As the Allen Americans declare themselves ready to take on the #1 ranked Colorado Eagles on Thursday night it is worth taking note of the happenings in the ECHL last night and again tonight.
- Colorado arrives in Allen today having lost in Kansas City 3-1 last night. The Eagles have lost back to back games just once in the last two months so they should also be ready to go tomorrow night against the Americans. Colorado can reflect on their last visit to the Allen Event Center (AEC). It was on May 9, 2017 when the Eagles eliminated the Americans in game six of the second round of the playoffs on their way to the Kelly Cup. It was a game that is hard to forget for Allen fans because the Americans took a 3-2 lead into the third period only to see former Allen player Matt Register score a goal with 69 seconds left to win the game and the series.
- The other game of note last night took place in Tulsa. The Oilers shutout Rapid City 3-0 and are now just one point behind Allen for the final playoff spot in the Mountain Division. Don't look now but Tulsa plays again tonight (Wednesday) at home against Wichita. With a Tulsa win tonight Allen fans will wake up Thursday morning with their team out of the playoffs.
- The only thing in Allen's control is how they play against Colorado Thursday night. Having three days of practice at this time of year is always helpful especially for players such as Zach Pochiro and Vincent Arseneau who missed games with injuries. Zach Hall looks good in practice but it remains to be seen if he will be activated. Coach Martinson will have plenty of options for who is in the lineup against Colorado with 21 or 22 healthy players available.
- It has been quiet on additions and deletions from the roster but you can't expect that to continue for too much longer. The last trade coach Martinson made was Daniel Leavens for Alex Guptill in the middle of December. He doesn't typically keep 22 healthy players so it makes you wonder if he will reduce the roster size when everyone is back and/or make a trade to bolster the roster.
- The overseas deadline for players to return to North America is coming up on February 15 but it is a strange year because many leagues in Europe are taking a three week break for the Olympics and that break starts this weekend. Bottom line is if players are going to return they will be making those decisions right now as their teams go on break.
OTHER COMMENTS
- Yesterday I talked about a number of former Allen Americans players that are currently playing in the ECHL. It wasn't a complete list because there are so many players that have spent time in Allen that are playing for other teams in the ECHL this season. I was asked to add info on Garrett Clarke and Kale Kerbashian so here goes.
Garrett Clarke - (2012-13 & 2014-16) It is hard to believe Garrett has been a pro for six years and is still only 25. He arrived in Allen as a 19 year old and made quite an impression tallying 223 penalty minutes as a rookie which was the Allen single season record at the time. Clarke is still the all time leader in career penalty minutes in Allen with 432. Since leaving Allen in 2015 Clarke has spent time in Rapid City and Brampton as well as a couple of forays to Europe. This season Garrett signed with the Indy Fuel and has 8 points (3 goals 5 assists) in 33 games. A versatile player he has played some games at forward for Indy. As you might expect the ultimate agitator leads the Fuel in penalty minutes by a large margin. He has 199 PIMs which is 144 more minutes than anyone else on the team. Clarke's 199 penalty minutes not only leads the Indy Fuel but leads the entire ECHL. By his own admission Garrett sometimes doesn't realized when he crosses the line on the ice. He has nine fighting majors this season but what has increased his penalty minutes is three misconduct penalties and five game misconduct penalties. It looks like the playoffs are a long shot for Indy this
season but don't count him out yet. Indy is 7-3 in their last 10 games
and has closed the gap to a playoff spot to seven points.
Kale Kerbashain - (2012-14 & 2015-16) Kale was part of two championships in Allen but has bounced around since those championship years (2013 & 2014). He has played for six different ECHL teams in the last four years including a brief return to Allen last season. Kale didn't sign a contract to play this season until January 3 when he signed with Orlando. He made quite an impact in his first game after not playing for months. He had a shorthanded goal which was the game winning goal, an assist and was named the #1 star of the game. He followed that up with a goal in his second game which Orlando won 2-1. He must be injured because he played in three games (2 goals 1 assist) but has missed the Solar Bears last four games. After a slow start Orlando has played well recently and is currently in fourth place in the South Division. If Orlando does make the playoffs they will have to contend with two of the best teams in the league. Florida is 20 points ahead of Orlando in the standings and South Carolina is 15 points ahead of the Solar Bears.
- Here is the Mountain Division Weekly from the ECHL which includes a couple of factoids about each team and their schedule for the week. https://www.echl.com/mountain-division-weekly-jan-29
- One of the factoids in the Mountain Division Weekly (above) is Allen has outscored their opponents 52-33 in the first period. Just to give you the complete picture in the second and third periods Allen has been out scored by their opponents 54-48 and 52-45. It all adds up to 147 goals for and 144 goals against for a goal differential of +3. Last season at this point (44 games) Allen had scored 161 goals and allowed 126 for a goal differential of +35.
DID YOU KNOW: I will have a complete game preview tomorrow but Allen has not fared well against Colorado at the AEC. The first year Allen was in the ECHL (2014-15) they never played Colorado either in the regular season or the playoffs. In 2015-16, the first time Colorado ever visited the AEC, Allen got beat 8-1. The teams split four games that season at the AEC and didn't play in the playoffs as Allen went on to with their second Kelly Cup. Last season (2016-17) Colorado visited the AEC four times (once in the regular season & three times in the playoffs) and beat the Americans all four times. You add it all together and Allen's all-time record against Colorado at the AEC is 2-6.
Wednesday, January 31, 2018
Tuesday, January 30, 2018
Practice Update, Roster Update, Where are They Now - Catching up With Former Americans Playing in the ECHL
The Allen Americans were back at practice yesterday as they prepare for two games against the Colorado Eagles on Thursday and Friday. The Eagles lead the ECHL in many statistical categories including most points (66), best winning percentage (.786) and most fights (54). Allen has 47 points, a winning percentage of .534 and has been in 36 fights. In their last 10 games Colorado is 8-2 while Allen is 3-7.
- Based on my observations at practice the Americans are fully aware of and embrace the challenge they have ahead of them against Colorado. I would say the practice yesterday was the most spirited one of the season with everyone working hard in practice. It seemed at times some guys were even practicing taking penalties the practice was so spirited. If you ask me this team will be ready to go on Thursday night against the best team in the league.
- Zach Hall participated in practice yesterday wearing the no contact yellow jersey which means he is now day to day and could see action this week. When Hall returns coach Martinson will have 22 players available which is a big roster compared to past seasons at this time of year. The maximum number of players is 20 on the active roster (must fit under the $12,800 weekly salary cap) plus two players on reserve. An unlimited number of players can be on the 21 day injured reserve (21 days is the minimum). Riley Gill and Peter MacArthur are on the 21 day injured reserve.
- With so many players on the roster the status of Gary Steffes returning is up in the air. I know Gary had some work conflicts with FCA that was going to limit his availability. He was originally going to come back for the home games against Colorado and then accompany the team on their road trip to Atlanta, Florida and Jacksonville. Whether Gary comes for any games is now undecided and with the number of healthy players available (21 or 22) my guess is Gary won't be needed at this point.
- Peter MacArthur stopped by practice yesterday to say hi to the boys. Peter recently had surgery to repair his injury so he had his arm in a sling. Have to say when you are around Peter you are surrounded by a guy with a smile on his face, a positive attitude and so much positive energy.
WHERE ARE THEY NOW
- It is hard to believe there are well over 100 former Allen Americans playing hockey elsewhere this season from the NHL, AHL, ECHL, SPHL & LNAH in North America to all over the world. Around the globe from Japan in the west, Russia in the east, Sweden in the north, Dubai in the south and everywhere in between you can find players that have spent time in Allen. There are also a handful of players playing college hockey. I thought today I would stay close to home and cover a few former Americans that are playing in the ECHL this season to see how the season is going for them individually and for their team. The years in parentheses are when they played in Allen.
Matt Register - (2011-12 & 2015-16) Matt is having another outstanding season with the Colorado Eagles. He leads all ECHL defensemen in points (41), assists (31), plus/minus (+29) and is second in goals (10). Matt is the reigning Kelly Cup champion and ECHL Defenseman of the Year and will have a chance to repeat for both this season. Colorado has been the class of the ECHL so far this season.
Matt Willows - (2016-17) Matt plays for the Reading Royals and leads the team in points (41), assists (28) and is second in goals (13). Matt is one of only two players on the team that has played in all 45 Reading games. The Royals are currently tied for third place in the North Division and should make the playoffs.
Darryl Bootland - (2012-14) After three years in Colorado and a Kelly Cup championship last season Bootland is playing for Orlando this season. The guy fans know as Booter is now 36 and has missed a lot of games because of injuries. He didn't play his first game of the season until December 1st. After a slow start the Solar Bears have played well recently and are currently in fourth place in the South Division. Maybe Bootland can take some credit for Orlando's resurgence because it seemed to coincide with his return to the lineup. He has played in 17 games and has 7 points (3 goals 4 assists).
Chris Crane - (2015-17) Chris is a teammate of Bootland's in Orlando and has also missed time because of injury. He missed close to two months from mid November to early January. Chris has played in 21 games and has 19 points (9 goals 8 assists).
Travis Brown - (2016-17) Travis is having the best season of his pro career. He is an assistant captain for the Wichita Thunder and leads all defensemen on the team in points (26), goals (7), assists (19) and plus/minus (+13). The Thunder are in third place in the Mountain Division but have the #6 ranked winning percentage in the ECHL (.622).
Dyson Stevenson - (2014-17) Dyson is the captain in Wichita and his value is so much more than the points he scores but he is on pace for the best stats in his pro career. He already has10 goals which ties his best pro season, he has 23 points in 36 games and is six points away from surpassing his pro best. Stevenson also leads the Thunder in fighting majors with eight. Dyson has missed Wichita's last four games with an injury and may be out a bit longer.
Nolan Descoteaux - (2014-17) Nolan had a great season last year playing for Alaska. He got a lot of ice time and had a career high in points (30), goals (10) and assists (20). With Alaska folding at the end of last least season Nolan signed with Indy this season. He leads all defensemen on the team in points (15) and assists (14). It looks like the playoffs are a long shot for the Dallas native this season but don't count him out yet. Indy is 7-3 in their last 10 games and has closed the gap to a playoff spot to seven points.
Tristan King - (2015-17) Tristan plays for the Quad City Mallards who is by far the worst team in the ECHL with a record of 11-25-3-1. King has played in only 28 games this season for the Mallards because of injuries and has 15 points (3 goals 12 assists). A veteran with proven playoff experience including the game winning overtime goal in game seven of Allen's first round win over Idaho and the first goal in the championship winning game against Wheeling in the Americans 2016 Kelly Cup win. I am sure Tristan, who is a veteran, would be interested in a trade to a playoff contender before the trade deadline.
Jamie Schaafsma - (2012-15) The former Allen captain seems to get better with age. After winning three championships in Allen he is in his third season with the Fort Wayne Komets and has served as captain all three seasons. Jamie will turn 35 in a couple of weeks and is looking for another championship. He had arguably his best pro season last year with 62 points (17 goals 45 assists) in 53 games. Jamie is no longer the ironman he was in Allen when he played in all 97 games in 2014-15 between the regular season and playoffs on the way to the Kelly Cup championship. Schaafsma has played in 35 game this season and has 22 points (12 goals 10 assists). Jamie, who also has the role of player/assistant coach has a team that could make some noise in the playoffs which is the case every season with Fort Wayne. The Komets are in second place in the Central Division battling Toledo for the top spot. Toledo eliminated Fort Wayne in the second round of the playoffs last season and Allen eliminated them in the third round in 2016. Even though it hasn't happened the last two seasons, Jamie Schaafsma has a history of making it to the championship finals over his pro career. This could be the year he gets back to the finals. Here is a great story written by Blake Sebring of the Fort Wayne News-Sentinel where Blake interviews Jamie & Nicole (who are expecting their fourth child) about the nomad life of a professional hockey family. http://www.news-sentinel.com/sports/2018/01/30/to-komets-schaafsma-family-moving-is-an-artform/
Danny Federico (2015-16) Danny is the prototype of a stay at home defenseman. He has played in 169 games in his three years as a pro and has a total of three goals. After his rookie season in Allen as part of the Americans second Kelly Cup championship team he has spent the last two season with the South Carolina Stingrays. As you might imagine Danny doesn't lead the Stingrays defensemen in any offensive category but he does have the best plus/minus of all defensemen at +16, the next best is +7. Danny leads the entire team in plus/minus. In four years of college and three years as a pro Federico has never finished a season with a negative plus/minus. South Carolina is second in the South Division trailing Florida by five points but they have the #3 ranked winning percentage in the entire league (.702). They will be a team to watch in the playoffs because they have a history of doing well.
Rick Pinkston - (2015-17) Rick is under contract with the Milwaukee Admirals (AHL) but has spent the entire season in the ECHL. Because of an affiliation change he was assigned by Milwaukee to Norfolk early in the season and then was assigned to Atlanta where he is now. He played 17 games in Norfolk and has played 25 games with Atlanta. In those 25 Atlanta games Rick has 10 points (2 goals 8 assists). Atlanta is in third place in the South Division but only five points separate third and fifth place. Florida and South Carolina are the class of the division and are 17 and 12 points ahead of third place Atlanta. Anything can happen come playoff time but Florida and South Carolina will be hard to beat.
There are three former Allen goalies with more than 15 ECHL games this season. Jake Hildebrand has played in 33 games for Tulsa and has a save percentage of .909. Joel Rumpel is playing in Wichita and has a .906 save percentage over 18 games. Jamie Murray has played 15 games for Norfolk and has a .893 save percentage.
DID YOU KNOW: Of the 12 former Allen Americans goalies that have played elsewhere this season the one with the best statistics is the former goalie that is playing in the NHL. Aaron Dell has played in 22 games for the San Jose Sharks and has a GAA of 2.51 and a save percentage of .917.
- Based on my observations at practice the Americans are fully aware of and embrace the challenge they have ahead of them against Colorado. I would say the practice yesterday was the most spirited one of the season with everyone working hard in practice. It seemed at times some guys were even practicing taking penalties the practice was so spirited. If you ask me this team will be ready to go on Thursday night against the best team in the league.
- Zach Hall participated in practice yesterday wearing the no contact yellow jersey which means he is now day to day and could see action this week. When Hall returns coach Martinson will have 22 players available which is a big roster compared to past seasons at this time of year. The maximum number of players is 20 on the active roster (must fit under the $12,800 weekly salary cap) plus two players on reserve. An unlimited number of players can be on the 21 day injured reserve (21 days is the minimum). Riley Gill and Peter MacArthur are on the 21 day injured reserve.
- With so many players on the roster the status of Gary Steffes returning is up in the air. I know Gary had some work conflicts with FCA that was going to limit his availability. He was originally going to come back for the home games against Colorado and then accompany the team on their road trip to Atlanta, Florida and Jacksonville. Whether Gary comes for any games is now undecided and with the number of healthy players available (21 or 22) my guess is Gary won't be needed at this point.
- Peter MacArthur stopped by practice yesterday to say hi to the boys. Peter recently had surgery to repair his injury so he had his arm in a sling. Have to say when you are around Peter you are surrounded by a guy with a smile on his face, a positive attitude and so much positive energy.
WHERE ARE THEY NOW
- It is hard to believe there are well over 100 former Allen Americans playing hockey elsewhere this season from the NHL, AHL, ECHL, SPHL & LNAH in North America to all over the world. Around the globe from Japan in the west, Russia in the east, Sweden in the north, Dubai in the south and everywhere in between you can find players that have spent time in Allen. There are also a handful of players playing college hockey. I thought today I would stay close to home and cover a few former Americans that are playing in the ECHL this season to see how the season is going for them individually and for their team. The years in parentheses are when they played in Allen.
Matt Register - (2011-12 & 2015-16) Matt is having another outstanding season with the Colorado Eagles. He leads all ECHL defensemen in points (41), assists (31), plus/minus (+29) and is second in goals (10). Matt is the reigning Kelly Cup champion and ECHL Defenseman of the Year and will have a chance to repeat for both this season. Colorado has been the class of the ECHL so far this season.
Matt Willows - (2016-17) Matt plays for the Reading Royals and leads the team in points (41), assists (28) and is second in goals (13). Matt is one of only two players on the team that has played in all 45 Reading games. The Royals are currently tied for third place in the North Division and should make the playoffs.
Darryl Bootland - (2012-14) After three years in Colorado and a Kelly Cup championship last season Bootland is playing for Orlando this season. The guy fans know as Booter is now 36 and has missed a lot of games because of injuries. He didn't play his first game of the season until December 1st. After a slow start the Solar Bears have played well recently and are currently in fourth place in the South Division. Maybe Bootland can take some credit for Orlando's resurgence because it seemed to coincide with his return to the lineup. He has played in 17 games and has 7 points (3 goals 4 assists).
Chris Crane - (2015-17) Chris is a teammate of Bootland's in Orlando and has also missed time because of injury. He missed close to two months from mid November to early January. Chris has played in 21 games and has 19 points (9 goals 8 assists).
Travis Brown - (2016-17) Travis is having the best season of his pro career. He is an assistant captain for the Wichita Thunder and leads all defensemen on the team in points (26), goals (7), assists (19) and plus/minus (+13). The Thunder are in third place in the Mountain Division but have the #6 ranked winning percentage in the ECHL (.622).
Dyson Stevenson - (2014-17) Dyson is the captain in Wichita and his value is so much more than the points he scores but he is on pace for the best stats in his pro career. He already has10 goals which ties his best pro season, he has 23 points in 36 games and is six points away from surpassing his pro best. Stevenson also leads the Thunder in fighting majors with eight. Dyson has missed Wichita's last four games with an injury and may be out a bit longer.
Nolan Descoteaux - (2014-17) Nolan had a great season last year playing for Alaska. He got a lot of ice time and had a career high in points (30), goals (10) and assists (20). With Alaska folding at the end of last least season Nolan signed with Indy this season. He leads all defensemen on the team in points (15) and assists (14). It looks like the playoffs are a long shot for the Dallas native this season but don't count him out yet. Indy is 7-3 in their last 10 games and has closed the gap to a playoff spot to seven points.
Tristan King - (2015-17) Tristan plays for the Quad City Mallards who is by far the worst team in the ECHL with a record of 11-25-3-1. King has played in only 28 games this season for the Mallards because of injuries and has 15 points (3 goals 12 assists). A veteran with proven playoff experience including the game winning overtime goal in game seven of Allen's first round win over Idaho and the first goal in the championship winning game against Wheeling in the Americans 2016 Kelly Cup win. I am sure Tristan, who is a veteran, would be interested in a trade to a playoff contender before the trade deadline.
Jamie Schaafsma - (2012-15) The former Allen captain seems to get better with age. After winning three championships in Allen he is in his third season with the Fort Wayne Komets and has served as captain all three seasons. Jamie will turn 35 in a couple of weeks and is looking for another championship. He had arguably his best pro season last year with 62 points (17 goals 45 assists) in 53 games. Jamie is no longer the ironman he was in Allen when he played in all 97 games in 2014-15 between the regular season and playoffs on the way to the Kelly Cup championship. Schaafsma has played in 35 game this season and has 22 points (12 goals 10 assists). Jamie, who also has the role of player/assistant coach has a team that could make some noise in the playoffs which is the case every season with Fort Wayne. The Komets are in second place in the Central Division battling Toledo for the top spot. Toledo eliminated Fort Wayne in the second round of the playoffs last season and Allen eliminated them in the third round in 2016. Even though it hasn't happened the last two seasons, Jamie Schaafsma has a history of making it to the championship finals over his pro career. This could be the year he gets back to the finals. Here is a great story written by Blake Sebring of the Fort Wayne News-Sentinel where Blake interviews Jamie & Nicole (who are expecting their fourth child) about the nomad life of a professional hockey family. http://www.news-sentinel.com/sports/2018/01/30/to-komets-schaafsma-family-moving-is-an-artform/
Danny Federico (2015-16) Danny is the prototype of a stay at home defenseman. He has played in 169 games in his three years as a pro and has a total of three goals. After his rookie season in Allen as part of the Americans second Kelly Cup championship team he has spent the last two season with the South Carolina Stingrays. As you might imagine Danny doesn't lead the Stingrays defensemen in any offensive category but he does have the best plus/minus of all defensemen at +16, the next best is +7. Danny leads the entire team in plus/minus. In four years of college and three years as a pro Federico has never finished a season with a negative plus/minus. South Carolina is second in the South Division trailing Florida by five points but they have the #3 ranked winning percentage in the entire league (.702). They will be a team to watch in the playoffs because they have a history of doing well.
Rick Pinkston - (2015-17) Rick is under contract with the Milwaukee Admirals (AHL) but has spent the entire season in the ECHL. Because of an affiliation change he was assigned by Milwaukee to Norfolk early in the season and then was assigned to Atlanta where he is now. He played 17 games in Norfolk and has played 25 games with Atlanta. In those 25 Atlanta games Rick has 10 points (2 goals 8 assists). Atlanta is in third place in the South Division but only five points separate third and fifth place. Florida and South Carolina are the class of the division and are 17 and 12 points ahead of third place Atlanta. Anything can happen come playoff time but Florida and South Carolina will be hard to beat.
There are three former Allen goalies with more than 15 ECHL games this season. Jake Hildebrand has played in 33 games for Tulsa and has a save percentage of .909. Joel Rumpel is playing in Wichita and has a .906 save percentage over 18 games. Jamie Murray has played 15 games for Norfolk and has a .893 save percentage.
DID YOU KNOW: Of the 12 former Allen Americans goalies that have played elsewhere this season the one with the best statistics is the former goalie that is playing in the NHL. Aaron Dell has played in 22 games for the San Jose Sharks and has a GAA of 2.51 and a save percentage of .917.
Monday, January 29, 2018
Will the Big Win on Saturday Carry Over, Arseneau & Pochiro Impact, Allen's Monthly Record, The #1's, Details on Andrew Carroll's Death
It is back to practice this morning for the Allen Americans as they prepare for three big games this week. If you attended the Americans win on Saturday you saw the celebration at the end of the game was indicative of going two weeks without being able to celebrate a victory.
- As great as the win felt on Saturday for the team and fans alike the reality is it was just one win and won't mean much if it isn't backed up with good performances this week against Colorado (Thursday & Friday) at home and at Tulsa on Saturday.
- Coach Martinson said after the game on Saturday that Vincent Arseneau and Zach Pochiro will get better each game because they had such little practice time coming back from injury. Their contribution to the offense can be huge going forward. Arseneau has only played in 48% of Allen's games this season and Pochiro has only played in 32%. If you take their averages these two players combine to add over one goal (1.09) per game when they are in the lineup.
- How tough will it be to beat Colorado once let alone twice this week. The Eagles lost just one game the entire month of January and had a record of 10-1. Allen's record in January was 3-9. The Americans certainly have their work cut out for them but the win on Saturday against Wichita was a good start.
- February will be a critical month for the Americans and when it is over there should be some answers whether this team will be fighting for second place in the division or struggling to maintain a playoff spot. Allen has 11 games in February and only four of them are at home. The Americans play Colorado at home this week (February 1 & 2), then hit the road for five games including a four game swing to the South Division to play Atlanta, Florida (twice) and Jacksonville. They are back home for two games against Utah (February 16 & 17) before closing out the month with two games in Kansas City. If Allen expects to compete for second place in the Mountain Division and home ice in the first round of the playoffs the goal for February has the be at least 15 of the 22 (.682) points available.
- Here is Allen's monthly record, points earned and winning percentage for each month of the season. As you can see the collapse in January was significant. The question now is what will February bring?
October 3-2-2-0 (8 of 14 points earned = .571)
November 7-4-0-1 (15 of 24 points earned = .625)
December 8-3-2-0 (18 of 26 points earned = .692)
January 3-9-0-0 (6 of 24 points earned = .250)
- Haven't done this for a while but always enjoyable to go through the entire ECHL daily report and list out every team or individual category where Allen is number one. When you consider there are 27 teams in the ECHL and 795 players (266 defensemen) have played in the ECHL this season to be #1 in anything is impressive. Here are the players that are at the top of the heap along with the team #1's.
#1 - Casey Pierro-Zabotel - Assists (36)
#1 - David Makowski - Power play assists (16)
#1 - Joel Chouinard - Power play points (20)
#1 - Eric Roy - Power play goals for defensemen (6)
#1 - Joel Chouinard - Power play goals for defensemen (6)
#1 - David Makowski - Power play assists for defensemen (16)
#1 - Joel Chouinard - Power play points for defensemen (20)
#1 - David Makowski - Shots taken by a defensemen (148)
#1 - Allen Americans - Most penalty minutes (991)
#1 - Allen Americans - Most 10 minute misconduct penalties (16)
#1 - Allen Americans - Most game misconduct penalties (12)
#1 - Casey Pierro-Zabotel - Longest home assist streak (8 games)
#1 - Casey Pierro-Zabotel - Longest home point streak (11 games)
#1 - Colby McAuley - Longest current road penalty streak (6 games)
#1 - Joel Chouinard - Individual game high for power play assists (4)
#1 - Allen Americans - Individual team game high for minor penalties (15)
- The Star Wars jersey auction ended last night. The price for the jerseys ranged from $254 to $550 with many of the jerseys (11) selling in the $250-$350 range. A much more economical way for fans to buy jerseys than the live auctions from the past.
- Last week I wrote about the tragic death of 32 year old Andrew Carroll who took is own life. Carroll played for Idaho in his last pro season (2015-16) and played quite a few games in Allen because that was the year Allen played Idaho in the first round of the playoffs. I remember Andrew from a game in December of that season because he and Dyson Stevenson had a fight right off the opening faceoff, Aaron Gens had a fight just over a minute later and Gary Steffes had a fight to start the third period. Andrew Carroll had a goal in that game to give Idaho a 2-1 lead but Gary Steffes tied the score in the third period after he had the fight to send the game into overtime. Idaho won in overtime.
If you remember the first round of the 2016 playoffs Allen went to seven games before eliminating Idaho 3-2 in overtime at the Allen Event Center. In game seven Andrew Carroll scored a goal in the second period to give the Steelheads a 2-1 lead. It turned out to be the last goal of the season for Idaho and the last goal of Carroll's professional career. Allen came back in the third period to tie the score on a goal by David Makowski and won the game in overtime on a Tristan King goal. It was the toughest series of the entire playoffs as Allen went on to win the Kelly Cup.
Carroll had a lot of connections with Allen, coach Martinson spent time recruiting him, he was a college (University of Minnesota-Duluth) teammate of Mike Montgomery who was on Allen's 2013 championship team, Aaron Gens worked hockey camps with Andrew in Minnesota and Connor Reilly was a close friend. Everyone who knew him had great things to say about Andrew. I have been thinking a lot about Andrew Carroll over the last week wanting to know more about him, wondering if CTE played a role in his death, etc. This morning I found the following story about Andrew written by the wife of Andrew's brother, Chris. Her name is Carissa and she is a blogger who has a non-profit charity called Jack's Basket whose mission is to celebrate babies born with Down syndrome. Jack's Basket grew from the experience Chis and Carissa had with the birth of their second child. Yesterday Carissa devoted her blog to her brother-in-law, Andrew Carroll. It is raw and emotional that covers what happened but also gives you insight into who Andrew Carroll was and the hope the family has that his death will bring light to mental illness and help prevent this from happening to others that might be struggling. It is inspiring to read what Carissa has to say about Andrew and also the story about Jack's Basket: https://www.jacksbasket.org/strengthfortheclimb/2018/1/27/bring-your-brokenness-and-ill-bring-mine
- Andrew Carroll's family made the decision to donate his brain to Boston University, one of the leading institutions doing CTE research. Here is Andrew's brother, Chris, being interviewed at a University of Minnesota-Duluth hockey game where Andrew was being remembered. Chris talks about the decision to donate Andrew's brain to CTE reserach. http://kstp.com/news/andrew-carroll-umd-hockey-cte-research/4760830/
DID YOU KNOW: Spencer Asuchak continues to move up the Allen career leader list in several categories. He is currently #7 in games played (202) but is only 15 games from being #4 all-time. He is #5 in points and will tie Colton Yellow Horn for #4 with his next point which will give him 178. Spencer is #6 in goals (69) with Jarret Lukin next up on the list with 74. Asuchak is #6 all time in assists with 108 and needs three more to move into the top five.
- As great as the win felt on Saturday for the team and fans alike the reality is it was just one win and won't mean much if it isn't backed up with good performances this week against Colorado (Thursday & Friday) at home and at Tulsa on Saturday.
- Coach Martinson said after the game on Saturday that Vincent Arseneau and Zach Pochiro will get better each game because they had such little practice time coming back from injury. Their contribution to the offense can be huge going forward. Arseneau has only played in 48% of Allen's games this season and Pochiro has only played in 32%. If you take their averages these two players combine to add over one goal (1.09) per game when they are in the lineup.
- How tough will it be to beat Colorado once let alone twice this week. The Eagles lost just one game the entire month of January and had a record of 10-1. Allen's record in January was 3-9. The Americans certainly have their work cut out for them but the win on Saturday against Wichita was a good start.
- February will be a critical month for the Americans and when it is over there should be some answers whether this team will be fighting for second place in the division or struggling to maintain a playoff spot. Allen has 11 games in February and only four of them are at home. The Americans play Colorado at home this week (February 1 & 2), then hit the road for five games including a four game swing to the South Division to play Atlanta, Florida (twice) and Jacksonville. They are back home for two games against Utah (February 16 & 17) before closing out the month with two games in Kansas City. If Allen expects to compete for second place in the Mountain Division and home ice in the first round of the playoffs the goal for February has the be at least 15 of the 22 (.682) points available.
- Here is Allen's monthly record, points earned and winning percentage for each month of the season. As you can see the collapse in January was significant. The question now is what will February bring?
October 3-2-2-0 (8 of 14 points earned = .571)
November 7-4-0-1 (15 of 24 points earned = .625)
December 8-3-2-0 (18 of 26 points earned = .692)
January 3-9-0-0 (6 of 24 points earned = .250)
- Haven't done this for a while but always enjoyable to go through the entire ECHL daily report and list out every team or individual category where Allen is number one. When you consider there are 27 teams in the ECHL and 795 players (266 defensemen) have played in the ECHL this season to be #1 in anything is impressive. Here are the players that are at the top of the heap along with the team #1's.
#1 - Casey Pierro-Zabotel - Assists (36)
#1 - David Makowski - Power play assists (16)
#1 - Joel Chouinard - Power play points (20)
#1 - Eric Roy - Power play goals for defensemen (6)
#1 - Joel Chouinard - Power play goals for defensemen (6)
#1 - David Makowski - Power play assists for defensemen (16)
#1 - Joel Chouinard - Power play points for defensemen (20)
#1 - David Makowski - Shots taken by a defensemen (148)
#1 - Allen Americans - Most penalty minutes (991)
#1 - Allen Americans - Most 10 minute misconduct penalties (16)
#1 - Allen Americans - Most game misconduct penalties (12)
#1 - Casey Pierro-Zabotel - Longest home assist streak (8 games)
#1 - Casey Pierro-Zabotel - Longest home point streak (11 games)
#1 - Colby McAuley - Longest current road penalty streak (6 games)
#1 - Joel Chouinard - Individual game high for power play assists (4)
#1 - Allen Americans - Individual team game high for minor penalties (15)
- The Star Wars jersey auction ended last night. The price for the jerseys ranged from $254 to $550 with many of the jerseys (11) selling in the $250-$350 range. A much more economical way for fans to buy jerseys than the live auctions from the past.
- Last week I wrote about the tragic death of 32 year old Andrew Carroll who took is own life. Carroll played for Idaho in his last pro season (2015-16) and played quite a few games in Allen because that was the year Allen played Idaho in the first round of the playoffs. I remember Andrew from a game in December of that season because he and Dyson Stevenson had a fight right off the opening faceoff, Aaron Gens had a fight just over a minute later and Gary Steffes had a fight to start the third period. Andrew Carroll had a goal in that game to give Idaho a 2-1 lead but Gary Steffes tied the score in the third period after he had the fight to send the game into overtime. Idaho won in overtime.
If you remember the first round of the 2016 playoffs Allen went to seven games before eliminating Idaho 3-2 in overtime at the Allen Event Center. In game seven Andrew Carroll scored a goal in the second period to give the Steelheads a 2-1 lead. It turned out to be the last goal of the season for Idaho and the last goal of Carroll's professional career. Allen came back in the third period to tie the score on a goal by David Makowski and won the game in overtime on a Tristan King goal. It was the toughest series of the entire playoffs as Allen went on to win the Kelly Cup.
Carroll had a lot of connections with Allen, coach Martinson spent time recruiting him, he was a college (University of Minnesota-Duluth) teammate of Mike Montgomery who was on Allen's 2013 championship team, Aaron Gens worked hockey camps with Andrew in Minnesota and Connor Reilly was a close friend. Everyone who knew him had great things to say about Andrew. I have been thinking a lot about Andrew Carroll over the last week wanting to know more about him, wondering if CTE played a role in his death, etc. This morning I found the following story about Andrew written by the wife of Andrew's brother, Chris. Her name is Carissa and she is a blogger who has a non-profit charity called Jack's Basket whose mission is to celebrate babies born with Down syndrome. Jack's Basket grew from the experience Chis and Carissa had with the birth of their second child. Yesterday Carissa devoted her blog to her brother-in-law, Andrew Carroll. It is raw and emotional that covers what happened but also gives you insight into who Andrew Carroll was and the hope the family has that his death will bring light to mental illness and help prevent this from happening to others that might be struggling. It is inspiring to read what Carissa has to say about Andrew and also the story about Jack's Basket: https://www.jacksbasket.org/strengthfortheclimb/2018/1/27/bring-your-brokenness-and-ill-bring-mine
- Andrew Carroll's family made the decision to donate his brain to Boston University, one of the leading institutions doing CTE research. Here is Andrew's brother, Chris, being interviewed at a University of Minnesota-Duluth hockey game where Andrew was being remembered. Chris talks about the decision to donate Andrew's brain to CTE reserach. http://kstp.com/news/andrew-carroll-umd-hockey-cte-research/4760830/
DID YOU KNOW: Spencer Asuchak continues to move up the Allen career leader list in several categories. He is currently #7 in games played (202) but is only 15 games from being #4 all-time. He is #5 in points and will tie Colton Yellow Horn for #4 with his next point which will give him 178. Spencer is #6 in goals (69) with Jarret Lukin next up on the list with 74. Asuchak is #6 all time in assists with 108 and needs three more to move into the top five.
Sunday, January 28, 2018
Allen Snaps Losing Streak, Beats Wichita 5-2 Before Record Crowd on Star Wars Night, Game Recap, Martinson's Comments, Sporfie Video Highlights & PIMS
What a great way to snap a six game losing streak! It was Star Wars Night so plenty of concourse quotes from the movies like The Force was with us, your focus determines your reality, fear is the path to the darkside and he played like a Jedi. More important than the energy from all of the Star Wars characters was the presence of the largest regular season crowd since Allen joined the ECHL in 2014. An energized crowd of 5900 watched as the Allen Americans defeated Wichita 5-2 to snap a three game losing streak against the Thunder, a six game losing streak over all and get back on the right track after losing 11 of 13 games over the last month.
- After a slow start early in the first period when Allen was out shot 5-1 the Americans took control. Over the last eight minutes of the period Allen out shot Wichita 10-0 and picked up goals by Dalton Thrower (2) and Spencer Asuchak (6). When Joel Chouinard scored his seventh goal of the season early in the second period to give Allen a 3-0 lead the game was pretty much decided. Wichita closed the gap to 3-2 early in the third period but could not get the equalizer. Allen had two empty net goals from their own zone in the last minute of play by Zach Pochiro (8) and Alex Guptill (14) to send the record crowd home thinking about another Star Wars quote from Hans Solo, "Great shot kid, that was one in a million."
- The game certainly wasn't perfect but it has been a long time since Allen accomplished all of the following in the same game. Scored the first goal of the game, won the first period (2-0), had a 3-0 lead in the second period, took a 3-1 lead into the second intermission, held an opponent to under 30 shots, out shot an opponent 41-29, scored a power play goal and had fewer penalty minutes than an opponent (4-6).
- Here is the game recap from the Allen Americans: https://allenamericans.com/americans-end-losing-skid-5-2-win-wichita/
- A four minute highlight package that includes all the goals as well as some great saves by both goaltenders is posted at ECHL Rewind: https://www.echl.com/
- Here are the Sporfie highlights:
Dalton Thrower - Thrower shows a lot of patience on this goal and notice Arseneau making it difficult for the goalie to track the puck. One of those instances where Arseneau doesn't get a point but was a big part of the play: https://sporfie.app.link/VHb6cWvV3J
Spencer Asuchak - Another net front presence goal right from where Spencer makes a living. Notice how Arseneau gets to the side boards and passes the puck to the point. A great shot by Chouinard from the point leads to the Ashchak tap in. https://sporfie.app.link/PogHB7PV3J
Joel Chouinard - Several things to look for on this clip. Another goal where a player that is a big part of the play doesn't factor in the points. Casey Pierro-Zabotel with a faceoff win to start the play and in front of the net at the end of the play. The play goes from Casey to Pochiro to Dalton Thrower to Chouinard. Joel takes the shot and it bounces in off the left skate of the defender. https://sporfie.app.link/aNYLNiZX3J
Zach Pochiro - It was great to see Zach get a goal. It was his first since being injured on November 5 and his eighth goal in 14 games for the season. Jeremy Brodeur gets the assist on this empty netter from Allen's zone. Here are three views of the goal that iced the game for the Americans. From behind the empty net, from behind Brodeur and the bench celebration:
https://sporfie.app.link/nwAN76d43J
https://sporfie.app.link/vdXdYae43J
https://sporfie.app.link/Oom6mce43J
Alex Guptill - Alex finished the scoring with the second empty netter from inside the Allen blue line. The puck luck was with Allen as this puck was rolling on its side and curved into the empty net. https://sporfie.app.link/fJwazcg43J
- Sometimes puck luck goes your way sometimes not. Earlier this week Allen had two goals go off their sticks into their own goal which contributed to a loss. Last night Allen got a goal off an opponents skate and two empty net goals from the length of the ice to contribute to a win. General Douglas MacArthur said it best, "The best luck of all is the luck you make for yourself." That is what the Americans did last night. The harder they worked the luckier they got.
STEVE MARTINSON'S POST GAME COMMENTS
"It was a great game tonight with all of the excitement of a big crowd and Star Wars Night."
"The big difference tonight is we showed more speed, we carried a lot of speed into the offensive zone."
"If we play like we did tonight we will start winning games and we will only get better. Pochiro and Arseneau haven't practiced much because of injuries and will be even better after a few days of practice this week."
"We did a good job of getting pucks to the net with guys in front which led to a couple of goals."
"We still missed the net a half a dozen times on quality shooting opportunities."
"Brodeur was good tonight and made a couple of critical saves when the score was 3-2 in the third period."
OTHER COMMENTS
- The team will take a well deserved day off today but one win doesn't make a turn around and they have a tough task ahead with two home games against Colorado, the #1 team in the ECHL, on Thursday and Friday. The Americans finish another three games in three days with an away game in Tulsa on Saturday. So after the day off today it will be back at practice for the Americans Monday morning to get ready for three important games this week.
- Allen helped themselves last night with a win over Wichita but also got some help with Colorado beating Idaho. Tulsa beat Utah to stay close behind the Americans for the final layoff spot. Colorado has opened up a commanding 13 point lead in the Mountain Division but second through fifth place is separated by just eight points. Here are the current Mountain Division standings with games played in parentheses. Remember, the top four teams make the playoffs and the top two get home ice advantage in the first round.
66 points - Colorado (42 games)
52 points - Idaho (43 games)
51 points - Wichita (41 games)
47 points - Allen (44 games)
44 points - Tulsa (44 games)
41 points - Utah (44 games)
32 points - Rapid City (42 games)
- Olivier Archambault played his third game for Syracuse last night since being loaned by Allen earlier this week. The Crunch lost to Toronto 4-2 but Archambault had another good game with an assist and was a +1. His totals for the three games he has played is one goal, one assist and +3. Do not expect Olivier back in Allen any time soon.
- The specialty Star Wars jerseys the team wore last night are up for bid at the auction site https://one.bidpal.net/goamericans/welcome
The current bids are as low as $150 (Calabrese) and as high as $505 (Brodeur) with many still under $300 so you may have a chance to pick up a jersey at a decent price. The bidding ends at 9:00 pm tonight (Sunday).
DID YOU KNOW: Allen has the most penalty minutes (991) in the ECHL by a wide margin over #2 Colorado (843 PIMS), #3 Jacksonville (831) and #4 Idaho (817). Six of the top 11 spots in PIMs are Mountain Division teams.
Even though Allen is tops in penalty minutes they are only #4 in being shorthanded, they have been on the penalty kill 200 times. Orlando is #1 with 220 penalty kills.
Allen is ranked #5 in the number of times they have been on the power play (193). The team with the most power play opportunities in the ECHL is Idaho with 224.
- After a slow start early in the first period when Allen was out shot 5-1 the Americans took control. Over the last eight minutes of the period Allen out shot Wichita 10-0 and picked up goals by Dalton Thrower (2) and Spencer Asuchak (6). When Joel Chouinard scored his seventh goal of the season early in the second period to give Allen a 3-0 lead the game was pretty much decided. Wichita closed the gap to 3-2 early in the third period but could not get the equalizer. Allen had two empty net goals from their own zone in the last minute of play by Zach Pochiro (8) and Alex Guptill (14) to send the record crowd home thinking about another Star Wars quote from Hans Solo, "Great shot kid, that was one in a million."
- The game certainly wasn't perfect but it has been a long time since Allen accomplished all of the following in the same game. Scored the first goal of the game, won the first period (2-0), had a 3-0 lead in the second period, took a 3-1 lead into the second intermission, held an opponent to under 30 shots, out shot an opponent 41-29, scored a power play goal and had fewer penalty minutes than an opponent (4-6).
- Here is the game recap from the Allen Americans: https://allenamericans.com/americans-end-losing-skid-5-2-win-wichita/
- A four minute highlight package that includes all the goals as well as some great saves by both goaltenders is posted at ECHL Rewind: https://www.echl.com/
- Here are the Sporfie highlights:
Dalton Thrower - Thrower shows a lot of patience on this goal and notice Arseneau making it difficult for the goalie to track the puck. One of those instances where Arseneau doesn't get a point but was a big part of the play: https://sporfie.app.link/VHb6cWvV3J
Spencer Asuchak - Another net front presence goal right from where Spencer makes a living. Notice how Arseneau gets to the side boards and passes the puck to the point. A great shot by Chouinard from the point leads to the Ashchak tap in. https://sporfie.app.link/PogHB7PV3J
Joel Chouinard - Several things to look for on this clip. Another goal where a player that is a big part of the play doesn't factor in the points. Casey Pierro-Zabotel with a faceoff win to start the play and in front of the net at the end of the play. The play goes from Casey to Pochiro to Dalton Thrower to Chouinard. Joel takes the shot and it bounces in off the left skate of the defender. https://sporfie.app.link/aNYLNiZX3J
Zach Pochiro - It was great to see Zach get a goal. It was his first since being injured on November 5 and his eighth goal in 14 games for the season. Jeremy Brodeur gets the assist on this empty netter from Allen's zone. Here are three views of the goal that iced the game for the Americans. From behind the empty net, from behind Brodeur and the bench celebration:
https://sporfie.app.link/nwAN76d43J
https://sporfie.app.link/vdXdYae43J
https://sporfie.app.link/Oom6mce43J
Alex Guptill - Alex finished the scoring with the second empty netter from inside the Allen blue line. The puck luck was with Allen as this puck was rolling on its side and curved into the empty net. https://sporfie.app.link/fJwazcg43J
- Sometimes puck luck goes your way sometimes not. Earlier this week Allen had two goals go off their sticks into their own goal which contributed to a loss. Last night Allen got a goal off an opponents skate and two empty net goals from the length of the ice to contribute to a win. General Douglas MacArthur said it best, "The best luck of all is the luck you make for yourself." That is what the Americans did last night. The harder they worked the luckier they got.
STEVE MARTINSON'S POST GAME COMMENTS
"It was a great game tonight with all of the excitement of a big crowd and Star Wars Night."
"The big difference tonight is we showed more speed, we carried a lot of speed into the offensive zone."
"If we play like we did tonight we will start winning games and we will only get better. Pochiro and Arseneau haven't practiced much because of injuries and will be even better after a few days of practice this week."
"We did a good job of getting pucks to the net with guys in front which led to a couple of goals."
"We still missed the net a half a dozen times on quality shooting opportunities."
"Brodeur was good tonight and made a couple of critical saves when the score was 3-2 in the third period."
OTHER COMMENTS
- The team will take a well deserved day off today but one win doesn't make a turn around and they have a tough task ahead with two home games against Colorado, the #1 team in the ECHL, on Thursday and Friday. The Americans finish another three games in three days with an away game in Tulsa on Saturday. So after the day off today it will be back at practice for the Americans Monday morning to get ready for three important games this week.
- Allen helped themselves last night with a win over Wichita but also got some help with Colorado beating Idaho. Tulsa beat Utah to stay close behind the Americans for the final layoff spot. Colorado has opened up a commanding 13 point lead in the Mountain Division but second through fifth place is separated by just eight points. Here are the current Mountain Division standings with games played in parentheses. Remember, the top four teams make the playoffs and the top two get home ice advantage in the first round.
66 points - Colorado (42 games)
52 points - Idaho (43 games)
51 points - Wichita (41 games)
47 points - Allen (44 games)
44 points - Tulsa (44 games)
41 points - Utah (44 games)
32 points - Rapid City (42 games)
- Olivier Archambault played his third game for Syracuse last night since being loaned by Allen earlier this week. The Crunch lost to Toronto 4-2 but Archambault had another good game with an assist and was a +1. His totals for the three games he has played is one goal, one assist and +3. Do not expect Olivier back in Allen any time soon.
- The specialty Star Wars jerseys the team wore last night are up for bid at the auction site https://one.bidpal.net/goamericans/welcome
The current bids are as low as $150 (Calabrese) and as high as $505 (Brodeur) with many still under $300 so you may have a chance to pick up a jersey at a decent price. The bidding ends at 9:00 pm tonight (Sunday).
 |
| Vincent Arseneau modeling the Star Wars jersey |
DID YOU KNOW: Allen has the most penalty minutes (991) in the ECHL by a wide margin over #2 Colorado (843 PIMS), #3 Jacksonville (831) and #4 Idaho (817). Six of the top 11 spots in PIMs are Mountain Division teams.
Even though Allen is tops in penalty minutes they are only #4 in being shorthanded, they have been on the penalty kill 200 times. Orlando is #1 with 220 penalty kills.
Allen is ranked #5 in the number of times they have been on the power play (193). The team with the most power play opportunities in the ECHL is Idaho with 224.
Saturday, January 27, 2018
The Slump Continues With 3-0 Loss to Wichita, Game Recap, Martinson's Comments, Rematch Preview, Allen Shutout at Home for Fourth Time Ever (ECHL)
The headline for the game last night would say the Wichita Thunder scored three third period goals to defeat the Allen Americans 3-0 before 4012 disappointed fans at the Allen Event Center (AEC). While factually correct it was really a 1-0 win on a fluke goal from behind the red line early in the third period. Wichita added an empty net goal with 73 seconds left in the game and a five-on-three goal with 19 seconds remaining.
- Allen out shot Wichita in the third period 15-7 but could not get the puck past ECHL All-Star goalie Shane Starrett who recorded his first shutout of the season. Allen was out shot 42-33 for the game but had many more quality scoring opportunities than Wichita and missed the net an inordinate number of times. It was the best game Allen has played in a while but when you have lost six games in a row a "moral victory" won't cut it.
- The video highlights with the goals, some great saves by both goalies and the Josh Thrower fight at the end of the game are available at ECHL Rewind: https://www.echl.com/
- Here is the game recap from the Wichita Thunder: https://www.wichitathunder.com/news/press-release/third-period-sends-wichita-to-win-in-allen.html
STEVE MARTINSON'S POST GAME COMMENTS
"That was tough to take. They had more shots than us early in the game but there weren't a lot of good shots."
"We missed the net a lot on the power play and one time we didn't take advantage when their player didn't have a stick."
"We certainly played better tonight but we have to turn that into results. Some guys definitely stepped up and played better."
"We have to do a better job of getting in front of their goalie. When we had opportunities we either missed the net or shot the puck right into him. He is so tall we have to get the puck up when he goes down."
"At the end of the day nobody is feeling sorry for us. The only one that can get us out of this is us. We need to go to work and play better tomorrow. We are still in control of our destiny. Thankfully we have time to turn things around. If this was happening a month and a half from not it would be real trouble."
"I think we didn't have enough speed to the outside until the third period. We had times in the first period when we were standing still at the red line calling for pucks instead of climbing the forecheck."
"We outplayed them in the third period but they won the period 3-0. If you totaled the shots that missed the net for the game the shots would have been even."
"I don't think our forte the last month has been getting all of the little things done that need to get done when the game is on the line."
"I thought we had a lot of situations tonight where we passed when we should have shot and shot when we should have passed."
ALLEN VS WICHITA REMATCH PREVIEW
- Allen's record against the Thunder this season now stands at 4-5 but Wichita has won the last three games and outscored the Americans 10-3 in the process. Wichita has won three of the four games played at the AEC.
- The Americans need to find more offense if they want to win tonight. The old adage of pucks to the net with guys in front is a must the way the Thunder goalie is playing. Allen has a total of three goals in the last three games against Wichita. They are 0-12 on the power play. When you are averaging one goal per game against Wichita it will take that greasy goal to break the ice. With the net front guys on this team like Arseneau, Asuchak and Pierro-Zabotel, tonight may be the night to break out.
- It is really important for Allen to get off to a good start tonight. They have negative goal differentials in the second and third period so they struggle when they have to come from behind. When trailing after the first period their record is 2-7-2-0 and when trailing after the second period their record is 1-10-2-0.
- It should be a great atmosphere at the AEC tonight with a huge crowd on hand for Star Wars night. It would be the perfect night for the Americans to got out of rock bottom and back to winning ways.
- Officials scheduled for the game are referee Jonathan Sitarski (#23) and linesmen Brian Bull (#95) and Aaron Schacht (#31). Sitarski also worked the game last night.
OTHER COMMENTS
- The specialty Star Wars jerseys the team will be wearing tonight are up for bid at the auction site https://one.bidpal.net/goamericans/welcome
The bids are as low as $185 and as high as $495 so you may have a chance to pick up a jersey at a decent price. The bidding ends Sunday night.
- Allen got some help last night as Tulsa lost to Utah and Idaho lost to Colorado. The Americans are fortunate that several other teams in the Mountain Division have also been struggling. It is hard to believe Allen has lost 11 of their last 13 games and is still only seven points out of second place and has a three point lead over Tulsa who is in fifth place.
- Olivier Archambault had the game winning goal and was a +2 for Syracuse (AHL) last night as the Crunch beat Belleville 5-2. Syracuse will play the Toronto Marlies at home tonight.
- Allen has always been a third period team but not so much this season. Last season Allen scored the most third period goals in the ECHL (120) and allowed the fewest third period goals in the ECHL (59) for a goal differential of +61. This season they have scored 43 third period goals and allowed 51 for a goal differential of -8.
- During this 2-11 slump Allen has been outscored 33-53. On December 29th the Americans had a +20 goal differential (109-89). In the 13 games since that has been wiped out and after the shutout last night Allen has scored 142 goals and allowed 142 goals.
DID YOU KNOW: A home shutout is a rarity for the Allen Americans but if you were going to predict one you should pick a January game against the Wichita Thunder. Allen has one home shutout per season in the four years they have been in the ECHL. Three of the four have been in January and three of the four have been against Wichita. Here are all of Allen's home shutouts since joining the ECHL.
March 18, 2015: 4-0 against Wichita
January 8, 2016: 1-0 against Colorado (32 saves shutout by former Allen goalie Eric Levine)
January 21, 2017: 4-0 against Wichita (Vincent Arseneau had the game winning goal)
January 26, 2018: 3-0 against Wichita
Definitely the odd stat of the day, Allen has only lost five times in regulation to Wichita at home since joining the ECHL with a record of 17-5-3-1 but three of the five loses have been shutouts.
- Allen out shot Wichita in the third period 15-7 but could not get the puck past ECHL All-Star goalie Shane Starrett who recorded his first shutout of the season. Allen was out shot 42-33 for the game but had many more quality scoring opportunities than Wichita and missed the net an inordinate number of times. It was the best game Allen has played in a while but when you have lost six games in a row a "moral victory" won't cut it.
- The video highlights with the goals, some great saves by both goalies and the Josh Thrower fight at the end of the game are available at ECHL Rewind: https://www.echl.com/
- Here is the game recap from the Wichita Thunder: https://www.wichitathunder.com/news/press-release/third-period-sends-wichita-to-win-in-allen.html
STEVE MARTINSON'S POST GAME COMMENTS
"That was tough to take. They had more shots than us early in the game but there weren't a lot of good shots."
"We missed the net a lot on the power play and one time we didn't take advantage when their player didn't have a stick."
"We certainly played better tonight but we have to turn that into results. Some guys definitely stepped up and played better."
"We have to do a better job of getting in front of their goalie. When we had opportunities we either missed the net or shot the puck right into him. He is so tall we have to get the puck up when he goes down."
"At the end of the day nobody is feeling sorry for us. The only one that can get us out of this is us. We need to go to work and play better tomorrow. We are still in control of our destiny. Thankfully we have time to turn things around. If this was happening a month and a half from not it would be real trouble."
"I think we didn't have enough speed to the outside until the third period. We had times in the first period when we were standing still at the red line calling for pucks instead of climbing the forecheck."
"We outplayed them in the third period but they won the period 3-0. If you totaled the shots that missed the net for the game the shots would have been even."
"I don't think our forte the last month has been getting all of the little things done that need to get done when the game is on the line."
"I thought we had a lot of situations tonight where we passed when we should have shot and shot when we should have passed."
ALLEN VS WICHITA REMATCH PREVIEW
- Allen's record against the Thunder this season now stands at 4-5 but Wichita has won the last three games and outscored the Americans 10-3 in the process. Wichita has won three of the four games played at the AEC.
- The Americans need to find more offense if they want to win tonight. The old adage of pucks to the net with guys in front is a must the way the Thunder goalie is playing. Allen has a total of three goals in the last three games against Wichita. They are 0-12 on the power play. When you are averaging one goal per game against Wichita it will take that greasy goal to break the ice. With the net front guys on this team like Arseneau, Asuchak and Pierro-Zabotel, tonight may be the night to break out.
- It is really important for Allen to get off to a good start tonight. They have negative goal differentials in the second and third period so they struggle when they have to come from behind. When trailing after the first period their record is 2-7-2-0 and when trailing after the second period their record is 1-10-2-0.
- It should be a great atmosphere at the AEC tonight with a huge crowd on hand for Star Wars night. It would be the perfect night for the Americans to got out of rock bottom and back to winning ways.
- Officials scheduled for the game are referee Jonathan Sitarski (#23) and linesmen Brian Bull (#95) and Aaron Schacht (#31). Sitarski also worked the game last night.
OTHER COMMENTS
- The specialty Star Wars jerseys the team will be wearing tonight are up for bid at the auction site https://one.bidpal.net/goamericans/welcome
The bids are as low as $185 and as high as $495 so you may have a chance to pick up a jersey at a decent price. The bidding ends Sunday night.
- Allen got some help last night as Tulsa lost to Utah and Idaho lost to Colorado. The Americans are fortunate that several other teams in the Mountain Division have also been struggling. It is hard to believe Allen has lost 11 of their last 13 games and is still only seven points out of second place and has a three point lead over Tulsa who is in fifth place.
- Olivier Archambault had the game winning goal and was a +2 for Syracuse (AHL) last night as the Crunch beat Belleville 5-2. Syracuse will play the Toronto Marlies at home tonight.
- Allen has always been a third period team but not so much this season. Last season Allen scored the most third period goals in the ECHL (120) and allowed the fewest third period goals in the ECHL (59) for a goal differential of +61. This season they have scored 43 third period goals and allowed 51 for a goal differential of -8.
- During this 2-11 slump Allen has been outscored 33-53. On December 29th the Americans had a +20 goal differential (109-89). In the 13 games since that has been wiped out and after the shutout last night Allen has scored 142 goals and allowed 142 goals.
DID YOU KNOW: A home shutout is a rarity for the Allen Americans but if you were going to predict one you should pick a January game against the Wichita Thunder. Allen has one home shutout per season in the four years they have been in the ECHL. Three of the four have been in January and three of the four have been against Wichita. Here are all of Allen's home shutouts since joining the ECHL.
March 18, 2015: 4-0 against Wichita
January 8, 2016: 1-0 against Colorado (32 saves shutout by former Allen goalie Eric Levine)
January 21, 2017: 4-0 against Wichita (Vincent Arseneau had the game winning goal)
January 26, 2018: 3-0 against Wichita
Definitely the odd stat of the day, Allen has only lost five times in regulation to Wichita at home since joining the ECHL with a record of 17-5-3-1 but three of the five loses have been shutouts.
Friday, January 26, 2018
Allen vs Wichita Game Preview, Arseneau Returns to Allen, A New Guy at Practice, Comparing Allen's First and Last 21 Games, Marvel Specialty Jerseys & More
It is game day for the Allen Americans as they take on the Wichita Thunder tonight (7:05 pm) and again tomorrow (Saturday) night. Allen got some great news yesterday as Vincent Arseneau is back in town and expected to be in the lineup tonight against the Thunder. His mere presence in the lineup will be a big boost for the team.
- The game tonight will be the first time these teams have faced each other since the warmup brawl game on New Year's Eve (NYE) and there are definitely some hard feelings left over from that game on both sides. If you recall, six players ended up with suspensions for the activities in warmups and it carried over to the game when 90 penalty minutes were assessed in the first period. The most important stat from that game was the score which was in the Thunder's favor 4-2.
- Not sure if it was a coincidence or not because of the upcoming games against Wichita but coach Martinson had a volunteer assistant helping out at practice yesterday. Jeremy Yablonski, who had a 15 year professional career with games in the NHL, AHL, ECHL and KHL is retired and living in North Texas. Jeremy is one of many volunteer assistants coach Martinson has had help out at practices but the first I can remember that specializes in strength and conditioning. Yablonski is 37 and has been retired for three years but I saw him in the locker room and he is ripped and scary big. Makes you wonder if Martinson would ever sign Yablonski to a short term contract if he thought a team was going to start trouble.
If you have ever watched any fight videos of Jeremy you can't help but be impressed. Here is just one example from 2008 when he fought his good friend and bad boy Jon "Nasty" Mirasty. Some rate this the best hockey fight in history with no hyperbole. Dropyourgloves.com rated the fight a 10 on their fight scale of 1-10. According to the them there were 130 punches thrown in this fight and 78 landed. https://youtu.be/Pb7EdyKQb4E
- Historically Allen has pretty much owned Wichita (37-8-4-3) but this season has been much different as the teams have split their first eight games. Allen has won three of five games in Wichita while the Thunder have won two of three in Allen.
- Both teams will have different rosters tonight from when they last played on NYE. Allen will be without Olivier Archambault who had both of Allen's goals on NYE. Spencer Asuchak, Zach Pochiro and Vincent Aresenau did not play the last time Allen faced Wichita but will be in the lineup tonight.
- Here is a story written by Matt Harding, who covers the Thunder for Team Sin Bin, that talks about who is in and who is out of the lineup for Wichita. According to Matt it is uncertain whether Wichita captain Dyson Stevenson, who is currently on reserve, will be activated for the game tonight. Check out all of the Wichita changes here: http://thesinbin.net/thunder-condors-swap-players-ahead-of-weekend/
Here are the updated stats between Allen and Wichita:
ALLEN WICHITA
Team Record 20-17-4-1 (45 points) 23-13-3-1 (49 points)
Division Ranking 4th - Mountain 3rd - Mountain
Conference Ranking 9th - Western 5th - Western
League Ranking 16th 8th
Last Game 5-3 Loss (Rapid City) 3-1 Win (Colorado)
Goals For 142 134
Goals Against 139 115
Power Play 19.8% (37/187) 17.6% (22/125)
Home Power Play 20.8% (20/96) 17.1% (13/76)
Road Power Play 18.7% (17/91 18.4% (8/49)
Penalty Kill 80.2% (38/192) 82.7% (26/150)
Home Penalty Kill 86.5% (13/96) 79.1% (19/91)
Road Penalty Kill 74.0% (25/96) 88.1% (7/59)
Most PIM Moore (127) Stevenson (109)
Leading Scorers: Pierro-Zabotel (12-35-47) Bauer (8-21-29)
- Here is how Allen and Wichita rank in the ECHL in some statistical categories:
Penalty Minutes Per Game: Allen 1st (23.10) - Wichita 15th (15.49)
Goals Scored Per Game: Allen 9th (3.38) - Wichita 7th (3.44)
Goals Allowed Per Game: Allen 17th (3.31) - Wichita 9th (2.95)
Shots For Per Game: Allen 16th (32.07) - Wichita 20th (30.95)
Shots Against Per Game: Allen 24th (37.14) - Wichita 18th (33.64)
Power Play Percentage: Allen 5th (19.8%) - Wichita 13th (17.6%)
Home Power Play %: Allen 3rd (20.8%) - Wichita 16th (17.1%)
Road Power Play %: Allen 10th (18.7%) - Wichita 13th (18.4%)
Penalty Kill Percentage: Allen 22nd (80.2%) - Wichita 15th (82.7%)
Home Penalty Kill %: Allen 8th (86.5%) - Wichita 21st (79.1%)
Road Penalty Kill %: Allen 27th (74.0%) - Wichita 4th (88.1%)
- Head to head special team percentages favor Allen slightly. Against Wichita the Allen power play is 20.7% (6-29) and the penalty kill is 83.3% (5-30). Against Allen the Wichita power play is 16.7% (5-30) and the penalty kill is 79.3% (6-29).
- In the odd stat of the day Allen and Wichita have played eight times this season and the record is 4-4, goals are 26-26 and shots are 260-260. Now that is evenly matched!
- You would probably be disappointed if I didn't talk about scoring first. The last three times these teams played each other (December 29,30 31) the team that scored first lost the game. The odds are still heavily in favor of the team that scores first. Allen and Wichita combined have a record of 31-10-1-0 when scoring first. Same can be said for having the lead after the first period as they have a combined record of 29-5-1-0 when taking a lead into the first intermission.
- Officials scheduled for the game are referee Jonathan Sitarski (#23) and linesmen Brian Bull (#95) and Lucas Bisbee (#72).
OTHER COMMENTS:
- There is a full slate tonight the ECHL with 26 of 27 teams in action. The one team that is idle is the Manchester Monarchs. In the Mountain Division in addition to Wichita at Allen, Idaho is at Colorado, Tulsa is at Utah and in a cross division contest Rapid City is at Kansas City.
- I know several readers have been asking about the Marvel Night specialty jerseys the Americans wore on January 15 wondering where and when the jerseys would be available to purchase. I know I mentioned this before that because this is a league-wide program all of the ECHL-Marvel themed jerseys are being auctioned off to the public through The MeiGray Group at meigrayauctions.com. For those that have been asking the jerseys had not been shipped to The Meigray Group as of yesterday after practice but should now be on the way so you can look for them being posted on the auction site as soon as they are received in New Jersey.
- I get asked about rumors fans hear concerning players signing in Allen all of the time. Coach Martinson is in constant contact with teams, agents and free agent players in North America and Europe throughout the season. Players may contact Martinson directly if they are free agents or indirectly through their agent or they may even call a player they know on the team to express interest in coming to Allen. Right now Allen has an open vet spot (temporarily taken by Gary Steffes) so it is quite likely fans can pick up rumors about players, especially vets, on teams that will not make the playoffs being interested in moving to teams that will make the playoffs. Most of the time these rumors are not accurate but if and when coach Martinson finds a good experienced player at the right price he will sign them. Stay tuned.
DID YOU KNOW: I saw stats laid out like this for an NHL team and decided to take a look for the Allen Americans. This compares the first 21 games of the season to the last 21 games.
FIRST 21 Games Played:
Record: 12-6-2-1
27 of 42 Points Earned (.643)
Goals For: 74 (3.52 per game)
Goals Against: 63 (3.00 per game)
Power Play: 18/99 (18.2%)
Penalty Kill: 18/100 (82.0%)
LAST 21 Games Played:
Record: 8-11-2-0
18 0f 42 Points Earned (.429)
Goals For: 68 (3.24 per game)
Goals Against: 76 (3.62 per game)
Power Play: 19/88 (21.6%)
Penalty Kill: 20/92 (78.3%)
- The game tonight will be the first time these teams have faced each other since the warmup brawl game on New Year's Eve (NYE) and there are definitely some hard feelings left over from that game on both sides. If you recall, six players ended up with suspensions for the activities in warmups and it carried over to the game when 90 penalty minutes were assessed in the first period. The most important stat from that game was the score which was in the Thunder's favor 4-2.
- Not sure if it was a coincidence or not because of the upcoming games against Wichita but coach Martinson had a volunteer assistant helping out at practice yesterday. Jeremy Yablonski, who had a 15 year professional career with games in the NHL, AHL, ECHL and KHL is retired and living in North Texas. Jeremy is one of many volunteer assistants coach Martinson has had help out at practices but the first I can remember that specializes in strength and conditioning. Yablonski is 37 and has been retired for three years but I saw him in the locker room and he is ripped and scary big. Makes you wonder if Martinson would ever sign Yablonski to a short term contract if he thought a team was going to start trouble.
If you have ever watched any fight videos of Jeremy you can't help but be impressed. Here is just one example from 2008 when he fought his good friend and bad boy Jon "Nasty" Mirasty. Some rate this the best hockey fight in history with no hyperbole. Dropyourgloves.com rated the fight a 10 on their fight scale of 1-10. According to the them there were 130 punches thrown in this fight and 78 landed. https://youtu.be/Pb7EdyKQb4E
- Historically Allen has pretty much owned Wichita (37-8-4-3) but this season has been much different as the teams have split their first eight games. Allen has won three of five games in Wichita while the Thunder have won two of three in Allen.
- Both teams will have different rosters tonight from when they last played on NYE. Allen will be without Olivier Archambault who had both of Allen's goals on NYE. Spencer Asuchak, Zach Pochiro and Vincent Aresenau did not play the last time Allen faced Wichita but will be in the lineup tonight.
- Here is a story written by Matt Harding, who covers the Thunder for Team Sin Bin, that talks about who is in and who is out of the lineup for Wichita. According to Matt it is uncertain whether Wichita captain Dyson Stevenson, who is currently on reserve, will be activated for the game tonight. Check out all of the Wichita changes here: http://thesinbin.net/thunder-condors-swap-players-ahead-of-weekend/
Here are the updated stats between Allen and Wichita:
ALLEN WICHITA
Team Record 20-17-4-1 (45 points) 23-13-3-1 (49 points)
Division Ranking 4th - Mountain 3rd - Mountain
Conference Ranking 9th - Western 5th - Western
League Ranking 16th 8th
Last Game 5-3 Loss (Rapid City) 3-1 Win (Colorado)
Goals For 142 134
Goals Against 139 115
Power Play 19.8% (37/187) 17.6% (22/125)
Home Power Play 20.8% (20/96) 17.1% (13/76)
Road Power Play 18.7% (17/91 18.4% (8/49)
Penalty Kill 80.2% (38/192) 82.7% (26/150)
Home Penalty Kill 86.5% (13/96) 79.1% (19/91)
Road Penalty Kill 74.0% (25/96) 88.1% (7/59)
Most PIM Moore (127) Stevenson (109)
Leading Scorers: Pierro-Zabotel (12-35-47) Bauer (8-21-29)
- Here is how Allen and Wichita rank in the ECHL in some statistical categories:
Penalty Minutes Per Game: Allen 1st (23.10) - Wichita 15th (15.49)
Goals Scored Per Game: Allen 9th (3.38) - Wichita 7th (3.44)
Goals Allowed Per Game: Allen 17th (3.31) - Wichita 9th (2.95)
Shots For Per Game: Allen 16th (32.07) - Wichita 20th (30.95)
Shots Against Per Game: Allen 24th (37.14) - Wichita 18th (33.64)
Power Play Percentage: Allen 5th (19.8%) - Wichita 13th (17.6%)
Home Power Play %: Allen 3rd (20.8%) - Wichita 16th (17.1%)
Road Power Play %: Allen 10th (18.7%) - Wichita 13th (18.4%)
Penalty Kill Percentage: Allen 22nd (80.2%) - Wichita 15th (82.7%)
Home Penalty Kill %: Allen 8th (86.5%) - Wichita 21st (79.1%)
Road Penalty Kill %: Allen 27th (74.0%) - Wichita 4th (88.1%)
- Head to head special team percentages favor Allen slightly. Against Wichita the Allen power play is 20.7% (6-29) and the penalty kill is 83.3% (5-30). Against Allen the Wichita power play is 16.7% (5-30) and the penalty kill is 79.3% (6-29).
- In the odd stat of the day Allen and Wichita have played eight times this season and the record is 4-4, goals are 26-26 and shots are 260-260. Now that is evenly matched!
- You would probably be disappointed if I didn't talk about scoring first. The last three times these teams played each other (December 29,30 31) the team that scored first lost the game. The odds are still heavily in favor of the team that scores first. Allen and Wichita combined have a record of 31-10-1-0 when scoring first. Same can be said for having the lead after the first period as they have a combined record of 29-5-1-0 when taking a lead into the first intermission.
- Officials scheduled for the game are referee Jonathan Sitarski (#23) and linesmen Brian Bull (#95) and Lucas Bisbee (#72).
OTHER COMMENTS:
- There is a full slate tonight the ECHL with 26 of 27 teams in action. The one team that is idle is the Manchester Monarchs. In the Mountain Division in addition to Wichita at Allen, Idaho is at Colorado, Tulsa is at Utah and in a cross division contest Rapid City is at Kansas City.
- I know several readers have been asking about the Marvel Night specialty jerseys the Americans wore on January 15 wondering where and when the jerseys would be available to purchase. I know I mentioned this before that because this is a league-wide program all of the ECHL-Marvel themed jerseys are being auctioned off to the public through The MeiGray Group at meigrayauctions.com. For those that have been asking the jerseys had not been shipped to The Meigray Group as of yesterday after practice but should now be on the way so you can look for them being posted on the auction site as soon as they are received in New Jersey.
- I get asked about rumors fans hear concerning players signing in Allen all of the time. Coach Martinson is in constant contact with teams, agents and free agent players in North America and Europe throughout the season. Players may contact Martinson directly if they are free agents or indirectly through their agent or they may even call a player they know on the team to express interest in coming to Allen. Right now Allen has an open vet spot (temporarily taken by Gary Steffes) so it is quite likely fans can pick up rumors about players, especially vets, on teams that will not make the playoffs being interested in moving to teams that will make the playoffs. Most of the time these rumors are not accurate but if and when coach Martinson finds a good experienced player at the right price he will sign them. Stay tuned.
DID YOU KNOW: I saw stats laid out like this for an NHL team and decided to take a look for the Allen Americans. This compares the first 21 games of the season to the last 21 games.
FIRST 21 Games Played:
Record: 12-6-2-1
27 of 42 Points Earned (.643)
Goals For: 74 (3.52 per game)
Goals Against: 63 (3.00 per game)
Power Play: 18/99 (18.2%)
Penalty Kill: 18/100 (82.0%)
LAST 21 Games Played:
Record: 8-11-2-0
18 0f 42 Points Earned (.429)
Goals For: 68 (3.24 per game)
Goals Against: 76 (3.62 per game)
Power Play: 19/88 (21.6%)
Penalty Kill: 20/92 (78.3%)
Thursday, January 25, 2018
Losing Streak Reaches Five Games With 5-3 Loss to Rush, Game Recap, Martinson's Comments, Pochiro Returns, Lily Martinson Commits to Providence & Stat of the Day
As I was leaving the Allen Event Center (AEC) last night heading to my truck I ran into a couple of the ushers and one of them said to me, "The best thing about that game was it didn't take very long and it is over early." She was spot on as the Allen Americans lost 5-3 to the Rapid City Rush before 3182 disappointed and frustrated fans. It was the fifth straight loss and the 10th loss in the last 12 games for the Americans. The usher was right about the game being quick as was the post game activity. Can't remember the last time I saw the AEC empty out so quickly. With just one minor penalty assessed to each team and no fights the game itself was only 2:15. The post game press conference was short, my chat with coach Martinson after the press conference was short and very few fans had questions so I was out the door of the AEC by 9:44 which is a record.
- Allen is finding ways to lose that fans are not used to seeing from this team. Historically the Americans have been a great third period team. In two of their last three games Allen has been leading after the second period, blown the lead and lost in regulation. That has happened only five times in their previous 125 games but has now happened in two of three games.
- Allen had no answer to Rapid City's top line who scored four of their five goals. In the game preview yesterday I said, "For Rapid City keep an eye on Peter Sivak (#91) who has five goals in his last four games and two hat tricks this month alone. Rapid City's rookie ECHL All-Star Dante Salituro (#15) had a hat trick on Saturday to break out of a long goal scoring drought so he is another player to keep an eye on." They each had two goals last night and their line mate, former Allen player Daniel Leavens, chipped in two assists.
- The bright spot for Allen was Colby McAuley who scored two goals, brought a lot of energy on every shift and played a two way game. The goals were McAuley's sixth and seventh of the season. The other goals scorer for Allen was Alex Schoenborn who scored his sixth of the season.
- Here are the Sporfie highlights for the three Allen goals:
Colby McAuley - Hanging out in front of the net bears fruit for Colby. Notice how hard he works to get space and keep his stick free. https://sporfie.app.link/tyRPAq4GZJ
Alex Schoenborn - Alex Guptill takes the puck to the net but loses it when he was hooked and it goes right on the stick of Alex Schoenborn who is trailing the play and he puts it in the net. https://sporfie.app.link/pkAuFhnHZJ
Colby McAuley - Colby's second goal of the game is scored off a long rebound of a shot taken by Joel Chouinard. Notice how McAuley reads the play and positions himself for the rebound. https://sporfie.app.link/pkAuFhnHZJ
- The complete game highlights with all of the goals are available at ECHL Rewind. Here is the link: https://www.echl.com/
- Here is the game recap courtesy of the Rapid City Rush: http://www.rapidcityrush.com/news/?article_id=973
- I have said this many times in the past but it is worth noting again. Win or lose, good or bad, happy or mad Steve Martinson always stops by to talk to season ticket holders after every game and stays until every question is answered. It is noted and appreciated by the season ticket holders. Here is what he had to say after the game last night:
"I was just looking at the last couple of goals in the third period. There were two deflections off our own sticks."
"We had a couple of chance to get the puck out of our zone on the penalty kill, it has been our Achilles heel, and sure enough they score a power play goal."
"We keep shooting ourselves in the foot. It is tough when you are at home and have a 3-2 lead going into the third period and you piss it away like that. It is pretty painful!"
"We need our top guys to step up but are depth guys aren't getting much done either. We had a good enough lineup to win tonight and came up short again. Now we have to get back to work because it is not going to be any easier this weekend. We are going to have to play better."
"I am talking to players in Europe and have had a couple things that have fallen through. Obviously I am trying to get some more experienced players on the roster."
"Arseneau didn't play again tonight in Utica. I will check and see what his status is. He has missed some games with an injury. They have 22 forwards so if he is not playing we should could use him here."
"One way or another we will get this turned around. I told the players today we were at rock bottom right now and then we get a 3-2 lead and it is not enough to hold on."
"The top line for Rapid City killed us tonight. We were not good defensively against them."
OTHER COMMENTS
- Things don't get any easier for the Americans as they will be back at practice today to prepare for home games against Wichita on Friday and Saturday followed by Colorado in February 1 and 2.
- With their abysmal record over the last month (2-10) the Americans are now battling Tulsa for the fourth and final playoff spot in the Mountain Division. Tulsa beat Utah 3-1 last night and now trails Allen by just three points. Wichita is four points ahead of the Americans in third place but they have three games in hand over Allen. Needless to say the two games against the Thunder this weekend will be big for the Americans.
- It was a big surprise to see Zach Pochiro back in the lineup last night as he returned a couple of weeks ahead of schedule. He has only had a couple of practices and hadn't played in a game since November 5th. Given the circumstances Zach played well including the secondary assist on Colby McAuley's first goal. Coach Martinson managed Zach's time giving him shifts off when needed. Pochiro is a big addition to the lineup but it will take a few games to get back up to speed.
- There has been another big announcement in the Martinson household as Steve and Michelle announced that their daughter, Lily, has accepted a scholarship to attend Providence College. Providence College has had a women's hockey program since the mid 1970's and plays in the Hockey East Conference. They are currently #2 (behind Boston College) in the conference and are ranked in the top 10 in all of the national polls. Unlike Martinson's son Logan who will be leaving this fall to play junior hockey in Canada, Steve and Michelle will have a few years before they are empty nesters because Lily is only 14 and has three more years before she graduates from high school. Congrats to Lily and the Martinson family. I know dad will be happy he doesn't have to pay the big bucks for Lily's college education.
- Several fans asked me last night about the outcome of the game between Chad Costello's team (Iserlohn) and Greger Hanson's team (Krefeld) on Tuesday. It was kind of anticlimactic as Krefeld won the game 5-2 and neither Chad nor Greger had a point.
- Olivier Archambault played in his first game for Syracuse (AHL) last night since he was loaned by Allen to the Crunch. They beat Laval 3-2. Archambault didn't have a point in the game but had one shot on goal and took a minor penalty for roughing.
- Vincent Areseneau was not in the lineup for Utica as they lost at home 4-3 in overtime to Hartford last night. Arseneau has missed the last five games for the Comets and may be still dealing with an injury. Utica currently shows 22 forwards on their roster so it makes you wonder if Arseneau will be returned to Allen once he is healthy. It is obvious Allen could certainly use him. Stay tuned.
- Talk about a tough schedule, Idaho lost to Colorado, the best team in the ECHL, last night 5-4. Including last night the Steelheads will play Colorado in nine of their 12 games between January 24 and February 17. This includes six games in a row between February 7 and February 17. Another scheduling marvel by the ECHL. Best to have a supervisor of officials hanging around these teams who have 75 fighting majors (50 Colorado, 25 Idaho) this season.
DID YOU KNOW: I love this stat which shows the ECHL players with the highest percentage of their team's goals. For the Allen Americans the leader is Bryan Moore who has scored 9.9% of their goals.
19.1% - Michael Joly (Colorado)
18.2% - Justin Danforth (Cincinnati)
17.2% - Phil Lane (Atlanta)
17.0% - Sam Warning (Quad City)
16.1% - Justin Taylor (Kalamazoo)
14.6% - Reid Gardiner (Wheeling)
- Allen is finding ways to lose that fans are not used to seeing from this team. Historically the Americans have been a great third period team. In two of their last three games Allen has been leading after the second period, blown the lead and lost in regulation. That has happened only five times in their previous 125 games but has now happened in two of three games.
- Allen had no answer to Rapid City's top line who scored four of their five goals. In the game preview yesterday I said, "For Rapid City keep an eye on Peter Sivak (#91) who has five goals in his last four games and two hat tricks this month alone. Rapid City's rookie ECHL All-Star Dante Salituro (#15) had a hat trick on Saturday to break out of a long goal scoring drought so he is another player to keep an eye on." They each had two goals last night and their line mate, former Allen player Daniel Leavens, chipped in two assists.
- The bright spot for Allen was Colby McAuley who scored two goals, brought a lot of energy on every shift and played a two way game. The goals were McAuley's sixth and seventh of the season. The other goals scorer for Allen was Alex Schoenborn who scored his sixth of the season.
- Here are the Sporfie highlights for the three Allen goals:
Colby McAuley - Hanging out in front of the net bears fruit for Colby. Notice how hard he works to get space and keep his stick free. https://sporfie.app.link/tyRPAq4GZJ
Alex Schoenborn - Alex Guptill takes the puck to the net but loses it when he was hooked and it goes right on the stick of Alex Schoenborn who is trailing the play and he puts it in the net. https://sporfie.app.link/pkAuFhnHZJ
Colby McAuley - Colby's second goal of the game is scored off a long rebound of a shot taken by Joel Chouinard. Notice how McAuley reads the play and positions himself for the rebound. https://sporfie.app.link/pkAuFhnHZJ
- The complete game highlights with all of the goals are available at ECHL Rewind. Here is the link: https://www.echl.com/
- Here is the game recap courtesy of the Rapid City Rush: http://www.rapidcityrush.com/news/?article_id=973
- I have said this many times in the past but it is worth noting again. Win or lose, good or bad, happy or mad Steve Martinson always stops by to talk to season ticket holders after every game and stays until every question is answered. It is noted and appreciated by the season ticket holders. Here is what he had to say after the game last night:
"I was just looking at the last couple of goals in the third period. There were two deflections off our own sticks."
"We had a couple of chance to get the puck out of our zone on the penalty kill, it has been our Achilles heel, and sure enough they score a power play goal."
"We keep shooting ourselves in the foot. It is tough when you are at home and have a 3-2 lead going into the third period and you piss it away like that. It is pretty painful!"
"We need our top guys to step up but are depth guys aren't getting much done either. We had a good enough lineup to win tonight and came up short again. Now we have to get back to work because it is not going to be any easier this weekend. We are going to have to play better."
"I am talking to players in Europe and have had a couple things that have fallen through. Obviously I am trying to get some more experienced players on the roster."
"Arseneau didn't play again tonight in Utica. I will check and see what his status is. He has missed some games with an injury. They have 22 forwards so if he is not playing we should could use him here."
"One way or another we will get this turned around. I told the players today we were at rock bottom right now and then we get a 3-2 lead and it is not enough to hold on."
"The top line for Rapid City killed us tonight. We were not good defensively against them."
OTHER COMMENTS
- Things don't get any easier for the Americans as they will be back at practice today to prepare for home games against Wichita on Friday and Saturday followed by Colorado in February 1 and 2.
- With their abysmal record over the last month (2-10) the Americans are now battling Tulsa for the fourth and final playoff spot in the Mountain Division. Tulsa beat Utah 3-1 last night and now trails Allen by just three points. Wichita is four points ahead of the Americans in third place but they have three games in hand over Allen. Needless to say the two games against the Thunder this weekend will be big for the Americans.
- It was a big surprise to see Zach Pochiro back in the lineup last night as he returned a couple of weeks ahead of schedule. He has only had a couple of practices and hadn't played in a game since November 5th. Given the circumstances Zach played well including the secondary assist on Colby McAuley's first goal. Coach Martinson managed Zach's time giving him shifts off when needed. Pochiro is a big addition to the lineup but it will take a few games to get back up to speed.
- There has been another big announcement in the Martinson household as Steve and Michelle announced that their daughter, Lily, has accepted a scholarship to attend Providence College. Providence College has had a women's hockey program since the mid 1970's and plays in the Hockey East Conference. They are currently #2 (behind Boston College) in the conference and are ranked in the top 10 in all of the national polls. Unlike Martinson's son Logan who will be leaving this fall to play junior hockey in Canada, Steve and Michelle will have a few years before they are empty nesters because Lily is only 14 and has three more years before she graduates from high school. Congrats to Lily and the Martinson family. I know dad will be happy he doesn't have to pay the big bucks for Lily's college education.
 |
| Lily Martinson commits to Providence College |
- Several fans asked me last night about the outcome of the game between Chad Costello's team (Iserlohn) and Greger Hanson's team (Krefeld) on Tuesday. It was kind of anticlimactic as Krefeld won the game 5-2 and neither Chad nor Greger had a point.
- Olivier Archambault played in his first game for Syracuse (AHL) last night since he was loaned by Allen to the Crunch. They beat Laval 3-2. Archambault didn't have a point in the game but had one shot on goal and took a minor penalty for roughing.
- Vincent Areseneau was not in the lineup for Utica as they lost at home 4-3 in overtime to Hartford last night. Arseneau has missed the last five games for the Comets and may be still dealing with an injury. Utica currently shows 22 forwards on their roster so it makes you wonder if Arseneau will be returned to Allen once he is healthy. It is obvious Allen could certainly use him. Stay tuned.
- Talk about a tough schedule, Idaho lost to Colorado, the best team in the ECHL, last night 5-4. Including last night the Steelheads will play Colorado in nine of their 12 games between January 24 and February 17. This includes six games in a row between February 7 and February 17. Another scheduling marvel by the ECHL. Best to have a supervisor of officials hanging around these teams who have 75 fighting majors (50 Colorado, 25 Idaho) this season.
DID YOU KNOW: I love this stat which shows the ECHL players with the highest percentage of their team's goals. For the Allen Americans the leader is Bryan Moore who has scored 9.9% of their goals.
19.1% - Michael Joly (Colorado)
18.2% - Justin Danforth (Cincinnati)
17.2% - Phil Lane (Atlanta)
17.0% - Sam Warning (Quad City)
16.1% - Justin Taylor (Kalamazoo)
14.6% - Reid Gardiner (Wheeling)
Wednesday, January 24, 2018
Allen vs Rapid City Game Preview, Allen EBUG Thomas Hodges Dresses For NHL Game, Andrew Carroll's Tragic Death, Newest CTE Research
It is game day for the Allen Americans as the Rapid City Rush are in town to try and get their first win for coach Daniel Tetrault against the team he helped lead to a championship back in 2013-14. It was the only championship for Daniel in his 15 year pro career so you know Allen holds a special place for him.
- The game tonight will be the fifth of eight games Allen will play Rapid City this season. The Americans have had their way with the Rush in the first four meetings, winning all four and out scoring Rapid City 24-11. But before anyone thinks the task will be easy tonight because of Allen's success in the past and the fact Rapid City is mired in last place in the division, remember these team haven't played each other since the first of December and if you look at their records over the past 10 games Rapid City is 5-3-2-0 and Allen is 2-8-0-0.
- The Rush have the current ECHL Goalie of the Week and Player of the Week. Goalies Adam Vay won three games last week, had a GAA of 2.29 and a save percentage of .951. Forward Peter Sivak scored five goals, added six assists and was a +6 last week to win Player of the Week honors.
- Meanwhile Allen will try to break a four game losing streak tonight and will do so without Olivier Archambault who has been loaned to the Syracuse Crunch (AHL). Olivier has been Allen's best player though he has played in only 19 games because of time spent in the AHL. In those 19 games Archambault has 31 points (13 goals 18 assists) and leads the ECHL in average points per game (1.63).
- Since joining the ECHL Allen's record against Rapid City is 19-6-1-0. At the Allen Event Center the record is 9-3-1-0.
- Here is how Allen and Rapid City match up so far this season:
ALLEN RAPID CITY
Team Record 20-16-4-1 (45 points) 13-24-2-0 (28 points)
Division Ranking 4th - Mountain 7th - Mountain
Conference Ranking 9th - Western 13th - Western
League Ranking 16th 26th
Last Game 4-1 Loss (Fort Wayne) 6-3 Loss (Utah)
Goals For 139 114
Goals Against 134 159
Power Play 19.9% (37/86) 16.8% (24/143)
Penalty Kill 80.6% (37/191) 81.4% (34/183)
Most PIMs Moore (127 minutes) Sdao (85 minutes)
Leading Scorer Pierro-Zabotel (12-35-47) Sivak (14-23-37)
- Here is how Allen and Rapid City rank in the ECHL in some statistical categories:
Penalty Minutes Per Game: Allen 1st (23.61) - Rapid City 3rd (19.10)
Goals Scored Per Game: Allen 8th (3.39) - Rapid City 23rd (2.92)
Goals Allowed Per Game: Allen 17th (3.27) - Rapid City 26th (4.08)
Shots For Per Game: Allen 16th (31.95) - Rapid City 26th (28.36)
Shots Against Per Game: Allen 24th (37.24) - Rapid City 19th (33.72)
Power Play Percentage: Allen 5th (19.9%) - Rapid City 16th (16.8%)
Home Power Play %: Allen 3rd (21.1%) - Rapid City 26th (12.0%)
Road Power Play %: Allen 11th (18.7%) - Rapid City 3rd (23.3%)
Penalty Kill Percentage; Allen 22nd (80.6%) - Rapid City 18th (81.4%)
Home Penalty Kill %: Allen 2nd (87.4%) - Rapid City 15th (82.5%)
Road Penalty Kill %: Allen 27th (74.0%) - Rapid City 26th (78.8%)
- More than normal I think the overall special teams stats are out the window for this game because both of these teams vary so dramatically when playing at home and on the road. Allen has struggled on the penalty kill on the road ranked dead last in the ECHL at 74.0% but at home they are ranked #2 at 87.4%. Rapid City has the #26 ranked penalty kill on the road at 78.8%. On the power play Allen is 19.9% at home while Rapid City is #26 at home (12.0%) but #3 (23.3%) on the road. Special teams will, as always, play a critical role in the game tonight.
- The chance of fisticuffs will be high tonight. Both of these teams are in the top five in the ECHL in fights and have lots of players willing to drop the gloves. Rapid City has had 35 fighting majors and 15 players have been involved in at least one fight. Anthony Collins leads the Rush with six fights. Allen has 33 fighting majors with 15 different players involved in at least one fight this season. Mike Gunn and Josh Thrower lead Allen with five fighting majors each.
- A good start will be key for both teams but especially for Allen who is not as dominate as they were earlier in the season but still are 15-4-1-0 when scoring the first goal of the game. When they trail after the first period the Americans and Rush have not shown the ability to come back. They have a combined record of 4-21-3-0. I would say a good start is critical.
- If you are looking for players to watch in the game tonight Bryan Moore has four goals in four games against Rapid City and Casey Pierro-Zabotel has 10 points (2 goals 8 assists). For Rapid City keep an eye on Peter Sivak (#91) who has five goals in his last four games and two hat tricks this month alone. Rapid City's rookie ECHL All-Star Dante Salituro (#15) had a hat trick on Saturday to break out of a long goal scoring drought so he is another player to keep an eye on.
- Officials scheduled for the game are referee Chris Pontes (#12) and linesmen Brian Bull (#95) and Aaron Schacht (#31).
OTHER COMMENTS
- Who would have thought the next Allen Americans player to dress for an NHL game would be Allen's often used EBUG (emergency backup goalie) Thomas Hodges. The Plano West graduate has helped out the Americans many times over the past couple of years at practice and when they needed an EBUG because of injuries. Thomas actually played 50 seconds in the 2016 New Year's Eve game. With Allen leading 8-4 against Utah, starting goalie Jamie Murray came up with a stiff back with 50 seconds remaining in the game. An EBUG can only play if there is an injury to the other goalie. Thomas didn't get a save but made his pro debut which was a big thrill.
If you were watching the Dallas Stars play the Florida Panthers last night you saw Panthers' goalie James Reimer get injured early in the first period. Because Riemer could not return the NHL emergency goalie plan went into effect. It is a pretty elaborate plan which entails the home team having an emergency back up goalie on hand who can play for either team. Last night that was Thomas Hodges who was the back up goalie for the Florida Panthers. He didn't sit on the bench but was dressed and ready to go in the tunnel. Just think, when the Americans hang a banner in the AEC of players that made it from the Allen Americans to the NHL it will include the names Jordie Benn, Aaron Dell and now Thomas Hodges. What a great experience for the young goaltender. Here is the complete story written by Mike Heika of the Dallas Morning News complete with a picture of Thomas in his Florida Panthers gear. https://sportsday.dallasnews.com/dallas-stars/stars/2018/01/23/stars-notebook-nhls-emergency-goalie-plan-put-effect-after-injury-panthersjames-reimer
- If you have been reading about the tragic death of 32 year old Andrew Carroll who jumped to his death from a parking ramp at O'Hare airport you can't help but be touched by all of the tributes to him from all over the hockey world. It is clear he was a special person who would do anything to help others on his team and in the community. Connor Reilly described Andrew as a special mentor, friend and leader who was always willing to help others. Aaron Gens worked with Andrew at some hockey camps in Minnesota and described him as a christian athlete that was a great hockey player and an even better person. After practice yesterday I was talking to coach Martinson about Carroll as he had recruited him in the past. Our conversation turned to CTE and the number of players that have suffered from depression after their playing careers were over. I know coach Martinson has lost teammates/friends who suffered from depression and committed suicide. I have no idea what the circumstances were surrounding Andrew Carroll but the conversation with coach Martinson inspired me to do some research on CTE when I got home. I came across this article published just last Thursday that suggests CTE is caused by repeated head injuries, not by concussions. So much more needs to be learned about CTE but this study suggests the focus on preventing concussions needs to be replaced by an effort to reduce the number of head impacts. https://www.bu.edu/today/2018/cte-caused-by-head-injuries/
- Researchers are getting closer to being able to diagnose CTE in living persons. Since CTE causes Alzheimer's like symptoms including memory loss, aggression, rage and at times suicidal behavior this would be a big break through. Here is a recent article talking about this research. https://www.cnn.com/2017/09/26/health/researchers-identify-cte-biomarker-that-may-lead-to-diagnosis-while-alive/index.html
DID YOU KNOW: Andrew Carroll played his college hockey at the University of Minnesota-Dultuh (UMD) where he was the only player in the 74 year history of the UMD hockey program to hold some type of team captaincy parts of four different seasons. He was also a three-time WCHA All-Academic team honoree. He was a well traveled player having spent time in Charlotte, Greenville, Bakersfield and Idaho in the ECHL and Connecticut, Hershey, Abbotsford, Peoria, and Hartford in the AHL. Of the many tributes to Andrew Carroll this one written by Brian McCormack from the Idaho Steelheads captures the essence of the player and the man. http://www.idahosteelheads.com/blog/steelheads-news/remembering-andrew-carroll/
- The game tonight will be the fifth of eight games Allen will play Rapid City this season. The Americans have had their way with the Rush in the first four meetings, winning all four and out scoring Rapid City 24-11. But before anyone thinks the task will be easy tonight because of Allen's success in the past and the fact Rapid City is mired in last place in the division, remember these team haven't played each other since the first of December and if you look at their records over the past 10 games Rapid City is 5-3-2-0 and Allen is 2-8-0-0.
- The Rush have the current ECHL Goalie of the Week and Player of the Week. Goalies Adam Vay won three games last week, had a GAA of 2.29 and a save percentage of .951. Forward Peter Sivak scored five goals, added six assists and was a +6 last week to win Player of the Week honors.
- Meanwhile Allen will try to break a four game losing streak tonight and will do so without Olivier Archambault who has been loaned to the Syracuse Crunch (AHL). Olivier has been Allen's best player though he has played in only 19 games because of time spent in the AHL. In those 19 games Archambault has 31 points (13 goals 18 assists) and leads the ECHL in average points per game (1.63).
- Since joining the ECHL Allen's record against Rapid City is 19-6-1-0. At the Allen Event Center the record is 9-3-1-0.
- Here is how Allen and Rapid City match up so far this season:
ALLEN RAPID CITY
Team Record 20-16-4-1 (45 points) 13-24-2-0 (28 points)
Division Ranking 4th - Mountain 7th - Mountain
Conference Ranking 9th - Western 13th - Western
League Ranking 16th 26th
Last Game 4-1 Loss (Fort Wayne) 6-3 Loss (Utah)
Goals For 139 114
Goals Against 134 159
Power Play 19.9% (37/86) 16.8% (24/143)
Penalty Kill 80.6% (37/191) 81.4% (34/183)
Most PIMs Moore (127 minutes) Sdao (85 minutes)
Leading Scorer Pierro-Zabotel (12-35-47) Sivak (14-23-37)
- Here is how Allen and Rapid City rank in the ECHL in some statistical categories:
Penalty Minutes Per Game: Allen 1st (23.61) - Rapid City 3rd (19.10)
Goals Scored Per Game: Allen 8th (3.39) - Rapid City 23rd (2.92)
Goals Allowed Per Game: Allen 17th (3.27) - Rapid City 26th (4.08)
Shots For Per Game: Allen 16th (31.95) - Rapid City 26th (28.36)
Shots Against Per Game: Allen 24th (37.24) - Rapid City 19th (33.72)
Power Play Percentage: Allen 5th (19.9%) - Rapid City 16th (16.8%)
Home Power Play %: Allen 3rd (21.1%) - Rapid City 26th (12.0%)
Road Power Play %: Allen 11th (18.7%) - Rapid City 3rd (23.3%)
Penalty Kill Percentage; Allen 22nd (80.6%) - Rapid City 18th (81.4%)
Home Penalty Kill %: Allen 2nd (87.4%) - Rapid City 15th (82.5%)
Road Penalty Kill %: Allen 27th (74.0%) - Rapid City 26th (78.8%)
- More than normal I think the overall special teams stats are out the window for this game because both of these teams vary so dramatically when playing at home and on the road. Allen has struggled on the penalty kill on the road ranked dead last in the ECHL at 74.0% but at home they are ranked #2 at 87.4%. Rapid City has the #26 ranked penalty kill on the road at 78.8%. On the power play Allen is 19.9% at home while Rapid City is #26 at home (12.0%) but #3 (23.3%) on the road. Special teams will, as always, play a critical role in the game tonight.
- The chance of fisticuffs will be high tonight. Both of these teams are in the top five in the ECHL in fights and have lots of players willing to drop the gloves. Rapid City has had 35 fighting majors and 15 players have been involved in at least one fight. Anthony Collins leads the Rush with six fights. Allen has 33 fighting majors with 15 different players involved in at least one fight this season. Mike Gunn and Josh Thrower lead Allen with five fighting majors each.
- A good start will be key for both teams but especially for Allen who is not as dominate as they were earlier in the season but still are 15-4-1-0 when scoring the first goal of the game. When they trail after the first period the Americans and Rush have not shown the ability to come back. They have a combined record of 4-21-3-0. I would say a good start is critical.
- If you are looking for players to watch in the game tonight Bryan Moore has four goals in four games against Rapid City and Casey Pierro-Zabotel has 10 points (2 goals 8 assists). For Rapid City keep an eye on Peter Sivak (#91) who has five goals in his last four games and two hat tricks this month alone. Rapid City's rookie ECHL All-Star Dante Salituro (#15) had a hat trick on Saturday to break out of a long goal scoring drought so he is another player to keep an eye on.
- Officials scheduled for the game are referee Chris Pontes (#12) and linesmen Brian Bull (#95) and Aaron Schacht (#31).
OTHER COMMENTS
- Who would have thought the next Allen Americans player to dress for an NHL game would be Allen's often used EBUG (emergency backup goalie) Thomas Hodges. The Plano West graduate has helped out the Americans many times over the past couple of years at practice and when they needed an EBUG because of injuries. Thomas actually played 50 seconds in the 2016 New Year's Eve game. With Allen leading 8-4 against Utah, starting goalie Jamie Murray came up with a stiff back with 50 seconds remaining in the game. An EBUG can only play if there is an injury to the other goalie. Thomas didn't get a save but made his pro debut which was a big thrill.
If you were watching the Dallas Stars play the Florida Panthers last night you saw Panthers' goalie James Reimer get injured early in the first period. Because Riemer could not return the NHL emergency goalie plan went into effect. It is a pretty elaborate plan which entails the home team having an emergency back up goalie on hand who can play for either team. Last night that was Thomas Hodges who was the back up goalie for the Florida Panthers. He didn't sit on the bench but was dressed and ready to go in the tunnel. Just think, when the Americans hang a banner in the AEC of players that made it from the Allen Americans to the NHL it will include the names Jordie Benn, Aaron Dell and now Thomas Hodges. What a great experience for the young goaltender. Here is the complete story written by Mike Heika of the Dallas Morning News complete with a picture of Thomas in his Florida Panthers gear. https://sportsday.dallasnews.com/dallas-stars/stars/2018/01/23/stars-notebook-nhls-emergency-goalie-plan-put-effect-after-injury-panthersjames-reimer
- If you have been reading about the tragic death of 32 year old Andrew Carroll who jumped to his death from a parking ramp at O'Hare airport you can't help but be touched by all of the tributes to him from all over the hockey world. It is clear he was a special person who would do anything to help others on his team and in the community. Connor Reilly described Andrew as a special mentor, friend and leader who was always willing to help others. Aaron Gens worked with Andrew at some hockey camps in Minnesota and described him as a christian athlete that was a great hockey player and an even better person. After practice yesterday I was talking to coach Martinson about Carroll as he had recruited him in the past. Our conversation turned to CTE and the number of players that have suffered from depression after their playing careers were over. I know coach Martinson has lost teammates/friends who suffered from depression and committed suicide. I have no idea what the circumstances were surrounding Andrew Carroll but the conversation with coach Martinson inspired me to do some research on CTE when I got home. I came across this article published just last Thursday that suggests CTE is caused by repeated head injuries, not by concussions. So much more needs to be learned about CTE but this study suggests the focus on preventing concussions needs to be replaced by an effort to reduce the number of head impacts. https://www.bu.edu/today/2018/cte-caused-by-head-injuries/
- Researchers are getting closer to being able to diagnose CTE in living persons. Since CTE causes Alzheimer's like symptoms including memory loss, aggression, rage and at times suicidal behavior this would be a big break through. Here is a recent article talking about this research. https://www.cnn.com/2017/09/26/health/researchers-identify-cte-biomarker-that-may-lead-to-diagnosis-while-alive/index.html
DID YOU KNOW: Andrew Carroll played his college hockey at the University of Minnesota-Dultuh (UMD) where he was the only player in the 74 year history of the UMD hockey program to hold some type of team captaincy parts of four different seasons. He was also a three-time WCHA All-Academic team honoree. He was a well traveled player having spent time in Charlotte, Greenville, Bakersfield and Idaho in the ECHL and Connecticut, Hershey, Abbotsford, Peoria, and Hartford in the AHL. Of the many tributes to Andrew Carroll this one written by Brian McCormack from the Idaho Steelheads captures the essence of the player and the man. http://www.idahosteelheads.com/blog/steelheads-news/remembering-andrew-carroll/
Tuesday, January 23, 2018
Amateur Hockey Analytics, Best ECHL First Period Goal Differentials, Will Aaron Dell Become #1 Goalie, Allen's Single Season Top Ten PIM's Leaders
Today is a practice day for the Allen Americans as they prepare to take on the Rapid City Rush and try to get out of the "funk" as captain Joel Chouinard described the recent play of the team. How bad is it? If you remember back to the end of December right after the Christmas break the Americans played the Wichita Thunder four games in five days. The Americans won the first two games of the series 7-2 in Allen and 3-2 in Wichita. After those two wins Allen moved into second place in the Mountain Division. The Americans were tied with Toledo for third in the ECHL in points (41)
trailing Florida (45) and Colorado (48). Allen was fourth in the league
in winning percentage (.683).
- Allen ended up losing the last two games of the four game series against Wichita. They lost 3-1 in Wichita and 4-2 in Allen at the New Year's Eve warmup brawl game. Starting with those two losses to Wichita at the end of December until now the Americans have been the worst team in the ECHL with a record of 2-9. It has been almost a month and they have earned a grand total of four points. At the end of December they were third in points in the league (41 points), today they have 45 points and are ranked #14. Allen's winning percentage has fallen from #4 (.683) at the end of December to #14 today (.549).
- Slumps are part of hockey and every team suffers through a period of poor performance. If you can lose this much ground in a month you can gain a lot of ground in a month. The real question is whether what the Americans are going through right now is different than in the past. In the six years I have been writing the blog there has never been more concern expressed to me, even by the most ardent Allen supporters, about whether this year is different and the Americans will struggle to move up in the standings from their current fourth place.
- Just yesterday I was reading a story about hockey analytics which talked about how small changes in averages equate to big improvement in wins. That inspired me to take a 25,000 foot view comparing stats from last season to this season and see differences in goals scored or allowed.
Goals For - Last season Allen averaged 4.08 goals per game and this season they are averaging 3.39. Over the course of a full season that equates to 50 fewer goals.
Goals Against - Last season Allen gave up an average of 2.82 goals per game. So far this season they are allowing an average of 3.27 goals per game. Over the course of a full season that equates to allowing 32 more goals.
Power Play - Last season Allen had a power play percentage of 24.4%. Thus far this season the power play percentage is 19.9%. Over the course of a season that difference in power play percentage would equate to 13 fewer goals scored on the power play.
Penalty Kill - Last season Allen's penalty kill percentage was 84.4%. Thus far this season the penalty kill percentage is 80.6%. Over the course of a season the difference in penalty kill percentages would equate to giving up 13 more goals.
Goaltending - Last season the Allen goaltenders had a save percentage of .920 on 2513 shots which equates to 201 goals. This season the goaltenders have a save percentage of .913 and are on pace to face 2680 shots which equates to 233 goals, a 32 goal difference.
In summary, Allen is on pace to score 50 fewer goals than last season, allow 32 more goals than last season, score 13 fewer goals on the power play and allow 13 more goals on the penalty kill. The save percentage is lower this season and the goalies are facing more shots. What these numbers show is a lot of room for improvement in every phase of the game; offense, defense, special teams and goaltending. The question for coach Martinson is can he get things turned around with the current roster. Zach Hall is about ready to get back in the lineup and Zach Pochiro shouldn't far behind but who knows if and when Riley Gill will return and it us uncertain when Vincent Arseneau will be headed back to Allen.
OTHER COMMENTS
- Here is a stat I found somewhat surprising. The best teams in the ECHL in first period goal differential (goals for minus goals against).
+18 Kalamazoo
+17 Allen
+17 Colorado
+13 Toledo
+11 Reading
+11 Wichita
- I have written many stories about Aaron Dell since he arrived in Allen as a rookie back in 2012-13 and led the Americans to their first championship. The jist of many of the stories was how throughout his hockey career Aaron always started out as the number two goalie and became the number one. Here is an excerpt from one of those stories:
The best part of Aaron Dell's story is that he has had to work for everything he has accomplished. At every step of the way from juniors, college and in the pro ranks he was never "the guy" who was designated the top goalie on his team. He always started out as the number two goalie and through hard work and performance became the number one goalie. It was true in college when he started on the bench and beat out an all-conference goalie for the number one spot. He signed his first professional contract with the Colorado Eagles in 2012-13 but was waived in training camp. He then signed with Allen, where two University of North Dakota alumni (Ed Belfour & Craig Ludwig) had just started working with the Americans. He was supposed to be the backup goalie to a veteran Kelly Cup MVP but won the starting job and led the Americans to their first championship playing in all 19 playoff games. The same thing happened when he got promoted to the AHL in Worcester and then San Jose as he earned his way as their top goalie. Aaron Dell has never been given a thing. He has climbed the hockey ladder through hard work, determination, and performance. Aaron is now the backup goalie for the San Jose Sharks and don't forget, every time he has become a back up goalie he eventually became the starter. Just sayin!
What made me think about the story above was a story I saw this week out of San Jose because Aaron has had to step in as the Sharks #1 goalie because of an injury. He played in back to back games on Saturday and Sunday, won them both and saved 64 of 67 shots. Dell has played in 20 games this season and has a GAA of 2.17 and save percentage of .929. He ranks #3 in the NHL in GAA and #4 in save percentage. Dell has seen this script before and always risen to the occasion. He is a free agent after this season and if not in San Jose, he just might become a starting goalie in the NHL. As he has proven over and over again since he was a kid, if you give him a chance he will grasp the opportunity. Here is the story from the San Jose Mercury News talking about Dell as the #1 goalie. https://www.mercurynews.com/2018/01/20/three-takeaways-dell-fuels-sharks-goalie-debate-in-win-over-penguins/
DID YOU KNOW: Here is a list of the top ten Allen players for penalty minutes in a single season with the number of games played in that season in parentheses. The far right shows the number of fights each players had according to dropyourgloves.com.
274: Derek Mathers - 2016-17 (59 games) 30 fights
257: Garrett Klotz - 2013-14 (55 games) 20 Fights
256: Brett Lyon -2014-15 (47 games) 13 Fights
223: Garrett Clarke - 2012-13 (54 games) 12 Fights
205: Garrett Clarke - 2014-15 (57 games) 16 Fights
186: Aaron Gens - 2014-15 (72 games) 8 Fights
185: Brandon Straub - 2009-10 (58 games) 12 Fights
168: Jim McKenzie - 2011-12 (54 games) 7 Fights
157: Brett Clouthier - 2011-12 (60 games) 10 Fights
146: Kip Brennan - 2010-11 (31 games) 11 Fights
- Allen ended up losing the last two games of the four game series against Wichita. They lost 3-1 in Wichita and 4-2 in Allen at the New Year's Eve warmup brawl game. Starting with those two losses to Wichita at the end of December until now the Americans have been the worst team in the ECHL with a record of 2-9. It has been almost a month and they have earned a grand total of four points. At the end of December they were third in points in the league (41 points), today they have 45 points and are ranked #14. Allen's winning percentage has fallen from #4 (.683) at the end of December to #14 today (.549).
- Slumps are part of hockey and every team suffers through a period of poor performance. If you can lose this much ground in a month you can gain a lot of ground in a month. The real question is whether what the Americans are going through right now is different than in the past. In the six years I have been writing the blog there has never been more concern expressed to me, even by the most ardent Allen supporters, about whether this year is different and the Americans will struggle to move up in the standings from their current fourth place.
- Just yesterday I was reading a story about hockey analytics which talked about how small changes in averages equate to big improvement in wins. That inspired me to take a 25,000 foot view comparing stats from last season to this season and see differences in goals scored or allowed.
Goals For - Last season Allen averaged 4.08 goals per game and this season they are averaging 3.39. Over the course of a full season that equates to 50 fewer goals.
Goals Against - Last season Allen gave up an average of 2.82 goals per game. So far this season they are allowing an average of 3.27 goals per game. Over the course of a full season that equates to allowing 32 more goals.
Power Play - Last season Allen had a power play percentage of 24.4%. Thus far this season the power play percentage is 19.9%. Over the course of a season that difference in power play percentage would equate to 13 fewer goals scored on the power play.
Penalty Kill - Last season Allen's penalty kill percentage was 84.4%. Thus far this season the penalty kill percentage is 80.6%. Over the course of a season the difference in penalty kill percentages would equate to giving up 13 more goals.
Goaltending - Last season the Allen goaltenders had a save percentage of .920 on 2513 shots which equates to 201 goals. This season the goaltenders have a save percentage of .913 and are on pace to face 2680 shots which equates to 233 goals, a 32 goal difference.
In summary, Allen is on pace to score 50 fewer goals than last season, allow 32 more goals than last season, score 13 fewer goals on the power play and allow 13 more goals on the penalty kill. The save percentage is lower this season and the goalies are facing more shots. What these numbers show is a lot of room for improvement in every phase of the game; offense, defense, special teams and goaltending. The question for coach Martinson is can he get things turned around with the current roster. Zach Hall is about ready to get back in the lineup and Zach Pochiro shouldn't far behind but who knows if and when Riley Gill will return and it us uncertain when Vincent Arseneau will be headed back to Allen.
OTHER COMMENTS
- Here is a stat I found somewhat surprising. The best teams in the ECHL in first period goal differential (goals for minus goals against).
+18 Kalamazoo
+17 Allen
+17 Colorado
+13 Toledo
+11 Reading
+11 Wichita
- I have written many stories about Aaron Dell since he arrived in Allen as a rookie back in 2012-13 and led the Americans to their first championship. The jist of many of the stories was how throughout his hockey career Aaron always started out as the number two goalie and became the number one. Here is an excerpt from one of those stories:
The best part of Aaron Dell's story is that he has had to work for everything he has accomplished. At every step of the way from juniors, college and in the pro ranks he was never "the guy" who was designated the top goalie on his team. He always started out as the number two goalie and through hard work and performance became the number one goalie. It was true in college when he started on the bench and beat out an all-conference goalie for the number one spot. He signed his first professional contract with the Colorado Eagles in 2012-13 but was waived in training camp. He then signed with Allen, where two University of North Dakota alumni (Ed Belfour & Craig Ludwig) had just started working with the Americans. He was supposed to be the backup goalie to a veteran Kelly Cup MVP but won the starting job and led the Americans to their first championship playing in all 19 playoff games. The same thing happened when he got promoted to the AHL in Worcester and then San Jose as he earned his way as their top goalie. Aaron Dell has never been given a thing. He has climbed the hockey ladder through hard work, determination, and performance. Aaron is now the backup goalie for the San Jose Sharks and don't forget, every time he has become a back up goalie he eventually became the starter. Just sayin!
What made me think about the story above was a story I saw this week out of San Jose because Aaron has had to step in as the Sharks #1 goalie because of an injury. He played in back to back games on Saturday and Sunday, won them both and saved 64 of 67 shots. Dell has played in 20 games this season and has a GAA of 2.17 and save percentage of .929. He ranks #3 in the NHL in GAA and #4 in save percentage. Dell has seen this script before and always risen to the occasion. He is a free agent after this season and if not in San Jose, he just might become a starting goalie in the NHL. As he has proven over and over again since he was a kid, if you give him a chance he will grasp the opportunity. Here is the story from the San Jose Mercury News talking about Dell as the #1 goalie. https://www.mercurynews.com/2018/01/20/three-takeaways-dell-fuels-sharks-goalie-debate-in-win-over-penguins/
DID YOU KNOW: Here is a list of the top ten Allen players for penalty minutes in a single season with the number of games played in that season in parentheses. The far right shows the number of fights each players had according to dropyourgloves.com.
274: Derek Mathers - 2016-17 (59 games) 30 fights
257: Garrett Klotz - 2013-14 (55 games) 20 Fights
256: Brett Lyon -2014-15 (47 games) 13 Fights
223: Garrett Clarke - 2012-13 (54 games) 12 Fights
205: Garrett Clarke - 2014-15 (57 games) 16 Fights
186: Aaron Gens - 2014-15 (72 games) 8 Fights
185: Brandon Straub - 2009-10 (58 games) 12 Fights
168: Jim McKenzie - 2011-12 (54 games) 7 Fights
157: Brett Clouthier - 2011-12 (60 games) 10 Fights
146: Kip Brennan - 2010-11 (31 games) 11 Fights
Monday, January 22, 2018
Why Allen's 4-1 Loss to Fort Wayne Yesterday Was Not Disappointing, Game Recap, Steffes Returns, Hanson vs Costello Details, St. John's ECHL Franchise & More
The Allen Americans got swept this weekend losing to the Fort Wayne Komets yesterday 4-1 before another big crowd of 7296 at the Memorial Coliseum. It didn't bother me much at all because yesterday was consumed by the possibility of a lifelong series of disappointments being expunged by the Minnesota Vikings. I was in eighth grade when the Vikings started playing in my hometown (Bloomington) in 1961. My first job was as a vendor at Metropolitan Stadium where the Vikings played in the early days. It was actually a baseball park built for the Minneapolis Millers, a farm team of the Boston Red Sox until the Minnesota Twins arrived in 1961. When Bud Grant arrived in 1967 it was great to be a Vikings fan, with the Purple People Eaters, Fran Tarkenton, no heaters allowed on the sidelines and a lot of success. But the Vikings could never win the big one. Super Bowl losses in 1969, 1973, 1974 & 1976 and the loss to Dallas on the Drew Pearson Hail Mary in 1975 and yes there was offensive interference on that play. The Vikings were 13 point favorites over Kansas City in Super Bowl IV and lost 23-7. They lost to Miami 24-7 in Super Bowl VIII, to the Pittsburgh Steelers 16-6 in Super Bowl IX and to the Oakland Raiders 32-14 in Super Bowl XI. Each Super Bowl loss made things worse for Vikings fans and it was the way they lost that was the toughest to take. I know this isn't a football blog so I will not relive the many years since the 1970's the team has disappointed but this season was different. The best defense in the league just like the old days, a team of destiny that would be the first to play the Super Bowl in their home park, a 3-4 point favorite and they lay an egg and get blown out by Philadelphia 38-7. The 4-1 loss by Allen to Fort Wayne yesterday was nothing as they have won four championships in the last five years. As a lifelong Minnesota Vikings fan I am still waiting for that first championship after 57 years, now that is disappointment. Thanks for letting me vent. Now back to hockey.
- Allen wrapped up their road trip to Indiana with their second loss in as many days to the Fort Wayne Komets. The game was tied 1-1 midway through the second period but the Americans gave up three unanswered goals from that point and ended up losing 4-1. Allen was out shot in all three periods for a game total of 36-18. Pretty tough to win games when you get doubled up on shots.
- There was no scoring in the first period. Jamie Schaafsma got the Komets on the scoreboard at the 7:17 mark of the second period but Allen struck back just 49 seconds later as Casey Pierro-Zabotel scored his 12th goal of the season. That would be the end of the scoring for Allen. Jeremy Brodeur took the loss for the Americans stopping 32 of 36 shots.
- Here are two stories written by Justin Cohn of the Fort Wayne Journal Gazette. The first one contains the video highlights of the game.
"Analyzing Komets' 4-1 victory over Allen" http://www.journalgazette.net/blog/ice-chips/20180121/analyzing-komets-4-1-victory-over-allen
"Komets complete Sweep of Americans" http://www.journalgazette.net/blog/ice-chips/20180121/komets-complete-sweep-of-americans
- Here is the game recap issued by the Allen Americans. Seems like everyone is frustrated with the team's performance. This may be the shortest game recap ever, even the headline, "American Close Indiana Road Trip With" https://allenamericans.com/americans-close-indiana-road-trip/
OTHER COMMENTS
- The Americans headed back to Allen right after the game and are expected to arrive sometime late morning. Their next game is Wednesday at home against the Rapid City Rush.
- It is not very often the Americans return home from a three game road trip with no points to show for the effort. To go 0-3 on the weekend was bad enough but it was how they lost that raises concerns for all involved. They were outscored 15-7 and they were out shot 121-79. Allen was 12.5% on the power play while their opponents were 31.3%. They were outplayed in every phase of the game.
- Allen has now lost four straight games and is 2-9 over their last 11 games. They are still in fourth place in the Mountain Division but are almost as close to fifth place (5 points ) as third place (4 points).
- The next five games for Allen are at home including two against Wichita (Friday & Saturday) and two against Colorado. If they don't get things turned around on this homestand they could be fighting to stay in a playoff spot.
- One bright spot for Allen this weekend was the play of Casey Pierro-Zabotel who had at least one point in all three games. He finished the weekend with two goals, three assists and was +2. Casey leads the ECHL in scoring with 47 points.
- Gary Steffes cleared waivers yesterday and is now a free agent and eligible to sign with the Americans. They could sure use him right now. I know Gary left the Americans last week because he had some business commitments with FCA hockey. I wouldn't be surprised to see him back in Allen before this upcoming homestand is over. UPDATE: Just received this message from coach Martinson, "Gary coming for Colorado (February 1&2) and the road trip (Atlanta, Florida, Jacksonville). Could use him now but he has appointments in Boston this weekend."
- With the Colorado Eagles leaving the ECHL next season for the AHL it makes you wonder what is the future of the ECHL west of the Mississippi. Over the last few years the ECHL has lost franchises in Las Vegas, Ontario, Bakersfield, Stockton, Alaska and next year Colorado. Meanwhile it looks like the ECHL will be adding their second franchise in Canada for the 2018-19 season in St. John's, New Foundland and Labrador which is a cool 3000 mile drive from Allen. Here is a story that talks about the happenings in St. John's. https://www.thetelegram.com/sports/hockey/st-johns-echl-bid-strikes-partnership-with-toronto-maple-leafs-sources-179041/
DID YOU KNOW: It will be fun to track the game between the Iserlohn Roosters and Krefeld Pinguine in the top German league (DEL) tomorrow because two former Allen Americans will be playing against each other for the first time. It is not just any two players as they happen to be the two players tied for the all time career lead in goals for the Americans with 98. Chad Costello (Iserlohn) will be headed to Krefeld to play against Greger Hanson. Chad has been in Germany all season even though he missed some games (13) early in the season with an injury. He has played in 31 games and has 25 points (8 goals 15 assists). Greger just recently arrived in Germany after starting the season in the San Diego Gulls (AHL) organization. He has played in six games and has one assist. It won't be a long commute for Chad's team to get to Krefeld as the two communities are only 65 miles a part. The arena holds 9000 for hockey. Game time is 12:30 pm CST. Chad's team should be the favorite as they are in 7th place in the 14 team league with 65 points. Greger's team is in 13th place with 50 points. However, Krefeld will be playing at home and have won three of their last five games while Iserlohn has lost three of their last five games.
- Allen wrapped up their road trip to Indiana with their second loss in as many days to the Fort Wayne Komets. The game was tied 1-1 midway through the second period but the Americans gave up three unanswered goals from that point and ended up losing 4-1. Allen was out shot in all three periods for a game total of 36-18. Pretty tough to win games when you get doubled up on shots.
- There was no scoring in the first period. Jamie Schaafsma got the Komets on the scoreboard at the 7:17 mark of the second period but Allen struck back just 49 seconds later as Casey Pierro-Zabotel scored his 12th goal of the season. That would be the end of the scoring for Allen. Jeremy Brodeur took the loss for the Americans stopping 32 of 36 shots.
- Here are two stories written by Justin Cohn of the Fort Wayne Journal Gazette. The first one contains the video highlights of the game.
"Analyzing Komets' 4-1 victory over Allen" http://www.journalgazette.net/blog/ice-chips/20180121/analyzing-komets-4-1-victory-over-allen
"Komets complete Sweep of Americans" http://www.journalgazette.net/blog/ice-chips/20180121/komets-complete-sweep-of-americans
- Here is the game recap issued by the Allen Americans. Seems like everyone is frustrated with the team's performance. This may be the shortest game recap ever, even the headline, "American Close Indiana Road Trip With" https://allenamericans.com/americans-close-indiana-road-trip/
OTHER COMMENTS
- The Americans headed back to Allen right after the game and are expected to arrive sometime late morning. Their next game is Wednesday at home against the Rapid City Rush.
- It is not very often the Americans return home from a three game road trip with no points to show for the effort. To go 0-3 on the weekend was bad enough but it was how they lost that raises concerns for all involved. They were outscored 15-7 and they were out shot 121-79. Allen was 12.5% on the power play while their opponents were 31.3%. They were outplayed in every phase of the game.
- Allen has now lost four straight games and is 2-9 over their last 11 games. They are still in fourth place in the Mountain Division but are almost as close to fifth place (5 points ) as third place (4 points).
- The next five games for Allen are at home including two against Wichita (Friday & Saturday) and two against Colorado. If they don't get things turned around on this homestand they could be fighting to stay in a playoff spot.
- One bright spot for Allen this weekend was the play of Casey Pierro-Zabotel who had at least one point in all three games. He finished the weekend with two goals, three assists and was +2. Casey leads the ECHL in scoring with 47 points.
- Gary Steffes cleared waivers yesterday and is now a free agent and eligible to sign with the Americans. They could sure use him right now. I know Gary left the Americans last week because he had some business commitments with FCA hockey. I wouldn't be surprised to see him back in Allen before this upcoming homestand is over. UPDATE: Just received this message from coach Martinson, "Gary coming for Colorado (February 1&2) and the road trip (Atlanta, Florida, Jacksonville). Could use him now but he has appointments in Boston this weekend."
- With the Colorado Eagles leaving the ECHL next season for the AHL it makes you wonder what is the future of the ECHL west of the Mississippi. Over the last few years the ECHL has lost franchises in Las Vegas, Ontario, Bakersfield, Stockton, Alaska and next year Colorado. Meanwhile it looks like the ECHL will be adding their second franchise in Canada for the 2018-19 season in St. John's, New Foundland and Labrador which is a cool 3000 mile drive from Allen. Here is a story that talks about the happenings in St. John's. https://www.thetelegram.com/sports/hockey/st-johns-echl-bid-strikes-partnership-with-toronto-maple-leafs-sources-179041/
DID YOU KNOW: It will be fun to track the game between the Iserlohn Roosters and Krefeld Pinguine in the top German league (DEL) tomorrow because two former Allen Americans will be playing against each other for the first time. It is not just any two players as they happen to be the two players tied for the all time career lead in goals for the Americans with 98. Chad Costello (Iserlohn) will be headed to Krefeld to play against Greger Hanson. Chad has been in Germany all season even though he missed some games (13) early in the season with an injury. He has played in 31 games and has 25 points (8 goals 15 assists). Greger just recently arrived in Germany after starting the season in the San Diego Gulls (AHL) organization. He has played in six games and has one assist. It won't be a long commute for Chad's team to get to Krefeld as the two communities are only 65 miles a part. The arena holds 9000 for hockey. Game time is 12:30 pm CST. Chad's team should be the favorite as they are in 7th place in the 14 team league with 65 points. Greger's team is in 13th place with 50 points. However, Krefeld will be playing at home and have won three of their last five games while Iserlohn has lost three of their last five games.
Sunday, January 21, 2018
Allen Road Woes Continue, Lose 5-3 to Fort Wayne, Game Recap, Martinson's Comments, Rematch Preview, Steffes Released by Idaho, Allen's Historical Road Record
The Allen Americans lost to the Fort Wayne Komets 5-3 last night before a sold out crowd of 10479 at the Memorial Coliseum. It was Allen's third straight loss and their eighth loss in the last 10 games. The Americans scored first, had a 1-0 lead after the first period, a 2-1 lead after the second period but still found a new way to lose. Prior to last night Allen was a perfect 7-0 on the road and 15-0-0-1 overall when having the lead after the second period.
- The second period has been Allen's undoing recently but last night it was the third period. Just like the loss in Indy on Friday the Americans allowed three goals in three minutes to turn a 2-2 game into a rout.
- The Allen formula for defeat had a familiar ring as the #23 ranked team in the ECHL in shots allowed once again gave up over 40 shots, 42 to be exact. The Americans had 33 shots on goal.
- Special teams cost Allen dearly. The leagues worst road penalty kill failed again giving up two power play goals. The Americans had the #2 ranked power play in the league going into the game but were 0-7 against Fort Wayne's #1 ranked home penalty kill unit.
- The goal scorers for Allen were Casey Pierro-Zabotel (11), Olivier Archambault (13) and Bryan Moore (14). Here are the video highlights: http://www.news-sentinel.com/sports/fort-wayne-komets/2018/01/20/saturdays-komets-allen-highlights/
- The Fort Wayne Komets are fortunate they not only get great fans support but have beat writers from not one but two local papers. Blake Sebring covers the Komets for the News-Sentinel and Justin Cohn covers them for The Journal Gazette. They both do a great job so check out their game recaps complete with post game quotes:
Blake Sebring's game recap: http://www.news-sentinel.com/sports/2018/01/20/komets-thrill-huge-crowd-with-third-period-win/
Justin Cohn's game recap: http://www.journalgazette.net/sports/professional/komets/20180121/komets-break-game-open-in-3rd
- Here is the game recap from the Allen Americans: https://allenamericans.com/americans-losing-streak-hits-three/
- Here are coach Martinson's post game comments:
"We played a solid first half and had several good chances to score more."
"We got hurt by special teams again going 0-7 on the power play while they were 2-6."
"We jumped up shorthanded in a nonscoring situation only to turn the puck over that led to a breakaway goal for them."
"Two key turnovers led directly to goals for them."
"We are going to need to play with less mistakes in order to win on Sunday."
ALLEN VS FORT WAYNE REMATCH PREVIEW
- The Americans finish up their three games in three days road trip with a rematch against Fort Wayne this afternoon. It is a 4:00 pm CST puck drop and the Americans are in desperate need of a win. The trip home is long (975 miles) in the best of circumstances but it will be extra long if they head home going 0-3 on the road trip.
- There are some positives to take from the game last night in that the Americans got off to a good start by scoring the first goal, they won the first period 1-0 and they out shot the Komets 13-12 in the first period. Allen needs to sustain that kind of effort and avoid the lapses that allowed their opponents to score three goals in three minutes in each of the last two nights.
- Coach Martinson talks about lack of puck possession, turnovers and the poor penalty kill after almost every games. It is hard to see Allen winning this afternoon if these three areas don't show improvement.
- Allen and Fort Wayne couldn't be farther apart when it comes to penalty kill stats and the game today will most likely be decided on special teams. The Komets have the #1 home penalty kill percentage at 90.4% while Allen has the #27 ranked road penalty kill percentage at 73.1%. Allen has given up 25 power play goals on the road while Fort Wayne has allowed only eight power play goals at home.
- Goaltending has been a strength for Allen all season but both goalies were pulled in their starts this weekend. They are now ranked #28 & #29 in the ECHL in GAA at 3.13 & 3.15. Much of the high GAA number is attributable to the fact the Americans allow so many shots. Not sure who will get the start in goal today (probably Brodeur) but Allen needs one of those stand on your head efforts to break out of this losing streak.
- Officials scheduled for the game are referee Alex Garon (#9) and linesmen Jesse Marquis (#90) and Jake Davis (#91).
OTHER COMMENTS
- With Allen's recent poor performance they are falling further behind in the race for second place in the Mountain Division. Luckily for the Americans only the Colorado Eagles are playing great hockey right now. It is certainly premature to be talking playoffs but the way Colorado is playing you would not want to be the fourth seed and face the Eagles in the first round. Here are the current Mountain Division standings with games played in parentheses. Remember, the top four teams make the playoffs and the top two get home ice advantage in the first round.
60 points - Colorado (38 games)
52 points - Idaho (40 games)
49 points - Wichita (39 games)
45 points - Allen (40 games)
38 points - Tulsa (40 games)
37 points - Utah (40 games)
28 points - Rapid City (38 games)
- One way to look at what teams are playing the best is to compute points earned over the last 10 games. Here are the results for the Mountain Division.
17 points - Colorado
12 points - Rapid City
12 points - Idaho
11 points - Wichita
9 points - Utah
8 points - Tulsa
4 points - Allen
That is a lot of ground lost by the Americans in a short period of time.
- If Allen can salvage a win today in Fort Wayne they will gain some ground because both Idaho and Wichita are idle. Colorado plays at Tulsa.
- You may have noticed in the ECHL transactions yesterday that the Idaho Steelheads released Gary Steffes yesterday and he is eligible for waiver claims again. The Steelheads obviously realized bringing in Gary was not in their best interest so they released him before he ever reported. My understanding is they are still on the hook to pay him for the week after they claimed him through the completion of the waiver process today. Now that Gary has been released by Idaho he could be claimed by any another team. That claim has to be filed by 2:00 pm today. The odds are Gary will clear waivers, become a free agent and could sign with any team at any time. Since he is retired and working for FCA Hockey in Minnesota he is not interested in signing with any team but would like the option to come back to Allen if a short term need arises in the future.
It seems like common sense would imply that when a player is being waived with the highest salary in the ECHL there is a purpose behind the transaction. Add that the player has a full time job with the Fellowship of Christian Athletes and the waiving team has retired his number and it is pretty clear what is going on. After what happened with Idaho it is hard to believe any other team would be dumb enough to claim Steffes now. We will have the answer this afternoon.
DID YOU KNOW: With the loss last night in Fort Wayne the Allen Americans now have a losing record on the road. Allen has never had a losing road record this late in the season. Historically Allen has been a great road team. Since Steve Martinson became coach, Allen has never had a losing road record and in some years the road record was better than the home record. With 15 road games still to be played the Americans have more road losses than the entire season in 2016-17, 2014-15 and 2012-13. Here is Allen's road record for each season since Martinson became the coach.
2017-18: 10-11-0-0 (after 21 of 36 road games)
2016-17: 24-9-2-1
2015-16: 19-14-1-2
2014-15: 24-8-1-3
2013-14: 19-12-2-0
2012-13: 20-8-5-0
- The second period has been Allen's undoing recently but last night it was the third period. Just like the loss in Indy on Friday the Americans allowed three goals in three minutes to turn a 2-2 game into a rout.
- The Allen formula for defeat had a familiar ring as the #23 ranked team in the ECHL in shots allowed once again gave up over 40 shots, 42 to be exact. The Americans had 33 shots on goal.
- Special teams cost Allen dearly. The leagues worst road penalty kill failed again giving up two power play goals. The Americans had the #2 ranked power play in the league going into the game but were 0-7 against Fort Wayne's #1 ranked home penalty kill unit.
- The goal scorers for Allen were Casey Pierro-Zabotel (11), Olivier Archambault (13) and Bryan Moore (14). Here are the video highlights: http://www.news-sentinel.com/sports/fort-wayne-komets/2018/01/20/saturdays-komets-allen-highlights/
- The Fort Wayne Komets are fortunate they not only get great fans support but have beat writers from not one but two local papers. Blake Sebring covers the Komets for the News-Sentinel and Justin Cohn covers them for The Journal Gazette. They both do a great job so check out their game recaps complete with post game quotes:
Blake Sebring's game recap: http://www.news-sentinel.com/sports/2018/01/20/komets-thrill-huge-crowd-with-third-period-win/
Justin Cohn's game recap: http://www.journalgazette.net/sports/professional/komets/20180121/komets-break-game-open-in-3rd
- Here is the game recap from the Allen Americans: https://allenamericans.com/americans-losing-streak-hits-three/
- Here are coach Martinson's post game comments:
"We played a solid first half and had several good chances to score more."
"We got hurt by special teams again going 0-7 on the power play while they were 2-6."
"We jumped up shorthanded in a nonscoring situation only to turn the puck over that led to a breakaway goal for them."
"Two key turnovers led directly to goals for them."
"We are going to need to play with less mistakes in order to win on Sunday."
ALLEN VS FORT WAYNE REMATCH PREVIEW
- The Americans finish up their three games in three days road trip with a rematch against Fort Wayne this afternoon. It is a 4:00 pm CST puck drop and the Americans are in desperate need of a win. The trip home is long (975 miles) in the best of circumstances but it will be extra long if they head home going 0-3 on the road trip.
- There are some positives to take from the game last night in that the Americans got off to a good start by scoring the first goal, they won the first period 1-0 and they out shot the Komets 13-12 in the first period. Allen needs to sustain that kind of effort and avoid the lapses that allowed their opponents to score three goals in three minutes in each of the last two nights.
- Coach Martinson talks about lack of puck possession, turnovers and the poor penalty kill after almost every games. It is hard to see Allen winning this afternoon if these three areas don't show improvement.
- Allen and Fort Wayne couldn't be farther apart when it comes to penalty kill stats and the game today will most likely be decided on special teams. The Komets have the #1 home penalty kill percentage at 90.4% while Allen has the #27 ranked road penalty kill percentage at 73.1%. Allen has given up 25 power play goals on the road while Fort Wayne has allowed only eight power play goals at home.
- Goaltending has been a strength for Allen all season but both goalies were pulled in their starts this weekend. They are now ranked #28 & #29 in the ECHL in GAA at 3.13 & 3.15. Much of the high GAA number is attributable to the fact the Americans allow so many shots. Not sure who will get the start in goal today (probably Brodeur) but Allen needs one of those stand on your head efforts to break out of this losing streak.
- Officials scheduled for the game are referee Alex Garon (#9) and linesmen Jesse Marquis (#90) and Jake Davis (#91).
OTHER COMMENTS
- With Allen's recent poor performance they are falling further behind in the race for second place in the Mountain Division. Luckily for the Americans only the Colorado Eagles are playing great hockey right now. It is certainly premature to be talking playoffs but the way Colorado is playing you would not want to be the fourth seed and face the Eagles in the first round. Here are the current Mountain Division standings with games played in parentheses. Remember, the top four teams make the playoffs and the top two get home ice advantage in the first round.
60 points - Colorado (38 games)
52 points - Idaho (40 games)
49 points - Wichita (39 games)
45 points - Allen (40 games)
38 points - Tulsa (40 games)
37 points - Utah (40 games)
28 points - Rapid City (38 games)
- One way to look at what teams are playing the best is to compute points earned over the last 10 games. Here are the results for the Mountain Division.
17 points - Colorado
12 points - Rapid City
12 points - Idaho
11 points - Wichita
9 points - Utah
8 points - Tulsa
4 points - Allen
That is a lot of ground lost by the Americans in a short period of time.
- If Allen can salvage a win today in Fort Wayne they will gain some ground because both Idaho and Wichita are idle. Colorado plays at Tulsa.
- You may have noticed in the ECHL transactions yesterday that the Idaho Steelheads released Gary Steffes yesterday and he is eligible for waiver claims again. The Steelheads obviously realized bringing in Gary was not in their best interest so they released him before he ever reported. My understanding is they are still on the hook to pay him for the week after they claimed him through the completion of the waiver process today. Now that Gary has been released by Idaho he could be claimed by any another team. That claim has to be filed by 2:00 pm today. The odds are Gary will clear waivers, become a free agent and could sign with any team at any time. Since he is retired and working for FCA Hockey in Minnesota he is not interested in signing with any team but would like the option to come back to Allen if a short term need arises in the future.
It seems like common sense would imply that when a player is being waived with the highest salary in the ECHL there is a purpose behind the transaction. Add that the player has a full time job with the Fellowship of Christian Athletes and the waiving team has retired his number and it is pretty clear what is going on. After what happened with Idaho it is hard to believe any other team would be dumb enough to claim Steffes now. We will have the answer this afternoon.
DID YOU KNOW: With the loss last night in Fort Wayne the Allen Americans now have a losing record on the road. Allen has never had a losing road record this late in the season. Historically Allen has been a great road team. Since Steve Martinson became coach, Allen has never had a losing road record and in some years the road record was better than the home record. With 15 road games still to be played the Americans have more road losses than the entire season in 2016-17, 2014-15 and 2012-13. Here is Allen's road record for each season since Martinson became the coach.
2017-18: 10-11-0-0 (after 21 of 36 road games)
2016-17: 24-9-2-1
2015-16: 19-14-1-2
2014-15: 24-8-1-3
2013-14: 19-12-2-0
2012-13: 20-8-5-0