Story Coming In:
It’s a massive opportunity for the Oil Barons. After stretching their win streak to four games for the first time since November of 2022, a win in regulation tonight would clinch a playoff spot. What’s even more impressive for Fort McMurray is how they overcame adversity to stretch their win streak. Last Friday saw eight players out of the lineup with the flu, however, the Oil Barons never trailed en route to a 3-1 win over Drayton Valley. Last Saturday, six of those players were back in the lineup, but they weren’t 100% and they still erased three deficits for a third period comeback against Camrose. Their young guns were stellar, with Jaggar John scoring in back to back games, while Carter Ellsworth now has seven points in his last six games. Add Brendan Gee re-establishing his great form in goal and the Oil Barons feel quite confident in controlling their own fate down the stretch of the regular season.
View From Bonnyville:
The Pontiacs are struggling to find consistency. So far, Bonnyville has gone 3-4-1 in February and 8-9-1 since the Christmas break. Now, they find themselves in a must win situation with a difficult stretch of opponents on the schedule, including the Oil Barons, Whitecourt and Canmore. Obviously, in Pendy they trust, but Gavin Harrison has been on a tear as of late. Five points including a hat trick against Canmore made the Cold Lake product the Rookie of the Week. However, despite all the weapons, the offence has struggled to find its rhythm. The Pontiacs have been held to two or fewer goals in seven of their last eleven games. This has led to a heavier reliance on goaltenders Ben Laurette and Nathan Salisbury. Laurette would have the best save percentage in the league if he played enough minutes, while Salisbury has played the fourth most minutes, made the third most saves and is tied for fourth with wins.
Stats Leaders:
Goals: Arnold (28)
Assists: Dumais (44)
Points: Dumais (69)
PIM: Nordstrom (116)
Goalie: Gee 16-6-2-1, 2.92 GAA, .916 SV%, 1SO
