ITO Hot-Stove: Which current OHL team should be relocated to Hamilton?

With all the talk of an OHL franchise relocating to Hamilton for the 2012-13 season, I decided it would be a good idea for the hot-stove to debate which team should be on the move. I know Erie is the most likely to move, but that's not what the Hot-Stove is debating today.

Joining me in today's hot-stove is Joshua Newhart, Alex Quevillon, Jason Ray, Phil Phillips, Bryan Theil, and Anthony Nicholson.

Todd Cordell

In my opinion the Brampton Battalion should undoubtedly be the team on the move to Hamilton. Despite their team's great success so far this season, they've only had 2,000+ in attendance a handful of times regardless of which team comes for a visit. In my opinion any team averaging less than 2,000 fans per game should be on the move even if their team is struggling, so with Brampton's on ice success this year it makes things even more puzzling for myself. The Battalion have some good players and a very good coaching staff and I think a move to Hamilton, where they will be in more of a spot light, could be just what the doctor ordered.

Joshua Newhart

I don't think that any team in the OHL should move to Hamilton. There has been a lot of talk that teams are going to move there but, why? They have had a team before and the city couldn't support it. With so many other pro hockey organizations around that area there is just too much competition for a junior team to have any attendance. Hamilton already has an AHL team, the leafs are only 55 minutes away and the Ice Dogs are about the same distance. Tell me who is going to show up? I think that if a city loses a team they shouldn't be allowed to get one back.

Alex Quevillon

There are rumours of Mississauga, Brampton and Erie relocating.  I say, why?  Why move a team if you don't have to?  Why not give Hamilton an expansion team if they're OHL-ready?  The Ice Dogs built a respectable market in Mississauga as an expansion team, so much so that Eugene Melnyk trusted them enough to play home to another new team in 2007.  Is it because the OHL is too complacent with the 20-team system that they don't want to add one more?  I mean, the QMJHL is doing okay with 17 teams.  I say try the 21-team system.  If that doesn't work as planned, fold a team and hold a dispersal draft.  Besides, I don't think Hamilton will go after an OHL team until the AHL Bulldogs move to Laval (assuming the plan goes through).  And with Laval's arena controversy, that may be a ways away still.
 
Jason Ray

I gotta say it needs to be the majors I've been to a few games and that building is empty most of the games I've attended. I swear I heard crickets, not to mention that they ate right beside the Brampton Battalion to me it waters down where fans will go and watch a game. They should spread out the OHL wealth. Although I'm not sold in them going to Hamilton. Hamilton has the Bull Dogs of the AHL might just be too much of a good thing.

Phil Phillips

I'm not sure if any team should move to Hamilton, what would they name the franchise ? The Steelhawks or the Dukes of Hamilton, maybe the Fincups? I'm not sure why the OHL didn't work in Hamilton the last time, and I wonder why people think it would now. Its the same building? and The Economy is worse off? I think maybe Buffalo might be a better option. Securing New York born players for the league.

As far as a team moving there, I'm not sure what team should move, but I know one that could move: the Belleville Bulls.

A few reasons:

1- The Team -The on ice product isn't the problem. The Bulls have done their part on the Ice. Only missing the playoffs 3 times since 1981. Three trips to the OHL final, winning in 1999 on home ice in game 7, two trips to the Memorial Cup, five division titles. Many OHL and CHL individual awards. 56 players that have played for the Bulls have played in the NHL.

2-The Yardman- I know it was the only barn in the Ontario Hockey League to have a second level of seating until the John Labatt Centre was built, in 2002. But the Yardbarn was built in 1978, its old and over the years its had some upgrades but just band aids really, nothing that would put it on par with other rinks in the OHL. The Ice making equipment is old and this year its showing its age a bit. There is no real bar, no restaurant, it feels like the store is in an other building (because it is), during Intermissions the concourse is tight. Good luck getting a drink, using the bathroom and getting back to your seat on time.

3- The Owner- Belleville no longer have the advantages of local ownership. Gord Simmonds purchased the Bulls in 2004-2005. At the time it was known that the Yardman was in need of being seriously upgraded or replaced. Mr.Simmonds has stepped up and did his part, he's upgraded the dressing room and workout area, asked for and got the OHL All-Star Game in 2006, he was reasonable for the Yardman getting the Video Score Broad it now has, and has been more they patient with the City of Belleville. He has said he wont be signing a new lease if something is not in place. And if a City has a beautiful empty building waiting for a tenant, he is a business man, why would he not go? If it's going to be more profitable to do so?

3-The City of Belleville- Its time for City council, to make a decision , and let everyone know what are the plans to secure the Bulls stay in Belleville? The Mayor has stated that it can't be done on the backs of taxpayers alone and that private industry has to be on board. Okay, so get it done, get every one together and make it happen, I understand its not that black and white, but whats the hold up, get together with Mr.Simmonds, and who ever else and at least start.

4-Fans- #MORECOWBELL, We have to support this team win or lose, I think the Bulls have only topped 3000 tickets sold in 2 or 3 games this season. Old building or new building it can't sit half full. At one time Bulls fans were named the Best fans in the OHL by the Global OHL Game of the Week. All division games should be standing room only, when Kingston or Ottawa are in town it should be sold out.

So in short the Belleville Bulls could be forced to move? The Hamilton Bulls just sounds wrong.

Bryan Theil

With everything that has come out about this possible relocation, we have to consider the difference between 'will' and 'should'. The team that probably will get relocated, as it stands right now, is the Erie Otters. The argument for that is as simple as the team's lease. Of all the teams you would consider 'eligible' for a move, the Otters' lease is up at the end of the season, while the Brampton Battalion's lease is up after next season. Many will look at the record and suggest the fact that Erie is 19 points out of 19th in the league as another prime reason for relocation, but the last-place team has actually outdrawn Brampton (if we go strictly on paper numbers).

In terms of teams that should? I would suggest either the Battalion or the Mississauga Majors. The Toronto market has enough trouble supporting one OHL team let alone two, and both franchises may stagnate given the fact that the AHL's Marlies can't even advance. There are markets that would welcome a team with stronger numbers than both Toronto teams combined, and while Hamilton may or may not be that market, they are out there and may be where the future of the OHL lies.

Anthony Nicholson

With talk of an OHL franchise moving to Hamilton, many have pointed to the Erie Otters, who, at least behind the scenes, have been making it known that Hamilton would be a prime destination for them. While it is quite likely that the Otters will be the team on the move, though the team is still negotiating with the City of Erie on a lease that would keep the team there long-term.

Much has been made of the recent struggles of the Mississauga Majors and Brampton Battalion, two teams who have become used to playing in front of empty arenas. The proximity of these two teams to one another only compound the problem, and it is a very clear case of the league wanting hockey to succeed in these cities, with no regards for the dynamics involved in keeping an OHL team afloat. If Erie does in fact move to Hamilton, another city will need to step forward to be a permanent home for at least one of these two franchises, and both Cornwall and North Bay have been bandied about as possible destinations.

January 20th - Brampton v. Mississauga Game Report

by Jason Ray
#34 Newly acquired Brandon Maxwell made the start in Goal for the majors also #10 Andrew Goldberg made his debut tonight for the majors.

The game started at a great pace. Both teams showed great skating and puck control. The Battalion started to take the period over by winning the board battles deep in the Majors Zone. Brampton also began to step up their physical game throughout the period. Using the body gave the Troops the early lead as Captain Sam Carrick netted his 23^rd of the year. The troops domination in the first period was also seen on the shot clock as Brampton held Mississauga to 3 shots in the first period, shades of their Thursday night game versus Plymouth.

In the Second, the Majors came out with more force and were able to tie the game at one off the stick of former Sudbury Wolves forward Kris Kontos. The tie would not last long as the Majors would take the lead on the Power Play. The Majors work their typical setup to find Riley Brace just beside the net with a little tip in goal. The goal was his 23^rd of the year, but it wasn’t his last. 3 minutes after the Majors take the lead, Brampton score twice to take back the lead for a score of 3-2. Patrick Mahac and Alex O’Neil, their 10^th and 1^st of the season respectively. The Battalion would add to their lead and take a 4-2 lead heading into the 3^rd period. Captain Carrick would score his second of the game on the Power Play, 24^th on the year. After 40 minutes the Battalion out shot the Majors 30- 8.

Shots on goal would be a non factor in this game as the third period saw Mississauga apply the pressure as Brampton would play their defensive game and protect their two goal lead. Spencer Abraham would take a high sticking call at 11:42 in the third and even thought Brampton killed off the penalty. Seconds after Abraham took to the ice, the same power play setup of Kontos to Brace found the back of the net to make it a one goal game. With under 2 minutes left in the game BRA Dylan Blujus takes a tripping call which gives Mississauga their 6^th power play of the game and Riley Brace completes the hat trick and ties the game up at 4. The game was headed into Overtime with the ice tilted in favour of the Majors as they had put 12 shots on goal in the third while holding Brampton to only 6 shots.

Overtime did not decide the game so it was off to a shootout. After trading goals and saves the game was decided in the 8^th round when Justin Rasmussen scored and Brampton’s Mitchell Porowski could not extend the shootout to round 9.

Mississauga picked up the extra point in the game and closed the gap on the Division Leader, Brampton Battalion to 11 points. Brampton with their SOL remained in first place in the Central Division. Both Mississauga and Brampton have the night off on Saturdy but have home games Sunday Afternoon, Saginaw and Sudbury respectively.

January 18th - Mississauga Majors vs. Belleville Bulls Game Review

by Phil Phillips

On Wednesday night the Belleville Bulls needed to pull out of a slump, and the Mississauga St. Michael's Majors were in town with different plans. Coming in the Bulls were 0-4 on home ice in the New Year and were yet to score a goal in the 3rd period at home. The Bulls had lost 7 of their last 8, and had just 3 wins in their last 14. They needed a win real bad, only one point separated the two teams in the tight Eastern Conference, were before last night only 15 points separated 1st place Ottawa and 9th place Oshawa.

The 2158 at the Yardman, and ex Majors Joesph Cramarossa and Jordan Mayer wanted to show former Bulls player, assistant coach and Head Coach James Boyd, now the GM/Coach in Mississauga what he has been missing. It wouldn't be easy with Both goalies Malcolm Subban and John Chartrand on the self. For the first time I can remember the Bulls went with two 16 year old goalies. Charlie Graham would get the start and be backed up by the Bulls 15th Rd pick, the 6'6" 185lbs Braydon Banitsiotis. The Majors would start Brandon Maxwell.

The 1st started like a lot of games for the Bulls as of late, with them getting no shots till almost the midway point. And letting the other team walk right in and test Graham. After a wasted PP by the Bulls, at 9:32 shortly after the Bulls registered their first shot, Jamie Wise walked right past the Bulls D and netted his 16th from Partanen and DeMelo to give the Majors the lead 1-0. Not to be beat about 3 minutes later at 12:05 , Cramaroosa beat Maxwell for his 9th from Dylan Corson and Luke Judson. But before the 1st ended Riley Brace got a bounce and netted his 22nd from Kuptsov, DeMelo. To give the Majors the lead 2-1 to end the period. After 20 minutes where the Bulls looked tired ? dead ? out of it ? I don't know but not to good. Charlie Graham was easily the Best Bull even after giving up two goals. The Bulls got out shot 17-7 and really just stood around sometimes.

The 2nd would start really good, when Mike Curtis lit the lamp for his 10th from Adam Payrel and Garrett Hooey at 2:26, to tie the game 2-2. They had 7 shots before the 10 minute mark, the same amount they had for the whole first period. But then the wheels fall off and Belleville started looking like the Bulls from the 1st. With Daniil Zharkov off for slashing. Alex Cord scored the Game Winner and his 1st of the year on the PP. Soon after Cord scored Zharkov tangled with Spenser Cobbold, in a clear miss match, but good for him for showing some life and trying to spark a club that needed one. The 2nd ended with The Bulls out shooting St,Mike 15-12 in the period., But trailing 3-2.

The Bulls came out hard in the 3rd and they dominated, by skating, and going to the net, but could not beat Maxwell(1st Star), he was really good in the 3rd. As the Bulls out shot the Majors 14-4 in the period and 36-33 in the game. The PP was 0/1 and so was the PK. When it was all said in done the Bulls lost to the Majors 3-2. With the lose The Bulls drop to 8th and the Majors jump to 7th. So the Bulls are 0-5 at home in 2012 , yet to score a 3rd period goal in that time. The Bulls have lost 8 of their last 9 and have won just 3 of the last 15. Belleville is a better team then this , as we all seen early in the year, and they better be because the always tough Kitchener Rangers lead by former Bull Tyler Randell are in Belleville Saturday Night.

Wednesday January 18th - Game Previews

by Dwayne Williams

Plymouth at Owen Sound
The Whalers bring their high powered offence into the wintery confines of the Bayshore arena in Owen Sound.  Plymouth is battling for top spot in the West – back and forth with the London Knights.  They have played in some high scoring matches recently – averaging 4.9 goals per game over the past 9 games. They have a very balanced scoring attack with a handful of players in the top 50 scorers in the OHL.  Owen Sound comes off a 2 victory homestand vs. the Erie Otters – where they weren’t pushed too hard in securing wins of 3-1 and 5-0.  Owen Sound is on a current 3 game home win streak as they battle in the middle of the standings – sitting only 2 points behind Sarnia sting for 4^th spot.
My prediction Plymouth 5 – Owen Sound 2

Mississauga at Belleville
The St. Mikes Majors find themselves sandwiched near the bottom of the standings but not far from the middle of the log-jammed Eastern Conference. They are 2 points from the #9 spot and 5 points from the #4 spot.  They had mixed results on their latest road trip–losing to Sarnia 7-1 beating Plymouth 2-0 and then losing to Saginaw 4-2.  The last time they scored more than 3 goals was in a 6-5 loss vs. Niagara 8 games ago.   Belleville is 1 point ahead of Mississauga in seventh place – as they continue to search for an elusive winning streak.  Their last home win was on Dec 17 - 10 games ago.  Subban is getting close to playing but don’t expect him to dress for game action quite yet.
My prediction Mississauga 3 – Belleville 1


OHL Prospect Profiles: Sergey Kuptsov and Nick Ebert

This week in our prospect profiles we have a special double edition. Since our friend, Laura Barney, left us this week we were worried that our Mississauga St. Michaels Majors coverage was going to take a hit. I had originally planned on profiling top prospect, Nick Ebert, of the Windsor Spitfires but when I found out Laura was leaving us, I called an audible and decided to cover The Majors’ offensive weapon Sergey Kuptsov. Now I’m a nice guy (depending on who you ask) and I knew you guys would be looking forward to some journalism gold, featuring Ebert, so being the nice guy that I am, I thought that I would just publish both ‘In the O Prospect Profiles’. So, here they are!

NHL Draft Prospect: Sergei Kuptsov – Mississauga St. Michaels Majors
The Line:
Height: 6’2”
Weight: 212 lbs
Shoots: Right
Position: Right Wing
Draft Eligible: 2013
This past season, the Mississauga St. Michaels Majors traded with the Sudbury Wolves to obtain the 16th overall draft position. The man they wanted, was the six-foot-two 212 pound Russian, Sergey Kuptsov. As is the case with many Russian players his stick handling and skating abilities are quite impressive. And he can devastate any defense and goaltender in the league on any given night.

Kuptsov is a very large man and uses his size to his advantage when going to the net or when his line is cycling the puck down low. He can find gaps in the defense and can exploit them very quickly. His first 3 steps are explosive and can give him separation on most players in the league, allowing him to take advantage of these gaps and get open.

The one downfall in his game is the consistency in his compete-level. I don’t want to be too hard on him considering the fact that he is still trying to make the adjustments to life in Canada and playing in the OHL on a weekly basis, but there are games where he can disappear at times, sort of the ‘Alex Kovalev syndrome’ so-to-speak.It will be interesting to see how his game evolves over the next few months as he heads into his draft year in 2012/2013.

Professional Player Comparison: Maxim Afinogenov
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NHL Draft Prospect: Nick Ebert – Windsor Spitfires

The Line:
Height: 6’1”
Weight: 205 lbs
Shoots: Right
Position: Defense
Draft Eligible: 2012
After a 41 point season last year for the Windsor Spitfires, the Livingston, New Jersey native has gotten off to a slow start this year recording just eight assists through 17 games thus far. Watching Ebert play brings one word to mind; smooth. He’s a smooth skater, smooth with the puck and makes smart plays that look easy.

Ebert’s game is all about making plays. He has an offensive flair to his game that cannot be missed when watching him play. His first pass is very strong and almost always on target, even when under pressure. The one interesting thing about watching him play is his selection process when deciding to join the rush. He doesn’t usually make a poor decision and when he is in on the rush, you can hear him communicating with his team mates. When he gets the puck he displays an NHL-caliber shot.

Although I have written with the highest praise thus far regarding Nick Ebert, as I should considering that he will be a top 10 pick in the 2012 NHL Entry Draft, there are a few issues with his game; as there is with most major junior level players.

Ebert does have some trouble moving guys out of the front of the net, especially when they have position on him. He also leaves his defensive partner hanging on occasion. Although I mentioned that he had a great selection process with regards to when he decided to join the rush, he still can be caught out of position at times due to the amount of times he joins the rush. There is no doubt that defensive play can be taught and he is not a liability at this point in his development by any stretch of the imagination.

Ebert really is a can’t-miss prospect, as he should be, considering all of the hype. He is a player that I feel can live up to that hype and, is as NHL-ready of a defender as there is, in this draft class.

NHL Player Comparison: Dan Boyle

ITO Three Stars & Power Rankings

This week, we will name the ITO Three Stars for the week of September 26 to October 2, and will take our first look at the OHL Power Rankings for the year. The Power Rankings should not be confused with the CHL Rankings, as they rank team’s records, while we look at what teams are hot, and what teams are not. Expect to see lots of movers and shakers on the Power Rankings each week, as a big week could send you up the charts, and a bad week can send your team spiralling.

ITO 3 Stars

1. Seth Griffith (London Knights) – Seth would score a goal and an assist in Friday’s victory over Sudbury, but would light it up the following night in Plymouth, scoring a goal to go along with 3 more helpers. In two games, Seth was able to rack up 6 points, including two goals, and is our ITO First Star for the week of September 26^th- October 2^nd.

2. Sean Monahan (Ottawa 67’s) – Big things were expected from Sean this season, and to date, he hasn’t disappointed. Sean would score both Ottawa goals in a 3-2 loss in Plymouth on Friday, and add a goal and two assists in Saginaw the next night. Not done yet, Sean would score another goal and add another assist in an overtime loss in Windsor. Scoring four goals and three assists in a three game weekend earns Sean Monahan this week’s ITO Second Star.

3. Riley Brace (Mississauga St. Michaels Majors) – Riley would be a scoring machine this week, hitting the back of the net five times in three games. His third goal on Thursday night would turn out to be the game winner in Niagara, and he would score the game winner again the next night, as part of a two goal game versus the Owen Sound Attack. Despite not making it onto the scoresheet in a 2-1 shootout win over Kingston Sunday afternoon, Riley’s five goal weekend is enough to earn the ITO Third Star selection.

ITO Power Rankings

1. London Knights – Projected to be one of the top teams in the Western Conference, if not the entire league, the Knights haven’t disappointed, jumping out to an impressive 4-0 start to the season. Newcomer Max Domi joins an experienced group of scorers in London, and with Michael Houser in net, the Knights will be tough to beat this year.

2. Mississauga St. Michaels Majors – Perhaps picking up where they left off, last year’s OHL and Memorial Cup Finalists have won each of their first five contests. J.P. Anderson continues to shine in net for the Majors, and the offence is led by Riley Brace, who has 9 points through 5 games.

3. Sault Ste. Marie Greyhounds – While still early, the surprising start by the Greyhounds has caught the attention of the league. New GM Kyle Dubas has had his hands full trying to overhaul his young squad, and early returns are positive. Matt Murray has been dynamic in goal for the Hounds, and could be an early candidate for Top Goaltender.

4. Peterborough Petes – Nearly as surprising as the Hounds, the Petes have had a great start to the 2011-12 season, starting on opening night when they beat Niagara 7-1. Now 3-0-1-1, the Petes have found stability in net with former Rangers netminder Mike Morrison, and are lead up front by versatile winger Matt Puempel.

5. Barrie Colts – Even without top scorer Mark Scheifele, the Colts have had a great start this year. At 3-1-0-1, Barrie is chasing Mississauga for the Central Division lead. Tanner Pearson, Zach Hall, and Colin Behenna have combined for a staggering 37 points in the Colts’ first 5 games.

6. Guelph Storm – With 3 wins in their first five games, the Storm have gotten off to great start, and sit just one point behind London for first place. Garret Sparks gives them solid goaltending each night, and the team scores by committee, making them a tough team to beat on any given night.

7. Ottawa 67’s – The 67’s were expected to be one of the top teams in the East this season, and they haven’t disappointed. With a 3-1-1-0 record, and veteran goalie Petr Mrazek in goal, the 67’s look poised to make a run at another East Division Crown.

8. Sarnia Sting – With two of the top prospects available in the 2012 NHL Entry Draft, all eyes will be on the Sting all season long. Alex Galchenyuk and Nail Yakupov will bring all the attention, but if they are to be successful in Sarnia, it will truly be a full team effort.

9. Kitchener Rangers – In one of the few feel-good stories so far this season, Defenceman Ben Fanelli made a successful return to the Rangers lineup, after nearly two seasons out of hockey. 2-1 so far, the Rangers have their work cut out for them this season, missing many key contributors from their team last year. The tandem of John Gibson and Franky Palazzese will be counted on to lead this team from the net out.

10. Owen Sound Attack – Last year’s OHL Champions, the Attack have only played .500 hockey so far in this young season. With returning netminder Jordan Binnington, and Daniel Catanacci joining veterans such as Cameron Brace and Jarrod Maidens, it should be another successful season in Owen Sound, though they will be hard-pressed to recapture last year’s magic.

11. Niagara IceDogs – Predicted to be a top contender this season, the IceDogs seem to be heading in the right direction after a rough opening week. Mark Visentin will provide a steady influence in net all season long for the Dogs, but they are missing last year’s top scorer, Ryan Strome, who is still with the New York Islanders. If the Isles keep Strome, the IceDogs will need to find offence elsewhere.

12. Windsor Spitfires – At 3-3, the Spitfires find themselves tied with the upstart Greyhonds for the Division lead. American Jack Campbell is an experienced veteran who will give the Spits a good chance to win each night, but Kerby Rychel and Alex Khokhlachev will be counted on heavily for offensive production.

13. Oshawa Generals – Another team suffering from players attending pro camps, the Generals have stumbled out of the gate this season, suffering losses to both the Greyhounds and Bulls. With the chances of Scott Valentine and Andy Andreoff returning dwindling every day, the Generals will need to find a way to replace their output if they hope to contend this season. Rookie goalie Dan Altshuller has been hot and cold to start the season, but there seems to be as many questions as answers in Oshawa.

14. Plymouth Whalers – One of a handful of teams who many think are underperforming to date, the Whalers are still 2-2 and looking to make some noise in the Western Conference this season. Scott Wedgewood will play the majority of games for Plymouth this year, and if he can remain consistent, the Whalers should have a good year.

15. Brampton Battalion – Even at 2-2 so far in the season, the Battalion are one of a handful of teams who are expecting to be significantly better than last season. Matej Machovsky is back in goal for another season in Brampton, and Tuesday’s addition of Brett Mackie from Belleville will improve the Battalion offence.

16. Belleville Bulls – The Bulls are a team that many expect to have a breakout season, but a 2-3 record has seen more downs than ups so far. Malcolm Subban is now the number 1 goalie in Belleville, and up front, the Bulls have plenty of scoring potential, with Luke Judson, Adam Payerl, and Brendan Gaunce.

17. Kingston Frontenacs – It’s shaping up to be a long year in Kingston, as many expect the rebuilding Frontenacs to miss the playoffs this season. New GM Doug Gilmour has been at work revamping his lineup, which is now lead by Captain Tyler Brown. Gilmour also acquired Igor Bobkov from London to shore up his goaltending. At 1-4, more work is needed.

18. Saginaw Spirit – A tough 1-4 start for the Spirit has seen them slip behind the pack in the Western Conference. Tadeas Galansky and Jake Paterson comprise a young goaltending tandem, and they will rely on a potentially high-powered offence, led by John McFarland and Vincent Trocheck.

19. Erie Otters – More was expected of the goaltending tandem of Tyson Teichmann and Chris Festerini coming into the season, but so far, it hasn’t materialized. Averaging 7 goals against per game, the Otters have sputtered to an 0-4 start. Even with offensive weapons such as Greg McKegg, Sondre Olden, and Brett Thompson, Erie will need to be better defensively to have any hope.

20. Sudbury Wolves – Perhaps no OHL fans are as disappointed as Wolves fans are early into the new season. Coming off of a stunning 4 game sweep of the East Division Champion 67’s last year, Sudbury seemed poised to have a big year, and compete for home advantage in the playoffs. Instead, they have nothing to show from their first four games, and sit at the bottom of the Power Rankings.

Be sure to check back next week to see where your favourite team ranks. If you can’t wait for your OHL fix, find me on Twitter, @N24Nicholson.

The Good , The Bad and The Ugly

It was the good, the bad and the ugly for the Niagara Ice Dogs this week-end. With an unusual three games in a row, the Niagara team had a loss, a win, and a come back win.

The Thursday night home opener was deemed as “ugly” in the head line of the local paper. With expectations high for the home time crowd, the home opener was a brutal 6-4 loss against the Mississauga Majors. With nine players attending NHL camps, the Ice Dogs have had limited time during training camp and the exhibition season to play together as a team. With Strome and Friesen still away, and their return iffy, and other players trying a little too hard to be the hero, the team lacked cohesion necessary if they are to meet the high predications of the pre-season. One bright light was the two goal performance of forward Joel Wigle.

Friday’s 4-2 win against the Barrie Colts was “good” as the crowd was able to see glimpses of what the Dogs might be able to do as the season progresses. Johnson Andrew was named first star of the game. On Thursday night Andrews hit the score sheet early with a penalty following a fight with Jamie Wise of the Majors. (http://www.hockeyfights.com/fights/105265) Andrews admits there has been a history with Wise and deemed this fight “as the rubber match” which was over too quickly and might need to be decided at another time. Friday evening against the Colts Andrews kept his gloves on and got on the score sheet with two goals to help his team to their first win of the season.

Andrews is the centre of the one of the many sub-plots of what is often a soap opera within the OHL. Currently Andrews is one of three over-agers on the Ice Dog roster. OHL rules make it necessary to have only three OAs come January. However, Andrew’s life long friend Alex Frieson is currently playing for the Chicago Wolves, AHL affiliate for Vancouver Canucks. The thinking is there is a 50-50 chance for Friesen’s return. While his return would be celebrated as a great addition to the Ice Dogs, it just might put Andrew’s spot as an over-ager on the team in jeopardy.

Growing up doors apart from each other in near-by Niagara-on-the-Lake, Friesen and Andrews played together their entire hockey careers. Still in close contact, Andrews says Friesen is enjoying his stay in Chicago and various reports state Friesen is doing well on the team. Time will tell how this drama unfolds. Will Friesen stay in the AHL honing his skills for a future NHL career but potentially losing out on an expected Memorial Cup run? Will Friesen’s return result in ousting his life long friend from the Ice Dog roster? Will Andrews unexpectedly bump David Pacan or Andrew Agozinno out of the line up to make room for Friesen? Only time will tell, but it is an interesting story to keep watching.

On Saturday night the Ice Dogs travelled to Belleville to face the Bulls. It began as a “bad” game with a quick 3-0 deficit early in the first. As first star of the game Freddie Hamilton stated in an after game interview, the team needed to “wake up” and they made a come back defeating the Bulls 5-3.

Dog Bytes:

• Ice Dogs opened their home season on Thursday night with an emotional tribute to James Dean, a local AAA player who passed away from cancer in the summer. The Niagara Ice Dogs have dedicated their season to James.
• Mark Visentin left Friday night’s game part way through the first suffering a groin injury. According to Coach Williamson he may be on the side lines a few weeks, Williamson rates it “a one out of three” injury.
• Back up goalie Jaroslav Pavelka, drafted from Czechoslovakia, may not speak any English but understands the body language of hockey. He received a standing O from the home crowd on Friday after a spectacular save from a Barrie Colt break-away. He was also named third star of the game against Barrie. Unfortunately the next night Pavelka was pulled early into the first period of the Belleville game, replaced by Niagara local Mike Gallardi after two quick goals by the Bulls.
• Recent Ice Dog acquisition from Sudbury, Brock Beukeboom, has been scratched for several weeks due to a back injury.
• Ryan Strome is still with the New York Islanders.
• Team Canada goalie scout Ron Tugnutt was in attendance Thursday night watching Visentin and Mississauga Major’s J.P Anderson. Unfortunately both goalies were not on the top of their game.
• Ice Dog mascot “Bones” celebrated his birthday on Friday night with cupcakes for all and a between period hockey game with several mascots from through out the region.
• Ice Dog coach Marty Williamson admits the team is “out of sync”. With NHL camp attendees as late arrivals to the team, expected players leaving for the OHL Subway Series as well as the Team Canada World Juniors tournament, it will be a difficult season for the Ice Dogs to get it together. I’m sure many OHL teams wish they had these problems.

2011/12 Team Needs - Central Division

As we continue the content-a-day giveaway... Lets take a look at what the teams may be drafting for come the OHL Priority Draft this Saturday May, 7th live on ontariohockeyleague.com.

To preface, the lists of what the team declares as 'holes to be filled' is not FACT. These are my opinions and are corroborated with others and is a general guess as to what they may be trying to fill come draft day. If they are not addressed during draft day remember that they can also trade for players already in the league. Also, this is 'in a perfect world scenario' as the first 7-10 picks will be best player available and defy the logic of what I am talking about.

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Barrie Colts - The colts need a lot of help in the upcoming season. That is a fact. But when you look at what they do have in place, it is not as bad as this year could be. Their forwards are actually going to be near the top of the league. Their Goaltending duo of Charts and Windsor will benefit from the older group in front of them, so that leaves the D position... and aren't they going to be drafting that super tall 15 yr old?

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Brampton Battalion - Goalie? check. Defence? Double check. So that leaves forward. Simple enough. 

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Mississuaga St. Michael's Majors - The fact that no 94's played all season long, could be a bad move. Then again if they win the OHL championship and the Memorial Cup... who cares. The Majors lose 2 OA's at D and one 91 birthday. Since Dave Cameron is a defence first coach (providing he hasn't moved on to the NHL) then he would look for a talented D man, maybe a puck mover. It will definitely be a D before another F.

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Niagara IceDogs - This team is poised to lose some good OA's and some tough 91 birth year decisions ahead of them. Their D is young and already taking over ice time from veterans. Visentin could make the jump to the NHL next season, but my money is on a Forward who is going to be drafted by NIA.

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Sudbury Wolves - I am a little confused here. It is either a goaltender, or a forward. And with no faith in Jacob Riley (so I been told) it is more probable to trade for a goalie for the upcoming year, if they do not give the rigns to Alex Laino that is. Since their are options between the pipes, and the defence corps may not lose anyone, the smart money is on the Wolves drafting a forward.

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Another tough division as we have one to go. As per Monday's post about how to handle the draft, and the types of plays there can be. Just looking at who will be graduating and based on who a consensus believes will be next years OA's, this is how it was determined what the teams will be looking for at least early on in the draft. Of course they will still take a goalie in the late rounds even if they have 4 in their system. You just never know. But this is just something else to think of before the OHL Priority draft on Saturday. Tomorrow will be looking at the East division so remember to come check that out.

GAME DAY PREVIEW: Mississauga St. Michael’s Majors @ Ottawa 67’s, March 13

Another game preview courtesy of Kathryn Jean (@msconduct)

Radio:  Team 1200AM (Ottawa), TheHazeFM.ca (Mississauga)

TV: Rogers TV (Ottawa/Mississauga)

Photo courtesy Daniel Ho, CC

The Mississauga St. Michael’s Majors roll into Ottawa to face the 67’s with a hot 6-game winning streak.  The latest of the Majors victims came in Brampton at the Powerade Centre on Friday night.  The Majors scored five unanswered goals to defeat the Battalion 6-2.  Devante Smith-Pelly led the way by scoring 3 goals before the third period.  The win marks the Majors 49th victory on the season giving them 100-points for the first time in their modern era history.  Michaeal D’Orazio returns to the lineup after coming off a 3-game suspension.  He received a game misconduct penalty for abuse of official after a fight with Oshawa’s Emerson Clark on Mar 5th.

Meanwhile, the home team is coming off a disappointing 3-2 overtime loss to the big conference rival, Niagara Ice Dogs.  Ryan Strome scored a pair of goals including the tieing goal late in the third and the game winning goal with 5.5 seconds left in the extra frame in front of an angry Ottawa crowd on Friday night.  Standout rookie, Sean Monahan had a goal and an assist in the loss.  Monahan has been hot of late scoring 7 goals in the last 5 games.  The game was not the only thing the 67’s lost.  Prince was taken out of the game after a questionable open ice hit by Tim Billingsley of the Ice Dogs.  Later in the game Cody Lindsay took a puck to the face and did not return.  And last but not least, Thomas Nesbitt missed the rest of the game after Myles Doan stuck out his leg and hit him knee-on-knee.  All three players will not play tonight along with the 5 other teammates already out of the lineup nursing injuries.  Veteran leader, Mark Zanetti and Petr Mrazek are expected to make their return this afternoon.

The last time the two teams met was on February 13th where the 67’s skated to a 4-2 victory at the Hershey Centre.  Tyler Graovac had a goal and an assist in the win marking his 4th goal against the Majors in 3 games.  Petr Mrazek stood on his head stopping 41 of 43 shots fired his way.

Head-to-head

Ottawa 4 @ Mississauga 2 (Feb 13 2011) Final

Ottawa 1 @ Mississauga 6 (Jan 16 2011) Final

Mississauga 2 @ Ottawa 7 (Oct 3 2010) Final

Ottawa 67’s 

42-19-2-2, 88 points

2nd Eastern Conference

HOME: 23-5-2-1

Top performers vs Majors

Tyler Graovac – 4 goals, 5 points in 3 games

Ryan Martindale – 3 goals, 1 assist in 3 games

Adam Sedlak – 1 goal, 3 assists in 3 games

Thomas Nesbitt – 0 goals, 3 assists in 3 games

Shane Prince – 0 goals, 3 assists in 3 games

Leaders

Tyler Toffoli – 52 goals, 99 points

Shane Prince – 25 goals, 88 points

Ryan Martindale – 34 goals, 81 points

Top NHL draft prospects

Shane Prince (35th on Central Scouting’s North American Skaters)

Injuries

Marc Zanetti, knee, day-to-day (expected to return)

Petr Mrazek, groin, day-to-day (likely to return)

Thomas Nesbitt, knee, week-to-week

Cody Lindsay, jaw, day-to-day

Shane Prince, concussion & whiplash, indefinite

Jon Carnevale, concussion, IR

Cosimo Fontana, concussion, IR

Julian Luciani, upper body , day-to-day

Steven Janes, shoulder, day-to-day

St. Mikes’ Majors

49-13-0-2, 100 points

1st Eastern Conference (1st in OHL)

AWAY: 26-5-0-1

Top performers vs 67’s

Justin Shugg – 3 goals, 3 points in 3 games

Casey Cizikas – 1 goal, 3 points in 3 games

Chris DeSouza – 0 goals, 3 points in 3 games

Leaders 

Justin Shugg – 38 goals, 82 points

Casey Cizikas – 29 goals, 64 points

Smith-Pelly – 35 goals, 63 points

Top NHL draft prospects

Stuart Percy (51st on Central Scouting’s North American Skaters)

Joseph Cramarossa (68th on Central Scouting’s North American Skaters)

Dylan Demelo (199th on Central Scouting’s North American Skaters)

Injuries

Casey Cizikas, broken wrist, 2-4 weeks

Riley Brace, cautionary, game time decision

Justin Shugg, cautionary, game time decision

In the O Fight of the Night, Mar. 11: Alex Cord (MISS) vs Philip Lane (BRA)

Spirited fight between the two, Philip Lane does a great job against Cord as the two divisional rival teams went to battle for what always makes for an exciting match-up.

IceDogs Captain Andrew Agozzino vs. Majors Captain Casey Cizikas

Niagara IceDogs Captain Andrew Agozzino takes on Mississauga Majors Captain Casey Cizikas after Agozzino lays a big hit on one of the Majors defenders. Spirited battle between two competitive captains.

Why the Mississauga St. Mike's Majors Are So Boring to Watch

By JEFF BLAY

In the O Blogger 

After taking in the many murmurs, the comments on twitter, and the first-hand experience of viewing two Majors games last week, I thought of this blog, and I hope it doesn't come to the surprise of anyone when I say the Mississauga Majors are probably the most boring team to watch in the OHL. This is really unfortunate as they just happen to be the hosts of this year's Memorial Cup. Why are they so boring? Let me explain...

The Majors play a really tight, defensive style of hockey under head coach Dave Cameron. They tend to clog up the neutral zone with four players while one trails a bit further behind in the defensive end. Their fore-check is very safe, usually sending just one man deep until they gain possession. Although this is an effective defensive strategy, it can make for some really boring, low action hockey. Since they don't play an aggressive fore-check, once they are ahead on the scoreboard, they will usually tighten up defensively even more. When they are playing other top-seeding teams, they games usually end up at a very low score. The Majors do play successful hockey, and many teams in the NHL play a similar game, but it's just not my kind of hockey. The division-leading penalty minutes may be the only good thing about them, as they do throw down the mitts quite often. They have a plethora of great offensive talent, which shows while playing weaker teams, but when they stick to their heavy traffic neutral zone play, it's hard to watch. 

A recent comment I received from a colleague and certain radio announcer sums it up quite well: "If you're an insomniac, the Mississauga Majors are you're cure." 

Probably at a Mississauga Majors game...

I never find their victories to be that exciting... Let me give some examples of teams and games that will make the fans happy, and make for interesting hockey to watch. 

The Guelph Storm lost to the Owen Sound Attack on Friday night by a score of 4-3 in  overtime. Both teams play a crash and bang, offensive game, both with lots of defenders who like to jump up into the play. 

Guelph started off with two quick goals in the first, while each team played a physical game coming up with some big hits to finish the period. 

The second was all Guelph's once again, but Owen Sound set the physical tone with some big hits and Andrew Shaw took on Peter Holland in a brief but spirited tilt. Liam Heelis then dropped the gloves with Chris Van Laren and Heelis pounded Van Laren in a toe-to-toe punching frenzy. Although the period was scoreless, there was lots of action, lots of high-risk plays with forwards getting into those high-risk areas, and lots of bad blood brewing. 

The third period went back and forth for the first 15 minutes, before Owen Sound began to show why they are one of the top teams in the OHL. Beginning at the 17:12 mark and ending at the 19:02 mark, Owen Sound came back and scored three quick goals to tie the game up. Garret Wilson, the beauty captain that he is, started  things off with a tip in for his 19th of the season, and his team followed suit. 

The game goes into OT and Owen Sound finished the Storm off as Joey Hishon sets up a beautiful goal to pick up his third assist of the night and lead the Attack's comeback - that's a game. The IceDogs defeat Saginaw (5th in the Country) 5-4 in a fast-paced, high-scoring thriller - that's a game. Getting a narrow lead and sitting on it with careful defense and no edge to score - that's a bore, and I'm sure that's a contributing factor to their poor attendance records.