Not much is happening with junior hockey taking a Christmas break. Some teams are back to action today but most of this week’s Linkorama is focused on the Alumni.
Recruits
Alex Petan started the second half at Coquitlam (BCHL) with a bang, scoring the first two goals in a 5–2 win over the Nanaimo Clippers. Petan’s effort was good enough to be awarded the first star.
Jujhar Khaira picked up right where he left off, tallying three assists in the first game of the second half for the Prince George Spruce Kings (BCHL). The Spruce Kings defeated the Chilliwack Cheifs 4–2.
Chris Leibinger received mention in the NAHL Mid-Season Report: North Division for his steady defensive abilities with the Traverse City North Stars.
Alumni
Andy Sutton can return to action for the Edmonton Oilers (NHL) on Saturday, December 31, versus the New York Islanders after serving his eight game suspension.
John Scott has received much praise from the Chicago Blackhawks (NHL) about his efforts to protect Marcus Kruger after Deryk Engelland crushed Kruger into the boards. Engelland was not penalized for the hit but was suspended by Shanahan and company for three games after further review. The Bleacher Report went so far as to say that “we” owe John Scott an apology for all the scrutiny his role with the Blackhawks has produced from fans and bloggers.
In other John Scott “news,” the Chicago Blackhawks put together a video celebrating their “Christmas Album” including an appearance by John Scott (Album Cover and at 1:08). Check it out:
[youtube width=”600″ height=”365″ video_id=”CR6mhS0KUq4″]
Clay Wilson was awarded the second star versus Grand Rapids (AHL) as he assisted on the game-tying goal in third period and tallied the game-winning goal in overtime for Abbotsford.
Riley Nelson had a good week for the Colorado Eagles (ECHL). He scored a goal in a 3–2 win over the Bakersfield Condors on Wednesday. Then on Friday, he tallied a goal and an assist as the Eagles crushed the Utah Grizzlies 6–0.
Tyler Shelast joins the list of former Huskies recognized for charity work with his Trenton Titans (ECHL) teammates.
Malcolm Gwilliam helped the Evansville IceMen (CHL) to a come-from-behind victory over the Dayton Gems with a goal late in the game. That victory improved Evansville’s record against Dayton to 5–0 on the season.
Other Items
Stephen Anderson (@steander), Michigan Tech hockey beat writer for The Daily Mining Gazette, has a GLI preview about how the Huskies need a strong showing to jump start the second half.
Dan Myers (@DanMyersCHN) put out his WCHA Midseason Awards and a few Huskies made the cut. Josh Robinson (3rd Team Goaltender), Blake Pietila (All-Rookie Team), and Michigan Tech (Biggest Surprise), but Mel Pearson was ignored for Coach of the Year.
Tim is a 2004 graduate of Michigan Tech. He is a co-founder of both Mitch’s Misfits and Tech Hockey Guide. With recent additions to the staff, Tim is again able to focus on his passion, recruiting. He currently works as an environmental engineer and resides in the Minneapolis/St. Paul Area.
