzard 33-30 to eke out a 3-2 victory. Mike Collins scores both OCNgoals as the Blizzard again fail to put forth a complete effortagainst Steinbach. October 28th @ Steinbach - Marcus Dahlscores 2 goals and Dennis Bosc scores a goal and adds 2 assists asthe Pistons destroy the Blizzard 8-2. The Pistons go 4/7 on thepower play and score a shorthanded goal as well. Next to the7-0 loss in Wayway, this is possibly the worst loss of the season todate by OCN.

November18^th@ Steinbach – The Blizzard score a power play goal just 1:05 intothe game but not much went right after that as the Pistons edged theBlizzard 3-2 for their 4^thstraight win against OCN. 2 second period goals by Steinbach werethe difference in the game and they outshot the Blizzard 35-33.

Tonight's game is on CJ 1240 starting with the Murray Dunn GM Pre-Game Show at 6:40 and puckdrop at 7pm.

See ya at the rink!

-Smalley-

OCN Blizzard Game Day

2012-02-03T01:09:00.000-06:00

The OCN Blizzard have had a good start to their week after a pair of thrilling extra time wins over Waywayseecappo. Not the best efforts from start to finish but the Blizzard found ways to win and that's most important. The next 2 nights sees them play the leagues 2 bottom clubs but nothing is going to easy. The Blizzard know that and they better be ready to play starting tonight against a club they have beaten a whopping 13 straight times.

Yes it might still be hard to believe sometimes but the Blizzard have defeated the Neepawa Natives in 13 straight games going back to November of 2011. Most games have been quite tight and a break or 2 the other way and Neepawa could have had their share of wins. The Blizzard enter tonight at 27-20-6=60 pts which now sees them 11 points clear of Swan Valley. The hottest Blizzard player is Erik Pushka who scored the overtime winner Wednesday to make it 5 straight games with a goal. Certainly he'd give credit to Danil Kalashnikov who has set him up a few times as the chemistry has rock solid between the 2. Tonight is the final meeting in Neepawa between these clubs with 2 more left at the GLMC, one being the make up game from December 18th.

The Natives might have a league low 23 points but in typical Neepawa fashion you can expect a tight, hard-working battle them. At 10-37-3=23 pts we all know the Natives won't make the playoffs but to the players there they'll treat every game like a playoff one. They may have lost 13 straight to OCN, but that streak is going to end sometime. 20 year old forward Dylan Dock leads the team in points with 32, while Derrick Brooks has the team lead in goals in with 15. As a fan and major supporter of goaltenders, I am really hoping Alex Henry will get a win this season. He is 0-18 but certainly doesn't play like one. Here's hoping he gets some wins but just maybe not tonight.

Three Blizzard Keys To A Victory

1. Don't Assume It'll Be Guaranteed Win Night

Maybe the Blizzard should win this game but to assume they will won't work. The last 2 games in Neepawa the Blizzard had to comeback in each to win. Expect this game to be another tight one and the Natives will be ready.

2. Control The Neutral Zone

It's a smaller neutral zone and therefore a great spot to force turnovers and that goes both ways. Neepawa knows their ice the best but the Blizzard are big on "D" and more skilled up front so it's a great opportunity to really limit the Natives chances by not allowing them into Blizzard territory.

3. Cut Down On The Mistakes/Turnovers

There were turnovers aplenty in both wins over Wayway and a few resulted in goals. Like Jomar said on the postgame show it wasn't the systems letting them down it was mental errors. Those can be fixed and here is hoping they are starting tonight.

Special Teams Breakdown

OCN powerplay - 36/228=15.79% (9th)
Neepawa powerplay - 33/237=13.92% (11th)

OCN penalty kill - 250/298=83.89% (5th)
Neepawa penalty kill - 166/218=76.15% (10th)

Previous 10 Games

OCN is 5-5 and on the road are 11-13-2-1 including both Showcase Games
Neepawa is 2-7-1

Season Series (OCN leads 6-0)

October 21st @ OCN - Jordan Christianson scores 2 goals and Taylor Santorelli has 2 assists as the Blizzard double the Natives 4-2. Ryan Delorme makes 24 saves as the Blizzard outshoot Neepawa 38-26.

October 22nd @ OCN - Luke Hannas scores 1 goal and sets up another as the Blizzard edge the Natives 3-2. Ryan Delorme once again plays very well stopping 25 shots as the Blizzard outshoot Neepawa for the 2nd straight night, this time 37-27 and win their 9th straight overall against their divisional foes.

November 9th @ Neepawa - Despite giving up a goal just 1:14 into the game, the Blizzard score 4 unanswered to down the Natives 4-1. Josh Elmes and TJ Constant each collect a goal and assist in the win as OCN outshoots the Natives 32-27 to defeat Neepawa for the 10th straight time.

December 17th @ OCN - Guillaume Vallee scores 2 goals, 1 on the powerplay as the Blizzard defeat the Natives 3-1. Denis Restoule had a shorthanded goal to open the scoring in the 2nd period. OCN outshot Neepawa 29-28.

January 10th @ Neepawa - Despite trailing 2-1 after 2 periods, the Blizzard rally with 3 goals in the 3rd period to double up Neepawa 4-2. Gui Vall, TJ Constant, Jorden Iron and Brad Swampy all score in the win an Denis Restoule has 2 assists. The Blizzard outshot the Natives 42-32.

January 11th @ Neepawa - Once again the Blizzard find themselves down 2-1 in the 2nd period but this time the winning goal is scored in the 2nd as the Blizzard again double Neepawa 4-2. Kolton Baptiste, TJ Constant, Nathan Bruyere, and Erik Pushka all score in the win. OCN outshot the Natives 39-28 and Mitch Backhouse picked up his 1st win as a member of the Blizzard.

Tonight's game is on CJ 1240 with the Murray Dunn GM Pre-Game Show at 7:15 from the Yellowhead Arena. The Blizzard then have to return home to play Steinbach on Saturday at the GLMC. That game will also be on CJ 1240 with a 6:40 pre-game show start time.

-Smalley-

SEE THE WINNIPEG JETS & PHILADELPHIA FLYERS IN WINNIPEG

2012-02-02T11:57:00.000-06:00

The Pas Rotary Club and OCN Blizzard are teaming up to send 2 lucky winners to see the Winnipeg Jets and Philadephia Flyers at MTS Centre in Winnipeg on Tuesday February 21^st.

Two winners will each get a pair of P1 (lower level) tickets to the game along with $400 spending cash towards the trip. One pair of seats is behind the Flyers bench and the other behind the Jets bench.

Tickets are $20.00 each but there are only 300 printed and the draw will be made during the February 10^th home game between the Blizzard and Swan Valley Stampeders.

Tickets are available at Paperworks Plus in the Otineka Mall, the Blizzard office or contact any Rotarian.

OCN GC #247RF

Blizzard Need Extra Time Again To Edge Wolverines

2012-02-02T07:59:00.003-06:00

***Erik Pushka's winning goal and Jomar Cruz's post-game comments are now posted below***

Once again the game wasn't perfect but the end result sure was as the Blizzard beat the Wolverines once again, 3-2 in overtime to win their 2nd straight and take the season series with the Wolverines. For the 2nd straight game OCN needed a 3rd period goal to tie the game and for the 2nd straight it came from down the depth chart. Kirk Chief potted his 3rd of the year at 8:21 of the final period.

Denis Restoule opened things up early in the 1st with his 21st on the power play but early in the 2nd gave a gift to Brett Lafond who beat Justin Paulic to tie the game. Later on Wayway would take the lead on a shorthanded goal by Andrew Clark but what led up to the goal was frustrating for the Blizzard as Kolton Baptiste was hit from behind but no call was made allowing Jean-Michel Naud to find Clark who went glove high on Paulic.

OCN's best chances to win in the 3rd came Jorden Iron on a breakaway and from Erik Pushka who hit the goal post. Pushka's streak of 4 games with a goal looked like it might end but then came overtime and a perfectly set up play. Pushka won the draw to Maurice Whiteduck who quickly found Danil Kalashnikov who in turn fed a perfect pass to Pushka in front and he buried his 15th to win the game and keep the streak alive.

By design, I've saved the best for last and that would be Justin Paulic. The 16 year old from Thompson only came in and played exceptionally well for his 1st ever MJHL win with his parents in attendance. In fact, if not for the giveaway to Lafond and the missed hit from behind, we could be talking shutout too. But hey, he never looked nervous, made some timely saves and from time to time was bailing out some veteran errors in front of him. And how excited were the rest of the team? Well once they were done piling on Pushka for the win, they took their turn piling on Paulic to show some love to.

The Blizzard are now 27-20-6 and will be in Neepawa Friday to play the Natives where they look for their 14th straight win over Neepawa. The game is on CJ 1240 and begins with the Murray Dunn GM Pre-Game Show at 7:10.

-Smalley-

Blizzard Comeback To Beat Wolverines In Shootout

2012-02-01T08:08:00.002-06:00

It certainly won't go down as the most exciting game ever played, but there was a win by the home side and that was the most important thing for the fans at the GLMC last night. The Blizzard came back twice to tie the game and then needed a shootout to beat Waywayseecappo 4-3. Not only was it a win, but a big 2 points to move 9 up on the idle Swan Valley Stampeders for 2nd place in the Sherwood Division. Beyond that, it was nice to see the Blizzard win in a shootout, one area they have been dreadful in all season long.

For the 3rd straight game, OCN got down by at least 2 goals but this time they were able to battle back after going down 2-0 in the 2nd period on goals by Russell Turner and Jean-Michel Naud. But Erik Pushka would get the Blizzard on the board at 6:07 with his 13th to continue a very hot pace offensively. Pushka has tripled his rookie year point total of 11 and might be the hottest player for his club right now. Denis Restoule tied the game in the 2nd hitting the 20 goal mark. The teams traded 3rd period goals by Ashley Howie and Taylor Santorelli.

The win by the Blizzard gave them 4 wins against the Wolverines this year which is what Wayway has against OCN as well so tonight the 9th and final meeting will determine who wins the season series. For those wondering who #13 and # 33 were dressed for the Blizzard I shall explain. Brandon Switzer, from Brandon wore # 13 in a call up from the Brandon AAA Wheat Kings. He was a 7th round draft by the Blizzard 2 years ago. Justin Paulic wore #33 on call up from the Norman Northstars. His numbers don't show it playing for Norman, but Paulic is a mighty fine young goaltender with a bright future ahead of him. Jomar Cruz announced that the 16 year old from Thompson will start Wednesday night to give Matt Krahn a rest. I've seen Paulic enough in bantam and junior to say I know he'll be ready for the challenge awaiting him.

Tonight's rematch is on CJ 1240 once again starting with the Murray Dunn GM Pre-Game Show at 6:40 and puckdrop at 7pm.

See ya at the rink!

-Smalley-

OCN Blizzard Game Day

2012-01-31T08:20:00.002-06:00

With just month to go in the MJHL's regular season it is safe to say it's crunch time in the league. The only thing really determined in the league is which 2 teams will not be in the playoffs. After that it's wide open. For the OCN Blizzard, what once looked like a lock to finish in 2nd place in the Sherwood Division has suddenly become a battle as well. Tonight they begin a busy week which sees them play 4 games, all winnable, and begins with a divisional rival still in the playoffs but with a pair of wins could all but seal their fate.

The Waywayseecappo Wolverines have really struggled over the last month with just 2 wins in their last 10 games and overall have lost 9 of 11 games in January. By no means are the Wolverines out of the postseason picture and with 14 games left they have a chance. But at 18-24-6=42 pts they trail Swan Valley by 7 points albeit with 2 games in hand and 4 head-to-head meetings left. Shane Goodrunning, who left the team earlier this season, does continue to lead the team in points with 44 in just 39 games left. Perhaps the most improved player has been Ashley Howie who leads the team in goals with 20.

The Blizzard now have just 11 games left including tonight's matchup as they return home from 2 less than stellar efforts against Dauphin. At 25-20-6=56 pts it's unlikely the Blizzard will match last year's win total of 34 but they still control their own fate when it comes to finishing 2nd in the Sherwood. Remember the Blizzard have not finished as high as 2nd since the 2005-2006 season. Injuries has certainly not helped this club but there are other players who need to step up that have been quiet lately. There is only 1 non-divisional game left and that's Saturday against Steinbach, whom the Blizzard have not yet beaten. This is an important week because should OCN win all 4 games, then that could be the insurance to prevent Swan Valley from catching them even with those 3 meetings left.

Three Keys To A Blizzard Victory
 
1.  Have Better 1st Periods Than On The Weekend
 
Although not the ultimate reason for losing both games to Dauphin, there is no
question that 2 bad 1st periods didn't really help the cause of the Blizzard. 
Wayway might be struggling but they do have enough guys to do some damage on the
scoresheet early and often.
 
2.  Top Line Has To Be Better
 
The top 3 scorers for the Blizzard did not really have a very good weekend and that
is being nice.  Jorden Iron was the best of the trio of he, Denis Restoule and TJ
Constant.  Given the success of the Kalashnikov-Pushka-Vallee line right now, if
both lines could click at the same time then the Blizzard can become dangerous on
the scoresheet too.
 
3. Treat These Games And All This Week's Games Like Playoff Games
 
It is officially stretch drive time in the MJHL and therefore time to play some
serious hockey.  Yes again, the Wolverines are struggling but they are dangerous. 
OCN also has Neepawa and Steinbach coming up and none of those will be easy.  That
said, all are winnable and if the Blizzard could win all that would be a huge help
to keeping the hard charging Stampeders a fair distance behind.
 
Previous 10 Games
 
OCN is 4-6 and on home ice are 14-7-3
Waywayseecappo is 2-6-2
 
Season Series (Wayway leads 4-3)

September 16th @ OCN - The Blizzard appeared home and cooled after opening up a 3-0
lead on opening night. But the Wolverines were allowed back in the game and
eventually walked out with a 4-3 shootout victory. The Wolverines outshot the
Blizzard 37-29.

October 19th @ Waywayseecappo - The Wolverines use 4 different goal scorers and the
Blizzard play one of their worst games of the season to date in a 4-1 loss. The
Wolverines outshot the Blizzard 38-24. The loss was disappointing given how good the
Blizzard were in Dauphin the night before picking up a victory.

November 9th @ Waywayseecappo - Brett Lafond scores 3 goals and Thomas Ward-Cardinal
scores a goal and sets up 3 others as the Wolverines rout the Blizzard 7-0. The
Wolverines outshoot the Blizzard 30-20 in a game that was basically over before the
1st period even was.

November 15th @ OCN - The Blizzard exact some sweet revenge as they shut out the
Wolverines 4-0 on GLMC ice.   All goals from 4 different guys were scored in the 2nd
period and Matt Krahn made 25 saves for the shutout.  The Blizzard were clearly the
better team in this game, a complete opposite from the 7-0 the week before.

November 16th @ OCN - Despite being outshot 35-25, the Blizzard again play a strong
game and win 4-1.  Jorden Iron scored 2 goals and the Blizzard scored 3 times in the
3rd period to bust open a 1-1 tie.  Matt Krahn again gets the win with a solid night
making 34 saves.
 
December 13th @ Waywayseecappo - OCN had 4 different goal scorers in Dallas
Drysdale, Nathan Bruyere, Denis Restoule and Jorden Iron but what really should be
noticed is they went 3/5 on the power play and that isn't easy to do against
Waywayseecappo.  Matt Krahn stopped 37/40 shots in goal.
 
December 14th @ Waywayseecappo - A night after a great win in Wayway, the Blizzard
lay another egg on Wolverine ice losing 5-0.  As noted above they also lost 7-0
earlier in the year.  Connor Pennell and Curtis Veitch each had 2 goals and the
Wolverines outshot the Blizzard 36-23.
 
Once again, tonight and tomorrow's games ARE BOTH on CJ 1240 as these 2 are make up
games since I could not travel with the team on December 13th and 14th.  Puck drop
both nights is at 7pm with the Murray Dunn GM Pre-Game Show starting at 6:40.
 
See ya at the rink!
 
-Smalley-

Kings Double Blizzard For 2nd Straight Night

2012-01-29T11:06:00.000-06:00

Two disappointing losses to the Dauphin Kings would be stinging enough but for the Blizzard they were allowed to get back into both games but could never tie either game despite getting to within 1 goal twice each night.

The Kings won their 4th straight over OCN with a 6-3 triumph on Saturday night. That win was lead by Jesse Sinatynski who 3 goals, his 50th, 51, and 52nd of the year. He had 5 over the 2 games. The Blizzard had goals from Gui Vallee and Erik Pushka who scored on consecutive nights and Kirk Chief had his 2nd of the season. The 1st period was the ultimate difference with Dauphin scoring their 1st 3 goals all on the powerplay.

The Blizzard cut the deficit to 3-2 in the 2nd and 4-3 in the 3rd but that would be as close as they could get. After winning the 1st 3 meetings with Dauphin to begin the season, OCN has now dropped 4 straight to their division foes, who for what it's worth essentially locked up the Sherwood Division crown this weekend.

The Blizzard did get some help on Saturday as the Blues beat Swan Valley to keep them 8 points back. With a record now of 25-20-6 the Blizzard have a busy week with 4 games they should win and basically need to win to show they can be taken seriously. Tuesday and Wednesday the struggling Wayway Wolverines are in town. Then Friday the Blizzard are in Neepawa before returning home to face Steinbach Saturday. All 4 games will be on CJ 1240.

The following photos are courtesy of Harvey Bulmer in Dauphin.

OCN Blizzard Game Day

2012-01-27T09:46:00.000-06:00

One area the OCN Blizzard have been good in this year is their play on the road. With a .500 record it might not be the best, but it certainly has been better than in recent years. In fact they have almost as many wins on the road as they do at home. The next 2 nights are going to be very big tests for the club taking on the division leaders and an old teammate as well. So there is one area for motivation tonight. Another could be the fact that the Blizzard grabbed a victory in the only visit to Dauphin so far this season.

I think it's safe to say that this weekend has been circled on the calendars of both the Kings and Blizzard for quite some time now. They are the top 2 clubs in the Sherwood Division and the rivalry just continues to grow with 5 excellent games already this season. The Blizzard enter tonight at 25-18-6=56 pts trailing Dauphin by 13 points. Mathematically the Blizzard could catch the Kings but the only way that has a chance of happening is for OCN to win all 4 games in Dauphin and then hope the Kings lose a boatload of other games. The best thing the Blizzard can do is just play as well as they can to ensure they don't lose 2nd spot and keep home ice in the 1st round.

The Dauphin Kings are the class of the Sherwood Division and have been all season long. They started 6-0 and have been in 1st place since the season began. At 32-12-5=69 pts the Kings can officially lock up a playoff spot with a win tonight. All eyes are on Jesse Sinatynski as he continues his quest for 50 goals and ultimately 60. He has 47 now and certainly could hit 50 this weekend. Hockey has changed a lot so 50 and 60 goal guys don't come around too often anymore but it would nice to see him hit both marks. But there is another King that is certain to have his hearing tested tonight and that is Mike Collins who asked to be dealt
back to BC from the Blizzard only to shock many and get dealt back to Manitoba joining the Kings.

Three Keys To A Blizzard Victory

1. Don't Put All Focus On Mike Collins

Sure the Blizzard players will fired up to face him and try be in his face and ears all night but the Kings are way more than Mike Collins. Collins is a good hockey player but if all energy is wasted on him then that allows his linemates to get more open.

2. Keep It Simple

When the Blizzard have done well on the road this year they have kept the game very simple, just like in the only other meeting in Dauphin this season. When the Blizzard have struggled on the road they have been sloppy and lethargic. If the former occurs then the Blizzard have a real good shot at starting the weekend on the right foot.

3. Watch The Breakout Of The Kings

Dauphin has lots of speed and skill up front and if the Blizzard get caught pinching in then they could be in for a long night. Expect the Kings forwards to really pressure the defensemen of OCN and try create turnovers. If odd man rushes don't create scoring chances then they can certainly cause penalties and Dauphin is very lethal on the power play.

Who's Out

Josh Elmes, Luke Hannas and Mitch Backhouse are injured or sick and will not play tonight.

Special Teams Breakdown

OCN power play - 33/211=15.64% (10th)
Dauphin power play - 56/280=20% (4th)

OCN penalty kill - 233/276=84.42% (2nd)
Dauphin penalty kill - 209/248=84.27% (3rd)

Previous 10 Games

OCN is 6-4 and on the road are 11-11-2-1 including both Showcase games
Dauphin is 6-3-1

Season Series (OCN leads 3-2)

October 1st @ OCN - The line of Hannas-Collins-Restoule combines for 10
points as the Blizzard pound the Kings 6-2 handing previously unbeaten
Dauphin it's 1st loss.

October 2nd @ OCN - Spencer Brennan scores twice and Matt Krahn makes 33
saves as the Blizzard again dominate the Kings, this time by a score of
5-2.

October 18th @ Dauphin - The Blizzard open a 2-0 1st period lead and go on
to beat the Kings 3-1. Garick Gray, Erik Pushka and Mike Collins all
score for the Blizzard who were outshot 41-25. Matt Krahn was easily the
games best player and the Blizzard penalty kill goes a perfect 9-for-9.

November 25th @ OCN - Despite a 1st period lead of 2-0 and 3rd period
leads of 3-1 and 4-2 the Blizzard win up losing 5-4 in a shootout. The
Kings have a strong 3rd period which sees them tie the game with just 43
seconds left. Mitch VanTeeling leads all Kings with a goal and 2 assists
while Denis Restoule has 2 goals for the Blizzard. Tyler Noseworthy had
the lone goal in the shootout.

November 26th @ OCN - Once again the Blizzard score 1st but they could
only manage 1 goal in a 3-1 loss. Mitch VanTeeling had 2 goals including
the winner while TJ Constant had the only Blizzard goal. The Kings
outshot the Blizzard quite heavily 42-27 to complete the 2 game sweep on
GLMC ice.

Both games this weekend are on CJ 1240 at 7:30. The Murray Dunn GM Pre-Game Show begins each night at 7:10. It sounds like we'll see some good support from fans making the trip to Dauphin from all over. So cheer loud and hope to see lots of you there!

-Smalley-

Follow Me On Twitter

2012-01-23T10:31:00.002-06:00

It's officially the end of the world as I have joined "Twitterverse". For all the latest on the Blizzard and MJHL, please visit my Twitter @voiceofblizzard

Blizzard Bringing Mixed Martial Arts To The GLMC

2012-01-23T08:52:00.001-06:00

Blizzard Shutout Terriers

2012-01-22T13:58:00.000-06:00

First minute 1st period goal enough as Blizzard blank defending champions

Beating the Portage Terriers is never easy. However, shutting them out is an even more difficult task. The Blizzard did both on Saturday night in a 3-0 triumph at the Gordon Lathlin Memorial Centre. Two 1st period goals by Jorden Iron was more than enough offense for Matt Krahn to work with as he earned his 20th win and 3rd shutout of the season.

Iron's opening marker was just 42 seconds into the game on a slap shot for the blueline that beat Adam Iwan cleanly. It was the 2nd straight meeting where OCN scored a goal in the 1st minute on Portage. It was actually "late" compared to Denis Restoule's marker 10 second in on December 16th. Iron now has 17 goals on the year in what was his 1st game back after missing 2 in a row with a minor injury. Erik Pushka added a crucial insurance marker in the 3rd period on the powerplay.

Both teams had 26 shots apiece and both were missing some key pieces of their lineups. The Blizzard were missing Luke Hannas and Josh Elmes who are "week-to-week" with injuries. Darien Cardinal and Maurice Whiteduck were healthy scratches. Portage was minus their captain Andrew Wiebe as well as forwards Kajon Mckay, Shaq Merasty and Riley Hay. As Blake Spiller said in the pre-game show, his club would not make excuses missing those guys, but in Spiller's defense, if you are missing players of the calibre that were not dressed then at times there are sure to be some bumps in the road.

The Blizzard improve to 25-18-6 and maintain a 12 point lead on the Stamps for 2nd spot in the Sherwood Division. Curtis Brolund said on the post game show that the club would enjoy an off day today and a chance to rest up and regroup for a week of practice in advance of the 2 monster games in Dauphin on Friday and Saturday. Both games will be on CJ 1240 starting each night at 7:30. It was encouraging to hear from some fans over the weekend that they will be making the trek to Dauphin for one or both games on the weekend. Hopefully the Blizzard will play as well there as they have overall on the road lately. By the way the Blizzard won 3-1 in their only trip to Credit Union Place so far this season.

3 Stars

1. Matt Krahn - 26 save shutout against one of his former clubs

2. Jorden Iron - 2 goals including the game winner. Was also stopped on another breakaway

3. Erik Pushka - big insurance goal in the 3rd period. Chemistry of Kalashnikov-Pushka-Vallee getting better.

-Smalley-

OCN Blizzard Game Day

2012-01-20T23:00:00.001-06:00

January has been an up and down month for the Blizzard. They won a game a game then lost a game. Then they won 2 and lost 2 and now they have a win and loss in their last 2 games. Basically this month has summed up their season as a whole in that have struggled to get a lengthy winning streak going. Then there is other confusing stat of OCN seemingly playing more complete games on the road in 2012 than they have at home even if there have been just 3 games at home compared to 5 away. But there have been impressive home wins this season and one of their best was against the defending league champions who just happen to be the opponent tonight making their 2nd and final regular season appearance and coming off a loss on Friday night.

The Portage Terriers in my opinion are the class of the MJHL. They have the most wins, points, goals for and also the fewest goals allowed. But even the best teams get beaten now and then. That was certainly the case Friday night as the Terriers lost 5-2 in Swan River despite outshooting the Stamps 47-14. Missing from that game was captain Andrew Weibe and fellow forward Shaq Merasty who is still out after getting hurt against the Blizzard earlier this season in Portage. Brent Wold leads the Terriers in points with 54 on the strength of 22 goals and 32 assists. The Terriers are 33-12-2=68 pts so they haven't lost much but one of their worst losses of the season was right in the GLMC, a 6-2 defeat back in December.

The Blizzard will wrap up a mini 2-game homestand tonight by trying to get back into the win column. At 24-18-6=54 pts there is no question that the chance of OCN catching Dauphin for 1st is fading with each passing day. And don't look now but the Swan Valley Stampeders are suddenly 12 back of the Blizzard with 3 games in hand. The Blizzard certainly can help their own cause with 4 games left against the Kings, all in Dauphin though and then 3 games left with the Stamps. Their last 2 games have seen the team struggle offensively with just 1 goal in each contest and no goals in the 2nd and 3rd of either game. No that injuries are ever an excuse, but the Blizzard were missing some key regulars on Wednesday and that never helps.

Three Keys To A Blizzard Win

1. Repeat Last Game Against Portage

On December 16th in a 6-2 romp, the Blizzard hit hard, dropped the mits, got timely goals and just really took it to the Terriers in all areas. Portage will be mad an surly tonight after the loss in Swan River Friday so the Blizzard will need a very good effort.

2. Win The Battles Along The Boards

I used this one the last time the clubs met and the Blizzard did just that. They were physical along the boards, used them well for smart chips and that helped free up some open ice to allow them to create the scoring chances they had and that helped lead to timely goals.

3. Get The Most Out Of Who Is In The Lineup

As I type this, I am not yet sure who is in or who is out for sure on Saturday. The bottom line is the Blizzard were missing key players on Wednesday but still had many in the lineup to do some damage. The same will be the case tonight no matter what and while the Terriers have key guys out too, they''ll no doubt get the most with who they dress and the same has to be the case for the Blizzard.

Special Teams Breakdown

OCN power play - 32/206=15.53% (10th)
Portage power play - 62/232=26.72% (1st)

OCN penalty kill - 229/272=84.19% (3rd)
Portage penalty kill - 205/240=85.42% (1st)

Previous 10 Games

OCN is 6-4 and on home ice are 13-7-3
Portage is 7-2-1

Season Series (Portage Leads 2-1)

October 30th @ Portage - As usual a tight game between these 2 clubs that Portage wins 3-2. OCN scores the 1st and last goal of the game but it was the Terriers powerplay that was the difference. Portage scored 2 goals on a 4 minute penalty just 56 seconds apart which stood as the difference. Denis Restoule had both goals for the Blizzard.

December 4th @ Portage - This game was over basically before the game was a minute old. Portage scored 44 seconds in and with .02 seconds left in the period and led 4-0 after 1. Mike Gemmill and Tanner Waldvogel each had 2 goals for the Terriers while Gui Vallee had the lone Blizzard marker.

December 16th @ OCN - A wild start as OCN scores just 10 seconds in and Portage ties the game 58 seconds later. This game is settled in the 2nd period as the Blizzard erupted for 4 goals in the middle frame to win 6-2. Denis Restoule records his 1st career hattrick and TJ Constant assists on 4 goals in the win.

It'll be a rare Saturday home broadcast but tonight's game is on CJ 1240. It all starts with the Murray Dunn GM Pre-Game Show beginning at 6:40. Also as a Winnipeg Jets season ticket holder I must say GO JETS GO tonight against Florida. And here is hoping my beloved San Francisco 49ers can knock off the G-Men Sunday to advance to the Super Bowl! It'll be a busy sports weekend and here is hoping it'll be a great one!

See ya at the rink!

-Smalley-

OCN Blizzard Game Day

2012-01-18T10:55:00.000-06:00

Hockey is a true winter sport and right in the middle of hockey season comes the 1st nasty blast of winter this year. The OCN Blizzard return to home ice tonight after a 6 day marathon road trip which saw them go a respectable 3-2. Not an easy venture for sure but still a very encouraging record nonetheless. Tonight's opponent, like the Blizzard is coming off a win and suddenly if the playoffs were to start tonight it would be these 2 clubs meeting in Round 1. The last meeting was dominated by the Stampeders at the GLMC, something the Blizzard will no doubt be aware of tonight.

The Stampeders record might not make you go wow but that doesn't reflect that they played pretty good hockey through December and into January and suddenly find themselves in a playoff spot. At 16-21-6=38 pts the Stamps have now moved ahead of Wayway for 3rd place. Call me crazy but a battle of 2 teams under .500 could be one of the best races to watch with just under 6 weeks left in the regular season. The Stamps certainly deserve credit as they made many moves much earlier in the season to acquire players like Kyle Smart and Derek Falloon. Still though, like most teams, goaltending is the key to success. Jayson Argue needs to be in the discussion for top goaltenders in the league. He's not a big and imposing figure but he sure moves quick and covers the net very well.

The Blizzard arguably play better hockey on the road these days but there is no mistaking how happy they are to be home for a couple of games this week. Even though 3-2 was the record last week, it was evident that the team felt they played well enough to be 5-0 or at the very least 4-1. Tonight though it's back home where the team is still better than on the road and they'll need to really bring it. Josh Elmes, Jorden Iron, Luke Hannas and Taylor Santorelli are all hurt and will not dress. Jomar will update me Friday on their status for Saturday's game with Portage.

Special Teams Breakdown

OCN power play - 32/205=15.61% (10th)
SV power play - 38/221=17.19% (6th)

OCN penalty kill - 225/268=83.96% (3rd)
SV penalty kill - 167/206=81.07% (6th)

Previous 10 Games

OCN is 6-4 and on home ice are 13-6-3
Swan Valley is also 6-4

Season Series (OCN leads 3-2)

September 30th @ OCN - The Blizzard win a true goaltenders battle 1-0 in which they outshot the Stamps 37-20. Matt Krahn gets the better of Jayson Argue and Guillaume Vallee scores the only goal of the game early in the 3rd period.

November 13th @ Swan River - Jorden Iron scores 2 goals and sets up another as the Blizzard down the Stamps 5-2. Luke Hannas & Guillaume Vallee each have a goal and an assist and Denis Restoule sets up 2 as "20 year olds" finally bust out in a big way on the scoresheet.

November 23rd @ Swan River - The Blizarrd end up hanging on for a 4-3 win despite leading 3-0 after the 1st period with Josh Elmes and Kolton Baptiste each scoring on the power play. TJ Constant scored what turned out to be the game winner in the 3rd period. Ryan Delorme made 40 saves for the win.

November 30th @ OCN - The Blizzard scored 1st but the Stamps came right back with a vengance to win 7-3 on the strength of 7 straight goals, including 4 in the 1st period. Dylan Reimer and Kyle Smart each had 2 goals and 1 assist while Sam Briscoe and Ryan Elliot each had a goal and 2 helpers. Cody Zulyniak, Gui Vallee and Erik Pushka all scored for OCN who were outshot 33-30.

Tonight's game is NOT on CJ 1240 but will be covered by my good friend Craig Stein of GX 94 in Yorkton. I am off to Winnipeg this afternoon for a family matter and also to watch the Jets and Sabres Thursday night. Good luck to the Blizzard tonight and a reminder that Saturday's game with Portage is the next broadcast of Blizzard hockey.

See ya at the rink and STAY WARM EVERYONE!

-Smalley-

Viewing and Leaving Comments

2012-01-17T12:42:00.002-06:00

Okay everyone, I have heard back from tech support from Blogger and they are looking into why it is difficult to leave or view comments left. They think it's just a glitch that will go away because they haven't seen this issue before. I have not limited comments or banned them nor am I even screening them which I can do but choose not so. So again, my apologies for this because I have received numerous messages. For whatever reason, I can view and leave comments on my Blackberry or Blackberry Playbook but not on a computer.

JUST SO EVERYBODY IS CLEAR! On that damn Unofficial site it is me with the IP Addresses of 204.112.173.165 and
204.112.104.89

So there! I am done arguing with ANONYMOUS people on there.

-Smalley-

OCN Blizzard Game Day

2012-01-15T12:27:00.001-06:00

Two hard working wins started the trip for the Blizzard and now 2 losses which included hardwork have befallen the club. The good news is they can still make the trip a very good one with a win tonight. It won't b e easy but one thing maybe going in OCN's favor is that in 3 games this season with Winkler, it's been the road team that has won all the games, something the Blizzard hope will continue tonight.

The Blizzard enter tonight at 23-17-6=52 pts and that still has them comfortably in 2nd place in the Sherwood that is not something the team wants. They want to keep winning and that's make the last 2 games results sting, That's because this team thinks they can be a real force come the playoffs. Saturday's loss was the most difficult because OCN lost with only 27 seconds left. The best line was easily the 4th line of Coonishish-Coon-Zulyniak-Cardinal and it was fitting that they scored one of the 2 Blizzard goals. Tonight's game is arguably the most difficult to win on 2 levels and they'll need more than just the 4th line to be effective.

The Flyers are right back on home ice tonight after a win Saturday against the Neepawa Natives. Winkler is 27-13-3=57 pts and tied for 2nd in the Addison with the Blues albeit with 3 games in hand. The Flyers continue to be led by Chapen Leblond in goals (24) and points (51). Winkler was active at the trade deadline landing Jesse Enns and Ryan Bembridge from Dauphin in separate deals. But the biggest deal Ken Pearson made was much earlier in the season landing Tyler Swerdyliak and Ward Szucki from Neepawa.

Special Teams Breakdown

OCN power play - 31/202=15.35% (10th)
Winkler power play - 46/208=22.12% (3rd)

OCN penalty kill - 220/263=83.65% (4th)
Winkler penalty kill - 190/225=84.44% (2nd)

Previous 10 Games

OCN is 6-4 and on the road are 10-11-2-1 including both Showcase games.
Winkler is 5-3-2

Season Series (Winkler leads 2-1)

October 15th @ OCN - The Flyers opened up a 2-0 2nd period lead and held off the Blizzard for a 2-1 victory. Jordan Neduzak and Connor Patchett scored for the Flyers and Michael Hay (now with Portage) scored for the Blizzard who outshot Winkler 29-23.

November 20th @ Winkler - Playing their 3rd game in 3 days, the Blizzard are badly outshot but Matt Krahn was brilliant as the Blizzard leave with a 2-1 win. Spencer Brennan scored short handed in the 1st period and Jorden Iron potted the winner just 18 seconds into the 2nd period. Winkler outshot OCN 45-20 but a Tanner Jago power play goal in the 2nd period was the only shot to beat Krahn.

December 10th @ OCN - For the 3rd meeting of the season the winning team is the road team as Winkler wins 3-1. OCN scored 1st in the 2nd period from Gui Vallee but the Flyers countered with 3 unanswered goals. The Blizzard outshot the Flyers 40-33 and this time around it was Corey Koop who put on a fine display of goaltending to pick up the win.

Please remember that tonight's game is not being broadcasted and I will not be there as I fly home Sunday afternoon. I still don't have an answer as to why comments and viewing is not working but again I hope to have it resolved by mid-week.

See ya at the rink!

-Smalley-

OCN Blizzard Game Day

2012-01-14T13:26:00.000-06:00

For many reasons, Friday night's loss to the Selkirk Steelers was disappointing for the Blizzard. Never mind the fact they lost, but they played very well overall which the score won't show. Then there were the many good quality scoring chances the team had but just couldn't find the back of the net. Then there was the officiating which gave the Blizzard some calls they deserved but then missed or ignored many calls which would have gone in OCN's favor. Still a loss is a loss and they slip to 2-1 on their road trip. But tonight is a new night and another chance to get their 3rd win of the week and tonight's opponent is one that bet the Blizzard right at the GLMC 1 week ago tonight.

The Blizzard will clearly be looking to put last night's game out of sight and mind very quickly as the battle the Saints tonight at the St. James Civic Centre. OCN is 23-16-6-=52 pts and will get play another Addison Division team for the final time this season. All games with the Saints have been close and the Saints have scored 1st in every meeting. Some players I liked in Friday's loss were Dylan Hykawy, Garick Gray and Danil Kalshnikov and I would bet some players that were not as good will bounced back and be better tonight. A win tonight ensures the Blizzard finish above .500 on the road and that would be good considering the difficulty of being on the road nearly a week.

The Saints enter tonight at 22-17-5=49 pts which has them only 5th in the Addison but they would be 3rd in the Sherwood Division. Tonight is the Saints 1st home game in 2012 after going 2-2 on the road in their 1st 4 games. The last Saints games were wins of 3-1 in OCN and 4-2 in Waywayseecappo. Like most teams, the Saints were fairly quiet at the trade deadline. Their 2 moves saw them acquire veteran defenceman Drew Scurfield and forward Richard Olson both from the Steinbach Pistons but in separate deals.

Three Keys To A Blizzard Victory

1. Forget Friday Night And Move On

As mentioned above, there were many reasons to be angry Friday never mind the loss. The Blizzard need to come out with the same effort and find a way to make the most of any chances they were given.

2. Increase The Physical Play

It shouldn't surprise anybody that when the Blizzard play physical they tend to control the game. They weren't overly physical on Friday but if they can do that to the Saints, then it can only help them and hurt them in their quest for their 3 win this week.

3. More Traffic In Front Of The Net

This wasn't done a lot Friday and it wasn't done a whole lot in last Saturday's loss to the Saints. If the Blizzard can find a way to get a guy in front or at least have someone drive to the net then they might be able to make more of their chances tonight.

Special Teams Breakdown

OCN power play - 31/199=15.58% (9th)
Winnipeg power play - 37/236=15.68% (8th)

OCN penalty kill - 218/260=83.85% (3rd)
Winnipeg penalty kill - 155/194=79.90% (8th)

Previous 10 Games

OCN is 6-4 and on the road are 10-10-2-1 including both Showcase Games.
Winnipeg is 5-4-1

Season Series (OCN leads 2-1)

November 5th @ OCN - The Blizzard were less than impressive through 2 periods but they found a way to win 3-2 in overtime. Nathan Bruyere had 2 powerplay goals including the winner while Matt Krahn stopped 18 shots for the win. Brett Chartier and Jason Gardiner each had 1 goal and 1 assist in a losing cause for Winnipeg.8-23

November 19th @ Winnipeg - Despite giving up the 1st goal, the Blizzard score once in each period and down the Saints 3-1. Erik Pushka, Jorden Iron and Denis Restoule each score and Matt Krahn makes 32 saves in the win.

January 7th @ OCN - For the 3rd straight meeting the Blizzard give up the 1st goal of the game but this time they lose 3-1. Craig Scott and Gui Vallee traded 1st period goals but Brendyn Illchuk and Paul Crane scored in the 3rd period to seal the win. Winnipeg outshot OCN 38-23.

Again tonight's game WILL BE on CJ 1240 as 1 of our makeup broadcasts. The Murray Dunn GM Pre-Game Show starts tonight at 7:10 on CJ 1240 and www.thepasonline.com.

Also it has been brought to my attention that people are having trouble viewing, reading or even leaving comments. I have not banned comments as I can only seem to read comments on my Blackberry phone or Blackberry Playbook. If this continues then I will email "blogger" which hosts this site and ask them for help. Please accept my apologies!

-Smalley-

OCN Blizzard Game Day

2012-01-12T23:39:00.000-06:00

In terms of on the ice, this is no doubt the busiest week of the season for the Blizzard. But also too there no doubt was some worry with it being the trade deadline passing on Tuesday. However the Blizzard played 2 very good road games in Neepawa, one of them being on deadline day and they got 2 victories as a result. As the week progresses the calibre of opponent also gets tougher and that starts tonight against a team that the Blizzard have split 4 games with. Maybe the added incentive to get win tonight is last time in Selkirk, the Blizzard had three, 1 goal leads before suffering a heart breaking overtime loss late in the extra period.

And so the busy week continues for the Blizzard who enter tonight at 23-15-6=52 pts. The Blizzard got a much needed off day yesterday after the wins in Neepawa. Sure the Blizzard have had some bad losses on the road like in Portage and Waywy but overall you can't help but be impressed by how this team has played overall away from home. They used a balanced scoring attack in both wins, the powerplay counted for some of that and each time the Blizzard started with a lead, lost it, and then roared back to win. A good solid 1st period tonight will be nothing but a positive as this team tried for their 3rd straight win and ensuring they finish above .500 on this trip.

The Selkirk Steelers are 7-3 in their last 10 games and sit at 25-17-1=51 pts and are certainly in the thick of things in a very strong and dangerous Addision Division. A strange stat for the Steelers is they have surrendered 162 goals, the 4th most in the league. But they are also more than capable of outscoring any team as well. Blizzard/Steelers battles are usually very tight and so far 3/4 meetings have been decided by just 1 goal, 2 of which were in extra time. The Steelers made no major moves at the deadline which hasn't always been the case in years past but Selkirk is still a very good club and will give OCN all they can handle. The most disappointing aspect for the Steelers has been goaltender Joey Rewucki being injured most of the season having played in just 3 games so far.

Three Keys To A Blizzard Victory

1. Keep Selkirk Off The Power Play

Selkirk might not have the best ranked power play in the MJHL, but against OCN they have been very, very good with the man advantage. The Blizzard need to be disciplined as good as possible and use a very good penalty kill to keep the Steelers at bay.

2. Be Willing To Block Shots And Plug Lanes

With a blueline as offensive as the Steelers have, you can count on plenty of shots coming down the middle or even along the boards towards the goal. In many road wins this year OCN has done a great job blocking shots and plugging lanes. Selkirk takes plenty of shots and you won't block them all, but if you can stop a good number of them then it might frustrate the Steelers.

3. Keep Relying On A Balanced Attack

In their 3 wins in 2012 the Blizzard have not had a multiple goal scorer. That's not to say they won't win if they do, but it just shows that this team DOES have enough guys capable of scoring. Several players have started picking up their goal totals and eventually Danil Kalashnikov will be scoring for this team and that makes them even more dangerous.

Special Teams Breakdown

OCN power play - 31/196=15.82% (8th)
Selkirk power play - 45/226=19.91% (5th)

OCN penalty kill - 211/251=84.06% (3rd)
Selkirk penalty kill - 187/234=79.91% (7th)

Previous 10 Games

OCN is 7-3 and on the road are 10-9-2-1 including both Showcase games.
Selkirk is 7-3

Season Series (Tied at 2 wins apiece but OCN has 6 points and Selkirk 4)

October 7th @ Winnipeg(Showcase) - Blizzard are badly outshot 37-18 and are lucky to even get a point in a 2-1 shootout loss. Ryan Delorme is the story in the game making 36 saves for OCN. Presley Kirkness scores the only goal for the Blizzard.

October 14th @ OCN - Gui Vallee and Denis Restoule each scored 2 goals and Ryan Delorme makes 33 saves as the Blizzard down the Steelers 5-1. Selkirk scored the 1st goal on the powerplay by Dylan Heide but that's it.

December 3rd @ Selkirk - Dylan Heide scores 2 powerplay goals and also had 2 assists as the Steelers win a wild one 5-4 in overtime. The Blizzard had 4 different goal scorers and three 1 goal leads but could not get the victory. OCN had to kill off most of the overtime period shorthanded and it caught up to them as they lost with just 3.6 seconds left. Matt Krahn made 40 saves in the loss.

December 9th @ OCN - The Steelers showed up just before warm-up started but got out to an early 2-0 lead. However the Blizzard rallied with 3 straight to win 3-2 in regulation. Denis Restoule had 1 goal and 1 assist in the win while Matt Krahn made 30 saves for the victory.

Tonight's game is on CJ 1240 starting with the Murray Dunn GM Pre-Game Show at 7:10. Please remember that tonight's game and tomorrow's WILL BE broadcasted as I am travelling to Winnipeg Friday morning.

-Smalley-

Blizzard Double Natives Again To Start Trip 2-For-2

2012-01-12T12:58:00.000-06:00

Club enjoying day off from game action as busy week continues

It was a case of "2nd verse, same as the 1st" for the Blizzard as they beat the Neepawa Natives 4-2 for the 2nd straight night at the Yellowhead Arena. In both victories, the Blizzard scored the 1st goal on the power play, then they went down 2-1, only to rally and win 4-2 again.

Kolton Baptiste, TJ Constant, Nathan Bruyere and Erik Pushka all scored for the Blizzard who went 2/5 with the man advantage. Neepawa goals were from Troy Hoban and Dylan Dock, both on the power play. Mitch Backhouse picked up his 1st win in goal for the Blizzard and 5th overall.

OCN improves to 23-15-6 and now a 15 point lead over the Waywayseecappo Wolverines for 2nd spot in the Sherwood Division. The win was also the 13th straight by the Blizzard over Neepawa, hands down the longest streak over any team in recent memory. It's also got to be the longest streak one team has over another in the league unless I am missing something. It's pretty impressive no question.

The Blizzard were expected to practice today in Winnipeg but at least get a break from game action. Tomorrow they play Selkirk at 7:30, Winnipeg Saints 7:30 on Saturday and Winkler at 7:30 Sunday. Friday and Saturday's games are on CJ 1240 each night starting with the Murray Dunn GM Pre-Game Show at 7:10.

See ya at the rink!

-Smalley-

Jomar Cruz Comments On The Trade Deadline

2012-01-11T16:56:00.001-06:00

1) Kalashnikov was one of the best available players in the league, how long were you after him?

We were after Danil for about a month. During that time we were also pursuing Shane Goodrunning. Shane was not made available for trade like Danil but considering the information we knew that he was not with the team it was something we definitely needed to explore as he would have been a great addition along with Danil. When we found out Shane was not going to be moved from Waywayseecappo, we directed our efforts on getting the deal done with Danil and looking outside of our league for one more top forward.

2) What does he bring that maybe this team needed or was lacking?

We look for Danil to give us the scoring that we lost in the Collins deal. In addition to that, he fits well into our style of play. He is reliable defensively, works extremely hard and plays with an edge.

3) Lots of people think the price was too steep, is it really that high?

The deal was fair and made sense for both Neepawa and OCN. For OCN, we get the player that we were looking for to replace Collins. We gave up 3 quality Brandon players and a quality prospect from Fort Frances in Bryce Knapp. Of the four players in the deal going to Neepawa, we had a very good idea that we would not see at least 3 of them come to OCN and would have a better chance of playing for Neepawa in the upcoming season. With young Elmes, it would have been an obviously easy recruit with his older brother Josh here, that said, Jaxon would most likely be bubble guy for us next season with the D we have coming back, and the crop of D that we have projected to compete for spots (Nicholas Bruyere 94, Bruce Highway 95, Corey Reid 95, Andrew Antsanen 94, Ralph Cochrane 92, Nathan Bruyere 92, Josh Elmes 93, Kolton Baptiste 92, Dylan Hykawy 93 Maurice Whiteduck 92). Ryan Baker is also a D and it was numbers in our recruiting depth with him as you can see. He is also another Brandonite that helped Neepawa with their recruiting from the area. Brett Kitt and Bryce Knapp are two impact players on their respective teams that we gave up. Knapp was a list we made after seeing him in Moose Jaw at the end of the season last year. I liked him very much and had good conversations with him. Unfortunately OCN was not a place he wanted to come to. Neepawa has some connections with Bryce so it made sense for both teams. We feel Kitt could be a player that plays in the Western League in a year or 2 and it was a piece of the deal that was a must for it to happen. You have to give up something to get something. So back to was the price too high? The price was fair value for what we received. It is a text book example of giving up quality future for a quality player now.

4) Were you looking for another top 6 forward and how close was another deal?

We were definitely looking for another top 6 forward aside from Danil. Like I mentioned earlier, we had targeted Shane Goodrunning, but for obvious reasons, Barry Butler was not going to move him to us. We had identified at the start of the year that another top 6 forward would help us round out our roster when Mike Collins was in the picture. With the departure of Collins, we made every attempt to replace him and add that other top 6. We felt Alex Cooper could have been the answer to replace Collins. Nearing the Christmas break we felt the cost/benefit of the deal was not going to be good for our team given the struggles we had to get him to report. Though he said in conversation he really wanted to come, it was a tug of war trying to make that reality. The trade became void. There were several deals we worked on through Christmas break up till the deadline and the closest deal came from out east that showed promise with the Futures agreed upon, however with the players being in university and not wanting to throw away their classes, the deal fell through. There were some last minute attempts to get a player. I was even on the bench with my phone in Neepawa trying to work something out while Derek was doing the same back in OCN (FYI, a third party does the league scheduling. Coaches and GM's have no part in the scheduling process like it used to be, so unfortunately you Scott haters can't blame him for that one.)

5) With only 2 teams being sellers in the league did that hurt at all?

In terms of our situation and our needs I would say yes. At the same time, it shows that a lot of the teams are going to push to be a contender down the stretch. That's good for the league as a whole and good for fans. It should show for good hockey.

6) What do you make of Mike Collins going to Dauphin?

I was always taught if I can not say anything nice don't say anything at all. I will say that as a Coach I am extremely disappointed it happened, but more in how it went down after all I had to deal with from Mike and his family.

7) Had you known this would have happened, would an attempt have been made to bring him back?

Had I known Mike was even available I would have DEFINITELY attempted to bring him back. I found out about the possibility of the trade at 6:36. I was on the phone with Victoria at 6:37 to match or better the offer hoping the deal was not done. Unfortunately they confirmed the trade had gone through. Getting back to how this went down. I don't think it would be ethical to say the specifics, but I will mention that Victoria did not make Mike available to us first or even give us a chance to match the trade offer from Dauphin. At the same time they are not obligated to do so, but it is VERY good managerial etiquette in hockey. As much of a blow/shock it was to fans, it was that to our organization as well. As far as Victoria being a seller... they were not sellers until the end of this past weekend and it wasn't within our league. With a rival team fighting with them for a playoff spot doing well combined with Victoria struggling that same weekend, they made their decision on Monday to start their fire sale and it was not broadcasted throughout the MJHL wire. That said I can not say exactly how Dauphin was able to get the information on Mike's availability. Obvious connections with Mike and Cole Brunet would be my guess on how the information got to Dauphin so quickly.

The situation is what it is. Would our team have liked to add one more top 6 player to give us more depth. For SURE! But our staff do not believe our success rests on that added player. Does it make it harder to reach our goal without that piece of the puzzle.... it does... but at the same time I love the players we have, and I love the way our room is. I know the player's feelings on the whole Collins situation and it can be channeled to drive our success. Let's not forget we have added a very good two way player in Danil and he will help us score no doubt. The whole Collins deal has overshadowed him joining our team unfortunately. We do have the right pieces of the puzzle for success. It is now our job to make sure these boys play the right way so we can achieve that. The most important thing is our room believes.

Blizzard Double Natives On trade Deadline Night

2012-01-11T09:50:00.000-06:00

12th Straight Win Against Neepawa Begins Busy Week On A High Note. Trade Deadline Comes And Goes With No Other Deals Done.

There is no question the OCN Blizzard have the Neepawa Natives' number these days. The Blizzard have now won a dozen in a row against their divisional rivals thanks to a 4-2 triumph on Tuesday night. OCN got 3 goals in the 3rd period to rally and pick up another road win on the year. It's not that the Blizzard have been blowing out the Natives over this impressive run but rather that they just seem to find a way to get a win.

Gui Vallee, TJ Constant, Jorden Iron and Brad Swampy all scored in the 22nd victory of the season as the Blizzard improve to 22-15-6 will be right back at the Yellowhead Arena for a 7:30 re-match.

Jomar Cruz said the team played really well and he felt Danil Kalashnikov looked "awesome" in his debut with the Blizzard after being acquired from the Natives.

Unfortunately for those that wanted to see more trades made, they will be disappointed. Jomar says " A lot of work and plenty of attempts were made to land another forward but nothing transpired. It certainly was not for a lack of trying". I am hoping to speak with Jomar by phone before the team heads back to Neepawa this afternoon.

-Smalley-

Blizzard Acquire Kalashnikov For Prospects

2012-01-09T13:38:00.001-06:00

The Neepawa Natives have traded the HC playing rights of 20 year old forward Danil Kalashnikov to the OCN Blizzard for the MJHL list rights of 16 year old forward Jaxon Elmes, 16 year old defenseman Ryan Baker, 17 year old forward Bryce Knapp, 15 year old forward Brett Kitt and future considerations.

Kalashnikov was born in Russia and he and his brother were both members of the Natives last season. They went by the names Daniel and Dmitri Adams. Kalashnikov had 21 goals and 16 assists last season. His numbers are pretty good considering that Neepawa has had a difficult time scoring the last couple of years.

It's not known right now if the Blizzard have any other deals in the works.

-Smalley-

Busy Week Ahead For Blizzard

2012-01-09T10:57:00.001-06:00

This will be arguably the busiest week of the year for the OCN Blizzard. Not only is it the trade deadline on Tuesday night but the Blizzard play 5 games in 6 nights all on the road. Certainly all games are winnable as they have beaten all the teams they will face.

Tuesday and Wednesday they are in Neepawa to play the Natives. OCN is 4-0 against Neepawa this year and have won 11 straight overall. At some point that streak will end and that is fact. Neepawa has even beaten Portage coming out of the break so nothing should be a surprise. Rumors abound that a deal between the Blizzard and Natives has long been finalized.

Friday the Blizzard are in Winnipeg to play the Saints, who just beat the Blizzard 3-1 here on Saturday. Overall OCN is 2-1 against the Saints. Saturday OCN plays in Selkirk where they feel they got robbed of a win last time losing 5-4 in overtime. And finally on Sunday night they are in Winkler where last time OCN was badly outshot but won 2-1. In 3 Blizzard/Flyers meetings this season, the road team has won all the games a trend that the Blizzard would love to continue.

Regarding deals that are done, once I have the information from Jomar, I will be posting it on here. Like I said there is at least 1 deal done which I cannot announce yet. One deal that has been done sees former Blizzard defenceman Marty McFadden come to the Waywayseecappo Wolverines from Fort Frances (SIJHL).

************************************************************************

Regarding the broadcasts this week, please remember that the Tuesday-Wednesday games will not be broadcasted as originally scheduled. Instead I'll be doing the games Friday and Saturday in Winnipeg and Selkirk. The games missed in Waywayseecappo in December will be done January 31st and February 1st both against the Wolverines at the GLMC.

-Smalley-

OCN Blizzard Game Day

2012-01-07T11:10:00.000-06:00

Sometimes it's not about how you start, but about how you finish. That statement is true for the OCN Blizzard who were really behind the "8-ball" Friday night but battled back strong for a 5-4 overtime win against the Winnipeg Blues. The Blizzard spotted the Blues a 3-0 first period lead and then 4-0 early in the 2nd. But with 4 goals in 4:21 of the 2nd the Blizzard rallied and sent their fans home on a very happy note to kickoff 2012. Tonight the other Winnipeg club visits the GLMC. A team the Blizzard is 2-0 against including a come-from-behind overtime win at the GLMC the last time they were here.

The Saints come to town after a 4-1 loss in Swan River last night and overall are 20-17-5=45 pts. Don't look now but the crossover spot which once seemed to be a given is no sure thing anymore. The Swan Valley Stampeders are playing well and trail the Saints by just 9 points. Winnipeg has been up and down all year and need some wins to keep pace with the "big 4" in the Addison Division. The Saints can score but will also give up a lot. They have surrendered the 5th most goals in the MJHL and in both losses to the Blizzard have scored a combined 3 goals. It'll be interesting to see what the Saints do at the deadline with their top 4 scorers all 20 years old but Winnipeg also being more than in contention for a playoff spot.

The Blizzard have now won 3 straight thanks to Friday's thrilling comeback. They had 5 different goal scorers which shows again that it's going to be score by committee to be successful. Jorden Iron had the game winner and set up 2 others while TJ Constant had 3 assists including setting up the tying and winning goals. It was very nice to see Darien Cardinal get his 1st goal in Blizzard colors as he looks more comfortable now. OCN enters tonight at 21-14-6=48 pts and now has an 11 point lead on Waywayseecappo. Denis Restoule returns tonight from suspension and as Jomar Cruz indicated on the postgame show that when the Neepawa game is made up, Restoule can't take part in that game. Jomar also said Alex Cooper will not be joining the team and another deal is done and will be announced on Monday.

Special Teams Breakdown

OCN power play - 27/183=14.75% (10th)
Winnipeg power play - 36/225=16.00% (8th)

OCN penalty kill - 199/237=83.97% (3rd)
Winnipeg penalty kill - 148/186=79.57% (8th)

Previous 10 Games

OCN is 6-3-1 and on home ice are 13-5-3
Winnipeg is 5-4-1

Season Series (OCN leads 2-0)

November 5th @ OCN - The Blizzard were less than impressive through 2 periods but they found a way to win 3-2 in overtime. Nathan Bruyere had 2 powerplay goals including the winner while Matt Krahn stopped 18 shots for the win. Brett Chartier and Jason Gardiner each had 1 goal and 1 assist in a losing cause for Winnipeg.

November 19th @ Winnipeg - Despite giving up the 1st goal, the Blizzard score once in each period and down the Saints 3-1. Erik Pushka, Jorden Iron and Denis Restoule each score and Matt Krahn makes 32 saves in the win.

Tonight's game is not broadcast and again please remember our next broadcast is next Friday in Winnipeg against the Saints and not Tuesday-Wednesday in Neepawa as originally scheduled.

See ya at the rink!

-Smalley-

OCN Blizzard Game Day

2012-01-06T11:15:00.000-06:00

Well at long last it's time to get back to work for the OCN Blizzard. It's been nearly 3 weeks since they last played and said goodbye to 2011 with 2 wins on a home ice and an incomplete game as well. So tonight they look for their 3rd straight victory and 21st overall. Tonight's opponent has the edge in the season series but with a win this evening the Blizzard would clinch the season series and do so against a club they formed a good rivalry with and also welcome an old friend quickly back to a place where he played 2.5 season in Blizzard colors.

The Winnipeg Blues come to town tonight for the 2nd and final time. Their record is 27-14-2=56 pts but they are coming off of a disappointing 3-1 loss in Steinbach on Wednesday night. Still a win by the Blues tonight puts them right back into a 1st place tie in the Addison Division with Portage and a 3-way tie overall including Dauphin. Earlier this year players like Jeremy Olinyk, Dylan Kelly and Jake Heisinger were leading the charge for the Blues. But now quietly Jared Morris has taken over the team lead in points with 53. He is 2nd in goals with 22 and tied for the lead in assists with 31. Of course tonight the main attraction in a Blues jersey will be Colin Fay who was dealt to the Blues over the Christmas break after playing a long time up here in the north.

The Blizzard enter tonight at 20-14-6=46 pts and a 10 point lead over Waywayseecappo for 2nd place. OCN did head into the break with 2 wins and then of course the incomplete game due to zamboni issues. But still they can get their 3rd straight win tonight if they can beat Winnipeg for the 2nd straight meeting. The Blizzard won the last meeting back in December, 3-1 in Winnipeg. Either team could be 3-0 since all games are close so expect likely the same thing tonight. The Blizzard be minus Denis Restoule who was suspended for 2 games before the break and the 2 games this weekend are the final ones prior to the January 10th trade deadline.

Three Keys To A Blizzard Victory

1. Break Is Over So Come Ready To Play

The Blizzard played well heading into the Christmas break and didn't show any signs that the break was on the mind. The guys have been back since Monday practicing everyday so they should be ready to go and have all the holiday "goodies" worked out of their system. Oh and the Blues lost in Steinbach Wednesday so they should be also more than ready to go.

2. Play A Complete Game

In both losses to Winnipeg the Blizzard had 1 rough stretch each night and it cost them. In the 1 win they played well start to finish. To beat a skilled team like the Blues, they will have to do it again. Winnipeg is just too offensive to key in on 1 or 2 guys so you have to be aware who is on the ice at all times.

3. The "Fay Effect"

It'll be tough to see a good friend and longtime teammate in Blues colors tonight but the Blizzard will have to remember that there are no friends on the ice and they will have to view Colin Fay as the enemy. Heck it will be tough for me in the booth too. You'd think it would be an emotional night for Fay playing here so quick after the trade. Look for the Blizzard to key in on him tonight if the opportunities are there.

Special Teams Breakdown

OCN powerplay - 26/178=14.61% (10th)
Winnipeg powerplay - 40/243=16.46% (7th)

OCN penalty kill - 196/233=84.12% (3rd)
Winnipeg penalty kill - 206/246=83.74% (4th)

Previous 10 Games

OCN is 5-4-1 and on home ice are 12-5-3
Winnipeg is 5-4-1

Season Series (Winnipeg leads 2-1)

October 29th @ Winnipeg - A wild game would be putting it mildly! The Blues erase an early 3rd period deficit of 5-2 and in a span of less than 4 minutes have a 6-5 lead. Winnipeg eventually wins in overtime 7-6. Jeremy Olinyk leads the Blues in points and Mike Collins does the same for OCN.

November 4th @ OCN - Jared Morris and Derek Gingera each scored a goal and added an assist as the Blues win 5-4 in a shootout. The Blizzard get 4 different goal scorers in the loss with their brightest spot being a perfect 9/9 on the penalty kill. Tyson Price scored the only goal in the shootout to give Winnipeg the win.

December 2nd @ Winnipeg - 2 goals in the 1st period would prove to be enough as the Blizzard beat the Blues 3-1. Garick Gray, Taylor Santorelli and Denis Restoule all score. Santorelli's was the game winner. Colin Fay had 2 assists in the win. The Blizzard penalty kill again was superb as they killed 10/11 Blues chances.

Tonight's game is on CJ 1240 starting with the Murray Dunn GM Pre-Game Show at 6:40. I am excited to be back in the booth so hopefully we see a good crowd out tonight. Also a big MERRY CHRISTMAS to those celebrating Ukrainian Christmas tonight and this weekend!

See ya at the rink!

-Smalley-

Fay Dealt To The Blues

2011-12-30T13:55:00.000-06:00

After being a member of the Blizzard for 2 1/2 years, defenceman Colin Fay has been dealt to the Winnipeg Blues for future considerations. Fay appeared in 38 games this season recording 11 assists in 38 games to go with 81 pims.

Jomar Cruz informed me of the deal early this afternoon and also said the future considerations from the Blues will likely lead to another deal to be announced prior to the January 10th deadline.

I want to wish Colin all the best in Winnipeg. He has been fabulous to deal with and his parents/family have been great supporters of the team and myself. Colin gets to be closer to home and play for a team, like the Blizzard, in the mix for competing for an MJHL trophy.

-Smalley-

Blizzard New Year's Social

2011-12-22T13:12:00.000-06:00

The OCN Blizzard would like you to help celebrate the New Year with them at their fundraising evening on December 31st at the Legion Hall in The Pas. It will be from 9pm-1am and tickets are $12/each. For tickets, to help volunteer or for just further information, please call Sophia at (204)620-9528. MLCC#471-11.

-Smalley-

Christmas Break Is Underway

2011-12-21T12:09:00.000-06:00

On behalf of myself, CJ 1240 and Arctic Radio and the OCN Blizzard, it's time to extend a Merry Christmas & Happy New Year to everyone! All the best in 2012.

The Blizzard are 20-14-6=46 pts and will return to action on Friday January 6th when the Winnipeg Blues visit the GLMC. That will also be the next broadcast of Blizzard hockey.

Should there be any news report over the holiday then I will post it. Otherwise expect things to be quiet for a while. Here are our broadcast schedule changes for January:

December 13th & 14th games in Wayway will be made up January 31st and February 1st vs Wayway.
January 10th & 11th games in Neepawa will be made up January 13th @ Selkirk and 14th @ Winnipeg

-Smalley-

GAME TIME CHANGE!!!!!!!!!!!!!

2011-12-17T13:31:00.000-06:00

Please note that Sunday's game between the Blizzard and Natives has been moved and will start at 4:30 pm now instead of 7pm.

OCN Blizzard Game Day

2011-12-17T10:39:00.000-06:00

Well well well! Now that was exactly the OCN Blizzard team we know they can be. A very strong performance in all areas resulted in a 6-2 win over the defending league champions from Portage. Despite the score, the Terriers were in the game through just over half the contest. But once the Blizzard got their first 2-goal lead they didn't let up and that was good to see. Tonight now they play the 1st of 2 games against a divisional foe that has gone through a lot this year on and off the ice but a team that has been somewhat better since the hazing incident was put to rest and more importantly a much needed coaching change occurred.

Now at 19-14-6=44 pts the Blizzard have a chance to hit 20 wins tonight with perhaps the tougher test tonight only because Neepawa is in the bottom of the standings but certainly will not roll over and allow the Blizzard to have an easy night. Which is why OCN needs to do what they did last night. How bout Denis Restoule? He recorded his 1st Junior A hattrick last night and was close to more goals. TJ Constant had 4 assists and a dandy scrap too in the 3rd period. But those are just some of the highlights from Friday's win and hopefully we'll see more of it tonight. By the way chew on this stat. The Blizzard have won 10 straight games over Neepawa.

There might not be a team happier to see the Christmas break come than Neepawa. That Natives are 7-27-2=16 pts but oddly enough have been better lately since Bryant Perrier was given the boot as coach. Ken Brooks has been charged with turning this team around and trying to put everything that happened behind them. So far you would have to say he has done a very admiral job. The Natives have only 1 win in December but that was monster win over Winkler as they crushed the Flyers 8-3 back on December 7th. Neepawa's last win over OCN was in October of 2010 and since then the Blizzard have won 10 straight but most wins have been by only a goal or 2.

Three Keys To A Blizzard Win

1. No Let Up After Friday's Big Win

Like Jomar Cruz said on the post game show Friday, it's the 1st thing his team talked about after their win. Make sure you play the exact same way tonight and not assume that because you beat Portage 6-2 that Neepawa will be even easier tonight. Tonight's test is just as important if not moreso than last night.

2. Continue To Be Strong On The Powerplay

Say what???? You read that right! Despite going 0/6 in Wayway Wednesday in a loss, the last 2 Blizzard wins have seen them go 3/5 and 2/3 with the man advantage. Now I am not ready to say this powerplay should be considered fully armed and dangerous but there is a lot to like at the moment about how this team is playing on the powerplay with some changes made in their schemes.

3. Continue Strong Physical Play

Now I didn't see the Wayway games this week but over the last couple weeks the most physical games I have seen from the Blizzard have against the Blues, Steelers, Steelers and Terriers. The results? Three wins and an overtime loss. If OCN dictates the physical play and keeps on it then they wear teams down and that lately has led to success.

Special Teams Breakdown

OCN powerplay - 25/174=14.37% (10th)
Neepawa powerplay is 19/174=10.92% (11th)

OCN penalty kill - 190/226=84.07% (4th)
Neepawa penalty kill - 123/159=77.36% (10th)

Previous 10 Games

OCN is 4-5-1 and at home are 11-5-0-3
Neepawa is 4-6

Season Series(OCN leads 3-0)

October 21st @ OCN - Jordan Christianson scores 2 goals and Taylor Santorelli has 2 assists as the Blizzard double the Natives 4-2. Ryan Delorme makes 24 saves as the Blizzard outshoot Neepawa 38-26.

October 22nd @ OCN - Luke Hannas scores 1 goal and sets up another as the Blizzard edge the Natives 3-2. Ryan Delorme once again plays very well stopping 25 shots as the Blizzard outshoot Neepawa for the 2nd straight night, this time 37-27 and win their 9th straight overall against their divisional foes.

November 9th @ Neepawa - Despite giving up a goal just 1:14 into the game, the Blizzard score 4 unanswered to down the Natives 4-1. Josh Elmes and TJ Constant each collect a goal and assist in the win as OCN outshoots the Natives 32-27 to defeat Neepawa for the 10th straight time.

Tonight's game is also on CJ 1240 starting with the Murray Dunn GM Pre-Game Show at 6:45. Once again, it is also parent/billet parent night at the GLMC. All those parents/billet parents attending are asked to be in the hallway outside the Blizzard dressing room by 6:40 tonight.

See ya at the rink!

-Smalley-

OCN Blizzard Game Day

2011-12-16T10:55:00.000-06:00

Three months ago today the current MJHL season got underway and it seems just like yesterday doesn't it? Well now it's hard to believe that this is the final weekend of action before the Christmas break. It certainly has been an up and down 1st half for the Blizzard who at times have shown signs of being a championship calibre team and other teams have looked anything but. Oddly enough too, they have just 1 win in their last 5 home games and things won't get any easier tonight as they welcome the defending league champions to town.

Yes who would think the Blizzard would be 5-2-1 in their last 8 road games but 1-3-1 in their last 5 home games. Most would think it would be the other way around. Tonight the Blizzard enter action at 18-14-6=42 pts after a strong win Tuesday in Wayway and a very disappointing loss Wednesday in the rematch. No matter what happens this weekend the Blizzard will be in 2nd place heading into the break. But this weekend the Blizzard have a chance to hit 20 wins and potentially win 3 straight on home ice to close out 2011. The last time there were 3 home games in 3 nights the Blizzard did in fact win them all. The toughest test this weekend is the 1st game tonight against the defending champions.

The marquee franchise right now in the MJHL is those defending league champion Terriers. At 25-9-1=51 pts the Terriers have the highest winning percentage in the MJHL and are 2nd in the Addison Division just a point behind the Blues. It shouldn't surprise anybody that the Terriers are strong again but just think that they lost Stephane Pattyn to UND and Jason Kasdorf to the USHL after he was drafted by the Winnipeg Jets. Both were still eligible to play in the MJHL this year. Captain Andrew Wiebe is the reigning MJHL player of the week and the Thunder Bay native is one of several from Thunder Bay on the club. The Ontario city has offered up many good player to Portage over the last number of years.

Three Keys To A Blizzard Victory

1. Return To What Works At Home

At only 1-3-1 in their last 5 home games the Blizzard haven't been great on home ice lately. It's time to get back to hitting, strong play along the boards and keeping the game simple. Portage will offer up a tough test in all areas and despite the last game being a 6-1 Terrier win, you can expect this one to be a very tight game.

2. Watch The "W's"

Andrew Wiebe and Tanner Waldvogel have been, in my opinion, the 2 best Terriers against the Blizzard this season and have done the most damage. That doesn't mean there aren't other guys to key on but if OCN can contain those 2 and be sharp in other areas then they are going to give themselves a good shot at a "W" of their own.

3. Be Ready, Be Focused

This will be a key all weekend as the Christmas break approaches. Each game has 2 teams, one of which will win the game. It's the team that is best focused and ready that will get that win. Blake Spiller will not let his team be slack tonight and Jomar won't let his guys be either. There is nothing better than winning going into a break and here is hoping the Blizzard do just that.

Special Teams Breakdown

OCN powerplay - 23/171=13.45% (10th)
Portage powerplay - 45/177=25.42% (1st)

OCN penalty kill - 187/222=84.23% (4th)
Portage penalty kill - 158/185=85.41% (2nd)

Previous 10 Games

OCN is 3-5-2 and on home ice are 10-5-0-3
Portage is 7-3

Season Series (Portage leads 2-0)

October 30th @ Portage - As usual a tight game between these 2 clubs that Portage wins 3-2. OCN scores the 1st and last goal of the game but it was the Terriers powerplay that was the difference. Portage scored 2 goals on a 4 minute penalty just 56 seconds apart which stood as the difference. Denis Restoule had both goals for the Blizzard.

December 4th @ Portage - This game was over basically before the game was a minute old. Portage scored 44 seconds in and with .02 seconds left in the period and led 4-0 after 1. Mike Gemmill and Tanner Waldvogel each had 2 goals for the Terriers while Gui Vallee had the lone Blizzard marker.

Tonight's game is on CJ 1240 starting with the Murray Dunn GM Pre-Game Show starting at 6:40. Don't forget that Saturday night is Parent/Billet Parent night at the GLMC in advance of the game vs Neepawa. It should be cool to see so many parents and billets in the arena.

See ya at the rink!

-Smalley-

Blizzard Edge Wolverines 4-3

2011-12-14T09:47:00.002-06:00

Team evens season series with rare win in Waywayseecappo.

When the Blizzard play in Waywayseecappo and win they have strong 1st periods and when they lose it's usually the 1st period that seals their fate. Well it was a strong 1st period last night as they scored 3 times and hung on for a 4-3 victory over the Wolverines.

OCN had 4 different goal scorers in Dallas Drysdale, Nathan Bruyere, Denis Restoule and Jorden Iron but what really should be noticed is they went 3/5 on the power play and that isn't easy to do against Waywayseecappo. Matt Krahn stopped 37/40 shots in goal.

The Blizzard had period leads of 3-0 and 3-2 but were able to secure their 18th win of the season and tie the season series with the Wolverines as each team is not 2-1 in their own rink. Tonight is the final road game of 2011 for OCN who is now 8-8-2-1 away from the GLMC but even more impressive is they are 5-1-1 in their last 7 games on the road.

Here are some comments from Jomar Cruz on the team's win:

"We had the start we wanted. Our new powerplay has continued it's success. I thought some unfortunate bounces for us allowed Wayway back in the game but it did not seem to faze us as it has in this building in the past. We got back to business and bench was really good about staying positive. We fought through some tough calls and non calls by the officiating and played a smart 3rd period. We made the most of what was dealt to us".

-Smalley-

OCN Blizzard Game Day

2011-12-13T09:18:00.000-06:00

Last weekend's 2 home games again typified the Blizzard season to date and that being win one and lose one. But it wasn't for lack of trying but rather a hot goalie Saturday and not being able to score more than once. Still the troubling stat is just 1 win in 5 games on home ice. Maybe that's why heading out on the road tonight could be a good thing. Of course, saying that, tonight's opponent is the only divisional one that OCN has yet to beat on the road and of course last time there suffered a crushing 7-0 loss, arguably their worst to date.

At 17-13-6=40 pts the Blizzard continue to control 2nd spot in the Sherwood but that's what make these 2 games so monumental. The Blizzard have a 6 point cushion on the Wolverines who have 3 games in hand. These 2 clubs could very well meet in the playoffs and OCN needs to find a way to win in Wayway because it's 1 rink they simply cannot. As mentioned above, the last time around it was a 7-0 loss which amounted to that game being over before it started. The Blizzard simply have to have a strong 1st period in Wayway. One reason to be optimistic as this clubs head out on the road is that they are 4-1-1 in their last 6 away from the GLMC.

The Wolverines have been the model of a .500 this season. They don't win more than a couple and lose a couple in row. They are 15-14-4=34 pts and are coming off of a 3-2 shootout loss to Steinbach on home ice Saturday night. The Wolverines have said goodbye to 2 key players who really burned OCN throughout the season. Defenceman Thomas Ward-Cardinal was dealt out west and Shane Goodrunning left the team awaiting a trade. Still the Wolverines are a dangerous team especially at home.

Special Teams Breakdown

OCN powerplay - 20/160=12.50% (10th)
Wayway powerplay - 40/167=23.95% (3rd)

OCN penalty kill - 179/210=85.24% (3rd)
Wayway penalty kill - 131/161=81.37% (7th)

Previous 10 Games

OCN is 4-4-2 and on the road are 7-8-2-1 including both Showcase games.
Wayway is 3-5-2

Season Series(Wayway leads 3-2)

September 16th @ OCN - The Blizzard appeared home and cooled after opening up a 3-0 lead on opening night. But the Wolverines were allowed back in the game and eventually walked out with a 4-3 shootout victory. The Wolverines outshot the Blizzard 37-29.

October 19th @ Waywayseecappo - The Wolverines use 4 different goal scorers and the Blizzard play one of their worst games of the season to date in a 4-1 loss. The Wolverines outshot the Blizzard 38-24. The loss was disappointing given how good the Blizzard were in Dauphin the night before picking up a victory.

November 9th @ Waywayseecappo - Brett Lafond scores 3 goals and Thomas Ward-Cardinal scores a goal and sets up 3 others as the Wolverines rout the Blizzard 7-0. The Wolverines outshoot the Blizzard 30-20 in a game that was basically over before the 1st period even was.

November 15th @ OCN - The Blizzard exact some sweet revenge as they shut out the Wolverines 4-0 on GLMC ice. All goals from 4 different guys were scored in the 2nd period and Matt Krahn made 25 saves for the shutout. The Blizzard were clearly the better team in this game, a complete opposite from the 7-0 the week before.

November 16th @ OCN - Despite being outshot 35-25, the Blizzard again play a strong game and win 4-1. Jorden Iron scored 2 goals and the Blizzard scored 3 times in the 3rd period to bust open a 1-1 tie. Matt Krahn again gets the win with a solid night making 34 saves.

Once again a big reminder that I am not travelling with the team for either of tonight's or tomorrow's games so neither will be on CJ 1240. I am working on the changes to the broadcast schedule because some changes need to be made in January too. My apologies once again!

-Smalley-

Blizzard Come Up Short Against Flyers

2011-12-11T10:06:00.000-06:00

Yet again, another OCN-Winkler battle goes to the road team.

The Winkler Flyers had 3 goals from their "depth players" and a great game from their goaltender to knock off the Blizzard 3-1 on Saturday night and deny them their 2nd straight win. Chad Unrau, Benji MicFlickier and Dainel Fainman scored for Winkler with Gui Vallee's 8th being the opening goal but only goal for the home side.

For me, the clear difference in the game was the play of Flyer's netminder Corey Koop who frustrated the Blizzard all night including a very nice "Bill Ranford" style save off of Vallee on a 2nd period breakaway. But Koop also got some help from the goal post on a Kirk Chief breakaway, also in the 2nd. You really have to feel for Chief because he just can't buy a goal. He works hard, gets lots of chances, and deserves to have 10-12 goals already. Hopefully when he does get one that they do come in bunches.

Staying with Chief, can anyone make a case that he and his linemates were not the best line over both weekend games? In my opinion Coonishish-Coon-Chief-Cardinal were the best trio and played the body well and created lots of chances. They shouldn't be counted on for lots of offense but they certainly do deserve to have some come their way any time.

It was a game where both teams traded lots of chances and maybe the result for the GLMC faithful isn't what they wanted, but it was another tight, hard fought battle between 2 good hockey teams. And yes strangely enough Winkler leads the season series at 2-1 with both wins at the GLMC. Last night also marked the 1st time this year a game was decided by a score other than 2-1. Finally staying in the "odd stats" category, this was the 4th time in the last 5 home games that OCN scored the 1st goal of the game. The end result is they lost them all. Friday against Selkirk they didn't score the 1st goal and won the game.

The Blizzard are now 17-13-6=40 pts and have a 6 points on Waywayseecappo for 2nd in the Sherwood Division. The Wolverines do have 3 games in hand and that sets up a big showdown Tuesday & Wednesday in Wayway between both clubs. The Blizzard have had 2 dud games in Wayway losing 4-1 and 7-0 so hopefully they find a way to at least get a split in both games.

-Smalley-

********************************************************************************

Speaking of the Wayway games, due to unforeseen circumstances I will not be able to go to Waywayseecappo with the team this week so there will be no broadcast of either game. There will also be a change to other games coming up in January too which I will announce down the road. My apologies for this but it's due to some stuff out of my control.

-Smalley-

OCN Blizzard Game Day

2011-12-08T22:48:00.001-06:00

And then there were 7. Just 7 more games already until the Christmas break for the Blizzard who have the benefit/luxury of 5 of those games being on home ice. However, given their last 3 games on home ice, they are going to need to find a way to play a more complete game if they hope to regain some success on home ice. Tonight's opponent should give them enough motivation seeing as last Saturday on the road they held three 1-goal leads on this opponent but ultimately had to settle for a point after a very difficult, late overtime loss.

The Blizzard had a pretty good road trip last weekend taking 3/6 points but their last game was a disappointing 6-1 loss in Portage on Sunday. Still, there should be some drive to come out flying tonight giving last Saturday's heart-breaking 5-4 overtime loss in Steeltown with just 3.6 second left in extra time. In that game OCN held three, 3 goal leads but could never extend it to 2 which certainly could have been the difference. At 16-12-6=38 pts the Blizzard still have a decent lead over Wayway and you'd think if they could heading into Christmas with 4 or 5 wins out of 7 then that would be a good run. OCN has a better record at home but they need to be better than their 3 on GLMC ice when they lost 5-4 (SO), 3-1 and 7-3.

If you need proof at how tight the Addision Division is then look at this. The Steelers are 18-13-1=37 pts but only in 5th place. If the playoffs started today they would be playing Dauphin in round 1. But Selkirk is still hot after an unusually slow start. They have won 15 of their last 22 and are 10-3 against the Sherwood Division this year. The Steelers have been able to do this without some key pieces as forward and former Blizzard Dustin Bruyere, defenceman Alex Kampen and goaltender Joey Rewucki have all been out with long-term injuries. Kampen might be back in tonight. Thanks to Steelers broadcaster Paul Edmunds for some of the information listed.

Three Keys To A Blizzard Victory

1. Right The Wrongs At Home

Even with 9 wins at home, the Blizzard have got to be better than they were during their last 3 game home stand. They need better defensive zone coverage, more intensity and some good first period jump. But it should be noted that during those 3 games, they scored the 1st goal in every game.

2. Keep Selkirk Off Of The Powerplay

We need not look further than last Saturday's overtime loss to the Steelers where the Blizzard surrendered 3 goals out of 5 on the man advantage. In fact 5/7 goals total for Selkirk have scored on the powerplay. Technically Selkirk has 8 goals but only because they won a game in a shootout.

3. Continue To Use A Balanced Attack To Be Successful

During last weekend's trip OCN went 1-1-1 and scored 8 goals total. They had 8 different goal scorers so enough said. The Blizzard do not have a prolific goal scorer or 2 but there is no doubt when they have a balanced attack that they generally do have some success.

Special Teams Breakdown

OCN power play - 19/157=12.10 (10th)
Selkirk power play - 36/178=20.22% (4th)

OCN penalty kill - 171/202=84.65% (4th)
Selkirk penalty kill - 139/175=79.43% (8th)

Previous 10 Games

OCN is 4-4-2 and at home are 9-4-0-3
Selkirk is 7-3 and on the road are 8-6-1

Season Series(Selkirk leads 2-1)

October 7th @ Winnipeg(Showcase) - Blizzard are badly outshot 37-18 and are lucky to even get a point in a 2-1 shootout loss. Ryan Delorme is the story in the game making 36 saves for OCN. Presley Kirkness scores the only goal for the Blizzard.

Tonight's game is on CJ 1240 at 7pm beginning with the Murray Dunn GM Pre-Game Show at 6:40. Join myself and Kyle Patrick tonight. Regrettably Kyle is leaving CJ 1240 after tonight's game and all of us at Cj 1240 wish Kyle the best and I want to thank him for his assistance on many home games this season.

See ya at the rink!

-Smalley-

Blizzard Solve Goaltending Situation, Alex Cooper Update

2011-12-08T10:22:00.000-06:00

Team Stays Northern By Adding Thompson Product To The Pipes.

The Blizzard have announced the acquisition of 18 year old goaltender Mitch Backhouse from the Steinbach Pistons for future considerations.

Jomar Cruz confirmed to me this morning the acquisition of Backhouse to fill the backup role after the sudden departure of Ryan Delorme before the team's game this past Sunday. Backhouse has already beaten the Blizzard once this year, 4-1 back in September. He is currently finishing up his pilot's license training and will join the team after the weekend.

Regarding forward Alex Cooper, he unfortunately lost all of his identification which is preventing him from flying to Manitoba and Jomar says he'll join the team after the Christmas break.

-Smalley-

2011-12-04T10:14:00.001-06:00

As exciting as Saturday's game was for the Blizzard, in the end it really just ended in total disappointment with a 5-4 loss late in overtime. It's hard for a team to kill off almost an entire 5 minute overtime short handed but the Blizzard nearly did that before giving up the winner with just 3.6 seconds left. They played more than well enough to win and in the end do get 1 point giving them 3/4 on the trip. Tonight they will fade the defending champions who have dropped 2 straight games and if the Blizzard can play like they did in the first 2 games they have a chance to make 5/6 which would be a fine road trip against 3 quality teams.

The Blizzard continue to distance themselves over Waywayseecappo for 2nd place in the Sherwood Division with that point last night. At 16-11-6=38 pts OCN now has a 7 point lead albeit with the Wolverines having some games in hand now. Saturday night was a "triple 7" kind of night as 3 players, Erik Pushka, Spencer Brennan and Nathan Bruyere all scored their 7th goals of the season. Matt Krahn was very good as usual with 40 saves on 45 shots. The toughest goal was the 4th goal that Matt stopped but it went up and over and in the net. Still in the end, OCN is 4-0-1 on the road in their last 5 and they do remain at .500 away from the GLMC.

As far as tonight's opponent, the Portage Terriers are still the defending champs until they are stopped from repeating. Despite 2 straight losses including a 9-6 wild affair with Winkler on Thursday, Portage is still 21-8-1=43 pts and tied for 2nd with the Flyers for 2nd in the Addison Division. Both clubs also own the 2nd highest winning percentage in the league at .717 with 21 wins in just 30 games. Two guys with Northern Manitoba connections, Shaq Merasty and Kajon McKay are 1-2 in Terrier scoring, Merasty has 25 goals and 45 points while McKay has 9 goals and 26 assists. I've said it before and I'll say it again, the Blizzard should have drafted Kajon McKay over Devin Balness.

Three Keys To A Blizzard Victory

1. Be Prepared For A Tight Game

These 2 teams are both very well structured and basically everytime the games are decided by 1 goal. So that means chances are going to be few and far between, and play along the boards will be especially tight. The team that is most patient and doesn't try to force things likely will come out on top.

2. Start The Same Way As In Both Prior Games

So far on this trip, the Blizzard have led 2-1 and trailed 2-1 after the 1st period. But they have had 2 pretty good opening road periods and if they can put last night's stinging loss behind them and come out strong, it'll be hard to argue that will be anything but a positive.

3. Continue The Physical Play

The amount of good quality hits in Saturday's game was very good to see let by Jonah Coonishish-Coon. But he wasn't the only one who through a good hit. Portage plays a good physical game too and if OCN decides to hit like they did a night ago then it'll really force Portage to match them in that area too.

Special Teams Breakdown

OCN power play - 18/147=12.24% (10th)
Portage power play - 39/157=24.84% (2nd)

OCN penalty kill - 167/197=84.77% (3rd)
Portage penalty kill - 142/168=84.52% (4th)

Previous 10 Games

OCN is 5-3-2 and on the road are 7-7-2-1 including both Showcase games
Portage is 6-4

Season Series (Portage leads 1-0)

October 30th @ Portage - As usual a tight game between these 2 clubs that Portage wins 3-2. OCN scores the 1st and last goal of the game but it was the Terriers powerplay that was the difference. Portage scored 2 goals on a 4 minute penalty just 56 seconds apart which stood as the difference. Denis Restoule had both goals for the Blizzard.

Tonight's game from PCU Centre is on CJ 1240 at 6:30 starting with the Murray Dunn GM Pre-Game Show at 6:10.

-Smalley-

Blizzard Mid Season Report Cards

2011-12-03T13:56:00.000-06:00

There likely won't a game day report for Selkirk but here are my grades for the Blizzard after 31 games. These do not include anything from the Blues game on Friday night.

Offense

This seems like the best place to start because it has been perhaps the most sore spot for fans over the last many years, basically since the 2005-2006 season, which was the last time the team made it to the league final. There are plenty of guys that can score on this team but so far again this year the Blizzard have scored well in spurts and then struggled mightily at other times. A perfect example is scoring 11 goals in 2 games against Dauphin, both wins, and then scoring 7 goals in 4 games against Steinbach, all losses. We all love to see goals and lots of them so could be a lot better and it could be a lot worse.

Grade: C-

Defense

Considering Dale Warkentin wasn't back this year and Dallas Drysdale has only played 1/3 of a season there is still plenty to like from this year's blueline which includes some new faces. Even with a 7-3 thumping on Wednesday and other losses of 7-0 and 8-2, the Blizzard are still near the best in goals allowed which is a very positive stat. Yes, it's true sometimes that it's not how many you score but rather how many you give up. Given how tight the d-men can play and given the goaltenders behind them it is a team effort literally.

Grade: B+

Goaltending

With respect to Bembridge-Guhle in Dauphin and Koop-Oswald in Winkler, it is very hard to argue that the Blizzard don't have the best tandem in the league in Matt Krahn and Ryan Delorme. It has been a weird year for both since they often have had poor goal support in some games and then when they get support they struggle themselves. But when push comes to shove these 2 are dynamite goaltenders whose numbers are skewed because of inconsistent play in front of them. Outside of a 7-0 loss in Wayway, Matt Krahn had a fantastic November and the 7-3 loss to Swan Wednesday should be blamed more on bad defensive play and sloppy all around play and not squarely on Ryan. Goaltending has always been my favorite position so I tend to show some bias and will exercise that right here.

Grade: B+

Powerplay

I think it's safe to say that if you don't have much “power” then your powerplay will struggle. For the most part this year OCN's powerplay has been a major head scratcher. Again there are enough guys to put pucks in the net but they just have not been able to do it consistently with the man advantage. The odd part is they do move the puck well but there have been a lot of nights with no goals despite plenty of powerplays. Then there are lots of goal posts hit and guys trying to be too fancy which kills some chances. Add all of that up and there is a reason the Blizzard powerplay has been virtually stuck in 10^th place out of 11 all season. If this club had scored even 15-20 more powerplay goals this year, I bed there would be 3-5 more wins guaranteed. But alas that's only speculation.

Grade: D

Penalty Kill:

Here we have perhaps the brightest spot all season for a 2^nd straight year to boot. If you want to pay just to watch a penalty kill work at it's best then consider doing so for OCN's penalty kill. Sure there have been some games where the “pk” has struggled but let's face facts. The Blizzard have had 2 games this year where they have been a perfect 9/9 killing penalties. Once in Dauphin which resulted in a win and the other against the Blues where had OCN surrendered even 1 power play goal to the Blues they would have not even got to a shootout and earned a point. Between strong goaltending, tight defense and high pressure of forwards the penalty kill sits 2^nd in the league with a more than grear chance to be # 1 again.

Grade: A-

Coaching

I can't include Scott McMillan in this because had he not been fired(let's not go there) he wouldn't be on the bench. This is Jomar Cruz's team no ifs, ands, or buts and all wins have come under him this season. Correction, all have come under Jomar and Curtis Brolund. Scott felt Jo was ready and I think given everything that's gone and he has to deal with, he has done a pretty good job so far. Basically both guys are still learning and they do work well together. Considering to that Curtis not a year removed from playing, it's a lot to take in too. But both guys are very well respected by the players and me for that matter. Have they been perfect? Well no because the team isn't either. Have they looked bad and out of place. Heck, don't even try to tell me that's the case because they have been pretty good so far in my eyes. What drives me most crazy is all the talk of Brandon (insert sarcastic laughter here) because Jo played for the Wheat Kings and Curtis is from Brandon. I was kidding for those who think it drives me nuts. Great guys, who if given enough of a chance will get this team on the right footing.

Grade: B+

Recap

As someone who is around this team all year, I do feel confident in my evaluations. I see these guys at the rink and in their warmups and in my own home since I do billet. It's a tight group who feels they have underachieved so far this season. But taking the rational look one must remember that there has been a coaching change and the loss of a guy these players liked and were loyal to. I am typing these on the bus in advance of the Winnipeg Blues game. This team has done plenty right and then some things not so much. They are in 2^nd place in their division and would have home ice in at least the 1^st round of the playoffs if they started today. They have the defense and goaltending to give their team a shot each and every night. They are not a great team but in the end this is still a pretty good club when it wants to be. Besides the true measure of a team is when playoffs come. What do you think? Give some good rational arguments to back up your statements. Don't just say “the team isn't in 1^st place so they suck”.

My overall grade through half of a season: B

OCN Blizzard Game Day

2011-12-02T00:32:00.000-06:00

Well November really ended with a thud for the Blizzard after an embarrassing 7-3 loss on home ice Wednesday to finish the month with 3 straight losses. Overall it was still a good month with 8 wins in 14 games including 5 on the road and the club should be appreciative of the fact that they are in 2nd place in the division. For the next 3 nights, the Blizzard go on the road into the other division and first up is an opponent who has beaten them twice this season in extra time and made for 2 very exciting hockey games in the process.

At 15-11-5=35 pts the Blizzard have officially hit the half way mark of their season, a season which could be summed up as underachieving but not that bad overall. Sure there have some bad losses such as Wednesday's egg laying to the Stampeders. But also there have been some real impressive wins such as beating Winkler 2-1 on their last trip. One thing the Blizzard can be excited about tonight is that they have won 3 straight games away from the GLMC. Last time they were at the MTS Iceplex they blew a 5-2 3rd period lead to the Blues in a game that just really got away from them in a short span. With Mike Collins now dealt, Denis Restoule becomes the team's leading scorer with 27 points in 31. It should be noted that Restoule, Jorden Iron and Josh Elmes are the only 3 players to appear in games so far.

The Blues record of 4-5-1 over the last 10 games might be average but their overall record of 22-9-1=45 pts is anything but as they continue to lead the league in wins, points and goals for at 140. Although Jeremy Olinyk continues to lead the team in points with 42, Derek Gingera has perhaps quietly jumped into the team lead in goals with 21 and has probably been the best player against OCN this season. These 2 clubs might have only face each other twice this season, but they have been exciting, nasty affairs and it would be a shock if anything changed tonight.

Three Keys To A Blizzard Victory

1. Go Easy On The Extra Ciricular Stuff

Usually when emotions run high between these 2 clubs, Blues forward Dylan Kelly seems to be in the mix as other teams love to get him wound right up. OCN has their share of guys who like to go wild too but eventually when emotions run high, so to do the penalty minutes. The Blizzard were deserving of wins in both prior meetings but they got undisciplined at times too and with a potent offense like the Blues to face, you really don't to give them too many chances on the power play.

2. Weather The 1st Period Storm

When facing a high powered offense on the road you really can ill afford to get behind early, something the Blizzard have done twice to Winnipeg this year including being down 1-0 the last time at MTS Iceplex. Many times on the road this year OCN has scored the 1st goal only to lose the game but scoring 1st on a team such as the Blues is never a bad idea.

3. Get Better In The Defensive Zone

This was an area the Blizzard got scrambly in Saturday's loss to Dauphin and then downright dreadful on Wednesday. The speed of the Blues will really keep the Blizzard d-men on their toes. but also the Blues like to play down low and take chances so if the Blizzard can be steady they may also be able to break out quick which they did do well in the 7-6 overtime loss last time in Winnipeg.

Special Teams Breakdown

OCN powerplay - 18/137=13.14% (10th)
Winnipeg power play - 30/193=15.54% (8th)

OCN penalty kill - 154/180=85.56% (2nd)
Winnipeg penalty kill - 159/193=82.38% (5th)

Previous 10 Games

OCN is 6-3-1 and on the road are 6-7-1-1 including both Showcase Games
Winnipeg is 4-5-1

Season Series (Winnipeg leads 2-0)

October 29th @ Winnipeg - A wild game would be putting it mildly! The Blues erase an early 3rd period deficit of 5-2 and in a span of less than 4 minutes have a 6-5 lead. Winnipeg eventually wins in overtime 7-6. Jeremy Olinyk leads the Blues in points and Mike Collins does the same for OCN.

November 4th @ OCN - Jared Morris and Derek Gingera each scored a goal and added an assist as the Blues win 5-4 in a shootout. The Blizzard get 4 different goal scorers in the loss with their brightest spot being a perfect 9/9 on the penalty kill. Tyson Price scored the only goal in the shootout to give Winnipeg the win.

Tonight's game is a 7:30 start with the Murray Dunn GM Pre-Game Show starting at 7:10 on CJ 1240 and www.thepasonline.com.

See ya at the rink!

-Smalley-

Collins Dealt To Victoria - Interview now included

2011-12-01T10:28:00.002-06:00

Forward Mike Collins has now been officially dealt to the Victoria Grizzlies of the BCHL for future considerations. Collins, who is a Victoria native had requested to be dealt back to British Columbia so he would have a better chance to obtain a Division 1 NCAA scholarship.

Head Coach Jomar Cruz says the "future considerations" give the Blizzard enough resources to find fair value for what Collins is worth.

-Smalley-

OCN Blizzard Game Day

2011-11-30T09:24:00.000-06:00

Despite 2 losses to the to the front running Dauphin Kings over the weekend, November has been a pretty good for the month Blizzard. It hasn't been a great month but still pretty good. Tonight they bid adieu to the month and are hoping to do so against a divisional foe who has struggled this season and an opponent that the Blizzard have won 3 straight against, including 1 week ago tonight.

Despite squandering a chance to be in 1st place this past weekend, OCN still has to be pretty happy with where they are right now. They are 15-10-5=35 pts and in 2nd in Sherwood Division with a 4 point lead over Waywayseecappo. Clearly the biggest news of the week is Mike Collins leaving the team and there is no question that will be a big blow to the team's offense. That said there are still plenty of guys to put up some points.

This past week has certainly been much more interesting for the Stampeders. First of all, they were able to give their offense a boost by acquiring forward Derek Falloon who did report to Neepawa when he was dealt there from Dauphin. All Falloon did in his 1st game was record a hattrick. But the bigger news came over the weekend when long time general manager Guy Vestby announced his resignation. At 7-17-5=19 pts the Stamps remain 4th in the Sherwood Division which in any other year would be okay. But every single team in the Addison has more points so unless the Blizzard or Wolverines really collapse then the playoffs are not likely.

Special Teams Breakdown

OCN power play - 18/132=13.65% (10th)
Swan Valley powerplay - 26/163=15.95% (6th)

OCN penalty kill - 152/176=86.36% (2nd)
Swan Valley penalty kill - 119/148=80.41% (7th)

Previous 10 Games

OCN is 6-3-1 and on home ice are 9-3-3
Swan Valley is 1-7-2

Season Series (OCN leads 3-1)

September 17th @ Swan River - The Blizzard score the 1st goal early in the 2nd period and would hold that lead for over a whole period. But the Stamps score 3 times in the 3rd, one into an empty net to grab a 3-1 victory. Jayson Argue makes 31 saves for the win while Ryan Delorme played very well for the Blizzard despite the loss making 31 saves as well.

September 30th @ OCN - The Blizzard win a true goaltenders battle 1-0 in which they outshot the Stamps 37-20. Matt Krahn gets the better of Jayson Argue and Guillaume Vallee scores the only goal of the game early in the 3rd period.

Tonight's game will not be on CJ 1240 with the next broadcast coming up Friday. Also, tonight marks the official halfway point of the season so after the game I will have a new poll up pertaining to the 1st half and I am also going to give my mid season "report cards" on here tomorrow I hope.

See ya at the rink!

-Smalley-

Blizzard Crowned By Kings For 2nd Straight Game

2011-11-27T10:30:00.000-06:00

Have To Settle For Just 1 Point After 2 Big Games

Despite opening the scoring for the 2nd straight game, the Blizzard could not generate any further offense as the Dauphin Kings won 3-1 Saturday night to take both games at the GLMC and maintain a comfortable hold on 1st place in the Sherwood Division. I suppose one could say that at least the focus was on the 2 teams and not any zamboni issues or anything else but it's unfortunate after letting Friday's game slip away that OCN couldn't get the win Saturday.

TJ Constant potted his 5th of the season in the 1st period set up by Mike Collins and Denis Restoule. Mitch Van Teeling scored 2 goals for the Kings including the game winner on the powerplay, while Taylor Wells added the insurance marker at 8:09 of the 3rd period. Dauphin kept Matt Krahn plenty busy and the Blizzard defense on their toes out shooting the homeside 42-27.

The Blizzard certainly were in the game and had chances but no question the length of Friday's game and heartbreak of the loss might have carried over just tad. From the glass half full "department", the Blizzard do still have 4 more games with the Kings, all of them though in Dauphin. Also, this month has still been a pretty good one and there is 1 more game yet to go.

That game is Wednesday when the Swan Valley Stampeders come to for a 7pm faceoff. The next broadcast will be Friday December 2nd in Winnipeg against the Blues. Also the December 1st "cut-down" day is upon us and whatever moves the Blizzard make I will of course have them on here.

But for the rest of the day my sole focus is on my beloved Blue Bombers........GO BOMBERS GO!!!!!!!!

See ya at the rink!

-Smalley-

OCN Blizzard Game Day

2011-11-25T07:57:00.002-06:00

During this hot month the Blizzard have had hard working wins, they have won with a little luck and they have had a couple games where the results have not gone their way. But in the end this month has been their best to date this season. For the next 2 nights, they have a chance to do something they have never done this season and that is own 1st place in the Sherwood Division. Standing in the way is the team that has had 1st to themselves all season long. But a pair of regulation wins over the next 2 nights not only gives the Blizzard 1st place but it also gives them the season series over a divisional foe that has won the last many season series and even couple of playoff series against them.

Entering tonight at 15-9-4=34 pts the Blizzard continue to sit in 2nd place in the Sherwood and yes if they do win both in regulation they would own 1st even though the 2 clubs would be tied in points. But just as important would be the Blizzard going 5-0 against Dauphin. The Blizzard are coming off of a "greasy" road win Wednesday in Swan River but a win nonetheless. Offensively the hottest player right now for OCN is Jorden Iron who 3 assists in that win including on the game winner. Also don't forget he scored both game winners in the 2 wins on the road last weekend.

The Kings come to town tonight at 18-7-2=38 pts with their last game being a 2- lost to the Blues on Tuesday night. But still the Kings are the team to beat in the Sherwood Division right now. They started 6-0 before the Blizzard beat them 6-2 and 5-2 here to begin October. Still Dauphin is a very good 12-5-2 since those 2 losses. Forward Jesse Sinatynski far and away leads Dauphin in goals with 26 while the next highest belongs to Neil Tarnasky at 9.

Three Keys To A Blizzard Victory

1. Win The Special Teams Battle

With 2 divisional foes that hate each other like these 2 do, you can bet there will be some powerplays over both nights and OCN's special teams have both been very good lately. Their powerplay has been nearly as hot as the pk lately.

2. Don't Go Run And Gun With The Kings

Dauphin plays a more open and offensive style of game which the Blizzard have done a good job of stopping in their 3 wins this season. Look for the Blizzard to really try and frsutrate the Kings the same way again.

3. Who Gets The Big Goal Tonight?

Jorden Iron had both game winners last weekend and TJ Constant got a very key goal in Wednesday's win. The Blizzard are getting timely goals from the guys that should be scoring and should OCN get a victory tonight it will be interesting to see who gets "that goal" tonight.

Special Teams Breakdown

OCN powerplay - 18/122=14.75% (T-7th)
Dauphin powerplay - 27/171=15.79 (6th)

OCN penalty kill - 144/165=87.27 (2nd)
Dauphin penalty kill - 123/145=84.84% (4th)

Previous 10 Games

OCN is 8-2 and on home ice are 9-2-0-2
Dauphin is 7-2-1

Season Series (OCN leads 3-0)

October 1st @ OCN - The line of Hannas-Collins-Restoule combines for 10 points as the Blizzard pound the Kings 6-2 handing previously unbeaten Dauphin it's 1st loss.

October 2nd @ OCN - Spencer Brennan scores twice and Matt Krahn makes 33 saves as the Blizzard again dominate the Kings, this time by a score of 5-2.

October 18th @ Dauphin - The Blizzard open a 2-0 1st period lead and go on to beat the Kings 3-1. Garick Gray, Erik Pushka and Mike Collins all score for the Blizzard who were outshot 41-25. Matt Krahn was easily the games best player and the Blizzard penalty kill goes a perfect 9-for-9.

Tonight's game is on CJ 1240 starting at 6:40 with the Murray Dunn Gm Pre-Game Show. Join myself and Kyle Patrick on the radio and http://www.thepasonline.com/. And in honor of the Grey Cup Sunday....GOOOOOOOOOOO BOMBERS GO!

See ya at the rink!

-Smalley-

OCN Blizzard Game Day

2011-11-23T01:11:00.001-06:00

It might be a little later than expected but the OCN Blizzard are now playing the type of hockey that we have been waiting to see all along. They might not be blowing opponents out but they are playing sound defensive hockey, getting timely goals, generally staying disciplined and of course goaltending from their main man that they have been waiting for for awhile now too. Tonight marks the final of 4 straight road games and the Blizzard will be lookingf or a 3rd straight win overall and against a divisional foe who is struggling right now always seem to play the Blizzard tough in their own barn.

Entering tonight the Blizzard 14-9-4=32 pts and maintain a 3 point lead over Wayway for 2nd in the Sherwood Division. They are coming off of a very "grind it out" victory, 2-1 over Winkler on Sunday in which Matt Krahn stopped 44/45 shots and Jorden Iron potted his 2nd straight game winning goal. I don't think it's a shock now that the veterans are producing regularly that the team is also having success. The Blizzard now have 3 players in the double digits for goal totals, Mike Collins and Iron both with 11 and Denis Restoule with 10.

The Stampeders have certainly had a rough go of it lately with just 1 win in their last 10 games. With a record of 6-15-5=17 pts, the Stamps can really ill afford to get further behind Wayway in the standings because it really seems likely that there will be a crossover playoff spot once again but this year an Addison Division team coming to the Sherwood for the 1st time. It shouldn't surprise anyone either that since goaltender Jayson Argue got hurt that the Stamps have struggled all around and in goal especially losing 11-4 in Winkler on Saturday night.

Three Keys To A Blizzard Victory

1. Don't Let The Stampeders Stay In The Game

Struggling teams are dangerous especially at home and usually the Stamps are tough at home. The Blizzard don't want to be the team that gives their divisional foes some life and if they can take the home team and home crowd out early then they could very well find themselves in line for another victory.

2. What Will The Key Goal Be Tonight?

Sure Jorden Iron has had 2 straight game winners but also look at other key goals in games lately. Erik Pushka on Saturday scores on the power play with just 13 seconds left in the 1st period. Sunday Spencer Brennan scores shorthanded to give the Blizzard their 1st lead. And even in the loss last Friday, Denis Restoule scores very early on the power play.

3. Continue To Be Strong On The Special Teams

While they didn't score a power play goal Sunday, the Blizzard power play is certainly better than it was even a month ago and the penalty kill has also been razor sharp during this hot stretch. Another good showing in both areas on the road could be the "X-Factor" to getting a win.

Special Teams Breakdown

OCN power play - 16/120=13.33% (10th)

Swan Valley power play - 21/145=14.48% (8th)

OCN penalty kill - 137/157=87.26% (2nd)

Swan Valley penalty kill - 110/136=80.88% (7th)

Previous 10 Games

OCN is 7-2-1 and on the road are 5-7-1-1 including both Showcase games.
Swan Valley is 1-7-2

Season Series (OCN leads 2-1)

Tonight's game from the Centennial Arena is on CJ 1240 starting with the Murray Dunn GM Pre-Game Show at 7:10.

See ya at the rink!

-Smalley-

Krahn Named Player Of The Week

2011-11-22T08:10:00.001-06:00

This really is becoming "old hat" but more than deserved for goaltender Matt Krahn as he has yet again been named the MJHL's player of the week. All Krahn did this time was lead his team to a 4-1 record last week surrendering just 6 goals including shutting out Waywayseecappo, then giving up just 1 goal to them the next night. He also allowed just 1 goal in each of this past weekend's wins over Winnipeg and Winkler including a 44 save effort against the Flyers.

The Blizzard are 7-2-1 in November with Krahn's record being 7-2. It would appear that the reigning goaltender of the year is back in his regular forum.

-Smalley-

OCN Blizzard Game Day

2011-11-20T01:05:00.000-06:00

The Blizzard showed exactly how to rebound after a tough loss Friday and turn things into a positive result on Saturday picking up their 4th road of the season. From the goaltender on out, they were very efficient and won a tight game thanks in part to timely goals and yet again consistent play on the special teams. They are 1-1 on this weekend road trip and now they have a chance to finish on a very high note if they can duplicate Saturday's effort, in a rare Sunday afternoon matinee.

Now at 13-9-4=30 pts the Blizzard find themselves with a 3 point lead over Wayway for 2nd in the Sherwood Division. The positives were a plenty Saturday night in a 3-1 triumph over the Winnipeg Saints. Matt Krahn stopped 32 shots for the win, Jorden Iron had 2 more points including the game winning goal and Denis Restoule showed again he is much more effective on the ice than in the penalty box and had a big insurance goal. But also, the power play scored another goal, this time by Erik Pushka and the penalty kill was a perfect 5/5 and now is 25/26 overall. So yes, if OCN can duplicate these things this afternoon then they have a shot cooling down the Flyers.

Winkler's start to the season can hardly be considered a surprise given how Kenny Pearson produces winning clubs and also the talent he has on his club. At 19-5-1=39 pts, the Flyers are 2nd in the Addison Division. They would be 1st ironically in the Sherwood but are only 1 point back of the front running Blues. Remember Winkler only has five 20 year olds so they certainly are not the most veteran team in the MJHL. Forward Chapen LeBlond leads the team in points with 36 but it's Brock Vanderveen who leads Winkler in goals with 18. In goal the Flyers are led by Corey Koop and a great record of 13-3. His gaa of 3.19 and sv % of .909 might not be the league's best but Koop has more than made a case to be in the mix for the MJHL's top goaltender already.

Three Keys To A Blizzard Victory

1. Contain The Speed Of The Flyers

As always, a Winkler Flyers team can, umm, fly! While teams might be able to skate stride for stride with them, if you take chances such as pinching, then you will pay the price. By being sound defensively and trying to contain the speed you can certainly keep the Flyers in check.

2. Keep Doing What They Are Doing

Other than tightening up defensively there is not much to not like the way the Blizzard have played lately so therefore don't change. If Krahn keeps playing the way and other veterans have and the special teams keep clicking as they are now then good things will keep happening.

3. Be Ready To Go At 3 Bells

It's a quick turnaround for the team after a win Saturday and then eating late morning and travelling right away to Winkler so routines might be out of whack a bit. But guess, what Winkler played Saturday too and spanked Swan Valley 11-4. You can bet Winkler will be a tad tired as well but they should be ready to go and so should the Blizzard.

Special Teams Breakdown

OCN power play - 16/119=13.45% (10th)
Winkler power play - 36/133=27.07% (1st)

OCN penalty kill - 132/151=87.42% (2nd)
Winkler penalty kill - 131/149=87.92% (1st)

Previous 10 Games

OCN is 6-3-1 and on the road are 4-7-1-1 including both Showcase games
Winkler is 6-3-1

Season Series (Winkler leads 1-0)

October 15th @ OCN - The Flyers opened up a 2-0 2nd period lead and held off the Blizzard for a 2-1 victory. Jordan Neduzak and Connor Patchett scored for the Flyers and Michael Hay (now with Portage) scored for the Blizzard who outshot Winkler 29-23.

Remember again that this game is at 3pm this afternoon with the Murray Dunn Gm Pre-Game Show starting at 2:40. And in honor of today's CFL Eastern Final.....GOOOOOOOOOOOO BOMBERS GO!

See ya at the rink!

-Smalley-

OCN Blizzard Game Day

2011-11-19T01:00:00.001-06:00

Once again the Blizzard began a road trip on a 3 game winning streak and once again they failed in their attempt at a 4 game winning streak for the 1st time. If there is one encouraging sign it's that the team played well despite a 1 goal loss and to a team with their number. Now tonight they look to start a new streak, against a team they have played only once this year but did beat them 2 weeks ago tonight.

The Blizzard enter tonight at 12-9-4 after losing 3-2 in Steinbach on Friday a game in which they grabbed a very early lead and then could just not tie the game late with all of the chances they had. Still the effort from the goaltender on out was pretty good but the game can be summed up as missed opportunities. Denis Restoule and TJ Constant each scored, Maurcie Whiteduck recorded his 1st ever point and Matt Krahn again gave his team a chance to win. You can be guaranteed that the Blizzard are happy they won't see the Pistons again until early February.

The Saints meanwhile sit 5th in the Addison Division despite 6 wins in their last 10 games which goes to show how tight the Addison is right now. The Saints have an identical record with the Blizzard at 12-9-4 but if the playoffs started today the Saints would be facing Dauphin in Round 1. Winnipeg continues to be led by Brett Chartier in points with 34 and goals with 19. He is, at least for me, the Saints unquestioned top player.

Three Keys To A Blizzard Victory

1. Contain Chartier And Company

The Saints are much more than Brett Chartier but still, usually as he goes so too does his team. The Blizzard were effective in containing him 2 weeks ago tonight in a victory and they will be need to be aware of him at all times on the ice.

2. Continue To Be Strong On The Special Teams

Even though the power play has a way to go, the Blizzard have had a powerplay goal in 3 straight games and yes that is a good sign. But also, the penalty kill has regained it's form killing off 20 of the 21. OCN takes great pride in their "pk" and if they are giving up goals on the "pk" then they likely are remaining in games.

3. Have a Good 1st Road Period

In the last 2 road games the Blizzard have been down 1-0 and tied 1-1 after 20 minutes. Certainly they could be better but scores like that enable them to hang around in games, especially on the road where wins have been tough to come by.

Special Teams Breakdown

OCN power play - 15/116=12.93% (10th)
Winnipeg power play - 25/143=17.48% (5th)

OCN penalty kill - 127/146=86.99% (2nd)
Winnipeg penalty kill - 97/122=79.51% (9th)

Previous 10 Games

OCN is 5-3-2 and on the road are 3-7-1-1 including both Showcase Games
Winnnipeg is 6-2-2

Season Series (OCN leads 1-0)

November 5th @ OCN - The Blizzard were less than impressive through 2 periods but they found a way to win 3-2 in overtime. Nathan Bruyere had 2 powerplay goals including the winner while Matt Krahn stopped 18 shots for the win. Brett Chartier and Jason Gardiner each had 1 goal and 1 assist in a losing cause for Winnipeg.

Tonight's is on CJ 1240 starting with the Murray Dunn GM Pre-Game Show at 7:10. Join myself and captain Dallas Drysdale who may or may not be offering the finer points of cooking a frozen Delissio pizza.

-Smalley-

OCN Blizzard Game Day

2011-11-18T00:43:00.000-06:00

For just the 2nd time this season the Blizzard have won 3 games in a row. And for just the 2nd time they will try to extend a winning streak to 4 games. The last time was unsuccessful and now they are hoping to turn the tables as they play 4 straight away from home. Earlier this week they got the upper hand on a team that really had their number so far. Tonight they face another team that has 3 wins against them this season and for once will be trying to get the upper hand on them as well.

The Blizzard enter play tonight at 12-8-4=26 pts and in sole possession of 2nd place in the Sherwood Division. Thanks to the play of their 20 year olds, the Blizzard have really been effective offensively lately. Only captain Dallas Drysdale has been unable to contribute on the ice and that's due to injury that will keep him out through next week still. Matt Krahn has been a fortress in goal, Jorden Iron getting timely goals and the Blizzard using an effective penalty kill which has gone 16/16 during their 3 wins. Tonight though it's time to right some wrongs by finally playing a good game against the Steinbach Pistons.

The Pistons sit last in the Sherwood Division at 7-16-3=17 pts but again 3 of their wins have been against the Blizzard, the last one being an 8-2 romp 3 weeks ago tonight ironically. Steinbach's roster has undergone some big changes this year many of which have helped but again goals against has been maybe the most sore spot for Rich Gosselin's team. However goaltender Zach Rakochny shutout the Portage Terriers in his 1st start. Forward Dennis Bosc, who was excellent against the Blizzard in that 8-2 win was recently named to the 2012 World Under-17 Hockey Challenge will be held December 29 - January 4 in Windsor, ON.

Three Blizzard Keys To Victory

1. Keep Playing The Way They Are

Sure the 20 year olds have been great offensively during the 3 wins, but the team has also been good on the penalty kill. They have had great goaltending and really helped out Matt Krahn with protection and taking care of rebounds.

2. Bring A Full 60 Minute Effort....For Once

This is something that has been seriously lacking for the Blizzard in their 3 losses to the Pistons. Outscored 15-5 in those 3 meetings the Blizzard haven't bad, they have been dreadful but in all games they have been in the games for at least a period but again if they want to be taken seriously they need to play a full game and exorcise some demons by beating the Pistons.

3. Stay Disciplined

In both wins over Wayway OCN had a lot of penalties to kill. Some were deserved and others were questionable. The bottom line is they can't be taking penalties and not eventually have it catch up to them. Steinbach scored 4 power play goals in the 8-2 win and have enough guys veterans or rookies that can do some damage on the score sheet.

Special Teams Breakdown

OCN power play - 14/11=12.61% (10th)
Steinbach power play - 18/133=13.53& (9th)

OCN penalty kill - 123/141=87.23% (T-1st)
Steinbach penalty kill - 111/149=74.50% (11th)

Previous 10 Games

OCN is 5-3-2 and on the road 3-6-1-1 including both Showcase games.
Steinbach is 2-6-2

Season Series (Steinbach leads 3-0 and have won the season series)

September 24th @ OCN - A tight game through periods, the Pistons score 2 goals in the 3rd to open up a 4-1 lead and win the game. Steinbach has 4 different players score a goal and despite being outshot 30-17 pick up their 1st ever win in the GLMC.

October 8th @ Winnipeg (Showcase) - Brock Genyk scores 2 goals and the Pistons outshoot the Blizzard 33-30 to eke out a 3-2 victory. Mike Collins scores both OCN goals as the Blizzard again fail to put forth a complete effort against Steinbach.

October 28th @ Steinbach - Marcus Dahl scores 2 goals and Dennis Bosc scores a goal and adds 2 assists as the Pistons destroy the Blizzard 8-2. The Pistons go 4/7 on the power play and score a shorthanded goal as well. Next to the 7-0 loss in Wayway, this is possibly the worst loss of the season to date by OCN.

Tonight's game from the T.G. Smith Centre in Steinbach is at 7:30 with the Murray Dunn GM Pre-Game Show at 7:10. The Blizzard play the Saints on Saturday at 7:30 and the Flyers on Sunday at 3pm. Both of those games are on CJ 1240 as well.

See ya at the rink!

-Smalley-

Blizzard Down Wolverines For 3rd Straight Win

2011-11-16T22:21:00.000-06:00

Team starting to show signs of what was expected of them.

For the 2nd time this season the Blizzard have won 3 straight games after a 4-1 triumph Wednesday night over the Waywayseecappo Wolverines at the GLMC. Jorden Iron had 2 goals including the game winner and Matt Krahn was sensational again stopping 34/35 shots. Krahn has won all 3 games during this streak.

But beyond Iron and Krahn it appears that the 20 year olds as a collective unit might be ready to bust out offensively and all around in their play. Earlier in the year some of the younger and depth guys were routinely outplaying the veteran players but now that trend is showing signs of being fully reversed. There might be some work to do still but it is good to see.

It really is perplexing how the Blizzard could have played so bad last Thursday in a 7-0 loss to Wayway only to rebound with 2 excellent efforts in a row and outscore the Wolverines 8-1 in 2 victories. In the 3 losses to Wayway the Blizzard have been outscored 15-4.

Now the real intriguing thing to see will be what happens on the road this weekend as the Blizzard play 3 games in 3 days starting Friday in Steinbach against the Pistons who are 3-0 against OCN this year outscoring the Blizzard 15-5. The last time the Blizzard won 3 in a row they went to Showcase Weekend and lost both games by 1 goal, one of them to Steinbach. Hopefully 3 straight solid wins will be enough to convince this team to play hard all the time and not just in spurts. We'll start to find out come Friday night at the T.G. Smith Centre in Steinbach.

-Smalley-

Here is Jomar Cruz after the team's win commenting on their winning streak, his 20 year olds recent play and comments on Jordan Christianson and Cody Zulyniak.

Blizzard Get Revenge By Blanking Wolverines

2011-11-16T00:23:00.000-06:00

Team beats divisional foes for the 1st time but most importantly pick up 2nd straight win overall.

For the 1st this season the Blizzard (11-8-4) were able to get the upper hand on the Waywayseecappo Wolverines (12-10-2) by blanking them 4-0 on Tuesday night. The Blizzard used 4 different goal scorers and some rock solid goaltending from Matt Krahn to pick up their 11th win of the season and avenge the embarrassing 7-0 setback last Thursday in Wayway. The Wolverines looked about as dis-interested Tuesday as the Blizzard did on Thursday.

All 4 goals came in the 2nd period from Gui Vallee, Denis Restoule, Erik Pushka and Mike Collins. Pushka had an assist as well and Nathan Bruyere continued his hot November by adding a pair of assists. Once again the Blizzard had encouraging point production from many of their 20 year olds, most of whom have been inconsistent this year.

Jonah Coonishish-Coon made his home debut and played perhaps his most effective game especially when it came to throwing the body. As discussed earlier on another post Jordan Christianson's time with the Blizzard is over and Cody Zulyniak with be assigned to a Junior B card.

The rematch will be tonight at 7pm at the GLMC. Some pictures are posted below.

See ya at the rink!

-Smalley-

OCN Blizzard Game Day

2011-11-15T08:26:00.000-06:00

So far this season there a few teams that the OCN Blizzard have had trouble beating. Whether it be lacklustre efforts or bad luck or whatever, things have just not gone their way. Tonight they have a chance to turn the table one of those teams, the 1 team from their division they have yet to beat this season and the 1 team that dealt them their most embarrassing loss of the season to date, just 5 days ago.

That team is the Waywayseecappo Wolverines who come to town for 2 games tonight and tomorrow. Overall their record is 12-9-2=26 pts which has them in 2nd place in the Sherwood Division but they are als0 3-0 against the Blizzard this season outscoring them 15-4 including that dominating 7-0 pasting last Thursday. The Wolverines really appear to be turning into a well rounded 4 line team with not just the likes of Pinkerton, Goodrunning and Ward-Cardinal doing all the damage.

The Blizzard have hit double digits in wins and at 10-8-4=24 pts are 2 points behind the Wolverines with a game in hand as the Blizzard have played the fewest games to date in the MJHL. They are fresh off a big and important 5-2 in Swan River on Sunday where some underachieving 20 year olds played well and maybe again showed they are ready to bust out. It appears that the Blizzard and Wolverines are already on a collision course for a playoff meeting and it would do the Blizzard much good to start beating Wayway just in case these teams were to finish tied in the standings. Last year OCN suffered a 6-0 loss in Wayway and seemed to wake them up so hopefully last Thursday's loss does the same.

Special Teams Breakdown

OCN powerplay - 12/107=11.21% (10th)
Wayway powerplay - 27/117=23.08% (3rd)

OCN penalty kill - 108/126=85.71% (3rd)
Wayway penalty kill - 94/114=82.46% (8th)

Previous 10 Games

OCN is 5-3-0-2
Waywayseecappo is 6-3-0-1

Season Series (Wayway leads 3-0)

September 16th @ OCN - The Blizzard appeared home and cooled after opening up a 3-0 lead on opening night. But the Wolverines were allowed back in the game and eventually walked out with a 4-3 shootout victory. The Wolverines outshot the Blizzard 37-29.

October 19th @ Waywayseecappo - The Wolverines use 4 different goal scorers and the Blizzard play one of their worst games of the season to date in a 4-1 loss. The Wolverines outshot the Blizzard 38-24. The loss was disappointing given how good the Blizzard were in Dauphin the night before picking up a victory.

November 9th @ Waywayseecappo - Brett Lafond scores 3 goals and Thomas Ward-Cardinal scores a goal and sets up 3 others as the Wolverines rout the Blizzard 7-0. The Wolverines outshoot the Blizzard 30-20 in a game that was basically over before the 1st period even was.

Both games against the Wolverines are at 7pm but will not be on CJ 1240.

See ya at the rink!

-Smalley-

OCN Blizzard Game Day

2011-11-13T10:19:00.000-06:00

The Blizzard (9-8-4) will quickly look to put behind them, the embarrassment of a 7-0 loss on Thursday night. But also they will look to build off of a scary ride home that in the end maybe helped them bond just a little bit better. Perhaps the 2 incidents of a wild Thursday night will be the catalyst to kick start this group which to date has been underachieving and very Jeckyll and Hyde through it's 1st 21 games.

The Swan Valley Stampeders are 6-11-5 and have cooled off since a hot start. Perhaps that has to do with goaltender Jayson Argue being hurt or maybe it's because it's a younger team still trying to find it's stride and many had picked them to be near the bottom of the standings. If the playoffs started today the Stamps would be on the outside looking in. TJ Fairall and Justin Valnetino both lead the team in points in 24 but Fairall is the leader in goals with 12.

Special Teams Breakdown

OCN power play - 12/104=11.54% (10th)
Swan Valley power play - 19/121=15.70% (6th)

OCN penalty kill - 107/125=85.60% (5th)
Swan Valley penalty kill - 95/114=83.33% (6th)

Previous 10 Games

OCN is 4-4-0-2 and on the road are 2-6-1-1 including both Showcase games.
Swan Valley is 3-5-0-2

Season Series (Tied 1-1)

September 17th @ Swan River - The Blizzard score the 1st goal early in the 2nd period and would hold that lead for over a whole period. But the Stamps score 3 times in the 3rd, one into an empty net to grab a 3-1 victory. Jayson Argue makes 31 saves for the win while Ryan Delorme played very well for the Blizzard despite the loss making 31 saves as well.

September 30th @ OCN - The Blizzard win a true goaltenders battle 1-0 in which they outshot the Stamps 37-20. Matt Krahn gets the better of Jayson Argue and Guillaume Vallee scores the only goal of the game early in the 3rd period.

Today's game is not on CJ 1240 and I will not be travelling with the team. When I did the broadcast schedule in the summer I didn't even see this game on the schedule. Ah well good luck to the boys this afternoon!

See ya at the rink!

-Smalley-

OCN Blizzard Game Day

2011-11-10T01:13:00.000-06:00

The OCN Blizzard might only have 2 wins on the road so far this season but both have been workmanlike efforts and both have been against divisional foes. And despite Neepawa being the bottom feeders of the MJHL the Blizzard have to work to get a win on Wednesday night in an always tough place to play. Tonight, the calibre of opponent will be tougher and it will be just as tough to get a win in this arena if you don't come ready to play for 60 minutes. Something the Blizzard have already learned once already this year.

The Blizzard have now won 2 in a row to improve to 9-7-4 and have brought themselves into a 2nd place tied with the Wolverines. Wayway is the only team in the Sherwood Division the Blizzard have yet to beat this season with one of those losses being the tough home opening loss in a shootout. No question OCN's lineup has been boosted by the return of TJ Constant who has 1 goal and 4 assists in 3 games back. But also Matt Krahn has turned in back to back stellar efforts allowing just 3 goals on 47 shots and in both games has had spurts where he really has kept his team in the game.

The Wolverines have been "Jeckyll and Hyde" this season with a record of 10-8-2 but as always are a tough team to play against. Even with several different goaltenders they have still manged to surrender the 4th fewest goals (65) so far this season. Shane Goodrunning continues to lead the team in points with 24 while Brett Pinkerton leads the team in goals with 12. The Wolverines have really been a thorn in the side of the Blizzard over the past many years including being nearly unbeatable in their own barn against OCN.

Three Keys I Like For A Blizzard Victory

1. Tighten Up Defensively From Wednesday

Maybe in a smaller rink against a weaker team, the Blizzard could get away with some defensive miscues against Neepawa. But against Wayway that is not likely to work especially since the Wolverines can wait and make you make mistakes.

2. Have A Good 1st Period

Many time in recent memory the Blizzard have had less than stellar or even horrible 1st periods which basically has sealed their fate. In the last meeting OCN was down 2-1 after 1 period which almost flattered them because the 2-1 lead was more than enough. The Blizzard have to only travel 80 minutes to Wayway so fatigue won't be an issue. At least it shouldn't be.

3. Work 4 Lines Successfully

Lately in their wins and even in some losses the Blizzard have really used 4 lines effectively and in many cases the 3rd and 4th lines have been the ones bringing the offense. All 4 lines were clicking on Wednesday which is encouraging and needed. Wayway is a little better offensively and are a little more top heavy and a good way to counter that is have all guys chip in.

Special Teams Breakdown

OCN powerplay - 12/96=12.50% (9th)
Wayway powerplay - 21/97=21.65% (2nd)

OCN penalty kill - 99/115=86.09% (3rd)
Wayway penalty kill - 74/91=81.32% (8th)

Previous 10 Games

OCN is 5-3-0-2 and on the road are 2-5-1-1 including both Showcase games
Wayway is 6-3-0-1

Season Series ( Wayway leads 2-0)

September 16th @ OCN - The Blizzard appeared home and cooled after opening up a 3-0 lead on opening night. But the Wolverines were allowed back in the game and eventually walked out with a 4-3 shootout victory. The Wolverines outshot the Blizzard 37-29.

Wednesday October 19th @ Waywayseecappo - The Wolverines use 4 different goal scorers and the Blizzard play one of their worst games of the season to date in a 4-1 loss. The Wolverines outshot the Blizzard 38-24. The loss was disappointing given how good the Blizzard were in Dauphin the night before picking up a victory.

Tonight's game is on CJ 1240 and www.thepasonline.com starting with the Murray Dunn GM Pre-Game Show at 7:10. Join myself and Blizzard Captain Dallas Drysdale who will be helping me again.

See ya at the rink!

-Smalley-

OCN Blizzard Game Day

2011-11-09T00:35:00.000-06:00

Once again the OCN Blizzard head out on the road on a winning note and will try to establish a better record away from home than what they presently have. Currently with just 1 road victory the Blizzard need to be better in road games and if there is a perfect opponent to do that against it's tonight's, a team that has had a bad season in so many ways. As well a team the Blizzard have been red hot against now for many, many games.

As the Blizzard head to Neepawa's Yellowhead Arena tonight they do so with a record of 8-7-4=20 pts and find themselves in 3rd place in the Sherwood Division. They are coming off a thrilling 3-2 overtime win Saturday at home and look to continue their dominance of the divisional foes from Neepawa. The Blizzard have won 9 straight games against the Natives going back to last season. In fact, last year the Natives were 14-4 before coming to the GLMC in November where the Blizzard beat them twice and since then the Natives have won just 11 woeful games. The last lost to Neepawa though was in the Yellowhead Arena.

Despite being only 1-18-2=3 pts the Natives have been in most of their games this season. Their lone win was against the Winnipeg Saints on home ice. But since starting last season 14-4 the Natives are a mind boggling 11-50-8 and could easily be better because they are just in so many games but can never get the right results. It's equally impressive that despite the hazing incident that the Natives have come to play and anyone who thinks the Natives are an easy 2 points are in for a rude awakening. By the way for the record, I would love to see Scott McMillan end up in Neepawa to help turn their team around.

Three Keys To A Blizzard Victory

1. Outwork The Natives

Neepawa is always tough to play, especially in their own barn. Heck the Winnipeg Blues only eeked out a 1 goal victory on Sunday. The Natives have a strong forecheck and backcheck and you really need to counter it to be successful.

2. Win The Battle Along The Boards

The Yellowhead is a smaller arena with a small neutral zone so play along the boards is very key and opposing teams really need to make sure they use smart chips off the boards to start a rush and create scoring chances.

3. Lots Of Traffic On The Neepawa Goalies

Alex Henry played very well in both losses in OCN in October and outside of 1 bad giveaway he was possibly Neepawa's best player outside of Tyler Swerdyliak. But the Blizzard did good job of getting traffic in front of him and assuming he starts will need to do the same thing again.

Special Teams Breakdown

OCN powerplay - 11/90=12.22% (10th)
Neepawa powerplay - 10/101=9.90% (11th)

OCN penalty kill - 94/110=85.45% (4th)
Neepawa penalty kill - 79/95=83.16 (7th)

Previous 10 Games

OCN is 4-4-0-2 and on the road are 1-5-1-1 including both Showcase games
Neepawa is 1-8-0-1 with their lone win on home ice

Season Series(OCN leads2-0)

October 21st @ OCN - Jordan Christianson scores 2 goals and Taylor Santorelli has 2 assists as the Blizzard double the Natives 4-2. Ryan Delorme makes 24 saves as the Blizzard outshoot Neepawa 38-26.

October 22nd @ OCN - Luke Hannas scores 1 goal and sets up another as the Blizzard edge the Natives 3-2. Ryan Delorme once again plays very well stopping 25 shots as the Blizzard outshoot Neepawa for the 2nd straight night, this time 37-27 and win their 9th straight overall against their divisional foes.

Tonight's games is on CJ 1240 and www.thepasonline.com with yours truly starting with the Murray Dunn GM Pre-Game Show at 7:15. Also Blizzard fans, the team will be holding a breakfast this Saturday from 8am-12 at the Martha Constant Parish Hall on OCN right beside the GLMC.

See ya at the rink!

-Smalley-

Michael Hay Dealt To Portage

2011-11-08T10:06:00.000-06:00

Michael Hay's short tenure with the OCN Blizzard has come to an end. The 19 year old forward has been traded to the Portage Terriers for a 3rd round draft pick and future considerations.

In 14 games this season the Winnipeg product had 2 goals and 5 assists. Hay was a healthy scratch in both of this past weekend's games and had requested a trade out of OCN.

Hay was acquired from the Neepawa Natives for future considerations during the summer.

-Smalley-

OCN Blizzard Game Day

2011-11-05T10:34:00.000-05:00

For the 2nd time in 6 nights the Blizzard suffered the heartbreak of a 1 goal loss to the MJHL's top club. A 5-4 shootout loss to the Blues was again a game the Blizzard could have easily won but came up a tad short. The encouraging thing for OCN is they battled back from two 2-goal deficits and that alone can give them a shot of confidence as they host the other Winnipeg club tonight, the only team the Blizzard have yet to face so far this season.

The Winnipeg Saints come to town fresh off a 2-1 win in Swan River on Friday night. At 10-8-3 the Saints are 4th in the Addison Division and as usual have a very potent offense but it's the goal against that is not so good as they have surrendered the 2nd most goals (74) in the MJHL. Brett Chartier leads the Saints in goals (16) and points (28) and the top point producers for Dave Anning's club are all 20 year olds.

The Blizzard again will try to get back over .500 as they are now 7-7-4 and still 3rd in the Sherwood Division. TJ Constant looked pretty good to me in his 1st game back and notched 2 assists in Friday's game. He knows how to play with Jorden Iron and once he gets used to Garick Gray then this line's potential is something to be excited for. Gray and Iron each scored Friday as the 4th OCN goal originally awarded to Colin Fay was later confirmed to have gone off of Gray.

Three Blizzard Keys For A Victory

1. Be Physical With The Saints

In spurts last night OCN was physical with the Blues but the Saints are less physical compared to their Winnipeg counterparts. The Blizzard need to establish the physical play early on and really try to get the Saints off of their game.

2. Forget About Friday, Today Is A New Day

Friday's shootout loss was tough to take but today is another day, another game and another opponent. The Blizzard have had great success against the Saints over the last couple of years even if the Saints did deal OCN their 1st regulation loss last year. Come out flying tonight and focus on tonight only.

3. Don't Let The Saints Big Guns Beat You

Winnipeg is a little top heavy on offense but if you can contain the like of Chariter, Gardiner, Scott and Crane then you really give yourself a chance to win. The Blizzard use a good balanced scoring attack when clicking right and now is another chance to do that.

Special Team Breakdown

OCN power play - 9/85=10.59% (11th)
Winnipeg power play - 22/121=18.18% (5th)

OCN penalty kill - 91/106=85.85% (4th)
Winnipeg penalty kill - 83/102=81.37% (8th)

Previous 10 Games

OCN is 4-4-0-2 and 6-2-2 at home
Winnipeg is 5-3-0-2

Season Series

This is the 1st meeting of the season between the Blizzard and Saints.

Tonight's game is not on-air. Our next broadcast is Wednesday night from Neepawa. Tonight is once again Koats for Kids night at the arena. There was a lot of clothing donated last night so hopefully we will see some more thrown on the ice tonight.

See ya at the rink!

-Smalley-

OCN Blizzard Game Day

2011-11-04T09:52:00.000-05:00

For whatever reason in recent years winning on the road has been a struggle for the OCN Blizzard. Either they lose badly or narrowly by some bad luck and heartbreak which sums up last weekend's roadtrip perfectly. But home ice has always been kind to this franchise and this year has been no different which is something the Blizzard hope does continue this weekend including tonight as they welcome the top club in the MJHL and a team that dealt them they most heartbreaking loss possibly of the season so far.

To town come the Winnipeg Blues who at 16-4=32 pts are not only the top club in the Addison Division and MJHL but they are also the league's most explosive offense to date. They boast arguably the top line in the league too of Dylan Kelly-Jeremy Olinyk-Jake Heisinger. As thrilling for the Blues as last Saturday's 7-6 ot winner was, you can bet Don McGillivray's nerves were just as frayed as Jomar Cruz's would be on the Blizzard bench. A thrilling game for fans but usually high scoring ones like that are a not a coaches favorite.

The Blizzard 7-7-3=17 pts have had all week to work on what happened on their road trip last weekend where they went winless in 3 games and showed again that they can score at times and then other times have huge struggles. TJ Constant makes his return to the OCN lineup after being released last Sunday from Prince Albert (WHL). Constant is "pumped" to be back and so too are his teammates. At still only 18 years of age he has played in 118 games while scoring 35 goals and adding 53 assists. Jonah Coonishish-Coon has arrived in town as well but it's a safe bet he doesn't play this weekend.

Three Keys To A Blizzard Victory

1. Don't Rely On TJ To Save The Day

It is wonderful to see TJ Constant back no question, but that doesn't excuse the fact that some veterans still need to pick up the slack more than they have been doing so far. Constant will add offensive depth and good physical play but to assume he alone is going to carry this team now is wrong and unfair.

2. Maintain A Solid Forecheck On The Blues

In last weekend's matchup the Blizzard I thought did a good job down low on the forecheck in the Blues' end and that result in a couple of goals and drawn penalties. If they could do it well in the Blues's home they should be more than capable of doing that in the most hostile rink in the league, their own rink.

3. Pressure The Blues "D" And Look For The Odd man Rushes

Winnipeg gave up many odd man rushes to the Blizzard week which also resulted in a couple of OCN goals. The Blues took a lot of chances in OCN territory and the Blizzard d-men made a lot of smart chips to result in those odd man rushes. If OCN can execute that again they will get some good scoring chances.

Special Teams Breakdown

OCN power play - 8/79=10.13% (11th)
Winnipeg power play - 19/124=15.32% (7th)

OCN penalty kill - 82-97=84.54% (4th)
Winnipeg penalty kill - 102/117=87.18% (3rd)

Previous 10 Games

OCN is 4-5-1 and at home are 6-2-0-1
Winnipeg is 8-2

Season Series (Winnipeg leads 1-0)

October 29th @ Winnipeg - A wild game would be putting it mildly! The Blues erase an early 3rd period deficit of 5-2 and in a span of less than 4 minutes have a 6-5 lead. Winnipeg eventually wins in overtime 7-6. Jeremy Olinyk leads the Blues in points and Mike Collins does the same for OCN.

Tonight's game is on CJ 1240 starting with the Murray Dunn GM Pre-Game Show at 6:40 with myself and Kyle Patrick. Also tonight and tomorrow is "Koats For Kids Night" at the GLMC put on in conjunction with The Pas Family Resource Centre. If you have any good quality, clean winter wear for the children in the area please bring it to the rink either night and make sure it's in a garbage/shopping bag and when the Blizzard score, throw it on the ice and the players will do the collecting.

See ya at the rink!

-Smalley-

Devin Balnes Update

2011-11-03T11:47:00.000-05:00

Forward not expected in Blizzard lineup this year.

From Jomar Cruz here is the latest on Balness:

1. He had an MRI on October 28 that revealed it was his ACL that has a tear.

2. Surgery date is unknown.

3. He has been playing Jr. C with the Beasejour Shock against advice to not play from the Doctor.

4. With ACL injury's, there are cases where athletes can still function, obviously not 100%, but risk of permanent damage, especially in contact sports, is VERY HIGH.

5. Devin is still on our list and will only play with our team if he chooses to go back to Jr. A when he is 100%

6. If he plays in this league, it will be next year.

Constant Released By Raiders

2011-10-30T13:09:00.000-05:00

TJ Constant confirmed to me this morning via text message that he was released by the WHL's Prince Albert Raiders. Constant had just 1 goal and 5 pims in 15 games this season.

Constant is expected to join the Blizzard now that he has been released. When I asked TJ if he planned to come straight home or wait for a trade to another WHL team, he responded "I'm coming back to wear # 19 and win a championship".

His return is sure to give the Blizzard offense a boost that at times this year the club has needed.

-Smalley-

OCN Blizzard Game Day

2011-10-30T01:12:00.000-05:00

It's not often a team scores 6 goals and loses a game but sadly that was the case for the Blizzard Saturday night in a 7-6 overtime loss to the Blues. OCN was a much, much better club than on Friday and it really is a shame they did not get the 2 points. But in the end they got 1 point and can still salvage the weekend if they can bring the same effort tonight against a bitter rival that might be in the other division but is still playing every bit like the defending champions they are.

It is still taking some getting used to but the Addison Division's Portage Terriers are off to a great start as usual even with losing many key players, some of whom left early to pursue greener pastures. At 11-4-1=23 pts the Terriers sit 3rd in the Addison and continue to be lead in points by Brent Wold as the 18 year old should easily exceed last year's exceptional campaign. Portage might not be as deep as last year but this is still a very good club that are the champs until shown otherwise.

Tonight marks a 3rd straight tough test for the Blizzard as they come in at 7-6-3=17 pts and can make this a pretty good weekend should they be able to leave PCU Centre tonight with 2 more points. The Blizzard were 1-3 last year in the Terriers' home but overall played pretty well. If they can play like they did last night and stay just a little tighter defensively then they'll have a chance in this game. Therefore it will be important to forget the heartbreak of Saturday's loss. OCN's more veteran guys were generally pretty good Saturday and now it's time to see if they can do it for 2 games in a row.

Special Teams Breakdown

OCN power play - 8/75=10.67% (10th)
Portage power play - 18/94=19.15% (4th)

OCN penalty kill - 76/89=85.39% (4th)
Portage penalty kill - 77/94=81.91% (6th)

Previous 10 Games

OCN is 4-4-0-2
Portage is 7-2-0-1

Season Series

This is the 1st meeting of 4 this season between the Blizzard and Terriers.

Tonight's game is at 6:30 an can be heard on CJ 1240 starting with the Murray Dunn GM Pre-Game Show at 6:10.

See ya at the rink!

-Smalley-

2011-10-29T01:27:00.001-05:00

If the OCN Blizzard needed a reminder that they are still far from playing like a contending team, then the 8-2 thumping they took from the Steinbach Pistons on Friday would serve that purpose. Not only were the Blizzard embarrassed on the scoreboard but they dominated in special teams and just ultimately didn't work as hard as the Pistons, a team the Blizzard should be beat. But full credit goes to the Pistons for that victory ensuring that OCN's road woes continued. Now the Blizzard must put the disappointment out of their minds and focus on a team tonight that is piling up the goals and has rebounded from a bad year last year into one of the good stories of this season so far in the MJHL.

That opponent is the Winnipeg Blues who enter tonight at 14-4=28 pts and that has them 1^st overall in the MJHL. But also the Blues lead the league in goals with 83 and have more than improved on their goals against which was a major sore spot for Don McGillivray's club last season. Forward Dylan Kelly who is known more for his fists should be feared now for his offense has he leads the team in goals with 13 and is 2^nd in points with 5. Also the blueline is where the Blues have improved as Paul Bonar and former Blizzard Dustin Pearson have had bounce back seasons to help lead the defense.

The Blizzard meanwhile limp into tonight at 7-6-2=16 pts and had better be refocused if they hope to even this weekend road trip and pick up win # 2 on the road this year. There's no question players making up the 4^th line have been OCN's most consistent lately but that can't continue meaning that more veteran guys have to get going and start chipping in more frequently if this team is going to be successful. As well, the Blizzard defense which is supposed to be a strength is really going to have to keep it simple tonight and not jump in to the rush too much because Winnipeg has tons of weapons and speed and they will make OCN pay if given the chance.

Special Team Breakdown

OCN power play - 8/71=11.27% (10th)
Winnipeg power play - 18/111=16.22% (7th)

OCN penalty kill - 70/82=85.37= (4th)
Winnipeg penalty kill - 93/108=86.11% (3rd)

Previous 10 Games

OCN is 5-4-0-1
Winnipeg is 8-2 the best mark in the MJHL

Season Series

This is the 1st meeting of the season between the Blizzard and Blues

Tonight's game is on CJ 1240 starting with the Murray Dunn GM Pre-Game Show at 7:10 from the MTS Ice Plex.

See ya at the rink!

-Smalley-

OCN Blizzard Game Day

2011-10-28T00:20:00.000-05:00

The up and down season for the Blizzard currently has them on the "up" after a pair of wins last weekend on home ice. Now is the chance for the Blizzard to push forward even further in the win column and to do that they are going to need a big effort on the road against a team that might be struggling. And while their opponent might only have 5 wins on the season, 2 of those wins were against the Blizzard something OCN surely is very aware of as the begin a 3 game road trip.

As they begin their first 3-game road trip of the season, the Blizzard are 7-5-2=16 points and currently sit 3rd in the Sherwood Division. They are coming off 2 home ice wins over the Neepawa Natives, the bottom club in the league and now will try to right some wrongs against the bottom team in the Addison Division. The encouraging thing in last weekends wins was that the Blizzard had to work for their wins, even against Neepawa. Now though it's time to exorcise some demons against Steinbach seeing as OCN has put forth 2 very lack lustre efforts against the Pistons.

Steinbach at 5-12-2=12 points have to be most concerned with their goals against surrendering 98, by far most in the MJHL. Certainly having 2 rookie goaltenders is major reason for that stat because Steinbach have enough guys capable of putting the puck in the net. Not surprisingly Cole Brunet leads the Pistons in scoring with 21 points so far. Brock Genyk is the team leader in goals with 8. And again it has to be stressed that 2 of the Pistons 5 wins are against the Blizzard which should be their perfect motivation as well.

Three Keys For Me To A Blizzard Victory

1. Win The Special Teams Battle

Again a chance for OCN to get a victory by being the better team when it comes to special teams. The Pistons are near the bottom in both the PP and PK. OCN's PP is no better but we know their PK sure is and when working well can be a huge key to helping get a victory.

2. Come Out Inspired Tonight

Tonight's game is the so called "easiest" game on this weekend's trip but it's still a tough trip overall. Being 0-2 against the Pistons so far and just 1-2-1 in 4 all time games in the T.G. Smith Centre should be enough to get this team ready to go. Come out flat however tonight and/or assuming this will be easy and the weekend will not get off to a great start.

3. Get Better Shots And Traffic On Goal

As mentioned above, the Pistons have 2 rookie goalies in Mitch Backhouse and Brendan Edie and both have struggled. Therefore it's imperative that the Blizzard make tonight's starter fight for pucks and get a lot of work. Veteran teams find ways to win especially on the road and this 1 area the Blizzard simply need to capitalize on.

Special Teams Breakdown

OCN powerplay - 7/65=10.77% (10th)
Steinbach poweplay - 11/97=11.34% (9th)

OCN penalty kill - 67/75=89.33% (2nd)
Steinbach penalty kill - 90/118=76.27% (11th)

Previous 10 Games

OCN is 6-3-0-1 and on the road are 1-3-0-1
Steinbach is 2-6-0-2 and are 3-5-0-1 on home ice

Season Series

September 24th @ OCN - A tight game through periods, the Pistons score 2 goals in the 3rd to open up a 4-1 lead and win the game. Steinbach has 4 different players score a goal and despite being outshot 30-17 pick up their 1st ever win in the GLMC.

October 8th @ Winnipeg (Showcase) - Brock Genyk scores 2 goals and the Pistons outshoot the Blizzard 33-30 to eke out a 3-2 victory. Mike Collins scores both OCN goals as the Blizzard again fail to put forth a complete effort against Steinbach.

Tonight's game from the T.G. Smith is at 7:30 with the Murray Dunn GM Pre-Game Show starting on CJ 1240 at 7:10. Also tonight, MJHL Commissioner Kim Davis comments on the Neepawa hazing story as I spoke with Kim on Thursday afternoon. The interview will be in the 2nd intermission.

See ya at the rink!

-Smalley-

Ruling Handed Down In Neepawa Hazing Incident(s)

2011-10-25T12:13:00.001-05:00

The MJHL has announced the following punishments from the investigation into it's hazing investigation with the Neepawa Natives.

The Neepawa Natives hockey club have been fined $5000.00

Head Coach Bryant Perrier has been suspended for 2 games.
Assistant Coach Brad Biggers has been suspended for 5 games.

Team Captain Danil Kalashnikov has been suspended for 5 games.
Assistant Captains Richard Olson, Tyler Gaudry and Shane Harrington have been suspended 3 games.

A total of 12 other players have been suspended for a total of 1 game each.

Here is one interesting fact in that Tyler Gaudry is no longer with the hockey club which makes me wonder the depth of the investigation. To me these suspensions/rulings are not a great punishment more of a slap on the wrist/tap on the shoulder type punishments. What message is this really sending? Seems already as of 12:15pm today (Tuesday) that public response to this is very negative.

What do you all think?

-Smalley-