Story Coming In:
It’s a new era for the Fort McMurray Oil Barons. After finishing last season with a 17-34-3-3 record and missing the postseason for the fourth time in franchise history, the Oil Barons look to be among the contenders as they battle for their fourth league title. Under new head coach Sam Klassen and with eight returning players, including leading scorer Carter Schmidt, the MOB look to play with pace and grit this season. They also boast a veteran goaltending tandem with Vincent Filion and Noah Nelson, who combine for 164 games of junior hockey experience. With the addition of four veteran players from the QMJHL as well as some exciting rookies, Fort McMurray appears to have a well balanced roster as they look for success out of the gate.
View From Lloydminster:
Last season was a success for the Bobcats. Finishing with the number one offence in the AJHL, Lloydminster found themselves placing second in the standings. This season, they look to retool their lineup under new head coach Jeff Woywitka. With the departure of their top seven scorers from last season, including league leader Caden Cabana, the Bobcats will lean heavily on local products Kade Fendelet and Teague McAllister to lead the charge. Luke Fritz, Caden Steinke and Aiden LaRose also return bringing much needed experience to the forward group, while the defence for the Bobcats is one of the most veteran units in the league. Goaltender may be a question mark for Lloydminster. Gone is all-rookie and Goalie of the Year nominee Jack Solomon. Local goaltender Haden Heide returns to Bobcats, as does Calgary product Kaiden Kirkwood, who played 13 games in the QMJHL.
