Trade Talk, 4-3 win over Niagara, and Ryan Murphy

While 3 of the biggest trades of the season took place this week, it was business as usual in Kitchener as the rangers didn't move anyone. Was this really a surprise to anyone? I don't think so. I think the trade for Jack Campbell was too much too soon for the greyhounds. Only 15 games in to the season for most teams and I think it's not quite time to start blowing up the roster. That's why I'm glad the Rangers stayed dormant for now.  

Last night the Rangers cruised to a 4-3 victory over the Niagara IceDogs. Strong performances from John Gibson, Radek Faksa, and Ben Thompson kept the Rangers in charge for most of the game, with the exception of a sloppy first period. Gibson stayed strong in goal though, and the Rangers pulled out the win. Only real disappointment? Max Iafrate was unable to bury an empty netter which would have secured free chili for the masses in KW. 

Of note though, midway through the second period, Tom Khunackl,, former Windsor Spitfire, came flying off the wing, and leaped in to Ryan Murphy, hitting him square in the face with the elbow. Khunackl left the ice and was assigned a 5 minute major plus a game misconduct. Murph stayed out for a few shifts, and even got an assist, before leaving the bench and not returning. This would be a huge blow to the team, who already has Captain Cattenaci out of the lineup, suffering from a concussion. 

Hopefully Murphy is ok and returns to the lineup soon. However what is to happen with Khunackl? He broke a big rule by leaving his feet and aiming directly for Murphy's head. This is the exact sort of stuff that the OHL/CHL and in fact, almost everyone in hockey, has been trying to remove from our game. It is absolutely unacceptable at any level of hockey. Here's hoping Mr. Branch makes the right decision.