It's Not Tense for the Ice Dogs

The past, the future and the present came into the arena and things got tense!

Things have been anything but tense for Ice Dog fans these past few days as the past, future and present are all positive.

The Past:

Andrew Agozzino was recognized for his hard work this past season as he was selected as the OHL over age player of the year. With 40 goals and 48 assists during the regular season, Agozzino’s numbers are impressive. However it is not the stats which stand out for Agozzino, it is his work ethic and leadership which are noted by coaches, players and fans.

Agozzino won the award by one vote over Owen Sound Attack Mike Halmo. Both undrafted, the pair of over-agers have definitely been impact players on their respective teams this year. While Agozzino takes home the hardware, Halmo was rewarded with a NHL entry level contract with the New York Islanders. Being undrafted had its advantages as Halmo was able to field many offers and make the decision where to sign. Perhaps an NHL contract is in Agozzino’s future?

Speaking of the future…….

Ice Dog coach Marty Williamson was very busy recently in his dual role as coach and general manager. During Saturday’s OHL Priority draft Williamson was straddling positions while he led a team practice in between selecting draft picks for the future. At Tuesday’s home game three of the fourteen draft picks were introduced to the fans pre-game. (pictured above) Given a loud welcome was centre-man Brook Hiddink, a second-round choice, left winger Matt Gillard, taken in the fourth round, and right winger Brendan Dunning, a 10th-round pick.

It was also announced Anthony DiFruscia, selected in the 2011 draft, was signed by the Ice Dogs. A Thorold native, DiFruscia played this past season at Salisbury School in Connecticut where he averaged a point a game on the varsity team.

But thoughts of the future need to be set aside as the Ice Dogs right now must concentrate on the present – a solid play-off run.

The Present:

The Niagara Ice Dogs have swept the Brampton Battalion in the second series of the play-offs. Highlights have been a Dave Pacan over time goal in game one, a Freddie Hamilton hat trick in game three and a goal and six assists through-out the series from Ryan Strome. Mark Visentin in goal was incredible through out the series as uncharacteristic for the Ice Dogs they allowed Brampton to outshoot them in all but one game with the series shots 133-110 in Brampton’s favour.

The Ice Dogs now rest while they wait to see who wins the Barrie-Ottawa series to determine their opponent for the Eastern Conference finals.

Long but Successful Road Trip for the Ice Dogs

February 9^th was the Niagara Ice Dogs’ last home game. The Ice Dogs blew away their arch rivals the Mississauga Majors by a score of 11-0. Andrew Agozzino scored a hat trick including 2 short handed goals and secured his place as franchise goal leader with 155 goals.

It was also Ryan Strome’s first game back after a nine game absence from recovery of a broken nose from a dust up with Brody Silk in a January 13^th game in Sudbury. Playing with a full face mask Strome is protecting his new nose which Strome credits the plastic surgeon making it better than before! With the 11-0 blow out the Ice Dogs outshot the Majors 50-18.

Ice Dog forward David Pacan described the outcome as “awesome, a little bit of redemption for last year (when) Missy (beat us) 10-0. One year later it’s awesome. Our goal is to finish on the top of the league.”

Following the Major’s thrashing the Ice Dogs headed out for their longest road trip of the year and came home not only with achieving their goal of leading the Eastern Conference but individual milestones were reached as well.

Saturday, February 11 was the opening game of the long away stretch as Niagara defeated the Barrie Colts 3-0. The Colts goalie Mathias Niederberger kept Barrie in the game with an outstanding performance as Niagara outshot the competition 42-25. Mark Visentin was given his 25^th star of the year for his second shut out in a row.

Sunday, February 12^th against the Oshawa Generals saw the return of Dougie Hamilton after a ten game suspension. Hamilton had 2 power play assists in his first game back and Andrew Agozzino scored two power play goals securing the Ice Dogs with the best power play of the league. Once again the Ice Dogs severely outshot their opponents 50-25.

Thursday, February 15^th the Niagara Ice Dogs continued to hammer their opponents as they outshot the Erie Otters 61-18. Unfortunately they also faced rookie goal tender Devin Williams as he gave an unbelievable performance stopping all but one of the Ice Dogs 61 shots. Ultimately the Dogs lost to the Otters 2-1 as the Otters scored the winning goal with 43 seconds left in the game.

Friday, February 17^th marked a return visit to the Sudbury Wolves. The Ice Dogs opened with three straight power play goals in the first. The last match up in Sudbury resulted in the Dougie Hamilton suspension as well as the Strome injury. Whether the Dogs were looking for retribution or it was just strong competition between divisional rivals, the second period was very chippy. This resulted in the Ice Dogs spending a lot of time in the penalty box. Defenseman Brett Ritchie acknowledged “we were in the box a lot. If we stay out of the box, we are successful. (We) anticipate a long play off run, (this) is definitely the year to make a run.”

Ultimately the Ice Dogs won the game 5-2. Ritchie's goal would prove to be the game winner, giving him his fifth game-winning goal as an Ice Dog, while Agozzino's shorthanded goal set a new Ice Dogs’ franchise record for career shorthanded markers. Mark Visentin moved his record to 13-0 in 2012.

Saturday, February 18^th an afternoon game rescheduled due to a leaky Ottawa roof saw the Peterborough Petes vs. the Ottawa 67’s. The Pete’s overcame a 3-0 deficit by scoring four straight goals. One of the Peterborough goals came from Nick Ritchie, brother of Brett Ritchie. The Petes win over Ottawa secured the Ice Dogs’ first place in the Eastern Conference.

Saturday evening the Ice Dogs faced the Sault Ste. Marie Greyhounds for the first time this year. It also marked Brock Beukebooms’ first visit back to the Soo since being traded to Niagara last June.

Beukeboom has faced some injuries, starting the year on the sidelines and just recently returning from a concussion. Beukeboom assures he has fully recovered. “My style of play hasn’t changed at all. Injuries are part of the game. If I wasn’t back to 100 percent I wouldn’t be playing.” Beukeboom was looking forward to his return to the Soo.” I am expecting mixed emotions…..I have a lot of good memories up there. A lot of good team mates, my billet family, a lot of good people. (but) after the game will be a time to see everyone.”

Beukeboom is fondly thought of by the people of the Soo as well. The Ice Dog play by play team noted Beukeboom was greeted throughout the Soo like a VIP with everyone excitedly welcoming him back to town.

The game ended in a 3-0 win with a quick opening goal from Dougie Hamilton followed up by two goals from Ryan Strome. It was after the game was officially over people started talking about what had been unspoken through out the game – Mark Visentin secured the shut-out earning his 10^th of the season, a league record defeating the previous record of nine. It has been reported the previous record of nine was held by Len Broderick (set in 1956-57), Glenn Hall (set in 1950-51) and/or Don Lockhart of the Toronto Marlies in the 1949-50 season. Whoever held the previous record it is quite impressive.

Visentin hasn’t lost a game since November against Ottawa. Following the Soo victory Visentin was seen scooping up the game puck as a souvenir of his accomplishment. He has the game puck for each shut out this year. His locker is getting full but something tells us he has room for more!

While it was a long and arduous road trip it was certainly worthwhile for the Ice Dogs as they head back to Niagara securing first in the Eastern Conference and tied with the Plymouth Whalers for second in the league. The London Knights in first place overall can feel the Ice Dogs panting just six points behind.

The Dogs will be celebrating their victories by spending Family Day at the Jack with their fans at their 5^th annual Skills Competition.

ITO Hot-Stove: who is the best goaltender in the OHL?

Considering we at InTheORadio.com have been debating who the best teams in the league are as of late, I figured it was time to examine who the best goaltender is. Joining me in this week's hot-stove is Matt Leacy, Brandon Sudeyko, Thayne Hallyburton and Alex Quevillon.


Without further ado I'd like to introduce you all to this week's debate question: who is the best goaltender in the OHL?

Todd Cordell

I'm going to go with $cott 'Money' Wedgewood of the Plymouth Whalers. He's one of, if not the most well-rounded goaltender in the OHL and his skill level is off the charts. His movement is fantastic, he's a very good puck-handler and has an outstanding glove-hand. He's always extremely aware of what's going on and can read plays like a book. It always appears as though he's one step ahead of the oppositions offensive players and for that reason I think he's the best. When you factor in the numbers Wedgewood has put up during his career in the OHL I think you can certainly make the case that he's the best.

Matt Leacy

The OHL's best goalie is without a doubt John Gibson of the Kitchener Rangers.

The guy's stats speak for themselves. He's HUGE for the Rangers. He leads the OHL in GAA, save percentage, wins and saves amongst rookie goaltenders,  and you can't count how many times he has saved the Rangers from a loss. Case and point this past week against Owen Sound when the Rangers were outshot 44-32, and they were able to win 5-4. 

Add to that the league's second best goalie in Franky Palazesse and you get the OHL's best goaltending tandem, something that will certainly carry the Rangers deep into the OHL playoffs this spring I am certain.

Plus, Gibby is considered Kryptonite for a certain team that, ironically, wears green.

Brandon Sudeyko

Statistically speaking how do you not go with Subban. He is a stud. and some Belleville players admit that he is the reason they had such a great start to the season. I don't think he is the best goaltender in the OHL though.

Mark Visentin... I'm sorry did you expect me to say Jack Campbell. HA!

Why would I go against my boy Vizzer now? He is still a top level goalie, and don't give me that 'he isn't elite' garbage. How about we try to deflate some stats from these goalies playing on super teams. Take a look at the recent string of games where he has notched 3 straight shutouts, or never lost a game in January. Technically speaking he is the best goaltender in the OHL. His mental state is far superior to everyone else's in the league right now. All the tools are there, and show me one instance where he had two back to back stinkers in net. you can't. it hasn't happened. This kid takes a lot of flack from everyone for you know what, but all he has done is say, 'ok, I will shut you up' and he has. Hands down best goalie in the OHL.

Thayne Hallyburton

I know most people are going to go with Vizzer, especially after the month that he just had. I decided to attack this as a body of work. Michael Houser has played nearly all of the games that the London Knights had been in pre-trade deadline. Since the acquisition of Tyson Teichmann, the work load has lessoned just a little but he has the London Knights atop the CHL. His numbers speak for themselves but what makes him the best goalie, in this scribes opinions, is what he does for his team. He gives them confidence to take risks because they know he is there to back them up. What is even more impressive is that he is a leader in the locker room. He isn't the quintessential, aloof and quirky personality that a lot of goalies have. Look for Houser to be the reason London will represent the O at the Memorial Cup.

Alex Quevillon

It would be easy for me to say our very own Petr Mrazek and pump his tires with references to the World Juniors.  I love the way Mrazek plays but Ottawa has been involved in far too many 6-5 games with him in net and while he is impressive down low, he lets in far too many goals from far out, to be considered the best in the OHL.  It would also be easy to give the honors to one of Canada's goaltenders, but Visentin's been pulled too many times, early in games this season and it's hard to say Wedgewood is the league's best when he shares duties with Matt Mahalak.

JP Anderson had been impressive in his time with Mississauga, although backstopping a team that consistently played a defensive system.  If he can go back to the Memorial Cup for a second year in a row with Sarnia, I may change my vote to him.  But for now, I'm going to have to say Michael Houser.  34 wins?  Few goalies are going to get that many wins all year, let alone in 44 games.  If you can find another goalie that can play in 94 percent of his games and win consistently, I'll listen.  Bobkov gets honorable mention because he has started in the same number of games with a much weaker defense in front of him.

January 14th - Niagara IceDogs vs. Barrie Colts

by Brandon Sudeyko
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After their game Thursday night in Niagara, I figured this rematch would not have been as one sided as the score suggested. But it was in fact that way. The IceDogs were finishing up their three in three, while the Barrie Colts were rested from not playing Friday. What I saw in the first 38 seconds was Niagara setting the tone for the remaining 59 minutes and change of the game. On the first shot of the game NIA Alex Friesen was able to put the IceDogs up 1-0. Friesen scored off of a deflection from Alex Lepokowski which would be a trend in the game to come. The first period was all Niagara. They used their speed, worked the puck down low, the defence had active sticks which lead to many shot blocks and Barrie could not get to the IceDogs net. Barrie came out flat, stayed flat for the first period and despite tying the game up at 1 with 14 seconds left in the first period. The shot clock told the entire story of the first period. 17-4 in favour of the Niagara IceDogs. The only momentum that the Colts could have mustered up in the first 20 minutes would have been a fight between BAR Norm Ezekiel and NIA Adam Desautels. The two dropped the gloves off a faceoff, waited about 3 seconds before skating towards each other and the linesman stepped in right away. Putting the kibosh on any type of momentum changer. After 20 minutes of play, game tied at 1 with Niagara owning the shot clock.

The start of the second period you thought, ‘would the Barrie Colts show up or is this going to be a complete domination by the Niagara IceDogs?’ The Niagara IceDogs came out flying like they did in the first period. Controlling the puck down low. Stopping the Colts at the blueline as they tried to break the zone. Continued to block a lot of Barrie shots, kept the Colts to the outside and used the boards and wide passes to stretch out the Colts so they can get deep into the Barrie zone. Despite the Colts best efforts, they could not stay out of the box which resulted in the second goal of the game. This would be the only goal you can argue that Barrie goaltender Alex ‘The Future’ Fotinos, could have had. Niagara on the Power Play, cycling the puck like they always do. The same set up every time that no one can seem to defend against. The PP master Ryan Strome does a great job of getting the puck to the top of the left circle on the tape of Tom Khunhackl, who finds Dougie Hamilton creeping in to the right circle around the faceoff dot where Dougie blasts it over the glove of Fotinos to make it a 2-1 Niagara lead. Again, this would be the only goal you could say Fotinos should have had on the night. Then again a Dougie Hamilton slapshot from 20 feet out, while moving left to right is never easy. Just over two minutes the Niagara IceDogs extend their lead. Remember the continuation of the night was the IceDogs dominating down low and pinning the Colts on defence. Niagara is able to cycle the puck back up to the Myles Doan where he fires a shot off the skate of Alex Lepkowski, off the inner pad of Fotinos and in the back of the net. What could go bad for the Colts did go bad. Of note for Barrie is Captain Colin Behenna drawing two penalties in the second period both hooking calls. The second period ended with Niagara up 3-1, winning the shot clock battle with 8-7 in the 2nd, 25-11 for 40 minutes of play.

The third period saw more of the same dominance by the Niagara IceDogs. At times, it looked like they took their foot off the pedal as they sensed that Barrie was not going to cause a lot of pressure for NIA goalie Mark Visentin. The lone goal in the third happened at the 10 minute mark when a pass from Chris Buonomo was intercepted by Tom Khunhackl which lead to a breakaway goal, another goal that Fotinos had no business saving unless luck was on his side. This time it was not. The Colts almost generate something with 5 minutes left in the game as a weird dump in clings off the glass and in the back of the Niagara net. However, Mark Visentin knocks the net off the moorings going to play the puck off the boards. The refs waive off the goal and after review, and the replay showing the puck was off the moorings, the ‘no goal’ call stood and no ‘delay of game’ penalty was assessed. It was that sort of night for the Barrie Colts as they suffered their 2nd loss of the weekend to the Niagara IceDogs.
IceDogs won 4-1 and also dominated the shot clock, 33-21.




Game Notes:


• The stats do not show how good Alex Fotinos was in this game. Many around me continually stated, without Alex in net, the game could have been 6 or 7-1 for Niagara.


• The two newest Niagara IceDogs, Jamie Oleksiak and Brett Ritchie, had opposite nights. Jamie was present every time on the ice, whether it was his stick, throwing his body around, or shot blocking. Brett Ritchie was for most part invisible and did not generate much offensively.


• BAR defenceman Chris Buonomo played with 4 different defenceman, never played with Aaron Ekblad.


• NIA Mark Visentin didn’t see much work, but continued to look very calm in net, squaring himself and building off the momentum of the Bronze medal victory back from the WJHC

"New Year's Eve is still on"

BY: Thayne Hallyburton

“New Year’s Eve is still on.” Those were the words spoken by U.S. head coach, Dean Blais, following his team’s 4-1 loss versus a very competitive Finnish squad.

Blais wasn’t wrong, if both teams were to win out, putting Canada at 3-0 and the U.S. at 2-1 going into the match on the 31^st then both teams would still mathematically have the chance to gain the bye into the semi-finals.  Whoever won the game in regulation would then advance straight to the semi-final. If the game were to go into overtime, no matter the outcome, Canada would advance based on points.

The loss was shocking for an American side that many had deemed the favourite heading into the tournament, especially after the drubbing Canada put on the Finns on Monday.

“Sometimes when you see that 8-1 score, you think that we are going to do the same thing but you gotta give them credit their goal tender played well,” Blais explained. They got to the net and we didn’t get to the net enough like Canada did the night before.”

The Americans seemed flat out of the gate. Finland matched them physically with open ice hits and was able to math their team speed as well, something that the Americans were said to have more than any other team in the tournament.

“I just didn’t think we paid the price to get to the net. When you look at our grade A chances, we didn’t have 15 quality chances in the slot and those were the areas that Canada took advantage of Finland and we didn’t do it. We talked about doing it and worked in practice on doing it, but you have to take that and put it into the game,” explained Blais.

The U.S. will get a day off tomorrow where coach Blais is sure to put them through a tough work out before returning to action Friday night against the Czech Republic.

ITO Hot-Stove: Which OHL player will have the best tournament at the World Juniors?

This is the fourth edition of ITO Hot-Stove since I've joined. I can't believe it's already been a month. Time fly's, I guess. Anyways, joining me today in this piece is Susan Tromanhauser, Trevor Miller, Brandon Sudeyko and Thayne Hallyburton.

Without further ado I'd like to introduce you all to today's debate question: which OHL player will have the best tournament at the World Juniors?
Todd Cordell
Mark Scheifele.

I'm going to go way out on a limb (not really) and suggest that Mark Scheifele will have the best World Junior tournament of any OHLer who's going to play in the World Junior.

Scheifele is penciled in as the first line center for Canada, and appears to be in line to center Devante Smith-Pelly, who is playing with the Anaheim Ducks this season, on one side and Jonathan Hubderdeau, who is one of the best prospects not in the NHL, on his other side. Those are some pretty elite linemates if you ask me. Factor in the fact that he's a two-way player and will be used in all situations, and you have yourself a player with every opportunity to succeed.

Oh, and if for some reason he fails to produce with those linemates, he'll likely end up on a line with his teammate in Barrie, Tanner Pearson, who he seems to be very comfortable with.

Susan Tromanhauser

Mark Visentin.

At the risk of sounding like the biased Ice Dog fan I am, I believe the World Juniors will be a showcase for goaltender Mark Visentin. While some believe Visentin’s selection to Team Canada was iffy, at no time did Coach Don Hay ever doubt Visentin’s place on the roster. Hay is relying on the experience Visentin brings in net.

There is talk about this year’s World Juniors being a chance for redemption for last year’s debacle in Buffalo. In reality Visentin started the tournament as a backup goalie, fought his way into the starting position and had one lousy period, albeit at the worst time possible – the third period of a gold medal game.

Visentin has not had a stellar season so far. His first game after returning from the Phoenix Coyote training camp he suffered a groin injury and has been careful with his recovery. He has a SV% of 0.899, the worst in the OHL. However in his defence, (pun intended) there have been many games when the Ice Dog defence was inconsistent (to put it kindly) and Visentin was left alone to defend the net. In spite of this adversity Visentin leads the OHL with 4 shutouts.

The World Juniors out west will be just the stage for Visentin to showcase his true abilities and meet the challenge of the high calibre performances of the tournament. The Visentin doubters will be jumping back on the band wagon they fell off last year in Buffalo.

Trevor Miller

I have no doubt that Barrie Colt forward and Team Canada center Mark Scheifele COULD be the OHL’s stand-out for the tournament. With that being said, the winner’s of this tournament ride a hot goalie to glory. It is more realistic that we look at goaltending to pinpoint the player that will best represent the OHL. Mark Visentin is looking for redemption after the Gold Medal collapse last year. Scott Wedgewood on the other hand is ready and waiting for his chance to backstop Canada to it’s first Gold Medal since 2009. Wedgewood came out on top against the favoured Tyler Bunz for his spot on this year’s team.

With all that being said, Canada is only one team in this tournament. There are other OHL players suiting up for their respective Countries. I wouldn’t be surprised if Kitchener Ranger John Gibson makes a case for himself this year for Team USA. As the “backup” to returnee Jack Campbell, Gibson finds himself in a similar position to Wedgewood. I joked with Gibson before the USA camp and wished him luck, but not too much because I’m Canadian. He could steal the starting job from Campbell.

Let’s also not forget the likes of Nail Yakupov for the Russians or even Brandon Saad for the Americans. I still feel like the MVP for the OHL this year will be a goalie, and with all four goalies from North America coming from the Ontario Hockey League, that certainly bodes well for their respective chances.

Thayne Hallyburton

Boone Jenner

 

I think Boone will have the best tournament this year. The Oshawa Generals stud forward is a machine along the wall and gives second and third efforts on every play. some scouts say his skating is not up to par, but that won't matter in this tournament playing with the players he will be playing with. He will go to the net hard and with the hands of gold that he possesses he will have no issue finding the back of the net time and time again. It will be interesting to see what Jenner can do! I'd expect him to make his way towards the top of the Team Canada lineup as the tournament progresses.

Brandon Sudeyko

Devante Smith-Pelly.

Toddy, Toddy, Toddy... you love to send out open ended questions don't you? Is this the best tournament based on points? play? accomplishment? so many angles and I think the best answer is the Notorious one, Mr. D.S.P! Devante Smith-Pelly is my choice as the OHL who will have the Best Tournament. He has come a long way since being a sub due to injury in the Top Prospects game almost 2 full years ago. He hasn't changed his game once but his reputation has grown leaps and bounds. Like Scott 'money' Wedgewood, DSP was always an after thought up until last year when the Majors (under heavy CHL Promotion) took Canada by storm and really made it known that we have 'stars' on the team. At 6'0" 210 (has to be heavier) pounds, DSP is just a wrecking ball of a man with the softest set of mits on the team. Whether he is a 3rd or 4th liner sent out to swing momentum the other way. Whether he is used on the PP to be a nuisance in front of the net. Or whether he is used on the top line to head down the wing and crash the net and opponents hard. Many people will walk away from this tournament going 'WOW! The Ducks picked him up in the 3rd round? What did my team do that year?' Many players have coming out parties during this tournament but the Notorious DSP will have the best Tournament.

ITO's WJHC Team Canada Thoughts

I know you have all been waiting for what I may possibly have to say in regards to the team and the cut list for Team Canada. Unlike many of my media counterparts I was not able to give 'instant feedback'. But you guys know me better than that. It could be 3 days after the fact I will still give you the honest straight up no bull feedback you expect from ITO.

OHLers on 2012 Team Canada

Goaltenders - Mark Visentin & Scott Wedgewood

To no surprise of anyone, these two are my choice. If I had it my way, which I unfortunately do not, I would select every OHL player available in camp. But bias opinion aside, how do you deny Visentin his opportunity to win back what was lost? Sure his season is very up and down, more down than up. But how does that change what his abilities allow him to do? He is a hard worker, no doubt about that and more importantly when he has to battle he definitely does. What has he won? ok you got me there. Team Canada didn't win silver they lost gold, notice I didn't say 'HE' or 'Mark' when talking bout the silver. It is a team game you know. But having Wedgewood behind Mark forcing him not to faulter may be the smartest move made in deciding the roster. Scott has been an amazing goaltender in the OHL for almost 3 years. He hasn't played many games in those 3 years, just eclipsed the 100 game plateau just last weekend, but without a doubt carries the title of 'elite' when talking about OHL Goaltenders. Scott has always been the unknown, or the underdog. Due to playing in the States, he never gets the credit he deserves. He will push Visentin to the max and I would not be surprised if he becomes the starter during the tournament.

Defenceman - Jamie Oleksiak, Dougie Hamilton, Scott Harrington

The obvious OHLer missing on this list is Ryan Murphy. But before I get to that, lets comb through these three individuals. Jamie Oleksiak was a lock for this team before he even stepped on the ice. In fact it was when he 'defacted' from USAHockey and decided to play for Canada. A 6'7" 240+lb defenceman is easy to get excited about. I still can not get over the fact that DSP Yardsaled him back in the summer camp. You just don't forget that. I know DSP is a Freaking Freight train on skates but wow! I can not get over it. Throw in the fact that most people I have talked to said he would be the 5-7 defenceman based on what they saw in camp, I am not happy about him being on the team. Like I always say, Prove me wrong. Dougie Hamilton was also a lock once he stepped on the ice. This time for the right reasons. Easily the best defenceman in the OHL right now. if not top 2. Dougie has really worked on his D play and given the other defenceman on the roster, he may not have to be the most responsible on the back end. Scott Harrington, honestly, I can do without. I know that shutdown D are important, heck I appreciate the hard work they do. The hard work barely makes the score sheet most nights. But I feel there was a better choice out there... not an OHLer but again. Good for Harrington and please prove me wrong.

as for the cuts, I really would have liked to see Ceci or Murphy on the roster. Murphy would only have been the 7th defenceman anyways and quarterback the power play. Ceci on the otherhand could have had a huge role as a 2 way blueliner who could be put in many different situations without hesitation.

Forwards - Mark Schiefele, Tanner Pearson, Ryan Strome, Freddie Hamilton, Boone Jenner, DSP (on loan from NHL)

I have absolutely no problem with any of these players making Team Canada except one. Freddie Hamilton. Schiefele and Strome are your 1-2 centreman, no doubt about that. These kids are very strong on the puck, talented, and can make it happen. Schiefele gets the edge because of this in game NHL Experience. Tanner got his invite based on being the OHL Leading Scorer and he earned his way on. The question many asked is, can he be as good with out Schiefele in the middle. The answer is yes. This is not a player who was brought along by riding coat tails. Pearson did not just drop out of the sky. I have spent many an hour laughing with his Colts teammates, talking about how people dont know anything about him or the fact that he is a goal scorer. Everywhere he has been, a goal scorer. He will be fine. Boone Jenner is as hard nosed as they can come. You want him to be a 1st line scorer, he can do that. You want him to be a 4th line shutdown forward, he can do that. His versatility and his ability to be 'that guy' makes him a key member to this team. The only weakness in his game is, as I have read in a tweet, do not put him in the shootout, he is ugly. DSP is DSP. The Notorious one, since his coming out party at the TPG, has been a wrecking ball for almost 2 years now. He will do this in the tournament. Now, on to Freddie Hamilton. Yes I have a personal problem with him, but besides the point. I have always felt that he was riding the coat tails of his teammates. They brought him along, got him drafted. Now with that said... he has worked his butt off to earn every second of ice and every opportunity given to him. This season I do not see it in Freddie like last year. Maybe that is all the politics going on right now. He had a good camp, congrats FH, and like the others. Prove me wrong.

If you take away Freddie I would easily put in either Thomas or Toffoli. More so Toffoli. At least he is bigger than Thomas, not as electric shot, but can score toe to toe with Christian Thomas. Either of them would be my selection over Freddie Hamilton.

Quick and Painless... and a friendly reminder that ITO will be at the WJHC. We will be following Pool B (CAN,USA, FIN, DEN, CZE) during round robin before the Medal Rounds.

ITO Selects Team Canada for the WJHC

In the O is off to the World Juniors, but before they start or we get there, Canada has to trim the 43-man selection camp roster to 22. 13 forwards and 7 defensemen has been the usual for this team and I set my projected lineup to mirror that. Ladies and gentlemen: my projected 2012 World Junior Hockey Championship entry for Team Canada.

Centres:

Mark Scheifele [OHL]– The undisputed number one on this team. He will have to lead the team. He has game-breaking stuff and is capable of carrying a team on his back.

Ryan Strome [OHL]– An elite level offensive talent, Strome will be relied on to provide secondary scoring for the team as the tournament goes on. Strome is just too talented to leave off of this roster.

Zach Phillips [QMJHL]– Last year he was a beast through the QMJHL playoffs and into the Memorial Cup. Again he will be depended on as a checking centre that is also able to chip in offensively.

Michael Bournival [QMJHL]– Bournival is someone that will be asked to play an energy role on this team after being the last man cut last year. The nice thing with him is he has the scoring chops to move up in the lineup if needed.


Left Wingers:

Jaden Schwartz [NCAA]– Jaden comes back and will be looking to get the gold medal that eluded him last year. He will play a top line scoring role on this team. For Canada to win gold, Jaden will have to lead the way.

Jonathan Huberdeau [QMJHL]– Dynamic, electric, talented; these are adjectives that describe Jon’s game. He should be one of Canada’s leading scorers and will fit right in with Ryan Strome on a powerhouse second line.

Quinton Howden {WHL]– another returnee, Howden will be asked to play a checking role on this team. This is what he does well and if Canada wins gold, you can bet Howden will be a big reason why.

Tanner Pearson [OHL]– Maybe the one guy that can rival Spooner for the hottest player in the O. Pearson is leading the league in scoring but is also a dynamic penalty killer. He is a valuable player and would fit in nicely as the 13th forward.

Max Reinhart [WHL]- Max is my substitute selection for this team. He is able to play centre or the wing and that will make him a valauable player as injuries and poor play moves guys up and down the depth charts. He is a WHL boy and Hay likes that.

Ryan Spooner [OHL]– Maybe the OHL’s hottest player at this point, Spooner is a pure sniper. He can provide scoring on the 4th line in limited ice time, but he is also able to move up in the lineup if injuries or bad play takes over the aforementioned players. [ANNOUNCED THAT HE IS OUT WITH MONO]


Right Wingers:

Devante Smith-Pelly [NHL]– The Ducks have loaned DSP to this team and he will be looked upon to make a large impact. DSP is a banger with huge offensive touch. He will be the perfect winger for Mark Scheifele opening up plenty of ice for him and will be a pest around the opponents net.

Brett Connolly [NHL]– Another loaner from the NHL. Steve Yzerman and the Tampa Bay Lightning really wanted Brett to be on this team. An eye injury to Martin St. Louis seemed to spell disaster for those hoping he would be loaned, but Yzerman did it anyways. He will be asked to play a key role and should fit in nice with Ryan Strome.

Mark Stone [WHL]– Stone is an easy choice here as he would have been the undisputed #1 on this team without the NHL loaners. Stone is a superstar in the making and might be the best 3rd liner in this tournament.

Tyler Toffoli [OHL]– Many think that Toffoli’s chances of making this team were eliminated with the addition of the two big guns, but I just don’t see too many guys who are pure sniper’s on this team, not to mention how good he is in shootouts. Toffoli should make this team and as Canada likes to have….will be a 4th liner who can move up in the lineup if needed.

Defense:

Ryan Murray [WHL]– He’s draft eligible this year but you wouldn’t know it based on his game. He will be asked to play the shutdown role for this team.

Mark Pysyk [WHL] – Should be Murray’s defensive partner. He has offensive touch but will be asked to play against the other team’s best players in this tournament.

Brandon Gormley [QMJHL]– Gormley is the best Defenseman in the Q and will slot in nicely in the top 4. He moves the puck quick and takes the body. He is very tough to play against.

Dougie Hamilton [OHL]– Dougie is an offensive defenseman but he is able to take care of his own end as well as anyone in the O. At least one Hamilton should make this team.

Nathan Beaulieu [QMJHL]– Is another St. John Sea Dog that has a tonne of talent. He fits perfectly into the 3rd pairing on this team as Coach Don Hay loves puck moving defensemen.

Ryan Murphy [OHL]– I see Ryan as being kind of the Ryan Ellis of this group. He and Murray should run the 1st power play unit. Murphy will be important. He just has to buy in and accept a smaller role if Don Hay asks.

Jamie Oleksiak [OHL]– I feel like the big American-turned Canadian will make this team based on the fact that he switched his hockey allegiance from USA to Canada with hopes to play in this tournament for the Canadian side. I feel like he wouldn’t have made that decision if he weren’t guaranteed a spot. He should be the 7th defenseman.

Goaltending:

Mark Visentin [OHL]– you cannot leave your 2011 starting goaltender at home when he is still eligible. Yes, he had a bad third period in the gold medal game and yes he has not had a great season to date, but experience is at a premium on this team. He’s been there before and for a goaltender this is very important.

Tyler Bunz [WHL]– Is probably the best goaltender in the Canadian Hockey League this season. He deserves this place and if Visentin falters at all, Don Hay should have all the confidence in the world in him to go in there and do the job. He may even win the job pre-tournament.

What I could see happening on Don Hay’s team is that he substitutes some of the OHL players that I have slotted further down the depth charts like Tyler Toffoli and Tanner Pearson for guys that he is more familiar with, like his stud right winger from his team, the Vancouver Giants, Brendan Gallagher or maybe inserting a big body in Brad Ross or Ty Rattie who is lighting the league up offensively, but is weak defensively. The final decisions will be very interesting!

Final Count:
8 OHL
6 WHL
5 QMJHL
2 NHL
1 NCAA

Can We Let Mark Visentin Up Before We Throw Him Under the Bus?

Special Thanks to Bryan Thiel

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When you decide to be a goaltender when you’re five, six, or whenever you become enamored with the position, there are few who say that it was something other than the fun and challenge of being the last line of defense for your team that they fell in love with.

But as young goalies grow older, they quickly find out that while the position is still fun, the spotlight becomes harsher and more and more eyes are watching you. And connected to those eyes, are the mouths that judge.

Niagara Ice Dogs goalie Mark Visentin knows all about those mouths and eyes. He heard from all of them last year when Canada fell apart in the gold medal game of the World Junior Championship against Team Russia, in a final game that defined ‘self-destruction’ for a country.

He heard from all of those doubters again this week when the Selection Camp roster for Canada’s entrant into the World Juniors was announced. Visentin was one of only three returning players named to the camp, and the only one who wasn’t a forward. And while this hockey-mad country usually looks to those returning players and crosses their fingers for a big tournament, no one showered Visentin with praise. No one lauded the fact he is probably back. They just brought up that game.

It’s no secret that things haven’t gone the way many expected in Niagara early on, and that probably has a lot to do with the naysayers and detractors. If Visentin was having a season like London’s Michael Houser or something similar to Malcolm Subban’s year, maybe what we’d be hearing would be different.

There would still be those that would grumble about how Visentin seemingly can’t win the big game and how Canada might have been better to take a chance on a goalie like Subban, but there’d probably be a few more out there willing to defend Visentin using this year’s numbers. They’d say he’s better than he was last year, more experienced from what he went through, and hungry after that third-period heart-break and five-game letdown in the East Final against Mississauga.

But things aren’t better. He’s just 8-7-0-1, barely above .500, and despite four shutouts his goals-against average is tenth best in the league, behind the league-leader Subban, Houser, and American-hopeful John Gibson to name a few. His sub-.900 save percentage has him just 23^rd and he won just four of his first 11 games.

He has wins in four of his last five, two of which are shutouts, but why would anyone tell you that? That doesn’t support the case for those that don’t want him to join the rare ranks of goalies who have played consecutive years for Canada at the tournament that includes Al Jensen (1977-78), Jimmy Waite (87-88), Stephane Fiset (89-90) Trevor Kidd (90-92), Marc Denis (96-97), Roberto Luongo (98-99), Brian Finley (99-00), Maxime Ouellet (2000-01), and Marc-Andre Fleury (03-04).

Of those nine, just two (Denis and Kidd) won gold in their first year with Team Canada, so when you don’t add to Canada’s record 15 golds at the tournament one year, you can imagine how hard it is to convince the masses of a hockey-crazed nation you’re worth a second chance.

But the fact is, Visentin is as worthy of that shot as anyone. We forget so often that hockey is a team game, and that the players ahead of Visentin last year let him down as much as he let them down. He also gained some hard-luck experience from when the hockey world came crashing down.

He’ll have to prove that he’s better than Tyler Bunz, Louis Domingue, and Scott Wedgewood before we get to see what he’s learned, but shouldn’t Mark Visentin get that chance before we throw him under the bus? After all, Hockey Canada saw enough in him last year, collapse or not, to invite him to this year’s camp, so why should we force ourselves to discount him so soon?

Did Hockey Canada Select the right OHLers?

Like we do every sinigle time a Team Canada selection camp roster comes out, yours truly at ITO uses his knowledge to decipher whether it is a good call, or bad call for said player to be on or left off the roster. Considering that the IIHF U20 WJHC is the SuperBowl of Junior hockey, yes I believe this is bigger than the Memorial Cup, lets look at the OHL players who made the selection camp, and the ones from the Summer Evaluation camp that did not… and some other possible misses.

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Goaltenders

Mark Visentin (NIA) – I have already received a lot of hate for liking how the kid plays. Through the past 2 seasons I have gotten to know him really well and even though many call me biased. I think the strength to Visentin is his mental game. Mentally, I don’t think I have met a more solid goaltender. Nothing rattles this kid and you can call him a choke artist but I am sure the team was called Canada, not Visentin… But as for him being selected even though his current OHL season is worse than his rookie season… He brings you experience. With only 3 players listed to camp who were on last years team, the repeat factor gives him a huge advantage. Mark will be hungry to prove the doubters wrong which has been the story of his career

$cott Wedgewood (PLY) – Yes, I spelled his name with a dollar sign. As a Yahoo Sports writer said ‘he is money’ (although I have been saying this for over 2 seasons now and that is the first I heard from them) Scott has been the victim of just being born amongst his current goaltender crop. There are a lot of ‘just as good’ goalies since he has been growing up and even though he can steal more games than the average tender, never seemded to get his due. After almost petitioning (must be the money comments I make) for him to be on this team, Wedgewood will get a crack at being Team Canada’s goaltender on the world’s biggest stage. He has the ability, the technique and the mental ability to stand tall, just needed the opportunity.

Defenceman

Cody Ceci (OTT) – That hasn’t already been said about Ceci. The kid is a star plain and simple. He is not a big defenceman by anyone’s standard (6’1”) but he can play like Chara. Already listed at 210lbs Cody has mastered using his size to help his game. Vision is great, angles and skating are great, there are barely any flaws in this kids game. I even remember the playoffs two seasons ago and seeing Ceci and looking up who drafted him, but no one drafted him… he was a rookie.

Dougie Hamilton (NIA) – This is not surprising as he has pretty much been groomed to be the next great OHL offensive defenceman to ever play the game in hockey. Offensively Dougie is having a great year. Defensively not his best. He is still using his body when he needs to but I think to make Team Canada he will have to put his offence to the side and wait instead of create. Not the worst selection to this team but you could replace him with another if you truly wanted.

Scott Harrington (LDN) – I don’t know about him. Maybe I just don’t like shutdown defenceman. Just something about them make me believe they are so interchangeable. Granted as far as OHL nominees to the camp roster, Hockey Canada got this right. If there is a better Canadian shutdown defenceman, I don’t know who it is… you may be saying a name right now, and I will address him later.

Ryan Murphy (KIT) – Remember when Ryan Ellis made the squad the first time to just QB the power play? I absolutely expect that to be Murphy’s role on this team. Arguably the best puck moving defenceman on this team but I think he possess more vision for that PP than a few others. The question is whether he can be 100% healthy for camp and for the tournament. He makes his return this week and you just never know. With that in mind a 100% healthy Ryan Murphy gets a thumbs up from ITO.

Jamie Oleksiak (SAG) – Thumbs Down. I like the guy, I do. Heck he stood around for a long long interview and never look disturbed. He is a great guy to talk to. Problem is he is still learning the OHL game and it is painfully evident. I think the one thing that disturbs me is that during the Summer camp DSP yard saled Oleksiak. Granted it was Smith-Pelly (Runaway Freight Train on Skates) but at 6’7” 245lbs… You shouldn’t be sprawled all along the ice.

Forwards

Freddie Hamilton (NIA) – Everytime I have tried to talk to Freddie there seems to be this hate between us. I know he explained it one time, but I don’t buy that reasoning. But, I do not feel that the personal feelings should have me declare that he will not make the team. But I do agree with him getting an invite to tryout.  If Don Hay puts him with Strome for a line then he has a shot. It isn’t that Strome has been the one doing the work as Freddie has progressed leaps and bounds since being selected by San Jose in the NHL Entry Draft. I still have a feeling that he may not make it. I say you have to give him a shot in camp, but he will have to out work a lot of talent.

Boone Jenner (OSH) – Maybe it is because the Generals in total have been bad, not awful, but under achieving. For that reason I don’t think Jenner should have made the selection camp roster. I like what he can do, but others who have been more consistent this season can do the same.

Tanner Pearson (BAR) – Where did this kid come from? Many have said that, and look at what he did last year as a rookie on a really bad Barrie team. Now look at what he did on his Jr B team in Waterloo… see the pattern here. He didn’t fall out of the sky. He is leading the OHL in points and looks like a monster with the puck, I see him in a 3^rd line role if he makes it. He is ok with the camp invite because he is leading the league in scoring. Otherwise I pass on him.

Mark Scheifele (BAR) – After his stint with Winnipeg, he has attacked the OHL like a man possessed and Hockey Canada is capitalizing on this. Rightfully so. If he was left off the list there would be more outcry than others who were left off the list. I don’t think I can find anything wrong with this selection.

Ryan Spooner (KGN) – Now if this was last season I would be clawing my eyes out asking why is he on here. Like Scheifele, Spooner has attacked the league possessed. Whatever they told him in Boston before sending him back has worked. Yes there has been games where he has been benched in the third. But he is a more complete player than ever. I do not care what he has done offensively I have never seen him play defence like this before. Will score big points with Coach Hay.

Ryan Strome (NIA) – I like the selection, but I can see him getting cut. He can play with anyone, can see the small holes to deliver the puck. Slick hands and skating, but there is just something (like Freddie) where I can see him not making the team. But as for the Selection camp, absolutely.

Christian Thomas (OSH) – Now I know what I said about Jenner, should apply here. But I do not think you pass up an opportunity at letting a 50 goal scorer not come to camp. They were not cheap 50 goals either, he worked hard for them. Thomas is wearing the C right now and something about that letter seems to have given him motivation to improve on the little things. Coin toss on the selection because of the lack of success the Oshawa Generals should be having under his leadership.

Tyler Toffoli (OTT) – another player I personally have issues with (why do these guys hate me?) but that is not what I am hear to discuss. Last year I said he should have been given an invite as he either lead the OHL in points, or was just the Top Canadian leading the OHL in points, but he should have gotten an invite. After much debate, I did concede to the notion that you need to be more of a complete player. This year Toffoli has done just that and stepped up his physical game large. He won’t make this team to be an energy guy although players of his ilk have done it before, so if he can not make the top 9, I don’t see him sticking around. Give him motivation, and he will definitely show off his best.

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I know I said I would get to the ones who did not get selected, but I will save that until tomorrow on whether or not I agree or disagree. Really there are only 2.5 I do not like. And if you include the ‘will not make team’ about 5 in total. There is always debate when it comes to the OHL selections for the camp which is why I love this league.

Thoughts from the Editor... week ending Nov 20

^{Here I am, another Sunday and more crazy thoughts and stats to fill up some space, but also to add a different perspective on how you may be viewing the OHL right now. Leave a comment below... positive or negative.}

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The Niagara IceDogs continue to struggle and be seen as a giant anomaly. Niagara currently sitting at a record of 11-10-0-2 have let up the third most goals in the Eastern Conference while scoring 4^th highest in the Conference. 6 players boast better than a 0 +/- while Steven Shipley still leads the team with a -10.

Mark Visentin is enjoying a roller coaster season. With a 6-7-0-1 record, Visentin still has a plus 3 GAA and a SV% under .890 but he does have 4 shutouts this season. 7 of the 15 games he has appeared in his GAA has been 1 or less. In the other 8 games, 4 or higher.

The Oshawa Generals should not be forgotten although they are trying hard to be an afterthought. Despite having 9 players with at least double digits for points, 2^nd in the Eastern Conference in Goals for, the Generals are sitting in 8^th place in the conference. In true Generals fashion this team leads the Conference in PIM with 536, 64 more PIM than the next team. Oshawa has also let in the most goals in the Eastern Conference, 9 more than Kingston, and are third worst in the league. Goaltending and Defence is an issue and they should either blow up the lineup or definitely get help because  something is wrong in Oshawa.

After marching up the East Division, putting up 6 straight victories, the Belleville Bulls dropped Two 4 point games this week. Bulls are currently sitting in 3^rd in the division with Peterborough and Ottawa just sitting ahead of them. The Bulls, despite their 6 game winning streak, never played a complete 60 minute game during the stretch, relying on the unbelievable goaltending from Subban and Chartrand.

For those experts who said the Plymouth Whalers would be unstoppable, well it looks like you can begin to brag once again as the Whalers have rattled off a 9-0-01 record in their last 10. Whalers have scored the second most goals in the league while taking over top spot in the West Division leading Sarnia by 1 point. JT Miller has been unbelieveable since I handed him a single American Dollar with 9 goals and 23 points in his last 16 games. Scott Wedgewood is also on fire in the month of November with a 5-0-0-1 record in 6 games this month sporting a 1.64GAA 946V% and 2 shutouts in November.

After a RED HOT start, London’s Michael Houser is being overshadowed yet again. With a 5-2 record in November he is being outshined by the like of the aforementioned Wedgewood and Subban but still sporting a respectable 2.86GAA and 9.14SV%. I point this out because the lack of ‘statistical evidence’ suggesting he is a top goaltender does not mean that he is not pulling out all the stops to steal games and help his team when they don’t play in front of him.

Ottawa’s Tyler Toffoli is looking to not only take over the top spot in the OHL Scoring race but run away with the Goal Scoring title as well. My preseason prediction of Sean Monahan outscoring Toffoli was a bit of a joke but if anyone could do it, it would be a player on his line. Tyler currently has 24 goals in 22 games while sitting 8 pts behind Barrie’s Tanner Pearson in the overall scoring title with 43pts to date. At current pace Toffoli could have 70 goals if he stays healthy… although he is expected to make a big splash and more than likely make Team Canada for the World Junior Hockey Championship. Back to Back 50 Goal seasons is not out of the realm of possibility with Tyler.

Kitchener fans need not worry that John Gibson has an American passport anymore. Gibson is in the T-5 with a .927SV%, in the T-10 with a 2.70GAA and 4^th in the league with 11 wins.

4 of the 5 Goalies in the league with the most wins are American born, Michael Houser, Brandon Maxwell, John Gibson and Jack Campbell.

There are 3 European Goaltenders in the top 10 in OHL Wins category, Petr Mrazek, Mathias Niederberger and Johan Mattsson.

The Top 3 Canadian Born goaltenders in the Wins Category is JP Anderson, Matt Murray and Scott Wedgewood. Team Canada WJHC Incumbent Mark Visentin, is tied for 17^th in the league with 6 Wins.